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National Parks

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In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act, creating the first national park in the world: Yellowstone National Park.

The idea of national parks was born out of a desire to protect and preserve America’s natural wonders, which were rapidly being destroyed by settlement, logging, mining, and other forms of development. The creation of Yellowstone National Park was a major milestone in the conservation movement, and it set a precedent for the establishment of other national parks.

Over the next several decades, other national parks were established, including Yosemite, Sequoia, and General Grant (now Kings Canyon) National Parks in California, and Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State. These early national parks were primarily focused on preserving natural landscapes, but as the national park system grew, it also came to include historical and cultural sites.

Today, the United States National Park System includes more than 400 areas that encompass over 84 million acres across the country. These areas include national parks, monuments, historic sites, seashores, and recreation areas. National parks are now established not only to preserve natural beauty, but also to commemorate important events and cultural heritage, and to provide recreational opportunities for visitors. The National Park Service manages and preserves these areas for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

Your Guide to the National Parks– hiking, guides, and more!

Buy here: National Park Foundation Blankets

  • SUPER COZY WARM: A 20D ripstop nylon shell blocks out wind and cold while 650 Fill Power Down insulation keeps you cozy and warm inside for a very important good night sleep. As a backpacking and campers dream, the snaps turn this cozy outdoor adventure blanket into a warm poncho for even the coldest mountain nights to complement your sleeping bag, hammock, or your sleeping pad. Get a coveted great night sleep in your favorite park.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND PACKABLE: At just over 1 LB with the stuff sack, we brought a small camping accessory packed loaded literally with warmth insulation to make sure you get the most out of your pack out. Stuff able blankets mean you can fit an extra item in your pack without sacrificing a great night. Choose the Poly fill for day camping, outdoor excursions, truck camping or choose our even more compact down fill for the ultimate backpacking space saving experience.
  • WATER & ODOR RESISTANT: The Parks ultimate outdoor insulated blanket has a DWR coating making it water, odor, and stain-resistant. This blanket repels dirt, sand, spilled drinks, pet hair, and more.
  • WEARABLE SNAPS: This one-person blanket is wearable and connectable! The snaps allow you to wear your blanket in a quick hurry so you can make food, add logs to the fire, or drink your beverage all while staying warm in your favorite outdoor environment. The corner loops allow you to stake the blanket into the ground or use the snaps to integrate perfectly with your camping friend’s blanket too!
  • THE OFFICAL NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION: These are the ONLY blankets specifically made for NPF with official parks artwork. Our designers worked with Americas foundation for authentic, true, and (might we splurge and say), beautiful artwork that communicates the heart of your favorite outdoor destination. Pick the park that you spend the most time in, or your dream park.

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What is for dinner

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The question as old as time…We came up with a few reasons what makes that question so hard sometimes:

  1. Lack of time: With busy work schedules and other responsibilities, we may not have enough time to plan meals in advance.
  2. Lack of inspiration: It can be difficult to come up with new and interesting meal ideas on a regular basis, especially if you’re not particularly interested in cooking or don’t have a lot of experience in the kitchen.
  3. Dietary restrictions: If you or someone in your household has specific dietary requirements, such as being vegetarian or gluten-free, it can be challenging to find meals that everyone will enjoy and that meet those restrictions.
  4. Limited ingredients: If you’re trying to plan meals around what you already have in your pantry or fridge, it can be challenging to come up with meals that use those ingredients in interesting and satisfying ways.
  5. Indecision: Sometimes it can be hard to decide what you’re in the mood for, or what will be most satisfying after a long day. This can make it hard to plan meals in advance.

Some cookbooks we turn to for inspiration:

Danielle Walker Cookbooks

Danielle Walker is a New York Times bestselling cookbook author (Against All Grain, Meals Made Simple, Celebrations and Eat What You Love) health advocate, wellness expert and self-trained chef. After being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at age 22 and suffering for many years, Danielle found health through dietary and lifestyle changes. Inspired by her own health journey, Danielle shares her gluten-free recipes on her blog, Against All Grain as a beacon of hope for others. For over a decade she has been a pioneer in advocating for a grain and gluten free lifestyle, having earned a spot on the coveted Forbes 30 under 30 list in 2015. Her delicious recipes have satiated the palates of autoimmune sufferers, kids with food allergies, healthy eaters and foodies alike. From nostalgic comfort foods to healthy holiday swaps and quick and easy meals for kids, Danielle has thousands of recipes, kitchen, food and parenting hacks that make life easier and healthier. Danielle regularly shares her health journey, recipes and expert tips on the TODAY Show, The Doctors, E! News, Access Hollywood, Home & Family, and many other nationally syndicated shows. Her work has been featured in People, O Magazine, USA Today, Shape, Women’s Health, Parents, Well + Good, and more.

For more information follow @DanielleWalker and visit http://www.againstallgrain.com

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President’s Day

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President’s Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the third Monday in February. It is intended to honor the country’s presidents, especially George Washington, the first President of the United States, and Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President.

Originally, the holiday was established to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, which is on February 22. However, over time, it has evolved into a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present.

The holiday is marked by various activities, including parades, speeches, and events that focus on the lives and achievements of the presidents. Many schools and businesses are closed for the day, and some retailers offer discounts and sales to mark the occasion.

Amazon President’s Day Sale Items (Subject to change…)

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President’s Day Book Sale

President’s Day Home Sale

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Make your bed

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Little Things that can change your life…and maybe the world

The speech was given by William McRaven, a retired Navy admiral, who shares ten lessons he learned from basic SEAL training. He emphasizes the importance of small tasks, teamwork, equality, persevering through difficult times, and having the courage to take risks. He encourages us to make their beds every morning to give us a sense of pride and accomplishment, to find someone to help us paddle through difficult times, to measure people by the size of their heart not by their physical appearance, and to never give up when life is tough. He concludes by saying that, if you want to change the world, start by doing the simple things right.

Buy his book here: Make Your Bed Little Things That Can Change Your Life And Maybe the World

Watch the speech here:

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Wanderlust…

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Travel… sometimes we want to travel for fun, and sometimes it’s for work (or maybe both)- sometimes there is the desire for new experiences, adventure, and a break from the routine of everyday life. It can manifest in different ways for different people, from a longing to explore new cultures to a desire to break the routine of our current surroundings and seek out new landscapes.

Sometimes we crave a sense of curiosity about the world, a need for personal growth and self-discovery, or a desire to connect with other people and places. For some, it may be a way to find meaning and purpose in their lives, while for others it may simply be a way to relax and unwind.

A few favorite travel essentials:

Gemice Travel Bottles for Toiletries Tsa Approved Travel Size Containers BPA Free Leak Proof

Patagonia Ultralight Backpack

Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set

Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Packing Cubes Starter Set

Buy here: Kindle Paperwhite

  • Kindle Paperwhite – Now with a 6.8” display and thinner borders, adjustable warm light, up to 10 weeks of battery life, and 20% faster page turns.
  • Purpose-built for reading – With a flush-front design and 300 ppi glare-free display that reads like real paper, even in bright sunlight.
  • More books in more places – Store thousands of titles, then take them all with you. A single charge via USB-C last weeks, not hours.
  • Easy on the eyes – Now with adjustable warm light to shift screen shade from white to amber.

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That new car feeling

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Really, is there anything better than a clean car?!

The feeling of a clean car is often one of satisfaction and pride. There is a sense of accomplishment in having taken the time and effort to clean and maintain the vehicle, and seeing it gleaming in the sunlight can be incredibly rewarding. A clean car can also feel more inviting and comfortable, as the interior is free of dirt and debris, and the windows are clear and streak-free. Additionally, a clean car can give a sense of confidence and professionalism, as it presents a well-cared-for appearance that can reflect positively on you.

Keeping your car clean is an important part of maintaining its value and ensuring that it remains in good condition over time. A clean car not only looks great, but it can also help to prevent damage and wear and tear that can occur from exposure to dirt, grime, and other debris. A few things that might help keep a clean car: a handheld vacuum, trash can, dust collector, and for fun a Yeti that fits in your cup holder.

STARUMENT Portable Hand Vacuum Cleaner Handheld Cordless Cleaner

BUST THE DUST AWAY – This cordless vacuum is fitted with an ultra-powerful suction and a strong motor so you can eliminate dirt, dust, and other particles that may be lurking on any surface.

ENJOY WIRELESS FREEDOM – Easily clean even hard-to-reach places as the limiting cords no longer bound you. This hand held vacuum offers user mobility, making your cleaning tasks more manageable.

YETI Rambler 30 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler

JUSTTOP Car Trash Can with Lid

Universal Cleaning Gel for Car Detailing Putty Gel Detail Tools Car Interior

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Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is a holiday that celebrates love. It is a day to show appreciation for the people you care about. While the holiday has its origins in ancient traditions, it has evolved over time to become a worldwide celebration of love. So, take this Valentine’s Day to tell your loved ones how much you care and to celebrate the joy of love and connection.

Also, take this day to remember to love who you are. Self-love is essential to our mental and emotional well-being. By practicing self-care, challenging negative thoughts, setting boundaries, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and embracing your unique qualities, you can cultivate a greater sense of self-love and acceptance. Remember, self-love is not selfish – it is a necessary part of leading a happy and fulfilling life. So, take the time to love and appreciate yourself for who you are, and watch as your life transforms for the better.

Treat yourself to something fun! (and on sale for a limited time on Amazon, prices are subject to change)

YETI Rambler 30 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler

SodaStream Jet Sparkling Water Maker

Ice Cream Maker by Cuisinart

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition

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A story about Grace

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Sometimes we all need the reminder…

There was a woman named Emily who was a high achiever. She always strived for excellence in everything she did, from her job to her relationships to her hobbies. However, no matter how hard she tried, she never seemed to feel like she was enough.

One day, Emily was working on a big project at work and had made a mistake. She was so hard on herself and couldn’t believe she had messed up. She was beating herself up and feeling terrible when her co-worker came over to talk to her. Her co-worker told her, “Emily, you are so hard on yourself. You are amazing at what you do and make a positive impact on everyone around you. It’s okay to make a mistake. We all do. Just give yourself some grace.”

Emily thought about what her co-worker had said and realized that she had never given herself the same grace that she so easily gave to others. She decided to start practicing self-compassion and giving herself grace for her mistakes. She also started to recognize her accomplishments and strengths and focus on those instead of dwelling on her mistakes.

As time went on, Emily noticed a huge change in her mental and emotional well-being. She was less anxious and stressed and was able to handle setbacks and challenges with more ease and grace. She also became more patient and understanding with others, as she learned to extend the same grace to others that she had started to give herself.

Emily learned that giving herself grace was an important aspect of self-care and self-love. She was no longer a slave to her perfectionism and was able to live a more fulfilling life because of it. From then on, she never stopped giving herself grace and learned to appreciate herself just as she was.

#1 Release in Amazon Devotionals:

The Sunshine Mind: 100 Days to Finding the Hope and Joy You Want

Buy here: The Sunshine Mind 100 Days to Finding the Hope and Joy You Want

Tanya Rad and Raquelle Stevens know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed by trying to keep up, develop real relationships, pursue life passions, and hear from God at the same time.

Real, honest, and shared from personal experience, Tanya and Raquelle wrote The Sunshine Mind with today’s woman on their hearts. Each of the 100 inspiring readings offers faith, hope, strength, and peace to encourage you to become the beautiful person God made you to be.

Through short encouraging readings on how to become less obsessed with perfection, seek validation from God rather than others, see negative circumstances as new opportunities, and more, you’ll learn to . . .

  • Respond with faith to the stress and anxiety that life brings
  • Embrace the truth to help you handle the pressure to “measure up”
  • Live free from worry in simple and practical ways
  • Reflect on God’s plan for you and embrace his perfect love for you–just the way you are
  • Share God’s love and joy with the people around you

Leave anxiety and stress behind, find a better way to conquer your struggles, and create a life of peace and joy with The Sunshine Mind.

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A little extra…

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Supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way for people to fill nutrient gaps and support their overall health and wellness. Some people take supplements as a way to promote overall health and wellness and to support their immune systems. Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help support various health conditions, such as heart health and joint pain. For athletes and active people, supplements such as protein powders, etc… can help enhance performance and promote muscle growth.

It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. They can help determine if supplements are necessary and recommend a safe and effective supplement plan tailored to your individual needs.

Some supplements I really like:

Natural Vitality Calm Magnesium Citrate Supplement

  • CALM MAGNESIUM POWDER: a flavored powder form that helps support healthy magnesium levels and supports a calming and unique relaxing experience, Package may vary
  • STRESS RELIEF: Our Natural Vitality Calm gives your body the fundamental nutrients your body may be lacking to help with stress so you can maintain optimal health
  • ANTI-STRESS DRINK: A vegan and gluten free anti-stress drink mix that is formulated with magnesium sourced from the Pacific Ocean to promote a healthy calm
  • MULTI-AWARD: 2018 Better Nutrition Best of Supplements Award, 2017 VR Vity Award, 2016 Clean Eating Clean Choice Award, 2015 DL Supplement Award, 2015 TFL Essentials Award to name a few

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder

  • Bioavailable Collagen Peptides Powder: Sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine. Digested and absorbed by the body quickly for maximum benefits.
  • Powerhouse Ingredients: Original Collagen Peptides plus Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C helps improve the health of your hair, skin, nails, joints, bones, ligaments and tendons

Amazing Grass Greens Blend Superfood Super Greens Powder Smoothie Mix

  • PROMOTES HEALTHY DIGESTION: Our Greens Blend are thoughtfully crafted with a nutritious blend of alkalizing greens, antioxidants, fiber & pre and probiotics to support your overall digestive health to help you feel amazing.
  • CLEAN AND GREEN: Made with ingredients you can trust, our Greens Blend are Certified Organic by CCOF, Sugar Free, Gluten Free, Plant Based, Kosher and Non GMO.
  • SUPPORTS IMMUNITY AND GUT HEALTH: Packed with 2 full servings of wholesome fruits, vegetables, vitamins & minerals in every scoop, our Greens Blend ensures you are getting the right amount of nutrients to support overall health and immunity.
  • NATURAL ENERGY BOOST: Packed with superfoods, our Greens Blend provides that extra boost to your day. With added probiotics, our Greens Blend promote healthy gut bacteria so you can feel your best!

Sports Research Triple Strength Omega 3 Fish Oil

  • JUST 1 CAPSULE A DAY: They say one is the loneliest number. But when it comes to our omega 3 fish oil supplements, it’s all you need for the day. Just one softgel has 1,040 milligrams of Omega-3 with 690 mg of EPA & 260 mg of DHA in the triglyceride molecular form. Sourced exclusively from wild Alaskan Pollock, our fish oil liquid has more essential fatty acids per capsule than Krill, Flaxseed or Algae Oils.
  • HEAD, HEART & BEYOND: Nature has given us some amazing gifts. Like Omega-3 fatty acids. Found in fish oil, these nutrients (also known as EPA and DHA) may help support cardiovascular health, brain function and the immune system – and our triple strength Omega-3 Powerhouse supplements are packed with them.

Country Farms Bountiful Beets Wholefood Beet Extract Superfood

  • CIRCULATION SUPERFOOD. Country Farms Bountiful Beets Powder promotes natural energy, endurance, and may help support natural health.
  • HEART FRIENDLY. Thanks to the nature of beets, Country Farms Bountiful Beets Powder provides natural energy.
  • GREAT TASTING. Country Farms Bountiful Beets Powder offers a delicious natural cherry flavor in each serving!

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Decluttering

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As Spring is getting closer, it has me thinking of some Spring cleaning projects. It is always a GOAL to have everything have a place. Organization around the house helps reduce stress: A cluttered home can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Decluttering can help to reduce these negative feelings by creating a more organized and calm environment. A cluttered space can make it difficult to focus and be productive. Decluttering can create a more streamlined and efficient environment that makes it easier to work and get things done and increase productivity. A decluttered home is a more enjoyable and inviting place to be, making it a happier and healthier environment to live in.

Some of the places to start with organizing are the kitchen, bathrooms, and home office.

The products that have helped me start to get motivated for organization projects are:

Kitchen, Bathroom

STORi Audrey Stackable Clear Plastic Organizer Drawer 12-Inches Wide

STORi Audrey Stackable Clear Plastic Organizer Drawers 2 Piece Set

STORi Bliss 10 x 6 Open Compartment Clear Plastic Organizer Rectangular Makeup and Vanity Storage Bin and Pantry Caddy with Pass-Through Handles Round Corner Design

STORi Bliss 12x 8 Open Compartment Clear Plastic Organizer Rectangular Makeup and Vanity Storage Bin and Pantry Caddy with Pass-Through Handles

Office:

STORi STAX Plastic Stackable Divided 3-Compartment Organizer Drawer in Classic Grey

STORi STAX Plastic Magazine Holder in Classic Grey

STORi STAX Plastic Hanging File Holder Slim Profile Letter-Size Hanging File Organizer

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