We live in unusual times. It all gets a bit much some days. So each weekday we’re bringing you a much-needed dose of positivity to remind you that there’s inspiration, kindness and quirkiness out there too.
When in Rome, cycle like Santa?
Almost 1000 cyclists dressed as Santa Claus gathered in front of the Colosseum in Rome for a charity cycle ride.
The event, which was washed in red and white, aims to raise funds for cancer treatment for children and to support their families, as part of the children’s charity, Peter Pan.
Stuff
Santa cyclists ride past the Colosseum in Rome.
The organisation, which is based in the Italian capital, has helped over 700 families since being founded in 1994.
“It is wonderful,” said cyclist Giovanni Resciniti. “We like to participate because, beyond doing something good, it is also nice to be in the company of others,” he added.
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* The Antidote: Five happy things in the news today, December 19
* The Antidote: Five happy things in the news today, December 16
* The Antidote: Five happy things in the news today, December 15
Temuka’s ‘Mrs Christmas’ dies but still gives back to the community
For the past 21 years, Betty Weavers has brought joy to the lives of many in the community ahead of Christmas.
And now, in death, the Temuka woman has one final wish for her family to open her festive-themed home on the two nights before Christmas, for others to enjoy.
AIMAN AMERUL MUNER/STUFF
The late Betty Weavers, of Temuka, speaks about decorating her home for Christmas earlier this month.
Weavers, who died aged 85 after a short illness, had already decked out her house in Christmas decorations with her husband George.
Her son, Ken Weavers, said it was his mother’s final orders to the family that they open the home after her death.
Visiting the home is by gold coin donation, and the family said during the years she had given “thousands of dollars in donations to local charities’’.
Single Hot Wheels car sells for almost $150,000
In what is potentially a world record, a single Hot Wheels car has sold in the United States on eBay for an eye-watering US$94,100, or approximately $147,800.
The car in question is a pint-sized 1:64 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 painted in candy ‘spectraflame’ pink. Specifically, the model is part of Hot Wheels exclusive Red Line Club line for young-at-heart collectors.
Typically when stories emerge of Hot Wheels cars selling for unbelievable amounts, the value tends to link to age and scarcity. That isn’t the case here. Rather, this car’s value appears to connect to it having not yet been released to the public.
Supplied
The auction closed with 124 different bids, with five accounts placing bids above US$20,000.
While its price is undoubtedly impressive, it’s possible that this Nissan isn’t the most expensive individual Hot Wheels car ever sold.
In Hot Wheels folklore, the vintage 1969 ‘Beach Bomb’ casting (effectively an unlicensed Volkswagen Kombi) is often considered the most expensive and sought-after model in the brand’s history.
Certain colours are considered to be worth thousands of dollars, with one particular cherry red example being given a value of between US$100,000-$150,000 on an episode of America’s Antiques Roadshow back in 2017.
Rihanna gives first glimpse of her baby son in adorable TikTok video
On the weekend, Rihanna gave the world the first glimpse at her baby boy with partner A$AP Rocky.
Posting on TikTok for the first time, the 34-year-old singer shared a video of the smiling seven-month-old, whose name has not yet been revealed.
In the clip, Rihanna can be heard laughing and asking “you trying to get Mommy’s phone?” as the tot reaches towards the camera.
He is then shown in his car seat, cooing and yawning.
Can an AI robot give good life advice?
Stuff reporter Amberleigh Jack finds herself at a crossroads in life. Could a robot help her with some big decisions?
“With the popularity of Open AI Chat in recent weeks, I figured maybe a robot could be worth turning to for life advice. And far cheaper than a therapist,” she wrote.
Amberleigh asked a range of questions from job advice to if she is ready for children.
You can read the full piece here, but he’s a little taster for you.
Andrea De Santis
Feeling unhappy? AI wants you to know it’s completely normal and self-care is an important tool.
To AI: How do I deal with grief over the holidays?
Here are a few tips for dealing with grief over the holidays:
- It’s okay to take breaks and step away from holiday activities if they become too overwhelming. It’s important to take care of yourself.
- It’s okay to feel a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and guilt. It’s important to allow yourself to feel and process these emotions.
- Consider talking to a therapist or joining a support group to work through your grief. It can be helpful to have a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings.
- Reach out to trusted friends and family for support. It can be helpful to have someone to lean on during this difficult time.
- Consider creating new traditions or finding ways to honour the person you have lost. This can help bring comfort during the holiday season.
