All my fashionistas will love Elle’s wrap up of the Met Gala. The annual style parade offers some very extreme looks! From the 131 outfits featured, I’d have to say Lady Gaga and Solange were the worst.
My favorite was Kate Upton. Here is an excellent example of why proper fit is so important. Along with a snazzy color and strategic yet modest cut-outs, I think she looks beautiful!
Creamy, vegan, chocolate—three words that make my heart flutter! This recipe came my way courtesy of ALOHA (don’t you love it when companies include sample recipes with orders?). In the past, I’ve made something similar with avocado, but never with dates. I’m not crazy about dates plain, but pureed into a drink, they’re actually good. The only change I made was to add honey; I found it needed an extra kick.
To make Vegan Chocolate Mousse, you will need:
Soak the dates in hot water for a minute until soft. Adding liquids first, combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
I find the mix of sweet + protein to be extra rich and satisfying—perfect for a much-needed afternoon pick-me-up snack!
Anna-Michelle emailed me the following question:
“I’m a Jew by choice for 3 years now, ever since my husband and I married. Before him, I lived Catholic, raised on NKJV bible. I’m in need of Jewish resources, specially a prayer book. Can you recommend the perfect prayer book for me?”
My reply to her: “No, I can’t, because there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to prayer.” Some people like to use a bible, some a prayer book, some like to go strictly on feel. Guess what—every single method is equally good and acceptable!
Personally, I use Gates of Prayer. This is also called The New Union Prayer Book and it’s the standard text in Reform temples across America. I received my G.O.P book when I was only 10-years-old and have been using it ever since. At that time, each child in my Hebrew school was given a copy with their name inscribed on the back. This was probably the best Jewish gift I ever received, because long after I forgot every school lesson I learned, I still have the book.
G.O.P has a good mix of weekday, Sabbath, and festival prayers, along with some songs. There is both English and Hebrew text which I find very helpful and all of the important liturgy is included. Some folks do feel it’s outdated, but I still use and love it, probably because it’s what I learned on.
My late Father, on the other hand, never used a book, preferring a combination Torah/Talmud program for the computer. It was very comprehensive, with the ability to add notes for each section. I really prefer to hold something in my hands, but for those who prefer an online method, this could be excellent.
That brings us to the “go on feel” folks. I’ve met so many people, of all different faiths, that say Scripture doesn’t seem relevant. For them, I think just listening to their own heart and expressing their cares/concerns in their own way would be best. Remember: There is no such thing as an incorrect prayer! The Lord has the ability to hear all of them and knows our hearts, anyway. Don’t let a lack of information/fear hold you back.
Do you use a prayer book? If so, which one?
This post and giveaway were made possible by iConnect and Dreft. I was compensated for my participation in this campaign, but all opinions are 100% mine.
Ah, spring, that wonderful season that brings warmer weather, fresh flowers, and tons of allergens! As we spend more time outside, these allergens can trigger skin irritations, especially for little ones. Cleaning their clothes and bedding with the right products is a great way to help keep them comfortable during this challenging season. (Sensitive skin requires special products, after all.)
My favorite product line to use is Dreft. I love that Dreft works closely with pediatricians, ensuring their products will actually work. One of these pediatricians is Dr. Dyan Hes. As a mom and a doctor, she certainly knows what baby needs and has some awesome tips:
Choose the right fabrics & care for them properly: When it comes to fabrics, it’s extremely important to seek out gentle and hypoallergenic items to care for the items that touch baby’s sensitive skin. It’s also essential that fabrics be cared for properly. Wash baby’s items with a specially-formulated product such as Dreft, the #1 baby laundry detergent choice of pediatricians to be gentle and hypoallergenic on baby’s skin. Trusted for over 80 years, Dreft comes with a babyhood scent beloved by moms, and it remains safe and hypoallergenic for baby.
Protect Problem Skin: Heat is a common trigger for eczema and as the weather warms up, there are a few things you can do to help prevent flare ups of such skin irritations. The sun is strongest between the hours of 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. so try to shield baby from direct sun exposure during those times. There are also apps available that can inform you of the hottest part of the day—which can be helpful for parents as they plan any outings with their little ones!
Dr. Hes (@gramercypeds) and @Dreft will be sharing more tips on May 9th from 9:00 -10:00 pm EST at a Twitter party. RSVP here and you’ll be eligible to win fantastic prizes!
Want to try these fabulous products? Dreft is generously sponsoring a giveaway, worth $60.00! One winner will receive a gift pack that contains these items:
The #DreftSpring giveaway will be open thru 5/17. Good luck!