Category: Relaunch

Galentine’s Day might be unofficial, but we think it deserves a spot on every calendar. Whether you’re in a relationship or not, making time for your girlfriends is always a must. They lift you up when you’re down and hype you up when you’re thriving — so why not dedicate a whole day to celebrating them?

Block off a day this February and plan a girls’ day you’ll all remember. Need ideas? We’ve got you covered:

1. Plan a Spa Day

A little pampering goes a long way. Whether you’re booking a getaway at a local spa or creating a DIY setup at home with face masks and mani-pedis, a spa day gives you the perfect excuse to unwind — and leave glowing, inside and out.

2. Have a Cozy Picnic

Who says picnics are just for romantic dates? Grab your gals, a cozy blanket, a bottle of wine, and head to the park (or even your backyard). Don’t forget candles and snacks! Since it’s February, bundle up and bring extra blankets to stay warm while keeping it cute.

3. Throw a Pink Breakfast Party

Themed brunch? Yes, please. Host a Galentine’s breakfast with pink pancakes, mimosas, and pastries galore. Make it extra fun by having everyone dress in pink for the ultimate photo op.

4. Host a Game Night

Game night = guaranteed laughs. Break out the board games, cards, or even some outdoor challenges if you’re feeling adventurous. A little friendly competition makes for a memorable night.

5. Have an Old-School Slumber Party

Sleepovers aren’t just for middle school. Plan a weekend getaway or cozy up at home with your favorite movies, wine, and chocolate. Matching pajamas optional — but highly encouraged.

No matter how you celebrate, Galentine’s Day is all about quality time with your besties. So eat the chocolate, pour the wine, and make memories with the women who mean the most.

A new year means a fresh start — and the perfect opportunity to set goals that move you closer to the life you want. Whether you’re making just one resolution or a whole list, a little structure goes a long way. Here are five simple steps to help you break down your goals and stick with them long after January.

1. Define Your Resolution

Start by clarifying what you really want to achieve. Write down your resolution and take a moment to visualize the outcome. What would success look like?
Example: “Read more books this year.”

2. Turn It Into a SMART Goal

Once your goal is clear, it’s time to make it actionable. Try the SMART method — your goal should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.
Example: “I’ll read 12 books this year by finishing one each month.”

3. Identify the Resources You’ll Need

Think about what tools, time, or support you’ll need to stay on track.
Example: “I’ll borrow books from the library, trade with friends, or subscribe to a book club. I can also use apps like Shopkick to earn rewards while buying new titles.”

4. Track Your Progress

Accountability helps momentum. Use a simple tracker, join a group, or find a goal buddy to keep yourself motivated.
Example: “I’ll create a reading log and discuss each book with a friend.”

5. Celebrate the Finish Line

The best part? Seeing how far you’ve come. Celebrate your progress and reflect on what worked — and what you might change for next time. A completed resolution is something to be proud of!

You’ve Got This!
Resolutions don’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking them into realistic, trackable steps, you’re setting yourself up for real success — not just in January, but all year long.

Sit tight, the show’s about to begin! It’s now cozy season and you know what that means–new flicks to watch whether you’re in theaters or covered in blankets at home. Read through this list for upcoming movies for everyone in your family. Let’s begin!

1. Spider-Man: No Way Home

Release Date: December 17, 2021

Featuring Tom Holland and Zendaya, this Spiderman sequel is the first of the series where we’ll see the superhero struggle to keep his everyday life separate from his heroic one. Spider-Man: No Way Home sounds like an entertaining watch that you won’t want to miss!

2. The King’s Man

Release Date: December 22, 2021

This final addition to the Kingsman Series will bring a new twist to the trilogy. Watch as the Kingsman Agency fights against a war outbreak that could affect millions of innocent people.

3. Sing 2

Release Date: December 22, 2021

Sing 2 is an animated feel-good and would be great to watch with the kids. In this sequel, Buster Moon and his friends persuade Clay Calloway to perform in their opening show. Featuring famous voices from Matthew McConaughey and Taron Egerton, this should be a fun watch!

4. Don’t Look Up

Release Date: December 24, 2021

This flick surrounds two astronomers on a media tour informing humanity that Earth will cease to exist after a giant comet crashes onto it. Debuting on Netflix with a massive star-packed cast including Timothee Chalamet, Meryl Streep, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew Perry.

5. Ghostbusters – Afterlife

Release Date: November 19, 2021

Jason Reitman directs this movie to follow a single mom and her two kids moving to a new town. However, they soon begin to piece together their connection to the original ghostbusters through their grandfather. This film sounds like an interesting watch with a twist of healthy nostalgia!

6. King Richard

Release Date: November 19, 2021

This movie follows the famous tennis players Serena and Venus Williams throughout their lives after coaching from their father. It also follows their father’s life as the man who led both girls to their full potential and fame. Catch this movie in theaters this year!

Make sure to watch all of these movies and let us know if you enjoyed them through our socials!

Good, inexpensive wine. Can you beat it? We don’t think you can. Whole Foods does a great job curating a collection of affordable yet high-quality wine, making wine tasting an experience that won’t break the bank! Try out a couple of these delicious wines the next time you have friends over or if you’re looking to try something new.

P.S. The most expensive wine on this list is $13!

1. Apothic Red Blend

Price: $10.99

This intense, profoundly flavored red is composed of four different varietals (cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, and zinfandel), making it likable for most red drinkers.

2. Kendall Jackson Chardonnay – Vintner’s Reserve

Price:$12.99

With strong notes of pineapple, vanilla, and papaya – this chardonnay is sure to please those who prefer lighter blends over dark reds. Think: a park picnic on a warm summer day.

3. Autoritas Rosé

Price: $7.99

This rosé blend shows that good wine does not have to be expensive. Both sweet and refreshing, this wine is as easy to drink as it is enjoyable.

4. Bodega Belgrano Malbec

Price: $7.99

This palatable red blend has warm flavors and fruity undertones. Originally hailing from Argentina, this wine is a perfect addition to your next local get-together.

5. Gran Conti Montepulciano Dabruzzo

Price: $9.99

Get ready for this royal red – it offers a luxury feel with its bottling and exquisite flavor. This blend is from Italy, giving it a European flair.

 

There you have it! While buying these wines, don’t forget to scan your receipts and get some walk-ins while you’re in Whole Foods! Happy Shopkicking and wine sipping.

Just because summer has ended doesn’t mean your garden has to! Plenty of beautiful, hardy plants can flourish in the colder months — making winter gardening a rewarding (and surprisingly low-maintenance) hobby. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just getting started, these five plants are perfect for adding a little life to your winter landscape.

1.  Coneflower

Coneflowers can bloom even in winter, as long as they’re properly cared for after going dormant in the fall. Available in a rainbow of colors, you can plant a monochrome garden or go bold with a multicolored mosaic.

2. Catmint

This vibrant pink plant is surprisingly winter-hardy — but it does require a bit of patience. Catmint needs a full year of sunlight and watering to get established. Once it’s settled, it thrives on its own through the darker, drier months.

3. Winterberry

The name says it all. Winterberry is a true seasonal star, with bright red berries that pop after the plant sheds its autumn leaves. It transforms with the seasons, offering a fresh burst of color when everything else is fading

4. Winter Pansies

These slow growers are worth the wait. With the right fertilizer, winter pansies can last up to 5–7 months and bloom into vibrant, colorful flowers — even in freezing temperatures. They’re one of the most cheerful ways to brighten up a cold day.

5. Lily-of-the-Valley

Delicate and timeless, Lily-of-the-Valley loves the cold. Native to the cool climates of the Northern Hemisphere, this shade-loving plant is perfect for winter gardens. Just give it partial sun or full shade and enjoy its dainty beauty.

Thinking about starting a winter garden? It’s a rewarding way to stay connected to nature and add some charm to the chilly season. Most winter plants are surprisingly easy to care for — and they pay you back with months of beauty. Happy planting!

Headaches happen — whether from non-stop schedules, stress, dehydration, or just not getting enough sleep. And while over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol can help temporarily, they’re not always the long-term solution.

Enter an ancient, natural remedy: lavender.

This powerhouse plant is more than just a relaxing scent. Lavender has been scientifically shown to ease symptoms of stress, anxiety, and even migraines. Combined with hydration and a dose of citrus, this lavender lemonade might be your new go-to for headache relief — and it tastes amazing too.

Here’s how to make it:

Lavender Lemonade Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water (divided)

• ⅛ cup turbinado sugar

• 2 mint leaves

• ⅔ teaspoon dried culinary lavender flowers

• 2 teaspoons honey

• Juice of 2 lemons

• Ice, lemon slices, and extra mint for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: In a small pot over medium heat, add 2 cups of water.
Step 2: Stir in the turbinado sugar until fully dissolved. Bring to a boil.
Step 3: Add the mint leaves, lavender flowers, and honey.
Step 4: Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes to steep.
Step 5: While it steeps, juice your lemons and strain out seeds and pulp.
Step 6: In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice with the remaining 2 cups of cold water.
Step 7: Strain the lavender mixture into the lemon water.
Step 8: Add ice, and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint.

Sip, relax, and let the natural goodness do its thing.
This lavender lemonade is refreshing, calming, and a beautiful way to treat your body kindly — especially when your head needs a little help.

One thing I think many of us can agree on is that working from home can be amazing. There is no commute time to worry about, what outfit you’re going to wear, packing a lunch, etc. Some might even feel more productive in their home setting rather than in an office. However, that doesn’t mean working from home is easy. It’s something that requires a bit of adjusting, and we’re here to help. Here are our top 5 working from home essentials:

1. A designated office area

Now, this may seem like a no-brainer. However,  you’d be surprised how many people work from their bedrooms. For me, this immediately was not an option. I knew that working 8 hours a day in the same  room I use to unwind, relax, and sleep  would affect my mood and work productivity. Creating a designated workspace outside of your bedroom is so important. Even if it’s just in your living room, your kitchen, or an awkward nook that you’re not quite sure what to do with (That’s where my office is, in case you were wondering) – try turning it into your productive space.

2. A happy light

Working from home can be great, but often we forget to get outside during the day. Or when you do leave the house, it’s at an inconvenient hour — you might go workout in the morning before the sun is fully risen or grab drinks with friends after sunset. Here’s where a happy light comes into play. Here are a few reasons to invest in one: 1) it brings natural light indoors, 2) energizes you, and 3) helps make healthy habits (learn more here.) We recommend one of these two Happy Lights: this option from Amazon, or get kicks for your purchase and get one from QVC! 

3. A daily planner

We begin our workday by scheduling out our daily activities. We write out our entire schedule and include any meetings we may have. Then we write out our to-do list and today’s top three priorities. Planning helps us feel like we have a goal each workday and helps us organize different projects and home-life priorities. We recommend this daily planner from Amazon that is only $10! 

4. Coffee

This one…is probably the most important essential. If we aim to get through the workday without any caffeine, we are a zombie by 2 PM. Which is not great for anyone who has a meeting with us past 2 PM (apologies to our coworkers in advance). Whether you are making coffee at home, going on a daily walk to grab that special pick-me-up, or getting it delivered, it is essential. Plus, you don’t need to drink coffee to stay energized if you don’t like it. You could try substituting it for tea (we recommend matcha) or other healthy energy drinks like Kombucha. Either way, drink up!

5. A hobby outside of work

Working from home means it is easier to take short breaks to enjoy something not related to your everyday work projects. Just don’t neglect those work projects as well. For us, we like to read.  If there are days when we know the majority of our workday will be staring at a screen or in meetings, we value scheduling 15-minute breaks every few hours to read part of a current book. For you, maybe it’s drawing, light sketching, or listening to a podcast episode. But it is so important to stimulate your mind in other ways and switch up your location or activity to avoid end-of-day burnout.

Those are just a few essentials for your workday. These don’t necessarily have to be designated for working from home either and can be easily incorporated into working in an office life. I hope you found some of these tips useful and have a great week at work. 

When the fall air turns crisp, the kitchen calls. Pumpkin spice, cinnamon, apple, and chocolate — the classics are back, and we’re here for all of it.

If you’re looking for fall baked goods that are just as nourishing as they are delicious, we’ve got you covered. These five recipes offer a wholesome spin on your seasonal favorites, using ingredients like oats, applesauce, and plant-based swaps. Let’s get baking:

1. Healthy Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

These sweet, fluffy rolls from Amy’s Healthy Baking bring all the cozy fall vibes. They’re made without eggs or refined ingredients, and lower in carbs thanks to a no-flour approach — but still full of that warm cinnamon-pumpkin flavor you love.

2. Pumpkin Energy Balls 

This no-bake recipe from Salt & Baker is simple, satisfying, and packed with fall flavor. Pumpkin puree makes these little bites perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or quick breakfast on the go.

3. Chai Breakfast Cookies 

From Mile High Mitts comes a cookie that’s great any time of day. These are vegan, dairy-free, and filled with warming chai spices that pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

4. Healthy Apple Cake

Moist, flavorful, and made with applesauce, this recipe from Fit Foodies Finds is proof that cake can be both wholesome and delicious. A great way to make the most of apple season!

5. Pumpkin Oat Bread 

The Busy Baker combines pumpkin, oatmeal, and applesauce for a hearty, fall-inspired bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy moment with a mug of something warm.

Fall baking is one of the best parts of the season — and with recipes like these, you get all the classic flavors with ingredients that feel just as good as they taste. Enjoy the process, savor the spices, and treat yourself to something warm from the oven.

Open up any media platform and you’ll likely be hit with messages about intermittent fasting, strict workout routines, and expensive wellness products. But here’s the truth: your self-care journey doesn’t have to be all-consuming — or costly.

The small things matter. In fact, small changes are often the ones that stick and lead to long-term benefits. Below are simple, feel-good habits to incorporate into your daily routine to help you feel more balanced, energized, and like your best self.

Hydrate First

Yes, coffee is calling — but start your day with water. Hydration helps with everything from energy to digestion. Make it fun with a cute tumbler or a water-tracking app like HydroCoach to stay on track without overthinking it.

Be a Morning Person… Sometimes

You don’t need a 5 a.m. wake-up call to have a mindful morning. Even a short walk, quiet coffee moment (after your water!), or a few stretches outside can set a positive tone for the day.

Doodle or Color

Let your creativity out — no pressure, just play. Doodling can be surprisingly calming and studies have shown it can help reduce stress and anxiety. Not artsy? Grab an adult coloring book and zone out in the best way.

Stretch It Out

If you’re spending long hours at a desk, quick stretch breaks can make a big difference. A few minutes of stretching resets your posture, improves circulation, and can even help you wind down better at night.

Eat a Nourishing Meal

Eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Meal kits like HelloFresh make it easy to prep something healthy without the planning stress — or leftovers you don’t know what to do with.

Sit on the Floor

Give your body a reset from the usual chair slouch. Sitting on the floor while watching TV or relaxing encourages better posture and body awareness. Try kneeling, squatting, or stretching your legs out fully.

Unplug Regularly

It’s easy to lose an hour (or three) to scrolling. Set your phone aside now and then and opt for something that reconnects you with the present — reading, a walk, or just sitting outside with no agenda.

Treat Yourself — Your Way

Wellness includes joy, so give yourself permission to enjoy things just because. Try the new class, buy the skirt, enjoy the dessert, or take a nap. Self-care is personal — and you deserve moments that make you feel good.

There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Wellness Plan

At the end of the day, your version of self-care should be uniquely yours. Don’t let trends dictate what “healthy” looks like. You know your needs best — so follow your instincts, keep it simple, and take care of you.

Halloween isn’t just for the kids — we grown-ups deserve some tricks and treats too! If you’re hosting a Halloween party and want to keep things fun and freaky, we’ve got you covered. Here are five playful (and creepy) ways to surprise your family and friends with a night they won’t forget:

1. Spike the Punch… with a Frozen Hand

Add a chilling touch to your party punch! Fill a clean rubber glove with water, tie it off, and freeze it for a few hours. Once frozen solid, peel off the glove and drop the icy hand into your punch bowl. It’s spooky, unexpected, and makes for a great conversation starter

2. Spider-Infested Soap

Give your guests a mini jump scare in the bathroom. Place small plastic spiders inside a clear hand soap dispenser. The more realistic, the better! They’ll do a double-take — and maybe think twice before washing their hands.

3. Scary-Good Dinner Ideas

Want to level up your Halloween dinner? Add black food coloring to boiling water before cooking pasta or rice to turn your meal delightfully dark. Think vampire linguine or monster mac. It’s eerie, easy, and totally Instagram-worthy.

4. Vampire Teeth in a Glass

If you’ve got overnight guests (or just want to give them a fright before bed), drop a set of plastic vampire fangs into a glass of water on the bathroom counter or nightstand. It’s creepy, unexpected, and just subtle enough to make someone jump.

5. Googly-Eyed Ghost Wreath

Make your entrance unforgettable with a DIY Halloween wreath. Hot glue white ping pong balls to a foam wreath form, then attach small and large googly eyes to each one. Hang it on your front door for a fun and freaky welcome.

From eerie décor to creepy kitchen tricks, these Halloween ideas are sure to get your guests howling. Stock up on everything you need — and don’t forget to earn kicks while you’re at it. Happy haunting and kick-or-treating!

Hispanic Heritage Month is from September 15 – October 15. You may be wondering how you can celebrate this year and immerse yourself in the numerous traditions that go along with this celebration. Here are  a few ways to  celebrate this month:

1. Try a new Latin American based dish or recipe

With over 20 countries and cuisines to choose from, you are bound to find a dish you love. Ranging from Mexico, Latin America, and Spain, there are tons of different options and we guarantee you’re going to find a new recipe to keep on your list of favorites. Check out this list of the 20 Popular Hispanic Foods You Need To Try. Our personal favorite is ropa vieja – yum!

2. Host a game night

There are so many different games to bring to game night with Hispanic Origin. One of our favorites is Loteria. This is very similar to Bingo, can help you practice some Spanish, and may even win you some money! Careful to play this with your competitive friends though, things may get heated. Fair warning, we’ve seen it happen first hand. See here for how to play Loteria.

3. Take a dance class

Are you looking to get some exercise in a fun way? Take a dance class! Hispanic dances include Salsa, Bachata, Cumbia, Merengue, and so many more! Choose your favorite beat, grab a partner, and hit the dance floor! You’re bound to break a sweat, listen to some uplifting music, and most importantly, have fun!

4. Visit a museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Hispanic culture and art. With various museums located throughout the country, you won’t be disappointed with the amount of color, life, and passion in the murals, paintings, and artists. Many museums offer online exhibitions if there is not a museum located near you as well to feature less-explored aspects of Hispanic culture such as sports.

These are just a few ways to celebrate these vibrant cultures. Grab some friends, play some games over great food, admire beautiful artwork, or leave your mark out on the dance floor. The possibilities are endless, and we hope you have fun!