Style it Up for Fall

Retro Glam by Sara Emberson

It's that time of year again...fall is in full swing. Although here in Dallas, TX it may not seem that way with all our warm weather we keep experiencing, however I know enough from my past here that the weather will get cool and it'll happen over night!  One thing I like about this season, besides the break from the oppressive heat, is the Fall/Winter fashions! I love layering jackets and boots, with accessories and scarves.  But just because the cold air makes us cover up more does not mean you can't style it up just as much as you do on warmer days.

The look above is my latest Polyvore creation!  I seriously have almost identical pieces of each garment in my closet so I'm super excited to try this look out.  All of the pieces that is except for the jewelry!   Have no fear though, the beautiful art deco like jewelry you see is made by none other than the amazing Chloe + Isabel, an online jewelry boutique accessible 24 hours a day for all my shopping needs.

From the Estate Vintage collection, both statement pieces are sure to bring an instantly chic and trendy look to any outfit.  For more styles like these and other fashion forward jewelry shop my Chloe+Isabel boutique today!

Estate Vintage necklace: $148     Estate Vintage bracelet: $62

http://saraemberson.chloeandisabel.com/shop-our-jewelry/all-jewelry

 

The Giving Keys

Pay it forward.  A saying we may hear often, yet how many times do we actually act upon it..even if it has to start with us?  Sometimes a simple word of encouragement to others letting them know that somebody does care can be all they needed to keep life going.  Caitlin Crosby, a young Hollywood actress, had the same ideals and decided to put it into action and encourage others to 'pay it forward' as well.  

It was simple yet impacting.  Crosby would have keys engraved with encouraging words to wear around the neck as a constant motivation to never give up.  You can personalize it with a word that inspires you or give a key to a friend or a complete stranger, whoever needs support.  The idea is that at some point in time you are to 'pay it forward' and give your key to someone else who needs that word of encouragement.   

Caitlin Crosby

Soon there after Caitlin had a fateful encounter with a homeless couple on the streets of LA.  Falling in love with their story and hearts, she knew she had found the missing link and The Giving Keys was born.   Now with business partners on board they could finally bring the dream to life.  Cera and Rob both hand engrave the keys, take care of shipping and make sure all orders are filled.  This blessing has given them the opportunity to earn enough money to get off the streets and back in school.  The Giving Keys now not only support them, but also gives back to many shelters and transitional homes all over the Los Angeles area. 

Be sure to get on The Giving Keys website to read the many testimonies of those that have passed their encouraging keys on and how it has changed their lives.

You can order a personalized key at www.thegivingkeys.com or shop 

 ARTIFAKS at 206 S Broad St  Cedar Hill, TX  972-293-6883

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Artifaks/324330820992419?fref=ts

Check out the video below as Caitlin Crosby introduces Cera and Rob and shares a little of thier story!


  

Thirty One Bits

Northern Uganda. We all know this as one of the most dangerous and ruthless war zones in the world.  A war that has lasted over 25+ years and left over 2 million people displaced.  So much loss, so much suffering and so much tragedy you would think that there was no hope left there...just a people of pain. Kallie Doval saw something much different though when she visited the area back in 2007.  She met an inspiring group of women who made the most beautiful paper beads and even more amazing was the sense of hope and purpose that each individual revealed with every spoken word and smile.  Kallie knew right then and there that she was going to come up with a plan of action to help these ladies market and sell their product.  All she needed to do was simply take what was already there and help push it to the next level.  Returning in 2008 with a handful of friends and a business plan, 31 Bits was born and ready to take off.  The company started with a small handful of 6 women who would create the monthly inventory needed for sales.  Now the company employs over 99 women each with "a unique story of suffering that has been overcome with joy and liberation".

Something divine happens when we choose to open our eyes and see beyond the surface and move deeper into the heart and soul of others.  What we will find is that we have a lot more in common with them than we realize. These are women who have seen tremendous horror and experienced some of life's most harsh tragedies, yet possess a desire to rise from the ashes and makes something beautiful of their lives.  I can't help but get a little emotional when I step back and look at just how blessed we really are.  We can become so caught up in the rush of our Westernized lives and materialistic ways that we forget what it's all about.  Their lives are simple yet profound!  They never asked for help or a hand out or expected anyone to make things better for them.  These Ugandan women only want what has been their right to have all along.  The right to provide a good life for their children and a chance to start over.  And now they are.  

Each women signs a 4 year contract to be apart of 31 Bits and during that time they are educated and trained to sustain their own profitable business once released from the program.  Now possessing life skills and a trade combined with the necessary business knowledge, there is no limit as to what they can accomplish for themselves, their families and community.  Orambi Gladies, the Livelihoods Programming Manger has said their main purpose is to "empower the most vulnerable of women"...and 31 Bits has done just that.  

How can  you help? How can you become involved and make a difference?  It's so simple...become a fan of 31 Bits and give back! Every piece in the collections are hand made by a women there in Uganda.  They are the designers....they choose the color palette, size of beads, patterns and length of each piece. Choose your favorite styles...read up on the designer...and make a purchase!  We continue to support and employ these powerful women when we wear our jewelry and share their stories.  

Where can you find 31 Bits?? You can purchase online or for a more up close and personal experience with each design visit ARTIFAKS at 206 S Broad St  Cedar Hill, TX  972-293-6883

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Artifaks/324330820992419?fref=ts

www.31bits.com

Empowering The Most Vulnerable

I am really excited about the next few days and the post to come!  Everyday over the next week I will feature a different company that is changing the lives of women all over the world every single day.  These stories have inspired me and I couldn't help but to share their message so that others can become involved and feel inspired as well. These empowered people have turned businesses into the true definition of  what it means to give back and are conscious of both the creator and the consumer.  People who have traveled the world and seen some of the most depraved areas, full of poverty and sickness, surprisingly encountered sparks of joy and ambition in the eyes of the people and were moved to do something about that.  

The jewelry and apparel lines we'll be looking at all offer some amazing designs and pieces.  Since I have a love for the fashion industry as well as a passion to help others, this is the most perfect of unions to me! 

I hope that you not only love the creativity and talent devoted to each piece of jewelry as much as I do, but even more so allow these stories to penetrate your heart and motivate you to help give back and  empower women around the globe!

 a peek at what's to come....

Easy Wall Art

So my niece just recently turned 15 and honestly, I was kind of stuck on what to get her.  I wanted to do something a little more personal than the usual clothes or shoes or another hand bag.  Somehow I was going to find something that was unique and inspiring for her as she continues into her teenage years.  So...

First I picked an image online using one of my favorite quotes.  "Keep  your heels, head and standards high".  I absolutely love this and it leaves her with some wise words from her aunt as well ;o)

Next I picked out a  blank canvas large enough to comfortably fit the images I had printed off and decided on a background.  Pink chevron was the winner!  The easiest way for me to make it even with straight lines was to use duck tape as my stencil which is the perfect width for this size canvas.  Using a ruler, I drew horizontal lines in pencil to create boundaries for the chevron print so I would know where to line up the tape. After the stencil had been laid down I filled in between with pink paint.  Once it was completely dry, I then used just a little glue to secure the image on the canvas.  (I recommend using stick glue as the best option for this part of the project.)

  

Finally once everything was dry and in place, I painted the entire canvas with a thin layer of  Modge Podge.   I later added a second coat just to seal the deal.  And..voila!..you're done!

Apple Cider Vinegar...a must have!

I had heard rumors of apple cider vinegar and how it was a miracle worker so I decided I would try it out for myself and see what all the fuss was about.  Remember the blog about coconut oil...? well this is the other half of the story. :o)

I started by using it as a toner in my nightly routine before bed.  Mix 1/2 apple cider vinegar and 1/2 water, be sure to shake well, squeeze onto cotton ball and apply evenly to face (avoiding the eyes of course).  The smell can be quite potent at first, but once you start to see the results..well the smell just doesn't matter that much anymore. 

Recently I have been inspired to find as many different uses as I can for all natural products and implement them into my daily life.  So much like the coconut oil, I set out to research just what all this cider could do for me.  I was amazed when I found out just exactly how helpful it really can be.
 
NaturalNews.com shows us many ways it is beneficial to your health. Below are some other fun uses for apple cider vinegar that I have no doubt you will like!



* Add shine and body to your hair. Mix 1/2 tablespoon of ACV to 1 cup of cool water. Pour through hair after cleaning 3x a week

*Rub ACV to swollen hands and feet to help relieve pressure

*Sunburnt?  Add 1 cup of ACV to your bath water and soak in it for at least 10 mins.

*Want to get rid of those pesky stains on your teeth?  Rub ACV directly to teeth and rinse

*Just drink it! Adding 2 tesaspoon of ACV to 16 oz of water a day and drinking will help increase weight loss. Sip concoction throughout the day.  Increase the dosage to help detox your body and flush your kidneys all day long.

*All purpose cleaner - 1/2 cup of ACV to 1 cup of water. Use this mix to clean everything in your house! Microwaves, kitchen counters, windows, glasses, mirrors, etc.  It also serves as a disinfectant!

*Need to rid your best buddy of those annoying little fleas?
Rub ACV onto your pets skin, add a little to thier drinking water and spray a mix of 50/50 water adn ACV onto your pets and furniture to help reduce flea presence. 



There are many many more....check them out online or start with these few here.  Enjoy being healthy as well as looking and feeling better!

coaster make-over...to easy!

Instead of throwing out your old coaster that are still in good condition, just give them a make-over instead!
I've had a set of 4 coasters for years that I decided either needed a complete change somehow or I was going to throw them out.  Opting for the first option, like most crafters/artist would, I set out to change the world!....well at least my coasters anyway. ;o)

I found this thick textured paper at Michael's for $1.99 a sheet. I only have four coasters so I only needed one.  I decided to go with this bright red reptile print to spice up my coffee table and bring some more color into the room.  Yes, even small items like bright colorful coasters can make a difference.  The eye will naturally gravitate to the item and recognize it as an accent color. 

Lay the coasters face down on the back side the of paper and trace around each and cut out your circles.

Now glue the circles to the coasters (back side to top of coaster) and let sit, face down like above for a while to ensure they have dried.
Once they are sealed in place, take a razor edge and cut any eccess paper off.

Next, you'll want to paint a layer of Modge Podge of the top of each. Make sure it also covers the sides and edge of paper to secure it and keep it from peeling back.  I even took my finger and pressed the edges down firmly all around the coaster just to reassure it stays in place.

Finally, let dry over night and voila..brand new set of coasters! Enjoy!





The Infamous Coconut Oil

I am a huge fan of using all natural things and believe the majority of what we need has been graciously provided right outside our front doors.  Nature is full of ingredients that have multiple purposes, not only for cooking and the inside of our bodies, but to help nourish our skin and hair as well.  One of my favorite of these is raw organic coconut oil that can be found at any local grocery store.

(I found this Artisana brand at Whole Foods)

I first started using the oil as a night time moisturizer after receiving a tip one day while getting a facial.  Susan, who had done many facials on me before, had recently added it to her nightly routine and loved the results. Using less than a dime size amount, I noticed that when stored at room temperature, the coconut oil immediately melted and became a liquid once it touch the heat of my skin.  So I started experimenting with other ideas and would mix half and half with my favorite smelling body lotion just to give it that extra touch of moisture and shine.  I soon came across a whole list of other ideas for this wonder oil and just had to share with my readers!

• Eye Make-Up Remover - this oil has anti aging/wrinkling properties. So go ahead, put some under your eyes, smooth over entire face and rub into you lips. Muah!
• Skin Soother - coconut oil is perfect for any type of irritant on the skin. Burns, scars, prevents blistering and peeling and is a great fill in to use on fresh tattoos until healed.
• Massage Oil - yup, edible massage oil. Or this is where I might add a few drops of my favorite scented lotion for an even more favorable smell.
• Oil Pulling - You might be wondering what this is exactly, just like I did at first.  Oil pulling is utilizing oils such as this to pull the negative bacteria and toxins out of the hard to reach crevices of our mouth that sometimes toothbrushes and floss just can't get to. These oils extract the negatives, allowing space for positive and healing minerals to be absorbed back into the body. This method has been known to help conditions like chronic fatigue, allergies, diabetes, PMS, migrane headaches, chronic skin problems and more.   To do this: put a spoonful of oil in your mouth for about 20 mins while you swish back and forth through teeth. Seem weird enough? But definitely worth trying!
• Cooking tool - I'm sure this seems to be the most obvious use.  If the thought of spooning it up and oil pulling leaves you a little naseaus, then try fitting it into your diet by replacing any cooking oil with coconut oil!
• Toothpaste - Mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda until you reach a consistency you like. Store in refridgerator
• Pre Shave and After Shave - what an easy and affordable way to keep your skin smooth after a shave while not clogging your pores either.
• Hair Treatments - There are many ways to use coconut oil on your hair both wet and dry.  For all over hair & scalp treatment, take a small amount and rub into the scalp then begin working it down to your ends. Tie hair up in shower cap and let set for a bout 10 mins. Get in shower and shampoo/condition as usual. OR for wet hair, after you get out of the shower, take a very small amount in palms and rub into the ends of wet hair and let dry as ususal.  For more coarse hair, coconut oil is a great way to restore natural oil to the hair and can be used daily as a leave in conditioner on wet and dry hair alike. **TIP add just a small amount or few drops to your shampoo or conditioner for a daily softness that will help restore the hair shaft and produce strong shiny hair.



Easy Onesies

One of the first things I noticed when I had a baby girl was that the majority of clothing options for her were your basic pink and purple.  Now I know there are some really cute websites that offer adorable trendy options, but those often come with a high dollar price tags as well.  So I decided to take it upon myself to make my daughter some unique onsies that were more a refletion of her own personl style!...or mine I guess ;o)  I found these patches at Michael's and Hobby Lobby for less than $3 a piece.  All the iron on items needed were included so there was no need for additional wunder under or anything. I bought a 3 piece pack of blank onesies from Buy Buy Baby, but they are available at almost any store that sells baby stuff.  This probably took me maybe 30 mins to a hour to complete all three. 
Paired with some jegging and baby Toms....adorable!

It's only the begining...

So, this is offcially my first post to the Native Green blog and I have to admit that I'll be back tracking a bit. For almost the last year I have wanted to start a blog and have had a hundred different ideas that just never seemed to actually make there way to the computer keys. I have also been fortunate enough with in these last few months to become a first time mother.  Having a child has changed me in so many positive ways, one of those being how her presence has reawakened the creative side of me that I had let lay dormat way to long. Another major reason for my need to create and enjoy the simple things in life, is my daughter's father. He is an amazing artist and I am inspired by his talents and attention to detail everyday. Although this may be long over due, I'm excited to finally share my journey of life with you and hopefully inspire something in you along the way! Thanks and enjoy!