Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Gardening Made Easy: Beginners Guide And Inspiration To Starting Your Garden No Matter The Size

Garden comes in all shapes, climates, and sizes. So even if you only have a window sile, there is a chance for a garden. Here are a few basics to consider when wanting to grow a garden that will make the growth process more successful with flourishing crops.

Now that we have officially entered the spring season, we can't help but daydream and begin planning out garden layouts. Understandably For many, the thought of gardening can seem like a daunting task to take on, especially when you don't know where to begin. So as your personal cheerleaders, we thought in typical Ever Green Living fashion, we would help give you a kick start guide so you can tackle gardening with ease. Because there is nothing tastier and uniquely beautiful than eating something picked fresh from your garden. 

Garden comes in all shapes, climates, and sizes. So even if you only have a window sile, there is a chance for a garden. Here are a few basics to consider when wanting to grow a garden that will make the growth process more successful with flourishing crops.

1.Estimate How Much Space You Have :

Again your garden can be indoors or outdoors, but being realistic about the space you have is a way to gauge what materials you will need and what kind of plants you will be planting. Estimating the size of the space first with also save you money in not buying plants or materials that you don’t need. starting out as simple as possible is especially helpful when you are first Beginning to garden, Remembering this is meant to be fun and enjoyable, and like any Experiment Curiosity will keep you going. Here are some inspirations we pulled for you again inspired by gardeners using the space they have.

2.What Sun Light Does Your Gardening Area Receive

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Once you choose the spot you want to put plants over the next day or so, watch how much lighting the location receives throughout the day. Another Tip to remember the lighting will change over the season. Knowing the lighting and shade of an area will help you by not wasting time and money on plants that won't work for the location. Here are our favorite veggies and herbs for both sunny, combo, and shady gardens.

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3. Watering Setup 

Another check box to reflect on is how do you want to water your garden. There are several options like watering cans, irrigation systems, hoses, sprinklers, and systems that you can run from your phone. So your plant's access to water and how easy you want to make it is up to you. Another consideration that can help you choose your plants is how often they need to water. Some varieties will need constant watering, while other types may need less, especially if they are native to your location.

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4.Reflect On If You Want To Plant Native Species In Your Garden

Native plants are great to consider because they will likely hold up better in the climate where you live, (usually) Thrive in the soil in your Area, more symbiotic with native pollinator species, attract local birds, insects, and be able to withstand pest by attracting their Natural predators. Native plants also rank high in being super nutrient dense, each with it own health benefits.

  

5. Find Inspiration and Resources

Nothing can help you start your own garden more quickly Then looking for inspiration from fellow gardeners who have Similar sized gardens. Inspiration can help you know what design aesthetic you lean towards, Which again can save you money on what supplies you want to buy. Inspiration can also loosely show how much work is needed in order to set up your desired outcome. factoring how much time and effort you are wanting to put into your garden project can also aid in researching design ideas.

Finding Resources also can offer ease with any Doubts you might be feeling about growing plants. here are some resources we go to when an issue arrises in our garden: - The national gardening Association -The Old Farmer’s Almanac -Better Homes and gardens -RHS -Gardening Know How -Sunset

Inspiration Board












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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

9 Delicious Soups That Will Keep You Cozy And Save You Time

Here Are The 9 Soups That Have Us Feeling Warm And Coming Back For Seconds.

There is nothing like coming inside to a warm cozy bowl of your favorite soup during the winter months. We can't help but appreciate that there is only one pot for cleanup when making most soups. Another bonus is when you have leftovers, you can have them over the next few days. Or another option is to place the soup in an airtight container in the freezer, enjoying it later.

Here Are The 9 Soups That Have Us Feeling Warm And Coming Back For Seconds.

 

Chickpea Soup Recipe

Pureed chickpeas makes for a soup that's equal parts velvety smooth and super hearty. Click For Link

Pureed chickpeas makes for a soup that's equal parts velvety smooth and super hearty. Click For Link


Thai Coconut, Broccoli and Coriander Soup

The perfect quick-fix dinner for chillier nights when you want something warming but don't have much time to cook—the combination of feel-good greens and creamy coconut is a real winner. Click For Link

The perfect quick-fix dinner for chillier nights when you want something warming but don't have much time to cook—the combination of feel-good greens and creamy coconut is a real winner. Click For Link


Spicy Roasted Corn Soup

This Spicy Corn Soup is a comfort food recipe that is simple to make, but that’s not all. Made with roasted sweet corn, this vegan soup is also nourishing! Gluten free and delicious any time of the year. Click For Link

This Spicy Corn Soup is a comfort food recipe that is simple to make, but that’s not all. Made with roasted sweet corn, this vegan soup is also nourishing! Gluten free and delicious any time of the year. Click For Link

 

Tuscan Soup With White Beans

This Tuscan soup with white beans has a rich savory flavor thanks to smoked paprika and fennel. Click For Link

This Tuscan soup with white beans has a rich savory flavor thanks to smoked paprika and fennel. Click For Link


Creamy Cauliflower Leek Soup

A super creamy cauliflower soup that is rich in flavor and full of nourishing plant-based ingredients! Click For Link

A super creamy cauliflower soup that is rich in flavor and full of nourishing plant-based ingredients! Click For Link


Crispy Tofu In Shiitake Broth Recipe

Make a double or triple batch of the dashi and freeze in airtight containers to keep for making savory soups on the fly. Click For Link

Make a double or triple batch of the dashi and freeze in airtight containers to keep for making savory soups on the fly. Click For Link


Vegetarian Pho

Fish and meat often figure prominently in the Vietnamese meal-in-a-bowl soup known as pho, but there are traditional and fine vegetarian options. Click For Link

Fish and meat often figure prominently in the Vietnamese meal-in-a-bowl soup known as pho, but there are traditional and fine vegetarian options. Click For Link


Vegan Potato Soup

It’s so cozy, satisfying, and hearty. Perfect for those chilly days or when you need something substantial to fill your belly up. Click For Link

It’s so cozy, satisfying, and hearty. Perfect for those chilly days or when you need something substantial to fill your belly up. Click For Link


Lemon Rice Soup

It's the perfect balance of lemony, buttery, peppery, fresh, herby deliciousness. Best served with warm, crusty bread for dipping! Click For Link

It's the perfect balance of lemony, buttery, peppery, fresh, herby deliciousness. Best served with warm, crusty bread for dipping! Click For Link


Carrot And Red Pepper Soup With Harissa

For this vegetable-based soup, we roast carrots, bell peppers and onion to bring out their natural sweetness, then whirl everything in a Vitamix with stock and harissa, a chile paste popular in North African cooking that lends bold flavor. A swirl o…

For this vegetable-based soup, we roast carrots, bell peppers and onion to bring out their natural sweetness, then whirl everything in a Vitamix with stock and harissa, a chile paste popular in North African cooking that lends bold flavor. A swirl of harissa-sesame oil finishes the soup with a spicy, nutty kick. Click For Link

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Black Friday Deals Guide To Our Best-Loved Brands

A round-up of some of the conscious brands we love and their fabulous sales to make shopping more relaxed and efficient

**This post contains affiliate links and Ever Green Living will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on sites links.

**This post contains affiliate links and Ever Green Living will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on sites links.

Shopping and the holiday season, for that matter, are not the same in 2020. And while the usual festive spirit is a bit more subdued this holiday season, we can’t help but look forward to with excitement Black Friday deals from some of our favorite brands. Here is a round-up of some of the conscious brands we love and their fabulous sales to make shopping more relaxed and efficient!

 
True Botanicals Biggest Yearly Sale

True Botanicals 20% Off sitewide Black Friday Sale

20% Off Sitewide

Sakara biggest sale of the year

Sakara Biggest sale of the year 25% Off Everything

Use Code BLACKFRIDAY2020

Sparitual Black Friday Sale

SParitual Black Friday Sale 60% Off Vegan Nail Laquer, 40% Off Everything Else

Use Code SPARITUAL2020

Seed

Seed Black Friday Sale 20% Off First Month

Use Code CYBER20

Cocokind Sitewide Sale

Cocokind 20% off sitewide sale

No Code Needed

Skylar Black Friday Sale

Skylar Black Friday 25% Off Site-wide, 50% Off Select Perfumes and sample palette

Use Code BLACKFRIDAY 25% Off, CLEAN50 50% Off

Earth Mama Black Friday Cyber Monday Sale

Earth mama Black Friday/cyber monday sale 30% off sitewide

Use Code CYBERMAMA30

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Dame Products 20% off sitewide sale

Up To 20% Sitewide, Up To 35% Off Sets

girlfriend collective site-wide sale

Girlfriend Collective 30% off sitewide

HIGHER DOSE Black Friday HOLIDAY SALE

Higher Dose Cyber sale up to $200 off

Use Code RECHARGE200

PYT+Beauty+Black+Friday+Sale

PYT Beauty Black Friday Sale Sitewide discounts

Free Mini Eye Shadow Palette W/ $35 Purchase

Christy Dawn Black Friday Sale

Christy Dawn 30% Off Sitewide

Use Code Love30

Dyson Black Friday Sale

Dyson Cyber Week Deals

Sale Sitewide

gem Black Friday sale

Gem Black Friday Deal 50% Off First Order

No Code Needed

Honest Beauty Black Friday and Cyber Monday Site Sale

Honest Beauty 30% Off sitewide sale

Use Code BRIGHT30

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Working From Home -5 Tips For A Realistic And Productive Workspace

Setting up the proper workspace for yourself is key to those times when you need to be dialed in so you can head directly into a zoom call focused, or for you to feel creatively in your flow.

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Working from home has been a scenario that Many are still figuring out and continually adapting to. However, we are entirely here for the business on top, cozy on the bottom work from home attire. Many have found one challenge, especially when they share their home with family, friends, or roommates, that work routines can be hard to stick to. 

Distractions are inevitable when so many are also forced to wear many hats while performing their work task. Like the distraction of dishes in the sink, homework help, kids endlessly needing snacks, packages being delivered, dogs wanting their ball thrown, the noise of the news being on loudly all day, and the tequila bottle staring at you at 9 AM. 

The topic of routines is quite a popular one. Pre 2020, you could find endless youtube videos (We watched Many), TikToks, and books written on creating habits. The subject seemed to die down as 2020 came, and out the window went our planners. While we are still huge advocates for self-care routines, ideally early in the morning or before bed, we have found that the more fluid we try to be with our daily schedules, the less likely we are to feel like we were trying to swim against the current all day. 

How do you keep your deadlines, zoom meetings, and goals when routines seem to be in such flux? Environment! Yes, the setting and environment you set up are just as essential or even more important than trying to stick to a regimented schedule. Setting up the proper workspace for yourself is key to those times when you need to be dialed in so you can head directly into a zoom call focused, or for you to feel creatively in your flow. Having your office set up similarly each time allows your brain to adjust to working mode with less resistance due to the environment's familiarity. 

It is worth acknowledging that when referencing "an office," this is a loose term as we have had offices in the form of kitchen counters, desk in the bedroom, working on the steps by the front door, the car, closet, garage, couch, outdoor bench, the park, to name a few locations. When your office is not a set location, we have found having office supplies and your personal setup similar each time key in finding the optimal mindset.  

5 Tips For A Realistic And Productive Workspace

  1. Work Next To Natural Lighting

Working next to a window or space that receives natural light throughout the day is ideal, particularly in locations that are heading into winter months. Natural sunlight is not only great for getting in your daily Vitamin D. Besides helping regulate your serotonin levels, sunlight counters our electronic gadgets' blue light and aids the body's circadian rhythm. Overall natural sunlight is beneficial for our eyes, bodies, and minds; beyond that, natural light is more flattering and ambient when making video calls. When working next to a window, it is vital for the eye and the muscles surrounding your eyes to look out the window, helping ease eye strain and headaches that many of us experience. Another benefit to staring outside is that it's tremendously constructive to let your mind wander, without being distracted, letting thoughts and ideas unfold or be reimagined. 

2. Find Your Sound Track

Another way to help turn your attention to focus no matter the setting you are working in, is having a set playlist. This playlist can be, of course to your preference, may it be ambient music, podcast, audiobook, or another audio form that inspires you and allows you to turn your focus to the project at hand. Having a familiar playlist helps our mind with something habitual being a natural cue to where your focus needs to be, also aiding in drowning out distractions surrounding you. Having a playlist also sets a Atmosphere, notice how certain businesses, retail stores, Restaurants all use music to set the pace of the space, by having a playlist for your various moods or projects you can aid your mindset into the task at hand while easing some of the stress of the work location.

Yet there always seems to come a time when your music or what you’re listening to is just getting old. For inspiration we love to check out Youtube which has many wonderful free playlist that range in their genres, Spotify and Amazon Music also have great playlist, and TikTok videos also have great suggestions at new music. and everyday there seems to be a new podcast from wonderfully talented host ranging the Gambit in topics, so starting a new one has never been more easier. we also love to listen to audiobooks which Keeps us engaged especially helpful when you are doing work task that are more on the daunting or on the tedious side.

3. Use Your Sense Of Smell

Another advantage to take when you need to focus on work is taking account of your sense of smell. A smell can also set an environment; think about how the classic Pumpkin Spice Latte Signals that a Starbucks is near, and that Fall is close, even if the temperatures don't show it. Try setting the same "smell environment" with a candle, essential oil, brewing tea, etc. Make it a scent that you enjoy. A tip we love is rubbing a few drops of essential oils on our wrist (warming the oil by rubbing your wrist together) then while gently cupping our eyes so that our wrist Are inline with our nose, and taking about five deep breaths. We have found this quick practice helps us pivot our minds and bodies to be more centered when moving onto the next task. Besides, who doesn't like to be or walk into a room that is your favorite scent? using a Particular scent for a task is powerful in triggering our memory, again aiding our minds in a non-stressed way to focus and be prepared for work.

4. Organize Your Space

As we know, our office setting varies with layout, space, and functional differences. However, organization is critical, especially when space is short. One of the biggest triggers to frustration is not knowing where your work supplies are. Some simple solutions we have found that work best, especially when a classic desk/office layout is unnecessary or not feasible, are putting things in a classically cute office storage box. The storage offers protection for your paper, notes, and computer while concealing your supplies like cords and earbuds so they can be found easily in one spot. and when you are done for the day your work is out of sight, and the box can be easily tucked away in a closet or even under your bed. 

Another organizing option is using a backpack or tote bag dedicated to your work supplies. Having a work bag is especially helpful if you travel or your location around the house moves. The tote still allows you to have everything you need contained in one spot while still staying organized and Keeping your stuff out of the way so sticky hands are less likely to make Their way onto your computer screen. 

5. Protect Your Eyes

After long days on the computer or looking at the screens of our devices, you have most likely experienced sore eyes, headaches, or trouble sleeping. these symptoms dampen not only your productivity but also symptoms can worsen, making it physically impossible to finish your work. When trying to avoid eye strain, here are a few helpful tips so you can stay working Productively. 

  • Periodically look away from your screen. It is best to look at something far away, preferably an object outside. Looking at distant objects can help lessen eye strain by offering your eye and its surrounding muscles a chance to relax and recalibrate.

  • Gently place your palms over your eyes, "gently cupping" them. The darkness offered by cupping your eyes is another way to provide your eyes relief from the light given off by the screen which can Cause fatigue.

  • See if Blue Light Blocking glasses or computer glasses are the right options for you. We have found blue-blocking glasses help us, and many we know from having headaches and other issues that arise when working on screens for long periods. Eye strain can also be attributed to blurry vision and your eyes not seeing the screen. A pair of reading or computer glasses may be a great option that you and your ophthalmologist can talk about.

  • Consider placing a salt lamp near your work area. the closer to your computer the better. We are not suggesting it as a work light, more for the care of your eyes and circadian rhythm. The sun or natural light gives you the full spectrum of UV light, while your computer mostly gives off blue light, which can strain your eyes and through off your body's rhythm, especially when working later in the day. A salt lamp is a great option to counterbalance some of the blue light coming from your screen. An Added Bonus Of Using A Salt Lamp are that they emit negative ions, which work like natural ionizers that purify and clean the air by neutralizing allergens, dust, pollen, mold, fungus, pet dander and odors. This is known to be very beneficial for respiratory health. Salt lamps also minimize the effect of positive ions from electro magnetic fields and electronic devices.

A Few OF Our Favorite THings

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Summer's Favorite Fruit... Watermelon! 7 Delicious Recipes Staring The Seasonal Favorite

Watermelon has earned its title for being the fruit of the summer season by being versatile, delicious, hydrating, and turning from a meal to a drink in a blink of an eye

Summer is here! Meaning it is also Watermelon season. Watermelon has earned its title for being the fruit of the summer season by being versatile, delicious, hydrating, and turning from a meal to a drink in a blink of an eye. These seven recipes are beautiful and delicious, making great stand out dishes for any hot summer evening dinners to a classic barbecue.

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Watermelon and Jicama Salad

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Sesame-and-Soy Watermelon Poké

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Watermelon, Endive, and Fig Salad

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Grilled Green Beans with Watermelon-Radish Salsa

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Savory Mango, Cucumber, and Watermelon Salad

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Skinny Jalapeño Watermelon Margaritas

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Watermelon Juice With Basil and Lime

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Summer Sandals That Are Sustainably Cute And Comfortable

Nothing is more iconic when thinking of summer than a pair of sandals, the official footwear of the sizzling season.

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Nothing is more iconic when thinking of summer than a pair of sandals, the official footwear of the sizzling season. The iconic footwear of flip flops is known for the ease of wear, laced with only one major flaw in the inability to outlast the summer season.

Some brands are changing the quality, look, and sustainability of sandals, which we are all for. Here are the sandals we found to be able to keep up with summer conditions of heat, water, style, and comfort.

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Father's Day Self-Care Gift Guide: With Approachable And Effective Favorites

This Father's Day self-care Gift list is a unique way to show that particular person how much you care for them because you're allowing them to take care of themselves, which might be something that does not feel natural, and something many of us are growing towards.

All of us can use some pampering and care right now. Taking care of ourselves at home has become more easily approachable, especially with the numerous clean and effective skincare, haircare, and body products. 

Despite the plastering of the term self-care (yes, we are guilty of using it often), we have noticed that it is usually only used regarding women, so we wanted to shift that. Here are some of our favorite skincare, haircare, and body products that are perfect for pampering yourself, the man in your life, or making a wonderful Father's Day gift. This Father's Day self-care Gift list is a unique way to show that particular person how much you care for them because you're allowing them to take care of themselves, which might be something that does not feel natural, and something many of us are leaning into.

Self-Care Gift Guide

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Spring Recipes That Are Inspiring Us In The Kitchen

It's spring! And boy has mother nature pulled out all the stops, showing off her beauty with new seasonal crops that are inspiring our culinary endeavors.

With eating out at restaurants at a current standstill and only being able to order for delivery infrequently otherwise, the delivery guy gets a bit judgy with his looks. Many of us have been Forced back into our kitchens, and you might be like us and feel uninspired and running out of original recipes to cook for yourself or your family, especially for an extended time.

However, with everything going on, we almost forgot that right now, it's spring! And boy has mother nature pulled out all the stops, showing off her beauty with new seasonal crops that are inspiring our culinary endeavors. These recipes are helping fuel our inspiration to enter the kitchen and provide our bodies with the support they need to stay healthy.

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Margarita: With A Side Of Healthy, Our Favorite Recipe With A Healthier Edge

Our Favorite Delicious Margarita Recipe, With The Added Bonus Of Being A Healthier, Lighter, Flavor Filled Option.

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Hands Down One Of Our Favorite Cocktails Is A Margarita. Margaritas Always Have A Way Of Sounding Delightfully Tasty. While We Do Like A Tasty Cocktail, We Are Always Looking To Find Ways To Make Our Food And Drink Options Deliciously Full Of Flavor And Health Benefits. Here Are Few Ways To Switch Up Your Margarita Recipe To Offer A Healthier Edge.

Our First Suggestion Is Switching To Tequila’s Cousin Mezcal. Mezcal Is Also Made From The Agave Plant, But In The Process Is Allowed To Ferment Which Has The Added Bonus For Your Digestion System. Mezcal Is Also Naturally Sugar Free, Which We Know Is Not True For Other Alcohols. And Unique To Mezcal Is The Complex Molecular Structure Of Agavins Which Has Been Found To Stimulate Our Metabolism, Yay!

Adding Fresh Fruit Juice Also Helps Avoid High Sugars, Preservatives, Food Dyes And Other Additives In Pre-Made Mixes. Fresh Juice Adds A Punch Of Complex Flavor, Minerals, Vitamins, And Antioxidents, So Unlike With Pre-MAde Mixes You Wont Get Those Severe Crashes We Can Feel After A Drink, From The Spike And Dip Of Our Blood Sugar.

RECIPE:

* 2 Ounces Mezcal

* 3 Tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice

* 1/2 Jalapeño (Leave Seeds In For Extra Kick) Dice And Muddle

*2 Tablespoons Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice

* Drizzle Of Honey Or Agave (Optional)

*Splash Of Your Favorite Kombucha (Love Jalapeño Flavored From @Healthade) (Optional)

*Himalayan Salt & Lime Wedge, To Rim The Glass

* Ice

Option: To Leave This Alcohol Free, Sub Mezcal For Kombucha In Recipe.

ENJOY!

What Are You Favorite Spins On Classic Drinks?

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Making Our Closets More Sustainable: Even When They Need A Zhuzh For Events Or Seasonal Changes

Our continual observations of the fashion industry has us rethinking how we approach our love of fashion. And how we can translate our individual styles, while knowing it takes all of us to make sustainable choices.

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Fashion Week came, the catwalks conquered, filling fashions magazine’s pages with content, that most of our bank accounts wont let us day dream about… Yet after fashion week left a country or city near you, we are still left with the age old question what will we wear? especially since seasons are changing and spring will be upon us. and with our out of wack climate changed seasons being the newest seasonal trend, summer will be here asap!

the shows in Paris, Milan, London and New York city had us feeling inspired to look at our own wardrobes, to see what could use a little zhuzh. Fashion Week offers us another Inspirational reminder! while the fashion industry has acknowledged and talked about ways to be more sustainable….. we still witnessed elaborate runways which after a ten minute show, sets will end in a landfill. attendance was lower this year as buyers and attendees decided to sit out the seasons parade of shows and cut back on their travel, leaving behind the mayhem and unsustainable practices that are fashion week. Yet those who did attend, some arriving from industry paid first class flights and jets, to enter running cars to be whisked away to events. sipping on water from single use plastic bottles. leaving events with brand filled goodie gift bags filled with yet again single use products. as many other media outlets had also Noted, this year and Previous years the endless waste that does comes with these limited time Extravaganzas.

our continual observations of the fashion industry Has us rethinking how we approach our love of fashion. and how we can translate our individual styles, while knowing it takes all of us to make sustainable choices. While the fashion industry might have a beyond murky relationship with their image of trying to be eco friendly, there are still ways we can alter our fashion consumption by adopting thoughtful and useful practices to make our wardrobes more sustainable. especially when revising our look for a season or special event. And while greenwashing isn’t just limited to the fashion industry, there are ways we can make fashionable, conscious choices in our closets.


1. Rent Your Next Wardrobe Purchase

we suggest the next time you have an event or special occasion stay on your couch, and shop from the many fashion rental sites. Not only do you get to shop from a treasure trove of designers and styles, but the items are delivered to your front door. another benefit in renting your Wardrobe is that you don’t need to rent just for an Elaborate Function, renting your wardrobe is great for that short period of time during and after pregnancy, when you don’t want to buy a whole new closet yet you still want to feel comfortable and look great in what your wearing. Another occasion to think about renting wardrobe items is when you are heading to a seasonal location that varies from where you live, like heading to the mountains for a trip to the snow, or to a location that is rainy and wet, or the always dreamy yet warm tropics. renting clothing items allows you the flexibility to wear Pieces that will help you feel great for any special Occasion that arrives, while helping keep items from needlessly being bought for an event And then having the garment pointlessly sitting in your closet afterwards. Another way to be Sustainable in your choices of clothing is to pick materials that are made and developed in a more Conscious ways ie. cotton vs polyester.


2. On-line Consignment Shopping

Thankfully consignment shopping has come along way, from the era of dark musky smelling shops you had to head to in previous eras to find second hand items. the process of shopping second hand also Meant that you were likely had to shift through mounds of items. enter the internet, Shopping Consignment is now easily done online, no matter what you might be on the hunt for, from gently used items from luxury brands, furniture, or collectables. buying things second hand helps keep still desired items From needlessly ending up in the trash. shopping consignment is so much easier thanks to websites developing a seamless shopping experience that allows shoppers to sort by brand, style, size, with notes on the items condition so you are aware of what you are buying.

3. organize And Invest In Your Wardrobe Staples

Our closets can easily be overwhelmed by clothing items. A key step in analyzing what works for us and our wardrobes is by organizing our closets. This can be overwhelming for many. so we have an easy 3 step process to follow. Step 1 go through all wardrobe items pick Out Your always clothing items. this is not a time to be judge mental, grab all items that you naturally gravitate towards each day. Your Always Items can be anything from a classic blouse, to Your Favorite High wasted leggings, or a vintage motorcycle jacket, or maybe an OG 1990’s hair scrunchie,  again no judgment here. These are your “always” items. With your always items group them together, see what you have in this pile, maybe some pieces might go together for an outfit or not, if you don't have anything that goes together to make a complete outfit don't worry. 

Step 2  is to go shopping in your closet look for items that might be complementary to your “always” pile. In the second step, note items that you might not be comfortable with wearing. Our tip here is to look up inspirational styling options whether it be on Pinterest, your favorites Hollywood stylist, or even on Instagram. If you are able to layout an outfit, take a picture of it. This will help you on the days you are in a rush, need inspiration, or find yourself in a style rut. If you find that a piece of clothing still is not melding with your wardrobe, this is a great time to decide if the item should be donated or passed on, RIP.

Step 3 make a note of where you are missing items in your wardrobe. Going through the hassle of getting organized pays off, you are less likely to spend on trendy fast fashion that we all know is awful for the the environment and will likely not work for your closet. You have a clear mindful Picture of what you actually need, and you can invest in quality items that are likely to be more sustainable purchases as they can hold up with the longevity of use.

Shopping Guide

4. Mend and repair clothing

a great pay off to staying away from fast fashion, is that your beloved sweater or shoes that you’ve had forever, and that you invested in buying a quality made product, is the Likelihood for you to be able be repair or mend your favorite Garment is more probable. so instead of Immediately discarding a damaged item, try taking it to your local taylor. better yet google or lookup on youtube how to repair, sometimes a simple sewing kit is all that you need.

the same goes for your favorite flats or heels, if the sole of the shoe is wearing thin take it to get resoled. there is also hope for Your favorite purse if it’s damaged. inquire a shoe repair shop which might be able to help with purse repairs. again getting the longevity out of your wardrobe is key, and what you want when investing in wardrobe essentials, and thoughtful when also thinking of ways we can positively impact our environment.

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

12 Buzz Worthy Multi Tasking Clean Beauty And Haircare Products That Will Have You Raving

Our highly Recommended products which are a great jumping off point. winning points for being easy to use, suited for a wide variety of skin types, and will have you feeling luxurious with their quality.

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We have all had that frustrating moment when our new Hair, skincare or makeup products we Excitedly bought have let us down, not working as the brand promised. Thankfully one area that continues to improve and Innovate is Clean Hair, beauty, and skincare products, which we are happily and with pleasure Continually testing for you. consider us your personal guinea Pigs!

Our highly Recommended fan girls for life products are a great jumping off point. winning points for being easy to use, suited for a wide variety of skin types, and will have you feeling luxurious with their quality. we appreciate How well they travel, and the Versatile ways you can use them, making them perfectly useful travel companions. Better yet they have been tested on tired, sensitive, dry winter skin, outdoor adventures, sun kissed skin, and skin surviving in tropical weather, and the same narration can be Applied to our hair.


Shopping Guide

Product Tips

These products are very versatile in their uses. as we do view ourselves as being considerate, we couldn’t leave you wondering what are the multiple ways you can use these gems making them cost effective and great for those of us on the go.

  1. De-Static Your Hair

    There are certain times when your hair can act out and become a static mess even after your Attempts to style it to look otherwise. There are many reasons for this happening, but one big culprit can be the brush your using. We recommend after applying Rahua’s Legendary Amazon Oil to your hair, gently rub the left over amount from your hands on to the tips of the bristles of your brush, preventing ions from making your hair look like you just had a make out sessions with a balloon salesman.

  2. Makeup Remover and Moisturizer In One

    it’s No Secret we are huge fans of multi-use products, and one of our favorite products that fits this bill is BodiTonic. this oil is great for traveling due to its ability be used in varying Capacities. for example it effectively takes off makeup, yes even your go get ‘em overly smokey eye look. this oil makes a wonderful face and body moisturizer, also a super nourishing under eye moisturizer, and with the bonus of being lovely scented to boost your mood.

  3. Skin Rescue

    If you need a balm that is the bomb (sorry had too) Laurel Rescue Balm is that. This balm is great for a wide range of skin aliments from dry winter exposed skin, bug bites, eczema, scars, sensitive skin, sensitive skin from sun exposure, healing surgery wounds, you name it this soothing balm is a botanical miracle worker, making it a wonderful travel companion that can fit into your carry on.

  4. Lips and Cuticle Care

    Weleda’s Skin Food moisturizer and Weleda Lip Butter have had a cult following for a reason. with their brand being close to a century old, leading the way in effective clean beauty. The Weleda Lip Butter is super Moisturizing on its own but we love to also use it over more matte Lipsticks as a nourishing but not overly sticky gloss. And if your on the go, and by chance notice your Cuticles are looking a bit dry or pealing, look no further to this wonder balm to have your back as a muti use cuticle cream that Easily absorbs.

  5. Sun protection and coverage in a bottle

    we can’t think of a better duo to recommend to help protect skin from sun, with added skin glowing benefits. the Andalou CC cream and the Mychelle sun shield liquid tint are both formulated with mineral sunscreen (which we recommend for effective sun protection over chemical sunscreens) so if your outdoors or getting hit with rays from your computer and indoor lighting these have you protected. however they are both very different consistency.

    Anadlou’s CC cream is great for those who Often have drier skin with its hydrating formula, making it on the creamer side but not heavy. it blends easily into the skin and yourmight consider forgoing Foundation because it does offer some “blurring” of skin’s Unevenness, and its clean formula makes it a great consideration for those who have sensitive skin.

    Mychelle Sun Shield Liquid tint Is another favorite that again offers UV protection while giving your skin a nice Youthful glow. the consistency of this formula would be likened to a very Liquidly foundation, that easily rubs into the skin offering a nice glow to our skin which we love in the winter months. this tint would be great for people who would want further coverage as it acts as a wonderful base under foundation and concealer.

  6. eye and cheek color in one

    Ere Perez’s Carrot Pot and the Hourglass palette are multitasking mavens of color, so if you are needing to Finish your make up of the way to the office or touch up for a evening event these these gems will have you covered. we love to use both products on our cheeks and eyes for an eye shadow. the Hourglass palette obviously offers a few options we love to apply the bronzer over the lid and bring it under the Bottom lash line. then in the inner corner and under the arch of our eyebrows apply one or a couple of the highlighters. the Ere Perez pots are great on their own as an eye color, but as a cream formula they offer a great base to eyeshadows especially those that are more of the Glimmery side, we love to add the Hourglass bronzer on top which adds some pretty dimension. Another bonus for the ere perez color pot also can be used as a lipstick or lip gloss.

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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Easily Making Your Kitchen Sustainable -Simple Ways To Avoid Using Plastic. (Of Course We Included A Step By Step Plan And Shopping Guide)

Living and practicing sustainably is a priority for most who are concerned about our planet and their health.

Living and Practicing Sustainably is a priority for most who are concerned about our planet and Their health. It’s easy to descend into ruts that are not eco-friendly and sustainable. an area in our home that can stumble into the single use plastic trap is the kitchen. In The Kitchen many foods, containers, kitchen equipment, trash bags, paper towels, the list goes on.. are made to be used Once then tossed. The use of plastic is an area that seems to continually be called to our attention, for how damaging it is to our planet and even our health. Making adjustments to our daily life and routines can sometimes be daunting, we can also find ourselves in old routines, or we might be perplexed in where to start our transition into more sustainable practices.

like us your first stop for research on ways to be more Sustainable will most likely be google, Instagram, or Pinterest. where you will be flooded with images of minimalist, plastic free, sustainable, organized kitchens, pantries, fridges, And many of these kitchens are what OCD dreams are made of. It’s worth pointing out, especially since we are coming from different starting points on a journey of being more conscious about purchases, when we are adding or buying items for our homes, be cautious of green washing. that being sustainable isn’t always going to result in pinterest worthy Aesthetics. So of course it is lovely and visually appealing to have kitchen shelves and Pantries organized in perfectly matching containers. however remember the 3 Rs we learned from the foresight of the muppet geniuses on Sesame Street; Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

simple starting strategy

a great way to be more Sustainable with what you Use in your kitchen is starting with what is already in your home. this is a key way to save money, time, and taking inventory of what you have before you shop saves you from needlessly buying Items. embracing what you already have helps to avoid waste, which goes to the landfills.

To give you ideas here are ways to start being more sustainable in your kitchen:

  1. Reuse Plastic Bags: Most likely you have boxes of Ziplock Bags or similar plastic bags. Start thinking of these bags as being useful for multiple uses. After you use them simply turn inside out wash, air dry. good again for several to years more of uses. One exception in using/reusing Plastic bags for Items like meat or other uses that could contaminate the bag with E. coli or Salmonella, Use Caution. And it is suggested to use glass containers for such items.

  2. Shop For Food Items That Come in Glass Containers at The Grocery Store: When grocery shopping start to notice what kind of containers your items are coming in, ie. Pasta Sauce, olives, Peanut Butter, ah hem Vodka, etc. avoid buying items that come in plastic as it will likely head to the land fill or worse water ways, after a single use. instead opt for glass containers that can be reused. Once you use a glass jar, for example like pasta sauce rinse out the container, and put in the dish washer. the soap and steam usually helps take off the label giving the glass jar a cleaner look. If the label is still intact after being in dishwasher try using nail polish remover on label, usually does the trick. These containers are great for leftovers like soups or smoothies. are also useful to store dry bulk goods in like lentils, grains and rice.

  3. Reuse Plastic Bags From The Grocery Store: You most likely have a drawer filled with leftover plastic bags from bread, produce and other various items. instead of immediately throwing them away find useful ways for your household to reuse them. For example you can reuse the bags for a produce item you only needed to use half of, like an onion, Tomatoe, etc. if you are a dog owner you can reuse the bags for poop bags(oh the glory).

  4. buy Items that are classically Sustainable: it seems everyday that there is a new sustainable product. however this is green washing, we can’t buy our way to Sustainability as many brands market. we can choose to trade out items that we buy regularly for Sustainable choices. while this tip might cost us more up front, because items that are Truly sustainably made should be made to last longer due to their better durability, quality and are Worth the return of investment over time. so like previously stated when taking inventory of our kitchens notice things that might need replacing. like a pan where the Teflon is starting to wear off (both unhealthy for our planet and our bodies). looking at the state of your kitchen equipment gives you the time to search for deals, sales, garage sales, ebay, craigslist, and perhaps grandma’s garage. for more expensive items like stainless steal pans or cast iron which if cared for will last for decades Possibly your lifetime. buying classic brands, equipment, and materials will outlast trends and look timeless through out the years.

 

Shopping Guide: Kitchen Edit

We wanted to lend a hand helping you out with our shopping guide. All items that are included in our kitchen edit are items that are durable, sustainably made, and can be used in multiple ways. For example the produce bags can be used obviously on your shopping trip to the grocery store, however we love to use them also for snacks on the go, to strain freshly made almond milk or to cover a curing homemade coconut yogurt.

 

Inspiration

incase you are needing a little extra inspiration to kick your butt into sustainable gear, we have your fix!



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Christina Burnett Christina Burnett

Our Favorite Quotes From The Beloved Ram Dass: Making Us Remember The Inspirational Spiritual Teacher

Ram Dass left a lasting impression with the depth his one liners reaching on the matters of consciousness, here are our favorite.

“I would like my life to be a statement of LOVE and Compassion- and where it isn’t, that’s where my work lies” -Ram Dass

“I would like my life to be a statement of LOVE and Compassion- and where it isn’t, that’s where my work lies” -Ram Dass

At the end of December many globally were saddened to learn spiritual teacher Ram Dass passed away. Born as Richard Alpert a Psychologist, Harvard professor and Psychedelic researcher, turned spiritual teacher and author, Ram Dass embodied the counterculture of the 60s and 70s. Upon finding himself unsatisfied with his life, Alpert left during the late 60s for India. Where he met and followed the Maharajji who bestowed the name of Ram Dass (servant of God). Bringing back his new found knowledge and teachings in 1974 after the Maharajji's death. Dass Sharing his teachings by giving lectures but reaching masses with his book Be Here Now selling 2 million copies offering readers a delightful alternative guide to finding connection to their higher consciousness. Since then Ram Dass has shared his teachings through writing over a dozen books all of which he has Completely donated all the money from his writing to charity, podcasts, lectures, and social media always leaving an impression not only in his delivery, but also having a talent for one liners that drove the points in deeply, while lending to mindful laughs. Here are some of our favorite quotes from Ram Dass:


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Kid's Gift Guide: Sustainable Gifts With All The Fun, Adorableness and Functionality To Please Little Ones And Parents Alike

Buying gifts for indecisive little ones can be tricky, here is your guide to gifts that parents and kids will welcome.

Buying gifts for indecisive little ones can be tricky, here is your guide to gifts that parents and kids will welcome. Gifts that are sustainably made yet without sacrificing cuteness, fun, imagination or functionality.

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36 Sustainable Gifts To Indulge Even The Most Finicky On Your Gift List

36 Goodies that will sustainably indulge even the most particular loved ones on your gift list.

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These gifts will sustainably indulge even the most particular loved ones on your gift list.

 

Serial Traveler

 
 

For The Home

 
 

Wellness

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3 Savory Family Friendly Fall Inspired Recipes

Fall inspired recipes that are not overly complicated, and can be made ahead of time and are freezer friendly if you are trying to meal prep, or make bigger batches while being nutrient dense without cutting down on flavor. 

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With the crispness of the Autumn air seems to bring a resurgence of inspiration for us to get back into our kitchens. Not only does the lower temperatures offer more inspiration to turn the oven on, and even the stove for that matter, but also the more routined schedule of fall lends a hand. Cooking for me takes the approach of ease, nutrient dense, and flavor packed dishes to get my creativity going, also a hungry son and husband help convince me to cook too.

Shifting into Autumn comes an abundance of new seasonal veggies that helps to inspire me into wanting to try new recipes, and needing to perfect the recipes so I can add them to dishes I can bring to holiday festivities. Here are a few recipes that are not overly complicated, and can be made ahead of time and are freezer friendly if you are trying to meal prep, or make bigger batches while being nutrient dense without cutting down on flavor. 

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RECIPE
Butternut Squash & Cheese Crostini

Ready in 50 minutes

Serves 8 people

 Ingredients

  • 1 Loaf of Sourdough Bread

  • 1 Butternut Squash

  • 2 Tablespoons Of Thyme, Rosemary, Oregano, Salt 

  • 1 Container of Plain Vegan Cream Cheese ( I Used Kite Hill Brand)

  • 1 Whole Head of Garlic

  • 1 Yellow  Onion

Preparation

  1. Preheat Oven to 375 F  Peel, Discard seeds, then Cut Squash into bite sized pieces. Toss pieces in Olive Oil, Salt also Add 1 Tablespoons of Rosemary,Thyme and Oregano, Stir then add seasoned squash to baking tray. 

  2. Cut Yellow Onion into bite sized pieces, then Add to baking sheet with Butternut Squash. Then Remove extra skin on Garlic and remove the top off the Garlic. Place Whole Garlic Bulb also on baking tray. 

  3. Place Tray in oven Bake around 30 mins until Squash is tender when poked

  4. While Baking Squash, Onions and Garlic. Add Cream Cheese to bowl, including Thyme, Rosemary, Oregano and Salt. Place back in the Fridge. Cut up loaf of bread.

  5. Remove Cooked Veggies From Oven, let cool for a few mins until cooled enough to handle. Start removing each clove of garlic from its skin, should just squeeze out of skin. Set aside about 5 cloves, Mash rest of cloves making a garlic like paste. Add the mashed cloves to Cream Cheese Mixture. Place mixture back into the fridge. 

  6. Place sliced bread onto a baking sheet put into oven, let slices get a light brown color on edges, once to desired color remove from oven and let slices cool.

  7. Loosely mash Butternut Squash with onion (chunks are ok) you want the mixture to be able to be scooped onto crostini, taste and add salt to your taste.

  8. Layer Cream Cheese on to each Crostini Slice. Next Butternut Squash Mixture on top and ENJOY!

Tips

Sprinkle on top of each Crostini extra Herbs that you might have left over, Chives, or Sea Salt which adds flavor and a bit of polish look. 



 
Tomato and Red Bell Pepper Soup

RECIPE
Roasted Tomato and Bell Pepper Soup



Ready in 60 minutes

Serves 4 people

Ingredients

  • 4 Large Tomatoes

  • 2 Red Bell Peppers

  • 1 Whole Garlic Bulb

  • 1 Yellow Onion

  • 1 Cup of Vegetable Broth

  • 1 Teaspoons of Smoked Paprika

  • 1 Tablespoon of Crushed Red Pepper

  • Salt to Taste

  • 4-5 Basil Leafs

Preparation

  1. Preheat Oven on 375 F  Chop Tomatoes into quarters or large chunks. Next cut Bell Peppers into 1in wide strips, discarding seeds. Next discard extra skin on Garlic bulb, cut top skin off of bulb. 

  2. Once chopped place Tomatoes, Bell Peppers, and Garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle with Olive Oil and Sprinkle with Salt. Place baking sheet in the oven. Bake until tender and roasted on edges.

  3. Dice Yellow Onion. Add Onion to Sauté Pan Simmer until Translucent and tender. Place Tomatoes and Bell Pepper into pan, slowly add 1 Cup of Veggie Broth with mixture. Remove skin from Garlic cloves then add to pan. Add All Seasoning to Pan. CAREFULLY!!! Blend ingredients with immersion blender, or CAREFULLY Add ingredients to a normal blender. Blend to desired consistency add season and more Broth if desired.

  4. When Serving Soup, Lightly Drizzle on top Olive Oil and Basil Leaves

Tips

This recipe is freezer friendly, great to make ahead or in big batches especially with Tomatoes and Bell Peppers being peak season, making produce cheaper at Farmers Markets and stores.

 
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RECIPE
Super Charged Green Pasta Bake

Ready in 50 minutes

Serves 4 people


Ingredients

  • 1 Package of Penne Pasta

  • ¼ Cup of Hemp Seed, Sunflower Seeds, Flax, Pumpkin Seeds, Pine Nuts (Sub in your favs)

  • ½ Cup of Panko Crumbs

  • 2 Tablespoon of Italian Seasoning (sub for whatever you have on hand)

  • Zest of 1 Lemon

  • 4 Tablespoons of Vegan Butter or Olive Oil

  • 4 Tablespoons of Flour

  • 1-1 ½ Cups Of Plain Soy Milk

  • 4 Cloves of Garlic

  • 1 Bunch of Kale, Swiss Chard, Spinach (use what your family prefers, also can mix your greens)

Preparation

  1. Preheat Oven to 375 F. Prepare Penne Pasta as recommended on the package, leaving pasta Al Dente. 

  2. Next remove Greens from Stem and chop. Crush Garlic set aside.

  3. Sauce: Place Butter in pan and melt, slowly sprinkle Flour in, whisking the butter and flour together, as the butter absorbs the flour add a small amount more in until you have used up all you flour, if the ratios seem off you can add a few drop of Olive Oil. Next add Garlic and allow the flour/butter to brown lightly. When mixture has a light brown color add milk SLOWLY. As your pouring small amounts of milk(can sub ½ cup of a dry white wine) in whisk continually and let the mixture absorb the liquid, continue until you have desired sauce consistency. Add seasoning and salt.

  4. Add Greens to saucepan, folding in. Heat is off.

  5. Next add Cooked pasta to saucepan folding together until well mixed. If the mixture is dry, add a bit of the pasta water until creamy enough. Stir in Lemon Zest

  6. In a Food Processor or Blender add Seeds Pulse until mixture is consistent in size. Add Panko pulse until blended together 

  7. Add Pasta with Sauce into a baking dish, Add Seed/Panko on top of pasta. Bake for around 20 mins or until Panko is golden brown! Serve and enjoy!

 

Tips

Options: top with Pine Nuts, Nutritional Yeast.

 This recipe is great to make ahead of time,  just bake when ready to serve. Once baked is a freezer friendly recipe.







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Book Lists Perfect For Going Into Fall; Including Audio and E-Books For Those On The Go

Great books to read or listen to that will help inspire you and keep you going, wether you need self or professional inspiration.

Favorite Books Summer 2019

Ever since I was a little girl I’ve been a book lover. At any time you come over my house you most likely will find at least a few books on my night stand, and on my phone and other devises, where you will find many Audio and Ebooks that I am currently in the middle of or finished. And on most day trips or vacation you can find at least one book packed with me. One other thing my family knows about me is that I won’t hesitate to add anything that we don’t need or use anymore to the donation bag, one area of exception is books, I love books its the one item that I collect or maybe even neatly hoard.

This summer I have read or in the middle of reading a few really good impactful books that I wanted to recommend, and (blaming being a mom on this part) while I only really have time to read a few pages at a time. These books were so good that I found myself continually grabbing them or bringing them with me wherever I go, no wonder I carry such a big purse haha. Most of these recommendations come in several options, book, audio book and ebook. One of the reasons that I am doing a book list is I personally love and find it helpful when other people give their own recommendations, also these books are great all year around not just a seasonal read. Enjoy!


Books

Audio Books


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No-Cook Watermelon Recipes That Everyone Will Savor This Summer

Cooling no cook recipes featuring the summer’s star fruit Watermelon!

Watermelon Cooler

Watermelon Cooler

Watermelon the yummy classic cooling and delicious watery fruit of the summer. At our house we have been going through and eating a few watermelons a week. And yes the one doing most of the consuming of the watermelon is me, just give me some watermelon and a bottle of Tajin seasoning, such the perfect combo for my taste bud who prefers food that is on the savory side. When days are longer and hotter during the summer I have been noticing a difference in my appetite, sometimes not getting hungry until later in the day. Also with the warmer days I don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen so I love a good salad and since we always have watermelon on hand I have been finding creative ways to use it, including my smoothies, salads and cocktails. So let me share my hydrating recipes.


Smoothies

Watermelon Cleanser

Watermelon Cleanser


Watermelon Refresher

  • 1 Frozen Banana

  • 1/2 of Smaller Watermelon, (Flesh Only, Seedless)

  • Handful Cilantro

  • 2 Sprigs of Mint

  • 1 Cup of Coconut Water

Directions: Blend if you want it a bit Thicker or Colder Add Ice

Tip: Blend up Watermelon, then Pour Liquid in Ice Tray. Add the Ice Cubes to smoothie then blend or Add Ice Cubes to Keep Drink Colder Longer


Watermelon Cleanser

  • 1/2 Watermelon (seedless)

  • 1 Romaine Lettuce

  • 1 Apple

  • 1 Lemon (juice)

  • Add Water or Ice to get desired consistency (hint: Add a little at a time)

Directions: Blend



Salad

Watercress and Arugula add a nice spice to the salad that offsets the Watermelon’s sweetness

Watercress and Arugula add a nice spice to the salad that offsets the Watermelon’s sweetness

Savory Watermelon Salad

  • 1/2 of a Seedless Watermelon, Cubed into Bite Sized Pieces

  • Arugula and/or Watercress

  • 1/2 Red Onion or more if you Love Onion like me

  • 2-3 Sprigs of Mint and/or Basil

  • 1 Can Garbanzo Beans

  • 1 Avocado

  • 1 Cucumber

  • 2 Ripe Tomatoes

  • 1 Package of Feta ( used Miyokos Vegan Feta)

  • Optional: Add Slivered Almonds, Or Pinenuts

Dressing: Mix together Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Chilli Pepper Flakes, Garlic Powder, Salt and Pepper. Add All According to your Taste Buds. Add Dressing to salad ingredients and enjoy!

Tip: If making ahead of time or going to have over the next few days add Arugula or Watercress as you serve salad, the lettuce won’t wilt and salad will last longer.


Cocktail

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Watermelon Jalapeño Margarita

  • 1-3 Cups of Blended Watermelon, Chilled

  • 1 Lime, Juiced

  • 2 Ounce of Silver Tequila

  • 2-3 Slices of Jalapeño, Muddled

  • Add 2 leaves of Basil, Muddled

  • Ice

Directions: Put all ingredients in a shaker, Salt glass rim, Pour ingredients over ice.

Tip: Make ahead Watermelon Ice Cubes, Use as ice in Drink







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Give Your Hair The Boost it Craves This Summer -With These Natural Styling Products

After a day of fun, sun and water our hair can use some help and protection.

Summer Hair Care Products

Fun in the sun is what summer is all about, but with all this fun comes dry and frizzy hair for me. After a day of the sun, water, and fun I’ve noticed my hair can feel a bit grimy, oily at the roots and dry at the tips, frizzy, and not able to hold the styling I do to my hair. 

Dry hair is not isolated to just the summer season for me, yet the fun in the sun does intensify hair conditions even more since I have thick, course, curly hair (not the unified curl/texture type, I wish), frizzy if not blow dried. About five months ago now I cut my waist length hair to a longer “Lob” length to above my shoulders, which meant I had to style my hair everyday. Previously when my hair was longer the length helped with weighing the frizz/curl down, or I was able to throw my hair up more easily, meaning a bit less styling was needed. 

Side note here, I have a fascination with other people’s routines and products they use, so I thought why not share mine? So during the summer my routine is washing my hair once or twice a week which I will blow dry. Then on the daily I make sure to really brush my hair well, I believe it helps distribute my hair’s oils throughout my hair so my hair doesn’t get as dry on the ends, then I will put dry shampoo at the roots rubbing it in well. So depending on my schedule or time I will straighten my hair or do some quick curls, both ways of styling I use my straightener, and yes you read that right I use my straightener to curl my hair too. On days I don’t need to really style my hair, when the styling from the previous day has lasted, I will just brush a bit and smooth areas with a smoothing balm (flatten those baby hairs). Or if I know it will be a more active family day or just lazy, I will throw my hair up, or put a hat on which doubles as sun protection for both my hair and face. 

With the products I use in my hair I do try to use clean non-toxic products, and I must tattle on myself a bit in the area of hair styling products. Shampoo and Conditioner I found a couple of options in the “clean” space that work great and that I really love. However hair styling products I hadn’t really found any clean ingredients options that really worked, so I have been using products that I would classify in a grey area of “ok”, not the best as far as ingredients, but also not as bad as many other brands out there…. 

Now entering the picture to save my hair is Rahua hair care brand that is outstanding. I started using their shampoo and conditioner over 10 years ago now. I must admit I wasn’t even looking for a cleaner formula when I found this brand, I hadn’t really gotten into researching that area of clean, non-toxic, organic hair and skin care yet. Rahua Classic shampoo and conditioner got my attention I believe while on vacation, and I was shopping at a random store I again will say I was drawn to the brand by my infamous smell test of every product I use, and their products smell AMAZING! The other important factor that sold me was that both the shampoo and conditioner formulas didn’t seem like they would dry my hair out and the conditioner specifically seemed hydrating. Now fast forward, they have a Hydration formula of their shampoo and conditioner which I have used since it came out a few years ago, and again love this formula and scent, keeping my hair hydrated even during summer activities. I recently brought the shampoo and conditioner with me on a family vacation, knowing Rahua has clean ingredients also gives me peace of mind when my little boy wants to use my shampoo and conditioner. And my son loves the scent too, just like his mom.

Like I mentioned I have had a harder time discovering clean hydrating hair styling products, and I admit to feeling a bit silly that I didn’t check Rahua’s website to see what products that they offered in the range of styling products. Just for reference after I towel dry my hair, brush it out (at this point if my hair is seriously knotted and tangled I can tell if the conditioner didn’t really work, not a problem I have ever had with Rahua) and then add a oil, even if I don’t plan on blowdrying my hair, I always add an oil to the tips to help seal them, and add extra moisture into my hair for protection against daily environmental elements, especially with my recent activities of enjoying pools, beaches, lakes, hikes and bike rides. When adding oil to my hair I also find it helps keep my hair from getting less tangled from all the activity. Rahua’s hair oil (Rahua Legendary Amazon Oil) works like a miracle in a bottle. First off other hair oils that I have used I usually have to do a few pumps, with the Rahua hair oil you seriously need just a few drops. It just smooths all the ends immediately helping me not to turn into a big hair poof ball whether I am blow drying my hair or not, also my hair is just more manageable after summer activities not feeling gross, odd texture and lifeless at the end of the day, instead it’s easy to brush and revive. 

I don’t know about you but getting a professional blow out is amazing not only do I find it so relaxing, yes even with all the loud noise I easily could fall asleep, and the results pure Goalzzzz. Now flash to me in my bathroom sweating and cursing as my hair clips that are sectioning off my hair get tangled and my brush keeps getting caught in some invisible knot, the frizz continues to grow like some new character from Stranger Things (Season 3 Out on Netflix), the blow dryer cord keeps getting caught on the vanity drawer knobs, and my face looks like a tomato from the heat and frustration. All while pretending I can understand what my son is saying to me because I just want to get done with blow drying. So a bit of a process blow drying my hair and that isn’t even styling it lol, and yes I know first world problems, don’t worry I roll my eyes at myself too.

Thankfully the task of blow drying my hair has been made more streamlined with again another product by Rahua called Control Creme so this you can use if you want to define your curls, or to help control with anti-frizz. So I usually have slightly air dried hair by the time I blow dry it, I add the Control Creme to semi pretty damp hair. This creme reminds me a lot of makeup primers that are silicon based with the texture of this formula, and the bonus of its amazing gorgeously light yet beautiful scent. My hair is more easy to manage during the blow drying process and there is very little frizz so I don’t have to repeat going over a section of hair as often, cutting down on drying time. The Creme (again its not really a creamy texture more silky, dense without weighing down) helps also when I style because I don’t have to go over certain known frenemie pieces of frizz strands repeatedly, so the styling goes quickly as well. Then for all my baby hairs or random hairs I use the Rahua Control Balm this helps hold pesky hairs in place especially when I am going to be outdoors enjoying the weather, this smoothing balm smooths my over all look giving a finished polished look. I use the Smoothing Balm to even touch up my hair later in the day or the day after I have styled my hair, and the scent of lite Gardenia making me feel even more refreshed. I loved using the Balm on my vacation so from the pool, to the lake, and other activities where I was in the sun for longer periods of time I would use this balm to help refine my look, while helping moisturize any hairs that were starting to do the frizz thing. 

Summer month’s fly by I can’t believe we are about to head in to August shortly, the time seems to speed up when you are enjoying moments with friends and family. My desire in sharing my current favorite hair products with you is that it saves you time and money, so you don’t have to waste your effort with products that don’t work, and you can have the peace of mind that the Rahua brand is focused on creating products that are safe for our bodies and our environment. I don’t want to waste my time on needless beauty steps when I can be out making memories with those I love, and I am wishing you all your very own amazing summer memories and great hair while your making those precious moments.

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National Junk Food Day: Healthy Vegan Options That Actually Taste Good, For a Random National Holiday

Sharing my favorite healthier snack opotions for the inner snacker in you, with choices that actually taste good on National Junk Food Day!

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So who knew there was a national holiday that gives you an excuse to snack? Yes it’s called National Junk Food Day. While I used to pretty much live off of Spicy Cheetos with Limoné, and Mountain Dew (yes great taste lol), when I was in high school. Wow have times changed, yet I still do love snacking. So I wanted to share my favorite healthier snacks that actually taste good!

As you can tell I love savory flavors over sweet, but I want to know what your favorite snacks are, below leave your favorites in the comments I love to find new options!

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