Top Picks from Around the Web — January 5, 2018

The beauty of blogging is having a platform to share whatever interesting tidbit catches my attention. Sometimes the odd stories I find online or the random thoughts that pop into my head aren’t earth-shattering, but they make me pause, smile, or roll my eyes. Here’s this week’s edition of Random Goodness from Around the Web:

Source: Bored Panda

Split Puurrrsonality

I’m not usually a cat person, but this chimera kitten is impossible not to love. Quimera, a real kitten with a striking half-and-half face, looks like something out of a fantasy — and it isn’t Photoshop. Her unique appearance comes from being a chimera: cells from at least two different embryos fused early in development, so her body carries DNA from more than one individual. Quimera has attracted thousands of followers on Instagram and become a bit of a celebrity. She’s rare, magical-looking, and proof that nature can create truly unforgettable animals.

Source: NPR

The Day Little Ramona Won the Internet

Christopher Dean Hopkins, who runs NPR’s Facebook feed, also posts personal updates on his own account about his daughter Ramona. One day he accidentally shared a sweet Ramona post on NPR’s official page, and the internet immediately fell in love. The post spread warmth and light at a time when many people needed a small, joyful moment. Instead of criticism, the mix-up was embraced, and readers asked for more Ramona updates — she became an accidental mascot and a reminder that small human moments can brighten a lot of days.

Do They Make Bowling Shoes For Goldendoodles?

Meet Blake, a Goldendoodle who bowls. Really. At eight months old he’s become a regular at his owner’s alley in Emmett, Idaho, and can roll a ball better than many humans — with a high score reported around 93. Blake spends time at KT’s Lanes and has charmed local bowlers and viewers with his unexpected talent. It’s one of those heartwarming, slightly surreal internet stories that reminds you there’s always room for a little fun in everyday life.

Source: Amazon

Defast Defrost

I spotted a popular kitchen gadget on Amazon that promises to defrost meat quickly without warming it: the Evelots Rapid Defrosting Tray. Reviews suggest it works by conducting cold away from frozen food, allowing meat to thaw in minutes without the partial cooking that sometimes happens in a microwave. The tray stays cool to the touch and requires no preheating or hot water. If you’ve ever forgotten to thaw dinner, a tool like this could be a handy alternative to slower methods. I’m considering trying one and seeing how it performs for everyday use.

That wraps up this installment of Random Goodness from Around the Web. I’d love to hear your own random finds or reactions — please leave a comment below.

~Mavis