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It’s that time of year.
The most wonderful time of the year. The most stressful time of the year. The time of the year when to cram in as much as humanely possible.
It’s that time of the year to shop, give back, and hopefully get a deal along the way (items denoted with an * currently are on sale).
Happy gifting!
Under $50
These budget-friendly buys are my favorite items – and some you may recognize from prior posts.
- Stojo cup ($19)This is at the top of my gift giving list. I own 2 of these folding cups, and plan to buy dozens to gift to family, friends, and random people in the street. “You get a cup! You get a cup! Everybody gets a cuuuuuuup!”
- Latuza pajamas ($30)Full review of these pajamas here. I own 10 pairs and buy new ones for my mom and aunts.
- Wander Beauty Take Flight set ($38)*My favorite Wander Beauty products, in a convenient gift box.
- Old Navy sherpa hoodie ($40)*Another item that makes me feel like Oprah. Itâ€
s snuggly, so soft, and feels like youâ€re wearing a hug. - Faux-yard pouch ($20)I try to be a no-knockoff girl, but sometimes a deal is too good to pass up. This Goyard-Inspired pouch is great for corralling all your tech, and also doubles as a cute clutch.
- Silk & Sonder planner ($15/month)My favorite planner – ever. Hereâ€s how I use it to structure my day and how it looks inside. Get 15% off with code HITHA15
- Space Pen ($17)My favorite pen – ever. It writes smoothly and fit in the smallest of bags.
- Beauty Bar face massager ($12)Most beauty tools are expensive. This is not – and it works like a dream.
- Memory foam slippers ($19)Winter is coming – and nothing beats a new pair of slippers.
- Acupressure mat ($40)One of those very practical items that end up being a total lifesaver.
- Ayesha Curry pasta straining pot ($40)For the passionate home cook and pasta lover alike. This self-straining pasta pot is the reason that weâ€ve been making mac & cheese and penne arrabbiata at least twice a week.
- Dinosaur iPhone stand ($10)A silly little item thatâ€s endlessly practical. Ideal for the YouTube binge watchers and the phone addicts.
- Trtl neck pillow ($30)The HOTG-endorsed travel pillow – that also folds up nearly flat.
- Cube Power Strip ($18)Another very practical, endlessly useful holiday gift. I have one for my nightstand and one pre-packed in my electronics bag.
- SW Basics face mists ($12)These clean beauty mists are the perfect pick-me-up. Bonus – theyâ€re budget friendly.
- MM.LaFleur cashmere socks ($45)When else, but the holidays, will you buy cashmere socks?
- Dagne Dover varsity letters ($5)Monogram anything and everything with these varsity letters
- Aaptiv gift certificate ($15)For the fitness junkie – or the person who desperately wants to be one.
- Baggu Triple Set ($30)*One of my favorite things – ever. Itâ€s a perfect stocking stuffer.
- Journy gift certificate (from $25)You may not be able to send your loved one on a vacation – but for $25, you can help them plan the perfect trip.
- Byredo sanitizing hand cream ($35)Itâ€s bougie AF. Itâ€s also well worth the hype.
Things I Own & Love
Presented without explanation. If I were Oprah, these would most definitely be my Favorite Things.
- Slip sleep mask ($50)*I own three of them, if thatâ€s any evidence of how much I love them.
- Hudson+Bleecker Amora Travel Case ($50)*The new-new toiletry case from Hudson+Bleecker is perfect for holding your beauty products AND doubles as a gorgeous purse.
- White & Warren cashmere wrap ($298)*I never travel without this cashmere wrap. Itâ€s worth every penny (and worth buying during the Shopbop sale)
- Kindle Oasis ($280)The latest and greatest Kindle is worth the investment – it’s waterproof, the battery lives forever, the page turning is the fastest yet, and it now comes in gold.Â
- MM.LaFleur cashmere robe ($265)Because itâ€s winter, itâ€s the holidays, and you deserve it.
- Beachwaver curling iron ($199)The only curling iron Iâ€ve ever successfully used. Worth every penny.
- Bandolier iPhone case ($98)I get the most comments on this crossbody iPhone case – which has also solved my phone-dropping issues. Great for the resident phone addicts and for the moms in your life.
- Dagne Dover pleated card case ($55)Buttery soft and fits a surprisingly large number of cards and cash. Buy it in a bright color so she can always find it in her bag (h/t Alisha for that tip)
- Everlane cashmere sweatpants ($140)When else are you ever going to buy cashmere sweatpants? Size up for a cozier fit.
- Dudley Stephens fleece ($158)*She – or you – will live in this fleece all winter long.
- Venus Et Fleur arrangements ($169)Flowers that last a year. Itâ€s the gift that keeps on giving.
- Gravity blanket ($250)A perfect gift for anybody. Youâ€ll sleep like a baby with this miraculous blanket
- Birdies slippers/shoes ($140)The chicest shoes, meant to be worn at home. Buy a pair for yourself or for the resident homebody in your life.
- Cuyana cape ($215)Itâ€s like wearing a blanket – but a super stylish one. This is my favorite way to style it.
Books
Books are always a must-gift in our family. Here are some of my favorite ones that Iâ€ve given, received, and written. I also highly recommend every book I’ve ever reviewed.
- How To Pack: Travel Smart For Any Trip ($6)Iâ€m completely biased – but it really is the best book to give to any woman in your life. Itâ€s also just $6 – so stock up!
- Salt Fat Acid Heat ($21)One of the finest cookbooks I own – and I own a lot. Itâ€s beautifully illustrated, a treat to read, and the recipes are fantastic.
- The All Souls Trilogy ($49)My favorite fiction trilogy – ever.Â
- Heart ($18)A fascinating history on the organ that keeps us ticking. Despite being a science book, it reads easily and quickly.Â
- The Awakening ($16)A classic that doesnâ€t get enough praise or love. So Iâ€m sharing it – and hope you buy it.
- I Am Pilgrim ($10)Everyone Iâ€ve recommended this thriller to has loved it. Itâ€s an ideal gift for the men in your life.
- On The Edge ($15)My friend Allison climbed Mt. Everest – twice. What she learned are some of the most important leadership and work lessons I rely on today.
- What I Know For Sure ($12)My husband gifted me this book last year, and I keep it on my nightstand to re-read certain passages when Iâ€m feeling down or off.Â
- A Place For Us ($19)A stunning novel about family, love, and the complications of life. Mothers especially will love this book.
- Cook Like A Pro ($21)Ina. Enough said.
- Modern Monarchy ($29)For the royal-obsessed member of the family that you really, really like.
- Book Of The Month membership* ($10/month)The literary gift that keeps on giving.Â
Gifts That Give Back
Youâ€re going to buy gifts anyway. Two birds, one stone…
- Sudara loungewear (from $49)*Gorgeous pajamas made by survivors of sexual trafficking. A great option for your familyâ€s holiday pajamas.
- Impact Cards ($5)A beautiful way to ‘gift†a charitable donation to a loved one.Â
- Kula Coffee bangles (from $14)Every bangle purchased funds a coffee tree planted in Rwanda. A set of 10 makes a gorgeous statement to any outfit.
- Giving Keys necklace ($42)Wear your word of 2019. Help end homelessness in the process.
- Starling candle ($55)Stock up on a few Starling candles for hostess gifts, and help expand solar energy projects in Africa at the same time.
- ONEHOPE wine (from $45)Youâ€re going to gift wine at some point this holiday season. Gift the bottle that has a tangible impact.
- Sanaya Set winter boxEach box, filled with thoughtful and sustainable items, help funds Nomi Network (who fights sex trafficking worldwide). My aunts and mother-in-law have loved the Sanaya Set boxes Iâ€ve gifted them in the past. Use code BETHECHANGE for 20% off.
Men
Nearly impossible to shop for, no? Here are the items that the men in my life love and use on a regular basis…
- Cote + Ciel Sormonne Saheki Backpack ($325)*Stylish enough for formal business meetings. Comfortable enough for day-to-day life.
- Briggs & Riley Baseline International Carry-On ($520)The BEST carry-on for men – especially ones who travel for business. My cousin flies 250,000+ miles around the world and swears by this suitcase.
- Everlane ReNew zip up fleece ($80)Itâ€s so cozy, youâ€ll never realize itâ€s made from recycled water bottles.
- Ursa Major Bestsellers Trial Kit ($25)Does your man need to upgrade his toiletries? Start with this set.
- Nomad Lane tech case ($88)The best tech organizational case Iâ€ve come across, by far.Â
- The Daily Stoic ($17)Tim Ferriss swears by it. Chances are the men in your life will, too.
- Pour Over Coffee Dripper ($30)I gave this to my husband last year, along with an annual membership to this coffee subscription.
- AirPod ear hooks ($12)A practical stocking stuffer that heâ€ll probably use more than anything else on this list
- Theory leather jacket ($995)Iâ€ve bought this jacket twice – for my husband, and for my father. Snag it during the East Dane sale.
- Allbirds sneakers ($95)Another item Iâ€ve bought in duplicate, for my father and husband. Wearing these sneakers is like walking on clouds.
Kids
Letâ€s be honest – kids will be very clear about what they want, so just listen to them. For some new ideas, here are Rhoâ€s – and my – favorites.
- LittlefundSet up a fund for your little one, and share the link every birthday, holiday, and special occasion your family wants to gift your kid.Â
- A World Full Of Animal Stories ($14)Rho received this book from Alisha last year, and itâ€s been his favorite for bedtime stories since.Â
- Old Navy dinosaur slippers ($17)*Kids love dinosaurs. Enough said.
- Little Leaders – Bold Women In Black History ($12)Start â€em young.Â
- Melissa & Doug puzzlesRho loves, loves, loves these. And so do I.
- WWF Bucket Of Plush ($75 donation)Perfect for the mini-animal lover in your life – though the last thing they need is another stuffed animal.
- Hape rocket ship tower ($110)This is Rhoâ€s big gift this year. I guarantee all of these little pieces will be scattered around our house by Christmas afternoon, but I’m excited for him to open it regardless.
- MagnaTiles ($120)A winner, every time. The more MagnaTiles you give a kid, the bigger and more complex their creations become.Â
Stocking Stuffers
A tradition my mother started was to fill our stocking with toiletries weâ€d use for the upcoming year. Iâ€ve maintained the same tradition, and will be filling our stockings with these practical and good-for-you things for 2019:
- Bombas socks (from $30)*
- Copper tongue scraper ($11)
- Quip toothbrush* (from $25)
- Port & Polish pill case ($15)
- Molton Brown body wash ($32)
- Silicone body brush ($10)
- Naturopathica honey cleanser ($62)* and face brush ($30)
- Kora Organics Gua Sha quartz ($58)
- Kapuluan coconut oil ($13)
- Face mask brushes ($5)
- R+Co dry shampoo mist ($28)
- Ritual vitamins ($30/month)
- Wylde One elixirs ($36)
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Feeling depressed about the state of politics?
Me too, friend. Me too.
Itâ€s understandable. Take a beat to disconnect from the news, focus on your loved ones, and pick up a book.
This book, in particular.
It will restore your faith in American leadership. Itâ€ll reignite your fire to get back in the political game.
Most importantly, itâ€ll introduce you to an extraordinary woman.
Stacey Abrams is the Democratic candidate running to be the next governor of Georgia.
Sheâ€s also a woman after my own heart.
Abrams is the consummate multi hyphenate. Sheâ€s a serial entrepreneur, a public servant, an author (ahem, Selina Montgomery), and she is not here for your excuses.
Minority Leader is part memoir, part self-help book, and a swift kick in the ass.
Abrams shares her best life lessons and practical advice on everything – working with people whose beliefs are the polar opposite of yours, managing a team that doesnâ€t care for you, work-life Jenga, and the responsibility we all have to get involved with government.
Abrams makes no secret of just how hard this is. But she outlines every step, every action, and every single thing you need to do to help make it a reality.
Minority Leader is an extraordinary book, written by an extraordinary leader. And re-reading it today assured me that itâ€s time to take a little break and continue to fight for the causes that matter to me.
One of those causes? Getting Stacey Abrams elected.
Need to restore your faith in politics and the judiciary? I highly recommend the Hundred Acres trilogy, Sisters-In-Law, and Protect And Defend.
I share a book review on Fridays. You can find (and filter!) them all here.
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Thereâ€s a lot out of your control when youâ€re flying.
Delays happen at the most inconvenient times. The line at Shake Shack in JFK is far too long. The power outlets in your gate are all being used. The person sitting next to you wonâ€t stop chatting. Someone on the flight brought a tuna fish sandwich for a snack.
All of these things are why Iâ€m militant about how I pack and travel.
I begin packing a week in advance, which lets me fully relax and rest the night before a flight. I always pack in a carry-on, so Iâ€m not spending any extra time in the airport. I have a fully charged power bank, extensive snacks, Bose noise-cancelling headphones, and a Kindle loaded with books on hand at every time. I splurge for Comfort Class or Economy Plus so I can board early.
And I always, always, always do this skincare routine on the flight.
The routine itself isnâ€t revolutionary in any way. It involves a lot of spritzing, layering of skincare products, and reapplication. It leaves me looking relatively fresh-faced after a flight, which is always a perk.
The magic in this routine is how it makes me feel.
It gives me a semblance of control, which is a rarity when flying. The process of spritzing and massaging product into my skin is relaxing.
Itâ€s deeply calming – even with the weird looks directed at me as I go through the whole routine.
And calm is something we can all use more of when we fly.
Iâ€ve been a devoted practitioner of in-flight skincare since the early days of this blog. While the products have changed, the routine itself hasnâ€t.
This is how I take care of my skin – and my soul – when flying.
I go to the airport bare-faced, with my most hydrating products (hyaluronic acid boosting serum and face cream, rich eye cream, and finished with face oil) applied before I left home. Once weâ€ve taken off and are at 35,000 feet, I like to cleanse with one of these towelettes (or a hot towel, if Iâ€ve been upgraded) and start with a clean slate.
First comes a generous spritz of CaudalÃe face mist, followed my a generous dab of Alchimie Foreverâ€s Tightening Eye Contour Gel under my eyes. I mix Alchimieâ€s Kantic Brightening Moisture Mask with a few drops of Wander Beautyâ€s Glow Ahead face oil, and massage it into my skin for a couple of minutes, sweeping my fingers in an upward motion and finishing with a gentle tapping of my fingers across my face. I dab Glossierâ€s balm on my lips and my cuticles, and settle in with my Kindle.
When my skin starts to feel dry (every couple of hours or so), I refresh my face with a spritz or two of CaudalÃe spray. I dab 4-5 drops of Wanderâ€s face oil on my face, and lightly massage it into my skin, followed by more Glossier balm on my lips.
Spritz, oil, massage, dab, and read/sleep. Drink a ton of water. Repeat every couple of hours.
When weâ€re about to start descending, I cleanse my face again with another towelette and CaudalÃe spritz. From my main toiletry bag (which is always in my backpack), I apply serum and my usual face cream. If weâ€re landing during the day, Iâ€ll finish with Supergoopâ€s eye and face sunscreen. If weâ€re arriving at night, I dab on the Alchimie eye cream and Wander face oil Iâ€d been using on the flight.
I deplane feeling alright. My face feels hydrated and healthy. Iâ€m as calm as you can be, depending on the flight. And while Iâ€d kill for a shower and a burger, Iâ€m ready to tackle whateverâ€s next.
How I combine skincare and self-cafe at home, what’s in my toiletry bag, and how I pack my toiletries.Â
I share travel posts on Thursdays. You can find (and filter!) them all here.
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Monochromatic dressing is my MO.
You know how much I love a head-to-toe navy or gray look. And burgundy has become a new favorite in the past year.
But I’ve only just started to dip my toe in the cream/caramel/tan waters.
It started with this particular outfit last winter, which I unapologetically wore once a week (sometimes twice). It continued with this dress in spring, and this linen outfit in summer.
Caramel faux-suede pants that feel like butter. A silky t-shirt that hangs nicely. Funky sneakers that are fully gym appropriate. A cozy wrap that feels like a hug. An on-trend bag (for a steal).
If last winter was all about the fleece tunic, this fall is all about long t-shirt and cape.
I wore this for a marathon Saturday with Rho (play date, brunch, birthday party). It’s also an ideal travel outfit or casual work outfit – just swap the sneakers for nude flats, the cape for a white blazer, and the net bag for a tote.
And if you really love this outfit, I highly recommend you pick up the same pants in olive and navy and their matching t-shirts.
Some outfits are meant to be owned in multiples. This is one of them.
Other easy, effortless outfits I love – this dress/bomber combination, the power piece that dresses up any look, and what I wear on when the weather is terrible.
I share new outfits on Wednesdays. You can find (and filter!) them all here.
Photography by Molly Smith
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Clara Artschwager is a health and lifestyle coach based in New York. She takes a real-talk, humor-filled and heartfelt approach to working with her clients and helping them achieve what they want in health, love, work and more. This is her best advice.Â
I love the sense of renewal that September brings. A January 2.0 vibe, if you will. After a summer filled with lazy long weekends and generous amounts of ice cream, Iâ€m ready to hunker down and get clear on whatâ€s working, whatâ€s not working, where Iâ€m going and whatâ€s standing in my way. Iâ€m ready to get clear on what I want to accomplish before the yearâ€s end. Iâ€m ready for a reset.
This year I need it more than ever. My life is almost comically full right now. Iâ€m in the midst of launching a new business. Iâ€m renovating a house upstate. My boyfriend and I just moved in together and are figuring out that whole thing. And weâ€ve got a family member coming to live with us this weekend. Iâ€m navigating my new role as a stepmom, which is wonderful and exciting, but also drudges up all sorts of painful feelings from my past. Iâ€ve got friends and family I love dearly and want to see. Iâ€m finishing up certifications to advance my studies in nutrition. I also struggle with anxiety, tempered daily by a small SSRI dosage (thank you Lexapro). Chaotic periods like these can fill me with even more angst. Itâ€s a lot.
And yet, at the same time, I want more. I want to work out more, write more, read more, and produce a crazy amount of work. I want to bring in more clients, host events for my community, cook great family dinners, have lazy Sundays in bed with my boyfriend. I want it all, and I know I can do it. Because I have my why.
Whatâ€s my why? Itâ€s my bigger reason, my foundational intention, the greater purpose behind everything Iâ€ve set out to do this fall. My why isnâ€t about my waistline (though I do have some skinny jeans Iâ€d like to fit into), or impressing others and winning admiration, or doing what I think I should do. Itâ€s about the person I most want to be. How I most want to show up in the world.
Right now my why is my family. Everything I do – from taking it slow with my coffee first thing in the morning to building a successful business – I do to better care for my family, which includes myself. Serving my family, myself and the people I love most, is the thing thatâ€s going to get me through when I want to stress-eat an entire chocolate bar at 3 pm, skip my workout because Iâ€m not feeling up to it, or snap at my boyfriend at the end of a long workday.
This September, Iâ€m resetting my life, in a thousand little day-to-day and big long-term ways, around my why, my family, and Iâ€m eager to help my clients do the same. Hereâ€s how you can get started:
A reset means getting clear on your own why and how it can reshape your life. Your reset is your own because your why is your own. Itâ€s unique to you and tailored to fit. Itâ€s dependent on your preferences and pleasures. What gets you going and what brings you down. To get clarity on that, start by asking yourself the following:
- Whatâ€s not working for you and needs to go right now? And I mean really not working for you. What are the nagging habits and behaviors, the negative thoughts, the mindless meals, the general bullshit youâ€re putting up with thatâ€s getting in your way? It could be people, places, thoughts, entire food groups, etc. No holding back.
Here are some of mine: Committing to coffees/meetings with anyone that asks and then resenting the commitment later (i.e. being more protective of my time). Apologizing for things that arenâ€t actually my fault. Being unnecessarily generous with my coaching services. Eating ice cream almost every night when I know sugar doesnâ€t do my anxiety any favors. - What do you need that youâ€re not giving yourself? You know how to nourish yourself better than anyone. What are the things you know you need to do that youâ€re not doing enough of, or at all? The reasons arenâ€t important. Just get clear about what they are.
Here are some of mine: More alone time (even more than I think). Four discovery days – four days on my own to visit a museum, see a movie, explore new shops, discover new things. Yoga at least two times per week. An hour a day to read. More grace, patience and love (always) towards myself. - Where do you want to be on December 31st, 2018? What do you want to have accomplished? What do you want to have experienced? From what do want to be free?
Here are some of mine: I want to be able to do three pull ups back to back (currently at one!) and nail my yoga headstand. I want to have published four pieces around my work in food & body image and dating & relationships. I want to have a date and a plan locked down for the couples workshop my boyfriend and I are planning for next spring. I want to have furnished my house upstate such that weâ€ve got somewhere to sleep and enjoy meals.
Your turn, so settle in. Give yourself some space. Pull out that gorgeous journal youâ€ve yet to touch, grab a hot beverage, and tap in to you. Thereâ€s gold in there! I promise. And if youâ€d like some support, Iâ€d love to work with you. Get the details here.
In the meantime, Iâ€ve got my own reset to craft.
You can follow Clara on Instagram and sign up for her newsletter here.
- How the founder of Style House sets her weekly schedule
- How an acclaimed author remains an eternal student,
- How a mindfulness expert has built the ultimate morning routine for success.
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Coffee coffee coffee.
Wine wine wine.
Coffee coffee coffee.
Wine wine wine.
Both drinks have been my fuel for well over a decade now, save for the year or so I was pregnant and nursing Rho.
While I could live without them, I donâ€t want to.
But limiting them is probably a good idea.
Both drinks have been my emotional crutches during stressful times – fundraising, potty training, or just a really long, hard day. The more stressful the day, the more coffee and wine I find myself drinking.
Itâ€s not the healthiest of choices. Nor is it a proper solution to my stress.
We all know what the real solutions are – a good nightâ€s rest, plenty of water, exercise and healthy eating.
But sometimes you just need to drink something.
Enter Wylde One.
These elixirs are formulated with all the buzzwords youâ€ve heard – adaptogens, nootropics, medicinal mushrooms. Each elixir is formulated for all the reasons you reach for wine or coffee. Brain Buzz and Supertonic Energy are perfect morning or mid-day pick me ups, and Yoga In A Cup is ideal for unwinding in the evenings.
And when your body needs a boost to prevent or fight colds and the flu, thereâ€s Immune Shrooms.
Iâ€ve been a bystander to Wylde Oneâ€s journey, from when Stephanie first told me the idea to trying the formulations sheâ€d whipped up in her kitchen. She has been relentless in sourcing the highest quality ingredients, finding the best manufacturer, and developing formulations that improve your health and taste good.
Wylde Oneâ€s elixirs definitely have an earthy taste, but a little lemon juice or some stevia makes it more palatable. I like to add Brain Buzz or Supertonic Energy to my golden milk or matcha, and Iâ€ve been replacing brandy with Yoga In A Cup or Immune Shrooms in a hot toddy in the evening.
My morning coffee and evening wine havenâ€t gone anywhere. But theyâ€ve definitely returned to healthier limits, thanks to Wylde One.
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Evelyn Frison is the Co-Founder and Brand Director of Pivotte, a line of ultra-comfortable, high performance clothing for women. Her stylish, easy-care pieces are the ultimate frequent flyer’s secret weapon. This is how Evelyn packs and travels.
My packing style can only be described as bags in bags in bags…in bags.
Everything is in a categorical bag. From top-level down, it goes from carry-on (I ONLY do carry-on), personal item (big purse), then a bunch of little bags that go in either of the main, big bags for a variety of things – clothes, toiletries, electronics, etc. All bags are soft and squishy and will conform to being packed tightly. My carry on is either the Lo & Sons Catalina or the Osprey Talon Backpack depending on the type of trip. For my personal item, I’ll use the Lo & Sons OMG or the All Saints Kita Convertible Bag depending on the type of trip and destination.
I generally can pack 85% of my stuff in 30 minutes. This is largely due to two facts: A lot of my travel stuff is already pre-packed, and I know exactly what I am bringing. Iâ€m constantly on-the-go and my activities vary widely, so the things I use in every-day life, I also use for travel. I know exactly what clothes I am bringing – things from my own line, Pivotte. The clothes were designed to travel well. All items are polished–yet comfortable (extreme stretch!), iron-free, and machine-washable. Some pieces have added benefits like water and stain resistance – which means it can go for more wears before washing.
This is totally a shameless plug, but Pivotte really works! I wore the 24/7 pants with heels at work, changed into tennis shoes for a 7-hour flight, and went into the Amazon jungle and hiked around in the mud. I almost always pack a pair of Bravi pants and the cardi & tank set for easy, comfy outfits.
I never pack much in advance since Iâ€m so fast. I roll most things now that I have travel cubes, and dirty laundry goes in small laundry bags. Shoes go in bags that double as day bags and backpacks if needed – Pivotteâ€s own foldable backpack is my obvious favorite.
The biggest change to my packing style is the religious use of travel cubes. This started only recently – but I didnâ€t know what I had been missing! Before, I folded stuff and put them in laundry bags. I didnâ€t think a travel cube vs a bag would make a difference, but it does. The structure of the cube not only keeps items contained in the cube and in place, but the cube keeps other cubes and bags in their places in the larger carry-on.
I put various toiletries and products in GoToobs and place them in a larger makeup/toiletry bag – I love my GoToobs, DO NOT BUY IMITATIONS! My small makeup bag is a canvas bag I got as swag. I place my essentials for makeup and skincare in there.
I always pack Oscar Blandi’s Dry Shampoo to keep my hair looking refreshed in between washes. It’s becoming harder to find so I’m testing other options, but they’re all pretty “meh.” For lashes, I bring whatever mascara is up next in my Lashstash To Go Set. I LOVE makeup minis, so I use travel to try new trial-sized products.
For brows, I use Maybelline Brow Define + Fill Duo. This is great for travel because it’s small and you don’t need any additional brushes: you already have one tip for details and one for filler. I also usually have individually wrapped makeup remover wipes and Purell hand wipes on hand. I’m conflicted on using these, because individually wrapped items are worse for the environment, but they’re so good for travel!
The smallest travel cube I reserve for my electronics including headphones, adapter, phone battery, laptop charger, etc. I always bring my Anker Powercore phone charger, because it’s so compact.  I also have a sleeping kit bag, which contains an eye mask (this is my favorite) and earplugs. I also have a Water Bag (my FAVORITE water bottle of all time) and some Snack Bags.
pro tip: buy accessories in bold colors so you can see them in your bags and quickly grab them.
As for being at the airport – I am always *that* person running through the airport. Iâ€ve probably burned a lot of calories sprinting to a gate! Even when I intend to get there early – I donâ€t. I havenâ€t found a way to truly optimize getting to any airport in NYC. If I do an Uber/Lyft, there always seems to be traffic that makes me later than riding the train. If I do the train, it seems like itâ€s running slow, or not at all.
Now, my rule now is to take the train if itâ€s during normal hours because train > traffic. Regarding time, I have slightly improved this year because the anxiety of being late is getting to me, so I try to at least avoid running through security. I donâ€t ask people to get out of my way so I can jump ahead. You gotta draw the line somewhere.
Speaking of lines – I donâ€t avoid lines because I keep putting off my TSA PreCcheck or applying for CLEAR. I really need to do TSA PreCheck because Iâ€m all about efficiently moving through the airport. I am FAST and would like to get through security faster. I handle lines by reading on my phone. By the time itâ€s my turn to get stuff in security bins – my shoes and jackets are off, the laptop is pulled out, and Iâ€m ready to go. Recently, I was taken by surprise at security – all food needed to be out in a separate bin. Luckily – all my snacks were in their own bag. #bagsinbagsinbags.
Before my flight, I fill my water bottle (well, Water Bag) and run to the restroom. If I have time, I mainly camp out in the designated boarding area. I might go to Hudson News and look at all the magazine covers. If there is a duty free shop, I may stroll through and look at makeup. I donâ€t shop though. And I hardly ever buy food – I bring a ton of snacks with me. I am the queen of travel snacks. I always have oatmeal and Haribo. If I plan ahead, I’ll pack some Sockerbit Candy, popcorn, fruit, and nuts in individual packs from Trader Joes. I always bring a salad on the plane for a meal.
There are two exceptions to my no buying food rule:
- I will buy coffee (even though it is usually terrible)
- If there is a bulk candy shop – there’s a Dylan’s Candy Bar in JFK – I canâ€t resist.
I donâ€t mind just chillin in the seating area because I can always read on my phone or listen to a podcast.
When I board the flight, I quickly throw my carry-on overhead, sit down, and immediately pull out magazines, books, or start reading on my phone. I may already be pulling out my snacks. Iâ€m pretty good about sitting in small spaces for long periods of time. I donâ€t get up a lot. I am DEFINITELY an aisle person. I like to exit the plane as quickly as possible.
When I am up in the air, I read or watch the in-flight entertainment (JetBlue has great options). I rarely watch movies, so I use flights as a way to catch up. On a ride back from Turkey I think I watched 5 movies in a row. I am terrible at sleeping on planes, but on longer flights I will definitely try. It just rarely works.
I love the NYPL SimplyE app, and the Pocket app. I can download books ahead of time and make sure I have enough content for a trip. I used to read on a Kindle, but it was one more thing to carry so now I donâ€t bother. I read the entirety of Catherine the Great on a trip through the phone! This is an amazing book by the way – I want it to get the Hamilton treatment.
My number one travel rule is to always bring a pair of pants and my tennis shoes (currently the Adidas Energy Boost). Even if youâ€re going to a really warm location, at some point youâ€re gonna use those pants. I always bring a few pairs of tennis shoes because I work out and/or end up hiking. I love my Nike Flyknit Racers for exercise and my Vince Blair Slip Ons for walking around town.
From here Iâ€ll pack extra things depending on the type of trip – like nice dresses for weddings (and extra shoes), or more work-appropriate stuff if required, or outdoor gear as in the case with a Patagonia hiking trip. The newest addition to my packing list is a travel or micro umbrella: I’ve been caught in too many unexpected rainstorms! I currently have both the Totes Micro Umbrella and Crackerjack Micro Umbrella.
It looks like a lot – but itâ€s pretty basic. I aim to be a minimalist, which means I fall a little short – but not by much. The thing I struggle with, is how “cute†do I want to get on trips. Sometimes I donâ€t care and pack really basic stuff – the minimum to get by and not do laundry. On adventure-travel type trips, I pack what I need and am not so concerned with looking nice. On trips that have elements of both leisure and adventure – I tend pack a little more, but I donâ€t go crazy. All my clothing is neutral, my jewelry is simple, and I donâ€t bring very many accessories or shoes.
Evelyn is offering all Hitha On The Go readers a 15% discount on Pivotter purchases. Use code PivotteXHOTG at checkout!
En Route With features the packing and travel routines of entrepreneurs and jetsetters. Read on to see how the executive director of the Clara Lionel Foundation and founder of Nomaterra pack and travel.Â
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Do you dry brush?
Itâ€s a practice Iâ€ve done on and off, but Iâ€ve been more consistent about it lately. And it has to do with a unconventional step in my routine.
I apply this body oil before I dry brush.
Oil massage (from the feet up) is an Ayurvedic practice thatâ€s gotten more popular, along with tongue scraping and oil pulling.
And it’s become one that I’m treating myself to more and more.
I play this playlist, dim the lights in the bathroom, and light a candle. Iâ€ll apply Sahajanâ€s ritual body oil, starting from my feet and coming up to my neck.
I follow up the oil with this dry brush, starting at my feet and brushing up in circular strokes. I find that the oil makes the dry brushing less painful and more like a massage. It also helps the oil sink in better into the skin as well as improving circulation and minimizing cellulite on my skin.
Sahajan’s ritual body oil is expensive ($55), but I apply it lightly. A 100 mL bottle has gotten me through about 15 dry brushes, it smells heavenly, and it didn’t cause any reactions to my sensitive skin. If it’s out of your budget, I recommend this oil or this one.
After Iâ€m done dry brushing, I like to let the oil sink into my skin for a few more minutes. Iâ€ll continue my evening ritual with washing my face (with this brush) and massaging this mask (with a few drops of this oil) on. I finish up my Ayurveda-express routine with a scalp massage with this tool.
A quick shower, pajamas, and Iâ€m usually fast asleep within minutes of my head hitting the pillow.
I should probably do this routine more. Like, every day.
Which means I should get another bottle of this body oil.
Here’s my makeup routine when I’m short on time, the other tool I swear by for my face, and the palette that made me an eyeshadow person.
I share beauty posts on Wednesdays. You can find (and filter!) them here.
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]]>These 10 items have helped me keep my sanity – and look sane – in the process.
Madison Reed Color Bar*
I have tried everything to spread out my hair appointments as much as possible.
Iâ€ve tried the sprays. I own more headbands and turbans than I know what to do with. I change up my part constantly.
Madison Reedâ€s root touch up powder has been my savior during my extra gray days. The brandâ€s new Color Bar in NYC is my new one.
All root touch ups. All the time.
A visit to this salon is a relaxing one – the chairs are comfortable, tea and water is brought to you constantly, and the hairstylists are wonderful.
What makes Madison Reed stand out is the high quality of their products. Their hair color is made to higher European specifications (free of ammonia, parabens, resorcinol, PPD, phthalates, and gluten) and the coverage is superb.
At $60 for a root touch up (and an overall lovely few hours), itâ€s ideal for touch ups between visits to my hairstylist. And it keeps me relatively gray-free.
Floral Wrap Headbands
Bad hair days? Overdue for a root touchup? Just feeling downright lazy?
Your hair has met its new best friend.
I discovered these headbands from Elizabeth Holmes (no, not THAT one) on Instagram. Her commentary is on point (love her So Many Thoughts series on the royals), and her recommendations are always excellent.
She did NOT disappoint with these headbands.
My head is on the smaller size, and this style of headband usually slip off. These ones stayed in place for hours, with minimal adjustments. The bright floral prints are a nice contrast to the neutral outfits Iâ€m usually wearing.
Most importantly – they cover my gray hair.
Theyâ€re affordable – just $10 for a set of 4 – so order a set and try them yourself.
Girlfriend Collective
If you follow me on Instagram, youâ€ve seen my thrice-weekly torture workout session with my trainer.
And you know theyâ€re not easy.
Finding the right workout clothes – pants that wonâ€t slip, bras that can handle one-legged burpees and treadmill sprints – has been a challenge. Until Girlfriend Collective, that is.
I took advantage of their free leggings offer during their launch (just pay shipping!), and they quickly became a favorite pair. I bought the Paloma bra and high-rise leggings in rose earlier this summer, and itâ€s become my go-to workout outfit.
It can handle it all – a Benjamin workout, an intense Peloton ride, one of Sultanâ€s strength workouts from Aaptiv, or a RUMBLE class.
Girlfriend Collective is also a company you can feel good about purchasing from. The fabric is made from recycled water bottles and fishing nets, is responsibly dyed with minimal waste, and sewn in one of Vietnamâ€s most ethically managed factories where employees receive 125% above living wage, free healthcare and twice-annual checkups in the factories, and free lunch and exercise breaks.
Itâ€s slow fashion at its finest. I own the Paloma bra and high-rise leggings in garnet, black, and smoke, and Iâ€m eagerly waiting for the red to be restocked.
STATE Bags Autumn crossbody bag
I love everything about STATE Bags – their mission, their beautifully made bags (hi, fanny pack), their Star Wars collections (I own this and this).
But this little crossbody is my new favorite. And potentially my ultimate favorite.
I love that it fits a shocking amount of stuff (my phone, headphones, keys, hand sanitizer, lip balm, AND my Kindle). I love that it can be worn crossbody, on the shoulder, or even around the waist.
And I love that a child is getting a brand new backpack, filled with supplies and other goodies, because I bought this bag.
Hereâ€s the last question – do I need it in white?
(No. But I definitely want it.)
Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask
Iâ€ve gotten into morning masking lately.
After brushing my teeth and putting in my contacts, I like to apply a mask and return to bed to meditate and do my self-care checklist.
I call it productive relaxation. And the Kora turmeric mask is the one I reach for 3 times a week.
It does it all – exfoliates, brightens, and leaves my skin glowing in just minutes. Itâ€s satisfyingly grainy (reminds me of the OG St. Ives apricot scrub, but more gentle), is gentle enough to use several times a week, and significantly improves your skin health and appearance.
This mask has helped me stave off breakouts and keep my skin clear despite wearing more makeup than usual. My skin tone is more even, and looks brighter despite not sleeping as much as I should be.
Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm & Facial Cleansing Brush*
I donâ€t think Iâ€ve ever enjoyed washing my face.
Clarification – I didnâ€t enjoy washing my face – ever – until I started using Naturopathicaâ€s honey cleanser and brush.
Theyâ€re each wonderful, on their own. But together, theyâ€ve made washing my face an indulgent ritual that I look forward to every night.
Really. Truly.
The creamy cleanser smells like heaven, and it cleanses deeply without stripping my skin. The brush gently exfoliates the skin and increases circulation – almost like dry brushing for your face, but much more pleasant.
Itâ€s become a part of my ‘work is done, now relax†ritual around 6:30 pm every evening – I change into my pajamas, slip on a headband and wash my face, layer on some serums and creams, use my beauty bar, and take out my contacts. That 10 minutes helps me unwind from work and indulge in a little self-care before giving Rho my full-attention before bedtime.
My favorite part of that ritual? Washing my face, of course.
Girl Wash Your Face
Rachel Hollis is not here for your excuses.
And sheâ€s not making any of her own.
No time to workout? She calls bull. Having issues with your partner? She shares her own rollercoaster with her husband. Is motherhood overwhelming you? Sheâ€s been there, done that, and wrote the blog post.
Girl Wash Your Face is an inspiring, funny, and truly motivating book. Itâ€s refreshingly honest, and you canâ€t help feel that youâ€re friends with Rachel.
What truly impressed me is the commercial. Girl Wash Your Face is Hollis†seventh book, but her first New York Times bestseller – and has sold over 1 million copies.
The only other two books released this year with more sales? Fear and Fire & Fury.
If that doesnâ€t inspire you to listen to what Hollis has to say, I donâ€t know what will.
Managing Oneself
This book is far from a new release – it was first published in 2005.
But the material is timeless.
Itâ€s a very quick read – just 128 pages – that helps you understand your own work style, and the best way to manage yourself.
You know, like the title says.
While revamping my to-do list had been helped improved my productivity, I still fell into my binge work-crash rhythm that wasnâ€t that productive at all. I knew that I learned best by reading and that I was a decision maker, but my personal values werenâ€t at all aligned with my business goals.
My personal values reflected what I thought I should be – not what I truly valued. Working around the clock and spending little time with son isnâ€t what I valued at all, but it was my reality.
Quality time with Rho (no devices, no potty training drama, doing something we both enjoy) is what I value the most. Taking care of myself (working out, meditation, and indulging in my hobbies) is another main value, as is spending time with my friends and family. I value helping women live their best lives with everything I publish on my blog, and I value saving lives with Rho Pharmaceuticals. Prioritizing my personal values and putting my professional values in an Evernote that I review every day – in the morning, when I need to light a fire under my bum, in the evening – has done wonders for helping me do my best work.
Managing Oneself is one of the quickest reads Iâ€ll probably recommend here. It also happens to be the most impactful.
Time Blocking Cube
I could use a regular kitchen timer. I could use my iPhone. I could even use one of my many plugins available on Google Chrome.
But I prefer this little cube.
The Pomodoro method (25 minutes of focused work, 5 minutes break) was one of the first productivity hacks that really worked for me. Using a time blocking cube was the second.
I use the cube for my work tasks – 15 minutes to triage an inbox, several 45 minute blocks when I’m working on a deck, 5 minutes for a break. I’ve begun to use the cube in other parts of my life as well – my morning routine, doing my makeup, and even reading at night.
The cube is satisfying to use in a way a phone or Alexa timer isn’t. I’ve even bought a few more to keep in my kitchen, in my bedroom, and one for Rho (because obviously, itâ€s his toy)
Hydro Flask water bottle (with straw lid)
This is the third water bottle Iâ€ve featured on my blog.
But I think this is my Goldilocks one. Itâ€s just right.
The Hydro Flask holds a satisfying 30 ounces of water, and keeps it cool for hours. The straw lid is so convenient, especially when Iâ€m working out or running around.
Itâ€s also one of the lightest bottles Iâ€ve tried, given its size.
Iâ€m usually successful in drinking 5 bottles a day, which has me feeling more energized and my skin looking clearer.
Bathroom trips aside, itâ€s worth every single penny.
Everyone in our home now owns their own Hydro Flask, Rho included. Mine is navy, my husband has a black one, my dad has the gray, and Rho has this blue one.
*Items and experiences donated with an asterisk (*) were gifted, but all opinions are my own
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Chips are my weakness.
I love all chips – thick-cut kettle chips, salty tortilla chips, crunchy Fritos (preferably served with this chili).
My favorite, though, are Doritos. All Doritos.
Theyâ€re so good for your soul – but so bad for your health.
Enter Brad’s Veggie Chips.
The same friend who introduced me on my favorite protein bars got me hooked on these chips.
“Theyâ€re so healthy – and so good.â€
She was right. The ingredients are virtuous – buckwheat groats, at least 4 vegetables, and spices. The sodium content is far below that of a regular bag of chips (only 5% DV), and theyâ€re full of fiber and low in carbohydrates.
The taste? Delicious.
Brad’s Veggie Chips are bursting with flavor, are satisfyingly crunchy, and donâ€t leave you bloated and sluggish the way a regular bag of chips do.
The only downside is the price – 12 bags will set you back about $60, and youâ€ll easily finish a bag in one sitting.
Worth it? I certainly think so. No other chip soothes my soul and my hanger quite like these.
Other snacks I swear by – the aforementioned protein bars, a Daily Harvest smoothie, and this protein-packed golden milk.
I share food posts on Mondays. You can find them all here.
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