theheartysoul--2020-06-22--This House On Wheels Comes Fully Furnished and Sleeps 6 People

Everyone has a different idea of a dream home .
For some , it ’ s the penthouse suite in a bustling city center .
For others , it ’ s a sprawling ranch-style home in the countryside , and for others it might be a rustic cabin tucked somewhere deep in the woods .
There are others , however , who don ’ t want to be tethered to any one place .
They want to have the ability and freedom to move around and explore different towns and cities across the country .
For these people , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of life .
When we hear the words “ mobile home ” , most of us picture a massive , tacky-looking box on wheels , or perhaps a retro VW van with a brightly-colored paint job .
For some , neither of these options are very appealing .
Luckily , there is a company making luxury homes on wheels that look nothing like the classic camper you ’ re imagining , and they are so beautiful it may convince you to move your home to the open road .
Read : Austin Is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They Look Incredible The Rustic River Park Home is 43 feet long and 11 feet wide , and can comfortably house up to six people .
On the outside , it looks nothing like a classic RV with its wooden paneling and screened-in back porch , and once you step inside you ’ ll forget you ’ re in a mobile home altogether [ 1 ] .
Although it is classified as a “ tiny home ” , the interior is spacious enough that you won ’ t be cramped at all .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a granite countertop , and full stainless steel appliances .
There is a master bedroom in the upstairs loft , as well as bunk beds to accommodate guests , allowing this home to comfortably house a small family [ 1 ] .
The photos here are of the model called the “ Chattahoochee ” , however there are five other models available including the Cahaba , the Savannah 1 Bedroom , the Savannah 2 Bedroom , the Shenandoah , and the Cumberland [ 2 ] .
All of the models are similar in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just over 32 thousand dollars to just under 43 thousand dollars .
They are fully furnished and ready to hit the road immediately after purchase .
Although the price of these homes may seem steep compared to other more traditional mobile homes on the market , they are an incredibly affordable option for those who are looking to ditch their permanent home and live the tiny home lifestyle .
Read : Solar-powered Boat is the Perfect Tiny Home for a Life of Sailing To some , living in such a small space may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are actually many benefits to living in a tiny home .
Since you have less space , you are less likely to accumulate clutter , since you have nowhere to put it .
You also have a smaller space to clean , giving your more time to engage in hobbies and spend time with family and friends .
Tiny homes can also offer a lot in terms of money saving .
The home itself is less expensive than traditional houses , and since it is a much smaller space , you will likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You may also find that you save money at the grocery store , since you have less space to store excess food items and therefore can not pick up extras .
Many tiny home owners also report having a better quality of life , citing that when they got rid of their “ stuff ” , they felt relieved .
They are also no longer weighed down by a massive mortgage , and as mentioned have more time for leisure activities .
Finally , if you are concerned about your impact on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an excellent option because it allows you to have a smaller carbon footprint .
This is because tiny homes use less energy , produce less waste , and consume fewer resources than traditional houses .
Of course , there are drawbacks to this way of life .
When moving into a tiny home , you have to be much more disciplined with what you do and do not keep , and it requires immense amounts of organization since you have much less space to work with .
Entertaining can also be more challenging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since you don ’ t necessarily have the space to invite your friends and family indoors [ 3 ] .
An Alternative Way of Living While there are drawbacks to tiny home living , if you are someone who tends to feel trapped when you ’ re stuck in one place for too long , doesn ’ t want to be tied down to one location , or is looking for a life of adventure and excitement , the Rustic River Park Home may be just what you ’ re looking for .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since 1968 ( Property Now Valued At $ 4-6 Million )

Everyone has a different idea of a dream home. For some, it’s the penthouse suite in a bustling city center. For others, it’s a sprawling ranch-style home in the countryside, and for others it might be a rustic cabin tucked somewhere deep in the woods.
There are others, however, who don’t want to be tethered to any one place. They want to have the ability and freedom to move around and explore different towns and cities across the country. For these people, a mobile home may be the ideal way of life.
When we hear the words “mobile home”, most of us picture a massive, tacky-looking box on wheels, or perhaps a retro VW van with a brightly-colored paint job. For some, neither of these options are very appealing. Luckily, there is a company making luxury homes on wheels that look nothing like the classic camper you’re imagining, and they are so beautiful it may convince you to move your home to the open road.
Read: Austin Is Getting a Village of 3D-Printed Affordable Homes—and They Look Incredible
Not Your Average RV
The Rustic River Park Home is 43 feet long and 11 feet wide, and can comfortably house up to six people. On the outside, it looks nothing like a classic RV with its wooden paneling and screened-in back porch, and once you step inside you’ll forget you’re in a mobile home altogether [1].
Although it is classified as a “tiny home”, the interior is spacious enough that you won’t be cramped at all. The large kitchen features wooden cabinets, a granite countertop, and full stainless steel appliances.
There is a master bedroom in the upstairs loft, as well as bunk beds to accommodate guests, allowing this home to comfortably house a small family [1].
An Affordable Housing Option
The photos here are of the model called the “Chattahoochee”, however there are five other models available including the Cahaba, the Savannah 1 Bedroom, the Savannah 2 Bedroom, the Shenandoah, and the Cumberland [2].
All of the models are similar in size, and range in price from just over 32 thousand dollars to just under 43 thousand dollars. They are fully furnished and ready to hit the road immediately after purchase.
Although the price of these homes may seem steep compared to other more traditional mobile homes on the market, they are an incredibly affordable option for those who are looking to ditch their permanent home and live the tiny home lifestyle.
Read: Solar-powered Boat is the Perfect Tiny Home for a Life of Sailing
The Benefits of Tiny Home Living
To some, living in such a small space may sound like a nightmare, but there are actually many benefits to living in a tiny home.
Since you have less space, you are less likely to accumulate clutter, since you have nowhere to put it. You also have a smaller space to clean, giving your more time to engage in hobbies and spend time with family and friends.
Tiny homes can also offer a lot in terms of money saving. The home itself is less expensive than traditional houses, and since it is a much smaller space, you will likely spend far less on heating and cooling. You may also find that you save money at the grocery store, since you have less space to store excess food items and therefore cannot pick up extras.
Many tiny home owners also report having a better quality of life, citing that when they got rid of their “stuff”, they felt relieved. They are also no longer weighed down by a massive mortgage, and as mentioned have more time for leisure activities.
Finally, if you are concerned about your impact on the environment, a tiny home is an excellent option because it allows you to have a smaller carbon footprint. This is because tiny homes use less energy, produce less waste, and consume fewer resources than traditional houses.
Of course, there are drawbacks to this way of life. When moving into a tiny home, you have to be much more disciplined with what you do and do not keep, and it requires immense amounts of organization since you have much less space to work with. Entertaining can also be more challenging, particularly in the colder months, since you don’t necessarily have the space to invite your friends and family indoors [3].
An Alternative Way of Living
While there are drawbacks to tiny home living, if you are someone who tends to feel trapped when you’re stuck in one place for too long, doesn’t want to be tied down to one location, or is looking for a life of adventure and excitement, the Rustic River Park Home may be just what you’re looking for.
Keep Reading: California Man Living Off-Grid Since 1968 (Property Now Valued At $4-6 Million)


theheartysoul--2020-06-22--This Chart Shows You Which Chores Are Age-Appropriate For Your Kids

Household chores can seem never-ending , but when you get the whole family involved it can lighten the load for everyone .
As most parents know , however , getting your kids to do chores can often be a challenge , and can sometimes take some creativity .
While your kids may initially put up some resistance , getting them involved in keeping the house clean and tidy teaches them valuable life skills , and is worth the struggle .
Finding age-appropriate chores for your kids will get them involved in the daily cleanup , no matter how young they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kids Of course , having your kids help out around the house benefits you since it lessens some of your workload , but the greatest beneficiaries of household chores are actually your kids themselves .
Tackling the chores list as a family fosters teamwork , a skill that children will take with them to school and into the workforce later in life [ 1 ] .
Helping out around the house will also help your child to grow as a person .
Doing chores can provide your children with a feeling of confidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their abilities to achieve a goal ( in this case , completing the chore ) .
When they are reminded that their work helps everyone else out in the household , it also teaches them to take pride in the job that they ’ ve done [ 2 ] .
Doing chores encourages independence , because your child is doing the job by themselves , and teaches the importance of completing an assigned job , which will serve them well when they get a job in the future [ 3 ] .
Structure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between parents and children , and can help build your child ’ s self-control .
Having a weekly chore routine wherein your children know exactly what is expected of them helps set this structure within your household [ 2 ] .
Of course , when your kids take part in the family chore load , everyone in the household benefits because chores get done quicker .
This allows more time for the members of your household to spend quality time together once all the necessary tasks are completed , bringing your family closer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a leadership speaker , trainer and consultant with a background in family life education and child development , says that when children learn chores , it instills leadership and tells them that their abilities benefit the family .
Read : How Yelling at Your Kids Actually Affects Them When getting your kids involved in household tasks , it is important that they are given age-appropriate jobs .
If the chore is too difficult , they will get frustrated and discouraged , and it will likely not get done the way you want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too easy they may get bored and become less interested in completing the job .
The following are some examples of chores that are best based on your child ’ s age : • Make beds on their own • Bring in the mail and newspapers • Take out the trash • Test smoke alarms at least once a month • Do laundry on their own • Keep and eye on younger siblings Tips to get your Kids to do Chores Getting your kids to do chores will not always be easy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can do to get them on board , and to ensure that the task gets done up to your standards .
It is important to remember that every time you teach your child a new chore , there will be a learning curve for them that may require some patience on your part , especially with younger ones .
Clary suggests that you do the chore with your child the first few times , then have them complete it while you ’ re close by in case they have any questions .
Psychologists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ toddlers , that is children between the ages one and three , as largely incapable of being of much help , but this could not be further from the truth .
Toddlers are very eager to help , and getting them involved in family chores at an early age sets the precedent that they will continue to do so as they get older [ 4 ] .
Many parents would rather do chores themselves because they can get them done quicker , and with less mess .
But parents who expose their children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help out , even if that means it takes a little longer , give their child the opportunity to learn .
A messy , fairly incompetent four-year-old who wants to help do the dishes now , for example , will eventually turn into a more competent seven-year-old who wants to help .
One way to encourage your child to get involved in family chores is to remind them that they are contributing to a common goal .
Young children particularly are motivated by wanting to be a contributing member of the family , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cleanup is a great way to encourage them to help out [ 4 ] .
It may be challenging sometimes to give the reins to your kids and have them complete a chore that you could get done in half the time , but getting them involved will provide them with innumerable benefits that will follow them into adulthood , and only benefit you more as they get older and more competent .
Keep Reading : School in Spain Teaches Boys How to Do Household Chores to Stop Gender Inequality

Household chores can seem never-ending, but when you get the whole family involved it can lighten the load for everyone. As most parents know, however, getting your kids to do chores can often be a challenge, and can sometimes take some creativity. Choosing age appropriate chores can help get them into helping around the house.
While your kids may initially put up some resistance, getting them involved in keeping the house clean and tidy teaches them valuable life skills, and is worth the struggle. Finding age-appropriate chores for your kids will get them involved in the daily cleanup, no matter how young they are.
Chores are Good for your Kids
Of course, having your kids help out around the house benefits you since it lessens some of your workload, but the greatest beneficiaries of household chores are actually your kids themselves.
Tackling the chores list as a family fosters teamwork, a skill that children will take with them to school and into the workforce later in life. Helping out around the house will also help your child to grow as a person.
Doing chores can provide your children with a feeling of confidence and self-efficacy as they learn to use their abilities to achieve a goal (in this case, completing the chore). When they are reminded that their work helps everyone else out in the household, it also teaches them to take pride in the job that they’ve done [1].
Doing chores encourages independence, because your child is doing the job by themselves, and teaches the importance of completing an assigned job, which will serve them well when they get a job in the future.
Structure and routine also helps reduce power struggles between parents and children, and can help build your child’s self-control. Having a weekly chore routine wherein your children know exactly what is expected of them helps set this structure within your household.
Of course, when your kids take part in the family chore load, everyone in the household benefits because chores get done quicker. This allows more time for the members of your household to spend quality time together once all the necessary tasks are completed, bringing your family closer together.
Laura Clary, a leadership speaker, trainer and consultant with a background in family life education and child development, says that when children learn chores, it instills leadership and tells them that their abilities benefit the family.
“It also teaches them responsibility and supports their learning as they process size, location, colors, timing and the process of how things work and are completed.” [1]
Age Appropriate Chores
When getting your kids involved in household tasks, it is important that they are given age-appropriate jobs. If the chore is too difficult, they will get frustrated and discouraged, and it will likely not get done the way you want it, but if it’s too easy they may get bored and become less interested in completing the job.
The following are some examples of chores that are best based on your child’s age:
Ages 2-3
Put away toys
Fill a pet’s food dish
Put clothes in the hamper
Wipe up spills
Dust safe and easy-to-reach areas
Stock books on shelves
Help make beds
Mop small areas with a dry mop
Ages 4-5
Sort laundry
Fold towels and washcloths
Help unload the dishwasher
Sweep floors
Set and clear the table
Help make and pack lunches
Rake leaves and pick up sticks
Help put away groceries
Ages 6-7
Clean bathrooms and kitchen
Do simple sewing and mending projects
Sweep out the garage
Cook a simple meal, with adult supervision
Do laundry on their own
Keep an eye on younger siblings
Prepare a simple meal
Ages 8-9
Make beds on their own
Empty wastebaskets
Bring in the mail and newspapers
Clear the table
Pull weeds
Use a handheld vacuum
Water flowers
Help plant a vegetable garden or tree
Iron clothes (with supervision)
Age 10-11
Load the dishwasher
Vacuum
Assist with kids-friendly DIY projects
Put away laundry
Take out the trash
Mop floors
Take pets for walks
Test smoke alarms at least once a month
Ages 12+
Wash windows
Maintain compost bins
Paint walls
Undertake simple home projects
Mow the lawn with supervision
Change lightbulbs
Change vacuum bag
Deep clean rooms
Tips to get your Kids to do Chores
Getting your kids to do chores will not always be easy, but there are a few things you can do to get them on board, and to ensure that the task gets done up to your standards.
It is important to remember that every time you teach your child a new chore, there will be a learning curve for them that may require some patience on your part, especially with younger ones. Clary suggests that you do the chore with your child the first few times, then have them complete it while you’re close by in case they have any questions.
“After that, allow the child to do the chore on their own,” she says.
Psychologists suggest starting young. We often regard toddlers, that is children between the ages one and three, as largely incapable of being of much help, but this could not be further from the truth. Toddlers are very eager to help, and getting them involved in family chores at an early age sets the precedent that they will continue to do so as they get older [2].
Many parents would rather do chores themselves because they can get them done quicker, and with less mess. But parents who expose their children to chores, and allow them to help out, even if that means it takes a little longer, give their child the opportunity to learn.
A messy, fairly incompetent four-year-old who wants to help do the dishes now, for example, will eventually turn into a more competent seven-year-old who wants to help.
“Early opportunities to collaborate with parents likely sets off a developmental trajectory that leads to children voluntarily helping and pitching in at home,” says the University of New Hampshire’s Andrew Coppens.
One way to encourage your child to get involved in family chores is to remind them that they are contributing to a common goal. Young children particularly are motivated by wanting to be a contributing member of the family, so getting the entire family involved in cleanup is a great way to encourage them to help out.
It may be challenging sometimes to give the reins to your kids and have them complete a chore that you could get done in half the time, but getting them involved will provide them with innumerable benefits that will follow them into adulthood, and only benefit you more as they get older and more competent.
Keep Reading: Woman Decides To Stop Doing All The Chores For Her Family And Document The Results


theheartysoul--2020-06-22--Floating islands bring a new type of public park to Copenhagen

The benefits of being outdoors have become increasingly evident over the last several years .
Getting outside helps you get more exercise and vitamin D , helps ease anxiety , encourages social behavior , and improves your sleep , self-esteem , focus , immune system , and creativity [ 1 ] .
Because of this , city planners are looking for ways to increase access to outdoor green spaces in communities , particularly for those who live in urban centers .
In large cities around the world , however , their biggest issue is a lack of space .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has found a creative way to maximize their city ’ s space by creating floating islands , where citizens can kick back and enjoy the outdoors .
Read : Levi ’ s Found a Way to Make Hemp Feel like Cotton Copenhagen ’ s new floating islands were designed by Australian architect Marshal Blecher in partnership with Danish design studio Fokstrot .
They have unveiled plans for a “ parkipelago ” of floating islands , which they ’ re calling the Copenhagen Islands , that city residents and visitors can use for free @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to take advantage of underutilized , nearly forgotten parts of the city ’ s old harbor , these new mobile islands will not only benefit citizens of Copenhagen but will create natural green spaces that benefit both plants and animals .
Each island will be built by hand using traditional techniques in the boat-building yards in the city ’ s south harbor .
The first prototype , CPH-Ø1 , is a 215-square-foot platform made of timber and features a Linden tree in the center .
It is buoyed by recycled plastic water @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for residents enjoying water activities like kayaking , as well as a small event space [ 3 ] .
The CPH-Ø1 was launched in 2018 to great success .
The island ’ s website describes it as a new form of greenspace for the public : Since they are moveable , the islands can be easily adapted to meet the needs of the public .
During the summer , they can be spread out in designated areas for boaters , swimmers , and kayakers to use , but can also be tethered together @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be more easily accessed by land [ 5 ] .
The website says that the islands will be placed in suitable locations around the inner harbour , but will also be put in underused corners of the harbour to bring back life to that area .
Read : First Floating Ocean Hybrid Platform Can Generate Power From Waves , Wind And Solar Good for the People , Good for the Planet Copenhagen ’ s floating islands provide a brand new type of sustainable outdoor public space .
All of the trees , plants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top of each island will be native to the area , creating a habitat for birds and insects .
The space underneath each island will provide ideal growing conditions for seaweed , and create a hospitable environment for sea creatures like fish and mollusks .
The architects explained that the islands reintroduce “ wilderness and whimsy ” to the harbor and offer a constantly changing , sizable greenspace in the heart of the city .
The project has received two awards for excellence in design , including the Taipei International Design Awards for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Social Design [ 2 ] .
Read : Find your inner Tarzan by sleeping in the trees in these awesome raindrop-shaped tents CPH-Ø1 is Only the Beginning The plan is to ultimately have nine islands in total , each one of them unique and built for a different purpose .
Each island will serve as a space for different activities , like swimming , floating gardens , a floating sauna , a sail-in cafe , and a mussel farm [ 4 ] .
Because these islands are made to be flexible with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ built in other harbour cities as well .
For crowded cities that have a lack of greenspace , floating islands could be the answer to their problems .
Keep Reading : Austin Is Getting a Village of 3D-Printed Affordable Homes—and They Look Incredible

The benefits of being outdoors have become increasingly evident over the last several years. Getting outside helps you get more exercise and vitamin D, helps ease anxiety, encourages social behavior, and improves your sleep, self-esteem, focus, immune system, and creativity [1].
Because of this, city planners are looking for ways to increase access to outdoor green spaces in communities, particularly for those who live in urban centers. In large cities around the world, however, their biggest issue is a lack of space.
A non-profit organization in Copenhagen, Denmark, has found a creative way to maximize their city’s space by creating floating islands, where citizens can kick back and enjoy the outdoors.
Read: Levi’s Found a Way to Make Hemp Feel like Cotton
Floating Islands- A New Place to Explore
Copenhagen’s new floating islands were designed by Australian architect Marshal Blecher in partnership with Danish design studio Fokstrot. They have unveiled plans for a “parkipelago” of floating islands, which they’re calling the Copenhagen Islands, that city residents and visitors can use for free [2].
Created as a way to take advantage of underutilized, nearly forgotten parts of the city’s old harbor, these new mobile islands will not only benefit citizens of Copenhagen but will create natural green spaces that benefit both plants and animals.
Each island will be built by hand using traditional techniques in the boat-building yards in the city’s south harbor. The first prototype, CPH-Ø1, is a 215-square-foot platform made of timber and features a Linden tree in the center. It is buoyed by recycled plastic water bottles and serves as a resting spot for residents enjoying water activities like kayaking, as well as a small event space [3].
The CPH-Ø1 was launched in 2018 to great success. The island’s website describes it as a new form of greenspace for the public:
“By placing it on the water, it creates immediate wonder for people, passing by. This is the first taste of a completely new type of public space coming to Copenhagen. Moveable, floating, public spaces free for people to explore and conquer” [4].
Since they are moveable, the islands can be easily adapted to meet the needs of the public. During the summer, they can be spread out in designated areas for boaters, swimmers, and kayakers to use, but can also be tethered together to create one large island that can be more easily accessed by land [5].
The website says that the islands will be placed in suitable locations around the inner harbour, but will also be put in underused corners of the harbour to bring back life to that area.
“Hopefully giving back a little bit of space for whimsy and wonder to the old industrial harbor sides.” [4]
Read: First Floating Ocean Hybrid Platform Can Generate Power From Waves, Wind And Solar
Good for the People, Good for the Planet
Copenhagen’s floating islands provide a brand new type of sustainable outdoor public space. All of the trees, plants, and grasses that are grown on top of each island will be native to the area, creating a habitat for birds and insects.
The space underneath each island will provide ideal growing conditions for seaweed, and create a hospitable environment for sea creatures like fish and mollusks.
The architects explained that the islands reintroduce “wilderness and whimsy” to the harbor and offer a constantly changing, sizable greenspace in the heart of the city.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBoLaI3nSvB/
“The project also hints at a new type of climate resilient urbanism, inherently flexible in its use and only using sustainably sourced and recycled materials.” [2]
The project has received two awards for excellence in design, including the Taipei International Design Awards for Public Space as well as the award for Social Design [2].
Read: Find your inner Tarzan by sleeping in the trees in these awesome raindrop-shaped tents
CPH-Ø1 is Only the Beginning
The plan is to ultimately have nine islands in total, each one of them unique and built for a different purpose. Each island will serve as a space for different activities, like swimming, floating gardens, a floating sauna, a sail-in cafe, and a mussel farm [4].
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_GG3N6pzMB/
Because these islands are made to be flexible with the local environment, they can be built in other harbour cities as well. For crowded cities that have a lack of greenspace, floating islands could be the answer to their problems.
Keep Reading: Austin Is Getting a Village of 3D-Printed Affordable Homes—and They Look Incredible


theheartysoul--2020-06-23--Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting (Gluten-free and Vegan Options)

Lavender are beautiful purple flowers with a sweet fragrance , but they are also delicious to eat .
Lavender honey and lavender goat cheese have already become beloved products , but the possibilities shouldn ’ t end there .
When paired with the yumminess of cupcakes , lavender gives a subtly sweet , citrus flavor .
Add the heavenly taste of honey and the creaminess of cream cheese frosting and these lavender cupcakes are otherworldly .
This original recipe is unbelievably tasty and beautiful in color , but if you ’ d prefer a healthier version , we ’ ve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re gluten-free , dairy-free , or follow a vegan or paleo diet , this ones for you .
Whichever version you choose , enjoy !
Read : This No-Bake Coconut Caves With Raspberry Lemon Filling is the Perfect Guilt-Free Dessert • In a medium bowl , combine flour , baking powder , dried lavender , and salt .
Set aside .
• In a large mixing bowl , beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium-to-high speed for 30 seconds .
• Add the sugar , honey and vanilla ; beat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a time , beat well after each addition .
• Add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture , alternating between the two .
Beat on low speed after each addition until the mixture is combined .
• Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins , filling each tin about half full .
• Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean .
• Keep the cupcakes in the muffin tin and let cool on wire racks for 10 minutes .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ completely on wire racks .
• In a large mixing bowl , beat the cream cheese , butter , honey and vanilla with the mixer on medium powder until light and fluffy .
• Add 1 cup of the powdered sugar , beating well .
• Gradually beat in the remaining powdered sugar until the frosting reaches spreading consistency .
• Frost the completely cooled cupcakes with the honey frosting and sprinkle with more lavender .
• In a medium bowl , combine the gluten-free flour , baking powder , dried lavender , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In a large mixing bowl , beat the coconut oil with an electric mixer on medium-to-high speed for 30 seconds before adding the coconut sugar , honey and vanilla ; beat until combined .
Add the eggs one at a time , beating well after each .
• Add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture , alternating between the two .
Beat on low speed after each addition until the mixture is well-combined .
• Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins , filling each about half full .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean .
• Keep the cupcakes in the muffin tin and let cool on wire racks for 10 minutes .
• Remove cupcakes from muffin tins and cool completely on wire racks .
• Remove the can of coconut milk from the refrigerator .
( Very important : Avoid shaking or turning the can upside down . )
Open the can and scoop out the solidified , waxy layer of coconut cream at the top into a medium mixing bowl .
Do not use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can that is slightly watery .
( Use the remaining coconut water in a smoothie or another recipe . )
• Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer , ( fitted with the whisk attachment ) beat the cream on medium until light , fluffy and soft peaks form .
• Add the coconut yogurt , coconut oil , vanilla , salt , and 3 tablespoons of honey .
Beat for about 10 seconds and add more honey , if more sweetness desired .
The frosting will be quite thin now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chilling .
• Chill the frosting for about 4 hours .
The frosting will still be rather soft but after frosting your cake or cupcakes , a little of the moisture will be sucked up and will appear firm .
Refrigerate anything frosted with this recipe .
• Refrigerate any leftover frosting in an airtight container for up to three days .
For the all-purpose gluten-free flour , you can use a store-bought mix , or make your own .
Simply sift the following ingredients together until they ’ re well-blended : This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gluten-free flour .
Use in above recipe as directed , and store the rest in an airtight container in the fridge .
Keep Reading : 5 Zucchini Desserts That ’ ll Make Everyone Want to Eat Their Veggies

Lavender are beautiful purple flowers with a sweet fragrance, but they are also delicious to eat. Lavender honey and lavender goat cheese have already become beloved products, but the possibilities shouldn’t end there. When paired with the yumminess of cupcakes, lavender gives a subtly sweet, citrus flavor. Add the heavenly taste of honey and the creaminess of cream cheese frosting and these lavender cupcakes are otherworldly.
This original recipe is unbelievably tasty and beautiful in color, but if you’d prefer a healthier version, we’ve included one below. So if you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or follow a vegan or paleo diet, this ones for you. Whichever version you choose, enjoy!
Related recipe: How to make gluten free sugar cookies
Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
For the cake:
1/2 cup room temp butter
2 eggs
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp dried lavender
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
2/3 cup milk
For the frosting:
8 oz room temp cream cheese
2 tbsp room temp butter
¼ cup honey
½ tsp vanilla
3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
For the cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°.
In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, dried lavender, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer on medium-to-high speed for 30 seconds.
Add the sugar, honey and vanilla; beat until combined. Adding one egg at a time, beat well after each addition.
Add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Beat on low speed after each addition until the mixture is combined.
Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins, filling each tin about half full.
Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.
Keep the cupcakes in the muffin tin and let cool on wire racks for 10 minutes.
Remove cupcakes from muffin tins and cool completely on wire racks.
For the frosting:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, honey and vanilla with the mixer on medium powder until light and fluffy.
Add 1 cup of the powdered sugar, beating well.
Gradually beat in the remaining powdered sugar until the frosting reaches spreading consistency.
Frost the completely cooled cupcakes with the honey frosting and sprinkle with more lavender.
Recipe by Patricia Burrett
Healthier Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Coconut Cream Frosting
Ingredients
For the cake:
1/2 cup coconut oil
2 eggs or flax eggs
1 3/4 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour*
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp dried lavender
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup coconut sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
2/3 cup coconut or almond milk
For the frosting:
a 14-ounce (396-gram) full-fat can of coconut milk, chilled overnight
1/4 cup (60 grams) coconut yogurt
1/4 cup (56 grams) coconut oil, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
3 tablespoons honey
Instructions
For the cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°.
In a medium bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, dried lavender, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the coconut oil with an electric mixer on medium-to-high speed for 30 seconds before adding the coconut sugar, honey and vanilla; beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
Add the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Beat on low speed after each addition until the mixture is well-combined.
Spoon the batter into lined muffin tins, filling each about half full.
Bake for 16 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean.
Keep the cupcakes in the muffin tin and let cool on wire racks for 10 minutes.
Remove cupcakes from muffin tins and cool completely on wire racks.
For the frosting:
Remove the can of coconut milk from the refrigerator. (Very important: Avoid shaking or turning the can upside down.) Open the can and scoop out the solidified, waxy layer of coconut cream at the top into a medium mixing bowl. Do not use the rest of the contents of the can that is slightly watery. (Use the remaining coconut water in a smoothie or another recipe.)
Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer, (fitted with the whisk attachment) beat the cream on medium until light, fluffy and soft peaks form.
Add the coconut yogurt, coconut oil, vanilla, salt, and 3 tablespoons of honey. Beat for about 10 seconds and add more honey, if more sweetness desired. The frosting will be quite thin now but it will firm up somewhat after chilling.
Chill the frosting for about 4 hours. The frosting will still be rather soft but after frosting your cake or cupcakes, a little of the moisture will be sucked up and will appear firm. Refrigerate anything frosted with this recipe.
Refrigerate any leftover frosting in an airtight container for up to three days.
*Notes
For the all-purpose gluten-free flour, you can use a store-bought mix, or make your own. Simply sift the following ingredients together until they’re well-blended:
2 cups finely ground almond flour
1 1/3 cups tapioca starch
2/3 coconut flour
This recipe makes about 4 cups of paleo gluten-free flour. Use in above recipe as directed, and store the rest in an airtight container in the fridge.
Keep Reading: 5 Zucchini Desserts That’ll Make Everyone Want to Eat Their Veggies


theheartysoul--2020-06-24--Say goodbye to cashiers: Walmart store switches to self-checkout only

Self-checkout machines have been appearing in seemingly every store across the country .
Whether you ’ re at your local grocer , hardware store , or McDonald ’ s , you can choose between the traditional cashier model , or to do it yourself .
The retail giant Walmart , however , may be moving toward a future where customers have the choice made for them .
Starting in Fayetteville , Arkansas , the company is experimenting with a self-checkout-only model , and if things go well , they could have the rest of their locations switch to the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arkansas is offering only self-checkout machines as a test for the company .
Instead of cashiers , there will be self-checkout hosts at the front of the store to assist customers , or even to check out customer ’ s groceries if they prefer it [ 1 ] .
If this experiment is successful , the company says it will put the same setup in place in other stores across the country .
They did not give a timeline as to when this will happen , but that the timing will depend on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and customers .
Walmart representatives that they want this process to be as easy as possible for both customers and associates [ 2 ] .
Self-checkout machines have become popular at many retailers across the country for one reason : cost savings .
Having customers do some of the work that would normally be done by a paid employee cuts down overhead costs .
For example , a report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation found that the cost to check someone in at an airport at a staffed desk is about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an electronic terminal , that cost drops down to just fourteen cents [ 3 ] .
This savings , however , is often not passed on to the customer .
Advocates of self-checkout machines also argue that many customers enjoy the privacy and autonomy that they provide .
Christina Forest , a senior project manager for Fujitsu , which makes self-checkout machines , says that some people like to be in control of what ’ s going on and have a more private experience .
Despite the increasing prevalence of self-checkout machines , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are opposed to them .
Some customers are beginning to resent doing “ unpaid work ” .
Craig Lambert , author of Shadow Work : The Unpaid , Unseen Jobs That Fill Your Day , says that today , we are doing a lot of work that used to be done for us by someone else .
Many customers find the automated machines difficult to use , and they often have to ask for help anyways .
There is typically only one or two workers presiding over sometimes half a dozen or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking longer to buy their groceries than they would have otherwise .
Others are concerned about putting cashiers out of work .
“ The cashiers need the jobs , ” said one customer [ 4 ] .
While it is likely that self-checkout machines are not going away , we are probably not going to lose cashiers altogether- at least not yet .
Many customers prefer using a cashier , and even if self-checkout machines save the retailer some money , most retailers won ’ t be willing to risk unhappy patrons .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ their cash-out system will depend on Fayetteville , Arkansas .
If the experiment goes well , it may not be long before we see cashiers disappearing from Walmart counters altogether .
Keep Reading : How I Get By : A Week in the Life of a McDonald ’ s Cashier

Self-checkout machines have been appearing in seemingly every store across the country. Whether you’re at your local grocer, hardware store, or McDonald’s, you can choose between the traditional cashier model, or to do it yourself. The retail giant Walmart, however, may be moving toward a future where customers have the choice made for them. Starting in Fayetteville, Arkansas, the company is experimenting with a self-checkout-only model, and if things go well, they could have the rest of their locations switch to the same model.
Walmart Self-Checkout
A Walmart in Fayetteville, Arkansas is offering only self-checkout machines as a test for the company. Instead of cashiers, there will be self-checkout hosts at the front of the store to assist customers, or even to check out customer’s groceries if they prefer it [1].
If this experiment is successful, the company says it will put the same setup in place in other stores across the country. They did not give a timeline as to when this will happen, but that the timing will depend on several factors, including input from employees and customers.
Walmart representatives that they want this process to be as easy as possible for both customers and associates [2].
Read: Senior Citizens Are Replacing Teenagers as Fast-Food Workers
Cost-Savings for the Retailer
Self-checkout machines have become popular at many retailers across the country for one reason: cost savings. Having customers do some of the work that would normally be done by a paid employee cuts down overhead costs.
For example, a report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation found that the cost to check someone in at an airport at a staffed desk is about three dollars. When a customer uses an electronic terminal, that cost drops down to just fourteen cents [3].
This savings, however, is often not passed on to the customer.
Advocates of self-checkout machines also argue that many customers enjoy the privacy and autonomy that they provide. Christina Forest, a senior project manager for Fujitsu, which makes self-checkout machines, says that some people like to be in control of what’s going on and have a more private experience.
“So if I’m going in and buying something that’s maybe a personal item, I might prefer to buy it on my own without help,” she says [3].
The Backlash Against Self-Checkout Machines
Despite the increasing prevalence of self-checkout machines, there is a growing number of people who are opposed to them. Some customers are beginning to resent doing “unpaid work”.
Craig Lambert, author of Shadow Work: The Unpaid, Unseen Jobs That Fill Your Day, says that today, we are doing a lot of work that used to be done for us by someone else.
“You may choose to do it — some people think it saves them time, gets them out of the gas station quicker. But there is a price to be paid,” he says [3].
Many customers find the automated machines difficult to use, and they often have to ask for help anyways. There is typically only one or two workers presiding over sometimes half a dozen or more machines, so customers end up taking longer to buy their groceries than they would have otherwise.
“You have a thing of floss and you’ve already put it in the baggage area and it’s not reading it and then you’re going, ‘Sir, sir, ma’am, ma’am, I need help,’” says one customer [4].
Others are concerned about putting cashiers out of work.
“The cashiers need the jobs,” said one customer [4].
A Cashier-Free Future?
While it is likely that self-checkout machines are not going away, we are probably not going to lose cashiers altogether- at least not yet. Many customers prefer using a cashier, and even if self-checkout machines save the retailer some money, most retailers won’t be willing to risk unhappy patrons.
As for Walmart, the future of their cash-out system will depend on Fayetteville, Arkansas. If the experiment goes well, it may not be long before we see cashiers disappearing from Walmart counters altogether.


theheartysoul--2020-06-24--Cucamelons is the Most Adorable Superfood You Can Grow in Your Own Garden

What do you get when you cross cucumbers with watermelons ?
Cucamelons !
Although this may sound like a joke , these fruits exist and Americans are finally hearing about them .
Cucamelons ( Melothria scabra ) are known by many names like “ Mexican sour gherkin ” or its commonly used Spanish name “ sandiita ” ( which means little watermelon ) .
Its monikers don ’ t end there , but local dialects and Native American languages all come down to a similar translation : “ mouse melon.
” These cute little fruits are about as big as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ watermelons , and their taste is refreshing , often compared to cucumbers and limes .
Despite their likeness to melons , these fruits are definitely on the sour side of the flavor spectrum .
They grow on thin vines covered in leaves .
And no , these weird foods aren ’ t a genetically-modified hybrid .
They have been eaten since pre-Columbian times and are common in Central American diets .
[ 1 ] Cucamelons are on their way to become the next superfood trend due to their wealth of vitamins , minerals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like their name inspirations , cucumbers , and melons .
They pack a punch while being low in calories .
Cucamelons are said to be a high source of potassium , vitamin C , and dietary fiber [ 2 ] .
Read : Grow Your Own Pineberries : The White Strawberries with an Amazing Pineapple Flavor How to Grow Cucamelons in Your Own Garden The best part ?
Cucamelons are easy to grow yourself !
Cucamelons require warm weather , so it ’ s best to plant them in the spring in order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the summer heat .
You can grow them in pots to bring inside when the temperature starts to drop at night .
These fruits need sun , watering regularly , and well-drained soil .
Wherever you decide to plant them , provide a nearby trellis for the vines to expand upon as they grow .
[ 3 ] Step 1 : Buy seeds .
You can find them on Amazon .
Step 2 : Find the best location for planting , whether in a pot or a sunny patch in the garden .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 3-4 weeks before the last frost .
They will take about 14 days before they germinate and you see little green shoots appear .
You can use small biodegradable pots with about 2-3 seeds in each .
About 0.5 inches in sterile soil should due .
Step 4 : Once you see the small shoots appear , separate them into their own pots .
Step 5 : After 3-5 weeks , the shoots should reach around 2 inches .
They can be transferred to your garden .
Step 6 : Install a wire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use it by gently wrapping them around the trellis when they grow long enough .
Step 7 : Ensure the soil is rich in nutrients .
Step 8 : Provide the plants with about an inch of water every 5–7 days during the summer months .
During very hot and dry weather , water twice a week .
Step 9 : Prune away any dried and dying leaves .
Step 10 : When the fruits are plump and about the size of plump grapes , it ’ s time to harvest .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If desired , use a small pair of scissors .
The crops should last from July to about mid-November .
Read : Did You Know You Could Cook A Whole Chicken In Watermelon And It Would Turn Out Tastefully Awesome ?
Once you have a crop of cucamelons , you can enjoy their unique flavor along with their many health benefits .
Eat them raw , or incorporate them into recipes .
They are a delicious addition to leafy salads and fruit salads , and they make a beautiful garnish for dishes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or whole .
Remember , the whole fruit is edible , including the peel , so there ’ s lots of room for creativity .
Cucamelon pickles are a popular recipe choice for this food .
Here ’ s how you can make your own .
• ¾ cup apple cider vinegar , or more as needed • Place the cucamelons , chile peppers , dill , yellow mustard seeds , dill seed , and peppercorns in a jar .
• Combine water , vinegar , and salt in a saucepan and bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has dissolved , about one minute .
Remove from heat and let cool • Pour vinegar mixture over cucamelons so they are completely covered .
If you don ’ t have enough liquid , mix equal parts water and vinegar and add to the jar .
Close jar with the lid and let stand 3 to 4 days .
Speaking of treating cucamelons as cucumbers , try this delicious bruschetta recipe for a refreshing and tasty appetizer .
• 1 bird ’ s eye chili , finely sliced ( add another if you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first 4 ingredients in a bowl .
Set aside .
• Put the rest of the ingredients in a mason jar and season to taste .
Cover with a lid and shake baby shake until emulsified .
• Pour over prepared vegetables .
Stir well , season if need be .
Spoon over toasted bread .
Keep Reading : Blue Java Banana : The Banana That Tastes ‘ Just Like Vanilla Ice Cream ’

While you may not have heard of cucamelons, they’re rapidly becoming one of the most popular fruits on Instagram and other social media simply because they look like a watermelon that’s been zapped by a shrink ray Honey, I Shrunk the Kids style. But these little fruits have nothing to do with Rick Moranis and they’re so much more than a cute little veggie.
Also known as a mouse melon, the Mexican sour gherkin, or by its Spanish name, sandiita (little watermelon), a cucamelon is the fruit of the Melothria scabra vine and is about the size of a grape. But despite the name, they’re not actually a hybrid of watermelons and cucumbers.
They do have a semi-hard rind with markings like a watermelon, but the entire thing is totally edible so you can pop them in your mouth for a burst of cucumber flavor with a sour twist. Think a cucumber and lime mashup. They’re packed with nutrients making them both fun to look at and functional, and while they’re native to Central America, they can easily be grown in most parts of the U.S.
How To Grow Cucamelons
Since cucamelons hail from Central America, they prefer climates with similar conditions. They require full sun and hot weather and don’t do well at temperatures under 50 degrees Fahrenheit. But you can still grow them yourself even if your conditions aren’t ideal. If you live in an area with hot days and cool nights, plant your cucamelons in containers rather than a garden bed. You can pull the container inside at night, then bring them out into natural sun during the day. The vines also thrive in greenhouse conditions.
But despite their need for warmer temps, cucamelons aren’t high maintenance plants to grow. They are relatively drought- and pest-resistant and are hardier than most varieties of cucumbers, making this a truly any-on-can-grow-it type of fruit.
If you’re growing outdoors, start the seeds around the same time you would start cucumbers (April or May). Like many fruits and veggies, they like rich, well-drained soil. If you do start them in a container, you can transplant into the ground after the danger of overnight frost has passed. Water the plant well once a week, and increase to twice a week in extremely hot weather. Wherever they are planted, give this vining plant a trellis or stake to climb.
Read next: How to grow a magical bean pole tent


theheartysoul--2020-06-24--Carrot Cake Muffins Recipe With Cheesecake Fillings (GF, Vegan, Paleo Option)

Carrot cake and cream cheese frosting is a true match made in heaven , especially when baked into a delicious morning treat .
After all , what are muffins but cupcakes we eat for breakfast ?
These carrot cake muffins are moist and fluffy , rich in carrot-cinnamon goodness , and filled with sweet and creamy cheesecake .
It ’ s enough of an incentive for anyone to get out of bed , although these muffins are perfect for any time of day .
The streusel on top adds an extra kick of sugar and spice and the glaze ties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This recipe may not be ideal for every day eating , but they are the best for scrumptious , occasional treats .
We ’ ve provided an alternative version of this recipe for those who would prefer a healthier alternative , which is also gluten-free , dairy-free , paleo , and vegan-friendly .
Whichever version you choose is sure to brighten up your mornings !
• Place cupcake liners in a standard cupcake pan and set aside .
• For the streusel topping : In a medium bowl stir together 1 cup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon salt , add 1 /2 cup melted unsalted butter melted and stir it with a fork until crumbly .
Set aside .
• For the cream cheese filling : Beat together the cream cheese , vanilla and sugar until smooth .
Set aside .
• For the muffins : In a large bowl , whisk together all dry ingredients listed for the muffins .
• In a small bowl , whisk together the eggs , water , and oil .
• Fold in the grated carrots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drop about 1 ½ to 2 tbsp of the batter into each cup and spread to cover the bottom , then place 1 heaping tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in each .
Cover the filling over with more batter to fill the cups 3/4 full .
• Sprinkle the cupcakes with streusel topping and bake for about 20 minutes , until the toothpick inserted in the cake ( not cream cheese filling ) comes out clean .
• Remove the muffins from the oven , let them cool for 10 minutes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooling rack .
• For the glaze : Stir 1 tablespoon milk with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until mixed well , and drizzle over the cooled muffins before serving .
Notes : * If you ’ re looking to reduce sugar and calories , try a 1:1 Golden Monk Fruit Sugar instead of coconut sugar .
** Honey can be hard to substitute , but low calorie , natural alternatives do exist .
If you can ’ t have honey or are looking to cut the sugar or calories , you can try @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• Preheat the oven to 350°F ( 175°C ) .
Line a muffin tin with 10 muffin liners .
• For the filling : In a medium bowl , beat all filling ingredients with an electric hand mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy .
Set aside .
• For the muffins : In a medium mixing bowl , mix the dry ingredients ( almond flour through nutmeg ) .
Set aside .
• In a large mixing bowl , mix together the eggs , oil , honey , and vanilla @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the wet mixture , stirring until combined , and then gently fold in the grated carrots .
• Pour a little batter into each cup , about 1/5 or 1/4 full .
Add about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling and cover with the remaining muffin batter .
• Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the side of a muffin ( not the center with the filling ) comes out clean .
• Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes in the pan and then remove to a wire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an airtight container for up to 3 days .
Optional : Add a streusel topping just before baking the muffins .
Keep Reading : Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting ( Gluten-free and Vegan Options )

Carrot cake and cream cheese frosting is a true match made in heaven, especially when baked into a delicious morning treat. After all, what are muffins but cupcakes we eat for breakfast? These carrot cake muffins are moist and fluffy, rich in carrot-cinnamon goodness, and filled with sweet and creamy cheesecake.
It’s enough of an incentive for anyone to get out of bed, although these muffins are perfect for any time of day. The streusel on top adds an extra kick of sugar and spice and the glaze ties in all of the sweet flavors together.
This recipe may not be ideal for every day eating, but they are the best for scrumptious, occasional treats. We’ve provided an alternative version of this recipe for those who would prefer a healthier alternative, which is also gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly.
Whichever version you choose is sure to brighten up your mornings!
Carrot Cake Muffins with Cheesecake Fillings
Ingredients
For Carrot Cake Muffins:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cup water
1/3 cup avocado oil
1 cup grated carrots (about 2–3 medium carrots)
For the cream cheese filling:
10-ounce cream cheese-softened
1/4 cup+1 Tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
For the streusel topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 /2 cup unsalted butter-melted
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the glaze:
1 tsp milk
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Place cupcake liners in a standard cupcake pan and set aside. For the streusel topping: In a medium bowl stir together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon salt, add 1 /2 cup melted unsalted butter melted and stir it with a fork until crumbly. Set aside. For the cream cheese filling: Beat together the cream cheese, vanilla and sugar until smooth. Set aside. For the muffins: In a large bowl, whisk together all dry ingredients listed for the muffins. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, and oil. Stir the egg mixture into dry ingredients. Fold in the grated carrots and stir well to combine. Drop about 1 ½ to 2 tbsp of the batter into each cup and spread to cover the bottom, then place 1 heaping tablespoon of the cream cheese filling in each. Cover the filling over with more batter to fill the cups 3/4 full. Sprinkle the cupcakes with streusel topping and bake for about 20 minutes, until the toothpick inserted in the cake (not cream cheese filling) comes out clean. Remove the muffins from the oven, let them cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a cooling rack. For the glaze: Stir 1 tablespoon milk with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until mixed well, and drizzle over the cooled muffins before serving.
Read: Carrot Cake Sandwich Cookies With Cream Cheese Frosting (Vegan and Gluten-free Options)
Carrot Cake Muffins with ‘Cream Cheeze’ Filling – gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly
Ingredients
For the filling:
6 ounces (170 grams) vegan cream cheese
3 tablespoons coconut sugar*
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
For the carrot cake muffins:
1 1/4 cups (125 grams) blanched almond flour
2 tablespoons (16 grams) coconut flour, sifted if lumpy
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup (75 grams) coconut oil, melted
1/3 cup (106 grams) honey**
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup (50 grams) grated carrots
Notes:
* If you’re looking to reduce sugar and calories, try a 1:1 Golden Monk Fruit Sugar instead of coconut sugar.
** Honey can be hard to substitute, but low calorie, natural alternatives do exist. If you can’t have honey or are looking to cut the sugar or calories, you can try something like this as a 1:1 substitute.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 10 muffin liners. For the filling: In a medium bowl, beat all filling ingredients with an electric hand mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy. Set aside. For the muffins: In a medium mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients (almond flour through nutmeg). Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the eggs, oil, honey, and vanilla extract. Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until combined, and then gently fold in the grated carrots. Pour a little batter into each cup, about 1/5 or 1/4 full. Add about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling and cover with the remaining muffin batter. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the side of a muffin (not the center with the filling) comes out clean. Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes in the pan and then remove to a wire rack to cool completely. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Optional: Add a streusel topping just before baking the muffins.
Simply mix:
1 tablespoon (14 grams) coconut oil, melted
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
pinch of salt
1/3 cup (33 grams) almond flour
1/2 cup (55 grams) finely chopped walnuts
Keep Reading: Lavender Cupcakes with Honey Cream Cheese Frosting (Gluten-free and Vegan Options)


theheartysoul--2020-06-22--Alaska’s ‘Into the Wild’ Bus, Known as a Deadly Tourist Lure, has been Removed by Air

In a joint operation organized by the Alaska Army National Guard and the state ’ s Department of National Resources , the famous “ Magic Bus ” has been airlifted out of stampede trail in the Denali Borough , Alaska [ 1 ] .
Following its adaptation into a non-fiction book and the 2007 movie Into the Wild , the abandoned vehicle became an object of global interest and travel fantasy .
It was moved from its age-long site at a grassy spot west of the Teklanika River near Healy .
The extraction occurred on Monday , June 15 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adventurer Chris McCandless , who lived in the abandoned vehicle for 114 days [ 2 ] .
Formally identified as Bus 142 , the 1940s-era Fairbanks vehicle has been depicted as a “ perilous tourist attraction ” .
The bus was initially used by hunters who knew the area well and sought temporary shelter , until McCandless ’ s stakeout in 1992 .
Thousands of hikers from all over the world have visited Stampede Trail since the Hollywood adaptation hit the screens , with so many aiming to retrace the steps of 24-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of starvation .
According to the Department of Natural Resources , many of the travelers have come to serious harm in the course of their journeys .
The site had become a sort of pilgrimage ground for dedicated hikers trying to recreate McCandless ’ s adventure .
Dozens of people have been hurt in the dangerous Alaskan wilderness , and at least two hikers have lost their lives in the process [ 3 ] .
Read : The Woman Who Lives 200,000 Years in the Past A permanent location is still being considered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will remain in storage while the parties involved decide what to do with it .
It would most likely be carted off to a safer location where it would be set up for display .
A group of military personnel helicoptered into the site on Thursday afternoon for the extraction .
Bus 142 was finally removed after soldiers drilled holes into its ceiling and floor to rig chains through it .
It was airlifted by a twin-rotor Chinook helicopter .
The Department of Natural Resources had reached out to the AVN to facilitate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ search and rescue cases resulting each year from the presence of the vehicle .
Read : Dick Proenneke : 30 Years Alone in the Alaskan Wilderness Having sought an itinerant lifestyle for as long as he knew , Chris McCandless from Virginia gave away his college fund and traveled across America before arriving at Alaska in April 1992 [ 2 ] .
With minimal supplies and a strong will to live off the grid , McCandless , who adopted the moniker “ Alexander Supertramp ” found Bus 142 at Stampede Trail and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months .
The last person who saw him alive was a local electrician named Jim Gallien .
Before McCandless found the bus , he ’ d been accosted by Gallien at the head of the trail where the man worried about his safety and offered to help him get more supplies .
McCandless declined his offer and delved deep into the bush before he found the abandoned vehicle .
McCandless was found by hunters almost three weeks after his death in September 1992 , and according to autopsy reports , he was said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before his body was found .
He had tried to exit the trail to continue his journey in July that year , but he was unable to re-cross the Teklanika River which had swollen with snowmelt .
His story was told in a 9,000-word article published in 1993 by Chris Krakauer titled “ Death of an Innocent ” .
The article was later expanded and published as a non-fiction book in 1996 titled “ Into the Wild ” , a deeply touching story widely used as a high school and college reading material @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a film in 2007 .
It has so far been nominated in 106 awards with 23 wins , including Academy Awards , Golden Globes , and the Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Feature .
You can watch the extraction video below : Keep Reading : Alaska High School Teacher Hunted a Moose and had his Students Butcher the Animal to Learn Life Skills

In a joint operation organized by the Alaska Army National Guard and the state’s Department of National Resources, the famous “Magic Bus” has been airlifted out of stampede trail in the Denali Borough, Alaska [1]. Following its adaptation into a non-fiction book and the 2007 movie Into the Wild, the abandoned vehicle became an object of global interest and travel fantasy. It was moved from its age-long site at a grassy spot west of the Teklanika River near Healy. The extraction occurred on Monday, June 15, nearly 28 years after the death of adventurer Chris McCandless, who lived in the abandoned vehicle for 114 days [2].
Formally identified as Bus 142, the 1940s-era Fairbanks vehicle has been depicted as a “perilous tourist attraction”. The bus was initially used by hunters who knew the area well and sought temporary shelter, until McCandless’s stakeout in 1992.
Thousands of hikers from all over the world have visited Stampede Trail since the Hollywood adaptation hit the screens, with so many aiming to retrace the steps of 24-year-old McCandless who is reported to have died of starvation. According to the Department of Natural Resources, many of the travelers have come to serious harm in the course of their journeys. The site had become a sort of pilgrimage ground for dedicated hikers trying to recreate McCandless’s adventure. Dozens of people have been hurt in the dangerous Alaskan wilderness, and at least two hikers have lost their lives in the process [3].
“After studying the issue closely, weighing many factors and considering a variety of alternatives, we decided it was best to remove the bus from its location on the Stampede Trail,” said Commissioner for the Department of Natural Resources, Corri A. Feige, in a press release. “We’re fortunate the Alaska Army National Guard could do the job as a training mission to practice airlifting vehicles, at no cost to the public or additional cost to the state.”
Read: The Woman Who Lives 200,000 Years in the Past
A permanent location is still being considered
According to Commissioner Fidge, the bus will remain in storage while the parties involved decide what to do with it. It would most likely be carted off to a safer location where it would be set up for display. A group of military personnel helicoptered into the site on Thursday afternoon for the extraction. Bus 142 was finally removed after soldiers drilled holes into its ceiling and floor to rig chains through it. It was airlifted by a twin-rotor Chinook helicopter.
The Department of Natural Resources had reached out to the AVN to facilitate the extraction and reduce the number of search and rescue cases resulting each year from the presence of the vehicle.
“We encourage people to enjoy Alaska’s wild areas safely, and we understand the hold this bus has had on the popular imagination,” Corri A. Feige, commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, said in the release. “However, this is an abandoned and deteriorating vehicle that was requiring dangerous and costly rescue efforts, but more importantly, was costing some visitors their lives. I’m glad we found a safe, respectful, and economical solution to this situation.”
Read: Dick Proenneke: 30 Years Alone in the Alaskan Wilderness
From traveler to legend
Having sought an itinerant lifestyle for as long as he knew, Chris McCandless from Virginia gave away his college fund and traveled across America before arriving at Alaska in April 1992 [2]. With minimal supplies and a strong will to live off the grid, McCandless, who adopted the moniker “Alexander Supertramp” found Bus 142 at Stampede Trail and it became his home for the next four months. The last person who saw him alive was a local electrician named Jim Gallien. Before McCandless found the bus, he’d been accosted by Gallien at the head of the trail where the man worried about his safety and offered to help him get more supplies. McCandless declined his offer and delved deep into the bush before he found the abandoned vehicle.
His story was told from the journal entries he made throughout his days in the bus. His last note had read: “I HAVE HAD A HAPPY LIFE AND THANK THE LORD. GOODBYE AND MAY GOD BLESS ALL!”
McCandless was found by hunters almost three weeks after his death in September 1992, and according to autopsy reports, he was said to have died from starvation two weeks before his body was found. He had tried to exit the trail to continue his journey in July that year, but he was unable to re-cross the Teklanika River which had swollen with snowmelt.
His story was told in a 9,000-word article published in 1993 by Chris Krakauer titled “Death of an Innocent”. The article was later expanded and published as a non-fiction book in 1996 titled “Into the Wild”, a deeply touching story widely used as a high school and college reading material. The story was later made into a film in 2007. It has so far been nominated in 106 awards with 23 wins, including Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and the Gotham Independent Film Award for Best Feature.
You can watch the extraction video below:
Keep Reading: Alaska High School Teacher Hunted a Moose and had his Students Butcher the Animal to Learn Life Skills


theheartysoul--2020-06-24--Seasteading – Would you move?

Seasteading – Would you move?

With global warming becoming an increasingly urgent problem and much of the world having been under lockdown for months due to the coronavirus pandemic , many people are thinking about alternative ways of living in the future .
This rocky period in human history has pushed forward the once very fringe idea of “ seasteading ” – living out on the open ocean .
Just as it sounds , seasteading is living life out on the sea .
We ’ re not talking about living in a houseboat , however .
No , seasteading is the building of floating homes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water .
( 1 ) Chad Elwartowski , software engineer , bitcoin trader , and the current leader in the seasteading movement , began his second attempt at building one of these homes off the coast of Panama in May .
The ultimate goal is to build entire independent cities out on the water , free from the confines of traditional government restrictions on movement the way land-dwelling nations are .
The COVID-19 pandemic has bolstered the seasteading libretarian fringe group pushing for this new way of life .
In April of 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build and live in a seasteading home off the coast of Thailand , only to be chased out by the Thai government .
The home was seen by the nation as a threat and the couple narrowly escaped being thrown in prison for life or worse .
After a few weeks of fleeing Thai patrol boats , they eventually made it to Singapore .
From there , they moved to Panama where they re-launched their company .
Groups like Seasteading have seen a surge in interest and support since the lockdowns began , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who believe the lockdowns are just a way for governments to have more control over their citizens .
This anti-government sentiment is what the Seasteading Institute was founded on in San Francisco back in 2008 .
Started by Google software engineer Patri Friedman and financially supported by PayPal founder Peter Thiel , the company ’ s goal statement was : Essentially , these Silicon Valley tech guys believed that governments and their regulations stifle innovation .
They have dreams of building a society where that never happens .
The citizens of these envisioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If they didn ’ t like the way one community was being governed , they could simply pack up and go move to another .
No visas or any of the complexities involved with moving to another land country .
Read : Couple Lives Off The Grid After Spending 20-Years Building Self-Sustaining Floating Island Difficulty Getting Off the Ground Theil ’ s donations only stretched so far , and Friedman only got so far as hosting a sort of river boat festival reminiscent of Burning Man .
Though he has since moved towards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ helm has been taken up by Joe Quirk , who is an author and self-proclaimed “ seavangelist ” .
In January 2017 , however , after years of planning , feasibility studies , and government negotiations , he and his team reached an agreement with French Polynesia .
They were to build their floating nation in the 5 million square kilometers of sea owned by the island country .
There was a misunderstanding of purpose however and what each group would do for the other .
The French Polynesian government was looking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ threat of rising sea levels .
The Seasteading Institute was , of course , more interested in building a nation with complete autonomy .
The local people were not supportive of the project and eventually , it came to a halt .
Marc Collins Chen , former minister of tourism of French Polynesia who founded the company Blue Frontiers along with Quirk , has since realized that these floating nations need to work with host countries more , and in order to have support , they need to pay taxes .
Collins Chen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ build a new company focused on creating these floating cities , called Oceanix City .
He believes that these floating cities could be a way to accommodate growth without disturbing the already struggling ecosystems on land .
Using drag-and-drop building , you can add , move , and takeaway sections whenever you need .
The cities could be powered by water and solar and essentially become self-sustaining .
Read : A community of ‘ voluntary anarchists ’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level UN-Habitat , the sustainable development branch of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Oceanix City project in April 2019 .
Maimunah Mohd Sharif , UN-Habitat executive director , says that floating cities could be one of the potential solutions to current housing and climate issues facing countries around the world .
Actually having floating cities ready to live in is not something that will happen soon .
Currently a factory where the city ’ s structures will be built is under construction in Panama .
The main feature of the factory will be a giant 3D printer that will print both the floating homes with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coral reef .
The cost will be between $ 200,000 and $ 800,000 per home .
Current CEO Grant Romundt says the focus is making homes that are a safe place for people to be during times such as the coronavirus pandemic .
He says they are building holiday homes that will be registered as boats under the Panama flag , but as time goes on he believes they will morph into actual real , independent cities .
The best part , he claims , is that if these seasteads fail , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It would be as if they were never there at all .
What do you think ?
Would you move to an independent floating nation ?
Keep Reading : Pandemic Leads To Urban Exodus As Families Turn To Self-Reliance And Off-The-Grid Living

With global warming becoming an increasingly urgent problem and much of the world having been under lockdown for months due to the coronavirus pandemic, many people are thinking about alternative ways of living in the future. This rocky period in human history has pushed forward the once very fringe idea of “seasteading” – living out on the open ocean.
What is Seasteading?
Just as it sounds, seasteading is living life out on the sea. We’re not talking about living in a houseboat, however. No, seasteading is the building of floating homes and entire communities out on the open water. (1)
Chad Elwartowski, software engineer, bitcoin trader, and the current leader in the seasteading movement, began his second attempt at building one of these homes off the coast of Panama in May. The ultimate goal is to build entire independent cities out on the water, free from the confines of traditional government restrictions on movement the way land-dwelling nations are. The COVID-19 pandemic has bolstered the seasteading libretarian fringe group pushing for this new way of life.
“Coronavirus is an opportunity to show the world that what we’re building is actually going to be very useful in the future,” he said in a recent video. (1)
In April of 2019, Elwartowski and his girlfriend attempted to build and live in a seasteading home off the coast of Thailand, only to be chased out by the Thai government. The home was seen by the nation as a threat and the couple narrowly escaped being thrown in prison for life or worse. After a few weeks of fleeing Thai patrol boats, they eventually made it to Singapore. From there, they moved to Panama where they re-launched their company.
COVID-19 Has Increased Support
Groups like Seasteading have seen a surge in interest and support since the lockdowns began, as there are many conspiracists and people who believe the lockdowns are just a way for governments to have more control over their citizens.
This anti-government sentiment is what the Seasteading Institute was founded on in San Francisco back in 2008. Started by Google software engineer Patri Friedman and financially supported by PayPal founder Peter Thiel, the company’s goal statement was:
“to establish permanent, autonomous ocean communities to enable experimentation and innovation with diverse social, political, and legal systems” (1)
Essentially, these Silicon Valley tech guys believed that governments and their regulations stifle innovation. They have dreams of building a society where that never happens. The citizens of these envisioned communities would have freedom of movement. If they didn’t like the way one community was being governed, they could simply pack up and go move to another. No visas or any of the complexities involved with moving to another land country.
Read: Couple Lives Off The Grid After Spending 20-Years Building Self-Sustaining Floating Island
Difficulty Getting Off the Ground
Theil’s donations only stretched so far, and Friedman only got so far as hosting a sort of river boat festival reminiscent of Burning Man. Though he has since moved towards focusing on land-based communities, the Seasteading helm has been taken up by Joe Quirk, who is an author and self-proclaimed “seavangelist”.
Quirk believes that water communities can help to heal all of humanity. He even wrote a book that talks of how floating cities can “restore the environment, enrich the poor, cure the sick, and liberate humanity from politicians”. (1)
In January 2017, however, after years of planning, feasibility studies, and government negotiations, he and his team reached an agreement with French Polynesia. They were to build their floating nation in the 5 million square kilometers of sea owned by the island country. There was a misunderstanding of purpose however and what each group would do for the other. The French Polynesian government was looking for them to address environmental concerns and the threat of rising sea levels. The Seasteading Institute was, of course, more interested in building a nation with complete autonomy.
The local people were not supportive of the project and eventually, it came to a halt. Marc Collins Chen, former minister of tourism of French Polynesia who founded the company Blue Frontiers along with Quirk, has since realized that these floating nations need to work with host countries more, and in order to have support, they need to pay taxes.
“I realised that the real future for these sorts of projects has to be closer to cities,” he explains. “They have to be an extension of an existing city’s infrastructure, they need to be run by the mayor, and they have to pay their taxes – as opposed to being enclaves for the wealthy.” (1)
Collins Chen has now moved to New York to build a new company focused on creating these floating cities, called Oceanix City. He believes that these floating cities could be a way to accommodate growth without disturbing the already struggling ecosystems on land. Using drag-and-drop building, you can add, move, and takeaway sections whenever you need. The cities could be powered by water and solar and essentially become self-sustaining.
Read: A community of ‘voluntary anarchists’ is taking off-the-grid living to the next level
United Nations Support
UN-Habitat, the sustainable development branch of the United Nations, hosted a discussion about the Oceanix City project in April 2019. Maimunah Mohd Sharif, UN-Habitat executive director, says that floating cities could be one of the potential solutions to current housing and climate issues facing countries around the world.
A Distant Dream
Actually having floating cities ready to live in is not something that will happen soon. Currently a factory where the city’s structures will be built is under construction in Panama. The main feature of the factory will be a giant 3D printer that will print both the floating homes with underwater rooms wrapped in eco-restorative 3D printed coral reef. The cost will be between $200,000 and $800,000 per home.
Current CEO Grant Romundt says the focus is making homes that are a safe place for people to be during times such as the coronavirus pandemic.
“They should be a safe place to escape to and be totally energy independent, with solar panels on the roof, water desalination on board, waste collection by drone, and aeroponic systems to grow your own food.” (1)
He says they are building holiday homes that will be registered as boats under the Panama flag, but as time goes on he believes they will morph into actual real, independent cities. The best part, he claims, is that if these seasteads fail, the people can just disassemble and go away. It would be as if they were never there at all.
What do you think? Would you move to an independent floating nation?
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/jun/24/seasteading-a-vanity-project-for-the-rich-or-the-future-of-humanity