March is Women’s History Month and this year I’d like to recommend some books written by women authors. Each of these reads are meant to motivate, empower and inspire readers.
Recently, I hosted a #GalentineBookSwap and introduced my guests to these amazing books. Watch Event Recap Reel here:
I was able to giveaway a few of the reads to them but I have a *Book Bundle to giveaway to one lucky winner! Book titles listed below showing an (*) are part of the giveaway. But first let’s get into these recommendations:
🩷 Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women
Real Stories from Inspirational, Artistic, and Empowered Women (True Life Stories, Beautiful Photography)
Angela LoMenzo combines stunning photography and powerful real stories documented from interviews with a diverse group of accomplished women that encourages us to dig deep into our own creative lives!
Women from all walks of life. Artists, musicians, authors, fashion designers, entrepreneurs, and others from a multitude of creative careers share their experiences with depression, bullying, infertility, cancer, assault, loss of loved ones, drug addiction, and many other issues women often do not have a safe space to talk about. These stories show you just how real life is.
Powerful affirmations and true-life stories to empower you. This book is packed with words of wisdom from women who have both overcome adversity and achieved an authentic life honoring their individuality and freedom of personal expression. Their real stories illustrate that it is possible to live the life you have always desired now.
Inside, you’ll find:
Words of wisdom and beautiful photography of wildly creative women
Raw and authentic interviews featuring stories by women redefining the role of a woman
And much more!
If you’re looking for unique gifts for women who have everything you need to read Wisdom of Wildly Creative Women!
This floriography guide is a gorgeous and inspired combination of vintage Victorian flower meanings, quotes, and lore perfectly entwined with a contemporary toolbox for creating stunning flower arrangements and bouquets.
For those who want to create beautiful bouquets and flower arrangements with history. Blooming with inspirational lifestyle photography by Jess Buttermore of Cedar House Living, The Love Language of Flowers will blow you away with an intriguing history of flowers alongside step-by-step instructions for creating 25 tasteful, meaningful arrangements.
Express yourself and show others you care. With stunning photographs of different types of flowers, a detailed list of floral arranging tools and supplies, and fascinating Victorian flower meanings, The Love Language of Flowers provides you with an elegant way to express your feelings or bring your self-care to the next level.
Inside The Love Language of Flowers, find:
A visual glossary of flowers and their Victorian meanings
Simple step-by-step instructions for creating twenty-five gorgeous floral arrangements
Suggestions for introducing contemporary plants and other interesting elements to bring a fresh look to classic bouquets
If you like botanical books illustrated with stunning photography and floral design, you’ll love The Love Language of Flowers.
Embracing Inner Beauty and Ancestral Power (African American Home Remedies, Gift for Young Professional Women)
By Elizabeth Leiba
Synopsis:
From navigating hostile work environments and healing from trauma to exploring African American home remedies and promoting holistic well-being, Protecting My Peace is a comprehensive guide for black women seeking to prioritize their mental, emotional, and physical health.
Reclaim your peace.Protecting My Peace: Embracing Inner Beauty and Ancestral Power focuses on transforming self-perception, recreating ancestral traditions, and channeling the spiritual power of the African feminine divine. Delve into transformative self-care practices and go beyond traditional approaches to physical and mental well-being. Find strategies to connect with ancestral roots, embrace spirituality, and foster personal growth. Prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical health with practical advice on African American home remedies, how to be healthy, and overcoming trauma.
Rediscover your inner strength. Enter a transformative journey toward self-acceptance and belonging. Learn to perceive physical beauty through a fresh lens, embrace your whole self, and let your spirit radiate with the essence of your African ancestry.
A must-read for black women seeking to reclaim their power and well-being. Understand the philosophy of the African feminine divine. Find empowerment in the idea that places women of the African diaspora at the heart of their cultures. Learn how embracing this power can improve self-confidence, self-esteem, mental health, and emotional well-being.
Inside, you’ll find:
An exploration of the perception of physical beauty
The sense of peace that comes with fully embracing our ancestral traditions
An introduction to the philosophy of the African feminine divine
If you like Self-Care books, you’ll love Protecting My Peace.
A 52-Card Wisdom Deck with Handbook (Oracle Deck, Inspirational Cards, Mental Healer)
By Andrea Menard
Synopsis:
Create new rituals and self-care habits with this oracle deck. These sacred inspirational cards inspired by land-based practises of the Métis people serve as a daily mental healer.
Re-energize and connect to the Métis culture. These oracle cards are the perfect way to help you slow down and awaken to the energy around and inside you. Andrea Menard writes beautifully while invoking connections to the land and indigenous teachings. Use these cards as friendly reminders to dive into your divine feminine energy. Andrea Menard is a Métis woman whose Michif ancestry originates from St. Laurent, Manitoba, Canada. She is deeply influenced by Sacred Elements and guided by the teachings of her ancestral Grandmothers.
Enjoy colorful and beautifully layered art. These unique images bring emotional healing and a deep awakening to divine feminine energy. Sacred women, men, and gender-fluid individuals will find wisdom on every card. Enjoy 52 cards with beautiful images of original artwork by Métis painter, Leah Marie Dorion. Leah is an interdisciplinary Metis artist raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, who views her Metis heritage as a unique bridge connecting all people to a greater knowledge.
Inside, you’ll find:
Ancient wisdom and teachings from Andrea Menard set to transform you
Beautifully layered art from Leah Marie Dorion on a deck of cards set to awaken you
A handbook guide set to spark your divine feminine energy
If you need a gift for the sacred woman in your life, you’ll love Seeds of the Sacred Feminine.
Badass Affirmations is full of positive affirmations, profiles of powerful real-life heroines, and inspirational quotes for women. Packed with just the right amount of sass, this book is the perfect women empowerment gift for you and all your fabulous BFFs.
Even a badass needs positive affirmations. No one leaps out of bed knowing they’re amazing and about to have an incredible day. We find ourselves rushing around, working hard to please others—and often we find ourselves making everyone happy but our own damn selves. Badass Affirmations is here to stop the negativity with positive quotes and affirmations from powerful women.
Discover strong women quotes and encouraging self-affirmations. In Badass Affirmations, positive living and affirmation queen Becca Anderson reminds you that you are pretty darn great. Inside this motivational quotes and affirmations book, you’ll be fired up by inspirational quotes for women, by women. Alongside these women empowerment quotes, you’ll gain new knowledge of the badass ladies who have left their mark on the world with a mix of short bios and longer profiles. And when you’re done learning from other fierce females, you can work on affirming yourself with uplifting journal prompts.
Read Badass Affirmations and:
Learn the habit of affirming yourself daily
Empower yourself and strengthen your self-esteem
Be encouraged by words of wit and wisdom
Readers of affirmations books and positive quote books for women will love the inspirational quotes for women in Badass Affirmations.
In this step-by-step guide, Tory Archbold, powerhouse host of the Powerful Stories podcast, shares her proven principles for success in building entrepreneurial empires. This powerful book for women leaders demonstrates how trusting your intuition and stepping into your power can break you free of judgment, ignite self-belief, and finally attract the richness you deserve!
Staggering success starts within. Are you in a career you never wanted? Are you disconnected from yourself? Are you at a crossroads in life and feeling unsure? Self-Belief is Your Superpower is the book for you. Combining entrepreneurial and personal development, spiritual self-help, and self-esteem for women, this book takes a holistic approach to success, ensuring readers emerge as truly powerful women. Books this impactful are hard to come by so grab your copy today!
Changing to thrive—from success to success.Author Tory Archbold is one of the most powerful and connected women in Australia, but she wasn’t always. With hustle, instincts, heart, and kinship, she found her life purpose and success at home and work—and under her guide, you can, too. This guide is filled with helpful and impactful principles for success and balance as you navigate your new journey.
Inside, discover how to:
Create a happy heart and attract the life you truly deserve
Find your life purpose with these principles for success
Use self-belief to break free of judgment and give yourself permission to shine
If you enjoy professional development books or books for powerful women, you’ll love Self-Belief Is Your Superpower.
A Guide to Self Growth, Self Care, and Becoming the Best Version of You (Women Empowerment Book, Self-Esteem)
By Elicia Goguen
Synopsis: Glow Up Into A New, Empowered You
Find a deep understanding of how to have a glow up and what that truly means for women. Empowerment books like this are hard to find—become the best version of yourself today.
How to have a glow up—made easy. Author Elicia Goguen, creator of The Glow Up Secrets YouTube channel, shares her personal glow-up journey and how to have a glow up yourself, giving tips on changing thoughts of self-hate or sabotage into self improvement for real women. No more indulging in body shaming or unhealthy diet culture while focusing on your outer appearance with this women’s empowerment book.
Glow up from within. This shadow work book guides women back to their unique selves, healing their inner child along the way. Break unhealthy habits and relationships by connecting with your authentic self. Women can glow up with this self growth book for lasting change. It’s your time to start creating your story from a place of self acceptance and self love.
In The Ultimate Glow Up Guide, discover:
Ways to stop self hate, self criticism, and self limiting beliefs in this self confidence book
An inner child healing book full of self care for women
How to have a glow up on your way to achieving your dream life
If you liked books for women and empowerment books, you will love The Ultimate Glow Up Guide!
*📙 This Is What You’re Really Hungry For: Six Simple Rules to Transform Your Relationship with Food to Become Your Healthiest Self
Book by Kim Shapira, MS, RD
Synopsis:
Quit your on-again, off-again relationship with dieting for good—and become healthier and happier than ever.
You’ve tried to eat only vegetables. You’ve tried to eat only meat. You’ve gone gluten-free, dairy-free, satisfaction-free—but you shouldn’t have to. In fact, you don’t have to.
It’s time to stop restricting yourself and learn to make your relationship with food healthy—without forcing yourself to eat “healthy.”
Dietitian Kim Shapira has developed six simple rules that will change your relationship with food forever. In This Is What You’re Really Hungry For, she breaks down the science to get your brain and your body on board; replaces fad diets that do not last with a sustainable method that encourages you to eat what you love; and empowers you to be the authority in your own body.
Kim’s refreshing approach will help you:
Lose weight—or maintain your current weight
Resolve blood pressure issues
Improve your energy levels
Reframe your beliefs about food and why you eat
Identify foods that don’t love you back
Manage your emotions in authentic, healthy ways
Food should be a source of joy and nourishment in your life—not stress—and This Is What You’re Really Hungry For will help you get there. Featuring a foreword by Kaley Cuoco, this will be the last “diet” book you ever need—without ever asking you to go on a diet.
*📘 She Thinks Big: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Moving Past the Messy Middle and Into the Extraordinary
By Andrea Liebross
Synopsis:
You’re stuck … and you’re frustrated.
You want growth, but the next step isn’t clear. Your inner voice nudges you to do more, but you aren’t sure what or how. Or maybe your priorities constantly fight for your attention, and you always feel behind.
The thing you want most is movement — toward more time, money, energy, brain power, or simply the enjoyment that’s supposed to come from having your own business. You’ve tried everything, but nothing seems to work.
Andrea Liebross has discovered that the secret to getting unstuck iswhat you think, not what you do.
It’s time to stop playing small and start Thinking Big.
In this book, Andrea helps you:
Get to the heart of your “stuck stress” and move forward with ease.
Create a plan, a new mindset, and improved systems that support all your priorities.
Embrace the challenges that come from your success.
If you’re ready to take charge of the mess and move forward in your entrepreneurial adventure, this book is for you.
My #Gals + Galentine’s Day Book Swap × Dunkin’ Brunch Board x Hey! It’s Your Day Book Giveaway
Galentine’s Day falls on February 13th and it’s a day to let your gals know how much you appreciate them. Last year I hosted a “Galentine’s Day” party and shared How to Host a Fun Book Swapwith my readers. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to host another #GalentineBookSwap this year!
What do you do when it’s a pandemic among us but you still want to get together with some girlfriends? You take the necessary precautions, send an invite to a chosen few and mask up! I used a group pic from the last book swap and created a collage invite to send. Between the cold rain and Covid-19, I was thankful to still celebrate Galentine’s Day!
SIPS
Now Pouring ..Shoe Crazy Wine | Photo Credit: SobeSavvy.com
I received a wine gift from Shoe Crazy, which is owned by a African American female. So I was happy to serve their Peach Mango Sparkling Wine as a welcome cocktail. This fruity, sweet wine was the perfect blush color to cheers to Galentine’s Day!
EATS by Dunkin’
I made a Dunkin’ Brunch Board! | Photo Credit: SobeSavvy.com
Feast your eyes on my Dunkin’ Brunch Board! Since I was hosting the ladies late morning/early afternoon on a Saturday, I thought why not share some of my favorite snacks from Dunkin’! With charcuterie and cheese boards being all the rage, I hoped my guest would enjoy the presentation and they did! I added items from the Dunkin’ Snacks menu : hash browns, snackin’ bacon, stuffed bagel minis, munchkins and their speciality heart-shaped Valentine’s donuts (Cupid’s Choice & Brownie Batter)! It was all so delicious!
Leslie of SobeSavvy.com serves up a Dunkin’ Snacks Board for Brunch!
I also got a Box of Joe to go from Dunkin’ with their Original Blend of coffee and a shot of Hazelnut. It serves 10 ppl and comes with cups, kids, sugars, creams,and stirrers. It was convenient and brewed to perfection. Definitely order one for your next gathering!
Enjoy a Box of Joe from Dunkin’ at your next gathering! | Photo Credit: SobeSavvy.com
Book Swap + Review + Giveaway
Book Swap Ready | Photo Credit: SobeSavvy.com
After we sipped, snacked and shared stories, it was time to swap books. Guests are welcome to bring whatever type of literature they want to exchange. As a thank you gift, I gave each guest an uplifting book from Mango Publishing titled Hey! It’s Your Day written by June Cotner.
Hey! It’s Your Day by June Cotner – Review/Giveaway by SobeSavvy.com
Hey! It’s Your Day!is a collection of quotes, personal essays, and aspirations for anyone to live by, making it the perfect reminder of how valuable these life events are. June Cotner is an author well equipped in helping people rediscover excitement in life, with millions of books sold on momentous occasions such as marriage inWedding Blessingsand special events inGraces. Featuring multicultural lessons, thought-provoking compositions, and gorgeous pages,Hey! It’s Your Day!will remind readers that life isn’t just living in the moment, it’s also about looking forward to the future.
This book provides so many inspirational reminders to live your best life! I enjoy reading positive affirmations and quotes from some of my faves such as Rumi, Oprah, The Obamas..just to name a few. There is an eclectic mix of people as well as nearly 50 topics that cover subjects like love, friendship, family, growth, happiness, success, creativity and more! Hey! It’s Your Day! would be a great gift for anyone at anytime but I can see me gifting this for some upcoming celebrations such as Mother’s Day or Graduation. But I don’t want to wait that long…I am excited to partner with Mango Publishing to host a giveaway and gift someone this wonderful book! Head to my Instagram @SobeSavvy to enter there:
*No instagram.. no worries..leave a comment here on the blog and share a favorite quote!
RECAP
For this to be my first time having guests over inside the house since the pandemic, I think it went well. I made everyone feel safe, comfortable and we all had fun! Take a look at my video recap, here:
Hello Readers and Hello April! Can you believe how quick March went?! I can not, but I am always happy for a new month to arrive and to share new books that I have read. Since March is National Reading Month and Women’s History Month, I thought I would share with you 3 Books That Celebrate Strong Women, which is something we should do no matter what month it is, right?! Plus, I have a gift for you to win and keep the celebrations going! Stay tuned..but first, let me tell you about these three phenomenal books from Mango Publishing.
STILL I RISE
STILL I RISE- THE PERSISTENCE OF PHENOMENAL WOMEN- by Marlene Wagman-Geller
You may recognize the title Still I Rise from a poem by Maya Angelou. The Author’s Note shares that this book is a tribute to that poem and dedicated to the women who helped her rise. STILL I RISE, [which was #1 New Release on Amazon] is a paperback book that answers the questions— Who are the great women leaders in history? Who are the women heroes who personify “girl power”? STILL I RISE embodies the strength of character of the inspiring women profiled. Each chapter will outline the fall and rise of great women heroes who smashed all obstacles, rather than let all obstacles smash them. There are so many unknown stories of women who quietly and courageously changed the course of history! I can guarantee there will be stories in this book that will not only resonate with you but leave you inspired to lead a life well-lived!
SobeSavvy.com Book Review | STILL I RISE- THE PERSISTENCE OF PHENOMENAL WOMEN- by Marlene Wagman-Geller
DEAR WOMAN
DEAR WOMAN by JUST MIKE THE POET- Michael E.Reid
I have heard so much about this author [@justmikethepoet] via social media and hearing how empowering this book has been for women that I was excited to read DEAR WOMAN. This hardcover book is poetry+self help+inspirational all wrapped up into one dope read! This book was respectfully written by Michael E. Reid aka Just Mike The Poet to encourage all women to:
•Stop cutting yourself short: You must wear your crown at all times. Every woman is a queen, and you don’t have to wait for someone to give you your crown. 👑
•Take a journey: No one has just one page in their life story. That’s why DEAR WOMAN has everything—quotes, letters, short stories, and poems to educate, motivate, encourage, and provide a little tough love.
•Want the best for yourself: Michael E. Reid wrote this book and started with these encouraging words “Dear Woman, This is YOUR book. With it comes the responsibility to be a better woman.” This is more than a self-help book, more than just relationship advice for women—though it does include both of those things. No, this inspirational open letter, full of poetry and wisdom, is life advice just for you.
•Do it for you: You are an amazing woman. Deep down, you know that. DEAR WOMAN isn’t here to tell you that you need to improve. Rather, it’s here to tell you that you can be your true self—for yourself.
Filled with great advice and written to shed some love and light, DEAR WOMAN is a great read and reminder for every woman to Be Confident, Know You Deserve The Best and Love Yourself!
SobeSavvy.com Book Review | DEAR WOMAN by JUST MIKE THE POET- Michael E.Reid
THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK
THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK •A Modern Woman’s Guide to a Wealthy Life• Brynne Conroy
I start a new, full time job in a couple of weeks and this time around I want to be smarter about saving and investing my earnings as well as paying off debt. I was attracted to THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOKto help me with these goals. I plan to start reading this book this week and can’t wait to learn more about general financial planning principles. THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK provides actionable tips for overcoming obstacles and explores financial issues with anecdotes and perspectives of women of different races, sexual orientations and abilities. I look forward to reading the stories and learning from the advice of women who have worked through the struggle, and achieved their goals.
SobeSavvy.com Book Review | THE FEMINIST FINANCIAL HANDBOOK •A Modern Woman’s Guide to a Wealthy Life• Brynne Conroy
***SobeSavvy Giveaway: ENTER to WIN all 3 BOOKS THAT CELEBRATE STRONG WOMEN!
1.SHARE this SobeSavvy.com post via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest by clicking option below ………….AND…………
2. Leave a COMMENT sharing one of your greatest strengths!
One Winner will be chosen at random on April 10, 2019 at 12pm/noon EST.
***Plus, earn an EXTRA ENTRY by entering via Instagram ⤵️
According to Forbes list of 10 Wellness Trends You Have To Try In 2019, “finding big meaning in small rituals”, “unplugging from the digital world” and “workouts for the soul” are just some of the ways you can add some Zen to your life.
In my opinion, you can never have too much Zen. For example, I recently created a meditation space for myself that I call the “Zen Spot“…
Did you know reading is a key wellness practice? It is proven to reduce stress, build empathy, and even lessen sugar cravings! It’s nice to have these peaceful nooks at home to which I recently added these 5 Zen-tastic Books To Read For Your Wellness from Mango.
THE MAGIC OF CRYSTALS & GEMS
As someone who has been gifted stones and have always admired the beauty of crystals, I was intrigued by this book. I wanted to learn more and discover what lies behind or shall I say within these gems. This book is a fun, entertaining and enlightening guide to the magical uses of crystals and the powers of stones.
GODDESS POWER
What is the divine feminine? Who is the goddess Oshun? Why is “herstory” an essential part of our cultural legacy? Goddess Power is a book that will answer those questions and more! Informative, Inspiring , Insightful and Important~ these are just four words that I would use to descibe why I enjoy this book.
WOMAN’S BOOK OF PRAYER
No matter when or how you pray, this book was written to show you the way thru words of encouragement, inspiring quotes, poems and meditations. Becca Anderson has done an amazing job at gathering a year’s worth of prayers by and for women for every occasion. I have found that reading from this devotional each day has impacted my spirit in a positive way.
ZEN DOGS
Our daughter wants a dog but since that is not happening anytime soon, she was happy to receive this book filled with adorable photos of mindful mutts and dharma dogs! Zen Dogs offers key lessons on how to live in the now. Dog lovers will enjoy reading the timeless teachings of Buddhism, meditations and eternal truths while enjoying the pictures of so many cute canines.
SUPER AGER
As a 45 yr old Mom of a 7 year old, it is important for me to prepare for my second half of life. I want to do everything I can to not only age with grace but to live long and prosper. It’s every parents wish to be here for as long as we can to see the growth of our children. Super Ager is a ‘how-to’ book that compiles a comprehensive look at what others are doing to be healthy at age 100 and beyond! I’m ready to increase my lifespan and my healthspan with this book.
📚SobeSavvy Tip: Find these great books and more from amazing authors at >>>>Mango.
I am so looking forward to curling up with these books and learning from each of them. So if you don’t hear from me, I’ll be somewhere reading. Which one of these books would you add to your collection or gift to someone?
5 Quick Tips for Hosting A Tea Party |SobeSavvy.com
Disclaimer: Thanks to our friends at Honey Smoked Fish Company and Mango Publishing for sending product for review to facilitate this blog post. Opinions are 100% my own.
Hi, my name is Leslie. My favorite color is purple, I like to dance like no one is watching and I am a tea lover. I decided to start a new tradition to celebrate the holidays and welcome the New Year by hosting a tea party in my home. You can find me enjoying tea anytime of the day not only for wellness but it also it provides me with moments of serenity. Sipping a cup of tea encourages you to focus, slow down and relax because you don’t want to drop hot water on you, right?! This time, I wanted to catch up with a couple of friends and invited them over for an intimate gathering of just ladies enjoying tea together. The holidays/New Year and the fact that January is National Hot Tea Month are just some of the many reasons to celebrate! Throwing a holiday tea party was so fun and easy to do. Here are my 5 Quick Tips for Hosting a Tea Party:
1. SEND THE INVITE
Facebook is a great way to make a quick invite to guests, track RSVPs, set reminders and communicate with invited guests. I sent the following customized invite:
The mug exchanges were so much fun! Everyone got a chance to take home a new mug to enjoy during tea time. My friend who loves to shop local, gifted me a beautiful, handcrafted mug from Gather. I just love it!
2. CHOOSE A THEME/BUY DECOR
I chose to do a holiday theme as it paired well with the time of year. Also, I love being festive and spreading cheer! My local thrift store was the perfect place to buy decor like matching tea sets, mugs, saucers, cloth napkins, tier stands, a red table runner and this cute sleigh which served as something to hold some of my tea bag selections.
3. PLAN YOUR TEA MENU
Although, I planned to have a variety of tea on hand (along with Mimosas), I created a poll on the Facebook invite page to ask guests: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF TEA(s)?
Since I received a variety of answers, I decided to serve an assortment of teas like earl grey, english breakfast, mint tea, lemon lift, hibiscus tea and more. My personal fave of the day was Ginger Tea from NC’s own KimBees !
4. SERVE SAVORY & SWEET EATS
Sandwiches and Desserts are mainly what I served to nibble on while we sipped our tea. I also had a crab balls and coconut shrimp from BJ’s as an appetizer. World Market is my jam for entertaining especially when you want foods that are quick and delicious. For the tea party, I grabbed the last Amaretto cake (another customer put me on to how amazingly good these are..and she was right!) and I randomnly found these macaroons while in line at Ross. I served it on a cupcake stand along with some crackers, cream cheese and pepper jelly.
For my savory bites, I was excited to partner with Honey Smoked Fish Company and introduce guests to their delicious and nutritious Honey Smoked Salmon! It is perfect for entertaining because it is fully cooked & ready to eat, fresh and flavorful straight out the vacuum sealed package. Serve it with olives,cheeses, peppers, capers, toast points and you have the makings of a perfect charcuterie board.
There are so many ways to enjoy this superfood protein which comes in four delicious flavors: Original, Cracked Pepper, Chipotle & Lime, and Cajun Honey. One of my favorites for entertaining is using it in a deviled eggs recipe. It was a crowd pleaser when I served it as an appetizer for my last Get Hooked on Honey Smoked Salmon at home tastings. After realizing I did not have enough eggs to pull it off this time, I made an egg salad instead and combined it with Honey Smoked Salmon to make a Honey Smoked Salmon Egg Salad Sandwich.
Here is my recipe:
INGREDIENTS | Chopped hard-boiled eggs, Original Honey Smoked Salmon, flaked with a fork, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion powder, paprika,salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS | Mix ingredients together. Spread on whole wheat or rye bread. Cut into 4 squares. Enjoy!
SobeSavvy Tip: Visit their online website >>HERE to see recipes and all the benefits of getting creative using the Superfood ingredient of Honey Smoked Salmon! Take a look at these fun facts!
5. GIVE “TEA-SPIRATION”
No matter what I am hosting at home, I like to give guests a thank you gift. Just a little something to take home and remind them of the wonderful time we had together. This time everyone received a book from award-winning blogger of The Cup of Life, Lu Ann Pannunzio, titled TEA-SPIRATION Inspirational Words for Tea Lovers.
This book is “steeped in wisdom” and aims to create a quiet movement where one can experience devotions, comfort, inspiration and the simple joys of life while reading and sipping a warm cup of tea. It is such a unique gift for women as we all need to be reminded to slow down and relax from the daily grind.
My friend and tea partner in crime has already made TEA-SPIRATION book a part of her daily ritual! Love it!
#SobeSavvyGiveaway | Do you love tea or know someone who does? I would like to gift you a book of your own to keep or share!
•Enter to win (1) TEA-SPIRATION Inspirational words for Tea Lovers book. Comment below in this blog post your favorite tea! Bonus entry if you comment on this Instagram post also! ⤵️
*Disclosure: This content uses some affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy for more info: here
Do you have any female bookworms on your ‘Nice’ list this year? This holiday season, give a unique gift that they can enjoy all life long…a book! Books make wonderful gift ideas for her especially when they provide helpful information. Here are four books to give every female friend, family, co-worker, bookworm that you know!
For your workout buddy and any woman who loves wellness gifts 📘A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils: Recipes and Practices for a Natural Lifestyle and Holistic Health by Hayley Hobson
Homeopathic medicine and alternative medicines are gaining in popularity daily. A Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils by Hayley Hobson can become your first step to a healthier life—your first step to holistic health. Hayley is an internationally known author and inspirational speaker. She presents uplifting and educational programs in over 50 countries and promotes a holistic path to wellness by incorporating the use of essential oils with a regimen of exercise, healthy eating, and mental and emotional wellness practices. As a coach, she passionately empowers others to live their dreams and create lifestyle transformations by supporting them in becoming the best possible WHOLE versions of themselves. In her book, you will find real life stories and natural lifestyle principles. You’ll discover why we get out of balance in the first place—and find out how to fix it. You’ll learn about Hayley’s signature recipes and their specific purposes, helpful remedies and daily changes, safe handling and usage, and much more.
For the woman who is #perfectlyflawed and on a healthy lifestyle journey📙Be Iconic: Healthy and Sexy at any Age by Dr. Eudene Harry
Opening up the conversation of true beauty and acceptance, Eudene Harry MD writes her latest book,Be Iconic: Healthy and Sexy at any Age. Discussing that your diminished self-worth and confidence shows up in a variety of ways—the extra weight you carry, the sleepless nights, the chronic illness, and your lack of joy—Dr. Harry offers an all-encompassing guide to your health.
In this motivating and inspirational workbook,Be Iconicexplores:
Sexy doesn’t mean perfect! 5 ways to know what makes you sexy
How patterns of negative thoughts diminish your health
The connection between beauty and sleep
Tips for beautiful hair for the aging woman
Minimally invasive techniques to love the skin you’re in
For your crafty chicks, DIY gal pals and any hostess with mostest 📗Cooking, Baking and Making: 100 Recipes and DIY Ideas for All Seasons and Reasons by Cynthia O’Hara
From the creative mind of the “Harried Housewife” blog comes a beautifully packaged one-stop-shop book bursting with DIY recipes and ideas for the entire year!Cooking, Baking, and Makingincludes 60 DIY recipes with bonus designs and 40 DIY ideas that tie your home together for all 365 days. For spring, serve Herbed Cucumber Tea Sandwiches and a make a Spring Centerpiece as you watch the flowers bloom. In the hot summer, delight your guests with Fresh Berries and Cannoli Cream and make your own decorative coasters. In autumn, admire the turning leaves as you bake Dilled Beer and Cheddar Bread and make Autumn Harvest Potpourri. And in winter, enjoy Creamy Eggnog Cupcakes and make Festive Votives while snuggling by the fire. Cynthia O’Hara presents incredibly user-friendly projects and dishes that make replicating her flavors and designs as natural as the changing of the seasons. The Harried Housewife has written articles and developed a wide variety of recipes that reflect a simpler time and are ideal for budget-conscious families. The “Harried Housewife’s Recipe Box” column is syndicated nationally in regional newspapers.
Get this book on Amazon: here * andpair it with these cute apron sets for a great gift!
For the Mom friend or little girl in your life who has an interest in ancestry📘Famous Family Trees by Kari Haug
Explore the fascinating family histories of Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Charlotte Bronte, John F Kennedy, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Maria Tallchief, and many more with 30 family trees from around the world.
This accessible, visually-stunning compendium of family trees features some of history’s most loved — and loathed — famous faces and is great fun for the whole family to explore.
Genealogy and history combine to make a fascinating, fact-filled treasury of family trees belonging to famous people throughout the ages. Spark conversations with children about their own family histories this holiday season.
Purchase on Amazon: here * and add this family tree picture frame to give as a unique gift!
As you can see there are amazing gifts for every woman, mom, sister, girl, friend on this list. I found these books to be helpful, inspiring, empowering and encouraging. I am grateful to have received these review copies to add to my bookshelf and to share these thoughtful gift ideas with you!
📚What Books Are You Reading?📚 Are you gifting books this holiday season?
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review of Let the Children March. Let the Children Marchis brand new picture book by Monica Clark-Robinson that gives readers an in-depth look at the Civils Rights Movement and the little freedom fighters who had a big impact on changing the world! This is the author’s debut of her first children’s book in which she collborated with Frank Morrison to illustrate and bring these historical moments to life!
This book gave incredible insight and accurate informationabout the Children’s March in 1963. I personally do not recall learning much about this in school, so it was with great pleasure to learn the story along with my 6 year old daughter. Her reactions to what the children did, how brave they were and the struggles faced at that time were indeed priceless.
The narrator of the book is a young girl so that immediately caught the attention of my daughter. Although the chatacter is fictional, the events are not. You can tell the author put a whole lot of research into this book to make it as real and accurate as possible. Not only was art done by illustrator Frank Morrison, but actual photographs from the events in Birmingham on 1963 were used.
I think everyone’s introduction to Black History in school is probably thru learning about Dr. Martin Luther King. So when my daughter saw that he was a part of this movement, her face lit up as she recognized someone she had been studying about at home and school!
His efforts and purpose of the movement was also shared in the book. His ideas to ‘fill the jails’ with people arrested for marching in order to disrupt government and make change happen had some obstacles when adults were too afraid to lose jobs. The introduction of children to the Civil Rights Movement, he later wrote, changed everything! Watch this video for a look inside this beautifully illustrated book and a read-a-long snippet from #outandaboutAvareads:
👏👏 Bravo to the author and illustrator for finding a balance of giving enough details to tell this story of courage and hope without scaring young readers. My daughter understood that the bravery those children had then makes a difference in our lives now!
With just a week left of Black History Month (although these books can be read during any time of the year), I wanted to share some other books we have enjoyed as part of the #outandaboutAvareads series for families and teachers to know more about Black History. Check these out in addition toLet The Children March:
📚 Mahalia Jackson: Walking with Kings and Queens by @ninanolan111 📚Our Legendary Ladies: Harriet Tubman by @ourlegendaryladies 📚 Bedtime Inspirational Stories-50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World by @bedtimeinspirational
Happy International Yoga Day! Ever since the United Nations proclaimed 21 June as the International Day Of Yoga, its various forms have grown in popularity. Today, yogis around the world gather to raise awareness of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The theme for 2017 is ‘Yoga for Health’, which highlights the fact that yoga can contribute in a holistic way to achieving balance between mind and body. I practice yoga and have seen how it effects my wellbeing and enhances my overall lifestyle. Here is just some of the benefits of yoga:
Since its International Yoga Day, I wanted to celebrate with a giveaway but first let me share these natural products that are must haves in your yoga bag!
EO Certified Organic Deodorant Sprays
The best way to stay fresh all day is to eliminate odor at its source. The certified organic deodorants contain no aluminum salts, propylene glycol, zinc salts, or triclosan that can potentially clog pores. Pure essential oils and organic Ethanol neutralize and eliminate the sources of unpleasant body odors to keep you fresh, cool, and clean all day long and can be used safely multiple times per day.
Available in: Lavender▪Citrus▪Vetiver▪ Tea Tree
EO Certified Organic Deodorant Wipes
Perfect for the girl on the go, EO introduces their Certified Organic Deodorant Wipes in bright Tea Tree and timeless Lavender. Individually wrapped wipes make it easy to stay fresh, anywhere! Carrying these wipes in your purse, backpack, or yoga bag means you’ll always be prepared for those unexpected sweaty moments. Environmentally friendly wipes are biodegradable.
Purequosa is quick, easy and efficient when it comes to feeling fresh and clean. Perfect for anyone with an active lifestyle, Purequosa is a shower replacement ideal for anyone looking for a quick way to feel and look fresh! Simply spray Purequosa organic cleansing spray all over your body before and after your workout or when traveling. This hydrating formula is suitable for sensitive skin and is free from any alcohol and chemicals. It’s pure! Keep Purequosa in your gym bag, purse, diaper bag and luggage so you can always feel fresh no matter where you are. Check out Purequosa’s top picks for right now:
• Desert Body Spray: Show your skin some love with this hydrating formula. The starchy root of the yucca contains a healthy mix of vitamins, minerals and plant-based nutrients. Desert Body Spray will make you feel refreshed after your activity!
• Rain Body Spray: No shower necessary. Watery, crisp and light, this spray is a must have for those with a busy lifestyle. Our Rain Body Spray also contains Tea Tree Oil.
• Coastal Body Spray: A breezy spray that will instantly make your body feel clean and fresh. This spray is perfect when you want to squeeze in a quick yoga class during your lunch break. Coastal also contains Sage known to be an antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, and antibacterial. Wow!
Purequosa not only makes you feel refreshed but it can also help to cleanse your bike helmet, yoga mat and other workout accessories! You can find Purequosa at https://www.purequosa.com #purequosa Twitter: @purequosa Instagram: @purequosa and FB: https://www.purequosa.com
I share some of my yoga journey on Instagram.com/getlovelyfit and have really enjoyed learning that Yoga is not just about exercise, but a way to discover oneness with the world, nature and yourself! Recently I learned about a book titled : Learn To Be Lean: A Yoga Based Approach to Healthy Weight Loss ~by Nutritionist and Trainer Shannon Leavitt, M.S.,R.D.
Empowering, enlightening, and incredibly practical, Learn to be Lean: A Yoga-Based Approach to Healthy Weight Loss[released January 1, 2017] is a workbook format guide to holistic health incorporating yoga, strength training, meditation, and personal reflection to help bring every aspect of being into harmony. WithLearn to be Lean, readers will ultimately be able to live and ‘practice’ the balanced-yogi-lifestyle that’s essential to achieving sustainable wellness as opposed to a fast fitness plan with temporary results.
Finding balance, having a deeper awareness and learning to live a healthier life are just a few themes highlighted in Learn to be Lean. Other topics include:
How to create and sustain a dynamic metabolism through mindfulness and spirituality
Why crash dieting doesn’t work and how to accept weight loss as a journey and lifestyle change
Valuable advice and motivation to achieve fitness goals through yoga
Why body, mind and spirit are essential components to successful weight loss that stays off
And much more!
I look forward to reading this book and applying it to my practice. Want to join me? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW and I will giveaway a free copy to 1 lucky reader! *Winner will be chosen at random 6/25/17 at noon* Good Luck and Namaste!
Disclosure: I received this book for review and all opinions are my own.
One of my goals for 2017 is to read more. While I do get to enjoy reading children’s books with my daughter, I often do not find the time to pick up a book of my own and have neglected my love for reading. I also have found myself too tired to engage in coversation with my husband at the end of the day.
That has changed starting with this fun read titled 808 Conversation Starters for Couples. It is a new book that offers the ultimate list of casual conversation prompts to spark fun and interesting dialogue, deepen communication, and increase intimacy during dinner time, date night or any other moment.
Now if you know my husband, he always has something to talk about and because we have been married for 17 years, I just believed that I would know most of his answers. WRONG. I learned quite a bit about him just from asking the following questions: What would be the title of your autobiography? Would you say you were born in the wrong decade? What TV show is your guilty pleasure?
Ask any of these questions to your partner, and you’re guaranteed to share an interesting conversation. 808 Conversation Starters for Couples is the perfect antidote for you and your significant other to get closer through the simple exchange of talking and listening.The art of communication is a lost art for some and this book is a way to bring that back to your relationship while having fun!
This book is not just for couples but for anyone. During our holiday party, we shared this book amongst friends and introduced it as a party game. We had each guest flip to any page and ask any question that piques their interest.The book not only has questions but there are Do It! suggestions like “give your partner a piggyback ride”. Not only does this book reveal things about yourself, your partner but you never know what passions, hopes or even funny stories might be revealed amongst your friends!
Sample Questions:
What are three jobs you definitely could not do?
Whats the most important piece of advice you ever received?
Whats the very first memory you can recall?
Do you correct peoples grammar or pronunciation?
Can you name five things you hate spending money on?
This weekend was the perfect time to review this book, as I know some of you are snowed in and tired of “netflix and chill” as a way to have a date night. Don’t get me wrong, I love to cuddle on the couch and watch a good movie with my man but I also enjoy asking him questions, listening to his answers, sharing my thoughts and loving on each other even more! I believe intimacy creates understanding which creates love and it all starts from a good conversation. If you are not sure where to start, let this book be your guide. It’s available here http://amzn.to/2j5VFtRGet it before Valentine’s Day and have your fun conversation starters ready for your date night!
Now for fun ..answer this sample question from the book below in the comments: DO YOU BELIEVE IN LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT?
SobeSavvy 