Issue Nº 503

Thursday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• Creative ways to upcycle old candle jars

• How an invasive snail helped save an endangered bird

• Healthy habits for you and the environment

• The importance of staying healthy and hydrated this year

• Celebrate Houseplant Appreciation Day

• A healthier way to have fun

Did You Know?

Houseplants like _____ and ______ can improve indoor air quality by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Creative Ways to Upcycle Old Candle Jars

Finished your favorite candle? Don’t toss that jar—upcycle it instead! Old candle jars are incredibly versatile and can be transformed into beautiful, functional items for your home. It’s an easy way to reduce waste, save money, and give those jars a second life. Here are some fun ideas to get started:

1. Storage for Small Items - Candle jars make perfect organizers for small household items. Use them to store cotton swabs in the bathroom, paper clips on your desk, or loose change. The sturdy design and aesthetic appeal of most candle jars means they work as both practical and decorative pieces.

2. DIY Planters - Turn your jars into adorable mini planters! After cleaning out the wax, fill the jar with soil and plant herbs, succulents, or small flowers. It’s a stylish and eco-friendly way to bring a little greenery indoors.

3. Elegant Vases - Old candle jars double as chic vases for fresh or dried flowers. Add a ribbon or paint the jar for a personal touch. This simple upcycle idea can add charm to your home or make a thoughtful gift.

4. Reuse for Candles - If you love candles, why not make your own? Clean out the jar, melt some wax, add a wick, and create a new candle with your favorite scent. It’s a rewarding DIY project and a way to keep enjoying your favorite jars.

5. Stylish Kitchen Storage - Use cleaned jars to hold pantry staples like sugar, coffee grounds, or tea bags. Their airtight lids (if intact) make them a great option for keeping items fresh while adding a touch of style to your kitchen.

How to Clean Out Candle Jars:

Getting rid of leftover wax is easier than you think. Pop the jar in the freezer for a few hours to harden the wax, then chip it out with a butter knife or spoon. For stubborn residue, pour in hot water, let the wax float to the top, and scoop it out once cooled.

Upcycling old candle jars isn’t just good for the planet—it’s also a fun, creative way to personalize your space. Which idea will you try first?

How an Invasive Snail Helped Save an Endangered Bird

When we think of invasive species, we often picture them disrupting ecosystems and pushing native wildlife toward extinction. But in a surprising twist, one invasive species has actually helped save an endangered bird from disappearing altogether.

In Florida’s Everglades, the snail kite—a bird of prey that depends entirely on apple snails for food—has been on the brink of extinction for decades. As development consumed nearly half of the Everglades, native apple snail populations plummeted, leaving the snail kite struggling to survive. By 2007, fewer than 800 snail kites remained.

Enter the island apple snail, a non-native species from South America. Likely introduced through aquarium releases, these snails began to thrive in the Everglades. For the snail kite, the sudden abundance of food was a lifeline. Fast forward to today, and the snail kite population has rebounded to over 3,000 birds—a remarkable turnaround for a species once on the verge of extinction.

While this unlikely success story highlights nature’s resilience, experts caution that relying on invasive species can create new challenges. Island apple snails are much larger than native snails and may impact other parts of the Everglades ecosystem. Conservationists, like Robert Fletcher, suggest focusing on restoring native apple snail populations to ensure long-term balance in the region.

The story of the snail kite is a reminder of the complex ways ecosystems adapt to change. While we work toward restoring natural habitats, it’s encouraging to see species like the snail kite finding a way to survive against the odds.

Would you have guessed an invasive species could help save another?

Commit to Better Hydration and Health This Year

As we ring in the new year, it’s time to focus on healthier habits—starting with proper hydration. NativePath Hydrate is your go-to solution for improving hydration, boosting energy, and supporting recovery, thanks to its unique blend of amino acids, electrolytes, and essential nutrients. Unlike other hydration products loaded with sodium and sugars, NativePath Hydrate delivers what your body needs without compromising your health.

Whether you’re diving into a new fitness regimen or just want to feel more energized throughout the day, NativePath Hydrate makes hydration easy and effective. Plus, it’s a perfect way to support the health of your loved ones—stock up and share with friends and family to help them start their year strong, too.

Shop NativePath Hydrate now.

Celebrate Houseplant Appreciation Day with Low-Maintenance Greenery

January 10th is Houseplant Appreciation Day—a perfect excuse to show some love to the plants that brighten our homes, purify our air, and connect us to nature. If you’ve been thinking about adding some greenery to your space but worry about keeping plants alive, don’t stress. There are plenty of low-maintenance options that are as forgiving as they are beautiful.

Why Houseplants Deserve a Day:

Houseplants do more than look pretty. They help reduce indoor air pollutants, boost your mood, and even improve productivity. Whether it’s the peace lily on your desk or the pothos trailing down your shelf, these green companions make our homes healthier and happier. Houseplant Appreciation Day reminds us to pause and care for these quiet helpers.

Low-Maintenance Houseplants to Try:

Not all houseplants require a green thumb. Here are a few easy-to-care-for options that are perfect for beginners.

• Snake Plant: Hardy and nearly indestructible, the snake plant thrives on neglect. It needs only occasional watering and tolerates low light, making it perfect for busy households.

• Spider Plant: Known for its air-purifying qualities, this plant loves bright, indirect light and occasional watering. Plus, it produces baby “spiderettes” you can propagate.

• Peace Lily: With glossy leaves and elegant white blooms, the peace lily is a beauty that thrives in low light. Water it when the soil feels dry, and it’ll reward you with vibrant growth.

• ZZ Plant: This trendy plant stores water in its thick stems, so it doesn’t mind if you forget to water it for weeks. Its glossy leaves add a polished touch to any room.

• Aloe Vera: Both a plant and a natural remedy, aloe vera is as functional as it is attractive. Place it in bright sunlight and water sparingly.

Whether you’re a plant pro or a first-time plant parent, there’s a low-maintenance option for everyone.

What’s your favorite houseplant, and how are you celebrating Houseplant Appreciation Day?

Your Healthy Happy Hour

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Find your favorite record and invite your best friends over. Whatever your good life is, Cornbread’s THC gummies will help you live it without worrying how you'll feel tomorrow.

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Enjoy the moment and take your edge off, this is the good life.

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: Houseplants like peace lilies and snake plants can improve indoor air quality by removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured in next Wednesday's newsletter