Wildlife is wonderful to have flying about your space, which is why you want to encourage it as much as possible for the benefit of your garden.
Not only is it a wonderful view to be able to lounge outside with all the wildlife buzzing or flying about you, but it can help to boost your gardenâs growth of plants and flowers through cross-pollination.
With that in mind, here are some helpful tips to create a wildlife-friendly garden in six easy steps.
Build a pond
A pond is a great way to attract local wildlife, and if youâre willing to throw in a few fish, then this will assist with additional wildlife finding its way into your outdoor space.
Of course, any body of water, like a pond or a lake, will need regular maintenance. Lake weed removal is important, as is making sure any ponds or lakes are well fenced off from little ones and pets.
Not everyone will find a pond to be useful or wanted in the garden, but if youâre looking to encourage a variety of wildlife, from frogs to pond skaters, then installing a pond might be a good idea.
Compost food waste
To help nourish your soil and attract bugs of all kinds, you should look to compost any and all food waste that you can. Composting food waste is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that goes directly into your trash bin, but also to improve soil health and therefore attract wildlife.
Compost also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can do damage to the environment over time.
Feed the birds
Birds are a great addition to your garden, and they can be a great way to encourage more wildlife, like squirrels, to the garden too.
Feeding the birds with bird feeders and bird houses so that they can also nest is helpful to the environment. By giving them food and shelter, youâre helping them flourish and thrive in an environment thatâs constantly changing. Not only that, but as more green space makes way for property, these bird boxes and bird feeders are crucial.
Native plant selection
Try to select plants that are native to your local area, rather than choosing any species that might otherwise harm the ecosystem. As wonderful as some species of plants and flowers can look, you might be endangering your other native plants as a result.
Try to select the plants that will thrive in your space so that your investment of time and money is well spent, too.
Let the grass grow
Letting the grass grow is a good way of encouraging wildlife to come into your garden and make it their home. If youâre cutting down the grass too short and too regularly, then itâs not going to allow certain wildlife the opportunity to make use of it.
Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is important, so make use of these tips to transform yours into a wildlife haven.
You know those little things that make a day feel extra sweet? For me lately, itâs been having a stash of Antoninaâs Gluten-Free Brownies tucked away in the freezer, just waiting to be turned into a brownie sundae at a momentâs notice.
Theyâre rich, fudgy, and honestly? Shockingly good for being gluten-free. I say âshockinglyâ because, if youâve tried your fair share of gluten-free desserts, you know theyâre not always this indulgent. But these? These are the real deal. Soft, gooey, and totally crave-worthy.
And while I intended to savor them slowly⌠letâs just say Jayson has been doing his part to make sure the stash doesn’t last long. I’ve only managed to sneak one for myself so far, but it was so worth it.
đ¨ A Brownie Sundae Tradition (With a Twist)
Weâve started a little weekend tradition of pulling one out of the freezer, warming it just a little, and topping it with a scoop of vanilla, and a drizzle of fudge and caramel. Simple. Delicious. And yes, totally movie night worthy!
And with Motherâs Day coming up (and Fatherâs Day right behind it), I canât think of a sweeter way to celebrate than a brownie sundae on the porch, coffee in hand, family nearby, and something cozy playing in the background. Because sometimes, love looks like holding onto the last brownie in the freezer and saving it for someone else. (I hide it, don’t tell Jayson!)đ
đ Why We Love Antoninaâs
These brownies are one of those feel-good finds I love sharing. Theyâre: ⨠Certified gluten-free (great for sensitive tummies) đ Made with quality ingredients you can feel good about đ§ Perfectly portioned, great for spontaneous sundaes or weekday treats âď¸ Freezer-friendly so you can stock up and indulge when the craving strikes
You can find Antoninaâs in the freezer section of your local store or browse all the treats here. Their cupcakes, muffins, and cakes are also so goodâwe might need to build a second freezer at this point.
âď¸ Sweet Moments, Slow Mornings, and Sundaes with Love
So whether youâre celebrating Mom, Dad, yourself, or just the arrival of a sunny spring weekend, let this be your reminder that joy doesnât have to be big or complicated. Sometimes itâs as simple as a brownie sundae, a shared laugh, and a few quiet moments with the people you love most.
Happy early Motherâs Day to everyone who nurtures, supports, and shows up with love, whether thatâs in the form of wisdom, warmth, or a really, really good brownie.
đP.S. Keep a stash in the freezer, youâll thank me later.
This week has been a sweet little blend of sunshine, quiet routines, and a few things that brought me a lot of joy, plus one very happy Frenchie (thank goodness because she has been sick!). đś Olive has been loving her new chew sticks from Natural Farm Pet (more on that in a second), and Iâve been leaning into slow mornings, good spices, and leggings I might never take off.
Here are a few green things from my world this week that made life feel just a little lighter, simpler, and sweeter:
đŁ Easter (a Little Early!) with Eben & His Girlfriend
Weâre celebrating Easter a bit early this year since Elizabeth, Ebenâs girlfriend is heading home from college next week, and I couldnât be more excited to have them both here. Weâve got a weekend of cozy spring fun planned, natural egg dyeing, of course, and yes… Iâve got a special Easter egg hunt prepped just for them. I know theyâre 18 and 24, but honestly? Youâre never too old for a little fun and tradition. And you better believe Iâve put together fully loaded Easter baskets for each of them, because festive surprises and organic chocolate never go out of style. And Jayson’s making a coconut cake, so I can’t wait!
đž A Chew Stick Worth Barking About
If youâve been following along, you know Olive has allergies, lots of them. So when we find a treat she loves that actually agrees with her? Itâs a big win for everyone. We tried the chews from Natural Farm Pet and sheâs officially obsessed. I love that theyâre single-ingredient, free of fillers, and responsibly made. She loves⌠well, everything about them. I hold the end while she chomps away like itâs her lifeâs purpose.
This one has been on my heart lately, how to slow down, not just when life forces us to, but by choice. I’ve been starting my mornings with the windows open, savoring my coffee, and reminding myself that doing less can actually be more nourishing. If you’re craving a little simplicity and peace in your day, this post is for you.
Letâs talk pantry staples: I recently started using the Stella Herb & Spice Blends Complete Minis, and theyâre so good. Clean ingredients, reusable glass jars, and flavors that take even simple meals to the next level. I shared a few of my favorite ways to use them in this weekâs blog, like tossing with roasted veggies or whisking into vinaigrettes.
Shoutout to Jayson for picking me up the Mondetta high-waisted leggings and seamless active tee, Iâve been living in them. Whether weâre out hiking, on the road in the RV, or just running errands, theyâre soft, supportive, and made from recycled materials. Plus, Mondetta is a B Corp, which makes me love them even more.
Wherever you are, I hope your weekend includes something soft, something simple, and something that brings you joy. Maybe thatâs a walk outside, a fresh meal, a cozy book, or your pup snuggled up beside you.
And if youâre feeling inspired to make a few green changesâbig or smallâknow that every little bit counts.
Starting a new garden can be an exciting and rewarding experience for a new gardener. Whether you have a spacious backyard, where you sit to enjoy the best California wine, or a small balcony, creating a flourishing garden requires planning, patience, and dedication. Here are some essential tips to help you get started on the right foot and cultivate a thriving garden:
Plan your garden layout: Before you start planting, take time to design the layout of your garden. Consider factors like sunlight exposure, wind patterns, and the proximity of water sources. This planning phase will help you make the most of the available space and ensure that your plants have the best chance of thriving.
Start small: It’s tempting to envision a large, elaborate garden right from the beginning, but it’s best to start small, especially if you’re new to gardening. Begin with a small patch or a few containers, so you can manage and care for your plants more effectively. As you gain experience and confidence, you can expand your garden over time.
Choose the right plants: Selecting the right plants is crucial, especially for beginners. Consider the climate and weather conditions in your region, as well as the type of soil you have. Opt for plants that are well-suited to your environment and are relatively easy to grow. Native plants are a great choice as they are often more adapted to the local climate and require less maintenance.
Prepare the soil: Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful garden. Test your soil to understand its pH level and nutrient content. Based on the results, amend the soil with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and structure. Well-prepared soil provides essential nutrients for plants to grow strong and healthy.
Provide proper watering: Consistent and appropriate watering is vital for the growth of your plants. Some plants require more water, while others prefer a drier environment. Use a watering can or a soaker hose to water at the base of the plants, reducing the risk of disease. Water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss through evaporation.
Mulch your garden: Applying mulch around your plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as wood chips or straw, also enrich the soil as they decompose. Spread a layer of mulch around your plants, leaving space around the stems to prevent rotting.
Stay on top of weeding: Weeds compete with your plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight, so it’s essential to stay vigilant and remove them regularly. Pull weeds by hand or use gardening tools like a hoe to keep them in check. Early intervention prevents weeds from becoming overwhelming.
Monitor for pests and diseases: Keep a watchful eye on your plants for signs of pests or diseases. Catching problems early allows you to take swift action to prevent the spread and minimize damage. Use natural pest control methods when possible, such as introducing beneficial insects or using neem oil.
Prune and deadhead: Regularly prune your plants to remove dead or damaged branches and promote healthier growth. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, encourages the plant to produce more blooms and extends the flowering season.
Fertilize wisely: Over-fertilizing can be detrimental to plants, so it’s essential to use fertilizers sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Consider using organic fertilizers, which release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure over time.
Rotate crops: If you’re growing vegetables, practice crop rotation to prevent the buildup of pests and diseases in the soil. Rotate plant families each season to maintain the health of your garden.
Learn from experience: Gardening is an ongoing learning process. Pay attention to what works well and what doesn’t in your garden. Keep a gardening journal to track planting dates, weather conditions, and the performance of different plants. This information will be valuable for future seasons.
Be patient and don’t get discouraged: Gardening takes time and patience. Not every plant will thrive, and setbacks are normal. Learn from your mistakes and successes, and don’t be afraid to try new things.
Remember, gardening is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Embrace the process, and with dedication and care, your garden will flourish and bring you joy for years to come. Happy gardening!
Did you know that approximately 50 million Americans experience acne every year? According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, acne is the most common skin complaint in the United States. More often than not, it begins in puberty. However, the condition can still appear when you are an adult.
Puberty-related acne is typically linked to a sudden change in hormones, which occurs during adolescence. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to an increased secretion of sebum and oil, which can lead to clogged-up pores. Unfortunately, it’s the reason why pimples appear to plague young people.
However, you may still be affected by unpleasant outbreaks as an adult. Why does acne continue to happen throughout your 20s, 30s, 40s, and even later in life?
The answer is more complex than it seems. There could be a variety of causes for acne in adult life, ranging from stress to lifestyle choices. But summer is a season that tends to increase the risk of pimple outbreaks, and here is why it happens and how to fight it sustainably.Â
The importance of packaging
Skincare has become an essential ritual, not only in terms of mental and physical self-care but also as a social expectation. People are expected to take better care of their skin because society now has access to better information regarding skin health.
Additionally, countless beauty and fashion magazines have jumped on the trends and offered insights into the skincare routine of celebrities and influencers, such as Vogue Magazine.
Unfortunately, the popular 10 steps skincare routine models that have become viral on social media present a huge inconvenience to the environment. The global skincare market size is expected to reach $145.8 billion by 2028 as people become more aware of their skin needs. Unfortunately, skin care products also bring packaging. As the market is growing, its impact on the environment needs to reduce rapidly.Â
So, if you are considering the purchase of new acne-focused products, you want to focus on brands that are actively reducing packaging waste and making green choices.
How to choose the right green products for your skin
You can work closely with a dermatologist to determine what your skin needs. It is not uncommon for dermatologists to have a specialist brand they partner with or help design. However, they also have knowledge of other brands and can help you make a better choice for your skin health.
A dermatologist can help you with:
Identifying brands with natural ingredients
Recognizing brands that have a low environmental impact through manufacturing to packaging processes
Understanding which ingredients are best for you
Cutting down and simplifying your routine (more is not necessarily better)
It may be worth also keeping a journal of the products you use as part of your beauty routine, as makeup or moisturizing lotion could be the cause of your outbreaks.Â
Summer skin inflammation problems
Why is your skin more likely to be inflamed in summer?
Summer is a season that makes a lot of promises but rarely delivers. You may be planning for a lovely day, so you can give your favorite light summer dress a spin. But, the temperatures can rise suddenly and ruin your plan. Suddenly, the dress feels suffocating on your skin, trapping the sweat under the surface. Additionally, you might find it hard to stay hydrated in summer. Mild dehydration is a frequent occurrence, leading to water retention, which can cause frictions against the dress fabric. You may notice red marks around the armpits, the elbows, and the waist, where light swelling can lead to discomfort. The condition is not dangerous and is often easily regulated via increasing your water intake over a few days. It can also be helpful to avoid excessive sun exposure so your body can keep its moisture. But the combination of frictions and sweat may lead to inflamed outbreaks. You can help with solutions that can soothe, cleanse, and target inflammation. You may even have everything you need already at home. Have you heard about the skin-calming benefits of using colloidal oatmeal? A mixture of water and oatmeal can work wonders on your summer skin, helping reduce problems in the typical areas.Â
Other causes of inflammation and acne in summer can be mosquito or other bug bites. The summer heat may increase discomfort around the area where you’ve been bitten. So it gets harder not to scratch. Yet, the more you scratch, the more likely you are to tear through the upper skin layer. This could increase the risk of exposure to bacteria, dirt, or even waste products such as sweat, causing inflammation and clogged pores.
Sunscreen protection is a must, but at which cost?
Ideally, you should wear sunscreen lotion daily, regardless of the season. Yet, most people tend to skip protection in winter and focus only on the summer day. As tempting as it is to buy lotions in inexpensive family packs, you want to research the skin benefits of each lotion.
Indeed, sunscreen cream is the number one cause of acne outbreaks in summer, as it can clog the pores. Some sunscreens may also use chemicals that can irritate the skin and increase the risk of breakouts. So, you want to ensure you pick a sunscreen that is safe for your skin type. Read the label carefully to check whether:
It includes oil, which is a no-no for oily skin
It mentions comedogenic ingredients (or is not labeled as a non-comedogenic sunscreen)
You can help clear your skin naturally with this homemade skin hygiene recipe that can reduce redness and inflammation.
Dermatologists also recommend mineral sunscreens, which tend to be lightweight and anti-inflammatory ingredients. Chemical sunscreens tend to increase sweating, which can affect your pores. Select also a product that contains niacinamide, which can help control breakouts.
Your diet affects your skin
You are what you eat. Nutritionists recommend healthy foods that can address skin balance and health, such as fatty fish for keeping your skin hydrated, walnuts for reducing inflammation, and bell peppers for bringing in antioxidants. Summer is the best season for healthy salads that are packed with nutrients and vitamins.
Yet, it’s also a season for indulgence! After all, the sun is hot, so it’s the perfect weather to have ice cream at the beach. Americans consume approximately 22 pounds of ice cream every year, and the hot weather contributes to increased consumption. Unfortunately, two of the main ingredients in ice cream are tightly connected to acne outbreaks: dairy products and sugar. The yummy summer scoops in a cone could well be the cause of your frequent outbreaks. The quickest way to know is to write a journal of your daily activities and food, comparing skin health day after day. You may also want to experiment with removing some food groups from your summer diet.
Another surprising effect of the nice weather is the friendly garden party and BBQ event. With Independence Day celebrations, you might find yourself standing in front of a garden grill, preparing burgers for your guests. Prolonged exposure to the smoke could lead to buildups on your skin, which could affect its health and appearance. So, if you are a BBQ lover, you may want to take good care of your skin hygiene during and after a grill party:
Avoid touching your face while in the vicinity of a BBQ
Always wash your hands after handling raw meat or any part of the grill
Wash your face thoroughly after a BBQ to ensure you can remove fine smoke particles that may clog your pores
Let’s be real: Summer leads to excessive sweating
If you live in a region that is prone to heatwaves, you are probably familiar with uncomfortable nights at the peak of the summer. Your body sweats more during the summer than it does in winter. So, you might notice dry sweat patches on your pillow or mattress cover. These patches can also trap bacteria. The last thing you want at night is to lie down on top of a bacteria pool. While it is unlikely to put your immune system at risk if you are healthy, it could affect your skin and lead to acne outbreaks.
As a rule of thumb, you should change your bed sheets at least once a week in summer. It may even be easier to switch to daily changes during a heatwave, especially if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin.
The same principle also applies to your bath and face towels, as they accumulate dirt and bacteria.
Some ideas to reduce sweating at night:
You can place your bed sheets in the freezer for a few minutes before making the bed at night.
If you have a bed water bottle, you can also place it in the freezer during the day so it is ready to use when you go to bed.
A cold shower will increase sweating as your body experiences a temperature shock. Instead, try to take a short shower at a warmer temperature, closer to your body’s natural temperature.
Hopefully, these few ideas can help you understand and manage the unpleasant summer outbreaks. Keep your skin clean and fresh this summer with strategic and sustainable choices in terms of cleansing routines, products, and everyday lifestyle!
