theheartysoul--2020-06-02--Eco-Friendly Tiny House in The Woods Cost Under $14K

Living tiny just might be the secret to a more sustainable future .
This eco-friendly tiny house built in Finland by two students proves that if we change the way we live our lives , we can build a better tomorrow .
The Eco-Friendly Tiny House that ’ s Changing How We Look at Sustainability Finland is a beautiful country , there ’ s no doubt about that .
Even the people who live there and witness it daily are still in awe .
This is what happened when architecture student Timm Bergmann and urban design student Jonas Becker .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ while on a fishing trip during a school break , they thought : why not test their knowledge from their first year of school to build themselves a nature retreat .
( 1 ) The result was a 280-square foot minimalist eco-friendly tiny house cabin that works with the land as opposed to against it .
( 1 ) Close to Bergmann ’ s grandparents ’ farm , the two young men found a secluded spot next to the lake that had just enough room to fit a small cabin without having to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge was to build a cabin that was self-sustaining without access to electricity , running water , or even a road .
Read : This Adventure-Ready Tiny House Has a Mud Room and Fold-Down Deck Building a home , even a tiny one , in such a remote location while being careful not to harm the natural land comes with challenges that traditional building methods don ’ t .
Their goal was to build the cabin in a way that should they ever wish to remove it , it would cause such little @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be as though it was never there .
After receiving the necessary permissions to build and having their design approved for fire safety , they got to work tackling their project .
There are no roads to the location , making getting supplies and materials there difficult .
To overcome this problem , they built a 650-foot elevated pathway from the site to the nearest road .
This was built by : • Anchoring concrete-filled steel pipes into the bedrock with wooden planks to the top to create a walkway that winds its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is made from 17 frames constructed using the wood from Bergmann ’ s grandparents ’ farm .
To avoid damaging the environment during the construction process , they built the frames at his grandparents ’ home and then carried them along the walkway to the site .
The cabin is made of 18mm pine plywood sheets using recycled newspaper for insulation .
For an easier build , they put all of their furniture , all of which were reused and recycled , in place .
They then built the walls and roof around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ looks like a space ship and can sleep a family of 4 — see inside The style and layout of the home fit right along with the nature that it is surrounded by .
The small cabin features : While designing and building , they kept asking themselves what they truly need to be happy .
The conclusion was that they needed a lot less than what they originally thought .
The total cost for building this eco-friendly tiny home was $ 13 , 449 .
Most of this was dedicated to timber @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as a wood stove , to heat the cabin throughout the winter , Not having to install plumbing and electricity really keeps costs down .
Their project inspired them to start their own design firm , Studio Politaire .
Their goal is to be a part of changing the building industry to one that is more sustainable and environmentally conscious .
They want to push people to rethink what luxury means and to think outside the box when it comes to what “ necessities ” they currently rely on that they don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Keep Reading : This Family Of 4 Built A Tiny Home Village – One Home For Each Family Member

Living tiny just might be the secret to a more sustainable future. This eco-friendly tiny house built in Finland by two students proves that if we change the way we live our lives, we can build a better tomorrow.
The Eco-Friendly Tiny House that’s Changing How We Look at Sustainability
Finland is a beautiful country, there’s no doubt about that. Even the people who live there and witness it daily are still in awe. This is what happened when architecture student Timm Bergmann and urban design student Jonas Becker. Inspired by the serene beauty around them while on a fishing trip during a school break, they thought: why not test their knowledge from their first year of school to build themselves a nature retreat. (1)
The result was a 280-square foot minimalist eco-friendly tiny house cabin that works with the land as opposed to against it. (1)
A Build That Respects the Natural Environment
Close to Bergmann’s grandparents’ farm, the two young men found a secluded spot next to the lake that had just enough room to fit a small cabin without having to disturb the trees around it. The challenge was to build a cabin that was self-sustaining without access to electricity, running water, or even a road.
Read: This Adventure-Ready Tiny House Has a Mud Room and Fold-Down Deck
The Building Process
Building a home, even a tiny one, in such a remote location while being careful not to harm the natural land comes with challenges that traditional building methods don’t. Their goal was to build the cabin in a way that should they ever wish to remove it, it would cause such little disturbance to the environment that it would be as though it was never there.
After receiving the necessary permissions to build and having their design approved for fire safety, they got to work tackling their project.
Access to the Site
There are no roads to the location, making getting supplies and materials there difficult. To overcome this problem, they built a 650-foot elevated pathway from the site to the nearest road. This was built by:
Anchoring concrete-filled steel pipes into the bedrock with wooden planks to the top to create a walkway that winds its way through the woods.
The Cabin
The cabin is made from 17 frames constructed using the wood from Bergmann’s grandparents’ farm. To avoid damaging the environment during the construction process, they built the frames at his grandparents’ home and then carried them along the walkway to the site.
The cabin is made of 18mm pine plywood sheets using recycled newspaper for insulation. For an easier build, they put all of their furniture, all of which were reused and recycled, in place. They then built the walls and roof around it.
Read: Tiny smart home looks like a space ship and can sleep a family of 4 — see inside
Special Features
The style and layout of the home fit right along with the nature that it is surrounded by. The small cabin features:
A kitchen
A bedroom
A sauna
A composting toilet
While designing and building, they kept asking themselves what they truly need to be happy. The conclusion was that they needed a lot less than what they originally thought.
“For example, do we really need to have two big separate rooms for eating and relaxing or can it be one combined in the kitchen? In the end we came up with a design of four rooms on less than 26 square meters [280 square feet] which offers a comfortable feeling as it would have been 40 square meters,” they explained.
The Cost
The total cost for building this eco-friendly tiny home was $13, 449. Most of this was dedicated to timber and the double glazed windows, as well as a wood stove, to heat the cabin throughout the winter, Not having to install plumbing and electricity really keeps costs down.
Studio Politaire
Their project inspired them to start their own design firm, Studio Politaire. Their goal is to be a part of changing the building industry to one that is more sustainable and environmentally conscious. They want to push people to rethink what luxury means and to think outside the box when it comes to what “necessities” they currently rely on that they don’t actually need. (1)
“People need to start questioning themselves in eco-sufficiency. It is not the best way to save carbon emissions by buying a new car with a more efficient combustion engine, or to buy an electric car – the best way is to use your bicycle or feet.”
Keep Reading: This Family Of 4 Built A Tiny Home Village – One Home For Each Family Member


theheartysoul--2020-06-02--What Are Those Grids of Glass in the Sidewalk — And Why Are They Purple

If you take a stroll down the streets of a number of major cities around the world , you are likely to notice a peculiar feature in the sidewalks : small , sometimes purple , glass squares and circles in grid patterns covering a few feet of pavement .
While these installations do look pretty , they also serve a purpose .
Known as vault lights , sidewalk prisms , or pavement lights , these bits of glass that are flush with the sidewalk are there to allow sunlight into the spaces below [ 1 ] .
The first vault @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1834 , which featured a round iron plate surrounded by a large glass lens .
Several years later , in 1845 , Thaddeus Hyatt patented his own improved design , which was more resistant to fracturing .
His are the lights that we still see today [ 2 ] .
Initially , vault lights were used on ship decks to provide light below without the need for hazardous open-flame lights , like kerosene lamps .
They were later used in city sidewalks to allow light to pass into spaces below .
Before the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and other overhead structures were too dark to be of any use .
The installations of vault lights made them usable for storage , and even for apartments in some cases [ 3 ] .
Although they appear smooth and flat on the top , these little pieces of glass actually have a prism shape underneath , which diffuses the light and spreads it through a larger area .
Multiple prisms set at different angles have the capability to fill an entire room with light .
Read : Architect Turns Old Cement Factory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Will Take Your Breath Away Electricity was not yet available in the mid-nineteenth century , so buildings had to be lit using fuels like oils , gas , and candles .
These items all cost money , so vault lights provided a way to preserve these fuels and energy in spaces that could not admit natural lighting [ 3 ] .
Additionally , lamps , candles , and other lighting devices could often produce smoke , reducing the air quality in enclosed spaces .
Having natural light from above meant you needed fewer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3 ] .
Vault lights can still be seen in many cities today , and city leaders and historic preservation groups have recognized both the historical significance , as well as the aesthetic appeal , that these lights provide .
As such , there has been an effort in many cases to restore and preserve these patches of sidewalk [ 3 ] .
In Sacramento , California , visitors have the unique opportunity to walk underneath the sidewalk past abandoned storefronts , guided by the light of vault lights .
This is because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were raised as much as fourteen feet to protect from flooding .
In some buildings , they simply built over the first floor , rather than lifting the entire structure , which provided this interesting underground walkway through time [ 1 ] .
Read : The World ’ s Largest Privately Owned Sequoia Forest Is Now Officially Protected Why is the Glass Colored ?
The purple color that you see in most vault lights today is actually an indication of age .
This is because the lights are made of glass , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ found in sand , which also contains other elements .
Chemists used manganese dioxide to clarify and stabilize the glass from these other elements , which oxidizes and turns purple or pink when exposed to the UV rays from the sun over a long period of time [ 1 ] .
This process can take several years , so when you see it , that means it is either quite old , or it has been dyed that way in a restoration project .
Unfortunately , many of these vault light systems have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ created hazards with broken seals and broken glass .
This could also allow water to penetrate the surface and damage the area below , so many of them have been covered , removed , or filled with concrete [ 3 ] .
There are , however , still some of these pretty sidewalk installments here and there , and while they are less necessary in today ’ s modern world , they are a lovely reminder of the ingenuity of the past .
Keep Reading : Vintage Photos of People Wearing Masks to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pandemic

What Are Those Grids of Glass in the Sidewalk — And Why Are They Purple
If you take a stroll down the streets of a number of major cities around the world, you are likely to notice a peculiar feature in the sidewalks: small, sometimes purple, glass squares and circles in grid patterns covering a few feet of pavement.
While these installations do look pretty, they also serve a purpose. Known as vault lights, sidewalk prisms, or pavement lights, these bits of glass that are flush with the sidewalk are there to allow sunlight into the spaces below [1].
The Invention of Vault Lights
The first vault light was patented by Edward Rockwell in 1834, which featured a round iron plate surrounded by a large glass lens. Several years later, in 1845, Thaddeus Hyatt patented his own improved design, which was more resistant to fracturing. His are the lights that we still see today [2].
Initially, vault lights were used on ship decks to provide light below without the need for hazardous open-flame lights, like kerosene lamps. They were later used in city sidewalks to allow light to pass into spaces below. Before the availability of electricity, rooms under sidewalks and other overhead structures were too dark to be of any use. The installations of vault lights made them usable for storage, and even for apartments in some cases [3].
Although they appear smooth and flat on the top, these little pieces of glass actually have a prism shape underneath, which diffuses the light and spreads it through a larger area. Multiple prisms set at different angles have the capability to fill an entire room with light.
Read: Architect Turns Old Cement Factory Into His Home, And The Interior Will Take Your Breath Away
A Sustainable Solution
Electricity was not yet available in the mid-nineteenth century, so buildings had to be lit using fuels like oils, gas, and candles. These items all cost money, so vault lights provided a way to preserve these fuels and energy in spaces that could not admit natural lighting [3].
Additionally, lamps, candles, and other lighting devices could often produce smoke, reducing the air quality in enclosed spaces. Having natural light from above meant you needed fewer of these smoke-producing items down below [3].
Vault Lights Today
Vault lights can still be seen in many cities today, and city leaders and historic preservation groups have recognized both the historical significance, as well as the aesthetic appeal, that these lights provide. As such, there has been an effort in many cases to restore and preserve these patches of sidewalk [3].
In Sacramento, California, visitors have the unique opportunity to walk underneath the sidewalk past abandoned storefronts, guided by the light of vault lights. This is because in 1862, parts of the city were raised as much as fourteen feet to protect from flooding. In some buildings, they simply built over the first floor, rather than lifting the entire structure, which provided this interesting underground walkway through time [1].
Read: The World’s Largest Privately Owned Sequoia Forest Is Now Officially Protected
Why is the Glass Colored?
The purple color that you see in most vault lights today is actually an indication of age. This is because the lights are made of glass, which is made of silica. Silica is found in sand, which also contains other elements.
Chemists used manganese dioxide to clarify and stabilize the glass from these other elements, which oxidizes and turns purple or pink when exposed to the UV rays from the sun over a long period of time [1].
This process can take several years, so when you see it, that means it is either quite old, or it has been dyed that way in a restoration project.
Unfortunately, many of these vault light systems have deteriorated over the decades, and have created hazards with broken seals and broken glass. This could also allow water to penetrate the surface and damage the area below, so many of them have been covered, removed, or filled with concrete [3].
There are, however, still some of these pretty sidewalk installments here and there, and while they are less necessary in today’s modern world, they are a lovely reminder of the ingenuity of the past.


theheartysoul--2020-06-03--Did You Know You Could Cook A Whole Chicken In Watermelon And It Would Turn Out Tastefully Awesome?

In 2017 , a popular YouTube creator who goes by EmmyMadeInJapan documented the process of preparing this weird-looking yet oddly satisfying dish [ 1 ] .
To her 1.9 million subscribers , Emmy is famous for preparing strange dishes with weird recipes most people wouldn ’ t normally be bold enough to try .
From “ apocalypse-style breakfasts ” to her own version of the KFC secret recipe , Emmy gives her viewers all the courage they need to experiment and try new things in the kitchen .
She decided to try and combine chicken and watermelon .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will you ever know ?
This chicken and watermelon dish certainly required a lot of courage , but who said chicken can only be cooked in a roasting pan or be butt-stuffed only in a can of beer ?
According to Emmy , the recipe had been originally featured in an old April Fools ’ edition of the New York Times , created by Rozane Gold , and she just couldn ’ t resist trying it .
She recommends the dish is best prepared during the summer which is pretty much the only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough for the process .
Read : 6 Cast Iron Skillet Bread Recipes That Are Actually Good for You • 2 tbsp ( 30ml ) Ghee Butter ( regular butter is ok too ) • Thin wooden skewers ( to hold the watermelon lid in place ) • Using a knife , cut off about a quarter-inch of peel from the bottom of the watermelon so it can sit without rolling .
• Then cut off 15 % of the watermelon from the top to make a lid .
• Use a large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chicken .
Be careful not to scrape off all the watermelon flesh and take out just enough for your chicken to fight in nicely .
• Sprinkle the salt and pepper inside the chicken cavity to your taste .
• Prick the lemon with a fork ( you can also cut it in half ) and squeeze into the chicken cavity • and add 1 tbps ( 15ml ) of tamari into as well .
• Using a brush , spread more tamari over the outside of the chicken .
• Sprinkle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chicken .
If you ’ re going to be using other spices , be careful not to use too much so you don ’ t alter the intended flavor of the dish .
• Squeeze the chicken firmly into the watermelon , replace the lid , and secure the two parts with the skewers .
• Place the watermelon onto a baking tray and set it into a pre-heated oven at 400 degrees .
Bake for two hours .
• After two hours , reduce the heat to 300 degrees and bake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hours later , your chicken comes out in a gnarly-looking watermelon – soft , tenderized to the bone , and flavorful to the core .
When Emmy pulled the disastrous-looking watermelon out of the oven , she notes it was much heavier then than it was before cooking .
Her house also happened to smell like pumpkin when the heat began softening up the fruit , and hours later when the five-spice started blending in , it smelled like she was cooking something really sweet .
Read : The Sweet Potato Chicken Patty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bite When Emmy took off the lid , the cavity was filled with brown-colored juice from the five-hour tenderizing .
She went onto the last phase of the recipe – making a butter-infused gravy .
She scooped out some of the juice into a pan and began to boil .
Then she added two scoops of butter and whisked while it was on the fire .
After it cooled down , she served some of it with her soft chicken ( so soft it was falling apart ) and notes that the flavor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the chicken tastes and smells absolutely nothing like watermelon and the dominant flavor in the gravy was the lemon .
At this point , it sounds ( and looks ) absolutely inviting .
I ’ m certainly going to watermelon route the next time I want to cook chicken .

Did You Know You Could Cook A Whole Chicken In Watermelon And It Would Turn Out Tastefully Awesome?
In 2017, a popular YouTube creator who goes by EmmyMadeInJapan documented the process of preparing this weird-looking yet oddly satisfying dish [1]. To her 1.9 million subscribers, Emmy is famous for preparing strange dishes with weird recipes most people wouldn’t normally be bold enough to try. From “apocalypse-style breakfasts” to her own version of the KFC secret recipe, Emmy gives her viewers all the courage they need to experiment and try new things in the kitchen. She decided to try and combine chicken and watermelon.
“I knew immediately I had to make it because it just sounded so perfectly strange.”
If you don’t try it, how will you ever know?
This chicken and watermelon dish certainly required a lot of courage, but who said chicken can only be cooked in a roasting pan or be butt-stuffed only in a can of beer? According to Emmy, the recipe had been originally featured in an old April Fools’ edition of the New York Times, created by Rozane Gold, and she just couldn’t resist trying it.
“I knew immediately I had to make it because it just sounded so perfectly strange,” she said.
She recommends the dish is best prepared during the summer which is pretty much the only season you can find a watermelon large enough for the process.
Read: 6 Cast Iron Skillet Bread Recipes That Are Actually Good for You
Ingredients:
Whole, hollowed-out chicken
1 very large watermelon
1 lemon
1 tablespoon (15ml) Tamari
1 tsp Five-spice powder (containing star anise and cinnamon)
Kosher salt
Freshly-ground pepper
2 tbsp (30ml) Ghee Butter (regular butter is ok too)
Special materials:
Thin wooden skewers (to hold the watermelon lid in place)
Procedure:
Using a knife, cut off about a quarter-inch of peel from the bottom of the watermelon so it can sit without rolling. Then cut off 15% of the watermelon from the top to make a lid. Use a large spoon to hollow out a cavity for the chicken. Be careful not to scrape off all the watermelon flesh and take out just enough for your chicken to fight in nicely. Sprinkle the salt and pepper inside the chicken cavity to your taste. Prick the lemon with a fork (you can also cut it in half) and squeeze into the chicken cavity and add 1 tbps (15ml) of tamari into as well. Using a brush, spread more tamari over the outside of the chicken. Sprinkle one teaspoon of five-spice powder all over the chicken. If you’re going to be using other spices, be careful not to use too much so you don’t alter the intended flavor of the dish. Squeeze the chicken firmly into the watermelon, replace the lid, and secure the two parts with the skewers. Place the watermelon onto a baking tray and set it into a pre-heated oven at 400 degrees. Bake for two hours. After two hours, reduce the heat to 300 degrees and bake for another three hours. Five hours later, your chicken comes out in a gnarly-looking watermelon – soft, tenderized to the bone, and flavorful to the core.
When Emmy pulled the disastrous-looking watermelon out of the oven, she notes it was much heavier then than it was before cooking. Her house also happened to smell like pumpkin when the heat began softening up the fruit, and hours later when the five-spice started blending in, it smelled like she was cooking something really sweet.
Making a gravy for the chicken.
When Emmy took off the lid, the cavity was filled with brown-colored juice from the five-hour tenderizing. She went onto the last phase of the recipe – making a butter-infused gravy.
She scooped out some of the juice into a pan and began to boil. Then she added two scoops of butter and whisked while it was on the fire. After it cooled down, she served some of it with her soft chicken (so soft it was falling apart) and notes that the flavor is heavenly.
She also mentions that the chicken tastes and smells absolutely nothing like watermelon and the dominant flavor in the gravy was the lemon.
At this point, it sounds (and looks) absolutely inviting. I’m certainly going to watermelon route the next time I want to cook chicken.
Watch the interesting video below:


theheartysoul--2020-06-03--New Giant Mattress Is 12 Feet Across, Perfect for All the Pets

For most of us , a king-sized bed is regarded as the ultimate luxury , and is more than enough space to get a comfortable night ’ s sleep .
But what do you do if it ’ s not ?
Perhaps you have kids who tend to jump into your bed when they have bad dreams at night , or a dog who refuses to sleep anywhere else but cuddled up next to you all night long .
One company is now producing giant mattresses to address the needs of those for whom a king sized bed is simply @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The bed company called The Ace Collection has now made beds and bed frames that are twelve feet wide .
Inspired by one client ’ s desire to have a bed that was big enough for her children to cuddle in to read bedtime stories , the company now offers three sizes : the Ace Size , the Ace Player Size , and the Ace Family Size .
The sizes range from 80 to 144 inches wide , and 80 to 108 inches long [ 1 ] .
The price of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dollars , and the brand also sells hypoallergenic bedding to fit their extra-wide beds .
Read : Sleeping Next To Someone Who Snores Could Be Damaging Your Health These mattresses are catching the attention of those with children or pets , who often find themselves with multiple bodies in their beds on any given night .
That begs the question though- is it safe or healthy to sleep with your children or pets ?
When it comes to sleeping with children , whether or not it is safe largely depends on their age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents and their baby , Eve Colson , MD , says that sleeping with your baby is a risky behaviour .
A 2013 study found that sharing a bed with your baby can increase their risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome ( SIDS ) by five times .
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents keep their baby out of their bed , particularly during the first three months of life [ 2 ] .
There may , however , be some benefits to co-sleeping , as long as it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a certified lactation educator at the Pump Station in Santa Monica , California , says that there is an instinctive need for a mother to be close to her baby .
As for sleeping with pets , the debate is a little clearer : unless you have allergies , you ’ re likely fine .
Derek Damin of Kentuckiana Allergy , Asthma & Immunology in Louisville , Ky. , cautions those with allergies against sleeping with their pets , or even allowing them in the bedroom at night .
“ Use a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bedroom to give your nose a few hours a day to recover , ” Damin says [ 4 ] .
He understands , however , that most pet owners will continue to sleep with their pets regardless , and notes that as long as they are not disturbing your sleep , there is likely no negative consequence to having your pet in your bed with you [ 4 ] .
A crowded bed does not make great conditions for a good night ’ s sleep , so parents and pet-owners around the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get such a large mattress to sleep on .
At twelve feet across , you could find enough space on the Ace Family mattress for yourself and whoever else decides to hop into your bed at night , whether that be a frightened child or an eighty-pound Doberman .
Keep Reading : Mattresses can be filled with mold , mites and chemicals – here is how to know

New Giant Mattress Is 12 Feet Across, Perfect for All the Pets
For most of us, a king-sized bed is regarded as the ultimate luxury, and is more than enough space to get a comfortable night’s sleep. But what do you do if it’s not? Perhaps you have kids who tend to jump into your bed when they have bad dreams at night, or a dog who refuses to sleep anywhere else but cuddled up next to you all night long.
One company is now producing giant mattresses to address the needs of those for whom a king sized bed is simply not enough, and they are enormous.
The Ace Collection
The bed company called The Ace Collection has now made beds and bed frames that are twelve feet wide. Inspired by one client’s desire to have a bed that was big enough for her children to cuddle in to read bedtime stories, the company now offers three sizes: the Ace Size, the Ace Player Size, and the Ace Family Size. The sizes range from 80 to 144 inches wide, and 80 to 108 inches long [1].
The price of the massive mattresses ranges from 2250 to 4054 dollars, and the brand also sells hypoallergenic bedding to fit their extra-wide beds.
Sleeping with Pets and Kids
These mattresses are catching the attention of those with children or pets, who often find themselves with multiple bodies in their beds on any given night. That begs the question though- is it safe or healthy to sleep with your children or pets?
When it comes to sleeping with children, whether or not it is safe largely depends on their age. Without wanting to discourage snuggling between parents and their baby, Eve Colson, MD, says that sleeping with your baby is a risky behaviour.
“There’s no way to keep the sleep environment safe in an adult bed,” she says [2].
A 2013 study found that sharing a bed with your baby can increase their risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) by five times. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents keep their baby out of their bed, particularly during the first three months of life [2].
There may, however, be some benefits to co-sleeping, as long as it’s done safely. Cynthia Epps, M.S., a certified lactation educator at the Pump Station in Santa Monica, California, says that there is an instinctive need for a mother to be close to her baby.
“Keeping the baby close, with skin-to-skin contact, calms the baby,” says Epps. “And it can cement the emotional bond between mother and child.” [3]
As for sleeping with pets, the debate is a little clearer: unless you have allergies, you’re likely fine.
Derek Damin of Kentuckiana Allergy, Asthma & Immunology in Louisville, Ky., cautions those with allergies against sleeping with their pets, or even allowing them in the bedroom at night.
“Use a HEPA filter and keep them out of the bedroom to give your nose a few hours a day to recover,” Damin says [4].
He understands, however, that most pet owners will continue to sleep with their pets regardless, and notes that as long as they are not disturbing your sleep, there is likely no negative consequence to having your pet in your bed with you [4].
A Larger Bed for a Good Night’s Rest
A crowded bed does not make great conditions for a good night’s sleep, so parents and pet-owners around the world would likely jump at the opportunity to get such a large mattress to sleep on.
At twelve feet across, you could find enough space on the Ace Family mattress for yourself and whoever else decides to hop into your bed at night, whether that be a frightened child or an eighty-pound Doberman.


theheartysoul--2020-06-03--Teen is using social media to tutor a generation of out-of-school students in math

The COVID-19 pandemic has shut down schools all over the world for the remainder of the school year , and this stands to have an unprecedented impact on our young people , the effects of which will likely be felt for years to come .
As teachers across the country have struggled to stay in contact with their students and continue their education , one teen uses social media to tutor his fellow classmates , as well as students in countries across the globe .
Alexis Lovarez is a sixteen-year-old highschool student with a 4.0 grade point average at Harlem @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He has been using TikTok to help students with subjects like algebra , geometry , chemistry , and SAT prep during the COVID-19 pandemic .
Lovarez , who now has over 660 thousand followers , has earned the name “ TikTok Tutor ” , for his ability to explain complicated topics to his peers .
Although the high school student began making his videos before the pandemic began , his following has increased dramatically since schools have been closed .
Many students are calling him a “ lifeline ” during a time when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the usual resources are not available to them .
In some cases , students are finding his explanations to be even better than that of their own teachers .
Alexis has been shocked by the positive response he has received , not just from his own peers , but from students across the United States , Canada , Australia , Singapore , and the Philippines .
His tutorials are now appearing on Google Classroom , allowing him to reach even more students around the world .
His mother , Likmilian Hiciano , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is using the social media platform to help others .
As for what motivates him to make the videos , Alexis says that it is the knowledge that he has , and he has a desire to share that knowledge with others .
Read : School in Spain Teaches Boys How to Do Household Chores to Stop Gender Inequality How COVID-19 Has Impacted the Education System The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent school closures have shone a light on how important our public education system is .
With all of them shut down , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are necessary for the functioning of civic culture and daily life [ 2 ] .
Schools are essentially community centers , that provide student-welfare services like free meals , health care , and even in some cases , dentistry .
They also care for children while parents work .
Education historians and researchers are now certain that the long-standing impact for students will likely be severe and long-lasting [ 2 ] .
Economically , the main reason a child needs to be in school is to raise their ability , or , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There is research to support that even a short time in school can increase a child ’ s ability .
Conversely , a relatively short period of missed school can also have a negative impact on a child ’ s skill growth [ 3 ] .
The switch to homeschooling has also had an impact on family life , and for many parents , being the primary driver of education in their home is not going to lead to success for their children .
Read : 14-Year Old Girl Invents A Way for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Resource Disparity Among Students One of the main concerns with regards to the global shift to homeschooling is the income inequality in the nation , and how that will affect students who come from lower-income homes , who have lower access to resources .
Paul Reville , a professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education , points to the fact that while we tend to regard our school systems uniformly , schools across the country vary widely in terms of their operations and their impact on children , and as such the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schools .
He emphasizes the main issue , which is that some students will have access to high-quality learning opportunities while at home , but others will not , resulting in an enormous disadvantage .
Read : Woman Who Fostered 600 Kids in 50 Years Took in Anyone—Regardless of Age or Medical Condition The Pandemic as a Springboard for Positive Change Reville recognizes that many of the inequalities that have become extremely apparent during this health crisis have existed in the public school system for decades , and he highlights that the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ catalyst for making positive changes .
There are lessons to be learned from the difficulties that have taken place while adapting to this situation , and the disparities in children ’ s access to support and opportunities has become more apparent than ever before .
Reville wants to see education policy makers use this as an opportunity to end the “ one size fits all ” model of education .
Help in the Present and Hope for the Future The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to look at many aspects of our society @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the better , and our public education system is certainly not the least among them .
The hope is that as we slowly make our way back to normal life , we will leave behind the old ways of doing things to create a system that serves all of our children from every socioeconomic background .
In the meantime , people like young Alexis Lovarez , as well as the thousands of dedicated teachers from across the country , are doing what they can to help support students during this difficult time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students don ’ t fall through the cracks .
Keep Reading : Crayola Just Released Crayons With 24 Skin Tone Shades So Every Child Can Color Themselves Accurately

The COVID-19 pandemic has shut down schools all over the world for the remainder of the school year, and this stands to have an unprecedented impact on our young people, the effects of which will likely be felt for years to come. As teachers across the country have struggled to stay in contact with their students and continue their education, one teen uses social media to tutor his fellow classmates, as well as students in countries across the globe.
The TikTok Tutor
Alexis Lovarez is a sixteen-year-old highschool student with a 4.0 grade point average at Harlem Prep High School in the Bronx. He has been using TikTok to help students with subjects like algebra, geometry, chemistry, and SAT prep during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lovarez, who now has over 660 thousand followers, has earned the name “TikTok Tutor”, for his ability to explain complicated topics to his peers.
Although the high school student began making his videos before the pandemic began, his following has increased dramatically since schools have been closed. Many students are calling him a “lifeline” during a time when they are struggling to keep up, and the usual resources are not available to them. In some cases, students are finding his explanations to be even better than that of their own teachers.
Alexis has been shocked by the positive response he has received, not just from his own peers, but from students across the United States, Canada, Australia, Singapore, and the Philippines.
“Things that they probably forgot like before COVID-19, this is like a refresher of what I’m, like, giving them out. It’s really cool because they understand it even better the way I’m explaining it to them.” [1]
His tutorials are now appearing on Google Classroom, allowing him to reach even more students around the world. His mother, Likmilian Hiciano, could not be happier that her son is using the social media platform to help others.
“I’m excited about this. I know he can do this and more. I’m so proud that he helped a lot of people,” she said [1].
As for what motivates him to make the videos, Alexis says that it is the knowledge that he has, and he has a desire to share that knowledge with others.
Read: School in Spain Teaches Boys How to Do Household Chores to Stop Gender Inequality
How COVID-19 Has Impacted the Education System
The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent school closures have shone a light on how important our public education system is. With all of them shut down, it has become blatantly obvious that schools are necessary for the functioning of civic culture and daily life [2].
Schools are essentially community centers, that provide student-welfare services like free meals, health care, and even in some cases, dentistry. They also care for children while parents work.
Education historians and researchers are now certain that the long-standing impact for students will likely be severe and long-lasting [2].
Economically, the main reason a child needs to be in school is to raise their ability, or, in other words, teach them skills. There is research to support that even a short time in school can increase a child’s ability. Conversely, a relatively short period of missed school can also have a negative impact on a child’s skill growth [3].
The switch to homeschooling has also had an impact on family life, and for many parents, being the primary driver of education in their home is not going to lead to success for their children.
“I don’t think we’ve had a shock to educational systems of this magnitude, at least to instructional time,” said Joshua Goodman, an associate professor of economics at Brandeis University. “And part of that is the number of weeks and months of school students are going to be missing. But it’s also the fact that a bunch of parents will be unemployed, or that their savings will have vanished, or that someone in their family is sick” [2].
Read: 14-Year Old Girl Invents A Way for Drivers to See Through Blindspots
Financial and Resource Disparity Among Students
One of the main concerns with regards to the global shift to homeschooling is the income inequality in the nation, and how that will affect students who come from lower-income homes, who have lower access to resources.
Paul Reville, a professor at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, points to the fact that while we tend to regard our school systems uniformly, schools across the country vary widely in terms of their operations and their impact on children, and as such the pandemic will have a variable effect on schools.
“Children come from very different backgrounds and have very different resources, opportunities, and support outside of school,” he explained. “Now that their entire learning lives, as well as their actual physical lives, are outside of school, those differences and disparities come into vivid view.” [4]
He emphasizes the main issue, which is that some students will have access to high-quality learning opportunities while at home, but others will not, resulting in an enormous disadvantage.
“Generally speaking, the most economically challenged in our society will be the most vulnerable in this crisis, and the most advantaged are most likely to survive it without losing too much ground.” [4]
Read: Woman Who Fostered 600 Kids in 50 Years Took in Anyone—Regardless of Age or Medical Condition
The Pandemic as a Springboard for Positive Change
Reville recognizes that many of the inequalities that have become extremely apparent during this health crisis have existed in the public school system for decades, and he highlights that the COVID-19 pandemic needs to be used as a catalyst for making positive changes.
“In politics we say, “Never lose the opportunity of a crisis.” And in this situation, we don’t simply want to frantically struggle to restore the status quo because the status quo wasn’t operating at an effective level and certainly wasn’t serving all of our children fairly” [4].
There are lessons to be learned from the difficulties that have taken place while adapting to this situation, and the disparities in children’s access to support and opportunities has become more apparent than ever before. Reville wants to see education policy makers use this as an opportunity to end the “one size fits all” model of education.
“We should be asking: How do we make our school, education, and child-development systems more individually responsive to the needs of our students? Why not construct a system that meets children where they are and gives them what they need inside and outside of school in order to be successful?” [4].
Help in the Present and Hope for the Future
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to look at many aspects of our society and how they need to be changed for the better, and our public education system is certainly not the least among them. The hope is that as we slowly make our way back to normal life, we will leave behind the old ways of doing things to create a system that serves all of our children from every socioeconomic background.
In the meantime, people like young Alexis Lovarez, as well as the thousands of dedicated teachers from across the country, are doing what they can to help support students during this difficult time, and to try to make sure students don’t fall through the cracks.
Keep Reading: Crayola Just Released Crayons With 24 Skin Tone Shades So Every Child Can Color Themselves Accurately


theheartysoul--2020-06-03--Huge owl hatches chicks outside man’s window — now the brood watches TV with him

Birds are always looking for places to build nests where they can safely lay their eggs and raise their young , protected from the elements and hidden from potential predators .
While the typical nesting place for most birds is high in a tree , it is not uncommon for them to occasionally take up residence on a windowsill or some other nook and cranny on our houses .
When this does happen , however , it is typically smaller birds , like robins or finches , who can fit nicely in these small spaces .
You can imagine one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when massive owl chicks appeared on his windowsill .
Read : What Would It Look Like If Birds Left Tracks In The Sky ?
Belgian man Jos Baart initially thought the noise coming from the outdoor planter on his third-story window were just pesky pigeons .
Instead , it turned out to be a Eurasian Eagle Owl .
The owl , which is also now as the Bubo Bubo Bird , is Europe ’ s largest owl .
Since “ moving in ” , she has now hatched three gigantic babies , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ window , watching TV with Baart .
The babies have grown accustomed to his presence on the other side of the glass , but the mother prefers to keep her eye on her owl chicks from a distance , behind a shrub .
The chicks , according to Baart , seem very relaxed , and not scared of him at all , and while they appear to be very interested in the television over his shoulder , he is more interested in them .
Read : Motherly Hummingbird Builds a Home With A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bird can grow to be two to two-and-a-half feet in height , with a wingspan of five to six feet , and a weight of three to nine pounds [ 2 ] .
They are found throughout Europe and Asia in diverse habitats that range from northern coniferous forests to grasslands and deserts .
They typically eat small mammals , like rats and rabbits , however , their large size allows them to occasionally prey on much larger animals , like foxes or even young deer [ 3 ] .
With no known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ twenty years , the Eurasian Eagle Owl ’ s population is not under threat [ 3 ] .
Read : Once Nearly Dead As The Dodo , California Condor Comeback Reaches 1,000 Chicks See the Giant Chicks in Action Jos Baart and his new house mates were featured on the Dutch nature show Vroege Vogels ( Early Birds , in English ) , in which you can see the giant fluffy chicks standing in a row , peering at the TV through the window.You can watch this video below to see the owl @ @ @ @ @ @ @ An Extinct Bird ‘ Evolved Itself ’ Back Into Existence , Twice

Birds are always looking for places to build nests where they can safely lay their eggs and raise their young, protected from the elements and hidden from potential predators. While the typical nesting place for most birds is high in a tree, it is not uncommon for them to occasionally take up residence on a windowsill or some other nook and cranny on our houses.
When this does happen, however, it is typically smaller birds, like robins or finches, who can fit nicely in these small spaces. You can imagine one man’s surprise, then, when massive owl chicks appeared on his windowsill.
Bubo Bubo Babies
Belgian man Jos Baart initially thought the noise coming from the outdoor planter on his third-story window were just pesky pigeons. Instead, it turned out to be a Eurasian Eagle Owl.
The owl, which is also now as the Bubo Bubo Bird, is Europe’s largest owl. Since “moving in”, she has now hatched three gigantic babies, who now spend their days peering through the window, watching TV with Baart. The babies have grown accustomed to his presence on the other side of the glass, but the mother prefers to keep her eye on her owl chicks from a distance, behind a shrub.
“She has a good view of the nest from there,” he explains. “She can stay there for six to eight hours at a stretch.” [1]
The chicks, according to Baart, seem very relaxed, and not scared of him at all, and while they appear to be very interested in the television over his shoulder, he is more interested in them.
“For me, it’s like watching a movie 24-7.”
Read: Motherly Hummingbird Builds a Home With A Roof to Protect her Chicks
The Eurasian Eagle Owl
This majestic bird can grow to be two to two-and-a-half feet in height, with a wingspan of five to six feet, and a weight of three to nine pounds [2].
They are found throughout Europe and Asia in diverse habitats that range from northern coniferous forests to grasslands and deserts. They typically eat small mammals, like rats and rabbits, however, their large size allows them to occasionally prey on much larger animals, like foxes or even young deer [3].
With no known predators and a lifespan of up to twenty years, the Eurasian Eagle Owl’s population is not under threat [3].
Read: Once Nearly Dead As The Dodo, California Condor Comeback Reaches 1,000 Chicks
See the Giant Chicks in Action
Jos Baart and his new house mates were featured on the Dutch nature show Vroege Vogels (Early Birds, in English), in which you can see the giant fluffy chicks standing in a row, peering at the TV through the window.You can watch this video below to see the owl chicks in action.
We could hardly believe it when we got a message from Jos Baart telling us that Europe's biggest owl, the Eurasian eagle-owl, had made a nest in a planter in front of his window. Not only that, she had also hatched three giant chicks!#vroegevogels #springwatch #owl pic.twitter.com/gz1odkFLYC — Vroege Vogels (@VroegeVogels) May 18, 2020
Keep Reading: An Extinct Bird ‘Evolved Itself’ Back Into Existence, Twice


theheartysoul--2020-06-03--You Can Build This Cozy A-Frame Cabin for $6,500

Building yourself a tiny home and living a simpler life seems to be what everyone wants to do these days .
With housing prices continuing to skyrocket and life becoming increasingly stressful , it ’ s no wonder people are looking to get away from it all and live smaller with more freedom .
Not all of us are architects or builders , and the idea of building our own tiny home seems impossible .
Thankfully , with cabin kits and design plans , building your own A-frame cabin has never been easier .
Maybe you are just looking to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perhaps you ’ re ready to make the full move to a less stressful , less expensive life .
Either way , these a-frame cabin kits are perfect for you to build a small oasis for not very much money .
( 1 , 2 ) Builder Steve Maxwell has all of the necessary materials and instructions laid out in his book Build This Cozy Cabin .
( 1 , 2 , ) Read : This artist couple build an incredible cabin out of recycled windows for under $ 500 The cabin is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ porch and cozy loft for sleeping .
The instructions Maxwell has laid out are very detailed , however , he does leave room for you to customize and make your home your own .
Details such as these are all up to the builder ( 1 , 2 , ) : Though originally priced out at $ 6050 in 2015 , with inflation you ’ re looking at a cost of approximately $ 6500 in 2020 .
This , of course , will fluctuate depending on where you live and the cost of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2 , 3 ) Even if you don ’ t wish to turn the a-frame into a living space , the creative DIY-er can use his tips and design information to instead build a shed or even a small garage .
( 1 , 2 ) If building your own a-frame cabin is something you are interested in doing , then we highly suggest that you check out Maxwell ’ s plans , price out your materials , and give it a go !
Whether it ’ s for a tiny backyard playhouse @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own cabin getaway , this A-frame cabin tutorial is the easiest and most cost-effective guide you ’ ll find .
Keep Reading : These Self-Sufficient Island Cabins Have All the Comforts of Home

Building yourself a tiny home and living a simpler life seems to be what everyone wants to do these days. With housing prices continuing to skyrocket and life becoming increasingly stressful, it’s no wonder people are looking to get away from it all and live smaller with more freedom. Not all of us are architects or builders, and the idea of building our own tiny home seems impossible. Thankfully, with cabin kits and design plans, building your own A-frame cabin has never been easier.
A-Frame Cabin Kits
Maybe you are just looking to build a little vacation cabin, or perhaps you’re ready to make the full move to a less stressful, less expensive life. Either way, these a-frame cabin kits are perfect for you to build a small oasis for not very much money. (1, 2)
Builder Steve Maxwell has all of the necessary materials and instructions laid out in his book Build This Cozy Cabin. (1, 2,)
Cabin Details
The cabin is a 14-by-20 feet one-room cabin with a porch and cozy loft for sleeping. The instructions Maxwell has laid out are very detailed, however, he does leave room for you to customize and make your home your own. Details such as these are all up to the builder (1, 2,):
Windows
Doors
Wood
Painting/decorating
Interior design
Outdoor landscaping
Though originally priced out at $6050 in 2015, with inflation you’re looking at a cost of approximately $6500 in 2020. This, of course, will fluctuate depending on where you live and the cost of tools and supplies. (1, 2, 3)
Even if you don’t wish to turn the a-frame into a living space, the creative DIY-er can use his tips and design information to instead build a shed or even a small garage. (1, 2)
DIY Guide
If building your own a-frame cabin is something you are interested in doing, then we highly suggest that you check out Maxwell’s plans, price out your materials, and give it a go! Whether it’s for a tiny backyard playhouse, a simple shed, or your own cabin getaway, this A-frame cabin tutorial is the easiest and most cost-effective guide you’ll find.
Keep Reading: These Self-Sufficient Island Cabins Have All the Comforts of Home


theheartysoul--2020-06-04--Ginger Sweet Potato and Coconut Milk Stew with Lentils & Kale

It ’ s hard to beat a good stew .
A classic comfort food , warm , hearty stews fill our bellies and make us feel good .
Perhaps they remind us of childhood , or perhaps they are just satisfying to tuck into after a long day .
The best part about stew is that it is easy to make them nutritional powerhouses .
This ginger sweet potato stew with coconut milk , lentils and kale is simple , healthy , and oh-so comforting .
What ’ s not to love about this sweet potato stew recipe from The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ orange color with gorgeous bursts of green kale make it as easy on the eyes as its creamy texture with a hint of spice does on the taste buds .
Nutritionally , it ’ s a 10 out of 10 .
Some healthy ingredients to highlight are : Between all of these ingredients , this stew ensures that you will have a meal packed with vitamins , minerals , antioxidants , anti-inflammatories , fiber , protein , and healthy fats .
It doesn ’ t get much better than that .
This sweet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of spice level and what greens you put in .
Feel free to adjust the recipe so that it suits your taste .
• 2 medium sweet potatoes , diced into 2-inch cubes ( you can peel if you ’ d like ) • Saute the onions until translucent , about 5 minutes .
• Add the spices and stir until fragrant , about 1 minute .
• Add ginger and garlic and stir for another minute .
• Add in the sweet potatoes and lentils and stir until everything is coated .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Add the vegetable stock and stir thoroughly , so everything is mixed well ( no dry clumps ) .
• Put the lid on the pot and bring the soup to a boil .
• Lower the heat to a simmer with the lid slightly off the pot to allow for steam to escape .
• Simmer for about 30 minutes , until the sweet potatoes and lentils are both soft and tender .
• Stir in the coconut milk and kale .
Put the lid back on and simmer until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or 4 minutes .
• Check for seasoning and add more salt , pepper , or chilies , as desired .
Thank you to The First Mess for this easy , delicious one-pot sweet potato stew that ’ s ready to eat in less than an hour !
Keep Reading : 32 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Recipes Worth Waking Up To

It’s hard to beat a good stew. A classic comfort food, warm, hearty stews fill our bellies and make us feel good. Perhaps they remind us of childhood, or perhaps they are just satisfying to tuck into after a long day. The best part about stew is that it is easy to make them nutritional powerhouses. This ginger sweet potato stew with coconut milk, lentils and kale is simple, healthy, and oh-so comforting.
Ginger Coconut Sweet Potato Stew with Kale and Lentils
What’s not to love about this sweet potato stew recipe? It’s bright orange color with gorgeous bursts of green kale make it as easy on the eyes as its creamy texture with a hint of spice does on the taste buds.
Nutritionally, it’s a 10 out of 10. Some healthy ingredients to highlight are:
Sweet potatoes
Ginger
Turmeric
Kale
Lentils
Garlic
Coconut Milk
The Recipe
This sweet potato stew is easily adaptable in terms of spice level and what greens you put in. Feel free to adjust the recipe so that it suits your taste.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 medium level onion, diced
½ – 1 teaspoon dried chili flakes
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground turmeric
2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
Sea salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
2 medium sweet potatoes, diced into 2-inch cubes (you can peel if you’d like)
½ cup brown lentils
4 cups vegetable stock
13.5 ounce (400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk
1 small bunch of kale, washed, stems removed, chopped
Garnish (optional):
Chili flakes
Lime wedges
Chopped cilantro
Nigella seeds (aka Black Seed)
Directions:
Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and melt coconut oil.
Saute the onions until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the spices and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add ginger and garlic and stir for another minute.
Stir in salt and pepper.
Add in the sweet potatoes and lentils and stir until everything is coated.
Season again with salt and pepper.
Add the vegetable stock and stir thoroughly, so everything is mixed well (no dry clumps).
Put the lid on the pot and bring the soup to a boil.
Lower the heat to a simmer with the lid slightly off the pot to allow for steam to escape.
Simmer for about 30 minutes, until the sweet potatoes and lentils are both soft and tender.
Stir in the coconut milk and kale. Put the lid back on and simmer until the kale is wilted, about 3 or 4 minutes.
Check for seasoning and add more salt, pepper, or chilies, as desired.
Thank you to The First Mess for this easy, delicious one-pot sweet potato stew that’s ready to eat in less than an hour!
Keep Reading: 32 Anti-Inflammatory Breakfast Recipes Worth Waking Up To


theheartysoul--2020-06-04--How Fast Can You Find The Odd Turtle In This Picture?

Here at the Hearty Soul , we love optical illusions , puzzles , and mind tricks .
The more frustrating they are the better , and this most recent puzzle certainly fits the bill .
How fast can you find the odd turtle in this puzzle ?
Full disclosure : it took me more than 15 minutes !
( don ’ t tell anyone ) How Fast Can You Find the Odd Turtle ?
The photo below has one turtle that is slightly different from the rest .
Apparently only 15 % of Americans can find the turtle in under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them ?
Other Puzzles to Try There are plenty of puzzles like the turtle one for you to try .
See how long it takes you to solve these puzzles , then go challenge your friends and family : Can you spot the different bat ?
Optical Illusions , or tricks of the eye and mind , are so much about our perspective .
Our viewpoint when looking at a picture , and our ability to see what else might be there , affects what we see first and what we may or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imagine second .
Have a look at these paintings by Canadian artist Robert Gonsalves .
Each of his paintings takes your eyes on a journey .
At first , you see one scene , and then the painting slowly morphs into something else .
He plays with that idea of perspective and how closely related two seemingly separate subjects can be .
Optical illusions are fun games to challenge your brain and eyes with .
Use them for entertainment and to maintain a strong , healthy mind .
Looking for some more math @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out : The Viral Math Problem That Has People Up In Arms Brainteaser Alert : How Long Will It Take You To Spot The Dog In This Sea Of Polar Bears ?
It Looks Like a Normal Sequence – but Something is very Wrong : Can You Solve the Problem ?

Here at the Hearty Soul, we love optical illusions, puzzles, and mind tricks. The more frustrating they are the better, and this most recent puzzle certainly fits the bill. How fast can you find the odd turtle in this puzzle? Full disclosure: it took me more than 15 minutes! (don’t tell anyone)
How Fast Can You Find the Odd Turtle?
The photo below has one turtle that is slightly different from the rest. Apparently only 15% of Americans can find the turtle in under 10 seconds. Are you one of them?
Other Puzzles to Try
There are plenty of puzzles like the turtle one for you to try. See how long it takes you to solve these puzzles, then go challenge your friends and family:
Find the letter C
Find the number five
Can you spot the different bat?
Optical Illusions
Optical Illusions, or tricks of the eye and mind, are so much about our perspective. Our viewpoint when looking at a picture, and our ability to see what else might be there, affects what we see first and what we may or may not be able to see or imagine second.
Solutions
Have a look at these paintings by Canadian artist Robert Gonsalves. Each of his paintings takes your eyes on a journey. At first, you see one scene, and then the painting slowly morphs into something else. He plays with that idea of perspective and how closely related two seemingly separate subjects can be.
Optical illusions are fun games to challenge your brain and eyes with. Use them for entertainment and to maintain a strong, healthy mind.


theheartysoul--2020-06-04--How to Make a Carpenter Bee Trap

How to Make a Carpenter Bee Trap

Every spring a familiar pest reemerges from its winter hibernation : the carpenter bee .
While they don ’ t have stingers , these large , noisy , black and yellow insects wreak havoc on our houses , decks , and patio furniture , boring holes into the wood to make their nests .
The male bees then aggressively patrol the area surrounding their nest , which makes it difficult to sit out on a summer afternoon and enjoy the sunshine while they ’ re buzzing around our heads .
Carpenter bees are important pollinators , so you should leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the population at your house is getting out of control , however , you can build your own carpenter bee traps .
Read : A small city is devoting 1,000 acres of land to America ’ s vanishing bees Making your own carpenter bee trap is easier than you might think .
Carpenter bees will use existing holes for nests if they can find them , so all you have to do to catch them is create a nesting site with holes yourself to attract them to where you want them to go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but they are all based on the same basic idea : • Carpenter bee-sized , half-inch holes are drilled into a woodblock at an upward angle to prevent direct sunlight from shining in .
• A clear , tapered bottle is attached to a hole at the bottom of the box , providing an obvious exit for the bee once it enters the box .
• Once the bee enters the bottle , the tapered shape prevents them from escaping [ 1 ] .
In order to make a carpenter bee trap @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : • Circular saw ( or a hand saw ) • 4×4 post ( A scrap of one is fine .
You just need seven inches . )
You can follow step-by-step instructions on myfrugalhome.com or hgtv.com that will teach you how to make a carpenter bee trap , or check out this youtube video ( see below ) that provides easy instruction for how to make a trap using a plastic jug , as well as a more complicated version with wood , a mason jar , and honey .
Read : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : The Lawn Carpenter bees often get mistaken for bumble bees , but you can tell the difference by their black , shiny tail section .
It is given its name for its ability to excavate tunnels in wood with its strong jaw [ 3 ] .
The female bees carve these holes into the wood to make a nest for their young .
These holes , which are usually a half-inch in diameter and six to ten inches deep , are partitioned into several chambers .
Each of these chambers contains an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the form of pollen .
In some cases , several bees may use a common entry hole that connects to different tunnels , which can extend as far as ten feet into wood timbers [ 4 ] .
As mentioned , carpenter bees create a lot of damage to wood structures , particularly the boards on a house , eaves and gables , ceilings , wood shingles , patios , decks , and wooden furniture .
Initially , the damage caused by these bees is generally very minor , however over time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in wood , significant structural damage can occur [ 5 ] .
A tell-tale sign that you have carpenter bees on your property is the coarse sawdust that can be found beneath the hole .
Wood painted with polyurethane or oil-based paint are less-preferred over untreated wood , but even they are not completely immune from a carpenter bee [ 3 ] .
Read : Minnesota Will Pay Homeowners to Replace Lawns with Bee-Friendly Wildflowers , Clover and Native Grasses Prevention is typically the best method for managing the carpenter bee population around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should construct exterior parts of a building out of hardwood , which are less susceptible to bee attacks .
Any depressions or cracks in wood surfaces should be filled so as to make those surfaces less attractive to the bees , and exposed surfaces should be painted or varnished regularly to reduce weathering and prevent attacks .
If you find any existing holes , you ’ ll have to fill them with steel wool or caulk , but this should be done after the bees have emerged .
Once they are filled , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 ] .
If you are experiencing a large infestation or there is a significant risk of damage to structural integrity , then insecticides may be necessary .
This , however , is not often an effective solution because since the bees are not actually eating the wood , and are active over the span of several weeks , they likely won ’ t be exposed to lethal doses of the insecticide .
Additionally , since any exposed wood is at risk of being attacked , it is impractical and possibly unsafe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and around your home [ 3 ] .
It is very important to remember that carpenter bees are beneficial pollinators , so as much as possible you want to simply prevent them from nesting in the first place , and control their population , rather than exterminating them .
Under most conditions , they can be successfully managed by filling in existing holes and maintaining your wood surfaces to make sure they are less attractive to carpenter bees [ 4 ] .
Any time we are dealing with pests , prevention and management @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As mentioned , carpenter bees are beneficial pollinators , so we want to do as little damage to their population as possible .
If you would like to learn more about carpenter bees and how to prevent them , click on the following links : Keep Reading : Want to Help Bees ?
Leave the Dandelions Alone This Spring

Every spring a familiar pest reemerges from its winter hibernation: the carpenter bee. While they don’t have stingers, these large, noisy, black and yellow insects wreak havoc on our houses, decks, and patio furniture, boring holes into the wood to make their nests.
The male bees then aggressively patrol the area surrounding their nest, which makes it difficult to sit out on a summer afternoon and enjoy the sunshine while they’re buzzing around our heads.
Carpenter bees are important pollinators, so you should leave them alone if you can. If the population at your house is getting out of control, however, you can build your own carpenter bee traps.
Read: A small city is devoting 1,000 acres of land to America’s vanishing bees
How to Make a Carpenter Bee Trap
Making your own carpenter bee trap is easier than you might think. Carpenter bees will use existing holes for nests if they can find them, so all you have to do to catch them is create a nesting site with holes yourself to attract them to where you want them to go.
There are many designs out there, but they are all based on the same basic idea:
Carpenter bee-sized, half-inch holes are drilled into a woodblock at an upward angle to prevent direct sunlight from shining in. A clear, tapered bottle is attached to a hole at the bottom of the box, providing an obvious exit for the bee once it enters the box. Once the bee enters the bottle, the tapered shape prevents them from escaping [1].
In order to make a carpenter bee trap, you will need the following materials:
Circular saw (or a hand saw)
Drill
1/2″ wood bit
7/8″ wood bit
1/2″ metal bit
Square
Punch
Hammer
Tape measure
Screwdriver
Pencil
4×4 post (A scrap of one is fine. You just need seven inches.)
(1)Mason jar (half pint or a regular mouth pint)
(1)Screw eye
Wood screws [2]
You can follow step-by-step instructions on myfrugalhome.com or hgtv.com that will teach you how to make a carpenter bee trap, or check out this youtube video (see below) that provides easy instruction for how to make a trap using a plastic jug, as well as a more complicated version with wood, a mason jar, and honey.
What is a Carpenter Bee?
Carpenter bees often get mistaken for bumble bees, but you can tell the difference by their black, shiny tail section. It is given its name for its ability to excavate tunnels in wood with its strong jaw [3].
Image Credit: Kansas State University
The female bees carve these holes into the wood to make a nest for their young. These holes, which are usually a half-inch in diameter and six to ten inches deep, are partitioned into several chambers. Each of these chambers contains an egg as well as a food supply in the form of pollen.
In some cases, several bees may use a common entry hole that connects to different tunnels, which can extend as far as ten feet into wood timbers [4].
A Path of Destruction
As mentioned, carpenter bees create a lot of damage to wood structures, particularly the boards on a house, eaves and gables, ceilings, wood shingles, patios, decks, and wooden furniture. Initially, the damage caused by these bees is generally very minor, however over time as generations of bees enlarge existing galleries in wood, significant structural damage can occur [5].
A tell-tale sign that you have carpenter bees on your property is the coarse sawdust that can be found beneath the hole. Wood painted with polyurethane or oil-based paint are less-preferred over untreated wood, but even they are not completely immune from a carpenter bee [3].
Read: Minnesota Will Pay Homeowners to Replace Lawns with Bee-Friendly Wildflowers, Clover and Native Grasses
Pest Management Methods
Prevention is typically the best method for managing the carpenter bee population around your home. Whenever possible, you should construct exterior parts of a building out of hardwood, which are less susceptible to bee attacks.
Any depressions or cracks in wood surfaces should be filled so as to make those surfaces less attractive to the bees, and exposed surfaces should be painted or varnished regularly to reduce weathering and prevent attacks.
If you find any existing holes, you’ll have to fill them with steel wool or caulk, but this should be done after the bees have emerged. Once they are filled, paint or varnish the repaired surfaces [4].
If you are experiencing a large infestation or there is a significant risk of damage to structural integrity, then insecticides may be necessary. This, however, is not often an effective solution because since the bees are not actually eating the wood, and are active over the span of several weeks, they likely won’t be exposed to lethal doses of the insecticide. Additionally, since any exposed wood is at risk of being attacked, it is impractical and possibly unsafe to attempt to spray every possible area on and around your home [3].
It is very important to remember that carpenter bees are beneficial pollinators, so as much as possible you want to simply prevent them from nesting in the first place, and control their population, rather than exterminating them. Under most conditions, they can be successfully managed by filling in existing holes and maintaining your wood surfaces to make sure they are less attractive to carpenter bees [4].
Learn More About Carpenter Bees
Any time we are dealing with pests, prevention and management should be the first defence against infestation. As mentioned, carpenter bees are beneficial pollinators, so we want to do as little damage to their population as possible.
If you would like to learn more about carpenter bees and how to prevent them, click on the following links:
Carpenter Bees: Pests of Homes, Structures, People, and Pets
Carpenter Bees, Pests
Carpenter Bees- Ohio State University
Keep Reading: Want to Help Bees? Leave the Dandelions Alone This Spring


theheartysoul--2020-06-06--Canned bread is making a comeback — here’s how it really tastes

Since the coronavirus outbreak truly exploded in March , canned foods have been experiencing somewhat of a renaissance .
While the usual culprits – tuna , soups , and sauces – have been flying off the shelves , there are some products that pre-pandemic were nearly extinct from the shelves and have since made a comeback .
One of the most prominent of these is New England ’ s canned bread .
Canned Bread Has Made a Comeback in New England As someone who is not from New England , my stomach nearly revolted just upon reading the words “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eat that stuff ?
As it turns out , a whole lot of people from New England .
Not only did they eat it , but they liked it .
While not everyone was a fan , certainly most adults from New England have tried B & M ’ s Brown Bread in a can .
It comes in both plain flavor and raisin .
( 1 ) B & M has been making canned bread since the 1920s .
Like many canned goods , this was a product out of war time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ easy , fast , and inexpensive .
It came especially in handy when the men went off to war and mothers had to both work in the factories and still raise and feed their children .
Baked beans and brown bread ( from a can ) was a staple dinner in many households well into the 1970s .
( 1 ) Nostalgia aside , what does bread in a can actually taste like ?
According to Terri Peters who purchased and tasted the bread for her article on Today.com , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a muffin or a sweet loaf .
She , herself was quite surprised by how much she and her family actually enjoyed it .
The flavor , texture , and freshness of the bread were unexpected .
( 1 ) In short – no , it ’ s not ( though you probably knew that ) .
You shouldn ’ t consider making this product a regular staple to your dinner table .
As I said , it ’ s more of a sweet bread than a proper , whole-grain loaf .
Instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far better off making bread at home .
This way you can control the ingredients and preservatives that you are feeding yourself and your family .
Check out some of these bread and loaf recipes for you to try : As always , the more you can choose whole nourishing ingredients , the better .
If you choose to try canned bread out of curiosity , I don ’ t blame you .
That being said , maybe keep it to a one-time thing and stick to making bread loaves yourself .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your own authentic loaf of New England Brown Bread , you can check this recipe out .
Keep Reading : 12 Survival Skills Your Great-Grandparents Knew ( That Most Of Us Have Forgotten )

Since the coronavirus outbreak truly exploded in March, canned foods have been experiencing somewhat of a renaissance. While the usual culprits – tuna, soups, and sauces – have been flying off the shelves, there are some products that pre-pandemic were nearly extinct from the shelves and have since made a comeback. One of the most prominent of these is New England’s canned bread.
Canned Bread Has Made a Comeback in New England
As someone who is not from New England, my stomach nearly revolted just upon reading the words “canned bread”. Who could possibly eat that stuff?
As it turns out, a whole lot of people from New England. Not only did they eat it, but they liked it.
A Product of Nostalgia
While not everyone was a fan, certainly most adults from New England have tried B&M’s Brown Bread in a can. It comes in both plain flavor and raisin. (1)
B&M has been making canned bread since the 1920s. Like many canned goods, this was a product out of war time and the industrial revolution. It was easy, fast, and inexpensive. It came especially in handy when the men went off to war and mothers had to both work in the factories and still raise and feed their children. Baked beans and brown bread (from a can) was a staple dinner in many households well into the 1970s. (1)
The Taste
Nostalgia aside, what does bread in a can actually taste like? According to Terri Peters who purchased and tasted the bread for her article on Today.com, it’s not so much bread as it is a muffin or a sweet loaf. She, herself was quite surprised by how much she and her family actually enjoyed it. The flavor, texture, and freshness of the bread were unexpected. (1)
Is Canned Bread Healthy?
In short – no, it’s not (though you probably knew that). You shouldn’t consider making this product a regular staple to your dinner table. As I said, it’s more of a sweet bread than a proper, whole-grain loaf.
Instead of buying canned bread, you are far better off making bread at home. This way you can control the ingredients and preservatives that you are feeding yourself and your family. Check out some of these bread and loaf recipes for you to try:
As always, the more you can choose whole nourishing ingredients, the better. If you choose to try canned bread out of curiosity, I don’t blame you. That being said, maybe keep it to a one-time thing and stick to making bread loaves yourself. If you’d like to try making your own authentic loaf of New England Brown Bread, you can check this recipe out.
Keep Reading: 12 Survival Skills Your Great-Grandparents Knew (That Most Of Us Have Forgotten)
https://www.today.com/food/what-canned-bread-nostalgic-new-england-treat-making-comeback-t182506


theheartysoul--2020-06-06--Build a Fire Pit in an Afternoon

Build a Fire Pit in an Afternoon

There ’ s nothing quite like a summer evening .
With the heat of the sun gone , it ’ s a beautiful time to sit out and relax .
What makes this even better ?
A fire pit !
Not only can the smoke help to keep mosquitoes away ( especially depending on what you burn ) , but they provide a warmth that lets you sit out even when the weather turns a bit cooler .
Thankfully , learning how to build your own fire pit is much easier than you might think !
Building your own backyard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can start it this afternoon and be enjoying a crackling fire by the evening .
Follow these steps to have yours ready in no-time .
( 1 ) • Collect your materials .
To build your fire pit , you will need : • Build your foundation Pick where you want your fire pit to go .
Then , create your first circle layer by alternating the larger bricks with the smaller ones .
Using the leveler , make sure that the circle is no more than an inch or two uneven all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dig some of the dirt out from underneath taller blocks so that everything is level .
If your base isn ’ t even , the whole pit will tumble over .
• Build your sides Continue the small-brick-large-brick alternating pattern , but make sure you are stacking the bricks so that small ones are on top of big ones and vice-versa .
As you build your walls , make sure to check each time that it is level and even .
• Clear the perimeter With the shovel and hoe , clear out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire pit .
If you wish , you can apply weedkiller to prevent weeds from growing up the walls and into your pit .
• Put down the river rock Spread the river rock around the cleared area so that it covers it entirely .
This is an important step as the river rock will help to keep the base of your fire pit in place .
Put more river rock on the inside of the fire pit as well .
This will also help to keep the base from shifting , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weed growth .
Now that your fire pit is built , now all that ’ s left to do is set some chairs up around it and enjoy !
As always , be sure to read up on fire safety codes in your area to ensure that your fire pit is an appropriate size and height , and that it is far enough away from any buildings or structures .
Read : 16 Fun and Fancy Ways to Use Cinder Blocks Around Your Home and Garden • Never leave children or pets alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ put any potential explosive materials into the fire pit .
• Do not burn plastics or anything that will release toxic chemicals into the air when burned .
• Be mindful of alcohol consumption around fires so as not to impair yourself or put yourself in harms way .
More of a visual learner ?
Check out this similar but different tutorial below : Enjoy your evenings by the fire !
Keep Reading : How to Build Your Own Backyard Bowling Alley

There’s nothing quite like a summer evening. With the heat of the sun gone, it’s a beautiful time to sit out and relax. What makes this even better? A DIY fire pit! Not only can the smoke help to keep mosquitoes away (especially depending on what you burn), but they provide a warmth that lets you sit out even when the weather turns a bit cooler.
Thankfully, learning how to build your own fire pit is much easier than you might think!
How To Build a Fire Pit
Building your own backyard fire pit is so easy, you can start it this afternoon and be enjoying a crackling fire by the evening. Follow these steps to have yours ready in no-time. (1)
Collect your materials.
To build your fire pit, you will need: (48) 25.5cm x 18cm tumbled concrete wall blocks (48) 7.5cm x 18cm tumbled concrete wall blocks 6 bags of river rock A rake A garden hoe Shovel 3 ’- 4’ level Weedkiller (optional) Build your foundation
Pick where you want your fire pit to go. Then, create your first circle layer by alternating the larger bricks with the smaller ones. Using the leveler, make sure that the circle is no more than an inch or two uneven all the way around. If needed, dig some of the dirt out from underneath taller blocks so that everything is level. If your base isn’t even, the whole pit will tumble over. Build your sides
Continue the small-brick-large-brick alternating pattern, but make sure you are stacking the bricks so that small ones are on top of big ones and vice-versa. As you build your walls, make sure to check each time that it is level and even. Clear the perimeter
With the shovel and hoe, clear out at least a two-inch space around the fire pit. If you wish, you can apply weedkiller to prevent weeds from growing up the walls and into your pit. Put down the river rock
Spread the river rock around the cleared area so that it covers it entirely. This is an important step as the river rock will help to keep the base of your fire pit in place. Put more river rock on the inside of the fire pit as well. This will also help to keep the base from shifting, as well as assist with drainage and minimize weed growth.
Now that your fire pit is built, now all that’s left to do is set some chairs up around it and enjoy! As always, be sure to read up on fire safety codes in your area to ensure that your fire pit is an appropriate size and height, and that it is far enough away from any buildings or structures.
Read: 16 Fun and Fancy Ways to Use Cinder Blocks Around Your Home and Garden
Please also practice fire safety:
Never leave a fire unattended.
Never leave children or pets alone near the fire.
Do not put any potential explosive materials into the fire pit.
Do not burn plastics or anything that will release toxic chemicals into the air when burned.
Be mindful of alcohol consumption around fires so as not to impair yourself or put yourself in harms way.
More of a visual learner? Check out this similar but different tutorial below:
Enjoy your evenings by the fire!
Keep Reading: How to Build Your Own Backyard Bowling Alley


theheartysoul--2020-06-06--Zoo shares adorable pictures of orangutans playing with their otter friends

We tend to view the animal world as one where each species operates alone , avoiding contact with other animals and only forming bonds with those of their own species .
This , however , is not always the case and occasionally unlikely friendships can form .
This is what happened at a zoo in Belgium , where a family or Orangutans have formed a beautiful bond with a family of otters .
The otters and orangutans live at the Pairi Daiza zoo in Domaine du Cambron , Belgium .
They are a part of a program that is designed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living in captivity .
The family of orangutans includes 24-year-old Ujian , 15-year-old Sari , and their three-year-old son , Berani .
Zoo spokesperson Mathieu Goedefroy explained that because orangutans share 97 % of their DNA with humans , they need to be constantly entertained , occupied , challenged , and kept busy mentally , emotionally , and physically .
The family of Asian small-clawed otters have been allowed to live in the river that runs through the orangutan family ’ s enclosure as part of the program to keep the orangutans stimulated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ working very well , and that Berani and Ujian have become particularly close with their little neighbours .
Programs such as these are highly necessary because Orangutan populations living in the wild are under significant threat .
These large creatures live in the lowland forests of Borneo and Sumatra and spend most of their time in the trees [ 2 ] .
These forests are being destroyed for the benefit of oil palm plantations , mining , and infrastructure , and as such the orangutan ’ s home is being lost .
Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of orangutan habitats in Indonesia and Malaysia have been lost due to deforestation , and recent estimates suggest that every year , we are losing three to five thousand orangutans [ 3 ] .
Other threats to the orangutan population include the illegal wildlife trade , hunting and poaching , and falling victim to human-animal conflict that results from human development and activity .
Because female orangutans take fourteen to sixteen years to reach sexual maturity and only give birth once every seven to nine years , the primate is particularly vulnerable to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some experts have predicted that the orangutan will be extinct in twenty years unless habitats are protected and illegal hunting and trade is stopped [ 3 ] .
To learn more about the orangutan measures that are being taken to protect this incredible species , check out the Pairi Daiza zoo ’ s website .
Keep Reading : A Group Of Panama Monkeys Have Entered The Stone Age

We tend to view the animal world as one where each species operates alone, avoiding contact with other animals and only forming bonds with those of their own species. This, however, is not always the case and occasionally unlikely friendships can form. This is what happened at a zoo in Belgium, where a family or Orangutans have formed a beautiful bond with a family of otters.
A Blossoming Friendship
The otters and orangutans live at the Pairi Daiza zoo in Domaine du Cambron, Belgium. They are a part of a program that is designed to maintain the orangutans’ wellbeing while living in captivity. The family of orangutans includes 24-year-old Ujian, 15-year-old Sari, and their three-year-old son, Berani.
Zoo spokesperson Mathieu Goedefroy explained that because orangutans share 97% of their DNA with humans, they need to be constantly entertained, occupied, challenged, and kept busy mentally, emotionally, and physically.
“Our keepers entertain them all day long with mind games, riddles, puzzles, and other stuff to train their intelligence,” he said [1].
The family of Asian small-clawed otters have been allowed to live in the river that runs through the orangutan family’s enclosure as part of the program to keep the orangutans stimulated. Goedefroy says that the experiment is working very well, and that Berani and Ujian have become particularly close with their little neighbours.
“The otters really enjoy getting out of the water on the orangutan island to go and play with their big, furry friends,” said Goedefroy. “It makes life more fun and interesting for both animal species, which makes it a very successful experiment,” [1].
Read: Scientists Alarmed By Experiment Placing Human Intelligence Gene Into A Monkey
Orangutan Populations Under Threat
Programs such as these are highly necessary because Orangutan populations living in the wild are under significant threat. These large creatures live in the lowland forests of Borneo and Sumatra and spend most of their time in the trees [2].
These forests are being destroyed for the benefit of oil palm plantations, mining, and infrastructure, and as such the orangutan’s home is being lost. Over the past forty years, sixty percent of orangutan habitats in Indonesia and Malaysia have been lost due to deforestation, and recent estimates suggest that every year, we are losing three to five thousand orangutans [3].
Other threats to the orangutan population include the illegal wildlife trade, hunting and poaching, and falling victim to human-animal conflict that results from human development and activity.
Because female orangutans take fourteen to sixteen years to reach sexual maturity and only give birth once every seven to nine years, the primate is particularly vulnerable to population decline. Because of this, some experts have predicted that the orangutan will be extinct in twenty years unless habitats are protected and illegal hunting and trade is stopped [3].
To learn more about the orangutan measures that are being taken to protect this incredible species, check out the Pairi Daiza zoo’s website.


theheartysoul--2020-06-04--Two Tiny Houses and a Sunroom Combine To Comfortably Fit a Family of Four

The idea of a sunroom would immediately seem contradictory to the whole concept of a tiny house .
Space maximizing and minimalism are the base principles , so a sunroom might seem a little extra .
Now imagine a tiny home with sunroom which is actually 2 homes !
Well , The Ohana has it all covered .
Created by VIVA Collectiv , The Ohana is a system of two tiny homes with a stunning sunroom sandwiched in-between [ 1 ] .
Designed by VIVA ’ s architect Brian Crabb , The Ohana ( Hawaiian word for extended family ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortably house a family of 4 to 6 people .
600-square feet may seem a bit much for a tiny house , but this is because it ’ s partitioned into two 174-square-foot trailers ( each 24 x 8 ) joined by a 240-square-foot sunroom , creating the ultimate mega tiny house that could pass for a small bungalow .
The left trailer houses the lovely master bedroom , the bathroom , and the kitchen .
Most tiny homes are often so small that they don ’ t allow for a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ohana ’ s design , there ’ s a 247-square feet glass room in-between the parents and the kids , so everyone can have their space .
There ’ s also a trundle bed available underneath the queen , probably for pets or kids who are afraid to sleep alone .
The kitchen is so beautiful and compact , complete with a refrigerator , several overhead cupboards , a small sink atop a two-door storage area , an oven with four stoves , and a washing machine/dryer .
Read : Australian Couple Turns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amazing Home The tiny bathroom is positioned between the master bedroom and the kitchen , and for whatever it lacks in size , it makes up for in aesthetics .
It has an intricate tile design to make the occupants feel like they are bathing under a tree .
The right trailer houses the living room and two bedrooms with one lofted above the other .
The separation is a really nice concept as the kids would feel like they have an entire house all to themselves – every teenager ’ s dream @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the house : the luxurious all-glass sunroom splurged in-between the trailers .
Tastefully furnished with sofas , a round table , and cabinets , the sunroom is simply to die for .
The occupants can enjoy a feel of the outdoors without really being outside .
Sunrooms aren ’ t just for soaking up the sun .
Through the glass doors and roof , you can watch every season of the year float by above your head .
Beautiful !
Read : This shipping container design is now being built as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to TreeHugger , architect Crabb explained the inspiration behind the homes design and the sunroom .
“ The home was designed for a young family of 4 originally from Hawaii , but living outside of Portland , OR .
Living in the Pacific Northwest , they found they really missed the tropical climate and all it affords , so their request was to create a home where they could enjoy the ‘ outdoors ’ year-round .
The sunroom was designed as a communal space for the family to enjoy together , while the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bedrooms are located in separate trailers .
This separation allows for some semblance of privacy while still enjoying the fruits of going tiny.
” Read : This Adventure-Ready Tiny House Has a Mud Room and Fold-Down Deck According to the original owner , Clayton Hanchett , the windows are the cherry on top of the cake in his home .
When you own a regular tiny home , parties would seem impractical , but then again , the Ohana is not regular .
The Hanchetts hosted a house-warming party where they invited 50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Isn ’ t that a tiny home record-setter ?
However , in 2017 , the couple , Clayton and Carol put up their tiny house for sale at $ 100,000 .
It ’ s unclear if the house is still available for purchase .
They wrote on Facebook : “ Our time so far in our tiny house has been so rewarding I can ’ t put it into words .
However , to get to our next step means someone else will have to enjoy our beautiful home instead of us .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ how we live is still a dream for us , but our decision to live tiny was not for the house…it was for our family .
So here ’ s to another chapter ending and the next page beginning to turn .
( Please share this post if you know anyone interested in buying a tiny home .
We are willing to split our trailers if someone is looking for just a single tiny home on wheels .
Cheers ! )
.
” Keep Reading : Eco-Friendly Tiny House in The Woods Cost @ @ @

The idea of a sunroom would immediately seem contradictory to the whole concept of a tiny house. Space maximizing and minimalism are the base principles, so a sunroom might seem a little extra. Now imagine a tiny home with sunroom which is actually 2 homes! That’s The Ohana.
The Ohana has it all covered. Created by VIVA Collectiv, The Ohana is a system of two tiny homes with a stunning sunroom sandwiched in-between [1]. Designed by VIVA’s architect Brian Crabb, The Ohana (Hawaiian word for extended family) stretches to almost 600-square feet and can comfortably house a family of 4 to 6 people. 600-square feet may seem a bit much for a tiny house, but this is because it’s partitioned into two 174-square-foot trailers (each 24 x 8) joined by a 240-square-foot sunroom, creating the ultimate mega tiny house that could pass for a small bungalow.
Layout
The left trailer houses the lovely master bedroom, the bathroom, and the kitchen. Most tiny homes are often so small that they don’t allow for a lot of privacy for the adults. With the Ohana’s design, there’s a 247-square feet glass room in-between the parents and the kids, so everyone can have their space. There’s also a trundle bed available underneath the queen, probably for pets or kids who are afraid to sleep alone.
The kitchen is so beautiful and compact, complete with a refrigerator, several overhead cupboards, a small sink atop a two-door storage area, an oven with four stoves, and a washing machine/dryer.
The tiny bathroom is positioned between the master bedroom and the kitchen, and for whatever it lacks in size, it makes up for in aesthetics. It has an intricate tile design to make the occupants feel like they are bathing under a tree.
The right trailer houses the living room and two bedrooms with one lofted above the other. The separation is a really nice concept as the kids would feel like they have an entire house all to themselves – every teenager’s dream.
Then there’s the highlight of the house: the luxurious all-glass sunroom splurged in-between the trailers. Tastefully furnished with sofas, a round table, and cabinets, the sunroom is simply to die for. The occupants can enjoy a feel of the outdoors without really being outside. Sunrooms aren’t just for soaking up the sun. Through the glass doors and roof, you can watch every season of the year float by above your head. Beautiful!
Inspired by Louis Vuitton
Speaking to TreeHugger, architect Crabb explained the inspiration behind the homes design and the sunroom.
“The home was designed for a young family of 4 originally from Hawaii, but living outside of Portland, OR. Living in the Pacific Northwest, they found they really missed the tropical climate and all it affords, so their request was to create a home where they could enjoy the ‘outdoors’ year-round. The sunroom was designed as a communal space for the family to enjoy together, while the parent’s and children’s bedrooms are located in separate trailers. This separation allows for some semblance of privacy while still enjoying the fruits of going tiny.”
According to the original owner, Clayton Hanchett, the windows are the cherry on top of the cake in his home.
“You’re so invited by that room when you look at the windows,” Clayton tells CountryLiving.com [2]. “It just adds a component that’s very unique. It’s a great way to enjoy the property.”
When you own a regular tiny home, parties would seem impractical, but then again, the Ohana is not regular. The Hanchetts hosted a house-warming party where they invited 50 guests to celebrate their new home. Isn’t that a tiny home record-setter?
“It’s fun to share with others,” Clayton said. “Most people say, ‘I could see myself living here. This is very doable.’ That’s what we love about it.”
However, in 2017, the couple, Clayton and Carol put up their tiny house for sale at $100,000. It’s unclear if the house is still available for purchase.
They wrote on Facebook: “Our time so far in our tiny house has been so rewarding I can’t put it into words. However, to get to our next step means someone else will have to enjoy our beautiful home instead of us. It’s bittersweet because where and how we live is still a dream for us, but our decision to live tiny was not for the house…it was for our family. So here’s to another chapter ending and the next page beginning to turn.
(Please share this post if you know anyone interested in buying a tiny home. We are willing to split our trailers if someone is looking for just a single tiny home on wheels. Cheers!).”