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Glimpses of Wonder

Green Anacondas: Fascinating Facts, New Discoveries, and Their Expanding Presence

The Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) has intrigued people for centuries, often appearing in folklore, documentaries, and scientific studies as one of the world's most powerful and mysterious snakes. Known as one of the largest snakes in the world, this semi-aquatic reptile is as mysterious as it is impressive. Recent research has confirmed that some populations of anacondas previously mistaken for the common Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus) are genetically distinct, belonging to what is now re
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dljbsp in Nature

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Glimpses of Wonder

From Relaxation to Heart Health: The Power of Saunas

For centuries, saunas have been a place of relaxation and rejuvenation, but their benefits go far beyond just unwinding. Research has shown that saunas play a crucial role in supporting heart health, making this timeless practice a powerful tool for wellness. While traditionally seen as a cultural or leisurely activity, saunas are gaining recognition for their significant impact on cardiovascular health.   The Science of Sauna Benefits When you step into a sauna, the intense heat
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dljbsp in Health

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Glimpses of Wonder

You Talk Funny - English!

English is a funny language, not just because of its confusing grammar and spelling but because it refuses to stay the same. It adapts, morphs, and picks up odd phrases as it travels the globe. Whether you’re from Massachusetts, Manchester, or Melbourne, English speakers everywhere have their quirks—and sometimes, they can leave you scratching your head (or banging a “u-ey” in frustration). Let’s take a tour of English quirks and laugh along the way.   From Trousers to Thongs (No, Not
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dljbsp in History

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Glimpses of Wonder

The Deadliest Animal on Earth: The Mosquito

When we think of dangerous animals, lions, sharks, or snakes might come to mind. But the deadliest creature on the planet is much smaller—so small it can fit in the palm of your hand. It’s the mosquito.   Why Are Mosquitoes So Dangerous? Mosquitoes are not deadly because of their bite but because of what they carry. These tiny insects are vectors, meaning they can spread dangerous diseases through the blood they consume. When a mosquito bites an infected person or animal, it picks
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Pine Trees That Thrive After Forest Fires

When we think of forest fires, we often imagine destruction. But did you know that some pine trees are actually designed to survive fires and grow stronger afterward? These amazing trees don’t just survive—they thrive in the ashes!   How Fire Helps These Trees Grow For certain pine trees, like the lodgepole pine and jack pine, forest fires are essential for their life cycle. These trees have special cones called serotinous cones. The cones are tightly sealed with a tough resin tha
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Cashews: More Than Just a Nut

Cashews are a beloved snack enjoyed worldwide, but their fascinating journey from tree to table reveals that they are much more than what meets the eye. In fact, cashews aren’t even nuts—they’re seeds with a remarkable story.   From the Tropics to Your Table Cashew trees flourish in warm, tropical regions where the soil and climate are ideal. Originally native to Brazil, these trees were introduced to India, Vietnam, and West Africa in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers. Tod
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Wētā: New Zealand’s Remarkable Insects

Wētā, one of New Zealand’s most fascinating creatures, come in all shapes and sizes. These insects are unique to the country and play a vital role in its ecosystems. From the giant wētā to the smaller ground wētā, they show off the amazing variety of life in Jehovah’s creation.   The Giant Wētā: Nature’s Heavyweight The giant wētā (Deinacrida) is one of the largest and heaviest insects in the world. These massive insects are found mostly on predator-free islands where they thrive
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Maya Nord: A Biodiversity Haven in the Congo

A Unique Clearing in the Heart of the Jungle Maya Nord, a renowned “bai” or natural forest clearing, is nestled within the Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo. This iconic location is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, serving as a meeting point for wildlife amid the dense rainforests. These mineral-rich clearings act as vital hubs for animals seeking essential nutrients and water, creating a unique ecosystem that thrives with life.   Wildlife Marvels at
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

The Tree of Ténéré: Nature’s Solitary Marvel

The Tree of Ténéré stood as a testament to resilience, a lone acacia (Vachellia tortilis) surviving in the vast Sahara Desert of Niger. Known as the most isolated tree on Earth, it was the only tree for 250 miles in any direction, a solitary sentinel in one of the harshest environments on the planet. Estimated to be approximately 300 years old, the Tree of Ténéré had weathered centuries of harsh desert conditions. Despite its remarkable endurance, the Tree of Ténéré met a tragic and unexpected e
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dljbsp in History

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Glimpses of Wonder

The Changing Eyes of Reindeer

Reindeer Eyes Change with the Season Reindeer live in the Arctic, where summers are bright and winters are very dark. To help them see in these different light conditions, reindeer eyes change color. In the summer, their eyes are golden-yellow, and in the winter, they turn deep blue. This change helps them see better during the long, dark Arctic winters.    The Role of the Tapetum Lucidum This color change happens in a part of the eye called the tapetum lucidum, a reflective
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Do Spiders Dream?

In 2022, researchers uncovered evidence suggesting that spiders, specifically jumping spiders (Salticidae), might experience sleep states akin to REM (rapid eye movement) sleep in humans. This discovery has intrigued scientists and the public alike, offering new insights into the complex behaviors of these remarkable arachnids.   The 2022 Study: Observing Spider Sleep Juvenile jumping spiders, with their semi-transparent exoskeletons, provided researchers a unique opportunity to o
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Breaking the Speed Barrier: The High-Flying Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat

When you think of fast-flying creatures, birds like falcons or swifts may come to mind. However, in terms of level flight, some bats, particularly the Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis), take speed to an entirely new level. These incredible mammals can reach speeds of up to 99.5 miles per hour (160 kilometers per hour) in horizontal flight, surpassing the fastest birds in this category. While birds like the peregrine falcon hold the overall speed record during dives, the Brazilian
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Coffee and Prayer: A Brew with Spiritual Roots

For many of us, coffee is an indispensable part of the morning routine. But this humble brew’s history extends far beyond a simple pick-me-up. From its legendary origins in the Ethiopian highlands to its role in religious rituals and spiritual reflection, coffee has long been intertwined with moments of focus, meditation, and worship.   The Legend of Kaldi and His Goats The story begins in Ethiopia, where a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee’s energizing effects. As the leg
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dljbsp in History - Food

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Glimpses of Wonder

The Call of Nature: Why Running Water Makes You Feel the Urge

Have you ever been relaxing at home, only to hear the kitchen faucet running and suddenly realize, “I gotta go”? Or found yourself in a restroom line, listening to someone washing their hands, and felt your patience and bladder getting equally tested? Whether you call it tinkling, making water, seeing a man about a horse, or heading off to pick mushrooms, the urge can strike fast and unexpectedly. So, what’s behind this quirky phenomenon? Let’s dive in (carefully!) and explore.   The P
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dljbsp in Sensory

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My writing room

Routine. Slow and steady.

I plan to make a blog entry every day for the rest of January. It's an experiment.   I am a long way on a novel in Norwegian. Then, for many reasons, I stopped for about two years. When I looked at the manuscript again, it struck me I had written it in the wrong person. It should be first person, not third person. So I started version nine (or was it  10?).   And so ... I stopped again. Different reasons, but this time only for weeks, not years. And this evening, I tried to r
Tronora

Tronora in January

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Glimpses of Wonder

Guardians of the Surf: The Fascinating Role of Male Garibaldi Fish

Beneath the waves of the Pacific, a bright orange fish stands out not only for its vibrant color but also for its incredible parenting skills. The Garibaldi (Hypsypops rubicundus, pronounced HIP-sih-pops roo-bee-KUN-dus), California’s state marine fish, is renowned for the male’s dedication to building and maintaining nests for its offspring. From its meticulous grooming of nesting areas to its unwavering protection of eggs laid by multiple females, the Garibaldi demonstrates a level of care rar
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Trailblazers of the Forest: The Remarkable Navigation of Wood Mice

In the world of small mammals, few creatures are as resourceful as the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus, pronounced A-po-DEE-mus sil-VAT-i-cus). Found across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, this unassuming rodent has captivated researchers with its remarkable ability to navigate complex terrains. What sets the wood mouse apart from almost every other mammal—except humans—is its unique use of “way-marking” to avoid getting lost.   The Mystery of Way-Marking Wood mice are no
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Exotic Joy: The Remarkable Design of Leichhardt’s Grasshoppers

Deep in Australia’s tropical savannas, a small but vibrant creature brings joy to observers while showcasing one of creation’s most harmonious partnerships. The Leichhardt’s grasshopper (Petasida ephippigera, pronounced Pet-ah-SEE-duh eh-FIP-ih-jeer-ah) spends its entire life on a specific group of plants: shrubs from the Pityrodia genus. This extraordinary relationship highlights the wisdom and care evident in Jehovah’s design of creation.   A Lifelong Home Leichhardt’s grasshopp
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

The King of Bugs: Meet the Man-Faced Shield Bug

While commonly referred to in some circles as the “Elvis Presley shield bug,” the actual species in question is Catacanthus incarnatus (Kat-uh-KAN-thus in-kar-NAH-tus), also known as the man-faced stink bug. This rare giant shield bug has captured imaginations with its unique markings that resemble a human face. For some observers, these markings evoke the eyes, nose, and iconic hairstyle of Elvis Presley, while others see something completely different. Regardless of interpretation, this insect
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Why Helicopters Help Save Cherries: The Delicate Art of Cherry Farming

Cherry farming is as much a science as it is an art. One of the most striking examples of this is the use of helicopters to blow rain off ripened cherries. These powerful machines fly just above the treetops, producing a downwash of air and turbulence that blows rainwater off the leaves and fruit. Without this intervention, rainwater can seep into the cherries’ thin skin, causing them to swell, crack, and become unsellable. While the process may take some time depending on orchard size and condi
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dljbsp in Creation

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Glimpses of Wonder

Solar Panels in Alaska: Defying the Darkness

Alaska’s vast wilderness and breathtaking beauty come with unique environmental challenges, especially when it comes to harnessing solar power. With long, dark winters and snowy conditions, many wonder if solar panels are a worthwhile investment in the northernmost state. Surprisingly, with innovative solutions and Alaska’s unique summer advantages, solar energy can be both viable and beneficial.   The Challenges of Solar Energy in Alaska 1. Limited Daylight in Winter In wint
Glimpses of Wonder

Why Durian Smells So Bad But Tastes So Good

Few fruits spark as much debate as the durian, often called the “king of fruits.” Loved by some for its rich, custard-like flavor and hated by others for its strong, pungent smell, durian is a paradox of nature that has captivated and repelled people for centuries. Let’s explore the curious world of this divisive fruit, from its infamous odor to its surprising taste and natural habitat.   What is Durian? Durian is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly countries l
Glimpses of Wonder

Why 90% of Termites Are Essential for Life

When most people think of termites, they picture chewed-up wooden beams, collapsing houses, and costly repairs. But termites are so much more than just destructive pests. In fact, only about 10% of the world’s termite species cause the damage we dislike, while the other 90% are essential for ecosystems to thrive. Let’s dig deeper into the surprising and essential roles termites play in supporting life on Earth.   The 10% We Fear It’s no surprise that termites have a bad reputation
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dljbsp in Creation

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