today’s tip

meatless monday

Switching to a plant-based diet just one day a week can make a big impact, both for you and the planet. Here are some key benefits of a weekly “meatless day”:

• 🥬  Environmental Impact: Reducing meat consumption lowers greenhouse gas emissions, conserves water, and reduces deforestation. Skipping meat just once a week makes a noticeable difference in your environmental footprint.

• 🩺 Health Benefits: Going meatless introduces more fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from plant-based foods. Plant-based diets can improve heart health, lower cholesterol, and support a healthy weight.

•  🤑 Cost Savings: Meat can be pricey. By choosing beans, lentils, and seasonal veggies, you can save money on groceries without compromising on nutrition.

• 🐄 Supports Animal Welfare: Every meatless day contributes to a decrease in demand for industrial animal farming, supporting more ethical food choices.

Here are some nutritious and tasty alternatives to meat:

• Quinoa: A complete protein with all essential amino acids.

• Mushrooms: Especially portobellos, have a savory, meaty texture.

• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia, and hemp seeds provide protein and healthy fats.

• Plant-Based Meat Substitutes: Many brands offer protein-packed, meat-like options. Theses have come a long way when it comes to the taste!

• Dairy or Plant-Based Yogurts: Greek yogurt or fortified plant yogurts add protein.

• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber.

Try a “Meatless Monday” and enjoy discovering new recipes! It’s a small change with a big impact on your health and the planet.

spotlight topic

the art of thrifting

There’s something exciting about the hunt for pre-loved treasures, and thrift shopping is a powerful way to support sustainable living. Beyond the thrill of discovery, thrifting helps reduce waste and lowers the demand for new resources. Here’s how to make the most out of thrifting for clothes, outdoor equipment, and everyday goods.

Why thrifting matters:

• Reduces Waste - Keeps items out of landfills, cutting down on unnecessary waste.

• Saves Resources - Less demand for new materials means lower carbon emissions.

• Budget Friendly - Score quality items at a fraction of the price.

• Unique Finds - Build a one-of-a-kind collection of clothes, gear, and home essentials.

Thrifting tips for a sustainable haul:

1. Go in with a Plan - Know what you're looking for, whether it’s a cozy flannel, a durable backpack, or kitchen essentials.

2. Inspect Quality - Look for sturdy materials, well-stitched seams, and minimal wear—especially important for outdoor gear.

3. Clean your Finds - Soak clothes in a mix of OxiClean and water to remove any lingering odors or stains. For outdoor gear, use a gentle cleanser safe for specialized fabrics.

4. Repurpose - Consider how items could be given new life; an old fleece might make a great pillow cover or blanket.

5. Bring your Own Bags - Skip the plastic and bring your own reusable bags for an eco-friendly checkout.

Embrace the art of thrifting—it’s easy on the wallet, good for the earth, and gives you the chance to find unique, adventure-ready gear. Happy thrifting!

a few words

biking 150 miles in a day

Recently, I took on the challenge of biking 150 miles in a single day. I set out at 6 a.m., the world still a blanketed in darkness, and returned just after sunset, tired yet exhilarated. In some ways, it felt like a race against myself, a drive to push my body and mind past familiar limits, to remind myself of what they’re capable of. I found myself stopping under bathroom dryers to warm my hands and barely thinking about fueling my body properly, completely absorbed in the rhythm of pedaling onward. By the end, even with every ache and chill, my body and mind held out for me, bringing me to the finish. There’s something humbling in these experiences—a reminder of resilience we don’t always know we have until we call on it.