Friday Favorites Series.

I’ve been wanting to go back to sharing some of my current favorites – geez I did this over 2 years ago and let it fall by the waist side. So today, I’m back at it. My blog isn’t just about food or running… or at least I don’t want it to be. I want to share some of my favorite finds with you. Food. Clothing. Whatever! I’m lucky enough to test out about 25+ products a month from various companies and I want to share what my favorites are along the way. Most don’t make it, to be quite honest. I’m pretty picky about what I put in or on my body nowadays. In my pursuit to expand my vegan diet to my lifestyle – a lot has changed for me and continues to do so. So sit back and read along. I hope you find some products to try or test out yourself. Better yet, maybe even a gift to share this holiday season.

I’ve never really been a big fan of expensive or fancy skin care lines. I cannot justify spending hundreds of dollars for cleansers, toners and moisturizers. When Made from Earth contacted me asking if I would test out their products, I was game. I didn’t want to review the products until I tested them out for a good 3-4 weeks. And it has been just about a month and I have to admit I’m a huge fan. I really zoned in on three products that I use daily and absolutely love. The texture of my skin is so soft. I never wear make-up and even my husband noticed the difference. So here are my three favorites that I will not live without…

The first is the face wash I use twice a day.

The Grapefruit Glycolic Wash gently removes surface impurities with its high concentration of Vitamin C. It is formulated with gentle jojoba beads which stimulate your skin and activate the glycolic acid.

Grapefruit contains powerful antioxidants for fighting free radical damage that ages skin prematurely. Glycolic Acid regenerates skins natural renewal process; MSM drives ingredients deep into the epidermal layer, preventing problematic skin conditions in the future. 4oz.

Next up is the face mist. STRENGTHENS THE SKIN’S NATURAL DEFENSE SYSTEM, BALANCES PH LEVELS, AND GIVES A HYDRATED REFRESHING LIFT.

Formulated to eliminate free radical damage caused by daily sun exposure and pollutants, while fighting the visible signs of aging. The combination of Vitamin C and organic citrus extracts combine to fight problem areas, while stimulating collagen and elastin production.

Citrus oils contain natural antioxidants and bioflavonoids which prevent photo aging, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. The citrus (lemon, orange, lime) essential oils in the toner are high in antioxidants and vitamin c. 2 oz.

And finally this serum that transforms your skin… no lie! I use this after the mist both morning and night. FORMULATED WITH RICH ORGANIC INGREDIENTS TO FIRM AND TONE.

This serum contains powerful organic nutrients of DMAE, vitamin A, B, C and E, and alpha lipoic acid along with the wonder oil meadowfoam. Our blended formula counteracts dryness that occurs in aging skin and increases the moisture retention capacity. This will eventually improve your skins elasticity. ProVitiamin B5 stimulates skin regeneration while the organic compound DMAE immediately tightens and firms the skin for a fresh youthful appearance. 2 oz.

Skin researchers have shown that DMAE has a firming effect on facial and neck tissue and helps diminish fine lines around the eyes and mouth. DMAE also boosts other antioxidants, resulting in increased brightness, smoothness, and wrinkle reduction. Niacinamide is the biologically active form of niacin, Vitamin B3. Studies have shown it to be useful in increasing synthesis of collagen and lipids, inhibiting the transfer of melanosomes and decreasing inflammation. Retinol Palmitate (Vitamin A) nourishes the skin and assists removing dead skin and provide an added antioxidant.

I’ve used these products for a month and still have plenty of product remaining. I use the products sparingly and little does truly go a long way.

Next up…. my favorite smoothie. Vega Sport which is my go-to smoothie every morning. You see, much to the dismay of many, I do not drink coffee. I do however have a cup of tea late morning but coffee, PSL… yeah, none of it. I rather my smoothie to kick my day off. See recipe below:

The very simple, yet tasty recipe is as follows:

6-8 Kale leaves (I use Tuscan kale aka Dinosaur) washed and hard stem removed
1.25 cups of Silk unsweetened Cashew milk
1 scoop of Vega Sport protein powder (vanilla or whatever your favorite flavor is)
1 tablespoon of Justin’s almond butter
1 teaspoon of hemp hearts
6-8 ice cubes

Directions:
Place the milk into your high powered blender and then the remaining ingredients. Blend on the smoothie setting or high until blended. Pour and enjoy!
#fuelyourbetter

My favorite new tea.

I’m a huge fan of Palais Des Thes tea. These new flavors can be served hot or cold – preferring pipping hot right now on these chillier days. Caffeine free.

Festive garden is a cocoa and orange blend. The perfect flavor combination and a great way to derail your sweet tooth when the chocolate craziness hits.

The Forest Garden is heavy on the berry flavors. If you love elderberry – this tea is for you. This infusion is made up of 8 fruits and plants. Seriously so delicious. Both teas warm your soul and make a lovely hostess gift for upcoming cookie or holiday parties.

Last favorite of the week…
I had to include a fun promo and share my favorite pants ever with Lucy Activewear. #favoritepantsever My favorites that I’ve been wearing forEVER are the Hatha leggings. I wear both the full length and the capri length.

Why do I love these? I wear them to yoga and to run. I wear them with boots and a sweater. I live in them. They are thick enough that they aren’t see-through. They are so comfortable. Run true to size and are wonderfully perfect in every way possible.

So Lucy Activewear wanted to share some happiness with one winner. One $100 gift card so you can buy your favorite pants on them. The contest is being held on my Instagram which can be found here.

Contest rules:
You must also follow @lucyactivewear on Instagram if you do not already. Message and data rates apply to Contest entry; check with your wireless carrier for details. Your posted comment is your entry in the Contest. Limit of one (1) comment/entry per person; if you post more than one (1) comment, only your first comment will be considered for possible entry in the Contest and you will NOT receive any additional entries. Any dispute as to identity of entrant to be resolved by Knead_to_cook in his/her sole discretion. By participating, entrants agree to these Official Rules and INFLUENCER’s decisions, which are final and binding in all respects. U.S. residents only.

Contest starts 10/30/2015 at 12:00pm PST and ends 11/1/2015 at 12:00pm PST.

I hope you enjoy some of my favorites this week.

October running has concluded today with my final run. It’s hard to believe the adventure that October held for me. I ran my first ultra marathon and still can’t believe it. I also made a great running friend in the process. Looking forward to our next race together that’s coming up shortly.

This week I finished up with 55 miles total and 218.07 miles for the month. My second highest month this year or ever for that matter. Again, my heart rate training continues and my pace is not an issue. Distance and listening to my body prevail. Learning not to worry about what other’s are doing is my focus. Running my own runs and having fun. Simple.

We will be traveling this weekend so I’m looking forward to this little excursion. Hoping you have a wonderful weekend.