theheartysoul--2020-12-07--Woman Asks If She Was Wrong To ‘Emergency’ Breastfeed Her Friend’s Baby

Despite the advancements we ’ ve made with women ’ s rights , there is still plenty of stigma surrounding breastfeeding .
This woman had to make the tough decision to emergency breastfeed her best friend ’ s baby , and now her friend won ’ t speak to her .
The question now remains : Is it okay for a woman to breastfeed another woman ’ s child ?
( 1 ) Last year , a Reddit user was left confused as to whether or not she did the right thing by emergency breastfeeding her best friend ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and now refuses to speak to her .
To get some insight she posted her story to the popular forum Am I the Asshole to get more opinions .
( 1 ) The user starts off by explaining that her friend never truly wanted to be a mother .
She was apparently disconnected from the pregnancy and has been struggling to connect with her child because of severe postpartum depression .
( 1 ) She knew , however , that her friend needed some downtime where she didn ’ t have to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to take care of the baby for the day along with her own child .
( 1 ) Her friend obliged and brought her son to the Reddit user ’ s house .
She explains that her friend ’ s child has digestion problems , so can only take either breast milk or a specialized formula .
The mother doesn ’ t breastfeed , so the specific formula it is .
( 1 ) The day started out well until it came to feeding time .
AdvertisementNow , the woman was stuck .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to see if she could drop off the formula .
There was no response to either .
She was home along with the two babies and only had one car seat , so she was unable to go anywhere that wasn ’ t within walking distance .
Her husband was at work and she didn ’ t know any of her neighbors .
( 1 ) Worried for the screaming , hungry child ’ s health , she decided that the only thing she could do was emergency breastfeed him herself .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend finally returned her call .
She calmly informed her friend that she can ’ t ignore the calls and texts of the person taking care of her child in case of an emergency .
She then explained the situation and why she decided to emergency breastfeed the child .
( 1 ) AdvertisementThe user , who made it clear that she was perfectly healthy and she knew her breast milk was safe , was expecting her friend to be apologetic and grateful .
Instead , she got the complete opposite response .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she asked the Reddit community for help .
The overwhelming majority of commenters were adamant that she did the right thing .
Though many had some harsh things to say about her friend , most came from the side of concern for the other mom .
( 1 ) The original poster responded , confirming that she and other friends have , in fact , called Child Protection Services to hopefully help their friend and her child .
( 1 ) Advertisement Other commenters talked about stigma and the immense pressure that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s not an odd reaction at all ; it ’ s just misplaced .
Mothers are under an intense amount of pressure to breastfeed .
There ’ s a good bit of stigma that comes with not breastfeeding and using formula .
Not only because of the health benefits and the idea of doing “ the best ” for your child , but also the warped notion of the “ ideal mother ” being about to biologically provide for their child , which leaves mothers feeling like failures for not breastfeeding .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feels guilty for no reason.
” said one commenter .
“ So yeah , if I were a mother and not breastfeeding , I would feel super insecure about another woman breastfeeding my child .
But that ’ s just because of personal insecurities and social pressure .
OP did absolutely nothing wrong and I would have done the same in her position .
Child ’ s welfare > parental psycho-social shit.
” ( 1 ) Another commenter agrees , citing how uncomfortable certain aspects of breastfeeding make many people feel .
Read @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mistreated while giving birth , says study There is still so much stigma surrounding breastfeeding .
Women are continuously shamed for things like when it is and isn ’ t okay to breastfeed , where women should and shouldn ’ t breastfeed , and how long it is appropriate to breastfeed for .
On the flip side of that , moms who don ’ t or can ’ t breastfeed are also shamed .
The reality is that many women still get a bit uncomfortable when it comes to the topic of breastfeeding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful , more intimate way to connect with your child , at the end of the day the purpose of breastfeeding is nutrition .
Having someone else breastfeed your child , or you breastfeeding someone else ’ s , isn ’ t as strange as you might think .
In fact , wet nurses and nursing has been around for a very long time and has a variety of reasons behind it .
( 2 ) These include ( 2 ) : • A woman who wants to maintain a strong breast milk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( perhaps they are premature or sick ) .
• Adoptive mothers who want to breastfeed may stimulate their milk supply , hire a wet nurse , or purchase donated breast milk .
Before formula was invented , it was common for women to breastfeed other women ’ s babies if that mother was unable to breastfeed herself .
This wasn ’ t just about emergency breastfeeding either .
Often this was done by a family member , however , wet nurses could also be hired .
( 2 ) Since the invention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ duties has become relatively uncommon in most western cultures , however , it does still exist in many others .
( 2 ) Several test must be done before a woman breastfeeds another mother ’ s child to ensure everyone ’ s safety .
( 2 ) These include ( 2 ) : • Testing both moms and all babies involved for infections and illnesses such as HIV .
• Age-matching : The biological child of the wetnurse and the other baby needs to be close in age .
Breast milk composition changes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as they grow .
For moms who can ’ t breastfeed themselves but are still uncomfortable about having another woman feed their child , they can talk to their doctor about breast milk banks .
These doctors can actually write prescriptions so that the baby can get the nutrition that it requires .
( 2 ) While yes , there are legal complications to breastfeeding another woman ’ s child without her consent , sometimes emergency situations require quick intervention .
If the other mom knows that she is healthy and infection-free , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s baby in order to keep the child fed and healthy is a perfectly acceptable decision .
Keep Reading : A 1970 Law Led to the Mass Sterilization of Native American Women .
That History Still Matters

Despite the advancements we’ve made with women’s rights, there is still plenty of stigma surrounding breastfeeding. This woman had to make the tough decision to emergency breastfeed her best friend’s baby, and now her friend won’t speak to her. The question now remains: Is it okay for a woman to breastfeed another woman’s child? (1)
Woman Emergency Breastfeeds Her Friend’s Baby
Last year, a Reddit user was left confused as to whether or not she did the right thing by emergency breastfeeding her best friend’s two-month-old baby. Her friend was furious and now refuses to speak to her. To get some insight she posted her story to the popular forum Am I the Asshole to get more opinions. (1)
The user starts off by explaining that her friend never truly wanted to be a mother. She was apparently disconnected from the pregnancy and has been struggling to connect with her child because of severe postpartum depression. (1)
“I’ve been trying to help, however, I gave birth to my second child about two weeks after she had her baby, so I’m needed at home with my family.” she wrote. (1)
She knew, however, that her friend needed some downtime where she didn’t have to be “mom”, so she offered to take care of the baby for the day along with her own child. (1)
The Packing Mistake
Her friend obliged and brought her son to the Reddit user’s house. She explains that her friend’s child has digestion problems, so can only take either breast milk or a specialized formula. The mother doesn’t breastfeed, so the specific formula it is. (1)
“I asked her if she had packed diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, and bottles in his diaper bag and she said yes. Then she left.” (1)
The day started out well until it came to feeding time.
“I went to fix him a bottle and realized she hadn’t packed his formula,” she explained. “When I asked if she had packed bottles she answered literally, but I never specified if she packed formula as well, I thought it was given.” (1)
Now, the woman was stuck. She tried calling and texting her friend to see if she could drop off the formula. There was no response to either. She was home along with the two babies and only had one car seat, so she was unable to go anywhere that wasn’t within walking distance. Her husband was at work and she didn’t know any of her neighbors. (1)
Worried for the screaming, hungry child’s health, she decided that the only thing she could do was emergency breastfeed him herself. (1)
The Mother’s Response
Over three hours later her friend finally returned her call. She calmly informed her friend that she can’t ignore the calls and texts of the person taking care of her child in case of an emergency. She then explained the situation and why she decided to emergency breastfeed the child. (1)
The user, who made it clear that she was perfectly healthy and she knew her breast milk was safe, was expecting her friend to be apologetic and grateful. Instead, she got the complete opposite response. (1)
“She freaked out on me and accused me of some horrible things and then left,” she wrote. “She blocked me on social media, something I learned when a mutual friend told me Best Friend was saying some awful things about me online. I don’t know what to do, I can’t even talk to her about this.” (1)
Left questioning her actions, she asked the Reddit community for help.
Reddit’s Response to Emergency Breastfeeding
The overwhelming majority of commenters were adamant that she did the right thing. Though many had some harsh things to say about her friend, most came from the side of concern for the other mom. (1)
“Newborns need to be fed every 2-4 hours as you know. She forgot to pack the formula and ignored your calls and texts. You did what any mom would do…meet the needs of the poor kid.
I am seriously worried about your friend and the baby’s well being. Hate to be extreme but you may want to call CPS for a welfare check.” said one user. (1)
The original poster responded, confirming that she and other friends have, in fact, called Child Protection Services to hopefully help their friend and her child. (1)
“I wouldn’t be the first friend who has placed a wellness call on Best friend, unfortunately. We have a few mutual friends (who were unable to come on short notice when this happened) who are really concerned with her disconnection. A caseworker visits her twice a week to do a wellness check and she’s got an order from CPS to be seeking mental health. We all do what we can to help but we all have our own busy lives so we can’t do everything. I wish I could do more.” she replied. (1)
The Stigma Around Breastfeeding
Other commenters talked about stigma and the immense pressure that moms are under.
“It’s not an odd reaction at all; it’s just misplaced. Mothers are under an intense amount of pressure to breastfeed. There’s a good bit of stigma that comes with not breastfeeding and using formula. Not only because of the health benefits and the idea of doing “the best” for your child, but also the warped notion of the “ideal mother” being about to biologically provide for their child, which leaves mothers feeling like failures for not breastfeeding. My mother stopped around 6 months and still feels guilty for no reason.” said one commenter. “So yeah, if I were a mother and not breastfeeding, I would feel super insecure about another woman breastfeeding my child. But that’s just because of personal insecurities and social pressure. OP did absolutely nothing wrong and I would have done the same in her position. Child’s welfare > parental psycho-social shit.” (1)
Another commenter agrees, citing how uncomfortable certain aspects of breastfeeding make many people feel.
“What were you supposed to do? I know people get weird about breastfeeding, I’m still nursing a three-year-old and I’ve heard it all, but you had nothing else to feed a hungry child because she didn’t bring anything. I say she should be thankful you felt comfortable enough to nurse him instead of leaving the poor guy hungry. Kudos to you for what you did, I think it’s great.” (1)
Is Breastfeeding Someone Else’s Baby Weird?
There is still so much stigma surrounding breastfeeding. Women are continuously shamed for things like when it is and isn’t okay to breastfeed, where women should and shouldn’t breastfeed, and how long it is appropriate to breastfeed for. On the flip side of that, moms who don’t or can’t breastfeed are also shamed.
The reality is that many women still get a bit uncomfortable when it comes to the topic of breastfeeding. While yes, it is a beautiful, more intimate way to connect with your child, at the end of the day the purpose of breastfeeding is nutrition.
Having someone else breastfeed your child, or you breastfeeding someone else’s, isn’t as strange as you might think. In fact, wet nurses and nursing has been around for a very long time and has a variety of reasons behind it. (2) These include (2):
A woman who wants to maintain a strong breast milk supply while their own child is unable (perhaps they are premature or sick).
Adoptive mothers who want to breastfeed may stimulate their milk supply, hire a wet nurse, or purchase donated breast milk.
Before formula was invented, it was common for women to breastfeed other women’s babies if that mother was unable to breastfeed herself. This wasn’t just about emergency breastfeeding either. Often this was done by a family member, however, wet nurses could also be hired. (2)
Since the invention of formula, this sharing of breastfeeding duties has become relatively uncommon in most western cultures, however, it does still exist in many others. (2)
Complications of Wet Nursing
Several test must be done before a woman breastfeeds another mother’s child to ensure everyone’s safety. (2) These include (2):
Testing both moms and all babies involved for infections and illnesses such as HIV.
Age-matching: The biological child of the wetnurse and the other baby needs to be close in age. Breast milk composition changes to suit the needs of the child as they grow.
For moms who can’t breastfeed themselves but are still uncomfortable about having another woman feed their child, they can talk to their doctor about breast milk banks. These doctors can actually write prescriptions so that the baby can get the nutrition that it requires. (2)
Emergency Breastfeeding is Not Wrong
While yes, there are legal complications to breastfeeding another woman’s child without her consent, sometimes emergency situations require quick intervention. If the other mom knows that she is healthy and infection-free, then to emergency breastfeed someone else’s baby in order to keep the child fed and healthy is a perfectly acceptable decision.
Keep Reading: A 1970 Law Led to the Mass Sterilization of Native American Women. That History Still Matters


theheartysoul--2020-12-07--China Just Turned On Its Artificial Sun

China Just Turned On Its Artificial Sun

For the first time ever , researchers in China have officially turned on their “ artificial sun ” nuclear fusion reactor .
Fusion is what powers our sun , and scientists consider it the “ holy grail ” of energy production [ 1 ] .
This makes it one of the only potential alternatives for producing energy on a larger scale [ 2 ] .
If this reactor is successful , it could have massive implications for the sustainable energy industry .
In short , this artificial sun is a tokamak , or a nuclear fusion experimental research device .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shortening the Russian words for “ toroidal magnetic confinement ” .
Essentially , it is a torus ( that is the math term for donut ) that traps extremely hot plasma and presses it into making chemical reactions [ 3 ] .
• Air and impurities are removed from the doughnut-shaped vacuum chamber .
• Scientists charge up the massive magnetic coils that surround the chamber .
• They then introduce a gaseous hydrogen fuel into the chamber .
• A powerful electrical current runs through the vessel , turning the gas into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aka plasma .
• As the plasma particles gain energy , they collide and also begin to heat up .
Supplementary heating methods help make the plasma hot enough for fusion .
This is between 150 and 300 million degrees celsius .
• This high temperature causes the particles to fuse , which releases huge amounts of energy [ 4 ] .
Hundreds of labs around the world have been experimenting with small tokamaks for decades .
The magnetic fields around the devices , however , are prone to imperfections , and controlling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has taken many years , and has often seemed impossible to implement on a larger scale .
China ’ s artificial sun , however , is proving that large-scale energy production using a tokamak may be possible .
AdvertisementBoth fusion and fission are nuclear reactions that produce energy , but there are a few key differences : Fission : When you split a heavy , unstable nucleus into two lighter nuclei .
Fusion : You combine two light nuclei together , which releases vast amounts of energy .
This is what powers the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China is called the “ artificial sun ” .
AdvertisementThe reason why we have traditionally used fission in nuclear power reactors is because we can control it .
Fusion , on the other hand , is much more difficult to control .
It is also extremely expensive to create the conditions you need in order to produce a fusion reaction [ 5 ] .
Read : Student accidentally creates rechargeable battery that could last decades One of the biggest concerns with nuclear fusion reactors is safety .
When you hear the term “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that comes to many people ’ s minds is the Chernobyl disaster of 1986 .
The second thing is usually the Cold War between the US and Russia .
Both of these instances , however , involved nuclear fission .
Nuclear fusion , on the other hand , is safer for three main reasons : • Nuclear fusion does not use fissile materials like uranium and plutonium .
This means that there are no enriched materials in a fusion reactor that someone could use to make nuclear weapons .
• Tokamaks would not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waste .
This is because the fuel it “ burns ” is helium , which is a non-radioactive gas .
The only radioactive materials in the system are Tritium , the fuel , and materials that become active while the machine is running .
• A “ runaway ” reaction and the uncontrolled production of energy that would ensue is not possible with nuclear fusion .
This is because you can ’ t maintain a fusion reaction without an external stimulus .
If you disturb the reaction , or there is any failure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop .
Even if the cooling function of the reactor failed , the temperatures of the vacuum vessel will not reach the melting temperatures of the materials the vessel is made of , thanks to the magnetic field containing the heat [ 2 ] .
The Sun is On The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak ( EAST ) team has been working on this project for years , and are finally making headway .
The last time the team made headlines was in 2018 when the tokamak reached 180 million degrees Celsius for ten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they plan on reaching the artificial sun ’ s optimal operating temperature of 360 million degrees by the end of this year .
Now , the researchers have officially switched it on [ 6 ] .
They are collaborating closely with scientists working on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor ( ITER ) in France .
This is the largest nuclear fusion research project in the world , which is set to be complete in 2025 [ 7 ] .
If the EAST team ’ s artificial sun is successful , it could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sustainable energy development .
Whether or not the extraordinary cost of the project ( to the tune of tens of billions of dollars ) will be worth it , remains to be seen .
Keep Reading : Chernobyl shocker as fungi that eats radiation found inside nuclear reactor

For the first time ever, researchers in China have officially turned on their “artificial sun” nuclear fusion reactor.
Fusion is what powers our sun, and scientists consider it the “holy grail” of energy production [1]. This makes it one of the only potential alternatives for producing energy on a larger scale [2]. If this reactor is successful, it could have massive implications for the sustainable energy industry.
What is China’s “Artificial Sun”?
In short, this artificial sun is a tokamak, or a nuclear fusion experimental research device. The term “tokamak” comes from shortening the Russian words for “toroidal magnetic confinement”. Essentially, it is a torus (that is the math term for donut) that traps extremely hot plasma and presses it into making chemical reactions [3].
Here’s how the artificial sun tokamak works:
Air and impurities are removed from the doughnut-shaped vacuum chamber. Scientists charge up the massive magnetic coils that surround the chamber. They then introduce a gaseous hydrogen fuel into the chamber. A powerful electrical current runs through the vessel, turning the gas into a hot, electrically charged gas, aka plasma. As the plasma particles gain energy, they collide and also begin to heat up. Supplementary heating methods help make the plasma hot enough for fusion. This is between 150 and 300 million degrees celsius. This high temperature causes the particles to fuse, which releases huge amounts of energy [4].
Hundreds of labs around the world have been experimenting with small tokamaks for decades. The magnetic fields around the devices, however, are prone to imperfections, and controlling them is very challenging. Studying tokamaks has taken many years, and has often seemed impossible to implement on a larger scale.
China’s artificial sun, however, is proving that large-scale energy production using a tokamak may be possible.
Fusion Vs. Fission
Both fusion and fission are nuclear reactions that produce energy, but there are a few key differences:
Fission: When you split a heavy, unstable nucleus into two lighter nuclei.
Fusion: You combine two light nuclei together, which releases vast amounts of energy. This is what powers the sun (hence why the reactor in China is called the “artificial sun”.
The reason why we have traditionally used fission in nuclear power reactors is because we can control it. Fusion, on the other hand, is much more difficult to control. It is also extremely expensive to create the conditions you need in order to produce a fusion reaction [5].
Is This Artificial Sun Safe?
One of the biggest concerns with nuclear fusion reactors is safety. When you hear the term “nuclear power”, the first thing that comes to many people’s minds is the Chernobyl disaster of 1986. The second thing is usually the Cold War between the US and Russia.
Both of these instances, however, involved nuclear fission. Nuclear fusion, on the other hand, is safer for three main reasons:
Nuclear fusion does not use fissile materials like uranium and plutonium. This means that there are no enriched materials in a fusion reactor that someone could use to make nuclear weapons. Tokamaks would not produce any high activity or long-life nuclear waste. This is because the fuel it “burns” is helium, which is a non-radioactive gas. The only radioactive materials in the system are Tritium, the fuel, and materials that become active while the machine is running. A “runaway” reaction and the uncontrolled production of energy that would ensue is not possible with nuclear fusion. This is because you can’t maintain a fusion reaction without an external stimulus. If you disturb the reaction, or there is any failure at any point, it will just stop. Even if the cooling function of the reactor failed, the temperatures of the vacuum vessel will not reach the melting temperatures of the materials the vessel is made of, thanks to the magnetic field containing the heat [2].
The Sun is On
The Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) team has been working on this project for years, and are finally making headway. The last time the team made headlines was in 2018 when the tokamak reached 180 million degrees Celsius for ten seconds.
The EAST team says that they plan on reaching the artificial sun’s optimal operating temperature of 360 million degrees by the end of this year. Now, the researchers have officially switched it on [6].
They are collaborating closely with scientists working on the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France. This is the largest nuclear fusion research project in the world, which is set to be complete in 2025 [7].
If the EAST team’s artificial sun is successful, it could have a major significance for the future of sustainable energy development. Whether or not the extraordinary cost of the project (to the tune of tens of billions of dollars) will be worth it, remains to be seen.
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-12-09--Who planted a giant smiley face of trees?

The world is full of wonderful anomalies .
Human-made ones are particularly fun , from upside-down houses to boats made of mushrooms , to a smiley face of trees on the woodsy hillside of Polk City .
Passersby are compelled to ask the same questions : Who did this ?
And how did they even think of this ?
The yellow smiley face among dark green trees is visible to anyone driving along Oregon 18 around this season .
On the hillside , two eyes and a wide grin greet every passing vehicle near the mile-marker 25 , between Willamina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whenever the needles naturally change color in the fall .
Locals and visitors have come to expect the sight , and as the saying goes , smiles truly are contagious .
Who Created the Smile Face of Trees ?
The face resides in the timberland of Hampton Lumber .
Kristin Rasmussen , a company spokesperson , explains the adorable mystery .
The smiley face of trees was created Dennis Creel , the then-timberland manager , and David Hampton , the company ’ s co-owner .
They embarked on this fun little project back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After every harvest , our foresters start planning the reforestation process , ” writes Rasmussen in an email .
“ They typically plant a variety of native species depending on the elevation and soil conditions , including Douglas fir , western hemlock , noble fir and western red cedar.
” The dark eyes and mouth part of the face consist of Douglas fir trees and yellow areas are larch trees .
“ Larch is a conifer with needles that turn yellow and drop off in the fall , which is why the smiley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , ” explains Rasmussen .
Meanwhile , Douglas fir retains the rich green color all year round .
AdvertisementHampton and Creel were inspired to create a cute picture once they realized how scenic the location was .
“ When we harvested the site , we knew the area was highly visible to people travelling down Highway 18 so David and Dennis saw an opportunity to have a little fun , ” writes Kristen .
The crew working on this exciting endeavor outlined the area with rope to ensure the picture would appear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 300 feet .
“ Let ’ s just say smiley face designs are not the most efficient reforestation methods out there .
With planning and planting it took about a week to finish.
” [ 2 ] However , the hard work was definitely not for nothing .
Many people drive by the smiley face of trees every day and it lifts their spirits .
“ It ’ s a very depressed area here , ” Carmen Wagler , who had worked in the area for 35 years .
“ The jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see a smiley face , that ’ s all that matters.
” She works at the Fort Hill restaurant , an old-fashioned diner that has a stunning view of the hillside smile .
“ Yeah , my day is going to get better now because I saw a smiley face .
It kind of brightens up the community.
” [ 3 ] See the Smiley Face of Trees for a Limited Time Only The adorable smiley face will be present every year for the next 40 years or so .
As the trees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over time .
Then they will be harvested for lumber .
Until then , the smile has become the company ’ s seasonal icon .
“ The Hampton smiley face is making its seasonal appearance !
” Hampton Lumber shared their Facebook page on November 12 , along with a photo of this year ’ s hillside smile .
“ Have a great day !
” [ 4 ] Advertisement If you ’ re taking a road trip to check out the smiley face of trees , here are some other classic attractions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , outside Harvey Marine by the Tualatin Valley Highway , stands a 26-foot-tall rabbit statue .
The figure was originally a human gas station worker .
However , the owner swapped the head for a rabbit ’ s to pay homage to the 1950s film called “ Harvey ” .
In the 70s , one town turned a 50-foot-tall silo into a candle .
Originally , it contained 45,000 pounds of candle wax with a gas flame on top .
Today , if you drive into Scappoose , the candle is “ lit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This statue is an icon of North Portland .
It stands at 37 feet tall at the intersection between North Interstate and Denver avenues .
It was built in the late 50s , and has been decorated with scarves and Santa hats over the years .
[ 5 ]

The world is full of wonderful anomalies. Human-made ones are particularly fun, from upside-down houses to boats made of mushrooms, to a smiley face of trees on the woodsy hillside of Polk City. Passersby are compelled to ask the same questions: Who did this? And how did they even think of this?
The yellow smiley face among dark green trees is visible to anyone driving along Oregon 18 around this season. On the hillside, two eyes and a wide grin greet every passing vehicle near the mile-marker 25, between Willamina and Grand Ronde. The smile appears whenever the needles naturally change color in the fall. Locals and visitors have come to expect the sight, and as the saying goes, smiles truly are contagious.
Who Created the Smile Face of Trees?
The face resides in the timberland of Hampton Lumber. Kristin Rasmussen, a company spokesperson, explains the adorable mystery. The smiley face of trees was created Dennis Creel, the then-timberland manager, and David Hampton, the company’s co-owner. They embarked on this fun little project back in 2011. [1]
“After every harvest, our foresters start planning the reforestation process,” writes Rasmussen in an email. “They typically plant a variety of native species depending on the elevation and soil conditions, including Douglas fir, western hemlock, noble fir and western red cedar.”
The dark eyes and mouth part of the face consist of Douglas fir trees and yellow areas are larch trees.
“Larch is a conifer with needles that turn yellow and drop off in the fall, which is why the smiley face is best visible this time of year,” explains Rasmussen. Meanwhile, Douglas fir retains the rich green color all year round.
Hampton and Creel were inspired to create a cute picture once they realized how scenic the location was. “When we harvested the site, we knew the area was highly visible to people travelling down Highway 18 so David and Dennis saw an opportunity to have a little fun,” writes Kristen.
The crew working on this exciting endeavor outlined the area with rope to ensure the picture would appear even. The entire smiley face is about 300 feet.
“Let’s just say smiley face designs are not the most efficient reforestation methods out there. With planning and planting it took about a week to finish.” [2]
Bringing a Smile to People’s Faces
However, the hard work was definitely not for nothing. Many people drive by the smiley face of trees every day and it lifts their spirits.
“It’s a very depressed area here,” Carmen Wagler, who had worked in the area for 35 years. “The jobs are gone. You drive along and see a smiley face, that’s all that matters.” She works at the Fort Hill restaurant, an old-fashioned diner that has a stunning view of the hillside smile.
“Yeah, my day is going to get better now because I saw a smiley face. It kind of brightens up the community.” [3]
Read More: IKEA Buys 11,000 Acres of U.S. Forest to Keep It From Being Developed
See the Smiley Face of Trees for a Limited Time Only
The adorable smiley face will be present every year for the next 40 years or so. As the trees grow, the image will blur decrease over time. Then they will be harvested for lumber. Until then, the smile has become the company’s seasonal icon.
“The Hampton smiley face is making its seasonal appearance!” Hampton Lumber shared their Facebook page on November 12, along with a photo of this year’s hillside smile. “Have a great day!” [4]
Other Roadside Attractions in Oregon
If you’re taking a road trip to check out the smiley face of trees, here are some other classic attractions you could check out!
Harvey the Rabbit
In Aloha, outside Harvey Marine by the Tualatin Valley Highway, stands a 26-foot-tall rabbit statue. The figure was originally a human gas station worker. However, the owner swapped the head for a rabbit’s to pay homage to the 1950s film called “Harvey”.
Image Credit: Thomas Boyd | The Oregonian
Peace Candle of the World
In the 70s, one town turned a 50-foot-tall silo into a candle. Originally, it contained 45,000 pounds of candle wax with a gas flame on top. Today, if you drive into Scappoose, the candle is “lit” with an electric neon flame.
Image Credit: John M. Vincent | The Oregonian
Paul Bunyan Statue
This statue is an icon of North Portland. It stands at 37 feet tall at the intersection between North Interstate and Denver avenues. It was built in the late 50s, and has been decorated with scarves and Santa hats over the years. [5]
Image Credit: Victor A. Nelson and Victor R. Nelson | Wikipedia
Keep Reading: Couple Restores Hundreds Of Animal Species To Forest By Planting 2 Million Trees
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-12-09--Breakdancing Has Officially Been Confirmed As An Olympic Sport

The Olympics has been put on hold due to the COVID crisis .
Which has been postponed until July 23 , 2021 for the Tokyo Games .
However , looking more into the future , the Paris Games of 2024 are looking to be quite the spectacle .
As of Monday , the International Olympic Committee has officially declared breakdancing as an Olympic sport .
What ’ s even more incredible is that surfing , sport climbing , and skateboarding have also been added to the Olympics for 2024 .
That ’ s right !
If you ’ ve ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell it ’ s not exactly easy .
There is a certain amount of coordination , exercise , choreography , and so much more that goes into it .
However , the sport will be labeled as ‘ Breaking ’ , the original name that hip-hop pioneers called it in the ’ 70s .
Prior to COVID , Paris organizers had already been trying to get breakdancing on the list of potential sports for the Olympics .
In 2018 , breakdancing/breaking had an overwhelmingly positive influence at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results in the following year in 2019 by the IOC .
The idea is to have a team of 16 athletes that will compete in either the men ’ s or women ’ s medal events .
( 1 , 2 , ) Paris has even dedicated a huge portion of its downtown venue just for breakdancing .
You might be familiar with Place de la Concorde , as it ’ s the biggest public squares in Paris .
This part of downtown is so big that you can find 3-on-3 basketball and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same place .
If you ’ re looking for inspiration , just head to this part of town and watch people work their magic .
In fact , Tony Estanguet , the President for 2024 , explains why this is so important for their city .
( 2 ) “ It ’ s important for us in our concept to put sports out of the stadiums and in the heart of the city , ” Estanguet claims .
( 2 ) Read : Dancing Can Reverse the Signs of Aging in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light of breakdancing becoming more official , so are the other three sports they ’ re aiming to add to the bracket .
They also plan on adding skateboarding , surfing , and sport climbing to the list .
Paris has a couple of spots in mind for surfing that boast natural waves away from the capital .
“ Paris 2024 will choose a venue offering natural waves , as France boasts a number of well-known surfing spots on its Atlantic coast and in its overseas territories , ” explains the organizing committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which spot would be best for competitors .
However , they say each one seems to be very , very positive .
( 2 ) Skateboarding is also getting recognition for the Olympics .
Organizers recognize the amazing amount of talent and skills one must have to be able to skateboard ‘ well ’ , just like breakdancing .
It ’ s certainly not something you can just pick-up and be a pro the next day .
Some people have spent years if not their entire lives dedicated to skateboarding .
Skateboarders will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrate their skills .
The street portion of the event is just as it sounds .
Stairs , rails , and everything you ’ d find on the streets .
Compared to the park setting where it ’ s an actual man-made skate park for competitors .
Giving complicated curves , hills , ramps , and everything you ’ d find in a skate park .
( 3 ) If you ’ ve ever watched competitive climbers , you can see why they added this to the Olympics .
The sheer amount of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patience you have to have as a climber is detrimental .
It ’ s also a matter of how fast you ’ re able to climb and solve the rocky puzzle to achieve victory .
This is quite possibly one of the more intense sports they ’ re adding to the bracket .
( 4 ) What Got Cut From The Olympics Even though breakdancing is getting a lot of positive feedback , other sports are not .
Unfortunately , there were some cuts that had to be made from the Paris Games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the more substantial losses .
The amount of athletes has been reduced for these two sports .
However , this sport may be dropped entirely due to some concerns from the IOC .
This includes concerns of people using drugs to enhance their performance .
Not to mention the depth and pace of reform at the International Weightlifting Federation .
( 1 ) Paris wants the 2024 Olympics to provide opportunities for both men and women as they stride for a long-term target of equal participation from everybody .
Of course @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mind and trying to plan around what ’ s currently happening in the world .
However , we should be seeing a pretty phenomenal Olympic comeback in 2024 .
( 1 ) Breakdancing , surfing , skateboarding , and sport climbing are going to be frequent topics individuals talk about .
It ’ s already getting a lot of people excited for the future to come .
Better start getting your team together , because 2024 is going to be the year of change !
Advertisement Keep reading : Just 10 Months After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Usain Bolt ’ s Records

The Olympics has been put on hold due to the COVID crisis. Which has been postponed until July 23, 2021 for the Tokyo Games. However, looking more into the future, the Paris Games of 2024 are looking to be quite the spectacle. As of Monday, the International Olympic Committee has officially declared breakdancing as an Olympic sport. What’s even more incredible is that surfing, sport climbing, and skateboarding have also been added to the Olympics for 2024.
Read: Paris Is Building the World’s Largest Organic Rooftop Farm
Breakdancing Is An Olympic Sport?
That’s right! If you’ve ever seen a person breakdance before you can tell it’s not exactly easy. There is a certain amount of coordination, exercise, choreography, and so much more that goes into it. However, the sport will be labeled as ‘Breaking’, the original name that hip-hop pioneers called it in the ’70s. Prior to COVID, Paris organizers had already been trying to get breakdancing on the list of potential sports for the Olympics. In 2018, breakdancing/breaking had an overwhelmingly positive influence at the Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires. Which ultimately had even more amazing results in the following year in 2019 by the IOC. The idea is to have a team of 16 athletes that will compete in either the men’s or women’s medal events. (1, 2,)
Paris has even dedicated a huge portion of its downtown venue just for breakdancing. You might be familiar with Place de la Concorde, as it’s the biggest public squares in Paris. This part of downtown is so big that you can find 3-on-3 basketball and sport climbing paired with breakdancing all in the same place. If you’re looking for inspiration, just head to this part of town and watch people work their magic. In fact, Tony Estanguet, the President for 2024, explains why this is so important for their city. (2)
“It’s important for us in our concept to put sports out of the stadiums and in the heart of the city,” Estanguet claims. (2)
Surfing, Skateboarding, And Sport Climbing
In light of breakdancing becoming more official, so are the other three sports they’re aiming to add to the bracket. They also plan on adding skateboarding, surfing, and sport climbing to the list. Paris has a couple of spots in mind for surfing that boast natural waves away from the capital.
“Paris 2024 will choose a venue offering natural waves, as France boasts a number of well-known surfing spots on its Atlantic coast and in its overseas territories,” explains the organizing committee.
They are still trying to decide which spot would be best for competitors. However, they say each one seems to be very, very positive. (2)
Skateboarding is also getting recognition for the Olympics. Organizers recognize the amazing amount of talent and skills one must have to be able to skateboard ‘well’, just like breakdancing. It’s certainly not something you can just pick-up and be a pro the next day. Some people have spent years if not their entire lives dedicated to skateboarding. Skateboarders will have a street and park event to demonstrate their skills. The street portion of the event is just as it sounds. Stairs, rails, and everything you’d find on the streets. Compared to the park setting where it’s an actual man-made skate park for competitors. Giving complicated curves, hills, ramps, and everything you’d find in a skate park. (3)
If you’ve ever watched competitive climbers, you can see why they added this to the Olympics. The sheer amount of strength, endurance, stamina, and patience you have to have as a climber is detrimental. It’s also a matter of how fast you’re able to climb and solve the rocky puzzle to achieve victory. This is quite possibly one of the more intense sports they’re adding to the bracket. (4)
What Got Cut From The Olympics
Even though breakdancing is getting a lot of positive feedback, other sports are not. Unfortunately, there were some cuts that had to be made from the Paris Games of 2024. Boxing and weightlifting had some of the more substantial losses. The amount of athletes has been reduced for these two sports. However, this sport may be dropped entirely due to some concerns from the IOC. This includes concerns of people using drugs to enhance their performance. Not to mention the depth and pace of reform at the International Weightlifting Federation. (1)
Paris wants the 2024 Olympics to provide opportunities for both men and women as they stride for a long-term target of equal participation from everybody. Of course, they are still keeping COVID in mind and trying to plan around what’s currently happening in the world. However, we should be seeing a pretty phenomenal Olympic comeback in 2024. (1)
Breakdancing, surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing are going to be frequent topics individuals talk about. It’s already getting a lot of people excited for the future to come. Better start getting your team together, because 2024 is going to be the year of change!
Keep reading: Just 10 Months After Giving Birth, This Athlete Breaks One of Usain Bolt’s Records


theheartysoul--2020-12-08--He Designed A Smartwatch App To Help Stop His Veteran Dad’s Nightmares

Studies have shown that more than half of combat veterans with PTSD had nightmares fairly often [ 1 ] .
These nightmares make it nearly impossible to fall asleep and can disrupt your life in a major way .
In many cases , they can cause the degradation of relationships , job loss , and addictions .
One son saw his own father heading down that path and developed a smartwatch app to save him .
Tyler Skluzacek ’ s father , Patrick , is a US army veteran who served in Iraq .
Before leaving home , Tyler says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man .
Upon his return in 2007 , however , he was different .
Patrick was experiencing PTSD as a result of the time he spent in combat .
Almost every night , Patrick was having terrible nightmares that caused him to sweat profusely and thrash around violently in his sleep .
The dreams were so powerful that Patrick became afraid to close his eyes at night .
He began depending on either vodka or medication in order to get any sleep at night .
Patrick ’ s trauma began taking over his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart , and then he lost his job and his house .
Like any good son , Tyler wanted to help his dad .
This is when he decided to develop a smartwatch app .
In 2015 , Tyler heard about a computer hackathon that was happening in Washington , DC .
A Hackathon is a very intense few days when developers collaborate to solve problems , usually by designing app prototypes [ 2,3 ] .
This particular event grabbed Tyler ’ s attention because focus was on developing apps to help people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ student with few financial resources at his disposal , Tyler managed to get enough money to buy a plane ticket to Washington .
Once he was at the event , he put together a team of developers to help him “ teach ” a smartwatch to detect when the wearer was starting to have a nightmare .
To do this , they used physical queues like heart rate and movement .
Service dogs already do this and will nudge or lick the person until they wake up .
Tyler thought that a smartwatch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a gentle vibration .
The goal was to provide just enough stimulus to pull the wearer out of deep REM sleep to stop the nightmare , but not to actually wake them up .
Of course , Tyler used his own father as the test subject for the smartwatch app .
Not surprisingly , it took some trial and error before they got the app to successfully detect a nightmare and respond with the correct amount of stimulus .
Patrick wore the watch 24/7 .
In the beginning , it would vibrate too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his dad ’ s readings all the time was also a very interesting experience for Tyler .
He added that having someone that close to you and knowing exactly when the nightmares were happening was very important to train the app .
Tyler continued to fine-tune the smartwatch app until he finally perfected the algorithm .
Tyler ’ s smartwatch app effectively turned his father ’ s life around .
Patrick calls the watch ’ s vibrations “ little miracles ” .
He says that the difference the watch has made for him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Wearing the watch and ending his night terrors allowed Patrick to find normalcy in his life again .
He is back to working as a mechanic and has even remarried .
He does still have nightmares occasionally , but they no longer take over his life the way they used to .
The FDA has recently approved the app as a treatment for PTSD-related nightmare disorders .
An investor has now purchased the rights to the app and has started a company called NightWare .
Soon , more trauma sufferers will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and hopefully get their lives back the way Patrick did .
Keep Reading : California Couple ‘ Adopts ’ 93-Year-Old Veteran After His Town Burned to the Ground

Studies have shown that more than half of combat veterans with PTSD had nightmares fairly often [1]. These nightmares make it nearly impossible to fall asleep and can disrupt your life in a major way. In many cases, they can cause the degradation of relationships, job loss, and addictions. One son saw his own father heading down that path and developed a smartwatch app to save him.
Patrick and Tyler Skluzacek’s Story
Tyler Skluzacek’s father, Patrick, is a US army veteran who served in Iraq. Before leaving home, Tyler says his dad was a fun and outgoing man. Upon his return in 2007, however, he was different.
Patrick was experiencing PTSD as a result of the time he spent in combat. Almost every night, Patrick was having terrible nightmares that caused him to sweat profusely and thrash around violently in his sleep. The dreams were so powerful that Patrick became afraid to close his eyes at night.
He began depending on either vodka or medication in order to get any sleep at night. Patrick’s trauma began taking over his life. Pretty soon his marriage fell apart, and then he lost his job and his house.
“[I] pretty much lost everything,” he said [2].
Like any good son, Tyler wanted to help his dad. This is when he decided to develop a smartwatch app.
A Hackathon and a Smartwatch App
In 2015, Tyler heard about a computer hackathon that was happening in Washington, DC. A Hackathon is a very intense few days when developers collaborate to solve problems, usually by designing app prototypes [2,3].
This particular event grabbed Tyler’s attention because focus was on developing apps to help people suffering with PTSD.
Despite being a student with few financial resources at his disposal, Tyler managed to get enough money to buy a plane ticket to Washington. Once he was at the event, he put together a team of developers to help him “teach” a smartwatch to detect when the wearer was starting to have a nightmare. To do this, they used physical queues like heart rate and movement.
Service dogs already do this and will nudge or lick the person until they wake up. Tyler thought that a smartwatch app could achieve the same thing with a gentle vibration. The goal was to provide just enough stimulus to pull the wearer out of deep REM sleep to stop the nightmare, but not to actually wake them up.
Developing the Smartwatch App
Of course, Tyler used his own father as the test subject for the smartwatch app. Not surprisingly, it took some trial and error before they got the app to successfully detect a nightmare and respond with the correct amount of stimulus.
Patrick wore the watch 24/7. In the beginning, it would vibrate too hard and jolt him awake.
“He had to endure a lot of bad versions of the application, as you can imagine, right? No application is perfect on the first try. It was iteration, iteration, iteration,” Tyler explained [4].
Watching his dad’s readings all the time was also a very interesting experience for Tyler.
“Watching someone’s data 24/7, I feel like is a lot like having a baby,” he said. “I don’t have a baby. But you’re suddenly very concerned at all hours.” [2]
He added that having someone that close to you and knowing exactly when the nightmares were happening was very important to train the app. Tyler continued to fine-tune the smartwatch app until he finally perfected the algorithm.
A Changed Life
Tyler’s smartwatch app effectively turned his father’s life around. Patrick calls the watch’s vibrations “little miracles”. He says that the difference the watch has made for him is like “night and day”.
Wearing the watch and ending his night terrors allowed Patrick to find normalcy in his life again. He is back to working as a mechanic and has even remarried. He does still have nightmares occasionally, but they no longer take over his life the way they used to.
The FDA has recently approved the app as a treatment for PTSD-related nightmare disorders. An investor has now purchased the rights to the app and has started a company called NightWare. Soon, more trauma sufferers will be able to use Tyler’s app, and hopefully get their lives back the way Patrick did.
“It was honestly pretty incredible to have done something for my dad that, you know, positively influenced his life and using technology,” said Tyler. “So I’m a big tech guy. And being able to make someone’s life better and use technology was just a win-win.” [4]
Keep Reading: California Couple ‘Adopts’ 93-Year-Old Veteran After His Town Burned to the Ground


theheartysoul--2020-03-31--Fragments of an Ancient Lost Continent Have Been Discovered in the Canadian Arctic

Scientists from the University of British Columbia have discovered pieces of a lost continent underneath Baffin Island , Nunavut , believed to have been buried more than 150 million years ago [ 1 ] .
Nunavut is a large , remote and sparsely populated territory in northern Canada .
The territory has been of particular interest for gem-mining companies seeking to study and explore kimberlite , an igneous rock formed beneath the earth that sometimes contains diamonds in its rock matrix .
Kimberlite stones were formed millions of years ago and as they are shot upward by volcanic eruptions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The earth hasn ’ t always been structured the way it is today .
Theoretically , our dear planet ’ s lithosphere is made up of 15- 20 fragments called tectonic plates that shift to form geographical locations [ 2 ] .
Think of them as pieces of broken chinaware , linking themselves together by shifting to find the right fit .
When two or more of these plates collide , continental crusts break and buckle up which can cause the gradual disappearance of locations and the formation of new ones .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Lost Continent of Greater Adria Has Been Found Buried Under Europe Evidence of a world we can only begin to imagine This was discovered by a team of researchers studying kimberlite provided by Peregrine Diamonds , a junior exploration company .
Published in the Journal of Petrology , the team reports that the chemical composition of the samples from their research was similar to the same rocks found in the North Atlantic Cratons ( NAC ) , a long-lost ancient part of the earth ’ s original crust .
A particular strong-point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the kimberlite samples [ 3 ] .
Olivine is a magnesium iron silicate compound so abundant in the original NAC crust that it became a sole distinct feature .
The modern world is believed to be formed around the cratons , ancient parts of the earth ’ s continental lithosphere , and no piece of these crusts in the North Atlantic region has been discovered until now .
The NAC originally ran from Scotland to North America , but due to the earth ’ s restlessness , the landmass broke up and is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fragments can be found as parts of Scotland , Greenland , and Labrador in eastern Canada .
The scientists have confirmed that Baffin Island in Canada ’ s arctic was once connected to the North Atlantic Craton , a lost continent buried hundreds of millions of years ago [ 4 ] .
Olivine is often referred to as “ the main mineral of the upper mantle ” , commonly found in the earth ’ s subsurface since it withers quickly on the surface itself .
In most other crusts of lost landmasses discovered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 65 % olivine and 25 % orthopyroxene , a silicate mineral compound [ 5 ] .
However , in the NAC , the subsurface contains about 85 % olivine and about 10 % orthopyroxene , a similar ratio found in Baffin Island ’ s Kimberlite samples .
Read : Ancient tree with record of Earth ’ s magnetic field reversal in its rings discovered From the sizes of the kimberlite samples discovered , the researchers have reason to believe that the NAC is 10 % larger than was originally estimated .
As opposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the first time parts of an ancient landmass have been discovered at such far-reaching depths below the earth ’ s surface .
Kopylova explains that their knowledge of the geographical layout of the area is “ literally and symbolically deeper ” , and the recent discovery will pave way for more in-depth and targeted research in the future .
This is not the first time a lost continent has been discovered .
In 2017 , researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand discovered the lost continent of Zealandia , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ocean about 85 million years ago [ 6 ] .
Zealandia is known to be the world ’ s youngest continent .
Earlier that year in January , researchers from South Africa ’ s University of Witwatersrand discovered Mauritia , an ancient continent buried under the Island of Mauritius , which has now been classified as part of the East African country [ 7 ] .
Keep Reading : A Tectonic Plate May Have Peeled Apart – and That Could Shrink the Atlantic Ocean

Scientists from the University of British Columbia have discovered pieces of a lost continent underneath Baffin Island, Nunavut, believed to have been buried more than 150 million years ago [1]. Nunavut is a large, remote and sparsely populated territory in northern Canada. The territory has been of particular interest for gem-mining companies seeking to study and explore kimberlite, an igneous rock formed beneath the earth that sometimes contains diamonds in its rock matrix. Kimberlite stones were formed millions of years ago and as they are shot upward by volcanic eruptions, they gather diamond stones along the way.
The earth hasn’t always been structured the way it is today. Theoretically, our dear planet’s lithosphere is made up of 15- 20 fragments called tectonic plates that shift to form geographical locations [2]. Think of them as pieces of broken chinaware, linking themselves together by shifting to find the right fit. When two or more of these plates collide, continental crusts break and buckle up which can cause the gradual disappearance of locations and the formation of new ones.
Evidence of a world we can only begin to imagine
This was discovered by a team of researchers studying kimberlite provided by Peregrine Diamonds, a junior exploration company. Published in the Journal of Petrology, the team reports that the chemical composition of the samples from their research was similar to the same rocks found in the North Atlantic Cratons (NAC), a long-lost ancient part of the earth’s original crust. A particular strong-point was the composition of olivine found in the kimberlite samples [3]. Olivine is a magnesium iron silicate compound so abundant in the original NAC crust that it became a sole distinct feature.
The modern world is believed to be formed around the cratons, ancient parts of the earth’s continental lithosphere, and no piece of these crusts in the North Atlantic region has been discovered until now. The NAC originally ran from Scotland to North America, but due to the earth’s restlessness, the landmass broke up and is now scattered all over North Atlantic. Fragments can be found as parts of Scotland, Greenland, and Labrador in eastern Canada.
The scientists have confirmed that Baffin Island in Canada’s arctic was once connected to the North Atlantic Craton, a lost continent buried hundreds of millions of years ago [4].
Olivine is often referred to as “the main mineral of the upper mantle”, commonly found in the earth’s subsurface since it withers quickly on the surface itself. In most other crusts of lost landmasses discovered, the subsurface is usually composed of 65% olivine and 25% orthopyroxene, a silicate mineral compound [5]. However, in the NAC, the subsurface contains about 85% olivine and about 10% orthopyroxene, a similar ratio found in Baffin Island’s Kimberlite samples.
“The mineral composition of other portions of the North Atlantic craton is so unique there was no mistaking it,” said study author Maya Kopylova. “It was easy to tie the pieces together. Adjacent ancient cratons in Northern Canada—in Northern Quebec, Northern Ontario and in Nunavut—have completely different mineralogies.”
Read: Ancient tree with record of Earth’s magnetic field reversal in its rings discovered
New horizons unlocked
From the sizes of the kimberlite samples discovered, the researchers have reason to believe that the NAC is 10% larger than was originally estimated. As opposed to previous reconstructions in Archean research this is the first time parts of an ancient landmass have been discovered at such far-reaching depths below the earth’s surface. Kopylova explains that their knowledge of the geographical layout of the area is “literally and symbolically deeper”, and the recent discovery will pave way for more in-depth and targeted research in the future.
“With these samples, we’re able to reconstruct the shapes of ancient continents based on deeper, mantle rocks,” said Kopylova. “We can now understand and map not only the uppermost skinny layer of Earth that makes up 1 percent of the planet’s volume, but our knowledge is literally and symbolically deeper. We can put together 200-kilometer deep fragments and contrast them based on the details of the deep mineralogy.”
This is not the first time a lost continent has been discovered. In 2017, researchers from the University of Otago in New Zealand discovered the lost continent of Zealandia, a landmass buried southwestern region of the Pacific Ocean about 85 million years ago [6]. Zealandia is known to be the world’s youngest continent. Earlier that year in January, researchers from South Africa’s University of Witwatersrand discovered Mauritia, an ancient continent buried under the Island of Mauritius, which has now been classified as part of the East African country [7].


theheartysoul--2020-04-01--California-Based Company Develops Clear Solar Panels

Getting solar panels installed on your roof is a real gold standard when it comes to being green .
Of course , solar panels aren ’ t the only way to generate your own power .
In 2016 , Elon Musk unveiled that his company , SolarCity , would begin manufacturing solar shingles that resemble regular roof shingles , unlike the large , bulky conventional panels .
[ 1 ] Now , another company wants your home to generate solar power in an entirely new way : with solar panel windows .
Ubiquitous Energy , a Redwood City , California-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transparent solar cell that lets light through all while producing green , renewable electricity .
According to Ubiquitous Energy , any glass surface , like the windows of a home or even a skyscraper , can be used to produce energy .
“ It can be applied to windows of skyscrapers ; it can be applied to glass in automobiles ; it can be applied to the glass on your iPhone , ” Miles Barr , Ubiquitous Energy ’ s founder and chief technology officer , said in an interview with CNN Business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are a fairly new technology and kind of a lot to wrap your head around .
How exactly do they work anyway ?
According to Barr , the glass is coated with an organic dye that allows sunlight to pass through but captures the sun ’ s infrared rays .
Read : Decentralized Microgridding Can Provide 90 % of a Neighborhood ’ s Energy Needs , Study Finds “ Light absorbing dyes are found all around us .
They ’ re in paints , they ’ re in pigments for clothing , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Barr said .
“ What we ’ ve done is we ’ ve engineered those dyes to selectively absorb infrared light and also convert that light into electricity.
” But according to Anne Grete Hestnes , a professor of architecture at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and a specialist in solar energy , there are some drawbacks .
Namely , inefficiency .
“ Their basic drawback is their relatively low efficiency , ” Professor Hestnes said .
“ However , it is all a question of price .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if the cells are to cover a relatively large area … it may be the better solution.
” But Barr says that Ubiquitous Energy ’ s clear glass solar panels are still effective , producing up to two-thirds of the energy that a rooftop panel would .
And even though they ’ re more expensive than a traditional rooftop panel , they still pay for themselves in energy savings .
Ubiquitous energy sees their clear glass solar panels for windows as a way to generate power in addition to rooftop panels , allowing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than ever before and reducing how much energy larger buildings , like skyscrapers , draw from the grid .
“ We are already installing and selling ClearView Power windows in limited sizes , and we ’ re in the planning phase for a facility that we ’ ll be able to produce windows at any size , ” Barr said .
Read : ‘ Anti-Solar ’ Cells Could Keep the Power Going at Night In 2019 , The Atlantic reported that America ’ s coal consumption had entered a “ free fall.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Atlantic , Robinson Meyer writes : And solar is stepping in to replace some of that coal power .
According to the SEIA , there are 77.7 gigawatts of solar currently installed in the United States – enough to power more than 14.5 million homes .
[ 4 ] Around the United States , there are 2.3 million solar installations that range from small rooftop systems that you might see in your neighborhood or massive , utility-scale systems that supply hundreds , if not thousands of homes with clean energy .
Barr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear solar panels helping increase the amount of energy produced by solar power in the United States and elsewhere .
“ We really see the future of this technology as being applied everywhere , all around us , ubiquitous , ” Barr said .

Getting solar panels installed on your roof is a real gold standard when it comes to being green. Of course, solar panels aren’t the only way to generate your own power. In 2016, Elon Musk unveiled that his company, SolarCity, would begin manufacturing solar shingles that resemble regular roof shingles, unlike the large, bulky conventional panels.
Now, another company wants your home to generate solar power in an entirely new way: with solar panel windows. Ubiquitous Energy, a Redwood City, California-based startup has developed a new kind of transparent solar cell that lets light through all while producing green, renewable electricity. According to Ubiquitous Energy, any glass surface, like the windows of a home or even a skyscraper, can be used to produce energy.
“It can be applied to windows of skyscrapers; it can be applied to glass in automobiles; it can be applied to the glass on your iPhone,” Miles Barr, Ubiquitous Energy’s founder and chief technology officer, said in an interview with CNN Business. [2]
Clear solar panels are a fairly new technology and kind of a lot to wrap your head around. How exactly do they work anyway? According to Barr, the glass is coated with an organic dye that allows sunlight to pass through but captures the sun’s infrared rays.
“Light absorbing dyes are found all around us. They’re in paints, they’re in pigments for clothing, and they’re even in electronic devices,” Barr said. “What we’ve done is we’ve engineered those dyes to selectively absorb infrared light and also convert that light into electricity.”
But according to Anne Grete Hestnes, a professor of architecture at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and a specialist in solar energy, there are some drawbacks. Namely, inefficiency.
“Their basic drawback is their relatively low efficiency,” Professor Hestnes said. “However, it is all a question of price. If the transparent cells are cheaper, and if the cells are to cover a relatively large area … it may be the better solution.”
But Barr says that Ubiquitous Energy’s clear glass solar panels are still effective, producing up to two-thirds of the energy that a rooftop panel would. And even though they’re more expensive than a traditional rooftop panel, they still pay for themselves in energy savings.
Ubiquitous energy sees their clear glass solar panels for windows as a way to generate power in addition to rooftop panels, allowing customers to produce even more energy on-site than ever before and reducing how much energy larger buildings, like skyscrapers, draw from the grid.
“We are already installing and selling ClearView Power windows in limited sizes, and we’re in the planning phase for a facility that we’ll be able to produce windows at any size,” Barr said.
In 2019, The Atlantic reported that America’s coal consumption had entered a “free fall.” [3] In his article for The Atlantic, Robinson Meyer writes:
“American coal consumption plunged last year, reaching its lowest level since 1975, as electrical utilities switched to cheaper natural gas and renewables. Over the past decade and a half, coal’s collapse has saved tens of thousands of lives nationwide, according to new research, and cut national greenhouse-gas emissions by more than 10 percent.”
And solar is stepping in to replace some of that coal power.
According to the SEIA, there are 77.7 gigawatts of solar currently installed in the United States – enough to power more than 14.5 million homes. [4] Around the United States, there are 2.3 million solar installations that range from small rooftop systems that you might see in your neighborhood or massive, utility-scale systems that supply hundreds, if not thousands of homes with clean energy.
Barr sees technologies like Ubiquitous Energy’s clear solar panels helping increase the amount of energy produced by solar power in the United States and elsewhere.
“We really see the future of this technology as being applied everywhere, all around us, ubiquitous,” Barr said.
Keep Reading: Secretive Energy Startup Backed by Bill Gates Achieves Solar Breakthrough.


theheartysoul--2020-04-01--Your Favorite Banana Could Go Extinct Thanks To A Deadly Fungus

If you visit a grocery store ’ s produce section , there ’ s one fruit that you are almost definitely going to see : the banana .
Bananas are a healthy fruit loaded with fiber , potassium , and other vitamins .
[ 1 ] And chances are , whether you ’ ve eaten 10 , 100 , or 1,000 bananas in your life , you ’ ve eaten the same exact type of banana each time .
Some of them are larger , some smaller , some greener and some riper .
But they ’ re all the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cavendish bananas , and they may soon be a thing of the past .
The Cavendish banana is available in nearly every supermarket and is so widespread because it ’ s hardy and easy to cultivate .
But it wasn ’ t always the “ in ” banana .
In the 1950s , people ate a type of banana called the Gros Michel .
It was similar to the Cavendish banana and enjoyed by many millions of people .
But by the middle of the 20th century , Gros Michel bananas were wiped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – Fusarium oxysprum fungus .
[ 2 ] Fusarium oxysporum , sometimes called “ Panama disease , ” is a fungus that lives in soil and causes bananas to blacken from the inside out .
Once Panama disease has infected a plantation , the fungus can completely destroy it in just a few short months .
You can remove all of the bananas from the plantation , but because the fungus can survive in the soil for decades , it will simply re-infect future crops planted there .
Fusarium begins by invading the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wound of some kind .
From there , the fungus begins invading the rootstock and leaf bases .
It spreads through vascular bundles which slowly begin to turn black .
The leaves of the banana tree begin to turn yellow , wilt , and hang downward .
Eventually , all of the aerial parts ( above-ground parts ) of the tree are dead .
The tree itself is still alive and may even develop new growth , but eventually that dies as well .
After a few years , the tree will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carry on for decades in the soil .
[ 3 ] Read : Banana Tea for Sleep : 2 Recipes That May Replace Sleeping Pills Originally the Cavendish variety was considered a replacement for the Gros Michel because it was resistant to the fungus .
However , a newer strain of the Fusarium fungus known as tropical race 4 ( TR4 ) emerged approximately 50 years ago in South East Asia and has spread around the world [ 4 ] .
This variety of Panama disease has been infecting Cavendish bananas , ravaging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Africa , and the Middle East .
But the fungus had not made it to South America until June of 2019 [ 4 ] .
After being found in La Guajira , a northeastern province of Colombia , a national emergency was immediately declared to quarantine the disease .
[ 5 ] In total , 421 acres of banana plantations were quarantined .
The situation with Fusarium fungus reaching plantations in South America is worsened by the fact that the Cavendish banana stems from just a single genetic clone , meaning the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world .
Most banana trees are sterile and grown clonally .
Any monocrop is especially vulnerable to epidemics , and the banana is no exception .
Fusarium is able to survive fungicides and fumigants that might control other infections , leaving effectively no defense for these especially vulnerable cultivars .
One of the only lines of defense for our beloved Cavendish bananas is creating a more genetically diverse tree that is resistant to Panama disease .
There are over one thousand types of bananas that grow around the world , and there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , there may ways to save it by creating a more genetically diverse banana .
Scientists could achieve this by creating a Cavendish banana tree that is resistant to Fusarium oxysporum .
Read : Blue Java Banana : The Banana That Tastes ‘ Just Like Vanilla Ice Cream ’ Another possibility would be engineering a new Cavendish banana by sequencing the genome of the banana tree and creating a new tree resistant to Fusarium .
But that opens the door to new , unforeseen problems , like the inability to resist other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ currently at bay in South America , but the question is much less if but when it surfaces again .
Sometime in our lifetimes , much like the Gros Michel banana , our beloved Cavendish banana may be a thing of the past .
Read : 8 powerful health benefits of the banana flower that nobody talks about

If you visit a grocery store’s produce section, there’s one fruit that you are almost definitely going to see: the banana. Bananas are a healthy fruit loaded with fiber, potassium, and other vitamins. [1] And chances are, whether you’ve eaten 10, 100, or 1,000 bananas in your life, you’ve eaten the same exact type of banana each time. Some of them are larger, some smaller, some greener and some riper. But they’re all the same banana. They’re called Cavendish bananas, and sadly, this banana could go extinct thanks to a deadly fungus.
Why your favorite banana could go extinct
The Cavendish banana is available in nearly every supermarket and is so widespread because it’s hardy and easy to cultivate. But it wasn’t always the “in” banana. In the 1950s, people ate a type of banana called the Gros Michel. It was similar to the Cavendish banana and enjoyed by many millions of people. But by the middle of the 20th century, Gros Michel bananas were wiped out by an insidious, deadly fungus – Fusarium oxysprum fungus. [2]
Fusarium oxysporum, sometimes called “Panama disease,” is a fungus that lives in soil and causes bananas to blacken from the inside out. Once Panama disease has infected a plantation, the fungus can completely destroy it in just a few short months. You can remove all of the bananas from the plantation, but because the fungus can survive in the soil for decades, it will simply re-infect future crops planted there.
Fusarium begins by invading the roots of banana trees, usually through a wound of some kind. From there, the fungus begins invading the rootstock and leaf bases. It spreads through vascular bundles which slowly begin to turn black. The leaves of the banana tree begin to turn yellow, wilt, and hang downward. Eventually, all of the aerial parts (above-ground parts) of the tree are dead. The tree itself is still alive and may even develop new growth, but eventually that dies as well. After a few years, the tree will eventually die, but the fungus can carry on for decades in the soil. [3]
Originally the Cavendish variety was considered a replacement for the Gros Michel because it was resistant to the fungus. However, a newer strain of the Fusarium fungus known as tropical race 4 (TR4) emerged approximately 50 years ago in South East Asia and has spread around the world [4]. This variety of Panama disease has been infecting Cavendish bananas, ravaging plantations throughout the world, namely Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. But the fungus had not made it to South America until June of 2019[4]. After being found in La Guajira, a northeastern province of Colombia, a national emergency was immediately declared to quarantine the disease. [5] In total, 421 acres of banana plantations were quarantined.
The situation with Fusarium fungus reaching plantations in South America is worsened by the fact that the Cavendish banana stems from just a single genetic clone, meaning the tree is essentially identical everywhere in the world. Most banana trees are sterile and grown clonally. Any monocrop is especially vulnerable to epidemics, and the banana is no exception. Fusarium is able to survive fungicides and fumigants that might control other infections, leaving effectively no defense for these especially vulnerable cultivars.
Defending this banana from extinction
One of the only lines of defense for our beloved Cavendish bananas is creating a more genetically diverse tree that is resistant to Panama disease. There are over one thousand types of bananas that grow around the world, and there are many delicious alternatives to the Cavendish. However, there may ways to save it by creating a more genetically diverse banana. Scientists could achieve this by creating a Cavendish banana tree that is resistant to Fusarium oxysporum.
Another possibility would be engineering a new Cavendish banana by sequencing the genome of the banana tree and creating a new tree resistant to Fusarium. But that opens the door to new, unforeseen problems, like the inability to resist other types of infections.
Panama disease is currently at bay in South America, but the question is much less if but when it surfaces again. Sometime in our lifetimes, much like the Gros Michel banana, our beloved Cavendish banana may be a thing of the past.
Keep Reading: Why Independent Farming in America Is Close to Extinction
Sources:


theheartysoul--2020-04-03--Raising Your Kids Near Their Cousins is One of the Best Gifts You Could Ever Give Them

Kids who grow up with cousins have this innate sense of family over everything that no one can influence .
Sure , having siblings makes up for a lot of the familial bond a child would ever need , but growing up with cousins in the mix hits differently .
I haven ’ t always been close to my cousins from the start .
Most of them lived too far away and during holidays , we never spent time in each other ’ s homes .
I met them on a few occasions and we were like strangers trying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 11 , things changed for the better .
A cousin moved back home with her parents and since she was the only child , my mother told me to look out for her .
She was my age , soft-spoken , terribly kind and thought the world of me .
She transferred to my school and that was one of the best things that ever happened to me .
Of course , we hit it right off and became BFFs more than cousins .
We did everything together , even well into our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connection with family meant a lot to me .
I never felt alone or unsure of myself .
My sisters were my role models and strong backups , but my cousin became a partner ( in figuring adulthood out ) .
Today , she still lives close and we still get together as much as we can , and I can only wonder how the coming-of-age transition would have been if we hadn ’ t braved it together .
As a parent , you would be doing their kids a huge favor by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Even if you have only one child , cousins can stand in for siblings in nearly every way .
Of course , cousins are going to fight and have rivalries .
When we were 15 , my cousin and I fought for almost a month over a cute guy , but we forgot about all of it the day she saw me in an argument with an older girl .
She squared up and defended me like we hadn ’ t been beefing for weeks .
Cousins have a strong sense of obligation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain your kids have their backs covered while growing up .
Your kids are safe to be themselves around their cousins because they are from the same family .
They understand one another and they all know where they came from .
Cousins are often more tolerant of each other than siblings .
They can joke about the dysfunctional aspects of their families without anyone getting offended .
Essentially , there ’ s no need to pretend around one ’ s cousins .
Your kids may see their cousins frequently but nothing beats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at family gatherings .
They see their siblings every day and it would be good to have other people to talk to and giggle with while they point out Aunt May ’ s weird hairstyle !
Read : Family Honors Grandma ’ s Memory By Displaying All Of Her Quilts at Her Funeral They can complain freely about their parents The truth is , your kids are going to think you ’ re annoying and ‘ bossy ’ at some point in their lives .
They are going to nag so much about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and don ’ t want anybody “ telling them what to do ” .
It was difficult to open up to my other friends about how my parents were driving me nuts , but to my cousin , I could tell her everything because she was family .
It ’ s easier to spill your guts to family without feeling ashamed or insecure .
A lot of parents don ’ t like their kids sleeping over at their friends ’ homes for safety reasons .
I mean , you don ’ t know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You don ’ t know what the parents and siblings are like , and it ’ s just too difficult to leave your kid at their mercy for one night .
However , your child can stay for as long as she wants in her cousin ’ s place and you ’ d have nothing to worry about .
You ’ d be sure she ’ s safe and in good hands .
You can be certain your kids would go through life with the best support anyone could ever have – a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Cousins are like knights to one another , and no matter what comes along , you can be sure they ’ d defend each other till the end .
They will always be connected to one another because that ’ s what family is .
Most importantly , they ’ ll always be friends for life .
Keep Reading : The Sunday Family Dinner Is Nearly Obsolete , But it ’ s One That ’ s Worth Bringing Back

A cousin is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost – Marion C. Garretty Cousins. The family members you cherish because they’re not just family, they’re also friends you can trust to have your back 100 percent. Having cousins can be especially welcome if your kid is an only child. They get all the joys of having siblings with the added benefit of fewer fights.
What makes grandma’s Sunday dinner so memorable for the kids? Other than her famous chicken pot pie, their cousins, of course! When you and the other adults go on about politics, celebrities, the American school system, the farmer’s market, and so on, you don’t expect the kids to casually chirp in with information on socialist and capitalist economies. They just sit there, bored out of their minds. But a house full of other kids their age, who they’re completely at ease with, is a breath of fresh air. Here are some perks your kids enjoy when they are close with their cousins.
Read More: Dear Uninvolved Family, I’m Sad You Don’t Care Enough to Know Us
Your cousin is a familiar friend
You don’t have to worry about going all FBI to check out your kids’ playmates before letting them hang out. Chances are, you were in the delivery room when they were born. In fact, they’re like your own kids.
Sleepovers
Sleepovers become more fun than scary for you. You get the night off to relax. You don’t have to worry about whether or not you did the right thing by letting your child spend the night at a stranger’s place. We’ve all seen those creepy family movies.
However, this is not the case here. Your siblings are most likely some of the people you trust most in the world. Not to mention, they are going to love your child and treat them like their own. And that’s one guilt-free and enjoyment-laden night for you.
Family and Friends
Cousins are a cross between friends and siblings. Your kid has someone to sneak off with during the boring family dinners and have a little gossip session. Most kids feel more comfortable sharing a secret with their friends than their parents or siblings. However, if they’re close with their cousins, chances are, they’re going to share it with them.
Besides, even if they fight, just like siblings, they’re bound to bounce back and build a stronger relationship.
Companionship
Most people wait a year or two after their first baby before having another one, leaving an oldest child with limited companions other than you, cartoons, and stuffed animals. If they have cousins, they have best friends from the moment they are born.
Support
Your kids and their cousins provide a support system for each other. Yes, sometimes they fight like there’s no tomorrow, but they’ll be the ones to protect your kids from bullies. No one messes with their sweet little “bro.”
Schoolmates
Your child already has people to hang out with at school. Remember those first-day jitters? You can definitely calm their nerves by saying, “Remember, Stacey’s going to be there.”
A bonus is that lunchtime isn’t going to be as stressful. They don’t have to go through the rigorous task of finding a table to sit at. They have one where they fit into, and be surrounded by happy faces.
Learn By Example
Your kids have so much to learn from their cousins. This is especially true when they are older cousins. They teach your children so much, mostly by example. They share so much with your kids that by the time you have another baby, your older children are more than willing to share their toys, clothes, and other things with the newcomer.
Family Values
Having cousins will instill a sense of family into your kids. This ensures that when they grow up and have their own families, they’ll want to maintain a close relationship with every member of their extended family.
Inside jokes with your cousin
It’s refreshing for your kids having someone to laugh at all those corny inside jokes with. All someone has to say is “Aunt Meg” and they share a knowing look whilst bursting into laughter. You probably don’t know why but that moment is sure to put a smile on your face.
No matter how you feel about your extended family or family gatherings, you will be attending. This is because now the ultimate reason for attending family gatherings is for your children to have the time of their lives with their cousins. Little kids love their cousins. I’m not being cute or exaggerating here. Cousins are like celebs for little kids. If little kids had a People magazine, cousins would be on the cover. Cousins are barometers of how much fun a family get-together will be. Are the cousins going to be there? Fun! – Jim Gaffigan
Moms and Dads, cousins are more than playmates for your kids. Even if you live far from your extended family, make sure they get to see each other as often as possible.
Remember, cousins, are like genetically linked best friends. “Special friends from the same family tree.“
Keep Reading: Why Raising Kids Without Extended Family Nearby Sucks


theheartysoul--2020-04-03--12 Impressive Pallet Fence Ideas Anyone Can Build

Wooden fences are classic and you ’ ll find them in so many places , and for obvious reasons ( white picket fence anyone ? )
.
They are easy to construct , affordable , and often add a welcoming appearance to your home or garden .
There are dozens of other fencing materials you could use out there , but you ’ ll probably not find any as convenient as wooden pallets .
It ’ s either they over-serve the purpose and are too expensive and difficult to set up ( such as iron bar fences ) or they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not last long ( plastic barriers ) .
Well , with a few handy tools and extra materials such as nails , heavy duty staples , and wire gauze , you can build the perfect pallet barrier to suit your fencing needs .
Here ’ s why you should try pallet fences : They are easy to work with : woodworking is often the preferred choice over metal-working .
You can easily purchase wooden pallets ready-to-go and all you ’ d have to do is a bit of joinery work .
If you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you could always do that , and you ’ d probably save a little money .
Super-convenient : With pallet fences , you can get as much coverage as you want to the exact precision without needing so much preparation or layout work .
Little can go wrong with wooden fences .
Also , they can be built in any shape to suit your needs .
Upcycling : The best part about using pallets is that you don ’ t have to buy them brand new .
Rustic appearances would actually add a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You could find dozens of old pallets stacked away in warehouses to be purchased at a reduced price .
Also , old-growth wood is usually stronger than virgin wood , according to the Janka hardness scale .
They are durable : Once constructed to be firm and sturdy , pallet fences are durable and can last for many years .
Wooden pallets are built to be resistant to adverse weather conditions and frequent vibration .
A welcoming appearance : Wooden pallets often have the same effect as the infamous “ white picket fence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in your home , garden or farmyard , they ’ ll surely add a warm , earthy feel to the scenery .
A few things to keep in mind : Safety : Pallet fences may not offer as much security as you ’ d like .
Anyone can easily climb over or break through them , so it ’ s best to be mindful of what you ’ re fencing in with your pallets , especially when they are not up to 5 feet in height .
However , these are typically @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probably the biggest threat .
These wouldn ’ t be good for most livestock or medium to large dogs that are good jumpers either .
Privacy : Pallet fences may not be the best option if you ’ re trying to protect a place from trespassers .
Since these fences are on the shorter side , they wont keep much in or out , unless you stack them .
If privacy and safety are concerns , something taller , more rbust , and with less gaps will work .
Looks : Yes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we can respect that .
To many , these types of fences might seem a little ‘ rough around the edges.
’ However , if you ’ re up for it you can do a little sanding and throw on some paint .
That said , here are 10 awesome pallet fence ideas that are super-easy to build [ 1 ] : Read : Tutorial : Build an amazing DIY pergola and fire pit with swings Read : The 4-Inch Kitchen Space You Keep Neglecting but Should Really Use for Storage Easy-to-follow DIY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Keep Reading : How to Make A DIY Rustic Live Edge Countertop

Wooden fences are classic and you’ll find them in so many places, and for obvious reasons (white picket fence anyone?). They are easy to construct, affordable, and often add a welcoming appearance to your home or garden. There are dozens of other fencing materials you could use out there, but you’ll probably not find any as convenient as wooden pallets. It’s either they over-serve the purpose and are too expensive and difficult to set up (such as iron bar fences) or they are too weak and would most likely not last long (plastic barriers).
Well, with a few handy tools and extra materials such as nails, heavy duty staples, and wire gauze, you can build the perfect pallet barrier to suit your fencing needs.
Here’s why you should try pallet fences:
They are easy to work with: woodworking is often the preferred choice over metal-working. You can easily purchase wooden pallets ready-to-go and all you’d have to do is a bit of joinery work. If you have the know-how to construct them yourself you could always do that, and you’d probably save a little money.
Super-convenient: With pallet fences, you can get as much coverage as you want to the exact precision without needing so much preparation or layout work. Little can go wrong with wooden fences. Also, they can be built in any shape to suit your needs.
Upcycling: The best part about using pallets is that you don’t have to buy them brand new. Rustic appearances would actually add a little more charm to the structure. You could find dozens of old pallets stacked away in warehouses to be purchased at a reduced price. Also, old-growth wood is usually stronger than virgin wood, according to the Janka hardness scale.
They are durable: Once constructed to be firm and sturdy, pallet fences are durable and can last for many years. Wooden pallets are built to be resistant to adverse weather conditions and frequent vibration.
A welcoming appearance: Wooden pallets often have the same effect as the infamous “white picket fence”. Whether you’re using them in your home, garden or farmyard, they’ll surely add a warm, earthy feel to the scenery.
A few things to keep in mind:
Safety: Pallet fences may not offer as much security as you’d like. Anyone can easily climb over or break through them, so it’s best to be mindful of what you’re fencing in with your pallets, especially when they are not up to 5 feet in height. However, these are typically recommended for gardens, so animals are probably the biggest threat. These wouldn’t be good for most livestock or medium to large dogs that are good jumpers either.
Privacy: Pallet fences may not be the best option if you’re trying to protect a place from trespassers. Since these fences are on the shorter side, they wont keep much in or out, unless you stack them. If privacy and safety are concerns, something taller, more rbust, and with less gaps will work.
Looks: Yes, looks matter to some people, and we can respect that. To many, these types of fences might seem a little ‘rough around the edges.’ However, if you’re up for it you can do a little sanding and throw on some paint.
That said, here are 10 awesome pallet fence ideas that are super-easy to build [1]:
#1
#2
Read: Tutorial: Build an amazing DIY pergola and fire pit with swings
#3
#4
#5
#6
#7
#8
#9
#10
Easy-to-follow DIY tutorials to building your own pallet fence:
Keep Reading: How to Make A DIY Rustic Live Edge Countertop