Tag Archives: sleep

May 19, 2025 · 4:39 pm

The Lost Art of the Handwritten Thank You Note

In our fast-paced, tech-filled world, a simple act stands out more than ever: a handwritten thank-you note.

There was a time when sending a thank-you card was second nature—after receiving a gift, attending a dinner party, or even just to show appreciation for a kind gesture. Now, we often replace it with a quick text or emoji. But something gets lost in the convenience. That “something” is sincerity, effort, and human connection.

Why Handwritten Notes Matter

A handwritten thank-you note takes time and thought. It says:

  • “You matter to me.”
  • “I noticed what you did.”
  • “I appreciate you.”

In an age of digital everything, it feels deeply personal to open an envelope and see someone’s handwriting. It’s a small act with big impact.

When to Send One

You don’t need a special occasion. Here are a few everyday reasons to dust off that stationery:

  • After receiving a gift
  • After a dinner or party
  • After someone lends a hand or offers advice
  • After a job interview
  • Just because someone made your day better

What to Say in Your Note

Keep it simple, sincere, and specific:

  1. Greet them by name.
  2. Say thank you clearly.
  3. Mention the specific gift or gesture.
  4. Say how it made you feel or how you’ll use it.
  5. Close with warmth.

Reviving the Tradition

Taking the time to write and mail a thank-you note doesn’t just bless the recipient—it reconnects you to gratitude. It slows you down and reminds you to reflect on the goodness in your life.

It’s an old-fashioned practice with timeless value. So keep some notecards nearby. Next time someone does something thoughtful, surprise them with something that lasts longer than a text: your handwritten words.

Because gratitude never goes out of style.

https://amzn.to/3EZZBvd

Leave a comment

Filed under Book, care, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,

May 12, 2025 · 7:07 pm

A Refreshing Summer Smoothie: Packed with Nutrients, Perfect for the Heat

There’s something magical about a cold, refreshing smoothie on a hot summer day. It cools you down, satisfies your taste buds, and gives your body a quick hit of nutrients—all in one delicious glass.

Whether you’re lounging on the patio, heading out for a walk, or just trying to survive the summer heat, a smoothie is the perfect go-to. And the best part? You can pack it full of ingredients that fuel your body without weighing you down.

Why Smoothies Are a Summer Favorite

Smoothies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re a simple way to load up on vitamins, minerals, fiber, and hydration in one quick blend. They’re light, refreshing, and endlessly customizable. Plus, they can be as indulgent or as clean as you want them to be.

What to Include in a Nutritious Summer Smoothie

Here’s how to build a smoothie that’s both refreshing and nourishing:

  • Fresh or Frozen Fruit – Berries, mango, pineapple, watermelon, banana… fruit adds flavor, fiber, and natural sweetness.
  • Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, or even Swiss chard disappear into the background while adding a punch of nutrients.
  • Liquid Base – Water, coconut water, almond milk, oat milk, or even green tea for a gentle energy boost.
  • Healthy Fats – Add avocado, flaxseed, chia seeds, or nut butter for creaminess and long-lasting energy.
  • Protein Boost – Consider a scoop of Greek yogurt, a clean protein powder, or even silken tofu to keep you feeling full.
  • Optional Extras – A splash of lemon juice, a dash of cinnamon, or a handful of ice to keep things cool and bright.

One of My Go-To Summer Smoothie Recipes:

Tropical Green Glow Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango
  • ½ banana
  • 1 handful fresh spinach
  • 1 cup coconut water
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • Juice of ½ lime
  • Ice cubes (optional)

Blend until smooth and enjoy!

Sippable Wellness, All Summer Long
Smoothies are a fun, fast way to care for your body during the summer months. Whether you’re looking to cool down, refuel, or simply treat yourself to something delicious, a nutrient-rich smoothie checks all the boxes.

https://amzn.to/4kfufzw

TWO BLENDERS IN ONE: 2 single-serve blending options with the Nutrient Extraction Cup and Smoothie Bowl Maker in just 1 motor base.

Leave a comment

Filed under care, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, Travel, walk

Tagged as , , , , , , ,

May 9, 2025 · 5:16 pm

Honoring Mother’s Day With Compassion and Understanding

Mother’s Day is a beautiful time to honor the love, strength, and guidance of the mothers and mother figures who shape our lives. For many, it’s a joyful celebration filled with flowers, brunches, and warm memories. But for others, this day can be tender, complex, or even painful.

Some are grieving the loss of a mother. Others may be navigating strained relationships, longing to become mothers, or reflecting on a role they never had the chance to fill. And for some, Mother’s Day brings a mix of gratitude and sorrow that words don’t easily explain.

If this day is hard for you—know that you are not alone.

Let’s make space for all of the emotions that can surface on Mother’s Day. Let’s honor the moms we’ve lost, the moms we never had, the ones we’re still healing from, and the ones we’re still becoming. Let’s remember that showing up with love—for ourselves and for others—is enough.

Whether you celebrate big, quietly reflect, or take a break from it all, may this day meet you with gentleness.

Leave a comment

Filed under care, community, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , ,

May 8, 2025 · 7:40 pm

The Power of Beets: Why This Root is Rocking the Wellness World

Beets have come a long way from being just a humble root vegetable on your dinner plate. Today, they’re powering smoothies, boosting workouts, and even showing up in your wellness routine in the form of powders and gummies. But what makes beets so special? And do beet powders and gummies really work? Let’s dig in!

Why Beets?

Beets are a natural source of:

  • Nitrates, which help improve blood flow and oxygen delivery
  • Antioxidants, especially betalains, which help reduce inflammation
  • Fiber, for digestive health
  • Essential nutrients like vitamin C, folate, potassium, and iron

These benefits translate into improved energy, better circulation, and even heart health.

Beet Powder: A Concentrated Boost

Beet powder is made by drying and grinding beets into a fine powder. It’s easy to scoop into a smoothie, water bottle, or pre-workout shake. Athletes often use beet powder to support endurance and stamina thanks to its ability to boost nitric oxide levels, which can help with performance and recovery.

Perks of Beet Powder:

  • Easily absorbed
  • Long shelf life
  • No need to cook or juice fresh beets
  • Great for pre-workout or morning energy

Beet Gummies: Wellness on the Go

If you’re not a fan of the earthy beet flavor, beet gummies might be your new favorite. These chewy, fruity supplements combine beet extract with other supportive ingredients like B12, pomegranate, or coenzyme Q10 to support heart health, energy, and focus.

Perks of Beet Gummies:

  • Portable and convenient
  • No prep or clean-up
  • Tasty alternative to powders or juices
  • Kid-friendly (and adult-approved!)

Whether you’re looking to feel more energized, support your heart, or just add a new superfood to your routine, beets are worth considering. Powder or gummy—choose what fits your lifestyle best. With a little consistency, you might just beet the afternoon slump, one scoop or chew at a time.

https://amzn.to/3ELoSsV

Leave a comment

Filed under care, coffee, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales, Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

May 6, 2025 · 5:39 pm

What’s All the Buzz About Protein? Let’s Break It Down

Everywhere you look lately—on social media, in podcasts, in fitness circles—there’s talk about getting enough protein. But what does that actually mean, and why does everyone suddenly seem obsessed with it?

Let’s break it down, simply.

What Is Protein, Really?

Protein is one of the three main macronutrients your body needs (the other two are carbs and fats). It’s made up of amino acids—think of them as building blocks your body uses to repair muscle, grow hair and nails, keep your immune system strong, and so much more.

Why Are People Talking About It?

Because protein helps with:

  • Muscle recovery and maintenance, especially after workouts.
  • Feeling full and satisfied, which can help with weight management.
  • Steady energy, since it slows digestion and helps balance blood sugar.

So when people aim to “get more protein,” they’re usually trying to support fitness goals, build strength, feel more full throughout the day, or just improve their overall health.

So… How Much Protein Do You Need?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but a general guide is:

  • Sedentary adults: around 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
  • Active individuals: often need more—closer to 1.2 to 2.0 grams per kg.

In simpler terms: if you’re active and weigh 150 lbs, your target might be around 80–120 grams of protein daily. But talk to your doctor or a dietitian to find what’s right for you.

Where Do You Get It?

Here are some great sources:

  • Animal-based: chicken, eggs, fish, Greek yogurt, beef, cottage cheese.
  • Plant-based: lentils, beans, tofu, tempeh, edamame, quinoa, nuts and seeds.
  • Protein powders: helpful if you’re in a rush or need an easy boost.

Yes, protein is important—but it’s not a magic bullet. Think of it as part of your overall health puzzle. If you’re mindful of including a little protein in each meal and snack, you’re likely doing better than you think.

So next time someone says, “You getting your protein in?”—you’ll know what they mean, and why it matters.

https://amzn.to/4m4Ter4
https://amzn.to/434UhyD

Leave a comment

Filed under care, coffee, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales

Tagged as , , , , , , , ,

April 29, 2025 · 3:54 pm

🎧 Audible & A Morning Walk: My Favorite Way to Set the Mood for the Day

Some people drink coffee to start their day. Others scroll the news or head straight into work. Me? I grab my earbuds, lace up my shoes, and hit the pavement with Audible in my ears.

It’s become a little ritual I didn’t know I needed—part movement, part mindset, and a whole lot of mood-setting.

Here’s how it goes:
I step outside, press play, and suddenly I’m not just walking—I’m adventuring, learning, or laughing depending on the day’s book. Sometimes it’s a business book that fires me up. Other times it’s a novel that gives me an emotional warm-up before I face my inbox. And occasionally, it’s something just for fun—because joy counts, too.

There’s something magical about letting someone else tell you a story while the world slowly wakes up around you. The combination of fresh air, a good story, and moving your body is like hitting a giant reset button.

Why I love it:

  • It sets a positive, intentional tone before the noise of the day kicks in
  • I feel like I’ve accomplished something before 9 a.m.
  • My step count goes up and my stress levels go down
  • I actually look forward to mornings (who am I??)

Pro tip: Always download your audiobook ahead of time, especially if you like wandering into spotty service areas like I do. Learned that one the hard way.

So if you ever feel like mornings are a bit too… morning-y, give it a shot. Grab some earbuds, choose a book that excites you, and take a little stroll. You just might find it’s the best thing you’ve done for yourself all day.

*Audible- until tomorrow is $0.99 for the first 3 months- Auto-renews at $14.95/mo after 3 months. Cancel anytime. Offer ends April 30, 2025.

https://amzn.to/4iFf0ig

Leave a comment

Filed under Book, care, coffee, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales, walk

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

April 25, 2025 · 5:16 pm

Water Bottles Are the New Handbags (And I Used to Drink from the Hose)

Let’s talk about the fashion statement of the decade: the water bottle.

Have you noticed? These things are full-blown accessories now. I’m not even mad about it—it’s just funny. Because once upon a time (cue the nostalgic music), we didn’t have matching 40 oz stainless steel hydration stations with rubber straws and pastel colors. We had… a garden hose.

Yes, I’m aging myself here—but I survived on hose water and Kool-Aid. And I turned out (mostly) fine.

Back then, water wasn’t this glamorous thing. We didn’t track ounces in an app or carry emotional support bottles with motivational time stamps like “You’re doing great!” or “Almost there!” No one clapped for us when we hydrated. We just… got thirsty and found a spigot.

Now? Water bottles come with entire personalities:

  • The Stanley Cup Girlies™ with color-coordinated gym fits.
  • The Minimalist Sipper with matte black sleekness and zero branding.
  • The Sticker Bombed Emotional Companion that doubles as a scrapbook.
  • The Gallon Jug Warrior—bless you, your biceps must be amazing.

And don’t get me wrong—I get it. We’re all out here trying to drink more water, be more mindful, and stay hydrated. And hey, if carrying around a trendy water bottle gets you there, do your thing!

But just for a second, let’s raise our BPA-free, insulated tumblers in a toast to a simpler time—when water was warm, slightly metallic, and came straight from the side of the house. Unfiltered. Unapologetic. Underrated.

Cheers to hydration, whatever your style.
And to the hose… thanks for the memories.

Owala

https://amzn.to/4lLuPGM

Yeti

https://amzn.to/3Rw2LcG

Stanley

https://amzn.to/3EHW6t1

Leave a comment

Filed under care, coffee, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales, Travel, walk

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

April 24, 2025 · 6:23 pm

The 3 Easiest Ways to Keep a To-Do List That Actually Works

Let’s face it: to-do lists can be a double-edged sword. They’re meant to keep you organized and on track, but all too often, they end up feeling more overwhelming than helpful. The good news? There’s a better way to keep your to-do list from becoming a source of stress.

If you want your to-do list to actually work for you, not against you, here are three simple strategies to keep it effective, actionable, and easy to follow:

1. Break Tasks Into Bite-Sized Pieces

One of the biggest reasons to-do lists get overwhelming is when tasks are too vague or too big. “Finish project” or “Clean the house” are great ideas, but they’re not helpful in terms of execution. The key is to break down bigger tasks into smaller, specific actions.

Instead of writing “Finish project,” try:

  • Draft the outline.
  • Research key points.
  • Write the introduction.

Each step becomes its own task, making the process feel less intimidating. Plus, it gives you more moments of victory as you check things off!

2. Prioritize with the 3 Most Important Tasks (MITs)

A massive to-do list can easily turn into a never-ending scroll of tasks that feels impossible to conquer. Instead, focus on the “3 Most Important Tasks” (MITs) for the day.

Every morning, pick three things that are essential to move forward with your goals. These should be tasks that will have the biggest impact on your day, your career, or your personal life. Everything else is secondary. This prevents overwhelm and gives you a sense of purpose.

By the end of the day, if you’ve checked off your three most important tasks, you’ve had a productive day, no matter what else is left on the list.

3. Use Time Blocks, Not Just Checkboxes

It’s easy to get sucked into the trap of having a never-ending to-do list where you’re just checking boxes without truly doing the work. Time-blocking is the solution.

Instead of just saying, “Write report,” schedule a dedicated block of time: “Write report from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM.” By allocating time for tasks, you’re giving yourself permission to focus fully on what’s at hand—without distractions—and you can avoid the temptation of jumping between tasks too quickly.

The point of a to-do list isn’t to overwhelm you with tasks but to make sure you stay focused on what truly matters. By breaking tasks into smaller chunks, prioritizing your most important tasks, and time-blocking for focused work, you’ll have a to-do list that works for you, not against you.

Remember, the best to-do list isn’t the one with the most items checked off—it’s the one that helps you achieve your goals, stay balanced, and feel in control.

Tools to help:

  • Noise-Cancelling Headphones
  • When time-blocking, it’s essential to have an environment free of distractions. Noise-cancelling headphones can help you concentrate better.
https://amzn.to/443RuYz
  • Pomodoro Timer (Digital or Mechanical)
  • Time-blocking works best with a timer, and a Pomodoro timer can keep you focused on your tasks with intervals of work and breaks.
https://amzn.to/44CVTlq

Leave a comment

Filed under care, coffee, community, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

April 23, 2025 · 4:21 pm

The Power of My Favorite Pen

You know how some people have a lucky hat, or a favorite mug that makes their morning coffee just a bit better? For me, it’s my blue pen. Not just pen—the pen. Smooth, just the right weight, no smudging, and a perfect ink that makes even my grocery list look important.

I don’t know when I first picked it up, but since then, it’s been my go-to for everything. To-do lists? Blue pen. Doodling during long calls? Blue pen. Signing something official like a birthday card or a Post-it note reminding myself to water the plants? You guessed it—blue pen.

There’s something about the ritual of uncapping it, the glide across paper, the satisfying loop of an “L” or the flourish of a signature. It’s not about the pen, really. It’s the small joy it brings. The way it makes ordinary things feel a little more special.

Maybe it’s silly to love a pen this much. But life’s made of small moments, and if a $2 writing utensil can make my day 5% better, I’ll call that a win.

Now if only I could stop losing it under stacks of paper…

This is my favorite pen!

https://amzn.to/4iycRoz

Leave a comment

Filed under care, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales, Travel

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,

April 22, 2025 · 3:19 pm

How to Giggle: Choosing Joy in a World That Takes Itself Too Seriously

When was the last time you really laughed—like, full-belly, can’t-catch-your-breath, tears-in-your-eyes kind of laughed?

If you had to think about it, it’s been too long.

It feels like we are constantly pushed to be serious, productive, and endlessly busy, How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously is a breath of fresh air. It’s not just a book—it’s a mindset shift. A permission slip to loosen up, lighten the load, and invite joy back into your daily life.

Laughing Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Life Skill

This book reminds us that giggling isn’t just for kids. It’s a powerful tool for staying grounded and resilient in a world that often feels heavy. When we take ourselves a little less seriously, we open the door to creativity, connection, and even healing.

Let Go of the Pressure to Be Perfect

One of the biggest lessons from How to Giggle is that perfectionism is overrated. The author encourages readers to embrace the messiness of life, laugh at their own mistakes, and stop comparing their behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.

Because let’s be honest—nobody has it all together. And if they say they do, they’re probably overdue for a good giggle themselves.

Find the Funny in the Ordinary

You don’t need a comedy show to laugh more. Sometimes, humor hides in the mundane: a kitchen fail, an awkward moment, or a random conversation that spirals into silliness. How to Giggle teaches us to stay open to the ridiculous, the unexpected, and the beautifully imperfect.

Takeaway: Lighten Up to Level Up

Living your hero life doesn’t mean you have to be serious all the time. In fact, lightening up might just be the secret to going further. Giggling doesn’t mean you don’t care—it means you’ve chosen joy, even when life doesn’t hand it to you easily.

So here’s your challenge today:
Laugh a little more. Let something go. Dance in your kitchen. Tell a joke, even if it’s terrible. And if all else fails—just smile at the absurdity of it all.

Because life’s too short not to giggle.

https://amzn.to/42U0gqS

Leave a comment

Filed under care, community, fitness, Fun, Healthy, Inspiration, motivation, organized, sales

Tagged as , , , , , , , , ,