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In today's fast-paced world, where concrete jungles dominate the landscape, the allure of house plants has never been stronger. These green companions not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of our living spaces but also offer a myriad of health and psychological benefits. Whether you have a green thumb or are just starting to explore the world of indoor gardening, the advantages of house plants are worth delving into.
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Gratitude isn’t just a nicety—it’s a superpower. Of all the emotions we experience as humans, gratitude has the most profound impact on our well-being, our outlook, and our reality. It shapes our thoughts, our relationships, and even our bodies. Study after study confirms what ancient wisdom has always known: people who regularly practice gratitude are happier, healthier, more resilient, and more fulfilled.
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When it comes to how we unwind or socialize, many of us turn to a glass of wine, a cocktail, or, increasingly, cannabis. But how do these substances really impact our health—and what does it mean to make the “least toxic” choice?
Let’s break it down—factually, holistically, and with intention.
Liquor—vodka, rum, tequila, whiskey—is the most concentrated form of alcohol, often between 35%–50% alcohol by volume (ABV). That means more alcohol per ounce—and more pressure on your liver, brain, and body.
The CDC links excessive alcohol use to over 200 health conditions, including liver disease, heart problems, depression, anxiety, and increased cancer risk. The more concentrated the alcohol (like liquor), the greater the toxic load.
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As a mom committed to non-toxic living, one of the biggest and most persistent battles I face is sugar. It’s not just in candy and cupcakes—it’s hiding everywhere, even in the foods marketed as “natural,” “organic,” or “vegan.” And while I’m not militant about never letting my kids have anything sweet, I’m deeply intentional about minimizing added sugar in their daily lives.
Research shows that added sugar, especially in the early years of brain development, can have lasting negative impacts on children's cognition. A 2024 systematic review published in Nutrients confirmed that chronic sugar intake is linked to poorer executive function, memory, and overall cognitive performance in children and adolescents. A 2015 study found that adolescent rats who consumed high-sugar diets showed impaired learning and memory. A third study showed that the adolescent brain is uniquely vulnerable to the effects of sugar compared to adults.
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When I first launched BLK + GRN, I was shipping products straight from my home office. I ordered in small batches to ensure we cleared inventory quickly, avoiding excess stock and making sure customers received fresh products. As we grew, we moved to a fulfillment center, allowing us to scale operations. However, with this growth came new challenges—many artisans had order minimums, which led to us holding more inventory than we could sell.
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I used to say “I’m not a morning person.” Maybe you’ve said it too. But here’s what I’ve realized: my brain was listening every time I said it—and believing me. And as long as I kept saying it, I gave myself permission to hit snooze, roll over, and start the day in reaction mode instead of intention.
But here’s the truth: you can change your personality by changing your thoughts. Personality isn’t fixed; it’s a series of practiced thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that over time become your identity. And that means it’s not set in stone—it’s a habit you can shift.
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Unlearning “I Am Third”: A New Take on Selflessness, Faith, and Compassion
When I was a kid, I spent my summers at Kids Across America (KAA) camp—a place that shaped my heart, my faith, and my values. Every summer, without fail, I was honored with the camp’s biggest award: the “I Am Third”award.
It meant God first. Others second. And I am third.
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During my fireside chat with Maggie Anderson, I walked away with something I can’t shake: we often Buy Black as a reaction—not a commitment.
After George Floyd was killed, we saw it. Black-owned businesses were flooded with orders. Directories were created overnight. People were searching for new places to spend their money. Not because they suddenly believed in Black businesses, but because they were mad. Hurt. Angry. The same pattern happens every time a corporation quietly ends their DEI program or when the latest “ally” shows their true colors.
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I’ve been called cheap my entire life, but I wear it as a badge of honor. For me, money has always been a tool—a way to create opportunities, build security, and work toward my goals. I’ve learned to see through the marketing tactics designed to make us spend impulsively or chase trends that don’t align with what truly matters to us. Instead, I’ve made it a habit to spend with intention, prioritizing things that bring me closer to my long-term goals rather than fleeting desires. Along the way, I’ve also found ways to combine sustainability with smart budgeting, ensuring my choices are not only cost-effective but also kind to the environment.
