Holiday Travel Essentials

Image via Free People

If you are anything like me, you are just starting to gear up for the holidays. And if you aren’t, well, I admire and envy you. Regardless of how prepared you are, the holidays - especially holiday travel - can catch you off guard, causing undue stress and taking focus away from being present with your loved ones. 

So in the name of holiday spirit, I thought I’d share how I try to prepare for travels. After all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear eliminating stress.

My Holiday Travel Essentials:

1. Hand cream: Airplanes, cold weather and OCD hand washing (stay away, germs) all wreak havoc on my hands. My current favorite is this small batch one by Camille Beckman that is made sustainably in small batches.
2. Healthy snack bars: I have the hardest time eating in airports and on the go, so I stash up on go raw bars and elemental superfood bars (both available at Whole Foods). Tip: the spirulina ones pack extra protein.
3. Host gifts: Mulling spices from Williams-Sonoma or Bulleit whiskey for hot toddies (pick up some mini bottles if you're flying).
4. Sequins: The holidays aren’t complete without them.
5. Serial: The new podcast by the creators of This American Life makes long car rides go by in a flash. But Serial debates can get heated, so maybe don’t bring it up over Christmas dinner.
6. My husband’s portable iPhone charger: What’s his is mine, right?
7. Tide to go: This isn’t just a holiday essential. I carry one in my purse and one in my car at all times, because I’ve learned the hard way that if something can be spilled, it will be spilled. Usually, on my white blouse.
8. RelayRides: I just discovered this peer to peer car rental service. Rent your car airbnb-style while you're away for a little extra holiday cash, or rent one at the airport to save money and avoid ridiculously long waits at a rental counter. Added bonus: the sharing industry is the greener way to go.

Whether you are staying close or traveling this holiday, I wish you and yours the merriest. xox.

Go Buy Now: Zella Live In Leggings

Photos: Nordstrom

My friend Ange has been preaching the Zella’s gospel for awhile now. Last week, I thought I’d check it out and see if its worth the hype. You guys, it is.

Zella is Nordstrom’s activewear brand, and the Creative Director is the former Product Manager at lululemon. I do really love lulu gear, but my wallet doesn't always agree... and the Zella prices during the Anniversay Sale are unbeatable: leggings start at $28. Twenty eight dollars, ya'll. I'll just let that sink in for a moment.

I bought the live in legging in both black & grey, and a cute sports bra for good measure. My review: the fabric on the legging is a little different than the lululemon wunder under, but just as good quality. They’re thick, so they won’t be see-through when you’re in down dog, and they make your posterior look just as fantastic. Two added bonuses - 1) you can throw these guys in the dryer and it won’t destroy them; and 2) you can’t tell they are workout gear, so you can transition them from morning runs to layering with boots and a sweater at night. Maybe just wash them first.

Just to clarify: Ange and I don’t get commission (although we wouldn’t hate it) and this post is not sponsored by Nordstrom’s. I just can’t resist sharing a great deal.

Just get there by August 3rd.

Go Buy Now: Schimdt's Natural Deodorant

I recently realized that although I’m very careful about eliminating harmful chemicals in what I eat, I had no idea what types of chemicals I was putting on my body in the form of beauty products, hair care, makeup, etc. The cosmetic industry is not regulated, and the government does not require safety testing of the ingredients in products or long-term studies on toxic effects. As women, we typically put 200+ unique chemicals on our skin every day, which get absorbed into our bodies and wreak all sorts of havoc. Yikes.

It can be overwhelming to think about, but I always try to take it one step at a time, and I’ve been slowly phasing out my old products and phasing in new, safer ones. 

One quick swap I’d recommend is switching to natural deodorant. The American Cancer Society claims that there isn’t enough research to support rumors that deodorants and antiperspirants cause breast cancer, but regardless, I want as few chemicals on my skin as possible. 

A few months ago, I ditched my dove deodorant, full of all sorts of chemicals I can’t pronounce, to schmidt’s natural deodorant. 

I have to admit, I a little was sketched on natural deodorant and wasn’t sure it would actually work, but this brand delivers. It works really well, is high quality, and has 100% all natural ingredients, without the harmful parabens and aluminum that come in other deodorants. Its also vegan and cruelty-free.

I love the ylang-ylang + calendula scent, and if you’re trying to convince your man to switch too, try the cedarwood + juniper for him.

Through June 30th, everything is 20% off with the code “SUMMERDEO”. Check it out + let me know what you think!

This blog post is not sponsored by schmidt’s natural deodorant. All opinions are my own. For more information on safe cosmetics, check out Organic Beauty Talk and Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database.

Last Minute Father's Day Gift Guide

If you're anything like me, you just started wondering what dad wants for Father's Day (oops). I typically have a hard time shopping for the men in my family, so this year, I thought I'd share some of the best gifts I've come across. So if you've procrastinated too, don't worry - I've got you covered.

Most of these are available in stores around the country, but some you may have to ship overnight in order to celebrate on Sunday.

1. Beatles art print (starts at $107), for the nostalgic music lover. Buy it online here.
2. Best Made Camp Blanket ($184), for the woods or the house. Buy it online here. Other great blankets here, here and here.
3. Dapper Dopp Kit ($45), for the dad who travels in style. Buy it in stores at Bloomindale's. San Diegans, buy it in store at Pigment.
4. J.Crew Duffle Bag ($118), because everyone needs a good duffle. My husband has one of these I steal all the time. Buy it online here, or snag this duffle or this garmet in stores at J.Crew.
5. Beer growler ($9.95), for the craft beer connoisseur. Buy it in stores at Crate & Barrel, or grab this one from West Elm.
6. J.Crew tie ($69.50), because you can never go wrong with a great tie. Buy it in stores at J.Crew.
7. McClure's Spicy Bloody Mary Mix ($8). I read on Cup of Jo that this is the best bloody mary mix out there. Yes, please. Overnight it from amazon here or find a retailer near you.
8. Vitamix S30 Personal Blender ($399). Encourage dad to be a little healthier this Father's Day. Something about the horsepower or the speed of the blades, but every guy I know who has one of these loves it. Buy it in stores at William Sonoma.
9. Mend laptop sleeve ($47.20). Sleek, handmade in Uganda, and proceeds support Invisible Children. Buy it online here.
10. The Strongbox from Best Made ($28), for him to safely store his keepsakes. Buy it online here, or upgrade to the toolbox ($94).

What are your go-to gifts for dad?

Go Buy Now: We The Eaters

My friend Ellen Gustafson released her first book last week, and it’s guaranteed to be a good one. Ellen is a sustainable food activist, food policy expert, social entrepreneur, and all around badass. I met Ellen a few years ago at a TEDx event, where she was giving one of her four TED talks, and she quickly became one of my inspirations.

In “We the Eaters,” Ellen lays out her manifesto - that by changing our dinner plates, we can change the broken food system, and really change the world. She explains:

"We the Eaters" weaves together the global stories of hunger and food insecurity that I saw so often in my work with FEED with the state of our domestic food system that leaves too many Americans unhealthy and overweight. There are concrete ideas about how every Eater, aka each of us, can make changes on our plates to improve the systems that bring us all food everyday.

I love concrete. I can't wait for my copy to arrive. Go buy yours here.

Currently Obsessed With: Soba Noodles

Image Source.

Friends, let me introduce you to my newest obsession: soba noodles. I'm seeing them pop up all over my favorite blogs, and I'm wondering if soba is the next quinoa or brussels sprouts. These little guys are from Japan and are made from buckwheat flour so they're gluten-free, low-cal, high in protein. Soba also contains all eight essential amino acids, cancer-fighting antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients. 

Pair them with some veggies and you've got a full on party. 

I made the ginger scallion bowl this week, and I can't wait to try all these other recipes. Do you have any go-to soba dishes? Do share. xo.

Sesame, Ginger + Cucumber Soba Noodles

Soba + Ginger Tahini with Crispy Kale, Shallots + Romaine 

Sweet + Spicy Ginger Scallion Noodles

Soba + Carrot Noodles with Watermelon Radish

 Simple, Salty, Sweet + Nutty Broccoli Soba

Soba Bowl with Kale, Sesame and Slivered Brussels Sprouts

More recipes here, here, and here.

Rainy Day Links

In San Diego, we're experiencing this little-known phenomenon called weather this weekend. It's so rare for us to have a stormy day, much less an entire stormy weekend. I'm really appreciating the occasion to pause and hibernate for a few days. But before I sign off, I wanted to share a round up of what I've been reading this week...

A recipe for a hot ginger toddy that I'm planning on making later today, when I'm snuggled up on the couch with a good book.

Why I'm working on adding more fermented foods to my diet. Recipe coming soon for kimchi brussels sprouts.

This minimalist, library-themed hotel in Thailand that I can't stop day dreaming about.

Homemade, healthier nutella. Yes, please.

My girl Michelle Obama announced this week that food labels are getting a makeover, with more realistic serving sizes, prominent calorie counts and an added sugars column.

Have you heard of laughter yoga?

Cute, printable Oscar party ballots.

Have a great weekend, friends!

Photograph: Greg Kandel for Vogue Italia, November 2007 

Best of Pinterest: Spring Recipes

It's (un)officially summer in San Diego! As a so-cal girl through and through, I'm loving the warm weather, the long days, and the spring & summer produce in our CSA. Asparagus, artichokes, avocados, blood oranges, blueberries, fennel, peaches, strawberries. Honestly, it doesn't get much better.

I've been inspired to make Spring recipes that I've been pinning all year, and these are first up on my list. What are your favorite spring & summer recipes?

Sources & Recipes: 1,  2,  3,  4,  5, 6, 7, 8

Summer Favorites: Recipe Edition

Oh hi, its been a while. When you have a blog, you are supposed to write in it, right? Right.

Here's a confession: sometimes I think I can do it all, but I can't. Its been a busy time, and in trying to practice what I preach about eating and exercising, I guess I just took a hiatus from preaching. But I'm back and it feels so good. I've missed this, but I hope you've all been out enjoying summer and not missing me too much.

In honor of summer's passing all too quickly (RIP June & July), I wanted to share my favorite go-to summer recipes. These have become staples over the last few weeks, and I hope you enjoy them too!

Photo & Recipe Source

1. Lemon and Herb Cous Cous
Cous Cous: easy, filling, and the leftovers keep well. It must be love.  You can use whatever herbs you have, but I recommend cilantro. It makes it so fresh.

Photo & Recipe Source

2. Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad
Have I talked about my love for quinoa before? Yes, I believe I have. Throw in some summer tomatoes and... heaven.

Photo & Recipe Source

3. Peach Mozzarella Salad
I'm actually not eating cheese right now, but this has been a big favorite in summers past. It's an interesting variation of the caprese salad that sounds strange but tastes divine.

Photo & Recipe Source

4. Sweetcorn Polenta

This photo does not do this recipe justice. It is SO GOOD. A sweet friend lent me the cookbook Plenty, and oh goodness, it's amazing. It has a whole section on eggplant, and as I've been getting a lot of eggplant in my CSA lately, I can't stop making this. But I cheat and use store bought polenta. (Please don't tell.) Its so quick, the polenta is a great substitute for pasta, and its really filling. My kinda meal.

Photo & Recipe Source

5. Lentil & Rice Salad
A friend once told me that brown rice and lentils are the key to keeping your waistline trim, and I couldn't agree more. If you are like me and a salad for dinner doesn't fill you up, lentils are a great option. I add as many veggies as possible and toss with my go-to homemade salad dressings.

What are your favorite summer recipes?

April Favorites

Happy Monday, friends! I feel like a broken record, but I can't believe that April is over. I know I'm not the only one - this morning, my husband drank out of a milk carton with a sell by date of April 17th, thinking that was weeks away.  Yes, my bad for not throwing it out sooner. But seriously, where did this month go?

Anyway, I'm really excited about sharing this month's favorites. They're all over the board, from beauty to bourbon. This month I'm loving:

1. Zoya Nail Polish
I got a really cute minty green color of Zoya in my Birchbox this month. This brand doesn't have any harmful chemicals, and the colors are adorable. Check them out at www.zoya.com.

2. Lulu's Organic Hair Powder
For those mornings when you don't have time to wash, dry & style your hair. This has been a lifesaver many mornings in a row (don't judge). Plus, it's made without talc, a chemical in many dry shampoos that may have carcinogenic properties. Buy here.

3. Chalkboard Herb Pots
I saw these adorable herb pots at Crate & Barrel and I'm in love. I want to buy a couple and line them up on my windowsill. Buy here.

4. Summery Bourbon Drinks
My Kentucky trip to the Bourbon Trail this weekend did not disappoint & I'm loving summery specialty bourbon cocktails. I pinned this strawberry basil bourbon spritzer a while ago, and I can't wait to make it. Check out the recipe here.

5. Picture Perfect Eco-Friendly Tank
Shop Ruche has an adorable lineup of eco-friendly clothes and home items. This tank is my favorite.  The combination of stripes and brights, with a throwback to color blocking is summer perfection. Check out the whole collection here.

And in honor of Earth Day, which was earlier this month, check out this great blog post on 6 Non-Extreme Habits for Eco-Eaters. I love her outlook of doing what you can to be more environmentally conscious.

Is there anything that you've been obsessed with lately?
xo.

March Favorites

Time for my March Favorites! This month, I'm inspired by all the sweet Spring colors. I'm currently loving:

1. Anthropologie Spice Jars
So much more adorable than the mix of spice jars I've collected over the years. These are so cheery and fun. Buy here.

 2. Lifefactory Glass Water Bottles
I'm obsessed with mine, and I've also stolen husband's to bring smoothies to work. I've banned plastic because of BPA and the carcinogens it releases when it heats up; and I don't love the steel taste of stainless steel bottles. So these are perfect: no chemicals, dishwasher friendly, and drop-proof. Trust me, I tend to be a bit of a clutz. Buy here.

3. Farmer's Market Baskets

As if I needed to love buying fruit from the farmer's market any more than I already do. These are also from Anthropologie, which can do no wrong in my book. If I had my way, I'd own the entire kitchen section of Anthro. Sigh. Buy here.

4. Artisan Kitchen Towels
I've been wanting new dish towels, and I love these handmade artisan ones from Branch Home. Simple, beautiful and they support families in Romania by providing jobs. Buy here.

February Favorites

Happy Leap Day, friends! Since its the end of the month, I wanted to introduce a new feature: monthly Favorites, inspired by Kristin's Favorite Things over at Kristin Eats. These are either things I own & love, or that are on the very top of my wishlist. This month it's half and half.  My February Favorites are:

1. Monthly Produce Calendar

I saw this on Pinterest and immediately hunted it down. It's beautifully designed and displays what produce is in season each month, both for planting and for buying, so you know how to eat more seasonably. You can buy it for your geographical region & use it year after year. LOVE. Buy here.

 

2. The illustrated version of Michael Pollan's Food Rules

A must-have for any home. Michael Pollan gives practical "rules" for eating and how to distinguish real food from what he calls food-like substances (aka processed foods). I have the original unillustrated version, but this one is on my wish list because it is simply adorable. The description says that this book "makes sensible eating fun." Too true. Buy here.

3. Chalkboard Tablet

I bought this along with the produce calendar & its such a fun addition to my kitchen. I use it to write out recipes, nightly menus, grocery lists, or just remind my hubby that we have a date night.  Buy here.

4. Floral Pants (Paige Denim on the left, Anthropologie on the right)
I'm currently lusting over floral pants. It's one of the biggest trends for Spring, plus if you are stuck inside an office all day, why not have cheery jeans remind you of the beautiful world outside? These pairs are a bit out of my price range, but you can find some similar Forever 21 pairs here and here.

Have you discovered any new favorites this month?