health

MARCH FAVORITES (+ COCOKIND DISCOUNT)

Posted on by rosie

I feel like lately I’ve been going through a lot of change. Not necessarily bad by any means (I wrote a blog post all about positive change which you can see here). I decided to go all natural in the skincare and beauty department, which had me cleaning out my entire collection of beauty items to donate to friends and co-workers. I tried new things. I ended up loving them. This is me sharing all of that with you.

Mineral Fusion Pressed Powder in Deep  3

When Whole Foods had a 25% off beauty sale, I decided it was my chance to make a few more changes in my every day makeup routine. At the top of my list was a bronzer! I brought my bronzer with me and searched for something that looked similar in shade – found Mineral Fusion’s Pressed Powder, fell in love with the buttery formula and the rest is history! This product is a great dupe for what I was currently using to contour and I’ve been using it every day since!

Cocokind Skincare Golden Elixir

Can I get an amen for multipurpose products? As a flight attendant, I find it so convenient to pack things that have multiple uses. This  golden elixir roll-on is not only travel friendly, but it’s most definitely my new favorite travel buddy. I like to rub a little bit of the elixir on my fingertips and massage it into the ends of my hair. I also love keeping it close while flying because my all of the moisture gets sucked from my skin and it’s painful! Starting today until April 6, you can save 30% off your purchase over $50 using discount code “kaleintheclouds” at the checkout!

Digestive Enzymes, Triphala, Probiotics, Apple Cider Vinegar

GUT THANGS. Recently, I’ve been dealing with some hardcore gut issues. Constantly bloated because I’m trying to work a lot to save up. My gut is not having it! I started introducing the following things into my daily routine: digestive enzymes, triphala, probiotics, and  2 tbsp apple cider vinegar in 4-6 oz. water. I swear by these four things because I’ve noticed SUCH a difference in how I feel when I wake up and after getting off a flight!

Vital Proteins Matcha Collagen

I’ve been obsessed with VP’s Matcha Collagen ALL MONTH. Call me lazy, but there’s something so nice about having two things I use already mixed in one. Plus, it tastes great! I have a matcha latte every morning, even when I’m traveling! I make it using a glass jar and a small whisk, which you can get a tutorial for on my Instagram story highlights.

Carrot Cake Smoothie Recipe

This Carrot Cake Smoothie recipe I developed has got to be my favorite smoothie recipe I’ve ever made. It’s loaded with goods like you wouldn’t believe. Best part? It actually tastes like carrot cake! You can get the recipe here.

Chaia DC Tacos

The best eatery discovery of the month, or dare I say, YEAR?! I’m not kidding. This place blew my mind and I am already daydreaming of my next visit. Located in Georgetown DC, Chaia offers plant based farm to table style tacos that will make your tastebuds dance.

Outdoor Voices

It’s official. I am actually so obsessed with OV. Ever since I spotted a very chic athleisurely dressed gal on my flight (she seriously looked so cool, I wanted to be her friend), asked her where she got her leggings, and she raved about OV, I’ve been pining over everything on their website. Finally, I bit the bullet and placed an order for a few pieces that I now would genuinely say I would save them (and Delaney) first if my house were burning down. They are the comfiest, most flattering (dat booty!) pair of leggings I’ve ever purchased and I will never go back!

Moore Than Rocks

Located just 15 minutes away from mi casa is a crystal shop called Moore Than Rocks. I visited it twice last month and both times were so spiritual and self-fulfilling. The second time I went, I took some of my best friends and we all found gems, had a cleansing ceremony, and gave them homes. I am so happy to be learning about these gifts from our earth and to have them enhance my life and meditation practice.

When Strangers Meet by Kio Stark

I did so much reading in the month of March and one book that really stood out to me is a book called When Strangers Meet by Kio Stark. Stark discusses the art of meeting someone new and how meeting new people can enhance your life. As someone who’s passionate in solo traveling, I feel like everyone needs to read this book. The beauty of crossing paths with someone who you’ll learn later was destiny, is such a beautiful thing.

Love season 3

I was putting off watching this season of Love (a Netflix series) because I heard it was the last season, but damn. IT IS SO GOOD. If you are into romantic comedies with a lot of realness and quirk, this one’s for you.

Music Favorites

I’ve been making monthly playlists for a little while now and decided I want to start sharing them with you! Here is a link to my March playlist (Marching to the Beat of My Own Drum) on Spotify.

And that’s a wrap! What did you babes love last month?!

FLIGHT ATTENDANT FAQ

Posted on by rosie

Since starting Kale in the Clouds, I’ve received so many messages about my job. I absolutely love being a flight attendant, but it’s not always sunshine and rainbows. I am getting REAL with you with this Q+A and I hope that this can help you in some way! Feel free to comment or DM me on my Instagram account if you have more follow up questions. I’d be so happy to answer them for you!

How did you become a flight attendant?

Everything happened super fast! I submitted an application online after my friend told me about it. Within a week or so, I scheduled a phone interview. Immediately after the phone interview, I received an e-mail to schedule an in person interview. The in person interview was none like any other interview I’ve ever been to. I showed up along with 60 other applicants. There were 3 interviews that day and as the day went on, the numbers of applicants went down. At the end of the day, about 15 of us were hired!

How long have you been doing this?

I’ve been flying for 3 years.

Do you fly international routes?

With my airline, I’ve worked flights to Canada and Mexico. We also fly to Costa Rica!

How many days do you fly a week?

Because of my flexible schedule, I can fly as often or as little as I want. I don’t have a “typical” schedule because some months I work A LOT whereas some other months, I have travel plans so I’ll work less!

What’s it like being a flight attendant?

It’s amazing, crazy, tiring, fulfilling, busy, and testing. As tired as I get and as much as it can wear my immune system down, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. The opportunities are endless with this job and the flexibility in schedule it allows is incredible too!

Do you have a makeup for tattoo cover that you’d recommend?

I use Estée Lauder Double Wear Maximum Cover to cover my tattoos when I’m working.

Do you get to pick where you’re based?

When you first start, they ask you for a preference. This doesn’t guarantee your first base of choice. Depending on your preferred base, you may need to wait awhile before you are able to get in. Luckily, I got Seattle after just one month of flying!

How much notice do you get before you fly?

When you’re on reserve, you may get a 2 hour call out but usually  you find out before then when they need you. Now that I am a line holder, I get to put my own schedule together and I’m able to decide a month in advance what trips I want to work.

Even on reserve, are you able to find a healthy work/life balance or are you chained to waiting for a phone call?

Oh, reserve life! I was definitely chained to my phone for the first 6 months – just super paranoid about missing a phone call. Then, I was able to transition to going to the gym with my phone volume on high as I waited for a call. I do want to touch on balancing my social life though because that was HARD. Being on the go so often, it’s hard to watch your friends at home hangout without you. I learned that I had to be really proactive about reaching out to people and making sure they knew I was home instead of sitting on my bum and being butt hurt seeing them hangout without me on Instagram. Also, SLEEP. Sleep whenever you get a chance! You’ll learn that it’s actually so important and easily neglected when you first start flying.

Does your airline give you a stipend when you stay somewhere in between flights?

Hotel is paid for and with my airline, you do get a stipend!

What’s your typical work day like?

I get to the airport, check in on my work device, go through security, and check in with the gate agents. When I get on the plane, I put my stuff away and start checking to make sure all of the emergency equipment is good to go. When all of the flight attendants are on board, we introduce ourselves and brief our positions and typically the Captain will come introduce himself and tell us more details about the flight. Boarding happens pretty quickly after that, and before you know it, we’re off! Duties on the plane are different depending on which position you’re working.

How do you deal with jet lag and different time zones?

Jet lag is so real. 3 years in and it still doesn’t get much easier! I try to stay in the pacific time zone no matter where I am because my layovers usually aren’t very long. This means going to bed SUPER early when I fly east coast routes so I can get up earlier for that 7am EST departure.

How do you stay calm and continue to do your job when it’s turbulent?

I feel super lucky because turbulence doesn’t bother me. With that said, it’s easy for me to stay calm. However, when it gets to a point where we’re in the middle of service and it gets too bumpy, I usually go with my gut and speak up to other crew members. For the most part, we’ll be on the same page and pause service if it gets too bumpy. Safety first!

What is your brand of skillet that you travel with?

Nesco and I got it on Amazon!

What is your brand of lunch cooler?

It’s a Strongbag and I highly recommend it!

What kind of food can I pack? What can’t I pack?

You can pack so many good eats when you’re traveling! Salads, macro bowls, burritos, fries, roasted veggies, a sandwich, you name it! Just be cautious about packing salad dressing, guac, yogurt, premade oats, nut butters, anything with a cream or liquid consistency is a possible no-no depending on how strict TSA at your airport is.

Any tips for a traveler trying to stay healthy on the go?

  • ask your flight attendant for hot lemon water! it will help aid your digestion while flying
  • you can get free salad dressing past security at any restaurant in the airport
  • pack your own food and snacks because eats at the airport can get spendy
  • bring your daily vitamins and supplements with you! try to maintain consistency when you’re traveling
  • bring a reusable water with you and fill it up every time you see a water fountain or coffeeshop at the airport
  • pack greens tabs with you! these are the ones I use and love
  • other goodies to consider packing: collagen peptides sticks, apple cider vinegar shots, nut butter packs, matcha collagen travel packs
  • great on the go snacks: fruit, Perfect Bars, Simple Mills crackers, veggies and hummus, popcorn, dried fruit, nuts, bliss balls, protein bars, dark chocolate (I love Honey Mamas and Eating Evolved coconut butter cups)
  • pack some workout bands for at home pilates/barre in your hotel room

Pros:

  • having such a flexible schedule
  • the travel benefits
  • meeting the most amazing people of all different backgrounds
  • going to work in a good mood because I genuinely love what I do
  • LOVING WHAT I DO
  • getting to see so much of the world
  • the amount of money you save on gas
  • free parking at the airport
  • getting to help others when they’re nervous to fly
  • getting to make someone’s day (traveling is stressful! sometimes all someone needs is an extra glass of OJ and to know everything will be okay.)
  • free therapy sessions via the jump seat
  • getting paid to travel
  • getting to pack over 3 oz. liquids when traveling
  • so much me time
  • getting to stay in boujee hotels
  • getting so much vitamin D when it’s raining/snowing at home

Cons:

  • stomach/digestion issues (I take probiotics, triphala, and digestive enzymes to aid my gut)
  • lack of sleep/short layovers
  • the feeling of not having a grasp of life balance
  • lack of social life with friends and family at home when you start flying
  • schedules/routine goes out the door when you start reserve
  • when food goes bad because you don’t have a fridge in the hotel

3 Comments

SUGAR DETOX RECAP (+ RECIPES!)

Posted on by rosie

I just wanted to check in with you guys and share my experience doing a 7-day sugar detox (for the first time!) inspired by Rachael’s Good Eats. After reading her blog post on the 7-day sugar detox, I decided to give it a shot. How bad could it be right? As some of you may know, I’ve fallen into the trap of many cleanses in the past. My last cleanse was regrettably a juice cleanse and it was a bit of a disaster. However after educating myself so much more, I decided this sugar detox would be a great reset for me. The idea of maintaining your blood sugar levels is something that should be a part of your daily life – I learned this after reading Body Love by Kelly Leveque (highly recommend read). I find that avoiding sugars in the morning (replacing with healthy fats and protein instead), helps me stay energized, satisfied, and keeps me from crashing. IE: instead of having a bowl of fruit for breakfast, I’d have avocado toast or a Fab 4 Smoothie (Kelly’s Leveque’s signature swear by shake – contains protein, fat, greens, and fiber).

So since I don’t have a ton of sugar on the regs, this detox wasn’t extremely difficult for me. However, I STILL struggled every now and then but more so in social settings. It also tested my will power  when I got packages in the mail with new treats to try out from incredibly generous and wonderful companies. Confession: I actually slipped my first day because I totally forgot I was even doing the detox until I was reading the amount of sugar was in each serving. Yikes!

WHAT WORKED

Out of sight, out of mind! I found that my cravings would go away if I just avoided the sugary aisles at the grocery store. This was extremely hard though with all the holiday baking posts on Instagram. Although I will say it did get easier as the week went on!

The benefits? Personally, I experienced no crash and I didn’t have craving. This also meant less snacking! My grapefruit tasted like candy and that in itself was pretty incredible.

WHAT HELPED

Here are some quick tips if you’re looking to try a sugar detox:

  • Using pomegranate seeds in salads – just a little sprinkle but it was so satisfying!
  • Berries in oats/smoothies. They’re not as sweet as bananas and  I actually prefer the tartness in berries over bananas.
  • Bulletproof chocolate with nut butter. I craved chocolate more than I craved anything else! This is sugar detox friendly and did the trick.
  • Eating small portions of fruit and then seeing if my body wanted more before investing in the entire piece. I did this with grapefruit especially and at most, I had half at a time.
  • Cacao and cinnamon everything! For all of my chocolate lovers, it will help so much.
  • Bulletproof matcha/coffee. I prefer my coffee black anyway so by adding some brain octane and healthy fats into my morning drink, I start my day off on a good start. I tried to avoid having fruit first thing in the morning because I didn’t want it to make me feel like I needed more.
  • Lee From America’s coconut fat balls! SO DELISH.
  • Again, out of sight out of mind! If there’s a plate of cookies in front of you, move it or walk away. Don’t let it taunt you!

RECIPES

Here are some quick recipes that became staples this week! Honestly, they have become combinations of things that I enjoy and prefer them over sugary alternatives.

NO FRUIT PROTEIN SHAKE

  • 2 scoops collagen peptides (I used Vital Proteins)
  • steamed purple sweet potato
  • Trader Joes frozen kombocha squash
  • spinach
  • 2 tbsp flax meal
  • 1 tbsp cacao powder (I used Navitas Organics)
  • 2 tsp açaí powder (I used Sari Foods Company)
  • 1 tsp ashwaghandam (I used Maju Superfoods)
  • topped with Lee from America’s coconut fat ball, bee pollen, and cinnamon

QUICK POST WORKOUT SHAKE

  • 2 scoops collagen peptides
  • 2 tbsp cacao powder
  • 2 tbsp flax meal
  • 2 tsp cinnamon

OVERNIGHT OATS

  • 1/4 cup rolled oats (I used Bob’s Red Mill)
  • 1 scoop collagen peptides
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tbsp cacao powder
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • Lee from America’s fat ball
  • sprinkle of blackberries
  • water

Final verdict? YES. DO IT. I am already excited to do this again in January. I felt so good after the week was through and although I thought I’d be so excited to have sugar again… I didn’t. I woke up the next morning and made my Bulletproof matcha and added one scoop of Terra Origin’s Greens Superfoods in mint and it was SO SWEET. I couldn’t believe it. My taste buds were totally in heaven. Also wanted to note, before I started the detox I wanted to bake EVERY treat on my IG feed, but now I don’t have much of a desire to. Part of that is due to laziness but I just don’t have that crazy desire to anymore.

Have you guys tried a sugar detox? I know it’s not for everyone but I’d love to know what you think!

3 Comments

GIFT GUIDE FOR EVERY SPICE IN YOUR LIFE

Posted on by rosie

The holidays are just around the corner and what better time to create a gift guide than now with all the hot deals going on? Here are some of my favorites for every spice in your life.

SPORTY SPICE

  1. adidas by Stella McCartney Yoga Bag ($110) // This collection is insanely gorgeous and one of the best things you could get someone is something they might hesitate splurging on. Save $20 using coupon code “SCORE”
  2. Healthy Human Life Stainless Steel Bottle 32 oz ($34.99) // These bottles are such amazing quality and I take mine everywhere with me. And I love that there’s every color under the sun! Use coupon code “STOCKUP” for 20% your purchase.
  3. The Balance Collection Textured Roller ($21.97) // I just recently got one of these and it changed my life! The textures on the foam roller gives you a more intense massage than your standard foam roller. You can find this baby at Nordstrom Rack and save some moolah!

HEALTHY SPICE

  1. Bulletproof Brain Octane ($23.50) // Just one of those things you aren’t sure about but would secretly squeal over if found under the tree. I once was skeptical but this stuff is amazing. And now, you can save 20% off sitewide!
  2. Pearl Butter ($19.99) // These adaptogenic butters are not only great for you, but you can also release your inner Jackson Pollock using them too! I’ve seen some pretty sick creations on Instagram and am dying to get my hands on them myself! Use coupon code “GRATEFUL” for free shipping or my friend’s code “ANDAPINCHOFLOVE” for 20% off!
  3. Sun Potion Adaptogens from ($25.57) // These adaptogenic powders will give your smoothies, coffees, matcha lattes, etc. an extra UMF. A little pricey (but worth it) so it’s always exciting to receive! My favorites are ashwaghanda, cordyceps, reishi, and chaga! And guess what? They’re currently all on sale!

GIRLY SPICE

  1. Cocokind Holiday Basics Beauty Set ($49.99) // Gift sets make for the perfect gift come holiday season because you end up saving so much on these bundles. Cocokind is a brand I discovered via some of my favorite bloggers and since using their products, I’ve never looked back. Their products are all organic and natural. And you guessed it. The gift sets are all on sale!
  2. Glossier Cloud Paint Quad ($55) // Glossier has been a cult favorite in the online beauty community for a little while now and with reason! I love that they believe in skincare before anything else. I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about these Cloud Paints, helping you achieve that natural blush all while being hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested, paraben free, fragrance free, and cruelty free. Currently 20% off and free shipping sitewide!
  3. Julep Beauty Box ($39.98 for two months) // Fun fact: I used to work at Julep! I always loved the concept behind subscription boxes and Julep is unique in that you have the option of logging into your account and picking out your goodies every month. I’ve always loved that about Julep because how many times have you received a subscription box and gave away half of it? With Julep’s monthly Maven box, your girly spice can pick out what she wants! No sale, but seriously so cool.

JETSETTIN’ SPICE

  1. Fresh Nourishing Naturals Lip Duo ($25) // As a flight attendant, I especially know first hand how drying traveling can be. Your jet setter will appreciate you so much for this. Valued at $36, this is a steal!
  2. ClassPass (starting at $50) // I’ve been eyeing ClassPass for quite some time! I absolutely love the concept and get this – your traveling pal will get to drop into any classes offered in the system in ANY city with no extra charge! How cool is that?
  3. Amazing Grass Effervescent ($47.94 for a pack of 6) // I discovered these at the checkout stand at Whole Foods and it’s now one of my holy grail items. In just one tablet, you’ve got one serving of fruits and veggies. So convenient to just pop into your water bottle and get those nutrients in, especially when it’s not as easy to when you’re on the go. I love the berry flavor and plan on restocking with this sale they’ve got going! Currently on sale for 40% off plus free shipping using code “FRIDAY40”. Comes out to $4 a tube versus $10 at Whole Foods!

MAMA SPICE

  1. Groupon // I had my bestie in mind writing this. She’s going to be a new mom pretty soon and the first thing I thought of? MANIS AND PEDIS. Anything to make her feel special and give her a little break, even if it’s just an hour to herself. Purchase your vouchers on Groupon to save tons of money this holiday season.
  2. Sun Basket (starting at $80) // Takeout for new parents has got to be the best invention ever, but Sun Basket makes it easy to stay healthy while still cutting a lot of the time. They offer diet-friendly subscriptions whether you’re a vegetarian or paleo, there’s something for everybody. The best part is, these meals take only 30 minutes to make! Any new parent would appreciate this so much. Use code “BALANCED” for $35 off your purchase, courtesy of The Balanced Blonde!
  3. Everly Grey During & After Maternity Sleepwear Set (on sale from $67.38) // HOW CUTE IS THIS?! I don’t think there are truly any words for how precious (and maybe cheesy but whatevs) it is to see mama bear matching with her cub. These sets are currently on sale at Nordstrom.

I absolutely love shopping for my friends and family, especially this time of year. Hope this gift guide helps you in some way, even if it’s just planting an idea in your head with fun subscription boxes or introducing you to some of my favorite brands! Til next time, loves.

WHAT’S IN MY CARRY ON BAG – HEALTH AND BEAUTY EDITION

Posted on by rosie

I’m currently sitting inside Caffe Nero at the airport, waiting for my sister to arrive so we can push start on our annual family trip! Another pinch me moment. I feel so lucky that my sister and I both have jobs that allow for traveling as often as we do, and getting to take mom with us is just another big bonus! I remember the day I got hired as a flight attendant, the first thing I thought of was how excited I was to give back to my mom and everything she’s sacrificed for me and my sister. /FEELS.

So today, I wanted to show you guys what I packed in my carry on – health and beauty related. Let’s jump in!

  1. Yes To Tomatoes Detoxifying Charcoal Paper Mask
    • What better time to use a face mask than on a 10 hour flight? And with sheet masks, you’ve got no clean up!
  2. Cocokind Skincare Matcha and Turmeric Sticks
    • Matcha is great for your undereye area, especially after a long flight. I also love using it as lip balm and on dry patches, as well as on my cuticles. The turmeric stick is amazing for skin recovery. While the cabin’s dark, paint your face with this yellow magic wand and remove with a wet cotton pad 30 min. later. Pro tip: I like to leave mine on longer, mostly cause I hate going into the lavatory. Ha!
  3. Kiehl’s Cactus Flower & Tibetan Ginseng Hydrating Mist
    • Officially my holy grail. I had a stuffy nose and EVERYTHING felt so dry and so uncomfortable. With a few spritz of this guy, I immediately felt so much better.
  4. Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream
    • I like to pack heavier moisturizers for flights. Your skin will thank you for it later!
  5. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Corrector Serum
    • Skincare is so important, especially on long flights. Perfect time to pack on serums, especially since I don’t wear makeup on long flights.
  6. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
    • See above!
  7. Clear Eyes Triple Action Eye Drops
    • I also have a case of dry eyes, so you better believe these are a MUST on flights.
  8. Murad Rapid Relief Spot Treatment
    • When I’m breaking out, I like to dab on a spot treatment in needed areas. This guy was my life saver this flight.
  9. The Honest Company Hand Sanitizer 
    • I think this one’s self explanatory!
  10. Tony Moly Magic Food Banana Hand Milk
    • I make it a habit to use hand cream after every hand wash. The hand soap on airplanes are super drying!
  11. Supergoop! Mint Fusion Lip Balm
    • Always a good idea to lather your lips with a good lip balm when flying.
  12. C.O. Bigelow Mouthwash
    • Packing travel size mouthwash for a quick pick me up is always a good thing. No regrets, that’s for sure!

Notes:

  • Being inflight is SO DRYING. Make sure to pack lots of moisturizers and balms for your skin and lips.
  • Try to avoid wearing makeup if you can, so you can really pamper yourself with a skincare regimen.
  • Now is a good time to bring those samples  you’ve been meaning to try! I get a ton of samples from my Sephora Play monthly subscription box and I love bringing serums and creams from my boxes. It’s easy to dispose of and will lighten your load throughout your trip.

  1. Healthy Human Life Water Bottle
    • Always bring a reusable water bottle! Not only are you doing good for the environment but, life hack: you can always ask your flight attendant to fill your water up for you. Free water beats $5 water bottles at the airport. I love that mine can double up as a blender bottle as well! Get your own Healthy Human Life water bottle with a discount using my coupon code: KALEIC10
  2. Rootz Nutrition Paleo Protein-Superfood mixed with Further Food Collagen Peptides
    • Being on the go means it’s harder to get all your nutrients in. That’s why I love combining my favorite protein powder (contains SO MANY superfoods) plus collagen peptides for more protein and benefits. Rootz Nutrition coupon code: KALEINTHECLOUDS & Further Food coupon code: KALEINTHECLOUDS10
  3. Eating Evolved Coconut Butter Cups
    • My favorite chocolate! Perfect sweet treat with minimal ingredients. Makes resisting candy at the airport checkouts so easy.
  4. Square Organics Protein Bars
    • Absolutely love these bars. They’re basically a candy bar in protein bar form – AND ORGANIC. What could be better? Square Organics coupon code: KALEINTHECLOUDS
  5. Emergen-C
    • I always pack Emergen-C with me when I’m traveling. Traveling is already so hard on your body. Think about the jet lag, lack of sleep, but also all the germs at the airports and on the plane. Take note from a flight attendant!
  6. Yogi Tea [Skin Detox, Immune Support, Probiotic Balance]
    • My favorite teas! These three are bound to keep you in tip top shape.
  7. Amazing Grass Green Superfood Tabs
    • A. MUST. I bought this on a whim at the checkout at Whole Foods, and I’m so glad I did. Each tab contains one serving of vegetables and fruit. You add it to your water and that’s it! It even tastes yummy!
  8. Bulletproof Collagen Protein Bar
    • Just discovered these and I won’t go back. They’re packed with quality ingredients and keep me satisfied, all while containing the benefits of collagen (check out my last blog post for more info).
  9. Kyolic Kyo-Dophilus Digestion and Immune Health Probiotic Supplement 
    • I take these every day so it’s definitely going in my carry on bag.
  10. Trader Joe’s Ginger and Turmeric Tea
    • My favorite tea when I’m feeling blah.
  11. Golden Root Turmeric Latte Mix
    • A sweet treat with all the benefits of turmeric! I literally CRAVE these.
  12. RX Bar
    • One of my favorite protein bars, so it’s gotta come with! They taste like bliss balls but in bar form!
  13. Zipfizz
    • With jet lag, I love keeping these on me for some quick B12 vitamins. It gives me just enough energy to keep going – and no crash!

Notes:

  • I’m not getting paid to promote any of these brands. They are brands I truly enjoy on a daily basis and get to share with my friends for a discounted price! Score!
  • Packing your own sweets and snacks makes it easy to not give into temptation at the airport. Make sure to pack your FAVORITES so you know the love is real.
  • Always pack your daily vitamins. Traveling is already hard enough on your body so you want to try to keep everything else consistent.
  • Packing your own tea is a good penny pincher life hack. It’s also a great way to take a little piece of home with you!

Hope you guys find this useful! Safe travels to all you on the go babes.

4 Comments

COLLAGEN YEPTIDES + NATURAL PRE-WORKOUT ELIXIR RECIPE

Posted on by rosie

Okay, kind of dying at this punny title, for real. I hopped on this collagen peptides wagon several months ago and I feel like I’ve hit jackpot. How is it that I’ve JUST discovered something so incredible? For those skeptical or curious, I also want to admit that I, too, was a skeptic. I thought it was just another health fad. Before making my first purchase, I did A LOT of research. I read every tl;dr caption on Instagram about them. I looked up the top brands that I could find and read a ton of reviews. I did this for months, then I flew with a flight attendant who swore by them. I guess I just needed to hear personal experience from someone in person because that day, I went home and placed an order on Amazon.

Let me tell you firsthand that the benefits of collagen peptides are insane. Here are just some of them that really resonate with me.

  • Healthier immune and digestive systems
  • Reduces joint pain
  • Reduces wrinkles and cellulite
  • Supports hair growth, nail growth, clear skin
  • Contains amino acids that help muscle recovery
  • Contains protein, give your morning latte or smoothie an extra UMPH.

Since the day I got ’em, I have been taking collagen peptides daily in my morning smoothies and have noticed these benefits. It’s unbelievable. One of the most incredible benefits that I noticed was when I was training for my half marathon. I was able to run longer with less discomfort in my joints. The day of the run, I hit my PR of 2 hours and 27 minutes. Not to mention, my recovery was quicker and smoother than my last half marathon. Crazy, right?

My skin has also cleared up since using collagen peptides. Growing up, I was always very insecure about my skin. My skin scars easily so with every breakout, I’d deal with the aftermath, which was even more troubling than acne itself. It was frustrating. My favorite foundation was Estée Lauder’s Double Wear, a very high coverage foundation that made me feel comfortable because it covered every little scar. Anyone out there feel me? Now, I can confidently say that I enjoy no makeup days. Since seeing such improvement in my skin, I ditched my high coverage foundation for It Cosmetics’ CC Cream. Some days I only use it as spot treatment on my acne scars. Seeing my skin clear up has been a huge confidence boost and I’m thrilled to be sharing my “secret.”

Now what the heck is it and how do you have it, you ask? It comes in powder form and dissolves in liquid, can be used in baking recipes, etc. My favorite way to have collagen peptides is by sneaking them in lattes, smoothies, or oats. I find that when I do, I tend to remember to have them every morning. I’m currently obsessed with my pre-workout elixir, MATCHA MUSHROOM LATTES. (Don’t knock it ’til you try it!)

Here’s what you need:

  • 1 scoop collagen peptides (I use Further Food)
  • 1 tsp matcha
  • 1 tsp Bulletproof Brain Octane (or MCT oil)
  • 1/2 tsp Cordyceps (I use Sun Potion)
  • dash of cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice!)

Throw everything into a blender OR you can whisk manually or use a frother. I just got a frother on Amazon for $10. DEALS. Such a great idea for a stocking stuffer (yep, already going there). This latte is a perfect pre-workout elixir that’s made from natural ingredients and packed with a ton of nutrients and benefits from EVERY ingredient. Since weening off C4 (a pre-workout supplement filled with crazy chemicals), I noticed my workouts have become weaker. Since having this matcha mushroom latte, I noticed a boost in energy. It doesn’t feel crazy, I don’t get itchy, but it’s just enough to pull me through a HIIT workout + some weight training. This is real. I feel like I found the Krabby Patty secret formula!

As far as brands go, Further Food is the brand I currently use and I absolutely love their products. Health things can add up to be pretty spendy but their products are affordable and have lasted me so long. They’re a great company made up of friendly people who are passionate about health and wellness, which is something that’s super important to me when I do brand research. I’m a proud brand ambassador of theirs and if you use my code ‘KALEINTHECLOUDS10′, you’ll get a discount on anything on their website! I would never talk up something I don’t feel passionate about so you know this is real.

Do you guys use collagen peptides? What do you like to use them for and what are some of your experiences as far as benefits you’ve noticed? Let me know! If you’re curious and still have more questions, feel free to leave me a comment or e-mail me at kaleintheclouds@gmail.com. I tend to get rambly about things I love so if you’ve made it this far, I love you and hope you have a great day!

A DIFFERENT KIND OF TRANSFORMATION

Posted on by rosie

With this new blog revamp, I really want to be open and honest about my health journey. I am so proud of myself in both of these photos, but for different reasons. On the left, I hit my PR of 175 lb. squats. This was a HUGE deal. I was able to push myself in ways unimaginable. But I was also obsessed. Numbers meant everything to me and I had very strict gym days despite feeling fatigue. I watched my sodium intake so extremely that I felt guilty if I ever added salt to anything I was eating or meal prepping. I was happy when I felt skinny, but hard on myself when I woke up feeling bloated/fat.

The photo on the right was taken yesterday. I’m squatting just the 45 lb. bar and most importantly, because I felt strong and determined. NOT because I felt like I had to. My workouts are now so varied and I don’t follow a strict schedule. I don’t punish myself for missing leg day. I’m learning to listen to my body, which is probably the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m nourishing my body with workouts that I crave, even if it’s just yoga after a long flight, or sometimes nothing at all. I let myself have wholesome foods made with real ingredients, despite it having x grams of fat. There’s a such thing as healthy fats and your body NEEDS it, which is something I learned reading Body Love by Kelly Leveque (LIFE CHANGING). I’ve stopped weighing myself. I’m trying my best to practice mindfully eating versus emotionally eating. I’m trying my best at being present. I’m trying my best. 

In the past three months, I dove into this health and wellness community on Instagram and I’m just in awe of the amount of love and support that it has to offer. I’ve never been happier or more excited sharing my food choices and interacting with like-minded people who inspire me to be my best self. I feel so incredibly lucky to have found these people. I’ve already met two of my foodie friends in person and both times, I woke up the next morning with an extra pep in my step, my heart SO full.

With a much healthier mindset, I am so excited to get back to blogging so I can keep sharing my progress with you guys. I also really want to start posting recipes again because I know a lot of my flight attendant pals have been requesting it, and I really do have so much fun creating them! Stay tuned, and thank you for listening. It’s not easy being vulnerable and admitting you were in a bad place. It’s so easy to become obsessed with fitness and physical progress, but acknowledging it and nourishing your mind and mental state is a million steps forward. I love you guys.

2 Comments

I BE UP IN THE GYM JUST WORKIN’ ON MY FITNESS

Posted on by rosie

Oh hi! Remember me? I know, it’s been a little while, but I really didn’t want to make blogging a chore anymore. Unfortunately, I got stuck in the idea of writing for the mere purpose of having something to post. It wasn’t out of joy and passion anymore. But since launching flylittlebirdy, I made it a point to only write when I felt inspired and when I wanted to. No more scheduled posts. No bullshit.

So, what sparked my interest today? The sun was shining, peeking through my window and I can’t tell you how happy it makes me waking up naturally to sunlight. I woke up with a really positive mind, took my time getting out of bed (sometimes you just need that), and went for a 7 mile run. IT FELT SO GOOD. I hadn’t ran outside in so long – probably not since my half marathon in February. The weather in Seattle has just been super icky and I’ve also been low key obsessed with cycling and yoga lately. I was also inspired by a message I received the other day from one of my sweetest friends. She was asking for health and fitness advice and it made me SO happy. Someone asking ME for fitness advice? It felt so good because for me, fitness is still a journey. It will always be. My health is so important to me and it took me so long to realize that.

Three  years ago, my best friend Roxanne asked me to be her maid of honor.. and I don’t know, I guess something just clicked. It helped a lot that I had friends who were now all on the same page too. We were all working towards the same goal: getting in shape for this epic wedding. I’ve tried diets before. Bologna. I’ve always “worked out.” I didn’t think I was capable of improving in any way. I kind of accepted the fact that this was just my body type, maybe I’d lose 5 lbs and that’d be cool, I guess. That was literally my mentality. It’s weird to think back on now and reflect on how much I’ve changed – now I’m not even talking physically. My mindset is completely in a different place. I wish I could go back and tell myself, “you know you’re capable of anything right?” or “don’t set limits for yourself. seriously STOP doing that.” I was the only thing in my way of achieving these “farfetched” dreams and goals. It’s true what they say. Sometimes you are just too hard on yourself. Sometimes you are your worst critic. Sometimes you are your worst enemy.

Getting started on this journey, I went hard. I didn’t really know what I was doing, but I was doing something different. My workouts no longer consisted of straight boring (seriously zzzz) cardio for an hour. I started incorporating circuits, strength training, and cardio never lasted longer than 30 minutes, but I made those 30 minutes COUNT. HIIT cardio was my jam, hill sprints especially. Roxanne was/is my partner in gym (ha!). She taught me so much about HIIT cardio, read me articles about the benefits of it and it changed my life. My sister helped me overcome my fear of the “boys’ section” of the gym. Like many, I was so incredibly intimidated by the weight room. How does this work? Does my arm go here? What’s a squat? I felt so out of place. So uncomfortable and awkward. But guess what? Every day, I felt a little more confident. A little more… dare I say.. EXCITED, to hit the weights. It was a weird feeling, but also the best feeling in the world. I had this confidence I don’t think was ever there.

With gym time came a lot of kitchen time. Two words: meal prep. Also life changing. The word diet now had a new meaning. Diet doesn’t mean cutting carbs for X amount of months. It doesn’t mean avoiding dessert so you can fit into a size 4 dress. Diet is literally what you eat. The cleaner I was eating, I found myself thinking, ‘what the hell was I eating before?’ There’s nothing better than knowing exactly what is going in your food. I started pinning clean recipes on Pinterest, binge watching ‘What I Eat In A Day’ YouTube videos, and following a lot of health conscious food bloggers on Instagram. Cooking soon became a hobby and mind you, this is coming from somebody who before considered pressing buttons on a microwave cooking. Zoodles and overnight oats were (and still are) my jam. Love love love my superfoods (yes, I’m that girl) – chia seeds, hemp seeds, cacao powder + nibs. I have a love/hate relationship with apple cider vinegar – as much as I hate drinking it, the health benefits are out of this freaking world. Just do it. Your body will love you for it.

Things are always up and down. Some days I feel like I’ve plateaued. Some days I feel like crap, totally unmotivated, and like I’ve taken steps back. Other days I feel incredibly proud of myself (almost always after a killer workout sesh or run) and the only thing that sounds good is a massive salad. I love those days, but I get that this is a lifelong journey. Your attitude and mindset is what will get you through. I believe in celebrating small victories. I believe in encouraging others. I believe that balance is key. At the end of the day, what’s life without pizza?

My best advice to anyone who’s wanting to make a lifestyle change is to acknowledge that it’s going to be tough, but know that you can do it. You can do ANYTHING. Don’t be so hard on yourself. We’re all only human. Don’t deprive yourself of what you love, but also remember to balance. Learn to love yourself. Know that you deserve to live a happy and healthy life. Your commitment to living healthier and eating cleaner will not only show on the scale (scales suck btw) but you will have so much more energy. Your confidence will shine like never before and it’s so freaking amazing.

4 Comments