I need a pair of flats for work and was looking at the Nordstrom Half Yearly sale for options. I can’t seem to find any I like. Can you help?
I’ve only come across a few pairs from the sale that are purchase worthy. Marc Fisher can do no wrong (in my opinion) and these, in any color, would be perfect. Halogen has a similar version here. If I was still working, I’d be rocking loafers/mules every day and these, these and these are all super cute. I’m all about adding a funky color to your shoe, especially for work. I would wear black, white or grey but adding a pop to your shoe always spiced things up.
Heather – what are your must have baby items for your third time around?
I plan to do a much more in depth blog post and I’m even thinking of giving you access to my registry items so you can see exactly what I need for Big 3. FYI – I gave away ALL of my baby stuff because like I said, this was a #surprise #blessing 😉 But for the sake of this post, I’ll give you my top 5 “can’t live without” items.
Aden + Anais Snap Swaddle (the Ollie Swaddle is also life changing but hard to get your hands on one because they sell out quick)
Fisher Price Rock n Play and the Fisher Price Bouncer (Both my boys hung out/slept in both of these throughout the house as newborns)
Of course you need outfits and bottles and pacifiers and all that jazz but these are my top go-to items for survival 😉
I’m going on an Italian honeymoon this Summer and want a cute but comfy pair of slide sandals to walk around in. Any recs?
I was going to recommend the Steve Madden Greece slides but a girlfriend of mine said she wore them to the mall and they tore up her feet.. so uncomfortable with zero padding. So, I found these Sam Edelman’s that look like they have a little more support that the Steve’s. But these Steve Madden’s look really cute and maybe a bit more comfortable than the others. Treasure & Bond’s version is really cute. And of course, I’ve been eyeing this pair of studded Marc Fisher’s.
Apple cider vinegar- what’s the rage all about, how do you use it, do you drink it?
ACV is popular as a weight loss aid and there are studies to back up these claims. Here is another study if you’re interested. It is said to increase satiety and help you feel fuller longer.
It is also touted for gut health. Its prebiotic content can aid bloating and constipation. Other health benefit claims for ACV is that it can help manage blood sugars and improve symptoms in diabetics, lower cholesterol, and have protective effects against cancer. ACV won’t work miracles on it’s own, but other than it’s high acidity it appears safe.
Dosing can range from 1-2 teaspoons to 1-2 tablespoons daily. Start small and work your way up based on how you’re tolerating it. You can also use it in your cooking, making salad dressing or mayo. Some folks like to drink it straight up, but dilute with water or even honey because it tastes gross AF on it’s own and super acidic!
What’s your go-to nail polish color when you hit the salon?
Heather – In the Summer, I opt for OPI Funny Bunny or Essie Fiji. I usually get shellac and look for similar colors to those two tones and sometimes I’ll mix two colors to make one. OPI’s Meet Me in a Prosecco is also really pretty. In Winter, my nail color is OPI Lincoln Park After Dark
What is rice brain oil and is it healthier than olive oil?
To be honest I haven’t heard of this oil before, so I did a little research. This oil is extracted from the germ and inner husk of rice. It is popular in Asian culture…think tempura because this oil has a high smoke point. It is also high in vitamin E ( an antioxidant) and has a good balance of mono and polyunsaturated fats. I still think olive oil should be a staple in the kitchen along with avocado oil (which also has a high smoke point). Rice bran oil is said to have a pretty neutral taste and lowers LDL (the bad cholesterol), so it might be worth experimenting with it in the kitchen.
I want some ideas for good protein and probiotic sources that aren’t dairy or eggs. I am trying to cut back on dairy and see if it helps (my baby’s) skin and reflux. I eat a lot of cottage cheese, yogurt and milk normally…
Here is a list of dairy free protein options- that aren’t eggs and the obvious animal protein sources. Nuts, seeds (esp. chia and hemp seeds), nut butters, turkey bacon, edamame, tofu, tuna salad made with vegenaise , smoked salmon, chia seed pudding, and turkey jerky. Kite Hill makes an almond milk Greek yogurt that has 11 G protein (found at Whole Foods). Add protein powder to smoothies and oatmeal…I like Aloha and Garden of Life brand. You can also make dairy free cottage cheese with tofu…see this recipe.
As for probiotics I like my Garden of Life supplement, kombucha and anything fermented is going to have a good dose of probiotics (think kimchi and sauerkraut). I also love the Cocoyo yogurt and the Coconut Cult yogurts that are LOADED with probiotics.
Alix- please give an update if the Oribe shampoo and conditioner is bomb enough to shell out the dough!
OK last week I got my hair did and was due for some new shampoo and conditioner- I kinda hate spending money on this stuff but it was needed. My girl rec. this shampoo and this conditioner. I’ve used twice since last Friday (yep I only wash my hair 1-2 x week) and love it so far! Pretty light weight and a little goes a long way, so I think it will last me a while. Oh and it smells SO good!
Thanks for sending in your questions! Email us at champagnetheory@gmail.com for next week. xx
