23 December 2017

A Time To Focus

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“You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment.”
Henry David Thoreau

Each holiday season, in the midst of the chaos and disorder, I force myself to sit down and write. Usually with just a couple days before Christmas, I find myself tucked away in the office, the door tightly closed, and a hot cup of coffee in hand. There is no topic in mind, no prompt and no direction. It’s a moment for myself, just a moment because that is all I can spare. It is a time to reflect. A time to focus. Depending on our lives at the moment, my writing takes shape. Slowly molding itself into a story, words become feelings and feelings transform into meaning. I have written about gratitude, I have written about a sense of wander and slowing down, I have written about embracing the season, a cliché topic but one that always hits home for everyone.

But this year, I keep silently repeating the words “A time to focus,” over and over. I find myself saying these words in the shower, in the laundry room, when I’m driving and most often when I am in the kitchen.

The holidays should be a time to focus, but what exactly should we be focusing on? Slowing down? Living in the moment? Embracing family?

Well, yes. The answer is yes to all of the above, but our focus should reach deeper and spread much further than just the holiday season. Our focus should be a lifestyle change; a change for the better. Over the past few months I have found myself unintentionally pulling away from social media. It seems with every click I make I find myself landing on a page that is perfectly curated. Our moments are no longer candid. Our lives are styled and edited to perfection. Just by scrolling through Instagram I have found myself wanting more; a new designer purse, more cloths, new jewelry, fashion-forward clothing for my children and oh so many decorations for my home. I’ve caught myself dreaming of remodeling our house; a bigger kitchen, more light, taller windows, white walls, trendy wall paper, unique tile. Pinterest and Instagram will do this to you.

But wait, where is my focus? Because surely if I am allowing myself to become distracted by these wants and material objects of desire then my vision is out of focus. I don’t want to stream our life online and I certainly don’t want to be a mother whose main accessory is her phone. In fact, I want the opposite. I want simplicity, I want less.

My focus for the holiday season, no for the year, is on finding meaning in the small joys of life. It’s on stepping away from the distractions that blind us; like social media, materialism, nonessential desires and negativity. It’s amazing how the negativity in our life can build up within ourselves and wear us down. I choose to be positive and surround myself with like-minded people, because frankly, who really has time and energy for pessimistic people.

At the end of the day, I look at what I have in life. I have an almost teenager (yikes, need I say more), a young son who is easily influenced by those around him and a young daughter that I hope makes her mark on the world and shatters some glass ceilings. As a parent, I have my work cut out for me, but I plan to dive in and mentor my children to the best of my ability. In order to succeed, I must focus. Focus on becoming a role model, focus on slowing down in a hectic society, focus on embracing family and surrounding my loved ones with positive people, focus on moments not materialism.

And most importantly, focus on values. Because a family with solid values is a strong family.

24 November 2017

Embracing Childhood + Tea Collection Black Friday Sale

Tea Collection
Tea Collection
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Tea Collection
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Tea Collection
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"There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again."
Elizabeth Lawrence

Childhood. A time of innocence and freedom. A time to spread your wings and fly into each and every precious moment without a care in the world. A time to get lost in play and wrapped up in wonder. As an adult, don't you ever wish you could travel back in time to this place of purity, to this place that is free from the clutter of our daily lives, and just enjoy the simplicity? I know I can't toss all my responsibilities to the wayside, but I can gently nudge them out of my day for at least a small period of time. I can learn from my children. I can learn to live in the moment. I can learn to embrace imagination. I can learn to clear my mind and just be present.

Ever since my children were babies, I have fully supported Tea Collection, a globally inspired clothing line that produces well made, beautiful pieces. Their clothes are designed for all of life's adventures, big and small, and they are the kind of clothes kids love to wear. Honestly! Their styles are original and inventive yet fun and approachable. They are colorful and bold, playful and wearable. While I am a Tea Collection Ambassador, these opinions are completely my own. There are very few companies I have been loyal to for so long, but Tea is certainly one of them! Their clothing line is functional, wearable, fashionable and affordable. What else could a mom ask for?

As a Tea Ambassador, I'm excited to share with you Black Friday Sale! Shop dozens of outfits (Like these!) for just $15 and under at Tea’s Black Friday Sale, now through 11/25. You won't want to miss this opportunity to stock up on some beautiful pieces for your little one! And maybe even cross off some holiday shopping.

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*This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated a small amount if you make a purchase after clicking on one of my links.

20 November 2017

Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney + Almonds | SCD

Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney
Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney
Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney
Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney
Baked Brie with Cranberry Chutney
“Give me a good sharp knife and a good sharp cheese and I’m a happy man.”
George R.R. Martin

No holiday party is complete without an appetizer of brie cheese. Because this cheese is mild and versatile, it's the perfect choice for holiday cheese platters and pairs well with acidic dressings, like this cranberry chutney recipe below. To compliment the richness of this cheese, pair it with a creamy, subtly oaked Chardonnay and you will have a foolproof hors d'oeuvre to serve!

My kids always ask if they can eat the white rind of Brie cheese and the answer is yes, the rind is edible and is a matter of preference. While some people enjoy the earthy and nutty flavor it gives to the cheese, others, like my kids, prefer the creamy insides instead. While Brie cheese is allowed on the SCD diet (the Specific Carboyhyrate Diet) it is advised to eat it in moderation.

BAKED BRIE WITH CRANBERRY CHUTNEY
SCD, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free
yield: serves 6-10

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup water
12 ounces cranberries
1 Tbs orange juice, freshly squeezed
1/4 cup honey
1 wheel of Brie cheese
1/4 cup almond slivers
rosemary twigs for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and then allow to simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries are throughly cooked.
3. Set aside to cool.
4. Place the Brie in a small skillet or round baking dish (I used this Brie baker)and top with the cranberry chutney.
5. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the Brie has started to melt.
6. Remove from the oven, garnish with slivered almonds and rosemary twigs.
7. Serve with these Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers.

16 November 2017

Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers | SCD + Paleo

Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers
Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers
Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers
Gluten-Free Rosemary Crackers

One of the most difficult challenges we face on the SCD diet (the Specific Carbohydrate Diet) is the absence of a good sourdough bread or a crisp cracker. I'm sure if you asked my son he could easily add to the list of foods we miss, but the occasional bread and crackers are high on my personal list. While we love our clean eating lifestyle, baking with almond flour just isn't the same, and my son knows it. While this space is dedicated to our journey with Crohn's disease, clean eating and healthy foods that heal I also need to be honest with you and with myself. I've tried several bread recipes and I always end up with the same conclusion; my son doesn't like bread made with almond flour. I've tried a couple cracker recipes and I got a shrug of the shoulder and a "They're okay," reaction. Fair enough. I know when to stop and put the flour away.

But here we are with the holidays right around the corner. Cucumbers make a great alternative to crackers for dips or charcuterie and cheese boards, but it would be nice to serve these artisan dishes with something of a bit more substance and texture. Almond flour makes a good base for SCD and paleo breads and crackers, but cutting it with another nut flour is always a great alternative. With these crackers I decided to try hazelnut flour which has a rich, buttery flavor and would compliment the almond flour and spices well. Hazelnuts are high in vitamins E and B. While vitamin E is important in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails, the B vitamins are important in proper cell function and allow our bodies to stay energized all day. Hazelnuts are also a rich source of potassium, calcium and magnesium.

ROSEMARY CRACKERS
SCD, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Vegetarian
yield: 2 dozen crackers

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup hazelnut flour
1 cup almond flour
2 Tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 egg
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried rosemary

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined.
2. Gather the dough into a ball and place between two pieces of parchment paper.
3. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough out into a rectangle shape that is 1/8 inch in thickness.
4. Remove the top parchment and carefully transfer the bottom parchment to a baking sheet.
5. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the edges of the dough to make straight edges and then score the dough into a grid so it is made up of several small squares.
6. Bake the crackers at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes, depending on your oven. Make sure they are nice and brown but not burnt.
7. Remove and let cool. Break the crackers into squares and store in an airtight container for up to a week.

15 November 2017

Butternut Squash Casserole | SCD + Paleo

Butternut Squash Casserole
Butternut Squash Casserole
Butternut Squash Casserole

The holidays are right around the corner and I'm trying my best to come up with new ideas and recipes for the season. We are more than two years in to following the SCD diet and we continue to adhere to it. Our long term goal still remains the same; get off the meds and use diet alone to control my son's Crohn's disease. A goal that I firmly believe is attainable. Unfortunately, while the holidays bring joy and excitement, they also bring anxiety, temptation and serious discipline while following a strict anti-inflammatory diet. As a parent, I try and make this season as easy as possible for my family, even if it means working extra time.

I'm trying out some new recipes this week and attempting to get creative in the kitchen! Wish me luck. If you have any suggestions or requests I'm all ears. This is my butternut squash casserole recipe from last year. I thought about switching it up, but the kids gave it a thumbs up so it remains the same.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH CASSEROLE
SCD, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Vegetarian
yield: 8-10 servings

INGREDIENTS:
3 medium butternut squash, cut in half and de-seeded
3 tbs. olive oil
1 can full fat coconut milk
2 eggs
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. ginger
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 cup honey (you can use more if you prefer a sweeter dish)
1 tsp. Himalayan salt

TOPPING:
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup organic butter, melted
1/4 cup honey
2 tsp. cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Place the butternut squash halves on cookie sheets and drizzle with olive oil. Cook at 385 degrees until soft when pierced with a fork.
2. Once the squash has cooled scoop out the insides and place in a mixing bowl or food processor.
3. Add the coconut milk, eggs, spices and honey and mix with an electric mixer. I like to use my food processor for this step.
4. Place the mixture in a 9 x 12 casserole dish.
5. To make the topping combine the ingredients and mix, crumble the topping over the casserole.
6. Bake in the oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or until golden on top.

10 November 2017

THE WEEKLY ROUNDUP | IBD NEWS, CLEAN EATING, SIMPLE LIVING

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photo by Mallory + Justin Photography

"The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will instruct his patient in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease."
Thomas Edison

The Weekly Roundup is a well-curated selection of insightful articles related to health, clean-eating, the gut microbiome, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, a Paleo lifestyle, simple living, positive parenting and delicious recipes.

We did it! We officially made it through our insanely busy fall season. In a matter of five weeks we traveled to Detroit, Minneapolis, St. Louis, Dallas and Chicago for Jonas' Internationals Academy soccer team. And if that's not crazy enough, our other son traveled for his soccer team and we still managed to keep up the good grades, play piano, squeeze in a session of gymnastics and ballet for Jessica. Sometimes I think we're absolutely insane, but then I see the look on Jonas'face when he takes the field and the determination in his eyes and I know we made the right decision. This transition to a new premier team has challenged and pushed him in ways he needed. And most importantly, he's healthy and capable of balancing the strict requirements of soccer and the demands of school.

Enjoy the weekend! No traveling for us, just a couple local soccer games and ballet rehearsal for the Nutcracker performance.

1. This video is a great preview to Internationals Soccer Club Boys U.S. Soccer Development Academy. Jonas tried out for the U13 Academy team over the summer and when he made it we made the decision to go for it. The travel is challenging and the practices are not exactly convenient because they are far away, but it's been a good transition.

2. Now this is scary! Glyphosate Found in All 5 Major Orange Juice Brands. For those who don't know what glyphosate is, it is a broad-spectrum systemic herbicide and crop desiccant. It is an organophosphorus compound, specifically a phosphonate. It is used to kill weeds, especially annual broadleaf weeds and grasses that compete with crops. It's also known as Roundup. It's a hot debate on whether glyphosate poses a carcinogenic risk to humans from exposure through food. I encourage you to do your own research, but personally my family STEERS CLEAR of this herbicide. I don't know about you, but I'd prefer to pass on my glass of OJ that's blended with chemicals.

3. What drug is the most addictive, least regulated, and most widely endorsed by our culture? Not heroin or cocaine. Not tobacco. Not even alcohol. Can you guess? Read this article and learn more about America's drug of choice.

4. Harvard study shows how intermittent fasting and manipulating mitochondrial networks may increase lifespan.

5. Modified is a first-person documentary-memoir that questions why genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not labeled on food products in Canada and the United States, despite being labeled in 64 countries around the world. I'm looking forward to watching this film as it continues to spread the word on GMOs and the food industry. You can follow along on Facebook for updates and info on releases.

5. Nine Year Study Finally Explains The Relationship Between Sugar And Cancer.

08 November 2017

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup | SCD, Paleo

SCD Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
SCD Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
SCD Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
SCD Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
“People who love to eat are always the best people.”
Julia Child

There is a crispness in the air that lingers throughout our days and the nights are getting darker well before dinnertime. Winter is approaching and the season for comfort food and hearty meals has arrived. With the change of the season comes the change of our schedule; outdoor soccer turns to indoor and futsal, ballet focuses on the Nutcracker performance, basketball starts and we slowly prepare for ski season. While the bitterness of winter wears on me, there are some moments of this snowy season that I absolutely enjoy. The magical excitement of the Nutcracker, early mornings huddled under fleece blankets and hot coffee in hand to watch the first soccer game of the day, a quick afternoon getaway for a solo cross-country ski adventure in the park, the warm glow of the fire, the scent of vanilla and holiday spices.

But with these seasonal treasures we juggle a chaotic schedule with activities every single day. Our hearty meals and comfort foods need to be easily prepped, made ahead of time and sometimes taken on the go. My go-to meals for winter are filling soups and anything made in the crockpot. This Roasted Butternut Squash Soup is so rich and creamy you'll find it very filling and full of flavor. To make it vegan, simply omit the ghee and honey and swap out vegetable broth in place of bone broth.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
SCD, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free, Vegan (optional)
yield: 6-8 servings

INGREDIENTS:
2 large carrots, peeled and chopped in large pieces
2 large butternut squash, halved and seeded
2 Tbs olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 apple, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
3 Tbs ghee or butter
2 cups bone broth
1 14 ounce can coconut milk
1 Tbs honey
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 Tbs cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS
yogurt blended with 1 tsp honey
coconut milk
toasted pepitas

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. On a roasting sheet, layout carrots tossed with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. On a second baking sheet, place the squash face down with 1/8 cup of water.
3. Bake the carrots and squash until soft when pierced with a fork and slightly golden. Scoop the squash out of the skin and set aside.
4. Heat a large pot or dutch oven over medium heat.
5. Once hot, add oil, onions and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Add the apple and cook until soft.
7. Add butternut squash and carrot mix and season with salt and pepper, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon. Add the butter, stir and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add bone broth, coconut milk and honey. Bring to a low boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Allow the soup to cool and transfer to a blender, I like to use my Vitamix, and purée until creamy and smooth. Return soup back to pot and heat up if needed.
9. Taste to adjust seasonings. You can also adjust the thickness by adding more bone broth.
10. Serve with a drizzle of coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt and toasted pumpkin seeds.

31 October 2017

SCD Pecan Turtles

SCD Pecan Turtles Candy
"I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers."
L.M. Montgomery

While October is certainly one of my favorite months, I am torn about how I feel when it comes to Halloween. This once favorite holiday of mine has become a challenge for our family since we decided to turn away from sugar, starches and processed foods. Even though my oldest can't have anything passed out on Halloween, I let the kids go trick-or-treating, but the past two years Jonas has decided to pass on it and I respect his decision. I've offered to buy the candy from him and then donate it, but he would rather stick around the house and I understand. I am amazed at his strength but I never want to forget how challenging this can be for him. He doesn't have a choice; there is no cheating or sneaking a piece of candy just once. It's all or nothing. I'm just thankful he is on board and willing to adapt to this lifestyle because we know it works!

Since our Halloween is more about the tricks than the treats, I decided to surprise the kids with some after-school goodies. I packed canvas bags with little trinkets, iTunes gift cards, fruit strips, packed nuts and some homemade treats. These SCD Pecan Turtles are super easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for up to a couple weeks. Jonas likes them in the frig because the cacao remains hard but the caramel is gooey. The caramel would be a great topping for homemade vanilla ice-cream (I posted THIS recipe awhile back but the ice-cream is SCD friendly.)

SCD Pecan Turtles
yield: 16 clusters
SCD, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Refined Sugar-Free, Dairy-Free + Vegan Optional

INGREDIENTS:
Cacao Topping:
8 ounces raw cacao butter, cut into small pieces or shaved
3 Tbs honey
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup pecan halves

Caramel Topping:
1/2 C dates, pitted
1 Tbs honey
1 Tbs coconut oil, melted
1 Tbs almond or cashew butter
1 Tbs ghee, melted (use coconut milk if making vegan, just scoop the thicker cream off the top and use that)
1 tsp vanilla

1 C pecans

DIRECTIONS:
1. Line a baking tray with parchment and make small cluster of pecans, using 3 pecans for each serving.
2. Next make the caramel. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and combine until thick. Set aside.
3. Melt the cacao butter over a double broiler. Once the cacao has begun to melt add the remaining ingredients. Stir to mix and immediately remove from heat so you don't burn the cacao.
4. Using a spoon, add a quarter size amount of caramel on top of each pecan cluster.
5. Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of cacao topping over each cluster. Place in the freezer. Repeat this step once more after the cacao has set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the frig for up to 4 days or store in the freezer for 2 weeks.

12 October 2017

Dirty Rice With Cauliflower | SCD + Paleo

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Dirty rice is a traditional Cajun dish made from white rice, chicken liver, green bell pepper, celery, onion and a blend of aromatic spices. I decided to turn this classic southern Louisiana dish into a quick, healthy meal that consists mostly of staples found in the home. This recipe is so simple and can be altered to add in different veggies, chicken, sausage and even chicken liver if you prefer. Omit the bone broth to make a simple vegan dish packed with nutrients. The options are endless but full of flavor!

While we recently added organic rice into our diet, in moderation of course, this dish calls for riced cauliflower, which will always be a staple in our house. This super food totes a long list of healthy benefits and is rich in phytochemicals. Eating cauliflower provides your body with remarkable amounts of nutrients; vitamin C, vitamin k, beta-carotene and the list goes on. These nutrients help support healthy digestion, fight inflammation and promote detoxification.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower:
- Reduces Cancer Risk.
- Fights Inflammation.
- Provides High Levels of Vitamins and Minerals (especially important Vitamin C and Vitamin K)
- Improves Digestion and Detoxification.
- Aids in Weight Loss.
- Helps Balance Hormones.
- Preserves Eye Health.

The next time you're in the grocery store make sure to stock up on cauliflower! This cruciferous vegetable can be eaten raw, made into rice, roasted, steamed and used as a substitute for mashed potatoes.

Dirty Rice with Cauliflower
yield: 6 servings
SCD, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Refined Sugar-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan Optional

INGREDIENTS:

1 head of cauliflower, pulsed in a food processor
1/4 cup diced onion
1/4 cup diced carrot
1/4 cup diced celery
1/4 cup chopped broccoli
1/4 cup diced yellow pepper
1/4 cup chopped shitake mushroom
1/4 cup chopped kale
1 cup bone broth
2 or 3 Tbs. coconut oil
2 Tbs parsley
1 Tbs Creole Spice
OR
1 tsp. paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chile powder
1 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp allspice
1/4 tsp cloves

DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the cauliflower florets in a food processor with S blade attached and pulse until florets are finely ground and resemble cous cous.
2. In a large saute pan, add 1 Tbs. coconut oil and cook the cauliflower rice over medium-high heat until very lightly browned. Set aside in a large bowl for later.
3. Using the same pan, saute the onion, carrots and celery until translucent and fragrant. Add more coconut oil as needed.
4. Add the broccoli, pepper, mushroom and creole seasonings (if making your own creole seasoning, prep this ahead of time) and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring so the spices don't burn.
5. Pour in about 1/2 cup bone broth. I start with 1/2 cup and add more if needed.
6. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Add cauliflower rice and mix thoroughly. Remove from the heat, garnish with parsley and serve.

Tips & Suggestions:
- Prepare your creole seasoning ahead of time.
- Swap the bone broth for vegetable broth to make this dish vegan.
- Add chicken or sausage for an extra boost of protein.

*Feedback is greatly appreciated! Sometimes I get caught up cooking and I forget to write down the recipe, I try my best to remember every step but sometimes I just forget! For this dish I had half of the recipe written down and then...nothing. I'll make adjustments as needed.

06 October 2017

The Benefits of Tea Tree + Maple Holistics

Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
Tea Tree Maple Holistics
"Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live."
Jim Rohn

The idea of a healthy lifestyle goes far beyond what we eat and drink. Our health is impacted by the world around us; the air we breath, the dirt we touch, the clothes we wear and the products we use on our bodies. Our skin is the largest organ of our entire body, so it's imperative we treat it with care and use quality products that are free from harsh chemicals, dyes and preservatives. Did you know that nearly 20% of personal-care products contain at least one chemical linked to cancer? Yet beauty products are loosely regulated by the FDA. Think about it, you use lotions, creams, soaps and oils daily. When you put these products on you skin they are absorbed into your system and make their way to the bloodstream and inside your body. When you think about it this way you realize just how delicate our skin is and, since it is the largest organ, we should treat it with care.

For years our family has been using tea tree oil for its powerful antiseptic properties and its ability to treat wounds. But did you know that tea tree totes several other beneficial properties? Maple Holistics Natural Tea Tree Oil Shampoo can moisturize hair and scalp, can promote healthy hair growth and can soothe irritated scalp and skin. Their tea tree oil shampoo can even help prevent and fight lice, which makes it ideal for kids. And, it is cruelty-free, parabens-free, GMO-free, and gluten free; making it an ideal product to use. My daughter and I both had the chance to sample this shampoo and our hair was left feeling soft and shiny. I've been on the search for a natural shampoo for her long blonde locks and finally found one that cleanses well yet leaves her hair silky. This is the ideal shampoo for me since I'm always looking for something to promote hair growth and keep my long bob strong and thick.

Benefits of Tea Tree
- It contains natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- Soothes dry skin and scalp.
- Promotes hair growth.
- Helps to unclog hair follicles and nourish your roots.
- Tea tree oil works great on any hair type.

To read more about Maple Holistics and check out all the products they have to offer head on over to their site!
Maple Holistics | Website | Facebook | Instagram

AND you can receive your own free samples with their free samples program. Click HERE for more info and to get your samples! This program gives you the opportunity to try out Maple Holistics products at no cost, all while learning about an all-natural, cruelty-free company based in the U.S.

This post is in partnership with Maple Holistics.

04 October 2017

Cuyahoga Valley National Park + Hiking Tips For Kids

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
"Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you."
Frank Lloyd Wright

Secluded trails tucked away between rocky gorges, massive boulders perfectly placed in the middle of the vast woods, tree-covered hills, the overgrowth of brush and fresh water quickly flowing over rock and pebbles. Who would have thought this rustic landscape is situated right in the heart of Ohio. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron and just a short drive away from Canton, serves the Metropolitan area well. In just a short distance, you can escape from the bustling urban life of downtown and find a natural retreat hidden away just off the highway. These grounds welcome hikers, families, runners, bikers, bird-watchers, photographers and nature lovers.

When To Go
Hiking in Ohio is a year round adventure! Now is the perfect time of year to hike in Ohio. In a couple more weeks the leaves will be in their prime and you will be surrounded by bold hues of gold, orange, red, yellow and rust. Cuyahoga Valley is just as fascinating in the winter. The waterfalls and rivers transform into a winter wonderland and become a captivating sight created by ice. Don't forget that cross-country skiing (an activity we picked up a couple years ago), snowshoeing, sledding, and hiking in the winter months are extremely enjoyable. And of course spring offers a fresh perspective on nature as we begin to see new growth. Spring is the time for foraging and seeking out the treasures provided by the season; morel mushrooms, ramps, fiddlehead ferns.

Tips For Hiking With Children
- Dress in layers and don't forget it's Ohio- check the weather because it's always unpredictable!
- Bring plenty of water and a snack. We always pack Larabars and meat sticks.
- Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. We use essential oils or this natural bug spray.
- Wear long pants or high hiking socks with shorts to keep ticks away from your skin.
- It seems obvious, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Consider a shorter trail that is kid friendly.
- Bring a notebook and pen to encourage your child to take notes and draw pictures.
- When you get home research what you saw.
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