Hi, friends! Coming at you today with a little round-up of the products that are “saving my life.” I use that in air quotes because, honestly, the only sustaining thing in my life is Jesus. But on a day to day basis, these products really are my go-to items and make life so much easier and better.
First, I will say that I’m making every effort to shop LESS on Amazon this year. Not that I have a huge opposition to shopping on Amazon, but I do think it’s a gateway for mindless consumerism. You end up on Amazon for one item, and then buy three other items because they are cheap. But I’ve been thinking more and more about my shopping behaviors and how they impact not only our family’s budget but also those that are involved in the supply chain and the impact of our waste.
There are a lot of shame-based posts related to consumerism and waste, which honestly pushed me toward shutting down and sticking my head in the sand because it felt overwhelming. But instead of doing that, this year I’m aiming toward shopping with intention. My focus for the year is “self discipline” and that extends into what I buy.
When possible, I want to shop this year with B Corporations that value sustainability and transparency in their supply chain. It’s one of the biggest reasons that I decided to partner with Arbonne and a driving force of the work that I did with Beautycounter in the past. People matter and the biggest changes happen when we vote with our dollars – even if that means spending a little more on products that are more expensive because they are made in a quality way.
So, with that said, here are all of my favorites!
- Norwex Floor Mop System. I have had this system for YEARS and finally needed a new mop pad so it’s top of mind for me. I linked to my friend Josie’s site if you want to grab yourself a mop. This is the easiest way to clean the floors – and you know I do that nearly every single night.
- Upgraded Skincare. You guys, I had NO idea what an upgrade my skincare was about to get when my pivot to Arbonne happened last year. I’m not joking when I say it’s never looked better. I’m linking my skincare routine here but if you need help building your own, reach out via email or IG any time!
- Flattering Leggings. These leggings are my go-to forever and ever. They are made by a B Corp favorite of mine – Athleta – and I love that I can run in them without any slipping or discomfort. I HATE uncomfortable leggings. And let’s be honest – most cheaply made leggings are uncomfortable or don’t hold up over time. If they aren’t in your budget, be on the lookout because they do have great sales from time to time!
- Confidence-Boosting Workout Shorts. These are *the* shorts I’ll be wearing all summer for workouts, runs and running around town. I’ve never been let down by ON workout shorts. They have always lasted years for me and I’m excited about these!
- Electric Tea Kettle. There are a lot of kettles you could choose from so I’m not linking anything specific here. But I love my electric tea kettle, especially in the cold months.
- Heated Blanket. Again, another winter recommendation. I got a new electric blanket this year and while I like it, I can’t say I LOVE it, so no specific recommendation to share but find a good one and enjoy it like I have!
- This Jacket. I wear it all the time. It’s sold out in most colors and sizes but if you can find it on Poshmark please grab it!
- The Best Green Cleaning Products. You can get a special new year’s deal on my favorite cleaning and laundry products. Honestly nearly 95% of everything I use to clean and do laundry is all from this company. They are on a mission to reduce waste + clean up traditional home cleaning and laundry and I promise you that you’ll love them! Right now the whole home bundle is currently 60% off!
- This Oil Cleanser. I’ve been looking for a cleanser that is similar to Beautycounter’s Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil and this Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is very similar. Rinses clean and is a great price point. Worth grabbing!
- Our Fireplace. Our house is a really LONG house and our living room is what was once a garage that was converted. Meaning that it gets a little chilly during the really really cold days. Joe builds a fire in our fireplace ALL the time and it’s such a lifesaver for me. You can find me curled up here nearly every night in the winter.
- This Podcast. There is just something about Karen that makes me feel happy + seen + encouraged. I love listening to her podcast.
- This coffee. I love a good dark roast that doesn’t have any fruity undertones. This hits the spot! It’s also made sustainably and certified organic.
- The creamiest organic matcha. Honestly didn’t think I could love matcha this much but I’m totally a goner for it. I love this organic matcha with MCT to help with fat burning + non jittery energy. Plus I just love the way it tastes blended with a little milk or cream.
- Getting up before my kids. After a long hiatus, I’m working to get back into the habit. It really makes ALL the difference for me and I’ve missed the hour in the morning of peace and quiet. I work best in the morning and am slow to wake up. Waking up before my kids instead of waking up TO my kids really allows me to show up better.
- Running. After getting iron infusions around Thanksgiving, and supplementing iron a few months prior to that, I was able to start consistently running again this fall. I don’t run for anything other than the mental benefits. It helps me feel strong and capable and tests my mental toughness. I love it so much!
- Lifting weights. Again, there were a few reasons that all forms of exercise got pushed to the back burner, and I was incredibly inconsistent with lifting. I recently switched over to the Moves App and have been enjoying it so far! It’s different than what I’m used to, but I like the simple, straightforward nature of the workouts.