Whether traveling across town or across the world, you need essentials on your person for the day or as long as you have the urge to explore. Athletic-minded traveler Jake has advice.
Why should you follow his advice? Because Jake has been traveling the world NON-STOP for the last 5 years. Okay, Jake, tell us what you have learned.
** Editors Note: This post was updated January, 2023
America is a snacking nation. Read any article and you'll read stats about how people look to snacks as a main source of nourishment for the day. No more breakfast, lunch then dinner. Nope. Instead it's more snack, snack and snack. And there are a bevy of snack options out there...the selection puts the cereal aisle to shame.
By now you hopefully know that we've been putting out an annual Gift Guide for YEARS! (View past guides here). You also hopefully know that our Gift Guide comes from the heart. There are no $$ incentives or any other "perks" that drive our recommendations. These ideas are simply ones that we think someone on your list will like. This year in particular has seemed more challenging than others. Is it just us?
The human mind is a powerful tool. It can create something out of nothing. Think about it. Nearly everything we encounter began with an idea in the mind. The value of keeping this tool, the mind, sharp cannot be understated.
HOW DID WE GET HERE?
Too often, I read or hear about another teenager who has died by suicide. While the faces of those who suffer are personal to each of us, (One of my best friends killed herself.), the feelings of loss and helplessness stemming from this epidemic are universal. I find myself asking “why” did this happen again? Why is it happening more often? You’ve read the stats. We’re talking about HUGE growth and Covid has made it worse.
We like plant-based milks. We also like chocolate. However, what we don't like are the choices available for chocolate plant-based milks! The calorie counts are super high, and/or or the sweetness is just too much. Additionally, in nearly all cases, any sweetness comes from added sugar. We seek to limit added sugars and strategically employ sugar substitutes such as stevia, monkfruit and even sucralose (Splenda).
What is your idea of "luxury?" Our team has some ideas. How about a sparsely populated beach with warm waters, fabulously healthy food nearby, and a massage whenever you want? Yes, please! Or what about unlimited funds on the debit card for food, dates, new outfits and more? Or maybe just having time to do all the things "wanted" versus "supposed to" or "need to". For many, just feeling truly connected hits the sweet spot in so many ways. Tell us!
2021 Editors' Update. Wow, time flies. We first posted tips to survive a colonoscopy back in 2011. That post follows this update. Since then, we've learned a few things. Our third procedure was this week and we have new tips.
We get it. Travel can derail even the best intentions for staying active and healthy. But it doesn't have to. Don't let travel sabotage you. Instead consider our strategies for keeping on track.
1. Pack it
2. Store it
3. Order it
4. Bonus: Do it First
Pack It & Store It.
If you are checking luggage, and know you will have a mini fridge at your destination, do like we do: pack it!
It was the documentary Forks Over Knives (2011) along with my compassion for all animals that inspired my vegan journey. I was already a practicing pescatarian, so the transition to becoming vegan was smooth. And, with so many appetizing vegan food options, I never feel I sacrifice nutrition nor taste. Below you will find a handful of my favorite savory vegan eats and a bonus recipe! Try them...vegan or omnivore...