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Living just eight minutes from the beach means I am always looking for simple ways to add more sunshine and movement into my day. As a busy mom of three, anything that helps me stay active without adding stress is a win! The Deluxe Beach Cruiser from Huffy immediately felt like the perfect fit for my Florida lifestyle. It has that classic beach town charm with the kind of comfort and ease that makes every day rides feel like a small gift to me.

One of the first things that impressed me was how easy it was to put together. And by easy, I mean my husband put it together for me, lol! Even he commented on how straightforward the instructions were and how quickly everything came together. No complicated steps, no frustration, and no tools scattered everywhere. Before I knew it, the bike was fully assembled and ready for its first ride. The moment I hopped on, it felt smooth, sturdy, and comfortable with an upright posture that makes cruising feel effortless.

Now that summer beach season is in full swing here in Florida, this bike has become my new favorite way to stay active and carve out a little time for myself. The wide cushioned seat, easy rolling tires, and simple coaster brake make every ride feel relaxed and enjoyable.

For moms who want a reliable and stylish bike that encourages more outdoor time, the Huffy Deluxe Beach Cruiser is such a happy addition to everyday life. It has already become part of my rhythm and I cannot wait for many more miles along the coast.

Visit www.huffy.com for more information.

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, including Lowcountry Live and Indy Now, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram @TinyGreenMom and Pinterest.

*Company generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly love and use with my own family.

Top 3 Benefits of Children Wearing Iksplor Clothing in Winter for Snow Activities

Winter offers a dazzling playground for children, brimming with the joy of snow days, snowy hikes, and endless snowball fights. However, the chilly weather demands the right gear to ensure kids stay warm, comfortable, and safe. Iksplor clothing, known for its innovative design and high-quality materials, stands out as an excellent choice for winter activities.

We just experienced our first snowy weekend here in NC and were super excited to put on our winter gear and play outside! My youngest wore his new Iksplor beanie to keep his head warm and called his snowsuit his ‘snow pajamas!’

Here are the top three benefits of why we dress our children in Iksplor clothing during the frosty season:

1. Exceptional Warmth and Comfort

Iksplor clothing is crafted using merino wool, a natural fiber renowned for its superior insulation properties. Unlike synthetic fabrics, merino wool can trap heat effectively, keeping children warm even in the harshest winter conditions. The soft texture of the fabric ensures maximum comfort, preventing any irritation or itching often associated with winter wear. With Iksplor’s thermoregulating capabilities, children can stay cozy without overheating, making it perfect for dynamic activities like snowball fights and hiking in the snow.

2. Breathability and Moisture Management

Engaging in winter activities means children are bound to build up a sweat. Traditional winter clothing can often lead to discomfort by trapping moisture against the skin, leading to chills once the activity slows down. Iksplor’s merino wool excels in breathability and moisture-wicking, efficiently pulling sweat away from the body and allowing it to evaporate. This ensures that children remain dry and comfortable, reducing the risk of hypothermia or other cold-related issues during and after their snowy adventures.

3. Durability and Easy Maintenance

Winter activities can be tough on clothing, with kids often tumbling through snow, climbing over rocks, and sliding down icy slopes. Iksplor clothing is designed to withstand these rigorous activities, offering robust durability that keeps up with the most energetic children. The natural elasticity of merino wool allows the garments to retain their shape even after multiple washes, ensuring long-lasting use. Additionally, merino wool is naturally odor-resistant, reducing the frequency of washing and making maintenance a breeze for busy parents.

Investing in Iksplor clothing for winter activities not only ensures that children stay warm, dry, and comfortable, but also offers parents peace of mind with its durability and easy maintenance. With Iksplor, children can fully embrace the magic of winter, from snowball fights and snowman building to hiking adventures, without worrying about the cold.

Ready to gear up for winter? Iksplor clothing might just be the perfect companion for your little one’s snowy escapades! Learn more at www.iksplor.com.

Curious about more winter activity tips or gear suggestions? Feel free to ask! ❄️☃️

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram and X at @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

5 Actionable Tips for a Healthier Home in the New Year

In a world where our daily choices impact the environment, opting for clean, green cleaning is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. Harnessing the power of natural, organic cleaning products can help you maintain a spotless home without the harsh chemicals.

Here are five actionable tips to get you started on your eco-friendly cleaning journey.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar for All-Purpose Cleaning

Baking soda and vinegar are a dynamic duo that can tackle most cleaning tasks around your home. Mix equal parts of baking soda and white vinegar to create a potent all-purpose cleaner. This combination works wonders on countertops, stovetops, sinks, and even bathroom tiles. The natural fizz helps break down grime and disinfect surfaces without any toxic residue.

2. Lemon Juice as a Natural Disinfectant

Lemon juice isn’t just for your tea—it’s a powerful, natural disinfectant. Its acidic properties make it effective against bacteria and mold. Use fresh lemon juice to clean cutting boards, microwave interiors, and faucets. For stubborn stains, sprinkle some salt on the lemon half before scrubbing the surface. Not only will your home be clean, but it will also smell refreshingly citrusy.

3. Castile Soap for Versatile Cleaning

Castile soap is a biodegradable, vegetable-based soap that can be used for various cleaning purposes. Mix a few tablespoons with water in a spray bottle to create a gentle yet effective cleaner for floors, walls, and even laundry. You can add essential oils like tea tree or lavender for extra antibacterial properties and a pleasant scent.

4. Essential Oils for Freshness and Antibacterial Properties

Essential oils are not only great for aromatherapy but also add a boost to your green cleaning regimen. Oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and lavender have natural antibacterial properties. Add a few drops to your homemade cleaning solutions to enhance their effectiveness. For a natural air freshener, mix water, a few drops of your favorite essential oil, and a splash of witch hazel or distilled water in a spray bottle.

5. Hydrogen Peroxide for Stain Removal

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that can be used to remove stains without harsh chemicals. It’s especially effective on white surfaces and fabrics. Use it to clean grout lines, disinfect cutting boards, and whiten laundry. Simply apply hydrogen peroxide to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub or wash as usual.

The Importance of Clean, Green Laundry Detergent

Clean laundry is essential for a healthy home, but traditional laundry detergents often contain harmful chemicals that can irritate the skin, pollute waterways, and harm the environment. Switching to green, natural laundry detergents made from plant-based ingredients ensures that your clothes are free from toxic residues, making them safer for you and your family. These detergents are biodegradable and free from synthetic fragrances, phosphates, and dyes, reducing their environmental impact. Plus, they are gentle on fabrics, extending the life of your clothes. Look for eco-friendly brands such as Truly Free Home and ArBOUR that are transparent about their ingredients and sustainability practices to ensure you’re making the best choice for your home and the planet.

By incorporating these natural, organic cleaning methods into your routine, you can create a healthier home environment and contribute to a cleaner planet. Remember, small changes in our daily habits can have a significant impact. Happy green cleaning! 🌿✨

You can find all of the natural cleaning items and products in Tiny Green Mom’s Amazon storefront.

About the Author

Ms. Johnson is a Mom of 4, a Seasoned Freelance Journalist, Publicist and Lifestyle Expert with a career spanning almost 20 years in the industry. She is passionate about fitness, health and wellness. She has written her own website, Tiny Green Mom, since 2010, which highlights parenting and all things ‘green,’ from tips on living a healthier lifestyle to the latest eco-friendly products for the entire family.

As a Freelance Journalist, Ms. Johnson has written for a multitude of publications, including Medium, SheKnows.com, Tiny Beans, and more! In addition, she can be found on TV stations across the country as a Lifestyle Expert, speaking about all of her favorite brands and companies. 

You can follow her on Instagram and X at @TinyGreenMom.

*Companies generously gifted samples and images for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.*

With Mother’s Day around the corner, I have put together a list of 10 eco-conscious gift ideas to pamper, refresh and gift Mom that she will love and appreciate! Don’t forget to add in a homemade card and some big hugs, too!

Samuel Hubbard

Mom will love to receive a pair of stylish & sustainable soft leather and nubuck Sunset Sneakers from Samuel Hubbard! Dress up or down for a modern, youthful and sophisticated look. Handcrafted in Portugal, Samuel Hubbard is a family-owned sustainable shoe brand that aims to combat fast-fashion and the overproduction resulting in excess inventory. The brand’s principle is ‘the fewer, the better’, and to only buy shoes you love, that are built for comfort and will remain stylish long after the season is over. The team is designing groundbreaking innovations that are leading the industry, each shoe hand-crafted with uncompromising excellence and meant to support all of life’s twists and turns. Samuel Hubbard aims to also help the community with their ‘Trade-Up’ program which allows you to donate old shoes to someone in need.

Sundays Trio Box

Treat Mom to a home manicure or pedicure with sundays! sundays polishes are completely vegan, cruelty-free, 10-free, with timeless color choices. Customize a Box of Three polishes for the special Mom in your life.

Pastel Bloom Set from ESW Beauty

The Pastel Bloom Set features five compostable sheet masks thoughtfully crafted to repair moisture, revitalize, soothe, nourish, and leave Mom with a radiant glow! This eco-conscious collection not only leaves skin glowing, but also promotes sustainability for a healthier planet. Featuring their Blue Dream, Pineapple Bliss, Strawberries & Cream, Vanilla Oat Milk and Matcha Almond masks, this kit offers self-care essentials that are great to pamper Mom this Mother’s Day. Additionally, all the sheet masks are made of Cupra, which is a compostable fabric made from cotton linter and known for its soft texture and serum absorption. In three easy steps the masks can be composted.

Just Bee Candles

Mom will appreciate and adore Just Bee Candles! The candles feature 100% natural cotton wicks, ensuring a clean and even burn, and are made from naturally gathered beeswax, natural soy wax, and organic coconut oil, making them the perfect eco-friendly gift, catering to all sensitivities. The Lavender Fig smells divine!

ButterSky Kisses Lip Gloss

ButterSky Kisses Lip Gloss is a new collection of luxurious lip glosses Mom will love that spreads beauty through sustainability. They melt right into your lips, leaving a vibrant, long-lasting shine. The brand was created by an accomplished makeup artist and her aunt, here in the U.S.A. One swipe of ButterSky Kisses Lip Gloss is all that’s needed to keep your lips feeling soft and hydrated. Formulated to enhance your natural radiance with ingredients like avocado seed oil, jojoba seed oil, mango seed butter, and shea butter. Clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and environmentally friendly ingredients.

SURI Sustainable Sonic Toothbrush

SURI (stands for sustainable rituals) is the first personal care company to offer a sustainable electric toothbrush, meaning it has recyclable brush heads that’s also designed to be repaired by SURI, so it’s really the last toothbrush Mom will ever need to buy. The brush is half the size of traditional electric toothbrushes, so it’s easier to use and takes up less room and comes with a ‘clean and charge’ travel case, with a built-in UV-C light that kills 99.9% of bacteria on the brush head, and a magnetic mirror mount that frees up space on the bathroom counter and stops toothpaste ‘gunk’ from accumulating on the base of the brush. SURI brushes can last over 40 days on a charge and the case doesn’t have a battery built-in, making it TSA airport safe! Featuring an aluminum handle with a matching plant-based head for a sleek finish, the toothbrush comes in four colors to compliment any aesthetic: Winter Fern (green), Midnight Black (black), Morning Waves (blue) and Sea Mist (white).

ShikSona Lavender Soothing Toner

The Lavender Soothing Toner from ShikSona offers an oasis of tranquility captured in a bottle! With a simple spray, this soothing toner will whisk Mom away to lavender fields for a moment of peace in her busy day. Lavender oil, chamomile extract, aloe, and witch hazel combine to caress and rejuvenate Mom’s skin. Suitable for all skin types, this versatile toner cleanses, hydrates, evens out skin tone, and bestows a serene radiance.

Poppy

A must-have mom accessory for busy moms, this fashionable and environmentally conscious purse from Poppy effortlessly doubles as a functional diaper bag. Say goodbye to bulky bags and hello to chic organization! With clever compartments, durable design, and functional accessories crafted from high-quality, eco-conscious materials, Poppy keeps on-the-go moms stylishly and prepared for anything, from diapers to snacks, while catering to their little one’s needs. Made from Vegan leather, the Poppy is available in four colors, including Camel (my favorite!), Classic Black, Birch and All Black.

ONYX Foaming Sugar Scrub and ONYX Hydrating Body Wash Shake in Coconut Bliss

This luxurious foaming sugar scrub and body wash shake will transport Mom away to her favorite beach for head-to-toe happiness! Featuring nourishing ingredients like Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, this sugar scrub and body wash experience is truly skincare for your body. With the Foaming Sugar Scrub, a gentle handheld antibacterial scrubber comes within the lid to enhance the foaming sensation and provide a deep, invigorating cleanse that leaves Mom’s skin feeling rejuvenated and thoroughly pampered. Made with natural ingredients, vegan, cruelty free, paraben and phthalate free. Available in Coconut Bliss, Rose Petals and more at Wal-Mart.

Ultimate Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment

A little goes a long way with this luxe Moroccan Argan Oil Treatment! Treat Mom this Mother’s Day to a unique serum with instant absorption into hair and skin to create a beautiful shine and long-term conditioning. High in essential fatty acids, antioxidants (such as vitamin E and carotenes) and natural moisturizers, Ultimate Moroccan Argan Oil® Treatment can be instantly absorbed into hair and skin to heal, moisturize, restore shine and protect against environmental factors. It smells absolutely amazing, and Mom will love to use the oil on her hair and skin!

*Companies generously provided samples for this article. All thoughts expressed herein are my own.

News headlines let parents know that Mother Earth has some concerning problems. There’s depletion of the ozone layer, toxins such as metals or phthalates polluting our water, drought, overstuffed landfills and acid rain, to name a few.

Want to make a difference in 2016, but not sure how? It’s true that small actions when combined together can make a big difference towards protecting our planet. Join together with your kids and you’re on your way!

andrea at work 4

We turned to Southern California’s Dr. Andrea Neal, a mom of two who has a Ph.D. in molecular genetics and lipid biochemistry. She also has a Ph.D. Swedish Agricultural University where she studied the effects of toxins on our soil. After going on an expedition for oceanographic explorer and environmentalist, Jean-Michel Cousteau, in which she explored 8,000 miles of pristine ocean; studying the devastating marine pollution, including the Great Pacific Garbage Patch off the coast of California and the aftermath of Japan’s Fukushima nuclear power meltdown, she founded Hope2o, a company that enables consumers to test their tap and filter water for harmful toxins.

Here are 5 simple solutions for protecting Planet Earth together with your kids:

1. Do your best with the resources you have. Neal suggests simple, healthy approaches to “going green” that work for you and your family. Her family does not drink from plastic (plastic constitutes approximately 90 percent of all trash floating on the ocean’s surface, a whopping 46,000 pieces of plastic per square mile. They eat local and organic when they can. And, she confesses, they have more reusable bags than anyone on the planet.

2. Support an environmental cause. Neal’s cause is anything that has to do with water. “I have been to the middle of the ocean and have seen our trash floating there,” she says. “This makes me a huge advocate for environmental solutions.” She supports many eco-conscious organizations, including Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society for which she is an advisor; Mission Blue, led by famed National Geographic Society Explorer in Residence Dr. Sylvia A. Earle; Blue Frontier Campaign, which inspired Neal’s Operation Water Legacy program (OWL), an initiative to chemically map the New Jersey water system; and Blue Marble Project, a program that links mental and physical health with a connection to water. She suggests finding a project that speaks to your heart.

3. Play outdoors! Nature is healthy for us both physically and mentally. Neal’s family enjoys hiking, camping as a family and they all play soccer. She and her husband surf, dive, and snorkel. “We don’t get in the water as much right now with a small baby, but I am very much looking forward to some board time with him,” she says. “As Jacque Yves Cousteau used to say, ‘you protect what you love.”

4. Develop critical thinking skills. Find accurate information and put your energy and time into real solutions to the specific problem that bothers you and real causes. “You can’t protect what you don’t understand,” says Neal, again paraphrasing Cousteau. “With so much information on the Web, it is hard to sort out what is real and what isn’t.” Share what you learn with your children and involve them with all of your decisions and efforts. Help them learn to easily articulate why your family makes eco-friendly choices.

5. Commit to your kids’ future. Neal says it is going to take a global effort to try to change the current path we are on. “I hope that my efforts help secure clean water and a clean environment for my children,” says Neal. “With the rate of population growth, our ability to support everyone with the resources we have is diminishing quickly.”

*Image courtesy of Kookkai_nak on FreeDigitalPhotos.*

Americans’ snacking is on the rise, with snacks making up about half of all eating occasions, according to a recent report from the Hartman Group. The good news is that snacking can be part of a healthy eating plan, as snacks can provide energy between meals and supply essential nutrients.

Nutrient-dense California avocados, which are only in season from spring to fall, are delicious, good for you and can be an excellent ingredient in just about any snack. The fruit is a naturally nutritious super-food, and contributes nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, along with “good” monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, to one’s diet. Additionally, avocados add a creamy and delicious flavor to snacks or mini-meals without adding sodium or cholesterol.

Registered Dietitian Katie Ferraro, MPH, RD, CDE, loves incorporating California avocados into meals and snacks for their nutritional benefits. She has partnered with the California Avocado Commission to create some easy snack recipes featuring the fruit.

“Every year, I look forward to California avocado season, because they lend themselves to so many different preparations—especially when it comes to snacks,” says Ferraro.

She’s come up with some easy snack recipes featuring the fruit. Each recipe has less than 100 calories per serving and can be great for on-the-go snacking.

For other recipes that feature fresh California avocados, including additional snacking recipes developed by Katie Ferraro, visit the California Avocado Commission website at CaliforniaAvocado.com.

 

California Avocado Cucumber Cups

Ingredients

1 English cucumber
½ ripe, fresh California avocado, halved, seeded, peeled and diced
¼ cup diced red bell pepper
1 Tbsp. lime juice
1 Tbsp. diced cilantro
½ tsp. cumin
¼ tsp. salt

Preparation

1. Chop off ends of cucumber and discard. Cut cucumber into 12 equal-sized round slices (approximately 1” width slices). Using a melon baller, scoop out center of cucumber slices, leaving enough cucumber on the bottom for the base. Set aside.

2. In a mixing bowl, mash avocado and add bell pepper, lime juice, cilantro, cumin and salt. Stir to combine.

3. Place avocado mixture in a small, sandwich-sized plastic bag. Snip off one bottom corner of bag and squeeze avocado mixture into hollowed-out cucumber slices.

Serves 2.

 

 

Power Hour Pick-Me-Up Smoothie

Ingredients

¼ ripe, fresh California avocado, seeded, peeled and diced
1 Tbsp. minced ginger
½ cup frozen mango cubes
⅓ cup plain, nonfat yogurt
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
Cayenne pepper, to taste
1 cup water
1 cup ice cubes

Prepaartion

1. Combine all ingredients in blender and puree until smooth.

2. Serve immediately.

*Article and images courtesy of NAPS.*

Serves 2.

Wash Your Grocery Totes To Minimize Health Risks

Nearly everyone has a reusable grocery tote, but only 15 percent of Americans regularly clean their eco-friendly bags—and that could create a breeding zone for harmful bacteria. According to the Home Food Safety program, a collaboration between the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) and ConAgra Foods, it’s a smart idea to clean totes on a regular basis.

“Using unwashed grocery totes can cause cross-contamination when juices from raw meats or germs from unclean objects come in contact with cooked or ready-to-eat foods like breads or produce,” says registered dietitian and Academy spokesperson Ruth Frechman.

“Food poisoning affects 48 million Americans a year, but it can be prevented with practical steps, such as cleaning grocery totes and separating raw meats from ready-to-eat foods when shopping, cooking, serving and storing foods,” she added.

Frechman says to make sure all bacteria are eliminated by frequently washing your grocery tote, either in the washing machine or by hand with hot, soapy water; cleaning all areas where you place your totes, such as the kitchen counter; storing totes in a clean, dry location; and avoiding leaving totes in the trunk of a vehicle.
“In the store, wrap meat, poultry and fish in plastic bags before placing in the tote and use two different totes for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods,” says Frechman.

She also stresses it is a smart idea to use two cutting boards at home: one strictly to cut raw meat, poultry and seafood; the other for ready-to-eat foods, like breads and vegetables.

“Keep cutting boards separate, and wash them thoroughly in hot, soapy water after each use or place in the dishwasher,” she says. “Discard any old cutting boards that have cracks, crevices and excessive knife scars.”
Cross-contamination also happens in your refrigerator when you place raw meats on the top shelf and juices drip onto produce, says Frechman. “An easy solution is placing raw meats, poultry and seafood on the bottom shelf and keeping washed produce in clean storage containers instead of original packaging.”

Visit www.homefoodsafety.org for additional safety tips on how to avoid cross-contamination and food poisoning, and contact a registered dietitian for more help by visiting www.eatright.org.

*Article courtesy of NAPS. Image courtesy of Repax Bags.*

When you’ve lived in the same place for years it can be great to occasionally give your home a bit of a refresh. Decorating can be hard work and expensive, so a good way to keep your home interesting without spending lots of money is to make your own decorations. Sourcing your decorations from your own garden is a really eco-friendly way to update your home as you dramatically cut down on the emissions that come from manufacturing plants and transportation. Here is a guide to how you can use items from your garden to decorate your home.

Using Items From Your Garden to Decorate Your Home

By Vanessa Barlow

Fall

During fall you can easily find lots of beautiful red, brown and orange leaves. These leaves make excellent decorations for your home and will give it a really cozy feel. You can create a garland by stringing together lots of different leaves. Large leaves such as maple or oak work particularly well for this as it is easy to thread them together without the leaves falling apart. These garlands can then be hung around a fireplace or staircase.

Rather than creating a flower arrangement you can instead use branches from your garden. Find a number of small branches with interesting shapes and display them in a big vase. To add a bit of colour you could spray the branches; red, gold and silver work particularly well for this type of display.

Winter

In winter nothing really beats holly. Collect holly from your garden and use green wire to attach the holly to your stairs, fireplace, or shelves. Holly is very prickly so only attempt this if you’re wearing a good pair of gardening gloves. You can also use holly to create beautiful centrepieces. Put a large candle (preferably red or green) in the centre of a plate and then use the wire to wrap the holly around the candle and attach it to the plate. For fire safety, make sure no holly leaves or berries are too close to the candle flame.

Vanessa Barlow works for Artscape Garden Design in Surrey and likes to bring a touch of the garden indoors whenever possible.