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SEE YOU AGAIN SOON!!!

MONTH IN PICS - JANUARY

When a month ends I will start highlighting what I did or what really brought me joy from that month only in pics. Enjoy.

Planted in 1688!

MORNING MOTIVATION PLAYLIST

Everyone talks about how waking up early is a great way to start your day and it is but I have found for me it doesn't make a huge different with mood. Yes I have time to meditate and set goals but I still tend to feel a little sluggish. 

That was until I created a playlist. I have one true play list then 2 other things I make sure to listen to each more. Usually before I even get out of bed. I will go into more detail of my 2018 morning routine later as well as a bedtime routine.

Now let's dicuss what I listen to before my actual playlist. 

I first listen to a motivational video on youtube. I alternate between these two.

dailyMOTIVATION

Be Inspired

This has become my coffee. There isn't anything I can't do if I listen to this first. I am motivated, inspired, ready to take on the day. Even if you dont listen to these accounts first thing in the morning, they are great for a boost of motivation any time of day. So be sure to check them out. Next up is my music playlist. My spotify music play list I listen to when getting up and getting the day started. I will listen to it for a couple hours while I make breakfast, set the goals for the day, make the bed, etc. I also listen to it when working out. It's the perfect combination between upbeat I have to dance and in your face get your ass moving. For me a least. Feel free to follow. Fair warning there is some explicit music choices.

SPOTIFY 

PEANUT BUTTER SHORTBREAD COOKIES

Okay. I have to admit. I am NOT a peanut butter person. I am really not a chocolate person either. But I am a shortbread cookie person and my family loves pb & chocolate. So why not combine the two but in a healthier manner. I searched around and so many had ingredients I just don't keep in my home. So it was time to play. I have seen on numerous occassions sour cream being used on baking. Primarely cakes but no reason it can't go in a cookie. One major issue, I am lactose intolerant and sour cream is just too much for me. Greek yogurt however is not and I always sub fage for sour cream (you should totally try it in potatoes!). Now for the sugar and butter. Well if we are adding yogurt we don't need to add as much butter because your creaminess is coming from yogurt as well. Great. Sugar is always easy. Maple syrup, agave, splenda are all easy subs. For flavor I kept a little brown sugar and added maple. Easier than I thought. 

As I said earlier I am not a pb fan. I have never liked pb cookies. These converted me. They are so good. A tip if you want them to be round like regular cookies let them sit in the fridge then use a cookie scoop. Onto the recipe!

Ingredients:

2 3/4 cup Flour

1 stick (8 tbsp) butter (room temp,  must be soft)

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup maple syrup

3 teaspoons vanilla

1/2 cup peanut butter

100 g of plain Greek yogurt (I use Fage)

Optional: Chocolate chips (amount and kind in up to you)

Bake 20 - 30 mins at 250ºF

Instructions:

*Preheat your oven to 250ºF*

1. Mix butter, sugar and yogurt. Once thoroughly mixed, add in your vanilla. 

2. Add your peanut butter. Mix thoroughly.

3. Add your flour 1/2 cups at a time. This way everything gets mixed right. 

4. If you are letting them rest in the fridge do so for 30 - 60 mins. Otherwise line a baking pan with parchment paper and pour your mix into the pan and spread out. I suggest a 7 x 12 pan.

5. Bake for 20 - 30 mins depending on your desired crunchiness at 250ºF. As soon as they are done, slice into squares or rectangles. 

6. Whole those are cooling, start melting your chocolate chips.

• Use a double boiling method. Fill a pot half way with water, place glass or metal bowl on top making sure it sits just above the water and seals all around the pot. You don't want the steam escaping. Stir every couple minutes to make sure all the chips melt. Once melted it's time to dip your cookies in them.

7. EAT!

MY FAVORITE LEARNING SITES

DUOLINGO https://www.duolingo.com/
Duolingo is a great and easy to navigate tool for lanugage learning. Spanish, French & Italian might be the most popular but that also have Swahili, Chinese, Russian and so much more.  What makes the site so great is the way they integrate audio, written and visual learning methods. I enjoy the little motivation tools they use which makes it seem sort of like a game. There is paid upgraded version but you can still get great lessons with the free version. They also have a mobile app.

KHAN ACADEMY https://www.khanacademy.org/
I came across Khan when I was homeschooling. I was totally lost with my son's math work. Khan came in so handy. Various mini lectures on numerous topics, feels like a private tutoring sessions. The videos are short and striaght to the point which is great on preventing people from getting bored.

COURSERA https://www.coursera.org/
Coursera large selection of college courses on a variety of subjects. Some of these courses have the option to get a certificate of completion once you finish and pass the course. This is very much set up like a structed classroom with reading lists, "homework" and group discussions. Coursera is my favorite but I don't want to pass up mentioning Udemy & Edx.

CODECADEMY https://www.codecademy.com/
This one is new to me but I think it's a great site to learn some of the basics of computer programming. Codecademy has lessons on CSS, Ruby, PHP, Java, HTML, and more. Everything is done within the site itself. No need to download anything which I love.

It's a new year don't hesitate to learn something new!

5 TIPS FOR PACKING BETTER

1. PLAN PLAN PLAN

It might seem silly to make a plan to pack but doing so can help prevent leaving stuff behind. It also helps prevent over packing. I am trying to get into the habit of only taking what is really needed for my trips. This way I don't have to worry having to do a lot of shopping. 

Make sure you check the weather where you are going. This is the best way to make sure you don't pack too many clothes you don't need or even want. No more freezing and no jacket or a jacket but no swim suit! Check the temps then move on to your next step in your planning.

Make a list. Seriously. Online, on paper, it doesn't matter. Make a list. Think about what you want to do on you trip and where you want to go. Plan on seeing a lot of movies or maybe museums. A camera may not be needed. Doing a lot of outdoor activities maybe bring some extra sunscreen. Make a list of everything you need to bring and how many of each object.  

2. A PLACE FOR EVERYTHING

Don't be afraid of having a bunch of containers. Bags for shoes are great not oly to prevent scuffing but to keep dirt off your clothes. If you have some clothing containers use those to keep everything organized. Don't forget a pouch for your plugs, makeup, etc. These don't need to be large you can be amazed about how much you can fit into small containers. 

3. FOLD IT RIGHT

Well I guess we really aren't folding. We are rolling. Rolling your items believe it or not can decrease wrinkles but free up so much more space. This is great to also use in packing cubes. Many will allow you to easily roll. I don't have these just yet so I just roll and place directly into my suit case. You can search yourtube for plenty of videos on using the konmari method for travel or organizing. This can be extremely helpful.

4. MINIMIZE

You do not need to take the full sizes of everything! Still have small containers from makeup samples? Containers from your last hotel stay? Use those. They take up less space but still allow you to bring your favorite items. Another trick is to get small versions of your favorite perfumes just for travel. Or go ahead and buy the travel containers from your local store. The dollar tree usually carries plenty and only $1!

5. WEAR IT!

This is great if you need to pack heavier items like a throw or coat. Just wear it. This way you know you have it with you but you aren't taking up space in your luggage. Count the outfit you are wearing as your travel outfit too. Again space freeded up! Wear the sneakers instead of the flipflops. They take up more space than you think in your suitcase.

BONUS TIP

Take advantage on your carry on tote/purse/backpack. Pack your lighter electronics in there or even your laptop if you need to do some work while traveling. Add in some snacks, water, wipes, etc. Don't forget skin care. you can easily put on a mask while flying or taking the train. It's a great way to relax and also keeping up with your skin care. I like to carry my plugs in my bag so I know I don't forget them.

5 FAVORITE YOUTUBE CHANNELS

As I started my journey into self love and wellness there have been a few youtubers that have really helped. I decided to share you with my top 5. I find myself always coming back to these youtubers. They always share quality information and you can feel their authenticity. 

1. LAVENDAIRE

Lavendaire was one of the first wellness & lifestyle youtubers I got hooked on. I loved not only the feel of her videos but also her ability to make you feel welcomed and comfortable.

2. EVAN CARMICHAEL

Evan posts some great motivational and informational videos with people from all walks of life. I have taken several notes from things said in his videos.

3. ERIN HENRY

Erin is new to me but I took to her quickly. I love her focus on helping women be boss bitches. She always provides good advice that can easily be inplimented into everyday life.

4. GARY VAYNERCHUCK

If you are not familiar with Gary you are really missing out. I honestly found him very abrasive at first but as I continued to watch more of his videos I realized there is a reason for his abrasive tone. He is not going to hold your hand. 

5. MEL ROBBINS

I love Mel. I do not understand how I never heard of her until a couple of months ago. Mel is the friend we all need. Bold. In your face. No sugar coating.

HAPPY NEW YEAR - 2018

I wanted to start making a theme for each year. I did pretty well in 2017 but politically it was a hard year and I didn't cope well and totally lost my vision for the year. My energy was spent. I still am recovering but determined to push through in 2018.

2018 THEME:

So my theme for 2018 is Fearless.
I will not let fear dictate how I will live my life. I am determined to live my best life & live and intentional life instead of just getting by. That will involve me trying new things, traveling, take those business steps that are out of the box for me. Spread my wings and just jump. Fearless!

I am trying not to do typical resolutions. Instead I see them as goals with small steps that will lead me to my ultimate vision for my life. Some of these goals I have already start so I can go into 2018 on the right foot. Let's get to it.

2018 GOALS:

1. Learn a new language
2. Travel to Alaska to watch the Aurora Borialis
3. Read a new book each month.
4. Publish a book.
5. Have a successful launch and stable income for my millinery business.
6. Incorporate more vegan meals.
7. Practice yoga daily for physical & mental health.
8. Join a gym to enhance my fitness journey.
9. Embrace a more minimalistic lifestyle.
10. Spend more of my money on personal developments.
11. Invest in stocks & bonds.
12. Learn a new skill. I am eyeing wordpress coding.
13. Create a habit of waking earlier and having a more mindful morning.
14. Move.
15. Open a savings account just for traveling.
16. Document my weight loss & self love journey.
17. Pay off all debts.
18. Increase engagement on my social media accounts.
19. Run a Disney 5k
20. Go to events like live concerts, museum openings, etc.

CHANGES FOR THEOLDSILVEROAK

With the new year coming up and some huge blows to my life, I felt I needed to changes things. For the better of course but, I find myself going in a slightly different direction. I feel I need to follow my goals for different reasons. I want to help people in some form or fashion. In order to do this, I need to come from a place of love. Love for self before love for anything or anyone else.

Wellness is becoming a huge part of my healing and growth and I want to share that with you. Spiritual wellness from a feminine view point and healthy eating will be added to simple living and crafting on this blog.

I think with the way this world is going politically and environmentally, changes need to be made yesterday! My drive for a long time was 99% financial and that isn’t my drive anymore. I see financial abundance as a bonus from my focus of wanting to be of service. I hope my reach goes beyond the internet as time progresses.

See you in 2018.  

Paperless & Going Digital – Revisited

So I have finally gone paperless! So I am revisiting my going digital journey.

I will have to say it is the best choice. I am a bit of a multitasker (I lost my mind and decided to work on creating multiple businesses) and now with my mom’s doc visits and what not writing everything down was not working anymore. I don’t even allow them to give me paper appointment cards or slips. Just email or tell me and boom, saved. There are a lot of apps I try out but the ones I keep going to are below.

SmartNews

This is actually my first stop in the morning. I don’t watch news on TV anymore because it is 90% negative. With smart news I can choose what I want to read about first thing. I choose usually science, health, nature articles. On occasion if I know something major is going on, I will take a quick glance at the “front page”. But I like that I can get a general run down rather quick so I am not too bogged down with negative feelings first thing.

Trello

I love Trello with a passion. I am sure by now you have seen loads of people talk about it. It has truly because my to do list, blog planner, project planner, and so much more. It is every notebook I have ever had in one little place. I use it on my desktop. I used to use it on my kindle but the app is gone. Did you know all the stuff you add to Trello can be easily added to your google calendar! So helpful.

Dropbox

I use Dropbox in a more organized manner. This is where (when I remember) I keep downloadable pdfs for recipes and what not. I also use it as a backup for all blog posts. It is a more organized form of storage for me. I use this app on my laptop as well as kindle so I can have quick access to files when traveling because I no longer take my laptop with me.

Google Drive

Google Drive is my back up mainly. I have one for each email as a means to make up each business. I keep copies of business recipes, important laptop files, copies of insurance/ids/etc. I will also use this when I see something that inspires me or something I need to file later. Since it doesn’t take up much cell phone space I keep this instead of Dropbox, and I just sort later on when I am at the laptop. I use this on my laptop as well as my phone.

Planoly

I was introduced to this through a youtuber and fell in love. I wanted to take my Instagram to the next level and be a bit more organized with it especially since a couple businesses will really need the images to sell. So I added this to my phone and it’s accessible for your computer as well. It really helps you plan and organize your posts ahead of time allowing you too see how it will look once it’s finally posted. Which is great if you want to keep a certain theme or “look”.

MyFitnessPal & Fitocracy

I have stopped trying to track my macros and keep track of what exercise to do and how well I am doing them via paper. It’s just too confusing at times for me. I want to put more time into building my businesses so it makes more sense for me to just put some info in a program and move on. I use MyFitnessPal on my phone mainly because the scan option makes things go faster and tend to be more accurate. I use Fitocracy as a support system for working out. I love the point system to level up and I love that people root you on even if it's small progress.

BlogLovin

So many blogs. So little time. Honestly why would you use any other way to read and keep up with all the wonderful blogs out there!

Evernote

This I use for so many purposes. I have a section for receipts for each quarter for each biz. At the end of the quarter a copy goes to google drive for long term storage. I like using this for my recipes because I can just take a pic. It is my alternative to scanning recipes for tax purposes later. A inspo section. Mostly random notes or pics that are added at random. I also keep my writing projects here. I try my best to write daily. I use this both on my laptop and kindle. I noticed the kindle app is where I tend to do the book writing the most. Those late nights can be full of creativity.

Google Calendar

I have a calendar for each business. I kid you not. This way I can add Trello info to each section and I can choose to see everyone posted on my calendar or just look at each one. I put all and ever appointment in here. This is the only way I remember when holidays are half the time. Lol. I did away with the wall calendars and paper planners. This in conjunction with Trello has been a life changer.

5 Self Care Tips

Back in May, I rushed my mother to the hospital. She was vomiting even after having just water, extremely lethargic, and complained of pressure on her chest. Within 20 mins of filling out ER forms she was rushed into emergency heart surgery She was in active cardiac arrest. She had almost 100% blockage in the rear valve causing them to put in 3 stents. Between May & July, she was in and out of the hospital for various issues including fluid in her lungs, asthma resurfacing, heart beating too fast her body didn’t know what to do. I would like to say before I go any further she is doing amazingly well, so much so she has gone back to work albeit a lesser stressful position.

It all happened so fast. It was back to back, stuff. I never actually had time to process it all till around late August. Which is were I lost it. I mean totally lost it. I cried every day for about 2 weeks straight. I mean collapse in the shower screaming like a hungry baby crying. I was a wreck. I was scared of myself. I had never had such a rush of emotions hitting me with such forces, 24/7. I am still working through it, but I want to share with you my tips that helped me find some level of calm.

5 SELF CARE TIPS – AFTER A FAMILY HEALTH SCARE

1. Knowledge Understand 100% of what is going on or happened Seriously. Make them ALL explain it to you in a manner in which you understand. Read everything they give you. No matter how scary some of it may sound and how disturbing the possible outcomes can be, having knowledge helps prevent your mind from going bat shit crazy.
2. Team. Have a support team from all different directions. I am not that close with my family but I will admit me having to constantly report to them what was going on, created a routine that I needed at that time. The most important part of my support team was my best friend. I could just cry and not say a word and she was there. She didn’t try to drown me in motivational quotes or advice, she just let me breath. Breathing to me was just crying. I had to stay calm to make sure my son didn’t getting too worried, and I also couldn't add to my mother’s stress having to worry about me. My boyfriend was also a big help even though he became a bit of a punching bag for awhile. However his humor lightened the mood sometimes and it was more helpful than I realized at the time.
3. Food. This might sound stupid but meal prep was a help. For days I didn’t want to cook, being able to just toss something in the microwave to reheat was great. So get some meal prep or freezer cooking done before the break down so it’s there. If a friend or family member has offered this, TAKE THEM UP ON IT.
4. Quiet. I rarely turned on the TV or radio. I sat in silence a lot. I would go on line from time to time but still. Always silent. When something like this happens there is a lot of commotion coming at you from all kinds of directions and I don’t just mean all the stuff hooked up to your loved one in the hospital. Having time to just be in silence is amazing. If your quiet time is meditation, try to increase it. Really embrace the quiet.
5. Routine. I felt like a chicken with it’s head cut off for awhile there until I forced myself o get back into my routines. 7Am-Coffee, News. Sunday-Laundry Day. Friday-Wash Dog. Etc, etc, etc. I felt like I had some part of my life that I was truly in control of while keeping to my routine. I also felt like everything is going to be okay because look I'm doing laundry on Sunday. This is normal. Everything is normal. Life is not spinning out of control. It’s a trick, I know, but it does help bring some calm. It helped. I really did.

I hope you don’t have to experience something like this because it truly is a whirlwind of wtf’s but perhaps this simple tips can help if you are put in a similar position.

Have you gone through a health scare yourself or with a family member? What worked for you? Please share in the comments and perhaps they will resonate with someone else.

A QUICK & HEARTY BREAKFAST “SAUSAGE” GRAVY & BISCUITS

INGREDIENTS
16oz Turkey Sausage
1 cup Milk
Flour
1 can Buttermilk Biscuits
Salt & Pepper to taste
Parsley (optional)

STEPS

1. Open your can of biscuits (I used the grands flaky 8 count) and get them in the oven. Follow the instructions on the can and adjust as needed for your oven & location.
2. While your biscuits are baking get started on the sausage gravy. Cook according to instructions.
3. Once your sausage is fully cooked sprinkle in some flour. This will help create and thicken our gravy.
4. Slowly add your milk. Add more or less liquid depending on your gravy consistency preference. I like a medium thickness and since I added a little too much flour, I added a little more liquid (water).
5. Add salt and pepper to taste. I would be a little careful with the salt since sausages especially turkey sausage tends to be a bit on the salty side.
6. By this time your biscuits should be done so take those out and just pour your gravy all over your biscuits and enjoy!

You can also add some eggs if you want something extra but this by itself is a very filling and hearty meal. I chose to use turkey because pork and I don't get along physically & mentally. Pork is really not welcome in this home and as I am slowly incorporating more plant based foods. Normally I don’t use processed foods if I don’t have to but this was a craving and I just wanted something quick. I’ve been under a lot of stress lately so this was a quick fix and I am good for a few years.



You can totally make this vegan. I won’t even begin to tell you what to use. But if you are a vegan I am sure you know what alternatives to use. I would love to hear the alternatives that worked for you if you try this out. So please come back and share in the comments below!

BOOK OF THE MONTH - JULY

A YEAR OF YES - SHONDA RHIMES

I rarely read books writing by stars or well known folks about themselves. I don't know why I just never really had a desire to. I finally went against my normal routine and decided to get Shonda Rhimes book, A Year of Yes. I've seen interviews with her and I have always found her entertaining and always felt like she was dropping little bits of wisdom every time she speaks. Plus I am not immune to the appeal of Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away With Murder. I didn't forget about Private Practice. I just don't care for it. 

At any rate I decided to take the plunge and got the book when I saw it on sale on Amazon. I grabbed the kindle version because I have been trying to scale down and I tend to collect way too many books. As I began to read I found myself getting bored very easily. Just like I thought, reading about someone talk about themselves is insanely BORING. At least to me it is. Then I get a notice on my kindle that I can get the audible version for like a buck. Again some special sale. I do love a sale. So with so many people saying nothing but good things about this book, I decided to give it another shot. 

Let me tell you. Books where people are just talking about themselves are so much better in audio form! She has a way of talking that just makes you comfy. A bit of humor & loads of sarcasm (I am the sarcasm queen). She talks as if she is in a room with you having a casual conversation. A book that took me weeks just to get past chapter one was finished in a couple of days. I'd listen when working out, when crafting, when running errands. I laughed with her, I felt her insecurities, I loved every min of it.

This book isn't some mind blowing kind of thing, but it is a nice read/listen. Getting into her mind a little bit was nice. I would recommend this book whether you are a fan or not. If you are expecting secrets to success or a how does she do it sort of thing, this is not the book for you. If you are however, interested in a book that makes you smile, laugh, and nod your head in agreement and understanding. This is for you. It's just simple a nice book.

You can get the kindle & audible versions using my affiliate links. I get a small fee from amazon when you use my links. Thank you if you do! 

Kindle | Audible

What did you read last month? 

I HEART BANANA BREAD

I have a few favorite sweet treats that I love no matter what time of year. The one that I love the most and will never turn down is Banana Bread. I am in love with bananas. The smell, the taste, the texture. Love it. I even love the trees! I have some in my backyard and I am trying desperately to grow my own. I have yet to like a banana bread I didn't make myself. I think the reason is because well, I am an awesome freaking cook. The best really. I am sure someone somewhere is telling their friends all about my greatness. Ha! Okay maybe that isn't true, but I do think the reason is that I like my bananas to be really banana-y. I know it's not a word. Let's pretend it is just for today.

I like to let my bananas get to the point that I can smell them as soon as I wake into the kitchen. You know that point. That's the point you are about to toss them. Before they become banana wine. Did you know they did that? I didn't, maybe I get to them before that happens but, yep. They get all liquefied. Kinda gross, kinda neat.

At any rate, that is why my banana bread is so darn good. Old bananas. That's the secret. Class dismissed.

Oh. The recipe. It's super simple and fast to whip up.

BANANA BREAD

2 CUPS FLOUR (I use 50/50 all purpose/whole wheat)

1 TSP BAKING SODA

¼ TSP SALT

½ CUP BUTTER

¾ CUP BROWN SUGAR

2 EGGS

2-3 CUPS BANANAS (Overripe)

OPTIONAL-

CINNAMON TO TASTE

½ CUP PECANS (Or any nut)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Begin heating the oven at 350º
2. Slightly melt butter, while that is happening, mash bananas in a bowl
3. Toss EVERYTHING into bowl minus eggs.
4. Beat eggs and add to mix.
5. Mix by hand or with a mixer, the choice is yours.
6. In a 9x5 loaf pan, coat with non-stick spray or butter, fill the loaf pan with bread mixture.
7. Bake for 60 mins at 350º. *Cooking time may increase or decrease depending on your oven. So check periodically while baking. If need be cover when almost done to prevent the top from burning.

Do you have a favorite sweet treat? Is it another version of banana bread? Tell me about in the comments. I'd love to see and try out your recipes!  

BOIL WATER WARNING

Not too long ago my city had a boil water notice go out. Now my city never had a boil water notice in all the years that I have I have lived here. I wasn't even that sure on why I was really supposed to do. After a couple hours, it got me thinking...

What if this was worse? What if this was a regular thing. Am I prepared? Can I handle boiling water for everything for long periods of time? The answer was no. Which is really shameful seeing that I live in in a state that gets lots of hurricanes. Hell, we even have a football team named the hurricanes. That should let you know how common they are here. I had only a couple bottles that I could keep water in and a big plastic jug in the fridge. That's all. Well, that won't get me far. So I started looking to see what was available. As much as I'd love to not have plastic I have to be realistic here. Plus I need to be able to easily store and access the items. 

I looked around and came across some neat storage containers that stack which is awesome because this will help save space. I also thought camping gear would be of good use just in case power went out as well during hurricane time. Below are just some items that would be useful primarily in a boil water order. Of course, they can be used any other time if you wish.

Camping Shower

I have this one. In a pinch, it's great as long as you have some place high to tie it too. Our shower wasn't high enough to allow the spray hose to work without kinking up. So we had to use it outside. Long term use would get annoying but for a few days, this would work well.  

Mass Storage

Even though I try to not to gt things that can't be just folded away when not in use, I really like these, I like the fact they stack and look easy to fill. It may take some time to fill them when boiling water, with only being 5 gallons each it shouldn't be too bad.  

Pots

If you are able to boil on your stove then go ahead and use the pots you already have. I do not have grill safe pots but this on is pretty nice. Lighter in weight than I expected and get's the job done. I like that it holds a good amount of water. Allowing the process to happen faster.

Water Bottles

For fast access when washing hands or drinking we always have glass bottles around. I swapped out my plastic and metal ones for glass. The glass bottles are a lot stronger than they used to be and the tops are usually bpa free which is nice.

All of these items can be used year round if desired. But they are just really handy when you freak out over a boil water warning like I did. :)

Have you ever had a boil water order? How long did it last? Were you prepared? Do you live off the grid and this is daily living for you? Let me know in the comments and share any other suggestions you might have. 

*pic via: https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamiesrabbits/5678713590

DIY SPICE MIXES

Making your own spice mixes is a lot easier than you think. By making your own you can really lessen your trash pile since you would be able to buy in bulk. Which allows you to control the chemicals you are consuming if you are buying from bulk stores. Bulk stores tend to support non-GMO and organic farmers. Now if you are growing your own spices and herbs, invest in a dehydrator (I am eyeing a solar one). This way you can truly control what you are putting into your body. Win win.

I've compiled a short list of commonly used spice & salt mixes.

POULTRY RUB 1

2 tsp Rosemary

1 tsp Sage

3 tsp Garlic Salt (**look at the salt list to learn how to make it yourself)

1 tsp Black Pepper

1 tsp Thyme

POULTRY RUB 2

(1 TB Each)

Garlic

Onion

Thyme

Salt

Paprika

Chili

Black Pepper

CURRY

2 tbsp Cumin

2 tbsp Coriander

2 tbsp Turmeric

1 ½ tsp Cardamom

½ tsp Cinnamon

¼ tsp Salt

LEMON PEPPER

Zest from 2 Lemons

2-3 tbsp Black Pepper

2 tbsp Salt

CHILI

2 tbsp Chili

1 tsp Cumin

1 tsp Coriander

1 tsp Cocoa (unsweet)

½ tsp Garlic

¼ tsp Cayenne

½ tsp Salt

1 tsp Paprika

1 tsp Smoked Paprika

TACO

2 tbsp Chili

2 tbsp Cumin

1 ½ tsp Onion

1 ½ tsp Garlic

½ tsp Cayenne

½ tsp Salt

½ tsp Black Pepper

½ tsp Oregano

1 tsp Paprika

ALLSPICE

1 tsp Nutmeg

2 tsp Cinnamon

1 tsp Clove

PUMPKIN PIE & SWEET POTATO PIE

2 tbsp Cinnamon

1 tsp Ginger

½ tsp Nutmeg

½ tsp All Spice

½ tsp Cloves

APPLE PIE

1 tbsp Cinnamon

dash Cardamom

1 tsp Nutmeg

½ tsp Cloves

SALTS

When making seasoned salts, you need to bake them a little to make sure the salt absorbs the flavors well. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread your salt mixture. Bake at 200º for 20-30 mins. You can use whatever salt you want, I choose to use a certain Kosher salt because it is the lowest in sodium

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SEASONED SALT

1 cup Salt + (1 tsp of each) Garlic + Paprika + Black Pepper

GARLIC SALT

1 cup Salt + 2-3 Garlic Cloves

CHILI LIME SALT

1 cup Salt + 3 tsp red pepper flakes + 2 tsp lime zest

SRIRACHA SALT

1 cup Salt + 3 tbsp Sriracha

ROSEMARY LEMON SALT

1 cup Salt + 3-4 tbsp Rosemary + 1 Lemon zest

SAFFRON-FENNEL SALT

1 cup Salt + 1 tsp Saffron threads + 2 tsp Fennel seeds

LAVENDER SALT (excellent on cantaloupe)

1 cup Salt + 3 tsp Lavender buds

TRUFFLE SALT (so good over eggs) (Do not bake this mix. Let sit over time)

1 cup Salt + 1 small Truffle finely chopped + 3 tsp Truffle Oil

There are plenty of other combos. Feel free to make your own mix. The point is, there is no point is paying so much for chemical filled ones.