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Author Archive | Jennie Lyon

Why Every Family Adventure Needs a KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit

October 22, 2025 0

Let’s be honest, family adventures are equal parts magic and mayhem.

One minute, you’re hiking through wildflowers with snacks packed and spirits high. The next, someone’s tripped on a rock, Olive’s (my Frenchie) stepped in a mud puddle, and Mr. Sweet Greens somehow managed to get a splinter through his glove. (True story.)

That’s exactly why I’ve fallen head over hiking boots for the KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit, a total mom-level lifesaver that’s now permanently packed in my bag, car, and RV.

Created by a fellow mom of four (so you know it’s the real deal), this kit is the perfect mix of smart design and stylish practicality. It’s TSA-approved, water- and stain-resistant, and comes with 130+ first aid essentials like burn relief, bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and even those tiny little scissors you never have when you need them most.

Basically, it’s peace of mind, zipped up in a cute case.

🌿 Why I Love It

💚 Mom-designed + travel-ready: Because no one understands family chaos better than a mom who’s lived it.
💼 Compact, stylish case: Water- and stain-resistant with trendy patterns like Tie-Dye, Woodland (my favorite!), and Tropical Blooms.
🧳 TSA-approved, Fits right into carry-ons, glove compartments, and diaper bags without taking up valuable snack space.
🩹 Loaded with 130+ essentials, From mini bandages to burn cream, it’s like having a nurse in your backpack.
🚗 Four sizes to choose from, Mini (60 pieces) to SuperKit (270 pieces), so there’s one for every adventure.

✨ 7 Everyday Adventures KEEP>GOING Was Made For

Because life doesn’t happen inside the house, it happens on the go, with messy, beautiful, unpredictable moments.

1. Mountain Hikes + Muddy Trails ⛰️

If you’ve ever hiked with kids, you already know, someone will fall. Someone will whine. Someone will ask for snacks (again and again). With the KEEP>GOING kit in your backpack, at least you’re ready for scraped knees, bug bites, and whatever nature throws your way.

2. Farmer’s Market Saturdays 🍓

Between berry sampling, lavender bouquets, and bumping into everyone you know in Banner Elk, it’s easy for small cuts or bee stings to sneak in. I keep the MiniKit in my tote, it’s adorable and functional.

3. Road Trips + Rest Stop Chaos 🚙

We’re a road-trip family. From the mountains to the coast, our glove compartment is basically a survival zone, snacks, sunscreen, hand wipes, and now the KEEP>GOING kit. Because when someone manages to get a paper cut from a map (yes, it happened), you’re prepared.

4. Picnics + Paddleboards 🏖️

Sun, water, sandwiches, and somehow… minor injuries. Between paddleboard dings and stepping on rocks barefoot, this kit saves the day every time. Bonus: it’s water-resistant, so it’s perfect for lake days.

5. Backyard BBQs + Bonfire Nights 🔥

No one plans on blisters from new sandals or mosquito bites that swell like golf balls. I set the kit on the picnic table next to the marshmallows, because s’mores and safety can totally coexist.

6. Kids’ Sports + Weekend Tournaments ⚽

Between turf burns, bee stings, and “mystery splinters,” I’ve learned it’s not if you’ll need a first aid kit, it’s when. KEEP>GOING is the MVP of the sidelines.

7. Glamping, Camping, or Cabin Weekends 🏕️

Our adventures in the Blue Ridge often come with campfires, hikes, and unexpected “ouches.” Even though Eben is grown and doesn’t camp much with us anymore, it never fails that Mr. Sweet Greens or I hurt ourselves in one way or another. OR, there’s Olive, I had to use my kit to get a tick off her on our last trip and then clean her up afterward! I love knowing I can grab my kit, unzip, and instantly find what I need (no rummaging through random Ziploc bags).

💚 A Mom-Approved Must-Have

What I love most about KEEP>GOING is how intentional it feels. Every item is thoughtfully included, the quality is top-notch, and it’s all tucked into a design that makes you want to actually use it.

And as someone who lives in a small mountain town where adventure (and nature’s surprises) are never far away, it’s become one of my favorite travel companions.

If you’ve ever found yourself with a splinter mid-road trip, a scraped knee during a family hike, or a surprise bee sting at a summer picnic, you’ll totally get why I won’t leave home without mine.

🛒 Where to Get Yours

You can find these lifesaving kits directly at keepgoingfirstaid.com or on Amazon.

They come in several sizes and a variety of stylish prints, so you can grab one for your car, your hiking bag, your diaper bag, even one for Grandma’s house.

Because life’s little adventures are a lot more fun when you’re ready for them. 🌿

So go ahead, pack your snacks, fill your water bottles, and don’t forget your KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit, your future self (and your kids’ scraped knees) will thank you.

Mountain Summers, Jeep Rides, and Healthy Hair: Why Mint Tools Are My Secret to Gorgeous, Tangle-Free Strands

July 23, 2025 0

Living in the mountains means long days outside, soaking in every ounce of sunshine and fresh air. One minute I’m hiking or paddleboarding on the lake, and the next I’m hopping into the Jeep with Jayson, top down, music up, and mountain roads stretching out ahead of us. It’s perfect, except for what all that wind, sun, and lake water does to my hair.

By the time we pull back into the driveway or pull up to our favorite restaurant, my waves are usually in full tangles and my ends feel dry and frazzled. That all changed this summer when I started using Mint Tools. This stylist-founded brand creates salon-quality hot tools that actually protect your hair instead of frying it, and their brushes? Absolute game changers.

The Kaze Brush: The Best Brush I’ve Ever Used

I have to start with the Kaze Brush because it is hands-down the best brush I’ve ever used in my life. Seriously. My old brushes always seemed to either tug on tangles or just glide over the top without actually smoothing things out. The Kaze Brush detangles effortlessly without pulling, breaking, or leaving my scalp feeling sore.

After a windy Jeep ride or a day at the lake, I grab my Kaze Brush and watch tangles practically melt away. It works beautifully on wet or dry hair and leaves everything smooth and shiny instead of frizzy. If you only get one Mint product, make it this one.

S-Waver: Effortless Mountain Waves

The S-Waver is my go-to for creating loose, effortless waves that actually stay. It’s perfect for when I want my hair to look styled but still natural and carefree (which is most days out here). I use it like this:

  • After a Jeep Ride: Quick detangle with the Kaze Brush, a little heat protectant, then a few passes with the S-Waver to smooth and shape windblown hair into soft, beachy waves.
  • Pre-Adventure Styling: If I know we’re heading out on the paddleboards or doing a hike and Jeep loop, I’ll style with the S-Waver in the morning. It gives my hair body and texture that still looks great when it air-dries later after the lake.
  • Next-Day Hair: The S-Waver refreshes bedhead or ponytail creases in minutes, way easier than starting from scratch.

Crimper Tool: Adding Texture and Volume Fast

The Mint Crimper Tool is such a fun surprise. I thought crimpers were just for wild ‘80s styles (been there, done that!), but this one gives modern, cool-girl texture that works for everything from date nights to concerts at the park. I love it for:

  • Adding Volume Underneath: I take small sections underneath my top layers, give them a quick crimp, and then smooth the top layer back down. Boom, instant lift and fullness.
  • Textured Ponytails or Braids: Quick crimps add grip and style so braids and ponies stay put all day, even on Jeep rides.
  • Festival or Concert Hair: It’s perfect for adding bold texture that looks intentional and fun but still feels soft and touchable.

Travel-Friendly Hair Styling: Pack Mint for RV Trips or Weekend Getaways

Because Jayson and I love traveling in our RV (or heading out for long Jeep weekends), I keep my Mint tools travel-ready. Here’s how I pack for the road:

  • Kaze Brush: It’s lightweight, durable, and works on wet or dry hair. I keep one in my travel bag so I’m never stuck trying to detangle post-lake hair with a tiny hotel comb again.
  • S-Waver: It’s perfect for styling when you want a polished look without spending much time. I keep it in a heat-resistant pouch so I can use it and pack it quickly before we hit the road again.
  • Crimper: It takes up almost no space but makes ponytails and braids look instantly styled, ideal for camping trips, where I want low-maintenance hair with a little personality.

Pro tip: I also pack a small power strip in the RV so I can plug in multiple tools at once and keep cords organized.

Quick Jeep-to-Dinner Hair Fix

For those days when we’re out exploring and decide on an impromptu dinner:

  1. Detangle: Quick pass with the Kaze Brush to smooth windblown tangles.
  2. Style Refresh: Use the S-Waver on a few face-framing sections to revive waves.
  3. Volume Boost: Add a little crimp at the roots under the crown for lift.
  4. Finish: A touch of hair oil or lightweight spray and you’re ready to go, effortless and polished in under 10 minutes.

Mountain Life, Minus the Hair Chaos

Summer in the mountains is wild and wonderful, but it doesn’t have to mean frizz, tangles, and bad hair days. With Mint’s professional-quality tools, especially the Kaze Brush, you can protect your hair, style quickly, and actually enjoy your day instead of fighting with it.

Check out Mint’s Kaze Brush, S-Waver, and Crimper Tool for salon-quality care that fits your real life, mountain views, Jeep rides, RV trips, and all.

Stay Cool, Naturally: Otella Cooling Body Spray Is My New Summer Must-Have

July 22, 2025 0

Let’s be real, summer is gorgeous, but it’s also sweaty, sticky, and nonstop. Whether I’m running errands in the heat, hiking with Jayson, or heading to the farmer’s market in Banner Elk, I’ve found a new little lifesaver that’s earned a permanent spot in my bag: Otella Cooling Body Spray.

With just one spritz, Otella brings this instant, spa-like chill that recharges your whole mood. It’s clean, refreshing, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed to survive long, active summer days.

🌿 Why I Love It:

  • 💧 Instant cooling relief (seriously, it works)
  • 🚫 No sticky or greasy feeling
  • 🌱 Clean, skin-friendly ingredients
  • 👜 Purse-, backpack-, glove-compartment-friendly
  • 🧘‍♀️ Light, fresh scent that never overwhelms

I’ve used it during road trips, while walking Olive around the neighborhood, between client calls on our porch, and after sweaty summer pickleball games. It’s the perfect quick reset.

☀️ 7 Summer Adventures Otella Was Made For

You know I’m all about simple, intentional summer fun. If you’re looking to make the most of the season and stay cool doing it, here are a few of my favorite activities, with Otella in tow:

  1. Morning Farmer’s Market Wanders 🍓
    Start early, beat the heat, grab some local veggies, and freshen up with a spritz before heading to brunch.
  2. Picnic Hikes + Paddleboard Breaks 🚣
    Pack lunch, take the long trail, and keep Otella in your backpack for a mid-hike refresh.
  3. Backyard Movie Nights 🎬
    Set up a projector, grab your lawn chairs and snacks, and mist yourself when the air gets sticky.
  4. Outdoor Yoga or Stretch Sessions 🧘‍♀️
    After that final savasana, cool off instantly, bonus if you’re barefoot on the grass.
  5. Beach Days & Lake Dips 🏖️
    Between swims, snacks, and sun-soaked lounging, Otella is like your personal ocean breeze in a bottle.
  6. Summer Road Trips 🚗
    Keep one in the glove compartment and spritz when you roll into a new town or scenic overlook.
  7. Porch Sitting with Iced Tea 🍹
    Add a cooling mist to your evening wind-down. Sip, spritz, repeat.

💚 Clean Comfort You Can Trust

Otella is thoughtfully made with clean ingredients, no artificial junk, just gentle freshness. It’s perfect for busy parents, travelers, outdoor lovers, and honestly, anyone who’s just plain hot.

And yep, it’s available at Otella, so you can snag one (or three) without leaving your air-conditioned comfort zone.

Summer’s Hot. You Don’t Have to Be.

Whether you’re chasing kids, hitting the trail, or winding down on the back deck, Otella Cooling Body Spray is your low-effort, high-reward way to stay cool, calm, and collected all season long.

Because feeling fresh doesn’t have to be complicated, it just takes one spray. 💦🌿✨

Sip into Summer with BellaMatcha’s Lavender Lemonade: Calm, Clarity & Clean Energy in a Bottle 🍋

July 11, 2025 0

You know those magical summer days that feel like they move just a little slower? When the sun is golden, the breeze is just right, and you’re sipping something cool and delicious on the deck or at a picnic? That’s exactly the vibe BellaMatcha’s Lavender Lemonade brings in every bottle.

And spoiler alert: I’m completely hooked.

🌞 The Upgrade Your Lemonade’s Been Waiting For
We all love a classic lemonade, but BellaMatcha’s twist is something truly special. They’ve elevated this warm-weather favorite with calming lavender and ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha (sourced straight from Kagoshima, Japan), creating a refreshing, functional drink that delivers smooth energy, mental clarity, and a gentle dose of peace.

💛 Organic ingredients
💜 Naturally calming and energizing
🍋 Just sweet enough
🌱 Non-GMO and vegan-friendly
🧊 Perfectly picnic-ready

Every sip feels like a little self-care ritual, and I’ve found myself reaching for a bottle whenever I need a gentle lift or an afternoon reset.

✨ Ready to Mix It Up? Try These BellaMatcha Recipes!

Because while sipping it straight is lovely, BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade also makes a stunning base for cocktails, mocktails, and light treats. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

🍹 Lavender Matcha Fizz Mocktail

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade
  • 1/2 cup sparkling water
  • Squeeze of fresh lemon
  • Ice
  • Optional: lavender sprig + lemon slice for garnish

Directions:
Fill a glass with ice. Add BellaMatcha and sparkling water. Squeeze in lemon and give it a gentle stir. Garnish and sip somewhere sunny.

🍋 Icy Lavender Matcha Granita

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

Directions:
Pour BellaMatcha into a shallow dish and place in the freezer. Every 30–45 minutes, scrape with a fork until fluffy and icy. Serve in little bowls for the ultimate hot-day treat.

🍓 Berry-Lavender Matcha Spritz

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade
  • 1/4 cup muddled strawberries or raspberries
  • Splash of elderflower tonic or club soda
  • Mint leaves for garnish

Directions:
Muddle berries in a shaker or glass. Add BellaMatcha, ice, and a splash of elderflower tonic. Stir gently and garnish with fresh mint.

🍸 Lavender Lemonade Martini (for grown-ups only)

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade
  • 1 oz vodka
  • 1/2 oz elderflower liqueur (optional)
  • Fresh lavender sprig or lemon twist for garnish

Directions:
Shake ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish and enjoy your zen in a glass moment.

One Bottle, So Many Possibilities
Whether you’re sipping it cold after yoga, blending it into a garden-party mocktail, or pairing it with a picnic lunch under the sun, BellaMatcha Lavender Lemonade is my go-to for feeling refreshed, balanced, and just a little more grounded.

You can learn more (and grab a few bottles for your fridge) at BellaMatcha.com.

Here’s to calming vibes, creative sips, and a beautiful summer ahead. 💜🍋🌿

Soothe, Stretch, and Sit: Why the Hugger Mugger Bolster and Meditation Cushion Are My Wellness Essentials

July 11, 2025 0

If there’s one thing I’ve been leaning into more this year, it’s slowing down on purpose.

For me, that means making time to stretch before the day starts, sip my tea a little slower, and return to small rituals that nourish my body and my mind. Whether it’s a few yoga poses on the deck or five minutes of quiet breathing before bed, having the right tools has made all the difference. And lately, my self-care toolkit revolves around two absolute favorites: the Round Yoga Bolster and the Zafu Meditation Cushion from Hugger Mugger.

✨ Support That Feels Like a Hug
Let’s talk bolsters. If you’ve never used one, think of it as your yoga mat’s softer, squishier sidekick. The Standard Bolster has this firm-but-comfy vibe that makes it perfect for everything, under your knees in Savasana, across your spine for heart-openers, or supporting your hips in Child’s Pose. I especially love it when I’m reading or doing a gentle restorative flow. It’s like bringing the spa home.

It’s rectangular, super stable, and beautifully made with long-lasting, upholstery-grade fabric (mine’s a deep, grounding hue that looks gorgeous in my sunroom).

🧘‍♀️ Meditation Made Comfortable
The Zafu Cushion might be my favorite little luxury right now. It’s filled with organic buckwheat hulls, which mold perfectly to your body while supporting healthy posture. I use mine not only for meditation but also for journaling or quiet mornings with a warm drink. It lifts your hips just enough to keep your spine tall and your legs comfy, no more tingly feet or slouching halfway through your “me time.”

Plus, it has a convenient handle, so it travels well from room to room (or to the porch for sunrise meditations).

🌿 Designed for Comfort, Built with Care
Hugger Mugger’s whole approach is rooted in sustainability, wellness, and longevity. They’ve been around since 1986 and are known for crafting high-performance yoga and meditation gear that’s free from heavy metals and phthalates, and built to last.

I love that their bolsters and cushions are made in the USA, thoughtfully constructed, and offered in a rainbow of earthy, uplifting colors that make your space feel sacred and serene.

Why These Belong in Your Daily Routine
Even if you’re not a hardcore yogi or regular meditator, the bolster and Zafu cushion are beautiful additions to any wellness practice. Use them for:

✔️ Supported stretching or gentle yoga
✔️ Quiet reflection or mindfulness
✔️ Creating a cozy corner for reading or resting
✔️ Encouraging better posture while sitting

They’re the kind of everyday tools that gently invite you to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and create space for calm, even if it’s just for five minutes.

Ready to Add a Little More Ahhh to Your Routine?
You can find the Standard Yoga Bolster ($97.95+) and Zafu Cushion ($68.95+) at HuggerMugger.com, or shop them through Amazon, Nordstrom, and Free People.

Because wellness doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a little cushion, a deep breath, and a quiet moment to reconnect.

Namaste, friends. 🌿✨

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