Looks like Punxsutawney Phil correctly predicted an early spring, at least for us in the southeast. The flowers are starting to bloom, everyone’s allergies are in full swing, spring colors have been steadily making their way into my wardrobe, and several spring product launches have already made their debut. While we trudge through the time change next weekend and look forward to even more spring-ish weather the end of the month will bring, here’s 7 things for March!
One. Garden Isle
I’ve been so excited for this new launch from Leahlani. Everything they make is exquisite and if you’ve hung around here for any length of time, you know what a huge fan I am of their whole line. Everything from the fresh green hue of the oil to the lush scent, is perfect for this in between month. At the time of writing this, Garden Isle is on its way to me but Leahlani describes the scent as an “aroma of a fresh damp earth, moonlit blooms of jasmine and ylang ylang flowers, and the grounding scents of sandalwood, vetiver and cocoa”. They also say it smells a bit differently to everyone, so I’m excited to try it for myself. Stay tuned this week on Instagram, because we’ve got something fun planned to celebrate the launch!
Two. Forest Fix Deodorant
Another new launch to get excited about! Ursa Major just launched a new gender-neutral deodorant and it works! It comes in a familiar twist-up stick form and is very easy to apply. It’s not quite as long lasting as my beloved Agent Nateur Holi Rose, but it did work nearly as well and is slightly cheaper at $18, so it may be a good option. Find it here.
Three. Go Easy Shampoo and Conditioner
Another new product set from Ursa Major! Just like the deodorant (and all of their products, for that matter) the set has a gender-neutral, but fresh scent. The shampoo and conditioner works well without being fussy and is just a great all around set. I would think they would on most hair types, with the exception being very oily or fine hair, as the shampoo is slightly moisturizing and may weigh down those hair types. My husband has already taken over this set from me and the deodorant above, so I’d say it’s a good pick for guys too!
Four. How Does Your Garden Grow?
This is a perfect time of year to get your garden started and grow your own food! Even if it’s just some herbs in a sunny window. While I’m kicking myself for not taking advantage of the warmer weather we’ve had by getting an early start, I’m finalizing my seed order and looking forward to spending time with the kids getting it all going this month. I shared a lot about my garden on Instagram last year and had some questions on seeds. This article has a list of some great seed sources that are non-gmo and not owned by some of the big food conglomerates. I’m a fan of Southern Exposure Seed Exchange and have had great experiences ordering from them.
Five. Shades of Spring
I love a pretty pastel nail polish and this is the perfect month to break out the spring colors. One of my favorite safer nail brands is AILA. They have a gorgeous selection of shades and some of the prettiest pastels around. Be sure to pick up their Better Than Gel Topcoat, which is the best topcoat I’ve ever used!
Six. Keep Your Lawn Nontoxic This Year
If you caught my lawn care post last year, then you know spring is a great time to ditch the synthetic fertilizers and harsh herbicides and switch to natural with your lawn. I admittedly missed my window to put down crabgrass preventer this year! The warmer temps made it pop up earlier than expected, but if it’s still cooler where you are, there’s time. Most importantly, we’re still taking things slow, paying attention to the soil, and concentrating on keeping the grass healthy enough to choke out any weeds. You can catch the whole post on lawn care here.
Seven. Speaking of Herbicides..
There’s been a lot of buzz the last week about a report that came out showing glyphosate in several wines and beers tested- even some organic ones. Glyphosate is the key ingredient in Roundup and has been linked with cancer, reproductive issues and more. While it’s alarming to read that this dangerous chemical is lurking in our beverages, the sad truth is, it’s everywhere. It’s the most wide-spread herbicide used right now and is constantly sprayed on crops. Neighboring crops, even organic, can be effected by overspray. Residue can remain on shared food equipment and contaminate other food. It’s been found in cereals, oatmeal, baby food and more. While buying organic does help by reducing your exposure and supporting farmers not using these chemicals, glyphosate is so pervasive that it’s impossible to avoid entirely. With mounting lawsuits, I’m hopeful its use will be cut down in the near future. Until then, support your local farmers growing without it, buy organic, or grow your own!
Happy March!
*Some affiliate links used, but all opinions are always my own.
