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Whether you enjoy working, playing, or getting married in your own backyard, a recent survey shows more Americans than ever say that precious outdoor space is vital of late.
More than three quarters of Americans who have a yard (76%) say the family yard space is one of the most important parts of their home, according to a new poll commissioned by the TurfMutt Foundation and conducted online by The Harris Poll.
Nearly three quarters of Americans overall (72%) say a spacious yard would be at the top of their wish list if they were looking for a new home. That desire reflects a cultural shift in how Americans view their yards. Even more so, they’re willing to invest in their yards, and are using them more for everyday activities, including as work-from-home office space.
Photo by Rohit Tandon on Unsplash
“What we are seeing with Americans is greater reliance on the backyard as an extension of the home. It’s not just a place that looks pretty – it’s a place to live and do daily activities such as working, dining and relaxing,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “They’ve discovered that ‘backyarding’ is a better way to live and there’s no turning back. They are also willing to hire professionals and invest money into yard improvements.”
People are enjoying extra time outside, too. Nearly a quarter of Americans who have a yard (24%) are spending more time in their yards now than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
And they are really enjoying the extra time outside. Over 3 in 5 Americans who have a yard (63%) say they have enjoyed doing more activities in their yard since the pandemic began. Younger adults (68% age 18-54 vs. 52% age 65+) and parents of kids under 18 (73% vs. 58% who are not parents of kids under 18) are more apt to feel this way.
Who’s spending all that time outside?
• Older millennials - 32% of adults ages 35-44 who have a yard are the spending more time in their yard now compared to pre-pandemic.
• Parents - 30% of those with a yard who are parents of kids under 18 are spending more time out in their yard now compared to pre-pandemic and are more likely than those without kids under 18 to say they are doing so (21%).
Photo by Standsome Worklifestyle on Unsplash
How Americans use their yard has likely changed. For one, the outdoor office trend is here to stay with many Americans using their yards as makeshift offices for their jobs.
Stats show:
• Nearly 2 in 5 Americans who have a yard (58%) say they have spent time doing work for their job in their yard during the pandemic.
• Men are more likely to use their yards while doing work for their jobs, with 63% of men compared to 53% of women with yards saying they worked outdoors in their yard during the pandemic.
• Among those with a yard, parents of kids under 18 are also more likely (71%) than their counterparts without kids under 18 (52%) to have used the yard to get work done during the pandemic.
The yard has also become a place to de-stress, with more than two thirds of Americans who have a yard (69%) saying doing yard work, such as mowing, trimming or planting, is one of the ways they like to de-stress these days. This is especially true among parents of kids under 18 as they are more likely than their counterparts without kids under 18 to cite this (76% vs. 65%).
A vast majority of Americans who have a yard (84%) plan to invest in their yard in 2022, including:
• 67% say they’ll purchase plants/trees/flowers/vegetables to plant themselves
• 39% report they will purchase items to maintain or improve their grassy areas
• 23 % say they will install or update hardscaping themselves.
Photo by Jared Muller on Unsplash
And the outlook looks bright for the landscaping industry. About a third (33%) of those with a yard plan to hire a professional to do landscaping or hardscaping in 2022. Other yard improvements planned for 2022 include installing a fence (19%) or a shed (15%) and adding a swimming pool (10%). Among those with a yard:
• Adults ages 18-44 are more likely than those ages 45+ to say they plan to invest in their yard in 2022 by hiring a professional to do landscaping or hardscaping, 43% compared to 26% of those age 45+.
• Nearly a third of those ages 18-44 (31%) will install or update hardscaping themselves, 27% will install a fence, 21% will install a shed and 18% plan to put in a swimming pool.
• Parents of kids under 18 (73%) are more likely than their counterparts (63%) to say they plan to invest in their yard in 2022 by purchasing plants, trees, flowers, or vegetables to plant themselves. Parents of kids under 18 are also more likely than those without kids under 18 to purchase items to maintain or improve grassy areas on the lawn (44% vs. 36%), and more likely to hire a professional to do landscaping or hardscaping (47% vs. 26%).
Given the unprecedented return to the outdoors, the available outdoor power equipment also has kept in step with products for every need and individual scenario, says the TurfMutt Foundation, and powered in a variety of ways including battery/electric, gasoline, propane, solar and hybrids.
“What we are seeing with Americans is greater reliance on the backyard as an extension of the home. It’s not just a place that looks pretty – it’s a place to live and do daily activities such as working, dining and relaxing,” said Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation.
About TurfMutt
TurfMutt was created by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s (OPEI) TurfMutt Foundation and has reached more than 70 million children, educators and families since 2009. Through classroom materials developed with Scholastic, TurfMutt teaches students and teachers how to “save the planet, one yard at a time.” TurfMutt is an official USGBC® Education Partner and part of their global LEARNING LAB. TurfMutt is an education resource at the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Green Apple, the Center for Green Schools, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids, the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, Climate Change Live, Petfinder and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2017, the TurfMutt animated video series won the coveted Cynopsis Kids Imagination Award for Best Interstitial Series. TurfMutt’s personal, home habitat is featured in the 2017-2020Wildlife Habitat Council calendars. More information is available at www.TurfMutt.com.
But all these methods require that you ingest the wacky weed by burning it and inhaling the smoke. What if you don’t want to smoke? What if you can’t smoke for various medical reasons? Are you left “not high” and dry? Thankfully, the answer is no. There is another option: weed candy.
We’re all familiar with the “special brownie,” but cannabis-infused edibles come in so many more varieties: cookies, drinks, pills, snacks, spreads, and even candies. Here are all the gooey details on this tasty treat.
Weed Candy: A Great Alternative To Smoking
As already mentioned, weed candy is a great alternative for those who can’t smoke or don’t want to smoke. Those on supplemental oxygen can still get the benefits of marijuana without the risk of explosion and death.
Similarly, patients suffering from eating disorders, digestive disorders, and nausea due to chemotherapy can find relief from their symptoms by directly ingesting the low doses of cannabidiol (CBD) found in high-CBD/low-THC cannabis candy.
Another great reason people choose to consume their cannabis via candy is because it’s more discreet. No smoke. No smell. No coughing. No open flame. You can get your fix wherever you are, whenever you want.
One interesting effect of getting your cannabis via candy—and one that many people prefer—is that the effects last for quite a bit longer compared to smoking. This is because the candy, and the cannabis it contains, must first be digested.
Smoking/inhaling, on the other hand, is a much faster process because the smoke moves directly through your lungs into your bloodstream without the need for intermediary steps.
Different Types Of Weed Candy
Variety is the spice of life, and consuming cannabis candy is no exception. Weed candy takes many forms. The most popular of which are lozenges (like Jolly Ranchers), lollipops (food on a stick is always better), and gum.
The type of candy you choose will depend on your situation. For office workers, class attendees, and those concerned about appearances, the lozenge is the most discreet. At other times, a nice lollipop or piece of gum can really liven up a slow afternoon.
Weed Candy For The 21st Century
Advances in cannabis technology have yielded some pretty cool stoner stuff. But few reach the level of nanoencapsulated THC. Too much of a mouthful for you? Just call it Nanobidiol™ for short.
Nanobidiol is made using a cutting-edge process that minimizes each THC molecule and then surrounds it with a special membrane that gives the THC some pretty unique qualities. Nanobidiol is not only smaller than regular THC, but it’s also more water-soluble. This decrease in size and increase in water solubility makes the THC more bioavailable.
That means you’ll feel the head high in 2-10 minutes (6 times faster than other weed candy on the market)! You won’t have to wait an hour or more like you do with other edibles.
Impacts Of Weed Candy On Your System
The impacts of weed candy on your system can be thought of in terms of speed and duration.
Smoking your marijuana is like a drag race: Its effects are felt almost immediately, but they’re over just as quickly. Cannabis candy is like a NASCAR race: The experience, though still great, takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour to get going. In addition, the effects of marijuana candy tend to last quite a bit longer (from 2-6 hours) because the cannabidiol is slowly digested in the stomach.
Who Can Benefit From Weed Candy
The benefits of weed candy are wide-ranging. Individuals suffering from both acute and chronic disorders can find relief inside a marijuana candy.
Those suffering from chronic pain, autoimmune disorders, insomnia, nausea, muscle inflammation, nervous system disorders, and muscle spasms can benefit from the way marijuana candy is processed into the body.
Individuals who suffer from gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s Disease are especially benefited by marijuana candy and other edibles. This is because Crohn’s Disease is an autoimmune disorder of the gastrointestinal tract. Marijuana candy can deliver cannabinoids directly to the site of the disorder and provide much-needed relief.
Quality Concerns Regarding Weed Candy
Quality is always a concern when it comes to marijuana. Whether you get your fix by smoking or ingesting, you should at least verify the quality of the product you’re consuming. As it applies to weed candy, it’s important to keep a few simple things in mind.
Currently, there is no regulatory agency in place for marijuana candy. What this means is that there is no way to ensure the same commercial food-prep standards that apply elsewhere.
This can mean that trace amounts of allergens (gluten, nuts, pet dander, lactose) can find their way into the marijuana candy. For people allergic to these things, major problems can occur and interfere with the healing effects that the marijuana candy offers.
Similarly, there is no way to determine the quality of the cannabis used in the cannabis candy. Because the cannabis is hidden in the mix, it’s very easy for candy companies to dispose of reject marijuana that can’t be sold for smoking.
It’s not always possible, but purchasing a marijuana candy that has been lab-tested for potency and contaminants is preferable. At the very least, it’s important to get your marijuana candy from a trusted source.
The local dispensary that you’ve frequented for a number of years is a good place to start. If they don’t already sell marijuana candy, they might be able to find a reputable supplier.
Where To Start
If you’ve never tried weed candy before, we suggest that you purchase a piece or two from a trusted source and see what you think. If you like the taste and the effects it produces, you could then try cooking up your own batch of marijuana candy.
As with every other method of cannabis consumption, the important thing is that you enjoy the ride. So don’t stress about whether oral uptake is better than gastrointestinal or pulmonary. Just try a variety of delivery systems and go with your favorite.
The Best Weed Candy Comes From High-Quality Cannabis
Weed candy can come from any strain and be of any quality. It can be headies, beasters, mids, or regs of Blue Dream, Chemdog, Yoda OG, Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, or any of the more than 700 existing strains.
The best weed candy, however, comes from high-quality, organic buds. For a truly righteous weed candy experience, we recommend only using a high-quality variety (headies or beasters) of your favorite strain. It will make the experience so much better.
With a good quality organic strain, you’ll need less candy to experience the same effects. A little will go a long way.
You may have to pay a bit more for weed candy made from a high-quality extract, but you’ll be much happier with how you feel when you use it.
So don’t settle for an inferior weed candy. Get some made from the best buds on the planet and experience cannabis and candy the way it was meant to be.
About the Author
Anthony Franciosi also known as Ant, is an honest to goodness farmer whose fingers are as green as the organic cannabis he grows. He is the proud founder of Honest Marijuana Co.– an all natural, completely organic marijuana growery in Colorado. The company is a pioneer in the industry, using Earth-friendly recyclable tin cans with pure nitrogen to ensure only the highest level of integrity and quality, launching Honest Blunts, the first organic hemp-wrapped, machine-rolled cannabis blunts as well as inventing the patented Nanobidiol™ Technology, which reduces non-water-soluble substances like cannabinoids into a nano-size so they can be added to candy, transdermalpatches, topical lotions, and other cannabis products for the cleanest, most efficient, and most discreet form of cannabis consumption.
DRAWING AND PAINTING
All experts agree that creating art is a great way to de-stress. You can paint the sunset after work, let your deepest desires come to the surface and even try your hand at some artful nudes. Your partner can model if you want to turn this into a couple’s hobby.
Photo by SEWING
Never have anything to wear? Why not try making something new for yourself? This creative hobby is suitable for all fashion gays who love to look unique. Plus, getting immersed into all the patterns, materials and fits will definitely give you time to relax and unwind. Soon you’ll be grounded while also dripping in style.
DRAG
Sure, not all gays are into drag and makeup, but no matter if you’re a huge fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race or can’t stand the drama of the show, transforming into fierce queen can do wonders for your anxiety and stress. Drag is a lifestyle for many, but it can also be a great way to let loose and have many laughs. And the process of putting on makeup, hair and clothes is therapeutic in itself.
GARDENING
Join thousands of plant gays all over the world and consider becoming a plant dad. Gardening will not only turn your place into an aesthetic oasis but also allow you to relax, have a sense of purpose and enjoy many small victories as you watch your leafy babies thrive. Plus, you can have a bunch of fresh produce to add to your diet.
Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash
COOKING
Stop relying on takeout and actually use that pretty kitchen of yours. Cooking is a great way to feed your body, take better care of your fitness and save money. Plus, it’s one of the most relaxing, rewarding and delicious hobbies out there. And everyone loves a man who can cook!
ARCHERY
Channel your inner Katniss and try your hand at archery. This hobby with a long history is an intersection of focus, exercise (it packs a great shoulder and back workout) and relaxation. As long as you practice it responsibly, you will get all the benefits and look more than sexy with a bow.
ROCK CLIMBING
If you’re looking for a hobby that will keep you snatched, active and excited, look no further than rock climbing. This hobby requires focus, brain power and a lot of strength, all of which you can practice during your climbing sessions. If you’re not afraid of hard work and heights, climbing will use up all your built-up energy and allow you to feel relaxed and fulfilled.
CYCLING
Is there anything more relaxing than cruising through nature, watching the hills and pastures pass you by and enjoying the wind in your hair? You can get all of that on your bike. Cycling is healthy, relaxing and suitable for all fitness levels. Plus you can do it with your partner or use it as an excuse to hang out with new people as you work towards those chiseled legs.
Any stressed gay will love these hobbies, especially since they don’t require a ton of money or time. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by monotony or sick of hanging out in your local bar, do something new and healthy and relieve stress while improving yourself.
AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE DON’T JUDGE BY LOOKS
Did you know that many employers judge their future employees based on their looks? Even though looks can tell you a lot about the person, it's yet another generalization that should be avoided. However, a certain evaluation is necessary before you decide to hire employees, but it mustn't be based on looks, sexual orientation, fashion style, disability or any other.
So, how can you judge your employees? You can use their skills, knowledge and previous experience to determine who is most likely to become a worthy employee. You don’t have to agree with their lifestyle as long as they are doing their tasks productively and timely.
DIVERSITY IS YOUR MIDDLE NAME
Productive conflict is good for your company. It offers growth opportunities. On top of that, diversity provides you with plus points on the market. If you're not afraid of hiring different people, hard work will definitely pay off. But this doesn't mean that every one different will fit in.
YOU OFFER SUPPORT
One of the crucial things about inclusiveness is support. Since diversity includes sensitive groups and individuals who have been to a lot, you need to offer them adequate support in the workplace. This may include handicap entrances and loos, signs for the visually impaired, extensive healthcare and many more.
This is essential due to the COVID-19 as well. A lot of people have lost their jobs. However, LGBTQ+ youth was influenced the most as they were among the first ones to get fired. Therefore, offering your support in tough moments really contributes to creating an inclusive environment.
AN INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE MAKES EVERYONE FEEL WELCOME
Have you ever stepped into a space where you don't feel welcome? It can even be one of your past workplaces. However, if you care about having an inclusive workplace, you need to make sure everyone feels pleasant and valued. To achieve that, try to communicate with your colleagues and give them timely feedback.
To create a more inclusive workplace, think about using the Blink website that contributes to better engagement and connectivity among your employees. Such a platform provides you with a great place to safely chat with employees, share files and even secrets. So, don't forget to give each new employee a warm welcome and heartfelt introduction on the Blink website.
Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash
YOU’VE CREATED A COMMUNITY
You've probably heard those cliché sentences where employers claim they've created a family in the workplace. Even though that may sound sweet at first, it can be a true nightmare to some. For abused and neglected individuals, the last thing they want is another family. On top of that, you don't have to respect everyone in your family, which may create an unpleasant atmosphere.
Instead of that, try to create a community. A community is a place where people support each other, help one another out and work as a team. It's natural to have conflict from time to time, but if you resolve conflict like a community, you're more likely to create an inclusive and pleasant atmosphere.
CONCLUSION
Even though many employers like to say for themselves that they've created an inclusive workplace, until they display all of the above, they don’t truly care about inclusiveness and their workers. So, be ahead of the game and create a workplace where everyone will feel welcomed, no matter the orientation, preferences, race or background.