Author Archives: The Jewish Lady

Queen Odelia is a Desert Delight

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Deep in the desert, subjected to extreme heat and a lack of water, there is a plant called prickly pear. Able to thrive under the most difficult conditions, it produces a remarkable seed oil that has many uses. It is safe, edible, and very effective when used topically.

Enjoyed for centuries by Nomads as a burn cream and beauty treatment, it’s now gaining a wider audience thanks to Queen Odelia, an amazing Israeli skincare company that’s a true desert delight.

Queen Odelia combines prickly pear oil, Dead Sea salts, minerals, and aloe vera, creating products that are effective and luxurious. I was fortunate enough to review 5 products from their collection:

Facial Serum

Made with highly concentrated antioxidants, this serum is a great anti-aging product. Lighter than a lotion, serums moisturize just as well, minus the heavy feel. It can be used alone or layered with a separate moisturizer. Skin appears smoother and softer immediately after using.

Day Cream

I swapped my usual moisturizer for this cream that’s supposed to be both a primer and a protective shield. Because it’s so rich, only a dime-sized amount was needed to cover my whole face. I allowed it to set for a few minutes, then applied my makeup. The finished result was a smooth, dewy look.

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Night Cream

Very similar in look and feel to the Day Cream, but even richer. I used it after a day spent outside in the snow, which left my face red, itchy, and tight. The next morning, most of the irritation was gone! While I think it would be too heavy for me every night, it’s perfect for moments of extreme dryness.

Hand Cream

Lightweight yet very moist, this hand cream is great for daily use. I apply this twice daily—first thing in the morning and right before bed. I love that it’s not greasy and absorbs easily.

Foot Cream

My feet tend to be extra dry during the winter, so foot cream is a must for me. I apply it all over, concentrating on heels and toes, then cover my feet with socks and let it absorb while I sleep. After doing this treatment for five nights in a row, I noticed a big improvement.

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Queen Odelia has generously offered a great deal for my readers. Buy one, get one on all face care products and free shipping when you use code TJL2016 at checkout. The coupon code is valid until April 30th. Happy Shopping!

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

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My Jewish Learning has a recipe for Sweet and Sour Meatballs that looks delicious. It uses a combination of tomato and lemon to make the sauce—something I’ve never tried before. They also suggest pairing with egg noodles which would be a nice change from the mashed potatoes I’d usually pick.

I can’t wait to make them. Maybe this Friday for Shabbos? I’ll post an update with the finished result after I do. Yum!

Starbucks “Happy Mondays” Deals

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Every Monday in March, Starbucks will be offering a “Happy Monday” deal. Look at all these great ways to save when you pay with your My Starbucks Rewards account:

  • March 7, 2016: Half off any size Frappuccino blended beverage
  • March 14, 2016: 50% off a food item with any drink purchase
  • March 21, 2016: Earn 3 Bonus Stars when you order ahead and pay with the Starbucks app
  • March 28, 2016: Earn 5 Bonus Stars when you spend $10 or more in-store

Starbucks can be an expensive habit, so I try to make good use of any promo. I will definitely be stopping in today for a yummy Frap after carpool!

Controversy is Inevitable

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Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows that I like to share relevant current events (both secular and religious). While I don’t consider TJL to be controversial in general, certain posts do seem to provoke a reaction. (Yes, I’m referring to Isaac Mizrahi’s shunning.)

One reader, in particular, was upset and accused me of “promoting homosexuality,” which I found really odd. (Just for the record: I don’t care what anyone’s sexual orientation is and I don’t promote or discriminate, regardless.)

I emailed her, hoping to clarify my position. When I explained that TJL is intended to be a safe space for Jews of all backgrounds, observance levels, and lifestyles, she became even more combative and denounced me and the blog as “Godless garbage.”

Harsh words, huh? I obviously disagree with her, but I’m trying not to take any offense. Like most people, I don’t enjoy being criticized. While I want to be liked and I want to get along, I also know that controversy is inevitable. The only way around it would be a blog totally devoid of opinions—something I can’t do if I want to be an authentic voice.

When a reader disagrees with me, I am forced to thoughtfully consider my original point of view. That provides a perfect opportunity to make sure I really stand behind what I expressed. In that way, the criticism is both challenging and motivating rather than hurtful.

If a post sparks lively discussion, that is a good and healthy thing, provided everyone is being kind. Online fighting, especially over ideology, is pointless, however, and I don’t want to engage in personal attacks or name calling. What I want to be doing is encouraging, equipping, and edifying other women. I want TJL to be a place of beauty, of blessing, of refreshment. I want readers to feel better, not worse, for being part of the community.

I’m very interested in what readers have to say. I’m here to listen/learn, as well as share. Please know that your opinion is important, even if we disagree. I can’t promise that I will always be able to relate, but I respect your views anyway. We can be real and respectful, right?

 

How do you deal with controversy?