Where did February go? It’s already 80 here in Temecula Valley! One of the many advantages of California life is the early onset of Spring. While most of the US is experiencing nasty weather, we here in Cali have been sensing the seasonal change for a few weeks. The warm weather usually brings a lighter spirit and new adventures toward health and happiness. It’s time to get ready for summer and it’s always time to feel good.
Selfless Gifting
Choosing the right gift does not have to be stressful. This I say AFTER Valentine’s Day ;) For the next occasion try something different. Forget flowers and jewelry and pricey meals.Adopt an animal. One that never even comes home with you. At The Gentle Barn they have nearly two-hundred animals. All of whom were rescued from severe abuse, neglect, abandonment or worse. From feed to medical bills this ranch runs on donations. I have had the privilege of visiting this ranch on two occasions. It’s lovely. It’s inspiring. It’s peaceful. Located in Santa Clarita (two hours from Temecula, three from San Diego) it was worth the drive. I left with a renewed respect for animals and for a few weeks I had a hard time eating meat.
One of the many things I learned during my visits was the connection animals have with humans. We crave each other. For example, I was told if I sat down in the dirt by the roosting chickens and turkeys they would approach me. Within no time I had a turkey in my lap. IN MY LAP!
You can choose an animal of your choice online and set up a monthly payment as low as $10. In return you will receive an adoption certificate, a photo of your animal, and updates. Also, the ranch is open to the public on Sundays for $10 donation each. Visit your new “pet”! While you are there you can meet the owner, Ellis Laks, and hear a short and personal chalk talk all about how she achieved a lifelong dream to help animals. She also has a book called My Gentle Barn.
Recently, Ellie and her husband were notified of a cow in Tennessee who had one of his feet cut off in an accident. This cow was to be put down. When they heard about this they got in their car, drove to Tennessee and took over care of this injured animal. With their help, Dudley now has a special prosthetic to replace his foot.
“Gentle Barn rescues, rehabilitates and gives sanctuary to abused animals. Then through the interaction with our animals children learn reverence for all life.” Gentle Barn Twitter.
Wearing It
Sunblock. Spring is when most of us get around to applying it daily. Even though it’s recommended year round. There seems to be so much talk and chatter about the good and bad of this essential element to our wellbeing. It’s confusing and time-consuming to choose whats right for you and yours. As with everything we ingest or apply label reading is important.
Here are some SPF products presumed safe to slather or brush on:
Alba Botanica, MyChelle, Colorescience Pro, John Masters, Episencial, and Block Island Organics.
Be a label reader! Avoid these ingredients: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Homosalate, Octocrylene, and Paraben preservatives.
***The FDA has researched the harmful effects brought on by AEROSOL SPRAY sunscreens. Some news outlets reported that the aerosol sprays can be flammable during application and/or when the contents is exposed to sun and heat. It has also been reported that the propellant used to expel sunscreen from an aerosol spray can cause injury by ‘frosting’ the skin (some aerosol deodorant sprays have the same effect). An aerosol burn is an injury to the skin caused by the pressurized gas within an aerosol spray cooling quickly, with the sudden drop in temperature sufficient up to a sixty degree drop.
Slather or brush on!
This particular Alba Botanica Sunscreen has a pump release which poses no harm. $8 at Sprouts
Other Uses
Bars of soap are so useful beyond the bathroom. They’re not just for washing your hands. The pleasant bouquet they give is why we really love them. Place them in small spaces for maximum fragrance.
For example — The top drawer of your desk, the center console of your car, a pocket in your handbag, the pocket of a coat that will sit in the closet until next season, your intimates drawer, or line a few in various places in your closet so all your clothes can pick up the sweet scent.
Tried It
While Bath and Body Works and The Body Shop are favorites I was happy to experience something different at L’occitane. Like any other store aimed at targeting women I was taken by the overwhelming scents and colors in the store. This is when ‘in store’ and ‘online’ are truly contradictory. Leaving empty handed was not an option.
Bonus…they are happy to give out samples.
L’occitane located at UTC Mall La Jolla. Verbena Bar Soap $8, Roll-on Lavender Oil $15,
Eye and hand cream samples FREE
Something New
The beautiful Verbena! Pot it, drink it, wear it.
*This lightly scented flower comes in many colors. Typically shades of blue. Also, pink, purple, or white. Verbena needs 8 to 10 hours of sun each day.
*For a delicious herbal tea try Verbena Mint Tea Pouches by Might Leaf Tea. Organic and caffeine free. Some benefits include reduced feelings of anxiety, drink with a meal to improve and speed digestion, and the anti-inflammatory abilities of the herb are known to aid with the aches and pain of osteoarthritis.
*If you prefer subtle and floral scents try “Verbena Blossom” by Annie Oakley.
Smart Mornings
A quick and healthy breakfast:
Egg whites, shiitake mushrooms, fresh salsa, cilantro, and ginger. Sautéed in olive oil.
