DOWN

September 16, 2024 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

Should I sit in front with dad, or sit with her in the backset? Either way I’ll beat myself up over the decision I make. The backseat looks like a fucking she-shed. I’m not even sure who did this. My mom, I just can’t see her piling all this crap in the car. Crap for the comfort of someone on their way to die. If dad did this it was out of panic and he’s likely already forgotten he did it. He can’t function. I’ve heard him throw up several times this morning. How will it be when we get home tonight is what is killing me.

At this moment it is in front of me. All the dread that is to be. I’m out here alone just staring through the closed untinted window. I’m waiting here so someone else will have to walk her out, and watch as she climbs in the car for the very last time.

A blanket covers the seat in its entirety. It’s not new, but I don’t think I’ve seen it for years. Maybe it was in a closet or drawer I’m not allowed to open, or I just don’t care to. There’s also a huge velvet pillow. Everything is always velvet. And usually green, like this one. There’s also a small box that I want to open. But I won’t. Those are hers.

From behind me I hear the side door shut. All I can think is I never heard it open and maybe they were calling me and I’m just out here trying not to be a part of this.

They walk to the car and no one is crying or talking and I step aside before the car door knocks me over. Dad has tunnel vision. Mom is lacking the emotions one would expect to have in this situation. Maybe it’s brewing. Maybe when the tray with the needles and the doctor in his sterile jacket in his sterile clinic room and he asks ‘ready?’ maybe that’s when the dolorously obvious will show up.

When the door is fully ajar she hops in and settles on the smooth blanket. The smell of her bath fills the space all around us, especially the car. She lies down on the pillow and sighs. Just a sigh. Dad hovers and I can see he’s struggling with the seat belt issue. Secure her for the short ride. Or fuck it, what’s the point.

Dad closes the door and walks around to the driver side. Suddenly all eyes are on me and where I am going to sit. Back or front. Like I said, there’s no right choice for me in this decision. I squeeze in front and don’t turn around. No matter what, don’t turn around, don’t look.

The ride is eight minutes. It’s not our first time here. It might be our hundredth time but I hope it’s our last. I mean, how on earth could this possibly happen a second time in your life. For some it happens a lot. That’s what the nurse told us at our last visit. “Euthanasia is common and there’s no need to overburden ourselves with a wild imagination on the subject.” He was looking at me when he said that.

Equal Parts Love and Loathing

January 6, 2017January 22, 2018 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

A few days ago my auto renewal payment went through for this site. It was a reminder that I have absolutely ignored it. But, busy. I mean really really busy. To sit down and write would be such a luxury.

A day later I received another good reason to write. My first FitFabFun box arrived. I had no idea I would be so excited about a box of random things fit for a girly girl like me. I plan to gift some of the contents to my lovelies. I’ll be writing about every product from the box. I highly recommend signing up for the box. A new delivery comes every 3 months. Almost $300 worth of full size items for only $40. Swoon!

Just about all the posts I read on my favorite social media sites are based on 2016 being such a pile of crap. If you add up the deaths, tragedies, the disappointing election result, and then some, I guess it could be a year that we are all happy to see go. However, as we head into 2017 I’m going to look back at all the GOOD stuff I cherished. I hope you will too!

My 2016

Our grandson turned 1 (happy and healthy), I still have a job that I love, saw Butch Walker at the Teragram Ballroom, very limited Meniere’s attacks, celebrated 7 years of marriage with my love, I did water aerobics the entire summer and right up until the ‘harsh” California winter set in, Hillary lost but she will have the last laugh, another clean mamo, not one credit card was used for Christmas, I turned 47!, kids are healthy, bought a ticket home to Boston for my dad’s 70th in May, we brought home Audrey the puppy and another cat rescue named Rain, I started volunteering for the rescue that gave us Rain. Whew! Good stuff. I’m ready for new experiences this new year.

Break it Down – The FabFitFun Editor’s Box

I saw this box advertised all over my FB and Instagram feeds. I shrugged it off because I already have a bathroom closet AND a medicine chest full of items that I love but overcrowding is already a thing. Lotions, oils, potions, polish, promises, treatments, scents, and………what on earth could I do with more? Share it!

This is a detailed list of contents:

Black/White blanket scarf. I’ve followed Modcloth for sometime now but have yet to make a purchase. I kept this beauty in the original packaging and set it aside for a friend on the East Coast.
Very cute coffee mug. And another set aside for an occasion that I am sure will sneak up on me. There’s a box in my bedroom closet where I lay aside items I have found on sale or on a whim. It’s filled with goodies to meet any occasion. Saving this mug for such an opportunity.
Shortly after Christmas I had lunch with a friend and her 10-year old daughter. Assuming she might be bored with us adults I wrapped up the coloring book and colored pencils in Christmas wrap and gave it to her before we ordered. I’m pretty sure she was happy!
I carry a small makeup bag in my purse that is filled with only lip gloss. I just reach in blindly and that’s what works. So yes, I kept this one 🙂
I love this oil. I add a few drops to my leave in conditioner. Before bed I apply some to my palms and rub it on the ends of my hair. With it I moisturize my décolletage – otherwise known as the neck, shoulders, and chest of a woman. It’s my toughest spot and I appreciate any help. It smells great and it’s not overly oily.
My favorite product in the box. Other peels I have used in the past leave my skin red and sometimes burning. This peel is super fast, lightweight, and free from harsh ingredients. I sprayed it on my face, wait the recommended 3 seconds, and start rubbing it off with my fingertips. Your skin starts to roll off immediately. Rub for a minute or so then rinse your face with warm water. *All natural and organic ingredients.
Beautiful necklace. The one I received says LOVE. Well said.
OSEA Atmosphere Protection Cream. Lightweight, pretty scent, vegan, and cruelty free. Keeper.

9. Zoya Nail polish. The young lady I gave the color book and pencil to…..she loved this as well.

*****the box was available for $39.99 because I took advantage of a sale. The next box will be $49.99*****

Pinched from my friend Sarah’s IG. Well said.

This is hanging in the lunch area at my son’s school. #perfect

The Very near future

With the inauguration of the next President just around the corner, you can bet things will be a bit ‘new’. By new I mean, it’s not going to be altogether good, and it will be something that will take some getting used to. New can be scary, and unnerving, and for some Americans – horrifying. I’m not one of his supporters. I disagree with pretty much everything he is. The only hope I can grasp onto is that he seems to be a family man. It stops there.

With Obama, after 8 years, we all know what to expect. There are no surprises. He’s not extreme or abrupt. He followed the rules and in my opinion he did a damn good job. Like most of America, I fear that comfort level will be gone after the inauguration. I’m expecting the worst. I really really hope I’m wrong.

For all my Trump supporters out there – you hopeful heroes! I hope you are right.

Regardless, I’ll never give up on what I believe in and support.

PLANNED PARENTHOOD, WOMEN’S RIGHTS, EQUAL RIGHTS, FAIR PAY, LGBT RIGHTS, NO WALL, ANIMAL RIGHTS, HEALTHCARE FOR ALL, MARRIAGE EQUALITY. BLACK LIVES MATTER. ALL LIVES MATTER.

If they are taken away….we will get them back!

XOXO

Always thinking about good health

September 5, 2016September 6, 2016 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

Bone Broth Soup

It took me forever to get on board with the gluten-free diet. Once I did I felt so……empty. Really, I felt like I was free of the load I was carrying around. That awful bloat some refer to as a ‘food baby’. I’m only about 90% gluten-free but I swear by the benefits. You will lose weight and you will feel better.

It took me just as long to get started with bone broth. The name alone gave me….yeah, yuck. I bought a ready-made carton of the broth (chicken) at Baron’s. I made sure it was organic, no added salt, and the chickens were raised humanely. The usual reports say home-brew has far more health benefits than store-bought. But I really wanted to give it a taste before moving ahead. I was pleasantly surprised. It was quite bland and that was a relief. Because….bone marrow 😐 So each day, until it was gone, I had a small tea cup of the broth. I then anxiously made my own chicken bone broth from scratch.

Is it really supposed to take 24 hours?

My first mistake was using a crock pot. Along with organic chicken bones I added all my favorite seasonings………rosemary, cilantro, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and a lot of water. My beloved slow cooker tried and tried. After 12 hours I checked on the bones. Hard as a damn rock. I put the lid back on and went to bed. The next morning, my kitchen smelled fabulous from all the herbs, but the bones remained far from the supple expressions I’d read about. Another 6 hours later and zero progress. After another couple of hours I gave up. Drained the solids and enjoyed my almost bone broth.

Round two. A large pot on the stove over a gas flame for 12 hours. I eventually let the broth cool, took out the bones, cracked them in half, and put them back in the water for another 8 hours. I could see the marrow had not cleared the bones but I was tired of babysitting the pot of boiling water. Drained the solids and enjoyed the soup.

My third and final attempt was using beef bones. Twenty-four hours in boiling water led to nothing. You cannot break beef bones in half. If you run the bones over with your car the bones will not break. I you swear at them while using a hammer they will not break. I could SEE the marrow but it refused to cooperate. Maybe I expelled some of the nutrients I was striving for. Maybe I just made a placebo soup. Regardless. Roots over by the Promenade mall sells bone broth soup and I no longer feel the need to watch water boil for hours on end.

Even through the hot summer I enjoyed a pot a week.

Honest benefits? Last month I was very happy to hear my Doctor say the results of my last physical (blood work) was the best I’ve had in the last 5 years. Lastly, the awful bursitis in my left hand, which a surgeon says requires surgery to relieve the pain, is far less painful than it was before I added the broth to my diet. Less pain, less pills. NO surgery!

Here are some of the health benefits I found on a general search:

Rich in minerals that support the immune system. Minerals such as collagen, glutamine, glycerine, and proline.
The phosphorus, magnesium, and calcium in the bones add essential building blocks to OUR healthier bones.
On most accounts, reviewers noticed an increase in energy.
This “superfood” can help protect your joints. The glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate feed your joints to keep them healthy and pain-free.
Since the broth is a rich source of collagen, our hair, nails, and skin benefit from the inside out.
It’s delicious AND very economical.

ENJOY!

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Fresh rosemary, turmeric root (shaved), Shiitakes, pepper, bay leaves, and fresh ginger (not pictured).

To be a rock.

December 28, 2015December 30, 2015 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

I thought I’d squeeze in one last entry before the year ends. And to think when I started this I thought I could commit to an entry every month.

Last entry for 2015. I’m moving ahead with a full heart, a clear conscience, a strong will to nurture, I’m an open door, I’m an open book, and my garden is very well watered and weeded.

Wishing you good health and lots of love.

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*****Awesome stuff that happened in 2015:

Our grandson was born, I didn’t shave my head, Damon’s school year is leagues better than last year, my husband survived layoffs, I met my sweet friend Cari, Kaden started school, I got a job AT his school, my parents came to visit, Tara married John, Sirius begged me to come back and I accepted at only $5 a month, Ryan Adams remade 1989 and it is divine, I didn’t get that job at Macy’s (whew), someone I love deleted me from FB and I took it like the rock I am, we celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary, My MRI was clear, Tara turned 24, Damon 12, and Kaden 5. We helped some Marines (this did more for me than for them so thank you), Sclerotherapy got rid of my old lady leg veins, spent my 46th in Big Bear, visited the alpaca farm three times, and, I’ll stop now 🙂

Lots of good times 15. I’ll miss you!

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My whole family!

“Gone with any trace of you. I think I am finally clean.”

This wall in our bedroom is my favorite in the house. My husband’s baby book. And of course, the Queen of Grace herself.

And below…….there are no words for someone who behaves like this. Still, I have some fabulous memories.

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My handsome dad!

And below…….Emmett William born July 1st. Is it possible to have 5 or 6 loves of my life? He’s one of them!

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“If my heart is an ice cream cone, this is the beach it melts on.”

July 27, 2015January 16, 2017 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

JULY

***The quote above I found on an Instagram page run by Ryan Adams.

While you binge on Netflix……

Pick up a kettle bell and throw it around! Watching TV is ok. But make it better by destroying the quilt with a short power workout. A 10-pound KB is simple to use. Try these moves:

1. Standing up straight with your feet about 2 feet apart, arms at your sides, raise the KB over your head fully extending your arm. Minimum 10 lifts each arm. Alternate arms.

2. Same position but with knees bent, arms at your side, raise both arms to chest level and pass the KB off to the other arm. Arms come down and you repeat the motion. Do this for as long as you can. Try starting with 15 minutes. Bending your knees adds the glute/leg muscles to the workout.

3. Place the KB between your feet. Stand up straight, keep your feet about a foot apart, bend down to pick up the KB and raise it over your head. Alternate arms each time you bend down.

You should be able to see and hear your favorite show while getting a complete upper body workout.

You can never have enough oils!

The latest….Marula.

Honestly, I only use this oil for one thing….my hair. The night before I shampoo I rub it into my hair, focusing on the ends. Then I tie my hair up in a tight bun and let it soak in while I sleep.

Very affordable. Amazon Prime 1 oz. for $6

Other uses I read about/tried: An excellent nighttime eye moisturizer, helps heal excema, apply to sunburns, use on those painful nail/fingertip splits, cradle cap, and lip gloss.

Sclerotherapy (Ouch!)

All my adult life I have battled leg veins. Last month I had a procedure done that reduces the veins down to about nothing. Although it was as unpleasant as can be I am so happy I did it. Sclerotherapy at The Vein Clinic in Murrieta was $450. The process took about 45 minutes. The pain ranged from a 2 to an 8. The small surface veins were easy. Sometimes the needle had to go a bit deeper.

The process involves an injection of a solution directly into the vein. The solution irritates the lining of the blood vessel causing it to collapse. Eventually, it is absorbed by the body. The solution is a simple salt solution. Harmless.

Even though you can see lots of bruising there was no pain after the procedure was complete. I was given a pair of compression socks to be worn for a full week. I was charged $75 dollars extra for the socks. If you decide to do the procedure bring your own socks. You can find them on Amazon for around $25.

The compression hose are highly unattractive. But, they feel so good.

The aftermath. OUCH! Bruising caused by the needle. It took about 3 weeks for the bruising to heal.

Compression stockings (thigh high). Required for full recovery. They actually feel good. If I am ever employed at a job that requires a lot of standing I will wear these to work. #scubasuit

**I had my follow-up today (5 weeks on 7/14). I was impressed when the nurse showed me the before photos. During the follow-up I pointed out a blood clot in one area. This is a common side effect from the injections and not usually dangerous. She treated it with a few injections and it should be clear and trouble free.

***Two weeks after the follow-up the blood clot is much smaller but still present. I also found a second clot. Time for more injections 😦

Gifting

Who doesn’t love Scrabble? An easy to make gift for a birthday, housewarming, wedding, just because……..

You can find the frames in your house, craft store, thrift shop, or anywhere. Tiles and metallic sheet are from Amazon. Metallic paint from Home Depot.

I made this from a frame I bought at Home Goods. I removed the glass and put a sheet of metal based adhesive in the opening of the mat. The sheet is very flexible. It was the perfect surface for the tiles with magnets glued on back.

My first Scrabble frame. This one I repurposed from an old frame we had in the garage, sprayed metallic paint over the cardboard backing, and then glued the dictionary pages on. Magnets were glued to the tiles. This hangs in my bedroom. One of our cats loves to lunge at the frame to see how many tiles he can get.

***I was very meticulous with the dictionary pages. I made sure to chose pages that started with the first letters of everyone in my immediate family. In addition, I chose pages that had some meaningful words: peace, uttermost, ready, engagement, magnificent, cheerful, baby…..the list goes on.

Love this……

I love to support my friends. So I’ll try anything they offer. I’ve known Linda for almost 30 years (Deer Valley HS!). I love the Lemongrass Spa products.

Natural. Organic. Therapeutic. Hydrating. Affordable!

Healing Elements: It soothes/heals everything. My son’s excema, my cracked fingers, sunburns, lip gloss…you name it.

Amber Glow Spritz: I use this as an after shower spray on my legs. I have even used it as a leave in conditioner when I was out.

Sheer Minerals Hydrating Lip Gloss: The perfect color and it lasts through water sips and excessive talking 😉

Samples: Linda sent me more samples than I can try at once. So I tried some and saved some for my travel bag. I loved the Pomegranate Face Polish (exfoliate!) and the eye cream.

Find them here: loveLGSpa.com

Summer’s Skin

Around early June I have to change my skin care routine to accommodate the hot and sometimes sticky weather. Socal Life!

Morning: I keep a fresh aloe leaf on my bathroom counter (a fresh cut from a friend’s tree). After I exfoliate in the shower I cut a slice about 3/4 of an inch wide. Then I cut it in half and cut through the fleshy middle (see picture). Open the cut and squeeze it between your fingers to get the moisture out. Do the same with the second cut. Rub the lotion all over your face. It’s a great moisturizer and an effective protector. When the gel like lotion dries it forms a very thin barrier keeping the bad stuff out. It also works as a foundation to block sweat and that oily look. For those of you who wear makeup this form of moisturizing is a bonus for your skin.

If I know I will be outdoors for any length of time I will add a drop or two of sunblock. The aloe and Kiss My Face lotion mix together very well.

After I shower I spray sun spray oil on my neck, chest, and arms.

Nightime: I start by rinsing my face with warm/hot water. Then I take the bentonite clay and warm water to form a face soap. I rub the soap all over my face. Rinse with warm water. At night I only moisturize my eyes. I use a drop of marula oil (or any oil) and spread it all over the eye area. And sometimes I need some spot control so I use something with benzoyl peroxide where needed.

Products: Aloe Vera leaves can be found in the produce section and/or your local farmer’s market. Sun Spray Oil 30 and Face Factor 30 at kissmyface.com, Marula Oil and Bentonite Clay at Amazon.

The Ultimate GREEN Party Place

Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens is located in Fallbrook. About 15 minutes from us in Temecula……and usually 10 degrees cooler. The cafe serves ONLY local/organic foods. In May I hosted my daughter’s baby shower on the deck of the cafe. I was able to reserve the entire deck for just $50 (which went toward the food bill). It was the perfect place for an outdoor celebration. A waiter took our orders and served us while we mingled and reminisced. The meals are very healthy and affordable. Salads and sandwiches are only $8. Another $2 for a drink.

Other than the cafe, Myrtle Creek is a garden lovers paradise. They have a wide range of flowers and plants for sale. The gift shop is of course vintage and antique with jewelry, clothes, candles, jams, and a fair amount of garden accents.

Also on site: A wild bird sanctuary and a fairy garden workshop.

Cafe Bloom is a vintage lovers paradise. All the decor is antique and unique. From the deck you can see nearly the entire farm including a barn with goats and a large fish pond.

This rustic gazebo is a great place for photos or a private place to enjoy your lunch.

It’s difficult to see hanging in all that lovely greenery, but this is an antique chandelier for candles only.

Antique bicycle turned into a flower-pot.

“I’d rather be a comma, than a full stop.”

April 29, 2015May 12, 2015 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

Hi! How are you?

The first day of Spring was last month. I hope your neck of the woods is (finally) catching up. My yard is in full bloom with more roses than I can share. It’s a treat to open the back door first thing in the morning to the sound of birds and the bursts of color and scents all together in one big melting pot of…….charm.

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Let’s Cook!

I’m not going to hide it….this dish is high in fat. But it’s SO good! I tweaked the recipe quite a bit but you can find the original at damndelicious.net. So go ahead and tweak it yourself. Add some, take some, but please share so I can try it too.

**I made both chicken and pork because the men of the house have varying tastes. And because I like them so much I left out my normal variety of mushrooms.

CHICKEN (AND PORK) IN SUNDRIED TOMATO CREAM SAUCE

Ingredients

5 boneless/skinless thighs and 3 thick boneless pork chops

Salt and pepper

1 tablespoon porcini butter (does not taste a bit like mushrooms, I swear!)

3 cloves of garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon red pepper

1 cup low sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/3 cup sundried tomatoes (soaked over night in garlic olive oil and drained before use)

1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon each of dried thyme, dried oregano, and driven basil

A bunch of asparagus spears

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Season a pot of water with salt, pepper, and garlic flavored olive oil and boil the chops for 1.5-2 hours or until VERY tender. Trim the fat and set aside.

Do the same for the thighs but for only 45 minutes. Trim the fat and set aside.

Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a skillet. Add asparagus, garlic, and red pepper, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, sundried tomatoes, parmesan, and the three seasonings.

Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Add meat to the skillet and turn off heat.

Place the entire contents on the skillet to a casserole dish. Keeping the meats separated is an option.

Bake at 400 for 25-30 minutes.

Salt and pepper to your taste and garnish with basil leaves. Serve immediately.

**Consider adding a side dish of pasta and bread sticks. Gluten free of course 🙂

Sell some, Buy some

Tradesy is an online consignment store featuring new and gently used items from individual sellers. Tradesy is very simple. If you are buying you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the many bargains of mainly designer clothes, jewelry, handbags and other accessories. If you are a seller they make it very easy. Once your item sells shipping supplies are sent to you and shipping is paid for in advance. Trades takes 9% commission. You can use your funds in the Tradesy store or have it transferred to your bank account. Tradesy.com

Used stuff I sold. Yes, there’s a market for empty jewelry boxes!

……and what I bought. The tag still attached said $165. I paid $50. Brand new. Ain’t she pretty?

Diet Fuel

Javita! This coffee was delicious. I found a 7-day supply for $11 on Amazon. A one month supply is anywhere from $25-$40. This particular blend ‘Burn and Control’ is aimed at weight loss. It definitely curbed my appetite. If you want a cleanse this is the stuff. What I am saying is if you need to empty the bowels. The first day stay close to home or another comfort zone. The second day is a bit less ‘violent’. I cannot comment on weight loss. I had one cup each morning for 7 days straight. I no longer use a scale so I don’t have numbers for comparison. Judging from the fit of my clothes…not much happened in a week. But I did feel a lot less bloated. A month is recommended for weight loss results.

Tried It

La Mer Moisturizing Soft Cream – The only thing wrong with this cream is that I’ll never be able to use it long term. It’s SO expensive. I bought a trial size .24 oz from Amazon just to try it. Even that was $25. It’s everything they say it is. Very rich and ultra moisturizing. It has a smell that reminds me of walking into an older woman’s home……clean and old-fashioned. The small tub is on it’s 7th day and I’m still using it. I use it on my face and the driest parts of my body….the top of my hands and neck.

Hydra Source Conditioning Hair Balm by Matrix Biolage – A+ for rehydrating damaged hair. This tub will last about a year. $23 at Great Clips.

Jenipapo Body Oil SPF 15 by L’Occitane – I can’t decide if the scent is fruity or floral. But it’s a great after shower moisturizer and sunscreen is a bonus. $21 at L’Occitane.com

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Lots of ‘serious’ news lately. Let it serve as a reminder to be more loving and accepting. Help when you can. And tell your loved ones you love them several times a day. XO, Lisa

Feeling. Being. Knowing.

March 11, 2015 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

Where did February go? It’s already 80 here in Temecula Valley! One of the many advantages of California life is the early onset of Spring. While most of the US is experiencing nasty weather, we here in Cali have been sensing the seasonal change for a few weeks. The warm weather usually brings a lighter spirit and new adventures toward health and happiness. It’s time to get ready for summer and it’s always time to feel good.

Selfless Gifting

Choosing the right gift does not have to be stressful. This I say AFTER Valentine’s Day 😉 For the next occasion try something different. Forget flowers and jewelry and pricey meals.

Adopt an animal. One that never even comes home with you. At The Gentle Barn they have nearly two-hundred animals. All of whom were rescued from severe abuse, neglect, abandonment or worse. From feed to medical bills this ranch runs on donations. I have had the privilege of visiting this ranch on two occasions. It’s lovely. It’s inspiring. It’s peaceful. Located in Santa Clarita (two hours from Temecula, three from San Diego) it was worth the drive. I left with a renewed respect for animals and for a few weeks I had a hard time eating meat.

One of the many things I learned during my visits was the connection animals have with humans. We crave each other. For example, I was told if I sat down in the dirt by the roosting chickens and turkeys they would approach me. Within no time I had a turkey in my lap. IN MY LAP!

You can choose an animal of your choice online and set up a monthly payment as low as $10. In return you will receive an adoption certificate, a photo of your animal, and updates. Also, the ranch is open to the public on Sundays for $10 donation each. Visit your new “pet”! While you are there you can meet the owner, Ellis Laks, and hear a short and personal chalk talk all about how she achieved a lifelong dream to help animals. She also has a book called My Gentle Barn.

Recently, Ellie and her husband were notified of a cow in Tennessee who had one of his feet cut off in an accident. This cow was to be put down. When they heard about this they got in their car, drove to Tennessee and took over care of this injured animal. With their help, Dudley now has a special prosthetic to replace his foot.

“Gentle Barn rescues, rehabilitates and gives sanctuary to abused animals. Then through the interaction with our animals children learn reverence for all life.” Gentle Barn Twitter.

Wearing It

Sunblock. Spring is when most of us get around to applying it daily. Even though it’s recommended year round. There seems to be so much talk and chatter about the good and bad of this essential element to our wellbeing. It’s confusing and time-consuming to choose whats right for you and yours. As with everything we ingest or apply label reading is important.

Here are some SPF products presumed safe to slather or brush on:

Alba Botanica, MyChelle, Colorescience Pro, John Masters, Episencial, and Block Island Organics.

Be a label reader! Avoid these ingredients: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Homosalate, Octocrylene, and Paraben preservatives.

***The FDA has researched the harmful effects brought on by AEROSOL SPRAY sunscreens. Some news outlets reported that the aerosol sprays can be flammable during application and/or when the contents is exposed to sun and heat. It has also been reported that the propellant used to expel sunscreen from an aerosol spray can cause injury by ‘frosting’ the skin (some aerosol deodorant sprays have the same effect). An aerosol burn is an injury to the skin caused by the pressurized gas within an aerosol spray cooling quickly, with the sudden drop in temperature sufficient up to a sixty degree drop.

Slather or brush on!

This particular Alba Botanica Sunscreen has a pump release which poses no harm. $8 at Sprouts

Other Uses

Bars of soap are so useful beyond the bathroom. They’re not just for washing your hands. The pleasant bouquet they give is why we really love them. Place them in small spaces for maximum fragrance.

For example — The top drawer of your desk, the center console of your car, a pocket in your handbag, the pocket of a coat that will sit in the closet until next season, your intimates drawer, or line a few in various places in your closet so all your clothes can pick up the sweet scent.

Tried It

While Bath and Body Works and The Body Shop are favorites I was happy to experience something different at L’occitane. Like any other store aimed at targeting women I was taken by the overwhelming scents and colors in the store. This is when ‘in store’ and ‘online’ are truly contradictory. Leaving empty handed was not an option.

Bonus…they are happy to give out samples.

L’occitane located at UTC Mall La Jolla. Verbena Bar Soap $8, Roll-on Lavender Oil $15,

Eye and hand cream samples FREE

Something New

The beautiful Verbena! Pot it, drink it, wear it.

*This lightly scented flower comes in many colors. Typically shades of blue. Also, pink, purple, or white. Verbena needs 8 to 10 hours of sun each day.

*For a delicious herbal tea try Verbena Mint Tea Pouches by Might Leaf Tea. Organic and caffeine free. Some benefits include reduced feelings of anxiety, drink with a meal to improve and speed digestion, and the anti-inflammatory abilities of the herb are known to aid with the aches and pain of osteoarthritis.

*If you prefer subtle and floral scents try “Verbena Blossom” by Annie Oakley.

Smart Mornings

A quick and healthy breakfast:

Egg whites, shiitake mushrooms, fresh salsa, cilantro, and ginger. Sautéed in olive oil.

Hello 2015

January 24, 2015 Lisa M. RennieLeave a comment

Back at the top of the calendar. No resolutions here. Making better choices, and sticking to them, are officially on order. You? Last year I made the choice to stop eating meat. The success rate was about 90%. I’ll do better this year. In all things. Nurturing the human spirit…….top goal.

Tried It

Most women have a love/hate relationship with their hair. A bad hair day can drive anyone to the nut house – or a shaved head. As a woman with naturally curly hair the desire for straight hair dominates the morning styling routine. But straightening involves a lot of damage that takes a long time to repair. Biotin is recommended by doctors and stylists to help repair and support healthy hair, skin, and nails. After an 18-month long experience….it’s beneficial and worthy as a daily supplement.

As you know hair products can really damage the locks. But aren’t they so fun! Coloring (guilty!), styling, and poor diet can make hair look dry and tired. In addition to the biotin, shampooing every other day can help restore life and moisture. Dry shampoo is an alternative for the days you don’t wash but still want to smell and look fresh. The product below is a spray on. And it was perfect! It will be faultless for a ‘bun head’ summer. Just tie it up and leave it alone. The repair pack was a prime moisturizer. Reminded me of that tiny conditioning pack that comes in the hair color box. You know the one you are supposed to use once a week but it’s gone in a few days 😉

Ion products from Sally .99-$7.00 Biotin from Walmart $4.88

HOMEMADE

We all love and appreciate the natural and homemade. Especially from a good friend. Tami met me for breakfast and brought along a bag of goodies.

So glad this picture was taken early on…….because this stuff is almost gone!

Find it at http://www.radiantluster.com and Facebook

BARGAIN SHOPPER

This month is all about the discount. Why pay full price? Christmas drains the wallet but we still have needs. And maybe some wants. As a one income family the budget is everything. However, at times ‘let’s go shopping’ are the three loveliest words. Discount stores such as Marshall’s and TJ Maxx are gold mines for hidden treasures. Where it’s not cheap…it’s smart. Rarely do you see the same garment or product twice. They are giant melting pots of designer and obscure goodies. For instance, the toiletry department. This area usually consists of two or three large multi-tiered shelves filled with the unknown. Products from Europe and Australia you never knew existed. Lotions, perfumes, hair products, makeup, cleansers and healers. You can spend too much time picking through the varieties but you’ll leave with something choice and fun.

The discount prices of these stores run 30-70% less than other retailers. Last year I needed a winter coat and boots for a trip back east. I found a gorgeous jacket and black ankle boots and saved precious cash. These items are timeless. Timeless is so necessary. Why replace something because it’s out of fashion. Plus, why not a roomy carry-on for those items one couldn’t bear to lose in lost luggage.

Just one of many ways to lose yourself!

Coat Laundry $70 (Originally $100) Bag Ivanka Trump Blair Shopper $60 (Originally $135)

Boots Zigi Girl $40 (Originally $80)

……And the chair……a pair at Ross for $60 each. Spruced us my corner office 😉

SUPPLEMENTS

If you eat well you do not need a multi-vitamin. But supplements YES. Along with the Biotin I take calcium with added vitamin D. Embellish plain water with a dash or more of a powdered supplement. Vitamins are slowly absorbed into our system so space out the dose by using 1/4 packet at a time. No sense flushing out the good stuff we need. One packet can last two days.

Supplements from Sprouts. $1-$2 each.

Made it

Baba Ganoush! Amazing, heathy, and sort of easy to make. The kitchen was destroyed but it was all worth it. Next time I will know to forgo the hand mixer and use the blender instead.

ENJOY!

Ingredients: 1 large eggplant, 1/4 cup tahini, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 pinch cumin, salt to taste, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 table-spoon chopped fresh parsley, a few kalamata olives, and a tablespoon of pine nuts.

1. Prepare a medium-hot fire in a grill. 2. Preheat oven to 375F. 3. Prick the eggplant with a fork in several places and place on the grill rack 4-5 inches from the flame. 4. Grill, turning frequently, until the skin blackens and blisters and the flesh begins to feel soft, 10-15 minutes. 5. Transfer the eggplant to a baking sheet and bake until soft, 15-20 minutes. 6. Remove from the oven, let cool, and peel off the skin.

7. Place eggplant flesh in a bowl. 8. Using a fork, mash the eggplant to a paste.

9. Add the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and the cumin and mix well. 10. Season with salt. 11. Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until you have your desired consistency.

12. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl. Use a spoon to form a shallow well. Drizzle the oil into the well and sprinkle with parsley. Place the olives and pine nuts for garnish. Serve with pita or crackers.

Wishing you happiness and good health. Be well and be nice.

I appreciate ANY comments!

December Beauty

December 13, 2014July 31, 2015 Lisa M. Rennie2 Comments

Welcome to my first blog post about beauty routines and products. I love reading articles and advice about looking and feeling good. Particularly advice on aging (sigh…..). GOOP is my favorite online beauty book. However, some of the advice can be above and beyond most budgets. I want to share with you my favorite products that make me feel good, healthy, and pretty. At my age (45!) I’m happy trying anything once. You have my word on honesty and affordability.

Let me know if you give them a try. X, L.

SCENTS

Lavender. I love lavender. The scent, the color, the simplicity……it’s timeless and subtle. It’s all over my house. Candles, diffusers, a sachet in my intimates drawer, in my purse, and bathroom cabinet. A girl can never have enough lotions and perfumes! Solid perfume, in any scent, is my new favorite. The scent lasts longer than drops or sprays.

I discovered Magnum Opus at the Temecula Farmer’s Market. $15 for any 3.

FACE

Earlier this year I stopped washing my face. Exfoliating is the best way to cleanse. Remove the dead and dirty. My new routine involves using a microdermabrasion wand paired with a walnut and lavender scrub. The wand has replaceable pads I change out about once a week. Use the wand gently on your face and a bit firmer on your neck and chest. You will notice a difference in your skins texture and appearance.

Neutrogena Microdermabrasion wand at Target $20. Walnut and Lavender scrub at The Temecula Lavender Company $9.

BODY SKIN

Moisture starts within. Staying hydrated can be challenging during the winter months. My love of wine does not help. It’s taxing to drink the daily “recommended” amount of water required for our bodies. I like to add lemon and/or cucumber as an incentive to drink more water. If you like powdered vitamins try mushroom matrix. It’s smart nutrition that does not taste a bit like it’s powered with mushrooms. They also offer pet and equine blends.

mushroommatrix.com

MINIMAL MAKEUP

Simply, mascara and lip gloss! Favorite…..lip gloss with a slight tint. Occasionally, on my skin, I add a little highlighting with Boots No 7 Skin Illuminator. The pink hue blends in naturally when you add a couple of drops to your daily moisturizer. It provides a great alternative to foundation if you prefer to distract rather than conceal. The tiniest grains of luminescence provide a fresh glow. But my favorite minimal is just out of the shower bare-faced all day.

No 7 can be found at Target or Amazon.

WEEKLY

I recently read an article about the benefits of bentonite clay and naturally I had to try it. After the first use I certainly did not look like a photoshopped supermodel but I did notice my pores were smaller and cleaner. Goal!

Pure Bliss found on Amazon $11.

TRIED IT

When KORA came out I was intrigued. If it’s organic I want it. I tried the Balancing Rose Mist and Soothing Day and Night Cream. I loved the Rose Mist. Spray it on your whole face, just out of the shower, before applying moisturizer. Smells so good and girly. The cream was ok. It left a bit of an oily feeling like the lotion never absorbed into my skin. Definitely not a good summer cream. I felt a bit special (and guilty) using these expensive products but I won’t buy them again. The mist lasted a month after daily use. The cream held out for three months so that sort of justified the cost. I went back to the trusty lotion I’ve used since I was 18……Clinique Dramtically Different Lotion.

Balancing Rose Mist $44 and Soothing Day and Night Cream $64 at koraorganics.com (Half-naked kid not included).

***Thanks for reading! Smile often and choose happy. It shows! Happy Holidays to you and yours! See you in the New Year!