healthyholisticliving--2020-11-05--Single Dad Adopts Five Siblings So They Can Stay Together

You will be happy to know that there are amazing humans out there .
Some like Robert Carter in Hamilton County , Ohio .
Mr. Carter recently adopted five siblings so they will not be separated from each other .
That is some uplifting news , right ?
You will be surprised to know that there were 2 million single dads in the US .
according to the census in 2016 .
These were either divorced , never been married , widowed , and separated men .
True , the number is not as big as single mothers ‘ households @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increased in the last decades .
( 1 ) While many parents will agree that running a family is hard enough as a couple and must be harder as a single parent .
Many will expect that a single mom would do a much better job than a single dad .
There are still a lot of preconceived notions around single moms and single dads .
It ’ s believed that men are not “ good at ” or “ made for ” childcare .
This idea has been perpetuated in society for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seeing in movies or TV the clumsy dad cliche .
Not capable of dressing the kids to go to school or setting the kitchen on fire .
Nowadays , single dads receive much praise for taking the “ weight of a household ” on their own .
Because of the belief , they are doing something extraordinary , they are “ not supposed to be good for ” .
Whereas single moms are watched closely and often judge hardly for any slips in the motherhoods duties .
Adoption in the US Every year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
and 428,000 children are in foster care .
( 2 ) Since adoption laws were in place in the mid-nineteenth century single individuals were legally qualified to adopt children .
This was at least in theory .
In practice , many agency workers wanted to place children in “ normal homes ” .
The idea of a normal home back then was a household constituted by heterosexual , married couples , with a bread-winner father and a non-working mother .
Single individuals did not meet these “ normality ” standards and were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children , why not marry ?
Or Who was watching over a kid of a single-working-mother ?
.
It was only after 1960 that single parents were actively taken into account for the adoption of children .
Though adoption has evolved , there is still a lot of cultural stigma around the capability of single parents due to race , gender , and economic situation .
Mr. Carter ’ s loving act of becoming a single dad adopting five children is not only admirable but it sets a good example for others .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ bond better than anyone .
Robert Carter was in the foster care system in his youth .
He experienced the painful separation from his younger siblings .
However , when he was old enough to leave the foster system he became the legal guardian of his younger brother .
And was also granted the custody of his younger sister .
Later on , he enrolled as a volunteer mentor at South Avondale Elementary .
( 3 ) Rober Carter thinks that taking care of his siblings and mentoring prepared him to be the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr. Carter believes in “ Making memories to replace a lot of the bad ones.
” I believe that those children are happy together now .

You will be happy to know that there are amazing humans out there. Some like Robert Carter in Hamilton County, Ohio. Mr. Carter recently adopted five siblings so they will not be separated from each other. That is some uplifting news, right?
Single Mom vs Single Dad
You will be surprised to know that there were 2 million single dads in the US. according to the census in 2016. These were either divorced, never been married, widowed, and separated men. True, the number is not as big as single mothers‘ households (8.5 million) but has significantly increased in the last decades. (1)
While many parents will agree that running a family is hard enough as a couple and must be harder as a single parent. Many will expect that a single mom would do a much better job than a single dad. There are still a lot of preconceived notions around single moms and single dads.
It’s believed that men are not “good at” or “made for” childcare. This idea has been perpetuated in society for a long time. Sure you remember seeing in movies or TV the clumsy dad cliche. Not capable of dressing the kids to go to school or setting the kitchen on fire.
Nowadays, single dads receive much praise for taking the “weight of a household” on their own. Because of the belief, they are doing something extraordinary, they are “not supposed to be good for”. Whereas single moms are watched closely and often judge hardly for any slips in the motherhoods duties.
Adoption in the US
Every year 135,000 children are adopted in the US. and 428,000 children are in foster care. (2)
Since adoption laws were in place in the mid-nineteenth century single individuals were legally qualified to adopt children. This was at least in theory.
In practice, many agency workers wanted to place children in “normal homes”. The idea of a normal home back then was a household constituted by heterosexual, married couples, with a bread-winner father and a non-working mother.
Single individuals did not meet these “normality” standards and were seen as undesirables. If they wanted children, why not marry? Or Who was watching over a kid of a single-working-mother?.
It was only after 1960 that single parents were actively taken into account for the adoption of children.
Though adoption has evolved, there is still a lot of cultural stigma around the capability of single parents due to race, gender, and economic situation.
Single Dad Sets A Great Example
Mr. Carter’s loving act of becoming a single dad adopting five children is not only admirable but it sets a good example for others. He understood these children’s unbreakable bond better than anyone.
Robert Carter was in the foster care system in his youth. He experienced the painful separation from his younger siblings. However, when he was old enough to leave the foster system he became the legal guardian of his younger brother. And was also granted the custody of his younger sister. Later on, he enrolled as a volunteer mentor at South Avondale Elementary. (3)
Rober Carter thinks that taking care of his siblings and mentoring prepared him to be the single dad adopting these five children. Mr. Carter believes in “Making memories to replace a lot of the bad ones.” I believe that those children are happy together now.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-05--Moroccan Students Build Off-Grid ‘Hemp House’ Made Almost Entirely From Hemp And Solar Panels.

Sustainable , environmentally friendly ideas always amaze me .
An excellent example is the student-designed Moroccan hemp eco-building .
The design , entered in an international Solar Decathlon , functions without an electrical grid and uses naturally sourced materials for construction .
( 1 ) Dubbed the SUNIMPLANT project , the single-family dwelling was designed by Moroccan students .
The contest is organized by the United States Department of Energy and Morocco ’ s Centre de recherche en Energie solaire et Energies nouvelles .
Held biannually , the competition pits students against each other attempting to come up with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) The entry competed in the first Solar Decathlon held in Africa at Ben Guerir , Morocco .
The teams of students must both design and construct their projects .
Designed with rural development in mind , the hemp home also works in urban settings .
The artfully designed futuristic home includes decorative panels that seem to hint at the intricate fibers of the hemp materials used .
They cast intricate shadows on the exterior walls as if accentuating the importance of the sun ’ s power .
( 1 ) “ This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reflects a turn not only in North Africa but in hemp construction , which doesn ’ t have comparable prototypes anywhere in the world , ” says Monika Brümmer , project lead , architect and natural builder .
( 1 ) Brümmer , who is the Owner at Spain-based Cannabric , co-founded Adrar Nouh ( 2017 ) .
Along with Abdellatif Adebibe , a Moroccan expert in alternative development in the Rif region , the pair ’ s non-profit organization focuses on using indigenous hemp stalk for development in rural areas .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rif , an impoverished area in Morocco .
( 1 ) The competitors ’ challenge involved creating a hemp composite using vegetable-based bio-resins .
This avoided the use of technical or synthetic components according to Brümmer .
The off-grid hemp house used a circular design with a cylindrical envelope to minimize exposure for the 24 exterior solar panels .
The solar panels use optimal damping in hand with thermal phase shift to optimize interior comfort .
( 1 ) The “ hempcrete ” material mixes locally sourced hemp , earth , pozzolan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fibers used vacuum injection technology for production .
Built at less than half the cost of its competitors , the hemp house came in at about $ 120,000 .
While these terms are all Greek to me , clearly their efforts are impressive .
( 1 ) • An outer skin of 24 semi-flexible photovoltaic panels placed to maximize exposure to sun and light .
• Curved bio-composite panels made with hemp wool to improve the photovoltaic panel performance in an area where temperatures reached 42°–46°C ( 107°– 114°F ) in the shade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of funds , the team abandoned plans to use hemp-clay boards as part of the floor and internal partitions .
Brümmer said this addition would improve performance along with a few other modifications the team could not afford .
( 1 ) Support for the project was provided by Adrar Nouh including the architectural design , construction , and development the hemp materials .
Morocco ’ s National School of Architecture and National School of Applied Sciences , and Germany ’ s Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics were also major contributors to the @ @ @ @ @

Sustainable, environmentally friendly ideas always amaze me. An excellent example is the student-designed Moroccan hemp eco-building. The design, entered in an international Solar Decathlon, functions without an electrical grid and uses naturally sourced materials for construction. (1)
SUNIMPLANT Hemp House Project
Dubbed the SUNIMPLANT project, the single-family dwelling was designed by Moroccan students. The contest is organized by the United States Department of Energy and Morocco’s Centre de recherche en Energie solaire et Energies nouvelles. Held biannually, the competition pits students against each other attempting to come up with the most innovative solar-powered buildings. (1)
Hemp House For Rural Design
The entry competed in the first Solar Decathlon held in Africa at Ben Guerir, Morocco. The teams of students must both design and construct their projects. Designed with rural development in mind, the hemp home also works in urban settings. The artfully designed futuristic home includes decorative panels that seem to hint at the intricate fibers of the hemp materials used. They cast intricate shadows on the exterior walls as if accentuating the importance of the sun’s power. (1)
“This ‘space-ship’ is advanced in time and reflects a turn not only in North Africa but in hemp construction, which doesn’t have comparable prototypes anywhere in the world,” says Monika Brümmer, project lead, architect and natural builder. (1)
Hemp House Uses Hemp Stalks
Brümmer, who is the Owner at Spain-based Cannabric, co-founded Adrar Nouh (2017). Along with Abdellatif Adebibe, a Moroccan expert in alternative development in the Rif region, the pair’s non-profit organization focuses on using indigenous hemp stalk for development in rural areas. It also promotes sustainable employment in High Rif, an impoverished area in Morocco. (1)
Hemp House Avoids Synthetic Materials
The competitors’ challenge involved creating a hemp composite using vegetable-based bio-resins. This avoided the use of technical or synthetic components according to Brümmer. The off-grid hemp house used a circular design with a cylindrical envelope to minimize exposure for the 24 exterior solar panels. The solar panels use optimal damping in hand with thermal phase shift to optimize interior comfort. (1)
Hemp House Hempcrete Concoction
The “hempcrete” material mixes locally sourced hemp, earth, pozzolan, and lime. The added hemp technical fibers used vacuum injection technology for production. Built at less than half the cost of its competitors, the hemp house came in at about $120,000. While these terms are all Greek to me, clearly their efforts are impressive. (1)
Features of the 90 square foot hemp house include: (1)
An outer skin of 24 semi-flexible photovoltaic panels placed to maximize exposure to sun and light.
Curved bio-composite panels made with hemp wool to improve the photovoltaic panel performance in an area where temperatures reached 42°–46°C (107°– 114°F) in the shade during construction.
High-performance glass.
Due to a lack of funds, the team abandoned plans to use hemp-clay boards as part of the floor and internal partitions. Brümmer said this addition would improve performance along with a few other modifications the team could not afford. (1)
Support for the project was provided by Adrar Nouh including the architectural design, construction, and development the hemp materials. Morocco’s National School of Architecture and National School of Applied Sciences, and Germany’s Fraunhofer Center for Silicon Photovoltaics were also major contributors to the project. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-06--87-Year-Old Widower Has Lived 50 Years Off-Grid on 400 Acres of Redwood Forest!

When looking for the ultimate ‘ forever ’ home , many of us desire modern facilities right on our doorstep .
Giant food stores , trendy restaurants , and leisure amenities are usually top-of-the-list , together with medical care , and hopefully a friendly community with pleasant neighbors .
It appears we love having our residing wants met within a normality of convenience and comfort .
In full contrast , can you imagine , living for 50 years off-grid , non-reliant on any external sources ?
Halfway between Willits and Fort Bragg , deep in the Redwoods , one man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He has lived the eco-friendly dream for over half his life and is now inviting two solar-ambitious , self-generating couples to join him within the woods .
( 3 ) Charles Bello is a widower , father of two boys , and considerably a homesteading hero ; recently hand selecting 1000 trees never to be cut for 2000 years , within his very own enchanted woodland .
In 1968 , he and his wife , Vanna Rae , purchased 240 acres of Redwood forest , costing $ 45,000- their total life savings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They built a panelized A-frame in just 5 days ( the structure costing an extra $ 2800 ) , and moved straight into a new life of self-reliance .
Being half an hour down a dirt road they had to build their own infrastructure ; a road and a bridge to reach their modest home , where they survived for decades without a fridge or a telephone .
They canned and preserved their own food , home schooled their two boys Mark and Mike , and made ends meet by selling Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Richard Neutra in the 1950s and also worked for the architect Henry Hill and the landscape architect Robert Royston .
He was perfectly qualified to use what he found in nature to go on and build bigger dreams , still far from civilization .
( 4 ) In 1982 he built a larger 3 bedroom house but wasn ’ t completely happy with it .
He has admitted to The NY Times , ‘ I never did like that structure much .
It is too heavy for my taste and I prefer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better.
’ ( 1 ) After building five concrete arched bridges , all with his own lumber and connecting his land , his final property project was a gorgeous window-laden Parabolic Glass House .
He had always wanted a home totally enveloped in trees .
The glass house features a curvilinear wood roof ( à la Nervi ) , the structure being made of two curved walls of windows achieving Bello ’ s desired effect , to see the woodlands all around .
The total cost of his sustainable dream home – a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Rae founded The Redwood Forest Institution .
Rae passed away in 2010 , and Bello told Outside Online Media , ‘ When the kids left here , they went at 15 years old .
They left home , and they went into mainstream and got jobs , so they were really not interested in this lifestyle ’ .
( 2 ) Delighted for his sons , whom he says got into their own thing and happy where they are , Bello , now 87 , is seeking two middle-aged couples to act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which is now worth between $ 4-6 million ! )
The successful candidates will not own the land or the equipment but will be provided with housing .
After a trial period , they will be candidates to become Board of Director members for the Redwood Forest Institute .
Interested ?
Be quick !
Bello has already had 900 emails !
To learn more about Charles Bello and his organization , or the Redwood Forest Institute , go to savetrees.org .
( 3 )

When looking for the ultimate ‘forever’ home, many of us desire modern facilities right on our doorstep. Giant food stores, trendy restaurants, and leisure amenities are usually top-of-the-list, together with medical care, and hopefully a friendly community with pleasant neighbors. It appears we love having our residing wants met within a normality of convenience and comfort. In full contrast, can you imagine, living for 50 years off-grid, non-reliant on any external sources?
Halfway between Willits and Fort Bragg, deep in the Redwoods, one man, Charles Bello has done precisely this. He has lived the eco-friendly dream for over half his life and is now inviting two solar-ambitious, self-generating couples to join him within the woods. (3)
Nesting Success In The Forest
Charles Bello is a widower, father of two boys, and considerably a homesteading hero; recently hand selecting 1000 trees never to be cut for 2000 years, within his very own enchanted woodland.
In 1968, he and his wife, Vanna Rae, purchased 240 acres of Redwood forest, costing $45,000- their total life savings, along with financial help from family. They built a panelized A-frame in just 5 days (the structure costing an extra $2800), and moved straight into a new life of self-reliance.
Being half an hour down a dirt road they had to build their own infrastructure; a road and a bridge to reach their modest home, where they survived for decades without a fridge or a telephone. They canned and preserved their own food, home schooled their two boys Mark and Mike, and made ends meet by selling Christmas trees.
Bello had been an intern for Richard Neutra in the 1950s and also worked for the architect Henry Hill and the landscape architect Robert Royston. He was perfectly qualified to use what he found in nature to go on and build bigger dreams, still far from civilization. (4)
In 1982 he built a larger 3 bedroom house but wasn’t completely happy with it. He has admitted to The NY Times, ‘I never did like that structure much. It is too heavy for my taste and I prefer the curvilinear, softer, lighter forms better.’ (1)
After building five concrete arched bridges, all with his own lumber and connecting his land, his final property project was a gorgeous window-laden Parabolic Glass House. He had always wanted a home totally enveloped in trees.
The glass house features a curvilinear wood roof (à la Nervi), the structure being made of two curved walls of windows achieving Bello’s desired effect, to see the woodlands all around. The total cost of his sustainable dream home – a mere $8500.
50 Years Off-Grid, Stewards Of The Land
In 1997 Bello and Rae founded The Redwood Forest Institution. Rae passed away in 2010, and Bello told Outside Online Media, ‘When the kids left here, they went at 15 years old. They left home, and they went into mainstream and got jobs, so they were really not interested in this lifestyle’. (2)
Delighted for his sons, whom he says got into their own thing and happy where they are, Bello, now 87, is seeking two middle-aged couples to act as land stewards of his property (which is now worth between $4-6 million!)
The successful candidates will not own the land or the equipment but will be provided with housing. After a trial period, they will be candidates to become Board of Director members for the Redwood Forest Institute.
Interested? Be quick! Bello has already had 900 emails! To learn more about Charles Bello and his organization, or the Redwood Forest Institute, go to savetrees.org. (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-06--Depression-Era ‘Crazy Cake’ Is Made Without Eggs, Milk Or Butter

It ’ s been called Crazy Cake , Wacky Cake , and War Cake among other names , all with the same basic concept : a sweet dessert with no eggs , butter , or milk .
While versions of it existed during WWI ( hence the name “ War Cake ” ) , the Great Depression of the 1930s rebirthed it as Crazy Cake .
Rich , moist , and chocolatey , this dish was the result of food substitution at its finest .
During the Great Depression , many ingredients became scarce .
Families had little money , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stretch their resources .
While some families lived on unaffected farms with access to eggs , butter , and milk , others did not .
If they wanted to add a dessert at the end of their meal , they ’ d need to get creative .
Women learned how to substitute cheaper ingredients for those higher-priced or too precious to use regularly .
Sugar and flour , on the other hand , were a quick , fast way to provide calories with little money or effort .
Thus , Crazy Cake was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with cheaper ingredients that would still make it rise and retain moisture .
( 1 ) Chef Michael Zebrowski , commenting on Crazy Cake to TODAY Food , explains how the ingredient substitution works .
“ Butter usually serves to keep cake soft and tender by coating the flour in fat , ” he said , “ preventing it from developing a tough gluten matrix.
” In a Crazy Cake recipe , vegetable oil does the trick instead with similar results .
Eggs are replaced with a combination of baking soda and vinegar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foams up quickly , making the cake light and fluffy.
” Water can then be added instead of milk for moisture , with coffee being an alternative choice .
During the Depression , coffee was actually plentiful and could be added to stretch foods .
( 2 ) When most of the globe went on lockdown during the Spring of 2020 due to COVID-19 , many turned to baking as a means of stress reduction .
Some supplies were initially scarce , as citizens panic-bought pantry staples , and some flow of product @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uncertainty looming , many looked to the past for ideas on how to get by .
With the hope of a vaccine still unsure and the weather turning colder , many people are turning back to baking as a way to create comfort .
Crazy Cake is a great option for an easy , affordable afternoon project and a fun recipe to make with the kids .
Mixed all in one bowl and baked in a pan , Crazy Cake can be topped with frosting , cream , or ice cream for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ depressions in the dry mixture–two small , and one larger .
In one depression pour vinegar and vanilla in the other .
In the largest depression , pour vegetable oil .
• Pour water ( or coffee ) over the entire mixture and mix until the batter is smooth .
• Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick , when inserted , comes out clean .
• Cool and top with a frosting of your choice !
( 3 )

It’s been called Crazy Cake, Wacky Cake, and War Cake among other names, all with the same basic concept: a sweet dessert with no eggs, butter, or milk. While versions of it existed during WWI (hence the name “War Cake”), the Great Depression of the 1930s rebirthed it as Crazy Cake. Rich, moist, and chocolatey, this dish was the result of food substitution at its finest.
The Origin Of Crazy Cake
During the Great Depression, many ingredients became scarce. Families had little money, and hardworking wives and mothers had to stretch their resources. While some families lived on unaffected farms with access to eggs, butter, and milk, others did not. If they wanted to add a dessert at the end of their meal, they’d need to get creative.
Women learned how to substitute cheaper ingredients for those higher-priced or too precious to use regularly. Sugar and flour, on the other hand, were a quick, fast way to provide calories with little money or effort. Thus, Crazy Cake was born. This recipe substituted cake essentials with cheaper ingredients that would still make it rise and retain moisture. (1)
Chef Michael Zebrowski, commenting on Crazy Cake to TODAY Food, explains how the ingredient substitution works. “Butter usually serves to keep cake soft and tender by coating the flour in fat,” he said, “preventing it from developing a tough gluten matrix.” In a Crazy Cake recipe, vegetable oil does the trick instead with similar results. Eggs are replaced with a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Zebrowski notes that this combination “foams up quickly, making the cake light and fluffy.” Water can then be added instead of milk for moisture, with coffee being an alternative choice. During the Depression, coffee was actually plentiful and could be added to stretch foods. (2)
A Baking Revival
When most of the globe went on lockdown during the Spring of 2020 due to COVID-19, many turned to baking as a means of stress reduction. Some supplies were initially scarce, as citizens panic-bought pantry staples, and some flow of product was interrupted. With jobs lost and uncertainty looming, many looked to the past for ideas on how to get by.
With the hope of a vaccine still unsure and the weather turning colder, many people are turning back to baking as a way to create comfort. Crazy Cake is a great option for an easy, affordable afternoon project and a fun recipe to make with the kids. Mixed all in one bowl and baked in a pan, Crazy Cake can be topped with frosting, cream, or ice cream for a delicious depression-era treat.
Crazy Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3 Tbsp. cocoa (unsweetened)
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. white vinegar
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
5 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup water (or coffee)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix flour, cocoa, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a greased, 8″ square baking pan. Making 3 depressions in the dry mixture–two small, and one larger. In one depression pour vinegar and vanilla in the other. In the largest depression, pour vegetable oil. Pour water (or coffee) over the entire mixture and mix until the batter is smooth. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick, when inserted, comes out clean. Cool and top with a frosting of your choice! (3)
Recipe from Sweet Little Bluebird


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-06--Home Remedies To Combat Shortness Of Breath

Shortness of breath is something we all have experienced at one time or another .
Whether you ’ ve just run a marathon or climbed a steep set of stairs , it could happen to you .
However , it takes some of us longer to recover than others .
Below , we have collected a series of home remedies to help you recover and catch your breath faster .
There are a series of things you can do to reduce your likelihood of getting short of breath in the first place .
If you ’ re smoking , quit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , don ’ t .
Smoking can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ) , a long-term lung condition that causes shortness of breath .
( 1 ) Air pollution and toxins are tainting the air you breathe , and , in term , doing damage to your lungs .
Try to avoid highly polluted areas , such as industrial centers or busy highways with lots of trucks whenever possible .
( 1 ) If you ’ re not in good physical condition , it will take less exertion for you to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you are overweight , it puts your body under more strain to do the same sort of exercise .
Be sure to get regular exercise .
( 1 ) Even if you ’ ve decided to overhaul your life for healthier breathing , that doesn ’ t fix the immediate breathing problems you may encounter .
These home remedies will .
Breathe in through your nose ; then , slowly exhale through pursed lips .
This should help relieve strained breathing .
( 2 ) If you have a handheld fan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can help with the symptoms of shortness of breath .
You could always try holding your face in front of a full-sized fan too if you don ’ t mind looking silly .
( 2 ) Guided meditations or progressive muscle relaxations have both been shown to help with shortness of breath .
Download one or two onto your phone to help in an emergency .
( 2 ) Try to avoid exercising in either very hot or very cold temperatures .
Additionally , keep your eye on the humidex–working out in high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 ) There are a few different options for medical intervention .
Firstly , you can try bronchodilators , which increase airflow to the lungs .
Furthermore , some opioids can help with shortness of breath .
Finally , in extreme cases , a doctor may decide an oxygen machine is right for you .
Of course , all drugs have risks .
We ’ ve seen the opioid epidemic unfold in front of us .
So , think very carefully when turning to drug interventions and only do so under the care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 ) If You ’ re Worried About Your Shortness Of Breath .
.
.
If you find that your shortness of breath has worsened ; or , if your ankles or feet are swollen ; if you ’ re experiencing fever , chills , coughing , or wheezing ; or , if you can ’ t catch your breath lying flat , you should schedule an appointment with a doctor .
If your lips or nails turn blue , if you faint , or if you have chest pains , get to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be a heart attack or pulmonary embolism .
( 1 )

Shortness of breath is something we all have experienced at one time or another. Whether you’ve just run a marathon or climbed a steep set of stairs, it could happen to you. However, it takes some of us longer to recover than others. Below, we have collected a series of home remedies to help you recover and catch your breath faster.
Preventative Remedies
There are a series of things you can do to reduce your likelihood of getting short of breath in the first place.
Stop Smoking
If you’re smoking, quit. If you haven’t started, don’t. Smoking can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a long-term lung condition that causes shortness of breath. (1)
Clean Air
Air pollution and toxins are tainting the air you breathe, and, in term, doing damage to your lungs. Try to avoid highly polluted areas, such as industrial centers or busy highways with lots of trucks whenever possible. (1)
Work Out
If you’re not in good physical condition, it will take less exertion for you to get winded. Coupled with that, if you are overweight, it puts your body under more strain to do the same sort of exercise. Be sure to get regular exercise. (1)
Home Remedies For Fast Relief
Even if you’ve decided to overhaul your life for healthier breathing, that doesn’t fix the immediate breathing problems you may encounter. These home remedies will.
Pucker Up
Breathe in through your nose; then, slowly exhale through pursed lips. This should help relieve strained breathing. (2)
Bring Your Own Fans
If you have a handheld fan, directing that cool airflow onto your cheeks can help with the symptoms of shortness of breath. You could always try holding your face in front of a full-sized fan too if you don’t mind looking silly. (2)
Chill Out
Guided meditations or progressive muscle relaxations have both been shown to help with shortness of breath. Download one or two onto your phone to help in an emergency. (2)
Avoid Extremes
Try to avoid exercising in either very hot or very cold temperatures. Additionally, keep your eye on the humidex–working out in high humidity is no good either. (3)
Medicate
There are a few different options for medical intervention. Firstly, you can try bronchodilators, which increase airflow to the lungs. Furthermore, some opioids can help with shortness of breath. Finally, in extreme cases, a doctor may decide an oxygen machine is right for you.
Of course, all drugs have risks. We’ve seen the opioid epidemic unfold in front of us. So, think very carefully when turning to drug interventions and only do so under the care of a doctor. (2, 3)
If You’re Worried About Your Shortness Of Breath. . .
If you find that your shortness of breath has worsened; or, if your ankles or feet are swollen; if you’re experiencing fever, chills, coughing, or wheezing; or, if you can’t catch your breath lying flat, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor.
If your lips or nails turn blue, if you faint, or if you have chest pains, get to the ER right away. That could be a heart attack or pulmonary embolism. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-06--A Nameless Hiker And The Case The Internet Can’t Crack

Women seemed to find him attractive .
Avid hikers respected his endurance and hard-core commitment .
He didn ’ t carry a cell phone with him , ever .
Most importantly of all , he didn ’ t have a name .
Known by many as “ Mostly Harmless ” , his body was discovered in a yellow tent in Big Cypress National Preserve , about a year after people first met him in a state park just north of New York City .
Mostly Harmless met many people on his trek south , yet in the end , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to claim him .
His story still has authorities struggling to find his identity and the internet buzzing with people trying to help solve the case .
( 1 ) According to those who encountered him in their travels , many dubbed the nameless hiker as “ Denim ” .
However , others knew him by the name he gave himself , “ Mostly Harmless ” .
When he had to sign his name , he used Ben Bilemy .
I suppose somewhere between the nicknames and his alias lies the truth .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ remember his massive backpack , perhaps too big for his journey .
He also had distinct black-and-copper trekking poles , one of the items people confirmed to be those of Mostly Harmless .
He encountered many on his journey : ( 1 ) • “ Obsidian ” in Virginia : He traveled 100 miles with 66-year-old Obsidian , a woman who says she taught him how to build a fire .
She remembers he wanted to see a bear .
( 1 ) • Matt Mason in northern Georgia : In December 2017 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash for a map of a trail Matt recommended he take to the Florida Keys .
His lack of technology impressed Matt who thought , “ Oh , this guy ’ s awesome.
” ( 1 ) • Matt ’ s Friend in Alabama : Two weeks after meeting Mostly Harmless Matt heard from a friend who spotted him hiking in a snowstorm in Alabama .
“ He was out there with a smile on his face , walking south , ” says Matt .
( 1 ) • Kelly Fairbanks , Highway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ trail angel ” who keeps a watch out for hikers in need , Kelly Fairbanks pulled over when she spotted Mostly Harmless on the highway .
Thinking she knew him , she wanted to help .
They chatted for a time and she remembers him as much younger than she first thought .
“ He had very kind eyes .
I saw the huge beard first and thought , ‘ It ’ s an older guy.
’ But his eyes were so young , and he didn ’ t have crow ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lot younger .
I remembered him because I was worried.
” ( 1 ) • Two More Hikers in Big Cypress National Preserve : On July 23 , 2018 , about 600 miles from where Mostly Harmless met Kelly , two hikers found his yellow tent and sadly , his lifeless body .
( 1 ) To this day searches for missing persons reports , DNA , fingerprints , military records , law enforcement databases , the Department of Justice , CODIS , the FBI ’ s national DNA database , facial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distinguishing tattoos all failed to lead to his identity .
( 1 ) As a result of their fruitless search , investigators posted his image to share with the public in hand with pictures of his gear .
Kelly Fairbanks recognized his face immediately .
“ I started freaking out , ” she says .
Unfortunately , she could not help .
( 1 ) More people recognized him and provided images and videos of Mostly Harmless .
Many had vague recollections like he may have had a sister , or they believed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was Saratoga .
( 1 ) Despite obsessive searches online by many wanting to help , we still don ’ t know who Mostly Harmless was .
As a last-ditch effort , organizers of the Facebook group searching for Mostly Harmless ’ identity reached out to Othram , a company known for solving cold cases .
Crowdfunding is covering the cost of their search and the highly specific testing has so far uncovered important details about Mostly Harmless ’ s DNA .
Now a long wait for a search on a service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is underway .
( 1 ) There is still a chance the GEDMatch search might finally identify the nameless hiker .
However , as a mother , I can ’ t shake the sadness and feeling of loss .
This young man must be missed by someone who thinks he disappeared off the face of the earth — yet no one is here to mourn him .
( 1 )

Women seemed to find him attractive. Avid hikers respected his endurance and hard-core commitment. He didn’t carry a cell phone with him, ever. Most importantly of all, he didn’t have a name. Known by many as “Mostly Harmless”, his body was discovered in a yellow tent in Big Cypress National Preserve, about a year after people first met him in a state park just north of New York City. Mostly Harmless met many people on his trek south, yet in the end, he remains a John Doe with no one to claim him. His story still has authorities struggling to find his identity and the internet buzzing with people trying to help solve the case. (1)
Nameless Hiker’s Aliases
According to those who encountered him in their travels, many dubbed the nameless hiker as “Denim”. However, others knew him by the name he gave himself, “Mostly Harmless”. When he had to sign his name, he used Ben Bilemy. I suppose somewhere between the nicknames and his alias lies the truth. (1)
Nameless Hiker’s Encounters
Those who met him remember his massive backpack, perhaps too big for his journey. He also had distinct black-and-copper trekking poles, one of the items people confirmed to be those of Mostly Harmless. He encountered many on his journey: (1)
“Obsidian” in Virginia: He traveled 100 miles with 66-year-old Obsidian, a woman who says she taught him how to build a fire. She remembers he wanted to see a bear. (1)
Matt Mason in northern Georgia: In December 2017 Mostly Harmless paid Matt Mason $5 cash for a map of a trail Matt recommended he take to the Florida Keys. His lack of technology impressed Matt who thought, “Oh, this guy’s awesome.” (1)
Matt’s Friend in Alabama: Two weeks after meeting Mostly Harmless Matt heard from a friend who spotted him hiking in a snowstorm in Alabama. “He was out there with a smile on his face, walking south,” says Matt. (1)
Kelly Fairbanks, Highway 90, Florida: Known as a “trail angel” who keeps a watch out for hikers in need, Kelly Fairbanks pulled over when she spotted Mostly Harmless on the highway. Thinking she knew him, she wanted to help. They chatted for a time and she remembers him as much younger than she first thought. “He had very kind eyes. I saw the huge beard first and thought, ‘It’s an older guy.’ But his eyes were so young, and he didn’t have crow’s feet. I realized he was a lot younger. I remembered him because I was worried.” (1)
Two More Hikers in Big Cypress National Preserve: On July 23, 2018, about 600 miles from where Mostly Harmless met Kelly, two hikers found his yellow tent and sadly, his lifeless body. (1)
Nameless Hiker Online Search
To this day searches for missing persons reports, DNA, fingerprints, military records, law enforcement databases, the Department of Justice, CODIS, the FBI’s national DNA database, facial recognition databases, or something recognizable like distinguishing tattoos all failed to lead to his identity. (1)
As a result of their fruitless search, investigators posted his image to share with the public in hand with pictures of his gear. Kelly Fairbanks recognized his face immediately. “I started freaking out,” she says. Unfortunately, she could not help. (1)
More people recognized him and provided images and videos of Mostly Harmless. Many had vague recollections like he may have had a sister, or they believed he was from Sarasota. Or maybe it was Saratoga. (1)
Crowdfunded DNA Search
Despite obsessive searches online by many wanting to help, we still don’t know who Mostly Harmless was. As a last-ditch effort, organizers of the Facebook group searching for Mostly Harmless’ identity reached out to Othram, a company known for solving cold cases. Crowdfunding is covering the cost of their search and the highly specific testing has so far uncovered important details about Mostly Harmless’s DNA. Now a long wait for a search on a service called GEDMatch, another DNA database, is underway. (1)
There is still a chance the GEDMatch search might finally identify the nameless hiker. However, as a mother, I can’t shake the sadness and feeling of loss. This young man must be missed by someone who thinks he disappeared off the face of the earth — yet no one is here to mourn him. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-09--Drinking Dairy Ups Your Risk of This Cancer by 80 Percent, Study Finds

We all sip dairy from time to time ; a cool smoothie on a hot day , or a milk latte when the weather calls for comfort .
Usually , by adulthood many of us have drunk substantial amounts ; powdered , evaporated , flavored , and of course as babies , breast milk .
We love drinking dairy simply because we are mammals .
It ’ s not just babies that like to get milk-drunk !
Drinking Dairy Is In Our Culture And History It is believed we started drinking cow ’ s milk as farmers , simply to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ago in Central Europe .
Certainly , in my lifetime I ’ ve been told dairy is good for my bones , will fight off viruses and even that milk may settle my stomach !
Today many dairy products are still major components of most diets , hailed for well-being , strength , and vitality .
And due to their plentiful nutrient elements such as protein , fat , minerals , and vitamins , many countries still list dairy as a core part of their dietary recommendations .
Yet , we keep hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that daily consumption is controversial .
It ’ s a milky-froth of confusion for sure .
( 1,2,4 ) Decisions about our health usually involve a complex trade-off between risks and benefits and this article explains unfortunately one new link between dairy drinks and breast cancer in women .
Nearly 53,000 North American women were evaluated , all cancer-free at the beginning of the 8-year period .
Alarmingly 1053 women who had drank the dairy option had breast cancer by the end .
The women who had been drinking soy-based milk , free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ factors had of course been accounted for and recorded .
Whilst this study does not prove cow ’ s milk causes cancer , it opens up the field of study and provides a strong indicator of the harmful effects of dairy in comparison to more benign foods .
80 % is indeed high , and author of the paper , Gary E. Fraser , MBChB , PhD stated , ‘ This raises the possibility that dairy-alternate milks may be an optimal choice.
’ ( 3 ) With this research suggesting such a risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a cool glass of regular , dairy milk ?
With millions of people already finding their perfect blend of alternatives , for stomach comfort , allergy concerns or perhaps animal rights , why not check out the simple and nutritious milk alternatives there are already out there .
Milk Alternatives That May Help Us Sip Smarter : • Soy , Provides protein and is low on calories .
The list goes on and on-any fruit , rice , almond , fermented , etc are all popular options , with new ideas coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As always there ’ s no use in crying over split milk .
If you feel like you ’ ve been making the wrong choice , maybe today is the day to choose something new for yourself .
Whether you love dairy milk or not , why not give something fresh a try ?
( 5 )

We all sip dairy from time to time; a cool smoothie on a hot day, or a milk latte when the weather calls for comfort. Usually, by adulthood many of us have drunk substantial amounts; powdered, evaporated, flavored, and of course as babies, breast milk. We love drinking dairy simply because we are mammals. It’s not just babies that like to get milk-drunk!
Drinking Dairy Is In Our Culture And History
It is believed we started drinking cow’s milk as farmers, simply to fill a hunger need around 10,000 years ago in Central Europe. Certainly, in my lifetime I’ve been told dairy is good for my bones, will fight off viruses and even that milk may settle my stomach! Today many dairy products are still major components of most diets, hailed for well-being, strength, and vitality. And due to their plentiful nutrient elements such as protein, fat, minerals, and vitamins, many countries still list dairy as a core part of their dietary recommendations. Yet, we keep hearing dairy is bad for us, and that daily consumption is controversial. It’s a milky-froth of confusion for sure. (1,2,4)
Decisions about our health usually involve a complex trade-off between risks and benefits and this article explains unfortunately one new link between dairy drinks and breast cancer in women.
Study Shows Hidden Poison For Some
In March 2020, an 8-year study by Loma Linda University in Southern California concluded that by drinking either dairy milk or some other factor closely related is a cause of breast cancer in women. Consuming and two to three cups of milk a day, showed a risk of breast cancer, up to 80%.
Nearly 53,000 North American women were evaluated, all cancer-free at the beginning of the 8-year period. Alarmingly 1053 women who had drank the dairy option had breast cancer by the end. The women who had been drinking soy-based milk, free from dairy were clear. Other lifestyle factors had of course been accounted for and recorded.
Whilst this study does not prove cow’s milk causes cancer, it opens up the field of study and provides a strong indicator of the harmful effects of dairy in comparison to more benign foods. 80% is indeed high, and author of the paper, Gary E. Fraser, MBChB, PhD stated, ‘This raises the possibility that dairy-alternate milks may be an optimal choice.’ (3)
What’s The Alternative?
With this research suggesting such a risk, is it time to pass up on a cool glass of regular, dairy milk?
With millions of people already finding their perfect blend of alternatives, for stomach comfort, allergy concerns or perhaps animal rights, why not check out the simple and nutritious milk alternatives there are already out there.
Milk Alternatives That May Help Us Sip Smarter:
Cashew, Full of Vitamin K and iron.
Hemp, Contains a large amount of calcium.
Oat, A source of fiber, Vitamin B, and folate.
Soy, Provides protein and is low on calories.
The list goes on and on-any fruit, rice, almond, fermented, etc are all popular options, with new ideas coming onto the market all the time. As always there’s no use in crying over split milk. If you feel like you’ve been making the wrong choice, maybe today is the day to choose something new for yourself. Whether you love dairy milk or not, why not give something fresh a try? (5)


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-09--Oregon Becomes First State To Decriminalize Hard Drugs Like Heroin And Cocaine

Substances like cocaine and heroin have a long mixed history .
From being seen as recreational or inoffensive in the 19th century to a serious epidemic in present times .
In the late 19th century there were no drug regulations .
Physicians often prescribed cocaine or opium as harmless painkillers .
However , it was only until the beginning of the 20th Century when the use of these drugs became a concern .
As a consequence of this public concern The Harrison Narcotics Act of 1914 ( Harrison Act ; P.L .
63-223 ) , came to be .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the increasing levels of drug abuse .
The Harrison Act required that manufacturers , importers , and distributors of cocaine and opium needed to register their business with the US .
Department of Treasury .
Hence , they were also obliged to pay a special tax and keep records of every transaction .
During this time the Narcotic Division of the Internal Revenue Bureau shut down the city and state narcotic clinics .
They sent drug violators to federal penitentiaries .
Doctors stopped prescribing cocaine or opium to their patients .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their supply .
The problem of heroin abuse in the 1960s and 1970s gave birth to the War on Drugs .
As a result , the Drug Enforcement Administration ( DEA ) was created in 1973 during the Nixon Administration with a budget of $ 74.9 million .
( 1 ) Through the years more illegal drugs had come to the already problematic scene , and at the same time , more regulations had attacked this severe problem .
Nowadays it ’ s not only heroin but also cocaine , crack cocaine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drugs that cause worry and concern to the United States population .
Illegal Drugs Epidemic in the US It is no news that in recent years the use of illegal drugs in the United States has been on the rise .
Drugs like MDMA in individuals 12 years old and older went from 11 million in 2007 to 17 million in 2017 .
( 2 ) Alongside that , the number of young adults between the ages of 18 to 25 years old using heroin was 948,000 in 2016 , according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( NSDUH ) .
( 3 ) The state of Oregon decriminalizing drugs is one of the newest approaches aiming to tackle the drug epidemic in the United States .
The purpose is to treat drug users not as criminals but as people that need help .
Placing them in the healthcare system instead of sending them to jail .
This new initiative will spare from criminal penalties to users that are found with small amounts of drugs .
Less than 1 gram of heroin or MDMA ; up to 2 grams of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of psilocybin mushrooms ; and 40 doses of methadone , LSD , or oxycodone .
Instead , the users will be fine with up to $ 100 and will be referred to addiction treatment centers .
These centers are funded by the money from the taxation of marijuana in the state of Oregon .
That amounts to $ 100 million a year .
( 4 ) Though Oregon has become the first state decriminalizing hard drugs in the United States , it is not the first in the world .
Countries like the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decriminalized drugs without negative effects .
It ’ s no doubt a very progressive and humane solution for a difficult persistent problem .
Let ’ s hope for the best !

Substances like cocaine and heroin have a long mixed history. From being seen as recreational or inoffensive in the 19th century to a serious epidemic in present times.
Drug Regulations Over the Years
In the late 19th century there were no drug regulations. Physicians often prescribed cocaine or opium as harmless painkillers. However, it was only until the beginning of the 20th Century when the use of these drugs became a concern.
As a consequence of this public concern The Harrison Narcotics Act of 1914 (Harrison Act; P.L. 63-223), came to be. This was the response by the government due to the increasing levels of drug abuse.
The Harrison Act required that manufacturers, importers, and distributors of cocaine and opium needed to register their business with the US. Department of Treasury. Hence, they were also obliged to pay a special tax and keep records of every transaction.
During this time the Narcotic Division of the Internal Revenue Bureau shut down the city and state narcotic clinics. They sent drug violators to federal penitentiaries. Doctors stopped prescribing cocaine or opium to their patients. These ones turned to the black market for their supply.
The problem of heroin abuse in the 1960s and 1970s gave birth to the War on Drugs. As a result, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was created in 1973 during the Nixon Administration with a budget of $ 74.9 million. (1)
A Continuous Problem
Through the years more illegal drugs had come to the already problematic scene, and at the same time, more regulations had attacked this severe problem.
Nowadays it’s not only heroin but also cocaine, crack cocaine, MDMA, amphetamines, and more synthetic drugs that cause worry and concern to the United States population.
Illegal Drugs Epidemic in the US
It is no news that in recent years the use of illegal drugs in the United States has been on the rise. Drugs like MDMA in individuals 12 years old and older went from 11 million in 2007 to 17 million in 2017. (2)
Alongside that, the number of young adults between the ages of 18 to 25 years old using heroin was 948,000 in 2016, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). (3)
Oregon Decriminalizes Drugs
The state of Oregon decriminalizing drugs is one of the newest approaches aiming to tackle the drug epidemic in the United States. The purpose is to treat drug users not as criminals but as people that need help. Placing them in the healthcare system instead of sending them to jail.
This new initiative will spare from criminal penalties to users that are found with small amounts of drugs. Less than 1 gram of heroin or MDMA; up to 2 grams of cocaine; no more than 12 grams of psilocybin mushrooms; and 40 doses of methadone, LSD, or oxycodone. Instead, the users will be fine with up to $100 and will be referred to addiction treatment centers. These centers are funded by the money from the taxation of marijuana in the state of Oregon. That amounts to $100 million a year. (4)
Future Ahead
Though Oregon has become the first state decriminalizing hard drugs in the United States, it is not the first in the world. Countries like the Netherlands, Portugal, and Switzerland had decriminalized drugs without negative effects.
It’s no doubt a very progressive and humane solution for a difficult persistent problem. Let’s hope for the best!


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-10--Man Makes Adorable Acorn People And Sends Them On Magical Adventures In The Woods

Who hasn ’ t walked through the woods on an autumn day and wanted to collect the interesting nuts , seeds , leaves , or twigs that are found there ?
Perhaps as a child , you even took these home and played with them .
This is just what Petr Václavek ’ s children did several years ago .
After moving near a forest outside of Prague in the Czech Republic , Petr and his children would take walks through the woods gathering nature ’ s little treasures .
Their collection of found objects began to grow .
Petr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to these objects and began to create little figures for the amusement of his kids .
At first , these whimsical characters were made by skewering chestnuts and acorns together with little wooden sticks .
They soon dried out and fell apart .
Then he tried using the dried twigs they had found and this worked much better especially after discovering the hot glue gun .
The glue was easy to use and dried fast , which allowed Petr to place the little figures in numerous positions and settings as to almost look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a mushroom , and hundreds more .
Working one or two evenings a week and some weekends , the result of Petr ’ s talent and enjoyment in this creative activity started to take over his house !
The little people , which he now called acorn elves or “ Dubanci ” could be found on every window sill , bookshelf , and any other available space .
His children were delighted so he started to photograph the elves to share with other children .
He created a website then a Facebook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uses mainly acorns , oak leaves and twigs , and occasionally other natural substances like birch bark , cones , nutshells , and berries .
“ I try to make them look credible , so before I start gluing , I look for photographs on the Internet , or at myself in the mirror making the right pose.
” ( 3 ) With the internet , people outside of the Czech Republic began to notice these acorn people .
The photograph of a little elf sitting on a toilet reading a book went @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , wanted more .
Petr saw how , no matter what the age , these little acorn people spoke to the child in everyone .
( 4 ) A couple of years ago he created calendars with the photos he had taken over the years .
Next came postcards because his fans wanted to be able to send his work to others .
The ideas kept coming .
T-shirts , cups , greeting cards , puzzles for kids .
He now has collections on his eCommerce site including holidays like Halloween and Christmas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; and others like animals and seasons .
Petr ’ s special talent in working with miniatures is reflected in all his collections .
Even the accessories he makes to accompany his elves , like carved pumpkins , baby carriages , baskets , or tents , are all scaled correctly and detailed from only natural materials .
He doesn ’ t know how far this hobby will go , but Petr and his children are happy and so are the thousands of fans who continue to enjoy his work .

Who hasn’t walked through the woods on an autumn day and wanted to collect the interesting nuts, seeds, leaves, or twigs that are found there? Perhaps as a child, you even took these home and played with them. This is just what Petr Václavek’s children did several years ago.
After moving near a forest outside of Prague in the Czech Republic, Petr and his children would take walks through the woods gathering nature’s little treasures. Their collection of found objects began to grow. Petr, a graphic designer, was drawn to these objects and began to create little figures for the amusement of his kids.
Adorable Acorn People
At first, these whimsical characters were made by skewering chestnuts and acorns together with little wooden sticks. They soon dried out and fell apart. Then he tried using the dried twigs they had found and this worked much better especially after discovering the hot glue gun. The glue was easy to use and dried fast, which allowed Petr to place the little figures in numerous positions and settings as to almost look real. Camping, skiing, reading on a mushroom, and hundreds more.
Working one or two evenings a week and some weekends, the result of Petr’s talent and enjoyment in this creative activity started to take over his house! The little people, which he now called acorn elves or “Dubanci” could be found on every window sill, bookshelf, and any other available space. His children were delighted so he started to photograph the elves to share with other children. He created a website then a Facebook page. (1,2)
He now uses mainly acorns, oak leaves and twigs, and occasionally other natural substances like birch bark, cones, nutshells, and berries. “I try to make them look credible, so before I start gluing, I look for photographs on the Internet, or at myself in the mirror making the right pose.” (3)
Acorn People Become Stars
With the internet, people outside of the Czech Republic began to notice these acorn people. The photograph of a little elf sitting on a toilet reading a book went viral! People, including many adults, wanted more. Petr saw how, no matter what the age, these little acorn people spoke to the child in everyone. (4)
A couple of years ago he created calendars with the photos he had taken over the years. Next came postcards because his fans wanted to be able to send his work to others. The ideas kept coming. T-shirts, cups, greeting cards, puzzles for kids. He now has collections on his eCommerce site including holidays like Halloween and Christmas; special occasions like weddings and birthdays; and others like animals and seasons.
Petr’s special talent in working with miniatures is reflected in all his collections. Even the accessories he makes to accompany his elves, like carved pumpkins, baby carriages, baskets, or tents, are all scaled correctly and detailed from only natural materials.
He doesn’t know how far this hobby will go, but Petr and his children are happy and so are the thousands of fans who continue to enjoy his work.


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-10--6 Stretches That Can Help Heal Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways ( lateral ) curvature of the spine .
It is known to appear with the growth spurt that occurs just before puberty .
Causes can be congenital , neuromuscular , syndrome-related , or idiopathic .
A majority of scoliosis cases are idiopathic .
About 3 % of adolescents have scoliosis .
( 1 ) On their website , the American Association of Neurological Surgeons lists the following signs and symptoms of scoliosis : • shoulders are uneven – one or both shoulder blades may stick out .
• Head is not centered directly above the pelvis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or unusually high • Ribs are at different heights • the appearance or texture of the skin overlying the spine changes ( dimples , hairy patches , color abnormalities • the entire body leans to one side .
( 2 ) There is limited research available on the benefits of stretching for scoliosis , but from what has been done so far , stretching can help people with this condition .
For example , a single case study with a woman with scoliosis who practiced yoga for over thirty-five years shows stable , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decreased spinal curvature .
( 4 ) As a yoga instructor , I always try to incorporate the three different ways the spine moves when leading a class .
The following posture sequence is based on this concept .
**Note : Before beginning with these or any exercises for scoliosis , check in with your healthcare provider first .
If you experience any pain , stop exercising at once and rest .
Regular use of these stretches can help minimize abnormal spinal issues such as those associated with scoliosis .
• Stand with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with a folding chair or stool directly in front of you .
• Inhale and bend your knees slightly .
Exhale , and with knees still bent , fold forward and place your hands on the seat of the chair or stool .
Keep your eyes on your hands .
This can be enough , so stay here and breathe deeply – 3-4 second inhales and exhales .
• If it feels OK , exhale and try straightening out one knee , then inhale and straighten the other , alternating back and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If there is no discomfort , try straightening both knees at the same time and slow down the breath .
• If you are more flexible , inhale , and try bending your knees , then exhale and release your hands to your shins .
Your eyes are now focused on the floor in front of your feet .
Repeat as above , straightening out one knee at a time with the breath .
• When you are ready to stand , inhale and bend both knees , letting your chin drop to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as best you can stacking one vertebrae on top of the other .
• Stand with feet hip-width apart , hands by your side .
Inhale and lift the right arm out to the side , sweeping it up to vertical so your fingers point to the ceiling .
Exhale and turn your palm to face left .
• Inhale and slowly shift the hips to the right .
Exhale and let the right arm reach over your head to the left side of the room – as best you can , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ear .
Let your left hand slide down the left thigh a bit , your eyes are looking forward .
Take three deep breaths , coming back to standing on the exhale of the last breath , right hand by your side .
• Inhale , place your hands on your hips and bend both knees .
On the exhale , step the right foot back – keeping it in line with the right hip .
You can turn your right heel down into the floor , the toes will fan a bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right arm out in front of you , parallel to the floor , palm facing center , thumb pointing to the ceiling .
Exhale your left arm out to the left side of the body , palm facing forward , thumb pointing to the ceiling .
• On your next inhale , eyes stay forward as you anchor into the right heel let the left shoulder open into the twist .
On the exhale , if it feels ok , let the head turn left into the twist .
When you ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit and remember to breathe , holding for 3-4 breaths .
• Lying on your belly , arms extended , palms on the floor , legs long , eyes looking at the floor right under you so the neck is long ( i.e .
don ’ t tilt the neck and look at your hands ) .
Inhale and lift your right arm and left leg a few inches off of the floor .
On the exhale , try and reach your right fingers and left toes away from each other a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next inhale , try to relax your shoulders , and lift the navel away from the floor on the exhale .
One more inhale , lengthen fingers and toes away from each other , keep lifting navel off of the floor .
On the exhale , slowly release .
• Switch sides – left hand , right toes lift on the inhale .
Lengthen into the exhale and check to make sure your navel is lifted .
Hold for two more breaths , releasing slowly , with control .
• Repeat three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kneeling on the floor with your knees directly under hips , hands are directly under the shoulders ( Table Pose ) , eyes are looking between the thumbs .
Navel is lifting slightly away from the floor , shoulders and relaxed away from the ears .
• On the next inhale , lift the gaze to the horizon ( wall in front of you ) , anchor into your palms and fingertips , and try to pull the collar bones forward and up just a bit .
• On the exhale , round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to your chest .
Press the ribs into the back of the body as best you can and feel the navel lifting away from the floor .
• From Table Pose , exhale and let your hips shift back so that your bum is close to your heels .
Inhale and walk your hands forward enough so that your arms are straight .
If you can , let your forehead rest on the floor .
If the head doesn ’ t reach the floor , use a pillow , yoga block , rolled-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while in this posture .
• Make any adjustments with arms , feet , head support , and find a position that you can hold for five or six breaths comfortably .
• Breathe deeply , and slowly , allowing for 4-6 seconds for each inhale and exhale .
• To protect the low back , try and keep the ribs and navel lifted away from the thighs .
It might be helpful to place a towel between the chest and thighs .
• Come out of the posture on an inhale , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to standing .

What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is a sideways (lateral) curvature of the spine. It is known to appear with the growth spurt that occurs just before puberty. Causes can be congenital, neuromuscular, syndrome-related, or idiopathic. A majority of scoliosis cases are idiopathic. About 3% of adolescents have scoliosis. (1)
Signs and Symptoms of Scoliosis
On their website, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons lists the following signs and symptoms of scoliosis:
shoulders are uneven – one or both shoulder blades may stick out.
Head is not centered directly above the pelvis
one or both hips are raised or unusually high
Ribs are at different heights
Waist is uneven
the appearance or texture of the skin overlying the spine changes (dimples, hairy patches, color abnormalities
the entire body leans to one side. (2)
Stretching and scoliosis
There is limited research available on the benefits of stretching for scoliosis, but from what has been done so far, stretching can help people with this condition. For example, a single case study with a woman with scoliosis who practiced yoga for over thirty-five years shows stable, progressive improvement in her posture, and decreased spinal curvature. (4)
Six Stretches for Scoliosis
As a yoga instructor, I always try to incorporate the three different ways the spine moves when leading a class. The following posture sequence is based on this concept.
**Note: Before beginning with these or any exercises for scoliosis, check in with your healthcare provider first. If you experience any pain, stop exercising at once and rest. Regular use of these stretches can help minimize abnormal spinal issues such as those associated with scoliosis.
Forward Bend
Stand with feet hip-width apart, hands on hips, with a folding chair or stool directly in front of you. Inhale and bend your knees slightly. Exhale, and with knees still bent, fold forward and place your hands on the seat of the chair or stool. Keep your eyes on your hands. This can be enough, so stay here and breathe deeply – 3-4 second inhales and exhales. If it feels OK, exhale and try straightening out one knee, then inhale and straighten the other, alternating back and forth in time with the breath. If there is no discomfort, try straightening both knees at the same time and slow down the breath. If you are more flexible, inhale, and try bending your knees, then exhale and release your hands to your shins. Your eyes are now focused on the floor in front of your feet. Repeat as above, straightening out one knee at a time with the breath. When you are ready to stand, inhale and bend both knees, letting your chin drop to your chest. Exhale and slowly stand, as best you can stacking one vertebrae on top of the other.
Side Bend
Stand with feet hip-width apart, hands by your side. Inhale and lift the right arm out to the side, sweeping it up to vertical so your fingers point to the ceiling. Exhale and turn your palm to face left. Inhale and slowly shift the hips to the right. Exhale and let the right arm reach over your head to the left side of the room – as best you can, keep the arm straight and over the ear. Let your left hand slide down the left thigh a bit, your eyes are looking forward. Take three deep breaths, coming back to standing on the exhale of the last breath, right hand by your side. Repeat on the opposite side.
Standing Twist
Inhale, place your hands on your hips and bend both knees. On the exhale, step the right foot back – keeping it in line with the right hip. You can turn your right heel down into the floor, the toes will fan a bit to the right. Inhale the right arm out in front of you, parallel to the floor, palm facing center, thumb pointing to the ceiling. Exhale your left arm out to the left side of the body, palm facing forward, thumb pointing to the ceiling. On your next inhale, eyes stay forward as you anchor into the right heel let the left shoulder open into the twist. On the exhale, if it feels ok, let the head turn left into the twist. When you’ve met resistance, back off the effort a bit and remember to breathe, holding for 3-4 breaths. Repeat on the opposite side.
Superman Pose
(Note: if you are experiencing severe low back pain, do not do this exercise)
Lying on your belly, arms extended, palms on the floor, legs long, eyes looking at the floor right under you so the neck is long (i.e. don’t tilt the neck and look at your hands). Inhale and lift your right arm and left leg a few inches off of the floor. On the exhale, try and reach your right fingers and left toes away from each other a bit, lengthening. Hold this on the next inhale, try to relax your shoulders, and lift the navel away from the floor on the exhale. One more inhale, lengthen fingers and toes away from each other, keep lifting navel off of the floor. On the exhale, slowly release. Switch sides – left hand, right toes lift on the inhale. Lengthen into the exhale and check to make sure your navel is lifted. Hold for two more breaths, releasing slowly, with control. Repeat three times on each side.
Cat/Cow Pose
Begin kneeling on the floor with your knees directly under hips, hands are directly under the shoulders (Table Pose), eyes are looking between the thumbs. Navel is lifting slightly away from the floor, shoulders and relaxed away from the ears. On the next inhale, lift the gaze to the horizon (wall in front of you), anchor into your palms and fingertips, and try to pull the collar bones forward and up just a bit. On the exhale, round your spine and let your chin drop to your chest. Press the ribs into the back of the body as best you can and feel the navel lifting away from the floor. Repeat both actions four times.
Child’s Pose


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-09--Drinking Dairy Ups Your Risk Of This Cancer by 80 Percent, Study Finds

We all sip dairy from time to time ; a cool smoothie on a hot day , or a milk latte when the weather calls for comfort .
Usually , by adulthood many of us have drunk substantial amounts ; powdered , evaporated , flavored , and of course as babies , breast milk .
We love drinking dairy simply because we are mammals .
It ’ s not just babies that like to get milk-drunk !
Drinking Dairy Is In Our Culture And History It is believed we started drinking cow ’ s milk as farmers , simply to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ago in Central Europe .
Certainly , in my lifetime I ’ ve been told dairy is good for my bones , will fight off viruses and even that milk may settle my stomach !
Today many dairy products are still major components of most diets , hailed for well-being , strength , and vitality .
And due to their plentiful nutrient elements such as protein , fat , minerals , and vitamins , many countries still list dairy as a core part of their dietary recommendations .
Yet , we keep hearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that daily consumption is controversial .
It ’ s a milky-froth of confusion for sure .
( 1,2,4 ) Decisions about our health usually involve a complex trade-off between risks and benefits and this article explains unfortunately one new link between dairy drinks and breast cancer in women .
In March 2020 , an 8-year study by Loma Linda University in Southern California concluded that by drinking either dairy milk or some other factor closely related is a cause of breast cancer in women .
Consuming and two to three cups of milk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breast cancer , up to 80 % .
Nearly 53,000 North American women were evaluated , all cancer-free at the beginning of the 8-year period .
Alarmingly 1053 women who had drank the dairy option had breast cancer by the end .
The women who had been drinking soy-based milk , free from dairy were clear .
Other lifestyle factors had of course been accounted for and recorded .
Whilst this study does not prove cow ’ s milk causes cancer , it opens up the field of study and provides a strong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in comparison to more benign foods .
80 % is indeed high , and author of the paper , Gary E. Fraser , MBChB , PhD stated , ‘ This raises the possibility that dairy-alternate milks may be an optimal choice.
’ ( 3 ) With this research suggesting such a risk , is it time to pass up on a cool glass of regular , dairy milk ?
With millions of people already finding their perfect blend of alternatives , for stomach comfort , allergy concerns or perhaps animal rights , why @ @ @ @ @ @ @ milk alternatives there are already out there .
Milk Alternatives That May Help Us Sip Smarter : • Soy , Provides protein and is low on calories .
The list goes on and on-any fruit , rice , almond , fermented , etc are all popular options , with new ideas coming onto the market all the time .
As always there ’ s no use in crying over split milk .
If you feel like you ’ ve been making the wrong choice , maybe today is the day to choose something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dairy milk or not , why not give something fresh a try ?
( 5 )


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-11--This Texas Farm Connects Special-Needs Kids With Injured Animals: ‘They’re just like me’

“ You become responsible forever for what you ’ ve tamed.
” , the fox told the Little Prince after they became friends .
Then the Little Prince understood that “ to tame ” is to create ties .
To need each other .
To be unique for one another .
We , humans , have related to animals in various ways since the beginning of time .
Animals have been crucial for our survival from helping us to farm , protecting us from danger to transporting us to places .
Nowadays , animals can assist us to better our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Assisted Animal Therapy ( AAT ) can help individuals with the physical rehabilitation of motor skills .
They can also be trained to help people with mental illness .
While some others are used to bring emotional comfort to places like hospitals and nursing homes .
Benefits of AAT in Children with Special Needs Probably you can remember a trip to a farm and be fascinated with all the animals as a kid .
Most kids are drawn with curiosity to these cute , funny-looking creatures .
Sure you had seen many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companions like , well , “ babies ” .
Added to the cuteness factor , animals can therapeutically help children .
Especially children with physical , emotional , and mental disabilities .
Assisted Animal Therapy has proven beneficial with children experiencing cerebral palsy , post-traumatic stress disorder , muscular dystrophy , traumatic brain injury , autism spectrum disorder , and intellectual or developmental disabilities .
In these cases , children develop a therapeutic bond with the animals that give them support and strength .
( 1 ) In 2014 the Wallace-Griner family created @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farm dedicated to rescuing animals that have been rejected , abused , or neglected .
Located in Leander , a suburb just north of Austin , they care for more than 150 animals today .
Cows , chickens , pigs , dogs , horses , rabbits , goats , turkeys , turtles and one parrot have names .
Well , some are difficult to tell apart , so they end up with eight chickens called Ashley .
Back in 2012 , when one of the three Wallace-Griner kids , Jackson , was having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ condition .
Then , Jackson ’ s parents brought home “ Angel ” , a six-year-old Grand Pyrenees therapy dog .
The family was amazed by the immediate positive impact that Angel had in Jackson ’ s life .
He became more independent and at ease .
These incentivize David Griner and his wife Jamie to purchase a 10-acre farm in 2014 and start the special needs farm .
( 2 ) In the beginning , the Wallace-Griner animal sanctuary will be mostly visited by friends of friends .
Soon enough they grew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farm for everyone to come and visit .
Especially children that were experiencing difficulties transitioning or adapting to new situations .
The case of a couple of siblings that were recently adopted after spending six years in foster care .
They found it hard to fit in in their new environment .
One of them said “ In my school , like I am the only kid that is adopted in my class , so no one really gets how I feel .
But when I come here , Pebo ( the parrot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And , I get him and he gets me ” ( 3 ) While I do not doubt the beneficial impact of all animals in our lives .
I am more than amazed by the phenomenal labor from the special needs farm , Safe in Austin .
They bring so much joy and support to all children and adults .
Great job !

“You become responsible forever for what you’ve tamed.”, the fox told the Little Prince after they became friends. Then the Little Prince understood that “to tame” is to create ties. To need each other. To be unique for one another.
Assisted Animal Therapy (AAT)
We, humans, have related to animals in various ways since the beginning of time. Animals have been crucial for our survival from helping us to farm, protecting us from danger to transporting us to places.
Nowadays, animals can assist us to better our physical, emotional, and mental health. Assisted Animal Therapy (AAT) can help individuals with the physical rehabilitation of motor skills. They can also be trained to help people with mental illness. While some others are used to bring emotional comfort to places like hospitals and nursing homes.
Benefits of AAT in Children with Special Needs
Probably you can remember a trip to a farm and be fascinated with all the animals as a kid. Most kids are drawn with curiosity to these cute, funny-looking creatures. Sure you had seen many pictures of babies sleeping with their furry companions like, well, “babies”. Added to the cuteness factor, animals can therapeutically help children. Especially children with physical, emotional, and mental disabilities.
Assisted Animal Therapy has proven beneficial with children experiencing cerebral palsy, post-traumatic stress disorder, muscular dystrophy, traumatic brain injury, autism spectrum disorder, and intellectual or developmental disabilities.
In these cases, children develop a therapeutic bond with the animals that give them support and strength. (1)
Special Needs Farm
In 2014 the Wallace-Griner family created Safe in Austin. A special needs farm dedicated to rescuing animals that have been rejected, abused, or neglected.
Located in Leander, a suburb just north of Austin, they care for more than 150 animals today. Cows, chickens, pigs, dogs, horses, rabbits, goats, turkeys, turtles and one parrot have names. Well, some are difficult to tell apart, so they end up with eight chickens called Ashley.
Back in 2012, when one of the three Wallace-Griner kids, Jackson, was having a difficult time coping with his autistic condition. Then, Jackson’s parents brought home “Angel”, a six-year-old Grand Pyrenees therapy dog. The family was amazed by the immediate positive impact that Angel had in Jackson’s life. He became more independent and at ease.
These incentivize David Griner and his wife Jamie to purchase a 10-acre farm in 2014 and start the special needs farm. (2)
Tender Testimonials
In the beginning, the Wallace-Griner animal sanctuary will be mostly visited by friends of friends. Soon enough they grew and decided to open the special needs farm for everyone to come and visit. Especially children that were experiencing difficulties transitioning or adapting to new situations.
The case of a couple of siblings that were recently adopted after spending six years in foster care. They found it hard to fit in in their new environment. One of them said “ In my school, like I am the only kid that is adopted in my class, so no one really gets how I feel. But when I come here, Pebo (the parrot) knows what I am feeling. And, I get him and he gets me” (3)
While I do not doubt the beneficial impact of all animals in our lives. I am more than amazed by the phenomenal labor from the special needs farm, Safe in Austin. They bring so much joy and support to all children and adults. Great job!


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-11--Charlie Brown’ Christmas And Thanksgiving Specials Won’t Air On Television This Year

Nothing lasts forever , and nothing stays the same .
It ’ s such a folly to wish otherwise .
Change or goodbyes , by any chance are upsetting , even more so when steeped in family tradition .
Many families are saddened this year that they may not be sitting down together to watch the classic Charlie Brown Christmas Special .
It ’ s the end of a cartoon era for mainstream TV .
The Peanuts gang are off to Apple TV+ for continued holiday specials , and their gentle-hearted adventures .
The tales of lovable loser Charlie Brown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Peanuts started in print , where the syndicated comic strip by Charles M. Shultz ran daily .
From humble beginnings in 1950 with United Features Syndicate , they ran until 2000 , reaching 75 newspapers across the world with a readership of 350 million fans .
On December 9 , 1965 , a collaboration between Shultz , animator Bill Meléndez and producer Lee Mendelson , saw Charlie make his television debut .
Over 15 million households tuned in to see Charlie jump from newspaper into TV .
It is estimated that nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the network thought would flop .
The Peanuts characters appeared in numerous holiday specials , including ‘ A Charlie Brown Christmas ’ ( 1965 ) and ‘ It ’ s the Great Pumpkin , Charlie Brown ’ ( 1966 ) as well as ‘ The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show ’ ( 1983–85 ) .
The Peanuts Movie ’ ( 2015 ) a 3-D computer-generated adventure was kudos to their continued adaptation .
The cute characters came alive on Broadway in 1967 with ‘ You ’ re a Good Man , Charlie Brown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the show was revived again , and in 2016 became the first-ever show to feature professional children with Broadway experience in the roles .
Charlie Brown reached more ultimate heights when in 1969 the human space flight , Apollo 10 , named the mission ’ s call signs after Charlie Brown and Snoopy .
Now as semi-official mascots , Peanuts creator Schulz also drew mission-related artwork for NASA .
( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ) ‘ A Charlie Brown Christmas ’ is now set to be an Apple TV+ exclusive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this news , with many families feeling the old-fashioned antennas have been overridden by subscription network .
Since the acquisition was announced , a Change.org petition titled “ Bring the Peanuts specials back to broadcast TV !
” has already gained more than 107,000 signatures .
Apple have responded by saying Thanksgiving and Christmas specials will still be available for free on certain dates on the run up to both traditional celebrations , and all subscriptions have a seven-day free trial .
For a limited time , customers who purchase a new iPhone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or iPod touch can enjoy one year of Apple TV+ for free .
The discontent continues ; the taking of holiday tradition , and the fact that many families can not afford a monthly $ 4.99 pay to view , seems to be hurting household values , both morally and monetary .
With Charles Schulz ’ s passing in 2000 , and Charlie Brown seemingly only reaching the tender age of 8 in a 70-year working life , it is intriguingly unclear what these two originators might have visualized .
Snoopy might @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the secret of life .
” In the doldrums , Charlie Brown would simply respond… “ ” .
( 1 , 5 )

UPDATE: After a public outcry and even an online petition that went viral, the Charlie Brown holiday specials will air on PBS for the 2020 holiday season!
Nothing lasts forever, and nothing stays the same. It’s such a folly to wish otherwise. Change or goodbyes, by any chance are upsetting, even more so when steeped in family tradition.
Many families are saddened this year that they may not be sitting down together to watch the classic Charlie Brown Christmas Special. It’s the end of a cartoon era for mainstream TV. The Peanuts gang are off to Apple TV+ for continued holiday specials, and their gentle-hearted adventures.
‘ Goodbye always makes my throat hurt ’ – Charlie Brown.
What’s The Matter Charlie Brown?
The tales of lovable loser Charlie Brown, his dog Snoopy and his pals the Peanuts started in print, where the syndicated comic strip by Charles M. Shultz ran daily. From humble beginnings in 1950 with United Features Syndicate, they ran until 2000, reaching 75 newspapers across the world with a readership of 350 million fans.
On December 9, 1965, a collaboration between Shultz, animator Bill Meléndez and producer Lee Mendelson, saw Charlie make his television debut. Over 15 million households tuned in to see Charlie jump from newspaper into TV. It is estimated that nearly half of American television sets watched what the network thought would flop.
The Peanuts characters appeared in numerous holiday specials, including ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ (1965) and ‘It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown’ (1966) as well as ‘The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show’ (1983–85). The Peanuts Movie’ (2015) a 3-D computer-generated adventure was kudos to their continued adaptation.
The cute characters came alive on Broadway in 1967 with ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’ premiering in 1971. In 1999 the show was revived again, and in 2016 became the first-ever show to feature professional children with Broadway experience in the roles.
Charlie Brown reached more ultimate heights when in 1969 the human space flight, Apollo 10, named the mission’s call signs after Charlie Brown and Snoopy. Now as semi-official mascots, Peanuts creator Schulz also drew mission-related artwork for NASA. (1, 2, 3, 4)
Apple To Proceed Holiday Specials
‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ is now set to be an Apple TV+ exclusive. There has been internet backlash to this news, with many families feeling the old-fashioned antennas have been overridden by subscription network.
Since the acquisition was announced, a Change.org petition titled “Bring the Peanuts specials back to broadcast TV!” has already gained more than 107,000 signatures. Apple have responded by saying Thanksgiving and Christmas specials will still be available for free on certain dates on the run up to both traditional celebrations, and all subscriptions have a seven-day free trial. For a limited time, customers who purchase a new iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, or iPod touch can enjoy one year of Apple TV+ for free.
The discontent continues; the taking of holiday tradition, and the fact that many families cannot afford a monthly $4.99 pay to view, seems to be hurting household values, both morally and monetary.
With Charles Schulz’s passing in 2000, and Charlie Brown seemingly only reaching the tender age of 8 in a 70-year working life, it is intriguingly unclear what these two originators might have visualized.
Snoopy might say “ Keep looking up, that’s the secret of life .”


healthyholisticliving--2020-11-13--15 Ways To Remove Bad Odors From Your Home

We all dream of our homes being calming sanctuaries , smelling fresh and pleasant .
But given the realities of life ( children , pets , food , weather ) , typically our digs end up smelling stinky .
You are not the laziest , dirtiest person if this happens to you , and you are definitely not alone !
Before stench finds home in your home , all you have to do is remove bad odors , neutralize horrid smells , and introduce pleasing new ones .
Listed here are 15 household hacks to consider .
• None Studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ combating depression .
To introduce , simply boil orange peel .
Fill a saucepan with water , add orange peels from three oranges , four cinnamon sticks , and one tablespoon of whole cloves .
Bring to a boil .
Let simmer for one hour .
( 1 ) • None Bin confidential .
You don ’ t have to put up with putrid or rancid smells .
If garbage bins smell horrible simply sprinkle some coffee grounds on the top of the rubbish .
Coffee grounds are extremely absorbent .
Use them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Create your own cleaning !
To rapidly freshen any surface , homemade products are a healthy and cheap alternative to chemical-laden products .
Water , vinegar , and a few drops of essential oils ( especially tea-tree ) do the trick , and by adding hydrogen peroxide , or a small amount of bleach , you can really enhance anti-bacterial properties .
Check out YouTube videos for inspiration .
( 2 ) • None Bundle fabric correctly .
The lack of air inside closets can have our clothes smelling stagnant , especially if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bar of natural soap , some fresh herbs in between , or even some strong-smelling wood will help for a better aroma .
Cat litter placed on the floor will draw out odors from smelly shoes .
• None Rugs fight for smelly attention .
They gather dropped food , pet hair , and dust .
Sea-salt contains deodorizing agents that will help your rugs or carpet stay clean .
Sprinkle on , leave 10 minutes , then vacuum .
• None Sneak in scented storage .
Cedar is a favorite option because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ keeps away bugs ( although cedarwood shouldn ’ t contact clothing directly ) .
You can also add dryer sheets to any boxed storage .
Airflow is important so don ’ t overstuff stored belongings .
• None The answers lie where we lie .
Sometimes all we need is our bed-dirty sheets , smelling of us !
However , a musty smell is off-putting for guests , especially if romance is on the cards !
Bamboo sheets are popular as being made from fibers of the plant , they are resistant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strip your bed , freshen sheets and sprinkle bicarbonate-of-soda on your mattress .
Leave for 30 mins , vacuum off .
• None Put evergreens everywhere .
Certain wondrous plants absorb smells .
Air-purifying wonders include Boston ferns , peace lilies , and snake plants .
No batteries required for nature ’ s purification .
• None Shake , shake , bicarbonate-of-soda .
As mentioned , the wonder powder is great for deodorizing .
Other areas in the house to consider for the magic sprinkle are trainers or sneakers , down toilet cisterns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ washing machines , even your toothbrush bristles !
• None the cure for grossness .
Vinegar can deodorize an entire house !
Crinkle up newspaper and spray it evenly .
Stuff the crinkled balls anywhere you need to remain fresh .
Stovetops , windows , and floors also relish a wipe with a vinegary cloth .
Vinegar iscure for grossness .
• None Sweepstake rules .
Black tea has been used to mop floors throughout history , but did you know a few tea-leaves dumped on a dirty floor before sweeping will pick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
• None Kick off your shoes .
Tea-bags again !
Leave 2 teabags inside a pair of sweaty shoes overnight .
Stench deleted .
• None Cat-person-y ?
Dog lover ?
Fish fanatic or bird crazy ?
Make sure your pet nests smell the best they can .
Look for natural cleaners or make your own .
Overpowering cleaning smells can put animals in great danger , so always choose natural , and always read the labels .
• None Smelly pipe odors begone !
A half-cup of baking soda , half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cream-of-tarter , all mixed , put down the drain , followed by some boiling water works wonders .
Leave for 1 hour .
• None Foul-smelling fridge ?
The best remedy is a cut-open lemon .
Leave in a bowl overnight .
Home is the place we go to escape the world and the air in your home is a blank canvas .
Steal these ideas , and outfit your residence with olfactory delight !

I don’t often align myself with products but this is one that I just had to share!
Some of you may already know years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
I can still recall what it felt like to have my life change overnight…
I went from an Executive Director of a non-profit organization, running marathons, rock climbing, hiking canyons and kayaking to being completely bedridden and staring at a wall for 15 hours a day.
Of course, I went to see many doctors but unfortunately I didn’t find the help I needed. So, I had to set off on my own journey to learn my true path to healing.
I’d pretty much turned-over every rock trying to find relief for my pain, sleep issues and myriad of other symptoms…
Fast-forward 18 years.
I was determined to climb one of the true wonders of the natural world, Machu Picchu, the mystical home of the Incas in Peru.
It was there, after a grueling day when my feet, knees, legs, and lower back hurt so bad, that I thought I would have to abandon hopes of our next climb which was Rainbow Mountain! That night I pulled out a little spray bottle of “aceite de magnesio” that a friend had given me before I left on my trip.
What the heck, I thought. I was desperate. And I applied it all over my body before bed.
Because of the grueling day, I woke up expecting to be immobilized, but instead we were off to climb Rainbow Mountain and…I was totally pain-free!
I know it sounds impossible, but it’s 1000% the truth.