Dad, thank you.
Thank you for all the things I see and don’t see.
Thank you for the silly faces to make me smile.
Thank you for nacho night in front of the TV and ice cream, even if mom said no.
Thank you for acting surprised every time I gave you tools as a gift. I still have the hardest time choosing the perfect one.
Thank you for driving me to 6 am practices and being the loudest to cheer at the games.
Thank you for teaching me that I make a better door than I do a window, especially when standing in front of the television.
Thanks for always answering the phone with “yellow” instead of “hello” it makes me smile every time.
Thanks for every dad joke you’ve ever told; I’ve learned to appreciate their appeal.
Thanks for teaching me how to use a drill and change my tire. Thank you especially for answering my home construction questions. Who knew that changing a door lock could be so hard?
Thank you for talking sports and repeating the rules when I forget, which is often.
Thank you for your long work hours.
Thank you for teaching me the respect that I deserve as well as how to be respectful.
Thank you for always having my back and being honest when I was the one in the wrong.
Thank you for the memories from camping to being tucked into bed.
Thanks for supporting me and being my biggest cheerleader.
Thank you for allowing me to be myself.
Thank you for being the rule enforcer. I know that you were only strict to protect me.
Thank you for worrying about me, and sorry for making you worry.
Thank you for the risks you took to help me be where I am today.
Most importantly, thank you for loving me and teaching me how to love. Thank you for all of the things I cannot see. You are a superhero, Pops. I love you.
]]>You may have noticed that one of our favorite conversations is about books. In our household, it always has been. We aren’t picky about the books we read. Some books provoke deep thought, some pull you into a world where everything feels new, some are set in a way that feels familiar. To us, there is no wrong answer. Fiction and non-fiction are loved the same. This love for books got us thinking about how we got to this level of emotion towards them. The answer is simple, by reading. The more you read, the easier it becomes, and the more likely you are to find something you enjoy. We aren’t all cut from the same cloth. It’s okay if you don’t like every book you read or have a genre you prefer. Heck, we don’t like every book we read, but it helps guide us to the next one. The question is then, how do you read more. We got you covered.
Those are our four tips. We aren’t going to tell you what to read. We aren’t going to ask you to put it on your schedule. We are just going to encourage you to find the moments that work for you. Replace some of the endless scrolling on social media with a book. It’s not too late to become an avid reader. You don’t need to have this deep love for books at an early age, or even at all. All you need is to pick up a book and start reading. Again, the more you do it, the easier it gets.
Summer Reading List
We have a couple of books in our stack that we are looking forward to reading this summer. If you are looking for a book idea, these may work for you.
The Shortest Way Home by Miriam Parker
West with Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
Move the Needle by Shelley Brander
How to Stop Time by Matt Haig
The Constant Rabbit by Jasper Fforde
Unnatural Magic by C.M. Waggoner
]]>Mom, thank you. Thank you for all the things I see and don’t see.
Thank you for the peanut butter sandwiches. Thank you for running me to and from sports events and recitals.
Thank you for every gift and vacation. Thank you.
Thank you for the relationship advice and for answering all of my “adulting” questions.
Taxes and how to roast a turkey are tricky, so thank you for taking the time to explain them to me.
Thank you for always answering when I call. Thank you for always having an open door.
Thank you for drying my tears in the second grade when somebody made fun of my hand-me-down clothes. I know that was hard for you and that you were doing the best that you could.
Thank you for helping me with math homework, even if it wasn’t your best subject.
Thank you for drying my tears when I couldn’t understand said math homework.
In general, thanks for all the tear drying, from infant to adult. You are still the best handkerchief.
Thank you for doing laundry, especially when I “needed” to change my outfit four times in one day.
Thank you for cleaning up my messes, literally and figuratively.
Thank you for all of the opportunities; swim lessons, summer camp, every dang sleepover.
I see now why you said no to sleepovers and appreciate every time that you said yes.
Thank you for making me change my clothes when they were inappropriate and telling me to wear a coat when it was cold.
Thank you for forcing me to shower, brush my teeth, and comb my hair. You deserved better than a smelly, rabid kid.
Thank you for the little trinkets and trips that flood my memory and make me smile.
Thank you for singing and dancing with me all the time, even if I giggle at you when you do.
Thank you for being the best role model. When I was younger, I thought celebrities were the only people who could be role models. Boy, was I wrong.
It was you. It has always been you.
Thank you for the sacrifices you’ve made.
Thank you for sharing your granola bar, even when it was the only thing you had to eat so far that day.
Thank you for taking the job that wasn’t the most fulfilling to guarantee my future.
Thank you for worrying, and sorry for making you worry.
Thank you for the long days and exhaustion and for smiling when you wanted to cry.
Thank you for disciplining me and teaching me respect.
Thank you for all the things I cannot see. I know they are there, so thank you.
Most importantly, thank you for loving me and showing me how to love.
You are a gem, Mama. I love you.
It’s the end of April already. We thought this would be a good time to check in and see how everybody’s goals are going. How are your goals going? Have you made progress, efforts, or plans for them so far this year? This check-in is about accountability. It’s not to make you feel bad. There is no pressure or guilt here. If there is one thing we know, it’s that goals change, and sometimes it takes a conversation to notice that’s the case. Think of this as the conversation. Take some time answering the questions we ask. You don’t need to share the answers with anybody but yourself, which means there is no need to sugarcoat any of it. Answer honestly and be open with yourself.
So, first questions first. How are your goals going? Do you remember the goals you set at the beginning of the year, or did you set them and forget them? If you set them and forget them, that’s okay. When we set goals and then promptly forget they were even on a list, we interpret that as it’s not a goal right now. Look at that goal again and make a decision. If you realize it’s a no-go, then seriously, let it go. If you are anything like us, we feel it must get done if it’s on the list. If you’ve decided it’s not a goal right now, take it off the list and don’t feel bad about it. The fun thing about goals is they can be set at any time. Which means they can also be changed.
Next question, has your goal morphed into something else? This question is for those of you who have been clipping along. Sometimes plans change, and we have to stop and think about them to realize that is the case. Change is good, especially when it happens naturally. We think of it as a level up to our original plan. A plan that matches our true intentions more closely. When we take time to notice the change, we can begin to work to fit the new goal. It may help with roadblocks or things that just don’t “feel right.” Trust your instinct and make the change. It’s worth it.
Maybe you are working on your goals and smashing them. Our question for you is, what is the next step or the next goal? Take the time to be proud of what you’ve accomplished first. You don’t need to start the process of goal planning just yet. Take some time in the present, enjoy how it feels to meet a goal. Once you feel satisfied, which could be days, months, or even years, figure out the next steps.
Goals come and go. They change and morph into something else, or we get them done and set another one. Some days we can focus on those goals. Some days we have to set them aside and do what we can in the present. Wherever you are with your plans right now, tell yourself it’s okay. Taking the time to ask yourself the hard questions and adjust as you need to is progress towards meeting your goals, whatever they may be. We just wanted to check in and act as a point of accountability. We know it’s easier to make progress when you have a strong community behind you. Let us be part of that community for you. We support you. We support your goals. We want to see you succeed. You’ve got this!
]]>April is the perfect month to focus on the Earth and what actions we can take to protect it. Not only does Earth Day fall in April, but it's also when spring is in full swing, and we can see the beauty of nature. I'm always thinking of ways I can do better to help our environment. Consumers' actions are not the actions that need to be done in the grand scheme of things, but it is a start. So, I'm going to share with you actions I take to leave less of a carbon footprint as a consumer.
I want to start by saying there will be many suggestions here, and they can seem overwhelming at first. If you are taking the time to read this blog, you are interested in changing your habits to make a difference. Start with what you can. This list is not the end all be all, I'm likely to miss something, but these are the actions I take. Adjust, add, and adapt these suggestions to fit into your own life.
Plastic reduction is a big one for me. We recycle all that we can, but I prefer to reduce the amount of plastic I use as a consumer. Below are ways I either avoid plastic or use a plastic alternative.
-Cloth or canvas reusable grocery and produce bags. I also will not use a bag if I only have a couple of items. I never put my produce in plastic bags. I instead use a canvas tote in my cart.
-Reusable food storage bags, as opposed to single-use Ziplocs. These can typically be found in the same aisle as Ziplocs. They are durable and can be washed after each use.
-Say no to plastic straws and cutlery. If you are a straw person, carry a metal one with you. I keep a bamboo cutlery set in my purse for those instances when I have to grab a meal on the go.
-Refillable water bottles. We always have our water bottles with us. We also switched from buying carbonated water in bottles and cans to a Sodastream system. This is also an excellent option for soda drinkers.
-Shampoo bars and bar soap. There are some great shampoo bar products out there. Give them a try. You may be surprised by the result.
We avoid toxic chemicals in our skincare, cleaning supplies, and yard products. We run an all-natural skincare company because we believe harsh chemicals don't have a place on our bodies. We feel the same way about products in our home.
-Avoid parabens, aluminum, and other harsh chemicals in all of your skincare products. This includes deodorant, hand soaps, shampoo, lotions, makeup, and any other item your put on your skin.
-Harsh chemicals that we use to clean our homes end up on our skin and go down our drains. It isn't easy to trace where the chemicals go from there. There are likely options for a natural cleaning product in the cleaning section. It just takes a little looking.
Yard sprays, including pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer, runoff into our rivers and lakes, affecting the local ecosystem. If it requires you to keep your children and pets off until it dries, it's likely not safe for the environment. We recommend taking the time to pull the weeds, allowing the bugs to be there, and shifting the idea about having a "perfect" lawn. We strongly discourage the use of these products even more if you grow a vegetable garden. What you put on your food stays there.
Reduce, reuse, recycle is a good phrase to follow. We recommend following it in the order it's in. Instead of thinking, "this can be recycled," try to see if there is an eco-friendly alternative or if you can go without it. Reuse items, even if it's unconventional. Absolutely recycle if that's an option. As I said, this list is not fully comprehensive. It's a good starting point. Adapt where you need to, start sustainably, and know it does make a difference. We left a lot of this list, but there is likely a lot we haven't added to our routine. Let us know the ways you approach the consumer world with an eco-conscious mindset.
]]>First things first, make a plan. We are list makers in our family, so we like a good list and a good plan. A plan is a must for us to get the most out of our cleaning frenzy. Grab a pen and paper and write down all of the cleaning activities you would like to get done. No matter how big or daunting it is, write it down. Once it’s on paper, go through the list again and circle the small tasks. This is your starting point. We recommend not trying to tackle the whole list at one time. Start with the small jobs. Once those are done, and you are feeling up to more work, circle the next set. Continue like this until you finish the list, or you don’t want to do it anymore. You do not have to complete the list. It is just there as a reference.
The next step is to make sure you are prepared. There is nothing worse than getting in the groove of cleaning to find you don’t have the proper cleaning agent, storage bin, or tool you need to complete the job. Use your list as a reference to the materials you may need to go cleaning crazy. The fewer pit stops you have to make along the cleaning journey, the more likely you will stick with it and get more done.
Now the preparation is done, it’s time to clean. Turn up the music, dance like you know how and get to it. You will likely reach a point where you sort through old papers, the closet, or the toy bin. Once you get there, remember this advice- THROW IT AWAY. You do not need to hold on to items you are not using. We find spring the perfect time to sort through our winter clothes. If we didn’t touch it over the winter, it’s out of the closet. Get rid of clothes that don’t fit. Throw away the kids’ old homework assignments. They won’t want more than a manila folder of school keepsakes once they are older. Don’t leave them with the dreaded schoolwork bin when they are adults. It ends up sitting in the back of their closet until they have a massive spring cleaning frenzy 20 years later. We are seriously giving you Marie Kondo advice here; if it doesn’t bring your joy, it’s time to get it out of there.
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be stressful. It doesn’t have to be the dreaded task of the season. We know it’s just cleaning, but a shift in mindset can make a huge difference in getting it done. Remember that having a tidy space, if even for a moment, reduces stress. It can be fun. No, it should be fun. Make a game of it and ask for help from the family. You deserve a tidy space, especially if it’s something you want. Happy Spring!
]]>Make a plan
As much as we would like to say you can just choose to log off one day, it’s not that easy for most. Because of how connected we have been, somebody would likely notice if we just fell away. So, we recommend putting it on the calendar and letting others know that you will be out of contact ahead of time. Also, if you are like us, you spend a couple of hours a day on social media scrolling and email reading. You need to know how you plan to fill that time. Plan how you are going to spend your time unplugged. It doesn’t need to be an hourly breakdown, just a general plan. Read a book, garden, take your kids on a hike and picnic, make something with your hands, it doesn’t matter how you spend your time, as long as you disconnect.
Prepare
Now that you’ve made a plan, it’s time to prepare. Many of us have technology built into our routine. Dinner recipes are on our phones, our books are on our tablet, and television may be the way we choose to rest on most days. If you are going to unplug, unplug fully. That means preparing ahead of time so you don’t wind up on an endless scroll in the middle of your technology-free weekend. Write down your recipes, go to the library and pick up a book, check when entertainment locations are open ahead of time. Put your phone on “do not disturb” and leave it in the other room. If you are worried about missing an emergency, create a contact list of people who can contact you and leave the sound on. Be sure to inform that list that you are taking a weekend away from technology and would appreciate it if they would only call in the case of emergency. You can always catch up later in the week.
Enjoy
Setting the technology aside may be difficult at first. That’s okay. It may be difficult all weekend long, that’s okay too. We encourage you to try to let go and enjoy. Feel the release of always being accessible. For us, it feels like a reset—an opportunity for our nervous system to take a break. When we are always “on-call,” it can trigger a fight or flight response that wears us a little thin. Savor the quiet moments and prepare for the week to come. That’s the point of all of this.
We are not here to tell you technology is bad. It allows us to connect with all of you and run a business for our broader communities to enjoy. It is part of our lives, and it has so many positive effects. We just need a break sometimes. As we said, these unplugged weekends require a complete disconnect to reap the full benefits. Don’t forget to set your smartwatch aside, accept the pile-up of emails, and be okay with be inaccessible. The first time you give the unplugged weekend a try may be a struggle. Stick with it and try again in a couple of weeks. The more you do it, the easier it will become. Soon you will be looking forward to that time “away.”
]]>The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
This book makes us laugh out loud. Duncan pulls out his crayon box only to find letters from all the upset crayons. Each color has its complaints, and they are each unique and utterly hilarious, also entirely on point for how children use the crayon box. We love the creativity and the spark of imagination this book provides. It is also a blast to read out loud, especially if you are into voices. The dispute between Yellow and Orange crayon gets us every time. Is your kid a yellow sun or orange sun drawer?
A Girl Like You by Frank Murphy and Carla Murphy
This is the book we wish we had when we were kids. It encourages girls to be “strong, daring, brave, and bold.” It also encourages them to take care of themselves physically and emotionally and harbor good relationship practices. This book is empowering for children and adults alike. A reminder that there is only one YOU, and that’s what the world needs. This author also has a book called A Boy Like You if that is a better fit for your family. This book has the lessons we could all use, read it often and listen.
Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin
Who doesn’t love dragons and tacos? This book has both! Do you need to charm over a group of dragons? You’ve come to the right place to learn how. Dragons Love Tacos is a fun book and a true joy to read. If you need a giggle and a good light-hearted read, start here. Have fun, be silly when you read this book, and remember to dragons don’t like spicy salsa.
Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival
When we first read Ruby Finds a Worry, we knew it would be a good fit for our home. Ruby is a fun-loving kid when one day a worry starts to hang around. She doesn’t know how to handle it, and the more she ignores it, the larger it grows. One day Ruby realizes she isn’t the only one with a worry and confides in a boy with one too. She recognizes the best way to rid herself of the worry is to talk about it. Children’s books can provide a lesson that we all need to hear. This is a great way to discuss those big emotions and begin to develop healthy emotional practices. We all get worries, and it’s best if we know how to handle them, especially at a young age.
Those are our top four choices when it comes to children’s books. We also recommend any books from your childhood. It’s a special activity to share a book that brought you joy when you were their age. You can’t go wrong with reading. There are so many books to choose from, and we would read all of them if we could. We encourage you to take a trip to the library or your local book store and start reading the children’s books yourself. Many of these books have lessons we could all use a little more of. So, as you read with your children, don’t forget to listen to the lessons yourself. Books also create worlds. Let their little minds be transformed and travel to new places. Begin this love of reading now. It brings joy to the whole family.
]]>Garden Planning
I always start the garden planning process on paper. I first determine the locations for planting. At our house, we currently have three raised bed gardens that we plant in. I decide if any of the beds need to be moved or if any need to be added. This year we are adding two raised beds for a squash garden. If you are just starting this, it is a good time to ask whether you will plant straight in the ground or in a raised bed. We chose raised beds because we have poor-quality soil that is mostly clay and pretty hard. Also, the raised beds thaw faster than the ground, which allows us to get the plants in the ground a little sooner. Once I've determined the location, I then plan what to grow. When choosing seeds, my first rule of thumb is only to plant what I know we will eat. It may be cool to grow eggplant, but if you don't eat eggplant, that's just silly. Once I've determined my seeds, I check the vegetables' compatibility with each other. Not all vegetables are friends. Below is a chart of the most common produce and their companion. There are so many resources online to check if your vegetables are companions or not. Finally, I purchase my seeds and sketch out a garden blueprint.
Seeding
Now that you have the seeds, it's time to determine the next steps. Seed packets have a lot to offer, including whether to start them inside or outside, when to sow outdoors or transplant, if the plant needs full sun, partial sun, or shade, and how deep the seeds need to be planted. Finally, how much space each plant will need when fully grown. This information can help with the garden blueprint.
There is no need to go out and buy an indoor growing kit, a ton of seed trays, or fancy signs for your plants. Especially when you are first starting, you may have household items that will do the trick. Empty egg cartons, toilet paper tubes, and newspaper are great options for creating a container to start the seeds. Using saran wrap loosely around the containers will produce the same effect as the lids that come with the seeding trays. To label our plants, we use popsicle sticks. If you want to buy the seeding trays, we recommend purchasing the ones that come with cardboard cells instead of plastic. This option not only reduces plastic waste it also makes transplanting much easier. With the cardboard cells, you can cut them into their pods and plant them as is. The cardboard will decompose as the plant grows. The cells will drain, so be sure to set them on a surface that can get wet. You can use a tarp or even cookie sheets to retain the water. When it comes to grow lights, they help get the seeds started, allowing for consistency, but they are not needed. Find a sunny place in your house free of a draft, and your seeds will be just fine. Below is a list of items you may need or want to purchase.
Need:
- Seeds
- Seeding Soil
Optional:
- Seeding Trays
- Popsicle Sticks
-Spray Bottle
- A Grow Light
- Heat Mat
Garden Prepping
It may seem like it's time to start clearing away plant debris from last year, but I encourage you to wait a little longer. I don't start removing the dried plant stalks until May. The reason for this is to benefit the bugs. Many bugs lay their eggs in hollowed stalks in the winter, which don't emerge until spring. The same goes for leaves in your yard. Bees, butterflies, and many other bugs may have laid their eggs there. Try to give them a chance by not clearing the debris too soon. If you would like, you can check your soil's quality with a soil acid test and begin to create a soil, compost, peat moss mix that best fits your needs. Honestly, I haven't tested my soil and likely won't this year either. Determine how you are going to water your crops. I just use an oscillating sprinkler that reaches all the beds. If you want to get fancy with an embedded water system, now is the time to do it. Be sure to grab the extra items you may need to support your plants such as tomato cages, twine, or trellises. Once it is time to clear the garden, get rid of the dried stalks and prep the ground. I try not to till up my soil too much to help prevent weeds. A full tilling can wake up seeds lying dormant under the ground and create a more viable area for floating seeds to implant. Once you've prepped, you're ready to plant.
I am a firm believer that gardening doesn't have to be complicated. It can be daunting when you first get started, and there is so much information out there. There will always be ways to have better yields and prevent disease and grow perfect produce. For me, that's not why I garden. I garden to get my hands in the dirt. I garden to see my plants grow. I garden to provide, whether that's to the neighborhood bunnies, bugs, or my family. Remember, people have been gardening since the beginning. Also, if you plant a seed and it doesn't grow, it's okay. It happens. Find your reason for gardening and create a system that works best for you. Most importantly, enjoy it. Happy gardening, my friends!
]]>This list is by no means in any particular order or fully comprehensive. We sat and talked about the things that make us happy. We encourage you to do the same. Make a list of your own that allows you the opportunity to focus on the positive. It’s energizing and can prove helpful in aligning your life to how you want to live. We wish you all more happiness this season and encourage you to look to the joy.
]]>Get to Bed Earlier
Try to go to bed an hour earlier this week to help your body adjust. Think of it as training. Just like when you send your kids to bed earlier before school starts, send yourself to bed earlier to adjust for the lost hour. If you can get to bed earlier before the time change, you only have to deal with the disorienting sunrise and not the fatigue.
Utilize the Longer Evenings
Now that the time for sunset is later in the evening spend some time outdoors after work. Enjoy the longer evenings by going outside, if the weather permits. We also encourage you to keep your curtains open later to take in as many of those rays as you can. This will help adjust your internal clock and help save energy, just like initially intended.
Check your Calendar
If possible, try to push your Monday morning meetings back an hour to allow your brain a little extra time to adjust. If you have any plans on Sunday, make sure everybody is aware of the time change. We wouldn’t want somebody showing up late because of time confusion.
Change your Mindset
Changing your mindset is the most important tip we have to offer. It’s easy to think about that lost hour and reference back to it all week. “I’m so tired because we lost an hour.” “It’s actually 5 o’clock, so the workday is over.” Adjust your mindset about what time it was before the time change. For us, we don’t think about it. That is much easier said than done, but being aware of that thinking is the first step. We can’t change it, so we may embrace it and adjust our mindset to do that.
Modern technology has made the time change a lot easier. Fortunately, our phones auto-adjust, so we at least have one clock telling us the correct time. That doesn’t make it any less confusing to look at the oven clock and think you are still an hour ahead. Change all your clocks and follow the tips above to make this time change a little easier. Enjoy that extra hour of sun at the end of the day, and remember we lose an hour now, but we will have an extra hour of sleep in the fall! Daylight Saving Time tells us that it’s almost spring, and we are ready for that.
]]>How to Make a Vision Board
Traditionally, a vision board is a collage of photos representing where you would like to be. If your goal is to save money for a vacation, you may create a board with images from the place you would like to visit and quotes about relaxing. You can go with the collage route, but we know that doesn't fit everybody's aesthetic or interest. A vision board could be a list of words that drive you. It could be a quote that you write on your bathroom mirror or a drawing or painting that inspires you. We are firm believers in following what works for you. It would be silly to put limitations on how a vision board looks. Even if the traditional take of the collage board isn't your thing, that's okay. Find a visual representation, in whatever form, that keeps your moving forward.
Where to Place your Vision Board
A vision board's goal is to keep you motivated and only works if you can see it consistently. A few places we recommend are your work desk, in the bathroom by your mirror, or on your nightstand. Sometimes you may be working on goals privately and don't really need others to see it, right? We understand that. Your vision board can be kept in a notebook, your wallet, your daily planner, the cover of a binder. Again, there are no rules, no right, and wrong. If placing it just above your computer screen is the best way to keep motivated, go for it. If putting it in your wallet to carry with you as you run errands and go about your day is what feels best, that's great. Wherever you choose to place it, we encourage you to look at it at least once a day to remind you of what you want.
When to change your Vision Board
Vision boards only serve their purpose as long as they are relevant. If you look at your vision board and it no longer gives you the spark it once did, it's time to revise. We are ever-changing, so that means our goals are ever-changing. Maybe your dream vacation changed from Fiji to Sweden, a vision board of tropical beaches would no longer be relevant. Even if it's just a small change to your goal, change it on your board. Rework the visual representation as often as you need to. The purpose of the board is to motivate and inspire you. Make the small changes, or scrap it altogether and start over.
We aren't the first to discuss the vision board. We know that. The main takeaway we are trying to make is that there are no rules. Your vision board can be a collage you hang on your wall or a single word written on a piece of paper you carry in your wallet. The point is visualization. Create a clear picture in your head and create something that reminds you of that picture. Remember, to reach our goals; it is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time. There will be moments of doubt, and it's not always easy, but you are getting closer. So, keep moving forward. Little progress is still progress.
]]>COZY READS
-The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan
Set in the hills of Scotland, Nina finds herself on a new adventure matching a book with the right person from her book van. Pair it with beautiful descriptive language and a love story that takes a minute to figure out. This book about books is altogether charming.
Some of our favorite reads are books about books, and this one doesn't disappoint. It's an afternoon read if you can steal away the time. A great reminder that life doesn't always go as planned, and sometimes it's for the better.
-The Secret Lives of Dresses by Erin McKean
Dora finds herself back in her hometown, caring for her grandmother and running the family vintage store. A story of family, mysterious dress stories, and a little bit of love, this meets all the cozy vibes. This book will put a smile on your face if you love vintage clothes. As a family that has spent a lot of time with antiques and vintage clothing (family trade), we couldn't help but smile as we read about the lives that were conjured up behind the dresses. It made us want to rush to our closest vintage/thrift shop and write stories of our own. It also definitely made us feel underdressed but in a good way.
-Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson
Sometimes tragedy rears its head and can stay with you a long time. This beautifully written novel touches on the topic of tragedy and connection. Astrid and Veronika have both experienced tragedy decades apart and now heal themselves and each other through their companionship. It offers a reminder not to judge those around you too quickly and sets it all in Sweden's beautiful scenery. If you want a book that touches profoundly and lasts a long time, this is the read for you.
FUN FICTION
-Early Riser by Jasper Fforde
Jump into a world where winters are so bad the people hibernate until spring. Somebody has to stay awake to keep things in order. Charlie is a first season Winter Consul. He deals with viral dreams, villains, a stamp collection robbery, Nightwalkers, and some mythical winter folklore, all in the first week of the deep winter.
Jasper Fforde is one of our all-time favorite authors. His Thursday Next Series is a treat, and this standalone novel is as well. A master of creating new worlds and keeping you hooked to what comes next. Early Riser is a fun mystery that cannot be predicted, and that's precisely why we love it.
-Mem by Bethany C. Morrow
There is so much mystery behind this book. Science has found a way to extract memories from people and keep them in a vault. These memories take on the original host's appearance, holding onto the one memory and nothing more. Dolores Extract #1 begins to take on memories of her own. Set in the art deco vibes of the 1920's it's easy to get lost in this alternate reality.
-The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
A mysterious circus that appears overnight, dueling magicians, a brilliant love story, and a world of magic make this book hard to put down. We purchased this book as a mystery purchase. It was wrapped, and all we had was a short description. We each chose a book, read it separately, and swapped. We both adored this book and the magic it holds. If you enjoy a world of fiction, this book is for you.
DREAMING OF WARMER WEATHER
-An Embarrassment of Mangoes by Ann Vanderhoof
Steve and Ann chuck away a typical lifestyle to bring a dream together in the Caribbean. I love an unscripted life, one you write yourself that includes warm weather and laid-back attitudes. Add in Mangoes of every size, and you've got yourself a winner.
-Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Golden Gelman
This is my life-changing read. The first one that showed that life could be lived differently than a 9-5 job and a house with a picket fence. I will forever be grateful to Rita for showing me the way. Her madcap immersion in to different cultures is food for the soul.
-Road Fever by Tim Cahill
Tim Cahill is my favorite comedic writer. You can't go wrong with any of his crazy adventures. A writer for Outside Magazine for years, Tim lived just up the road from our hometown in Idaho. Road Fever captivates from the outset at the bottom-most tip of South America, Tierra del Fuego, all the way through 23 ½ record-breaking days to the Northernmost terminus at Prudhoe Bay. If adventure travel is what you seek, Tim delivers.
We don't often need a reason to spend the day with a book in hand, but the winter season makes it easier to explain to those around us. If the weather outside is sub-par, then nobody questions our bookish ways. Take advantage of the cold weather and snuggle up with a book. We won't tell.
THERE ARE AFFILIATE LINKS IN THIS POST, WHAT THAT MEANS TO YOU IS THAT IF YOU CLICK ON A LINK, I MAY EARN A COMMISSION FOR REFERRING YOU TO A COMPANY I HAVE A RELATIONSHIP WITH, AT NO-COST TO YOU. TO AVOID THAT, YOU CAN ALWAYS GOoGLE THE COMPANY NAME AND GO STRAIGHT THERE, SOMETIMES AFFILIATE LINKS INCLUDE A BONUS TO THE BUYER AS WELL, IF YOU GOOGLE IT, YOU MAY MISS OUT ON THAT BONUS.
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We will preface this and say these are our thoughts. This isn’t based on psychological research. This is based on life experience. The struggle to see ourselves in the way our loved ones do. Like a relationship with others, the relationship with yourself ebbs and flows. Some days loving ourselves is easy. The days where you have it all together aren’t the challenge; it’s when nothing is right, or even the days that just happen that challenge our love.
So, what do you do on those challenging days? The days where your inner bully comes out and says all the things you don’t want to hear. The first thing to do is listen. If you shut that voice out and ignore it, it’s still there. When you maintain and build your self-love, think of yourself as another person. You wouldn’t ignore a person if they were upset, so don’t ignore yourself. Listen to what that inner voice is saying, and know what it says may not be true. Get beyond the words and listen to what it is really asking for. We spend so much time-defying that inner voice. We do things that, deep down, we know we don’t want to do. We don’t do something we really love to do. We don’t listen. When we stop and listen we can create a dialogue.
Once that dialogue starts we may realize our inner self is still holding onto stuff we thought we had put down. The time you messed up at work, the time you didn’t take the chance, the time you raised your voice. Our inner self holds onto all this baggage, and until we forgive, accept, and release our expectations of ourselves we can’t lighten that load. We have to forgive ourselves for making mistakes. What’s done is done, holding onto it creates a rift. Sometimes, it’s a perceived mistake that comes from high expectations that we have put on ourselves. We have to accept where we are right now and work on a path forward. It takes self-reflection, it’s not always pretty. We have discovered opening this dialogue more regularly makes it easier. Instead of handling it when it reaches a boiling point, we maintain open communication. That is an act of care.
Sometimes the inner voice is being a bully because it is simply tired. It wants to do something fun or take a break. This is where acts of self-care play a part. When that voice comes out of nowhere in the middle of the afternoon asking for ice cream, get it ice cream. You don’t have to treat your inner self like a toddler. Say yes, get ice cream. Do things that make you happy. Self-care is an act of self-love. Take yourself on a date, buy yourself a gift, talk about your dreams and goals. Allow space for care but know that it takes all the pieces to maintain a healthy, loving relationship. You need the hard conversations and reflection for care to work. Don’t use self-care as a band-aid for what it is you really need.
So, we have all this and still haven’t answered why self-love is important. First things first, because you deserve it. You deserve to be loved unconditionally, especially by yourself. It’s important because when we love ourselves deeply, it makes it easier to love those around us as well. When we work on a relationship with ourselves, we develop communication, forgiveness, and acceptance that translate outwards. By loving ourselves, we open ourselves up to receive love differently. Love is all around us. We have to believe it to see it.
]]>In this crazy year, many of us are still spending most of our time at home and are maybe feeling a little bummed that we can’t go out and celebrate in our usual ways. We understand if you are feeling this way, we are too. This is why we decided to come up with a list of stay-at-home date ideas. Some of these ideas can be with you and your partner, and some may be great to include your whole family. Just because we can’t celebrate a holiday in a way we are used to doesn’t mean we can’t have a great time and make memories while doing it. This list is by no means extensive, pick and choose what works for you and remember it’s supposed to be fun. So, what are you going to choose for your date at home?
Stay-at-home Date Ideas
-Living Room Picnic
-Classic Movie Night
-Bonfire with Smores
-Homemade Pizza Party
-Dream Vacation Planning
-Living Room Slumber Party
-Reading Date
-Video/Board Game Night
-Valentine’s Bake-off
-Arts and Crafts Night
-Childhood Show & Tell
-Dinner by Candlelight
-Puzzle Party
-Snowball Fight/Build a Snowman
-Travel Theme Night
-Disney/Pixar Movie Party
-At-home Spa Night
-Gourmet Recipe Challenge
-Dance Party
-Living Room Mini Golf
Remember, this holiday is about love. It’s not about grand gestures and gifts; it’s about communication. It’s about the obstacles and challenges you face and overcome in your relationship. It’s about the memories and taking the time to make them together. Pick a stay-at-home date that will work for you or make up one of your own. This holiday is a reminder to slow down and let go of the everyday routine that can sometimes get in the way of what truly matters, love. Spread your love this season, especially to your partner and family. In the end, that’s what it is all about.
]]>Get Outside
Regardless of climate, winter still means colder temperatures and maybe some inclement weather. This combination makes it a little more challenging to get outside. Or, at least it takes a bit more coaxing than usual. We get that, so we recommend you make it more interesting. Instead of just going on a walk around the block, try to make it an outing. Grab your ice skates, or take a trip to the mountains for some skiing. If it’s just snowed, make a snowman and have a snowball fight. Yes, you, the adult, have a snowball fight. If your weather is a little less snowy, take a trip to the beach or the lake. Have a campfire. Learn how to make sandcastles. Maybe strap on some rollerblades and explore your area. The weather may be chilly, but there is still so much to see out there. The winter requires us to make a few preparations before we step out the door, that’s all.
Create
Some days, the weather is simply too gross to get outside. Also, the early dusk makes outdoor evening activities a challenge. We recommend making something with your own two hands. The act of creation is so good for our brains and our emotions. Creating can be as simple or complex as you want to make it. We are a family of makers, so this is our favorite way to spend the winter. Knit a hat, build a canoe, take up watercolor or paper art. Choose a medium and get to it. This is all about the act of creating. We aren’t worried about the outcome or what it will lead to. Create to create, nothing more, nothing less. When you keep your hands active, it keeps your brain active as well. The goal is solace, start there and enjoy the process.
Rest
Winter is all about resting up in our house. We refer to it as hibernation because that is a little what it is. It is socially acceptable in Minnesota to reject a social outing because it’s just too cold outside. So, we hibernate. It’s like a recharge for all of the excitement the other three seasons bring. Take the time to rest. The sun goes down earlier. Consider adjusting your bedtime to accommodate. Take it easy, read a book, keep it chill. Once the weather decides to play again, you will be ready to get out there and enjoy it.
The winter weather and gray skies can bring some gray emotions. We want to acknowledge that and let you know you are not alone. The activities above are actions we take to fight those winter blues. Some of these activities are only available during winter, so we find joy in them while we can. The writer behind this spends winter in the tundra. If I missed something for you warmer weather peeps, I want you to know it wasn’t intentional! Focus on getting outside, creating, and resting. It makes for a beautiful winter.
]]>We are firm believers in self-care every day because it keeps us out of burn out mode. It is easy to get caught up in everyday tasks and lose the joy and ultimately ourselves along the way. A moment of self-care every single day can make a huge difference. So, what does that look like? We have curated a list of self-care tasks below. Remember, we all have different styles. What may seem like a chore for one of you is a meditative practice for the other. Take a look at the list and pull seven things from it to add to your calendar this week—a task for every day. Go about it with the intention of self-care and see what happens.
It may seem overwhelming at first to create a self-care habit. It’s one more thing on the schedule you have to pencil in and think about. We promise it will become second nature before you know it. You deserve time for yourself. You deserve not to be burned out. You deserve a moment of self-care, EVERY-SINGLE-DAY. Whatever self-care looks like to you, do that, and let go of the guilt around it. Society doesn’t control your self-care activities; neither does your calendar. If you need a little push to get started, we encourage you to try a self-care challenge. Commit to 30 days and write down your activity. You don’t have to show it to anybody but yourself, but write it down so you know that you can do it. Remember, you deserve this.
]]>There are so many beautiful things to say about this product, company, and the people behind it! So, we will focus first on the product. These yoga mats are the only mats we practice on! Big Raven has 60+ designs with new designs out every month. The mat is not only a work of art, it also has all you need for a great practice—a thick rubber mat with a soft suede top. The more you sweat, the better you stick. No more need for those unruly yoga towels! This is a top-quality product from a top-quality company. Jolene Emery is the mastermind and artist behind Big Raven. From design, print, and packaging, she does it all, working with a team of artists and her family, they produce an awesome mat. We are fortunate to know Jolene personally because she is located here in Minnesota. She and Big Raven are making strides in the yoga community, and we couldn’t be more proud of her! Between us, we have three mats from Big Raven: Between the Pages, Florals in Watercolor, and Think of all the Possibilities. Haley is also featured on one of their doodle cards! We could gush forever about Big Raven, so why don’t’ you hop over to their page and realize the magic for yourself!
The Sill is an indoor plant delivery service. They provide accessible, indoor plants in adorable planters and deliver them straight to your door. They are also plant gurus and provide plant care instructions, and their blog section is jam-packed with more information on plant-related topics. We especially like their pet-friendly section. With winter firmly set in, it is lovely to have the green of our houseplants to cheer us up.
Wax Buffalo is a soy candle shop that we adore! Clean, modern, natural, and pure are only a few words we would use to describe these candles. They smell divine and look so cute in their amber jars with the trademark “X”. They follow the same hand-crafted, small-batch style we do with our products, which we love. If you need a smile, we encourage you to take a look at their “about us” section. This crew isn’t only making incredible candles. They are also curating a tribe of girl bosses, which we love. The world definitely needs more companies like Wax Buffalo! The scents we adore are x: sweet tobacco, and x: into the woods. We can’t wait to place our next order and try out more!
Chocolove is, hands down, the best chocolate. We are coffee and chocolate lovers here, and by golly, Chocolove has us hooked. From their chocolate mastery to their sustainability efforts, we just can’t get enough of them. Their Salted Caramel in dark chocolate is killer, but you can’t go wrong with their Raspberry or Toffee and Almonds. What really caught us hook, line and sinker was their No Sugar Added line! Hello, finding a Keto-friendly chocolate bar is difficult, but not anymore. On top of that, Chocolove uses top-quality ingredients to make it that much better. Their Instagram is a site to behold, so order your chocolate, grab your tea (or coffee) and sit down for a beautiful tableau through their chocolate account. If you need more inspiration, follow Kristian in her adventures @wundercollective as she changes the world.
We know that there may not be many people out there looking for watercolors, but we just have to mention this really cool product. Peerless Watercolors make paint that is stored on paper. You wet a brush and pull the color off the paper. This makes it really portable and easy to store. The pigment is stunning. The company started in 1885! Everything about this product is genius. If you are looking to get into watercolor, this is a really great starting point. High-quality paint at a price you can’t pass up.
We could mention so many products and a ton of small businesses out there making strides in their market. These are just a few we know well and recommend. Give them some love on their social media accounts, check out their websites. As we said, we wanted to share with you a little more about the two of us behind The Healing Hippy, and this is a fun way to do that while supporting other businesses just like us. What are some of your favorite products right now?
]]>The new year is upon us, which, of course, means the resolutions conversation is in full swing. We're in a love-hate relationship with resolutions. A resolution is just a goal any other time of the year. Why does it feel bigger at the start of the year? Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves now? We think it's the energy around the new year. It feels fresh, and the constant narrative makes it a little spicy and fun. We get it. We aren't here to tell you NOT to set resolutions; if you want to start something new, then more power to you! But...let's talk about how to set a resolution with intention.
What do we mean by intention? We look at intention as a mindful way of taking action. It's the way of going about your goal for the right reason. How do you know if you are going about your resolution with intention? Let's start with a series of questions.
*Am I setting this resolution because it is something I want or because it is expected of me?
It is easy to get caught up in the energy and narrative of "New Year, new you." We like to check that we are setting resolutions because we genuinely want to, not out of an expectation from those around us. It is not possible to be intentional if you don't even want to do it.
*Am I setting this goal as a reaction to a negative emotion?
Once you've determined that it is a goal you are setting for yourself, the next question to ask is why? It's all about the self-dialogue here. If your answer to why is because you aren't good enough as you are, there is a little more digging to do there. A resolution is not the place to start; if you don't follow through, it will add to the negative self-talk. We will be the first to say you are damn perfect as you are. There is a difference in "I'm not good enough as is", and "I want to grow." Determine where you are and make changes as you need to. How you talk to and about yourself matters.
*What has kept me from starting this action before now?
There is nothing wrong with waiting until the New Year to start a new goal. This question is in place to check that you know your roadblocks and how to navigate them. If your reason for not starting until now was because you didn't have the time or resources before, do you have the time and resources now? Get all your ducks in a row before diving in. Getting organized should be a priority in the goal.
*Am I willing to put in the work that is required to fulfill this resolution?
The big-ticket question here. Making changes and working towards goals takes work, commitment, and self-discipline. If the answer is no, that's okay. It is possibly just not the right time to start something new. Keep working on the plans and face it again when you are ready to put in the work.
There is no resolution requirement you have to meet in order to have a fulfilling year. You may actually find not setting a resolution takes away some pressure. A majority of the resolutions people set on January 1 are put aside come February, if not before - this wouldn't be a big deal if the emotions of failure didn't follow. If you set resolutions this year, do it with intention. If you don't, own that. Regardless of where you are, remember you don't' have to do anything out of others' expectations.
Start of the Newsletter
The newsletter has been on our list for years. The pandemic honestly put it into play. We developed the newsletter so we could communicate with our community at the beginning of the craziness. It became a place for us to share our thoughts and feelings. We didn't go into it with a specific goal. We just knew there were words we wanted to say, and the newsletter was a good place to do that. Some weeks we share our thoughts, some weeks, we share our lifestyle, and some weeks we share our products. The weekly newsletter has become a highlight of our week. It's great to communicate with our customers more personally.
Launch of Bath Products
The bath products had been in the works for over a year before we launched! We wanted to be sure we had the recipes just right. There was a ton of trial and error. The first oil we used in the bath bomb recipe was too heavy and made the bathwater feel thick, and it was so slippery. The first natural colorant in the bath salts left a hard-to-clean line of color on the tub. Our new labels came out more pink than expected once printed. As we said, a ton of trial and error. We finally got it all ready to go. We were on the brink of launch when the first shelter-in-place order was put in place back in March. We knew it wasn't the time to launch, so we waited. Unexpected, but definitely worth the wait. The launch was a huge success, and we are glad our customers love our new bath products!
In-person Events
Naturally, this one didn't go as expected. We had our first in-person event here in Minnesota back in 2019, and it was a blast. We were slotted for more this past summer before they all got canceled. We fully stand behind the decisions of those organizing the events, but it would be dishonest to say we weren't a little bummed out about it. We were fortunate to be part of a one-day outdoor market in the fall. Haley grabbed her flower mask and got to selling. A giant wind storm forced our display to look a little different; though the canopy tried to fly, the customers were great. Regardless of the weather, the event was a huge success. We did a soft launch of our bath products and received a lot of positive feedback from our local community. We enjoy doing the in-person shows because it allows meeting with customers and talking with them face-to-face. We are primarily an e-commerce business, so it isn't often we get the opportunity to speak with everybody.
Looking back, the year was different than we expected, but definitely, one to remember. We have a fabulous community of customers who make us feel loved. We have goals for the new year. We are coming into year three of running The Healing Hippy as a mother-daughter team. We can't wait to share with you what's in the works. We don’t know what 2021 holds, but we are ready for it.
]]>Simulate Sunshine
The sun affects us more than we think; it provides us with precious nutrients that we now aren’t getting. On top of that, when the sun decides it’s done playing, our serotonin levels may decrease. These are both reasons the blues creep in. Here is what we suggest. Invest in a light therapy light, a couple of minutes a day in front of that baby will make a huge difference. Open your damn curtains. If you are anything like us, you cave yourself in during the colder months. Let in the natural light during the day, gray or not, the sun is still out there. Visit the tropical area of your local zoo or a plant shop, both have lights to simulate sunshine. They also both have plants that provide clean air, a couple of inhales of that naturally purified air would do us all some good.
Get Outside
Yes, it is gray, likely a little cold, but you have to get out there. Fresh air and exercise are so good for our bodies and brains. You can either make a day of it or just take a quick stroll around the block. Bundle up and get out there. Maybe try a winter sport you’ve never tried before. We also like to visit places we usually go in the summer to see the beauty the winter gives them. There is a local waterfall here that is pretty in the summer, but absolutely stunning in the winter. Step outside and explore, places you have been before are brand new in the winter.
Socialize
It’s chilly, gets dark earlier, and everyone goes into a kind of hibernation. Socializing takes a little standstill in the winter. Every time we try to convince people to move to the frozen tundra of Minnesota, we joke, saying it is the only place where it is socially acceptable to hole yourself up for six months and not talk to anybody. It may be acceptable but possibly not the best for our souls. Communication is good for us. Try to schedule a social activity every week. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. It could be as easy as a coffee meet up or inviting a friend to join you on your stroll. If meeting up in person isn’t an option because of the weather, give somebody a call just to chat.
The winter blues can be a lot. Ultimately, we want you to know you aren’t alone. Give these a try and see how they help. Instead of treating winter as a time to shut in, act as though it’s summer but add a coat! There is so much to do, even in the cold and gray, give it a shot!
*What we offered above are suggestions to mitigate the impact they have on you, not medical advice. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you are experiencing strong emotions. *
]]>Hygge Your Home
First things first, get cozy in your own home. Winter is cold and can make us feel a little trapped, especially if we aren’t into outdoor winter sports and adventures. Instead of feeling trapped make your home, or a room in you home, look like those magical winter cabin pictures. That’s right, we are talking cozy blankets, candles, and more plants than seem necessary. Most importantly don’t forget the books, piano music, and the perfect tea/coffee cup.
Living in Minnesota, I always joke that I love winter because it is a solid 6 months where it is socially acceptable for me to hole up in my house. Joke or not, it is true. So, take that new-found you time and accept it. Stop fighting with the weather, and slow down. Here is how to Hygge your house, or room, in three simple steps.
Step 1:
Deep clean your space. Yes, that means the vacuum, mop, and duster. It is hard to get cozy if the space is dusty.
Step 2:
De-clutter. Get rid of it. We are talking Marie Kondo your space for real. If it doesn’t spark joy, it is out, my friends. Or course she isn’t the first person to tell us to declutter, but she is so cute when she does. Clutter clouds our brains and is just generally uncozy.
Step 3:
Find the perfect cozy items. Blankets, pillows, candles, plants, wool socks, the perfect cardigan, coffee cups, tea kettles, books, journals, simple art, whatever it is that will make you feel cozy.
Hygge Your Activities
Now that we have our house cozy and like a cabin dream, let’s talk about getting outside in the cold and truly enjoying it. The Nordic culture is big on outside activity like cross-country skiing, hiking, and snow shoeing. Whatever it is, they love the outdoors. You may not love the outdoors and that’s okay, but let’s figure out how to make it through those activities that we might get invited to and actually enjoying them.
Get the right equipment. It is time to invest in a good winter coat and pair of boots, if you haven’t yet. We totally get the mindset that there is no need to buy those things if you aren’t even interested in going outside, but not having those things makes it so uncomfortable when you do. Coats and boots last forever. Don’t forget the hat, scarves, and gloves. If it is a long amount of time in the cold weather flannels aren’t a bad idea. Most people don’t enjoy the winter because they don’t like being cold, who does? Making it so you aren’t cold is the first step.
Slowing down and taking in nature is the next step. When I go outside in the winter the first thing I notice is the quiet, it is like the whole world is sleeping. It is a nice change from the bustle of work and technology. The second thing I notice is all that is happening. Take a look around and see the little creatures going about their lives. It is fascinating to see how they have adapted to sustain the freezing temperatures. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the great outdoors. Getting that dose of fresh air helps to rid our bodies of that stagnant feeling that comes with the cold. It helps to combat seasonal depression. The more you get out and revel in it the easier it gets.
Hygge Your Friendships
Hygge is all about sharing this idea of cozy with others. It is easy to get caught up in the big events that come with the holidays. As well as this idea that every time we have company over it has be a big hosted event, or if we go out there is dinner and drinks and conversation. Everything is big and boisterous which is fun but can quickly take a toll, especially on our introverted friends. There is nothing that says we need to serve a 5-course meal when we have company over. We don’t need the perfect table settings. We need a cozy space and good company. We need to slow down and enjoy a natural conversation with our guests. When we host big meals or attend a hosted meal, the host is almost always too busy to talk. They are in the kitchen or running around making sure everything is perfect. I invite you to slow these interactions down. Skip the meal, set out a cheese plate and serve some tea. Enjoy a fika (a coffee break with a sweet treat, such as a pastry) in the middle of the day with your coworkers. Remove the activity of your social meet ups and learn to be in the presence of all that are there. It may feel weird at first, it may need a little warning to those attending, but it will eventually fall into place and feel natural. There is no pressure, just conversation, a warm beverage, basic treats, maybe some music. It is a natural state of being, people will adore it.
Winter is a time for Hygge. A time to slow down. For many the slow down is what freaks them out the most. The slow down feels like a trap or stagnation. We are here to tell you that it is not. It is the perfect time to recoup. You may find that once you are in the flow of slowing down, that stagnant feeling leaves. The energy you need to keep moving forward in all of your activities is still there. By slowing down, relaxing, and enjoying our time and company we allow that energy to flow. Settle in to the cold months, they happen whether we want them to or not, we may as well enjoy them]]>Leaves
Of course, raking is not a new phenomenon, and one that does not often get missed from year to year. But we want to share some insight and options on those beautiful piles of leaves. There has been a post going around the internet saying to keep the leaves as is due to the eggs and such that butterflies and other insects have laid in the debris. The post states that the leaves allow new butterflies to hatch in the spring as well as food for the birds during the winter. There is some truth to this; but if you are anything like us, the thought of keeping the leaves in our yard to get covered by inches, if not feet, of snow makes your skin craw. We need to consider some alternatives.
-Create a pile in one corner of your yard to put the leaves. This not only moves them to a single location; it also creates a little compost pile that can be used in the spring for extra nutrients for your raised beds or flowerpots.
-Use your leaves as mulch. This is a great, natural way to limit the number of weeds that make it into your garden. By using mulch, you limit the amount of light that reaches the ground which hinder weeds from popping up. Plants need light to grow, mulch keeps the light out. This is also why we aren’t fans of leaves in our yard. It kills all the plants, not just those you don’t want. There is a reason there are not lush grassy patches in forests.
These two options allow for the leaves to remain in nature and provide all that they need to for the ecosystem without causing unnecessary damage to your grass. If neither of these options are feasible, don’t feel bad about it. See if your city offers a yard waste pickup that will take the leaves to be composted as opposed to the landfills.
Plant Remnants
It may seem like the perfect time to pull those dead stalks of wildflowers or hosta blossoms, but for the same reason as the leaves, it is best not to. Not only do butterflies use the debris as a place to lay eggs, bees use the stalks of the dead plants in the same way. They will lay eggs in a hollowed-out stalk, cover the ends with mud, and come spring new bees will find their way out. Depending on the types of plants it may also provide food to bunnies and other small creatures that take what they can get in the winter.
Seeding
If you are looking to plant wildflowers or grass, fall is the perfect time to start seeding, the seeds will stay dormant throughout the cold season. Once the snow begins to melt and the ground begins to thaw the seeds will use this water to begin growing. Wildflowers are meant to return year after year without the help of humans. So, they have actually adapted to require that dormant stage. Grass is the same way. Also, it is cool to see them popping up in the spring without having to put in any work.
Yard Tools
We really only have one thing to say about yard tools and equipment. Get it out of the snow. Nothing takes a toll on tools more than snow and the freeze/thaw cycle that comes with the season. If you take the time to put it away now it will save you a trip to the store in the spring when you have to buy a new one (shovel, hose, lawn chair, etc.)
It is hard to know what to take care of in the fall and what is best left until spring. We hope this helps clarify why and serves as a little reminder of all the little things we almost forget. Just know that it is easier putting the table umbrella away now before it freezes to the stand (we may know this from personal experience). If it is meant to be in nature than it is probably safe to keep it as is. Likewise, if it is a man-made item, it may need a little help getting through the cold temperatures. Our time in the garden is magical even as we put it to rest for the season. Enjoy those last couple hours and know that spring will come again.
]]>Do the Bare Minimum
Here is your permission slip to not be the Pinterest mom. It is easy getting caught up in how everything looks to everybody else, but to be honest nobody is watching. The people who love you don’t care and the people who do care are probably not your people anyway. So, take grapes and call them monster eyeballs for the school snack, grab grandpa’s cowboy hat for the costume, throw a couple of pumpkins on the porch, and hand out candy until you run out. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. As we said before if Halloween is your jam you keep jamming out. If it’s not, don’t put too much energy into it.
Let go of the Guilt
We just told you to tone it back if the to-do list for Halloween is just too much for you to handle. You are probably thinking “sure, that sounds easy in theory… but”, but what? What will the neighbors think? Are you being lazy? Is it selfish of you to cut back? Hey girlfriend all the questions hit us too. There is only one question to truly ask yourself, and that is, “Will my children have fun?” If they have a stress-free Mama that is actually looking forward to the holiday instead of dreading it, then the answer is a guaranteed yes. Your kids may remember the costumes and decorations when they get older, or they won’t. That’s okay. What they will remember is the memory of their Mom spending time with them and having fun together. Let them remember that mom and not the frazzled mom who is trying to make brain Jello and cover the house in fake spiderwebs.
There is Always Next Year
Time keeps moving so if you decide next year that you can handle it all, that’s great! You skipping one year to save a little bit of your sanity is not a sin. Maybe you skip all the years, that’s cool too! You need to do what is best for you and your family. From year to year it will be different so just play it by ear. It keeps the children’s expectations low (which isn’t a bad thing) and makes the little extra you do from year to year a surprise.
With the holidays hitting us quick, we thought it important to remind everybody to take a deep breath and go with the flow. A reminder that nobody is watching, you don’t need to feel guilty, and it can always change later. Enjoy the day with your family. Smile, laugh, have fun and most importantly make beautiful memories together that your children won’t forget.
]]>Autumn Activities
There should be a whole book about the activities that happen in the fall. Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, apple orchards, Halloween, Thanksgiving, festivals; oh man, the list is endless. We also love that many of the activities promote local agriculture and businesses. There is just something about going to a local farm for a corn maze or pumpkin patch and seeing all the hard work they put in year-round. You also can’t beat the apple cider or pie made with fresh picked apples. If you have never been out to the activities your community has to offer, we suggest giving it a try. Jump online and check it out. Joy is in the air when you spend a beautiful Saturday at a farm with your community, especially if winter is coming soon. Get out there, breathe in the crisp air and enjoy. There is no feeling like it.
Bring on the Cozy
We can’t be the only ones excited to turn off the air conditioner, open the windows, and pull out the cozy sweaters and blankets. For some of us the cozy of the crisp air brings us comfort. The ability to step outside and not be sticky and hot unless scantily clad is a glorious feeling. Bring on the cardigans and scarves. The Nordic culture embraces the culture of Hygge [h(y)o͞oɡə] which is loosely translated as Cozy. Hot drinks, saunas, nature walks, blankets, candles, seasonal baking, friends, and fireplaces are a wonderful addition to the season. Get ready for the chill by embracing it and making your home a little cozy cave for friends and family to share stories and make memories.
Goal Season
Fall is the perfect time to get started on goals and dreams that have been sitting on the shelf while you enjoyed the summer sun. It offers a natural transition to begin to make plans and take steps towards bringing those goals to fruition. The kids are back to school, it is socially acceptable to stay inside for long amounts of time, and the crisp air brings a clarity and focus to the energy around us. So, we suggest you set some goals, make a plan, and get to it girlfriend! Why wait for New Years when the energy is right, right now!
If you already love fall, we hope this is just a lovely reminder as to why. For our fall skeptics we hope you can see why those around you are swooning over the season. Fun activities, cozy atmosphere, and the goal ready energy are just a few reasons we adore the Autumn. Let us know if we missed something! Why do you love fall?
]]>How about an at-home-spa-weekend. You may wonder how this is going to be helpful with the kids around and the to-do list growing at a rapid rate. Stick with us and we will tell you how to conduct the perfect spa retreat in the comfort of your own home.
Set the Date
First thing’s first, get this spa weekend on the schedule and commit to it. This is helpful for a couple of reasons. One, you won’t make any other plans and obligations and let the relaxation time slip to the wayside. Two, it allows you time to make plans. Whether that means purchasing the perfect face mask and maybe a bottle of wine or asking your partner to take the kids for a day to the zoo or a movie. Yes, we said it! Which leads us to the next point.
Ask for Alone Time
Ask your family and friends to give you a little space. It may look like you are just lounging at home, but it is time that you deserve. So, ask those around you to respect that. If your kids are old enough, let them know why you are doing it. It is a way to be a great role model for them to listen to what they need, even if that means just a little bit of quiet. If they are not, reach out to your partner or a friend for help. Ask if they would be willing to take the munchkins for a couple of hours to award you some time to yourself. You can spot them another time when they need it. It takes a village, so don’t be afraid to reach out. Always remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Set Aside the To-do List
You have the essentials (bath bomb, a good book, relaxing music, etc.), the house is as quiet as it is going to get, and there are no other social obligations, so how do you combat that pesky to-do list? Just simply don’t do it. For some this could be the hardest part, we get that. So, let’s talk about it. Is there anything on that list that is life or death? Not likely. The laundry doesn’t get done, time for the bottom of the drawer underwear. Groceries and food prep just didn’t happen. Go through the pantry and scavenge what you can, or order pizza. The kids won’t complain about that. Whatever is on that list can be moved to another day. Allow yourself one day, maybe two to just let it go. And whatever you do, know that your productivity does not measure your worth! Let me say that again. YOU ARE WORTH MORE THAN YOUR PRODUCTIVITY!
Maybe you have a whole weekend, maybe you have a couple of hours on a Saturday afternoon. Whatever it is, slow down. Take that time for you to breathe. It is not only great for you, but for everybody around you. You are a light, you just sometimes have to recharge or change the batteries. If it seems like this year is flying by without much recollection of what is actually happening that is a sign you need a spa weekend. Take it Mama, you deserve it.
]]>Lose the Minute to Minute Itinerary
This can be a challenge for some people. Most of the time we keep planners and plan our schedules meticulously. On the road, it’s not necessary, and can even be a waste of time. There were times that heavy rainstorms forced us to pull over and wait it out. There went the time frame. When we made it to Boston it was field trip day at the aquarium and the line was out the door. There went our planned activity. Other times we just weren’t ready to move on to the next town. Had we been so worried about meeting an itinerary we would have missed the lightning storm in the middle of Montana that lit up the sky. We would have missed the farmers market in Boston where we ate peaches with the juice running down our arms and smiles on our faces. We would have missed our hearts calling out that we needed a little more time in New Orleans to really take in all that it had to offer. Itineraries have the potential to hold us back. They put us in a mindset that focuses on the next step, as opposed to focusing on the moment and thoroughly enjoying where we are. So, what we suggest is a loose timeline and a list of places that you want to visit and explore. That way no matter what happens out of your control, you can still enjoy the journey.
Tunes, Snacks, and Entertainment are a Must
Road trips take time. That is part of the beauty of them. But be sure that you have enough stimulus to cover those long hours. The “oh, I’ll nap the whole time” idea is not as easy as you think. Some days all that we did was drive and there are only so many hours one can sleep. On top of that, those precious hours of road gave us the opportunity to belt out Savage Garden lyrics, consume way too many Starbursts, Fritos, and Diet Cokes, and talk about our goals, dreams, and everything in between. Other times all we needed was a little quiet time so a book or a small craft was our indicator that we needed a social break.
Communication is Key
Two women, one car, and a lot of time sounds like a recipe for disaster; especially with one being a teenager. We are proud to say that the only time voices were raised was when one was napping and the other needed the napper to look at a map…now. We get asked all the time how we handled each other’s company for so long. The answer is always communication. When we were tired we told each other. When we needed to stretch, we said something. When we needed space, we made sure to find some space. Had we not allowed for an open communication channel the trip would have turned out very different. If you communicate and really listen to what the other has to say the problems will be few.
Of course, there are plenty of other tips such as; make sure you know where your next stop for gas will be, let people know where you are, and get the car serviced before you hit the road but others will tell you those things. If your go with the flow, prepare for boredom, and communicate there is almost nothing that can turn your trip sour. 12 years later we still talk about our 30-day road trip. The memories may fade with time, but the bond will always remain. So we say to you, get out there and enjoy the open road.
]]>Weeds
When trying to maintain a toxin free garden weeds become a problem. There are a couple of natural options to keep them at bay, but the first step is to weed the garden. Yes, we mean getting out the knee pads and trowel. You have to get to the root of the problem, literally. If you just take a weed-wacker to them or just pull out what you can see they will keep coming back. Take the handy-dandy trowel and rip out the roots. Now that the hard work is done it is time for mulch. There are many kinds of mulch, wood chips, straw, or dead leaves are all great to cover your now weed free area. Be sure to layer it on thick. The main reason to mulch is to keep out the sunlight. An added bonus to mulch is that it retains water and helps keep the plants that you do want, moist. If you have a hard to weed spot or still have little buds popping through your mulch, there is a natural week killer that you could use.
Natural Weed Killer
1 Gallon White Vinegar
¼ Cup Dish Soap
2 Cups Epsom Salt
Please note that the Epsom salt will deplete the minerals in your soil, which is great for between paving stones or a on a mulched walkway, but not good in the garden beds. If spraying in an area that you plan to plant, leave out the salt.
Binding Plants
Sometimes plants need a helping hand. They may become top heavy and begin to sag or have pretty little vines that like to take over. Whatever the problem, there are options. First things first, keep in mind where your viney friends are, like peas or squash. Consider giving them something to climb. We made a trellis out of some metal mesh and a couple of 1x3’s which did the trick. You could also purchase a trellis if you are going for something with a little more aesthetics. If you don’t provide these vines with support, they will grow wherever and take over other plants. The crops that they produce could also grow on the ground and begin to rot. Another plant to be weary of touching the ground would be your strawberries. Strawberry pots, fence boxes, or berry baskets that keep the fruit from touching the ground are great options when preventing fruit rot. Tomato cages are great for tomatoes as well as many other plants. We use them on our wildflower bushes that like to spread out. The cage keeps the bush contained and allows us to shape it the way that we want to. Last, but definitely not least, is garden twine. This stuff works miracles. A couple of tips. Don’t tie so tight that it cuts into the stems or branches and allow for give so that a gust of wind doesn’t pop off the tops of your flowers. It is great for tying up blackberry brambles to keep them from touching the ground and taking root.
Annuals vs. Perennials
By golly! Every year we have to Google the difference, and we know that we can’t be the only ones. Annuals need to be planted annually. They survive one growing season then die, so need to be planted again the next year. Most vegetables are annuals, as well as your planter flowers. This allows for variation from year to year, which is great, but not starting from scratch every spring is even better. This is where perennials come into play. Perennials come back from year to year, usually budding from the roots. Our wildflower bushes are perennials so are our hostas and the never-failing rhubarb. These are great plants to fill in space that you just don’t want to fuss over. When gardens have both varieties, it allows them to be full and colorful. It’s also fun knowing that it’s the same rhubarb plant that was planted 15-20 years ago!
Gardens can be a ton of work. The best plan is to get ahead of it. Any work that you do this season will make next season that much simpler. Plant the plants you want, get rid of plants that don’t make you happy. Most importantly enjoy the hard work and process. Three years from now your garden will have a story, and that story will continue to grow.
Dad, thank you.
Most importantly thank you for loving me and teaching me how to love. Thank you for all of the things I cannot see. You are a superhero Pops. I love you.
]]>Get Crafty
There is a reason elementary schools have crafts all the time. It stimulates their brains and everything they create is just so cute. It is also a great way to fill time. Consider these activities:
-Paint stones
-Sidewalk chalk or foam paint
-Paper crafts (ex. origami, paper dolls, paper mache)
-Macaroni Crafts (or other items you can find in the pantry)
-Slime
-Make a kite
-Make a bird feeder
Get Outside
This is not only great for them, but also you! We could all use a little fresh air and sunshine from time to time.
-A color scavenger hunt
-Water balloon fight
-Excavate “Dinosaur” bones (these can be made with polymer clay)
-Make a solar oven
-Yard games (yes, we mean kick-the-can)
-Bubbles
-Walk or bike ride
-Sports
-Bird watching (there is just something to love about binoculars)
Get Bored
It is 100% okay for your children to be bored. It is actually good for them. School can be a lot to handle and it doesn’t allow for much time to goof off and just be. Think of it as a stimulation detox. They will find something to do. When we allow them time for nothing, we allow their imagination to shine through. They may turn the couch into an “airplane” or decide their stuffed animals are the best soccer team to exist. Let them imagine. Let them create, it is part of their light.
Whether you put on the greatest summer activities or let them be bored for must of the summer, just remember you are doing a great job. Don’t let summer be a stress fest. School will start again in no time. Enjoy the weather, enjoy your family, enjoy the time. The children won’t remember the details, they will remember the smiling face that was there with them having fun.