Cyber Monday and Beyond

Cyber Monday is really beyond. Even though I know it is forthcoming every year, I still never manage to save my shekels in order to spend it on the crazy good deals a few days after Thanksgiving. Why? Why, LuRuSo? Stop buying things in August, September, and October and wait until Cyber Monday, you ding dong! 

There are many Cyber Monday steals that are worthy of your attention this year. And quite a few extend into the week.

Here is a full compilation of travel options:

The Best Cyber Monday Travel Deals of 2017 - Condé Nast Traveler
Where to Score the Best Travel Deals This Cyber Monday - Travel + Leisure
Black Friday and Cyber Monday Hotel Deals for 2017 - ThePointsGuy.com

Or beauty/apparel/home deals:
The 2017 Mega List of Cyber Monday Deals - Apartment Therapy
Every Cyber Monday Beauty Sale You Need To Shop This Year - The Zoe Report
The Only Cyber Monday Guide You Need This Year - Among Other Things

Capitalism is alive and well, my friends.

But of all the 30% off serums or 25% off TVs, I think my favorite deals this year are for DNA testing. This can be such a game changer for finding out about your health, sparking interest in your heritage, or even connecting with some relatives that you may or may not want to know (please, let them not be Trump supporters!) The two major testers, 23andMe and Ancestry.com, are both offering their best deals of the year, at $30 and $100 off, and $45 off, respectfully.

AncestryDNA: Genetic Testing - DNA Ancestry Test Kit

23andMe Ancestry and Health + Ancestry Services

Speakings of genes, this lactic acid-based serum is one of the only skin care products that has made a visibly positive difference in my skin. Problem is, it isn't cheap. So grabbing it during a Cyber Monday sale, like Dermatore's 25% off, is ideal.

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment - Dermstore.com

Beyond fabricated genes, I've been into taking collagen as of late. I know, I know, I sound loopy. I have no scientific basis for spending money on such kooky claims, but my skin, nails, and hair are supple and strong since dissolving this powder into my hot coffee each morning, so either I'm Benjamin Button or there is something to these peptides. Vital Proteins is having their own Cyber Monday deal where you can gain some free product with purchase.

Vital Proteins Marine Collagen Peptides

Before spending a whole day focused on spending, I spent a whole week focused on nature and family. My lil' nuclear family, in particular.

The Sorensens in Shadow

This year, we tooled around L.A. and the Santa Ynez wine country rather than focus on a big Thanksgiving meal for only three people and a short-legged dachshund. Unplugging from the media and plugging into the here and now of nature was a wonderful and grateful experience. It's fairly easy to do when in wine country. Who wants to look at MSNBC or Facebook when you can look at this?

Santa Ynez Valley, CA

I feel in love with the region's Pinot rosé wines. Bone dry, just like my sense of humor. I also was impressed by this gadget which tapped the wine without uncorking the bottle.

Not that I ever have trouble finishing a bottle of wine, but it's a pretty nifty concept. You can score one on sale today at Sur La Table.

Coravin Model 2 Wine System - Sur La Table

We also had a few nights in Solvang (my people!) which reminded me of the movie Sideways and what a solidly great film that is.

Solvang, CA

Sorry, Miles.

 Following wine country, we journeyed up the mountains into the Ojai Valley. There was a special kind of magic during our 24 hours in Ojai. We even witnessed "the pink moment".

Ojai, CA

Not that the trip was without consumerism. After battling major gridlock...


...we ventured to the happiest place on earth - Disneyland.

Sleeping Beauty's Castle

I was warned that Thanksgiving Day might be torture due to the crowds, but we lucked out by purchasing the MaxPass which sent us straight through to the ride each and every time. I know, so lucky! I definitely recommend it for the mere $10 extra per ticket. Also, you get to digitally save any photos captured during the day, like these gems:

Like I said, Happiest Place on Earth! (In all fairness, my dad had gotten surprisingly soaked right before the first pic and feared his iphone was going to launch out of his pocket in the second.) We never really had any awkward family photos growing up, so now we are making up for lost time.

After many years of hearing extolled virtues of the Dole Whip, I finally partook. In all honesty, this was because I thought we were in line for the Tiki Room, and after 20 minutes of waiting and approaching a cash register instead of a crooning parrot, I supposed I might as well go for it.

Disneyland's Dole Whip Float

And now I get it. Oh boy, do I get it! Now, the question is - where do I get it?!

I've been told there are actually a few Minnesota establishments who do the DW, including the State Fair. But can I wait until late August? A Google search led me to this:

Dole Soft Serve Mix, Pineapple - Amazon

Which seems slightly less magical. But, might be worth a try?

After a day at Disney, I turned to a beloved Disney character and his take on Taoism. I'm not sure I totally bought the correlations between the Chinese philosophy of living in harmony with the Way and a tubby bear that loves honey, but it did make me want to learn more about this ancient tradition. And eat honey.

The Tao of Pooh - Benjamin Hoff

Another book I've been moved by this month:

Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood - Trevor Noah

I really couldn't recommend it more. I haven't been an avid follower of Trevor Noah, previously only knowing him from snippets of The Daily Show. But, after seeing him live in Minneapolis, mark me a fan. He was uplifting, hilarious, and timely. So engaging and truthful with his comedy. If you can't see him live, at least read this intriguing book.

"Love is a creative act. When you love someone you create a new world for them."
-Trevor Noah

As proof, let's turn to a sweet note; this is just darling. It almost makes me believe in romance and true love and commitment and fairy tales again (and I'm the bitterest Betty of Bitterland). But I'm rooting for them!

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, BBC News - YouTube

One last random looking-toward-the-future note: do I need an Ugly Christmas Sweater this holiday season? Thus far, I've not been invited to any Ugly Christmas Sweater parties, but I want to be prepared...if so, which jumper should I buy?

Tipsy Elves Women's Santa Unicorn Christmas Sweater - Amazon

or

Women's Oh Snap Long Sleeve Ugly Christmas Sweater - Target

Let's bring good cheer (and ugly sweaters) to the Holiday Season!

Friday Feels - Volume VI

You know what feeling I've been craving amongst the bizarre, angsty, depressing, up and down world we've been living in lately?

Peace. It's as simple and as complicated as that.

Not easy to achieve in some senses, so we've been starting symbolically.

Seeking peace in Prior Lake

The above wreath was purchased at a local garden center, Mother Earth Gardens, but this is a similar one:

World Buyers Driftwood Peace Sign - Amazon

Here are some other variations, since we can never have too many options for peace.

Lit Boxwood Peace Wreath - Pottery Barn

Brushed Brass Wire Peace Wreath - CB2

Pinecone Peace Sign Wreath - World Market

Inner Peace Wreath - CB2

Now, just because I am preaching peace, doesn't mean that I'm all kumbaya about what's happening in our country. Not one bit. That's why I cheered when I heard that on his or her last day of work, a Twitter employee deactivated 45's account. Amazing!

Twitter Employee Celebrates Their Last Day By Deleting Trump’s Account - Scary Mommy

I like to fantasize that this is how I would go down, too. I feel a kinship with said former employee.

I also have always felt The Pioneer Woman was a kindred spirit, and now I have evidence.

Ree Drummond on the One Food She Never Eats - The Kitchn

Evil

I may loathe bananas, but I looooooove ice cream cookie sandwiches. True story. In fact, they may be my dessert of choice (I like that technically you are getting two desserts in one). So, I'll have to venture to the new Seventh Street Truck Park in my sister city in order to test out this giant 15 pound ice cream cookie sandwich. It's filled with Sebastian Joe's ice cream, so there is quality along with quantity. Who is willing to help me with this monster task?

You'll need a group of friends to down this 15-pound ice cream sandwich at new St. Paul spot - Star Tribune

Damn you, Polar Springs marketing team! You sure know how to reel me in to spend too much money on creatively packaged, mystery...water. Plus, these are mini-sized, and who can resist tiny things? The limited edition sodas were released in August, but you can still order variety packs HERE.

What's the Mystery Flavor Behind Polar's 'Unicorn Kisses' Seltzer? - Bon Appétit

Can someone please buy this stunning number and wear it to some fabulous holiday shindig? There should be the promise of romance, perhaps a jazz band, and definitely a stiff drink in a vintage glass.

MISA Carolina Dress - Shopbop

Some might be drooling in anticipation of the latest Star Wars film, but the release I'm jonesin' for is this:

I, Tonya Trailer #1 (2017) | Movieclips Trailers - YouTube

The drama! The characters! The scrunchies! I can't wait.

Fun fact: I was with my parents at the 1991 U.S. Championships when Tonya Harding became the first American woman to land a triple Axel in performance, but I was in my crabby pre-teen years and missed it because I was reading a book and refusing to watch. Luckily, there is YouTube and I can finally see the magic (starts around :55 - I keep trying to find myself in the crowd, but it whizzes by too fast).

Tonya Harding - 1991 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Ladies' Free Skate

Most of us have a love/hate relationship with Facebook and UPS, but its only love for both of them when it comes to THIS.

UPS Dogs - Facebook

Dogs are a cure-all, no? You know what else clears the head and opens the heart? Getting to see our home in the greater scheme of things (thanks to NASA's Osiris-Rex spacecraft). Weird to think about what you might have been doing at the moment this picture was taken. Hello down there!

Earth - NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center/University of Arizona

I finished a really lovely book called Wonder by R.J. Palacio.

It has been embraced as essential curriculum for middle school aged kids, but it is just as an appropriate read for us older folks. One quote that stood out to me:
“If you have a choice between being right and being kind, choose kind."

Let's all choose kind!

Friday Feels - Volume IV

Oooh boy! It's been QUITE a week, has it not? 

Marshmallow = LuRuSo

I think we all know what I am talking about. (insert big SIGH) One of the reasons I backed away from this blog for a spell is I worried about posting unnecessary frivolity while such serious unrest existed in the world. I didn't feel right ignoring the issues, yet I wasn't prepared emotionally to write about them. I still don't. But since it is a Friday Feels, I guess I can admit that I continue to be concerned, dismayed, and anxious about what is happening in our country and I am grasping at the idea of hope. Thank goodness for both the activists and the comedians out there, who give me fuel and a laugh.

Tina Fey is a national treasure. I'll buy the sheetcake if you bring the grilled cheese?

SNL Weekend Update: Tina Fey on Protesting After Charlottesville - YouTube

I think this could really work. Sorry, Florida.

Jimmy Kimmel's Plan to Save Us from Trump - YouTube

This quote felt like a punch in the stomach. So true.

Might need to order a few of these tanks and walk around town passing them out.

Grayson Threads Women's Human Kind Graphic Tank Top Charcoal Gray - Target

But even with such distressful events and an unending political chaos, the world goes round, and the sun rises and sets. And sometimes the moon gets in the way and you have a solar eclipse.

An annular solar eclipse on May 21, 2012, Tokyo, Japan. Photo: Masashi Hara/Getty Images

Some fun solar eclipse facts HERE

More questions answered HERE

What it will look like from your time & location HERE

Fingers crossed for a clear day on Monday!

Do you ever go down the YouTube rabbit hole? You start off innocently watching one clip and then realize there are thousands of more clips on your topic and before you can realize it you've clicked through them all and have a mastery of the subject? I find myself in this position at least once a week. The latest one was instigated by talking about a historic Willie Mays catch.

Greatest Catches in MLB History - YouTube

Being a kid growing up in Minnesota during the 80s/90s, I do believe they had one egregious omission ("He...*caught* it!)

1991 WS Gm6: Puckett's amazing leaping grab at the wall - YouTube

The past few weeks I've been upping my protein with shakes a few times a day. The Ninja has been my best friend. So easy to use and a breeze to clean up. And believe me, I'm super lazy and would usually not make the effort to take out and put away an extra piece of equipment. I especially like this set because it takes care of your blender, food processing, and smoothie needs all in one bundle.

Ninja Mega Kitchen System (Blender, Processor, Nutri Ninja Cups) BL770 - Amazon.com

After my stretch of clean & healthy eating, I'll definitely be primed to enjoy an adult beverage or two this weekend. I'm thinking perhaps a cider? It seems appropriate as we transition from summer to autumn.

Sociable Cider Werks

Another seasonal segue winner has been this eyeshadow palette. It has the rose gold and shimmer for these last August days, as well as siennas and wine-tones to be used as the September leaves start to fall.

Limited-edition Don't Quit Your Day Dream Eyeshadow Palette - tarte

I used it for my self date to see a show at the Guthrie the other night. I am in love with wandering around my new(ish) neighborhood. This might not be the case come winter, but for now, I spend hours exploring new sights and hidden streets. I couldn't believe I never ran across this "urban castle" a few blocks away from my home. Funny to think of how it sat amongst endless parking lots and the Metrodome before its more vibrant and blossoming current surroundings. I am completely obsessed with the rumor that it will soon be turned into a brewery. Downtown Minneapolis is killing it!

Urban castle in downtown Minneapolis might become 'destination brewery' - Star Tribune

That's all the feels for this Friday. OK, I'm lying, I could go on and on this week, but let's leave it with this thought that I heard Senator Cory Booker say on a podcast:
Don't let hate make you hateful. Don't let the darkness make you dark.

Friday Feels: Volume II

Feeling enchanted by one of my favorite summer flowers and its ability to produce so many variations of color within one plant.

Hydrangeas

Feeling shocked that Spicey is out.

Exclusive - Goodbye, Sean Spicer: The Daily Show

Feeling like a kid again (but with alcohol) at the MN Zoo's Adult Night.

Bear Talk - Minnesota Zoo

Feeling my abs ache after laughing so hard at this homage:

d3@r ev@n OH NO - YouTube

Feeling like mac & cheese makes everything better

O'Cheeze Food Truck - Minneapolis, MN

Feeling like these remarkable creations are almost too pretty to eat!

Patisserie 46 - Minneapolis, MN

Feeling relieved to have someone give a sensible answer to this ongoing worry (thanks, Pope!)

The Pope on Panhandling: Give Without Worry - NY Times

Feeling remembrance of a wise man with wise words.

Will to Not Wilt

Before I start this post, may I offer you a cool, fruity drink to sip upon? You'll need it.

Cassiopea Glassware - West Elm

Because it is hot, folks. And not *just* hot - icky, sticky, relentlessly, beating down with all its might hot. Facebook's On This Day app reminded me that this is a yearly occurrence as I scanned through past posts about needing a lake to jump in, a better air conditioner, beach access, or an endless supply of popsicles. Sometime in mid-late July, this unbearable weather takes over for a few weeks and we get melted ice cream and kids finding any spraying water source they can.

Washington Heights, NYC

I will say that when the temps soar above 90 degrees with 98% humidity and not a breeze in sight, I'm finding it slightly easier to cool off in Minnesota than New York City. That's one point for MN on the Big to Minne Apple Move scoreboard.

For one thing, you don't have to deal with the subway system, which in the summer becomes the closest thing to hell that any of us will (fingers crossed) ever encounter.

The Subway Spa - Improv Everywhere

But, despite the higher occurrences of central AC and green space here in the great north, it's still steamy and muggy beyond comprehension. And so I spend many a summer day during this time period trying to figure out how to keep my Irish/Scandinavian body comfortable in the temporary tropics.

Let's turn back to that drink, why don't we? The clean and crisp flavor of a gin & tonic is my go to when it is sweltering. I upped the summer quotient in this cocktail with berries, herbs, & a hint of floral. I promise, it doesn't make it too stuffy. Just prettier.

Thyme & Tarragon Triple Berry Gin & Tonic
(makes two servings):

• 3 oz gin
• 1 oz St. Germain
• 2-3 oz Thyme & Tarragon Triple Berry Syrup*
• Combine gin, St. Germain, & syrup and shake with ice vigorously. Strain into two rocks glasses filled with ice and top with tonic. 
• Garnish with frozen berries, lemon, and thyme.

*For the syrup, I simmered 1 to 1 sugar-water, and a handful of blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries, added a few stems of tarragon and thyme and let the mixture steep for 30 minutes. Strain when slightly cool and keep in refrigerator.

But if you are going to be indulging in alcohol, make sure and match it with as much water consumption as possible. I find having a chic and reusable water bottle makes it all the easier to get in your needed H2O, especially on the go.

The bkr Water Bottle

Water is really the key to keeping cool. Even being near or gazing at the water chills me out. But my favorite of all favorites is waterfall swimming. I blame my time in Ithaca - it is gorges, after all.

Amnicon Falls State Park, Wisconsin

A waterfall is not always accessible, but waterparks seem to be prevalent around these parts (surprising for a state that has such a short burst of summer), and I've been meaning to check a few out. Some even offer adult hours for exercising, like lap swims and walking the lazy river.

I don't have my own backyard currently, so THESE are out.

But, thanks to Slide the City, I could be slipping and sliding my way down a Minnesota main street this August.

Slide the City

Facial mists and sprays have been my best friend lately. One spritz of this rosewater version will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, and it smells divine!

Rosewater Balancing Mist - Jurlique

Pajama dressing. It is what I aim for on a daily basis - figuring out how to style pajamas so they look like actual clothes when in society. I'm just that into comfort. Or lazy. Or both? In the winter, it's all about long, all-enveloping cardigans and fuzzy leggings. In the summer? Moo-moos and oversized t-shirts. Light, loose fabric, with no particular shape and nothing that constricts. Something you could easily throw on over a swimsuit.

 Some feasible contenders from Madewell, Target, and Old Navy.

A few years ago, I took a deep breath and for the first time since childhood, chopped off my long locks. I enjoyed the edgy short-hair look for a couple of seasons, but lately I've been in the mood to grow my hair out past my shoulders again. I guess I'm no longer thoroughly modern and instead back in the bohemian romantic mood. I got giddy when I realized that my mane is finally long enough to put into a crown braid. Huzzah! I'll be utilizing this and other easy updo looks like THESE all summer long.

PureWow Presents: Let Music Festivals Inspire Your New Favorite Braids

In the winter months, there is no better comfort food than a piping hot bowl of soup. The summer equivalent for me is a big bowl of cold asian noodles. You do have to boil water for the noodles, but other than that, no time spent hovering over a hot stove.

I went with plain old spaghetti, but you can use any noodle of choice. I forgot I had some of THESE sweet potato spiral noodles in my fridge - they would have been beyond perfect - next time! You can go crazy with the add ins; I went for snow peas, cucumbers, jicama, red pepper, rainbow carrots, and scallions. But simply the noodles as is sprinkled with sesame seeds would also do!

Cold Sesame-Style Noodles:

• 1 lb noodles (see above comment)
• 1/4 c nut butter (I used natural almond, but peanut butter, sesame paste, etc. will do)
• Juice of 1 lime (2-3 tbsp)
• 2-3 tbsp honey (adjust sweetness as needed depending on what type of nut butter you used)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced or grated
• 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp sriracha (plus more for garnishing)

Combine above ingredients, whisking until smooth. Prepare noodles according to package. Toss noodles with sauce. Chill noodles. When ready to eat, mix in any added veggies. Enjoy!

Now that I have my nosh ready to go, it is time to...do nothing. Because doing nothing means not moving and not moving means not perspiring. Perhaps a day of Netflix and Chill? But like, literally chill, not "chill". 

There certainly are a host of shows to marathon and keep me on the couch, not moving. Oh, and reminding me that winter is coming. So maybe I should enjoy this heat wave while we have it?

The Ultimate Binge Watcher's TV Bible - Refinery29

How are you keeping cool this summer?
Do you wilt under the harsh, fiery sun or do you thrive in the heat?