Where I live we don’t need winter clothes. Or even autumn wear. That actually might be a good thing but when I see people in their cozy & cool looking sweaters, I do think that it would be really nice.

Autumn/fall weather, nice cool winds, the colours of the leaves all changing and the orange, amber & the yellows all decked out in foliage splendour. Even walking on the fallen leaves is nice. I imagine wearing jeans, boots and shawl necked sweater over my teeshirt and going in a car to a cafe. Once I get there, obviously to meet a very beautiful woman, I order a pie and a latte and sit in a chair.

There’s something about fall that just feels different. A lot of people especially in North America vote the fall as their favourite season. There’s nothing quite like the rare beauty that the season offers. The leaves turn every shade of ruby red, golden amber, and russet brown while the sun of summer still shines without the heat that leaves us all looking for the closest shade. There’s nothing like strolling through a golden walkway as the leaves fall around and crunch underfoot to erase the stress of the everyday and remind us that we live in a world that’s always surrounding us with the sublime.

Balaeniceps rex, and although they are sometimes incorrectly referred to as a stork, they are more closely related to pelicans. The Shoebill can be found in freshwater swamps in Africa from South Sudan to Zambia.

They go by many names. The name shoebill comes from the shape of their bill, which looks a bit like a Dutch clog shoe. But taxonomists who described it also thought the bill shape resembled the head of a baleen whale, and named the species Balaeniceps rex—which means “whale-head king.” Other informal names for these birds are the boat bill, the bog bird, and the swamp king.

Have you ever seen a bill quite like the one of a shoebill? The bird is aptly named after this signature feature and its resemblance to a Dutch clog. At a foot long, their bill is the third longest of all living birds. Its sharp edges and hook at the tip allows the bird to grab, grip, and kill live prey.

They’re bigger than they seem. It comes as a surprise to many that the shoebill can be up to five feet tall. The bird is only inches shorter than an average person; if you stood next to one, it could almost look you in the eye. Couple that with an enormous wingspan of almost eight feet, and no wonder shoebills have an intimidating reputation. They aren’t very heavy, though, only weighing up to 16 pounds, and they can and do fly. But they only flap those big wings about 150 times per minute, one of the slowest rates of any bird.

They have a kill bill. With that enormous structure on their face, which can be nine inches long and four inches wide, shoebills might seem a little goofy. But don’t be fooled. That bill is a powerful tool, used to scoop up huge fish, stab them with the pointed hook on the end, and decapitate them with razor-sharp edges before swallowing.

Shoebills are mostly sedentary and can remain still as a statue for hours. Their patience pays off when it’s time to feed, allowing them to ambush unsuspecting prey who likely had no idea the motionless bird was lurking in the area. Once prey is in its sights, the bird will quickly strike, with 60% of attempts resulting in a kill. Their sharp, large beak allows the shoebill to hunt larger prey than is typical for wading birds. They primarily eat fish, showing a preference for lungfish, but will also prey on frogs, water snakes, and young crocodiles.

Their prey never sees them coming. Shoebills are masters of patience. They stand still and silent in or next to water, waiting for the right moment. Then they suddenly lunge forward, spreading their wings and plunging down bill-first into the water to ambush a fish. This lunge is called “a collapse,” and it is unexpectedly swift, taking only seconds, and performed with great accuracy and power. In fact, the collapse can be so violent that the bird’s beak and thick skull act as shock absorbers to protect it against injury.

Here’s 5 legitimate reasons to buy a body groomer right now and do manscaping:

1. You’ll Look Better
Whether it’s your pecs, your abs or your manhood, a groomed body looks cleaner, younger, more toned and better defined – fact. A distinctly added benefit of keeping yourself trimmed all over is the optical illusion of size. A trimmed groin accentuates your male member making you appear bigger and more impressive.

2. It’s more Hygienic
Hair collects and retains all kinds of molecules; dead skin cells, sweat and urine just to name a few. If not removed these substances can start to fester, especially on a hot day, or in men who don’t shower regularly. This kind of environment is the ideal breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, including STDs. Keeping hairs trimmed short means there is less surface area for this detritus to cling to, thus reducing the spread of bacteria, the growth of yeast infections and unpleasant odours.

3. It Boosts Confidence
Studies consistently show that men who take pride in their appearance are more successful in both their professional and personal lives than men who neglect their looks. Manscaping is about putting your best foot forward and presenting the best version of yourself; one who is groomed, sharp and slick, even in your birthday suit. If you look good and feel good, you’ll have more confidence in yourself and be better perceived by others.

4. You’ll Sweat Less
Sweat exists to help cool the body down. With less hair covering your skin your body is better able to regulate body temperature. This means that you won’t need to sweat as much to release heat from your body, making you feel cooler and dryer, especially in the summer. As well as feeling cleaner, less sweat means less odour and as hair reduces the effectiveness of antiperspirant this gives a double whammy in the smell department. If you’re bit nervous about tackling your whole body, shaving your armpits is a great first step to reducing sweating.

5. It can Improve your Sex Life
While many partners do enjoy the natural look, according to studies, men who regularly groom their nether regions report receiving more oral sex from their intimate partners. In addition a clean, well-groomed manhood is more sensitive, because there isn’t a barrier between the organ and your partner – definitely something to bear in mind. Being a manscaper means that you take care of your personal hygiene seriously and are considerate of your partner; you can thank us later.

With soaring temperatures and sunny days, summer makes for the perfect weather to relax, unwind and enjoy with your friends at home. By staying close to home and creating a festive atmosphere in your own backyard, you can enjoy all the benefits of a vacation without the stress of travel.

1. Get into the swim of things with poolside fun

A close second to sipping mojitos by the seaside, pool parties are a staple of the idyllic summer vacation. A pool party captures the spirit of summertime fun, whether it is with floating snack trays or games of Marco Polo, a poolside setting ensures you’re diving into the deep end with your party.

2. Be the coolest host around with a well-stocked box of ice and desserts!

Transport your guests back to their childhood summer vacations with a well-stocked box of iced candies and ice cream, and make sure you have enough ice to keep your drinks and cocktails chilled through the party. For a special summer treat, you can even serve ice cones for your guests as a way to make your party extra memorable.

3. Get the ball rolling on your drinks with a bar full of easy summer cocktails

Nothing says summer quite like refreshing cocktails – these are chilled concoctions that will keep you cool and refreshed. A rolling bar table will let you bring the bar with you and mix your cocktails wherever you like, even right by the poolside. You can also bring home pre-made cocktail mixers and effortlessly keep your party going with delicious bar-style cocktails. The flavours of Mojito and Long Island Tea also make for the perfect summer daytime and sundowner cocktails and are sure to be a refreshing addition to your party.

4. Create the right list of laid-back and upbeat tracks for a summer jam playlist

The right playlist can transform the mood of a party, so this is a key step to keep your spirits up and energy high. For daytime summer parties, a playlist of beach jams and easy-listening music is ideal to relax to – and you can also include some of your favourite mid-tempo jams from the 70s to the 80s, the 90s to the 2000s. Sundowners on the other hand can start at a lower tempo and then ramp up in energy as the night goes on to get everyone on the dance floor. Either way, you get to be the director of your party’s energy!

5. Open your doors to the great outdoors!

Summertime is perfect to bring out your shorts and throw together some games of football, volleyball, or ultimate frisbee, or just find a shaded corner to play some cards and chat. When done right in short intervals, not only will this be a great bonding experience for you and your friends- but is sure to make your chilled refreshments taste that much sweeter.

Stay hydrated

When you’re hot and flushed, hydrating yourself is the first and foremost step to cooling down, said Wendell Porter, a senior lecturer emeritus in agricultural and biological engineering at the University of Florida. The temperature of the water doesn’t matter since your body will heat it, he added. If your body is suffering from the heat and needs to cool itself, it can’t do that without enough moisture, since the body cools itself by sweating.

Take a cold shower or bath

Taking a cold shower or bath helps cool your body by lowering your core temperature, Porter said. For an extra cool blast, try peppermint soap. The menthol in peppermint oil activates brain receptors that tell your body something you’re eating or feeling is cold.

Use cold washrags on your neck or wrists

Place a cold washrag or ice bags (packs) on your wrists or drape it around your neck to cool your body. These pulse points are areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, so you’ll cool down more quickly.

Use box fans

Place box fans facing out of the windows of rooms you’re spending time in to blow out hot air and replace it with cold air inside. If the weather in your area tends to fall between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the mornings and evenings, opening the windows on both sides of the house during those times can facilitate a cross-flow ventilation system. If you do this, you can opt to use or not use the fans, but the fans would help cool the house faster, Porter said. The outdoors can pull the hot air from your home, leaving a cooler temperature or bringing in the breeze. Just be sure to close windows as the sun comes out, then open them when the weather is cool again. Just resting near a fan would reduce your body temperature as well.

Close your curtains or blinds

If you have windows that face the sun’s direction in the morning through afternoon, close the curtains or blinds over them to “keep the sun from coming directly into the house and heating up (the) inside,” Porter said. You could also install blackout curtains to insulate the room and reduce temperature increases that would happen during the day. If you do turn the air conditioning on, don’t set it below 70 degrees Fahrenheit in an effort to cool the house faster, said Samantha Hall, founder of Spaces Alive, an Australia-based design research company helping to create healthy, sustainable buildings.

“It just runs for longer to reach that temp and will keep going until you start to feel a bit chilly and is then hard to balance,” she added. Instead, keep the unit temperature as high as possible while still comfortable.

Sleep in breathable linens

Cotton is one of the most breathable materials, so cotton sheets or blankets could help keep you cool through the night. The lower the thread count of the cotton, the more breathable it is, Porter said. That’s because higher thread counts have more weaving per square inch.

Close the doors of unused rooms

If no one’s using a room that doesn’t have vents or registers, close the door to that area to keep the cool air confined to only occupied areas of the house.

Use the exhaust fan in your kitchen and/or bathroom

Flip the switch for the exhaust fan in your kitchen to pull hot air that rises after you cook or in your bathroom to draw out steam after you shower.

Install energy-efficient light bulbs

Incandescent light bulbs generate a higher temperature than LED light bulbs do. To make the switch, watch for sales on energy-efficient bulbs, then slowly replace the bulbs in your house, Porter said.

Prompt from 31 July Blog Post Ideas For Lifestyle Bloggers at Margaret Bourne.com

1. They’re Beautiful Dogs

Although their voluminous coat makes them appear larger, Finnish Lapphunds are really medium-sized dogs, with males averaging 18-21 inches tall and females ranging from 16-19 inches. They have a straight or wavy coat with a soft, dense undercoat. They also have a sweet, soft expression that’s sure to win hearts.

2. This Is an Ancient Breed

The Finnish Lapphund originated with the Sami, a semi-nomadic people in Lapland who covered parts of Finland, Sweden, and Russia. Remains of Lapponian dogs date back to 7000 B.C.! As the Sami culture evolved into a less nomadic one, the dogs were used to herd reindeer.

3. Finnish Lapphunds Are Quick and Agile

Speaking of reindeer, those are tough animals with hooves that can be deadly. Although herding sheep or cows requires special skills, herding reindeer takes other distinct skills that are inherent in Lappies. The breed is quick, brave, and agile, with a strong startle reflex that served them well if a reindeer suddenly turned on them.

4. They Tend to Bark

4. Another trait crucial to this herding dog is a tendency to bark. Finnish Lapphunds used barking to control the herd, and they are still barkers today.

On the one hand, this makes them very good watchdogs that will let you know if someone’s coming. On the other hand, teaching your Lappie when it’s OK to bark and when it isn’t is an important part of training.

5. They’re Sometimes Called a “Thinking Breed”

The Finnish Lapphund is sometimes referred to as a “thinking breed.” Although, as with most herders, they can be strong-willed, Lappies take to training and do well in dog sports. They also perform well as tracking dogs, therapy dogs, and in search and rescue.

6. They Weren’t Bred to Be Guardian Dogs

The Lappie is not a guardian dog. They’ll alert you to the presence of strangers, but they are not aggressive. In fact, they’re a devoted, sociable, and good-natured breed.

7. They Are a Distinct Dog Breed

Despite similarities in appearance to the Australian Shepherd, Samoyed, and Siberian Husky, the Finnish Lapphund is their own breed. They are calm, friendly, and attached to their human pack, yet with the intelligence, quickness, and courage of a dog used to working in tough Northern conditions. It’s no wonder the breed is becoming such a favorite!

The work-from-home (WFH) culture saw a substantial increase in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic, as numerous organisations switched to remote work to ensure business continuity and protect employee health. However, as we move into the post-Covid era, many companies are shifting away from fully remote work and gradually inviting employees back to the office. One of the strategies they are using is Office Peacocking.

Office Peacocking is a strategy employers use to make their offices more attractive and comfortable, hoping to entice employees back to the workplace post-pandemic. This includes enhancements like stylish décor, recreational zones, and amenities such as world-class kitchens and cozy lounge areas with natural lights and ergonomical furniture. This trend, gaining traction in 2024, aims to create a workplace that employees are excited to return to, countering the popularity of remote work established during the pandemic. Employers are redesigning workspaces with plush sofas, cozy corners, ample natural light, and an abundance of plants to create a vibrant, lounge-style atmosphere. Some firms have also invested in stylish decor and fully stocked kitchens to enhance the appeal of the workplace.

This summer has been extremely hot & humid. Just stepping out for a few minutes has been torture and even sitting inside during the day or evening is sweaty. One must hydrate oneself to survive the heat and humidity. We have to drinks lots of water throughout the day. Carry a portable water bottle wherever you go — preferably not a single-use, plastic one. Keeping a water bottle with you at all times will ensure that you don’t get caught in a situation with no access to drinking water. Doing so will also help you keep track of your daily water consumption. A reusable water bottle is always a sustainable option.

Plain water, which is then fortified with sliced fruits and vegetables, herbs, makes for a refreshing beverage. Choose seasonal produce to keep bringing variation to your detox water recipes. Citrus fruits, berries and herbs such as ginger will make your beverages delicious. Opt for fresh fruit juices, smoothies and soups. Having water is not the only way you can hydrate yourself! If you don’t like sipping on plain water, there are a ton of options out there for you. Choose fresh fruit and vegetable juices, tender coconut water, smoothies and hearty soups to keep yourself full and hydrated.

Take Cool Showers and Baths. A cool shower or bath is a fantastic way to lower your body temperature instantly and feel refreshed. You can also use a damp towel or cloth to cool off your neck, face, and arms. The answer to “how to be hydrated in summer” goes beyond just drinking water. By incorporating these simple tips and delicious options into your routine, you can effectively beat the heat and ensure your body functions optimally throughout the scorching Indian summer.

The Sabre-toothed tiger/cat is an extinct catlike carnivores belonging to either the extinct family Nimravidae or the subfamily Machairodontinae of the cat family (Felidae). Named for the pair of elongated bladelike canine teeth in their upper jaw, they are often called sabre-toothed tigers or sabre-toothed lions, although the modern lion and tiger are true cats of the subfamily Felinae.

Smilodon fatalis means “deadly knife tooth,” but the purpose of these large fangs remains a mystery. Sabertooth cats showed up in the fossil record about two million years ago and ranged widely over North and South America. The sabertooth cat was very different from the big cats alive today. Sabertooths had a short tail and a heavy, muscular build. Their physical features helped them to ambush and pounce on their prey, rather than slowly stalk and chase it down. Fossils show some evidence that sabertooths were social, perhaps even living in groups to care for one another.

Scientists have uncovered a number of saber tooth tiger skeletons and fossils. From this, we know that saber tooth tigers were large cats that had short limbs. Scientists think that these cats would have been similar to a modern-day African lion (Panthera Leo) in both size and color, although it is not related to lions either. They were dominant predators that preyed upon large herbivores such as deer and bison. It is also thought they would have eaten the occasional small woolly mammoth. The large cats are likely to have bred in the spring, with the female giving birth to a maximum of three cubs. There is not a lot known about saber tooth tiger cubs, but researchers think that they were born blind like other cats.

They had no natural predators. It is thought that they were hunted to extinction by humans. The saber tooth tiger had several adaptations that enabled it to have such large teeth. The cats had a wide gape that enabled it to open its mouth to 120 degrees. This is double that of today’s lions, who can open their mouths to 60 degrees. This wide gape was necessary to allow the cats to get the full use of their teeth, which could be up to 28 cm in length. Unlike modern-day cats, such as lions and cheetahs, Saber tooth tigers had a bobtail. A long tail is used by big cats to provide stability and balance when they are chasing their prey. Without this long tail, it is more likely that these big cats would have hidden and waited for their prey. Once they had surprised their prey, they would have delivered a fatal bite using their impressive canines.

Abiogenesis is the scientific theory that life arose from non-living matter through natural processes, without the need for supernatural intervention. It proposes that the basic building blocks of life, such as organic molecules, eventually formed in Earth’s early environment, and through a series of chemical reactions, self-assembled into primitive life forms.

The concept of abiogenesis suggests that under the right conditions, simple organic molecules, such as amino acids and nucleotides, could have formed from inorganic precursors, such as gases in the atmosphere or molecules in the primordial soup. Over time, these molecules could have combined to form more complex structures, eventually leading to the emergence of the first living organisms.

Abiogenesis is supported by various lines of evidence, including laboratory experiments demonstrating that simple organic molecules can form under conditions simulating early Earth, as well as observations of organic molecules in space and on other celestial bodies. Additionally, the fossil record provides clues about the early evolution of life on Earth, although it does not directly reveal the process of abiogenesis itself.

It’s important to note that abiogenesis is distinct from the theory of evolution, which explains how life diversifies and changes over time through mechanisms such as natural selection. Abiogenesis addresses the origin of life itself, while evolution addresses the subsequent development and diversification of life forms.

1. Their Origins Are Mysterious

No one knows exactly where the Dalmatian originated. This may be because Dalmatians have often traveled with Romani people, who are historically nomadic. The breed takes its name from a place called Dalmatia, a province of Austria on the eastern shore of the coast of Venice. We know for sure that the breed had a stronghold there, though we cannot be positive that it was their country of origin.

2. The Breed Is Very Old

Even though we don’t know exactly where they came from, we do know Dalmatians have been around for a long time. Spotted dogs have been found painted on the walls of Egyptian tombs, running alongside chariots.

3. They Have Served Many Different Purposes

In times of war, Dalmatians served as sentinels at the borders of Dalmatia and Croatia. They have also been herding, ratting, and hunting dogs. The Dalmatian is also the only dog breed that was bred for “coaching,” which means running alongside a stagecoach and clearing crowds out of the way so horses could pass through.

4. Fire Departments Used Them as Coach Dogs

Dalmatians are famous for being firehouse dogs. This is because Dalmatians used to serve as coaching dogs for horse-drawn fire coaches. With the invention of fire trucks, the Dalmatians weren’t really needed anymore. But many firehouses still keep Dalmatians as mascots.

5. Dalmatian Puppies Have No Spots at Birth

If you’ve seen the animated film “101 Dalmatians,” you may remember that Pongo and Perdita’s 15 puppies are all white when they’re born. Like real Dalmatians, these fictional puppies only get their spots as they grow older.

6. Their Coats Are One-of-a-Kind

Just like no two people have the same fingerprints, no two Dalmatians have exactly the same pattern of spots. Someone should have told Cruella de Vil that Dalmatians don’t make for good coat material, since every section of the coat would have been different.

The fear of clowns, known as coulrophobia, is a relatively common phenomenon, though not everyone experiences it. Several factors might contribute to this fear:

1. Uncanny Valley: Clowns often have exaggerated features, such as large, colorful clothing, painted faces, and exaggerated smiles. This departure from the norm can trigger feelings of unease or discomfort, as they may fall into what’s called the “uncanny valley,” where something is humanoid but not quite human enough, leading to a sense of eeriness.
2. Association with the Unknown or the Other: Clowns are often associated with circuses and carnivals, which can be unfamiliar or even unsettling environments for some people. The exaggerated behavior and appearance of clowns can also be perceived as unpredictable or mysterious, contributing to feelings of fear or anxiety.
3. Media Depictions: In popular culture, clowns are sometimes portrayed as sinister or malevolent figures, such as in horror movies like “It” or “Poltergeist.” These depictions can reinforce negative associations with clowns and contribute to the fear of them.
4. Negative Experiences: For some individuals, a negative personal experience with a clown, such as a scary encounter during childhood, can lead to the development of coulrophobia.
5. Lack of Facial Expression: The heavy makeup and fixed smile of clowns can make it difficult to discern their true emotions or intentions, which can be unsettling for some people.

Overall, the fear of clowns is complex and can stem from a combination of psychological, cultural, and individual factors.

In a world where kindness can sometimes feel like a rare commodity, there exists a simple yet profound act that has the power to save lives: blood donation. Every year, millions of people around the globe require blood transfusions due to accidents, surgeries, childbirth complications, and various medical conditions. However, the demand for blood often exceeds the available supply, highlighting the crucial role of blood donors in healthcare systems worldwide.

The Importance of Blood Donation: Blood donation is not just a charitable act; it is a lifeline for those in need. Whether it’s a patient undergoing major surgery, a cancer patient receiving chemotherapy, or an accident victim requiring an emergency transfusion, donated blood can mean the difference between life and death. Furthermore, blood transfusions are essential for treating various medical conditions such as anemia, thalassemia, and hemophilia, improving patients’ quality of life and helping them regain their health.

The Impact of Blood Shortages: Despite the vital role blood donation plays in healthcare, many countries face chronic blood shortages, especially during emergencies or natural disasters. Blood shortages can lead to delays in critical medical procedures, compromise patient care, and, in extreme cases, result in unnecessary deaths. Additionally, certain blood types are rarer than others, making it challenging to match donors with recipients, further exacerbating the shortage issue.

Myths and Misconceptions: Despite the importance of blood donation, several myths and misconceptions persist, deterring potential donors. Some people believe that donating blood is painful or that it can weaken their immune system. However, the truth is that blood donation is a safe and straightforward process that typically takes less than an hour, and the body replenishes the donated blood within a few weeks. Additionally, donating blood does not weaken the immune system; in fact, it can have health benefits for the donor, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

The Blood Donation Process: The blood donation process is simple and standardized to ensure the safety of both donors and recipients. It typically involves registration, a brief medical screening to ensure eligibility, the donation procedure itself, and post-donation refreshments to help replenish fluids and snacks to boost energy levels. Donors are encouraged to rest for a short period after donation and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day to prevent dizziness or lightheadedness.

Who Can Donate: Most healthy adults are eligible to donate blood, provided they meet certain criteria established by blood donation centers or blood banks. These criteria typically include being in good health, weighing at least 110 pounds (50 kilograms), and being above a certain age (usually 17 or 18, depending on the country). Additionally, donors must not have certain medical conditions or risk factors that could compromise the safety of the donated blood.

Blood donation is a selfless act of compassion that has the power to transform lives and communities. By donating blood, individuals can make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, offering hope and healing when it is needed most.

Flying squirrels — which actually glide, not fly — date back to at least the Oligocene Epoch, and now come in 43 species across Asia, Europe, and North America. They sail from tree to tree on a special membrane between each front and back limb, a trick that has evolved multiple times in history. (Aside from flying squirrels, it’s also used by other aerial mammals such as anomalures, colugos, and sugar gliders.)

1. Those Adorable Eyes Are for Night Vision

Big, round eyes are one reason why flying squirrels look so cute to humans. But while this trait typically indicates infancy in mammals — like the wide eyes that endear us to babies and puppies — flying squirrels retain their disproportionately plump peepers into adulthood. They evolved big eyes to collect more light for better night vision, an adaptation shared by many nocturnal animals, from owls to lemurs.

2. They Can Glow at Night

While we know all species of flying squirrels are active at night, it wasn’t until recently that researchers discovered some also glow at night. They also learned the flying squirrels glow more strongly on their undersides. It’s still unclear why the squirrels give off a fluorescent effect at all, but the researchers have several theories, including avoidance of predators at night, communication among the squirrels, and navigation of snowy and icy terrain.

3. Instead of Wings, Flying Squirrels Have ‘Patagia’ and Wrist Spurs

The furry, parachute-like membrane between a flying squirrel’s front and back limbs is known as a “patagium” (the plural is patagia). These flaps catch air as the squirrel falls, letting it propel itself forward instead of plummeting. But to make sure the patagia catch enough air, flying squirrels also have another trick up their sleeves: cartilage spurs at each wrist that can be extended almost like an extra finger, stretching out the patagia farther than the squirrel’s tiny arms could on their own.

When a flying squirrel wants to reach a tree that’s beyond jumping distance, it just boldly leaps out into the night, as captured in the video above. It then extends its limbs, including its wrist spurs, to stretch out its patagia and start gliding. It lands on the trunk of its target tree, gripping the bark with its claws, and often immediately scurries to the other side to avoid any owls that might have seen its glide.

4. Flying Squirrels Can Glide 300 Feet and Make 180-Degree Turns

They may not really fly, but flying squirrels still cover impressive distances in the air. The average glide of a northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinusis) is about 65 feet (20 meters), according to the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology, or slightly longer than a bowling lane. But it can also go much farther if needed, with glides recorded up to 295 feet (90 meters). That means an 11-inch (28 cm) northern flying squirrel could glide almost the full length of a soccer field, or about as far as the Statue of Liberty is tall. It’s also remarkably agile, using its limbs, fluffy tail, and patagia muscles to make sharp turns, even pulling off full semi-circles in a single glide.

5. 90% of All Flying Squirrel Species Exist Only in Asia

Wild flying squirrels can be found on three continents, but they aren’t evenly distributed. Forty of 43 known species are endemic to Asia, meaning they naturally exist nowhere else on Earth. And relatives of flying squirrels have inhabited parts of Asia for roughly 160 million years, according to research on flying-mammal fossils that hail from the age of dinosaurs.

6. Only 3 Flying Squirrels Are Native to the Americas

Flying squirrels exist across a large swath of North and Central America, except for sparsely treed places like deserts, grasslands, and tundra. They’ve adapted to a wide range of forests in dramatically different climates, from Honduras to Quebec and Florida to Alaska. Yet unlike their highly diverse relatives in Asia, all these American flying squirrels hail from just three species. There’s the northern flying squirrel and the southern flying squirrel (Glaucomys volans), plus the Humboldt’s flying squirrel (Glaucomys oregonensis), identified as a species in 2017 after previously being classified as a subspecies of northern flying squirrel.

7. Baby Flying Squirrels Need a Lot of Mothering

Southern flying squirrels are savvy survivors, but they only get to that point with a lot of motherly love. Their ears open within two to six days of birth, and they develop some fur after about a week. Their eyes don’t open for at least three weeks, though, and they remain dependent on their mothers for several months. “Females care for their young in the nest and nurse them for 65 days, which is an unusually long time for an animal of this size,” the UMMZ adds. “The young become independent by 4 months old unless they are born later in the summer, in which case they usually overwinter as a family.”

8. Flying Squirrels Don’t Hibernate, but They Do Hygge

Despite inhabiting frigid forests in places like Canada, Finland, and Siberia, flying squirrels don’t hibernate. Instead, they become less active in cold weather, spending more time in their nests and less time foraging. (They do still venture out during winter, though, like the Japanese dwarf flying squirrels in the video above.) They’re also known to deal with harsh winter weather by huddling together. Multiple squirrels sometimes share a nest for this reason, beyond just immediate family members.  They can reduce their metabolic rate and body temperature to save energy.

1. Values Do Not Align

When employees’ core values are out of sync, there are key signs of disengagement: decreased health, low productivity, complaining, inadequate nutrition, and lack of pride. If you notice that your values do not align with the company’s culture or values, it may be a sign that you are not employed at a business that is the best fit for you.

2. You Have No Idea How Your Role Impacts the Company

The best way to determine whether your job is a good fit is to know your role in the company and the impact of your work on the company’s bottom line. Are you pleased with the way your skills are being utilized? Have you figured out how your role impacts the firm? If not, you’re most probably not a perfect fit for the position. Instead of leaving, look for a way to make the position match your strengths in a way that you feel like you impact the firm.

3. Your Daily Activities Do Not Match the Job Description

Employers frequently define job titles. However, these descriptions often do not fit the roles individuals perform. People fill jobs based on what they read in job descriptions, not what they do. Discuss what you think of the role and its differences from what you thought it would be. Once you are certain that the job is not what you expected, embrace it as a new opportunity to seek employment elsewhere.

4. You Feel Negative About Work

When you are not able to derive joy from your work or when you cannot feel good about finishing a task or being happy when a new one is offered, you should recognize that your skills and interests are not appropriate for the job. You might, for example, experience negative effects such as apathy, sluggishness, or uneasiness about your work.

5. You Have Lost Your Passion

When your dedication to your career and contribution to the company no longer motivates you each day, you have thus far verified that you are in the wrong job. Family demands, a difficult boss, and other inconveniences may cause your passion for work and involvement to disappear. Look for any way to re-energize your enthusiasm. If not, it might be time to change jobs.

1. Enjoy dinner and a movie at home.

Dinner and a movie is a total date night classic—but it can get real pricey real quick. Dinner at a nice restaurant means leaving a tip (always tip, especially on holidays!). And movie ticket prices are so high it feels like you ought to at least get a high five from the actors in real life for what you just spent to watch them on the big screen. Here’s how you can take this classic date and give it a thrifty twist. Set up a candlelit dinner at home and watch a romantic movie on whatever streaming service you already have. While everyone else is scrambling to find a reservation and a babysitter, you can relax at home.

2. Go on a picnic.

If the weather is nice, get outside. Pack a couple sandwiches or visit Aldi for a bottle of wine and everything you need to make a delicious and budget-friendly charcuterie board–complete with cheese, crackers and fruit. Yum! Then find a quiet spot together to kick back, relax and enjoy each other’s company. You don’t have to splurge at a four-star restaurant to connect with your special someone.  And if the weather outside is too cold for a picnic (you know, winter and all), then lay out a blanket, turn on a YouTube fireplace, and have a cozy picnic right there on the living room floor.

3. Have a game night.

This is an ultimate cheap date night. Who doesn’t love a good board game and a little friendly competition? Dust off a few classics from your closet or buy (or borrow) a new game. Are video games more your thing? Then you can go that route too. All that gaming will probably make you hungry, so have some Valentine’s-themed snacks on hand. Pick up some red velvet cupcakes, candy conversation hearts or the gold standard—a heart-shaped box of chocolates.

4. Visit a museum.

Tickets to a local museum usually aren’t too crazy expensive. And sometimes you can even find coupons or free culture passes through your local library. Learn a little about art or history—and each other—as you wander through the marble halls. Point out your favorite (and least favorite) pieces. Or, if you want to give the date a fun new twist, make up new names for the artwork or pretend to be stuffy art critics. Combine this idea with your home-cooked dinner and a movie or game night, and you’ll have a packed day full of fun.

5. Take a hike or enjoy an easy nature walk.

Pack a lunch, grab a few water bottles (or kombucha, for you super healthy people), and hit the trail. There’s nothing like getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and getting into nature to help you connect. You’ll be amazed at the quality of conversation you can have with someone while you’re hoofing it up a mountain or moseying along a quiet trail in the woods. And bonus points for all the fresh air and exercise you’ll get in. It’s Valentine’s Day, after all, so why not get your heart in shape while you’re at it? (And if the great outdoors is so not your thing—ahem, guilty—a long walk through the neighborhood works too.)

Prompt from 150+ Best Blog Post Ideas for February at HappilyDwell.com

Origins to a Bloody Pagan Festival

Some trace Valentine’s Day origins to a Christian effort to replace a pagan fertility festival that has been dated as far back as the 6th century B.C. During the festival of Lupercalia, Roman priests would sacrifice goats and dogs and use their blood-soaked hides to slap women on the streets, as a fertility blessing. According to legend, women would later put their names in an urn and be selected to be paired with a man for a year.

Letters Addressed to ‘Juliet’ 

Every year, thousands of romantics send letters addressed to Verona, Italy to “Juliet,” the subject of the timeless romantic tragedy, “Romeo and Juliet.” The city marks the location of the Shakespearean tale, and the letters that reach the city are dutifully answered by a team of volunteers from the Juliet Club. Each year, on Valentine’s Day, the club awards the “Cara Giulietta” (“Dear Juliet”) prize to the author of the most touching love letter.

Box of Chocolates

The Valentine’s Day tradition of giving a box of candy was started in the 19th century by Richard Cadbury, a scion of a British chocolate manufacturing family. With a new technique recently established at the company to create more varieties of chocolate, Cadbury pounced on the opportunity to sell the chocolates as part of the beloved holiday.

First Valentine Was Written From a Prison

History’s first valentine was written in perhaps one of the most unromantic places conceivable: a prison. Charles, Duke of Orleans wrote the love letter to his second wife at the age of 21 while captured at the Battle of Agincourt. As a prisoner for more than 20 years, he would never see his valentine’s reaction to the poem he penned to her in the early 15th century.

‘Vinegar Valentines’ Discouraged Suitors

During the Victoria Era, those who didn’t want the attention of certain suitors would anonymously send “vinegar valentines.” These cards, also called penny dreadfuls, were the antithesis of customary valentines, comically insulting and rejecting unwanted admirers. They were later used to target suffragettes in the late 19th and early 20th century.

‘Wearing Your Heart on Your Sleeve’

The term “wearing your heart on your sleeve” may have origins in picking a valentine. Smithsonian reports that during the Middle Ages, men would draw the names of women who they would be coupled with for the upcoming year while attending a Roman festival honoring Juno. After choosing, the men wore the names on their sleeves to show their bond during the festivities.

Clueless (1995)

As if! Based on Jane Austen’s Emma, this Valley Girl classic starring Alicia Silverstone is filled with not only unexpected love, but the way friendships can evolve over time. The clothes! The quotes! This timeless film is well worth at least one annual screening.

Roman Holiday (1953)

Audrey Hepburn flexes her serious talent as a bored Princess Ann, who gives her guardians the slip for an adventure with American newsman Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck) in this romantic comedy classic. You may already know the iconic scooter scene that basically created the trend of tooling around city streets in a Vespa.

You’ve Got Mail (1998)

Some of the technology in this late ’90s standard might be charmingly old-school, but the message goes the distance. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan have starred in three films together, but You’ve Got Mail — a riff on the classic The Shop Around the Corner — really makes the most of their undeniable onscreen chemistry.

Pretty Woman (1990)

Julia Roberts and Richard Gere make a really cute couple, but Roberts’ antics are what really earned this one its place in history. “Big. Huge.” became part of our lexicon after watching the scenes of her shopping in Beverly Hills and no polo match feels complete without Roberts stomping divots.

Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008)

Peter (Jason Segel) takes a trip to Hawaii to heal from a breakup. But then his ex Sarah (Kristen Bell) shows up at the same resort. This heartwarming comedy of errors shows that even the worst possible circumstances can work out just fine by the time the credits roll.

The Proposal (2009)

The overbearing Margaret (Sandra Bullock) pretty much forces her employee Andrew (Ryan Reynolds) to marry her so she can avoid deportation to Canada, which is awkward enough. But when they visit his family in Alaska, sparks start to fly in the snow. If the gorgeous Alaskan setting isn’t enough for you, check out Betty White‘s turn as Andrew’s lovably risqué grandma.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002)

Pass the Windex, bake a bundt and tune in to watch a woman (Nia Vardalos) from a very, very Greek family fall in love with a non-Greek man (John Corbett). Romance is a family affair in this movie that shows how you really do marry your in-laws, especially if their personalities are stronger than Sambuca.

Serendipity (2001)

Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale) spend one amazing night together in New York City, but then fall out of touch for years afterward. As they prepare to marry other people, they both get cold feet and decide to hunt each another down instead. If you don’t believe in fate, let this classic change your mind.