my travel beauty essentials

MY LITTLE family travels A LOT. Sometimes near, sometimes far; on the road or by plane; in a five-star hotel by the beach or a 4-man tent by the bank of a river, we like to switch it up and do it all. We are always trekking up a highway to somewhere, skiing most weekends in the winter and camping or rafting in the summer. Depending on the nature of our destination, sometimes I have to pack light + minimalist and sometimes I can drag ALLLL the stuff I ‘need.’ And my Boy Scout nature has me wanting to be prepared for all of it. I’m always on the lookout for the perfect solution [aka. The Right Tool for the Job], especially for travel, and I’ve found a bunch of them when it comes to my toiletry kit. All of them are TSA-friendly, field-tested and loved.

I’VE ALSO included some travel-sized versions of products I love. I try not to buy a bunch of minis that end up wasted when there’s only a little left at the end of an adventure, but these are all things that I use at home anyway, so they’ll be used up even if there’s a gap in our trips. And many of them come in reusable packaging, so you can just fill them back up when they run out. Of course, all of these lovely things also make awesome gifts for your wanderlusts, business travelers or grads setting out on a big adventure. Let me know your favorites, too, I’m always refining my ‘system.’ GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Travel Beauty Essentials

~~ I loathe using those crunchy over-bleached washcloths on my face, so I started bringing my own. Geometry’s Waffle Washcloths and Luxe Washcloths are super compact, soft and dry fast. Plus they’re pretty. I have and love both. ~~

~~ Cadence Capsules have solved every issue I’ve ever had with crappy travel containers. They’re leakproof, easy to clean, perfectly sized and pack well. I use them for cosmetics, supplements, jewelry + meds and they’re absolutely perfect. ~~

~~ This Travalo Atomizer is a total game-changer. I use one for perfume and one for facial mist. It’s easy to fill, leak-proof, TSA-friendly and comes in lots of colors so you can tell what’s what. ~~

~~ When we’re camping and have no access to water to clean my face [and dusty feet], I rely on Micellar Facial Towlelettes to get all the grit off. ~~

~~ There’s ALWAYS space for Tweezerman Mini Slant Tweezers and I ALWAYS have a need for them. ~~

~~ You just have to have a nail file handy in case of jagged nail emergencies and I love the graduated grit of these Tweezerman Filemates. My favorite part is the little plastic carrying case it comes with so you don’t scratch up anything in your bag. ~~

~~ These Port + Polish Pill Cases are perfect for travel. I have one for my morning supplements and a separate one for the nighttime set. They don’t hold a ton, so if you’re carrying a lot of big pills, it might not be the best solution, but for a few medium to smalls, it’s perfect. ~~

~~ Sometimes you just need a little extra help to see those random hairs and this Tweezerman 10X Lighted Mirror is great. It’s fairly compact, but not tiny, lights up and has little suction cups on back to attach to a wall or mirror for hands-free hair hunting. ~~

~~ I have several of these little metal Pill Capsule Pill Holders for ibuprofen on-the-go. They’re the perfect wee size to stash in a pocket or hip pack when you’re not bringing your whole bag along. I gave one to my migraine-prone teen for his ski jacket so he’s never stranded without meds. ~~

~~ I prefer this Manicurist Complete Cuticle Serum for travel because it’s not oily or greasy, so you can put it on anytime you need a little hydration [like a long flight] without worrying about the mess. ~~

~~ You guys know how much I LOVE my Stasher Bags for a zillion things, especially travel. But did you know that the Stand-Up Mid is THE perfect size for carry-on toiletries? Plus you can just wipe it out if anything leaks. Learn more about why I love them and my other favorite uses here. ~~

~~ I love this Topo Designs Dopp Kit for its roominess and triangular shape, which keeps it from rolling away. ~~

~~ This Tobiq Toiletry Bag is an organized traveler’s dream, it has a zillion slots and pockets to keep everything together. Plus it’s made by a fellow CO mom. Love mine. ~~

~~ Aloha Dopp Kits are perfect for just dumping a bunch of stuff inside the big open space. They’re ‘splash-proof,’ durable and super cute, too. ~~

Travel-Sized Clean Beauty

~~ Tata Harper’s 5 Minute Facial for Megawatt Glow includes minis of two of my very favorite products for gentle exfoliation, making it perfect for taking to dry climes ~~

~~ The Lolavie Restore and Protect Travel Kit comes with the 4 staples. It’s perfect and ready to go wherever you’re headed. ~~

~~ Bathing Culture Body Wash is my fav and the li’l aluminum bottle is perfect for refilling ~~

~~ Zizia All Balm will keep your dry hands, elbows, knees, lips and any other part hydrated on the plane or in dry destinations ~~

~~ My favorite Cocoshine Whitening Toothpaste in a mini size perfect for TSA ~~

~~ The 15 ml pot of GOOPGLOW Microderm Exfoliator is just the perfect size to toss into your travel bag ~~

~~ 100% Pure Bright Eyes Masks come individually packaged, so they take up zero space in your kit ~~

~~ Take this little Le Prunier Plumscreen SPF 31 anywhere you’re going to stay protected ~~

~~ I’d never go anywhere without my Alpyn Beauty Willow & Sweet Agave Lip Mask and fortunately, it’s already perfectly sized for travel ~~

~~ This li’l travel-sized Tower28 MakeWaves Mascara takes up no space at all and will have you ready for anything ~~

MORE IN… clean beauty + wellness

things i love: stasher bags

I LOVE MY Stasher Bags for sooo many reasons besides 'just' lunch, they're awesome for organizing all kinds of things at home and on-the-go. They're earth-friendly, super pretty and make perfect gifts for teachers, teens, moms, minimalists, neighbors, yoga teachers and just about everyone else. So while I do use them for lunch on a daily basis, I rely on them for SO much more. Now you can stay super organized, too. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

STASHERS ARE endlessly useful reusable bags made from super durable food-grade platinum silicone, so there are no nasty chemicals to leach into your food. They’re super easy to clean [you can even dump them in the dishwasher] and come in a bunch super useful sizes. Plus they’re pretty and come in so many fun colors, making it easy to keep track of stuff. I couldn’t count how many plastic bags I’ve saved by using my Stashers instead [but the company can and it’s 5.5 BILLION so far]. And they’re so crazy durable, I’ve never had a single one damaged, stained or extra stinky [and you can totally recycle them if they do eventually get that way].

MY FAVORITE USES FOR STASHER BAGS BESIDES ‘JUST’ LUNCH…

SCHOOL: Ok, yes, I totally love them for school. I use a few Snack Bags each day in both boys’ lunches [sometimes a Sandwich Bag too]. They are sooo easy to clean and I feel great about not wasting a bunch of plastic bags. You can also use them for things that live in their backpacks all of the time like hand sanitizer, lip balm, braces wax or mints and they’ll be totally protected no matter what else is floating around in there [nope, don’t wanna know].

SUPPLEMENTS: I drag a Stand-Up Mini or Sandwich Stasher full of my morning necessities everywhere we travel. It’s a little ‘breakfast kit’ with my first-thing supplements + vitamins, tea bags and a few other things that I need to start my day right. Whether we wake up on the bank of a river or in a lux hotel, I just grab my little kit and I’m ready for brekkie.

ICE PACK: My son crashed his mountain bike on a trip a while back and I used a trusty Sandwich Bag as an ice pack to nurse his jacked-up knee. It doesn’t leak AT ALL as the ice melts and I just stuck it back into the freezer when he was done to re-freeze for the next session. Stasher to the rescue.

TOILETRIES: The Stand-Up Mid is THE perfect size, shape and volume for carry-on travel. It has a really nice wide opening and the gusseted bottom makes it super spacious for ALL the stuff. I use a Sandwich for my youngest because he basically just has a toothbrush and then I make him the designated mule for the meds we drag along when we travel by air.

L’IL COOLER: The Stand-Up Mid or Mega are perfect as mini coolers for keeping snacks, lunch or even just a cold drink nice and cool. Stashers aren’t insulated, so you can’t drag your makeshift cooler around for a long time if it’s hot, but it’s perfect for bringing to work or the pool or even to the trailhead so you can dream about that cold iced tea at the finish [um, yes, I have def done that]. Pop an ice pack in there and you’re set. You can also use it as an 'ice bucket’ for drinks while you’re entertaining.

BIG OL’ SNACK BAG: I use a Stand-Up Mega or 8-Cup Bowl for ALL the packaged snacks when we travel. I fill it up with bars, meat sticks, trail mix packs, fruit strips and anything else we might need to fuel up on-the-go. When we’re ready to gear up for skiing, hiking or biking, everyone just grabs what they need to jam in their pocket or pack and off we go. Being able to easily see what’s inside is huge. I also use Snack, Sandwich or smaller size Bowls for individual snacks on-the-go, like loose trail mix, fruit + veg, dry cereal, crackers, pretzels, etc. I love that the Bowls stand up on their own and open really wide, so they’re super easy to get into.

TRASH BAG: I mean, you always end up with empty wrappers, snotty tissues, dirty bandaids, orange peels + apple cores while you’re on the trail, in the car or at the beach. Just stuff it all into an empty Stasher and chuck it when you get to a trashcan. The bags can go right into the dishwasher, so don’t be shy.

FOOD PREP + STORAGE: Apparently you can cook ramen and pop popcorn in a Stasher, but I haven’t tried it yet. I DO know that they’re awesome for keeping veggies fresh, especially when we’re camping or traveling. I cut up carrots, wrap them in a damp paper towel and stuff them into a Sandwich or Half Gallon Bag.They’re all ready to eat and stay super fresh for days [no weird dry carrots here]. Same with greens, like Romaine, which I do even when I’m home.

DOG WATER: Stasher Bowls are perfect for doggie water on the go. Whether you bring an empty just for them or repurpose one when your snacks are devoured, the wide opening is perfect for hydrating your pup in a pinch. Then toss it in the dishwasher to get all that gooey slobber off.

RESTAURANT + TRAVEL TOYS: Throw a bunch of loose Plus Plus, Pix Brix or Legos into a Stasher and you’re ready for anything. Choose a size that’s manageable for you to carry around and that provides enough pieces to allow for creative play. You’ll always have instant entertainment on hand at restaurants, appointments or anywhere else you need to keep kids busy for a bit. Check out The Best Restaurant Toys for my other favorite toys to stuff in.

GIFTS, OF COURSE: I love gifting Stashers to teachers [or kiddos] for Back to School or any old time of the year. Seriously EVERYONE can use a Stasher [or like 40] so even if they already have one, you can’t go wrong. Stuff a few fun snacks, treats, mints or a fancy lip balm inside and you have an awesome little gift for just about anyone.

MORE IN… travel + adventure

my clean beauty + self-care favorites

THERE’S A LOT of buzz these days around ‘self care’ and I think it’s awesome. Any ‘fad’ that urges people to carve a few minutes out of each day to honor themselves, breath and prepare for whatever comes next is brilliant as far as I’m concerned. It’s so important to take that time to refresh, get a new perspective, be quiet [or loud]. Any shift in focus toward your own health + wellness, whatever that looks like for you, is a total bonus. Walk, call a friend, doodle, journal, stretch, play loud music, meditate, howl at the moon, binge Emily in Paris, read a magazine, dance, cook, light a candle, bedazzle something, stare out the window for a minute, put in some ear plugs to block out your sweet kiddos for just a sec… WHATEVER feels good and refreshes you and that you can actually pull off each day is perfect and so beneficial. My daily self care always includes moving my body, even if it’s just a gentle 15-minute walk. And when I have the time to spend, I hide out in the bathroom and take a looong shower with ALL the stuff. I dry brush + shave + scrub + deep condition + mask and just focus on caring for my own strong body for an hour. It always refreshes me and, in turn, makes me a better mama and wife and sets me up for whatever is coming my way [which, let’s face it, could be ANYTHING these days].

I’VE ALWAYS been passionate about beauty products [man, I loved that giant Barbie head that you could make up], which is a little ironic because, while I’m pretty darn high maintenance about my skincare, I’m quite low maintenance about my makeup, especially these days. My social functions now most often involve a hike in the woods and much to my 7-year-old self’s serious disappointment, I’m just not a gal who bothers to gussy up for the squirrels [sorry, girl]. And while I’ve long been interested in ‘clean’ or ‘green’ products [I DID grow up in Boulder], having babies totally sealed my commitment to making sure that the beauty products we use [and all of our household and cosmetic stuff] are as clean and toxin-free as possible, which, I’m not gonna lie, takes effort and can sometimes be a bit confusing.

THE TERMS ‘clean’ or ‘natural’ or ‘green’ beauty have become marketing buzz words and get thrown around A LOT. It can make a person bananas trying to decipher it all [if you’ve ever gone down a DEEP dark rabbit hole trying to figure out what’s in your laundry soap, you know what I’m talking about]. So for the most part, I just stick with retailers that I trust to shoot me straight, like Beauty Heroes [they have the strictest standards in the business], The Detox Market or Credo Beauty and let the rest go, giving myself grace when necessary [I assure you there is no perfection happening here]. I also follow a few clean beauty experts who really dig in and help make sense of all of the madness. I find it interesting and enjoy the learning process, but if you just want to get to the good stuff without having to master a whole new vocabulary, my advice is to just stick with those companies that you know are striving for gold and ENJOY.

I’M ASKED so often by friends which clean beauty products I really LOVE, so I thought I’d share my current favorites with ALL of you and find out yours, too. Enjoy this peaceful little moment, lovelies, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions, I’m always here for you. And please do share the clean beauty products you’re loving in the comments so we can all plot our next haul. I hope whatever you have going on today, you can carve out even just a few minutes for yourself to refresh and shift perspective, you totally deserve it. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS [to yourself, too]. xo

Psst! You guys, I’m obvs not a skincare expert, so if you have particular concerns about your skin or skincare, you should for sure consult with an actual professional.

You can JUMP TO: Cleansers + Toners + Mists | Serums + Oils | Moisturizers + Sun Care | Lips + Eyes | Masks + Scrubs | Makeup | Beauty + Wellness Tools | Body + Hair | My Wishlist

Maya Chia

photo / Maya Chia

OK I don’t want to sound dramatic or anything, but Maya Chia has changed my life. Ok, my skin, which in turn impacts my life. I wasn’t able to use anything active on my face for a few years [see below] and when my skin was finally ready, I sort of reluctantly, but hopefully, splurged on a bottle of The Straight A Serum assuming it would totally freak out my skin. But instead, it became maybe my favorite beauty product ever.

MAYA CHIA’S mission and dedication to using science and painstaking research to create all of their truly innovative skincare pays off in a huge, beautiful way in every product I’ve tried. They have an intense method for extracting chia oil, the base of all of their products, in its purest and most potent form, which combined with the other organic, wildcrafted and consciously-sourced ‘super ingredients,’ makes really superior formulas. The Straight A has both encapsulated retinol [a safe derivative of vitamin A] and two forms of ‘botanical retinols’ that combine to make a seriously powerhouse formula. My skin was undeniably brighter and more radiant almost immediately and over time, The Straight A has also helped reduce some pesky hyperpigmentation that’s been bothering me for years. I also love The Super Lift Vitamin C More, which has a temporary tightening + lifting effect that I can see after my morning skincare routine, but the long-term impact of this vitamin-packed treatment is even more impressive. I haven’t been disappointed in a Maya Chia product yet and basically ALL of their gorgeous things are on my list.

Odacite

photo / Odacité

A FEW years ago I was really struggling with my skin [and my gut health, which was literally showing up on my face]. I was breaking out way more than usual, mostly around my mouth and chin, and was super reactive. My aesthetician thought it was probs perioral dermatitis. My dermatologist thought it was maybe mild rosacea. Whatever the case, it forced me to scale things WAY back. I packed up ALL of the lovely, clean stuff I was using and handed it over to a friend for a fun spa night. And for the next couple of years I used only 4 Odacité products on my face. They were all super gentle, with no real active ingredients. I also had semi-regular red light treatments through my aesthetician and my skin healed really well [along with my gut biome].

WHEN IT felt safe to start experimenting with skincare again, I was kind of eager to move on from the products that I’d been using for so long, wooed by all of the sexy choices out there. I have since tried LOTS of other things, many that I really love, but I kept many of my tried and true Odacité products in rotation for a long while because they’re just so good and gentle. I love the Blue Aura Cleansing Water and have hooked several friends on it. Odacité’s founder, Valerie Grandury, is a French breast cancer survivor living in California. She set out to marry the best of expert French skincare with a health-minded California sensibility and she succeeded really beautifully. If you have sensitive skin or just like to keep things a little simpler, Odacité is a great line to explore.

Beauty Heroes

photo / Beauty Heroes

REMEMBER those ads in Seventeen Magazine where you could mail-order a 72-color eye shadow palette for just a penny [and then get a bill for $30 later]? I know my dad does because he had to write more than one stern letter to whomever advertised that pyramid scheme to naive tweens [sorry, dad]. Well, this is the 100% legitimate grown-up version of that totally amazing ‘too good to be true’ fantasy. And instead of hot pink eye shadow that’s ALL kinds of wrong for me, my Beauty Heroes Discovery Subscription sends me the creme de la creme of THE cleanest beauty products every month. I have ‘discovered’ new favorites that I probs never would’ve tried otherwise and I just get giddy when it shows up. It’s such a great way to learn about new brands and to #giftalittlehappiness to yourself on the regular without even thinking about it. Learn more about why I love it here. PLUS, you get 15% off EVERY Beauty Heroes purchase while you’re a subscriber. It’s just awesome.

My Skincare Favorites

THESE are all products that I love and am currently using or are in solid rotation. I’m pretty sensitive to smell and can’t handle lavender in any form, so you’ll see a trend there. If you have any questions about my experience with any of these things, reach out, I’d be happy to share what I know.

Cleansers + Toners + Mists

+ Osea is a super clean brand that has been around since before ‘clean beauty’ was cool. They’re all about harnessing the healthy benefits of different types of seaweed to create lovely and super effective products. I love this Ocean Cleanser, which is gentle and moisturizing and doesn’t leave me feeling stripped. + $48

+ I love most of Alpyn Beauty’s line and the Creamy Bubbling Cleanser is no exception. It foams in a satisfying way that most clean products don’t and is jammed with so many beneficial acids, vitamins and enzymes. Plus it doesn’t leave my skin feeling like a tight mess. + $36

+ This Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser is kind of like those awesome 80s style scrubs, but without the nasty microplastics that end up in the ocean. It’s SUPER gentle, but really effective at leaving you with a nice, smooth canvas. I use it several times a week for a little gentle exfoliation. + from $46

+ Odacité’s Gentle Rejuvinating Cleanser is just simply super gentle and effective. It doesn’t leave you feeling stripped or depleted. It’s formulated with a beautiful combination of organic plants, fresh aloe, cold-pressed oils and floral water to create a super gentle and lovely cleanser. I’ve been using this for years and still love it. It’s brilliant for anyone, but especially if you have super sensitive or reactive skin. + $40

+ I love a facial mist and Maya Chia’s The Optimist feels and smells divine. It’s my first step after cleansing and I also give myself a little spritz when I’m headed out and need a little freshening up. It feels fresh and calming and lovely and has a bunch of really potent, nourishing ingredients. + $59

+ I love this Yina The Essential Mist so much. It’s a blend of Chinese medicinal plants, adaptogens and prebiotics that provides a powerhouse of gorgeous protective and reparative nutrients for your skin. Love this stuff. + $75

+ Ok, I love this Odacité Aloe + Immortelle Hydra-Repair Treatment Mist also. I used it exclusively for years, but now alternate between the The Optimist and this when they run out. It’s also hydrating and smells fantastic and provides a perfect first layer to my skincare. It says it’s best for ‘mature, dry or sensitive skin’ and I guess I have ALL of that, so… maybe that explains why I love it so much. + $48

+ This Odacité Blue Aura Cleansing Water has so many incredible ingredients that I couldn’t possibly list them all, including aloe juice and Ayurvedic herbs like turmeric, holy basil and neem that combat skin-damaging pollutants. I use this often as a ‘second cleanse’ and I love it so much. It doesn’t leave my face feeling dry or stripped and def has an impact on my complexion. I’ve turned some friends on to this gorgeous product and they’re now solidly in the fan club. + $39

Serums + Oils

+ You know how sometimes you’re like ‘I think I like this, but I can’t tell if it’s doing anything?’ Yeah, Maya Chia’s The Straight A is NOT that product. It has undeniably brightened + evened out my skin and generally just made it so much better right before my eyes. It has super potent ingredients in it, but is gentle and doesn’t freak out my skin at all. It’s really at the tippy top of my list. + $125

+ I was a bit skeptical about this Maya Chia The Super Lift Vitamin C-More at first. I mean a claim of instantly ‘tightening and lifting’ your skin sounds like a ‘wait there’s more’ TV ad. But I trust Maya Chia and love their products, so I gave it a shot and it’s just awesome. It has 3 types of vitamin C that have def brightened and smoothed my skin, plus protects it from the elements. As for the temporary tightening and lifting - I mean, I don’t look like JLo or anything, but it does for sure make a difference in the appearance of my skin for the day, especially around my eyes. I love it. + $110

+ I can use all the moisture I can get, especially in the winter, and this Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum is an essential part of that hydration process. I’ve been using it for like 2 years now and still can’t get over the crazy moisture barrier it creates on my skin. I can feel it when I rinse my face in the morning and I love it so much. I use it on top of my Straight A and under my moisturizer for extra defense against the elements. + $88

+ This Ursa Major Mountain Glow Golden Serum has a supple, viscous, hydrating texture [almost like an oil] that feels super amazing on my skin, especially when it’s parched. It has 44 active ingredients that help protect your skin from environmental damage, even skin tone, reduce lines and on and on… I really like it during the cold, dry winter months. + $84

+ Way back in the very first edition of Things I Love I introduced you to Essentialist’s Daily Renewal Facial Oil. I had never used an oil regularly before and fell HARD for this incredible product. I have since tried several other oils and none of them hold a candle to this gorgeous product for my skin. It’s super natural, not at all oily and makes a huge difference in the nourishment, hydration level and look of my skin. It has become, well, an ‘essential’ part of my skincare routine. I use it as a last step morning and night. + $88

Moisturizers + Sun Care

+ Maya Chia’s The Advanced Response Complex [ARC] is just straight AH-mazing. This gorgeous neck + face cream is formulated to encourage your skin to fire up its own mechanisms for regenerating, smoothing, brightening and tightening itself. So… It’s kind of miraculous and from the first time I used it, I could see and feel a major difference in my skin, which at the time was a bit dull from lots of summer sunshine. It’s a gorgeous texture, too, substantial but not greasy or heavy. I’ve been using it for about 2 years now and keep coming back to it. + $125

+ I’m loving Alpyn Beauty’s Super Peptide & Ghostberry Barrier Repair Cream right now. I love the silky texture and ‘thickness’ of the cream. It’s formulated with 8 peptides and 5 ceramides and some beautiful botanicals and it just smooths on really well. Barrier creams are formulated to protect your skin from external damage and from losing moisture [as opposed to a moisturizer that’s designed to hydrate the outer layers of your skin], so you def want to put this on last. In these crazy dry winter months, I layer it over their PlantGenius Melt Moisturizer for a double layer of yummy hydration. I have heard ah-mazing things about Alpyn Beauty's Brightening Bounce Cream, too, but I can’t tolerate the lavender scent, so I’ll let you explore that one and get back to me. + $62

+ I received this Yina Hydracloud Cream in a Beauty Heroes Discovery delivery and LOVED it immediately. It’s deceptively hydrating and effective for how lightweight and silky it feels. It’s formulated with a unique combination of East Asian plants, including a blend of 5 different types of Ginseng that each have a powerful purpose. I really love this cream, especially in the warmer months. + $98

+ Odacités Creme de la Nuit is so fluffy and silky and lightweight that I was sure it wouldn’t do anything [I like my creams THICK], but I was SO wrong. It’s incredibly nourishing and full of powerful actives like vitamin C, CoQ10 and adaptogenic Ashwaganda that work hard while you sleep to leave you hydrated and with fewer fine lines. A little bit goes such along way that one jar will last me like a year. + $118

+ Le Prunier’s Plumscreen SPF 31 is a revelation. I have been searching for years for a clean broad-spectrum sunscreen that doesn’t have a weird texture or leave you with a ghostly sheen and this is IT. It’s formulated with their cult-favorite Plum Beauty Oil [which I also love] and is so velvety silky smooth. It leaves absolutely no trace of a white cast or that weird zinc smell and imbues your skin with antioxidant-rich superfoods while it protects. It’s def more expensive than what I have been using, but it lasts me forever even with everyday use. LOVE this stuff. + $78

+ I’m loving Tower28’s Sunny Days SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen. Tower28 is a ‘cleaner’, cool brand dedicated to sensitive skin, in fact, this is the first product endorsed by the National Eczema Association. It’s a broad-spectrum SPF formula that comes in 14 shades [I like Ocean Park]. It goes on smooth, doesn’t feel heavy or greasy and doesn’t get all caught up in my wrinkles. It leaves my skin looking even, but not made up, and maintains the moisture that it so badly needs. It’s basically awesome. + $32

Lips + Eyes

+ Oooh I love this Alpyn Beauty Willow & Sweet Agave Plumping Lip Mask. That’s a whole lot of words to say that this little pot is full of good stuff that leaves your lips so much softer than before. I am super fussy about my lip goo and this hits all of my ‘must haves’ [and my ‘must nots’]. It’s not sticky, is actually hydrating, doesn’t have a strong taste or smell and keeps my lips from getting cracked or peel-y, especially in the winter. I put it on every night before bed and my lips still feel moist when I wake up. It just keeps them super healthy and happy and I’ve gifted it to sooo many people because I love it so much. YAY. + $28

+ I get super excited when I find a lip balm that doesn’t actually dry out my lips even more and this Poppy & Pout Lip Balm is awesome. It’s super hydrating and the scent is subtle and natural so it doesn’t bother my sensitive nose. I’ve tried several ‘flavors’ now and I love them all. And it’s made in Idaho with only 5 ingredients and poured into a cardboard tube that’s totally recyclable. I’ve also gifted a bunch of these beauties. + $9.95

+ I have tried several lip scrubs and this French Girl Rose Lip Polish is def my favorite. I use it when I have a mask on my face, too, because it’s pretty messy and a little greasy, but it leaves my lips feeling super smooth and nourished from the organic shea butter, cocoa butter and coconut oil. All French Girl products are handmade in Seattle, which is a total bonus. + $19

+ I find that many lip products leave my lips feeling even more dry and parched than before. Ah, no thanks. But this Ilia Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment is awesome. It’s hydrating and smooth and exfoliates your lips while you sleep. It has no scent or taste, which is key for me, and it just feels nice. This is a great option if you’re super sensitive, but want a product that actually works. + $26

+ More Alpyn Beauty for the win. The Instant Bright Eye is super nourishing, doesn’t bother my super sensitive eyes and is packed with peptides and niacinamide. It’s also a peachy color that blends in and ‘blurs’ the dark circles under your eyes, so I actually wear it during the day, smearing a bit on as a last step after my sunscreen. Love it. + $52

+ These little 100% Pure Bright Eyes Masks are the only ones I’ve ever tried that actually really work. They have a massive amount of caffeine from several clean sources, plus aloe, and they def de-puff my eyes. You can buy one pair or a 5 Pack. I like their Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream, too. + from $7

+ So, when my roommate in college first suggested I pluck my bushy eyebrows I really had no idea that it would become a decades-long habit. Combine that with the glory of aging, and I recently found myself with lashes and brows that did not represent. I have super sensitive eyes [like I can’t use most eye creams] so I’d been reluctant to try a lash serum in the past. Plus most of them have a bunch of weird chemicals in them that end up directly in your mucous membrane. So when Maya Chia introduced the super clean Power Fol Eyelash + Eyebrow Serum, I decided to give it a shot. SO glad I did. It doesn’t bother my eyes AT ALL and has def made a difference in the coverage and fullness of my lashes + brows. I wish I’d taken a before + after, but I can for sure tell. + $110

+ My eyes are super sensitive and react to most eye creams that I try. But as I get older, I really want to actively nourish my brows and lashes, so I took a chance on this Me Time Botanicals RevitalEyezing Serum and I really like it. It doesn’t bother my eyes, which is a small miracle, and it def does leave the skin around my eyes looking less puffy and more nourished. I roll it all around, under my eye, on the lid and on my brows before bed and the cool roller ball feels good, too. + $47

Masks + Scrubs

+ This Blissoma Lavish Loving Recovery Mask is heavenly, especially if I’ve had too much exposure to the elements. It’s incredibly calming, moisturizing and nourishing and feels amazing. It goes on thick and silky, but doesn’t feel cloggy or harsh. I love it after skiing or when my skin is a bit off from weather or wear. + $69

+ This Laurel Honey Berry Mask feels a bit like a li’l layer of sticky Smuckers on your face, but It leaves my skin super soft, smooth, bright and clear. It’s one of my favorite masks, especially when my skin is a bit off or freaked out. + $58

+ I got this Activist Manuka Honey Mask in my Beauty Heroes Discovery delivery a few years back and it’s really nice. It has one simple, but super potent and high quality ingredient and it leaves my face feeling really clean, calm and clear. I love it especially when my skin is feeling a bit off balance or gets too much sun or wind. + $65

+ Ok, this GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator was 100% love at first site. Or first use. Whatever the case, my skin LOVES it and the name really kind of says it all. It gives you instant bright, glowing + radiant skin. It’s an awesome double whammy of both a physical and chemical exfoliant - I scrub it on gently in circles for the physical and then leave it on for a few minutes while I do my other stuff for the chemical. It’s gentle enough not to bother my sensitive-ish skin but the result is seriously instantaneous and awesome. The first time I used it I looked like I’d had ‘work’ done. It’s fantastic. I use it once or twice a week and really love it. + from $42

+ It’s a little bit no pain, no gain with this GOOPGLOW Acid Overnight Glow Peel. I started with the 5% to see how my skin would handle it and then moved up to the 15% because I wanted MORE intensity. And I got it. It’s def pretty tingly, but my skin can take it and is left like a baby’s bum. Note that you can start with a 4-pack to test out the different percentages and see which you like better. The package recommends that you use it once a week, but I do it more like once a quarter because it’s pretty intense. + from $45

Makeup

+ I was hoping this Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 could completely replace my daily SPF, but it’s just a bit too thick for that, especially when I’m working out + sweating. BUT I love it as a ‘foundation’ when I want to be a bit put together. The coverage is light, but enough for me, and it’s super hydrating so it doesn’t settle into my wrinkles and make them look worse like some products seem to do. It comes in like 87 shades, so you’ll def find one that works for you. + $48

+ I love this Ilia Multi-Stick Cream Blush + Highlighter + Lip Tint so much. I’ve tried a bunch of blush products now and this is def my favorite. It can be as subtle or not as you like, it doesn’t get stuck in my wrinkles and it comes in a ton of pretty colors for every skin tone. It’s easy to apply, too, and doesn’t stain. I use Dreamer on cheeks and lips and it’s perfect for me. + $36

+ Ok, this Tower28 MakeWaves Mascara won the Allure Best of Beauty award BEFORE it even launched. So… there’s been a lot of hype and I think it’s totally deserved. Tower28 is formulated for sensitive skin and this def doesn’t mess with my super sensitive eyes. I love the silky, lightweight formula and the applicator, which combine to give you a super smooth and not at all clumpy look. LOVE it. + $20

+ Love the Tower28 LipSofties even though my favorite shade actually violates one of my lip goo rules - it smells. Yummy. Dulce de Leche is a super pretty neutral and it smells a bit sweet, but not so sweet that it bothers me. And the SOS clear balm is in my car at the ready at all times. + $16

+ I am extremely fussy about what I put on my lips. I don’t want anything that I can taste or smell and I don’t want it to be tacky. I’m so excited that this GOOPGENES Nourishing Lip Balm Trio meets all of my criteria AND comes in such universally flattering shades. The darkest is actually my favorite, but they’re all perfect. [They’ve since launched a new pallet that I haven’t tried yet, but it looks equally beautiful.] + $42

+ I love the way this Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara doesn’t clump up my lashes. It goes on really smoothly because the unique brush has a different pattern on each side, one that lets you lift and separate while applying. It also has a bunch of super nourishing ingredients and it doesn’t bother my sensitive eyes. Love it.+ $28

+ Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm ticks all of the boxes for me and my fussy lip needs. It has no bothersome taste or smell, isn’t sticky or tacky, has universally flattering colors and is super hydrating even after wearing it for a while. I have Cool Beige and it’s a pretty, neutral with enough hint of color for me. + $38

+ I also love this Exa All Smiles Universal Glow Lip Oil. It’s not sticky, doesn’t smell, has a little hint of shimmer and is super hydrating. The colors looks wild, but they’re sheer and pretty. LOVE it. + $15

Beauty + Wellness Tools

+ I started dry brushing last summer and I love it. I’m so happy that it has all of these amazing lymphatic benefits, but what I LOVE each time I use it is the amazing benefit to my skin. It just feels awesome. I love Goop's G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush with the long handle because it reaches ALL the parts. + $25

+ I love this little Solawave 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment for breakouts. You just hold it over your zit for 3 minutes and let it zap the blemish with its combo of blue and red light. It’s not a miracle, like your zit won’t be magically instantly gone, but I do think it def helps accelerate the healing process. It’s great for travel and teens, too. + $69

+ My boys are super scared of my Omnilux Contour Face Mask, but I LOVE it. I’ve been using it a few times a week for just 10 blissful minutes for the past 6 months and have without a shadow of doubt seen a real change in my skin. The fine lines, pigmentation and my mild rosacea are all def improved since I started using it. I just turn on a podcast or audiobook and sit back for a few chill minutes while it works its magic and I truly love it. If you’re considering red light therapy and want to hear more about my experience, reach out, I’d love to chat. But know that I LOVE this thing and think it’s worth every penny if you actually USE it. I’m totally eyeing the Contour Neck and Décolleté next. + $395

+ Solawave’s Red Light Therapy Wand combines 4 powerful technologies to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots and blemishes [hello, I have ALL the things]. When I use it consistently, I can totally see a difference in the dark spots, fine lines and overall quality of my skin. I use the Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum with it and the combo is super effective for such a li’l tool. It’s a perfect solution if a full mask isn’t in the cards for you [though they have those, too] or want a compact travel buddy. + $169

+ This Detox Mode Body Crescent is meant to stimulate the lymphatic system, sooth sore muscles and reduce the look of cellulite. It’s a bit like giving yourself a deep tissue massage. If you want a spa-like treatment at home, pair this with some Prima Beyond Body Oil [or any oil you love]. after a hot shower. + $15

+ In an ongoing effort to reduce our family’s waste, I ordered some Marley’s Monsters Reusable Facial Pads to replace cotton balls for my Blue Aura Cleansing Water. The soft cotton flannel pads just get tossed in the wash over and over again. There are a bunch of cute prints or solids to choose from and a pretty handmade Wood Container for keeping them stored in your bathroom. I find they work best when I fold them into quarters before dousing them. I feel great about both reducing waste AND supporting a small business that makes these by hand in Eugene, OR [go Ducks!]. Total win-win for me. + from $10

+ I LOVE my silk pillowcase. Silk is less absorbent than other natural fibers, so it doesn’t suck up your skin’s natural oils or your precious overnight products [I ruined SO many cotton pillowcases]. And because silk is a bit slippery, there is less friction and less tugging on your hair and skin. I have been super happy with this Lilysilk version, which not only feels super luxurious, but is also OEKO-TEX certified, so you can rest knowing you’re not laying on gross chemicals. You can even have a whole bed full of Silk Sheets if that’s your fancy. Ooh la la. + from $39

+ Ok, this is obvs not clean beauty, but it does pertain to my wellness, so it’s on the list. These Port + Polish Pill Cases are perfect for travel. I got one and then bought another, so I have one for my morning supplements and a separate one for the nighttime set. They don’t hold a ton, so if you’re carrying a lot of big pills, it might not be the best solution, but for a few medium to smalls, it’s perfect. + $20

My Body + Hair Favorites

+ If you follow along, you already know that I LOVE Nopalera's Cactus Flower Exfoliant. This scrub is smooth and lovely and has such a gorgeous subtle scent that I adore [love both the Tangerine and the Hibiscus]. It leaves my skin feeling super nourished and dewy, especially if you follow it up with the awesome Botanical Bar. It’s perfect for the super dry Colorado air. + $32

+ Oh I love the smell of this fantastic Palermo Coffee Body Scrub. It’s a really gorgeous combo of coffee and lemon that’s super beautiful and not sweet, making it an awesome choice for the polished dudes in your life, too. It’s a bit toothier than the other 2 scrubs I’m sharing, but not gritty, and doesn’t leave a greasy residue, so it’s great for morning. + $56

+ This Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish is smooth and takes off what you need without leaving you feeling stripped or greasy. The scent is subtle and could go grandma with the rose, but is beautifully balanced with the coconut to leave it more modern than dusty. I use it in the shower, but also as a hand scrub before bed because I have winter man sandpaper hands that need serious attention. + $40

+ I’m usually a simple bar soap kind of gal, but I LOVE the smell of this Bathing Culture Mind and Body Wash and it’s so hydrating that I’ve been converted. It’s full of aloe, coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter and all kinds of super nourishing things and I love it. It’s a very gender-neutral scent, so it’s also a go-to gift for dudes and teenage boys. + $20

+ I am super fussy about my body lotion. I don’t like thin or watery lotion. I don’t want any lingering scent. I don’t love a pump because it leaves you with like 1/4 of the bottle stuck at the bottom. Tough crowd, right? What I do LOVE is The Seaweed Bath Co. Body Cream. I’ve been using it for years and it’s super consistent, thick but not greasy and has no gross chemicals. And they do make scented versions if that’s your jam. Love their Collagen Hand Cream, too. + $12.99

+ I discovered this magical French Girl Nail & Cuticle Oil last spring after a series of manicures left my nails peeling and in bad shape. It healed them in days and I’ve been using it every night ever since. It’s super nourishing and keeps my nails and cuticles super healthy. I love it so much. + $22

+ I also like the Manicurist Complete Serum. It’s not greasy like an oil, so it’s a bit tidier if you don’t love the feeling of oil on your hands or want to use it on the go without waiting for it to soak in [like at your desk]. It’s water-based, super nourishing and helps heal cracks. The texture makes it a bit more friendly for travel, too. + $15

+ Cocofloss turned me into a regular flosser at age 46 with their 21-Day Floss Challenge. I love the texture of Cocofloss, the impressive way it’s made and the generous spirit of the sisters who own it. Pretty much ALL the stuff. Learn more about why I’m geeking out on dental floss here. + from $9

+ I love this minty Innersense True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub especially in the summer when I’m sweaty or in a bunch of sand. I give myself a good scalp massage with it a few times a month and it leaves my hair + head feeling tingly, squeaky clean and energized. My teenage son loves it, too. + $42

+ Have I mentioned yet that Colorado is dry? I mean. It’s part of what I love about my home state, but it can wreak havoc on a gal’s skin + hair. About once a week I use this Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask and it leaves my scalp + hair super healthy, soft, shiny and ready for the elements. + $38

+ I love EVOLVh’s Ultra Shine Shampoo and Conditioner. I can really tell the difference in the texture of my hair when I use them together, especially as my grays are starting to multiply and change the landscape a bit. I also love the EVOLVh Smart Volume Leave-In Conditioner. It’s a great detangler and doesn’t leave my hair feeling heavy or coated, just smooth and silky. + from $26

+ I was a bit skeptical of Lolavie at first, curious if it was actually clean or just another fad celebrity brand. But I’ve been pleasantly surprised that it’s both clean and pretty awesome. I like the whole ‘system’ together with the Restorative Shampoo, Restorative Conditioner, Glossing Detangler and Perfecting Leave-In. The smell is a bit funky to me, but it’s not off-putting enough to keep me away. And the minis are perfection for travel. + from $15

+ My hair is naturally curly, but I wear it both curly and straight depending on my mood, my time and the weather. This Innersense Organic Beauty Quiet Calm Curl Control is the best clean product I’ve found by far for leaving my curls soft AND taming frizz, which is tricky business. No crunchy curls here, just super nourished, soft, happy little curls. And when I’m going straight, I use just the teeniest amount of Innersense Organic Beauty Serenity Smoothing Cream before blowing dry and it leaves my hair smooth and shiny. + from $26

+ My sweet hubs surprised me with this Liis Bo a few Valentine’s Days ago [bold move, right?] and I loved it so much I ordered the sample set for travel and to try out the other scents. I honestly can’t decide which one I like best, I would buy all of them if I could and alternate or layer them. They’re super clean and bright and well balanced. + $165

On my wishlist

+ So aside from being my favorite color, this Maya Chia The Refresh Mint Moisturizing Mask has 4 different acids to brighten your skin, plus enzymes and hydrators. Um, yes please. Plus it’s cooling, tingly mint. + $68

+ I’m really trying to justify adding another subscription to my monthly haul. The Detox Box is The Detox Market’s awesome version and they send GORGEOUS stuff. + from $39.95 per month

MORE IN… clean beauty + wellness

gifts for cozy nights in

I’VE ALWAYS been a bit of a homebody. I love to go traveling and adventuring, but then I’m always so happy to be home. I love a night out with friends as long as we’re home by like 9 pm. The older I get, the more I value that cozy time at home just chilling in my sweats, snuggling with my boys [especially in the colder months]. Maybe it’s because I know those nights in with my growing guys will become fewer and farther between and I want to savor each one. Or maybe it’s just because I’m really a true homebody at heart. In any case, if you love someone who loves to be cozy at home, too, I’ve rounded up a snuggly collection of things for both adults + kiddos that are perfect for a Cozy Night In. Whether it’s movie night with the kids or a date night with your sweetheart or an evening to yourself, there are ideas for keeping it super chill in your own home. For more cozy gift ideas, check out the Gift Guide to Blankets, too. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Gifts for Cozy Nights In

~~ Sunday Citizen has soooft + cozy Robes and Loungewear for max cuddliness ~~

~~ It doesn’t get much cozier than s’mores at home with a Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit and it comes in 6 pretty colors ~~

~~ That glass of wine will just taste better [ok, at least look better] in a stunning Estelle Hand-Blown Colored Wine Glass ~~

~~ I love my Topdrawer Japanese House Shoes so much for home and travel, they’re super comfy ~~

~~ The Tea Spot’s Good Night, Sleep Tight: Sip Well Gift Set is the perfect calming wind-down ~~

~~ Prima’s new Arousal Bath Gem is a functional bath soak with aphrodesiacs to get you in the mood ~~

~~ Detoxify your skin while you chill with Mukti’s Deep Cleanse Antioxidant Mask for a clear, bright glow ~~

~~ Help your pup feel extra cozy, too, with a super soft West Paw Big Sky Nap Mat ~~

~~ Anthropologie’s Sophie Throw is our favorite insanely soft + snuggly blanket for movie night ~~

~~ Booze & Vinyl: A Spirited Guide to Great Music and Mixed Drinks combines two favorites into one to help create a serious vibe for your evening ~~

~~ This little 1 QT Dansk Kobenstyle Saucepan is the perfect size for making hot chocolate for two and it comes in 7 perfect colors [LOVE mine] ~~

~~ Aside from their crazy soft activewear, Beyond Yoga also makes the comfiest Sleepwear [and awesome men’s pieces, too] ~~

~~ They say lighting a candle has therapeutic benefits, especially if the fragrance transports you somewhere dreamy, so light a gorgeous Brooklyn Candle Studio Escapist Candle [love Maui and Santa Fe], take a big deep breath and feel yourself calm ~~

~~ Sunday Citizen’s Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket takes the benefit of a weighted blanket to another level by adding thousands of bits of energetic amethyst, clear quartz and rose quartz crystals ~~

~~ Bathorium has an awesome selection of soaks, bombs, bubbles and milks for bath time depending on what your body [and soul] needs ~~

~~ Learn how to take cozy to the next level with The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well ~~

~~ You already know how much I LOVE Le Bon Shoppe’s Cloud Socks, but they also make a massive selection of other cute + cozy socks like these chunky Cottage Socks ~~

~~ There’s something super calming and meditative about coloring and I love Millie Marotta's Coloring Books along with some pretty pens ~~

~~ If your dream ‘night in’ involves a pint of your favorite ice cream [no judgment here], you ‘need’ a handmade Ice Cream Pint Cozy to keep your hands toasty warm ~~

Kiddo Gifts for Cozy Nights In

~~ Merge hype and cuddles with an adorable, soft Game Controller Pillow perfect for snuggling ~~

~~ Barefoot Dreams is designed for maximum luxurious cuddliness and style for your movie night [they also have really special collabs with Disney, the MLB, Star Wars and Barbie]. ~~

~~ My younger son LOVES his Pudus Fuzzy Slipper Socks, they’re crazy soft + cozy [they have them for adults, too] ~~

~~ Hot chocolate will taste extra sweet in a super special Custom Mug with their own name ~~

~~ It doesn’t get much more cozy than a warm bath and Dabble & Dollop's bubbles + bath bombs make it extra fun, too ~~

~~ Everyone can customize their favorite movie or game night snack with W&P’s Personal Popper ~~

~~ Outfoxed has been a family favorite cooperative game for years, it’s super cute and fun for lots of ages ~~

~~ Primary PJs are the cutest, softest and most fun jammies for kids of all ages [plus adults and doggies, too] ~~

~~ Mudpuppy has a huge selection of unique and cool Puzzles for every age and stage ~~

~~ These Ten Little Cozy Slippers will keep kiddos toasty and happy all evening long ~~

MORE IN… home + entertaining

new year, new cookbooks

THE NEW YEAR sparks the craziest nesting instinct in me. I’m like a third trimester pregnant woman with an incurable NEED to go through every drawer and cabinet, purging stuff we don’t use and stocking up on [maybe hoarding] stuff we actually do. Do you feel it, too? I want to do the whole house top to bottom, but the urge is for sure centered most fiercely on the kitchen. I guess it’s probs a sort of primal exercise that prepares me for the next 365 days of cooking for my family + friends. And I really love the process. I do stuff like…

+ Go through the condiments in the fridge and toss whatever is past its prime
+ Deep clean the fridge and freezer. I was actually bleeding today from some unknown altercation with my freezer drawer.
+ Replace the packets in the Bluapples
+ Check the water filter
+ Wipe down the insides of cabinets and drawers, donating anything inside them that doesn’t ‘spark joy’
+ Replace dish and bottle brushes
+ Replace the filter on the Bamboozle Bamboo Composter on my kitchen counter

AND AS part of this process, each January I treat myself to a few new cookbooks for inspiration. I like to think of it as a little ‘kitchen self-care’ ritual since I probs spend about 70% of my waking hours either cooking, thinking about cooking or shopping for cooking [even as I type, I’m also prepping this gorgeous looking soup]. I love thumbing through the pages of an actual book, drooling over the stunning food photography. Cookbooks kind of combine a bunch of my passions in one perfect little package and I really love them.

NOW, IF I’ve just made it sound like my house has its own Michelin star, let me backtrack a bit and put that idea right to bed. I am not a really fantastic chef. I AM super passionate about food and cooking and health and entertaining, but a part of the reason I need so much ‘inspiration’ is also to steel myself a bit for a year of cooking for both my own squeaky digestive system and a son with a not-so-fun combination of food intolerances and super duper ‘particular’ eating. His ‘happy’ foods don’t align well with his ‘healthy’ foods and I’m not gonna lie, preparing dinner for our family is often either an exercise in crowd-pleasing monotony or a little circus that involves making 3 different versions of whatever meal I’ve planned. So, I’m fortifying myself with ALL the tools to keep my head and HEART in the game. Preparing healthy food for my family and sitting down to dinner together is a passion and vitally important to me, so whatever it takes, I’m all in [side note, we’ve been loving this and this for conversation prompts at dinner. I’m def ordering more].

SO TODAY I’m sharing my new cookbook HAUL and a stack of some old favorites in case you’re also in need of some inspired ‘kitchen self care.’ And PLEASE please share your favorites, too. Throw your old standbys or new favorites in the comments, lovelies, so everyone can benefit from our awesome collective wisdom. Also check out my Pinterest boards where I save TONS of recipes throughout the year. If you love to cook and bake with your littles, check out my post on Baking Stuff for Kids + Teens. AND the Gift Guide for Foodies + Home Chefs and the Gift Guide for Bakers have even more beautiful inspiration for your kitchen [#giftalittlehappiness to yourself]. One night’s dinner is now down, just 364 to go. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

My 2024 Cookbooks + Wishlist

+ I’ve had Evergreen Kitchen in my cart ever since I saw it at a friend’s house months ago and just finally pushed the button. It’s gorgeous, totally accessible for all kinds of eaters and there are like 23 things in there that I want to make like tomorrow. So excited. +

+ I just discovered Trejo’s Tacos and it was a total impulse buy, but I seriously doubt I’ll be disappointed. It’s part riveting memoir and part delicious recipe book and I’m super excited to dig in. It’s written by Danny Trejo and partly documents his journey from bad guy ex-con to major Hollywood actor to super successful restauranteur. And it has awesome taco and donut recipes. I’m SO IN. +

+ Milk Street Tuesday Nights is focused on getting super flavorful food on your table fast and I’m here for it. There are lots of recipes from around the world that sound amazing and like something I could actually pull off on a weeknight, which is what it’s all about over here. Right off the bat, the Nigerian Beef Suya and the Salt-and-Pepper Shrimp sound so amazingly delish and totally manageable with the right ingredients on hand. +

+ I heard chef and author, JJ Johnson, interviewed about The Simple Art of Rice a few months ago and was instantly intrigued by this book. It features recipes from around the world for dishes that all center around rice. I love rice and I love trying foods from different cultures, so this is an easy love for me. It’s on the list. +

+ I’m super intrigued by East and it’s not just because it’s so pretty I want to hang it on my wall, promise. It’s a collection of vegan and vegetarian recipes from all over Asia and it just sounds so fabulous. I’m neither vegan nor vegetarian, but I am always interested in learning how to make more plant-forward mains and this sounds like the perfect tool. +

+ My boys are both in love with ramen, so a whole book dedicated to ways to make it even more interesting and delicious sounds fantastic. Ramen has 80 recipes broken out by protein, plus a whole chapter on toppings. It sounds like a crowd pleaser for our family and a great way to mix it up. +

My 2023 Cookbooks + Wishlist

+ I love SO many of Deb Perleman’s recipes already, so I knew I ‘needed’ Smitten Kitchen Keepers, the new collection of her most tried and trues. And it does NOT disappoint. This has become a go-to for me, I love a bunch of the recipes. The Ginger Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup has become a serious staple in our house, it’s just SO so good. And the Crispy Chili Garlic Butter Shrimp are so fabulous that my younger son requested them for his birthday dinner. Highly recommend this book. +

+ The Modern Proper VERY quickly became an essential cooking tool. Every recipe I’ve made has been fantastic and they’re so accessible, even on a weeknight. A few friends have the book, too, and we text each other regularly to report on which recipes we’ve made. I’d recommend this book to anyone, whether you’re just learning your way around the kitchen or a seasoned home chef and it makes a great gift. +

+ I picked up The Forest Feast Mediterranean at a local shop for a friend after initially being super drawn to the book’s style. And then I bought another copy for myself. The author, Erin Gleeson, combines fairly simple vegetarian recipes from around the Mediterranean with her own gorgeous travel photos and original artwork to create a really unique, pretty and yummy experience. It would make a really lovely gift for anyone who would appreciate both the cuisine and the whimsical illustrations. +

+ I heard J. Kenji López-Alt interviewed about The Wok when it was launched and my mouth was watering. Part serious science lesson + part recipe book, it has the same super in-depth cooking science and technique info as The Food Lab, but applied to wok cooking and it sounds so delish. He’ll also teach you absolutely everything you need to know about how to care for your wok, how to use your ingredients and why and SO much more. Good thing I bought myself a Five Two Carbon-Steel Wok a few months ago [love it BTW]. +

+ I kept seeing 100 Cookies everywhere I went and then a friend raved about it, so I decided I needed a copy. It’s so full of recipes, some traditional and some really interesting and they’ve all been delicious so far. My boys and I just made a batch of the Brown Sugar Cookies and they are divine. +

+ Siete specializes in creative Mexican-American packaged grain-free foods that are super delicious [they’ve really nailed the tricky texture]. I love of bunch of Siete’s products, but especially their Almond Flour Tortillas. Aside from being an awesome GF option for me, they’re an objectively delicious alternative for anyone who wants a little change of pace [I really love them with some scrambled eggs + greens inside]. SO, when I saw that they wrote The Siete Table, I was instantly sold. It’s a whole gorgeous book filled with recipes to accommodate almost any dietary need and they look SO good. There are 3 enchilada recipes in there and I can’t wait to try them all. +

+ A dear friend gifted me River Cottage Veg after I mentioned that I’d like to learn how to make more vegetarian meals [I get super stumped with veg as the main]. It’s a whole book of unique, seasonal vegetarian dishes and it’s really pretty. The Ribollita is on my short list of soups to try. +

+ I’m intrigued by this new King Arthur Baking School book that not only has recipes, but also teaches the same techniques they use at their renowned school. I rely on King Arthur’s online recipes because they usually turn out well, especially when following the GF ones that include their own flour blend [which is my favorite]. And I’m always looking to learn more about cooking science and technique. +

My 2022 cookbook haul

+ Once Upon a Chef: Weeknight / Weekend appealed to me instantly because of its organization. I love that it breaks up the recipes by how much time you need to dedicate to them. There’s nothing particularly exotic in here, but all of the recipes are super approachable and look like something I’d actually make. The Red Snapper & Snow Peas in Coconut Curry Broth is right up on the top of my list. +

+ I’ve been following Teri Turner’s ‘No Crumbs Left’ account for a few years now and I love her super chill but obviously passionate attitude toward cooking and food. This book of the same name is Whole30 approved, which works well for our family’s gluten and dairy intolerances, but it’s really just delicious, healthy cooking for everyone. I can’t wait to try her Chicken Paillard and Spicy Mushroom Ragu. Yum. +

+ Ok, so I pre-orderd Après All Day months ago because I’ve been following Kelley Epstein of Mountain Mama Cooks for YEARS (she introduced me to two of my most-loved recipes here and here) and I was so excited to see that she finally published a book. And then the holidays came and things got crazy and I haven’t used it yet [confessions…]. So new, not new, whatever, I’m super excited to finally dig in. Tater Tot Nachos and French Onion Chicken Meatballs are ON the list. Maybe for Super Bowl snacks? Who’s in? +

+ Salt Fat Acid Heat is obvs not a new book, but I’ve always been curious about it and secretly love to nerd out on food science [I used to LOVE watching Alton Brown]. And I love the idea of learning how to ‘riff’ a bit more confidently. I mean, it has almost 18,000 5-star reviews, a James Beard award and its own Netflix show [which I love], so I’m thinking it *might* be worth a read. +

+ I’ve been wanting to add some more meatless meals to our rotation, but I’m not very clever about really highlighting veggies as a main dish and honestly get a little intimidated. Vegan at Times has some really approachable and fantastic looking options. And I have another of Jessica Seinfeld’s cookbooks that I’ve been using to unapologetically woo children for more than a decade. So I’m going to trust that she knows what’s up. +

+ Taste: My Life Through Food is a memoir about Stanley Tucci’s vast and varied relationship with food and has some recipes thrown in for good measure. I love cooking shows and books about food and memoirs and Stanley Tucci is awesome, so I’m *pretty sure* I’m going to love this. +

some of my favorite cookbooks

+ I use Half Baked Harvest Super Simple on rotation. I love several of the recipes in here and make them over and over again, like Lemony Halibut + Chickpeas and Jalapeño Garlic-Butter Shrimp. SO good. And all of her baking recipes that I’ve tried are seriously off the hook. I don’t have her other book, but it’s def on my list. +

+ I have been following Michelle Tam’s Nom Nom Paleo account for a few years. Several of her recipes are absolutely essential family favorites, including her Wonton Meatballs and Watercress+ Chicken Soup. She also includes a bunch of recipes with instructions for an Instant Pot in case you’re into super delicious, healthy AND crazy easy meals. So Ready or Not! is a favorite and I’ve already pre-ordered her new book, Let’s Go! +

+ Why We Cook: Women on Food, Identity and Connection is a unique book that compiles essays, interviews, quotes and a few recipes from 112 women ‘in food’ across a wide range of backgrounds. It recalls food memories, celebrates cooking and community and has really pretty illustrations. It’s just cool perspective and a lovely celebration of women’s unique connection to food and cooking. +

+ It’s All Good is a kind-of-oldie but so goodie. I LOVE her Thai Style Chicken Burgers, they’re so flavorful and delicious. My sister makes the Japanese Chicken Meatballs on repeat. It’s a great, fresh, light book for anyone, but especially if you have intolerances or are experimenting with any kind of elimination diet. +

+ Full confession, I bought Cravings: Hungry for More based entirely on the recipe for Taters, Shrooms & Peas with Parmesan Cream. And it was totally worth it. They’re SO GOOD and my younger son asks for them by name. But I’m also super intrigued by some of her Thai recipes and can’t wait to check them out. +

+ I’ve been tricking my kids with Jessica Seinfeld’s Deceptively Delicious recipes for YEARS, most notably with her veggie-filled absolutely delicious Donuts. There are lots of equally clever recipes for kiddos whether they’re happy with their veggies out in the open or need them included a bit more covertly. +

+ Jamie’s Italy is one of the first cookbooks I ever bought and I still totally love it. The Spaghetti Tetrazzini is so delish. The recipes all call for fresh, yummy ingredients and the photos are super charming. It’s very nostalgic for me, bringing me back to my newlywed days. +

+ Jamie’s Dinners is another old school Jamie Oliver that’s still totally relevant. The Scrumptious Spanish Chickpea and Chorizo Soup is SO good and hearty, especially with the crumbled hard boiled eggs. And the Tender and Crisp Chicken Legs with Sweet Tomatoes is classic and so fresh. I just love the photos. +

+ Ok, I’ll freely admit that I was initially drawn to Food Between Friends because of Jesse. I mean he’s awesome. And I love to learn about people’s secret skills. Like when you find out all the totally unexpected stuff your mom friends did before kids. But, this is a legit cookbook. I haven’t made anything from it yet, but there is a lot to get excited about like Ratatouille, Seafood Gumbo and some Braised Chicken Thighs with Vidalia Onions & Cabbage that look incredible. Plus it’s funny, so I’m sold. +

+ The Clean Plate is another book filled with super light, fresh and healthy recipes for anyone and also includes a few cleanses [which I haven’t tried]. The Peruvian Chicken Cauli Rice Soup is a fan favorite, it’s just so bright and fresh. And the Za’atar Chicken Bowl is so flavorful and satisfying. +

+ Milk Bar: Kids Only is just straight up fun. Christina Tosi has made an empire based on creating fantastic and fun desserts from nostalgic childhood favorite treats put together in a totally new way and it’s awesome. +

+ I had to throw Dessert Boards in there because I’m kind of obsessed with these amazing char’treat’erie boards I’ve been seeing. They’re just so fun and I can’t wait to wow some kiddos at our next gathering. Of course you can just throw a bunch of yummy stuff on a plate, but this book has some fun ideas and inspiration to guide you through making a really fantastic presentation. +

Cookbooks My Aunt Laurie Loves

MY AUNT Laurie is a passionate and excellent home cook. I asked her for some cookbook suggestions for ‘normal’ people who are cooking on a weeknight and these are some of her very favorites. She loves Ina, too.

+ Simply Julia: 40 Easy Recipes for Healthy Comfort Food by Julia Turshen +

+ Cook What You Have: Make a Meal Out of Almost Anything by Christopher Kimball +

+ I Dream of Dinner by Ali Slagle +

+ Milk Street Vegetables by Christopher Kimball +

+ Salad Freak: Recipes to Feed a Healthy Obsession by Jess Damuck +

+ Milk Street Cookish: Throw it Together by Christopher Kimball +

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