The Active Habitat

Happy Holidays From Active Habitat!

Hope everyone is having a great holiday season with lots of love and laughter! We had a great Christmas visiting family in northern California. Which we will be sharing in a future post about Sacramento. As we get older, we begin to appreciate family more and spending more time with them. We also wanted to apologize for not uploading on Monday, as it got way too busy. But will be committed to starting posting this New Years, on a regular basis. Thank you for anyone who reads our blog…it means the world to us!

Have a wonderful New Years!

Rico Twins

4 Unique Christmas Party Ideas

Holiday Lifestyle

Creating new Christmas traditions is part of the enjoyment of the holiday. It’s a time of year that makes everyone rejoice to be around close family and friends. Here is a list of new unique Christmas party ideas.

Have a decorating snowman cookie challenge

Baking cookies on Christmas are one of the tradition everyone enjoys. But it seems that sugar cookies are the cookie of choice. Why not switch it up and decorate snowman cookies instead. This great outdoor activity can now be done inside. Add different sugar candy to customize your own snowman. Here is the recipe for snowman cream puffs LINK.

Make a hot chocolate bar

A cocktail is always a must when throwing a Christmas dinner. This year why not create a hot-chocolate bar, with a variety of mixer and toppings. Nothing is better than hot Chocolate and a little rum. Here are some ideas for Christmas coco bar options LINK.

Read A Christmas tales to the little ones

We all love watching the classic Christmas movies. Mine is Santa Clause with Tim Allen. This year, break tradition and have story time with the children. There are tons of classic Christmas stories that we have forgotten but will give us flashbacks of our childhood days. Here are some options LINK and LINK.

Have all day pajama day

Most families celebrate Christmas on the 25th, but my family, like most, celebrate on the 24th. This typically leaves Christmas Day for just lounging around. With nothing to do and all businesses are closed, why not have a pajama day. Growing up, my immediate family had this tradition. We would move a bed mattress to the family room and watching movies, in our pajamas.

Two Detox Drinks for Days after a Holday Festivity

Drinks Recipes

I am not one to hold back on the holiday festivities. As I am a strong believer in balancing healthy, natural foods with an occasional fun treat. It’s important to find your own definition of balance and remove any guilt from eating occasional “bad” food. By rebuilding good relationships with food, you can enjoy these upcoming holidays without feeling any resentment or overindulgence.

However on the days, that I have enjoyed a bit too many sweets or fatty foods, I like to make a detox drink. Either in a tea, juice or as a shot. Detox drinks are great to reset your digestive system, cleanse the colon, remove unwanted toxins, and provide missing nutrients. And these drinks are perfect for this time of year. Because after pre & post festivities these 2 detox drinks will be needed.

Superfood Green Juice with Chlorella

Chlorella algae have various nutrients including vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, essential fatty acids, amino acids and other hundreds of micronutrients. Also, it works better than spirulina to remove heavy metals and other toxins such as pesticides and herbicides from the body. Chlorella can also help support the production of beneficial bacterial flora for good gut health.

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp chlorella
4 fresh kiwi (can be substituted with another fruit)
half a lemons (peeled & halved)
1 oz of ginger root (sliced)
4 stalks of celery (chopped)
1 handful parsley
1handful spinach or kale

Direction

Add ingredients in layered order: fruits, powders & then fresh green veggies.
Add water to halfway mark.
Then blend using additional water as needed.
If not blended well, use cheesecloth or paper towel and place over the cup to remove any large pieces.

Tumeric and Ginger Wellness Shot

Both turmeric and ginger are high in antioxidants. Antioxidants detect the presence of reactive compounds called free radicals, which are the invaders that age your cells and can contribute to cancer. Turmeric has other health benefits, such as powerful anti-inflammatory compound. These compounds are important because it helps your immune system fight off harmful germs. Like many who drink ginger tea or ginger ale to soothe your stomach, ginger is great to help an irritated stomach.

INGREDIENTS

1 Tbsp turmeric powder or 1 oz piece
4 oz of coconut water
a lemon (peeled & halved)
1 oz piece of ginger root (sliced)
pinch of pepper
1 tsp of cayenne pepper

Direction

Add ingredients in layered order: fruit/root, powders & spices
Add coconut water
If not blended well, use cheesecloth or paper towel and place over the cup to remove any large pieces.

Homemade Christmas Gifts Ideas

Lifestyle

I believe Christmas is the most magical time of the year. From twinkling lights and timeless holiday songs, what’s not to love. The only dreadful part is trying to find gifts in crowded stores. If I dare go to the mall, I’ll start to lose my Christmas joy quickly. So this year I decided to make homemade gifts my family and friends will love. For me, homemade gifts are truly a present from the heart, because it says someone took the time to make something special just for me. DIY gifts can sometimes take a long time to make, but at least you’ll be at home, listening to Christmas music, rather than waiting in a long checkout line.

Clockwise:

Get photos of your loved ones and make them poster size. (Link)

The smell of Christmas can make anyone’s day, so a Christmas scented candle is never a bad idea. (Link)

A crochet animal is a great gift for the little ones in your life. (Link)

Everyone needs a little greenery in their home, so why not make them a succulent garden box. (Link)

Nothing says “I love you” as homemade baked treats. (Link)

Since everyone is home baking this time of year, give them homemade gourmet vanilla-extract. (Link)

The Secret of Clearing Your Skin

Beauty Lifestyle

Do you ever look at someone’s face and notice how flawless their skin is? Well, I do. Although I never dealt with acne, I had another issue that I couldn’t explain. My face was full of clear bumps that created a textured look, which was only visible in bright light. It wasn’t ingrown pimples nor Eczema. None of the beauty cleansers and creams I tried helped clear the bumps. It was also impossible to find answers on Google Search because it was hard to explain. I finally found this Youtube video, and she described exactly what I had. Although I didn’t take her approach, exactly, on how to clear up the issue, it was nice to know I wasn’t alone. The answer was simple less sugar and less makeup.

No Makeup

I agree that it is hard to go out in public without makeup, but I noticed that even minimizing the amount of makeup I used really help me see results. Although, I’ll admit that I used no makeup most days. I came to the realization, the only reason I do wear makeup is for me. Most people in my life don’t even care if I put it on. My boyfriend even preferred me without it. Now of course, I use makeup for when the time calls for it, like for a nice dinner or an important meeting.

Eating Clean

There is not much I can say here that you don’t probably already know. Eating a well-balanced meal is the key to most body ailments. It doesn’t mean giving up sweets and fast food altogether, just minimizing it. Eating junk food once or twice a week will change your inner and outer appearance. Try eating at least 5-6 serving of unprocessed veggies and fruit (you need both) a day, which will help add needed nutrients into your body.

Use Products Only When Necessary

As the video stated, trying some type of ointment to help reduce appearance is never a bad idea. Creams can help reduce the issue on hand, but you also need to work on the root of the problem. If you want to use store products, it’s best to talk to a licensed Dermatologist first. You don’t want to irritate your skin and cause more damage.

A Jalapeño Whole Wheat Cornbread Recipe

Dessert Recipes

Looking for Thanksgiving recipe that’s both delicious and good for you. This jalapeño whole wheat cornbread made with maize is just that. This recipe is made with natural ingredient contains plenty of fiber to keep you regulated during the holiday’s buffet. I used maize (found in Latin food section of groceries) instead of Jiffy Corn Meal as it has natural ingredients and gluten-free. All maize contain is corn and hydrated lime.

Plus, like my other recipes found on this site, it’s easy to make. Because as a woman with multiple priorities we need to find fast, healthy recipes that won’t slow us down. Try out jalapeño whole wheat cornbread recipe and tag us on IG if you do. We would love to know how it turns out!

Yum

A Jalapeño Whole Wheat Cornbread Recipes

IMG 1091 300x225 - A Jalapeño Whole Wheat Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup cornmeal
3 teaspoon of baking powder
1 teaspoon of salt
1 Jalapeño diced
1 egg
1 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoon of honey

Instructions

Combine dry ingredients (except jalapeño) to a bowl and whisk.
Remove the seeds and top from the jalapeño and dice (careful with oils getting on your skin). Add to the mixture and whisk.
Next, combine all wet ingredients to a separate bowl and whisk
Pour wet into the dry and with a spatula fold in the mixture and not mix to avoid overworking the batter
Next with a preheated skillet pan or cake pan and add a tablespoon of olive oil (optional to bake at 400 degrees) and bake for 25 minutes till golden brown.
Bonus for an added sweet and savory touch spread a tablespoon of honey on top. Enjoy!

Schema/Recipe SEO Data Markup by Yummly Rich Recipes

https://www.theactivehabitat.com/2018/11/a-jalapeno-whole-wheat-cornbread-recipes-made-with-maise/

Julian, California Travel Guide

California Lifestyle Travel United States

If you’re from LA or nearby you must visit Julian, CA. This historic town still holds that Wild West charm. You can imagine the cowboy brawls and carriages lining up the street. There are so many historic buildings in Julian, you will feel like you have just walked onto a movie set. If your planning a visit come in September through November. Unlike most of Southern California where fall season doesn’t really exist, it does here. You can see the color trees and feel fall crisp air. Also, for a town that’s known for its pies, what other better place to visit.

Here are the top things to do in Julian, CA.

Eat Pie – If you are going to do one thing during your visit then this is it. Julian is known for its amazing pies and honestly, they are really really good! The two most famous spots are Mom’s Pies and Julian Pie Company. Warning, there usually a line for both spots.

Apply Picking – If you visit in in early fall, then you must go apple picking at Apple Starr Orchard. Enjoy the day finding the best apples to take home. This orchard doesn’t require reservations, so you don’t have to plan ahead. Another place to visit is Calico Ranch and Cidery.

Have A Drink – If you in the mood for great beer or cider then stop by the Julian Beer Company. They serve craft beer on tap. It’s a great place to relax to try a few beers. But if you have children with you, then check out the Julian Station. This is not just another brewery. This place includes live music, arcade games, shopping, food, and tap room. You can spend a few hours here with your family.

History Tour – Go visit the Julian Chamber Visitor Center and get a map of the Historical Walking Tour. Also, check out the Eagle Mining Co. to visit the old mine, established in the 1870’s.

Old Fashion Diner – One of the most charming places in Julian is the Granny Kitchen. As soon as you walk in, it’s as if you stepped back in time. They have vintage toys displayed and even a small museum on top.

Julian Farm & Orchard – Although no apples to pick, this 25-acre farm has a full-day activities. Depending on the time of year you can do blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry, pumpkin, corn picking. There are also farm animals, archery range, farm-to-table dining, tractor hayrides, etc.

Visit Wineries – Like most of California, you can always find great wineries to visit and Julian isn’t an exception. The is Volcan Mountain winery, Emerald Creek Winery, Sierra Roble Winery & Vineyard. All places to stop and taste some wine.

Ride A Camel – Yeah, you read that right. At the Oasis Camel Dairy, you can book private tours to ride camels and feed them. They also sell camel milk chocolate and soaps.

Visit Wolfs – If camels are not your thing, then visit the California Wolf Center. Home to several packs of gray wolves, the center is dedicated to the return of wild wolves to their natural habitat. Check the website for visiting times and the cost to visit. Also entry funds go to supporting the center to stay open.

Day of the Dead Decor and Its Purpose

Holiday Lifestyle

I never grew up celebrating Day of the Dead…or Halloween as a matter of fact…as I just found it to be another gimmicky holiday, I have now changed my mind. I now find the underline meaning of the Day of the Dead (Dia De Los Muertos) beautiful. Underneath all the festive skulls and bright decor, it’s a day to celebrate those who have made an impact on our lives. While many gather to pray for friends and family members who have died and help support their spiritual journey. It can also be meant to give a day of reverence for those we love. And as importantly to celebrate that we are alive and we should live it to the fullest.

I hope to go next year to Mexico during this time as they decorate graveyard, make shrines of the dead, and parades. But for now, I thought I would add a small touch of the Day of the Dead to my home. This small remembrance corner with photos of deceased, and some pretty DIY Decor.

DIY Skull Decor: With a small jewelry skull used as a planter (moss to cover the eyes). I am selling a few of these skulls on my Poshmark, that I have picked up while visiting Mexico. But also can be found here and larger ones here.

5 Fall Healthy Recipes That Are Easy

Diet Talk Holiday Lifestyle

How exciting are you that it is fall season? I am for many reasons. One it is my first season in a new city, which means finding fun festivals to check out. Two I can bring out fall scents and decor, and three the fun fall food to try out. While I love to try new recipes, I hate slaving away in the kitchen for hours, spending money on lots of ingredients, and by the end, I’m more tired than hungry. Not to mention the trip to the groceries store, that gets more crowded as the holiday approached. Therefore I found five recipes that are easy to try. Not only easy but the ingredients are natural and simple.

And to make your life easier, just use the AmazonFresh to shop for groceries. All you have to do is order and it is delivered the same day. The hassle-free way of shopping this season. Combine Amazonfresh with these 5 fall healthy recipes you will have time to actually enjoy the season.

Creamy roasted pumpkin soup by Simply Quinoa – This soup is made with fresh/canned pumpkin, has a unique twist of flavors with coconut and lime. It will be the perfect combination of sweet and savory. The fact that is gluten-free and vegan is just an added bonus.
Diced roasted butternut squash by Ina Garden – I am a big fan of diced potato on my side with eggs, and diced butternut squash is a lower calorie alternative. The recipe is easy to make and can be frozen and stored for meal prep.
Yogurt Dip with Pomegranate by A Couple Cooks – For a recipe that can be whipped up last minute, but unique and festive that everyone will try. It is a cleaned recipe with six ingredients. This will be great on appetizer tray to dip veggies and crackers. Also, go check them out as they have awesome recipes to try.
Penne with Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese by Giada De Laurentiis – Need a recipe to impress, but in fact, doesn’t take you very long. This penne recipe is it. It is an easy pasta recipe, with the added step of roasting the butternut squash. Easy and clean option for any holiday buffet.
Seeded Pumpkin Breakfast Bread by Tasty- While making bread might sound difficult, this recipe is easy to make and great for meal prep. With a handful of ingredients that are full of nutrients and omega three and six.

Face Mask for Glowing Skin

Beauty Lifestyle

Lately, my skin looked duller than usual. This typically happens closer to my time of the month and when I wear more makeup than usual. Also, spending most of my summer outdoors means more sweat. To solve the problem, I’ve been looking for a DIY face mask that will get my skin back in order. This yogurt skin mask really made a difference on my skin and brought back my glow.

Yogurt, which helps with moisturizing the skin, has tons of nutrients to nourish your skin. Benefits are listed here (Link). Lemon, aids in clearing out pores. For honey, I wrote an article on the benefits in the previous post.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of plain organic yogurt
1-2 tsp of honey
1-2 tsp of lemon juice

Let it sit for 20 minutes and wash off.

All skin types are different, so if any signs of skin reaction remove the mask and see a doctor right away. Also anytime you use lemon on your skin, please stay away from sunlight.

Holiday Tradition Mood Board

Neighborhood Guide to Hillcrest by…

A Year Full Of Blessings

Happy Holidays From Active Habitat!

4 Unique Christmas Party Ideas

Creating new Christmas traditions is part of the enjoyment of the holiday. It’s a time of year that makes everyone rejoice to be around close family and friends. Here is a list of new unique Christmas party ideas.

Two Detox Drinks for Days after a Holday Festivity

Superfood Green Juice with Chlorella

Tumeric and Ginger Wellness Shot

Homemade Christmas Gifts Ideas

The Secret of Clearing Your Skin

A Jalapeño Whole Wheat Cornbread Recipe

Plus, like my other recipes found on this site, it’s easy to make. Because as a woman with multiple priorities we need to find fast, healthy recipes that won’t slow us down. Try out jalapeño whole wheat cornbread recipe and tag us on IG if you do. We would love to know how it turns out!

Julian, California Travel Guide

Day of the Dead Decor and Its Purpose

5 Fall Healthy Recipes That Are Easy

And to make your life easier, just use the AmazonFresh to shop for groceries. All you have to do is order and it is delivered the same day. The hassle-free way of shopping this season. Combine Amazonfresh with these 5 fall healthy recipes you will have time to actually enjoy the season.

Face Mask for Glowing Skin

Holiday Tradition Mood Board

Neighborhood Guide to Hillcrest by…

A Year Full Of Blessings

Creating new Christmas traditions is part of the enjoyment of the holiday. It’s a time of year that makes everyone rejoice to be around close family and friends. Here is a list of new unique Christmas party ideas.

Superfood Green Juice with Chlorella

Tumeric and Ginger Wellness Shot

Plus, like my other recipes found on this site, it’s easy to make. Because as a woman with multiple priorities we need to find fast, healthy recipes that won’t slow us down. Try out jalapeño whole wheat cornbread recipe and tag us on IG if you do. We would love to know how it turns out!

And to make your life easier, just use the AmazonFresh to shop for groceries. All you have to do is order and it is delivered the same day. The hassle-free way of shopping this season. Combine Amazonfresh with these 5 fall healthy recipes you will have time to actually enjoy the season.

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