A woman on a ski trip decided to share her view from the chairlift on social media, and her footage is absolutely mesmerizing! Caitlynn Weeden was filming her ride up to the top of the ski hill when she captured the most beautiful scene. In the distance stood a majestic mountain covered in white snow! This beautiful landscape was definitely worth the trip up the slope. “This has to be the best view off of a chairlift ever,” Caitlynn wrote in her caption. @weeden_wanders Crystal Mountain ♬ White Winter Hymnal – Fleet Foxes According to the creator’s post, this footage was taken at Crystal Mountain, a massive ski resort right by Mt. Rainier National Park. It seems to be a popular spot, not just for skiers, but for sightseers as well! Another traveler on social media got to the top of the slope and marveled at all the neighboring mountains he could spot from his excellent vantage point. “At this point, the skiing is just secondary,” he said. Not a skier? Not a problem! @lucascatania when the skiing becomes secondary to the views you’re surrounded by..this was such an incredibly beautiful day at a goegeous mountain in washington. #skiingtiktok #skitok #crystalmountain ♬ original sound – Lucas Catania Apparently, you don’t have to take the chairlift to get some spectacular views at this resort. In fact, you don’t even have to bring your skis! Guests who just want to enjoy the scenery can still ride Crystal Mountain’s Mt. Rainier Gondola, which takes them “over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit.” There, passengers will get an amazing view of the entire Cascade Range. One woman highlighted this activity as a great travel hack for non-hikers who want to see Mt. Rainier in all its glory. She shared some absolutely breathtaking footage from her trip. Judging by her video, it looks like a worthwhile journey! @morganbushh #seattle #washington #hiking #gondola #crystalmountain #mtrainier #mountrainier #nationalpark #travel #seattletiktok #views #hikingszn ♬ The Nights （抖音热搜版） (Cover Avicii (艾维奇))（间奏4） – 田浩宇 We love to see people sharing their favorite travel tips and destinations on social media. Not only do videos like these help people plan better trips, but they also open our eyes to the many wonders this world has to offer! You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Stunning: “This Has To Be The Best View Off Of A Chairlift — Ever!” appeared first on InspireMore.

Here’s a riddle for you: how can a bird fly without using their wings? Well, according to this parrot’s experience, it all starts at the airport! Pet owner Taylor Munsell was delighted to be able to bring her feathered companion on a plane ride with her. She caught the cutest footage of her bird during the flight! In the video, Sammy the parrot was safe and sound inside a pet carrier right next to the window. He stared at the passing clouds with awe as the airplane soared through the sky. We’re not sure if he knew what was going on, but he looked like he was having a good time! @taylor.munsell Thank you @delta for allowing feathered friends on board! #delta #deltaairlines #parrotsoftiktok #parrot #birdsoftiktok #birds #orangewingedamazon #orangewingedamazonparrot ♬ Glamorous – Fergie “Thank you @delta for allowing feathered friends on board!” Taylor wrote in the caption of her post. Everyone in the comments loved seeing Taylor and Sammy traveling together. In fact, this parrot’s flight might have just inspired one person to try bringing their own avian to the airport! “As a fellow orange-winged amazon owner I shall keep this in mind, my bird refuses to let me go anywhere without her,” wrote one user. Here’s why this pet owner brought her parrot to the airport. Screengrab from TikTok Taylor was pretty much in the same situation as this commenter. As she explained in another video, her bird is extremely attached to her, so she didn’t want to travel without him. She also didn’t think it would be a good idea to bring the parrot to the airport as cargo, so it was very important that he sit with her on the plane. Thankfully, the airline agreed to let Sammy fly as a passenger. However, his owners did have to buy him a ticket. The things we do for our pets! You can find the source of this story’s featured image here. The post Pure Wonder: Parrot Flies The Skies Without Ever Opening His Wings! appeared first on InspireMore.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Winter often brings with it soaring utility bills, thanks to extra heating, longer showers, and higher energy consumption in general. But what if you could stay warm and cozy while saving money and reducing your environmental footprint? By adopting a few simple habits, you can significantly cut down on your energy usage without sacrificing comfort. From optimizing your heating system to making the most of natural sunlight, here are 11 practical tips to help you use less energy at home this winter. 1. Identify the power-hungry culprits Start by taking stock of your home’s appliances and their energy consumption. Items like refrigerators, stoves, and heating systems are often the biggest energy guzzlers. If your appliances are outdated, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models—they might cost more upfront but will save you money in the long run. 2. Use smart power strips Even when switched off, many electronics consume energy if they remain plugged in. “Phantom power” can quietly add up, but smart power strips can help by cutting electricity to devices not in use. Bonus: many models include surge protection, offering added peace of mind during winter storms. 3. Swap out your light bulbs Replacing incandescent light bulbs with LED options can slash your lighting energy consumption by up to 90 percent. LEDs are not only energy-efficient but also long-lasting, making them an easy, cost-effective upgrade for both indoor and outdoor lighting. 4. Harness the power of curtains Curtains are more than just décor—they’re a powerful energy-saving tool. Keep them closed at night to trap heat inside, and open them during sunny days to let in natural warmth and light. A little sunlight can go a long way in heating your home. 5. Seal doors and windows Drafty doors and windows can let the cold sneak in and your heating dollars escape. Seal edges with padded tape, adjust door hinges for a snug fit, and consider installing weather stripping. These small fixes can make a big difference. 6. Turn down the thermostat Resist the urge to crank up the heat. Instead, layer up with cozy sweaters and blankets, and lower your thermostat a few degrees. A smart thermostat can automate temperature changes, ensuring your home warms up before you return from errands while saving energy during the day. 7. Rethink laundry habits Washing bigger loads reduces the frequency of cycles, saving water and electricity. Air-drying clothes indoors can also add humidity to your home, combating the dryness that often accompanies heated spaces. 8. Adjust your fridge settings During winter, your fridge doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool. Raise its temperature to 42–43°F, and plan your fridge openings to minimize cold air loss. This simple adjustment helps your fridge work less and consume less energy. 9. Close off unused rooms In larger homes, shutting the doors to unused rooms can help reduce the workload on your heating system. If you have a smart home setup, program it to reduce heat in these areas for added efficiency. 10. Insulate your attic and water heater A poorly insulated attic is like an open door for heat to escape. Adding insulation before winter can drastically improve your home’s heat retention. Similarly, a water heater blanket can reduce heat loss from your tank, cutting energy costs. 11. Reverse your ceiling fans Ceiling fans aren’t just for summer. By flipping the switch on your fan to reverse its direction, you can push warm air that gathers near the ceiling down into your living space. This helps distribute heat more evenly and reduces strain on your heating system. Why energy efficiency matters Saving energy isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about reducing your environmental impact and conserving resources. Making small changes to your daily habits can lead to big savings over time. It’s not about living in the dark or cold—it’s about using what you have more efficiently. These strategies can help you lower your utility bills, keep your home cozy, and contribute to a greener planet. Whether you try one tip or all 11, you’re taking a step toward a more energy-efficient and budget-friendly winter.The post 11 smart ways to save energy at home this winter first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM New Jersey is making news as the latest state to prohibit book restrictions in public and school libraries. Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation on Monday, December 9 that prohibits censorship while also protecting libraries from legal and criminal consequences for maintaining inclusive collections. Murphy spoke from the Princeton Public Library, near Princeton University’s renowned ivy-covered walls, framing the act as a progressive antidote to the wave of book bans sweeping across Republican-led states. “It’s the antithesis of all these book-banning states that you see,” Murphy declared. “I’m incredibly proud to have signed it, but also acknowledge that America … is becoming a patchwork quilt country. It really matters where you live.” The new law positions New Jersey alongside other Democrat-led states like Illinois and Minnesota, which have also enacted protections against book bans. What does the law cover? Libraries in New Jersey are banned by law from removing books based on their content, the author’s opinions, or the material’s origin. The measure specifically forbids censorship simply because a book is deemed offensive by an individual. However, it does allow for age-appropriate restrictions to ensure materials align with developmental suitability. The law also requires local school boards and library governing bodies to set explicit procedures for book selection and removal. This includes providing formal channels for addressing complaints about specific materials and fostering transparency and accountability. Why this law matters The law comes in the wake of unprecedented attempts to restrict access to books in the United States. According to the American Library Association (ALA), more than 4,200 books in school and public libraries were challenged in 2023, a significant increase over the previous record high of roughly 2,600 in 2022. Many of the targeted works address LGBTQ+ identification and racial concerns. Conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups across the country, like Moms for Liberty, claim that such novels are too explicit or contentious, especially for young readers. Some states have tightened regulations to the point where librarians and instructors face lawsuits, penalties, or even incarceration for giving access to certain books. New Jersey’s statute serves as a safeguard in this increasingly volatile environment. Karen Grant, president of the New Jersey Association of School Librarians, described the measure as a win for intellectual freedom. “The bill will protect the intellectual freedom of students as well as acknowledge that school libraries are centers for voluntary inquiry, fostering students’ growth and development,” she said. Voices of resilience The law also gives much-needed relief to librarians who have been at the core of these fights. Martha Hickson, a retired librarian, spoke alongside Murphy at the bill signing, sharing her harrowing experience of being accused of promoting inappropriate content during a school board meeting in 2021. Hickson described how parents objected to works like Lawn Boy and Gender Queer, even suggesting she face criminal charges. After years of harassment, she expressed satisfaction with the additional safeguards. “I’m thrilled,” Hickson exclaimed. “After more than three years of harassment, this legislation is a relief to readers and librarians.” What’s next? Though the law won’t take effect for another year, preparations are already underway. The state’s education commissioner and librarian will begin enacting the rules required to sustain the new safeguards. This legislation sends a strong message that libraries are still safe havens for learning and exploration. In a politically divided society, New Jersey’s move emphasizes the long-term value of intellectual freedom.The post New Jersey takes a stand: a landmark law against book bans in libraries first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

Our canine companions, “man’s best friend”, are part of the family! They are there at our side no matter what so, naturally, they deserve the very best in pet care. Caring for our fur babies is, at times, time consuming. Between cleaning up dog hair, cleaning up a pee stain, or protecting them during storms…it’s something that is up to us. And we do it all with love! In today’s article I will cover hacks to make caring for our fur babies go a little smoother and perhaps a little quicker. These hacks will save you time and that extra time we can spend with our lovable canines! Let’s take a quick look at some of the hacks I’ll be covering: Easy ways to pick up dog hair How to cure bad doggie breath How to protect their paws in extreme weather A DIY “no chew” spray ….And much more! Let’s get started! Dog Care Hacks That Every Dog Owner Should Know Furbo Dog Camera: Treat Tossing, Full HD Wifi Pet Camera and 2-Way Audio, Designed for Dogs, Compatible with Alexa (As... FULL HD CAMERA & NIGHT VISION - The Furbo Dog Camera gives...2-WAY AUDIO - Know what’s going on at home and talk to... Buy Now 2 Easy Ways To Pick Up Dog Hair On Furniture Constantly cleaning dog hair off the furniture comes with the territory! Here are 2 easy ways to make it go a little quicker. Dryer sheet: Run a dryer sheet over the dog hair and it comes off with ease. It’ll also help keep your furniture static free, which is why dog hair clings to fabric so easily in the first place. Rubber Gloves: Simply wearing a rubber glove and running your hand across the hair helps to collect the hair much easier. Easy Way To Grab Dog Hair Off Your Carpet Of course vacuuming is the best way to remove dog hair from the carpet. However, did you know you can use a window squeegee to grab dog hair? Just simply scrape the squeegee along the carpet and you’ll be surprised how much hair comes up! Clean Up Pee Spots On The Carpet With Baking Soda Cleaning up pee spots on the carpet is a cinch with baking soda! All you have to do is pour baking soda over the urine and allow the baking soda to completely soak it up. Next, vacuum over the area and you’re all set! Baking soda can be toxic to some pets so make sure to keep pets away during the cleaning process. How To Protect Their Paws In Winter Weather You can use paw balm or doggie boots to protect their paws in winter weather. However, If you do not have any paw balm and/or your dog simply refuses to wear boots, smear vaseline over their paw pads as a great alternative. Dog Training Collar - Rechargeable Dog Shock Collar with Beep, Vibration and Shock Training Modes, Rainproof, Long... Multiple training modes dog shock collar with remote....Less accidental shock. Have you ever feel sorry for the... $32.99 Buy Now How To Protect Their Paws In Hot Summer Temps If you walk your dog on pavement in the summer, there’s a simple test to see if the pavement is too hot for them. Hold the back side of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for you then, it’s too hot for them. Try walking them on grassy areas during the hot part of the day. Easy Method To Test For Fleas If you suspect your dog may have fleas, here is a simple test to check. Lay your dog on a white towel to brush them. Look for flea dirt or fleas on the towel. If your dog does have fleas, please check out my article 5 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Fleas In and Around Your Home for all natural remedies for your pet and your home. This is the best dog care tip around! How To Get Rid Of Skunk Smell Did your curious canine get skunked? No worries! You can remove the odor with soap, hydrogen peroxide, and baking soda. Check out this article for detailed instructions. Easy Way To Remove A Stinger Removing a stinger from a dog’s skin can be tricky. Here’s an easy and quick way to remove a stinger. Scrape the stinger with something that has a firm straight edge like a credit card. The stinger will come with ease! How To Cure Bad Breath Does your fur baby have bad breath? Here’s an easy way to remedy that. Add small amounts of parsley to their food once or twice a week. Do not give them parsley in large amounts or on consecutive days as doing so can upset their stomachs. How To Stop Nail Bleeding Cutting a dog’s nails too short can cause their nails to bleed. Applying a paste made with equal parts of white flour, cornstarch, and water to their nails with light pressure for 3-5 minutes will stop the bleeding. This is a great dog care tip to have on hand. Easy Way To Train Your Dog To Stay Calm During A Storm So many dogs (and cats) are afraid of thunderstorms! An easy way to train them to be less afraid is to play a sound recording of storms while going about your normal daily routine. Over time they will get used to the ‘sound’ and when the real storm comes along they may just shrug it off as ‘normal’, therefore, staying calm. DIY Spray To Eliminate Pet Odors Pet odors are no problem with this effective odor eliminating spray! Combine 5 tablespoons of baking and 4-6 ounces of water into a spray bottle. Next, add 5 drops of your favorite essential oil and shake well. Spray on carpets and cloth furniture to eliminate pet odors. This is one of my favorite dog care tips! DIY “No Chew” Spray Does your canine companion love to chew? Try this DIY “no chew” spray! This spray works really well due to the fact that dogs despise the taste of bitter apple. Mix together 2 parts of apple cider vinegar and 1 part white vinegar in a spray bottle and shake well. Spray on all their favorite “chew spots”! First Aid Kit For Your Loyal Canine We have first aid kits for ourselves but, we can’t forget that our loyal canines should have one of their own as well. Check out my article, Dog First Aid Kit For Your Canine Companion to learn how you can make the perfect first aid just for them! **Information within this article is for informational purposes only. Read our full disclaimer here. Do you have a dog care hack to share with us? Share with us in the comment section below. Check out our other great articles on pet care: Smart Fire and Electrical Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe Basic Home Remedies For Fleas (Protect Your Pets) 15 Pet Projects & Recipes

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NetEase Games has announced that Dead by Daylight Mobile will soon leave app stores, followed by a complete shutdown in the coming months. The game is currently still available on iOS and Google Play, but will leave both in early 2025. NetEase Games adds that any DBD Mobile players can opt-in for a welcome package on PC and console, which rewards you with Bloodpoints, Auric Cells, and Iridescent Shards in relation to money spent and level reached. Continue reading DBD Mobile is shutting down soon, so players get free rewards in the full game MORE FROM PCGAMESN: DBD killer tier list, Best horror games, DBD codes

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