March 2018 – user's Blog!

March 25, 2018

6 Decorative Accessories Your Plants Would Love to Call Home

Our kitchen windowsill is a little full with plant life, but it’s nice to have a mini collection of greenery to tend to. The best part about picking up a new plant is figuring out what container or accessory it’ll call home. Depending on the species, there are hundreds of options out there to choose from. I’ve pulled together a few of my favorites that’ll work for just about anything your green thumb can grow. And, if you pick up one of them, you’ll be earning Cash Back at Ebates while shopping for all the best products.

The Prehistoric Plant Perch

Say that nine times fast. Why stick to basic plant pots when you can treat your greenery to something as cool as this brontosaurus planter? The yellow ceramic is on-trend for spring and summer, and it’ll make for an excellent conversation piece. I’ve been seeing them in a bunch of different colors, including gold-plated options.

IMAX Yellow Dinosaur Ceramic Planter
from Bellacor

The Geometric Gem

I have a huge Tillandsia air plant that would feel right at home in this cool geometric hanger. If you’re unfamiliar with air plants, they don’t require dirt so you can display them just about anywhere. They need a water bath about once a week, but that’s about it. They really are the perfect plants, and this hanger planter is a nice way to show them off.

Tillandsia Large Hanger

from Gilt

The Tried-and-True Teardrop

Teardrop ceiling plant hangers are pretty popular for showcasing air plants and succulents, but you can use them for a lot of other plants as well. Cacti, flowers, mosses and vines are all nice options for filling your teardrop habitat. I use white sand in mine, but you can add rocks, dirt or even mulch. It all depends on what plants will call the teardrop home.

Glass Teardrop Hanging Planter
from Crate & Barrel
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The Creative Chalkboard

Why settle for a basic wood plant pot when you can pick up one that doubles as a chalkboard? This functional home decor would make an excellent addition to a large bay window or kitchen sill. What you write is up to you. Maybe some words of encouragement to help your new plants grow?

Gronomics Rectangular Succulent Planter with Chalkboard
from Jet.com

The Leather-Lover’s Dream

This knotted leather flower hanger is something I’d love to have in my home. Unfortunately, the navy pot and water tray don’t come with your purchase, but that’s the color I’d pick hands down. The designer, based in Portland, Oregon, makes three sizes that can accommodate pots up to 9 inches in width, so you can plant just about anything that would fit in a traditional hanging basket.

Knotted Leather Plant Holder
from Ahalife

The Cotton Classic

Few plant accessories are more classic than the cotton macrame plant hanger. I really like this one because of the weave pattern and the color. Gray is a nice neutral color, so it goes with nearly everything. It’s 6 inches wide, so it’ll fit a decent-size pot. Simple, clean and practical — what more could you ask for?

Bloomingville Cotton Plant Hanger with Tassel
from Bellacor

March 24, 2018

Smoky Eye Faceoff + Facebook Live Giveaway

Thanks for joining our Facebook Live event! If you missed the livestream, you can still watch the video and decide for yourself who won the smoky eye faceoff. Plus, you can win the makeup sets used to create the looks! And don’t forget: you’ll need to watch the video for the special code to enter our Smoky Eye Challenge Giveaway.

All the makeup featured is also available for purchase. Use the product links below and earn Cash Back!

Tarte Tartlette In Bloom Clay Palette

Lancome Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

How to Enter the Smoky Eye Faceoff + Facebook Live Giveaway:

If you’re not already an Ebates member, join more than 8 million other savvy shoppers who earn up to 40 percent Cash Back on almost everything they buy. Here’s how Ebates works. It’s free to join, and you’ll receive a $10 Welcome Bonus* at Ebates.com.
After you enter the email associated with your Ebates account, enter the exclusive code found in the video.
You can earn additional entries by sharing the event on Twitter and visiting the Ebates Instagram page.

The sweepstakes ends on April 4th, 2018 at 11:59 p.m. PST. The winners will be picked randomly through Gleam, and they will be posted on Facebook and on this blog. Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, as the winner will have 24 hours to accept the prize before we will choose another winner.

Smoky Eye Challenge Giveaway

March 21, 2018

6 Natural Remedies to Give You Glowing Skin

Although many skin-care products use synthetic ingredients to treat common skin problems, these products also often feature nature’s own solutions. These plants are used not only as a “natural” marketing trick, but also because they have antimicrobial, moisturizing and exfoliating qualities — all of which you can harness by using the ingredients themselves to create your own natural skin-care products.

For Acne-Prone Skin

Apple Cider Vinegar

It’s not likely that apple cider vinegar will melt away fat like some Internet ads claim, but it is an astringent and clears up excess oil as an all-natural acne remedy. Use a diluted amount, though, and don’t use it every day, as it may dry out your skin.

Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
from Cost Plus World Market

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a great antibacterial, but it should be used in small doses. Some research has shown that it is as effective as benzoyl peroxide in spot-treating acne (and it’s so much cheaper!). Burt’s Bees Acne Treatment includes tea tree oil and sources willow bark as its exfoliating acid, and it claims to be gentle on your skin.

Burt’s Bees Spot Acne Treatment
from Walgreens

For Dehydration-Prone Skin

Coconut Oil

There are jokes about how coconut oil has become the do-it-all oil of the year, but it is probably best used as a natural moisturizer. If you’re prone to oily skin, use it to shave your legs and soften your hands and feet. Many people swear by making their own chapstick with coconut oil. You might love the smell, but fractionated coconut oil is an option if you don’t want the overwhelming perfume following you around all day.

Art Naturals 16-Ounce Fractionated Coconut Oil
from Overstock

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera may be the oldest cure for what ails you. Unsurprisingly, many products that claim aloe vera as an ingredient are watered down. If growing the plant yourself is not an option, you can buy aloe vera gel from most drugstores. The gel is less greasy than oils and lotions, making it a great natural face product to add glow. This will soothe sunburns or irritations more than brand-name creams, and its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can speed recovery for minor skin wounds.

Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera
from The Vitamin Shoppe

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For Irritation-Prone Skin

Oatmeal

Oatmeal baths aren’t good only for treating poison ivy. Oatmeal’s soothing properties are actually anti-inflammatory, which makes it good for rashes and irritations of all kinds. It has natural fats that moisturize without adding a lot of extra oil to your skin, which means your acne won’t flare up.

Dr. Teal’s Eczema Therapy Sensitive Skin Soaking Solution
from Walmart

Neem Leaves

Neem leaves have long been shown to treat eczema and reduce inflammation and fungus. They have a multitude of uses (toothpaste and even pesticide), and the oil is available if you don’t have it growing in your garden.

Neem Aura Neem Leaf
from The Vitamin Shoppe

March 19, 2018

Off the Beaten Path: Dreamy Travel Destinations

With the rise of social media, there’s hardly a land untouched by the selfie. But here are six spots that are still under the radar. You’ll probably see a few fanny packs along the way, but these vacation destinations aren’t crowded and have views that will get you all the Instagram likes you can imagine.

Rebun Island, Japan

If you’re looking for a spring or summer getaway, Rebun Island, Japan, is a gorgeous hiking destination when the island’s peaks are covered in wildflowers. A stay on a farm is cheap, and the fresh air will revive you.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn is at once a technological metropolis and a medieval treasure, making it one of the best places to travel. Estonia’s capital city combines the earthy charm of old Europe with all the luxury you could ask for. Stay in the city for a couple days before continuing on to the fanciful frozen landscapes of Estonia. It’s easy to book a place to stay in the old city with Ebates Hotels and 5% Cash Back every day (10% on Thursdays!).

Margaret River, Australia

Tourists flock to Australia, of course, but Margaret River, in Western Australia, is not yet well known, despite its beautiful wineries. For adventure travel, it has amazing surfing and cave exploration. If you go between June and November, this coast is a visiting spot for migratory whales.

Huacachina, Peru

No, it’s not a mirage — it’s Huacachina, Peru. Locals frequent this spot, which usually means it’s where you want to go. You’ll have to be driven into this desert oasis, which isn’t too far from a real town but far enough that you’ll feel like you’re on an island.

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Samoa

Another off-the-beaten-path travel destination, this humble Pacific island still boasts plenty of gorgeous views. Ebates Hotels can help you find a fale (a thatched hut) on the beach or a luxury hotel if you prefer. If you make it to American Samoa, hop over to Western Samoa, which is full of small villages, jungles and beautiful reefs.

Nunavut, Canada

The northern tip of Canada is home to Nunavut, a sparsely populated area with plenty to do. If you are a backpacker, there are two huge national parks with climbing and hiking. In the summer, you can travel to remote towns accessible only by boat or plane and learn about the indigenous cultures.

March 18, 2018

What to Wear When the Rain Won’t Go Away

You never know what you’re going to get when spring rolls around — glowing sunshine one day, frigid temps the next; birds chirping, followed by snow falling. It’s unpredictable at best and totally erratic at worst. Hold on to your raincoat, ladies — better weather is coming (promise!). But first, a few downpours. Make the most of the wet-and-wild forecast and stay stylish (and dry) with functional and fashionable foul-weather gear. And don’t worry — you’ll be breaking out your flirty frocks and fave espadrilles in no time. Because if March and April showers bring May flowers, then you can expect a gorgeously vibrant season to come.

Calvin Klein Hooded Water-Resistant Trench Coat

A trench is a spring closet staple, so you might as well get one that will keep you looking classically stylish and staying comfortably dry.

Calvin Klein Hooded Water-Resistant Trench Coat
from Macy’s

Hunter Tall Boots

The shoes make the outfit, so invest in a pair of Hunter boots that you’ll be excited to break out when the forecast looks gloomy. These cute rain shoes don’t come cheap, but they’ll definitely brighten up any cloudy day.

Hunter Tall Boots
from Bloomingdale’s

Totes Bubble Umbrella

This essential piece of rain gear puts the “fun” in functional. A bubble umbrella acts as your own personal, well, bubble.

Totes Bubble Umbrella
from Lord & Taylor

Steve Madden Floppy Reversible Rain Hat

Protect that precious blowout with a wide-brim water-repellant rain hat. We love that this one is reversible so you can style it appropriately.

Steve Madden Floppy Reversible Rain Hat
from Macy’s

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Waterproof Tote Bag

Keep your expensive leather arm candy at home and stick with a simple tote that can withstand the wet weather.

Waterproof Tote Bag
from OpenSky

Helly Hansen Rain Jacket

Bright yellow rain jackets are classic. This one will keep you feeling warm and looking cute.

Helly Hansen Rain Jacket
from Lord & Taylor

Jack Rogers Sallie Rain Booties

Add an unexpected pop of color to your rainy-day outfits with these super fun and girlie short booties.

Jack Rogers Sallie Rain Booties
from Saks Fifth Avenue

March 12, 2018

What’s Your Spirit Beach?

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You’ll find both sea and shore at any beach, but each spot has its own story. Whether you’re planning a last-minute spring break or you desperately need to disappear for a bit of R&R, finding the right beach to soothe your soul involves a little self-reflection. Above, five questions to decide the U.S. coast that makes your spirits soar.

Shop the Results

Cut Your Meal-Prep Time in Half With These 5 Tools

If you’re trying to live a healthier lifestyle, meal prepping will help you reach your goal. But, if you’re not careful, the process can take up half of your Sunday. These tools help me go from cutting board to completed meals in less than two hours, and they can help you too. Plus, if you pick them up through Ebates, you’ll be earning Cash Back while shopping for all the best products.

One Pot to Rule Them All

My Lodge enamel dutch oven is one of the best investments I’ve made in the meal prep arena. It’s huge, so I can fit enough ingredients in it to make enough food for half the week, and it’s easy to clean. Plus, since I’m only using one pot, I save a lot of time cleaning up. If you’re in need of an easy meal prep idea, try sweet potato and turkey hash. I use a couple packages of ground turkey, four or five medium sweet potatoes, garlic, onion, poblano peppers, jalapeños and whatever spices I’m into at the moment.

Lodge EC6D43 Color Enamel Dutch Oven, Red, 6 Quart
from Overstock

Garlic Game-Changer

I love garlic, but I hate peeling it. This little piece of silicone changed my garlic game forever. It’ll do the same for you. Simply toss in a clove or two and roll it back and forth with your hand on a flat surface like your cutting board. The papery skin will fall right off. It helps me peel garlic in literally half the time. And my hands don’t reek for the rest of the day.

Scroll Garlic Peeler
from GILT

Lettuce On the Fly

A lettuce spinner is one of the kitchen tools you never knew you needed until you own one. No more waiting for lettuce to dry between stacks of paper towels or attempting to shake off the water. A few presses on the pump and you’ve got dry greens. It even has a built-in brake so you don’t have to wait for the internal basket to stop spinning.

OXO
Salad Spinner 4.0
from Macy’s

Instant Food Gratification

I can’t write about meal prep tools without mentioning the legendary Instant Pot. It really is worth the hype — even if you only use it for one function. I typically use it to make foods that would normally take upwards of an hour to cook, like rice or beans. They’re always done in half the time without losing any flavor or moisture.

Instant Pot Ultra
from Sur La Table

A Full Week of Meals in a Snap

I love these meal prep containers because they’re just big enough to hold a decent-size serving and stack really well in the fridge. I’ll set them all out on the kitchen table while I cook and portion my food in as I go. That allows me to offload each batch of finished food and clean up while I’m waiting for other things in the oven or on the stove. It’s time management at its finest, and these containers help me get the job done.

Snapware Airtight Plastic 4.5-Cup Rectangle Food Storage Container
from Jet.com

March 3, 2018

Portable Single-Serve Brewers for Your Kind of Morning

When you’re having the kind of morning where you’ve barely brushed your hair, you don’t have time to wait for a drip, drip, drip coffeemaker. These brewers are good for small spaces, taking on the go or making coffee at your desk if you need to. Something else I like about single-serve brewers is that taking them apart and cleaning them is a simpler process, and a few feature bottle and brewer as one jar. Don’t drink coffee? Loose-leaf tea and water infusers have some beautiful, portable solutions.

Single-Cup Connoisseur

Maybe you know enough coffee fanatics to not be surprised that there is an Olympics of single-cup coffee making and the gold goes to the Aeropress. There are some hard-core fans of this very simple gadget, which uses an airtight suction seal as part of its magic, and there are detailed, award-winning, step-by-step instructions for the exact kind of coffee quality you could want for every variety of brew.

AeroPress Coffee & Espresso Maker
from Kohl’s

Campfire Barista

If you can’t live without your espresso even when you’re off the grid, the MiniPresso is your gadget. This single-serve espresso maker does not require electricity, just some manual labor. The function is very similar to the Aeropress, with a stronger espresso shot.

Wacaco Portable Mini Espresso Maker
from Bed Bath & Beyond

Unfussy Fuel-Up

Here’s the real grab and go. The Full Circle Brumi bottle is a single-serve coffeemaker in which brewer and bottle are one, so you don’t need to remember a mug or scrub the scum off the one in the office kitchen. The double-walled bottle is the perfect size and is good for keeping your hands safe from hot temperatures. If you think ahead, you can do a cold brew the night before and take it out of the fridge as you run out the next morning.

Brumi Pour Over & Cold Brew To-Go Bottle
from Food52
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Fancy Hydration

The Tia Infuser encourages your H2O consumption with its cold-water tea bottle. If you prefer a citrus wake-up, you can use it as a fruit infuser too. That way, you can pretend you went to the spa for that cucumber-strawberry water instead of spending all morning doing errands.

Tia Infuser Water Bottle
from Anthropologie

Zen Tea Moment

The Magisso teacup design isn’t only charming for its good looks — it’s functional too. The filter can handle even fine, loose-leaf teas, and it pops out easily for cleaning. You can play with the strength of your steeping by adjusting the tilt or reuse the same leaves for more than one cup.

Magisso Oblique Fall Smart Teacup
from AliExpress

Road Trip Convenience

The Cafflano Klassic would be the single-serve coffeepot to tote around during the zombie apocalypse. The stainless steel tumbler is insulated to keep your coffee hot, and the lid actually contains a hand-crank grinder. But truly, this is a traveling coffee machine that doesn’t sacrifice quality.

Classic Cafflano KLASSIC all-in-one coffee maker
from Rakuten Global Market