September 2022 Product Roundup

farm cart with pumpkins

September 2022 Product Roundup

Summer is coming to a close and the kiddos are back to school.  So much fun stuff to look forward to… pumpkin lattes, apple picking, and the stunning leaves that are changing all around us.  Several of you noticed we didn’t do any Monthly Product Roundups this summer.  You’re right.  We decided to live in the moment and focus on family.  Now that fall is here, we’re back and can’t wait to share with you some amazing products we fell in love with this summer! Enjoy the September 2022 Product Roundup!

Kind of Wild Wines

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

I like to eat/drink organically whenever possible and I try to be aware of what I put in my body. Conventional wines can use a long list of chemicals in the vineyards and winemaking that end up in the soils and in the finished wine you drink. Kind of Wild Wines not only cares about the wine, but also about the farmers. They believe you’re supporting growers across the globe who believe in creating a sustainable future by improving soil health, diminishing soil erosion, keeping natural waters free from chemicals and having a positive, lasting impact on the local ecosystem.

We loved all of the wines and they were wines I would definitely buy again. The labels are gorgeous and I love that they give you coasters that match them.

Kind of Wild Wine bottles

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

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20 Spooky Books to Read this Autumn

reading and drinking tea

During autumn, there’s nothing I like more than snuggling up with a cozy blanket, sipping on a cup of tea, and reading a spooky book.  I love a thrilling, suspenseful book that will keep me on the edge of my seat. This time of year, I think the creepier the better. Some of these are oldies but goodies! Here are 20 Spooky Books to read this Autumn:

The Maidens

The Maidens: By Alex Michaelides

Edward Fosca is a murderer. Of this Mariana is certain. But Fosca is untouchable. A handsome and charismatic Greek tragedy professor at Cambridge University, Fosca is adored by staff and students alike―particularly by the members of a secret society of female students known as The Maidens.
Mariana Andros is a brilliant but troubled group therapist who becomes fixated on The Maidens when one member, a friend of Mariana’s niece Zoe, is found murdered in Cambridge.
Mariana, who was once herself a student at the university, quickly suspects that behind the idyllic beauty of the spires and turrets, and beneath the ancient traditions, lies something sinister. And she becomes convinced that, despite his alibi, Edward Fosca is guilty of the murder. But why would the professor target one of his students? And why does he keep returning to the rites of Persephone, the maiden, and her journey to the underworld.

Shattered

Shattered: By Dean Koontz

The van was in back of them again. Closer this time. There could be no mistake—they were being followed. But why? The question kept nagging at Alex and Colin as they left Philadelphia behind and sped toward their new home in San Francisco. Courtney would be waiting for them, ready to begin a wonderful new life with her husband, her brother…
Now, someone else is driving cross-country to see Courtney, too. Someone whose brain is rotting inside. Someone who knows their route, their stops, even their destination. And he won’t rest until he finds them.

Nine Elms

Nine Elms: By Robert Bryndza

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10 Amazing Mother’s Day Gift

bee on a flower

Our April 2022 Product Review is dedicated to the amazing women in your life…MOMS! Mother’s Day is right around the corner and they deserve something special.  Here are 10 amazing Mother’s Day gifts for these fabulous women!  And if you’re a mom…treat yourself to something just for you…you deserve it!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!!

Doing Good

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

I always love to hear a company’s mission because it tells a lot about their character.  Doing Good Co says their mission is to build others up.  The products included in these amazing gift boxes are something that offers inspiration and makes someone feel special. Throughout her life, Sydney, the founder of the company, has had one unwavering purpose – to find ways of encouraging others. I love that she offers the choice between a one time gift box and a subscription plan, where the gifts will keep on giving.  You can make it more personal by selecting individual things you want to include in your gift.  Choose from items such as candles, wooden signs, mugs, stationary, bracelets, lip balms, and much more.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

Be Still Box 

(Size: small $17.99)

Be Still gift box

Pumpkin Spice whipped sugar scrub

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March 2022 Product Roundup

spring montage of tulips, flower seeds

As we move into spring and say goodbye to the long dark days of winter, it is a perfect time for reassessing your self-care routines and make some more quality time for yourself. Get outside for a refreshing walk, spend a little more time in the tub, and get back to your night-time face routine. Enjoy this March 2022 Product Roundup and have a wonderful beginning of spring!

Two Sisters

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

A pyramid of Bath bombs

As you know, I am a huge fan of self-care and I love that Two Sisters believe moms are at their best when they take the time to care for both their kiddos and themselves. I couldn’t agree more! Their bath bombs create luxurious bubble bath experiences (just make sure you drop it in as you start filling your bath).  They smell incredible and kids love the surprises inside of them.  They leave your skin feeling smooth and hydrated and not oily. I love to support companies owned by women and I love that their bath bombs are handmade in small batches by flex-working moms in the USA, in their home state of Minnesota!

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

Oatmeal Milk & Honey Bubble Bath Bombs $7.99

Bath bombs

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February 2022 Product Roundup

bluebird in winter

Winter is in full swing here in NH and I’m having a Love-Hate relationship with my snow pants!   However, it’s hard to hate winter when you look out at the snow-covered mountains and hear your family laughing as we play outside.  Once again Mother Nature…you win.  I’ve kept up my New Year’s Resolution of daily self-care, and I wanted to share some amazing products I’ve been using.  First up are 4 fabulous essential oils companies.  I’ve never been so happy to smell again! Then, I’ve got an amazing chocolate company that helped me make Valentine’s Day memories with my husband.  And finally, a great company with skincare products! Enjoy the February 2022 Product Roundup!

Revive

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

essential oil diffuser

REVIVE Oasis Ultrasonic Diffuser, Mist Humidifier, And Ionizer

$40

essential oil diffuser

This diffuser is so easy to use and I haven’t had any problems with water leaking out.  The mist humidifier is wonderful, especially these winter days in NH.  What I love most is the diffuser will only work if there is water in it so I don’t have to worry about it running while dry.  The light feature is also nice for adding ambiance to the room. I have it placed on my desk so I use it every day.

Peppermint Glow Roll-On

$16

essential oil

I wish you could smell this roll-on because it immediately makes you wake up with it’s burst of peppermint scent. I keep it in my car for that afternoon pick-me-up that I need while running errands with the kids.  Also, if you apply it to the back of your neck it helps reduce tension.

Revive has wonderful single essential oils.  We were sent:

Eucalyptus ($7) and Lavender ($9)

essential oil

They recommend preparing a mixture using fractioned coconut oil and eucalyptus and apply it to the chest, back, nape, and soles of the feet to support lung health. This will be wonderful when our family feels sick or when allergies are bad.

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Best Wellness Planners for 2022

woman doing yoga by a river

Hello January and welcome 2022! January is a time of renewal and wellness seems to be at the top of everyone’s list this year.  I had many readers asking for recommendations of journals or planners they can use while traveling to help them with their wellness journey. When I was a language arts teacher, I had my middle schoolers journal three times a week. I found it a was a wonderful way for them to reduce stress, become more self-aware, dream about their future, and as a place to vent. Here are four amazing companies that have wonderful products that can help you live the life you deserve. Here are the Best Wellness Planners for 2022 !

Tiny Buddha’s

WHAT PRODUCT DID WE GET?

TINY BUDDHA’S Gratitude Journal

Pages from a wellness planner

Practicing gratitude has been shown to increase happiness, make us more resilient, strengthen relationships, and reduce stress. Tiny Buddha’s Gratitude Journal is an interactive way to spark those elusive moments of gratitude and get us closer to being our best, happiest selves.

The journal prompts in this book are incredible.  They range from relationships with others, self-talk, things you are grateful for, and even issues from your past.

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December 2021 Product Roundup

Product Roundup, a snowman made out of sand sitting on a beach chair at the ocean

Hello December! I wanted to share a few last-minute gifts…or some treats for yourself to celebrate getting through this crazy holiday season. Enjoy our December 2021 Product Roundup! Wishing your family a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year! See you in 2022!

Eat 2 Explore

a subscription box filled with Ethiopian spices

WHY TRAVELERS WILL LOVE THEM

I love that the creators of this box have the same beliefs as I do.  They feel mealtime should be an experience and cooking are life-skills everyone should have.  They also feel hands-on cooking and culture explorations is even more important in today’s world.  Creating new foods from different countries allows you to “travel” without leaving your home.  I had so much fun playing Ethiopian music while prepping the meal and learning all the new facts about the country while our food was cooking.

WHAT COMES IN EACH BOX

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Great Subscription Boxes of 2021

I have always been drawn to subscription boxes because they are a surprise in your mailbox every month.  I do a little happy dance when I see a package in the mail and can’t wait to rip it open to see all the goodies inside.  They make wonderful Christmas gifts because they often contain things people love but wouldn’t buy for themselves. They will think of you every time the package arrives and there’s a box for everyone…including yourself! Here are some great subscription boxes of 2021.

Celebrate States

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

mustard, soup mix, pretzels, cutting board, tea towel

One of the best things about travel is getting to know your destination.  You can learn a lot about the place by eating their food and using products made by local artists.  Celebrate States lets you “travel” around the US and explore each state.  Each box is packed full of items that will make you feel like you’ve packed up your suitcase and are traveling across the country. This box is also a great motivator of places to add to your Travel Bucket List.  It is a wonderful introduction to the state and will make you want to see what else the state has to offer.

WHAT’S IN EACH BOX?

Celebrate States boxes are packed full of fun items from small businesses.  You will receive 6-7 full sized items that include food, beauty, and home goods. The wide variety of products gives you a good feel of the state. The boxes also contain interactive material and travel material about the state. I love when kids have fun while learning.

WHAT PRODUCTS DID WE GET?

Pennsylvania Dutch box

Cutting board with Pennsylvania stamp (From Totally Bamboo)

bamboo cutting board

We love this bamboo cutting board and have been using it to cut lemon and limes when we are making cocktails with friends.  The stamp makes it so unique.

Pennsylvania Dutch tea towel (From Crafted Southern)

tea towel with birds on it

This tea towel looks adorable draped near my oven.  The bright colors on the birds add a nice touch of color to any kitchen.

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Best Candle Companies of 2021

candle near christmas tree

CANDLE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

No matter how crazy our day goes, I always try to light a candle to set a calm mood in our house.  The flickering of the flame and the relaxing scent sets the tone and a calmness washes over us.  Candles are the perfect Christmas gift for someone special…family, teachers, coaches, bus drivers, holiday housewarming hosts, etc. They are also wonderful ways to pamper yourself.  (We all need some of that!) Take a peek at some of the best candle companies of 2021.

Southern Elegance Candle Company

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

candles, room fragrance, wax cubes, air freshener

I love a candle that has the ability to transport me to a comforting place.  Southern Elegance is proud of their southern culture and have created candles that take you to a time when life was simpler.  They blend their candles with unique scents that scream southern charm with images of a cool glass of sweet tea, slices of delicious pound cake made from scratch, and the swaying of massive magnolia trees.  Take a PEEK HERE at all of their signature scents and PEEK HERE for their fall/winter scents. I love the farmhouse feel of the labels and I especially love the ones in mason jars. These hand-crafted soy wax candles are made in small batches in the heart of North Carolina.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

sweet tea candle

RAISED ON SWEET TEA AND JESUS

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Best Coffee and Tea Companies of 2021

iron tea pot with small tea cups and loose tea

The simplest form of relaxation is wrapping your hands around a warm beverage, inhaling deeply, and taking a long sip. A rich cup of coffee gets me out of bed in the morning and a soothing cup of tea helps me fall asleep at night.  Tea and coffee make the perfect gift.  It is an inexpensive way to show someone they are appreciated.  Don’t forget all those people that help keep your life running smoothly like teachers, coaches, bus drivers, postal carriers, etc. Here are the Best Coffee and Tea Companies of 2021:

Amora Coffee

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS COMPANY

2 bags of coffee

One of the great things about Amora Coffee Company is their coffee is roasted in the USA by fifth-generation Master Roasters devoted to bringing you the perfect cup.  They only roast the beans after you order and then they are hand packed in foil-lined bags, while still warm, to protect the flavor and aroma. I also like that you get the choice to have whole bean or ground in regular or decaf. I’ve tried several flavors of their coffee and I’ve loved them all! Amora beans come from Central and South America, Indonesia and Africa, and when you are sipping your warm cup of coffee you’ll feel like you’ve been transported there. I love to support philanthropic companies and Amora is helping to bring clean water and sanitation to over 10,000 people in the remote Jabi Tehnan district of Ethiopia.

WHAT PRODUCTS DO WE LOVE?

two bags of coffee

Birthday Cake

$14.95

(This sweet flavored 100% Arabica bean coffee is a medium roast coffee with flavors of sweet, creamy vanilla frosting with undertones of buttery vanilla cake.)

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