Keep an eye out for updates on 2016 Michigan Spring and Summer Events. I'm posting them on the Michigan Girl Facebook page. You can also find information on the sidebar to the right of the From the Mind of a Michigan Girl Blog Page.
Some of the events I can't wait to attend are the Shed 5 Flea Market, 14th Annual Michigan Lavender Festival , Old Town Scrapfest , and Bay City Tall Ships Celebration. Hope to see you there!
Also, you can look forward to my upcoming posts, sharing information and pictures from recent meanders to Mason, Williamston, and Howell. These downtowns are Michigan Girl Favorites. Stay tuned!
More to come from the mind of ...
Where in Michigan would you like to see Michigan Girl Meander to next?
For those that are fans of the Meandering Michigan Series, thank you. I have received a tremendous amount of feedback recently. I've created a poll so that you can now tell me where in Michigan you'd like to see Michigan Girl Meander to and then blog about. The poll is located on the side bar on the right side of this page or you can use the link below. Please take a moment and share your thoughts, feel free to write in your own place. Looking forward to your suggestions!Survey Link:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Q8VGTYD
More to come from the mind of ...
Meandering Michigan Series: Upcoming Event, 14th Annual Michigan Lavender Festival at Blake's Orchard, Armada
The Annual Michigan Lavender Festival is an event that we rarely miss. This year will the be the
14th year for the festival. The festival offers unique gifts, plants for sale, gourmet food,
workshops, arts & crafts for kids, natural health booths, and a variety of
options for lunch. A full festival itinerary is located on the Michigan Lavender Festival Website as well as the vendor list. There are currently just under 70 vendors on the
list.
The festival is
located in Armada, Michigan Friday,
Saturday & Sunday, July 15, 16 & 17, 2016 (10am – 5pm). It's located at Blake Farms and Orchard and this year it's sponsored by Blake's Hard Cider Co., located at the Orchard as well. The Brewery is a new addition to Blake's
in the last year.
The Michigan Lavender Festival was voted the best festival in Michigan in 2014. Vendors
include lots of lavender made and inspired products as well as other scents.
One of my favorites is the lavender popcorn that Whole Foods brings, but you
have to get there early for that, they usually run out of popcorn about
half-way through the day. I also recommend the lavender lemonade. Pam's Pantry
is usually there with an assortment of dips to try and purchase, I don't see
them on the vendor list yet though. You don't have to worry about not finding
soaps and lotions, there are several great vendors offering bath and body
products, All Things Lavender is one of our favorites.
Each year that we've
went, there has been a man that brings his Alpacas. He also brings all the
clothes, hats, gloves, etc. that he makes from the Alpaca's wool. Since it's mid-July and very hot, it's hard to think of buying items made of Alpaca wool, but the products are high quality for a good price. It's also fun to see the Alpacas!
This is truly a
family event as Blake Farms and Orchard has lots of fun things for the kids to do. Last
year my ten-year old nephew, who was up for his annual summer break vacation
with his aunt and uncle in Michigan, joined us. He had a great time at the orchard with all the activities.
Everyday activities
include:
Train Rides
Hayrides to the
Pumpkin Patch
Haunted Village and
Black Hole
Barnyard Funland:
Cornstalk
Maze
Giant
Straw Mountain
Water
Duck Race
Barnyard
500 Tricycle Race Track
Pumpkin
Jump Balloon
Storybook
Barn
More to come from the mind of ...
Meandering Michigan Series: Lake Odessa
I remember playing
Lake Odessa in sports in High School, driving through it when we took the back
road to Grand Rapids, and hearing stories of people fishing at the Jordan Lake in Lake Odessa. I'm
sure prior to 2015, I hadn't actually been near Lake Odessa in over 20 years. My
mother and I were heading to a baby
shower between Ionia and Lake Odessa. We were quite early, and decided to drive
through Lake Odessa. I was surprised at the stores downtown. It was late, so
everything was closed, but we made plans to come back. 
We ended up having a
girls day with my Great Aunt, and my cousins in Lake Odessa in November of last year (2015). The two
antique stores, Lake Odessa Antique Mall and Regal Rooster at Bonanza Antiques,
were having a huge sale. I've never been that interested in antique stores, but
I had such a great time. I was very surprised at how large the stores were and
how much fun it was too look around. 
Wandering through an antique store can be like walking down memory lane when you see
items that remind you of your childhood, or younger years. You never know what you might find. Some of my favorite things to look at are jewelry, postcards, and clothing.
These are pictures of two necklaces that I bought at the Lake Odessa Antique Mall. I've zoomed in a little so you can see more of the details. One is a gold chain with red beads with blue flowers. The second necklace is sliver with little black beads. I don't have any details on when or where they were made, but I only paid a few dollars for each and love them both!
Just down the street
from the Antique Stores, you can also shop for new and consigned clothing, home
décor, jewelry and handmade chocolates. We visited So Simply, Consignments By Sherry, Endless Expressions, AllyMade Jewelry, and I made a quick stop at Delectable Delights.
So Simply offers home décor, furniture, jewelry,
gourmet food, lotions and soaps, and women's clothing. The jewelry is hand-made
by American designers including
Anne Koplik, Treska and Shari Dixon. There website usually has coupons,
recipes, and information about store events.
The consignment
shop, Consignments By Sherry, while having a nice selection of gently used
clothing, shoes, and jewelry, had many other items for sale. I like the trend
right now in stores of mixing clothing, jewelry, furniture, home décor, and
other items. Each of the stores in Lake Odessa, including the consignment shop,
follows this trend.
Endless Expressions Boutique was another favorite. While listed as an interior designer, the store
is filled with clothing, jewelry, purses, and other unique items. I recently
visited the stores Facebook page and it looks like they have added quite an inventory
since I was there. In addition to women's clothes and jewelry, there is a
selection of clothing for children and babies as well as other items for
babies.
AllyMade Jewelry has handmade jewelry, a wide variety of beads, and locally made gifts. There
are pictures, paintings, stained glass, cards, bags, handmade wooden boxes and
other wooden items, bath and body products, books, candles, and gourmet snacks. There is a craft room in the back where
jewelry and craft making events are held.
Of course, after all
the shopping, if you are hungry, you can stop by Delectable Delights for
handmade chocolates and other treats. The chocolate shop had just opened, so they had many samples out to try before you purchased. I also ate the items before I could remember to take pictures ... they were great! If you are looking for lunch or dinner, I recommend Penny's Pizza.
More to come from
the mind of ...
New look for the Michigan Girl
First, I want to thank my good friend, and graphic artist, Amanda Brown for the Michigan Girl logos. She did a great job. I love it and I hope you do too. Amanda is a very talented artist, if you are interested in working with her, let me know and I can connect you.Second, I want to invite everyone to like the new Michigan Girl Facebook page. This is yet another place that you can connect with me. I'll be sharing information like upcoming events in Michigan, lots of pictures from Michigan, features on great Michigan products and lots of other information.
You can also connect with Michigan Girl through Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. See the "Connect with Michigan Girl" section on the website to connect.
I've been doing a lot of traveling ... so stay tuned for upcoming posts.
More to come from the mind of ...
Meandering Michigan Series: The General Store, Downtown Hastings
Although I have been to Hastings when I was younger, it has been a very long time and I had never really spent much time downtown. I have to say, I was very surprised at how much the downtown had to offer for shopping and restaurants. My mother and I spent a warm Saturday in December tooling around town and doing some holiday shopping. The General Store South Jefferson Street
What turned out to be my favorite stop, The General Store, was a big surprise. At first, we thought it was a hardware until I spotted a bunch of greeting cards through the window. This store had a little bit of everything. This store has a large selection of locally made products.
There are also shirts, jewelry, scarves, bags, and purses. We were very impressed with vegan purses designed by a Michigan State Graduate, Jenna Kator. Each of her purses are named after a Michigan City. Jenna's line include a variety of sizes of purses, wallets, and wristlets. Jenna is also a supporter of Philanthropy through the Handbags of Hope program. 100% of the proceeds for the Philanthropy Tawas Point Handbag goes to Handbags of Hope.
We also found some fun bags that were made by a local women in Hastings and they were only $10.
In the specialty food and kitchen section, I was introduced to Mrs. Meyers. My mom was familiar with the products but I wasn't. Mrs. Meyers products are made with essential oils and organic ingredients. My favorite scents are lavender and watermelon. Since this trip, I have started using the air fresher, multipurpose cleaning spray, hand soap, and dishwasher tabs.Other notable locally brands/made products: Cherry Republic, Coyer Candle Co. handmade soy candles and air fresheners, hand-made wooden bowls by JM Woodworking, Jewelry by Lake Effects Studios, Detroit Coaster Company, Heritage Beard Company, Gee Dee Bee's Honey by Maple Leaf Farm, handmade wooden kitchen utensils from Clarksville, Michigan, Cellar Door Soap, books by local authors, University of Michigan and Michigan State items, and lots of products promoting Michigan.
The prices in the store were very reasonable and to our surprise, everything in the store turned out to be 10% off that day. Bonus!! Looking at their Facebook page, it appears that often have sales, especially around the holidays.
Keep an eye out for more on Downtown Hastings including shopping and restaurants in my Meandering Michigan Series!
More to come from the mind of ...
Personalized hair color and great products delivered to a girl’s door
I’ve been coloring my own hair for a very long time. It’s
not something I necessarily enjoy, but I do all-over color and it’s not very
difficult, so it’s not a service I feel I need to pay for. I’ve been
using the same color for quite some time, until recently. While scrolling
through Facebook one day, I read a review for eSalon. eSalon offers personalized
hair color that you order online and have shipped to your door. Allure Magazine
recognized eSalon with the 2014 Best of Beauty award.
Your package comes in a very nice, personalized box. It
includes color, developer, a single use packet of sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, 2 pairs of non-latex gloves, applicator brush,
stain guard, stain remover, an personalized directions.
The standard price is $19.95, however if you use my referral link below, you’ll
receive $10.00 off your first order. Shipping is $4.95.
After my first color, I asked for an adjustment and it was
very clear on the next shipment that they made the adjustment as requested. I like the gloss. It seems to add quite of bit of shine and my hair seems to really reflect light. My hair is very shiny anyway. I’ve used it both times,
however, for my next color, I’m going to try it without it. I'm thinking it might be something I use with every other color.
With the busy world that we live in, convenience can be so important. How can I save time without spending a ton of money? eSalon is here to help with that. These are great products, for good prices, that come right to your door … my favorite … our mailman loves us!
eSalon offers not only custom color, but also shampoo,
conditioner, color touch-up and enhancing products, as well as styling products
and tools. You can order products as needed or through an auto-delivery subscription
service. The subscription service is great. For first time subscribers, there
is a significantly discounted rate. Once you join, you can skip shipments,
adjust shipment dates, or cancel at any time. It’s all very easy to manage. I’m
always leery when you are asked to sign up and is says you can cancel at any
time. It always seems that you end up having trouble canceling, end up with
extra fees, or pay a lot more than you planned. There’s no gimmick here, it’s
really very simple.
Custom Color
To select your custom color, you start with a survey about
you and your hair. You then move to picking the color you are looking for. The
options are much more than I expected. You can really mix to get hues that go
past your basic blonde, brown, red, and back. The palette is quite extensive
including coppers, golds, rich auburns, and violets just to name a few.
Once you’ve chosen your color, you can free-form type
information for your expert colorist that is going to mix your color. The colorists profiles and pictures are listed on the website. You can
also upload pictures before and after your coloring. Once you’ve used the product, they ask
you to go back online and let them know if you like it or not. You can also
request changes for next time. Maybe it was too dark, too light, too copper,
not enough gray coverage? Just let them know and they will adjust before they
send the next delivery.
Your package comes in a very nice, personalized box. It
includes color, developer, a single use packet of sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, 2 pairs of non-latex gloves, applicator brush,
stain guard, stain remover, an personalized directions.
The standard price is $19.95, however if you use my referral link below, you’ll
receive $10.00 off your first order. Shipping is $4.95.
If you are looking for more shine, you can add in the Color
Enhancing Gloss, also “Made for You.” This is an accompaniment to the color
that you add to your hair shortly after you’ve started your coloring process.
After my first color, I asked for an adjustment and it was
very clear on the next shipment that they made the adjustment as requested. I like the gloss. It seems to add quite of bit of shine and my hair seems to really reflect light. My hair is very shiny anyway. I’ve used it both times,
however, for my next color, I’m going to try it without it. I'm thinking it might be something I use with every other color.
Tinted Love and
Devoted to Hue
I’m loving two products that are used for Color Enhancing,
Tinted Love Treatment and Devoted to Hue Mask. These products help extend and
enhance your color. Tinted Love is a treatment that you use between shampooing and
conditioning. You leave it on for 2-3 minutes. Devoted to Hue is used as replacement
to your conditioner. You leave it on for 10 minutes. You can use them together
or separately and they really add shine and enhance your color. I think that these products could potentially eliminate the need for the gloss, or the need to use the gloss each time.
I have a powdered root cover that I love, so I have not
tried eSalon’s Color Kiss. Color Kiss is a temporary root touch-up. It the
style that come in a tube with a small brush like mascara. It has good reviews on the site.
The Match-Up
If you like the additional products that eSalon sells, The
Match-Up is the way to go, it can save you up to 45%. It’s an auto-delivery subscription
service for the products. You select three products for $30 and the products
are delivered at the frequency you select. Again, you can adjust at any
time. You can swap in and out products; you can delay, skip, or cancel.
I’ve used the Heart Lock It Color Safe Shampoo and the Love
Unconditionally Color Safe Conditioner and like both products. I'm going to try the Volumizing Shampoo and Conditioner next time. I’ve also used
the Get Lifted Root Lift Spray. You can see my review of this product here: Turn up the volume ... a girl's suggestions for thicker, fuller hair!
With the busy world that we live in, convenience can be so important. How can I save time without spending a ton of money? eSalon is here to help with that. These are great products, for good prices, that come right to your door … my favorite … our mailman loves us!
More to come from the
mind of …
Michigan Girl's guide to getting rewarded for shopping and spending money
There are so many ways to be rewarded for spending money
today. Who doesn’t want to receive cash back for spending you are already
doing? Most of the time, it’s not too difficult, and if you put a little
strategy too it, you can receive multiple rewards for just one purchase by
stacking the rewards the same way people stack coupons.
Credit Cards
Most people are familiar with cash back from credit cards. Many cards offer
cash back on some or even all purchases. Check your current cards to see what options you have. When I selected which cards to sign up for, I checked closely to avoid any yearly fees and make sure I had some type of reward for my purchases.
Most people are familiar with cash back from credit cards. Many cards offer
cash back on some or even all purchases. Check your current cards to see what options you have. When I selected which cards to sign up for, I checked closely to avoid any yearly fees and make sure I had some type of reward for my purchases.
BankingMany banks and credit unions are moving to a reward for purchase system as well. My credit union offers a new type of checking that I’ve recently signed up for. If you meet the monthly qualifications, enroll in and log into online banking, enroll in eStatements, have at least 1 automatic direct deposit, and have at least 15 debit card purchases, you are rewarded with cash back and a reversal of any ATM fees.
Loyalty Cards
Speedway has a very successful program with the Speedy
Rewards card. Each time you purchase gas or items in the store, you receive
points. They also offer bonus items and special offers each month. If you purchase a
particular item or visit a specified amount of times, you can receive extra points. The points can later be used to purchase
various items in the store, gift cards at lots of places, or a discount per
gallon of gas.
If you log into your account online or through the mobile
app, you’ll often see additional deals, including freebies from time to time.
Most locations also offer deals where you receive 3 cents
off a gallon when you use your Speedy Card. Additionally, at some locations, if
you purchase a Fuel Card and purchase gas using the Fuel Card, you receive an
additional 3 cents off a gallon. The Fuel Cards are re-loadable so you can
continue to use them to purchase gas as save the additional 3 cents off a
gallon.
There are many companies that offer rewards for online
shopping. Two sites that I use are Ebates and Upromise. The process is simple,
start on the Ebate or Upromise site, and search for the site you’d like to shop
from, ex. Walmart, Ebay, Kohls. After you find the place you’d like to shop,
let Ebates or Upromise transfer you to the site. Different stores have different
rebates or rewards. Both Ebates and Upromise have optional toolbars that you
can install to your browser to remind you to log-in through the site before
shopping, so you can receive your reward. This is very helpful, great reminder.
Ebates
Ebates currently has a promotion, if you join from a desktop
computer, you can choose to receive a $10 gift card from Macys, Walmart,
Target, or Kohls for signing up. I just received mine in the mail.
If you refer
someone to Ebates, you receive $25 dollars. Please feel free to select this referral link.
Every 3 months, Ebates sends a cash back payment for purchases posted during the previous quarter. If you've earned less than $5.01 cash back, they carry over your money to the next check. You can choose to receive payment through a physical mailed check or PayPal. You can also choose to donate your money to another person or charity and a check will be mailed each quarter.
Upromise
Upromise works very similarly to Ebates. Upromise was
developed to help people that have student loans. The rewards you received from
Upromise can be transferred directly to your student loans, or paid to you
through a physical check.
Upromise allows people to sign up and donate their rewards
to your student loan debt. So, it’s great to share that with friends and
family. They sign up, shop online starting from Upromise and you receive the
reward.
With Upromise, you can also choose to link your credit,
debit, and store loyalty cards so that you can receive additional rewards when
dining or shopping at selected locations. Upromise also offers a MasterCard
that rewards you for purchases.
eBay Bucks
If you are an eBay shopper, you are probably already aware of
eBay Bucks. If you sign up for eBay Bucks and pay for qualifying items with PayPal,
you receive an eBay Bucks Certificate to use toward eBay purchases. You do have to sign up, but it's very simple.
When you earn $5.00 or more in eBay Bucks in a calendar
quarter (every 3 months), eBay sends you an eBay Bucks Certificate after the
quarter ends. Once they issue the eBay Bucks Certificate, you have 30 days to
use it. Qualifying items have an eBay Bucks icon.
Don’t forget to check for Promo Codes for potential for
other discounts or free shipping. I often visit Retail Me Not to find Promo Codes, the mobile app for Retail Me Not is very helpful. It can help you find promos based on your current location.
Checkpoints is another downloadable app that will also alert you of promos or sales based on your location.
Checkpoints is another downloadable app that will also alert you of promos or sales based on your location.
Stacking Rewards
With so many options to receive discounts or cash rewards,
it’s smart to stack the rewards. I try to combine multiple offers to receive the
most discounts or rewards. Always try in for at least one.
More to come from the
mind of ...
Turn up the volume ... Michigan Girl's guide to thicker, fuller hair!
Like many, I struggle to add volume to my hair. I have shoulder length, thin strands of hair, but lots of it. To keep it under control, I keep layers in my hair and often have my stylist notch cut and thin it out. I have no intention of spending hours getting ready each day, so it's important to find products that are easy to use and still effective. I'd like to share four products that I have tried and found success with.
Ion Thickening Solutions Energizing Scalp Treatment
Ion's Thickening Solutions Energizing Scalp Treatment adds fullness without hardening or leaving any filmy texture. This is a product that I use every day. I've only ever purchased the one bottle and I can't even remember how long I've had it, maybe a year, so it clearly lasts a long time.
It's a foam, much lighter than a mousse. I add it in when my hair is wet or damp. I start with the roots and run a wide-toothed comb through my hair to distribute. I then style normally. It doesn't provide much assistance with curl hold, but it does create a soft, full, all-over volume that you can easily run your fingers through. This product is vegan, paraban and sulfate free.
I purchase this product at Sally Beauty Supply Online or in the store, however, I just did a search on the website and I'm not finding it. Sally's has made many changes to the Ion line recently, hopefully they haven't dropped it! I rate this product with a 4 out of 5.
Ion Boosting Blow Dry Spray
Ion's Boosting Blow Dry Spray is a much thicker product than eSalon's Get Lifted. In fact, it's so thick that it wouldn't even come through the spray bottle, or the sprayer broke. I just pour a little in my hand and disperse evenly in my hair.
While this product is thicker, it leaves a much nicer texture in my hair. The level of fullness and curl hold is comparable to eSalon's. The bottle shows that it is a light hold product. If you are looking for something stronger, Ion does offer a similar product that is called Styling Spray Starch. I have not tried it, but will in the future.
This product is not vegan, it is parban free and does include Hydrolyzed Keratin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Silk, and Panthenol as ingredients.
I rate this product with a 4 out of 5. This is also available at Sally Beauty in the store and online, just select "Ion Boosting Blow Dry Spray" above for the link.
If you are interested in the spray starch, click here: Ion Styling Spray Starch
I use this powder on the top of my hair when it is dry. You have to be careful, it comes out fast and you can easily add too much. I use it when I'm almost done styling, before adding finishing spray.
After adding the power, a light brush will help to evenly distribute.
It creates long-lasting volume all-day.
I believe that Beyond the Zone is sold several places, but I also purchase this one through Sally Beauty online and in the store.
I rate this product with a 5 out of 5.
Just select "Beyond The Zone Rock On" above for the link.
More to come from the mind of ...
Ion's Thickening Solutions Energizing Scalp Treatment adds fullness without hardening or leaving any filmy texture. This is a product that I use every day. I've only ever purchased the one bottle and I can't even remember how long I've had it, maybe a year, so it clearly lasts a long time.
It's a foam, much lighter than a mousse. I add it in when my hair is wet or damp. I start with the roots and run a wide-toothed comb through my hair to distribute. I then style normally. It doesn't provide much assistance with curl hold, but it does create a soft, full, all-over volume that you can easily run your fingers through. This product is vegan, paraban and sulfate free.
I purchase this product at Sally Beauty Supply Online or in the store, however, I just did a search on the website and I'm not finding it. Sally's has made many changes to the Ion line recently, hopefully they haven't dropped it! I rate this product with a 4 out of 5.
This product works for all over-body, unlike Ion's however, Get Lifted also helps with holding curls. I do find this product is a little filmy and you can tell you have product in your hair. You won't be running your hands
through your hair easily with this product in.
This product is a spray that is added to damp hair before
styling. The spray is fairly thin and it distributes well.
Once I add to my hair, I style as normal.
One of the more frustrating things about this product is the packaging. Since it's a spray, there is a small plastic cap that keeps the bottle locked from spraying. It's easy to remove the cap, but usually the top comes with
it every time I take it off.
I rate this products with a 3 out of 5, mostly because I'm picky about
feeling product in my hair.
You can purchase this product through eSalon's website, just select "eSalon's Get Lifted" above for the link. I'll be posting additional reviews of eSalon's personalized hair color service soon.
I'm currently using it and loving!
through your hair easily with this product in.
This product is a spray that is added to damp hair before
styling. The spray is fairly thin and it distributes well.
Once I add to my hair, I style as normal.
One of the more frustrating things about this product is the packaging. Since it's a spray, there is a small plastic cap that keeps the bottle locked from spraying. It's easy to remove the cap, but usually the top comes with
it every time I take it off.
I rate this products with a 3 out of 5, mostly because I'm picky about
feeling product in my hair.
You can purchase this product through eSalon's website, just select "eSalon's Get Lifted" above for the link. I'll be posting additional reviews of eSalon's personalized hair color service soon.
I'm currently using it and loving!
Ion's Boosting Blow Dry Spray is a much thicker product than eSalon's Get Lifted. In fact, it's so thick that it wouldn't even come through the spray bottle, or the sprayer broke. I just pour a little in my hand and disperse evenly in my hair.
While this product is thicker, it leaves a much nicer texture in my hair. The level of fullness and curl hold is comparable to eSalon's. The bottle shows that it is a light hold product. If you are looking for something stronger, Ion does offer a similar product that is called Styling Spray Starch. I have not tried it, but will in the future.
This product is not vegan, it is parban free and does include Hydrolyzed Keratin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Silk, and Panthenol as ingredients.
I rate this product with a 4 out of 5. This is also available at Sally Beauty in the store and online, just select "Ion Boosting Blow Dry Spray" above for the link.
If you are interested in the spray starch, click here: Ion Styling Spray Starch
Last, but certainly not least is Beyond the Zone Rock On. This is a volumizing powder. Let me start by saying, I have trouble with dandruff, so the last thing I thought I'd like is a powder. However, this one is my favorite volumizing products. Sally Beauty Supply's website promotes this product was featured on Project Runway.
I use this powder on the top of my hair when it is dry. You have to be careful, it comes out fast and you can easily add too much. I use it when I'm almost done styling, before adding finishing spray.
After adding the power, a light brush will help to evenly distribute.
It creates long-lasting volume all-day.
I believe that Beyond the Zone is sold several places, but I also purchase this one through Sally Beauty online and in the store.
I rate this product with a 5 out of 5.
Just select "Beyond The Zone Rock On" above for the link.
New Year ... New Posts from Michigan Girl ... Better late than never
Well, it's been almost 2 months since my last post ... no, I haven't abandoned the blog, just ran out of time, but I'm back. I may not post everyday, but I will post more frequently! I have lots to share.
Upcoming Blogs to look forward to:
More to come from the mind of ...
Upcoming Blogs to look forward to:
- Trips to Michigan cities including Hastings, Lake Odessa, and St. Joesph in the Meandering Michigan Series.
- Product reviews for personalized hair care by mail, fruit and vegetable drinks, products to treat dark circles under eyes, Argon oil body washes and lotions, e.l.f. makeup, and sparkling waters
- New recipes including my favorite skillet red potatoes
- Other blogs that I'm reading
More to come from the mind of ...
Michigan Mulching ... no more raking and bagging!
I recently posted some pictures of the changing of the colors we are seeing in Michigan this fall. In those picture, you'll notice the very large trees in our yard. Those beautiful trees equate to many, many leaves in our yard every fall. A friend suggested we start mowing over the leaves in our yard to mulch and fertilize. We did and were amazed at how many leaves the rider mower mulched up.
I came across an article this week explaining the benefits of mowing over leaves instead of raking, substantiating our friend's suggestion. Not only does it save time and back pain from racking and bagging or burning, it also benefits your lawn. Not to mention, if you don't burn, there are costs for bagging and getting rid of the bags of leaves.
The article explained that all yards that were mulched with leaves seen a decrease in weeds, especially dandelions and crabgrass. It can also help with patches. These are all issues we are dealing with in our yard.
I didn't have a chance to get any pictures of our yard yet, but the here is a link to the article. The pictures are accurate, however, in our yard, the mulched leaves are much less visible.
Smart Gardening Article from Michigan State University:
http://www.plantmichigangreen.com/aws/MNLA/asset_manager/get_file/113897
I highly suggest you give it a try ... happy mulching!
More to come from the mind of ...
I came across an article this week explaining the benefits of mowing over leaves instead of raking, substantiating our friend's suggestion. Not only does it save time and back pain from racking and bagging or burning, it also benefits your lawn. Not to mention, if you don't burn, there are costs for bagging and getting rid of the bags of leaves.
The article explained that all yards that were mulched with leaves seen a decrease in weeds, especially dandelions and crabgrass. It can also help with patches. These are all issues we are dealing with in our yard.
I didn't have a chance to get any pictures of our yard yet, but the here is a link to the article. The pictures are accurate, however, in our yard, the mulched leaves are much less visible.
Smart Gardening Article from Michigan State University:
http://www.plantmichigangreen.com/aws/MNLA/asset_manager/get_file/113897
I highly suggest you give it a try ... happy mulching!
More to come from the mind of ...
Made in Michigan ... just in time for holiday shopping!
Yesterday I received an email with deals and one was an offer for a very interesting site called Mitten Crate. The Mitten Crate is a site that offers subscriptions for delivery of a monthly box containing new artisan products and specialty goods made in Michigan. The email said to use code "blueship" for free shipping and "bluefive" for $5 off first month subscription at check out. The site also has a Pinterest-like blog with more information about products and tasty recipes.
http://www.mittencrate.com/blog/
I've found a couple of other good sites to visit for links to Michigan Made Products, or that sell them directly. Here are the links:
Heart of Michigan
http://www.heartofmich.com/Home.html
Michigan Made
http://michigan-made.com/
Americans Working (Michigan Page)
http://www.americansworking.com/mich.html
Buy Michigan Products
http://www.buymichiganproducts.com/retailers/
An Etsy type of shop:
Handmade In Michigan
http://www.handmademi.com/
And of course the Pure Michigan Site:
http://www.puremichiganstore.org/welcome.asp
Enjoy ... happy shopping ... just in time for the holidays!
More to come from the mind of ...
Loving this warm Michigan November
Clearly October was a busy month for me. I've had plenty to blog about, but unfortunately, not enough time to blog. I think November could be just as packed, but I'm going to put that extra effort in to get some blogging done.
I'm not sure how the weather is outside of Michigan this month, but we are really enjoying this warm weather with record setting high temperatures! I didn't get to make it out and about in Michigan this summer as normal, so it's great to have fall weather that's pleasant enough to travel and shop without tracking through snow. Not to mention all the beautiful fall colors on the trees and in the sky.
I'm looking forward to sharing my recent visit to Lake Odessa as well as my upcoming visits to St. Joseph, Hastings, and Holly Michigan. I've also got some great new recipes and organic products to share!
More to come from the mind of ...
I'm not sure how the weather is outside of Michigan this month, but we are really enjoying this warm weather with record setting high temperatures! I didn't get to make it out and about in Michigan this summer as normal, so it's great to have fall weather that's pleasant enough to travel and shop without tracking through snow. Not to mention all the beautiful fall colors on the trees and in the sky.
I'm looking forward to sharing my recent visit to Lake Odessa as well as my upcoming visits to St. Joseph, Hastings, and Holly Michigan. I've also got some great new recipes and organic products to share!
More to come from the mind of ...
Just say no ... Michigan Girl's guide to time management
It's pretty common to feel overwhelmed in our daily lives with more things that need to get done than time in the day. The first way to deal with this is usually to prioritize. Determine what needs to be done and then start with the most critical tasks. Your list of "to-dos" should be about 5-10 major tasks to remain manageable. Try not to start new tasks until the critical ones are complete.
I'd like to suggest another method to help with time management, say no. I'm not suggesting being rude or skipping out on critical tasks. Be cognizant of how much you take on. Sometimes people struggle to tell someone no. The easiest way to do this is to be honest. Be honest about your time, commitments, and work-life balance. Some people don't want to seem rude or let others down, however, by over-committing yourself, you can often let people down just as easily. People are more likely to respect your honesty.
Its important to practice saying no at work as well as in your personal life. At work, you may not have the option to say no. You may need to agree to a task, but agree to work on it when it fits into your schedule. You can also look to delegate and find someone else for the task. Many times this presents an opportunity to help develop someone else. You may also find that someone just needs a little encouragement or advice and they can then do the task on their own.
Just remember, it's okay to respectfully and honestly say no. Successful time management can be critical to reducing stress and saying no is one tool to practice and learn.
See these links for tips for saying no in specific situations and more information
20 Ways to Tell Someone No
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Creel21.html
Nice People Can Say No
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/nice-people-can-say-no
More to come from the mind of ...
I'd like to suggest another method to help with time management, say no. I'm not suggesting being rude or skipping out on critical tasks. Be cognizant of how much you take on. Sometimes people struggle to tell someone no. The easiest way to do this is to be honest. Be honest about your time, commitments, and work-life balance. Some people don't want to seem rude or let others down, however, by over-committing yourself, you can often let people down just as easily. People are more likely to respect your honesty.
Its important to practice saying no at work as well as in your personal life. At work, you may not have the option to say no. You may need to agree to a task, but agree to work on it when it fits into your schedule. You can also look to delegate and find someone else for the task. Many times this presents an opportunity to help develop someone else. You may also find that someone just needs a little encouragement or advice and they can then do the task on their own.
Just remember, it's okay to respectfully and honestly say no. Successful time management can be critical to reducing stress and saying no is one tool to practice and learn.
See these links for tips for saying no in specific situations and more information
20 Ways to Tell Someone No
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/Creel21.html
Nice People Can Say No
http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/nice-people-can-say-no
More to come from the mind of ...
Boston Cream Pie Trifle simplified Michigan Girl style
One of my husband's favorite deserts is Boston Cream Pie. I've taken that idea and turned it into a easy to make Trifle.
Ingredients
1 Yellow Box Cake Mix (and the ingredients required on the box)
1 Box Instant Vanilla Pudding (and the 3 cups of milk required on box)
1 Container Chocolate Frosting
Preparation
Prepare cake mix as directed on box.
Prepare instant pudding as directed and refrigerate.
Once the cake as cooled. Cut into chunks or cubes. Layer the cake in the bottom of a Trifle Bowl. Layer pudding on top of cake and frosting on top of pudding. Repeat until you have three complete layers.
Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Return leftovers to the refrigerator.
The layering of the pudding and frosting takes some practice to make it look nice. Even if you can see some of the pudding peeking out from the frosting or the two mix together a little, it still looks and tastes great.
Enjoy!
More to come from the mind of ...
Ingredients
1 Yellow Box Cake Mix (and the ingredients required on the box)
1 Box Instant Vanilla Pudding (and the 3 cups of milk required on box)
1 Container Chocolate Frosting
Preparation
Prepare cake mix as directed on box.
Prepare instant pudding as directed and refrigerate.
Once the cake as cooled. Cut into chunks or cubes. Layer the cake in the bottom of a Trifle Bowl. Layer pudding on top of cake and frosting on top of pudding. Repeat until you have three complete layers.
Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. Return leftovers to the refrigerator.
The layering of the pudding and frosting takes some practice to make it look nice. Even if you can see some of the pudding peeking out from the frosting or the two mix together a little, it still looks and tastes great.
Enjoy!
More to come from the mind of ...
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