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Make Homemade Candles
Trivia: the first music video on MTV
Good morning from RetireHub!
It’s Saturday, and today we’re diving into the delightful hobby of making homemade candles! As always, we have exciting deals, tips, and more to brighten your day!
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Top Deals From Around The Web
Each day we find the best online deals so you don’t have to!
On this day in 1982, the groundbreaking film "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," directed by Steven Spielberg, premiered in theaters across the United States, captivating audiences and becoming an iconic symbol of 80s pop culture, showcasing the magic of friendship between a boy and a stranded alien.
RetireHub Poll
What is your favorite time to use candles? |
Brighten Your Space: Making Homemade Candles
Ever thought about creating your own cozy ambiance with candles you've made yourself? Candle making is a delightful hobby that's easier than you might think. Let's dive into how you can craft your own candles right at home.
What You'll Need:
Wax: Soy wax flakes are beginner-friendly and eco-conscious.
Wicks: Pre-waxed wicks with tabs are easiest to work with.
Containers: Think mason jars, teacups, or any heat-safe vessel.
Essential Oils: Scents like lavender, vanilla, or citrus add a personal touch.
Candle Dye or Crayons (optional): For adding a splash of color.
Double Boiler: Or a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
Stirring Spoon: Wooden or heat-resistant silicone works best.
Thermometer (optional): Helps with achieving the right pouring temperature.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Prepare Your Workspace- Cover your surface with newspaper or parchment paper to catch any spills.- Place your containers nearby, ready for pouring.
Attach the Wick- Thread the wick through a wick holder or use a pencil to center it.- Secure the wick to the bottom of the container with a dot of hot glue or tape.
Melt the Wax- Fill the bottom of your double boiler with water and bring to a gentle simmer.- Add wax flakes to the top and stir occasionally until fully melted.
Add Color (Optional)- If you want colored candles, stir in small shavings of crayon or a few drops of candle dye until dissolved.
Cool Slightly and Add Scent- Remove the melted wax from heat and let it cool to about 130°F (54°C).- Add 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oil per pound of wax, stirring well.
Pour the Wax- Carefully pour the wax into your prepared containers, leaving about half an inch at the top.- Keep the wick centered as you pour.
Let It Set- Allow the candles to cool undisturbed at room temperature for several hours or overnight.- Once solidified, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the wax surface.
Helpful Tips:
Safety First: Always be cautious with hot wax and keep a close eye on the melting process.
Customize Your Scents: Mix different essential oils to create unique fragrances.
Reuse and Recycle: This is a great way to give new life to old jars or containers.
Why You'll Love Making Your Own Candles:
Personalized Decor: Match colors and scents to your home’s aesthetic.
Thoughtful Gifts: Handmade candles make heartfelt presents for friends and family.
Relaxing Hobby: The process is soothing, and the end result brings a warm glow to your space.
So grab some wax and wicks, and let's light up your life with homemade candles!
Yesterday’s Poll Results - How many hours a day do you sleep?
With over 30% of the vote, the most common amount of sleep amongst RH members is 6 or more! 7% of RH members get less than 4 hours of sleep each night, while 12% get 8 or more! The comments also showed us that many wake up at least once to use the bathroom — some things can’t be helped!
Thanks to the many of you who vote and comment every day.
Our Favorite Comments:
“I sleep 6 or more hours per night, but generally it's around 3 hours, then awake for a couple before getting about 3 more.”
“6 hours at night 2 hours nap ”
“I generally get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and wake up once to use the restroom.”
“Sometimes I sleep over 7 hours, but I get up several times to use the bathroom”
“I usually get 6-7 hours of sleep. On occasion I get 5, but I worked security and can function on 3-4 hours. Just not consistently.”
While we can’t publish them all, we do read and appreciate every comment. Some comments are edited to make room for more contributions.
WHAT WE’RE READING
Here’s a free downloadable book we think you’ll enjoy today. Limited-time promotion!
By Annie Hudson When Charlie Dann, a seemingly charismatic ghost hunter with a penchant for the paranormal, checks into Emma Ander’s Mountainside Bed & Breakfast to collaborate with the University’s own expert, Dr. Gold, but he’s really seeking something else. Beneath his interest in simple research lies an ulterior motive: the desire to be the ‘it man’ when it comes to the paranormal. |
Senior Living News From Around the Web
What Happens to Cremated Remains: A Heartfelt Discussion
Have you ever wondered what really happens to cremated remains after the service? It's a sensitive topic that many families struggle with, often leading to tough decisions down the road. This eye-opening article shares touching stories and insights on the various options for final disposition, from traditional burial to eco-friendly memorial reefs. It’s a gentle reminder of the importance of planning ahead for yourself and your loved ones.
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Longevity Tip of the Day
Transform Your Mind with a “Sensory Overload” Workshop — Dedicate an evening to creating a multi-sensory experience at home. Pick a theme—like a rainforest adventure or a serene beach day—and engage all your senses. Play themed soundscapes, use ambient lighting or decor, prepare a related meal, and even wear clothes that feel fitting for the occasion. This immersive practice not only invigorates your senses but also stimulates mental flexibility and creativity, offering a restorative escape from routine and a boost to your longevity through playful engagement.
Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: “Lurk Mode”
Meaning: “Lurk Mode” refers to a state of observing a situation or group without active participation. It’s often used online to describe someone who is present in a chat or social media platform, watching and reading, but not contributing any comments or posts.
In a sentence: “I’m just in lurk mode tonight, checking out all the memes without posting anything myself.”
Good News of the Day
British Author Samantha Harvey Claims First-Ever Booker Award for a Space Fiction Novel
In a stellar achievement, British writer Samantha Harvey has snagged the 2024 Booker Prize for her captivating novel Orbital, making history as the first space-themed book to win the prestigious award. Written from the perspectives of real astronauts, her story takes us on a journey through a single day aboard the International Space Station, observing stunning sunrises and sunsets while contemplating our planet. Samantha plans to treat herself with some of her prize money, even saying she might buy a beautiful new bicycle! How cool is that?
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RetireHub Trivia
Want more trivia? Try our brand new “Nostalgia Trivia Game” on our website! New questions daily!
If you’re a fan of other classic games, you can try any of these below:
What was the first music video ever played on MTV when it launched in 1981? |
Which iconic American roadside attraction, completed in 1881, features a building shaped like a giant elephant and is located in Margate, New Jersey? |
Which 1968 episode of a popular TV series featured the first interracial kiss on American television? |
How was today's newsletter? |
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