Category: Natural Favorites

Baked & Wired

I figured a post about a great source for caffeinated beverages would be quite fitting for this morning after the long weekend, don’t you agree? The source – Baked & Wired in Georgetown, which is definitely my favorite quirky coffee shop in the DC area. Their coffee and espresso are a mix of  Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Intelligentsia Coffee (2 great, high-quality brands) and they use only organic milk (from Trickling Springs Creamery in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania). All of their baked goods (minus the bagels)  are homemade too! They’re becoming quite acclaimed for their cupcakes, which come in so many fun flavors like Smurfette (= fresh blueberries baked into vanilla cake, topped with lemon buttercream).

My regular beverage favs include their oolong tea and soy lattes. Has anyone else been? If so, what are your favorite picks?

Photo Credit: Dylan Price

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9 Comments by All Natural Annie on September 7, 2010
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Skincando

I think Skincando might be one of the most unique and altruistic natural lines in existence right now. Founder, Sara Damelio’s search for answers to her own skin ailments led her to the formation of her first and most acclaimed product - Combat-Ready Balm.  This balm not only graces the pages of women’s fashion magazines, but has also been regularly donated to troops in Iraq for years now.

Founder, Sara Damelio

One soldier wrote, “Send more of that magic balm!” after he and fellow soldiers found it worked for sand flea bites, sunburn and chapping from sandstorms and 140-degree days. When Sara was telling me about the feedback and the requests she receives on a daily basis, I realized that her product and her efforts are truly miracles to our troops.  Can you even imagine trying to serve while covered in skin ailments on a daily basis? Unbearable. Sara’s efforts are making such an impact on the quality of life for our troops and the awesome thing is that anyone can help this worthy cause by donating a product(s) of choice to a service member (specific or non-specific). Last year, Sara and Skincando.com customers donated 5,000 jars!

I was so curious to see what a “miracle balm” like this one consisted of and it turns out there is a pretty special ingredient – exotic fish oils! But please don’t be scared – there is not even the faintest scent of anything aquatic. The scent is light, refreshing and equally enjoyable for men and women.  Some of the other nourishing ingredients in the Combat-Ready Balm include apricot kernel oil, coconut oil, shea butter, black tea, and beeswax. I can see why this balm is great for so many things. I even put it on my face and it doesn’t clog my pores. It really is such a versatile product.

Also, let me not forget to mention the lipbalm! I love it so much.  I would equate using it to rubbing a perfectly moisturizing candy cane on your lips (if a candy cane was moisturizing).  I gave one to my husband recently – I thought he would definitely be a fan of it (no super girly packaging or flavors), but somehow it keeps wondering back into my bag… every day. I just keep taking it and giving it back, taking it and…I just need to buy a second already! This is definitely another one for my favorite list.

{Photo Credits: Gunnar Larson}

15 Comments by All Natural Annie on August 13, 2010
filed in Natural Beauty, Natural Beauty Companies, Natural Favorites, Natural Product Reviews
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Naturopathica

I love a lot of natural companies out there, but Naturopathica really brings it all together for me – a holistic approach to skin care, artisanal sourcing of ingredients, incredible natural scents, and visible as well as therapeutic benefits.

I added a few natural beauty products to my regime recently and Naturopathica’s Sweet Cherry Brightening Enyzme Peel was one of them. Let me just say that ever since I tried a peel, I’ve been in love.  Reason number one being that it’s so much easier to get off than a mask.  And number two being that a good peel, like this one, just seems to make your skin effortlessly refined and glowing almost immediately.  Don’t get me wrong, when it comes to cleaning pores, I swear by masks that are usually green, hard, and positively enraging at times to remove (example: Aztec Indian Healing Clay). But masks like that really feel like work. Not this one.

This peel by Naturopathica smells and looks like they just mashed up the cherries yesterday – it’s simply amazing (if you like cherries, you’ll really be in heaven). There are sweet benefits to go with that sweet scent – cherries’ are high in Vitamin C and Beta Carotene and when applied topically they refine skin, decrease inflammation, as well as prevent skin discoloration.  After just 3-5 minutes (1-2 times/week), you can remove the fruity blend to reveal a fresher faced version of yourself. That’s only 10 minutes tops per week!

Originally being from Long Island, I love that this company is based in East Hampton. It’s always nice to see a great company come out of your neck of the woods.  I also love the packaging – blue glass is my fav, not only because it’s so pretty, but also because it’s excellent for maintaining the integrity of products containing essential oils.

Now there’s only two things I want to do after trying this mask: (1) Try every single product made my Naturopathica; (2) Take a trip to East Hampton asap to experience their spa, which includes an Apothecary Bar (the “destination for custom blended beauty products and remedies”) I can barely describe  how incredible that sounds to me… like heaven, especially if I could have the chance to get behind that bar!


10 Comments by All Natural Annie on August 10, 2010
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Lulu Organics

We all have that day (or days ) that we would rather not take the time and effort to wash and dry our hair, right? Well lucky for us ladies, we now actually have a good amount of products out there specifically created to assist us in our hair washing delay and no one would ever know we haven’t washed our hair for __ number of days! The only thing is that the ingredients in a lot of these powders and sprays are questionable and since we’re putting this stuff directly onto our scalp it would definitely be a good idea to use a natural product.  If anyone is looking for a hair powder that is talc free and made entirely of natural ingredients then definitely check out Lulu Organics Hair Powder. There aren’t a ton of natural options in this category so I was really excited to find Lulu’s. I have it now in the travel size, which (surprise, surprise) makes it very easy to bring on trips, to the office, etc. It works just as you would hope by absorbing excess oil and refreshing hair with a subtle scent of lavender and clary sage.  Just imagine those hours saved…

While I’m talking about Lulu Organics, I also have to mention another product I’m loving by them right now – their Cardamom Lip Balm. It’s a mix of five organic oils and beeswax, which makes for a perfect consistency and a really nice shine when you put it on your lips. The flavor is also very unique - turns out its a mix of cardamom, mint, and tangerine. I didn’t guess those flavors right off the bat, but now that I know, it’s like “yes, that is what it smells/tastes like!”  The cardamom definitely adds a very earthy flavor, most likely one you’ve never experienced before (there aren’t a ton of cardamom lip products floating around out there). To me, it was a bit unsettling at first, but it’s really grown on me and now I put it on constantly. I should do a post of my favorite natural lip balms soon… this one will definitely make the list!

11 Comments by All Natural Annie on August 8, 2010
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Tested on Actresses…

Never on Animals. That’s the cute catchphrase of Hamadi Organics , a hair care line made with 100% organic plant extracts and essential oils, which translates into incredible scents and results via the natural route, or should I say root. I’m so happy I discovered them because so far every product (including their hair wash, conditioner, and healing serum) I’ve tried has given me great results, especially their Ginger Soymilk Hair Wash.  This shampoo is definitely one of my favorites now because I love how it’s both cleansing and nourishing (my 2 favorite qualities in a shampoo). It also smells simply delicious in a very clean and tropical way with essential oils of ginger, sweet orange, and rosewood. Now I’m dying to try their other two hair washes now – Honey Soymilk & Lemon Mint (yum & yum!)

I love that they offer free gift packaging AND free exchanges within 30 days. With those two pieces of info, you should definitely test them out soon! Has anyone tried already?


13 Comments by All Natural Annie on August 6, 2010
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Homemade Toner

This is my latest cosmetic creation – a toner of just 4 natural ingredients. I was inspired by a toner I saw in Kiehl’s a few months ago. Not to knock Kiehl’s, but it was very pricey and had a lot of questionable ingredients so I didn’t want to buy it.  I figured why not try to make my own version? So I did.. I decided that witch hazel (a great natural astringent) would be the base and then I added some dried burduck root (a blood purifier), chamomile flowers (calming & anti-inflammatory), and hibiscus flowers (high in Vitamin C & naturally provide the pink tint).

I gave my mom a sample of it recently and when she was starting to get low, she said she needed a replacement asap!  She had noticed such a difference in her skin since she started using it. I couldn’t be happier. I’m already thinking of some other blends that I’m going to try making, but for now I’m really loving this one.

12 Comments by All Natural Annie on July 11, 2010
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The Versatile Blogger Award

Thank you to the fabulous lady behind My Glamourology for passing on this award to me! Monique, you are a true fashionista and I never get tired of seeing what outfit you’re going to put together next, among all of the other fantastic jewelry, food, and NY-centric stories you share. Thank you again!! xo

Apparently this award entails me sharing 7 things about myself, as well as passing this award on to 5 lovely fellow bloggers (sorry, but I couldn’t do less than 6!), so here it goes…

  1. I met my husband when I was ten and after eleven years of being friends, we started dating when I was twenty one — BY FAR the best surprise of my life. We got married at a vineyard on Long Island 10 months ago.
  2. My younger sister and I were both born at home (on purpose) and without a doubt I plan on doing the same.
  3. When I was little I wanted to be a marine biologist and although I’m no longer pursuing that dream, I will never stop adoring dolphins, manatees and the beach.
  4. Some of my favorite indulgences include a glass of  red wine (preferably bold & fruity), hot lavender and epsom salt baths (so relaxing), watching The Golden Girls (now I can appreciate all of the jokes that completely went over my head when I was a kid), and foot massages (rejuvenation for the entire body!).
  5. My favorite season is fall, especially in the Catskills.
  6. I would take vegetables over dessert any day – I just don’t have a sweet tooth!
  7. I make candles and beauty products all the time and would love to have my own line one day, as well as a boutique or spa where I could sell the line. :)

Now I would like to pass this award on to 6 bloggers who are always on my daily reading list:

a creative mint

Beautiful things to share

EXPRESS-O

Homemade Beauty Blog

this free bird

Toxic Beauty

Thanks to all of you for such great info and inspiration on a regular basis!

19 Comments by All Natural Annie on July 8, 2010
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PB of the Natural Sort

To answer a reader’s recent question, I wanted to share some of my favorites in the natural peanut butter department.

My first pick would have to be Smucker’s, which was a staple in my house growing up. I always have opted for chunky over smooth, but that’s just my personal preference. As with all natural peanut butters, oil separation is normal and some stirring is required to blend the peanut butter to its ideal consistency.

These days, our new peanut butter brand of choice is Trader Joe’s. We enjoy it just as much if not more than Smucker’s AND it’s only $1.99! You can’t beat that, literally. I have yet to find an all natural peanut butter with a lower price tag.

If you’re looking for a natural peanut butter choice mainly for dessert purposes then I would strongly suggest trying  Peanut Butter & Co. They have some really decadent options like Dark Chocolate Dreams, White Chocolate Wonderful and The Bee’s Knees (yep, it’s pb + honey). These are ideal for adding to an ice cream sundaes, milkshakes (see recipe below) or just having on their own as a sweet and protein-rich treat!

A frequent reader, “All Natural Andy”, requested a sweet culinary delight that included the following: (a) natural peanut butter; (b) natural chocolate; and, (c) vanilla ice cream.

Here it is…

Peanut Butter Chocolate Milkshake (Serves 1):

  • 1 cup organic milk
  • 2 large scoops of all natural vanilla ice cream like Häagen-Dazs® (one of the richer natural options) or Ben & Jerry’s
  • 2 tablespoons of all natural creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons all natural chocolate syrup like AH!LASKA Organic Chocolate Syrup
  • 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
  • Blend it up
  • Enjoy!

8 Comments by All Natural Annie on June 4, 2010
filed in Natural Favorites, Natural Product Reviews, Natural Recipes
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JUARA Skincare

I have two new scrubs that I am loving right now. Both are by JUARA Skincare, a company that fuses natural Indonesian skincare treatments with modern science.

The first is their Rice Facial Scrub, which is rice-based (of course) and has such a clean, fresh scent. It reminds of something I used as a teenager, but I just can’t put my finger on it!  So needless to say, I especially enjoy the nostalgic aroma every time I use it. This sulfate and oil-free scrub contains rice starch, which helps to soften the skin and prevent moisture lost. This is a great choice for all skin types.

The second scrub I’m loving is JUARA’s Candlenut Body Polish. Again, the smell is unique, but in this case sweet and nutty. Personally, I love that in a body scrub. Like the facial scrub, this is really effective, but not harsh. Love it.

Try one or both and let me know what you think!

5 Comments by All Natural Annie on May 12, 2010
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Little Moon Essentials

Little Moon Essentials is by far one of my absolute favorite natural body care lines. Why haven’t I mentioned them by now? Honestly, I love so many of their products I just did not know where to start! Every single product from this line is just outrageously awesome and fun (interesting choice of adjectives I know, but you’ll see why). Let me start with a few examples…

Let’s start with their LIFT-OFF LOTION, which basically smells like a lemon ice covered in fresh mint leaves – a truly uplifting blend that has an energizing yet cooling effect on your skin. For that reason, this scent is particularly great for the daytime. It also works miraculously as an after-sun treatment! Keep it in the fridge to heighten its cooling and soothing effects. This is so perfect for summer.

You will never get more excited to take a bath than when you are about to immerse yourself in a tub of warm water infused with one of these bath salts. I have tried several of Little Moon’s bath salts and it’s hard to pick, but I think RE-LEASE might be my favorite. RE-LEASE is (not shockingly) relaxing, as well as elevating and purifying. It’s not just an emotional feeling of release – this mixture is physically detoxifying hence increasing ciruclation and the release of toxins. You’ll feel like a new gal (or guy) after 20 minutes of this highly restorative bath session. (This picture doesn’t have the bright sun and  heavenly sky for nothing)

This little tin below consistently has a home on my nightstand and always helps me doze off more peacefully with a few sniffs. I like to dab a little of the balm on my wrists, but you can also put it on your temples or neck. Like the bath salts, there is a whole array of balms including ACHING HEAD RUB, VITAL VAPOR (think an all natural vapo rub) and ASSANA KISSER (think an all natural tiger balm). At $2.50 per tin, I strongly recommend keeping all varieties on hand – you’ll have something for every ailment!

To me, this is one line that truly feels holistic. Once you experience the products then you’ll see what I mean. And once you try them, you won’t be surprised to know that the founder is a woman who exudes such an incredible joy for a life and shows the most genuine care for everyone she encounters.  I really appreciate a line that has such heart, making the use of every single one of its products a life-enhancing experience. Not to get too mushy, but really, I just love them!

Photos Courtesy of Little Moon Essentials

7 Comments by All Natural Annie on May 7, 2010
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H&M Garden Collection

The Garden Collection by H&M is so fresh and so fun.  I keep wanting to buy something else from the line because everything is so cute for spring/summer! If the cute factor wasn’t enough the entire line is reasonably priced and made with sustainable materials (like recycled polyester, organic cotton and organic linen).  I just had to get these two organic cotton dresses. They were too cute and too incredibly priced — $12.95 each!!

H&M Images

1 Comment by All Natural Annie on April 16, 2010
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Sure to be a Hit!

It’s funny how you can discover great beauty companies — sometimes it’s a really well-known one that you finally try out, maybe it’s a small blurb in a magazine, an unexpected find in a fun boutique, OR it’s your older sister in a small, New Hampshire town talking to the cousin of the company’s owners (2 sisters). The last possibility is how I found out about Sunnygirl Organics. This company isn’t in your local chains just yet, but it definitely should be soon! All of their products are made of entirely organic ingredients or very close to it. Some of my favorites (pictured below) include the Lavender Mint Hand & Body Lotion, the Mint Chocolate Chip Hand & Body Lotion, the Orange Creamsicle Lip Balm, and the bar soap (all four). Every single Sunnygirl product has a delightful scent, a high quality effect on skin, and a reasonable price tag. These 2 sisters really know what they’re doing and I can’t wait to see where this company goes in the near future!


Photos Courtesy of Sunnygirl Organics

No Comments by All Natural Annie on April 14, 2010
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Buddha Nose

How can you not love a spray that is able to lift your spirits and strengthen your body’s defenses? Whether you’re run down or a little down in the dumps, Buddha Nose‘s Booster Spray is uplifting in both respects. I just love that every time I spray it, I feel like I’m doing something really good for myself, which I am! This spray’s stimulating essential oils of Clove, Cinnamon, Lemon and Ravinstsara are highly anti-viral and anti-bacterial — exactly what you need when it comes to warding off illness. Pack it next time you’re traveling and keep some in the office (2 prime opportunities for unwanted germs and stress). This spicy, herbal concoction is definitely one of a kind and a favorite in my arsenal of health and beauty products.

Photo Credit: BUDDHA NOSE LTD.

No Comments by All Natural Annie on March 26, 2010
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Artichokes for Detoxifying & More!

I was reading up on the liver today and some of the foods that are excellent for liver health/detoxification. I’m happy to say that one of my ultimate favorites are on the list - artichokes! These prickly green, flower-like veggies act as blood purifiers and contain both liver-protective and liver-restorative properties. Clinical studies have also proven that they lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. And let’s not leave out that they are great source of fiber, Vitamin C, magnesium, folate, copper, and potassium.

Trying steaming some whole artichokes with dinner tonight or add some marinated artichoke hearts to a salad — your liver will surely thank you! ;)

Photo Credit: maddieaboutfood.wordpress.com

2 Comments by All Natural Annie on March 11, 2010
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A Natural Beauty Must-Have

For a while, I didn’t have jojoba oil on hand and I really missed it! It’s definitely my favorite oil when it comes to natural beauty. Jojoba oil is just such a great, versatile natural beauty product to keep on hand. Chemically, jojoba oil is perfect for us humans because its molecular structure is identical to our skin and hair sebum. Jojoba oil has a wide range of uses, but some of my favorites include using it as a makeup remover and facial moisturizer, and also on split ends. These are just a few of its many uses (there are at least 15). My favorite 100% Pure Jojoba Oil costs around $12 and is made by Desert Essence. For a little under $3 more, Desert Essence also makes a 100% Pure Certified Organic Jojoba Oil. Either way you go, you’ll find so many uses for this natural beauty aide, and a little goes a long way so it should last you quite a while!

Photo Credit: DesertEssence.com, LLC

4 Comments by All Natural Annie on March 2, 2010
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NUDE Skincare

NUDE Skincare just has so, so much to offer! First of all, it’s 100% natural and  free of parabens, sulphates, phthalates, and mineral oil. Secondly, the whole line contains probiotics that deliver active proteins and amino acids directly into your skin. It’s just genuis — if probiotics are so good for us on the inside, it makes perfect sense that they would benefit our outermost layer!

Due to the fabulous gifting of a fabulous friend (thank you Jen!), I have had the best introduction to NUDE with a set that includes Cleansing Facial Oil, Moisturising Body Cream, Age Defence Moisturiser, Replenishing Night Oil, Miracle Mask, and Advanced Eye Complex. I have definitely seen a difference in my skin since I started using the line (exactly 1 month ago). My skin seems clearer, more balanced, and just happier (yes, skin can be happy too). I simply love every one of the products in the kit.  I especially adore the Moisturizing Body Cream, which has Hyaluronic Acid and the most divine floral scent, which NUDE says is hibiscus, but I was thinking jasmine..either way – LOVE it!!

This line has gotten such great press and has fans like Christy Turlington and Helena Christensen.  NUDE is truly THAT good. And it is a must-try for anyone looking for really effective natural, skincare. And some additional bonuses — the company never tests on animals and is carbon neutral. You just have to try it.

Photo Credit: NUDE Skincare

1 Comment by All Natural Annie on February 15, 2010
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Epicurean Shea Butter Company

After having seen Epicurean Shea Butter Company being sold on the shelves of big time natural product retailers, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw their booth at DC’s Eastern Market last Saturday! As well as the company is doing, it’s so nice to see them keeping up with this booth that allows people to see and try the entire array of shea butter-based products. I found out that this company was founded on a family tradition of soap making, in a garage in Maryland in 2001. So it turns out they still keep in touch with their point of origin and sell at local venues like the Eastern Market.

After a good deal of debate, I decided on the Shea Butter Moisturizer titled ‘Blessing‘. This moisturizer is unique because it’s a soft solid so you have to dig into it a little bit, but then it goes on really smoothly. And the smell… the smell is absolutely what sold me. Putting just a little bit on the back of my hand makes me think that I’m suddenly in a garden filled with lilacs and gardenias. The scent is that good. It even fills the room when you put it on, but it’s not overpowering because it smells so real! In terms of scent, this is by far one of my favorite beauty products now. Not to mention how smooth and healthy my skin feels when I use it.

Photo Credit: Epicurean Shea Butter Company

No Comments by All Natural Annie on November 24, 2009
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An all-around awesome face mask!

You shouldn’t expect this mask to smell sweet or flowery, or even fruity. I can’t quite put my finger on on the overriding fragrance, but without a doubt it smells like it came straight from the earth. Basically, it did. With an array of potent natural ingredients, Pangea Organics Japanese Match Tea with Acai & Goji Berry mask simultaneously clarifies, enlivens, and soothes the skin.

 

Pangea recommends using this mask once per week, but I love it so much I’ve had to stop myself from using it once per day! This supreme antioxidant driven concoction has received numerous beauty awards – I am so not surprised.

 

For more info on this mask and other great products: Pangea Organics.

Photo Credit: Pangea Organics

Photo Credit: Pangea Organics

1 Comment by All Natural Annie on August 14, 2009
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Healthy Snack Ideas

  • handful of raw nuts or seeds
  • hard boiled egg
  • celery sticks with natural peanut butter
  • plain yogurt with fruit and honey
  • whole grain crackers with hummus
  • slices of green and/or red pepper with guacamole
  • small serving of oatmeal
No Comments by All Natural Annie on May 26, 2009
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Sydney Hale

Sydney Hale was born from a woman’s passionate hobby and dedication to nature-inspried, high-quality home and bath products. I recently discovered this very impressive, handmade line of home and beauty products while browsing an outdoor market in Northern Virginia. The packaging looks like the products are straight out of a high-end boutique, and the smells and quality match that impression 100%! The prices are absolutely excellent for the quality of the products.

 

The creator formulates her skin care using organic and wild harvested ingredients whenever possible.  I am also happy to say that the products are all free of sodium lauryl/laureth sulfates, parabens and phthalates. The lotions are so rich and nourishing without being greasy or overwhelming. Now for the home…With scent combinations like sweet orange, clove, ylang ylang and ginger, the hand poured candles smell absolutely divine!  I really can’t wait wait to try more luxurious Sydney Hale products (like the body washes and lip balms)!

Valencia Gift Set

Photo Credit: Sydney Hale

To learn more/to purchase some Sydney Hale products: www.sydneyhaleboutique.com (Take a look today because there are currently sales being offered on the already reasonably priced products!)

No Comments by All Natural Annie on May 14, 2009
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Aromatherapy in a Cupcake?!

I have a very talented and creative friend who is a fashion designer by day and cupcake genius by night/weekend! She recently made me the most unique cupcakes I have ever tasted. These little delights had lavender-infused vanilla cake with lavender, honey cream cheese icing (there were actually little pieces of edible lavender)!

If you love the smell of lavender then you’ll probably love this combination. This is just one of the many varieties of cupcakes that my fellow blogger and friend has come up with so far…can’t wait to see what’s next! :)

 

Visit Monique’s site: http://myglamourology.com/

Photo Credit: Monique Lopez

Photo Credit: Monique Lopez

1 Comment by All Natural Annie on April 1, 2009
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How long will that ground turkey last?

www.stilltasty.com - “Your Ultimate Shelf Life Guide – Save Money, Eat Better, Help The Environment ”

 

Such great shelf life information for just about everything! This site is SO informative and user-friendly. Love it!

No Comments by All Natural Annie on March 31, 2009
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All Natural Annie Smoothie

This is my most favorite smoothie recipe! It’s also VERY nutritious.

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1 tsp ground flaxseed OR flaxseed oil
  • 1 tbsp wheat germ (gives it a nice nutty taste)
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • 4-6 raspberries
  • 2 strawberries
  • 1/2 banana
  • 1 tsp honey

Blend on a high speed for 30-60 seconds.

Makes 1 large smoothie.

 

* Any of the fruits mentioned could be exhanged for blackberries, peaches, nectarines, etc.

* Wheatgerm and flaxseed are optional

* More or less honey can be used according to how sweet you like your smoothies!

 

ENJOY!!

No Comments by All Natural Annie on November 20, 2008
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Jasmine, Lemongrass & Hibiscus!

I recently discovered TIZANE beverages at the Green Festival (www.greenfestivals.org) in Washington, DC.  These delicious drinks are 100% organic, caffeine-free, and truly taste home-made! They come in three interesting flavors – Jasmine, Lemon Grass and Hibiscus (this one was my favorite).  All three flavors are only about 60-80 calories per bottle!

These tasty blends also free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Personally, I think these drinks have the perfect amount of sweetness, which is derived from the nectar of the blue agave plant. A great thing about this sweetner of choice is the fact that it’s a low glycemic index food. TIZANE also never uses concentrates or powders to create their botanical blends.

Unfortuantely, these yummy and natural thirst-quenchers are not so widely available just yet so if you are lucky enough to come across them I would highly suggest you give them a try!

No Comments by All Natural Annie on November 14, 2008
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My Favorite Natural Product of the Week!

This week and every week before that I have used Avalon Organics Scalp Treatment Shampoo I have been loving how my scalp feels…it just feels sooo clean and healthy!

The featured ingredient of this shampoo is Tea Tree oil (and it smells like it too). It also has lemon peel, chamomile rosemary, vitamin E, pro-vitamin B5, and panthenol. I don’t have any scalp issues, but I still love to use this shampoo. If you have scalp issues OR if you’re just looking for a naturally cleansing shampoo then give it a try!

Check it out here: http://avalonorganics.com/ 

Avalon Organics

Photo Credit: Avalon Organics

1 Comment by All Natural Annie on September 26, 2008
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Hello World!

I’m starting this blog so I can share my passion/borderline obsession with natural health and natural beauty.  I am someone who has lived, breathed, and loved natural food and natural beauty products since day one, when I was born at home. I’m not a nutritionist (yet), but I have taken numerous classes on nutrition, have worked in the nutrition/natural beauty industry, and I am constantly educating myself in the field. I’m not an extremist, but I do think that incorporating more natural choices into your life will lead to better health and more balance.

I’m always trying to find beauty, health, and household products and tips that are more natural, as well as affordable. I’ve started doing it so much and gathering so much information that I thought it was time that I shared!

(All of the info and tips I will be providing here will based on personal opinion, experience, research and/or reading. Whether I’m talking about a food or beauty product, I will make it a point not to include anything that has artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, EDTA, BHT, parabens, or any of the other “bad ingredients.” )

In regards to “NATURAL”…..There are several official and unofficial definitions to the word “NATURAL”, but to me and this blog it’s going to mean LESS PROCESSED, LESS or NO MAN-MADE INGREDIENTS, MORE EARTHLY INGREDIENTS, MORE SIMPLICITY and/or BEING CLOSER TO NATURE/NATURAL FORM.

I hope you enjoy…

AllNaturalAnnie by Nicole Bagnuola

BE HEALTHY!

BE HAPPY!

BE A LOT (or a little bit) MORE NATURAL!!

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No Comments by All Natural Annie on September 17, 2008
filed in Natural Beauty, Natural Beauty Companies, Natural Favorites, Natural Health, Natural Home, Natural Product Reviews, Natural Recipes, Natural Visions, Naturally Uplifting
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