theheartysoul--2020-04-22--11 Foods That Stay Good After Their Expiration Date

During this pandemic , we ’ re scrounging the back of our pantries .
Some of us want to avoid going to the grocery stores as much as possible or are waiting for food deliveries to arrive .
Whichever the case , don ’ t throw out the foods past their dates just yet ; they may still be good to eat .
It depends on the product and how it was stored .
See , the dates are an estimate of how long the food would stay in its peak quality , but it may still be safe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the exception .
Its dates are federally regulated and should only be consumed beforehand . )
First , it ’ s important to understand what the dates actually mean .
“ Use by ” dates are the food manufacturers ’ recommendations on how long the food would be in its best quality .
Eating it after the date should not be harmful .
“ Expiration ” dates are for consumers to know how long the product will be considered fresh .
After that , the food may go bad .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use your judgment to determine if the food is still good .
“ Sell by ” dates are for stores to know how long to have this product on display .
You can eat the product after that date but the quality and flavor have probably diminished .
This date isn ’ t a matter of food safety .
“ Best by ” dates also reflect quality , not food safety , and is a rough recommendation from the manufacturer .
[ 1 ] “ Keep in mind that if a food item @ @ @ @ @ @ @ labeled dates , it still may have a chance of being contaminated , ” says Amanda A. Kostro Miller , RD , LDN .
It is important that we store , cook , serve and put away food items in a safe manner to avoid contamination and foodborne illness.
” Here are 11 Foods That Stay Good After Their Expiration Date Hard cheeses like Parmesan can still be edible even when they begin to show signs of aging .
If the best-by-date passes , there may be white or blue-green mold forming on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the mold , cut off the affected parts , and the rest of the cheese is good to eat .
[ 2 ] “ Hard cheeses have a low moisture content , which makes it harder for bacteria to grow as most bacteria prefer moist environments , ” says Sofia Norton , RD , a registered dietitian at Kiss My Keto .
Eggs are perishable items that can go bad as quickly as other animal foods , but their shelf life can be extended for a couple of days with proper handling .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 40 degrees Fahrenheit , they ’ ll stay good to eat for about three to four weeks after the packing date .
[ 3 ] Dry , processed foods contain little to no moisture which lowers their perishability , which makes them safe to eat one to three weeks past their expiration date .
Dried fruit , chips , and crackers last a while for the same reason .
Bread can last about a week past its expiration date , but keep an eye out for mold .
Store the bread in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ To make the bread last longer , freeze it and it will keep for about three to six months .
Over time it may lose its freshness and flavor but it will still be good to eat .
The low moisture content of pasta can offset rancidity , whether it ’ s white or whole-wheat .
Therefore , it ’ s safe to use about two years past its due date .
Keep in mind that the quality will decrease over time .
The same rule applies to dry rice and uncooked oats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longest-lasting foods available .
It ’ s best-by-date is usually three or five years , but it can be safe to eat one to two years after that since the canning process kills the microorganisms that spoil food and there ’ s no oxygen to ruin the food .
Beans , mushrooms , pasta sauce , chicken , chili , and fruit are other canned products that last a long time .
The flavor will be affected as time passes but they should stay safe to eat .
[ 4 ] White flour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powder , and sugar fall under this category .
[ 5 ] Read : This Is How Long Fresh Produce Will Last Before Going Bad Dairy milk can last up to a week past its expiration date , but usually only around 2-3 days .
Sniff it before use to ensure it doesn ’ t smell sour .
How the milk was processed can also affect how long it lasts past expiry .
Pasteurized , UHT ( Ultra High Temperature ) , and raw milk , all differ in terms of shelf life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out !
Nuts don ’ t contain a lot of moisture , but due to their high-fat content , inspect the nuts before eating them if they ’ ve been in the pantry for a while .
If they have a grassy or paint-like smell , look dark or oily , or if there ’ s water damage on the packaging , toss them out .
Storing nuts in a cool dry place is always best if you have room in your fridge store them there .
If not a cool dark cupboard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , carrots , and parsnips can last for several weeks without any negative effects on their taste .
[ 6 ] Honey never goes bad .
It ’ s a low-moisture , acidic , has high sugar , and even contains hydrogen peroxide .
All in all its a very unfavorable environment for most microbes .
So , if the honey is sealed properly and stored in a dry environment , it will last forever .
How to Tell When a Food Goes Bad “ When in doubt , use your senses of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ check if food has gone bad .
If it smells off , feels off , and looks off , chances are it is , ” Norton says .
“ For example , spoiled milk will have an unpleasantly sour or even putrid smell .
Meat that has a pungent , ammonia-type smell , that ’ s developing a green hue and is slimy is also bad.
” Discoloration or mold in vegetables and fruits are a sign of rancidity .
Additionally , don ’ t consume canned goods if : – They ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seal is broken , – If streaks of dried food are coming from the top , or – If the food inside smells off , – If it has an unnatural color or foamy/cotton-like mold on top Keep Reading : 10 Hacks to Keep Your Produce Fresh

During this pandemic, we’re scrounging the back of our pantries. Some of us want to avoid going to the grocery stores as much as possible or are waiting for food deliveries to arrive. Whichever the case, don’t throw out the foods past their dates just yet; they may still be good to eat. It depends on the product and how it was stored.
See, the dates are an estimate of how long the food would stay in its peak quality, but it may still be safe to eat afterward. (Baby formula is the exception. Its dates are federally regulated and should only be consumed beforehand.)
First, it’s important to understand what the dates actually mean.
“Use by” dates are the food manufacturer’s recommendations on how long the food would be in its best quality. Eating it after the date should not be harmful.
dates are the food manufacturer’s recommendations on how long the food would be in its best quality. Eating it after the date should not be harmful. “Expiration“ dates are for consumers to know how long the product will be considered fresh. After that, the food may go bad. It’s a rough guideline, and you can use your judgment to determine if the food is still good.
dates are for consumers to know how long the product will be considered fresh. After that, the food may go bad. It’s a rough guideline, and you can use your judgment to determine if the food is still good. “Sell by“ dates are for stores to know how long to have this product on display. You can eat the product after that date but the quality and flavor have probably diminished. This date isn’t a matter of food safety.
dates are for stores to know how long to have this product on display. You can eat the product after that date but the quality and flavor have probably diminished. This date isn’t a matter of food safety. “Best by“ dates also reflect quality, not food safety, and is a rough recommendation from the manufacturer. [1]
“Keep in mind that if a food item was/is not properly handled even before the labeled dates, it still may have a chance of being contaminated,” says Amanda A. Kostro Miller, RD, LDN. “It is important that we store, cook, serve and put away food items in a safe manner to avoid contamination and foodborne illness.”
Read: How to Tell Whether Expired Food Is Safe to Eat
1. Hard cheese
Hard cheeses like Parmesan can still be edible even when they begin to show signs of aging. If the best-by-date passes, there may be white or blue-green mold forming on the surface. You can scrape off the mold, cut off the affected parts, and the rest of the cheese is good to eat. [2]
“Hard cheeses have a low moisture content, which makes it harder for bacteria to grow as most bacteria prefer moist environments,” says Sofia Norton, RD, a registered dietitian at Kiss My Keto.
2. Eggs
Eggs are perishable items that can go bad as quickly as other animal foods, but their shelf life can be extended for a couple of days with proper handling. If they are kept in the fridge at 40 degrees Fahrenheit, they’ll stay good to eat for about three to four weeks after the packing date. [3]
3. Granola and cereal
Dry, processed foods contain little to no moisture which lowers their perishability, which makes them safe to eat one to three weeks past their expiration date. Dried fruit, chips, and crackers last a while for the same reason.
4. Bread
Bread can last about a week past its expiration date, but keep an eye out for mold. Store the bread in a dry and cool environment anyway. To make the bread last longer, freeze it and it will keep for about three to six months. Over time it may lose its freshness and flavor but it will still be good to eat.
5. Pasta
The low moisture content of pasta can offset rancidity, whether it’s white or whole-wheat. Therefore, it’s safe to use about two years past its due date. Keep in mind that the quality will decrease over time. The same rule applies to dry rice and uncooked oats.
6. Canned corn
Canned corn is one of the longest-lasting foods available. Its best-by-date is usually three or five years, but it can be safe to eat one to two years after that since the canning process kills the microorganisms that spoil food and there’s no oxygen to ruin the food.
Beans, mushrooms, pasta sauce, chicken, chili, and fruit are other canned products that last a long time. The flavor will be affected as time passes but they should stay safe to eat. [4]
7. Dry ingredients
White flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and sugar fall under this category. [5]
“Since there is no moisture in dry ingredients, they’re less susceptible to bacterial growth in general,” says Janilyn Hutchings, a certified food safety professional at State Food Safety. “Salt in particular never really goes bad because it doesn’t have the means to support bacterial growth and it’s often used as a preservative since it’s really good at preventing that growth. Don’t eat any dry ingredients that have an unnatural smell or signs of a pest infestation.”
Read: Should we eat eggs with the blood spot?
8. Milk
Dairy milk can last up to a week past its expiration date, but usually only around 2-3 days. Sniff it before use to ensure it doesn’t smell sour. How the milk was processed can also affect how long it lasts past expiry. Pasteurized, UHT (Ultra High Temperature), and raw milk, all differ in terms of shelf life. For more info check this article out!
9. Nuts
Nuts don’t contain a lot of moisture, but due to their high-fat content, inspect the nuts before eating them if they’ve been in the pantry for a while. If they have a grassy or paint-like smell, look dark or oily, or if there’s water damage on the packaging, toss them out. Storing nuts in a cool dry place is always best if you have room in your fridge store them there. If not a cool dark cupboard will suffice.
10. Root vegetables
Root vegetables like beets, carrots, and parsnips can last for several weeks without any negative effects on their taste. [6]
“In general, the fresher the food and the more water and oil content it contains, the quicker it will spoil. That’s because moisture breeds microorganisms and oils contain fats that oxidize when exposed to heat, light, and air that can lead to rancidity,” says Jennifer Kaplan, an Instructor at the Culinary Institute of America.
11. Honey
Honey never goes bad. It’s a low-moisture, acidic, has high sugar, and even contains hydrogen peroxide. All in all it’s a very unfavorable environment for most microbes. So, if the honey is sealed properly and stored in a dry environment, it will last forever.
How to Tell When a Food Goes Bad
“When in doubt, use your senses of sight, feel, and smell to check if food has gone bad. If it smells off, feels off, and looks off, chances are it is,” Norton says. “For example, spoiled milk will have an unpleasantly sour or even putrid smell. Meat that has a pungent, ammonia-type smell, that’s developing a green hue and is slimy is also bad.”
Discoloration or mold in vegetables and fruits is a sign of rancidity.
Additionally, don’t consume canned goods if:
They’re dented or bulging
If the seal is broken,
If streaks of dried food are coming from the top, or
If the food inside smells off,
If it has an unnatural color or foamy/cotton-like mold on top
“Foods tend to display very apparent signs of spoilage: mold, foul odor, discoloration, and literal breakdown of structural integrity,” says Devon Golem Ph.D., RD. “A best practice is to mark the date of opening any product and then refer to FDA information such as the FoodKeeper app to decide whether or not to discard a food product.” [7]
Keep Reading: 14 Fish You Could Consider Never Eating
Sources


theheartysoul--2020-04-21--Bowl-Shaped Roofs Collect Rainwater and Cool House

BMDesign Studios is an Iran-based company that has structured homes with a natural insulation and cooling system .
It ’ s called ‘ Concave Roof ’ and it ’ s a double-roof system with bowl-shaped slopes to collect rainwater in arid climates where a lack of water can lead to many issues for the population .
In places like Iran , precipitation is less than one-third of the average around the world , and evaporation is three times higher than the global average .
This sort of climate has to balance a sustainable consumption of the limited water supplies among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ balance , causing less rainfall and creating ‘ salt marches ’ where lakes and rivers used to be alongside growing populations and exhausted underground water supplies .
This is the situation in Iran and it ’ s also happening in similar environments around the world .
As time passes , the future may be marching toward a large displacement of people and uncontrolled immigration on account of the environment .
[ 1 ] Rainwater collection can be problematic in areas with high evaporation rates and low precipitation .
Read : The Woman Who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Studios responded to this climate issue with a strategy to improve the current water system and use global warming to the population ’ s advantage .
According to the architects , this roof system could “ help [ make ] even the smallest quantities of rain [ flow down ] the roof and eventually coalesce into bigger drops , just right for harvesting before they evaporate.
” This includes morning dew in addition to regular rainwater .
[ 2 ] The outer section of the roof has another function besides collecting rain .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to flow between it and the inner roof , which naturally cools them .
These buildings are structured around atriums to encourage a sense of community and wind circulation .
[ 3 ] Further research on this system is working on maximizing efficient rainwater collection .
For now , a school building with 923 square meters of the concave rood can collect about 28 cubic meters of water , with an efficiency rate of approximately 60 % .
The collecting systems are attached to reservoirs attached between building , which would aid the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area with the water storing the heat , a design that will “ [ lower ] the overall carbon footprint of much-needed air conditioning in this harsh environment , ” according to the architects .
[ 4 ] When the studio set out to design this project , they had three main objectives : • To see if they can use the changes of global warming to people ’ s benefit • To produce water from unconventional sources that are infinitive for people in places with minimum rainfall .
• To form a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and creates a sense of place .
[ 1 ] Read : A community of ‘ voluntary anarchists ’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level Would these work in the United Sates ?
Well , collecting rain is useful for watering plants , cleaning , bathing , etc .
However , it is illegal in some states , so check your state ’ s laws and regulations before beginning .
Some states , however , encourage citizens to collect rainwater .
Rhode Island , Virginia , and Texas offer a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment bought for rainwater harvesting .
[ 5 ] As useful rainwater and convenient rainwater may be , it ’ s not pure and is often not safe to drink .
Rain can contain contaminants from the outdoor containers , such as dirt , smoke , soot , dust , and bird droppings from the roof or walls , as well as bacteria , parasites , viruses , and chemicals that can make people sick .
The risk of illness from drinking rainwater varies depending on the location , how often it rains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water is collected and stored .
For example , rain barrels don ’ t offer any kind of disinfection or filtration .
Chlorine or iodine won ’ t protect the water from chemicals .
Boiling water can eliminate germs but it won ’ t destroy any chemicals .
Collected water intended for drinking needs to be properly filtered , disinfected , and tested regularly .
To avoid the complications of drinking impure water , consider using rainwater for watering flowers and other non-edible plants , washing objects that aren ’ t used for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ensuring the water doesn ’ t enter your nose or mouth ) .
On the flip side , avoid using rainwater for activities that may cause you to ingest the water , such as cooking , brushing your teeth , or watering a vegetable garden .
Use safe tap water or filtered tap water for these purposes .
[ 6 ] This design concept seems brilliant and nicely adapted to the environment they ’ re meant for .
While rainwater harvesting may have its downsides , considering the environments these are meant for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water collection seems acceptable as long as proper precautions are taken .
I bet these would work well for those looking to live off-grid , too .
Keep Reading : 10 Perfect Places In North America To Live Off The Grid

BMDesign Studios is an Iran-based company that has structured homes with a natural insulation and cooling system. It’s called ‘Concave Roof’ and it’s a double-roof system with bowl-shaped slopes to collect rainwater in arid climates where a lack of water can lead to many issues for the population.
In places like Iran, precipitation is less than one-third of the average around the world, and evaporation is three times higher than the global average. This sort of climate has to balance a sustainable consumption of the limited water supplies among the population. Global warming threatens this balance, causing less rainfall and creating ‘salt marches’ where lakes and rivers used to be alongside growing populations and exhausted underground water supplies. This is the situation in Iran and it’s also happening in similar environments around the world. As time passes, the future may be marching toward a large displacement of people and uncontrolled immigration on account of the environment. [1] Rainwater collection can be problematic in areas with high evaporation rates and low precipitation.
Read: The Woman Who Lives 200,000 Years in the Past
The Design of Concave Roof
BMDesigin Studios responded to this climate issue with a strategy to improve the current water system and use global warming to the population’s advantage. According to the architects, this roof system could “help [make] even the smallest quantities of rain [flow down] the roof and eventually coalesce into bigger drops, just right for harvesting before they evaporate.” This includes morning dew in addition to regular rainwater. [2]
The outer section of the roof has another function besides collecting rain. It provides extra shade and allows air to flow between it and the inner roof, which naturally cools them. These buildings are structured around atriums to encourage a sense of community and wind circulation. [3]
Further research on this system is working on maximizing efficient rainwater collection. For now, a school building with 923 square meters of the concave rood can collect about 28 cubic meters of water, with an efficiency rate of approximately 60%.
The collecting systems are attached to reservoirs attached between building, which would aid the control of temperature fluctuation of the inside area with the water storing the heat, a design that will “[lower] the overall carbon footprint of much-needed air conditioning in this harsh environment,” according to the architects. [4]
When the studio set out to design this project, they had three main objectives:
To see if they can use the changes of global warming to people’s benefit To produce water from unconventional sources that are infinitive for people in places with minimum rainfall. To form a solution that is aesthetically pleasing, distinct, and creates a sense of place. [1]
Read: A community of ‘voluntary anarchists’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level
Collecting Rainwater in the United States
Would these work in the United Sates? Well, collecting rain is useful for watering plants, cleaning, bathing, etc. However, it is illegal in some states, so check your state’s laws and regulations before beginning. Some states, however, encourage citizens to collect rainwater. Rhode Island, Virginia, and Texas offer a tax credit or an exemption for all equipment bought for rainwater harvesting. [5]
As useful rainwater and convenient rainwater may be, it’s not pure and is often not safe to drink. Rain can contain contaminants from the outdoor containers, such as dirt, smoke, soot, dust, and bird droppings from the roof or walls, as well as bacteria, parasites, viruses, and chemicals that can make people sick. The risk of illness from drinking rainwater varies depending on the location, how often it rains, the season, and how the water is collected and stored.
For example, rain barrels don’t offer any kind of disinfection or filtration. Chlorine or iodine won’t protect the water from chemicals. Boiling water can eliminate germs but it won’t destroy any chemicals. Collected water intended for drinking needs to be properly filtered, disinfected, and tested regularly.
To avoid the complications of drinking impure water, consider using rainwater for watering flowers and other non-edible plants, washing objects that aren’t used for eating or cooking, and bathing (ensuring the water doesn’t enter your nose or mouth). On the flip side, avoid using rainwater for activities that may cause you to ingest the water, such as cooking, brushing your teeth, or watering a vegetable garden. Use safe tap water or filtered tap water for these purposes. [6]
The Bottom Line
This design concept seems brilliant and nicely adapted to the environment they’re meant for. While rainwater harvesting may have its downsides, considering the environments these are meant for the risks associated with this type of water collection seems acceptable as long as proper precautions are taken. I bet these would work well for those looking to live off-grid, too.
Keep Reading: 10 Perfect Places In North America To Live Off The Grid


theheartysoul--2020-04-21--15 Medicinal Plants That Can Easily Be Grown In Your Yard

Plants are more than just pretty flowers to look at and delicious things to eat , but they serve us in other important ways .
Did you know that about 40 % of our prescription medications are developed from plant extracts or plant compounds ?
[ 1 ] Plants are well known for having medicinal properties , everything from reliving skin problems to helping aid the digestive system and reduce the symptoms of colds .
Here are 15 easy to grow plants that pack a medicinal punch .
Aloe vera is a super easy , super versatile plant that pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you put it in the ground , consider where you live .
If you live outside of gardening zones 8 through 11 , you ’ ll need to grow the plant in a pot and bring in each winter .
Aloe vera enjoys full sunshine and can thrive on next to no water .
Aloe is well known for its ability to relieve the pain from burns and to help heal cuts and various skin conditions .
[ 1 ] Calendula , sometimes known as pot marigold , is named for its golden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can be added to salads .
The plant can also be used to treat minor abrasions .
It can help relieve irritation from insect bites and bee stings as well .
[ 2 ] Read : 6 Healing Herbs That Can Boost Your Natural Bronchitis Treatment Basil is delicious .
Have you ever made fresh pesto with basil from the garden ?
It ’ s downright next-level deliciousness .
But did you know it has medicinal qualities as well ?
Basil is good for your digestive system and can be used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ 3 ] Lavender is a gorgeous , aromatic plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight .
The plant is incredibly easy to grow and is delicious when steeped in an herbal tea .
Lavender flowers , when added to tea , are said to help relieve indigestion , ease the nerves , and promote relaxation .
They can be added to homemade salves and soaps to add a fragrant , lavender smell .
However , the essential oil tends to be more useful for this purpose .
[ 4 ] Dill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parsley used in pickles , salad dressings , and some types of bread is an amazingly easy plant to grow , but be warned .
It tends to flower and seed rather prolifically .
Some say that dill , when made into a tea , it can help settle your stomach .
Consuming fill may even help relieve the symptoms of PMS .
A 2014 study showed that 1000 mg of dried dill was effective at easing menstrual cramps [ 5 ] .
If you aren ’ t growing garlic , I feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incredibly easy to grow and , depending on your location , can be grown pretty much year-round .
When you harvest your garlic , set aside a couple of bulbs to break apart and sow back into the soil for even more garlic !
Garlic is known to help soothe cold symptoms and adds a great flavor to everything from soups to shredded chicken .
[ 6 ] In recent years , stevia has taken the world by storm as an alternative sweetener to sugar and other high-carbohydrate , high-calorie sweeteners .
Stevia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can easily be harvested and refined into a sweetener .
No need to buy it in a store !
Ok , so this might be a little bit of stretch considering cloves come from trees , and require a hot , humid tropical environment .
However , if your yard has what it needs , you ’ re golden .
If you love baking in the wintertime , cloves are a must-have in your garden .
Not only are they called for in numerous sweet and savory baked good recipes , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stomach pain .
Cloves are good for toothache pain as well .
Eugenol , a compound found in cloves , has been used in dentistry since the 1900s .
[ 7 ] [ 8 ] Read : Use Antiviral Herbs to Boost Immune System and Fight Infection Sage is another aromatic plant that ’ s simple to grow and can be used in a bunch of different recipes .
It may also help aid your digestive system and relieve some of the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema .
[ 9 ] Thyme is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ garden if you suffer frequent sore throats and stomach aches .
It ’ s known to help relieve both symptoms .
Thyme is a creeping plant , meaning if you don ’ t watch it , it will start taking over .
If you want to prevent excessive seeding , clip the plant ’ s flowers .
But keep in mind that bees and other pollinators love the flowers .
[ 10 ] Mint creeps like thyme on steroids .
It spreads quickly by both seeds and by sending runners out to begin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great plant to keep in a container where it can ’ t run wild .
Mint is good dried and added to herbal teas .
The leaf of the mint plant can help soothe an upset stomach .
[ 11 ] You might be surprised to see this plant on our list .
It ’ s very likely at some point or another , you ’ ve battled it out with this ‘ weed.
’ But in reality , the dandelion plant is nutritious and should be allowed to grow unhindered .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ liver and kidney function and is delicious on salads or in tea .
[ 12 ] You can use the root and the leaf !
Though , you might want to avoid putting the room on your salads , as its more medicinal than anything else .
Rosemary is a hardy plant with an evergreen appearance , blue and purple flowers , and a strong aroma .
It ’ s believed the plant helps reduce inflammation [ 13 ] and the tea may help with brain health as well [ 16 ] .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ numerous recipes and pollinators love the plant ’ s flowers .
In warm climates , rosemary can grow to be a fairly gigantic plant .
Lemongrass gets its name from the lemony smell it produces and grass-like appearance .
It has been used medicinally throughout the world , and the essential oils of the plant are thought to help reduce digestive discomfort [ 14 ] [ 17 ] .
It can be enjoyed as a tea , in cooking or in a diffuser .
Lemongrass is a rather plain plant but is self-reliant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back year after year .
Chamomile tea is popular for its ability to relax the mind , relieve stress , anxiety , and even help with depression ( although with depression , talk to your doctor and stay on your prescribed treatment ! )
Chamomile may also be able to help you sleep and reduce the symptoms of IBS .
[ 15 ] It ’ s a relatively easy plant to grow too with beautiful yellow and white flowers .
Disclaimer : This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is for information only .
Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication .
Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here .
Keep Reading : 10 Perennial Vegetables That Grow Back Every Year

While bugs, insects, and pests play an important role in every ecosystem, it can’t be denied that mosquitoes can turn a camping trip into an itchy nightmare, bed bugs can ruin a good night’s sleep, and house flies buzzing in your face are just plain annoying. Let’s be real for a minute: who really likes bugs? Especially in their home? Fortunately, there are plants that repel bugs, or at least might repel them, that we can plant in our gardens.
Many of the conventional ways to deter these pests from your home and outdoor gathering spaces are dangerous to your health and the health of the environment. The goal should not be to eradicate these small-but-important creatures, just to discourage them from taking up residence in yours.
Thankfully, there are countless natural ways to achieve this goal. One of the easiest is by using pest-deterring plants.
16 plants that repel bugs
Much of the evidence about a plant’s effectiveness at repelling bugs is anecdotal. Some have better luck with it than others and your mileage may vary. Even if these don’t do the trick, you’ll have still planted a wonderful garden with many useful plants.
Lemongrass
You may have heard already of citronella oil lamps or candles that are used to keep mosquitoes away. Citronella oil comes from lemongrass, so this is the perfect plant to have in your garden or in pots on your patio to help keep the nasty little bloodsuckers away.
Lemon thyme
This is another one that will do a good job against mosquitoes. Lemon thyme can grow in shallow, dry, rocky soil, and will do very well in a rock garden. The plant alone won’t keep the mosquitoes away, however. To activate its repellent properties, you must bruise the leaves by rubbing a few cut stems between your hands. Test it out on a small patch of skin first to ensure you aren’t sensitive to the compounds, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Lemon Balm
Also for mosquitoes, this is another that you must rub between your hands and rub onto your skin. Again, do a small test first before rubbing it over a larger area.
Lavender
Though lavender is used as the ultimate relaxation herb for humans, it does anything but that for moths, fleas, flies, and mosquitoes. Disperse dry bundles of lavender throughout your home – closets, drawers, and areas where flies sneak in. Not only will it leave a lovely scent throughout your space but it will keep those pests away.
Basil
One of the world’s favorite flavor-providing herbs has additional benefits: flies and mosquitoes hate the scent. Place small basil pots both in and outside your home, wherever you relax and entertain, to keep the biters at bay.
Mint
This is another mosquito-deterring herb that can be planted in pots around your home. It’s best to stick to growing mint in pots as it is a very aggressive grower. If you’re not careful, it will take over your garden or be growing up between the cracks of your patio for years.
Sage
This perennial plant is simple to grow and is excellent for keeping the bugs from crashing your campfire. Toss a handful of sage leaves into your campfire. As they burn, the scented smoke they create will let you enjoy your evening in peace.
Rosemary
This is another perennial herb that also works well when tossed into a fire. It can also be used to make a rosemary water spray that does a pretty good job of keeping mosquitoes away.
Catnip
If you’re a cat person, then this is the plant for you. Not only will your backyard become a popular hangout spot for your neighborhood cats, but it will keep deer ticks, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and flies far, far away. This is another plant that will easily take over your garden, so stick to growing it in pots.
Fennel
A popular digestive aid, fennel will also help to rid your garden of the little creatures that eat your veggies before you do. Fennel is great for preventing slugs, aphids, and snails from munching away at your home-grown produce.
Parsley
Are your attempts at growing your own asparagus being thwarted every spring by asparagus beetles? Try planting parsley amongst your asparagus and the beetles will go looking for someone else’s garden to lunch in.
Dill
Also a produce saver, dill repels squash bugs, spider mites, aphids, cabbage loopers, and tomato hornworms.
Bay Leaves
No more buying dried bay leaves at the store for your next dish – you can use the fresh basil from your garden instead. While you enjoy the depth of flavor this herb brings to soups, sauces, and stews, this plant will work double-time to keep flies away.
Oregano
This aromatic herb not only repels a number of bugs and pests, but it also helps your peppers grow by providing them with humidity-sustaining ground cover.
Thyme
Cabbage loopers, cabbage maggots, whiteflies, corn earworms, tomato hornworms, and small whites will all vacate your garden in no thyme with this herb planted throughout.
Chives
A favorite garnish to many meals, chives are great at deterring several pests. Japanese beetles, aphids, and carrot flies won’t want anything to do with your garden when you have chives planted there.
All of these plants and herbs are especially effective when used together. For example, oregano is an excellent pest remover, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. Plant some dill in there, and your problem is solved.
By using plants and herbs instead of sprays and chemicals to keep unwanted pests away, you will help to keep your family, your garden, and the planet a little bit healthier.
We hope this guide on plants that repel bugs helps keep your backyard garden parties bug free!
Keep Reading: Plants That Repel Ants From Your Garden


theheartysoul--2020-04-23--4 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Every Morning

We ’ ve all had days when the morning didn ’ t go well .
We woke up tired , weren ’ t sure which task to tackle first , ate a poor breakfast , procrastinated , and the dreary mood continued into the afternoon .
These days are unproductive slogs ; we don ’ t get much work done , and we can ’ t enjoy any rest or self-care since we are stressed about the work we are not doing .
It ’ s a negative cycle that can badly affect a person ’ s mental health .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a system to avoid these days , but the solution can be as simple as asking yourself a few questions soon after you wake up .
These four questions will focus your mind on what you want to accomplish , what ’ s important to you , and create an optimistic mindset to carry you through the rest of the day .
Read : If you ’ re not Stepping Out of your Comfort Zone , you aren ’ t Learning 4 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Every Morning Bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Races discusses productivity for people suffering from mental health and chronic health issues .
She had suffered from multiple issues including hookworms in her face while she was on a deadline for her book , All the Crooked Saints .
On Facebook , she describes forcing herself to write for 12 hours a day to eke out a few sentences .
“ I ’ m telling you all this because I was wrong , ” she writes .
After the hookworms got removed and she was slowly healing , she got the advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ write what percentage she felt that day , say 20 % or 80 % .
At the end of the day , she wrote down what she accomplished .
This is not for “ see how well I did on a 20 % day !
” It ’ s a guideline .
“ Eventually you ’ ll have a guide so when you wake up and you ’ re at 20 % , you won ’ t try to do the things you do on a 40 % day , ” Stiefvater explains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can just go watch a movie or sit with your goats or whatever and not feel guilty because you were never going to write words you could keep or be able to exercise or whatever.
” [ 1 ] Since she focused on writing on 60 % and 80 % percent days , she had more time to do research , find doctors , and improve her health .
And on 20 % days , she allows herself to consume art instead of creating it .
You don ’ t need to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take this approach .
Everyone has good days and bad days , and it ’ s good for one ’ s mental health to distinguish them and set proper expectations .
So in the morning , check-in with yourself .
Give your current health and headspace a percentage or some other measurement , and plan accordingly .
Push yourself to work hard on the good days and push yourself to take it easy on the bad days .
2 .
What am I going to do ?
Now that your energy levels have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things you want to accomplish , whether it ’ s something unnegotiable like a doctor ’ s appointment or showing up at work , or something more flexible like calling a friend you haven ’ t spoken to in a while , or a habit you ’ d like to build like working out .
If the tasks feel overwhelming , write them down .
Most of the time , the daily to-do list seems less stressful when it ’ s on paper where you don ’ t need to worry about forgetting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t look at the list throughout the day , the act of writing everything down can help you focus and feel ready for the day .
This means less time procrastinating and wasting time since you know everything you have to do .
[ 2 ] Read : 7 Psychological Superpowers Few People Have ( That You Can Use to Set Yourself Apart ) Take the focus away from the ‘ must-do ’ s ’ and towards your mental health .
Make sure activities you enjoy and find fulfilling are on the list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skipping on organizing the kitchen to make time for drawing , walking , meditating , or catching up with a friend ; for others , that means skipping on TV to clean the closet that has been bugging them for ages .
This does not mean do whatever you feel like .
It means do whatever you need to improve your mental health .
Oftentimes we are not in the mood to take a walk or a shower , but feel better afterward .
During the time of quarantine , this often involves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other people , yes , even the introverts .
Community and human contact are crucial for good mental health and during a time where most people can ’ t interact as per usual , it should be prioritized .
So even if you ’ re not quite in the mood of talking , call a friend or family member you enjoy speaking with .
You ’ ll feel good you did it afterward .
[ 3 ] Most of us feel like we have completely lost control during this pandemic .
The future @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terrifying .
But we can control one thing : our attitudes .
And our attitudes can create a good day out of a mediocre one .
[ 4 ] Instead of using this scary time to complain and lament all that we have lost , think of it as an opportunity to try new things , to find creative solutions , and to challenge ourselves .
A time of global panic is when our mettle is tested , and we all want to come out on top .
So ask yourself , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” and answer “ yes !
” Even if the day goes downhill , it ’ ll be heartening to begin each day with an optimistic outlook .
Keep Reading : Study : Living in Nature Protects Against Mental Illness While Living in the City Can Increases Risk

We’ve all had days when the morning didn’t go well. We woke up tired, weren’t sure which task to tackle first, ate a poor breakfast, procrastinated, and the dreary mood continued into the afternoon. These days are unproductive slogs; we don’t get much work done, and we can’t enjoy any rest or self-care since we are stressed about the work we are not doing. It’s a negative cycle that can badly affect a person’s mental health.
Many life and productivity gurus may have a system to avoid these days, but the solution can be as simple as asking yourself a few questions soon after you wake up. These four questions will focus your mind on what you want to accomplish, what’s important to you, and create an optimistic mindset to carry you through the rest of the day.
4 Questions You Should Ask Yourself Every Morning
1. How do I feel?
Bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater of The Raven Boys and The Scorpio Races discusses productivity for people suffering from mental health and chronic health issues. She had suffered from multiple issues including hookworms in her face while she was on a deadline for her book, All the Crooked Saints. On Facebook, she describes forcing herself to write for 12 hours a day to eke out a few sentences.
“I’m telling you all this because I was wrong,” she writes.
After the hookworms got removed and she was slowly healing, she got the advice to start a journal and every morning write what percentage she felt that day, say 20% or 80%. At the end of the day, she wrote down what she accomplished. This is not for “see how well I did on a 20% day!” It’s a guideline.
“Eventually you’ll have a guide so when you wake up and you’re at 20%, you won’t try to do the things you do on a 40% day,” Stiefvater explains. “You’ll know you can just go watch a movie or sit with your goats or whatever and not feel guilty because you were never going to write words you could keep or be able to exercise or whatever.” [1]
Since she focused on writing on 60% and 80% percent days, she had more time to do research, find doctors, and improve her health. And on 20% days, she allows herself to consume art instead of creating it.
You don’t need to be suffering from a horrible health condition to take this approach. Everyone has good days and bad days, and it’s good for one’s mental health to distinguish them and set proper expectations.
So in the morning, check-in with yourself. Give your current health and headspace a percentage or some other measurement, and plan accordingly. Push yourself to work hard on the good days and push yourself to take it easy on the bad days.
2. What am I going to do?
Now that your energy levels have been established, review all of the things you want to accomplish, whether it’s something unnegotiable like a doctor’s appointment or showing up at work, or something more flexible like calling a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while, or a habit you’d like to build like working out.
If the tasks feel overwhelming, write them down. Most of the time, the daily to-do list seems less stressful when it’s on paper where you don’t need to worry about forgetting anything. Even if you don’t look at the list throughout the day, the act of writing everything down can help you focus and feel ready for the day. This means less time procrastinating and wasting time since you know everything you have to do. [2]
3. What’s important to me?
Take the focus away from the ‘must-do’s’ and towards your mental health. Make sure activities you enjoy and find fulfilling are on the list. For some people, that means skipping on organizing the kitchen to make time for drawing, walking, meditating, or catching up with a friend; for others, that means skipping on TV to clean the closet that has been bugging them for ages.
This does not mean do whatever you feel like. It means do whatever you need to improve your mental health. Oftentimes we are not in the mood to take a walk or a shower, but feel better afterward. During the time of quarantine, this often involves picking up the phone and connecting to other people, yes, even the introverts. Community and human contact are crucial for good mental health and during a time where most people can’t interact as per usual, it should be prioritized. So even if you’re not quite in the mood of talking, call a friend or family member you enjoy speaking with. You’ll feel good you did it afterward. [3]
4. Will today be a good day?
Most of us feel like we have completely lost control during this pandemic. The future is uncertain, and that’s terrifying. But we can control one thing: our attitudes. And our attitudes can create a good day out of a mediocre one. [4]
Instead of using this scary time to complain and lament all that we have lost, think of it as an opportunity to try new things, to find creative solutions, and to challenge ourselves. A time of global panic is when our mettle is tested, and we all want to come out on top.
So ask yourself, “Will today be a good day?” and answer “yes!” Even if the day goes downhill, it’ll be heartening to begin each day with an optimistic outlook.


theheartysoul--2020-04-23--One-Acre Permaculture Garden Helps Feed 50 Families

Farming is back-breaking , labor-intensive work that requires high input in order to reap any kind of reward .
What ’ s more , it has become increasingly clear that modern agriculture , in particular the large-scale ‘ factory ’ and ‘ monocropping ’ farms that make up the majority of the agriculture in our country , are damaging our environment and our health .
While it may seem that environmental degradation is a necessary evil in order to feed all of the people on earth , it does not have this way .
There is another way to grow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working with the landscape and with nature , and it is called permaculture .
The term “ permaculture ” was first coined in 1978 by Bill Mollison , the son of a fisherman from Tasmania .
He described the concept as : Permaculture is based on three main values : care for the planet , care for people , and fair share [ 2 ] .
A permaculture farm or garden is a “ closed-loop system ” , which is a system that turns waste into resources .
It does not need outside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but instead provides all of its own needs for itself .
This “ problems into solutions ” mentality was perhaps explained the best by Millison himself : Essentially , permaculture works with nature as opposed to against it .
Practitioners observe the natural processes that occur in ecosystems in the wild and recreate them in their own gardens .
They use concepts and knowledge from agroforestry , applied ecology , organic farming , and sustainable development , through tactics such as rainwater harvesting , composting , rotational grazing , no-till soil , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This type of farming does require some up-front input and work , but once you have established your gardens , it requires little to no work to maintain because it is self-sufficient .
Read : Forest garden with over 500 edible plants requires only a few hours of work monthly One of the best examples of permaculture farming New South Wales , Australia .
Owned and operated by Brett and Nicci Cooper , the farm produces significant amounts of food off of just one acre of land , and provides tours and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of permaculture farming , and how they can apply permaculture principles to their own homes and gardens [ 4 ] .
The Coopers began their journey in permaculture farming when Nicci experienced some health issues that required her to make some changes to her diet .
The pair began growing their own food in a small plot at their home in Newcastle , and gradually started to learn and apply the permaculture principles to their garden .
Eventually , they moved out to a home with more land where they could expand the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had a thriving farm and began putting together veggie boxes for their friends and neighbors .
Today , Brett supplies some fifty families in the area with fresh produce [ 5 ] .
The farm uses swales to bring water to the garden , which are ditches dug on a contour to harvest rainwater .
Perennial plants grow along the swales to receive maximum benefit from the water .
The ground is covered with self-seeding , edible cover crops to protect the soil , and the farm uses no-dig garden beds to hold @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have chickens and ducks that roam on the property to fertilize and lightly till the soil [ 4,5 ] .
Read : How One Man Turned His Backyard Garden Into a Full-Fledged Community Farmers Market According to Brett , permaculture has had a profoundly positive effect on himself and his family .
They are eating better than they ever have before , and are healthier and happier because of it .
But the Coopers say that permaculture isn ’ t just about growing food , it ’ s about a way of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a better way to live , but not everyone has to move out to the country and start their own farm to be sustainable , and adopt some of the principles of permaculture .
“ It ’ s just the footprint you leave , it ’ s the little things you do .
It ’ s about trying to be sustainable- if you can supply yourself with a little herbs and veggies , fine , if you can reduce the amount of time you need to drive a vehicle , fine- just look @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do .
The sheer fact that you are trying to reduce your footprint on this planet means that you will make a difference.
” [ 5 ] Permaculture shows that the impact humans have on the earth does not have to be destructive , but can actually be a source for healing our environment , and Brett hopes that Limestone Permaculture can serve as an inspiration to all who visit .
To learn more about Limestone Permaculture , visit their website or watch their video below .
Keep Reading : Tomatoes Hate Cucumbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Planting Combination

Farming is back-breaking, labor-intensive work that requires high input in order to reap any kind of reward. What’s more, it has become increasingly clear that modern agriculture, in particular the large-scale ‘factory’ and ‘monocropping‘ farms that make up the majority of the agriculture in our country, are damaging our environment and our health.
While it may seem that environmental degradation is a necessary evil in order to feed all of the people on earth, it does not have this way. There is another way to grow more than enough food for everyone while working with the landscape and with nature, and it is called permaculture.
What is Permaculture?
The term “permaculture” was first coined in 1978 by Bill Mollison, the son of a fisherman from Tasmania. He described the concept as: “The conscious design and maintenance of agriculturally productive systems which have the diversity, stability, and resilience of natural ecosystems. It is the harmonious integration of the landscape with people providing their food, energy, shelter and other material and non-material needs in a sustainable way.” [1]
Permaculture is based on three main values: care for the planet, care for people, and fair share [2]. A permaculture farm or garden is a “closed-loop system”, which is a system that turns waste into resources. It does not need outside inputs, such as imported fertilizer, but instead provides all of its own needs for itself. This “problems into solutions” mentality was perhaps explained the best by Millison himself: “You don’t have a snail problem, you have a duck deficiency.” [1]
Essentially, permaculture works with nature as opposed to against it. Practitioners observe the natural processes that occur in ecosystems in the wild and recreate them in their own gardens. They use concepts and knowledge from agroforestry, applied ecology, organic farming, and sustainable development, through tactics such as rainwater harvesting, composting, rotational grazing, no-till soil, and building with natural materials [3].
This type of farming does require some up-front input and work, but once you have established your gardens, it requires little to no work to maintain because it is self-sufficient.
Read: Forest garden with over 500 edible plants requires only a few hours of work monthly
Limestone Farms
One of the best examples of permaculture farming New South Wales, Australia. Owned and operated by Brett and Nicci Cooper, the farm produces significant amounts of food off of just one acre of land, and provides tours and courses to educate people about the benefits of permaculture farming, and how they can apply permaculture principles to their own homes and gardens [4].
The Coopers began their journey in permaculture farming when Nicci experienced some health issues that required her to make some changes to her diet. The pair began growing their own food in a small plot at their home in Newcastle, and gradually started to learn and apply the permaculture principles to their garden.
Eventually, they moved out to a home with more land where they could expand the operation. Two years later, they had a thriving farm and began putting together veggie boxes for their friends and neighbors. Today, Brett supplies some fifty families in the area with fresh produce [5].
The farm uses swales to bring water to the garden, which are ditches dug on a contour to harvest rainwater. Perennial plants grow along the swales to receive maximum benefit from the water. The ground is covered with self-seeding, edible cover crops to protect the soil, and the farm uses no-dig garden beds to hold many of its crops. Finally, they have chickens and ducks that roam on the property to fertilize and lightly till the soil [4,5].
Read: How One Man Turned His Backyard Garden Into a Full-Fledged Community Farmers Market
Permaculture Can Change Lives
According to Brett, permaculture has had a profoundly positive effect on himself and his family. They are eating better than they ever have before, and are healthier and happier because of it. But the Coopers say that permaculture isn’t just about growing food, it’s about a way of life. “Permaculture is not just gardening, it’s not just organics, it’s not just passive living,” says Brett. “It’s the whole package.” [5]
He emphasizes that there is a better way to live, but not everyone has to move out to the country and start their own farm to be sustainable, and adopt some of the principles of permaculture. “It’s just the footprint you leave, it’s the little things you do. It’s about trying to be sustainable- if you can supply yourself with a little herbs and veggies, fine, if you can reduce the amount of time you need to drive a vehicle, fine- just look at all the little things you can do. The sheer fact that you are trying to reduce your footprint on this planet means that you will make a difference.” [5]
Permaculture shows that the impact humans have on the earth does not have to be destructive, but can actually be a source for healing our environment, and Brett hopes that Limestone Permaculture can serve as an inspiration to all who visit. “I want them to feel the way I feel,” he says. “I suppose it’s like all good things in life- when you experience something that’s really, really good and puts a smile on your face every day, why wouldn’t you want to share it?”
To learn more about Limestone Permaculture, visit their website or watch their video below.
Keep Reading: Tomatoes Hate Cucumbers: Secrets of Companion Planting and Popular Planting Combination
Sources


theheartysoul--2020-04-23--The Shelf Life of 32 Foods in Your Pantry

With the current global pandemic , people are rethinking their grocery trips .
Whether they are ordering online or shopping in stores , the incentive is the same : stock up on the essentials .
It ’ s best to avoid grocery shopping too often , and ordering online frequently can quickly become expensive .
Fortunately , there are many foods that have a long shelf life .
Sure , fresh foods like vegetables , fruit , eggs , and dairy are staples , but having a healthy supply of non-perishables is always a great idea , but which ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long do they last ?
Many people may have these foods in their pantries already but aren ’ t sure if they are still good .
Take a look and see if you have any , as this might save you an unnecessary trip to the store .
Just because the date on the product has passed , that food may not be expired ( aside from baby formula , which must be eaten before the use-by date . )
Best-before or sell-by dates indicate the time period of the food ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ much edible after that .
They do not indicate the safety of the food .
Knowing this can prevent excess waste of good food .
[ 1 ] Related : 11 Foods That Stay Good After Their Expiration Date Keep in mind that these foods will last if they are stored properly in airtight containers in a cool , dry environment .
Open packages that weren ’ t properly sealed , for example , can go bad , as well as foods that got moisture inside their containers .
If this happens , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or strange colors and textures .
Another indicator is a can that this dented or bulging .
These are signs that the food should not be eaten .
[ 2 ] Here ’ s a guideline as you explore the dark corners of your pantries or items you should consider adding to your shopping cart , virtual or real .
The Shelf Life of 32 Foods in Your Pantry • Dried fruits – Either keep them in their sealed packages or in tightly-lidded containers or pop them into the freezer to extend their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dark Chocolate – This keeps best when wrapped in its original packaging , or at least wrapped tightly if it was opened .
Dark chocolate lasts longer than milk or white chocolate , which should be eaten within a year .
• Jerky – Keep in mind that store-bought jerky lasts up to two years .
Homemade jerky , however , should be eaten within a few weeks .
• Oats – If you want to keep your oats good long-term , take them out of their cardboard containers into airtight ones .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
• Oil – Keep unopened oils out of direct sunlight and heat , and they should keep for a few years .
Once they are opened , it would be best to use them within a few months .
Cooking oil spray should keep for two years .
• Ramen noodles ( yes , there are healthier ways to make it , just ditch the flavor packets , use your own ingredients ) • Powdered Milk – Powdered milk can last up to 1–2 years in an airtight container with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area .
• Unopened Jam – Once jams and jellies are opened , they should be kept in the fridge for up to six months .
Unopened jars can stay good for two years .
Related : 10 Hacks to Keep Your Produce Fresh • Unopened Pickles and Pickled Veggies – Once they are opened , they should be able to last several months in the fridge .
• Spices – Spices can lose their potency over time , but whole spices can last for about four years and ground spices are best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fruit , Vegetables , and Beans – These can last 1–2 years past their best-by dates , but give them a sniff test to make sure .
[ 3 ] • Grains – Buy grains like quinoa , barley , rye , flax , grits , and millet in bulk and store them in airtight containers .
• Molasses – Keeps up to ten years unopened , and up to five when opened .
Related : This Is How Long Fresh Produce Will Last Before Going Bad • Instant Coffee – This can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the freezer , and good thing too .
Instant coffee provides a quick caffeine fix during a time when venturing out to a coffee shop is not recommended .
• Rice – White , basmati , jasmine , wild , and Arborio rice have low oil content and have an indefinite shelf life with proper storing conditions .
However , brown rice has more oil so it spoils more quickly [ 4 ] • Liquor – The high alcohol content ( typically 40 % alcohol or higher ) of hard liquor wards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store them at room temperature ; no need to freeze them .
Keep in mind that some liquors like vermouth and Irish cream , should be kept in the fridge after they are opened , and have a shorter shelf life .
Most manufacturers recommend using opened liquors within a year , but this has to do with taste , and not product safety .
For more info on the shelf life of alcoholic beverages in general , check this article out .
• Unopened Maple Syrup – Unopened maple syrup can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opened it should be refrigerated and eaten within a year .
• Honey ( Of any type .
It will only crystalize , which is harmless ) • Unopened Soy Sauce – Once opened , soy sauce should be consumed within two to three years while stored in the fridge .
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Imitation vanilla expires after two to four years .
Keep Reading : 15 Medicinal Plants That Can Easily Be Grown In Your Yard

With the current global pandemic, people are rethinking their grocery trips. Whether they are ordering online or shopping in stores, the incentive is the same: stock up on the essentials. It’s best to avoid grocery shopping too often, and ordering online frequently can quickly become expensive. Fortunately, there are many foods that have a long shelf life. Sure, fresh foods like vegetables, fruit, eggs, and dairy are staples, but having a healthy supply of non-perishables is always a great idea, but which ones should you stock up on and how long do they last?
Many people may have these foods in their pantries already but aren’t sure if they are still good. Take a look and see if you have any, as this might save you an unnecessary trip to the store.
Just because the date on the product has passed, that food may not be expired (aside from baby formula, which must be eaten before the use-by date.) Best-before or sell-by dates indicate the time period of the food’s prime quality, but they are very much edible after that. They do not indicate the safety of the food. Knowing this can prevent excess waste of good food. [1]
Keep in mind that these foods will last if they are stored properly in airtight containers in a cool, dry environment. Open packages that weren’t properly sealed, for example, can go bad, as well as foods that got moisture inside their containers. If this happens, check for mold, sour smells, or strange colors and textures. Another indicator is a can that this dented or bulging. These are signs that the food should not be eaten. [2]
Here’s a guideline as you explore the dark corners of your pantries or items you should consider adding to your shopping cart, virtual or real.
The Shelf Life of 32 Foods in Your Pantry
0–1 Year
Dried fruits – Either keep them in their sealed packages or in tightly-lidded containers or pop them into the freezer to extend their shelf life by six months.
1–3 Years
Bouillon Dark Chocolate – This keeps best when wrapped in its original packaging, or at least wrapped tightly if it was opened. Dark chocolate lasts longer than milk or white chocolate, which should be eaten within a year. Dried Pasta Jerky – Keep in mind that store-bought jerky lasts up to two years. Homemade jerky, however, should be eaten within a few weeks. Oats – If you want to keep your oats good long-term, take them out of their cardboard containers into airtight ones. They should stay good for about 12 months. Oil – Keep unopened oils out of direct sunlight and heat, and they should keep for a few years. Once they are opened, it would be best to use them within a few months. Cooking oil spray should keep for two years. Tea Ramen noodles (yes, there are healthier ways to make it, just ditch the flavor packets, use your own ingredients) Powdered Milk – Powdered milk can last up to 1–2 years in an airtight container with a moisture-absorbing packet in a cool and dark area. Tomato Sauce (unopened) Unopened Jam – Once jams and jellies are opened, they should be kept in the fridge for up to six months. Unopened jars can stay good for two years.
3–5 Years
Canned Tuna Unopened Pickles and Pickled Veggies – Once they are opened, they should be able to last several months in the fridge. Spices – Spices can lose their potency over time, but whole spices can last for about four years and ground spices are best eaten within three years.
5–10 Years
Canned Fruit, Vegetables, and Beans – These can last 1–2 years past their best-by dates, but give them a sniff test to make sure. [3] Grains – Buy grains like quinoa, barley, rye, flax, grits, and millet in bulk and store them in airtight containers. Molasses – Keeps up to ten years unopened, and up to five when opened.
10+ Years
Instant Coffee – This can last for about 25 years, longer in the freezer, and good thing too. Instant coffee provides a quick caffeine fix during a time when venturing out to a coffee shop is not recommended. Rice – White, basmati, jasmine, wild, and Arborio rice have low oil content and have an indefinite shelf life with proper storing conditions. However, brown rice has more oil so it spoils more quickly [4]
Forever
Corn Starch Dried Beans, Lentils, and Legumes Liquor – The high alcohol content (typically 40% alcohol or higher) of hard liquor wards off bacterial growth that spoils food. Store them at room temperature; no need to freeze them. Keep in mind that some liquors like vermouth and Irish cream, should be kept in the fridge after they are opened, and have a shorter shelf life. Most manufacturers recommend using opened liquors within a year, but this has to do with taste, and not product safety. For more info on the shelf life of alcoholic beverages in general, check this article out. Unopened Maple Syrup – Unopened maple syrup can be kept on the shelf, but once opened it should be refrigerated and eaten within a year. Popcorn kernels Honey (Of any type. It will only crystalize, which is harmless) Unopened Soy Sauce – Once opened, soy sauce should be consumed within two to three years while stored in the fridge. Unflavoured gelatin powder Sugar Salt Pure Vanilla Extract – Imitation vanilla expires after two to four years.
Keep Reading: Which Is Better: Butter Or Margarine?
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-04-22--Poland And Denmark Refuse To Give Bail Out Packages To Companies Registered In Offshore Tax Havens

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a sudden economic downturn that has made many experts warn of a looming recession- even more believe we are already in one .
Businesses around the world have been forced to close their doors , and large corporations ’ stock is plummeting .
This has prompted many governments to roll out stimulus packages and offer bailouts to both small businesses and large corporations .
For some , however , there may be a catch .
Denmark and Poland are the first governments to exclude firms from this bailout that incorporate themselves in offshore tax havens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ] .
Read : For survivors of severe COVID-19 , beating the virus is just the beginning A tax haven is an offshore country that offers foreign businesses and individuals very little tax liability if any at all .
They do not require that the person or business actually live in or have a physical presence in that country , and they share very little information with foreign tax authorities [ 2 ] .
There is no standard for the classification of a tax haven country , however , there are some regulatory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development ( OECD ) and the U.S. Government Accountability Office [ 2 ] .
There are some locations in the United States that could be considered tax havens , such as Alaska , Florida , Nevada , New Hampshire , South Dakota , Tennessee , Texas , Washington , and Wyoming because they require no state income tax [ 2 ] .
Some of the most common international tax havens include Andorra , the Bahamas , Belize , Bermuda , the British Virgin Islands , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Cook Islands , The Island of Jersey , Hong Kong , The Isle of Man , Mauritius , Lichtenstein , Monaco , Panama , St. Kitts , and Nevis [ 2 ] .
How do Tax Haven Affect the Economy ?
Tax havens cost governments between five hundred and six hundred billion dollars every year in lost corporate tax revenue .
As of 2017 , American Fortune 500 companies alone held an estimated 2.6 trillion dollars in offshore accounts , and individuals had 8.7 trillion dollars [ 3 ] .
Offshore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They provide hiding places for elites to conduct illicit activity , risk financial instability in emerging market economies and drain resources from poor countries to be given to wealthy nations [ 3 ] .
The Danish finance ministry released a statement that not only would corporations based in tax havens not be covered by government bailouts , if they wanted to continue receiving coverage , they would also have to pay the taxes that they owe .
Similarly , Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated on April 8th that large companies who want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay domestic business taxes .
The UK , the Netherlands , Switzerland , and Luxembourg are unlikely to follow suit because they have provisions in place that allow businesses to be registered offshore .
According to Tax Justice Network , those four countries are responsible for half of the world ’ s corporate tax avoidance risks [ 5 ] .
Robert Palmer , the executive director at Tax Justice UK , however , believes that the United Kingdom should enact the same restrictions as Denmark .
Read : What Will the World Be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Cruise Industry Asking for Bailouts The cruises have been one of the hardest-hit industries in this pandemic , and have hoped that the senate ’ s two trillion dollar relief package would provide relief .
Many of these companies , however , will be unable to receive bail because they are not “ created or organized ” in the United States , as the package stipulated .
Carnival Corporation , Royal Caribbean , and Norwegian Cruise Line are formally registered in Panama , Liberia , and Bermuda , and make up more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this reason , they will not be eligible for government assistance [ 1 ] .
Many experts are calling on governments to crack down on offshore funds , under the pretense that claiming this tax revenue could be vital in protecting the economy .
Rasmus Corlin Christensen , a research associate at the International Centre for Tax and Development , explains that governments require tax resources to respond to economic crises .
A prominent Italian broadcaster , Fabio Fazio , has even implicated companies with offshore accounts with the high death toll in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lack of resources in their healthcare system stems from a lack of funding , which is provided by the country ’ s tax revenue .
It has become evident during this crisis that even in wealthy , developed nations around the world , our healthcare systems are drastically under-funded , and many experts are arguing that if we want to avoid such a disaster in the future , we must hold corporations accountable who are dodging taxes that would go toward our hospitals and other essential services .
Keep Reading : ‘ You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Disease expert criticizes restrictions

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a sudden economic downturn that has made many experts warn of a looming recession- even more believe we are already in one. Businesses around the world have been forced to close their doors, and large corporations’ stock is plummeting.
This has prompted many governments to roll out stimulus packages and offer bailouts to both small businesses and large corporations. For some, however, there may be a catch.
Denmark and Poland are the first governments to exclude firms from this bailout that incorporate themselves in offshore tax havens to avoid domestic business taxes [1].
What is a Tax Haven?
A tax haven is an offshore country that offers foreign businesses and individuals very little tax liability if any at all. They do not require that the person or business actually live in or have a physical presence in that country, and they share very little information with foreign tax authorities [2].
There is no standard for the classification of a tax haven country, however, there are some regulatory bodies that monitor tax haven countries, such as the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the U.S. Government Accountability Office [2].
There are some locations in the United States that could be considered tax havens, such as Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming because they require no state income tax [2].
Some of the most common international tax havens include Andorra, the Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, the Channel Islands, the Cook Islands, The Island of Jersey, Hong Kong, The Isle of Man, Mauritius, Lichtenstein, Monaco, Panama, St. Kitts, and Nevis [2].
How do Tax Haven Affect the Economy?
Tax havens cost governments between five hundred and six hundred billion dollars every year in lost corporate tax revenue. As of 2017, American Fortune 500 companies alone held an estimated 2.6 trillion dollars in offshore accounts, and individuals had 8.7 trillion dollars [3].
Offshore tax havens also cause political damage. They provide hiding places for elites to conduct illicit activity, risk financial instability in emerging market economies and drain resources from poor countries to be given to wealthy nations [3].
Poland and Denmark Refuse Tax Haven Bailouts
The Danish finance ministry released a statement that not only would corporations based in tax havens not be covered by government bailouts, if they wanted to continue receiving coverage, they would also have to pay the taxes that they owe.
“Companies seeking compensation after the extension of the schemes must pay the tax to which they are liable under international agreements and national rules,” a translation of the statement said [1].
Similarly, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated on April 8th that large companies who want to benefit from the government bailout must pay domestic business taxes.
“Let’s end tax havens, which are the bane of modern economies,” he said [4].
The UK, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Luxembourg are unlikely to follow suit because they have provisions in place that allow businesses to be registered offshore. According to Tax Justice Network, those four countries are responsible for half of the world’s corporate tax avoidance risks [5].
Robert Palmer, the executive director at Tax Justice UK, however, believes that the United Kingdom should enact the same restrictions as Denmark.
“Companies that seek to dodge their obligations to broader society by cutting their tax bills shouldn’t expect to get bailed out when things go wrong,” he said. “Any bailout needs to come with conditions to ensure good business behaviour.” [1]
The Cruise Industry Asking for Bailouts
The cruises have been one of the hardest-hit industries in this pandemic, and have hoped that the senate’s two trillion dollar relief package would provide relief. Many of these companies, however, will be unable to receive bail because they are not “created or organized” in the United States, as the package stipulated.
Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line are formally registered in Panama, Liberia, and Bermuda, and make up more than two-thirds of the industry. For this reason, they will not be eligible for government assistance [1].
A Call to Action
Many experts are calling on governments to crack down on offshore funds, under the pretense that claiming this tax revenue could be vital in protecting the economy. Rasmus Corlin Christensen, a research associate at the International Centre for Tax and Development, explains that governments require tax resources to respond to economic crises.
“Tax avoidance and global tax competition, more broadly, strain the ability of countries to raise those resources,” he says [1].
A prominent Italian broadcaster, Fabio Fazio, has even implicated companies with offshore accounts with the high death toll in his country. He argues that the lack of resources in their healthcare system stems from a lack of funding, which is provided by the country’s tax revenue.
“It has become evident that those who do not pay their taxes are not only guilty of a crime, but of murder: if the beds and the respirators are not there they are partly to blame,” he said [1].
It has become evident during this crisis that even in wealthy, developed nations around the world, our healthcare systems are drastically under-funded, and many experts are arguing that if we want to avoid such a disaster in the future, we must hold corporations accountable who are dodging taxes that would go toward our hospitals and other essential services.


theheartysoul--2020-04-26--With No Tourists, Australian Scuba Tours Are Planting Coral Instead

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many industries to a grinding halt .
With travel restrictions , grounded airplanes , and closed borders , the tourism sector has been one of the hardest-hit industries across the globe .
In Australia , this has meant that snorkeling and scuba diving tours of the Great Barrier Reef have been suspended until further notice .
While many touring companies have simply closed their doors and sent everyone home , there are a few that are using its resources and man-power to help repair the reefs in their area .
The family-owned tour company , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assist scientists by planting coral on the Great Barrier Reef .
They have donated their state-of-the-art catamaran , Passions III , to take four crew members and one scientist to Hastings Reef for the Coral Nurture Program .
The company has been working with Dr. David Sugget ’ s team from the University of Technology Sydney , who is conducting research on reef resilience at the site .
Read : Video shows California ’ s Yosemite National Park full of animals in the absence of humans Passions of Paradise is the leading ecotourism @ @ @ @ @ @ @ work with the Australian Rainforest Foundation to offset their carbon emissions , support The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority ’ s “ Eye on the Reef ” Program ” , and they support scientific research on sharks and stingrays .
Last year , the company helped plant 1200 trees in the Daintree Rainforest , they voluntarily completed over seventy surveys on the health of the coral reef , and have donated almost $ 30,000 to the Oceania Chondrichthyan Society since 2007 .
Passions of Paradise is also partnered with Project AWARE , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conservation organizations in the world [ 2 ] .
The Coral Nurture program is the first time on the Great Barrier Reef that tourism operators and researchers are working alongside each other .
It is also the first time that a coral clip is being used to attach corals to the reef .
The process involves finding coral fragments that have broken off naturally and attaching them back to the reef with the clip .
The nurseries give coral fragments an opportunity to grow .
As the coral gets bigger , scientists can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attach it to the reef .
In this way , the nurseries will act as a continual source of new corals .
The project is set to finish next month , and once it is completed it will have been in operation for one year .
Upon completion , however , the operators can continue to take care of the nurseries and outplant the corals .
Approximately one thousand pieces of coral have already been planted on the Hastings Reef .
Four other reef companies are participating , including Wavelength , Ocean Freedom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ] .
Read : Drive-Ins Are Doing Better Than Ever As Regular Movie Theaters Close This project is yet another example of how the environment has been a very clear beneficiary of the COVID-19 pandemic .
With a slower pace of life and significantly reduced traffic in the oceans , particularly on the shorelines , conservationists are being given some time to get a significant amount of work done .
The natural world has been veritably turned upside down by this pandemic .
With the sudden and drastic reduction of human activity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clearer , mountains are visible for the first time in decades , and animals are reclaiming spaces normally overtaken by people .
This pandemic has devastated families and hurt economies , but it has also given us a never-before-seen look at what the world would look like if humans ceased to exist , and how quickly our environment can recover when given the chance .
There is no doubt that we will continue to feel the effects of this pandemic long after the worst of it is over , but one can only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects will be a renewed dedication around the world to healing , preserving , and protecting our environment .
Read : New Zealand ’ s aim to be the first country to completely eliminate COVID-19 is working

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought many industries to a grinding halt. With travel restrictions, grounded airplanes, and closed borders, the tourism sector has been one of the hardest-hit industries across the globe.
In Australia, this has meant that snorkeling and scuba diving tours of the Great Barrier Reef have been suspended until further notice. While many touring companies have simply closed their doors and sent everyone home, there are a few that are using its resources and man-power to help repair the reefs in their area.
Passions III at Reef Source: karryon.com.au
The Coral Nurture Program
The family-owned tour company, Passions of Paradise, has volunteered to assist scientists by planting coral on the Great Barrier Reef. They have donated their state-of-the-art catamaran, Passions III, to take four crew members and one scientist to Hastings Reef for the Coral Nurture Program.
The company has been working with Dr. David Sugget’s team from the University of Technology Sydney, who is conducting research on reef resilience at the site.
“I have been working with Passions of Paradise Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Russell Hosp at the site most weeks recording data for the project and establishing a coral nursery,” said Passions of Paradise CEO, Scott Garden [1].
Passionate About Eco Tourism
Passions of Paradise is the leading ecotourism company in Cairns, Australia. They work with the Australian Rainforest Foundation to offset their carbon emissions, support The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s “Eye on the Reef” Program”, and they support scientific research on sharks and stingrays.
Last year, the company helped plant 1200 trees in the Daintree Rainforest, they voluntarily completed over seventy surveys on the health of the coral reef, and have donated almost $30,000 to the Oceania Chondrichthyan Society since 2007.
Passions of Paradise is also partnered with Project AWARE, which is one of the largest marine conservation organizations in the world [2].
Russell Hosp & Lorna Howlett 25.3.20. “The Coral Nurture Program aims to give operators yet another stewardship activity they can do at their reef sites in addition to Crown-of-Thorns eradication and the Eye on Reef monitoring program,” — Lorna Howlett, Project coordinator, and PhD student. Source: Diveplanit/Karryon
A Landmark Program
The Coral Nurture program is the first time on the Great Barrier Reef that tourism operators and researchers are working alongside each other. It is also the first time that a coral clip is being used to attach corals to the reef.
Passions of Paradise Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Russell Hosp preparing coral fragments for the Hastings Reef Nursery in Nov 2019. Source: TEQ Andrew Watson/Karryon
The process involves finding coral fragments that have broken off naturally and attaching them back to the reef with the clip.
“We can only use fragments of opportunity found at the site, so Passions of Paradise has installed six frames at the site which can be used as a nursery to grow more corals,” said project coordinator and PhD student Lorna Howlett [1].
The nurseries give coral fragments an opportunity to grow. As the coral gets bigger, scientists can take a fragment off of it and attach it to the reef. In this way, the nurseries will act as a continual source of new corals.
The project is set to finish next month, and once it is completed it will have been in operation for one year. Upon completion, however, the operators can continue to take care of the nurseries and outplant the corals.
Approximately one thousand pieces of coral have already been planted on the Hastings Reef.
“When tours resume passengers will be able to snorkel over the site which boasts healthy marine life and corals near the nursery,” says Garden [1].
Four other reef companies are participating, including Wavelength, Ocean Freedom, Sailaway, and Quicksilver Cruises [1].
Nature Benefitting from a Pandemic
This project is yet another example of how the environment has been a very clear beneficiary of the COVID-19 pandemic. With a slower pace of life and significantly reduced traffic in the oceans, particularly on the shorelines, conservationists are being given some time to get a significant amount of work done.
The natural world has been veritably turned upside down by this pandemic. With the sudden and drastic reduction of human activity, smog is lifting and skies are clearer, mountains are visible for the first time in decades, and animals are reclaiming spaces normally overtaken by people.
This pandemic has devastated families and hurt economies, but it has also given us a never-before-seen look at what the world would look like if humans ceased to exist, and how quickly our environment can recover when given the chance.
There is no doubt that we will continue to feel the effects of this pandemic long after the worst of it is over, but one can only hope that at least one of these effects will be a renewed dedication around the world to healing, preserving, and protecting our environment.


theheartysoul--2020-04-26--Mom Creates Household “Jobs” And Makes Her Kids Apply To Get Allowance Money

For many parents , getting their children to help out around the house can be a major point of contention , that can often lead to frustration , anger , and arguments .
One mother , after being inundated with requests from her kids for allowance money and new phones , decided to get a little creative .
Shaketha Marion McGregor is the mother of three children aged six , ten , and thirteen .
After receiving multiple requests for allowance , as well as items like cell phones , she decided her kids were going to have to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ created a job fair for her company “ This Mom Means Business ” , and posted “ Now-Hiring ” ads for three positions : laundry supervisor , lead housekeeper , and kitchen manager .
The applicants , her three kids Jahkeem , Takeia , and Serenity , had to fill out application forms and interview for the position they were interested in .
Read : We Need More ‘ Mean Moms ’ Initially , the kids weren ’ t overly excited about their mom ’ s “ surprise ” , but they did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the interviews overall went very well , but her youngest , six-year-old Serenity , was by far the most professional .
She said the oldest , her son Jahkeem , couldn ’ t stop laughing , and that they had a ton of fun .
The creative mom said that she notices a change in her kids ’ behavior when she gives them money as opposed to simply buying things for them .
This made her want to think of more ways that she could teach her kids about credit , how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them the experience of going through a formal job application process .
Read : High School Hosts ‘ Adulting Day ’ to Teach Students Real-life Basics Before They Graduate Her desire to teach her kids about financial literacy and responsibility was born , in part , out of the financial struggles McGregor has experienced herself .
Her battle with cancer in 2016 left her family temporarily homeless , and a house fire one year ago caused them to lose their house and most of their belongings .
During these hardships , her kids @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and new phones , but now that she has a stable job as a corrections officer for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice , she is able to start giving them some of those small luxuries again [ 1 ] .
Preparing her Kids for the Future McGregor shared her clever idea on a Facebook post , which has now received over 200 thousand likes , over 35 thousand comments , and has been shared 130 thousand times .
She has been praised for her creativity and commitment to teaching her children necessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Simply Having a Husband Could Create 7 Hours of Chores Five Ways to Get Your Kids Helping Around the House Motivating your children to help you with chores can be a challenge , so here are some other ways you can encourage them to pitch in : Work as a team .
Everything is more fun as a group , and often your kids are looking for ways to spend more time with you .
Put on some music and turn your cleaning session into a party- it is very encouraging for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a task with them .
Give the choice up to chance .
If you find your kids often fighting over who does what , try writing tasks on popsicle sticks and having them pick blindly .
Allow your kids to switch chores , but only as long as they both agree- this may even teach them a little something about negotiation .
Make it harder .
This may sound counter-intuitive , but giving kids tasks that are too easy is often boring , making them want to do it less .
Giving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often more rewarding and therefore motivating .
If you have to give them an easier job , up the ante by giving them a time-limit or turning it into a competition .
Switch things up .
This is another way to fight boredom .
If your child ’ s job is to cook dinner once a week , challenge them to never cook the same thing twice in one month .
If your kids are always doing the same chores and you notice they ’ re beginning to slack , try having them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to give them a change of scenery .
Avoid controlling language .
Nobody likes being told what to do , and neither do kids .
Giving them some input into what gets done around the house is a great way to motivate them to help out .
This can be achieved by using less controlling language , such as “ it would be extremely helpful if you… ” You can also say things like “ Thank you for helping out , our family makes a great team ” , to make them feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ larger purpose [ 4 ] .
McGregor shared her idea on Facebook in hopes that she would inspire other parents , and share the message that education starts in the home .
She also wants people to realize that education doesn ’ t have to be boring .
McGregor said that this process has made her realize how much kids just want to be counted and to be a part of something .
She encourages other parents to find out what works for their family and really listen to their kids .
Keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Warmth , Says Child Psychologist

For many parents, getting their children to help out around the house can be a major point of contention, that can often lead to frustration, anger, and arguments. One mother, after being inundated with requests from her kids for allowance money and new phones, decided to get a little creative.
Mom Hosts a Job Fair
Shaketha Marion McGregor is the mother of three children aged six, ten, and thirteen. After receiving multiple requests for allowance, as well as items like cell phones, she decided her kids were going to have to work for their money.
The Georgia mother created a job fair for her company “This Mom Means Business”, and posted “Now-Hiring” ads for three positions: laundry supervisor, lead housekeeper, and kitchen manager. The applicants, her three kids Jahkeem, Takeia, and Serenity, had to fill out application forms and interview for the position they were interested in.
“I was like I don’t want to just give it to them,” she said. “I want to do something different to make them work for it this time around so they will appreciate it more.” [1]
Read: We Need More ‘Mean Moms’
The Kids Cooperate
Initially, the kids weren’t overly excited about their mom’s “surprise”, but they did get on board. McGregor said that the interviews overall went very well, but her youngest, six-year-old Serenity, was by far the most professional. She said the oldest, her son Jahkeem, couldn’t stop laughing, and that they had a ton of fun.
“His only questions were, ‘How much do I get paid? How often do I get paid? And do I have to pay taxes?’ It was hilarious.” [2]
The creative mom said that she notices a change in her kids’ behavior when she gives them money as opposed to simply buying things for them.
“They were suddenly checking prices,” she explained. “I noticed they were more cautious because it was their money. They wanted to save.” [3]
This made her want to think of more ways that she could teach her kids about credit, how to budget their time, and to give them the experience of going through a formal job application process.
“I want them to be a little bit familiar with the process when they are older,” she said. “Whether they’re applying for school or a new job or something, they can look back and say, ‘I did this with mom all those years ago.’” [1]
Read: High School Hosts ‘Adulting Day’ to Teach Students Real-life Basics Before They Graduate
Overcoming Financial Obstacles
Her desire to teach her kids about financial literacy and responsibility was born, in part, out of the financial struggles McGregor has experienced herself. Her battle with cancer in 2016 left her family temporarily homeless, and a house fire one year ago caused them to lose their house and most of their belongings.
During these hardships, her kids had to go without things like allowance and new phones, but now that she has a stable job as a corrections officer for the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, she is able to start giving them some of those small luxuries again [1].
Preparing her Kids for the Future
McGregor shared her clever idea on a Facebook post, which has now received over 200 thousand likes, over 35 thousand comments, and has been shared 130 thousand times. She has been praised for her creativity and commitment to teaching her children necessary life skills.
“Adulthood happens and it happens hard and sometimes you’re just not prepared for it,” she said. “As a parent you want to protect your children from as much as possible but you know that eventually they’re going to have to go through it on their own and that’s why life’s greatest lessons are through experience.” [1]
Read: Housework Woes: Simply Having a Husband Could Create 7 Hours of Chores
Five Ways to Get Your Kids Helping Around the House
Motivating your children to help you with chores can be a challenge, so here are some other ways you can encourage them to pitch in:
Work as a team. Everything is more fun as a group, and often your kids are looking for ways to spend more time with you. Put on some music and turn your cleaning session into a party- it is very encouraging for kids to have their parents get involved in a task with them.
Give the choice up to chance. If you find your kids often fighting over who does what, try writing tasks on popsicle sticks and having them pick blindly. Allow your kids to switch chores, but only as long as they both agree- this may even teach them a little something about negotiation.
Make it harder. This may sound counter-intuitive, but giving kids tasks that are too easy is often boring, making them want to do it less. Giving them a job that challenges them is often more rewarding and therefore motivating. If you have to give them an easier job, up the ante by giving them a time-limit or turning it into a competition.
Switch things up. This is another way to fight boredom. If your child’s job is to cook dinner once a week, challenge them to never cook the same thing twice in one month. If your kids are always doing the same chores and you notice they’re beginning to slack, try having them switch tasks for a couple of weeks to give them a change of scenery.
Avoid controlling language. Nobody likes being told what to do, and neither do kids. Giving them some input into what gets done around the house is a great way to motivate them to help out. This can be achieved by using less controlling language, such as “it would be extremely helpful if you…” You can also say things like “Thank you for helping out, our family makes a great team”, to make them feel like they are a part of a larger purpose [4].
Read: Should all children learn sign language?
Education Starts at Home
McGregor shared her idea on Facebook in hopes that she would inspire other parents, and share the message that education starts in the home. She also wants people to realize that education doesn’t have to be boring.
McGregor said that this process has made her realize how much kids just want to be counted and to be a part of something. She encourages other parents to find out what works for their family and really listen to their kids.