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The Best Christmas Cookies to Make Now & All Year Long

Cookies are synonymous with the holiday season; I look forward to making these favorites every year! While these are definitely full-fat caloric splurges, I’ll share my favorite ingredients that make these a somewhat healthier, somewhat more sustainable indulgence. Here are 5 of the best Christmas cookies, ever (OK the last one is actually not a cookie but it still deserves its spot…)! Dive in!

The Best Christmas Cookies with Chocolate

Nutella-Stuffed Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s a reason I’ve been making these for 10 years now–they’re soooo good! Between the browned butter, the hazelnut stuffing (don’t use Nutella, I have a better one!), and the sea salt dusting, these check all the boxes for what a good cookie should be. Most other cookie recipes just don’t even come close, and they’re not worth the calories. These beauties, however, are definitely worth the calories, and in our opinion, the best Christmas cookies ever! 

The recipe for the Nutella-Stuffed Brown Butter + Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies is from Ambitious Kitchen, but I think certain ingredients make a huge difference, so here are my suggestions. 

First, use a good butter! I’ve noticed a difference baking these when using different brands of butter (maybe I make these too much…). My favorites are Organic Good & Gather Salted Butter from Target, and Vital Farms. They’re a sustainable, ethical B corp and their butter really is the best-tasting anywhere. Pricy, but so worth it! 
Secondly, use all semisweet or dark chocolate chips, instead of mixing with milk chocolate. And not just any chocolate chips: the best are Enjoy Life Dark Chocolate Morsels for their tastiness and purity of ingredients. These are the tastiest chocolate chips ever, because they’re just chocolate. Many chocolate brands have lots of fillers or processed versions of chocolate. Not these. They’re worth the splurge, and they’re free of 14 common allergens, if you’re sensitive.

 

 Lastly, and most importantly, don’t use Nutella. Use Nocciolata, an Italian brand with a cleaner, tastier recipe. Nutella has palm oil (which is often unsustainably harvested), and natural flavor instead of real vanilla extract. Why bother? If you’re going to splurge, splurge on the good stuff, trust me. Try Dairy Free Nocciolata if you’re sensitive to dairy; it’s just as good!

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Chip Cookies

We started making these Death by Chocolate Peppermint Cookies trying to recreate the insanely delicious version from Colleen’s Cookies in St. Louis. The drizzled dark chocolate on top makes these a delicious and decadent choice! You’ll definitely want some milk to go with that!

My main note for this cookie is to get a high quality candy cane and high quality white chocolate. These Organic Candy Canes from Whole Foods are a good choice. They do have natural flavor, which is annoying because shouldn’t it just be vanilla extract and peppermint extract?! But, organic natural flavorings have the strictest requirements out of the “flavorings” bunch, so this is about as good as it gets. Yum Earth has another similar option, too. 

As for white chocolate, it’s not really chocolate at all. So pick one that’s not just sugar, corn oil, and flavorings. Ghirardelli’s White Chocolate Baking Chips is my pick. Or, you could skip the white chocolate and just make some simple icing at home and drizzle it on top. We’ll probably do that this year. Last year’s bag of white chocolate chips did not get eaten! 

The Best Traditional & Unique Christmas Cookies

 

Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a classic Christmas tradition. If you need a break from chocolate, these  soft, chewy, flavorful Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are it! Top those classic crinkles with some powdered sugar and enjoy the spicy treat. But don’t worry, these aren’t too spicy, and they’re not too sweet, either. They’re just right!

My one note for these is to use a high-quality molasses, like Grandma’s Original Molasses.

Christmas Monster Cookies

If you prefer unique over traditional, and like a cookie with a bit of everything, these are for you. If you follow Half-Baked Harvest, you’ve probably seen these Christmas Monster Cookies before. These are a newer addition to our Christmas faves. Filled with chocolate chips, chocolate candies, pretzels, and oats, they’re a chewy Christmas treat. Instead of using regular m&ms, opt for Unreal gems and avoid unnatural food colors and added flavor. We love the Dark Chocolate with Crispy Quinoa Gems, but the Milk Chocolate Gems work, too! They wont’ be red and green, but to me they taste so much better than m&ms! 

A Treat for Christmas Day

Super Soft Christmas Eve Cinnamon Rolls

Making cinnamon rolls on Christmas Eve so that they’re ready on Christmas morning is a beloved tradition for many. This isn’t a tradition I grew up with–but my siblings and I did eat cinnamon rolls and we fought over the middle one. Still not over it haha. But a few years ago, I decided I wanted to make some from scratch, and it’s now something we look forward to! 

We’ll be making the Best Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Ever Eat again this year, for sure.

This recipe from Ambitious Kitchen makes 9 full rolls, but I had extra dough so I made tiny bonus rolls and stuffed them into the pan, too. I think a metal pan would do better, but this pyrex pie pan worked in a pinch! After all, the mark of a great cook is being able to improvise with what you have, right? 

For this recipe, dark brown sugar will be super flavorful. Choose one that’s Organic and Fair Trade, like this Dark Brown Sugar from Wholesome. 

I hope you love these recipes, and that maybe one of them will be a new favorite for you. Let me know what you think in the comments below! 

(And don’t forget to check out my post on recycling your Christmas decorations once the season is over). 

Happy Holidays!

 

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases.  I would never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!

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How to Recycle Your Artificial Christmas Tree & Decorations

In today’s post,  learn how to recycle your Christmas Tree and decorations, as well as how to reuse, donate, or upcycle it first! If you bought a real Christmas Tree this year, read on for how to give it new life and ensure it stays out of the landfill. 

If you still need a tree this year, check out my post about Real vs Artificial Christmas Trees!

Repurpose, Donate, Or Upcycle Your Artificial Christmas Tree First

If your artificial Christmas Tree has been around several years, it may have lost some of its luster. Maybe the lights are burned out, the branches are broken, or you’ve lost some of the pieces. Before you dispose of it, consider these ways to give your artificial Christmas Tree new life by reusing, upcycling, or donating your tree. Reusing what you have is the most sustainable option, so those suggestions are listed first.

Repurpose Your Used Artificial Christmas Tree

If your artificial Christmas tree is no longer Holly Jolly enough for your living room, it could still be useful. Many people enjoy decorating with more than one Christmas tree, so let your artificial tree retire as an additional decoration in your home. Try turning it into a themed tree: decorate it all in Harry Potter theme, go monochromatic, or let your kids decorate it however they want. You can add new strings of light to it, or change out some bulbs if its lights are burned out. If you need some inspiration, Martha Stewart (who else?) has a list of Christmas Tree decorating ideas.

Donate Your Used Artificial Christmas Tree

If you’re ready to part ways with your artificial Christmas tree, but it’s still usable, consider places in your local community that may want Christmas decorations for their own use. Schools, hospitals, libraries, churches, and thrift stores may be interested in your old tree! Let your tree continue fulfilling its “Christmas Destiny” by donating it and lighting up another part of your community for the holidays. 

Alternatively, consider posting your tree for free on sites like Craigs List or Offer Up. Let it be your Christmas gift to someone in your community!

Don’t forget to include ornaments and working strings of lights that you no longer want. These can make the donated tree even more festive! 

Upcycle: Create a New Decoration from Your Artificial Christmas Tree

If you don’t want to redecorate your artificial Christmas Tree, and it can’t be donated, consider upcycling parts of it rather than disposing of it entirely. Can you turn some of the branches into a Christmas wreath? Maybe you can fashion a garland for your mantlepiece out of the branches! Or turn it into several mini Christmas Trees. Pinterest has lots of cute inspiration. Creating new decorations from your old artificial tree helps to keep more plastic out of the landfill, and can make your space even more festive.

HOW TO Recycle YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE & DECORATIONS

 Sometimes, a Christmas tree cannot be repurposed, donated, or even upcycled, and it’s taking up space in your home. Here’s how to dispose of artificial Christmas Trees, real Christmas Trees, and other Christmas decorations, responsibly. 
 

Dispose of Your Artificial Tree Responsibly

 Unfortunately, recycling an artificial Christmas Tree requires some effort, and may not be possible in your area. Your best bet is to call recycling centers in your area to see if they will accept your tree. It helps to know what your tree is made of: most are metal and PVC plastic, and PVC is often not accepted. If your recycling center can accept some, but not all, of your tree’s materials, try separating out the recyclable pieces. For example, you may be able to separate and recycle a metal stand or center pole, but not the branches. 
 
If you cannot recycle your tree, and none of the repurposing, upcycling, or donation options are available to you, it will go to the landfill. You may need to schedule a bulk pickup with your local. waste service. Don’t forget to remove all ornaments and lights first! 
 
Speaking of Christmas lights, these can be donated or recycled! Check with your local hardware stores during the holidays or your city’s website for local drop-offs.

How to Recycle a Real Christmas Tree 

 Refer to your local waste management service for Christmas Tree pickup. Cities that compost green waste may also recycle your tree! If you’re not sure, try using Earth 911’s Recycling Directory to find treecycling in your area.
 
For tips on composting, mulching, or chipping your Christmas Tree yourself for use in your garden, check out this informative blog post from Garden Betty!
 

How to Recycle Christmas Tree Decorations, or Dispose of Them Responsibly 

 My advice on other Christmas decorations is generally the same as that for trees:
  1. Reuse your decor or ornaments in a new way. I love this ornament wreath idea!
  2. Donate your used decor or ornaments within your local community. 
  3. Many communities will recycle holiday lights as part of a year collection program. Check your city or county website to see what is offered.
  4. Recycle/dispose of your decorations using a Terracycle Zero Waste Box! We use Zero Waste Boxes for multi-layer plastics and other hard-to-recycle items in our home. Learn more about Terracycle’s process here.

 

As you prepare for the holiday season, I encourage you to make a commitment to sustainability. Whether that’s reusing an artificial tree you already have, upcycling your holiday decor, or decorating a real tree, making eco-friendly choices will help make your holiday just a little bit sweeter. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 

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Buy the Best Health & Wellness Gifts this Black Friday

Snail mucin may be trending, but you won’t find it on my list. Check out these other beauty, health & wellness gifts for your Black Friday shopping. Dive in!

 

Beauty, Health & Wellness Stocking Stuffers 

Herbivore is one of my favorite beauty brands, and I just added their limited edition Hot Coco Coconut Oil Body Scrub Mini to my cart. This would make a great stocking stuffer and it’s on Black Friday sale for up to 20% off.

 

Give Them R&R with These Wellness Gifts

This dry brush from Goop is a great way to add relaxation and exfoliation into your daily ritual. Gift it to yourself  or anyone on your list for a Goop-approved health & wellness gift.

I swapped out my foam roller for a cork roller months ago, and I love that it’s natural and sustainable. Here’s a similar one on Amazon, currently on sale with a $10 coupon. 

High-Tech Wearable Wellness

You can’t have a health & wellness gift guide without some wearable tech! My Garmin Watch and Oura Ring are the two pieces of tech I wear 24/7, and they definitely help me improve upon my fitness and performance. The Oura Ring and a smart watch like the Garmin Forerunner should be top of your list for health & wellness gifts this year. Read on to learn why!

Garmin Forerunner GPS Multisport Watch

As a runner, a Garmin GPS Watch has been a staple for me for years. The Forerunner series is specifically tailored to runners, as the name suggests. It’s also a multipart watch, and can be used in GPS mode with other sports like running and swimming. This makes it a good entry point for anyone wanting to dabble in triathlons! 

My current Garmin watch is the Forerunner 245 Music, and it’s currently on sale as a Black Friday Deal for up to 43% off! My version is a 245S where the “S” means it’s a smaller form factor. Since I have small wrists, this fits better on me. If you want a Small and a sale, the slightly newer version (255S) is on sale for up to 25% off!

The music feature means you can load music on the watch itself and connect it to your headphones, without carrying your phone around the gym or on a run. (I don’t run with music, read my running coaching blog to learn why!).  

Oura Ring: The Gift of A Sleep Lab on Your Finger

The other wearable in those pictures above: my Oura Ring! It’s my favorite piece of health tech and I wear it 24/7. It monitors HR, HRV, temperature (pair it with Natural Cycles!), and SPO2 to bring you insights into your sleep and total body wellness. My referral link will get you $40 off the Oura Ring, and many styles are already on sale for Black Friday. If you buy just one thing for yourself this year, make it this!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This income goes to supporting this website. As always, ideas and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own.

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Real or Fake: How to Choose the Most Sustainable Christmas Tree

I love the holiday season, and I’m excited to put up our Christmas Tree this year! Like everything else, Christmas has an environmental impact. That’s part of being human: everything we do has an environmental impact. But, we can take conscious steps to reduce our impact while still participating in beloved traditions. In today’s post,  learn whether a real or fake Christmas tree is more sustainable choice, and why.

Why a Real Christmas Tree is a More Sustainable Choice

 Every year I LOVE going to a local tree lot and purchasing a big, beautiful, real Christmas Tree. The short answer is that real Christmas Trees are more sustainable than artificial ones! Plus, they smell sooo good. Fragrant pine needles aside, what makes a real tree more sustainable than an artificial one?

Artificial Trees Have Higher Carbon Emissions

According to the Nature Conservancy, 10 million artificial trees are purchased in the US each year, 90% of them from China. Manufacturing and shipping artificial trees across the globe  requires a significant amount of energy and produces carbon emissions. 

Artificial Trees are Harder to Recycle, Meaning They End Up In the Landfill

Furthermore, once they’ve reached their end of life, artificial Christmas Trees are difficult to recycle, so all that plastic usually ends up in the landfill. Plastic doesn’t biodegrade easily; according to the UN,  it takes 20-500 years to decompose, and even then, it just gets smaller. Plastic waste is a huge environmental issue. While plastic is necessary in many parts of our modern lives, eliminating plastic where we don’t need it can help reduce our overall environmental footprint.  

Real Christmas Trees Support Sustainable, Responsible Forestry 

By contrast, real Christmas trees from responsibly managed farms take far fewer resources to produce. They absorb carbon dioxide while on the farm, and can be 100% composted or used for local ecosystem management projects once Christmas is over. Purchasing a real Christmas Tree from a local farm saves carbon emissions, and supports forest development. The Nature Conservancy states that out of the 350-500 million trees on farms in the US, about 10 million are harvested each year for Christmas trees. So many more hundreds of millions of trees remain on those farms, and your purchase supports them. Further, these tree farms plant 1-3 seedlings for every tree cut down. Being sustainable and fighting climate change is about using our resources more responsibly and sustainably–and supporting sustainable tree farms does just that. 

How to Make Your Christmas Tree More Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

If you don’t have a Christmas Tree, yet, I’d encourage you to choose a local, real tree. If you already have an artificial Christmas Tree, that’s ok, too! Many actions we take on a daily basis contribute to our environmental footprint, and often to a greater extent than our yearly Christmas Tree. Read on for how to make your Christmas Tree more eco-friendly this year!  

 

How to Minimize the Environmental Footprint of Your Christmas Tree

If you already have an artificial Christmas Tree, my advice is to keep using it! Using what you’ve already got is usually a good place to start when minimizing your environmental footprint. Once your artificial tree has lost its luster and you’re thinking of moving on, consider repurposing,  donating, or upcycling it before ultimately recycling or disposing of it. The more use you can get out of your tree, the better.

If you’re buying a real Christmas Tree this year, save any extra branches to make a wreath for your front door, or garland for your mantlepiece!  Real Christmas Trees often need to have some branches cut off before they’ll fit in a tree stand, and they’re perfect for wreaths and garlands.  I added some decorative holly and a fabric flower I already had to our extra Christmas Tree branches. When the season is over, I compost the branches but save the decorations for next year’s wreath. 

Another consideration for your eco-friendly Christmas tree is the lights. Opt for LED lights that are more energy efficient, or put your lights on a timer so they aren’t always on. Definitely make sure you turn off the lights when you aren’t home!

As you prepare for the holiday season, I encourage you to make a commitment to sustainability.  Whether that’s reusing an artificial Christmas Tree you already have, disposing of holiday decor properly, or decorating a real Christmas Tree, eco-friendly choices will make your holiday just a little bit brighter. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! 

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Why Indie Bookstores Are a Sustainable Choice

Britney’s highly anticipated memoir released on Tuesday, and I’ve been so excited to read it. As soon as it was announced, I went online and pre-ordered it–from my local Indie bookstore! It was such a delight picking it up, and reminded me what a gem a local bookstore is. Indie bookstores are also a sustainable option for people and planet, which is what today’s post is all about.

Firstly, I’m not going to shame you for buying books online. I buy some books that way, too. My philosophy is that even small changes can make a big sustainability impact, and that you can start now, without overhauling your whole lifestyle. So this blog post is to encourage you to try an Indie bookstore, and choose that option when you can. Not only is it more sustainable, it’s a lot more fun, too. 

why indie bookstores are sustainable for people and planet

If you’re lucky, an Indie bookstores is a part of your local community. It employs neighbors, and puts money back into the community through its tax dollars. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, local businesses generate 3x the economic benefit for your community, compared to shopping at a chain. They also host community events like book clubs, connecting readers to each other. And since they’re local to you, you can lessen the environmental impact of shipping and pick it up yourself (which is what I did, and it’s so fun!). My local bookstore, {pages}, puts online book purchases outside in their courtyard, with the buyer’s name on the spine, just like a library would do. It was so cute and quaint, and the easiest pickup experience. 

The courtyard behind {pages}, where you pick up online orders.

The ordered books have the buyer’s last name on the spines, and it’s an honor system.

 

Indie bookstores connect you to the authors

One of my favorite things about Indie bookstores is that I’ve been able to purchase several signed copies from them! One of my favorite authors always gives signed copies to her local bookstore in the Bay Area, so when she has a new release, I preorder, request a signed copy, and the friendly employees take care of the rest. When my mom requested a book for her birthday, I bought it from Book Soup, an Indie bookstore in West Hollywood where the author was signing copies. So she got a signed copy and a unique gift for a book she was excited for!

No, this isn’t a signed copy, but I was still excited for it!

INDIE BOOKSTORES OFFER A WHOLE EXPERIENCE

In addition to the fun pickup experience, it’s relaxing and nostalgic to wander the shelves of a local bookstore and discover a new book. Many books at {pages}, for example, have little notes tucked under them, with recommendations by the store’s employees, to help you choose! It’s a very personal touch, and something you just don’t get online or at a bigger chain store. 

So as you look for Fall reads to cozy up to, check your local bookstore. It makes for a great Saturday morning activity: grab some coffee, bundle up, and go wander your local Indie bookstore. You’ll leave with your new book same-day, a relaxing experience, and the joy of supporting your community. 

Do you have a favorite bookstore? Let me know in the comments! 

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5 Tips for a Sustainable Halloween

What’s the scariest part of Halloween? The amount of waste it generates! Read on for 5 easy tips for a more sustainable Halloween.

1. reuse, thrift, borrow, or make your own costume

Unfortunately, many costumes are purchased for a single night of use, and often end up in the landfill once disposed. To minimize your costume’s environmental impact, consider these options for a more sustainable Halloween:

Reuse or borrow a costume

The most sustainable Halloween costume? The one in your closet already! Wearing a costume from a previous year is easier on the environment and your wallet, plus, you’ll know it fits well! Swap with a friend if you want to wear something new, or exchange your kids’ costumes with other parents. 

Make Your Own Costume

Store-bought costumes are often made from uncomfortable, synthetic materials that are either too hot or too cold for the weather. What could be more comfortable than wearing your own closet?

Look in your closet for staples that easily convert into a costume, with little or no purchase necessary. Think Black Cat, Ballerina, Lumberjack, Risky Business, etc.! There are LOTS of ideas online for this, just make sure you know what you’ll do with the costume pieces after Halloween: can they be repurposed, reused again, or recycled? 

Grainy photo, but here we’re a lumberjack and maple tree–an easy costume that we made out of clothes and supplies we already had at home. Plus, we had fun making it together! We saved the leaf decorations and recycled the cardboard box that made the tree when Halloween was over.

Buy a Costume

Thrift stores such as Goodwill are a great place to find items that complement a homemade costume.

If you must buy new, my suggestion is to buy something “classic,” that you know you’ll want to wear in future years. 

For kids, I’d suggest buying a costume that you know they’ll wear year-round! Many kids like to dress up outside of Halloween, and this way, their costume can do double duty. If your child has younger siblings, hold onto their costume for next year, and it might get some reuse that way as well.

2. buy healthier candy

Traditional candy brands may be tasty, but their ingredients are kinda junky. Look at the label closely, and you’ll probably find palm oil (not a sustainable option unless it’s RSPO Certified Sustainable), refined sugars, corn oil, fillers, gums, flavors, and artificial coloring. Unreal makes some better-for-you and amazing-tasting replacements for some common candy favorites, like these, which are similar to Snickers. The bags are definitely smaller than bulk bags of traditional candy, and they can be pricy. Consider adding some of these to your mix.


 

3. recycle your candy wrappers with terracycle 

Single serving candy inherently produces more waste than bulk snacks. But in the interest of safety, you can’t avoid this entirely if you want to hand out candy or go Trick-or-Treating on Halloween. My suggestion is to limit what you purchase and consume, and to recycle the wrappers with Terracycle! 

The reason these wrappers aren’t recyclable via store drop off or curbside bins is that they’re typically multi-layer, that is, a layer of plastic and aluminum foil. Terracycle can pull these layers apart and effectively recycle them. To make an impact beyond Halloween night, try the Kitchen Separation Box, which not only accepts snack wrappers, but also accepts many other common household items that you otherwise can’t recycle.  

 

4. avoid disposable decorations and reuse the ones you have 

Like costumes, Halloween decorations tend to be plastic-based, and often single use. Instead of purchasing disposable, plastic decorations (like spider webs or gel clings), consider reusable, or organic decorations. Think pumpkins and gourds (just compost them, see #5!), cut out paper bats or stars, or reuse string lights. Did you buy a pumpkin carving kit? Make sure you save it for next year, too!

5. compost your pumpkin and roast the seeds!  

We carved mini pumpkins last year and they turned out so cute!! They were much easier to carve, and had all the same spooky, flickering magic.
 
Bodhi wanted to eat the pumpkin right away, but you might want to cook or roast it first. 😉 
 

When you’re carving, don’t forget to compost the innards, or roast the seeds! This recipe from Minimalist Baker shows you how. Once your pumpkin starts to decompose, put it in your compost bin (so long as it isn’t painted, glittered, etc.), or compost it in your backyard. So it can “come back to life” next year!
 

Have a safe, spooky, and sustainable Halloween!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This income goes to supporting this website. As always, ideas and opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own.

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10 Random Things I’m Loving: Fall Favorites

Now a few days into October, there’s no denying it: it’s Autumn. I’m excited for all my fall favorites: Pumpkin Spice Lattes, Fall sunsets, Spooky Season, and my birthday. Today on the blog, 10 Random Things I’m Loving: Fall Edition. Dive into pumpkin spice, apples, and all things cozy– with a sustainable edge, of course!

1. Purely Elizabeth pumpkin cinnamon Ancient grain granola


PSL fans, this is for you. This Pumpkin Cinnamon granola is seriously addicting, and packed with healthy ingredients! Purely Elizabeth is my favorite granola– I love every flavor! Unlike other seasonal treats, you won’t find any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or other junk in this. Blueberry Hemp is another favorite I’m loving right now. 

2. Jennifer Behr Padded Headbands

The padded headband is back, and Jennifer Behr makes the chicest styles and colors– sustainably. Every piece is handmade in Brooklyn, where the workers are paid a living wage, and their obsolete inventory at the end of the year fits “in one shoebox.” Made of premium silks, satins, velvets, and crystals, these accessories will last decades. I got the Kate headband in Cappuccino, and it’s lightweight, silky perfection. I also love this Tori headband in Forest velvet, looking ahead to the holidays. If you’re not ready for a bigger headband, try the slimmer profile Tiana headband, and see how quickly it becomes one of your fall favorites, too.

 

3. vitamin a swim Playa Linen Boyfriend Shirt

 

Catch me wearing the Playa Linen Shirt on any given day–it’s perfect for layering and adding sun protection without being too hot! This cinnamon shade is called Desert, which is perfect for Fall. You can also buy it in a set with matching linen shorts.

 

 

4. Vuori boyfriend jogger

Fall is the season of everything boyfriend-sized, from jeans to shirts to joggers. Vuori is famous for their joggers, but did you know they’re also a Climate Neutral Certified Brand? As a V1 Community member, Vuori is my go-to for activewear and loungewear. These Boyfriend Joggers are soft and cozy enough for errands, WFH, or lounging on the weekend, and they’re the perfect weight for transitional weather, making them one of my fall favorites and also a year round staple! #therisetheshine
 

5. Only murders in the building on hulu

Selena Gomez, Martin Short, and Steve Martin are hilarious in this series! And it always seems to take place in Autumn in New York City, which really makes me want to plan a trip! Oh and Selena’s character is always wearing the most stylish and cozy cashmere sweaters. Season 3 centers around Oliver’s play-turned-musical, which made it extra fun for my inner theatre kid. 
 

6. Spiced apple cider spindrift

I looove this seasonal flavor! Spindrift is my favorite sparkling water because it’s just fruit, no funky “flavors” added. This Spiced Apple Cider flavor is crisp, refreshing, and perfectly Fall. 
 

 

Like the cheese balls of the 90s, but real food. Made with real cheddar and heirloom corn (seeds that have been around at least 100 years, grown sustainably, and never genetically modified), they’re a delicious snack that doesn’t last long in our house. Use them in a Halloween-themed charcuterie board, or eat them straight from the bag, like I do. 

8. Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray

This wave spray is hydrating, smells amazing, and makes soft waves! As a brand, DAE is Leaping Bunny certified and donates a portion of purchases to charities bringing clean water to developing nations.

 

9. Ed Sheeran’s Autumn Variations album

We recently saw Ed Sheeran in concert at SoFi Stadium and it was truly an amazing show! There are no pre-recorded tracks– he makes all beats and harmonies on the spot using a Loop Pedal. It was really impressive! He recently released a new album “Autumn Variations” which I’m excited to listen through! But he’s not my favorite ginger…(see number 10!).  

1o. Pumpkin Spice Golden Retriever

Bodhi is our Golden Retriever and he’s very much a red-golden, so we affectionately call him our Pumpkin Spice Golden. I’m enjoying walks with him in the cool Autumn air!
 

That’s all for now, I hope you’re enjoying the changing seasons wherever you’re located! 

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn on qualifying purchases. I would never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!

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Fourth of July Style

Beach or pool, lake or backyard BBQ, these are the sustainable essentials for your Fourth of July celebration. 

Dive in!

BUT FIRST, SUNSCREEN

Wherever you’re headed for the Fourth of July, make sure you’re covered with sustainable, clean sunscreen! Check out my blog post here. 

 

 

While you’re at it, you may need bug spray. I bought this one from Stem  but haven’t tried it yet (we don’t have many mosquitoes here!). It’s safe for kids and pets and I like its natural oils. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, make sure to test a small portion of skin first to see how you react.

 

Grab some aloe in case you find yourself with a sunburn on the Fourth of July. I like the ingredients on this one from Badger. I like the brand’s sunscreen,  but haven’t tried this yet!

 


Ok now on to the fun stuff!

 

july 4th poolside essentials

For a classic, yet festive look, pair this Sirena sarong in the Coastal Crinkle Linen with a white bikini and you have a 4th of July ready look that can be worn on any other occasion, too.

Sirena Sarong – Coastal Crinkle Linen

From poolside to coastline. Add versitile sustainability to your cover-up with our Crin… [More]

Price: $65.00

If you need a fresh white bikini, the Astrid Bandeau and California High Leg in White EcoRib are for you. I love the center u-ring cutout here. It’s stylish yet timeless. 

Astrid Bandeau – White EcoRib BT

A strapless staple. The Astrid Bandeau has a center u-ring cutout and shirring you can … [More]

Price: $130.00

Need a pool bag? Try one of these made from hand-woven straw.

The Jacksons Here Comes the Sun Large Tote…

From the market to the beach. A must-have, handcrafted tote bag from The Jackson’s made… [More]

Price: $120.00

Tash Woven Tote – Natural/Black

td {border: 1px solid #ccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}Hand-woven straw tote to … [More]

Price: $178.00
 
 

lakeside for the fourth

This bikini is reversible! You get this gorgeous blue Lagoon color way on one side, and a the red-hued Hibiscus on the other. It’s basically two bikinis in one. The white detailing makes both sides perfect for a sporty Fourth of July look.

Kai Reversible Bralette – Rev Lagoon EcoRib

Two bikinis in one. Kai is the strappy back reversible bikini top with a little extra c… [More]

Price: $125.00

Here’s the other side in Hibiscus, and look how cute the back of the top is!

Toss on this cute coverup to go from dockside to bbq in a pinch. It also comes in the Coastal Crinkle Linen for a bolder look.

 

Ophelia Overall – White Crinkle Linen

A beachside essential, Ophelia has a relaxed fit and breathable silhouette perfect to w… [More]

Price: $168.00

Ophelia Overall – Coastal Crinkle Linen

A beachside essential, Ophelia has a relaxed fit and breathable silhouette perfect to w… [More]

Price: $178.00

 

 

RED WHITE & BLUE BACKYARD BBQ

This breezy, open-back maxi dress is perfect for a backyard BBQ on the Fourth of July. Wear it in White Eyelet Organic Cotton,  Hibiscus, or Ocean Shimmer. The straps can be tied in multiple ways!

Mari Maxi Dress – White Eyelet Organic Cotton

Maxed out. A chic and versatile open back maxi dress. Wear the straps three different w… [More]

Price: $168.00

Mari Maxi Dress – Ocean Organic Shimmer Co…

Maxed out. A chic and versatile open back maxi dress. Wear the straps three different w… [More]

Price: $158.00

Mari Maxi Dress – Hibiscus Crinkle Linen

Maxed out. A chic and versatile open back maxi dress. Wear the straps three different w… [More]

Price: $158.00

The Alia suit is a favorite for a reason! Pair its super flattering cut with this new Hibiscus shade, and you’re ready to be festive. It also does double duty as a body suit; pair with jean shorts and go from pool to backyard bbq with ease and style.

Alia One Piece – Hibiscus EcoRib

This sleek update on the classic halter top features a sexy scoop back and a high cut l… [More]

Price: $170.00

Lastly, toss on this bucket hat to stay protected from that hot summer sun.

Cannes Straw Bucket Hat – Natural

Tailor-made for sunny days, this chic, hand-woven bucket hat is crafted from recycled s… [More]

Price: $99.00

 

4TH OF JULY BEACH STYLE

If you’re spending the Fourth by or on the beach, these staples will keep you looking hot and feeling cool.

This mitered stripe print is dripping in seaside chic. Like everything on this page, you’ll reach for this bikini on the Fourth and beyond.

Natalie Miter Halter Top – Coastal Stripe

Mitered stripes lend a bold, graphic look to our perfect halter silhouette. String ties… [More]

Price: $135.00

 

The Nya smocked top is new, and I cannot wait to get my hands on one. I love the cute lettuce edge, and the pull-on, stretchy style is made for comfort, while still looking chic. Just the vibe I want on a beach day.

Nya Smocked Bandeau Top – White Crinkle Linen

California vibes. With an easy pull-on fit and delicate lettuce edge detail, the Nya Sm… [More]

Price: $88.00

The Playa linen oversized shirt is my favorite cover up– it’s sun protection that’s lightweight, breathable, and adds an instant dose of California cool to any outfit. Toss it on when the sun goes down and cozy up to a beachside fire pit. 

Playa Blue Shirt

Have a safe and happy Independence Day, wherever and however you celebrate. 

 

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I would never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!

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Sustainable Swimwear from Vitamin A

Chic, Sustainable Swimwear

Vitamin A is a staple in my beach style. Their suits are not only gorgeous, they’re made sustainably right here in California. Today I’m sharing my favorite sustainable swimwear from Vitamin A, and why I love this brand.  

 

Get ready for summer and dive into Vitamin A Swim!

Matisse Print - 2 models- posing on beach

 

sustainable swimwear, juicy colors

This season’s colors are bright, juicy, and the epitome of summer. Colors like Tangerine and Zinnia evoke fresh fruits and vibrant flowers. These colors feel summery and fun, and their classic styling means they won’t fade into the back of your closet. As someone who loves swimwear and strives for sustainability, I carefully choose what I buy: I’ve been building my Vitamin A collection for years! These are staples you’ll want to wear season after season.

tangerine

Bright and bold, take this on your next tropical trip! This orange will really pop agains stunning ocean blues.

Elle Adjustable Tie Side Bottom – Tangerin…

Our classic string bikini bottom. It’s designed to stay in place with tie sides for adj… [More]

Price: $120.00

Rossi Halter Underwire Top – Tangerine Sup…

A little structure. A chic and versatile underwire swim top with adjustable straps and … [More]

Price: $135.00

 

 

 

matisse

I LOVE this color way! It reminds me of tropical islands full of lush flowers and palms. 

Gia Triangle Top – Matisse EcoLux BT

A classic string design that can be worn in more ways than one, Gia is an easy, everyda… [More]

Price: $110.00

Buy Now

 

OCEANA

With a slight shimmer, this turquoise color is a bolder take on a classic blue suit.

Elle Adjustable Tie Side Bottom – Oceana S…

Our classic string bikini bottom. It’s designed to stay in place with tie sides for adj… [More]

Price: $115.00

Buy Now

 

zinnia 

Barbie Pink is still having its moment. Snag a suit in this bright pink shade. Barbie sold separately. 😉 

Gia Ring Triangle Top – Zinnia EcoRib BT

Put a ring on it. Obsess over the Gia Ring Triangle top which features classic ties aro… [More]

Price: $110.00
 

sustainability looks good on you

Vitamin A makes gorgeous, high quality swim and resort wear that’s sustainable for people and planet, which is why they’re one of my favorite brands. Their pieces use recycled and organic fibers, and they even have a line of plant-based swim. Read on to learn why I buy sustainable swim from Vitamin A. 

 

SUSTAINABLe swimwear, responsibly made in the usa

All of Vitamin A’s swimwear is made in the USA, so workers are protected under US Labor Laws. Plus, California has the strictest environmental laws in the nations, so Vitamin A must meet the highest possible standards. For other products that cannot be made in California, Vitamin A partners with fair trade artisans, ensuring workers have fair wages and safe working conditions. Read more here.
 

my philosophy on sustainability in swimwear

One of the biggest ways we can support social and environmental justice is by ensuring our purchases reflect our values. My philosophy is to apply the Essentialist principle “Less, but Better.” Buy less, but buy better. Vitamin A is a lot like Patagonia: your pieces will last forever, and you can rest easy knowing they’ve been made responsibly. 

 

Now back to the bikinis. 

 

Pink Coral and Sarong

Sustainability is sexy

These shapes are classics for a reason–they flatter all bodies, and never go out of style! Vitamin A typically offers color ways that are “Essential Colors,” and those that are “Limited Edition.” Being a sustainable business, colors and styles are produced in lower quantities to avoid waste. So if you see a color way you love, snatch it up before it’s gone! 

 

swimsuit bottoms

California high leg

This bottom is *cheeky* in the best of ways! It also comes in a “classic” fit, if you prefer more coverage. I wear the cheeky fit, but size up to pull the sides higher up on my hips. This cut gives you legs for days. 

California High Leg – Black EcoRib

Small but mighty, the California High-Leg is the perfect low coverage swim bottom to fe… [More]

Price: $99.00
 
 
elle ADJUSTABLE side tie bottom
The side tie bikini bottom is about as timeless as it gets! Currently available in 9 gorgeous color ways.  I love this sparkly blue “Ocean Metallic.” I wear my normal size in string bottoms from Vitamin A. 
 

Elle Adjustable Tie Side Bottom – Ocean Me…

Our classic string bikini bottom. It’s designed to stay in place with tie sides for adj… [More]

Price: $115.00

 

swimsuit tops

Gia triangle top
This classic bikini top is supportive, flattering, and stays put! I just bought this exact suit and can’t wait to wear it! I size up in Vitamin A triangle tops for extra coverage, but use my normal size on their tanks/bralettes for a snug fit. 

Gia Triangle Top – Aloe Bloom EcoLux BT

A classic string design that can be worn in more ways than one, Gia is an easy, everyda… [More]

Price: $110.00
 

sienNa tank 
This tank is comfy, flattering, and supportive. I wear my normal size for a snug fit that provides some lift! You can also wear this backwards if you have a smaller chest or want a dramatic décolletage.  This Sea Green EcoRib is gorgeous–I just love this color.  

Sienna Tank – Sea Green EcoRib

Seriously comfy and universally flattering on all sizes. “Must have” is an understatement. [More]

Price: $115.00

 

 

my go-to ‘kini 

Still can’t decide? I recommend the California High Leg and Sienna Tank. These are universally flattering and so comfy! Throw them on and go to the beach, already! 

CALIFORNIA HIGH LEG + Sienna tank

Sienna Tank – Saffron EcoRib BT

This comfy pullover style crop tank has a scoop neck and low back. [More]

Price: $115.00

 

Sustainable beach essentials

Whether you’re planning a trip to the beach, or just love a beachy aesthetic, these accessories will keep you beach-ready all summer long.

Vitamin a swim accessories

Complete your look with breezy, eco-friendly linen and recycled straw hats.

Playa Blue Shirt

The Playa linen oversized shirt is a chic and simple cover up that goes with everything, the Cannes bucket hat effortlessly goes from beach to brunch, and the best-selling Sirena Sarong comes in 10 color ways, so you can match your favorite bikini. It’s aptly named: Sirena means “mermaid.” 

Playa Linen Oversized Shirt – EcoLinen Gau…

Breezy, light, and airy from the beach to cocktails. Our best-selling linen cover up is… [More]

Price: $148.00

Cannes Straw Bucket Hat – Natural

Tailor-made for sunny days, this chic, hand-woven bucket hat is crafted from recycled s… [More]

Price: $99.00
 

Sirena Sarong – Matisse Crinkle Linen

From poolside to coastline. Add versitile sustainability to your cover-up with our Crin… [More]

Price: $65.00

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I would never recommend anything I wouldn’t personally use, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!

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Biohacking Women’s Health

Biohacking Women’s Health

Happy Women’s History Month! Today’s post covers all the apps, devices, and tests for biohacking women’s health. From hormone-free birth control, to tracking your fertility– not just your period– there’s an app for that, and I’ve tested them for you. Let’s dive in.

  

 Biohacking your cycle

Natural Cycles app

I’ve been using Natural Cycles since 2019,  when I wanted a more natural alternative to hormonal birth control. What I love most about it is that it puts me in control of my body and my health. I’m not vilifying hormonal birth control or medicine–sometimes they’re genuinely needed!– but I love that this app allows me to own my reproductive health naturally. And because I’m not taking medicine, I can see what’s actually going on with my cycle each month.  

What is Natural Cycles? 

Natural Cycles is a digital birth control app that is FDA cleared for use as birth control. This puts it in a league of its own: no period tracker app can say the same. That’s just one thing that makes Natural Cycles different from any period tracker you’ve been using. It also predicts and confirms your ovulation, helps you track PMS symptoms and onset, and even has a “partner mode” where you can allow your partner access to your daily fertility status. It can be used either to prevent or to plan and monitor a pregnancy. 

How Natural Cycles Works

Our body temperatures rise or fall with different hormone levels, and a temperature spike shortly follows ovulation. Natural Cycles tracks your temperature throughout your cycle, and predicts your “fertile window,” during which ovulation may occur, to help you plan for pregnancy, or avoid conception. Natural Cycles is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy with perfect use, and 93% effective with typical use. That’s the same as “typical use” with the pill. For extra convenience, pair Natural Cycles with the Oura Ring and let it measure and sync the data for you. Without the Oura Ring, you’ll use a thermometer provided by Natural Cycles to take your temperature orally, first thing in the morning. The app has a subscription fee, but this ensures your data is never sold to third parties. Use the link below for 25% off! 

*Everyone’s medical situation is unique; check with your doctor before stopping/starting/changing any medications.*

 

Modern Fertility Hormone Test and APP

Speaking of hormones, Modern Fertility,  part of Ro, offers a range of tests to measure and track your key fertility hormones to better understand your fertility. Depending on whether or not you’re taking hormonal birth control, you can test 6 hormones, from the comfort of your home. With the Modern Fertility Hormone Test, you’ll test and learn about AMH, TSH, FSH, E2, fT4, and LH, to get a clearer picture of the amount of eggs you may have remaining, whether your hormones are acting as expected each month for successful ovulation, and more insights tailored to you. The Hormone Test requires a blood sample, and you’ll need to take it on a specific day of your cycle, but it’s very easy to do at home with a simple finger stick. Be sure to watch their how-to video first! 

proov HORMONE TEST AND APP

Looking for a cycle-by-cycle picture of your hormone levels? Proov Test offers at-home test options to test FSH, LH, and PdG, as well as hCG to confirm pregnancy, and sperm tests for a partner. All of these are tested without a blood draw, and the Proov app makes it easy to interpret the results by reading the colored test lines for you. In addition, the app gives you a “score,” for your hormones, along with suggestions for how to support your hormones throughout your cycle. The Proov app will prompt you when to test, and tracks your hormone levels across multiple cycles so you can identify trends. Interested? Use this link and code “mermade20” for 20% off.

Quick tip: use a reusable shot glass to collect your sample, or compostable cups from Amazon. 

To avoid plastic waste, skip plastic cups and use a reusable shot glass to collect your sample. (How cute is this little cup Proov sent me?!). 

If you want to avoid glass in the bathroom like me (I’m very prone to breaking things), try these compostable cups instead. 

 Biohacking overall health

Oura Ring

Providing a wealth of biomarkers at your fingertip, the Oura Ring is my favorite biohacking wearable, hands down….The Oura Ring has been a total game changer for me in how I understand my sleep and how I plan my workouts to optimize my athletic performance. In fact, I wrote an entire blog post on my Oura Ring. While it may seem pricy at first blush, it more than pays for itself when you consider the amount of high-quality data you get, and the ability to analyze this overtime. If you’ve ever wanted to improve your sleep, buy an Oura Ring now and thank me later. 
 

DIVE in

Looking for more? For tips on how to make your period eco-friendly, check out this post on menstrual cups, and see why they might be the best sustainable swap you could ever make! I recommend starting with the brand Saalt. My favorites are below.

 Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I would never recommend anything I don’t personally use, and the income helps me run my site! 
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