Female Solo Travel – An Experience I Was Finally Able To Pursue in My Late Thirties

Female Solo Travel – An Experience I Was Finally Able To Pursue in My Late Thirties Continue reading “Female Solo Travel – An Experience I Was Finally Able To Pursue in My Late Thirties”

A Simply Delicious St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

A Simply Delicious St. Patrick’s Day Dinner

Every year as a child, my mother made corned beef and cabbage on St. Patty’s Day, a uniquely Irish-American pairing. And yes, you heard correctly; this famous holiday duo is not a traditional Irish dish for those who were wondering. But as you all know, it remains a signature meal for festive Americans of both Irish and non-Irish descent every seventeenth day of March here in the States. For all those celebrating today, keep reading for my simple yet delicious 3-part recipe.

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Savory & Spiced Up Butternut Squash Soup

Savory & Spiced Up Butternut Squash Soup Continue reading “Savory & Spiced Up Butternut Squash Soup”

Ursa Major: Skincare Review – Part 2

Ursa Major: Skincare Review – Part 2

A few years ago, I published my very first Ursa Major review. At the end of that initial post, I mentioned that I was excited to try their Vitamin C Serum at some point down the road. That road was a little bit longer than anticipated, but I finally got around to purchasing their raved about brightening serum a few months ago in addition to a few other items. Keep on reading for my honest review.

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Here’s What I Packed For A 3 Month Trip To Europe

Here’s What I Packed For A 3 Month Trip To Europe

Earlier this summer, I neatly packed up a few possessions into a carry-on size backpack, small purse, and clear zippered tote. These items mainly consisted of essential clothing, must-have toiletries, and practical electronics. These items were & continue to be my primary belongings on a solo, summer excursion in Europe. If you’re curious to see how I have maximized the concept of packing light all while having the necessary comforts for a long trip abroad, keep on reading.

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Delicious Grilled Chicken Legs – A Perfect Addition To Any Summer Barbecue

Delicious Grilled Chicken Legs – A Perfect Addition To Any Summer Barbecue

After a few summers of actively grilling chicken and using different marinades, I have come to the conclusion that I prefer dry rubs when grilling over an open flame. I, for one, think it yields a crispier skin and less unwanted char compared to a wet marinade. And the best thing about a dry rub is that you can always brush on your favorite barbecue sauce or hot sauce over the grilled chicken during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking or when the poultry is off the heat and resting.

So if you feel like grilling up some chicken this 4th of July alongside your burgers and hot dogs, keep on reading for my super simple recipe!

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The Best Mineral Sunscreens – 2023 Edition

The Best Mineral Sunscreens – 2023 Edition

This is the third summer in a row that I am posting an article about mineral sunscreen. If you’re a fan of the Clean Beauty section of my blog, you may already know that I wear sunblock practically every day. So if, you too, are slightly obsessed about protecting your skin from the sun or just simply looking for some good recommendations, keep on reading to discover which mineral-based SPF moisturizes I am currently using.

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A 20-Minute Chicken & Chickpea Dinner with Herbed Feta & Fried Onions

A 20-Minute Chicken & Chickpea Dinner with Herbed Feta & Fried Onions

I made this dish on a whim one night when I was home alone and hungry for dinner. I hadn’t thought about what I was going to prepare that day so I just opened the fridge, glanced in the pantry, pulled some ingredients that sounded good, and got to cooking! After taking my first bite, I can honestly say that this simple dish hit the mark in every way for me. It was warm, cozy, and packed with Mediterranean flavors. So if you also enjoy easy-to-prepare, tasty dinners – keep on reading to discover how to make this quick, 20-minute meal.

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The Best Places To Eat & Drink In Charleston

The Best Places To Eat & Drink In Charleston

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Are you planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina & looking for some good restaurant recommendations? If so, I’ve created this handy guide highlighting some of the best places to dine and drink in and around the Holy City.

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Deliciously Crunchy Coleslaw

Deliciously Crunchy Coleslaw

I make this colorful salad quite often because it literally takes just 5-minutes to prepare, always tastes amazing, and adds a nice pop of acid and much needed crunch to any hearty meat dish. And now that it’s grilling season – I figured I would share this quick, hassle-free recipe since coleslaw is the perfect side dish for any spring or summer barbecue! I personally have always preferred a bright, crisp coleslaw made with large strips of cabbage to the finely grated, mayonnaise drenched, sweeter alternative. So if you, too, appreciate the flavors of fresh cruciferous veggies and a light, tangy dressing, you’ll surely enjoy this easy recipe.

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Easy Swaps To Make Your Beauty Routine More Sustainable

Easy Swaps To Make Your Beauty Routine More Sustainable

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Every day is Earth Day in my opinion, but I figured there was no better moment to publish this post than on the actual calendar holiday. So let’s raise a glass to our home, and cheers to the small steps we can take to help maintain the health and beauty of our planet.

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A Simply Irresistible Ragù alla Bolognese

A Simply Irresistible Ragù alla Bolognese

I make this hearty, meat sauce at least three times a month and typically serve it with pappardelle or gnocchi. I almost always use grass-fed ground beef but have also prepared this exact recipe with ground turkey, chicken, and pork on various occasions. It’s a favorite in my household and a hit amongst dinner guests which is why I figured it was about time that I share my easy Ragù alla Bolognese recipe for all to enjoy.

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Here’s How I Spent 48 Hours In Chicago

Here’s How I Spent 48 Hours In Chicago

For the amount of travel I’ve done as both a child and an adult, I have shockingly never been to Chicago before – that is until last summer. I was headed to South Carolina for a girls trip, and since there were zero direct flights to Charleston – I decided to make a quick pit stop in the Windy City to finally explore this jewel of the midwest and to also visit a good friend who recently moved back to Illinois. Keep reading to discover what I did during my 2-day-trip to Chicago.

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Here’s A Sneak Peek Into My Spring Flower Garden

Here’s A Sneak Peek Into My Spring Flower Garden

I typically start planting my flower and edible gardens the last week of February. Due to the nonstop precipitation here in California, however, I am behind schedule. It’s been so rainy and cold that I’ve just allowed the plants around the house to grow wild since November with the exception of pulling a few weeds near my succulents and roses about a month ago. But now that the rain has finally let up and the soil around the house is no longer waterlogged – I can get back to gardening 🙌🏽 which is exactly what I did this past Sunday! I put my focus on the small flower bed in the front yard and got to work. It truly felt great to get my hands dirty, bask in the sunshine, and plant again!

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4 Moisturizers That I Can’t Live Without!

4 Moisturizers That I Can’t Live Without!

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Unbeknownst to some, skin is the body’s largest organ. To our great fortune, our skin is something we can physically see and care for on a daily basis. So no matter the season, it’s vitally important to always keep your skin hydrated and happy! Methods of skincare include drinking plenty of water, using sun protection when outside, gentle exfoliation, and of course, the application of lotions and creams. Thank goodness that I have a solid supply of top notch moisturizers to turn to!

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Your Guide to Exploring Charleston, South Carolina!

Your Guide to Exploring Charleston, South Carolina!

Charleston has always been high on my list of places to visit within the United States so when an opportunity to go with one of my besties came up, I jumped at the chance. Keep on reading for tips, tricks, and plenty of restaurant recommendations!

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Good Soap by Alaffia – An Honest Review

Good Soap by Alaffia – An Honest Review

After using Dove’s Original beauty bar for decades, I was ready to find a parfum-free alternative about two years ago. Yes, I could have simply transitioned over to their Sensitive Skin body bar which is fragrance-free, conveniently sold at Costco, and quite affordable. However, I was eager to support a smaller brand who incorporated natural fragrances into their formulas since I still enjoy the aromatherapy effects of using a minimally scented soap in a hot shower. It’s no secret that quality items made by smaller companies cost an arm and a leg compared to products sold by giant corporations. However, after some searching – I discovered Good Soap by Alaffia – an affordable bar soap sold at Whole Foods.

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Pantry Staples: My Personal List Of Must-Have, Everyday Ingredients

Pantry Staples: My Personal List Of Must-Have, Everyday Ingredients

Everyone can name the groceries that they absolutely love and simply cannot live without. Keep reading for an in depth list of the ingredients that I purchase regularly and always try to keep in my personal kitchen no matter the season. Each of these pantry staples truly holds a special place in my heart because they allow me to create tasty meals day after day.

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