theheartysoul--2020-05-13--This Volkswagen Bus Cooler is the Coolest Cooler We Have Ever Seen

Coolers are essential for camping , road trips , beaches , and picnics .
When my family would go camping every year , the coolers were the most important equipment to bring ( aside from tents , of course ) .
They not only kept the beers and sodas chilled , but they were also packed with perishables like meat for barbeques and milk for breakfast cereal .
At night , the coolers doubled as critter protection .
That is , until the raccoons learned how to open the coolers one year .
After that , we stored them in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weren ’ t much to look at .
They were a standard gray with a thick white lid .
Their only added perks were the four cup holders in the lid , which were less useful when some wise guy thought he could grab something from the cooler with an open can of pop was sitting on top .
Well , what ’ s camping without a lot of mess ?
The other little perk of these coolers were their wheels .
However , the wheels were too small to trek the rough @ @ @ @ @ @ @ handles were too short for an adult to drag the cooler without bending down .
Therefore , a cooler full of beverages and frozen food had to be carried around , sometimes by two people , and sometimes by one person eager to display their strength .
The cooler game has been upped since those days of raccoon-fending , soda-spilling , and weight-carrying .
Plus , it ’ s got much more stylish .
Volkswagens are favorite cars among many people , and they never go out of fashion , which makes this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be able to drive a Volkswagen bus to the beach with your family and friends , but you can still bring one all the same .
This cooler is official Volkswagen merchandise , and it ’ s a perfect to-scaled replica of the real thing .
No wonder people are going crazy over this new product .
It has four wheels and foldable handle that extends whenever you want to tow it to a barbecue , beach , picnic , or wherever you ’ re headed .
The 30-liter cooler is completely insulated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lock .
Take that , raccoons — and anyone else after the good beer .
And don ’ t worry about the great outdoors damaging this cooler ; it ’ s produced with anti-rust steel so it ’ s ready to be exposed to the elements Here is a more conclusive list of its features : • folds underneath the base of the van • extendable handle to turn left or right to steer My family wouldn ’ t have had to worry about towing this cooler from the campsite to the beach @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , literally and stylistically .
This is not the kind of product that only looks great .
This Volkswagen bus cooler is very durable and is able to meet the demands of people enjoying the countryside .
It can be taken off-road without being damaged .
This can become a mainstay in family camping trips in the future !
And the best part is that you don ’ t have to carry it .
Just bring wheel it along to the beach without any fuss .
The Rolling Volkswagen bus cooler is on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a worthy investment for anyone who is a Volkswagen mega-fan , whether it ’ s a gift for Dad , a friend , or yourself .
Plus , it ’ s a fun staple for anyone who enjoys road trips and the great outdoors .
And who doesn ’ t like an iced tea by the crashing waves , or a cold beer by a crackling campfire ?
The customer reviews will attest to the perks of this cooler .
It has a perfect review score .
“ Love this VW cooler @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and an eye-catcher .
Can ’ t wait to pull it through the car shows , ” one customer wrote .
“ This was purchased as a gift for a VW driving and loving friend .
It ’ s a great cooler and will definitely be put to plenty of use this upcoming spring and summer , ” wrote another .
“ This VW cooler is totally cool , we are glad we got one , will be great to take outside when it is warm enough to BBQ , our friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So if you ’ re planning relaxing beach days , barbeques , picnics , or any kind of outdoor gatherings , bring this Rolling Volkswagen Bus cooler to the party .
It ’ s more than just an eye-catching accessory , coolers are a staple for any outdoorsy person or family in the summer .
Get yours on Amazon .
If you have a hard time finding the cooler , if it ’ s sold out , or if you ’ re just looking for something a little less expensive , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Igloo Coolers .
Lastly , if you ’ re a fan of the infamous Volkswagen Bus , you might also like these !
Keep Reading : The original Volkswagen Beetle repurposed to create a fashionably old-fashioned mini bike !

Coolers are essential for camping, road trips, beaches, and picnics. When my family would go camping every year, the coolers were the most important equipment to bring (aside from tents, of course). They not only kept the beers and sodas chilled, but they were also packed with perishables like meat for barbeques and milk for breakfast cereal. At night, the coolers doubled as critter protection. That is, until the raccoons learned how to open the coolers one year. After that, we stored them in the car trunk overnight.
Our coolers weren’t much to look at. They were a standard gray with a thick white lid. Their only added perks were the four cup holders in the lid, which were less useful when some wise guy thought he could grab something from the cooler with an open can of pop was sitting on top. Well, what’s camping without a lot of mess?
The other little perk of these coolers were their wheels. However, the wheels were too small to trek the rough terrain of a camping site and the handles were too short for an adult to drag the cooler without bending down. Therefore, a cooler full of beverages and frozen food had to be carried around, sometimes by two people, and sometimes by one person eager to display their strength.
The cooler game has been upped since those days of raccoon-fending, soda-spilling, and weight-carrying. Plus, it’s got much more stylish.
Introducing the Rolling Volkswagen Bus Cooler
Volkswagens are favorite cars among many people, and they never go out of fashion, which makes this cute cooler timeless. You may not be able to drive a Volkswagen bus to the beach with your family and friends, but you can still bring one all the same. This cooler is official Volkswagen merchandise, and it’s a perfect to-scaled replica of the real thing.
No wonder people are going crazy over this new product. It has four wheels and foldable handle that extends whenever you want to tow it to a barbecue, beach, picnic, or wherever you’re headed. The 30-liter cooler is completely insulated, and it comes with a lid lock. Take that, raccoons — and anyone else after the good beer. And don’t worry about the great outdoors damaging this cooler; it’s produced with anti-rust steel so it’s ready to be exposed to the elements
Here is a more conclusive list of its features:
30-liter capacity
large insulated storage compartment
a retractable handle for easy transportation
folds underneath the base of the van
extendable handle to turn left or right to steer
rubber tires
heavy-duty lid-lock
anti-rust pressed steel construction
hinged roof
ideal for camping or beach trips
can go ‘off-road’
internal drainage plug
easy to clean
My family wouldn’t have had to worry about towing this cooler from the campsite to the beach. This cooler is designed for travel, literally and stylistically. This is not the kind of product that only looks great.
This Volkswagen bus cooler is very durable and is able to meet the demands of people enjoying the countryside. It can be taken off-road without being damaged. This can become a mainstay in family camping trips in the future! And the best part is that you don’t have to carry it. Just bring wheel it along to the beach without any fuss.
The Rolling Volkswagen bus cooler is on the pricier side, but it’s a worthy investment for anyone who is a Volkswagen mega-fan, whether it’s a gift for Dad, a friend, or yourself. Plus, it’s a fun staple for anyone who enjoys road trips and the great outdoors. And who doesn’t like an iced tea by the crashing waves, or a cold beer by a crackling campfire?
The customer reviews will attest to the perks of this cooler. It has a perfect review score.
“Love this VW cooler. It’s unique, well-built, and an eye-catcher. Can’t wait to pull it through the car shows,” one customer wrote.
“This was purchased as a gift for a VW driving and loving friend. It’s a great cooler and will definitely be put to plenty of use this upcoming spring and summer,” wrote another.
“This VW cooler is totally cool, we are glad we got one, will be great to take outside when it is warm enough to BBQ, our friends are envious,” said another reviewer.
So if you’re planning relaxing beach days, barbeques, picnics, or any kind of outdoor gatherings, bring this Rolling Volkswagen Bus cooler to the party. It’s more than just an eye-catching accessory, coolers are a staple for any outdoorsy person or family in the summer.
If you have a hard time finding the cooler, if it’s sold out, or if you’re just looking for something a little less expensive, you can also check out these, from Igloo Coolers.
Keep Reading: Turning Doll Heads Into Planters Is The Latest Home Decor Trend
Source


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--These Cool Ranch Zucchini Chips Are Like Low-Carb Doritos

Store-bought potato chips are notoriously unhealthy .
Truth be told , they are okay in moderation , especially brands that focus on the basic ingredients of potatoes , oil , and salt .
However , it ’ s hard to snack on chips in reasonable amounts , which is why people tend to eat too many chips too often .
If you miss potato chips , try a healthier , homemade option : Zucchini chips !
You ’ ll enjoy the crispiness , that satisfying crunch , along with the delicious flavor of cool ranch .
The Dark Side Potato @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know ) Although eating deliciously deep-fried chips once in a while won ’ t hurt , eating them often will .
This , of course , is when you look at the big picture , if your diet overall is poor , and you tend not to exercise , then you will have some problems down the road .
In this respect , if chips are your Achilles heel , addressing that will help , but if they aren ’ t then it might not do much eliminating them from your diet .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ effects of eating copious amounts of junk food ( including chips ) is weight gain .
Chips are usually high in calories and refined oils .
One ounce of plain potato chips — about 15–20 chips — has about 10 grams of fat and 154 calories .
A 2015 study published in “ Health Affairs ” discovered that potatoes fried in oil are one of the foods highly linked to weight gain .
[ 1 ] Chips are high in sodium , which can be detrimental to one ’ s cardiovascular health .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ high blood pressure , which can lead to a host of health issues like kidney disease , stroke , coronary heart disease , and stroke .
Potato chips typically have around 120–180 milligrams of sodium per ounce , and most people tend to eat more than an ounce as they snack .
Eating chips often can also lead to high cholesterol levels .
Most chips ( unless specified otherwise ) are deep-fried , which creates trans fats that are associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol and a higher risk of developing coronary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frying ( i.e .
sunflower , safflower , and corn oil ) are often high in omega 6 fatty acids , which can contribute to inflammation .
For all of the calories in chips , there is little nutrition accompanying them .
Chips are often eaten instead of healthier foods that have more vitamins and minerals .
Snacks can fill nutritional needs missed at meals , but chips don ’ t have this benefit .
[ 2 ] Speaking of healthier snack options , here ’ s a healthy chip alternative made from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , like vitamins A and C , with relatively little calories .
They also contain soluble and insoluble fiber , which promote healthy digestion by reducing constipation and nourishing healthy bacteria in the gut .
Where potatoes may not be a good choice for people who need to watch their blood sugar , zucchinis may help lower blood sugar levels .
This is why this vegetable ( although it ’ s botanically considered a fruit ) are a popular substitute for high-carbohydrate foods , like pasta and chips .
[ 3 ] The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slice them as thinly as possible .
If you have a mandolin or a slicer tool in your food processor , use it .
The thickness of the slices will affect how long they need to be baked .
Check on them after an hour in the oven , but keep in mind that they probably need more time than that .
Trust me , these are worth the wait .
These chips give that perfect crunch and flavor , you won ’ t even miss their potato counterparts .
Finally , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the “ munchiness.
” Read : Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers : The Low-Carb Way To Eat Your Favorite Sandwich • Preheat oven to 225° .
Grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray .
Slice the zucchinis into very thin slices .
Pat the slices with paper towels to draw out excess moisture .
• In a large bowl , toss the zucchini slices with oil then mix in the ranch seasoning , oregano , salt , and pepper .
Place in a single layer on the baking sheet .
• Bake until crispy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , checking after about an hour .
( Baking time will depend on the thinness of the slices . )
Let cool to room temperature before serving .
• Grease air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray .
Slice the zucchinis very thinly .
Pat the slices with paper towels to draw out excess moisture .
• In a large bowl , toss the slices with ranch seasoning , oregano , salt , and pepper ( no oil ) .
Place in a single layer in the basket ( a little overlapping is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 375° for about 6 minutes , then flip the slices and cook for another 6 minutes .
Remove the golden chips and continue frying remaining chips until they are golden and crispy , about 2 to 4 minutes , shaking basket every minute for even crisping .

Store-bought potato chips are notoriously unhealthy. Truth be told, they are okay in moderation, especially brands that focus on the basic ingredients of potatoes, oil, and salt. However, it’s hard to snack on chips in reasonable amounts, which is why people tend to eat too many chips too often.
If you miss potato chips, try a healthier, homemade option: Zucchini chips! You’ll enjoy the crispiness, that satisfying crunch, along with the delicious flavor of cool ranch.
The Dark Side Potato Chips (yes, we know you know)
Although eating deliciously deep-fried chips once in a while won’t hurt, eating them often will. This, of course, is when you look at the big picture, if your diet overall is poor, and you tend not to exercise, then you will have some problems down the road. In this respect, if chips are your Achilles heel, addressing that will help, but if they aren’t then it might not do much eliminating them from your diet.
With that said, the most obvious effects of eating copious amounts of junk food (including chips) is weight gain. Chips are usually high in calories and refined oils. One ounce of plain potato chips — about 15–20 chips — has about 10 grams of fat and 154 calories. A 2015 study published in “Health Affairs” discovered that potatoes fried in oil are one of the foods highly linked to weight gain. [1]
Chips are high in sodium, which can be detrimental to one’s cardiovascular health. A large intake of sodium can cause high blood pressure, which can lead to a host of health issues like kidney disease, stroke, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Potato chips typically have around 120–180 milligrams of sodium per ounce, and most people tend to eat more than an ounce as they snack.
Eating chips often can also lead to high cholesterol levels. Most chips (unless specified otherwise) are deep-fried, which creates trans fats that are associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol and a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease. The oils used for frying (i.e. sunflower, safflower, and corn oil) are often high in omega 6 fatty acids, which can contribute to inflammation.
For all of the calories in chips, there is little nutrition accompanying them. Chips are often eaten instead of healthier foods that have more vitamins and minerals. Snacks can fill nutritional needs missed at meals, but chips don’t have this benefit. [2]
The Health Benefits of Zucchini
Speaking of healthier snack options, here’s a healthy chip alternative made from zucchinis. Zucchinis are stuffed with nutrients, like vitamins A and C, with relatively little calories. They also contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which promote healthy digestion by reducing constipation and nourishing healthy bacteria in the gut.
Where potatoes may not be a good choice for people who need to watch their blood sugar, zucchinis may help lower blood sugar levels. This is why this vegetable (although it’s botanically considered a fruit) are a popular substitute for high-carbohydrate foods, like pasta and chips.
The key to these zucchini chips is to slice them as thinly as possible. If you have a mandolin or a slicer tool in your food processor, use it. The thickness of the slices will affect how long they need to be baked. Check on them after an hour in the oven, but keep in mind that they probably need more time than that.
Trust me, these are worth the wait. These chips give that perfect crunch and flavor, you won’t even miss their potato counterparts. Finally, a snack full of nutrients without compromising on the “munchiness.”
Read: Cheesesteak Stuffed Peppers: The Low-Carb Way To Eat Your Favorite Sandwich
Cool Ranch Zucchini Chips
INGREDIENTS
Cooking spray
2 zucchinis, sliced very thinly
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (for baked version only)
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS
For Oven:
Preheat oven to 225°. Grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Slice the zucchinis into very thin slices. Pat the slices with paper towels to draw out excess moisture. In a large bowl, toss the zucchini slices with oil then mix in the ranch seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake until crispy, about 1 hour and 20 minutes, checking after about an hour. (Baking time will depend on the thinness of the slices.) Let cool to room temperature before serving.
For Air Fryer:
Grease air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Slice the zucchinis very thinly. Pat the slices with paper towels to draw out excess moisture. In a large bowl, toss the slices with ranch seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper (no oil). Place in a single layer in the basket (a little overlapping is okay). Air fry at 375° for about 6 minutes, then flip the slices and cook for another 6 minutes. Remove the golden chips and continue frying remaining chips until they are golden and crispy, about 2 to 4 minutes, shaking basket every minute for even crisping.


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--How Yelling at Your Kids Actually Affects Them

Parenting is hard .
No matter how much you love your children , some days they test your patience until it has worn thin .
During times like these , it is often tempting to completely lose your temper and yell at them .
Sometimes , you find yourself raising your voice before you even realized it was happening .
While yelling may be effective in the short-term , and it might stop your kids from doing whatever it is that they ’ re doing in that moment , experts are cautioning against yelling as a strategy for long-term behavior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ result in permanent obedience , but it could be damaging your kids on a deeper psychological level .
Although it may feel like by raising your voice you ’ re getting your point across more clearly , this is not the case .
Yelling at kids ( or anyone , for that matter ) , is not communicating .
Dr. Laura Markham , founder of Aha !
Parenting and author of Peaceful Parent , Happy Kids : How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting , says that while some kids may cry , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when you yell at them , both are shutting down and not actually listening to what you ’ re saying .
Yelling may make them be quiet and obedient in the moment , but it won ’ t make them correct their behavior or attitude .
It teaches them to fear you , rather than understand the consequences of their actions [ 2 ] .
Read : Children Need Structure More Than Warmth , Says Child Psychologist A study published by the Society for Research in Child Development found that thirteen-year-olds whose parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even worse over the following year [ 3 ] .
Additionally , the more you yell at your children , the more aggressive they will in turn become .
Research has shown that kids who are yelled at regularly become more physically and verbally aggressive [ 4 ] .
Your children are constantly observing you and your behavior and they use it as a model for how they , too , should behave .
If you are constantly losing your temper and shouting , they will learn to view this as a normal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , will begin yelling , shouting , and becoming verbally aggressive when they are in a confrontational situation .
When yelling becomes normal , your child will learn to adapt to it .
According to Dr. Markham , if a child doesn ’ t react , or reacts very minimally , to scolding , it is a good indicator that they are being scolded far too frequently : they ’ ve become desensitized to it [ 1 ] .
Read : These Schools Voted To Bring Back Paddling For Kids That Misbehave As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your child trusts the most .
When you frighten them by yelling , it affects their sense of security .
It is important to remember that children do not have the same mental capacity as adults- they do not have a fully developed prefrontal cortex , and have very low executive function .
Although it may seem like they ’ re trying to push your buttons , they likely don ’ t understand what it is that they ’ re doing , or why it is upsetting you so much .
Kids do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treated like adults [ 2 ] .
Yelling is a reaction of anger , and it makes children feel insecure .
Conversely , calmness is reassuring and lets your child know that they are loved despite their bad behavior .
Scaring your child into stopping whatever they ’ re doing erodes trust in your relationship [ 1 ] .
Read : Mom Creates Household “ Jobs ” And Makes Her Kids Apply To Get Allowance Money Yelling can actually have a physical impact on your child ’ s brain .
Dr. Markham explains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , their brains release biochemicals that say “ fight , flight , or freeze ” .
This behaviour becomes ingrained if it occurs repeatedly , which negatively affects the development of good communication skills .
Because humans process negative information and events more quickly than positive ones , exposure to parental verbal aggression has been shown to actually alter a child ’ s brain and increases their risk for developing mood and anxiety disorders [ 5 ] .
Constant yelling also makes your child more susceptible to bullying , because they have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ 2 ] .
When is it OK to Yell at Your Kids ?
There are some instances when raising your voice is warranted , particularly when there is danger involved .
Raising your voice is a way of relaying urgency to your child when it is necessary .
When your kids are hurting each other , or there is a real danger , shouting to shock them into stopping does work , but Markham says that once you have their attention , you should immediately change your tone and volume .
Read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Doctor—Here ’ s One of the Biggest Mistakes I See Parents Making How to Stop Yelling at Your Kids No parent is going to be able to stop themselves from losing their temper all the time , and sometimes it may even be warranted .
The problems arise when you use yelling as a long-term or daily parenting strategy .
Here are some ways you can switch from yelling to communicating with your kids and disciplining effectively : Understand your triggers .
Yelling is usually a response to a specific behavior , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tend to make you lose your temper , you are more likely to be able to avoid it .
Nina Howe , professor of early and elementary childhood education at Concordia University , says that these triggers can be different for every parent .
Once you ’ ve identified what upsets you , you can put strategies in place to solve the problem before it happens .
Perhaps it means preparing something simple for dinner , or setting your kids up with an activity so you can cook in peace .
Warn your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and frustration starting to bubble up inside you , give your kids a warning .
Tempers often flare during transition times , like when it ’ s time to stop playing and get ready for bed , so warning them when a transition is about to happen ( “ you have five more minutes and then it ’ s bedtime ” ) , can help prevent problematic behavior .
Give yourself a time out .
Often the best thing you can do is walk away and give yourself a few minutes to calm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the room and having a strategy to compose yourself , such as squeezing a stress ball or even sending in your spouse to deal with the problem , can help you to practice better self-control [ 6 ] .
If you can ’ t leave the room , Calgary-based author of Parenting With Patience and Discipline Without Distress , Judy Arnall , suggests deciding as a family what kinds of behaviors are acceptable before you react , and writing it down on a “ yes list ” .
She suggests things like jogging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the dog to chase , or typing a social media rant you ’ ll never post .
Read : The Era of Spanking has Ended Prepare in advance .
If the morning rush always results in a shouting match , for example , then find ways that you can prepare the night before so the morning is less stressful .
If kids tend to get whiny while running errands , pack a toy to distract them while you get things done .
When it comes to avoiding behavior problems , it is always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s cold ” [ 6 ] .
Adjust your expectations , and recognize when you ’ re the problem .
We often get upset when we have an idea of how something is going to go , but the reality doesn ’ match the expectation .
Be prepared that children may not always react the way you expect them to , and you may need to change course when things start to go sour ( such as cutting your errands run short ) .
It ’ s also important to recognize when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an off-day .
Perhaps you ’ re over-tired , or you ’ re stressed from work and small things that wouldn ’ t normally bother you are getting on your nerves .
Apologize when you lose your temper .
You ’ re not going to be perfect all the time , and you will still occasionally lose your cool and find yourself yelling at your kids .
When this happens , the most important thing to do is to apologize .
Talk to them about what prompted the yelling , why their behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ together to come up with a solution so it doesn ’ t have to happen again .
This helps them to understand the link between the big feelings and resulting yelling , and that it requires not only more self-control on your part but also behavior change on theirs [ 6 ] .
Keep Reading : ‘ You hold on tight .
Somehow 20 years isn ’ t enough .
When it ’ s time for them to go , it all hits you like a ton of bricks.
’ : Mom of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all in ’ during younger parenting years

Parenting is hard. No matter how much you love your children, some days they test your patience until it has worn thin. During times like these, it is often tempting to completely lose your temper and yell at them. Sometimes, you find yourself raising your voice before you even realized it was happening.
While yelling may be effective in the short-term, and it might stop your kids from doing whatever it is that they’re doing in that moment, experts are cautioning against yelling as a strategy for long-term behavior change. Not only will it not result in permanent obedience, but it could be damaging your kids on a deeper psychological level.
Why Yelling is Ineffective
Although it may feel like by raising your voice you’re getting your point across more clearly, this is not the case. Yelling at kids (or anyone, for that matter), is not communicating.
Dr. Laura Markham, founder of Aha! Parenting and author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting, says that while some kids may cry, or others may get a glazed-over look when you yell at them, both are shutting down and not actually listening to what you’re saying.
“When parents yell, kids acquiesce on the outside, but the child isn’t more open to your influence, they’re less so,” she explains [1].
Yelling may make them be quiet and obedient in the moment, but it won’t make them correct their behavior or attitude. It teaches them to fear you, rather than understand the consequences of their actions.
Yelling Can Make Their Behaviour Worse
A study published by the Society for Research in Child Development found that thirteen-year-olds whose parents frequently shouted at them responded by behaving even worse over the following year [2].
Additionally, the more you yell at your children, the more aggressive they will in turn become. Research has shown that kids who are yelled at regularly become more physically and verbally aggressive [4].
Your children are constantly observing you and your behavior and they use it as a model for how they, too, should behave. If you are constantly losing your temper and shouting, they will learn to view this as a normal reaction to adversity, and in turn, will begin yelling, shouting, and becoming verbally aggressive when they are in a confrontational situation.
When yelling becomes normal, your child will learn to adapt to it. According to Dr. Markham, if a child doesn’t react, or reacts very minimally, to scolding, it is a good indicator that they are being scolded far too frequently: they’ve become desensitized to it [1].
“Your number one job as a parent, after assuring the safety of your children, is to manage your own emotions,” says Dr, Markham.
Read: These Schools Voted To Bring Back Paddling For Kids That Misbehave
Scaring is Not Disciplining
As a parent, you are the person your child trusts the most. When you frighten them by yelling, it affects their sense of security.
It is important to remember that children do not have the same mental capacity as adults- they do not have a fully developed prefrontal cortex, and have very low executive function. Although it may seem like they’re trying to push your buttons, they likely don’t understand what it is that they’re doing, or why it is upsetting you so much. Kids do not have the emotional maturity to be treated like adults.
Yelling is a reaction of anger, and it makes children feel insecure. Conversely, calmness is reassuring and lets your child know that they are loved despite their bad behavior. Scaring your child into stopping whatever they’re doing erodes trust in your relationship [1].
Read: Mom Creates Household “Jobs” And Makes Her Kids Apply To Get Allowance Money
The Psychological Effects of Yelling
Yelling can actually have a physical impact on your child’s brain. Dr. Markham explains that when you shout at your kids, their brains release biochemicals that say “fight, flight, or freeze”.
“They may hit you. They may run away. Or they freeze and look like a deer in headlights,” she says. “None of those are good for brain formation,” [1].
This behaviour becomes ingrained if it occurs repeatedly, which negatively affects the development of good communication skills.
Because humans process negative information and events more quickly than positive ones, exposure to parental verbal aggression has been shown to actually alter a child’s brain and increases their risk for developing mood and anxiety disorders [4].
Constant yelling also makes your child more susceptible to bullying, because they have a skewed understanding of healthy boundaries and self-respect.
When is it OK to Yell at Your Kids?
There are some instances when raising your voice is warranted, particularly when there is danger involved. Raising your voice is a way of relaying urgency to your child when it is necessary.
When your kids are hurting each other, or there is a real danger, shouting to shock them into stopping does work, but Markham says that once you have their attention, you should immediately change your tone and volume.
“Basically, yell to warn, speak to explain” [1].
Read: I Raised 2 Successful CEOs and a Doctor—Here’s One of the Biggest Mistakes I See Parents Making
How to Stop Yelling at Your Kids
No parent is going to be able to stop themselves from losing their temper all the time, and sometimes it may even be warranted. The problems arise when you use yelling as a long-term or daily parenting strategy.
Here are some ways you can switch from yelling to communicating with your kids and disciplining effectively:
Understand your triggers. Yelling is usually a response to a specific behavior, so if you can pinpoint which behaviors tend to make you lose your temper, you are more likely to be able to avoid it.
Nina Howe, professor of early and elementary childhood education at Concordia University, says that these triggers can be different for every parent.
“I’m tired, it’s been a stressful day at work, I’m coming home, and I’m going to have to make dinner. All these things are adding up, and there may be the likelihood you are going to lose it.” [5]
Once you’ve identified what upsets you, you can put strategies in place to solve the problem before it happens. Perhaps it means preparing something simple for dinner, or setting your kids up with an activity so you can cook in peace.
Warn your kids. If you can feel anger and frustration starting to bubble up inside you, give your kids a warning.
“Say, ‘You’re pushing me, and I don’t want to yell to get your attention. If you don’t listen now, I might lose it,’” says Howe [5].
Tempers often flare during transition times, like when it’s time to stop playing and get ready for bed, so warning them when a transition is about to happen (“you have five more minutes and then it’s bedtime”), can help prevent problematic behavior.
Give yourself a time out. Often the best thing you can do is walk away and give yourself a few minutes to calm down before you react. Physically leaving the room and having a strategy to compose yourself, such as squeezing a stress ball or even sending in your spouse to deal with the problem, can help you to practice better self-control [5].
If you can’t leave the room, Calgary-based author of Parenting With Patience and Discipline Without Distress, Judy Arnall, suggests deciding as a family what kinds of behaviors are acceptable before you react, and writing it down on a “yes list”. She suggests things like jogging in place, throwing a ball for the dog to chase, or typing a social media rant you’ll never post.
“If you do things on your Yes List—go into the bathroom and deep-breathe—kids are watching that, and they’re going to pick up on those things and do them, too.” [5]
Read: The Era of Spanking has Ended
Prepare in advance. If the morning rush always results in a shouting match, for example, then find ways that you can prepare the night before so the morning is less stressful. If kids tend to get whiny while running errands, pack a toy to distract them while you get things done. When it comes to avoiding behavior problems, it is always better to “strike when the iron’s cold” [5].
Adjust your expectations, and recognize when you’re the problem. We often get upset when we have an idea of how something is going to go, but the reality doesn’ match the expectation. Be prepared that children may not always react the way you expect them to, and you may need to change course when things start to go sour (such as cutting your errands run short).
It’s also important to recognize when it’s you who is having an off-day. Perhaps you’re over-tired, or you’re stressed from work and small things that wouldn’t normally bother you are getting on your nerves.
“Ask yourself, ‘What’s going on for me that I yelled at my kids for the past three days in a row? Did I not get enough sleep? Do I feel unappreciated? Apart from my kids’ behaviour, what else is going on for me?’” says Clinical counsellor Elana Sures [5].
Apologize when you lose your temper. You’re not going to be perfect all the time, and you will still occasionally lose your cool and find yourself yelling at your kids. When this happens, the most important thing to do is to apologize.
“It takes the sting out of an ugly situation, and it reminds our kids that we’re human and sometimes emotions lead us to speak in ways we’re not proud of,” says Sures [5].
Talk to them about what prompted the yelling, why their behaviour bothered you so much, and work together to come up with a solution so it doesn’t have to happen again. This helps them to understand the link between the big feelings and resulting yelling, and that it requires not only more self-control on your part but also behavior change on theirs [5].
Keep Reading: ‘You hold on tight. Somehow 20 years isn’t enough. When it’s time for them to go, it all hits you like a ton of bricks.’: Mom of teens urges us to ‘soak it all in’ during younger parenting years


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--Diver Captures Rare Footage Of A Sea Angel Swimming Under The Ice

The under-sea world is one that is equal parts beautiful , fascinating , and strange .
When looking specifically at the cold parts of our oceans , you can double up on the strange part .
After all , it takes some pretty uniquely-evolved organisms to survive underwater in the world ’ s harshest seas .
This is exactly what marine biologist and underwater photographer Alexander Semenov hopes to find every time he dives into the icy waters .
On a dive last February , that ’ s just what he got .
( 1 ) Read : When Researchers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Teeming With New Scary-looking Fish Species Sea Angels are tiny sea slugs found both in the polar and tropic seas .
Named because of their wing-like appendages , they are small , gelatinous , and mostly transparent creatures with brightly colored glowing insides .
The largest of this species is the polar sea angels like the one in Semenov ’ s video and photos .
( 3 , 4 ) Known scientifically as Clione limacina , Semenov photographed a solitary sea angel , stating in a post that following March the area will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creatures mating , laying eggs , and hunting .
( 1 , 3 , 4 ) Currently the head of the diver ’ s team at the Moscow State University ’ s White Sea Biological Station , Semenov regularly dives in challenging , harsh conditions to research undersea invertebrates .
He has also been a professional underwater photographer for a decade now where he specializes in scientific macrophotography in natural environments .
( 1 , 2 ) Many of the soft-bodied creatures swimming under the sea or attached to the seafloor are unable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Semenov wants to use his diving and photography to study these organisms and hopefully educate and inspire others to take an interest in marine biology .
( 1 , 2 ) Alexander Semenov has collaborated with National Geographic , the BBC , Nature Magazine , Science Magazine , and the Smithsonian .
( 2 ) He is right now working on a project known as Aquatilis , which exists to find , study , and photograph the most unique and unusual species in our oceans .
With his team at Aquatilis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corporations , create books featuring Semenov ’ s incredible undersea images , and give lectures to everyone from fellow scientists all the way down to the elementary school students .
All of this is achieved through collaborations with museums , schools , large and small corporations around the world .
( 1 , 2 ) You can follow along with his projects and check out his photo gallery on Flickr , follow some of his adventures on Instagram , and check out his various projects on his website .
Keep Reading : New @ @ @ @

The under-sea world is one that is equal parts beautiful, fascinating, and strange. When looking specifically at the cold parts of our oceans, you can double up on the strange part. After all, it takes some pretty uniquely-evolved organisms to survive underwater in the world’s harshest seas.
This is exactly what marine biologist and underwater photographer Alexander Semenov hopes to find every time he dives into the icy waters. On a dive last February, that’s just what he got. (1)
Read: When Researchers Discovered an Underwater Volcanic Range it was Teeming With New Scary-looking Fish Species
The Sea Angel
Sea Angels are tiny sea slugs found both in the polar and tropic seas. Named because of their wing-like appendages, they are small, gelatinous, and mostly transparent creatures with brightly colored glowing insides. The largest of this species is the polar sea angels like the one in Semenov’s video and photos. (3, 4)
Known scientifically as Clione limacina, Semenov photographed a solitary sea angel, stating in a post that following March the area will be filled with thousands of the small creatures mating, laying eggs, and hunting. (1, 3, 4)
Read: Massive, deep-sea ‘entity’ leaves ocean scientists ‘blown away’
Alexander Semenov
Currently the head of the diver’s team at the Moscow State University’s White Sea Biological Station, Semenov regularly dives in challenging, harsh conditions to research undersea invertebrates. He has also been a professional underwater photographer for a decade now where he specializes in scientific macrophotography in natural environments. (1, 2)
Many of the soft-bodied creatures swimming under the sea or attached to the seafloor are unable to be studied in a laboratory environment. Semenov wants to use his diving and photography to study these organisms and hopefully educate and inspire others to take an interest in marine biology. (1, 2)
Alexander Semenov has collaborated with National Geographic, the BBC, Nature Magazine, Science Magazine, and the Smithsonian. (2)
He is right now working on a project known as Aquatilis, which exists to find, study, and photograph the most unique and unusual species in our oceans. With his team at Aquatilis, they create films and content for television corporations, create books featuring Semenov’s incredible undersea images, and give lectures to everyone from fellow scientists all the way down to the elementary school students. All of this is achieved through collaborations with museums, schools, large and small corporations around the world. (1, 2)
You can follow along with his projects and check out his photo gallery on Flickr, follow some of his adventures on Instagram, and check out his various projects on his website.
Keep Reading: New Species of Turtle Discovered


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--Here’s What Getting Spanked as a Kid Did to Your Personality, According to Science

In a 2012 survey , seventy percent of Americans agreed that “ it is sometimes necessary to discipline a child with a good , hard spanking ” [ 1 ] .
Adults sometimes hit their children to punish bad behavior , and while it might appear to be effective in the short-term , there is evidence to suggest that corporal punishment is not effective in the long-term and that it produces negative consequences for not only your child ’ s physical and emotional well-being but might actually make their behavior worse .
Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that kids who are spanked more often are more likely to defy their parents and experience an increase in anti-social behavior .
They are also at an increased risk for developing aggression , mental health problems , and cognitive difficulties [ 2 ] .
The study , which was published in the Journal of Family Psychology , analyzed fifty years of research that included over 160 thousand children .
She and her colleagues found that not only was spanking associated with detrimental outcomes , but it was largely ineffective at changing a child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immediate situation and in the future .
Gershoff and co-author Andrew Grogan-Kaylor , an associate professor at the University of Michigan School of Social Work , defined spanking as an open-handed on the behind or the extremities .
They studied the effects among adults who were spanked as children and determined that they experienced more mental health problems , and were more likely to spank their own children [ 2 ] .
Children who frequently receive spankings learn to associate violence with power and getting one ’ s own way , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they get older .
This might make them more likely to bully other children , and could even lead them to be more abusive in relationships when they become adults [ 1 ] .
These behavior changes may not be immediately apparent , however .
There is some disagreement among parents and experts alike as to what constitutes spanking , and what is considered physical abuse .
What Gershoff has determined , however , that both forms of punishment are associated with the same outcomes .
The CDC has also released a report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and neglect , which argues that social norms that accept or allow indifference to violence need to be changed in order to prevent child abuse .
Societal norms regarding how parents should discipline their children are of particular importance here [ 4 ] .
All of the research over the last fifty years indicated that spanking is a largely ineffective form of punishment , and in actuality , it does more harm than good .
Instead , there are many other strategies that parents can employ to punish their children ’ s bad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Effective discipline begins before bad behavior even takes place .
Every household needs reasonable rules and reasonable punishments , and it is important that every member of the household knows what they are .
Consider making a list of “ house rules ” , each with their corresponding punishment , and posting them somewhere where everyone can see them .
This will ensure consistency in terms of how punishment is given out [ 5 ] .
Consistency in rule enforcement is just as important as consistency in punishment .
Whatever rules you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure that they are always enforced .
Selective enforcement will only confuse your children and lead to problematic behavior .
With small children , sometimes ignoring them when they are behaving poorly is an effective strategy .
It is not uncommon for a child to throw a hissy fit or temper tantrum in a bid for attention , and as long as they are not doing anything dangerous , selective deafness can send them the message that behavior like that will not get them what they want .
Once they have calmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to talk with them about why throwing a fit is inappropriate .
Time-outs are also a tried-and-true method of punishment , especially for younger kids .
The typical rule of thumb is one minute for every year of the child ’ s age .
It is also important that you do not interact with them while they are in a time-out , and once their time is done , you don ’ t bring it up again .
This strategy does not work for every child , but it can be effective for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a time-out .
If you feel as though you are about to lose your temper , and that you may hit your child or scream at them , try leaving the room for a minute to cool off , or take a few deep breaths , or hand the situation off to another adult if you can .
When you give yourself time , you will be better able to handle the situation with a clear head .
When your child is misbehaving , it is much more effective to talk to them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why their behavior is inappropriate and asking that they stop .
This is a good opportunity to give them a warning that there will be other consequences if the behavior continues [ 5 ] .
Read : 2-year-olds aren ’ t terrible—they ’ re just learning how to be human Your Toddler is a Primitive Being Toddlers and preschool-aged children don ’ t have a large capacity to manage impulses , so lecturing them may not work .
Instead , she recommends showing your child what you want them to do , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do .
( for example , saying “ eat your spinach ” as opposed to “ don ’ t play with your spinach ” ) [ 6 ] .
We tend to focus on how to discipline effectively , but reinforcing good behavior is equally as important , as it can reduce the need for discipline in the future .
As a parent , it is important that you are always paying attention to the times when your child does the right thing or is exhibiting good behavior .
When you see this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them they ’ re doing a good job .
Praise works better than punishment [ 6 ] .
You are a Model of Good Behaviour Remember that your children are always watching you , and will model their behavior off of the things you say and do , and how you say and do them .
If you are constantly reacting in anger , yelling , and hitting , they will internalize this as being normal , and in turn , will behave that way too .
Parenting is hard , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your temper , but the more you are able to keep your cool , the better the long-term outcomes for your children will be .
Keep Reading : How a parent ’ s affection shapes a child ’ s happiness for life

In a 2012 survey, seventy percent of Americans agreed that “it is sometimes necessary to discipline a child with a good, hard spanking” [1]. But spanking children may have undesired results.
Adults sometimes hit their children to punish bad behavior, and while it might appear to be effective in the short-term, there is evidence to suggest that corporal punishment is not effective in the long-term and that it produces negative consequences for not only your child’s physical and emotional well-being but might actually make their behavior worse.
The Negative Effects of Spanking Children
Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Michigan have found that kids who are spanked more often are more likely to defy their parents and experience an increase in anti-social behavior. They are also at an increased risk for developing aggression, mental health problems, and cognitive difficulties [2].
The study, which was published in the Journal of Family Psychology, analyzed fifty years of research that included over 160 thousand children.
“Our analysis focuses on what most Americans would recognize as spanking and not on potentially abusive behaviors,” says Elizabeth Gershoff, an associate professor of human development and family sciences at The University of Texas at Austin [2].
She and her colleagues found that spanking children was not only associated with detrimental outcomes, but it was largely ineffective at changing a child’s behavior, both in the immediate situation and in the future.
Gershoff and co-author Andrew Grogan-Kaylor, an associate professor at the University of Michigan School of Social Work, defined spanking as an open-handed on the behind or the extremities. They studied the effects among adults who were spanked as children and determined that they experienced more mental health problems, and were more likely to spank their own children [2].
Children who frequently receive spankings learn to associate violence with power and getting one’s own way, which is why they may become more aggressive as they get older. This might make them more likely to bully other children, and could even lead them to be more abusive in relationships when they become adults [1].
These behavior changes may not be immediately apparent, however.
“A child doesn’t get spanked and then run out and rob a store,” Gershoff says. “There are indirect changes in how the child thinks about things and feels about things.” [3]
Read: Mom Secretly Films 6-Year-Old Being Paddled By Principal, Video Sparks Outrage
Spanking Vs. Physical Abuse
There is some disagreement among parents and experts alike as to what constitutes spanking, and what is considered physical abuse. What Gershoff has determined, however, that both forms of punishment are associated with the same outcomes.
“We as a society think of spanking and physical abuse as distinct behaviors,” she says. “Yet our research shows that spanking is linked with the same negative child outcomes as abuse, just to a slightly lesser degree.” [2]
The CDC has also released a report discussing the consequences of child physical abuse and neglect, which argues that social norms that accept or allow indifference to violence need to be changed in order to prevent child abuse. Societal norms regarding how parents should discipline their children are of particular importance here [4].
Alternatives to Spanking Children
All of the research over the last fifty years indicated that spanking children is a largely ineffective form of punishment, and in actuality, it does more harm than good. Instead, there are many other strategies that parents can employ to punish their children’s bad behavior, without inflicting lasting emotional damage.
Effective discipline begins before bad behavior even takes place. Every household needs reasonable rules and reasonable punishments, and it is important that every member of the household knows what they are. Consider making a list of “house rules”, each with their corresponding punishment, and posting them somewhere where everyone can see them. This will ensure consistency in terms of how punishment is given out [5].
Consistency in rule enforcement is just as important as consistency in punishment. Whatever rules you put in place in your home, make sure that they are always enforced. Selective enforcement will only confuse your children and lead to problematic behavior.
Read: A School District Voted to Reinstate Paddling for Students Who Misbehave
With small children, sometimes ignoring them when they are behaving poorly is an effective strategy. It is not uncommon for a child to throw a hissy fit or temper tantrum in a bid for attention, and as long as they are not doing anything dangerous, selective deafness can send them the message that behavior like that will not get them what they want. Once they have calmed down, you can take the opportunity to talk with them about why throwing a fit is inappropriate.
Time-outs are also a tried-and-true method of punishment, especially for younger kids. The typical rule of thumb is one minute for every year of the child’s age. It is also important that you do not interact with them while they are in a time-out, and once their time is done, you don’t bring it up again. This strategy does not work for every child, but it can be effective for some.
You can also give yourself a time-out. If you feel as though you are about to lose your temper, and that you may hit your child or scream at them, try leaving the room for a minute to cool off, or take a few deep breaths, or hand the situation off to another adult if you can. When you give yourself time, you will be better able to handle the situation with a clear head.
When your child is misbehaving, it is much more effective to talk to them calmly and clearly, explaining to them why their behavior is inappropriate and asking that they stop. This is a good opportunity to give them a warning that there will be other consequences if the behavior continues [5].
Your Toddler is a Primitive Being
Toddlers and preschool-aged children don’t have a large capacity to manage impulses, so lecturing them may not work.
“A toddler is not developmentally equipped to take all that information in and apply it the next time,” says Parent Coach Susan Stiffelman [6].
Instead, she recommends showing your child what you want them to do, as opposed to telling them what not to do. (for example, saying “eat your spinach” as opposed to “don’t play with your spinach”) [6].
Focus on the Positive
We tend to focus on how to discipline effectively, but reinforcing good behavior is equally as important, as it can reduce the need for discipline in the future. As a parent, it is important that you are always paying attention to the times when your child does the right thing or is exhibiting good behavior. When you see this happening, thank them, and tell them they’re doing a good job. Praise works better than punishment [6].
You are a Model of Good Behaviour
Remember that your children are always watching you, and will model their behavior off of the things you say and do, and how you say and do them. If you are constantly reacting in anger, yelling, and hitting, they will internalize this as being normal, and in turn, will behave that way too.
Parenting is hard, and it can often be difficult not to lose your temper, but the more you are able to keep your cool, the better the long-term outcomes for your children will be.
Keep Reading: Research Shows That Spanking Actually Changes How a Kid’s Brain Develops
Sources
“Hitting kids: American parenting and physical punishment.” Brookings. Emily Cuddy and Richard V. Reeves. November 6, 2014. “Risks of Harm from Spanking Confirmed by Analysis of Five Decades of Research.” U Texas. April 25, 2016. “The case against spanking.” APA. Brendan L. Smith. April 2012. CDC “Alternatives to Spanking.” WebMD. “Spanking Alternatives: Experts’ 8 Top Tips For Disciplining Toddlers.” Huffpost. July 3, 2012.
This article originally appeared on The Hearty Soul in May 2020 and has been published here with permission.


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--Close to 20,000 teens have gotten their drivers license without taking a road test

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a ripple effect of changes in nearly every aspect of our society .
Social distancing rules have changed the way our kids go to school , the way we go to work , and the way we socialize .
In some areas , they have also changed the way we give out driver ’ s licenses .
In response to the new social distancing guidelines , the governor of Georgia , Brian Kemp , has suspended the requirement that Georgians must pass the behind-the-wheel test before upgrading from a learner ’ s permit .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April , and since then there have been nearly twenty thousand teens in the state that have gotten their provisional driver ’ s license without taking the test .
These requirements included forty hours of behind-the-wheel supervised training , she noted .
This executive order was given on April 23 , but the governor has since released a second executive order that anyone who receives a license under these circumstances will still be required to take a road test by September 30 , if they want to keep their license .
Wisconsin has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in early May that all drivers under eighteen who had successfully completed their required training and who had a parent or guardian ’ s endorsement are eligible to receive a probationary driver ’ s license [ 1 ] .
Read : Dairy Farmer Bottles His Own Milk Rather than Dump It .
Sells Out in Hours .
While many young drivers are happy that they can get their license without having to take the road test , there are others who are against the decision , stating that it is dangerous to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Many of those people are driving instructors , including instructor Al Barber .
Sarah Casto , a driving instructor in Monticello , has started an online petition urging the governor to reverse his decision .
Jeanette Casselano , a spokeswoman for the American Automobile Association ( AAA ) , agrees , stating that by waiving the driver ’ s test , states are allowing teens to get their license when they could possibly benefit from more practice .
She also notes that parents need to be objective about their child ’ s driving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shocked and somewhat apprehensive , about the change .
For sixteen-year-old Amaya Johnson , the news first sounded like a joke .
Her mother , Catherine , believes that this is irresponsible , and says that her daughter will be going through their own Johnson family DMV before she hits the road by herself .
Amaya , for her part , is relieved .
She knows others her age who are getting licensed without the test and isn ’ t particularly keen on sharing the road with them [ 2 ] .
Car @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American Teens This news comes as a terrifying shock to many , particularly to those who have lost a son or daughter in a motor vehicle accident .
In a report released by the CDC , car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States .
In 2017 , more than 2 300 teens died in an accident , and approximately 300 thousand were treated in a hospital emergency room for injuries resulting from a motor vehicle collision [ 3 ] .
The risk for car accidents among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than any other age group , with a nearly three times greater likelihood of being in a fatal crash than drivers over twenty years old .
This risk is particularly high in the first few months after receiving their license [ 3 ] .
The leading cause of accidents in the age group ?
Inexperience .
Teens are more likely to underestimate or be unable to recognize when a situation is dangerous .
They are also more likely to make critical decision errors than older adults [ 3 ] .
If you would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you can sign it here .
Keep Reading : Prepare yourself and build a 72-hour disaster emergency survival kit

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a ripple effect of changes in nearly every aspect of our society. Social distancing rules have changed the way our kids go to school, the way we go to work, and the way we socialize.
In some areas, they have also changed the way we give out driver’s licenses.
Georgia Suspends Road Tests
In response to the new social distancing guidelines, the governor of Georgia, Brian Kemp, has suspended the requirement that Georgians must pass the behind-the-wheel test before upgrading from a learner’s permit.
This new rule was set in place in April, and since then there have been nearly twenty thousand teens in the state that have gotten their provisional driver’s license without taking the test.
“These teens held a permit for a year and a day and complied with all Georgia’s mandatory driver education requirements,” said Susan Sports, a spokeswoman for the state’s Department of Driver Services [1].
These requirements included forty hours of behind-the-wheel supervised training, she noted.
This executive order was given on April 23, but the governor has since released a second executive order that anyone who receives a license under these circumstances will still be required to take a road test by September 30, if they want to keep their license.
Wisconsin has also amended its licensing process and announced in early May that all drivers under eighteen who had successfully completed their required training and who had a parent or guardian’s endorsement are eligible to receive a probationary driver’s license [1].
Read: Dairy Farmer Bottles His Own Milk Rather than Dump It. Sells Out in Hours.
A Controversial Decision
While many young drivers are happy that they can get their license without having to take the road test, there are others who are against the decision, stating that it is dangerous to have untested drivers out on the roads.
Many of those people are driving instructors, including instructor Al Barber.
“I believe this is one of the most dangerous acts – this executive order – that we’ve seen in our state,” he said. “Even if you issue them all a license, this will come back to bite us in property damage, fatalities and injuries.” [2]
Sarah Casto, a driving instructor in Monticello, has started an online petition urging the governor to reverse his decision.
“We understand that this is supposed to be temporary, but the ramifications from even a few weeks of unskilled drivers getting their license can be catastrophic,” she said [1].
Jeanette Casselano, a spokeswoman for the American Automobile Association (AAA), agrees, stating that by waiving the driver’s test, states are allowing teens to get their license when they could possibly benefit from more practice. She also notes that parents need to be objective about their child’s driving capability.
Even some young drivers are shocked and somewhat apprehensive, about the change. For sixteen-year-old Amaya Johnson, the news first sounded like a joke. Her mother, Catherine, believes that this is irresponsible, and says that her daughter will be going through their own Johnson family DMV before she hits the road by herself.
Amaya, for her part, is relieved. She knows others her age who are getting licensed without the test and isn’t particularly keen on sharing the road with them [2].
Car Accidents the Leading Cause of Death Among American Teens
This news comes as a terrifying shock to many, particularly to those who have lost a son or daughter in a motor vehicle accident.
In a report released by the CDC, car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. In 2017, more than 2 300 teens died in an accident, and approximately 300 thousand were treated in a hospital emergency room for injuries resulting from a motor vehicle collision [3].
The risk for car accidents among teens aged sixteen to nineteen is higher than any other age group, with a nearly three times greater likelihood of being in a fatal crash than drivers over twenty years old. This risk is particularly high in the first few months after receiving their license [3].
The leading cause of accidents in the age group? Inexperience. Teens are more likely to underestimate or be unable to recognize when a situation is dangerous. They are also more likely to make critical decision errors than older adults [3].
If you would like to support Castello’s petition, you can sign it here.


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--Long-Lost Ultra-Rare Blue Bee Discovered In Florida

It has been years since anyone spotted the extremely rare Blue Calamintha Bee in Florida .
So long , in fact , that scientists and conservationists were afraid that the insect may have gone extinct altogether .
That speculation was put to rest this month when Chase Kimmel , a researcher for the Florida Museum of Natural History , found one of the blue beauties for the first time since 2016 .
( 1 , 2 ) Currently , the bee , known in the scientific world as Osmia calaminthae , is thought to only inhabit the Lake Wales Ridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ existence relies on the endangered Ashe ’ s calamint plant that grows in that region , which is considered to be one of America ’ s fastest disappearing ecosystems .
( 1 , 2 ) Kimmel , along with his advisor Jaret Daniels , is working on a research project about the bee to hopefully have it qualify for protection under the country ’ s endangered species act .
The goal of the project is to determine the Blue Calamintha bee ’ s ( 1 ) : The bee is characterized of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by its unique head-bobbing pattern and facial hairs it uses to collect pollen from the calamint plant .
( 1 ) Another behavior that separates it from other species of bee is its living arrangements .
Unlike most bees , who live all together in hives , the Blue Calamintha lives alone .
( 1 ) Due to a lack of citings in recent decades , very little is known about the bee beyond this basic information .
The more we know , the more empowered we are to help save the bright @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 2 ) Read : Minnesota Will Pay Homeowners to Replace Lawns with Bee-Friendly Wildflowers , Clover and Native Grasses Recognized globally as one of the most biodiverse regions of the world , the Lake Wales Ridge region of Florida is home to many rare species of plants and animals .
These highly specialized habitats were created when the state was primarily underwater .
Sections of land that were high enough to appear above the water created isolated areas for incredibly unique species to develop and adapt to their specific environment .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the area looks quite different and each ecosystem is not separated by water , leaving these habitats exposed and vulnerable .
( 1 ) Read : Want to Help Bees ?
Leave the Dandelions Alone This Spring Kimmel and Daniels have high hopes that through their research they will learn much about the bees and what needs to be done to reinvigorate the population .
They also are excited to see what else they discover about the various plants , animals , and insects that live there .
( 1 , 2 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ project , you can visit the Florida Museum of Natural History ’ s website for more information .
Keep Reading : A small city is devoting 1,000 acres of land to America ’ s vanishing bees

It has been years since anyone spotted the extremely rare Blue Calamintha Bee in Florida. So long, in fact, that scientists and conservationists were afraid that the insect may have gone extinct altogether.
That speculation was put to rest this month when Chase Kimmel, a researcher for the Florida Museum of Natural History, found one of the blue beauties for the first time since 2016. (1, 2)
The Blue Calamintha Bee
Currently, the bee, known in the scientific world as Osmia calaminthae, is thought to only inhabit the Lake Wales Ridge region of the sunshine state. Its existence relies on the endangered Ashe’s calamint plant that grows in that region, which is considered to be one of America’s fastest disappearing ecosystems. (1, 2)
Kimmel, along with his advisor Jaret Daniels, is working on a research project about the bee to hopefully have it qualify for protection under the country’s endangered species act. The goal of the project is to determine the Blue Calamintha bee’s (1):
Population and distribution
Nesting and feeding habits
The bee is characterized of course by its blue hue, but also by its unique head-bobbing pattern and facial hairs it uses to collect pollen from the calamint plant. (1)
Another behavior that separates it from other species of bee is its living arrangements. Unlike most bees, who live all together in hives, the Blue Calamintha lives alone. (1)
Due to a lack of citings in recent decades, very little is known about the bee beyond this basic information. The more we know, the more empowered we are to help save the bright blue insect from extinction. (1, 2)
A blue Calamintha bee specimen collected in 2002 in Placid Lakes
FLORIDA MUSEUM PHOTO BY CHASE KIMMEL
Read: Minnesota Will Pay Homeowners to Replace Lawns with Bee-Friendly Wildflowers, Clover and Native Grasses
The Lake Wales Ridge Region
Recognized globally as one of the most biodiverse regions of the world, the Lake Wales Ridge region of Florida is home to many rare species of plants and animals. These highly specialized habitats were created when the state was primarily underwater. Sections of land that were high enough to appear above the water created isolated areas for incredibly unique species to develop and adapt to their specific environment. (1)
Now, of course, the area looks quite different and each ecosystem is not separated by water, leaving these habitats exposed and vulnerable. (1)
“It’s one thing to read about habitat loss and development and another to be driving for 30-40 minutes through miles of orange groves just to get to a really small conservation site,” Kimmel said. “It puts into perspective how much habitat loss affects all the animals that live in this area.” (1)
Read: Want to Help Bees? Leave the Dandelions Alone This Spring
A Bee Brought Back to Life
Kimmel and Daniels have high hopes that through their research they will learn much about the bees and what needs to be done to reinvigorate the population. They also are excited to see what else they discover about the various plants, animals, and insects that live there. (1, 2)
“We’re trying to fill in a lot of gaps that were not previously known,” Kimmel said. “It shows how little we know about the insect community and how there’s a lot of neat discoveries that can still occur.” (2)
If you are interested in supporting this project, you can visit the Florida Museum of Natural History’s website for more information.
Keep Reading: A small city is devoting 1,000 acres of land to America’s vanishing bees


theheartysoul--2020-05-14--People in Quarantine Are Using Their Free Time to Crochet Tiny Couches for Their Cats

Pets may not understand the situation of the world right now , but a lot of them are happy they ’ re finally getting all the attention they need from their owners .
Since so many of us humans are stuck at home due to the coronavirus outbreak , we now have enough time on our hands to rekindle the bonds with our pets that our formerly busy lives may have had no time for .
We are finally realizing again how important these animals are to us , and how much they miss us when we are too occupied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the spirit of rekindling special bonds , some people are now learning how to crochet tiny couches for their feline companions to slumber on [ 1 ] .
Cats are adorably lazy and love to lounge about on soft , warm surfaces all day long .
Having a hard time removing all the fur once they get off your couch ?
How about crocheting their own tiny , comfy couch where they can lounge to their heart ’ s desire ?
Many of us have discovered hidden talents and awakened new ( or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ While we wish it could have been under less grim circumstances , activities like crocheting , gardening , and home improvement great skills to hone .
People are building picnic tables and restaurants for their neighborhood squirrels , floor-to-ceiling towers for their cats , and crocheting all kinds of cool and sometimes weird crafts to decorate their homes .
It ’ s all about staying busy and keeping our minds off the harsh realities these days .
Read : Screened Cat Patios , ‘ Catios ’ , are a Great Way to Keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its accessories are wonderful aesthetics to add to your home as a proud cat owner .
It gives the entire space a more welcoming , animal-friendly appearance , and of course , your cat will love you dearly .
It doesn ’ t matter whether you ’ re completely new to crocheting or not .
With the right tools and a lot of patience , you can learn to crochet almost anything you fancy .
There are also patterns available online to help get you started .
Kitty couches are intermediate-level crochet patterns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ easily easy ” for a beginner to catch up to , determination and practice will get you there .
The kitty couches are stuffed with any cushioning material of your choice , so the cover is all you need to crochet .
Depending on your level of expertise , it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete the whole project .
It ’ s hard work , but make sure you ’ re having fun doing it – that ’ s the whole point .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of your choice .
Whether it ’ s a love seat , an arm-chair , or a long three-seater mini sofa , all the pattern would require yarn , multiple needles and fiberfill to give them their shape .
While people recently picked up the kitty couch rave again this 2020 , the trend dates back to 2009 , and I ’ m pretty sure all the cats lucky to have these cute couches have had the most enjoyable lives ever .
Keep Reading : Sashiko stitching : An Ancient Japanese Sewing Art @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clothes and Turn Them into Style Keep Reading : Crochet Egg Apron Helps You Carry Tons Of Eggs , Perfect For Chicken Owners

Pets may not understand the situation of the world right now, but a lot of them are happy they’re finally getting all the attention they need from their owners. Since so many of us humans are stuck at home due to the coronavirus outbreak, we now have enough time on our hands to rekindle the bonds with our pets that our formerly busy lives may have had no time for. We are finally realizing again how important these animals are to us, and how much they miss us when we are too occupied to pay them any attention. In the spirit of rekindling special bonds, some people are now learning how to crochet cat couches for their feline companions to slumber on [1].
Cats are adorably lazy and love to lounge about on soft, warm surfaces all day long. Having a hard time removing all the fur once they get off your couch? How about crocheting their own tiny, comfy couch where they can lounge to their heart’s desire?
Many of us have discovered hidden talents and awakened new (or old) skills during this time. While we wish it could have been under less grim circumstances, activities like crocheting, gardening, and home improvement great skills to hone. People are building picnic tables and restaurants for their neighborhood squirrels, floor-to-ceiling towers for their cats, and crocheting all kinds of cool and sometimes weird crafts to decorate their homes. It’s all about staying busy and keeping our minds off the harsh realities these days.
Read: Screened Cat Patios, ‘Catios’, are a Great Way to Keep Your Cats Safe
Crochet cat couches with matching Granny Afghans
The kitty couch and its accessories are wonderful aesthetics to add to your home as a proud cat owner. It gives the entire space a more welcoming, animal-friendly appearance, and of course, your cat will love you dearly.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re completely new to crocheting or not. With the right tools and a lot of patience, you can learn to crochet almost anything you fancy. There are also patterns available online to help get you started. Kitty couches are intermediate-level crochet patterns, and while they may not be “easily easy” for a beginner to catch up to, determination and practice will get you there.
The kitty couches are stuffed with any cushioning material of your choice, so the cover is all you need to crochet. Depending on your level of expertise, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete the whole project. It’s hard work, but make sure you’re having fun doing it – that’s the whole point.
You can crochet the couch into any design of your choice. Whether it’s a love seat, an arm-chair, or a long three-seater mini sofa, all the pattern would require yarn, multiple needles and fiberfill to give them their shape.
While people recently picked up the kitty couch rave again this 2020, the trend dates back to 2009, and I’m pretty sure all the cats lucky to have these cute couches have had the most enjoyable lives ever.
Keep Reading: Sashiko stitching: An Ancient Japanese Sewing Art that Allows You to Visibly Mend Your Clothes and Turn Them into Style
Images via Bored Panda


theheartysoul--2020-05-19--How to Create Awesome Fairy Lanterns with Mason Jars

If you ’ ve got kids going through the “ monster-under-my-bed ” or “ afraid-of-the-dark ” phases , this could be really a great way to help them sleep better and more peacefully .
I may no longer be 5 , but I ’ m certainly making a lot of these lovely fairy lanterns to decorate my home .
They are just so beautiful and charming , and they are a great way to teach your kids about the beauty of upcycling .
Instead of throwing out all those jam or mason jars stacking up in the pantry , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glowing lanterns that would transform the scary dark into a magical world .
The best thing about these lanterns – they are super-easy to make and since we ’ re nearing that dreaded summer where we can ’ t have as much as outdoor fun as we would want , it ’ s a great idea to stack up interesting DIY projects so your kids can still have a great time .
There are tons of different methods people use to make these lanterns .
This article focuses on two of the easiest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most beautiful .
The first method uses glow-in-the-dark paint and the second one is made with glue and glitter , and I have to admit , the latter is the better choice .
Anyways , depending on what is readily available to you , the two simple steps are explained below .
Read : The Quick and Easy DIY Way to Turn a Fan into an Air Conditioner • Upcycled glass jars with all labels torn off • Using the paintbrush , paint as many dots and shapes as you want on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make patterns or draw geometric shapes and constellations of stars .
Get creative and explore your artistic skills .
For the best results , you should use as many colors of paint as possible .
• Set the jars down and allow the paint to dry .
• Place the jars in a spot where they would absorb a lot of light so the glow effect would be activated .
• Place the fairy cutouts in the jar .
If your kids are going to make these themselves , ensure that they use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lights and enjoy the thrilling magic !
• If you want , you could smear glitter on the lid of the jar to cover the bland-looking steel and make the lanterns look prettier .
Some people use flower accessories to spice them up .
• You could also throw in some LED lights to make the jar glow brighter .
Read : How to Make Mason Jar Patio Lights This Summer • Two or three sticks of colored liquid glue • Packets of glitter ( you can use as many colors , shapes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Sprinkle the liquid glue all over the inside of the jar .
It ’ s best to use two or three different colors to increase the charm .
• Pour your glitter packs into the jar and make sure they hit the walls .
Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously .
• When the glue is completely dry , place your fairy cutouts in the jar .
You could attach them to the lid of the jar using a twine so they hang in the air as though they are in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jar with extra glitter and glue to make it prettier .
You could also use flower accessories .
• Turn off the lights and set the fairy lanterns under the glow sticks , or throw the LED lights into the jar to illuminate the enchanted lantern .
Your kids would hopefully never be afraid of the dark again because once the lights go off , a magical world comes forth .
I ’ d like to think that even when the fiery lanterns are not within their reach , they ’ d @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable peace .
There are hundreds of creative YouTube videos where you could get more ideas for glow lanterns .
Some people use clean water to fill up an empty bottle with a mound of glitter at the bottom , throw in a glow stick , and attach a magnet to the bottle cap .
Whenever the bottle is flipped , the magic is activated .
Others prefer to use soda bottles and acetate sheets , but whatever method you decide to go with , as long as something glows and shines in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got it !
Video for the second method ( using glue ) : Keep Reading : You will never have to scrub a toilet AGAIN if you make these DIY toilet cleaning bombs

If you’ve got kids going through the “monster-under-my-bed” or “afraid-of-the-dark” phases, this could be really a great way to help them sleep better and more peacefully. I may no longer be 5, but I’m certainly making a lot of these lovely fairy lanterns to decorate my home. They are just so beautiful and charming, and they are a great way to teach your kids about the beauty of upcycling. Instead of throwing out all those jam or mason jars stacking up in the pantry, you could use them to create these little glowing fairy lanterns that would transform the scary dark into a magical world.
The best thing about these lanterns – they are super-easy to make and since we’re nearing that dreaded summer where we can’t have as much as outdoor fun as we would want, it’s a great idea to stack up interesting DIY projects so your kids can still have a great time.
There are tons of different methods people use to make these lanterns. This article focuses on two of the easiest ones, which are still among the most beautiful. The first method uses glow-in-the-dark paint and the second one is made with glue and glitter, and I have to admit, the latter is the better choice. Anyways, depending on what is readily available to you, the two simple steps are explained below.
Read: The Quick and Easy DIY Way to Turn a Fan into an Air Conditioner
Painted Fairy Lanterns: Materials needed
Upcycled glass jars with all labels torn off
Glow-in-the-dark acrylic paint
Small-sized paintbrush
Fairy cardboard or paper cutouts
Steps:
Using the paintbrush, paint as many dots and shapes as you want on the inside of the jars. You could make patterns or draw geometric shapes and constellations of stars. Get creative and explore your artistic skills. For the best results, you should use as many colors of paint as possible. Set the jars down and allow the paint to dry. Place the jars in a spot where they would absorb a lot of light so the glow effect would be activated. Place the fairy cutouts in the jar. If your kids are going to make these themselves, ensure that they use safety scissors. Turn off the lights and enjoy the thrilling magic! If you want, you could smear glitter on the lid of the jar to cover the bland-looking steel and make the lanterns look prettier. Some people use flower accessories to spice them up. You could also throw in some LED lights to make the jar glow brighter.
Read: How to Make Mason Jar Patio Lights This Summer
Using glitter and glue: Materials needed
Upcycled glass jars without labels
Two or three sticks of colored liquid glue
Packets of glitter (you can use as many colors, shapes, and sizes as you want)
Glow sticks or LED lights
Fairy cardboard or paper cutouts
Steps
Sprinkle the liquid glue all over the inside of the jar. It’s best to use two or three different colors to increase the charm. Pour your glitter packs into the jar and make sure they hit the walls. Close the jar tightly and shake vigorously. When the glue is completely dry, place your fairy cutouts in the jar. You could attach them to the lid of the jar using a twine so they hang in the air as though they are in flight. Smear the lid of the jar with extra glitter and glue to make it prettier. You could also use flower accessories. Turn off the lights and set the fairy lanterns under the glow sticks, or throw the LED lights into the jar to illuminate the enchanted lantern.
Your kids would hopefully never be afraid of the dark again because once the lights go off, a magical world comes forth. I’d like to think that even when the fiery lanterns are not within their reach, they’d still be accustomed to charming thoughts and comfortable peace.
There are hundreds of creative YouTube videos where you could get more ideas for glow lanterns. Some people use clean water to fill up an empty bottle with a mound of glitter at the bottom, throw in a glow stick, and attach a magnet to the bottle cap. Whenever the bottle is flipped, the magic is activated. Others prefer to use soda bottles and acetate sheets, but whatever method you decide to go with, as long as something glows and shines in the dark at the end, you got it!
Video for the second method (using glue):
Keep Reading: You will never have to scrub a toilet AGAIN if you make these DIY toilet cleaning bombs


theheartysoul--2020-05-19--“It’s Only Taken Me 40 Years”: Woman Reveals How to Close a Cereal Box the Right Way

My grandmother used to say , “ The day we stop learning is the day we stop living ” , and this new cereal box hack is proof , learning never stops .
This reminds me of the day I found out that the little hoop in a soda can could also be a straw holder .
I ’ d always thought it was just some hoop to slip my finger through while cracking the can open .
These may just be simple hacks people came up with by chance or critical thinking , but they are still awesome and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ onward , I know how my cereal boxes are going to look .
This hack was revealed by a Facebook user named Becky Holden McGhee .
No one knows if all cereal manufacturers had Becky ’ s hack in mind when creating the flaps on the boxes , but her interlocking-pyramid style of sealing the box after it ’ s opened is a stroke of genius [ 1 ] .
This method would certainly keep your cereals drier and fresher for longer periods .
Read : 100-Year-Old Life Hacks That Are Surprisingly Useful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ process on Facebook when she was ready to share her innovation with the world : “ Had to share this !
!
!
It ’ s only taken me 40 years , but I now know the correct way to close a cereal box .
Genius .
It takes seconds , no more dried up cereal and ugly torn boxes to greet me every morning.
” Breakfast lovers didn ’ t waste any time swarming all over the new hack as McGhee ’ s 45-second video hit 4.3 million views on Facebook in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simplest thing you could day all day , and even your kids would have no trouble picking it up .
So , your cereal box has four flaps on top .
To start your pyramid , completely fold in the two smaller ones and a long one .
Squeeze the tops of the two long sides together and then fold in the fourth and final flap .
You ’ ll have yourself an air-tight cereal box that doesn ’ t look as tacky as what we ’ ve been doing all these years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stunned at how she came up with the innovative idea [ 2 ] .
The comments and feedback from thousands of people have been super-encouraging and outrageously funny .
It ’ s amazing how something as simple as how to properly close a cereal box could make people feel like real-life MacGyvers .
“ It was accidental , I never in a million years thought it would be viewed 3 million times !
” She explains that she was just thinking about it and “ the next morning , I thought I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numerous cereal boxes we have and couldn ’ t believe how simple it was .
The folding literally takes seconds , looks really neat , and will stop cereal going all soggy.
” Read : How to Trim Your Dog ’ s Nails Struggle-Free : One Dad ’ s Ingenious Life Hack Keep Reading : 10 Hacks to Keep Your Produce Fresh

My grandmother used to say, “The day we stop learning is the day we stop living”, and this new cereal box hack is proof, learning never stops. This reminds me of the day I found out that the little hoop in a soda can could also be a straw holder. I’d always thought it was just some hoop to slip my finger through while cracking the can open. These may just be simple hacks people came up with by chance or critical thinking, but they are still awesome and exciting to learn. From this day onward, I know how my cereal boxes are going to look. I’ve learned to close a cereal box the right way!
This hack was revealed by a Facebook user named Becky Holden McGhee. No one knows if all cereal manufacturers had Becky’s hack in mind when creating the flaps on the boxes, but her interlocking-pyramid style of sealing the box after it’s opened is a stroke of genius [1]. This method would certainly keep your cereals drier and fresher for longer periods.
Read: 100-Year-Old Life Hacks That Are Surprisingly Useful Today
Cereal box origami
McGhee posted photos of her sealing process on Facebook when she was ready to share her innovation with the world: “Had to share this!!! It’s only taken me 40 years, but I now know the correct way to close a cereal box. Genius. It takes seconds, no more dried up cereal and ugly torn boxes to greet me every morning.”
The mom-of-two from Blackpool, UK, later modified her caption: “I’ve now added a little video on how to do it. Happy folding! You know I want to see pics!**”
Breakfast lovers didn’t waste any time swarming all over the new hack as McGhee’s 45-second video hit 4.3 million views on Facebook in a week. The trick is the simplest thing you could day all day, and even your kids would have no trouble picking it up.
So, your cereal box has four flaps on top. To start your pyramid, completely fold in the two smaller ones and a long one. Squeeze the tops of the two long sides together and then fold in the fourth and final flap. You’ll have yourself an air-tight cereal box that doesn’t look as tacky as what we’ve been doing all these years.
McGhee said she’s still stunned at how she came up with the innovative idea [2]. The comments and feedback from thousands of people have been super-encouraging and outrageously funny. It’s amazing how something as simple as how to properly close a cereal box could make people feel like real-life MacGyvers.
“It was accidental, I never in a million years thought it would be viewed 3 million times!” She explains that she was just thinking about it and “the next morning, I thought I’d give it a go with the numerous cereal boxes we have and couldn’t believe how simple it was. The folding literally takes seconds, looks really neat, and will stop cereal going all soggy.”
Here’s a step-by-step guide
Image Credit: Becky Holden McGhee


theheartysoul--2020-05-19--Meet Milkshake, the Rare Pink Pug Stealing Hearts on Instagram

Whoever named this cutie Milkshake made a great choice , because he does “ bring everybody to the yard.
” Milkshake is one of the 100 pink pugs in the world , and it ’ s no wonder why people online are fawning so much over him .
The 17-month-old London-based dog has stunningly unique features that set him aside from other pugs we see every day .
[ 1 ] He has the same small muzzled face and a curled tail , but his entire body , including his nose and paws , is covered in blush pink fur @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soulful bright blue eyes that look straight out of the Pacific Blue .
Milkshake ’ s pink color is a result of an inherited genetic mutation that causes a complete lack of pigmentation in the animal ’ s body and features , such as their skin , hair , and eyes .
Milkshake is not actually an albino pug as his genetic condition affects only the color of his fur and skin .
He doesn ’ t suffer any health issues commonly associated with albinism such as poor vision , skin sensitivity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 ] He ’ s as normal as every other pug breed out there and is just a sight for sore eyes .
Milkshake is the canine companion of a London-based marketing manager named Maria .
She saw him at a grocery store when he was only 10 weeks old , looking uniquely different from his brothers and sisters .
She instantly fell in love with the pooch and knew she had to take him home .
She wrote on Instagram : “ I had never even heard of pink pugs before , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and spotted Milkshake I thought he was adorable , and knew I had to have him .
They ’ re very rare .
At the time , I think Milkshake was one of 30 in the world but there have been a few litters .
There ’ s no more than 100 worldwide .
He ’ s not actually albino – he just has the coloring so he doesn ’ t suffer from any sight loss or hearing loss .
He ’ s a happy healthy boy .
Since Milkshake came to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sharing the details of his luxuriously spoiled life online , and of course , thousands of people are falling in love daily .
Milkshake now has over 83,000 followers on Instagram , many of who are often star-struck when they meet him in real life .
He ’ s also become one of the most popular dog influencers on Instagram .
There are other famous pink pugs on social media , but Milkshake is the top dog in the pack .
“ Milkshake is the most famous pink pug on social media .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun but straight away he got such a positive response .
A lot of people messaged me saying they ’ d had a bad day and seeing Milkshake really cheered them up which encouraged me to post more .
His following just kept getting bigger and bigger.
” When it comes to “ living the life , ” Milkshake ’ s got it all covered .
Between weekly trips to a luxurious dog spa , getting fitted with classy outfits for his photoshoots , enjoying his exquisite beauty routines , and catching meetings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ busy and exciting life .
Maria says he ’ s also a friendly , gentle companion that makes the perfect cuddle buddy and loves chicken more than anything else .

Whoever named this cutie Milkshake made a great choice, because he does “bring everybody to the yard.” Milkshake is one of the 100 pink pugs in the world, and it’s no wonder why people online are fawning so much over him.
The 17-month-old London-based dog has stunningly unique features that set him aside from other pugs we see every day. [1] He has the same small muzzled face and a curled tail, but his entire body, including his nose and paws, is covered in blush pink fur. He also has a pair of soulful bright blue eyes that look straight out of the Pacific Blue.
Milkshake’s pink color is a result of an inherited genetic mutation that causes a complete lack of pigmentation in the animal’s body and features, such as their skin, hair, and eyes. Milkshake is not actually an albino pug as his genetic condition affects only the color of his fur and skin. He doesn’t suffer any health issues commonly associated with albinism such as poor vision, skin sensitivity, and susceptibility to UV damage. [2] He’s as normal as every other pug breed out there and is just a sight for sore eyes.
Insta-famous dog-fluencer
Milkshake is the canine companion of a London-based marketing manager named Maria. She saw him at a grocery store when he was only 10 weeks old, looking uniquely different from his brothers and sisters. She instantly fell in love with the pooch and knew she had to take him home.
She wrote on Instagram: “I had never even heard of pink pugs before, but when I went to the breeder and spotted Milkshake I thought he was adorable, and knew I had to have him. They’re very rare. At the time, I think Milkshake was one of 30 in the world but there have been a few litters. There’s no more than 100 worldwide. He’s not actually albino – he just has the coloring so he doesn’t suffer from any sight loss or hearing loss. He’s a happy healthy boy.
Since Milkshake came to live with Maria, she’s been sharing the details of his luxuriously spoiled life online, and of course, thousands of people are falling in love daily. Milkshake now has over 83,000 followers on Instagram, many of who are often star-struck when they meet him in real life. He’s also become one of the most popular dog influencers on Instagram.
There are other famous pink pugs on social media, but Milkshake is the top dog in the pack. “Milkshake is the most famous pink pug on social media. His Instagram started just as a bit fun but straight away he got such a positive response. A lot of people messaged me saying they’d had a bad day and seeing Milkshake really cheered them up which encouraged me to post more. His following just kept getting bigger and bigger.”
When it comes to “living the life,” Milkshake’s got it all covered. Between weekly trips to a luxurious dog spa, getting fitted with classy outfits for his photoshoots, enjoying his exquisite beauty routines, and catching meetings with Maria, this doggy lives a busy and exciting life. Maria says he’s also a friendly, gentle companion that makes the perfect cuddle buddy and loves chicken more than anything else.
Isn’t he just adorable?
Image Credits: Milkshakethepug Via Instagram, Milkshakethepug.com