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  • Random,  Zero Waste

    Winter Zero Waste Swaps

    Brrrrrr… we’re in the thick of winter and it’s cold even here in Dallas. While you’re cozying up at home and getting your hygge on, here are a few things you can do to make sure you aren’t putting too much of a burden on the environment. Sweaters: This is the time of year when I live in thick, oversized sweaters. And my number one place for finding them? The thrift store. I’ve said it before and will say it again. While secondhand t-shirts can sometimes feel worn out or faded… I’ve had a lot of luck finding excellent quality sweaters for under $5. This past weekend, I picked up…

  • Random

    The Less is Meera Holiday Gift Guide

    First off — as much as I love minimalism and zero/low waste… I’m not going to tell you to forego gift giving. This is the one time of year that I enjoy giving (and receiving!) mindful gifts. But that’s the key word… mindful. Don’t go overboard with items and focus on high-quality items people will use, use up, or, at the very least, be able to keep for a very long time. Find items by small businesses on Etsy, items created sustainably/ethically/with recycled materials, and items that can nudge someone towards creating less waste. And don’t forget about experiences (concerts and sports) and non physical items (subscriptions). Happy holidays and…

  • Random

    Holiday Bucket List

    “I’m sorry I ruined your lives and crammed 11 cookies into the VCR.” – Elf Happy post-Thanksgiving/pre-Christmas aka my favorite time of the year! The tree is up, the house decorated, and Hallmark movies are playing on the tv. I love creating these seasonal lists of things to do. It allows me to stay present in the season and maximize all the holiday cheer. Here’s the 20 things I want to do this season: 1. Get festive drinks at HIDE for their Miracle Christmas Popup Bar. 2. Get a hot beverage at Deck the Hall Street, Fiction Coffee’s Christmas popup coffee shop! 3. Go to a basketball game. 4. Re-watch…

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    The Little Things

    On this election day, I’m inspired by A Cup of Jo’s post on simple pleasures. After the 2016 election (a night I spent crying in my bathtub with a panic attack), I find it important to balance my hunger for change on a large scale with gratitude for the simple things on a personal level. I vote, I volunteer in my city, I donate to candidates/organizations that represent my values, I work a job that aligns with making the world a better place. I read fluffy novels, cuddle with puppies, spend too long figuring out what color to paint my nails, decorate my house to look like a Christmas elf…

  • Random

    Fall Bucket List

    “And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.” – Oscar Wilde It’s officially fall here in Dallas (it actually feels downright winter like today), which is wonderful considering what a brutal summer we had. I really enjoy coming up with seasonal bucket lists — it allows me to stay present in the season we’re in and milk every ounce of joy out of the fleeting months of cooler weather. With a list handy, there really isn’t the opportunity to ever say, “I’m bored.” So here are the 20 things I’m hoping to do this lovely season. 1. Bake an apple pie from scratch (go to crust recipe) 2. Make a…

  • Favorites,  Random

    The Stuff Behind Self Care

    Read this article the other day about how self care has become associated with spending money to feel good about ourselves. And hey, sometimes, it works. I get a monthly massage to keep my back from falling apart. Expensive? Yep. Worth it? Also yes. I also enjoy skincare and makeup and manicures and all that stuff. I’ve had expensive gym memberships. BUT.? At it’s core, self care is not about the stuff. It’s about the less sexy things that are crucial to your mental health. For me, it’s the following: Not making too many social plans in one week. As an introvert, I need solid recharge time. 1-2 times a…

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    My Morning Routine

    One of my favorite books is called Daily Rituals: How Artists Work and I LOVE a good routine or ritual. This is especially important for the mornings. Starting the day off in a whirlwind of chaos is just setting you up for an even more chaotic day. A calm, mindful morning where you and your family are put first is important for everyone’s sanity. Over the years, I’ve nailed down the routine that works best for me and sets me up for success. So find what works for you and tell me about your morning routine! 6:30 AM: Get woken up by my 14 year old dog. Take her out…