Category Archives: CULTURE + HAPPENINGS

HAWKs LA: Reconnecting Children With Nature 

March 5, 2024

Hey LA Parents!  Please check out this amazing Curriculum-Focused Day Camp With Programming Like Forest Bathing, Salad Foraging and Natural Art Dye:

HAWKs LA (Hiking Adventures With Kids) is an LA-based after-school program and day camp that is dedicated to reconnecting children with nature and away from screens. The company was developed by experienced educators, naturalists and parents and is offering a dynamic curriculum beyond traditional learning like Forest Bathing, Salad Foraging, Natural Art Dying and more. 

HAWKS camp

“HAWKs was created as an investment in our children’s wellness as much as an investment in the future or our environment,” says co-founder Emma Flanders.

As “explorers” (what the camp calls their campers) continue to navigate further into understanding the planet, they begin to earn more than just experience. HAWKs has a colorful badge system celebrating the kids’ accomplishments and learnings, helping to encourage excitement about the world around us. Plus, explorers can show off their creativity and personal style. 

Their mission continues to touch many families as there is growing evidence that links the lack of nature in a child’s life to the rise in obesity, attention disorder and depression. On average kids only get 4-7 minutes of outdoor free play and 1 in 3 children have never climbed a tree. HAWKs wants to change these statistics and with their robust programming, have started to make incredible strides. 

“One of the main things we teach students is how to identify native plants. It’s amazing to watch students, even as young as five, begin to see our beautiful chaparral not as a blur of brown and gray shrubs that might poke you or make you itchy, but as a complex and bountiful ecosystem full of unique plant life,” says Emma. 

 

You can find their full list of programming on the HAWKs site. You can register your explorers for upcoming school closures like Spring Break, April 24th, and of course, Summer Camp as well as Weekend Adventures like Natural Plant Dye workshops and Salad Foraging!

Nada Jones Of Liberty Road

January 18, 2024

Nada Jones

Over at Micropause, my wellness brand for midlife women, perimenopause and beyond – we are thrilled to feature a luminary in the realm of midlife exploration—Nada Jones of Liberty Road. In this exclusive spotlight, we delve into the profound insights and transformative vision that Liberty Road brings to the intricate tapestry of midlife.

Nada Jones, the driving force behind Liberty Road, invites us to pause and reflect on the questions that define this pivotal phase. Over at the Micropause Midlife Maze, we navigate the twists and turns of midlife, guided by Nada’s wisdom and the unique perspective Liberty Road offers.

In the Micropause Midlife Maze, we illuminate the stories and voices that inspire, and Nada Jones stands at the forefront, embodying the essence of midlife as a transformative journey. Let’s venture together into the Micropause Midlife Maze, where Nada Jones takes center stage, guiding us through the labyrinth of possibilities that midlife unfolds.

Nada Jones, is the Founder, CEO and podcast host of Liberty Road . In the labyrinth of life, Liberty Road emerges as a beacon for those navigating the intricate terrain of midlife. Defined by the philosophy that there’s freedom in earned experience, Liberty Road invites midlife women like ourselves, to pause and reflect, and ask the pivotal question: “Now that you know who you are, what are you going to do about it?”

This platform, encompassing a podcast, website, and Masterclass series called Afterschool, embarks on a mission to redefine the narrative of midlife. Departing from the patterns of the past and future decades, Liberty Road recognizes this phase as the distinctive middle third—a time for introspection, reinvention, and the pursuit of new possibilities. We are all in!

What we love about all things Liberty Road is the invitation to traverse this transformative path, redefine midlife and envision a world where the wisdom, experience, and self-awareness of this phase become catalysts for renewed purpose and fulfillment. Nada has created a thriving, juicy community that we could not be more aligned with – one that beckons to expand our imagination about the possibilities that lie ahead. The midlife conversations Nada has with her guests seek to challenge conventional perceptions of midlife, emphasize its uniqueness and potential and advocate that these years are not a mere continuation of the first 30 or a precursor to the last 30 but represent a distinct phase marked by growth and evolution. Can we get a hell yes!

Head to the Midlife Maze blog to read about it!

And grab some wellness support gummies while you’re at it!

Follow Liberty Road: @thisislibertyroad

Explore the website, podcast and After School Masterclass.

 

Art, Elevated At The Artist Tree: Saturday, January 20

January 17, 2024

Prepare to unleash your creativity and dive into a world of artistic inspiration fueled by the delightful effects of cannabis. This unique event invites you to join the festivities alongside KeeneVisions, a talented creative spirit from Seattle, for an afternoon filled with flower-themed painting and elevated vibes.

(Sharing some of my own ecstatic watercolors for mind expanding inspo!)

Emily Wagner, watercolor on paper

The venue, hosted by The Artist Tree, promises an unforgettable experience. The event kicks off with a chance to immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of the consumption lounge – the ideal prelude to your upcoming artistic adventure. Once you’re in the groove, ascend to the artist studio where a curated and elevated journey of artistic expression awaits.

Attendees are encouraged to bring an open mind and attire that can handle a bit of paint splatter. It’s an opportunity to let loose and embrace the artistic process in a welcoming environment.

Now, let’s delve into what this unique experience has in store for attendees:

Emily Wagner, watercolor on paper

The Experience

The organizers have you covered on all fronts – from art supplies to expert guidance and exclusive entry into The Studio Lounge. The event begins with a pre-painting session in the swanky cannabis consumption lounge, setting the tone for the creative journey ahead. As you move upstairs to the artist studio, you’ll be guided to craft your own masterpiece. The event is designed for participants of all skill levels to enjoy and appreciate the artistic process.

About The Studio Lounge

Nestled in the heart of West Hollywood, The Studio Lounge at The Artist Tree is not your average venue. It’s a haven for smoking, entertainment, and igniting creative sparks. As the #1 licensed consumption lounge in Southern California, it offers indoor and outdoor seating, captivating art exhibits, food options, local entertainment, and wellness classes. Conveniently located next to The Artist Tree West Hollywood retail cannabis dispensary, it provides a holistic experience for attendees.

Emily Wagner, watercolor on paper

Food & Drinks

Satisfy your cravings with the mouthwatering menu of fresh California-style cuisine. From chopped salads to artisanal pizza, tacos, and freshly-baked cookies, there’s something for every palate. Whether you grab an espresso on the go or take a leisurely break, the dishes are crafted for an elevated state of mind. Additionally, the rotating menu of handcrafted cannabis cocktails adds an extra layer of excitement to the culinary offerings.

Mark your calendars, pack that open mind, and get ready for a paint-splattered, cannabis-infused journey into the world of art and good vibes. This event promises to be an experience like no other!

More Details

They do not allow onsite consumption of outside cannabis products or food and beverages.

To learn more about The Studio Lounge and follow us on instagram @theartisttree and @thestudiolounge_official

The Studio Lounge at The Artist Tree

8625 Santa Monica Boulevard West Hollywood, CA 90069

A BAR ABOVE: Cocktail Sets That Will Cause A Stir

November 21, 2023

Stirred cocktails, like Martinis & Manhattans, are some of the most iconic drinks in any mixologist’s repertoire. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can start creating restaurant-quality stirred cocktails at home.

So what are these tools, and how can you be sure that you are getting the best value for your money?

Enter A Bar Above, a family-run premium mixology brand co-founded by Chris Tunstall, a professional bartender & bar manager. A Bar Above’s products are wallet-friendly, durable, and stylishly designed, making them a must-have for any home bar. In addition to offering top-quality tools, the brand also offers a suite of courses that cover everything you need to know to get started and expand your skills in mixology.

You can find A Bar Above on Amazon! There you’ll find several sized Craft Cocktail Sets. They also offer really cool Bar Basics Course which is such a fun creative gift.

Instagram: @abarabove
TikTok: @abarabove
YouTube: @abarabove
Facebook: @abarabove

Ward 8 Cocktail Ingredients

To craft this delicious cocktail, gather the following simple ingredients:

  1. Rye Whiskey: Opt for a quality rye whiskey, known for its robust and spicy character. This helps balance the Ward 8’s sweet and sour flavor profile.
  2. Fresh Lemon Juice: Use fresh lemons rather than store bought juice to infuse your Ward 8 with natural, bright citrus notes.
  3. Grenadine: A sweet and tangy pomegranate syrup, a hint of grenadine for sweetness adds depth to the cocktail.
  4. Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice imparts a delightful, citrusy tang that complements the other flavors, especially when the two citrus juices are mixed together.
  5. Maraschino Cherry or Orange Slice: A maraschino cherry or orange slice (or even a piece of orange zest) serves as a classic garnish, although it’s also common to skip a garnish on this one.

 

oranges and lemons for a classic whiskey cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Levi Meir Clancy via www.unsplash.com

 

How to Make a Ward 8

In this week’s video, Chris not only makes the classic Ward 8 cocktail but also shows you his Ward 8.1 version using his secret ingredient… Limoncello! Check it out here:

 

Ward 8 Variations

Chris himself offers two variations today; before we riff on this Boston classic, let’s look at the basic recipe:

  • 2 ounces rye whiskey
  • 1/2 ounce lemon juice
  • 1/2 ounce orange juice
  • 1/4 ounce Grenadine

While this vintage cocktail is really yummy with its citrus flavor and signature sweetness, here are a few variations to explore:

  1. Ward 9: Swap out the rye whiskey for bourbon, adding a smoother and slightly sweeter profile to the cocktail.
  2. Ward 8 Royale: Top off your Ward 8 with a splash of sparkling wine or champagne for a touch of effervescence.
  3. Winter Ward 8: During the colder months, add a dash of aromatic bitters, such as Angostura or cinnamon bitters, to bring warm notes to your drink– This plays well with the rye mixture.
  4. Tropical Ward 8: Experiment with incorporating a splash of pineapple juice or coconut water for a fruity, refreshing twist. It will play with the other citrus flavors and add a tropical feel.
  5. It’s also popular to use fresh lime juice instead of lemon.
  6. If you’re feeling ambitious and/or creative, make your own homemade grenadine instead of using the overly-sweet store-bought version. Create your own pomegranate simple syrup of sorts by combining equal parts pomegranate juice and sugar with a splash of orange flower water or 1 ounce lemon juice. Note: This natural grenadine won’t produce the same bright color of traditional sweet tart syrup from stores. Don’t be surprised if your final cocktail doesn’t look like our photos!

 

craft cocktail in a chilled glass

Photo by Alex Kubsch via www.unsplash.com

 

Gotta Love This Classic Whiskey Cocktail

The Ward Eight is a classic rye whiskey cocktail that brings together whiskey, citrus, and grenadine for a balanced drink.

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or impress guests at your next gathering, the Ward 8 offers a delightful blend of flavors and a touch of American history. So, gather your ingredients & your cocktail shaker and perfect your shaking technique– It’s time to make the Ward 8!

famous drink Ward 8, a classic whiskey cocktail, with 1 ounce orange juice

Copyright A Bar Above

 

Ward 8

A twist on the classic cocktail, this surprisingly bright & bitter is a tasty way to use orange juice in a non-sweet drink, adding Limoncello & subbing in single malt whiskey to round out the drink.
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Course: Drinks

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 oz Single Malt Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 oz Limoncello
  • 1/2 oz Orange Juice
  • 1/4 oz Grenadine

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake for 10-15 seconds.
  • Use your Hawthorne cocktail strainer and fine strainer to double strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  • Optional: Garnish with an orange peel and/or cocktail cherry.

Indulge in Radiance: Ultaceutical’s Ultra BAM Facial Experience At The Fairmont Spa

November 20, 2023

Embark on a journey of indulgence and rejuvenation, prep your holiday skin, or get red-carpet ready with Fairmont Spa Ultra BAM Treatment for Radiance & Glow. Nestled within the luxurious confines of the Fairmont (more on this EPIC spa later!!), this oasis of serenity beckons you to unwind, relax, and treat your skin to the ultimate pampering.

Today, I experienced the Ultra BAM for Radiance & Glow Treatment facial! –  truly a skincare experience that unveiled a radiant and glowing complexion like never before. Let’s call it transformative as I left more than refreshed and revitalized, I am truly radiant!

The secret weapon is the legacy Australian brand used: Ultraceuticals.

The Ultraceuticals philosophy is a ‘progressive rather than aggressive’ approach to a consumer’s skin journey. They focus on formulations that are results-driven without compromising on texture and aroma, and that’s what makes them unique in the cosmeceutical skin arena.

Onto this HOLIDAY GLOW treatment!
  • Goals are to restore skin from premature aging or sun damage with high-strength Brightening Accelerator Mask featuring Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s), Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Vitamin B3 combined with a powerful blend of brightening agents.  (YUM!!)
  • Onto, corrective cosmeceutical serums infused with UltraINFUSION work in synergy to diminish dark spots and hyperpigmentation to reveal a brighter, clearer complexion.

It was divine – and I am deeply in love with this line – (Also how am I just discovering it??). I also loved Ingrid, my aesthetician.

Can’t make it to the Fairmont?

Here are some great gift sets curated for this gift-giving season.

Limited Edition Holiday Skincare Kits:

The Luminous Skin Gift Set ($105)

The Optimal Hydration Gift Set ($145)

The Soothe and Calm Gift Set ($165). 

This legacy brand (started 25 years ago) uses only the highest quality active ingredients, innovative delivery systems like their trademarked Ultra-RETI™ and MicroElastin® technology, while focusing on repairing and maintaining a healthy skin barrier, resulting in the brand being the preferred cosmeceuticals skincare line in over 600 professional salon, clinics, and medi-spas around the globe.

EFFICACIOUS

Each Ultraceuticals product is carefully researched, formulated and tested in a variety of environments as well as extensive panel testing before going to market. An Ultraceuticals formulation focuses on innovating delivery system technology for optimum performance.

FORMULATION TESTING

Absolutely. Before any product goes into market, extensive and strict panel test trials are conducted using a range of volunteers over 90 days to ensure the product’s efficacy and safety. Results are documented using an advanced professional skin scanning camera technology. Ultraceuticals stands behind all its products and claims.

CRUELTY FREE

Yes. Ultraceuticals is proudly certified cruelty-free with the Choose Cruelty Free (CFF) organization and PETA. This means that they do not test any of their products on animals and none of the ingredients used in their products are tested on animals. Ultraceuticals proudly conducts internal panel tests on willing and enthusiastic human participants.

A little back story about this storied Australian brand:

Started in 1998, Founder, Dr Geoffrey Heber and his highly skilled team of Australian and international formulators are dedicated to creating potent, effective products under the Ultraceuticals brand. Ultraceuticals is Australian-owned and use the latest and proven available ingredients and technologies to consistently release new products and improve existing ones. With a combination of sophisticated, patented delivery systems and potent renowned anti-aging stars like Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), each product is formulated with safety and maximum effectiveness in mind, so you get results that you can actually see. By collaborating with renowned universities and leading researchers, Ultraceuticals crafts a simple regimen of products that deliver fast-acting and discernible results to reveal healthy, firm, glowing, beautiful skin.

 

The founder: DR GEOFFREY HEBER:

Dr Geoffrey Heber is a Fellow of the Australian College of Cosmetic Medicine and also a Fellow of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australia. He completed his medical degree at the University of NSW and has an MBA from the University of Sydney. He has spent well over twenty years as a cosmetic physician. His passion for innovation in the cosmeceutical skincare arena saw him launch the first Australian brand, Ultraceuticals, with a superior vitamin C skin serum in 1998.  Today, the Ultraceuticals founder and cosmetic physician, Dr Geoffrey Heber, is considered a pioneer in Australia for leading the way in effective skincare products that offer real visible results.