BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM When winter arrives, it’s not just the snowy roads that make life difficult; your windows could be home to an unwanted visitor: mold. Condensation is the unpleasant phenomenon that occurs when warm interior air hits cold window panes. As the air cools, it releases moisture in the form of droplets, which accumulate around your windows and create an excellent damp environment for mold to develop. If this sounds like a seasonal headache you’d rather avoid, there’s some good news: a simple bowl of salt could be the ally you didn’t realize you needed. Why salt is your secret weapon Salt is useful for more than just flavoring fries or de-icing your driveway. It is also a moisture magnet. In fact, this brilliant technique first gained popularity in the United Kingdom, where people swear by placing bowls of salt near their windows to absorb excess rainwater. The science is simple: salt naturally absorbs moisture from the air, lowering humidity and reducing condensation. Simply find a bowl, fill it with salt, and place it on your windowsill. For larger windows, use a larger bowl—nothing fancy, just enough to cover the space. But there’s a catch: salt has a saturation point. Once it has absorbed enough liquid, it will begin to clump, and you may notice the bowl becoming somewhat damp. That’s your cue to replace it with fresh salt and continue the moisture-fighting magic. Teamwork: salt and ventilation for the win While salt can accomplish a lot, it is hardly a miracle worker. Consider it your dependable sidekick, but not the entire solution. Proper ventilation is the real MVP for preventing mold growth over the winter. Here are some simple techniques to keep air moving: Regularly open windows to circulate air and prevent moisture buildup. Even small cracks can help Check window vents for proper operation. Turn on the bathroom extractor fan, especially after a steamy shower. Be aware of indoor drying: Avoid drying clothes or boiling water without lids, as they might increase air moisture. By combining appropriate ventilation with moisture-absorbing salt bowls, you can create a double barrier against mold, keeping your home warm, dry, and safe throughout winter. The bottom line A tiny bowl of salt can have a big influence on combating moisture and mold. Just remember to keep an eye on the salt, refresh it as needed, and let ventilation do its part. With three easy steps, your windows will thank you.   Today’s “Best Of” roundup highlights the top Lifestyle solutions of 2024. From simple habits to transformative trends, these stories reflect how small changes can make life more balanced, joyful, and meaningful. The post Why you need to place a bowl of salt by your window this winter first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM If you’ve been savoring the fruits (or vegetables) of your spring and early summer gardening, you understand the satisfaction of homegrown produce. Don’t let the gardening season finish just yet. According to skilled gardeners, August is a good time to plant a variety of veggies that will thrive in the upcoming cooler months. Here’s a detailed guide to help you continue your gardening experience with seven crops that are ideal for planting in August. Why August is ideal for planting Gary Pilarchik, author of Grow an Edible Landscape, highlights the advantages of late-summer planting. “The best thing about planting vegetables in August is that almost everything can be direct seeded into the soil,” he says. “This is the most inexpensive way to grow plants for food. The warmth of the soil and the heat of the summer helps to speed up germination and early plant growth.” Important tips for direct sowing Pilarchik recommends having a good supply of water during the beginning phases. “The top 2 inches of soil can heat up to 100°F during summer days. Watering every day for 10-14 days ensures the plants will germinate, not ‘burn’ up, and establish deeper roots.” Following this period, he suggests modifying watering frequency according to the weather. Summer squashes, cucumbers, and beans Many gardeners may think it is too late to grow summer squash, cucumbers, and beans, which are generally planted in May and June. However, Pilarchik promises that if your area does not get frost until October, there is still plenty of time. “Many summer squash and zucchini will mature 35 days after germination. Cucumbers and beans can be ready in as little as 45 days.” Pilarchik also recommends growing zucchini and cucumbers several times over the summer to combat pests and diseases. “Early plants are often killed by pests and diseases or the high heat of summer. Successive planting is often more successful because the life cycle of pests and diseases have passed.” Vegetables to plant in August 1. Zucchini Zucchini grows best in broad sunlight and well-drained, organic-rich soil. The Seed Collection recommends spreading zucchini seeds 4/5 inches deep and 20-24 inches apart. Maintain moisture without overwatering. “Water the plants in the early morning or late afternoon to prevent fungal diseases,” Pilarchik says. Planting Zone: 3–11 2: Cucumber Cucumbers demand full sunlight and well-drained soil. Sow seeds 2/5 inch deep, 16-24 inches apart. Germination usually takes 4-10 days. Keep the soil wet but not saturated. Planting Zone: 4–11 3: Carrots Carrots thrive in well-drained, sandy soil. Sally Allsopp, founder of All That Grows, advises, “Water your carrot bed regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.” Thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding. Planting zone: 4-8 4. Beets Beets grow quickly and can be planted for a fall harvest. Sow seeds approximately 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Thin seedlings after they have developed their first set of leaves. Planting zone: 2–10 5: Lettuce Lettuce grows quickly and is great for staggered planting. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep, 8-12 inches apart. To promote seed germination, make sure the soil is fine and granular. Planting zone: 4–9 6. Kale Kale is a sturdy vegetable that needs direct sunlight and well-drained soil. Sow seeds ½ inch deep and 16-24 inches apart. Water weekly and mulch to keep the soil moist. Planting zone: 7–9 7. Peas Peas flourish in cooler climates. Plant them 70–90 days before the first frost. Pilarchik suggests using a shade cloth to protect young seedlings from the summer sun. Planting zone: 3–11 More tips for a successful August garden Using shade cloth can greatly boost germination and growth. “A shade cloth will keep the soil and plant roots cooler during August, and cooler roots mean better growth,” according to Pilarchik. When temperatures approach 90°F, shade cloths can be especially useful. Experiment with planting times and keep notes to improve your strategy each year. “The best way to figure out when to plant these crops in August is to give it a try and take notes,” Pilarchik says. This trial-and-error strategy can help you adjust your gardening schedule for higher harvests in the future. Experience the joy of gardening With these professional recommendations and a variety of veggies to plant, August may be a productive month for gardeners. “August for me is like starting a new summer and fall garden at the same time,” Pilarchik says. So, grab your gardening tools and reap the benefits of growing your own produce far into the fall.     Today’s “Best Of” roundup highlights the top Lifestyle solutions of 2024. From simple habits to transformative trends, these stories reflect how small changes can make life more balanced, joyful, and meaningful.The post 7 vegetables to grow in August for a successful fall harvest first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Simone Biles, one of the best and most beloved gymnasts of all time, once again demonstrated her unrivaled abilities by departing the 2024 Paris Olympics with three gold medals and one silver. However, her achievement extends beyond the medals. Biles’ path has become as much about mental health as it is about gymnastics, demonstrating to the world that caring for one’s mental state is as important as honing physical skills. Biles, 27, is not only dominating on the mat but also winning in life by putting her mental health first. After dealing with the “twisties” at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Biles made her well-being a priority—a decision that has clearly paid dividends. “More than my wildest dreams,” she remarked on Instagram following her most recent Olympic victory, showcasing her ability to strike a balance between mental and physical greatness. Her recovery is a source of hope and inspiration for everyone dealing with mental health issues. Here are five effective behaviors from Biles’ mental health playbook that we can all apply to our lives. Embrace mindfulness to calm a busy mind In an age of endless distractions, mindfulness is a lifesaver. Biles has embraced this practice wholeheartedly. After winning gold in the individual all-around event, she posted a peaceful photo of herself, eyes closed, sitting quietly on the sidelines. The caption was simple yet profound: “Mental health matters.” The response was amazing, with both fans and mental health specialists applauding her for emphasizing the value of mindfulness. Dr. Joshua Norman, a sports psychiatrist at Ohio State University, says, “Mindfulness practices are a great way to ground yourself and reduce anxiety.” This is a technique that can benefit everyone, not just Olympians. Dr. Jaime Zuckerman, a clinical psychologist, stresses the importance of this habit: “It helps you to get out of your head and stay within your body,” she says, implying that even a quick meditation moment prior to a stressful event can have a significant influence. Therapy can happen anywhere In an era when mental health resources are becoming more accessible, Biles demonstrates how therapy may be easily integrated into a hectic existence. Before the individual all-around final in Paris, she casually stated in a TikTok video, “I did have therapy this morning, so I feel a little bit better.” This candid admission resonated with many, including Hillary Ammon, a clinical psychologist, who expressed her joy at Biles’ openness: “This incredible athlete, who so many admire, is comfortable sharing that even she needs therapy before a competition.” Therapy, whether virtual or in-person, offers invaluable support, and Biles’ example normalizes seeking treatment, regardless of location. Dr. Lily Brown of the University of Pennsylvania emphasizes the accessibility of virtual therapy, writing, “The added benefit is [that virtual therapy is] accessible to more people.” This versatility enables anyone—from busy professionals to parents—to get the mental health care they require. Set boundaries and stick to them In today’s hyper-connected society, setting boundaries is more important than ever. Biles, who has frequently been in the spotlight, has realized the value of safeguarding her personal life. She recently responded to internet detractors of her husband, NFL star Jonathan Owens, with a strong message: “Leave us alone.” Hillary Ammon describes Biles’ attitude as “a refreshing reminder that you can set your own boundaries.” Dr. Brown concurs, emphasizing that boundaries are crucial for everyone: “We’ve become a society where our boundaries have been lowered… But it’s OK to give yourself permission to just focus on the relationships that matter.” Biles’ experience serves as a compelling reminder of the need to set good limits for our mental and emotional well-being. It’s okay to put yourself first In a culture that frequently demands constant people-pleasing, Biles has demonstrated the fortitude to prioritize her own needs. When she arrived in Paris, she was overwhelmed by the attention at the Olympic Village café, where admirers kept asking for selfies. Rather than deal with the anxiousness, she stocked up on food and ate in her room. “It takes courage to put yourself first,” says Dr. Norman. He goes on to say that making these decisions “helps encourage a healthy environment” around you. Dr. Zuckerman agreed, highlighting the importance of avoiding the trap of being a people-pleaser: “If you say yes to everything, you end up with a watered-down version of yourself.” Biles’ actions demonstrate the importance of self-care and the bravery to prioritize one’s own mental health, even if it means making unpopular decisions. Use social media with care Social media can be both a blessing and a curse, but Biles has learned to navigate it on her own terms. Before leaving for Paris, she told Today that “Limiting social media and stuff like that is going to be [important].” While she chose to abandon X (previously Twitter), she maintained contact with her followers on Instagram and TikTok. Dr. Brown points out the importance of being mindful of social media use, noting that it can have a significant impact on mental health: “The research on social media is only in its early days… Ask yourself how much time you want to spend on it and what is healthy for [you].” Biles’ judicious usage of social media serves as a model for others to achieve a balance that benefits rather than harms their mental health. Biles’ path is about more than simply recovering her position as the world’s best gymnast; it’s also about regaining her peace of mind. Her candor regarding her mental health issues and successes serves as a model for others going through similar experiences. “Simone highlights that mental health is health,” Dr. Brown stresses. “To be in your best physical condition, you also need to be on top of your mental health—and she’s thriving because of it.”     Today’s “Best Of” roundup highlights the top Lifestyle solutions of 2024. From simple habits to transformative trends, these stories reflect how small changes can make life more balanced, joyful, and meaningful.The post Simone Biles’ mental health victory: 5 practices we can all learn first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM On February 28, scientists released a revolutionary study in Environmental Science and Technology Letters that investigated the effectiveness of boiling tap water in eliminating microplastics. What about the discovery? Boiling water for five minutes could result in a 90 percent decrease in these potentially hazardous microplastics. The microplastic menace in tap water According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), microplastics are tiny plastic particles measuring less than 0.2 inches. These particles have contaminated tap water, endangering human health, and are widespread in the oceans, environment, bottled water, and even human excrement. Their impact on health is still being studied and debated. The health impact: what we do and do not know  Despite their prevalence, the World Health Organization noted a lack of definitive research on how microplastics influence human health. While certain plastics are thought to be innocuous, others, such as polystyrene, have been shown to cause cell damage, intestinal inflammation, and lower fertility in mice. Boiling water meets scientific scrutiny The study sought to evaluate the age-old practice of boiling water, which is common in various Asian nations, and its potential for removing nano/microplastics (NMPs) from tap water. The researchers investigated if this traditional method could offer a viable answer to the microplastic problem. A dive into the study: removing microplastics via boiling The scientists tested the efficiency of boiling using tap water samples containing common minerals as well as three typical microplastic compounds—polystyrene, polyethylene, and polypropylene. After boiling the samples for five minutes and then cooling, a significant reduction in microplastics was detected. In harder water, calcium carbonate solidified at higher temperatures, trapping plastic particles, resulting in an astonishing 90 percent decrease. The chemistry behind the solution: the role of hard water “The calcium carbonate in hard water becomes solid at higher temperatures, trapping the plastic particles within,” explain the researchers. This discovery offers light on the chemistry that underpins boiling efficiency, explaining why this method is so powerful at reducing microplastics in water. A two-step approach: boiling and filtering The study offers a two-step strategy for efficiently addressing microplastics. Boiling the water gives an initial reduction, and when combined with a basic coffee filter to remove hardened calcium, it becomes a viable and practical approach for households. This combination method addresses potentially harmful particles and offers a simple yet effective remedy. As concerns about microplastics in drinking water mount, this study reveals a simple, accessible, and cost-effective solution to address the problem. Boiling tap water for five minutes, followed by a simple filtering step, appears to be a potential alternative for households wishing to protect themselves from the harmful effects of microplastics.  Source study: Environmental Science and Technology Letters— Drinking boiled tap water reduces human intake of nano plastics and microplastics     Today’s “Best Of” roundup highlights the top Lifestyle solutions of 2024. From simple habits to transformative trends, these stories reflect how small changes can make life more balanced, joyful, and meaningful.The post Shield your drinking water from microplastics via boiling first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM In the calm of Botswana‘s Okavango Delta, where the morning sun creates a golden glow on the water’s surface, an amazing metamorphosis is occurring. Women are taking the lead in changing an industry that was formerly thought of as a man’s domain: guiding tourists through beautiful waterways. The magnificence of the Okavango Delta Bontle Cindy Mothogaathobogwe, a pioneering woman guide, refers to the Okavango Delta as Africa’s crown gem. She is part of the indigenous Bayei tribe from Maun, grew up in the small village of Boro on the southern fringes of the Okavango Delta, and began steering traditional mokoro canoes when she was a young child.  “To ride a mokoro through these waters is truly special,” she goes on to say. “It’s like being an ambassador of our state, sharing our culture with tourists amidst the tranquility of the Delta.” Compared to other safari sites such as Kruger National Park, the Okavango Delta has been mostly unaffected by human influence. Its two-million-hectare swath of marshes and grasslands supports a diverse range of animals, including 264 mammal species, 157 reptile species, and 540 bird species, which are protected by the indigenous Bayei tribe of Maun. The Bayei tribe serves as guardians of the Okavango Delta, preserving its rich biodiversity and safeguarding its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Their efforts combat poaching and farming encroachment, ensuring the survival of 264 mammal species, 157 reptile species, 540 bird species, and the iconic population of elephants. Preserving traditions and empowering women For centuries, residents have mokoro to navigate the Delta’s complex waters. Today, women like Mothogaathobogwe are rewriting history by leading tourists through this unspoiled environment. “In the olden days, women collected grass for building materials,” she said. “Now, we’re breaking barriers, leading tourists on mokoro expeditions, and reshaping narratives.” A journey of conservation and inspiration  Mothogaathobogwe’s guiding focuses on more than just traversing the Delta; it also promotes environmental protection and community empowerment. “My community sees me as an inspiration,” she said. “They’re learning from me, and every day, we’re challenging stereotypes and promoting diversity in the industry.” Women have long struggled with prejudices in the safari sector, believing that guiding requires Herculean strength and long separations from family. These assumptions have kept female involvement low. However, a new movement in Africa is actively empowering women in this area. An all-female Batswana safari guide team at Botswana’s Chobe Game Lodge is pushing norms. Meanwhile, African Bush Camps launched a Female Guide Program in 2021, which would include extensive driving and animal tracking instruction. Surprisingly, more than 200 candidates competed for just five prized positions. Notably, Asilia Africa’s Dunia Camp in Tanzania’s Serengeti stands out as one of the continent’s first all-female safari camps, with women in positions ranging from chefs to guides, managers, and housekeepers. Mothogaathobogwe and Beauty, her fellow mokoro poler, are part of a small number of women who thrive in Africa’s safari sector. They challenge convention as Ker and Downey Women Empowerment Scheme grantees by taking in typically male-dominated roles such as mokoro polers and mechanics. MC Odumetse, group managing director of Chobe Holdings Ltd., explains, “This initiative is part of our broader commitment to challenge stereotypes and promote diversity in the safari industry, reflecting our belief that talent knows no gender boundaries.” The motivation to move forward The ripple impact of empowering women in the safari industry goes far beyond individual success stories. It drives good transformation in local communities, resulting in increased economic prosperity and household stability. Furthermore, it broadens educational options for children and boosts community morale. Reflecting on her impact, Mothogaathobogwe shares, “My community is very impressed; they are highly motivated by me. I would say I am their inspiration, and they are learning from me.” Mothogaathobogwe exemplifies persistence and tenacity as she handles her mokoro and scans the water’s surface. Her path is more than just a professional choice; it is a monument to women’s unwavering energy, reshaping landscapes and narratives one paddle at a time.     Today’s “Best Of” roundup highlights the top Lifestyle solutions of 2024. From simple habits to transformative trends, these stories reflect how small changes can make life more balanced, joyful, and meaningful.The post Rowing against the current: Botswana’s women safari guides inspire and empower first appeared on The Optimist Daily: Making Solutions the News.

The Dead Weather, a rock supergroup formed in Nashville, Tennessee, in 2009, brought together four accomplished musicians from other notable bands: Alison Mosshart, Jack White, Dean Fertita, and Jack Lawrence. The group debuted with a live performance at Third Man Records, introducing their first single, “Hang You from the Heavens.” Their raw, blues-infused sound captured audiences immediately, setting the stage for their first studio album. The band has released three albums to date: Horehound (2009), Sea of Cowards (2010), and Dodge and Burn (2015). These albums showcase their blend of blues rock, garage rock, and psychedelic influences, establishing them as The post Complete List Of The Dead Weather Band Members appeared first on ClassicRockHistory.com.

The post Ask Dr. Paola – Monday January 6, 2025 by Dr. Paola Cuevas MVZ (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com. Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. ‎ Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here! Help! I Have a Sneezy Cat! “ I’ve noticed my cat Penny sneezes occasionally. I haven’t really been able to figure out the trigger yet, it’s maybe three sneezes/day on a bad day, but only one most days. Should I be worried about her being a little sneezy?” – Helen Hi Helen, There is no need to be concerned about Penny’s occasional sneezing. In most cases, infrequent sneezing in cats is normal and can be attributed to minor irritants like dust or mild allergens in the environment. Sneezing helps protect the respiratory system by getting rid of these small particles. However, if Penny’s sneezing becomes more frequent, or it is accompanied by other signs such as nasal or ocular discharge, coughing, or changes in activity levels or appetite, it would be best to consult with your veterinarian as those signs indicate health concerns. Kind regards! Best wishes! Dr. Paola Image Credit: luckat, Shutterstock Help! My Cat Loves Licking Plastic Bags! “My cat loves licking plastic bags, generally ones without food in them so it isn’t food that’s drawing her to them. I keep them away from her as best as I can but she is like a moth to a flame and if I ever leave one unattended for a second she finds it. Could this be related to something serious? And how can I stop her?”  – Freddie Hi Freddie, it is not uncommon for cats to be attached to plastic bags. It may be the sensation or the sounds, but your cat is not the only one. Some cats also present this suckling behavior where they “nurse” on their human’s finger or inanimate objects like blankets, clothing, or in your cat’s case, plastics. This behavior is often observed in kittens who were separated from their mothers too early and is more common in oriental breeds like Siamese and Burmese, which may have a genetic predisposition to it. The main concern with your cat presenting this behavior would be the risk of asphyxiation or choking and the potential ingestion of the plastic bags, which might lead to dangerous obstructions that require emergency surgery. To manage this behavior, provide alternative activities like interactive toys to redirect their focus. You will also need to continue doing your best to keep the plastic bag out of her reach to avoid unnecessary risks. Sincerely, Dr. Paola Image Credit: SJ Allen, Shutterstock Help! My Cat is a Clean Freak! “Bernie has started giving himself extra-long grooming sessions, especially after I pet him. Is this him being a clean freak, or does he just think I’m messing up his fur-care routine?” – Tyler Hey Tyler, petting Bernie can be a wonderful way to bond with him and show him your affection. However, it’s important to stroke him in the same direction the fur grows. Petting against the natural lay of the fur could cause discomfort and may lead to tangling or matting, especially if Bernie has long hair. Most cats prefer gentle strokes that follow the natural direction of their coat. If you do not think that is the cause of the long grooming sessions, you must keep in mind that many cats have a short tolerance for getting handled and Bernie might just not appreciate the petting as much as you would like or assume. Don’t worry, though, there are many other ways to show Bernie how much you love him! Grooming is a self-soothing behavior for cats, so please keep a close eye on him. Try to note if the extra-long grooming sessions are only triggered by your petting or if he is starting to develop a compulsive behavior due to other factors that might be causing him stress and anxiety. The main thing here is that you do not want this to turn into a habit and then a compulsion because cats can end up with inflamed skin that leads to infections and even alopecia. Overgrooming is the term we use to describe when cats well…overdo it. Good luck! This article is a part of our weekly Ask Dr. Paola series Read last weeks questions here – Monday December 30, 2024  Click here to submit a question The post Ask Dr. Paola – Monday January 6, 2025 by Dr. Paola Cuevas MVZ (Veterinarian) appeared first on Catster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Catster.com.

Humanity has always had a thing for superstitions—those quirky, often nonsensical beliefs that spice up our lives with a touch of paranoia. They have us knocking on wood when we tempt fate, giving black cats the side-eye, and detouring around ladders like they’re crime scenes. Harmless, right? Not always. While most superstitions are charming little […] The post 10 Disturbing Superstitions That Killed appeared first on Listverse.

This hot chocolate recipe is perfect for the uber-chilly weather. It’s an awesome holiday DIY for everyone. Check out the tutorial below and whip up a batch or two during the colder months! RELATED: 17 Warm and Fancy Crockpot Drinks You Can Serve This Winter Make Hot Chocolate into a Gift in Three Easy Steps — This post is courtesy of DIY Projects shared with permission — Do It Yourself Artisan Hot Cocoa Kit If you’re looking for an excellent holiday gift for friends or a fun project for the kids, why don’t you try to make hot chocolate into a kit? I tell you, your loved ones will love this it. This hot cocoa jar is perfect for the uber-chilly weather. It’s an awesome holiday DIY — easy to do and fun for everyone! The holiday season is the best time to warm up to a sweet cup of hot cocoa. Having the same old plain chocolate drink every year, though, can start to taste ordinary. I came up with this homemade hot chocolate kit for everyone. This is one of my family’s favorites. This can become your family’s favorite holiday drink, too. Use this gourmet kit to brew up artisan hot cocoa in a matter of minutes! Subtle notes of mezcal, chipotle, and hazelnut make for an incredibly decadent marriage of sweet and spicy flavors. It makes a great gift for friends, family, or that special someone. Of course, you can treat yourself to this quintessential holiday treat. What is Mezcal? It can refer to an agave plant or a distilled drink that comes from any agave plant. Hot Chocolate Ingredients 1 1/2 cups of cocoa 2 cups of sugar 3 cups of powdered milk 1/4 tsp of cinnamon 1/4 tsp of salt 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips 1 1/2 cups of marshmallows Measuring cups and spoons Glass jar with lid Wake up to a hearty meal that's both filling AND healthy! https://t.co/MxmAzOkeZ2 pic.twitter.com/XS0aW5Kbpe — Homesteading (@HomesteadingUSA) November 18, 2016 Step 1: Measure All Ingredients The first step on how to make hot chocolate is to measure all your ingredients. Then you place them into separate bowls. That way, you can have all your ingredients in front of you while you fill your jar. Step 2: Start Pouring Starting with your powdered ingredients first, start filling your container. Continue pouring, layering the ingredients in your container. Add the cocoa to the jar. After you added all your powdered ingredients, add a layer of chocolate chips. Lastly, place a layer of marshmallows. Your jar is ready to close, decorate, and label. Step 3: Decorate and Label Close the lid of your glass jar. You can now choose to decorate it any way you wish. It can be ribbon, tissue paper, or whatever you like. Next, take your label and write down your ingredients and how to make hot chocolate step by step. Don’t forget to tie it around your jar. Perfect! Want to see the full article?  Click here to read the full article on diyprojects.com! In only a few minutes, you learned how to make a hot chocolate jar. You can now gift it to your friends and family. You can have a mug yourself. When you’re ready to drink, pour in some milk or hot water. Give your favorite hot choco a little twist by adding a hint of peppermint or cinnamon. Use this infographic if you need a quick recap. Happy Holidays! Do you have a favorite hot chocolate recipe? Let us know in the comments section below! Up Next: Delightful Christmas Drinks & Holiday Cocktails 14 Hearty Soup Recipes To Warm You Up On Christmas Evening Emergency Car Kit For Winter Driving Safety Fellow homesteaders, do you want to help others learn from your journey by becoming one of our original contributors? Write for us! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter! Editor’s Note – This post was originally published on August 2019 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.

Two wildly audacious films — Brady Corbet's 215-minute postwar epic “The Brutalist” and Jacques Audiard's Spanish language, genre-shifting trans musical “Emilia Perez” — won top honors at…