So, five more hours and 2010 is over. When I look back on this year I must say, there were highs and lows. These are the things I will remember the most:
The Highs
- My trip to the Farm Sanctuary in May was inspiring. Although I was sneezing the whole time, I couldn't get enough of the animals!!
- My move with Danny to West Babylon was awesome.
- My first column with Patch started with Bellmore and I could never thank Jaime enough.
- When I created Revolt I was so excited! It was a step up from my first project, d+eco, and gave me an outlet to share tons of thoughts, information, tips and cool products with tons of people.
- My birthday was really cool. For my 31st, Danny took me to Blossom in the city :) It was the first veg restaurant I have ever been to.
- Danny's friend Pete got married in August. He is the first out of the bunch to be a husband! I was glad to finally meet him and his wife Brooke.
- My cousin Maureen got married in September and I was happy to be a part of her special day.
- My first charity walk in Northport for the Farm Sanctuary. So friggin cool!!
- Olive turning 3 this past November made me a happy mommy.
- Having my first vegetarian Thanksgiving was really important to me. Not only was it successful, I realized I don't have to sacrifice my beliefs or morals for anyone, even family.
- Seeing Tim and Eric live was so cool. Again, a gift from Danny that is well appreciated :)
- My friend Val was in a reality show, Bama Belles, and it aired on TLC for 2 weeks. Although, it isn't on anymore, I was proud of her!
- My cousin Diana recently got engaged and I am very happy for her. I wish her the best!
- Reconnecting with an old friend I haven't seen or spoke to in 10 years. Good to know you again Justin :)
- This year marked my one year anniversary being veg!
- My aunt's dog, Holly, had to be put down recently and it was so hard to let her go. I was thankful I got to spend time with her before she left us. I miss you Holly!!
- Last and certainty not least, seeing Pee Wee's Playhouse on broadway was ridiculous. I will never forget it!!
The Lows
- In April, my mom had lung surgery and they thought it was cancer. Thankfully, it wasn't!!
- My good friend's father passed away this year and I couldn't be more sorry. We lost him too soon :(
There seems to be way more highs than lows and that makes me smile. I hope the new year brings even more highs and tons of happiness. Although there will always be low points in your life, its the high points that give you a reason to keep going. Always remember the good times and don't let the bad get you down.
Smile, be positive and live smart. This is our one life to LIVE so lets live it to the fullest!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The End is Near but Tomorrow is Closer
So in a few days the year will come to an end. It feels like gusts of wind just carried the days right past me. When I look back I have no regrets. Even though I may feel like I haven't, I accomplished quite a few things.
My writing career started in January when I became a columnist for Patch. Since then it snowballed into more columns and a freelance position for Demand Studios. I am really thankful that my writing has been able to bring me income. It has always been a huge part of my life.
Another good thing this year was my move to West Babylon with Danny. It was all very sudden and a lot of work but I am happy we did it. Our new place is awesome and we are very comfortable here. Olive seems to like it as well. Him and I are moving toward the next phase in our relationship soon and I can't wait. The new year will bring all sorts of change and new adventures and it's going to be exciting.
Lately, I have been really thinking of my life as a whole. Realizations about friendship, communication and patience have never come so clear. I can see now, how people tend to fade out of your life. This is not always a bad thing. It has always upset me how my friends aren't a part of my life now as they used to but not anymore. I refuse to let it bring me down. People grow up, they realize what is important to them and they gravitate more towards those things. If I am not one of them, than so be it. There are other people out there who will find my presence more enjoyable. I just need to meet them.
As far as communication goes, I have always been one to reach out even when others weren't reaching out to me. That too, is done with. I will not continue to go the extra mile. It's simply not worth the time and aggravation. People who want to be in touch will make it a point to do so. Lastly, patience has been my savior. If it wasn't for its stern but gentle lessons, I would have gone mad by now.
The last and most important thing I have learned during 2010 is to not stress anymore. For years, money has repeatedly knocked me down. This problematic behavior kept getting the best of me. The truth - I simply let it. I admit it has been hard to overcome feelings of incompetence and bitter thoughts. However, going into the new year like this is just not going to happen. I am much more than sinful thinking. Losing my confidence is also not an option. After it all I remain strong, talented and beautiful. No one can take that away from me.
For the new year brings hope and sanity. A willingness to move forward with a steady balance and skillful mind. Bringing forth a new love for life and a passion for all things worth living for. New friendships, creative endeavors, love, family and the Earth - now these are the best of the best. Not money or material objects and certainly not the high life. True happiness and success comes from within and don't let anyone tell you different.
I pledge to share my positive vision with all who comes my way. Wishful thinking may sometimes create a dreamers dream. This is when reality ceases to exist. I will eventually get to the top, at my own pace. Every one of you should hold your head high and be thankful you are alive. It simply can't get any worse than this so hope for the best and get there.
Loving yourself is the key to evolution so accept change when it comes and allow the breeze to carry you through.
This new year, my friends, will be a good one.
My writing career started in January when I became a columnist for Patch. Since then it snowballed into more columns and a freelance position for Demand Studios. I am really thankful that my writing has been able to bring me income. It has always been a huge part of my life.
Another good thing this year was my move to West Babylon with Danny. It was all very sudden and a lot of work but I am happy we did it. Our new place is awesome and we are very comfortable here. Olive seems to like it as well. Him and I are moving toward the next phase in our relationship soon and I can't wait. The new year will bring all sorts of change and new adventures and it's going to be exciting.
Lately, I have been really thinking of my life as a whole. Realizations about friendship, communication and patience have never come so clear. I can see now, how people tend to fade out of your life. This is not always a bad thing. It has always upset me how my friends aren't a part of my life now as they used to but not anymore. I refuse to let it bring me down. People grow up, they realize what is important to them and they gravitate more towards those things. If I am not one of them, than so be it. There are other people out there who will find my presence more enjoyable. I just need to meet them.
As far as communication goes, I have always been one to reach out even when others weren't reaching out to me. That too, is done with. I will not continue to go the extra mile. It's simply not worth the time and aggravation. People who want to be in touch will make it a point to do so. Lastly, patience has been my savior. If it wasn't for its stern but gentle lessons, I would have gone mad by now.
The last and most important thing I have learned during 2010 is to not stress anymore. For years, money has repeatedly knocked me down. This problematic behavior kept getting the best of me. The truth - I simply let it. I admit it has been hard to overcome feelings of incompetence and bitter thoughts. However, going into the new year like this is just not going to happen. I am much more than sinful thinking. Losing my confidence is also not an option. After it all I remain strong, talented and beautiful. No one can take that away from me.
For the new year brings hope and sanity. A willingness to move forward with a steady balance and skillful mind. Bringing forth a new love for life and a passion for all things worth living for. New friendships, creative endeavors, love, family and the Earth - now these are the best of the best. Not money or material objects and certainly not the high life. True happiness and success comes from within and don't let anyone tell you different.
I pledge to share my positive vision with all who comes my way. Wishful thinking may sometimes create a dreamers dream. This is when reality ceases to exist. I will eventually get to the top, at my own pace. Every one of you should hold your head high and be thankful you are alive. It simply can't get any worse than this so hope for the best and get there.
Loving yourself is the key to evolution so accept change when it comes and allow the breeze to carry you through.
This new year, my friends, will be a good one.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Gift Guide for Kids
Here are some great products for kids to give as gifts. Christmas is right around the corner so get your holiday shopping done so you can check it off your list and relax. If you are in need of some more ideas my gift guide is sure to help. Happy Shopping!
Children
Burt's Bees
Any new Mom will love these awesome products. They are all natural, Earth friendly and not that expensive either. Prices range from $5 - $16.
If you'd rather give a small collection, try the Trial Kit. For under $15 you get six products.
Tell Me a Story Set
Inspire kids to use their imagination and create stories with these adorably designed blocks. The set comes with three wood blocks, a 50 page Match and Write notebook and laminated index sheet all packaged up in a muslin bag. How cute! You can support local artists and give the gift of "anything's possible" all at once. Not bad for $35!
Organic Lunch Tote
This is too cute. A great gift for any child in school, this organic lunch tote will get them on their way to a greener life. This is another great Etsy find and at only $15.99 you can't go wrong.
Little Passports
Talk about an awesome gift. Little Passports helps children learn about the world through Sam and Sofia. You would buy a subscription of your choice and watch the little ones explore! They have packages for all budgets as well.
Bright Toss Balls
These toys are great for babies and infants and help with their motor skills. They come in two sizes: 3x3 and 5x5 inches so any small hand can hold them. They are made from organic fabrics and filled with natural kapok fiber. Children will love tossing these around and you don't have to worry about anything breaking. Plus, they are so damn cute!
Matching Shades Puzzle
Being an artist, I can appreciate toys that help kids learn about art and design. My children will have plenty! I absolutely love this puzzle because its a small crash course in color theory. By showing kids that color is so much more than Crayola will enhance their thinking and inspire creativity. By training them early to see the different in shades and tones, they will be on their way to creating masterpieces in no time! Made for ages 2+ yrs. See if there is a retailer near you: Kid O.
Number Book
I love the artist who makes this book. She has lots of other goodies you must check out as well. They are all so beautifully hand crafted, they are hard to resist. This number book is just too damn cute not to buy! Made by hand with linen and organic muslin.
Robots Sketchbook
Great for any young artist, this eco-friendly sketchbook is fun and looks cool. Its made out of post-consumer waste and fully bio-degradable. The paper is also chlorine-free and the cover design is made with vegetable ink. For $8 why not get a couple! This shop has tons of other fantastic items you should check out too.
For other great shops check out the Revolt Kids page!
Children
Burt's Bees
Any new Mom will love these awesome products. They are all natural, Earth friendly and not that expensive either. Prices range from $5 - $16.
If you'd rather give a small collection, try the Trial Kit. For under $15 you get six products.
Tell Me a Story Set
Inspire kids to use their imagination and create stories with these adorably designed blocks. The set comes with three wood blocks, a 50 page Match and Write notebook and laminated index sheet all packaged up in a muslin bag. How cute! You can support local artists and give the gift of "anything's possible" all at once. Not bad for $35!
Organic Lunch Tote
This is too cute. A great gift for any child in school, this organic lunch tote will get them on their way to a greener life. This is another great Etsy find and at only $15.99 you can't go wrong.
Little Passports
Talk about an awesome gift. Little Passports helps children learn about the world through Sam and Sofia. You would buy a subscription of your choice and watch the little ones explore! They have packages for all budgets as well.
Bright Toss Balls
These toys are great for babies and infants and help with their motor skills. They come in two sizes: 3x3 and 5x5 inches so any small hand can hold them. They are made from organic fabrics and filled with natural kapok fiber. Children will love tossing these around and you don't have to worry about anything breaking. Plus, they are so damn cute!
Matching Shades Puzzle
Being an artist, I can appreciate toys that help kids learn about art and design. My children will have plenty! I absolutely love this puzzle because its a small crash course in color theory. By showing kids that color is so much more than Crayola will enhance their thinking and inspire creativity. By training them early to see the different in shades and tones, they will be on their way to creating masterpieces in no time! Made for ages 2+ yrs. See if there is a retailer near you: Kid O.
Number Book
I love the artist who makes this book. She has lots of other goodies you must check out as well. They are all so beautifully hand crafted, they are hard to resist. This number book is just too damn cute not to buy! Made by hand with linen and organic muslin.
Robots Sketchbook
Great for any young artist, this eco-friendly sketchbook is fun and looks cool. Its made out of post-consumer waste and fully bio-degradable. The paper is also chlorine-free and the cover design is made with vegetable ink. For $8 why not get a couple! This shop has tons of other fantastic items you should check out too.
For other great shops check out the Revolt Kids page!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Tis the Season for Gift Giving
I love the holidays. Not because I get gifts but because I love giving them. I have been known to get the best gifts so I wanted to share some of the products I have seen so that you too can spread the love brilliantly. The key to gift giving is getting something that fits the person you are giving it to. Something you know they will love. It doesn't have to be pricey - not all expensive gifts are great. Its the thought that counts!
So here are some of my best picks for the season. Happy Shopping!
Robot Alarm Clocks
These would be great for someone who loves retro toys and appreciates anything vintage. The glow in the dark hands make it easy to see at night and there is a battery included. Both are $75.
Nostalgic Tin Collectibles
I absolutely love these! What collector wouldn't agree that these tin vintage toys are awesome. They are totally affordable too. For under $70 you can get both! The rocket ride is my favorite.
Pillars of Heaven Nativity
When I saw this it made me smile. Now I am not a religious person but this would be a great gift for someone who is. Think Grandma or Grandpa for this one. I think its a nice way to modernize the nativity. It may be $100 but this is something that will be treasured for seasons to come.
Cheese Boards
Look out cheese lovers! These cheese boards are modern and fresh and are great to give hosts. The set comes with chalk and two mouse shaped knives and for $70 it's a gift that will never be forgotten. To go a less pricier route get them the mousetrap board. Not only is this little guy cute but it will spark up a conversation at any event. At only $29 it will make you smile too!
Candles to Die For
These are some of coolest and prettiest candles I have found. I love them and I know you will too!
The Beeswax Rock Candles are not only natural 100% beeswax they look like real rocks. A great gift for anyone who loves nature and for only $19 for the set you can get them for everyone!
These Woodland Creature Candles are adorable. Hand painted and finely molded, they come in a set of 4. For $14 you will want to buy them for yourself too!
The Patch NYC Whale Candle is a great gift for any art lover. Made with jasmine, patchouli and basil fragrances and sells for $32. The candles also come with a skull, fedora, owl, stag and pipe.
Plants, Plants and More Plants
For all those who love nature, I do!, you will totally love these. All of them make fantastic gifts and the bonus is they will appreciate them everyday.
The Oasis Garden is nice to get someone who maybe doesn't have the memory or the time to take care of plants. Because they are succulents they don't have to be watered much and they are all packaged up perfect and ready to go. I couldn't believe it was only $39! You also get a 3 day shipping upgrade for free.
Air plants are so friggin cool. That is why I thought these Grapevine Air Plant Gardens were beautiful and unique. The plants were placed in old vine trunks as their new home and hopefully they will sent off to a new home for the holidays. The small one is $29 and the large is $39. Not bad for timeless pieces of history.
The Living EcoSphere is the ultimate gift for those who appreciate life and the Earth. This unusual self sustaining eco - system lives within handblown glass and requires little attention. It contains plants, live shrimp, algae and microorganisms and at $89 you can count on it being a luxury item.
Eco-Friendly Gifts
Everyone has some friends that live green and healthy. These are some great finds they will love, use and really appreciate. Heck, everyone will!
I love these Bobble Water Bottles because they are small enough to fit in your bag, affordable and totally green. They are made from recycled PET, are 100% recyclable & BPA free and come with a filter. Just fill it up and drink! You can't go wrong for $10. They come in blue, pink and green.
These two are perfect for those country lovers who appreciate handmade appeal. Rene Rooster and Daphne Duck are made from recycled French newspapers and cement bags and starch that is locally grown. Made by Haitian artists they represent fair trade and good ole handmade art. Starting from $39 they are worth every penny.
Sold as a set these beautiful Recycled Windshield Wine Glasses are the perfect gift for that wine loving couple. They are handmade in Columbia and have a slight green hue. No one would think they are only $22! But hurry because there is only a limited amount of these available.
Calling all baseball fans! This might be one of the ultimate gifts for that sports fan who appreciates the game. I think it would be great to give to Dads but would be nice for anyone who loves baseball. The Ballpark Pens are made from salvaged stadium seats of historic ballparks and come boxed up with a certificate of authenticity. Prices range from $140 - $260 and you choose from a list of stadiums.
Jewelry
What girl doesn't like jewelry? Even some men do! I am not one to wear lots of ritzy stuff but I do love necklaces. Here are some pretty pieces that any woman will adore and some the men will love you for buying.
These sterling silver Love Letter Charms are gorgeous. Designed by Lori Bonn, these filigree charms come with an 18" chain and will make the perfect gift for Mom's or a best friend. They sell for $70 and will last a lifetime.
For the guy who likes to get dressed up why not give him the gift of sin. These Seven Deadly Sins Cufflinks are cool, unique and won't burn a hole in your wallet. Designed by the famous cartoonist Mort Gerberg everyone will be sure to love these. They are $34 each and $195 for the whole set.
For that woman who prefers simple jewelry this Sterling Silver Bee Necklace will win her over. The pendant is 1.2" and the chain can be adjusted from 16" - 18". Right now its on sale for only $28 but is on backorder till January 22nd. Who's says you can't give gifts after Christmas.
Here is a cool gift for artsy types who appreciate vintage things. The Typewriter Key Necklace is unique and comes personalized with a typewriter key set in sterling silver. They are handmade in the USA and Mexico and use authentic keys from the 20's to the 40's. It sells for $50 and is eco-friendly too!
Stocking Stuffers
Kimono Key Chains
These cute animal key chains have a handmade feel and Japanese style design. Each are $17 but you can buy all three for $39! Find them at Eastern Serenity.
The Sock Monkey ornament is not only adorable but will bring the kid out in everyone. It's 7 1/2" and only $12 which makes it the perfect stocking stuffer.
Perfect for any girl these Kimono Sachet Trios are made from Japanese children's costumes. They are filled with roses, orange blossoms and violets and topped with the traditional knot. They are also made in the USA and come in pink or green. You get 3 for $38.
Its getting cold out there! Everyone and their Mother could use some chap stick this winter season. Hurraw Lip Balm is all natural, vegan and made with raw fair trade ingredients. You can't get any better than that! It comes in tons of flavors and is only $3.79 so get shopping.
I hope these products inspire you this holiday season. Stay tuned for more gift ideas coming soon! You didn't think I forgot about kids and pets did you??? Nope. Until next time...
So here are some of my best picks for the season. Happy Shopping!
Robot Alarm Clocks
These would be great for someone who loves retro toys and appreciates anything vintage. The glow in the dark hands make it easy to see at night and there is a battery included. Both are $75.
Nostalgic Tin Collectibles
I absolutely love these! What collector wouldn't agree that these tin vintage toys are awesome. They are totally affordable too. For under $70 you can get both! The rocket ride is my favorite.
Pillars of Heaven Nativity
When I saw this it made me smile. Now I am not a religious person but this would be a great gift for someone who is. Think Grandma or Grandpa for this one. I think its a nice way to modernize the nativity. It may be $100 but this is something that will be treasured for seasons to come.
Cheese Boards
Look out cheese lovers! These cheese boards are modern and fresh and are great to give hosts. The set comes with chalk and two mouse shaped knives and for $70 it's a gift that will never be forgotten. To go a less pricier route get them the mousetrap board. Not only is this little guy cute but it will spark up a conversation at any event. At only $29 it will make you smile too!
Candles to Die For
These are some of coolest and prettiest candles I have found. I love them and I know you will too!
The Beeswax Rock Candles are not only natural 100% beeswax they look like real rocks. A great gift for anyone who loves nature and for only $19 for the set you can get them for everyone!
These Woodland Creature Candles are adorable. Hand painted and finely molded, they come in a set of 4. For $14 you will want to buy them for yourself too!
The Patch NYC Whale Candle is a great gift for any art lover. Made with jasmine, patchouli and basil fragrances and sells for $32. The candles also come with a skull, fedora, owl, stag and pipe.
Plants, Plants and More Plants
For all those who love nature, I do!, you will totally love these. All of them make fantastic gifts and the bonus is they will appreciate them everyday.
The Oasis Garden is nice to get someone who maybe doesn't have the memory or the time to take care of plants. Because they are succulents they don't have to be watered much and they are all packaged up perfect and ready to go. I couldn't believe it was only $39! You also get a 3 day shipping upgrade for free.
Air plants are so friggin cool. That is why I thought these Grapevine Air Plant Gardens were beautiful and unique. The plants were placed in old vine trunks as their new home and hopefully they will sent off to a new home for the holidays. The small one is $29 and the large is $39. Not bad for timeless pieces of history.
The Living EcoSphere is the ultimate gift for those who appreciate life and the Earth. This unusual self sustaining eco - system lives within handblown glass and requires little attention. It contains plants, live shrimp, algae and microorganisms and at $89 you can count on it being a luxury item.
Eco-Friendly Gifts
Everyone has some friends that live green and healthy. These are some great finds they will love, use and really appreciate. Heck, everyone will!
I love these Bobble Water Bottles because they are small enough to fit in your bag, affordable and totally green. They are made from recycled PET, are 100% recyclable & BPA free and come with a filter. Just fill it up and drink! You can't go wrong for $10. They come in blue, pink and green.
These two are perfect for those country lovers who appreciate handmade appeal. Rene Rooster and Daphne Duck are made from recycled French newspapers and cement bags and starch that is locally grown. Made by Haitian artists they represent fair trade and good ole handmade art. Starting from $39 they are worth every penny.
Sold as a set these beautiful Recycled Windshield Wine Glasses are the perfect gift for that wine loving couple. They are handmade in Columbia and have a slight green hue. No one would think they are only $22! But hurry because there is only a limited amount of these available.
Calling all baseball fans! This might be one of the ultimate gifts for that sports fan who appreciates the game. I think it would be great to give to Dads but would be nice for anyone who loves baseball. The Ballpark Pens are made from salvaged stadium seats of historic ballparks and come boxed up with a certificate of authenticity. Prices range from $140 - $260 and you choose from a list of stadiums.
Jewelry
What girl doesn't like jewelry? Even some men do! I am not one to wear lots of ritzy stuff but I do love necklaces. Here are some pretty pieces that any woman will adore and some the men will love you for buying.
These sterling silver Love Letter Charms are gorgeous. Designed by Lori Bonn, these filigree charms come with an 18" chain and will make the perfect gift for Mom's or a best friend. They sell for $70 and will last a lifetime.
For the guy who likes to get dressed up why not give him the gift of sin. These Seven Deadly Sins Cufflinks are cool, unique and won't burn a hole in your wallet. Designed by the famous cartoonist Mort Gerberg everyone will be sure to love these. They are $34 each and $195 for the whole set.
For that woman who prefers simple jewelry this Sterling Silver Bee Necklace will win her over. The pendant is 1.2" and the chain can be adjusted from 16" - 18". Right now its on sale for only $28 but is on backorder till January 22nd. Who's says you can't give gifts after Christmas.
Here is a cool gift for artsy types who appreciate vintage things. The Typewriter Key Necklace is unique and comes personalized with a typewriter key set in sterling silver. They are handmade in the USA and Mexico and use authentic keys from the 20's to the 40's. It sells for $50 and is eco-friendly too!
Stocking Stuffers
Kimono Key Chains
These cute animal key chains have a handmade feel and Japanese style design. Each are $17 but you can buy all three for $39! Find them at Eastern Serenity.
The Sock Monkey ornament is not only adorable but will bring the kid out in everyone. It's 7 1/2" and only $12 which makes it the perfect stocking stuffer.
Perfect for any girl these Kimono Sachet Trios are made from Japanese children's costumes. They are filled with roses, orange blossoms and violets and topped with the traditional knot. They are also made in the USA and come in pink or green. You get 3 for $38.
Its getting cold out there! Everyone and their Mother could use some chap stick this winter season. Hurraw Lip Balm is all natural, vegan and made with raw fair trade ingredients. You can't get any better than that! It comes in tons of flavors and is only $3.79 so get shopping.
I hope these products inspire you this holiday season. Stay tuned for more gift ideas coming soon! You didn't think I forgot about kids and pets did you??? Nope. Until next time...
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