Meatless Monday Is Having a Midlife Moment — Here’s How to Make It Count Meatless Monday might be over 100 years old, but it’s still one of the easiest ways to reduce your climate impact—here’s how to do it right. What we eat has a bigger impact than most of us realize. Food — or more specifically, how we grow, transport, and throw it out — is responsible for roughly a third of global greenhouse gas emissions. That’s everything from raising cattle to trucking in strawberries from across the world. The good news? We don’t need to overhaul our entire lives to make a difference. Just one meat-free day a week can help lower your environmental footprint, reduce water usage, and support more sustainable food systems. Enter: Meatless Monday. It’s not new (more on that in a second), but it is one of the simplest, most accessible ways to shift your habits — especially with so many great plant-based ingredients, products, and flavors on the scene. Whether you’re cooking for a family, feeding picky teens, planning weeknight dinners for two, or trying to avoid another sad solo sandwich, Meatless Monday is a doable (and delicious) place to start. A Quick History of Meatless Monday Meatless Monday started as a wartime campaign — President Woodrow Wilson encouraged Americans to skip meat on Mondays to support the World War I effort. It came back during WWII, and again in the early 2000s as a public health push. In 2025, it’s having a revival — not just for health, but for the planet. Does One Meatless Day Really Make a Difference? Yes. But you have to do it right. Meat production, particularly beef, is a major source of methane emissions and deforestation. According to the Center for a Livable Future, if every American skipped meat just once a week, it would be like taking 7.6 million cars off the road. (Whoa.) That said, the impact depends on your swaps. A day full of cheese pizza and frozen faux-meat nuggets won’t win many climate awards. The goal? Real, whole ingredients. Fewer processed stand-ins. More plants. And a little intention. How to Make Meatless Monday Count Here’s how to level up your meatless meals — without overcomplicating things. Start Where You Are Not ready to go full vegan? No problem. Start by skipping red meat. Already doing that? Make one entirely plant-based day per week your default. From there, expand as it feels doable. Plan Ahead Batch cook on Sunday night or keep a few key products on hand so your Monday meal doesn’t sneak up on you. Leftovers = your best friend. Keep It Simple Soups, tacos, pastas, stir-fry, and grain bowls are perfect for plant-based upgrades. Think: lentils instead of ground beef. Roasted sweet potatoes instead of chicken. Chickpeas over eggs in a scramble. Shop for Real Food Ultra-processed vegan options exist — but real plants taste better. Focus on fresh produce, legumes, grains, and smart shortcuts that don’t compromise flavor or nutrition. Real Meals for Real Life To take the guesswork out of going meatless, I teamed up with Field Tripper Jacob — a full-time vegan and long-time flavor snob — to test some standout plant-based brands. The goal? Find flexible, easy-to-use staples that work for households of different sizes and cooking styles. Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee Ah, coffee. The most important meal of the day, right? Four Sigmatic’s mushroom coffee blends are rich, smooth, and made with functional mushrooms like lion’s mane. If you are like me, you are thinking, “Mushrooms? In my coffee? No thanks.”  But trust me on this one—you won’t taste the mushrooms, but you might feel the boost. Use it: • As your morning ritual — hot, iced, or with oat milk • Packed in your camp kit or travel bag (the instant version is truly great—and I have never  said that about an instant coffee before) • With a splash of plant-based “milk” for a creamy, dairy-free latte Malk Plant-Based “Milk” Speaking of plant-based “milk,” Malk is made with just a few clean ingredients and no gums or fillers. It’s creamy enough for coffee and neutral enough for cooking. Use it: • In smoothies, baking, or creamy pasta sauces • Over granola for a quick plant-based breakfast Frothed into your latte for a full plant-based start to the day Realand Nutrition Fava Bean Protein Use it when: You need a protein boost that’s actually good. Most vegan proteins rely on soy, pea, or rice — but fava beans are rising stars. Realand’s powder is smooth (no gritty texture), great-tasting, and better for the planet. Fava beans require less water and land than other protein crops and pack a complete amino acid profile. Try it in: • Morning smoothies with oat milk and frozen banana • Overnight oats or chia pudding for grab-and-go breakfasts • Baked into muffins or pancakes for a protein-rich start • Blended into soup for extra creaminess without dairy For families: Mix into pancakes or muffins — kids won’t even notice. Jackfruit Jackfruit has completely replaced the highly processed faux meat for me. Jackfruit is a fruit and a superb meat alternative. Slice it or shred it (for a pulled-pork-style texture) —it’s perfect for savory meals — without soy, wheat, or fillers. Use it: • In tacos or burritos with cumin and lime. • Stirred into a curry with coconut milk and veggies • Shredded and tossed with BBQ sauce for a family-friendly sandwich night Everiday Sauces That’s not a typo. Everiday sauces are plant-based and a shortcut to flavor-packed bowls. No chopping garlic. No searching your spice rack for the perfect mix. Just real ingredients in a jar. And these jars pack a serious yum! Use them: • Over rice, noodles, or roasted veggies • In a “clean out the fridge” stir-fry • As a marinade for tofu or jackfruit Tamarind Heads Sauce Use it when: You want bold flavor without the heavy lift. This tangy, tamarind-based sauce is your new not-so-secret weapon. It’s perfect for fast flavor layering when you’re short on time or energy. Try it in: • Stir-fried noodles or veggie fried rice • A marinade for tofu, tempeh, or jackfruit • Drizzled over roasted eggplant, cauliflower, or chickpeas • Tossed with soba noodles and shredded veggies for a chilled lunch bowl Bonus tip:   Kids will love it with crispy jackfruit bites. Just say it’s “sweet and sour” and let them dunk. Island Time Chips Use it when: You want crunch, color, and something fun to scoop with. These tropical-inspired chips are made from breadfruit — a nutrient-rich, climate-smart crop — and they’re endlessly snackable. Try them with: • Black bean dip or guacamole as a meatless snack board • Crushed over a taco salad for texture • Alongside a soup or stew for a “breadless” crunch • Layered into a veggie-packed nacho night (use jackfruit or lentils instead of meat) Family-friendly idea: Do a DIY nacho bar — set out chips, beans, salsa, roasted veggies, and toppings. Everyone builds their own. Lynn Leaf Tea Use it when: You want a plant-based ritual that’s grounding, not just caffeinating. Made with wild-harvested guava leaves and tropical botanicals, Lynn Leaf isn’t your average herbal tea. Try it: • As a cozy after-dinner wind-down (especially if you’ve overdone the garlic) • Brewed strong and chilled with citrus slices for an iced tea upgrade • Mixed into a smoothie base or mocktail for extra earthy depth For couples or roommates: Make a pot to share, and call it your Monday reset ritual. Bottom Line? Meatless Monday is totally doable. Going fully vegan might feel intimidating — but it doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Whether you’re skipping meat once a week, switching your morning latte to oat milk, or trying jackfruit tacos for the first time, it all adds up. Start where you are. Cook what you love. Keep it plant-based when you can.

Ghost Camping: Leave No Trace, Take Only Memories Every October, ghosts get top billing. They float through graveyards. They haunt our porches. But my favorite ghosts? The ones who camp. Not the horror-movie kind. I’m talking about the campers you don’t see. The ones who slip in quietly, treat the land like a sacred site, and vanish without a trace—leaving nothing but memories and maybe the faint smell of campfire smoke on a borrowed breeze. So in the spirit (see what I did there?) of Halloween, let’s talk about Ghost Camping—the ultimate version of Leave No Trace that’s more than just ethics. It’s a vibe. What Is Ghost Camping? Ghost Camping is the kind of outdoor presence that would make a forest ranger weep tears of joy. It means practicing Leave No Trace so thoroughly that even Bigfoot couldn’t tell you’d been there. It’s not just “clean up after yourself.” It’s “become one with the forest and evaporate like morning dew.” You’re the polite houseguest of the wild—quiet, respectful, and invisible by checkout time. Why October Is Prime Time to Go Ghost Cooler nights, crunchy leaves, fewer crowds—fall camping hits different. But with lower visibility and shorter days comes more responsibility. It’s easy to lose gear, trample delicate plants under leaf cover, or stash trash, thinking, “I’ll get it later.” (Reality? You won’t.) So autumn is the perfect time to practice ghost-level camping: move intentionally, slow down, and stay sharp. 7 Ways to Camp Like a Ghost 1. Disappear Your Campfire Use existing fire rings, burn only local wood, and drown that sucker until it’s cold enough to touch. Can’t feel a coal? Congrats—you’re ghosting it right. 2. Pack Out Your Pumpkin Spice Yes, even your compostable orange peels and apple cores. Wildlife can’t digest your Trader Joe’s fall haul. 3. Sneak in, Sneak out Arrive late? Set up quietly. Early riser? Break down camp before others wake. A true ghost camper could pass you on the trail and you’d never know. 4. Step Lightly Stick to trails and durable surfaces. Off-trail tromping in fall can crush hibernating critters or fragile plants gearing up for winter. 5. No Ectoplasmic Residue (aka trash) Stash a mini trash bag in your pack, and bonus: pick up what others leave behind. Ghost karma points. 6. Haunt With Soft Gear Leave your neon gear at home and skip the Bluetooth speaker. Go full forest ninja in earth tones and embrace the sound of wind in the trees. (Just be sure you are not camping or hiking in areas where hunting may be happening. If you are? Go full pumpkin orange glow.) 7. Take Nothing But Chills Found the perfect feather? Leave it. That heart-shaped rock? Keep it tucked in your memory instead of your pocket. You don’t need souvenirs to prove you’ve been somewhere wild. Field Tip: Track Yourself Out Before leaving, turn around and scan your site like a detective. Would anyone know you’d been there? If the answer’s no, you’re ghost material. Bonus if you leave it better than you found it. Happy haunting. And remember: Leave no trace. Take only memories. And maybe…leave behind a chill in the air.

People Who Give a Damn: Chris and Harrison of BatBnB on Bats, Backyard Conservation, and Building Better Homes (for Wildlife) You know that moment when the mosquitoes are winning, your citronella candle is failing, and you’re this close  to reaching for the DEET? What if, instead of spraying your yard with chemicals, you could invite nature’s own pest control to the party? That’s the big idea behind BatBnB , the brainchild of outdoor-loving co-founders Chris R a nnefors and Harrison Broadhurst. These two saw a problem (mosquitoes, myths, and disappearing bat habitat) and decided to solve it with design thinking, conservation science, and a deep belief that people do  give a damn — if you give them something beautiful and functional to rally around. Here’s how they went from swatting bugs to saving bats. Why Bats? Why Now? Chris:  We’ve always been big fans of spending time outside, but it was frustrating to see how often the go-to solution for bugs was just… spraying chemicals everywhere. That’s not good for families, pets, or the environment. Harrison: Exactly. Bats are one of nature’s best pest control systems, but they’re so misunderstood — and they don’t have nearly enough safe places to live. We realized if we could create something that was both beautiful  and functional , we could help people see bats differently and actually invite them in. Bat Myths, Busted Harrison: Let’s start with the classic: “They’ll get stuck in your hair!” Not a thing. Bats are expert flyers and have no interest in your messy bun. Chris: And the whole vampire thing? Also not true for the bats we see here in North America. Most of them eat insects — and tons of them. They’re out there doing the work quietly, night after night. From Design Sketches to Roost-Ready Homes Chris: We knew from the jump that if we were going to do this, it had to be done right . Bats are particular about their roosting conditions. Harrison: So we reached out to Merlin Tuttle, who is basically the godfather of bat conservation. He was excited to help, and his expertise was invaluable. Combining that with our design background allowed us to build bat houses that not only work  — they actually look good hanging on your home. Field Tip: Want Fewer Mosquitoes? Put Up a Bat House Chris:  Seeing customers share photos of bats moving in? That never gets old. Every one of those is a win — for conservation, for the family that’s hosting them, and for the local ecosystem. Harrison:  It’s proof that you don’t need a massive plot of land or a PhD in ecology to help wildlife. Sometimes it just takes a little wooden house, the right spot, and a willingness to care. Where BatBnBs Are Roosting (And It’s Not Just Cabins in the Woods) Harrison:  We’ve seen BatBnBs go up in vineyards, organic farms, urban rooftops — even on school grounds as part of science curriculum. One of our favorites was a project with Shelby Bottoms Nature Center in Nashville, where we added 10 bat houses to a local green space. Chris:  Every time someone makes space for wildlife in a place that wasn’t originally designed for it, that feels like progress. The Business of Giving a Damn Chris:  I came into this with a background in operations, so I had a good sense of the business side — logistics, inventory, spreadsheets, all that. But what makes it meaningful is knowing that all that backend work is helping create real  habitat. We’re not just selling bat houses. We’re part of a movement to give bats a second chance. Harrison:  Same on the design side. I’ve worked on everything from tiny homes to giant commercial spaces, but designing for bats was unique. We had to get the science right and  make something people would proudly display. That overlap — where form meets function, and conservation meets good design — is where the magic is. What We Hope You Feel When You Put One Up Chris: A little excitement. Like, “Hey, I’m part of something cool.” Harrison: And a sense of empowerment. You don’t have to wait for someone else to “fix” the environment. You can start with a bat house. Giving a Damn, Defined Harrison: Giving a damn means choosing to protect the creatures most people overlook — even when it takes extra effort. Chris:  It means recognizing that small actions, like putting up a bat house, can add up to big change. Did you know a single bat can eat up to 1,000 mosquitoes in an hour? That’s not a typo — it’s a reason to skip the bug zapper and go full BatBnB instead. Find out more about bats in our Bat Chat Guide . Want to make your yard more bat-friendly and  stylish? Check out BatBnB . Use code FIELDTRIP for 15% off your purchase! People Who Give a Damn is a recurring Field Trip series highlighting folks who make a difference for the outdoors and the earth. Know someone we should meet? Drop us a line.

The Energy Vampire in Your House (It’s Not Just the Ghost of That Broken Blender) Welcome to your haunted house! If you’ve ever looked at your energy bill and thought, “Wait, why is it so high?”—you might be hosting a whole coven of invisible energy vampires. No garlic or stakes required here, just a little know-how. It’s called phantom power, or standby power, and it’s what appliances and electronics suck up even when they’re “off.” The average U.S. household leaks about $100–$200 a year to phantom energy. Let’s track down the ghouls and kick ‘em out. What the Heck Is Phantom Power? Imagine a ghost slowly siphoning your wallet every time your TV sits idle, your printer sleeps, or your game console waits for you to return from your hike. Phantom power is the small but steady flow of electricity used by devices that are turned “off” but still plugged in. Think chargers (even when nothing’s charging), microwaves with digital clocks, speakers, smart TVs, and the espresso machine you only use on Sundays. This stuff adds up, especially in the fall and winter when shorter days = more indoor time = more electronics humming quietly in the background. The Usual Advice (And Why It’s Not Enough) Yes, yes, we’ve all heard it: “Just unplug things when you’re not using them.” But if you’ve ever tried to unplug your entertainment center one cord at a time, only to realize your TV rebooted and signed you out of everything—you know that advice is not very useful. So instead of treating every appliance like it’s possessed, try these smarter, less annoying tricks. Field Tip: Stake Your Claim with Smart Power Solutions 1. Smart Power Strips = Vampire Slayers They cut power to devices that go into standby mode. Some are even motion-activated (if no one’s in the room, it shuts stuff down) or scheduled to power off at night. Look for: Smart power strips with individual outlet control and app access. Bonus points if they track energy usage. 2. Name and Shame with an Energy Monitor Plug an energy monitor into your wall outlet, then plug your device into that. It’ll show you exactly how much electricity that gadget’s gulping when you think it’s off. Suddenly that innocent coffee maker seems a little… sinister. 3. Haunt Your Own House (Virtually) Some electric utility companies now offer home energy audits (sometimes free!) through smart meters or apps that tell you what’s running, when, and how much it costs you. It’s like ghost-hunting for your electric bill. Check with your provider or click HERE. www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-energy-audits 4. Use Scenes & Routines If you have smart plugs or a smart home setup, create a “Night Mode” or “Out of House” scene. That way, everything that doesn’t need to run while you’re out powers down automatically. It’s kind of like casting a protective spell. But with Alexa. 5. Charge Smarter, Not Longer That phone charger? It’s sipping power all night. Same with your laptop or e-bike battery. Use outlet timers to cut off power after a couple of hours. Or better yet, charge during the day, then unplug. No need for your charger to have a nightlife. Phantom Power by the Numbers • $19 billion: What Americans spend each year on wasted standby power • 5–10%: Of your home’s total electricity use = phantom power • 25 devices: The average number of phantom-sucking gadgets in a U.S. home And it’s growing. Because everything these days has a chip, a clock, or a “standby” light. Even your toothbrush might be haunting your electric bill. Scare the Ghosts, Save Some Green Controlling phantom power isn’t about unplugging everything and living like it’s 1875. It’s about knowing where the energy leaks are and cutting them off at the source. Plus, the benefits go beyond your wallet: • Lower energy = lower emissions • Longer lifespan for electronics • Less clutter and fire risk from tangled cords While the rest of the neighborhood is packing away the Halloween decor, go ahead and exorcise the real ghosts.

Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Crows? Real questions. Field-tested answers. Got something on your mind? Ask away — your friendly Camp Counselor is in. Dear Field Trip, My friend says she ‘talks to crows’ and that they’re some of the smartest creatures on the planet. I find them kind of creepy — especially when they gather in those giant flocks. Are they smart, or spooky… or both? —Crow-Curious Camp Counselor Says: Short answer? Crows are spooky and  smart. Long answer? They might be one of the most fascinating, misunderstood animals you’ll ever meet. Let’s break it down. Brainy Birds Crows (along with ravens, magpies, and jays) are part of the corvid family — a group of birds known for their sky-high IQs. And we’re not talking “smart for a bird.” We’re talking tool-using, face-recognizing, memory-storing  genius. Some fun facts to feed your curiosity: They recognize human faces.  Not kidding. Crows can remember people who’ve treated them well (or badly) and even pass that info on to other crows. They use tools.  Need to dig out a grub or grab food from a tight spot? A crow will break off a stick or bend a wire to get the job done. They hold grudges.  Once you’re on their bad side… you’re really  on their bad side. They mourn their dead.  Scientists have observed crows gathering silently around deceased flockmates — a behavior that looks a lot like mourning (or at least data collection: “Hey,Carl touched the power line and died. Avoid that spot."). So yes, your friend who "talks to crows" might be onto something — these birds are incredibly  aware and capable of social learning. If a crow brings her a shiny button or dead mouse, that’s a legit sign of respect. So Why Do They Feel So Creepy? Blame the vibes — and Hollywood. Crows are pitch black, vocal, and often gather in large groups (called murders, no less — which doesn’t help their PR). Their calls can sound like harsh (witchy) cackles, and their presence near roadkill or cemeteries has long been tied to death in folklore. However, crows aren’t omens — they’re opportunists. Scavenging is a smart survival strategy, not a sinister plot. Those eerie-looking gatherings in trees around dusk? That’s called a communal roost — and it’s basically crow happy hour. They meet up to exchange info, stay safe overnight, and catch up on the day’s events. (Okay, that last one is speculative. But they do communicate a lot .) Field Tip: Want to Befriend a Crow? Start by observing quietly. Offer the same food at the same time each day (unsalted peanuts in the shell are a classic). Be consistent, respectful, and calm — and don’t try to touch or tame them. You’re building mutual respect , not a petting zoo. With time, they might bring you tiny gifts (sticks, bottle caps, bits of shiny stuff) or just start hanging out nearby more often. You may even earn a few caws of approval. Final Verdict: Spooky? A Little. Smart? Absolutely. And like so many misunderstood creatures, crows just need us to understand them and care for them and their habitat.

National Parks in a Shutdown: What You Need to Know Before You Go When the government shuts down, national parks get caught in the crossfire. And if you’ve ever been excitedly packing for a trip only to realize, “Wait, what’s actually going to be open?”—welcome to my current life. My husband and I are road-tripping to Yellowstone this week, and yes, the gates are staying partially open. But here’s the catch: the skeleton crew holding things together can’t do it all, and that’s where things get messy—literally. Why Parks Stay “Partially Open” During shutdowns, the Department of the Interior has a choice: close parks completely (which is what used to happen), or keep them partially open to avoid the bad optics of turning visitors away. Lately, the trend has been to leave them open—but with almost no staff on duty. Translation? Bathrooms aren’t cleaned, trash cans overflow, trail maintenance stops, and the rangers you do see are likely working without pay. In the last big shutdown (2018–2019), places like Joshua Tree saw real damage: people driving off-road where they shouldn’t, cutting down protected trees, and leaving behind piles of garbage that took months to clean up. And it wasn’t just Joshua Tree. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, that shutdown left scars across the system: prehistoric petroglyphs were vandalized at Big Bend, illegal off-roading tore up fragile desert habitat in Death Valley, and waste piled so high in Sequoia and Kings Canyon that the parks had to shut their gates mid-shutdown. Six years later, the reminder still stings. Should Parks Close Completely? Honestly, yes. As much as I want to hike Yellowstone’s geyser basins, I know that keeping parks open without proper staff is a recipe for abuse. But here we are: the gates are unlocked, people are coming in, and the wild places we love are vulnerable. So if we’re going, we need to be the kind of visitors who lighten the load instead of adding to it. Planning a Park Visit During a Shutdown If you’ve got a trip on the books, here’s how to do it responsibly: Do Your Homework Check the official park website ( www.nps.gov ) before you leave. Most parks post what’s open and what’s not. In Yellowstone, for example, visitor centers and many restrooms are closed, but roads and trails may still be accessible. Expect “Roughing It” Conditions No trash pickup, no flush toilets, no ranger talks. Bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and plenty of water. If the idea of overflowing pit toilets freaks you out—well, consider it part of your rugged adventure prep. Pack Trash Bags (and Use Them) Bring extras for your group and even for strangers. Nothing feels worse than walking past a mountain of Doritos bags and beer cans at a scenic overlook. A few minutes of cleanup goes a long way. And remember: Leave No Trace and “Pack it in, Pack it out” aren’t just cute slogans — they’re baseline outdoor ethics. They matter every time you head outside, but during a shutdown, they’re absolutely critical. With no staff hauling trash, the responsibility falls squarely on us. Respect Wildlife and Trails With fewer or no rangers around, enforcement is light. That doesn’t mean the rules don’t matter. Stay on trails, keep your distance from wildlife, and resist the urge to “just hop over there for a better photo.” This is classic Leave No Trace territory: travel and camp on durable surfaces, respect wildlife, and be considerate of others. Think of it as a checklist for being the kind of park visitor who helps protect the experience for everyone else. Be Kind to Staff If you do run into rangers or maintenance workers, remember: they’re likely not getting paid right now. A simple “thank you” and a request for how you can best assist goes a long way. Why This All Matters National parks aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re part of our national identity. They deserve better than being treated like pawns in political fights. Whether you agree with me that full closures are the safer route or not, we can all agree that these places are worth protecting. And until the government gets its act together, the responsibility falls a little more on us. So if you’re heading out during this shutdown—whether it’s Yellowstone, Yosemite, or your local historic site—pack a little extra patience, a lot of respect, trash bags, and maybe some bathroom cleaning supplies. The parks need us at our best right now.

Trail Mail: What’s the Deal with Spiders? Real questions. Field-tested answers. Dear Field Trip, I know people keep saying spiders are ‘good,’ but I can’t stop screaming when I see one in the bathroom. How do I know which ones are actually helpful and which ones I should worry about? —Totally Freaked Out Camp Counselor Says: First off, let’s be real: spiders are basically eight-legged jump scares. But here’s the twist — most of them are on your side. Out of the thousands of species in North America, only a couple deserve real caution. The rest? They’re just freeloading pest control. Here’s the quick breakdown (deep breaths): 1. The Free Pest Control Squad Orb weavers, wolf spiders, and jumping spiders are like tiny horror-movie extras that secretly moonlight as exterminators. They eat mosquitoes, flies, even ticks. Creepy AND helpful. 2. The Shy Housemates House spiders don’t want your bed. They want your basement. Their hobbies include hanging out in corners, catching gnats, and scaring the daylights out of you at 2 a.m. 3. The Garden Guardians Garden and crab spiders are basically plant security. They lurk in flowers or spin elaborate webs to ambush pests. Your tomatoes owe them rent. 4. The Villains of the Story Okay, here’s where the shivers are legit: • Black widow = shiny black, red hourglass, absolute goth queen of the spider world. • Brown recluse = violin mark on the back, prefers dark corners and boxes you haven’t opened since 2003. 5. Bite Drama (or Lack Thereof) Most “spider bites” aren’t even from spiders. True bites are rare, and usually happen because someone squished or cornered the spider. Translation: they’re not chasing you. 6. Eviction Kit Don’t want them inside? Grab a cup + postcard. Boom: you’ve humanely relocated your new eight-legged tenant… and maybe impressed whoever witnessed you not totally lose it. The Big Picture Spiders = nightmare fuel for some of us, sure. But they’re also nature’s pest squad, quietly saving you from a mosquito apocalypse. Next time you see one, maybe say “thanks” before you freak out and grab a cup. Psst… Have a burning question? We’re all ears.

Sustainable Halloween: Fun Without the Scary Waste Confession: I used to grab Halloween costumes last-minute from those pop-up stores that smell like plastic and desperation. The result? Pricey outfits worn once, then shoved in the back of the closet. Sound familiar? Here’s the trick (and treat): skip the throwaway costumes and get creative with secondhand, DIY, and swaps. You’ll save money, cut down on waste, and still have all the fun (maybe more). The Scary Truth About Costumes Halloween is a blast, but it comes with a dark side: • 83% of Halloween costumes are made from oil-based plastics (hello, polyester). • Most are worn once — maybe twice — before ending up as waste. • Big-box costumes often cost more than a tank of gas and fall apart fast. The good news? You’ve got way better options. Thrift Like a Pro Thrift shops are basically Halloween treasure chests. Dig around and you’ll find: • Vintage dresses that double as witch or vampire attire. • Oddball pieces to build a costume around. • Accessories with untapped potential. Field Tip:  Check the kid’s toy aisle for plastic swords, capes, or old dress-up items that can be upcycled into grown-up costumes. DIY from What You Already Own (But Weirder) Sure, you can be a tourist or a black cat. But what about… • Moth-attracted-to-light: All gray or brown clothes + pin paper moth wings on yourself + carry a flashlight. • Ceiling fan: Sport workout gear and a sign that says “Go Ceilings!” (boom, punny). • Compost pile: Stick leaves, veggie scraps (paper cutouts), and brown paper “dirt” to your clothes. • 404 Error Costume Not Found: Plain white tee with “404 Costume Not Found” written on it. Nerd gold. Host a Costume Swap If you’ve got kids (or just a closet bursting with one-off costumes), swaps are a lifesaver. Here’s the game plan: • Pick a spot: Garage, community center, or backyard. • Spread the word: Friends, neighbors, parent groups. • Add flair: Serve hot cider, play spooky tunes, and let kids strut a mini-runway of secondhand glory. Build a Costume from Anything Some of the best costumes come from everyday stuff: • Cardboard box + silver spray paint = robot. • Broken umbrella + streamers = jellyfish. • Old bridesmaid dress = zombie prom queen. • Leaf blower backpack + khakis = DIY Ghostbuster. If you can hot-glue it, you can wear it. Treats Without the Trash Here’s where things get sticky (literally): single-serve candy. Those crinkly, non-recyclable wrappers? They’re scarier than any haunted house. Instead, try these swaps: • Bulk bin goodies: Buy chocolates, pretzels, or gummies in bulk and portion them into small compostable paper bags. • Homemade treats: Popcorn balls, pumpkin bread bites, or candied apples — festive and waste-free. Non-edible surprises: Seed packets, pencils, friendship bracelets, or temporary tattoos. Plastic-free brands: Look for companies like Alter Eco (compostable wrappers) or Tony’s Chocolonely (paper packaging). • Apple orchard hack: Hand out mini apples — it’s thematic, healthy, and way more charming than a fun-size Milky Way. The Real Treat Sustainable Halloween costumes and treats don’t suck the fun out of the holiday — they actually add to it. You get to be clever, save money, and skip the plastic guilt. So whether you thrift it, DIY it, swap it, or hand out pumpkin-spice popcorn in little paper bags, you’ll end up with a Halloween that’s memorable, not disposable.

From Garden Beds to Bulk Bins: How to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half Every time I leave the grocery store, I feel like I just got pickpocketed by the produce aisle. Lettuce for four bucks? A sad little bundle of herbs for six? Don’t even get me started on the sticker shock for organic berries. But here’s the thing: there are clever, community-minded, and seriously money-saving ways to eat well without selling your soul (or your paycheck) to the checkout line. Some are as old-school as planting potatoes, others are as modern as splitting a Costco run with your neighbor. Together, they’ll trim your grocery bill, cut down on packaging waste, and maybe even make eating feel fun again. Grow Your Own (No Green Thumb Required) The OG grocery hack is right outside your window. You don’t need a full-blown homestead — a sunny windowsill or balcony works wonders. • Lettuce & greens: $3 seed packet = weeks of salads. Snip and let it regrow. • Herbs: Basil, mint, cilantro, parsley. They regrow endlessly and you’ll feel like a culinary wizard. • Tomatoes & peppers: Even one plant will give you salsa bragging rights. • Potatoes: Plant sprouting spuds, harvest a whole bag later. Lazy-gardener gold. Field Tip:  Regrow green onions from kitchen scraps in a jar of water. That celery or lettuce stub you cut off? Plant it and watch as it grows again. Infinite greens, zero dollars. Go in on Bulk Together Here’s a radical thought: you don’t actually need 20 pounds of rice. But you do need the savings from buying it that way. Enter: the bulk buddy system. • Split memberships: Warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s can be pricey to join solo. Team up with a neighbor or friend and share the card. • Divide the haul:  Buy bulk pantry staples (rice, beans, oats, coffee) and divvy them up into jars or cloth bags. •  Save space:  Not everyone has a basement to stash 50 cans of tomatoes. Splitting means you get the savings without the clutter. Meal Co-Ops: Dinner by Committee Cooking in community is an underrated life hack. Imagine: you cook one big meal, your friend cooks one, your sister cooks one — boom, you’ve got three nights of dinner handled with a third of the work. •  Family meal swap:  Rotate who cooks on certain nights. • Freezer club: Each person batch-cooks something freezer-friendly (soup, chili, casseroles), then you swap portions. • Neighborhood potluck 2.0:  Instead of everyone bringing a dish, everyone brings ingredients for one recipe, and you prep them together. It’s cheaper, faster, and more fun than staring at your stove alone. Hunt for Hidden Deals (Outside the Store) Not all food savings happen in a fluorescent-lit supermarket. • Farm stands & CSAs: Community-supported agriculture boxes often give you a whole week’s worth of local produce for less than a single cart of “organic” groceries. • Ugly produce apps:  Companies like Misfits Market or Imperfect Foods sell the odd-looking (but totally edible) veggies that stores reject. Cheaper and less wasteful. • Community gleaning groups:  Some towns organize harvest days where volunteers pick fruit from unharvested trees or fields — free food, plus you keep it from rotting. The Real Win None of these hacks are about deprivation — they’re about abundance. More meals, more flavor, more time, more community. Whether you’re clipping homegrown basil, splitting bulk oats with your neighbor, or pulling a frozen lasagna out of your sister’s meal co-op stash, the payoff is the same: a lighter grocery bill and a heavier sense of connection. And honestly? That tastes better than any $4 head of lettuce.

The Squirrel Did What Now? A Love Letter to the Misunderstood Mascots of Urban Nature Squirrels once vanished from cities—then we brought them back to “remind” us of nature. Here’s why we should never forget them again. My husband calls them freeloaders. I call them fuzzy little urban legends. We’ve got a running feud in our backyard over the bird feeders—which, in my opinion, double perfectly well as squirrel feeders. He once installed a camera birdhouse. Guess who moved in? Squirrels. Guess who was delighted? (Me.) Have you seen baby squirrels? So cute! Squirrels have long been the chaos gremlins of suburban lore—pillagers of seed, chewers of wires, hoarders of who-knows-what in the attic. But what if I told you they were once purposefully reintroduced to New York City… not as pests, but as heroes? Yup. Let’s talk about how squirrels went from urban outlaws to moral educators, why they’ve always been low-key rewilding champions, and what their story says about how we design spaces for both humans and nature. From Eradicated to Entertaining: A Very Squirrelly History By the 1840s, industrialization had done a number on city wildlife. Forests were cleared, green spaces shrank, and the eastern gray squirrel? Pretty much gone from U.S. cities. But in a twist that feels almost poetic, city planners in the mid-1800s decided to bring them back—not for science, but for the vibes. In parks from Philly to Boston to New York’s just-built Central Park, squirrels were reintroduced as gentle reminders of a world beyond soot and smokestacks. Reformers thought seeing wildlife could boost moral character. Children were encouraged to feed them. People wrote letters to newspapers about how charming they were. Imagine that. (And, trust me, they really are charming.) Nature as a Moral Compass The reintroduction of squirrels into urban parks was not merely for aesthetic pleasure. Reformers believed that exposure to nature had moral and educational benefits. Observing and feeding squirrels was viewed as a wholesome activity that could instill virtues such as kindness and responsibility in both children and adults. This perspective was rooted in the belief that nature could serve as a counterbalance to the moral pitfalls of urban life. However, this idealistic view faced challenges. As the squirrel population grew, concerns arose about their impact on park vegetation and the potential for human-wildlife conflicts. Despite these issues, squirrels remained a fixture in urban parks, symbolizing a successful integration of nature into city life. Other Creatures, Same Story Squirrels weren’t the only animals reintroduced to urban settings to reconnect people with nature. In 1864, New York’s Central Park saw the introduction of Java sparrows, house sparrows, chaffinches, and blackbirds. These efforts aimed to enrich the urban environment and remind city dwellers of the natural world. Rethinking Urban Wildlife While squirrels were once reintroduced to “remind us of nature,” they now remind us of something else: how easily we forget to plan with  nature instead of against it. Instead of building cities and then wedging in green space, what if we designed with shared habitats in mind from the start? Modern rewilding projects—like green roofs, pollinator corridors, and wildlife crossings—echo the same idea. Make space for the wild things. They’ll show up. Unsung Heroes of the Forest (and the Suburbs) Yes, squirrels eat your birdseed. They also: •Accidentally reforest entire areas by forgetting where they buried nuts. •Aerate soil and boost forest health through their digging habits. •Support urban ecosystems as prey for raptors and scavengers. (Sorry squirrels.) •Teach your kids (and you) how to sit still and observe. They’re scrappy little engineers, foragers, and survivors. And they’re not villains—they’re just really good at being squirrels. Confession: I’m a Squirrel Sympathizer I’ll admit it. I root for the underdog. Especially the kind with twitchy tails and no sense of personal space. Are squirrels chaotic? Sure. But they’re also a reminder that the line between “wild” and “urban” is more flexible than we think. If you are a regular reader, you likely know that I have been adventuring in squirrel rehabilitation. It has taught me a lot about these sweet creatures who have their own personalities and the squirrelly behaviors that benefit the wider world. We reintroduced squirrels once to bring nature back into our daily lives. The real question is: what else are we willing to make room for before it’s too late? Never Again Should Be Now Reintroduction is a last resort. It’s a way of saying: we messed up, but we’re trying. Squirrels remind us that it’s possible to come back from the brink—but wouldn’t it be better not to hit the brink in the first place? So, next time a squirrel tightrope-walks your power line or thwarts your best anti-squirrel feeder, maybe—just maybe—you should offer a silent thanks. They’ve been through a lot, they’re still here, and they are largely responsible for some of the magical places we love most.

Free Squirrel Guide: Nutty Neighbors and Why They Matter Those fuzzy-tailed daredevils leaping tree to tree? They’re not just after your birdseed. Squirrels are unsung heroes of the forest canopy—seed planters, truffle spreaders, and all-around ecosystem engineers. Every acorn they forget to dig up is a future tree, which means entire forests are built on squirrel scatter-brain. And yet, squirrels get stuck with the “nuisance” label. Too often, they’re chased, trapped, or misunderstood. That’s why we put together the Nutty Neighbors Squirrel Guide—a free, printable resource that’ll help you see your backyard acrobats in a whole new light. Click HERE  to access our free Squirrel Guide. Why Squirrels Matter Squirrels aren’t freeloaders on the bird feeder—they’re keystone players in healthy forests. Here’s why: • Forest makers: By burying thousands of nuts and forgetting some, squirrels accidentally plant entire oak and hickory groves. • Food web connectors: They’re both predator (insects, fungi, seeds) and prey (for hawks, owls, foxes). • Soil helpers: By spreading underground fungi like truffles, they boost tree health from the roots up. Squirrels in Trouble Of course, it’s not all fun and games. Habitat loss, cars, and plain old bad PR mean squirrels are often fighting an uphill battle. Humane coexistence—like sealing attics properly, planting native trees, and providing safe outdoor spaces—goes a long way toward keeping them thriving where they belong. Fun Squirrel Facts You’ll Find in the Guide • They can rotate their ankles 180 degrees to climb down trees headfirst. • Some ground squirrels roll in rattlesnake skin for DIY camouflage. • Chipmunks? Yep, technically part of the squirrel family. • And peanuts? Not real nuts, and not great squirrel food either. Our Nutty Neighbors Squirrel Guide is packed with squirrel myths, feeder peace-keeping tips, and wild stories from around the globe (rainbow-colored giant squirrels in India, anyone?). Download Our Free Field Trip Squirrel Guide. Because every time you appreciate the squirrels in your backyard, you’re rooting for healthier forests, sharper ecosystems, and maybe even a little more laughter when they outsmart your “squirrel-proof” feeder.

Nature, Friends, and a Flying Saucer: How Disc Golf Won Our Outdoorsy Hearts Sponsored by brands we genuinely love and trust: Idio Sports, SOLE, and Farm to Feet. The Case for Chucking a Disc Through the Woods (With Purpose) When’s the last time you chased a frisbee through the woods and called it cardio? That’s disc golf in a nutshell—except the discs are purpose-built and the walk is half the fun. We got hooked because disc golf meshes everything we love: free or low-cost access, a “show up and throw” vibe, real-deal time outside, and a community that cheers for your birdie and helps you find your lost midrange. Disc golf’s superpower is how easy it is to get into—and how welcoming it feels once you do. As Jack Tupp writes in The Disc Golf Revolution , the cost to play is low enough that “anyone can afford not just to play, but to play the best,” keeping courses truly mixed and community-forward. You’re not buying into a clubhouse; you’re showing up to a park with people from every walk of life. A Walk in the Woods That Actually Fits Your Life Rounds are typically around 2 hours (often less), which means you can sneak in nine after work or loop the full course on a Saturday and still make the farmer’s market. And because most courses are free—or cheaper than a drive-thru lunch—you can bail after a few holes if the weather becomes an issue, start where it’s convenient, and keep it casual. Easy to Learn, A Lifetime to Master You don’t need lessons to enjoy disc golf from your very first day. Most of us bring some built-in “throw a thing” muscle memory, so it’s fun from the jump—then gets delightfully nerdy as you learn angles, wind, and lines. Mastery? That part can take forever in the best way. Field Tip: Start with a putter and a neutral midrange. You’ll learn control faster than if you jump straight to high-speed drivers. Forest Bathing…With a Scorecard We’re big “touch grass” people, and disc golf is basically structured forest bathing. You’re moving, breathing, noticing mushrooms on a stump—and you didn’t need to book anything. Bonus: compared with traditional golf, disc golf courses generally avoid the water- and chemical-heavy maintenance that environmentalists critique. Okay, But What Do I Need? Short answer: not much. A starter disc or two, a water bottle, and decent shoes will carry you far. If you want to spend money anywhere, spend it on your feet. Disc golf is miles of walking plus explosive footwork on concrete or packed-dirt tees. Happy feet = better throws + more fun. For Your Feet: Small Upgrades That Make a Big Difference 1) Socks that actually work on-course We’ve been testing Farm to Feet’s Rock Hill Light Targeted Cushion —a collab inspired by disc golf’s East Coast hub—and it’s a sweet spot: U.S.-sourced merino for moisture + temp regulation, targeted cushioning in high-impact zones, and a seamless toe to help prevent blisters. 2) Insoles for extra comfort (especially if you’re new) If you’re playing in everyday sneakers or older trail shoes, supportive insoles can make a huge difference. SOLE footbeds are heat- and wear-moldable for a custom feel, and they use recycled cork through the brand’s ReCORK program —very Field Trip energy. They’re especially great if you need more arch support or stability for those tee-pad pivots. If you already have disc-golf-specific shoes with solid support, you might not need them—but for beginners or anyone wanting extra comfort, they’re a smart upgrade. 3) Shoes built for disc golf, not just “outdoorsy” We’ve been impressed by the 2025 Syncrasy EVO from Idio Sports : waterproof liner powered by Sympatex, a protective Drag-On toe cap for forehand toe-draggers, a low (6mm) drop for balance, and outsole features designed for bracing and pivoting on tees. Why Right Now? Disc golf’s growth has been wildly organic and community-led for years—tournaments ballooned as the player base exploded, and the grassroots momentum kept rolling. It still feels like the best-kept secret in outdoor rec: friendly, affordable, and everywhere once you start looking.    Ready to Play? Grab a friend, pick a park, and go chase a disc between some trees. Psst—big thanks to Jack Tupp, author of The Disc Golf Revolution , whose writing nails why this game is such an inclusive, time-flexible, low-cost gateway to more outside time.