1. Gut check time
Research shows bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract may affect the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Since you are what you eat, it's important to watch your diet, especially now. Consider adding this fruit to meals every day to keep your gut microbes happy.
2. Insects in the news
Just as researchers solved the mystery of butterfly flight, reports also come that the monarch butterfly population is moving closer to extinction. Humans can work to save them by protecting habitats and planting species that bloom in the later winter or early spring (February–April). And expect a noisy summer as you step lightly around billions of these bugs.
3. Put it in writing
The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History wants you to submit your story about how you're coping through the pandemic. Feeling further inspired once pen is in hand? Check out these affordable online writing courses taught by bestselling authors. Then consider entering your pieces in one of many writing competitions.
4. Get a piece of this pie
Perhaps you've lost your job (or know someone who has). Wouldn't it be great if the time you're now spending watching TV and eating pizza could be profitable? It can. Just in time for National Pizza Day (Feb. 9), BonusFinder offers the opportunity to be a professional binge-watcher. The pay? $500!
5. Taking the show on the road
When you think about some of the best live music you've ever seen, it was likely at a small, independent music venue. Now shuttered, many are having a hard time surviving. Black Forge Coffee helps by donating 20% of coffee sales profits to “Support our Stages” with COVID-safe events across the U.S. Get dates they may stop in your town.
6. Small sips
Craft distillers have been crushed by COVID-19. The American Distilling Institute offers a helpful map of independent distilleries so you can help the small guys survive by buying from them. Plus, funds from this 21-and-over coloring book helps support the James Beard Foundation's Open For Good campaign.
7. No soda or suds Super Sunday
Super Bowl LV will be played on February 7. Sure, there's a football game, but look on the field for the first woman to officiate NFL's championship game. Just tuning in for the commercials? There are two big soda brands and this beer you won't see.
