Author Archive | Jennie Lyon

Why Electric Mowers Are a Smart Swap for Greener Yards

Gas-powered lawn mowers have been around for a long time, but they’re not exactly eco-friendly. They’re loud, messy, and give off pollution every time they’re used. That might not seem like a big deal at first, but all those small emissions add up—especially when a mower is being used every week. That’s why more people are switching to electric mowers. They’re cleaner, easier to use, and a better choice for anyone who wants a yard that looks good without harming the planet.

What Makes Gas Mowers So Problematic

Most gas mowers run on small engines that don’t burn fuel very cleanly. They release carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants into the air every time they run. In fact, running a gas mower for just one hour can pollute as much as driving a car for hundreds of miles.

There’s also the issue of spilled fuel. Filling up a mower at home can lead to drips and spills, which soak into the ground or run off into nearby drains. That’s not great for soil or water, especially if it happens often.

Then there’s the noise. Gas engines are loud. They interrupt conversations, scare pets, and definitely don’t blend into a peaceful, green space.

Switching to cleaner, quieter tools—like electric lawn mowers—is one of the easiest ways to make yard care better for the environment. They don’t need gas or oil, and they run quietly while still cutting grass just as well as the old-school versions.

Electric Mowers Don’t Create Emissions While Running

Battery-powered lawn mowers run on electricity, so they don’t give off any fumes while they’re being used. That means no greenhouse gases from the engine, and no bad smells in the air. They’re cleaner to operate, and they don’t contribute to ground-level air pollution.

For people who care about their environmental impact, using a tool that doesn’t burn fuel is a big improvement. And since they don’t need gas or oil, there’s no need to store any extra fuel around the house, either.

The batteries used in electric mowers can be charged using regular outlets, and many last long enough to mow an entire average-sized lawn on one charge. Some even work with other yard tools that use the same battery system, which makes things even easier.

Quieter Tools Mean Less Disruption

Electric lawn mowers make a big difference when it comes to noise. Instead of a loud engine roar, they give off a soft hum. That’s better for the person mowing, better for neighbors, and better for anyone who enjoys spending time outside.

Using quieter tools also helps protect wildlife. Loud noises can scare away birds and small animals or keep them from coming back. With an electric mower, the yard stays peaceful while still getting trimmed.

In areas with sound restrictions or close housing, using a quiet mower also means fewer complaints or problems. It’s a simple fix that makes lawn care more enjoyable and less disruptive.

Easier to Maintain and Use

Another reason electric mowers are becoming more popular is because they’re easier to handle. There’s no need to change oil, clean spark plugs, or worry about fuel lines. Most electric models just need a charged battery and a quick push of a button to start.

They’re also lighter than gas mowers, which makes them easier to push and steer. That helps get the job done faster and with less effort. For people who want something that’s simple to use without all the mess, electric options just make more sense.

Since they don’t need much maintenance, they also last longer with less upkeep. That saves time and cuts down on waste from old, broken mower parts.

Better for Smaller Yards and City Homes

Electric mowers are a perfect match for small and medium-sized lawns. Most can cover those spaces on one battery charge, and they’re compact enough to store in tight sheds or garages. For homes in the city or suburbs, this kind of mower is a lot more convenient.

They also don’t leave behind oil stains or fuel smells. That’s a big plus when storing them close to the house or near garden supplies.

For people living in apartments or townhomes with shared green spaces, electric mowers can also be shared more easily because they’re clean, quiet, and don’t require fuel refills.

Helping the Environment One Yard at a Time

It might not seem like switching your mower makes much of a difference, but it actually does. When more people stop using gas mowers, there’s less pollution in the air, less fuel being used, and way less noise in the neighborhood. That makes the whole area nicer for everyone.

Even a small change—like using a mower that doesn’t run on gas—can really add up over time. It’s one of the easiest ways to be more eco-friendly without having to do anything complicated.

And electric mowers are getting better every year. They’ve got stronger batteries now, better cutting power, and smart features that make mowing way easier than it used to be.

What to Look for in an Electric Mower

If you’re thinking about making the switch, it helps to know what to look for. A good electric mower should be light enough to push easily, powerful enough to cut through thick grass, and able to run long enough to finish the whole yard on a single charge.

Some models have extra features, like:

  • Adjustable cutting heights
  • Foldable handles for storage
  • Mulching or bagging options
  • Swappable batteries that work with other tools

These things don’t just make mowing easier—they help keep your yard looking better with less effort and waste.

Final Thoughts

Electric lawn mowers are a smart choice for anyone who wants to keep their yard neat while being kinder to the planet. They run cleaner, make less noise, and are easier to take care of than gas models. For smaller lawns and regular mowing, they’re more than enough to get the job done. And when it comes to greener living, switching to electric is one of the simplest steps you can take—starting right in your own backyard.

Everyday Elegance: Why I’m Loving the Handcrafted Quality of the M. Aviann Geneva Ballet Flats

Finding a pair of ballet flats that are both comfortable and chic is harder than it sounds—especially if you care about quality, craftsmanship, and longevity. But the moment I slipped on a pair from the Geneva Collection by M. Aviann, I knew I had found my new go-to shoes.

These aren’t just your average flats—they’re handcrafted with intention, built from premium materials, and made to last. They offer a timeless design with thoughtful details that make them feel elevated without trying too hard. Whether I’m running errands, traveling, heading to brunch, or slipping them on after a long day in heels, they always deliver on comfort and style.

✨ Handmade Craftsmanship You Can Feel

Each pair in the Geneva Collection is carefully handcrafted, and you can feel the difference the moment you put them on. The quality is obvious: from the buttery-soft materials to the durable soles, these shoes were made with comfort and longevity in mind.

👣 Supportive, cushioned insoles make them a dream for all-day wear
🌱 Sustainably made in small batches to ensure quality and reduce waste
🧵 Thoughtful stitching and attention to detail means they’ll hold up for years
👡 Flexible construction allows the shoes to mold to your feet while maintaining structure

No blisters. No pinching. Just buttery-soft flats that feel like a second skin—and look effortlessly polished with everything from jeans to dresses.

💫 Timeless Style That Goes With Everything

The Geneva flats strike that perfect balance between classic and current. They’re the kind of shoe you can wear season after season without ever feeling out of date.

✔️ Dress them up with a midi dress or trousers for the office
✔️ Pair them with jeans and a sweater for an elevated everyday look
✔️ Pack them for travel—they take up almost no space and go with every outfit
✔️ Keep them in your bag as a stylish, comfy backup to heels

They come in a range of gorgeous neutral tones, so whether you love warm camel, soft blush, or classic black, there’s a pair that’ll fit right into your wardrobe (and your lifestyle).

💼 Built to Last, Not Just Look Good

What really sets the Geneva Collection apart is the quality construction and wearability. These flats aren’t just pretty—they’re designed for real life.

💪 Durable soles that hold up to long walks and daily wear
🧽 Easy-to-clean materials that maintain their look over time
👜 Lightweight enough to toss in your tote or travel bag
🌎 Thoughtfully made to reduce waste and promote slow fashion

In a world of fast fashion, it’s refreshing to find shoes that are made with intention and integrity. These flats were built to last, which means fewer replacements, less waste, and more value over time.

👟 The Flats You’ll Reach for Every Day

I’ve tried a lot of ballet flats over the years, and most fall into one of two categories: cute but uncomfortable, or comfy but frumpy. The Geneva flats by M. Aviann are that rare gem that checks all the boxes.

They’re:
✅ Beautifully handcrafted
✅ Comfortable enough to wear all day
✅ Stylish and versatile
✅ Made to last for seasons (and years) to come

If you’re looking to upgrade your everyday shoes with a pair that’s both elegant and easy, this collection is worth every penny.

👉 Shop the full collection.

The M. Aviann Geneva Collection isn’t just about shoes—it’s about thoughtful fashion. These handcrafted ballet flats are a reminder that when you invest in quality, you’re not just getting something beautiful—you’re getting something that lasts.

So whether you’re stepping into the office, heading out for coffee, or packing light for your next trip, these are the flats you’ll keep reaching for—again and again.

💬 Have a favorite color or style from the collection? Let me know how you’re styling yours!

Multiply Your Plant Babies: Why I’m Obsessed with The Propagation Handbook by Hilton Carter🪴

There’s something so magical about watching a tiny cutting transform into a thriving new plant. It’s slow, subtle, and full of wonder—which is probably why I’m completely in love with Hilton Carter’s new book, The Propagation Handbook: A Guide to Propagating Houseplants.

If you’ve ever wanted to grow your plant collection (without spending a fortune at the nursery), or if you just love the idea of creating something beautiful from what you already have—this book is for you.

🪴 A Guide for Every Plant Parent (Beginner to Obsessed)

Hilton Carter has a way of making you feel like plant propagation isn’t just a gardening technique—it’s a mindful, creative act. In The Propagation Handbook, he walks you through everything you need to know: from the simplest water propagation to more advanced techniques like air layering and grafting. But don’t worry—it’s all super accessible, whether you’re a total beginner or already have plants in every window.

He even includes a list of which methods work best for which plants—so you’ll know exactly how to multiply your pothos, monstera, or that stubborn fiddle leaf fig.

🌸 Beautiful, Inspiring, and Totally Doable

Like all of Hilton Carter’s books, The Propagation Handbook is stunning. Think: page after page of bright, artful photos, gorgeous plant vignettes, and dreamy displays of “propagation bouquets” (yes, that’s a thing—and yes, I’m trying it this weekend).

It’s the kind of book you’ll flip through again and again, not just for instructions, but for inspiration. And if you’re like me and love filling your home with both plants and purpose, this book checks every box.

🌿 Why It’s a Sweet Greens Favorite

There’s a deeper message woven into this book—one I really resonate with. Propagation isn’t just about more plants. It’s about slowing down, connecting with nature, and practicing patience. Watching a root grow in water, checking your cuttings each morning, sharing little plant babies with friends—it’s the kind of quiet, meaningful joy we could all use a little more of.

Plus, propagation is incredibly sustainable. You’re reusing, repurposing, and multiplying from what you already have. Less waste, more life. 💚

📚 Ready to Get Your Hands (A Little) Dirty?

If you’re looking to grow your collection, try something creative, or just spend more time nurturing green things—The Propagation Handbook is the perfect companion.

You can grab a copy here.

Here’s to tiny roots, fresh starts, and a home that keeps growing—one cutting at a time.

Nourished by Nature: Stone & Spear Tallow Skincare That Truly Delivers 🧼

Every once in a while, you come across a product so simple, so beautifully made, and so good for your skin, you want to tell everyone you know about it. That’s exactly how I feel about the tallow-based skincare from Stone & Spear. Their products have officially earned a permanent spot in my bathroom, and honestly? My skin (and my senses) couldn’t be happier.

💧 Moisturizing Body Butter = Skin’s Best Friend
Let’s start with the Moisturizing Body Butter. If your skin is dry, sensitive, or just needs a little extra love—this is it. Rich, creamy, and deeply hydrating, it melts into the skin like butter (but better), leaving behind the softest, healthiest glow. I love applying it after a shower while my skin’s still slightly damp, it locks in moisture beautifully without ever feeling greasy. The ingredients are super minimal and clean (just how I like them), and a little goes a long way. It’s the kind of product that makes you want to slow down and take your time with your skincare.

💄 Tallow Lipstick with a Peppermint Kick
Next up: the Natural Tallow Lipstick, and let me just say, I’m obsessed with this one. It smells like fresh peppermint (hello, instant refresh), and it feels nourishing in a way most lip balms just don’t. No synthetic fragrances, no weird aftertaste, just smooth, soothing, pepperminty goodness. It’s the kind of balm you’ll want in every bag, coat pocket, and nightstand drawer.

🧼 The Dreamiest Hand & Body Soap
And finally, let’s talk about the Hand & Body Soap. I’ve used a lot of clean soaps over the years, and this one is a standout. It lathers beautifully, smells delicious, and doesn’t dry out my hands (which, let’s be honest, is rare these days). It’s made with the same care and tallow-based goodness as the rest of their line, and it’s become a daily ritual I actually look forward to.

🌿 Why I Love This Line
There’s something so comforting about products that are made with intention. Stone & Spear’s entire approach is rooted in simplicity, nourishment, and traditional ingredients that our skin truly understands. Tallow might not be trendy, but it’s time-tested, incredibly effective, and one of the most sustainable skincare ingredients around—no synthetics, no plastic packaging overload, no long list of chemicals. Just clean, honest skincare that works.

🛁 Self-Care That Feels Like a Return to Center
If you’re craving skincare that feels like home—simple, natural, and good for both your skin and the planet, Stone & Spear is 100% worth checking out. These are the kinds of products that make you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the ritual of caring for your body. And that, in itself, is a little act of self-love.

A Fresh Coat of Joy: Why I’m Loving Annie Sloan’s Colorful Living 🎨

I’ve always believed that a little paint, a little time, and a lot of heart can go a long way—and Annie Sloan’s newest book, Colorful Living: 30 Creative Upcycling Paint Projects, is pure proof of that.

Whether you’ve got a tired piece of furniture begging for a second life or you’re just in the mood to bring more color and personality into your space, this book is like a pep talk and a how-to guide wrapped into one beautifully illustrated package.

🎨 More Than Just Paint

If you know Annie Sloan, you know she’s the queen of Chalk Paint®—and this book is filled with gorgeous projects that use her signature paints to transform everything from furniture to fabric. But what makes Colorful Living so special is that it’s not just about the how—it’s also about the why.

This book is all about creating a home that feels personal, layered, and loved—not perfect. It’s about slowing down, using what you have, and infusing your space with creativity. And around here at Sweet Greens, that’s something we can totally get behind.

🌿 Sustainability Meets Style

One of the things I love most about Annie’s philosophy (and this book) is her emphasis on upcycling. Instead of tossing things that are scratched, faded, or just plain outdated, Colorful Living shows you how to turn them into something new—and completely fabulous.

It’s creative, it’s budget-friendly, and it’s so much better for the planet.

You’ll find projects like:
🪑 Restoring and painting old wooden chairs with bold patterns
🎨 Turning outdated cabinets into colorful statement pieces
🖼 Creating wall art using leftover fabric and custom paint mixes
💡 Even how to give old lamps and accessories a vibrant refresh

Each project includes step-by-step instructions, gorgeous photos, and tips to make it your own. There’s even a peek into Annie’s own home for a little behind-the-scenes inspiration (spoiler: it’s stunning and full of personality).

✨ Why This Book Belongs on Your Shelf

Whether you’re a longtime DIYer or just looking for a fun weekend project, Colorful Living is packed with creative, confidence-boosting ideas that make you want to roll up your sleeves and dive in.

Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about making something old feel new again. You’re not just saving furniture—you’re telling a story, embracing imperfection, and adding character to your home, one brushstroke at a time.

And honestly? It’s a beautiful reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start with what you already have—and a single can of paint.

📚 Ready to Add More Color to Your Life?

If you’re looking for sustainable inspiration, a new creative outlet, or just the courage to start painting that table in your garage, Annie Sloan’s Colorful Living will meet you exactly where you are.

You can grab a copy here, and I highly recommend keeping it nearby—because once you start flipping through, you’re going to want to paint everything.