Sustainable bathroom tip #1—Reduce your toilet paper usage

Remember last year when covid initially hit and there was a huge toilet paper shortage?? Here on Kauai our shelves were empty and relying on shipments made the situation a little more difficult and unreliable.

With the unpredictability of the toilet paper situation, we decided to finally get a bidet. My mother in law had the same thought, ordered 3, and gifted us one.

A bidet in your bathroom is one of the simple ways to make your bathroom more sustainable.

Side note: our friends have owned a bidet for years I refused to give it a try haha…I don’t know why!

If you’re unfamiliar with a bidet, it’s basically attaches to your toilet seat and to your toilet’s plumbing. Instead of using a huge wad of toilet paper, or needing to wipe multiple times, the bidet splashes water to clean you off!

I’m so sad that I went so many years without a bidet! Haha…it’s seriously so amazing! Not only do I find it more hygienic but we’ve noticed a significant decrease in our toilet paper usage!

If you’re reluctant to get one, let me tell you that it doesn’t hurt at all. And most, if not all bidets allow you to control the pressure so you can start off with super low pressure and increase with when you feel more comfortable.

This might be TMI, but I find myself waiting to handle my business till I’m at home bc of the amazing-ness of a bidet! Haha I really think everyone would love one!!

Sustainable bathroom tip #2–Transition to plastic-free razors

Most of us shave regularly and most of us use plastic razors and refill blades. It’s estimated that over 2 billion blades and refills get tossed annually in the US! Since they have a dangerous component, they can’t be recycled! Transitioning to plastic-free razors is another one of the simple ways to transition to a sustainable bathroom.

For years I have been sharing my husbands razor (which I guess is pretty sustainable too haha) but finally felt like it was time to get my own.

I kept on seeing ads for a popular magnetic razor and the marketing almost got me. Then I saw one of my favorite sustainable influencers share about her metal razor and I was sold!

The Leaf razor I got is 100% plastic free! It shaves wonderfully, comes with replacement metal blades, is made with no plastic and can be recycled!

Plastic free razors do cost a little more up front (I linked a $12 one!) but in the big picture, it is better purchase for your wallet and our planet.

Sustainable bathroom tip #3–Transition to Cotton Turkish Towels

In the past few months I began transitioning our bath towels to cotton Turkish towels.

Polyester happens to be a common material used in the traditional plush towels. Polyester happens to be plastic in material form (that is a very simplistic explanation, look it up for all the facts!). So not only do the plush towels take forever to dry in a dryer but they also let out micro plastics, that get dumped to our land,each time they are washed.

Transitioning to cotton Turkish towels is another of the simple ways to make your bathroom more sustainable.

With so much humid air here in Kauai we found that the plusher towels wouldn’t fully dry between uses and would take so much energy to fully dry in the dryer. For our situation, transitioning to cotton Turkish towels was the most sustainable option.

More about sustainability

Another thing I’ve learned about sustainability is that sometimes it’s more sustainable to keep what you have till it’s no longer in good condition, rather then getting super excited to be sustainable and throw all non-sustainable items away. Additionally up-cycling items that you no longer need and donating are other ways to be sustainable.

Thanks for taking the time to read my thoughts and supporting our blog! If you haven’t read Kari’s post on sustainable swaps check it out here.

We love you guys are are so grateful for you.

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Happy Friday friends!! It’s the end of the week and I am so excited for the weekend! My daughter recently started soccer and I have been enjoying watching her play so much! It’s so fun and encouraging to see her enjoy something and it also allows me to wear some of my favorite athleisure clothes! I mean I want to look cute, but I also want to be able to cheer her on comfortably, without caring if I’m getting wet from the grass or dirty!

I pretty much wear workout clothes every single day, or at least the majority of the week! With the kids, I try to stay active and keep them outdoors a lot so wearing maxi dresses and dressier clothes aren’t the perfect fit for me at this stage of my life!

I did a little bit of shopping and wanted to share some of my favorite athleisure pieces! Some I have had for quite some time and others are a new edition! I’m also going to try and keep this more budget friendly because I’m currently trying to stick to a budget and save more! Hope you enjoy!

Athleisure Tops Under $50

Some of my favorite go-to stores for workout tops are Nordstrom, Aerie, and Target! I like that I can get good quality clothing, but not have to pay extremely high prices! I used to purchase a lot of Lululemon and I do love them, but I didn’t find myself loving as much as some of my more budget-friendly alternatives. Now I really don’t purchase too many workout shirts from there unless I find a good sale or really love an item!

1. Zella Relaxed Long Sleeve Tee ($45): This relaxed long-sleeve T-shirt is perfect for both the gym and running errands. So get one in every color so you have something to wear to lunch after your workouts!
2. Zella Work for it Tank Top ($29): It’s easy being stylish and comfortable in this stretch-knit tank designed with a racerback and cropped hem! You can look cute while working out and they have so many colors!
3. Offline Ribbed Long Sleeve Crop Tee ($24): This top is very soft and cute and I would definitely recommend. It is more form fitting, so I suggest going up one size if you don’t want it tight! I sized up and love the fit!
4. Offline Real Me Tank Top ($28): My husband got me this tank for Valentine’s Day and I love it! I normally don’t love form-fitting shirts when working out, but this feels super nice! It comes with a padded bra so you have some support!
5. Target’s Famous $8 Tank: ($8): This is actually one of my go to tanks for working out! It’s so comfortable and the neckline is so flattering! I think I own at least 7-8 colors and wear them all the time!
6. All Motion Tank Top ($16): I own these in a few colors too! It’s super affordable! It has a relaxed fit, but isn’t too flowy! It’s perfect for working out! And I love the material!

My Favorite Workout Pants

1. Athleta Elation 7/8 Tight ($89): While these are definitely expensive and an investment piece, the quality and fit is so good! I wear these for more HIIT style or intensive workouts. They offer a little compression, are high-waister and have a 7/8 length! I love that they also come in tall sizes so they are perfect for me at 5’9! They often go on sale so you can definitely get them cheaper!
2. FP Movement Good Karma Running Shorts ($48): I love these running shorts! They are perfect for a run or jog and look super cute whether working out or not! I also will wear these under dresses so it’s a win-win for me!
3. Nike One Dri-Fit Leggings ($55): Whether you’re ready to work up a sweat or chill on the couch, feel confident in these leggings! It features a mid-waist contour waistband so they won’t slide down and are made of moisture-wicking technology!
4. Zella Live In High Waist Pocket 7/8 Leggings (on sale for $40): I own these and love them for pilates and yoga! They wick away moisture to keep you cool and comfortable during workouts and have a pocket to hold your phone or keys if needed!
5. OFFLINE Real Me High Waisted Legging: ($31): I own these in a few colors also and love them! They are high-waisted so I always wear them with a crop top! I wear these more for athleisure styles as they don’t have a ton of compression and are a thinner material! They are good for yoga and pilates though! I also like that they are a 7/8 length and come in short, tall and regular sizing! AERIE is so size inclusive so I love supporting this brand!
6. OFFLINE Real Me High Waisted Crossover Legging ($45): Love these! The waist is so cute! I have two pairs and I find myself gravitating towards these all the time! You know they are good because they constantly sell out!

Gamechanger: Belt Bags/Hip Packs

Okay friends! A belt bag or hip pack or fanny pack (whatever you want to call them) has literally been a game changer for me! I wear it slung across my chest and it makes going to the park and beach so much easier! I leave my diapers and everything in the car and just put my wallet, phone and keys inside my bag and I am ready to go! It keeps my hands-free so I can chase my little ones and not worry about losing my keys or having a heavy diaper bag to wear! Here are some of my favorites! You can also find some really cute ones from Aloha Collection!

1. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag ($38): I purchased this one from Lululemon and I love it! It’s a smaller version and just plain black! They have a bunch of colors and it holds everything I need! It’s perfect and my husband can wear it too!
2. Lululemon All Night Festival Belt Bag 3L ($68): This is a similar style to the one I purchased, but slightly bigger! I saw in person and it reminded me a little more of a cross-body bag so I went with the smaller one. It also comes in a few colors and is very versatile and easy to clean!
3. Herschel Supply Co. Seventeen Hip Pack ($32): My friend owns this in black and it is so cute! It’s a quintessential compact pack made of poly-canvas and it carries all your belongings! You can wear it around the waist or over the shoulder. It’s also unisex so your husband can wear it too!
4. Topshop Diagonal Zip Belt Bag ($30): This is a perfect dressier version of hip pack! The sleek faux-leather finish elevates this handy belt bag and the edgy zippered details give it a chic, cool-girl vibe!
5. Fawn Design Belt Bag ($55): You can store your cash, keys and other small essentials while on the go with your little one in this trendy belt bag! It’s made by the same brand as my diaper bag and the quality is so good!
6. Volcom Take With Me Belt Bag ($35): This has a lot of cute prints and it’s just a super simple version of a belt-bag! It’s the perfect size for daily adventures!

Athleisure Style for the Win!

My typical week includes a lot of running around, going to Stroller Strides, visiting the park and going to the beach! It’s important for me to be comfortable but look stylish! I think that is really important for mom’s to keep in mind! When we look frumpy or don’t get dressed, it often translates to us feeling that way too! So getting dressed in a little bit of athleisure really helps me feel put together! I know that one day I will be able to wear maxi dresses and whatever outfit I want, but with the kids so young and me constantly picking them up and down, it just isn’t feasible right now!

I also typically add a hat (this is my current favorite from Alo Yoga right now!) to keep the sun out of my eyes! It’s important to protect your skin and not get sunburnt or sun damage! Right now, while nursing my skin is prone to melasma, I always wear a hat and sunscreen! Melissa had some great recommendations in her post about Blue-Light, so if you haven’t already check that out HERE)!

And for shoes, I typically always wear my trusty Adidas, my New Balance’s or my Olukai’s! They are definitely my favorite shoes!

Hope this post helps provide you with some inspiration! You can shop the post via the blog or our Liketoknowit account (username: sunkissedandgrateful). As always, we do make a small commission if you click on our links and purchase within a certain time frame, so thank you for your support!

Thanks for following along and I hope you have an amazing weekend!

xoxox,

Kari

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How Blue Light Exposure Can Affect Your Health

Most of us spend a huge part of our lives looking at a screen—for work, entertainment, education and communication. Since screens use blue light displays, our faces and eyes are the most susceptible to damage!

Blue light exposure has been linked to eye fatigue, blurred vision, and dry eyes. Additionally, studies have shown blue light is a risk factor for the onset of a condition (age-related macular degeneration) that can lead to vision loss over time! If that alone isn’t wanting you to protect yourself from blue light exposure, there’s more!

Additionally the blue light from our screens impacts our sleep by messing with our circadian rhythm. Disrupted sleep decreases our quality of sleep and we all know how important quality sleep is to our health, mood, energy, etc.

I also read that children are also susceptible to adverse reactions from blue light exposure so it’s even more important for them to protect their eyes!

While there is conclusive evidence linking blue light exposure to increased skin damage I read that:

“The best evidence we have is that blue light ‘contributes to brown spots on the skin and hyperpigmentation such as melasma, and possibly to photoaging and the breakdown of collagen, which leads to wrinkles and skin laxity…’”

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.allure.com/story/blue-light-phone-skin-effects/amp

With it being such a new topic in dermatology, I’m not sure if there are any longitudinal studies yet. However, knowing that early evidence does suggest blue light exposure has the potential to be damaging to our skin is enough for me to take protective measures.

Tula Protect and Glow

I have been using the Tula Protect and Glow cream for some months. It not only protects skin from blue light exposure but also is a sunscreen. Most sunscreens are thick leave a white residue, but not this one. It’s light and not sticky plus it is made with clean ingredients, which is something that’s super important to me.

Non-Toxic Blue Light Face Creams

I found some non-toxic blue light face creams. I wanted to share the ones I found, just in case you’re wanting to add them to your face routine!

Direct links for each cream can be found here! Links also found at the bottom on this post.

Blue Light Exposure Eye Protection

I noticed people on social media start wearing blue light glasses over the past year but never really looking into it myself. It wasn’t until talking with some friends and they shared with the me the importance blue light exposure eye protection. I ordered these glasses for me and Randon that day! They came out to about $7 each so not a huge investment for the protection they offer.

Blue Light Glasses

There are so many blue light glasses options out there. I was surprised that they can cost just as much as prescription lenses! Yikes! If that’s in your budget and you wanna do that, go for it! I did, though, find some budget friendly blue light glasses–ranging from $5 to mid $30s! Also, I shared one option for kids.

Find direct links to glasses here! Also at the bottom of this post.

Small Steps Lead to Big Changes

Protecting yourself from blue light exposure may be really low on your priority list haha it was non-existent on mine. But I think small steps lead to big changes especially when it comes to our health. Thanks for reading today’s post and hopefully you learned something new! much love, –Melissa

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Exercise is a big part of my life. It gives me energy and peace. I look forward to moving my body and have found that the days I skip a workout are more challenging for me.

If I’m not going to a group class (reformer Pilates is my all time favorite!), I prefer home workouts. And free home workout programs are even better

My daughter gets so excited when she sees me getting ready and even tries lots of the exercises. It’s nice to expose her to caring for her body at such a young age!

3 Free Home Workout Programs

To kick off my 3 favorite free home workout programs is…

#1 CHLOE TING

• She has so many free home workout programs that focus on the harder to tone/strengthen areas for us women! (e.g., thighs, abs, booty, etc.)
• She has a day to day plan for each program, with her YT links.
• All of the workouts that I’ve done have the bar that tells you how much percentage progress you’ve made in the workout and for me that’s motivating to see.
• Workout range in times, so you can choose which ones work with your schedule.
• I’ve been doing her hourglass program and my booty has gotten a tiny bit stronger haha
• Her personality is fun and I like her cute accent.

Check out her website here!

#2 WHITNEY SIMMONS

• While she does have a pay-for app, she provides tons of free workouts on her Instagram.
• On her IGTV she has full length workouts and I especially love the no jumping one since I have weak knees.
• She’s very upbeat and optimistic which really help get my mind in the mood for exercise.
• She also has really cute workout sets and I like how she uses music on her videos bc I need music to workout!

Check out here Instagram here!

#3 CARA LOREN

• Free home workout videos are sprinkled throughout her Instagram. She doesn’t have an official program.
• The equipment she uses can easily be substituted with things around your home but she uses pretty basic equipment
• Her workouts are intense! She makes them look super easy too!!
• She is a mom of 3 and is so so strong! So inspiring!
• Her workout clothes is super cute

Check out her Instagram here!

Whether you’re just starting a fitness journey or super active, I’m hoping one of these free home workout programs is new and fresh for you and helps you get closer to your fitness goals!

I think we can all agree that when you feel good about yourself, it’s easier to do hard/challenging things. Which is why I try to change into a workout set that hypes me up so I can push through the burn.

Fitness Gear Wishlist

My fitness gear wishlist is much longer ha but I condensed it to the items that I have been eyeing for quite some time! Get links to each item here!

• APL sneakers—they have great reviews and look super cute!! A major splurge and not sure I’ll ever be able to justify purchasing them!
• Free People Square Neck Crop Top—The ribbed fabric and the square neck did it for me! Obsessed.
• Blogilates dumbbell and yoga mat—doesn’t just looking at these items makes you want to workout?! I love the colors and look of them! And their price point is amazing!!!
• Lululemon Align Tank—all over the internet with great reviews. And since purple is my favorite color this lilac tank is calling my name!!
• Lululemon align yoggers—the comfort of wearing leggings but with a fresh silhouette! I saw a lady at Costco wearing them and they looked so great! Then a mom at the park had them paired with a boxy tee and I loved them! I’m seeing them everywhere so I think that’s a sign
• Zella 7/8 leggings—I ordered these a couple years ago during the Nordstrom’s sale but returned them bc they felt too thick. Everyone raves about them so I think it’s time to give them another try esp with this blue color and great price point!!
• Vuori Tank— I really like the high neck and design. And I’ve heard really great things of this California based brand!

Fitness Finds Under $30

I also wanted to share some budget friendly fitness finds under $30! Get links to each item here!

• Free People Sports Bras—I’m really into ribbed material and the quality of the fabric is so soft but thick.
• Free People Shorts—I like the boxer look to them and they come in several cute colors!
• Blogilates Equipment—the colors of the equipment really caught my eye. And so far reviews are great!
• Lululemon align dupes—The reviews rave the quality of these leggings! They come in many colors too.
• Mesh sports bra—the mesh detail is cute and there are so many positive reviews! Such a great price too!
• Knotted crop top—a fun spin to a standard workout top. The knot is a way to show a little but not so much skin.
• Active tank top—target tank that can be knotted or worn longer! Other fun colors available.
• Biker shorts—for the warmer days, these biker shorts are inexpensive and are a best seller.

Find Joy in Fitness

I believe that in order for us to get all the benefits of exercise we must find joy in fitness. Try different settings, classes, types of movement until you find one that bring you joy! Thanks for reading my post and hoping you find joy in your fitness journey!!

Also, if you didn’t have a chance to check out Kari’s blog on the Valentine’s Day toddler book guide, check it out here!

Much love, beautiful friends. —Melissa

ps. If you purchase from our links we do make a small commission from it! Thanks for supporting us!

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What is a Toxin?

I briefly wanted to explain toxins. So what are toxins?

Disclaimer—I don’t know all the terminology and am far from an expert so please do your own research especially if my toddler level explanation leaves you with questions 🙂

Toxins are harmful chemicals that are added to products for any given purpose (longevity, color, scent, functionality, etc.). Exposure to toxins have/ been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, auto immune diseases, and so many more gnarly conditions. It’s so scary to me! Which is why I’m so passionate about raising awareness to the harmful toxins that get snuck into most products!!

Educational Resources

I’ll do another blog sharing more extensive resources but I wanted to share the two I use repeatedly!
• EWG.ORG is my go to for all things clean and non-toxic. They share lists of safe alternatives for all household/beauty/baby products. They have articles with news on legislative changes and just tons of informative posts.
• Think Dirty App — I try to shop local as much as possible within my budget which means my purchases are limited to what’s on the shelves. The Think Dirty App allows you to search an item and provides a profile of toxic/potentially harmful ingredients in the product. It gives each product a score from 0-10. I love this app when I’m shopping with my kids and i don’t have the luxury researching each product before purchase.

Let’s get into the 3 budget friendly ways to create a toxic free kitchen.

Toxic Free Kitchen with Cast Iron Pans

I know what you’re thinking.
“Cast iron pans are too heavy.”
“Is it true you’re not supposed to wash them? That’s gross.”
”What’s wrong with my non-stick pan?”
Maybe you don’t have those questions/reservations, but I initially did! Until I learned about the toxins found in the huge majority of cookware! The amazing lining that prevents food from sticking to the pan is actually not amazing and is seeping carcinogens into all the food cooked in it! Eek…not cool, especially after I invested in organic food!

Cue the budget friendly, toxic free, cast iron pan!! It’s Teflon free and will last you forever!!! I picked up a pair at Costco for around $30. Here is a similar one I found on Amazon.

Since cast iron pans don’t have a non stick coat, cooking on them have a little learning curve but don’t get discouraged. Stirring frequently really helps me avoid food from sticking. Another alternative is stainless steel cookware, and they can also be relatively inexpensive. There are actually toxic free, non stick pans, like our favorite Always Pan, but it’s more of an investment piece.

Toxic Free Kitchen with Silicone + Glass Storage

The second way to have a toxic free kitchen is with silicone storage. Not only is eliminating plastic from your kitchen great for your health, it’s also great for the Earth. So why do I say no to plastic storage? Although most plastic is made BPA free, I read an article saying that most manufacturers have found a way to make BPA without calling it BPA so we still get all the harmful chemicals from the plastic into our food and eventually into our bodies. That’s the biggest reason why I made the switch, and of course the 1,000 year life span of plastic!!

What do I use instead? I own a few Stasher bags that I use for packing snacks for my kids, storing leftovers, and dry foods I buy in bulk. Recently I learned about Zip Top bags and their standing feature seems incredibly helpful.

Aside from silicone bags I also use glass for storage for dry foods, snacks, and frequently used foods. Not only are they a better alternative to plastic but I really like the look of them. Mason jars are so cute to me and when I saw these glass jars with bamboo lids for sale during Prime Day I had to get them. We also use glass mason jars for storing too!

I’m slowly replacing all of my plastic Tupperware and want to get these!

Toxic Free Kitchen with Parchment Paper

Just as the majority of cookware is created with toxins, most bakeware is as well. From what I’ve read, there is a way to still use that has a toxic non-stick surface—parchment paper. Parchment paper is a way to protect your food from making contact to the toxins. The parchment paper that I use is biodegradable and compostable, which to me is the cherry on top of the primary benefit (not allowing toxins into the foods we bake)!

Parchment paper is very affordable and a great option to continue to use your current bakeware and not have to repurchase all new items.

Toxin Free Kitchen and Life

Living a toxin free life is part of my core values and I love sharing what I learn with anyone willing to listen or read 😉 My hope is that I’ve sparked some curiosity in you to perhaps make some changes in your life to also have a toxin free kitchen—and life! Kari’s post on an armpit detox is another way to embrace the toxin free life 🙂

So grateful for you, beautiful friends!

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