15 Rockin’ Projects that Repurpose Vinyl Records

Upcycled Food Recipes To Make In 2024

Bacon Fat: The crisp slices may be the real star, but the bacon fat is nothing to just discard. (Plus, tossing it down the drain or in the trash can't be good for your home's plumbing or the environment, right?). It adds a subtle smokiness to this yummy bacon jam, but you can also use it as a popcorn topping!. (via Brit + Co)

Citrus Peels: Turn your favorite peels into marmalade with this easy recipe. Spread it on toast for breakfast or use it in a dessert — it's just that versatile. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seeds: We can hardly keep track of all the ways pumpkin seeds and guts can be repurposed. Stirring them into puppy chow is a great option for those who enjoy theirs a little sweeter. (via Brit + Co)

Apple Peels: You'll love sipping on homemade apple peel bourbonas a spicy, warming alternative to the usual flavored vodka and “fiery" store-bought selections. The sweet, autumnal notes mean it's just as good enjoyed neat or in a hot toddy. (via Food52)

Leftover Bones: Whip up a batch of brodo or this delicious creamy chicken, mushroom and green chile soup the next time you roast a chicken and pick it clean. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Chard Stems: Yeah, we can pickle chard stems for a sour afternoon pick-me-up. Not feeling something so puckery? Toss them on the grill instead. (via Bon Appétit)

Broccoli Stalks: Use the florets in your next stir fry, then transform the stalks into tasty baked fries like these broccoli stem fries. Dip 'em in chimichurri tahini for the ultimate snack. (via What's Cooking Good Looking)

Carrot Tops: If you buy fresh carrots with their tops, don't let them lop them off at the register. Instead, transform the fronds into a lovely pesto for roasted carrot soup. (via Cravings in Amsterdam)

Potato Peels: Crispy potato skins get an apeeling makeover when roasted, especially when sprinkled with cheese and scallions. (via The Kitchn)

Fennel Fronds: A pinch of fennel frond salt adds a subtle anise flavor anywhere it's sprinkled. (via Chew Town)

Apple Cores: Simmer apple cores and peels with a little sugar in a big pot of water to make an easy, no-waste apple juice. (via Inspiration Kitchen)

Papaya Seeds: You'll enjoy the interesting peppery taste papaya seeds lend this sweet and spicy watermelon blueberry salsa. Consider this the ultimate addition to the Memorial Day picnic. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Kale Stems: Kale stems are pretty tough to chew, but blending them in your next post-workout smoothie takes care of that issue, no sweat. Plus, when whirled with strawberries and banana, you'll hardly even know they're there. (via The Roasted Root)

Almond Pulp: If you make your own homemadealmond milk, it probably pains you a bit to just toss all the pulp you get after straining. Happily, it can be used to make grain-free cinnamon and peanut butter almond pulp crackers/cereal and more. (via The Edible Perspective)

1. Halloween Washi Magnet Clips: Give wooden clothespins a Hallo-worthy makeover with as little as a button and washi tape. Clip them onto a line of twine for an instant hanging photo album, or, if you want to use them as fridge memo holders, add magnetic tape strips to their backs. (via Inside Bru Crew Life)

2. All Eyes on You Wreath: For decor that’s as creepy as it is fun, make this DIY eyeball wreath out of ping-pong balls. It’s a lighthearted and colorful way to celebrate the season. (via I Love to Create)

3. Balloon-Dipped Mason Jars: Achieve these candy corn-inspired mason jars with minimal mess using balloons — no glue or paint required! They make for a festive flower vase or colorful candle holder. (via Brit + Co)

4. Jack-o’-Lantern Jars: Whether you use them as Halloween decorations or trick-or-treating buckets, these DIY jack-o’-lantern jars are a cinch to make. Instead of tossing your baby food jars or salsa containers in the recycling, you can make Pinterest-ready decor. (via Make It & Love It)

5. Little Halloween Monsters: If you happen to have a few empty pill bottles, use them to create these adorable little Halloween monsters with some fabric and felt scraps. Keep them from toppling over by filling them with marbles for ballast. (via This Heart of Mine)

6. Duct Tape Trick-or-Treat Candy Buckets: Turn an old paint can into a one-of-a-kind candy bucket your little one will love. All you’ll need for this DIY is some cardboard, an empty can and an assortment of duct tape in festive colors. (via Mer Mag)

7. Glittery Pumpkin Mason Jars: Glitter can do no wrong! Add some shimmer and shine to an orange-painted mason jar for cute and budget-friendly Halloween decor. (via Life Is a Lullaby)

8. DIY Ombre Wine Bottles: Ombre is a look that’s in all year round. Give old wine bottles a festive finish with an ombre spray-paint job inspired by candy corn. Once your bottles are dry, spruce them up even further with a bouquet of orange-hued flowers or a branch of autumnal leaves. (via Brit + Co)

9. Halloween Heels: Whether you’re dressing up as a skeleton or just want to add Halloween flavor to your work outfit, DIY these skeleton heels. While you’re at it, try making skeleton gloves to complete the look. (via Instructables)

10. Halloween Mason Jar Luminaries: These DIY luminaries illuminate a spooky silhouette, throwing even spookier shadows. Line them up on your windowsill to give your home an eerie flickering glow. (via Princess Pinky Girl)

11. Giant Yarn Spiderweb: Breathe new life into a thrifted frame with spray paint and a little yarn-weaving. The result will be an intricate display that trumps any store-bought cobweb. (via Made Everyday)

12. Eraser-Stamped Halloween Shirt: Do you have a plain t-shirt that could use a makeover? With fabric paint and the eraser end of a pencil, you too can create these frightfully fun bat-patterned shirts. Try this technique with silhouettes of cats, jack-o’-lanterns or other spooky icons. (via Cutesy Crafts)

13. Rib Cage T-Shirt: You’ll definitely get a skele-TON of compliments rocking this DIY rib cage tee. All you’ll need is a simple white or black t-shirt, a pair of scissors and some free templates to recreate this look. (via Martha Stewart)

14. Tin Can Halloween Decorations: Rather than throwing out your empty soup cans, upcycle them by turning them into these modern jack-o’-lanterns. Add a tealight candle to cast creepy shadows. (via Crafty Magazine)

15. Spooky Spiderweb Hoops: If you’ve got a couple of spare embroidery hoops, it’s quick and fun to weave these impressive DIY spiderwebs. Clip a spider pin onto the webbing, or make one of out chenille stems, to complete the scene. (via A Night Owl)

16. Spooky Skull Treat Boxes: If you’re anything like us, you’re probably finding these old plastic Easter eggs in drawers and under furniture for months after the holiday. Why not turn them into Halloween treat boxes? (via Martha Stewart)

17. Mummy Luminary: Light up the night with these mummy-inspired luminaries made from empty food jars. As a safety precaution, because of the fabulous but flammable gauze, use battery-operated tea lights to illuminate them. (via Bren Did)

18. Spooky Tin Can Lantern: Line your walkway with these spooky lanterns made out of used tin cans. Depending on the paint you use, these can work indoors or out, with real or battery-operated candles. (via The Paper Mama)

Will you try your hand at these spooky chic Halloween DIYs? Follow us on Pinterest for more spooky DIY ideas!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

1. Finland
2. Denmark
3. Iceland
4. Sweden
5. Netherlands
6. Costa Rica
7. Norway
8. Israel
9. Luxembourg
10. Mexico
11. Australia
12. New Zealand
13. Switzerland
14. Belgium
15. Ireland
16. Lithuania
17. Austria
18. Canada
19. Slovenia
20. Czechia
21. United Arab Emirates
22. Germany
23. United Kingdom
24. United States
25. Belize