Uncover the Secrets to Surviving Winter in Boulder
Embrace the Body Hair
Many think that during winter, body hair is hidden beneath layers and thus of no significance. However, science has proven otherwise. Keeping body hair intact helps conserve precious heat, which is crucial for survival in the cold. Imagine a scenario where your eco-warrior roommate refuses to keep the house above 50 degrees. In such a case, having body hair becomes a lifesaver, making you less likely to freeze to death.
It's not just about practicality; having body hair can also make you more attractive. Picture yourself in a winter setting, with that natural warmth radiating from your body. It's a unique charm that sets you apart from the crowd.
Bear Girl Winter
This year, the "it girl" in the outdoors social media landscape was Grazer, also known as Bear 128. She won the wholesome Fat Bear Week contest, and her story has inspired many. Fat isn't just a cute trait; for hibernating bears, it's literally life-saving. And for us humans, it can be a source of comfort and confidence.
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it's normal for our bodies to want to hold onto some extra warmth. Whether it's through an extra sweater or a few extra pounds, embracing this natural tendency can make a big difference in how we feel during winter.
Turn to the Wisdom of Wellness Aisle Crones
When it comes to health, the wellness aisle in Natural Grocers is a treasure trove of knowledge. Whether it's a yeast infection, Qi stagnation, or a mystery ailment, these gray goddesses know exactly what to recommend. They not only know which herbs will heal you but also which supplement brands are on sale.
Unlike some health authorities, they are more in tune with our bodies and can provide practical advice. They understand that sometimes, we need a little extra help to stay healthy during the winter months.
Practice Safe Cuddling
Spiritual bros may have some unconventional views, but they are all about the snuggles. If you find yourself in a situation where a spiritual bro offers cuddles, don't be afraid to take him up on it. Snuggling can be a highly effective form of birth control, as long as you leave some room for the Holy Ghost.
For those with uteruses, the thought of a national abortion ban can be a major turnoff. But snuggling can provide a different kind of connection, one that can be just as fulfilling.
Country Roads, Take Me to Pound Town
When it comes to setting the mood, the right playlist is essential. John Denver may seem cheesy, but his open-hearted sentimentality and romantic vulnerability are what make him so special. His music can create a cozy atmosphere that sets the stage for some groovy times.
You can't keep pretending to be seduced by the same old songs. It's time to explore different genres and find the music that speaks to your soul. And with the right tunes, you'll be ready to make some memories with that special someone.
Give Poly a Try
If you've missed the train on Boulder singles, don't worry. There's still the ENM (ethical non-monogamy) train waiting for you. Remember Dan and Elise, the cute couple at the St Julien Hotel bar? They showed you that there are other ways to connect and have fun.
Engaging in adult activities and having deep conversations can lead to a more fulfilling life. While there is a risk of getting hurt, the rewards can be worth it. You might come out of it with new tattoos and a more sophisticated emotional vocabulary.
Strengthening Local Food Systems for a Better Future
Supporting Emergency Food Providers
This round of funding, announced on October 1, enables states, territories, and federally recognized Tribes to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. These foods will be distributed within their communities to emergency food providers, schools, and child care centers. By doing so, the USDA is ensuring that those in need have access to nutritious food. For example, in one state, the funds have been used to purchase fresh vegetables from local farmers, which are then distributed to food banks. This not only helps to address food insecurity but also supports local farmers and the local economy.Another example can be seen in a territory where the funds have been allocated to purchase locally produced meat. This meat is then used in school lunch programs, providing students with a healthy and sustainable source of protein. The collaboration between the USDA and local producers has led to the establishment of new supply-chain partnerships, ensuring a steady supply of local food.Expanding to Child Care Facilities
For the first time, the USDA is expanding its successful collaborations to include child care facilities. Cindy Long, USDA's Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services, emphasizes the importance of this expansion. "We are excited to build on these successful collaborations that connect schools and emergency food organizations with nutritious food from local farmers and producers by expanding the model to child care facilities," she says.This expansion means that families can feel good knowing that their kids are eating food that was grown right in their own community. In one child care center, for instance, locally produced fruits and vegetables are incorporated into the daily menu. This not only exposes children to a variety of healthy foods but also supports local agriculture.Allocating Funds for Different Programs
USDA will allocate up to $471.5 million for states and territories to purchase local, unprocessed, or minimally processed domestic foods for use by schools participating in the National School Lunch and/or School Breakfast Programs. Additionally, $188.6 million will be allocated for use in child care facilities participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Up to $471.5 million will also be allocated for states, territories, and Tribal governments to use in local feeding programs, including food banks and other organizations that reach underserved communities. Of this, $100 million will go to Tribal governments.These allocations demonstrate the USDA's commitment to reaching all communities and ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food. For example, in a school district with a high percentage of low-income students, the funds will be used to purchase local dairy products. This helps to support local dairy farmers and provides students with a nutritious source of calcium.In a tribal community, the funds will be used to purchase traditional foods such as wild rice and berries. This not only preserves tribal cultures but also provides a healthy alternative to processed foods.The LFPA, LFPA Plus, and LFS programs, conceived in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, have already invested over $1 billion into local food purchases. Through these programs, USDA has provided $900 million in funding to 50 states, the District of Columbia, four territories, and 84 Tribal governments. This has sourced foods from over 8,000 local producers, with more than 5,000 identified as underserved. The wholesome food has gone to 7,900 food banks, food pantries, and communities across America.Today's notice of funding will continue this vital work and provide an additional $1.13 billion to support local agriculture, schools, and feeding programs. The USDA's efforts are transforming America's food system, with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, and ensuring access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food in all communities.To learn more about USDA's initiatives and how you can get involved, visit www.usda.gov.How a School Competition Transformed Lives
How the Competition Began
In Tulsa, a spirit of friendly competition took root at Riverfield Country Day School. Students were eager to showcase their generosity by collecting non-perishable, kid-friendly food for the food pantry at Eugene Field Elementary. As Holden Williams, a senior at Riverfield, shared, "We have over ten thousand individual items that we donated this year." This initiative sparked a wave of giving that would have a lasting impact.
The competition was intense, with each grade vying to collect the most food. It was a testament to the students' compassion and willingness to help their peers. Over the course of about two weeks, the donations kept pouring in, filling up a school bus and two trucks.
The Arrival and Its Significance
The arrival of the donated food was a moment of great joy and relief. It arrived just in time to stock the nearly empty shelves of Eugene Field's school food pantry. Christy Gilliam with Eugene Field Elementary expressed her gratitude, saying, "There's some food insecurity with some of our kids. We are so thankful. It's amazing what they have brought today. We're winded from unloading."
This influx of food will provide much-needed support to struggling families throughout the school year. During long breaks when family food budgets might be tight and kids don't have access to school breakfast and lunch, this donation will make a world of difference.
The Evolution of the Food Drive
In recent years, this food drive evolved from a long-running book drive. Riverfield students had previously donated books to their peers at Eugene Field. However, one day, the principals realized that a food drive could be just as important and helpful. It became a way to address the immediate need for food while also teaching the students valuable life skills.
Another special aspect of this food drive is that all the items require no or minimal preparation by kids. This allows them to fix themselves a healthy meal even if their parents are away at work. It's a practical and empowering initiative that goes beyond just providing food.