During the holiday season, Livnfresh has been running tv ads. Since November 29, viewers can watch the newest holiday-themed commercial of LivnFresh, airing on TV 7&4. The commercial features Michigan’s very own state pride apparel company, LivnFresh, greeting shoppers “Happy Holidays”. The 15-second TV spot shows off LivnFresh’s Michigan-themed merchandise, including caps, shirts, sweatshirts, and accessories. These products are perfect for holiday gift-giving, as they are both stylish and functional. The apparel themselves let people express their love for the state, and everything Michigan has to offer. “LivnFresh creates unique, high-quality clothing for your up north lifestyle,” the announcer says. “Created right here in Northern Michigan.” Those who are interested can visit LivnFresh stores in Gaylord or Traverse City. And for those who want to learn more about LivnFresh’s offerings, promos, and deals, they can visit the company’s website at https://www.livnfresh.com/ “Happy Holidays from Dave and Cari at LivnFresh,” the commercial closes it out with a heartwarming family photo featuring the founders of this Michigan clothing company. Dave and Cari Samalik are two creative types who joined forces in marriage and in business, to take state pride wear to the next level. Their love for designing has led to some top gear apparel that expresses their love for the state. “As creative people, we love to design and build things. We also love where we are from. Being from Gaylord, there are so many amazing things to do. We, like most people that live here, are in love with biking, hiking, and water sport activities. Our love of everything Michigan and the outdoorsy lifestyle that comes with it are the inspiration for so many of our wonderful designs.” Dave and Cari love to boat and swim with their families. These bonding experiences in the water inspire a lot of their designs. “Everything from ‘the original Michigan D’ to the ‘Lake Girl’ apparel comes from a place of love and inspiration for our home state.” Dave and Cari have been screen printing shirts for over 25 years in beautiful Northern Michigan. “Michigan isn’t just a state it’s a lifestyle,” they added. The duo never runs out of ideas because they are actively getting inspiration from the great outdoors. The Samalik family loves golfing, fishing, biking, hunting, and camping: truly enjoying everything the state has to offer. Check out the latest deals and offers at LivnFresh.com to find the best gift ideas for your family. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/happy-holidays-livnfresh/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189883570167 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189884085925
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Presented By: Downtown Traverse City Dates: December 19, 2019 Location: Downtown Traverse City East Front Street Traverse City, MI 49684 Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Price: Free- But You have to pay for the gifts. The cost to attend the event is free. No shoplifting or you will be sprayed with beer and the public might beat you. Gentlemen, the time has come. It’s that time of the year again, where men gather together in an inebriated shopping frenzy and march through the streets of downtown Traverse City. This historical display of holiday shopping manliness is a tradition to the locals and is a salute to all Michigan men out there scrambling to get their last-minute Christmas shopping done… You are not alone, fellas. Local participating businesses offer great deals, fun games, food and… refreshments. Yes, the refreshments include beer. There is beer… Beer. With such a large array of shops in the downtown area (including our Livnfresh Traverse City location), there’s never a shortage of places to check out. Shop like a man, and join us on December 19th from 5:00pm to 9:00pm Did we mention that there’s beer? Guys, while you are picking up some jewelry or coats or your spouse’s favorite Michigan Gear, pick something out for yourself. Check out our Hunting Gear or our Love Beer Apparel. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/mens-night-traverse-city/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189705810662 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189705908980 In anthropology, a tribe is defined as a human social group. Exact definitions always vary, but at its core is the concept of inclusion. What does being part of a tribe mean in today’s terms? Just like other concepts of social groups such as nations and states, a tribe is another form of affiliation with other like-minded people. It is all about building a culture, both internally and externally. It is for this reason Livnfresh is more than just a company that sells (super cool) t-shirts. Livnfresh is not just a company that makes money by selling state pride apparel, even though we create some of the coolest Michigan-inspired merchandise out there. Livnfresh believes that every single person has value. We are building a tribe of people seeking to be a part of something larger than ourselves. It is a community that gets inspired by the beauty around them and uses this to inspire others as well. It’s no secret that we love the State of Michigan. We are inspired by its natural beauty, as well as our fellow tribe members. The owners, the staff, and everyone on the Livnfresh team love where we are from. And what’s not to love? The Michigan weather, the Great Lakes, the beaches, the seasons, and the food: the Mitten State inspires us at every turn. Whether it’s the natural attractions, the sports teams, the music, or the people, Michigan is a gift that keeps on giving. There are so many awesome things about this state. Our goal is to make a super fun and comfortable clothes that inspire you and make you feel good about yourself. We get inspired by Michigan, and you can get inspired by these clothes to live your best life. In turn, you can try and inspire the people around you as well. It creates a beautiful cycle that we love to be a part of. It’s true that anyone can slap a logo of the state of Michigan and say they are “pro-Michigan”. But Livnfresh is Michigan made. Our love for our state resonates within each and every stitch of clothing. You can feel the passion that we have for the Mitten State in every shirt, hoodie, or hat we sell. We make clothing for fun people who want to show off what they love. Without you purchasing our apparel, we would just be a bunch of crazy people who have a massive surplus of the coolest Michigan clothing. It would still be a very stylish collection, but it wouldn’t mean much if no one is getting inspired by it. Thankfully, we receive countless stories from people who are inspired by Livnfresh. People reach out via email and our Facebook profile to tell us how much being part of Livnfresh means to them. We get inspiring stories of perseverance from athletes to single moms who continue to amaze us. It gives us the inspiration we need to keep pushing and keep creating quality products. A tribe is a group that seeks excellence. This faith and belief in each other is what fuels the tribe’s passion. There is nothing quite like working in collaboration with a group of people that share similar beliefs. We have faith in each other and light each other’s collective fires. This is why every single member of the tribe strives for excellence, no matter what they do every day. No one has to walk this journey through life alone. It can be tough facing these difficulties all by yourself. Everyone needs a family, a support group—or a tribe. Tribes are magical. It’s a living, breathing organism. It’s just like how Michigan itself seems to breathe life into the world around it: that is why everyone loves Michigan living and visiting Michigan. Livnfresh, as its own community, offers what every tribe offers: a chance to feel good and feel included. Here at Livnfresh, we believe that we can get inspired while also inspiring others. That is what it means to be part of a tribe like Livnfresh. Visit Livnfresh.com and see some of the finest Michigan apparel Livnfresh has to offer. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/what-does-it-mean-to-be-part-of-a-tribe/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189705387337 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189705477385 Thinking about taking up cross country skiing? If you are visiting Northern Michigan and you want to try this exhilarating sport, then you are in luck, because The Great North has plenty of amazing spots for you to choose from. Here, our resident experts at Livnfresh have listed some of the best destinations in Northern Michigan for cross country skiing. Strap on your skis, glide along these groomed cross country ski trails and get ready to have the time of your life. Boyne HighlandsBoyne Highlands offers more than 35 kilometers of groomed and track-set trails—there’s no better way to experience the fields and forests of Boyne Highlands than with a pair of cross country skis. This spot gives you the opportunity to take an all-day tour or brisk skate against a tranquil backdrop. They also provide group lessons and private lessons to get you started on the right foot. With an expert Nordic instruction staff, you can learn to love this incredible sport the moment you strap on those skates. Boyne MountainThe sister resort of Boyne Highlands, Boyne Mountain features gentle trails through pine forests as well as technical terrain designed to test even the most dedicated Nordic skiers. Everybody can enjoy this trail no matter what their skill level is. Ski any of the 35-kilometer trails, from the 2-kilometer trail known as “The Pancake”, to the 4.5-kilometer trail known as “The Vistas”. They provide lessons that will teach you the basics. This is a great family activity, especially since kids 8 and under can ski for free. Caberfae PeaksCaberfae Peaks has a 15-kilometer long ski trail that is suitable for all ability levels, whether you are a beginner or an Olympian. The trail takes you through Northern Michigan hardwoods, which is always a blissful experience. The trail system can be conveniently accessed from the ski resort’s base area. The trails are also groomed on a regular basis by local volunteers and cross country ski enthusiasts. There is no fee to use the trails. Crystal MountainCrystal Mountain has 30 kilometers of trails with a range of trails for all ability levels. Not only is this a good experience during the day, but it also offers night cross country skiing. This is perfect for that extra scenic adventure. This spot is rated as the number one cross country skiing trail network in Michigan, according to the Michigan Living Magazine’s readers. Hanson HillsLocated in Grayling and offering groomed trails with several levels of difficulty, Hanson Hills is also a fine choice for families who want to try out cross country skiing. This is a great option for pet owners who want to take their pooch on a ski with them because Hanson Hills offers a special trail for that purpose. This definitely makes it more unique compared to the other destinations. The 35-kilometer trails are groomed daily. It offers a fun and challenging trail system for all skiers. Other Amazing Cross Country Skiing DestinationsThe Homestead is a popular spot among skiers because it features serene sights and smooth routes. Similarly, the Leelanau Trail offers a very relaxing cross country skiing experience that takes you through picturesque forests, farms, vineyards, lakes, and ponds. Shanty Creek has 30 kilometers of groomed and track-set trails. You can either bring your own equipment or rent them for the day. Lastly, the Vasa Trail is a great place to get a workout or just enjoy a leisurely ride. They also hold several races throughout the winter, if you are feeling competitive. Here at Livnfresh, we love the beauty of Northern Michigan. These cross country skiing destinations show how exciting Northern Michigan can be. Don’t miss out! Be sure to visit us at Livnfresh.com for some great Michigan-inspired apparel. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/cross-country-ski-northern-michigan/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189648563592 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189648689345 One of the things that inspire us the most at Livnfresh, is when we see other people crushing it when they are going about doing their normal daily life. Well today, we are interviewing one of Cari Samalikâs friends and someone that she admires very much. Nikki is truly an inspiring person. She juggles so many plates in her daily and professional life and always finds a way to make sure that she has time for self-maintenance. I mean come on, just take a look at some of her images, this woman is seriously strong and ripped! So we tip our cap to you today Nikki and we are soooo proud to have you as part of our Livnfresh tribe! Question 1- How did you first hear about Livnfresh and what drew you to the clothing line? Being a Gaylord Native I was introduced to it by friends, then just started following the brand online! I LOVE IT!!! We stopped a while back in the TC Store with friends from Texas and they loved the store too!! Such great products that now remind me of home Question 2- What Is Your favorite piece of Livnfresh apparel? Hoodies, hoodies and more hoodies. Great designs, and comfortable wear canât go wrong Question 3- So you are from Michigan but currently live in PA? Can you tell us what brought you out there and are you enjoying PA? Well, my husband is a welder and works in the natural gas industry out here. I do love it, we live in the mountains and the people and outdoor life are amazing, but I do have to say I miss Michiganâs lakes. Question 4- What inspires you to stay so strong and physically fit? Also, what do you do on a daily basis to stay so lean? I just feel better when I work out, I think the key to fitness is finding something you love to do. I love being outdoors, hiking, riding my horse, skiing, and I love lifting, and the challenge of cardio. This keeps me fit so I can accomplish my next adventure! We just returned from elk hunting in CO, and that was probably one of the most physical challenges I have ever done, and by prepping myself physically I could actually enjoy it. I push myself every day to keep going for that next goal, that next adventure. To keep consistent with your workouts, and to continually challenge yourself. I think that makes a huge difference when I discuss goals with clients or when designing my own workout programs. Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/fitnik2020/ Question 5- What do you do to have fun as far as outside activities? Wow, everything! I grew up in northern Michigan on a hay farm, so my brothers and I were always outside! I love skiing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hiking, Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing and hunting, running, biking, 4-wheeling and most of all riding my horse Wyatt! Anything outdoors I just really enjoy. We have so many amazing opportunities here in the USA to get out, be active and explore I try to take advantage as much as possible. Question 6- We know that you hunt. Can you tell us did you grow up hunting? And what keeps you coming back year after year? Yes, my father and grandfather taught me very early how to hunt, and how to respect and enjoy the sport. Now my husband and I travel to hunt and fish in different areas all over the world. I come back because I love the âwhat ifâsâ of hunting? You never know what will happen, and that is the exciting adventure of it all. Question 7- If you could design your perfect Michigan 2 week road trip, where would you go, what would you do there and why? Also gotta share your favorite eateries while you are there! Oh, I love this question! Well, my older brother lives just outside of Detroit, so I definitely hit a concert or go see the Tigers downtown. Maybe hit Mexican town, love the stores and food there! Then head towards Grand Rapids, see friends, hit the coast as and travel up Traverse City way, take my time and enjoy our small towns and amazing views. Once I get up close to Traverse City I have to hit Red Ginger (always my fav!) and cruise around the amazing bike paths, maybe catch a ride on the Naughty Cat. Spend a few days in Mackinaw, you can never go wrong with a day or 2 on the island, and dinner at the Pink Pony. Maybe horseback ride around the island or just take bikes. But one place I just love and would have to see is Tahquamenon falls and whitefish point in the Upper Peninsula. Maybe do some camping, hiking, and visit the lake superior shoreline. On the way down I-75 south, go to Gaylord, see friends, stop by Kassuba Lake where my Grandfather was raised and we spent so much time as kids and adults! My favorite spots to dine are Dianaâs for breakfast or lunch, and Benethumâs for dinner. But you canât beat all the newer local restaurants that have popped up since I have been gone! And I am SO excited that big buck is open, we enjoy eating up there too. I love trying out all the new cuisine that Gaylord has to offer. And from there you have to go home, which is Johannesburg Michigan, a small town with one blinking light. Home is where the heart is. Visit Paulâs Pub with my Younger Brother, have a beer, play some Keno see people I went to school with and just enjoy. This is my happy place where I can ride horses with my nieces and help my parents on the family farm, and just let life go by as slow as it needs to. Photo Source: https://www.instagram.com/fitnik2020/ Thank you! We want to thank Nikki for letting us interview her. We really appreciate all our tribe members and we are super excited to introduce our audience to Nikki. Please follow her on Facebook https://business.facebook.com/fitniklifestyle, Instagram @FitNik2020 and go check out her website, https://www.nikkifiel.com/. If you are in Williamsport PA and are looking for a personal trainer or meal prep pro, or if you live in Michigan (she offers a great online Training program also!) she is your gal! Thank you for thinking of me! I will always be a Michigan girl at heart! Keep making amazing clothing, itâs always nice to throw on a hoodie and be reminded of home, itâs like a hug from mom! Featured Image Source: Nikki Kassuba Fiel from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/interview-with-nikki-kassuba-fiel/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189594132047 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189594404820 When it comes to hot chocolate, are you the type of parent that makes one out of the box, or do you prefer to make it from scratch? We won’t judge. After all, everyone’s on different ends of the spectrum in terms of time and desire to be Betty or Benny Homemaker. In fact, both methods are good, and it’s all a matter of preference (and often time). We wanted to go through our two favorite options for making hot chocolate for your kids or for yourself during the winter. Whether it’s homemade or out of the box, you can still make the perfect hot chocolate. How to Make Hot Chocolate from ScratchIf you’re not much of a coffee drinker, you might appreciate a hot beverage in the form of hot chocolate. The best homemade hot chocolate always starts with real chopped chocolate—that is if you don’t want to go the regular route of cocoa powder. Heat up your milk in a saucepan and bring it to a scalding temperature, at about 180 degrees F. You can add a smidge of sugar if you want. You’ll know it’s ready to go when little bubbles start to form on the side of the pot, but it’s not quite boiling. Do not let it boil or the end result might be a little grainy. When the milk is properly hot, add the cocoa powder or melted chocolate straight in. To melt the chocolate, you can just microwave the chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each time until it is melted. The melted chocolate whisks in beautifully, and you end up with a smooth and creamy result. It’s easy to make, it’s simple, and it’s definitely delicious. The Best Out of the Box Hot ChocolateIf you don’t have time to do all of this, you can just buy hot chocolate, add some hot water, and voila: you have a delicious drink that’s ready to enjoy. But you still want to make the best choices right away so you don’t end up with flavorless hot choco. Here are a few safe picks for your sudden hot chocolate cravings: Swiss Miss Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix is very sweet, and yet it maintains the richness of cocoa. It leans more heavily on its milk flavors. It’s no surprise that Swiss Miss is one of the most popular choices. Another good option is Stephen’s Gourmet Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa that gives you that sweet chocolate flavor but with a touch of saltiness. Hershey’s Hot Cocoa Mix Milk Chocolate is a drink you will love as you’re sitting by the fire. It has a rich mahogany color and a velvety texture. Last but not least, the Land O’Lakes Chocolate Supreme Hot Cocoa Mix is a classic hot chocolate with a salty component, but in a good way. Many people like this brand for its rich and milky flavor, and buttery texture. How to Pass Off Your Out of the Box Hot Chocolate As HomemadeIf you are going for an “out of the box” approach and you’re planning to serve it to your family, you can add your own personal flair to it and pass it off as homemade. Add warm milk to your out of the box hot chocolate and it will change the taste drastically. You can also serve your ‘homemade’ hot chocolate with some marshmallows or whipped cream. Gather round the fire, serve these drinks in lovely mugs, and everyone is sure to have a good time. One hot chocolate tip to keep in mind is that you CAN reheat hot chocolate, but just make sure you don’t bring it to a boil. If you do need to reheat your hot chocolate, do it on the stovetop instead of the microwave so that it’s easier to control the heat. If you need to store leftover hot chocolate, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to drink it, reheat using the instructions above. This holiday season, grab your favorite type of hot chocolate, and curl up by the fireplace and enjoy a book or a movie. Make sure to do your lounging in your favorite Livnfresh gear! Visit Livnfresh.com and see some of the finest Michigan apparel Livnfresh has to offer. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/perfect-hot-chocolate/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189514477507 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189514890495 To us, Livnfresh is more than just a company that makes money by selling (the coolest) state pride apparel. The owners, the staff, and everyone on the LivnFresh team love where we are from which is Michigan. And our goal is to make super fun, comfortable and inspiring clothes that you can feel good about wearing. Anyone can slap a logo of the state of Michigan and say they are “pro-Michigan”. However, we are Michigan made. Our love of the Mitten State resonates within each and every stitch of clothing, and every shirt, hoodie or hat we sell. We are LivnFresh and we make clothing for active people who want to wear inspired clothing that shows off what they love. We believe that when you’re free to express your love for your home, your state, and your country—you are TRULY living fresh. And what is not to love about Michigan? From the beaches and lakes to the lovely Michigan weather, this state inspires us at every turn. We love the Great Lakes. It’s one of the defining characteristics of Michigan. The beauty of it makes just about every recreational activity that much more enjoyable. And it’s freshwater. None of that salt nastiness. We have enough of that on the roads during the winter. Families can hike, bike, boat, swim, and snorkel in create memories in the amazing Great Lakes and inland lakes. Michigan is the only state in the union that is almost completely surrounded by water. In fact, you can see OUR state from space. Back in 2010, NASA provided a stunning image of a cloudless summer day over the entire Great Lakes region, and it just highlighted how beautiful it all is. We also love the smaller inland lakes that stay warmer longer. We’re looking at your Big and Little Glen. Long Lake, Silver Lake and more. And of course, you can’t talk about the beauty of Michigan without talking about the beaches. Michigan beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, and so they are ideal for fun activities such as kayaking, hiking up sand dunes, and of course, beach town shopping. Did you know that there are more lighthouses in Michigan than in any other state? There are 129 in all. Some of them are still used to guide ships, while others have been transformed into quaint, lakeside bed breakfasts with magnificent views. Speaking of breakfast, if you ever visit Battle Creek, Michigan, you’ll quickly learn that the city is best known for its cereal. It’s one fascinating field trip for the kids! In terms of food, Michigan apples are another staple. The state’s 850 family farms harvest around 30 million bushels of apples a year, and every fall, orchards and cider mills across the state open to the public for apple picking, hayrides, etc. It is a true Michigan tradition. Michigan also plays a huge role in the US pizza chain history. Little Caesar’s, Jet’s and Hungry Howie’s all originated in Michigan. Additionally, Ann Arbor-based Domino’s started the concept of the 30-minute delivery. Beyond the food and the natural attractions, Michigan has already made a splash when it comes to culture, sports, and the arts. The state’s cultural impact is undeniable. Michigan, more specifically Detroit, is known as the birthplace of Motown. Michigan’s musical greatness doesn’t end there. Madonna was born in Bay City and punk rock legend Iggy Pop was from Muskegon. Techno, the popular electronic dance music genre, is also a product of the Mitten State. And of course, we also love our sports teams, even if none of them are winning right now. Come on Pistons! The state as a whole is just a pleasant place to be in and from, no matter the weather or the season. Michigan winter is never too cold, but it always brings the snow. It’s perfect for that cross country skiing adventure, snowmobiling or downhill skiing. There are many destinations to choose from, whether you are a beginner or a professional: Boyne Highlands, Caberfae Peaks, Crystal Mountain, Hanson Hills, and Shanty Creek. By spring, Michigan flowers bloom, birds return, and everyone prepares to go fishing, boating, hiking biking or taking in the views long covered up by snow. When the summer heat comes in, Michigan’s top summer destinations come to the forefront. And of course, many people love fall in Michigan because of the lovely autumn colors, the cider mills, the fall color tours, and the relaxing Michigan weather. Us Michiganders are a hearty brew. We could leave for warmer pastures like Florida or Alabama. But why? If you don’t go through the rough times (winter) you can’t really appreciate heaven (summers). Livnfresh is more than a chosen brand name. It’s who we are, and it’s where we are from. We are Livnfresh and WE ARE MICHIGAN. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/choose-livnfresh/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189454955902 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189455010205 While the holidays are usually exciting and fun for the whole family, they can also be depressing for some people. The holiday season is naturally stressful because of all the preparations that need to be done, but they can also bring out some bad memories. It’s no surprise that some people aren’t exactly bursting with holiday spirit. If you’re feeling depressed or exhausted, there are a few ways to deal with it healthily. Depression is a mental health condition that isn’t cured by simply “cheering up”. On top of consulting your doctor and taking medications, here are other ways to make the condition more bearable. Identify the Source of the ProblemIt’s easy to say that “the holidays” are stressing you out, but there is usually a deeper reason why you are feeling this way. Sometimes it is just the expectation of feeling merry and generous. People compare their emotions to what they assume others are experiencing or what they are supposed to feel—and then they get stressed out when they fall short. They judge themselves and feel like an outsider. Holiday depression can also be related to your finances. Not having enough money to buy gifts or host dinner parties can lead to feelings of frustration or even shame. When you can’t afford to celebrate, it can feel devastating. The stress of shopping and planning when you are already overworked can feel exhausting. It can even be because of loneliness. Did you know that a whopping 43 percent of Americans are single and 27 percent of Americans live alone? When others are with their families, it can be very painful for those who are alone. Grief, divorce, and estrangement are also major factors that can cause or worsen someone’s depression. Missing a deceased loved one is painful at any age. Similarly, going through a divorce can be tough especially during the holidays because it can remind you of happier times and accentuate your grief. During the holidays, women are at twice the risk for depression than men because of greater expectations when it comes to planning, shopping, and cooking. These burdens can make women feel more depressed during the holidays, whereas there is little expectation for men to do the same. Plan in AdvanceAnticipating stress can help you soften the blow of the holiday blues. Putting off decision-making only adds enormous stress to you later on, so it is better to prepare as early as possible. You want to know in advance whether or not you will be spending the holidays with anyone, and if so, who it’s going to be. Try to assess whether you absolutely want to celebrate or not. Depending on your current situation, it may either help you feel better or just make you more stressed. Whichever you choose, plan your next course of action right now. Shopping early gives you the chance to save more money and also allows you to wrap packages ahead of time. Ask for HelpThere is no shame in admitting that you are not having the time of your life, even if it’s during the holidays. And there is no shame in asking for help from your family and friends. You are not alone, and you do not have to deal with it all by yourself. Even if you are grieving, you can ask for help from medical professionals, therapists, counselors, and countless other people who can give you the support and advice you need, whether it’s in the form of medications or just a listening ear. Shame prevents people from opening up, and it, therefore, eats them from the inside. Do not allow perfectionism to get you down. If you absolutely need to, spend some time alone to reflect and grieve—but once you’ve done that, seek help and do not isolate yourself any further. Look out for the signs of depression: feelings of sadness, worthlessness, guilt, exhaustion, loss of interest in usual activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, social withdrawal, and changes in sleep, weight, or appetite. Rehabnear.me is an excellent sober resource for those who are also struggling with addiction. If addiction and depression affect a person at the same time, these co-occurring disorders need to be treated simultaneously by medical professionals. Here at LivnFresh, we care about you and your needs. Don’t let the holidays get you down and keep you from seeking the help you need. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/holiday-depression/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189372881262 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189374048005 Some people say they love Michigan because it has some of the greatest weather in the country. But what is the Michigan weather really like. And more importantly, why do we love Michigan weather so much? Let’s take a closer look. What is Michigan Weather Like? The weather in this state varies from season to season, but it also changes easily on a whim. Generally speaking though, the hottest months are June through August. It averages about 84°F during those months. Michigan enjoys blue skies and sunshine during the summer. But the winter weather is just as gorgeous. It can range from rain, sleet, and snow on any given day—perfect for hot chocolate or coffee and sitting by the fireplace. The annual average snowfall is 41.1 inches or 102 centimetres. What People Say About Michigan WeatherMichigan has a reputation for being just a bit unpredictable. But the reality is that the state’s weather actually falls on the more average side in terms of ‘unpredictability’. South Dakota gets the honor of having the most unpredictable weather. Unpredictable or not, we love it anyway. In fact, many people seem to agree that Michigan weather is great. “My husband and I lived near Midland in Michigan for a few years,” said Julie Gates, a florist who briefly worked in Michigan. Gates enjoyed the weather so much that she even shared her thoughts online. “The winter weather wasn’t that cold the years we were there. I grew up in states that were considerably colder than Michigan. Summers were mild compared to the hot and humid Southeast where I live now. The soil was great for growing anything. Yard work was actually enjoyable in Michigan.” While Gates praised the Michigan winter season for being enjoyable, Laurie Iversen described how much she liked the summer time: “I had fun in that state because the summers were great, and life was good for me. Perhaps, I loved Michigan because of wonderful memories.” She added: “I could easily live in Michigan, again. Every weekend, my husband and I went exploring. There is plenty to see and do. Mackinaw Island, the Upper Peninsula area, the Great Lakes, Saulte Ste. Marie, and the list goes on of places we visited.” Winter in MichiganNever too cold, but always bringing in the snow—Michigan’s winter season is perfect for that cross country skiing adventure. There are many destinations to choose from, whether you are a beginner or a professional; whether you’re going alone or with your family. We recommend resorts like Boyne Highlands, Caberfae Peaks, Crystal Mountain, Hanson Hills, The Homestead, Shanty Creek, and the Vasa Trail. Spring in MichiganMichigan spring offers so many different activities for you to enjoy once the thermometer starts rising. The flowers bloom, the birds return, and everyone’s spirits are lifted. Enjoy Michigan’s spring time by going fishing, view some tulips, or visit the annual Maple Syrup Festival at Vermontville. Summer in MichiganOf course, when the heat really starts to come in, it’s time to enjoy some of Michigan’s top summer destinations. Visit the Upper Peninsula’s hidden waterfalls; enjoy some of the state’s rich history at Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum; visit Fishtown; take a brewery tour; kayak to Turnip Rock—and more! The Best Season in Michigan: AutumnAlthough this one is up for debate, autumn tends to take the top spot when it comes to the best Michigan season. It’s because of the lovely autumn colors that create a spectacular view in late September and October. There are many reasons to love the fall season in Michigan. The cider mills, the fall foliage—and of course, the weather! Here at LivnFresh, we love the Michigan weather as much as we love the rest of the state. Be sure to visit us at LivnFresh.com for some great Michigan-inspired apparel. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/michigan-weather/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189372881187 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189374047945 Hosting the big Thanksgiving dinner for the whole family can be challenging—and we’re not just talking about the many meals you have to prepare. For many people, Thanksgiving isn’t complete without a crowd of family and friends. If you have guests coming over for the holiday, you need to make sure everyone can fit in the house comfortably! Lucky for you, the experts at LivnFresh have prepared a simple guide on how to maximize your house space for Thanksgiving dinner. Here, we’re focusing on maximizing your house space no matter how small your place may be. With some smart planning and creative solutions, you can host a memorable dinner no matter how much space you have. Plan AccordinglyIf you are working with a smaller space, you need to embrace it and just plan accordingly. Do not pine for space you don’t have. Instead, make the most out of what you do have. This space will dictate your dining style. If you have enough space to set up a large table, then you can pull off a sit-down dinner. If a large table is out of the question, consider a buffet style of dinner featuring smaller tables. Encourage your guests to sit on chairs, couches, and benches to eat. The size and amenities in your kitchen will also give you an idea of how to plan your menu. Can you fit a turkey in your oven? Do you have enough burners and counter space to cook everything you want to serve? There’s no shame in buying and serving pre-made items. Better yet, cook ahead of time so you can prepare more meals if you want to make use of your culinary skills. It’s all about proper Thanksgiving prep. Rearrange BoldlyTake a step back and really look at the space you have. Swapping spaces or removing furniture is the best way to buy you and your guests a little more space to move around in. If you have many relatives coming over, you will have to rearrange the place anyway, so it’s better that you do it ahead of time. Making more room lets you be a little more creative with your usage of space. Consider pushing furniture against walls in the meantime. Remove side tables and other small furniture that are in the way. If you can take it another step further, you may be able to repurpose items to hold food, drinks, coats, bags, etc. Your guests will be staying in the living room, dining room, kitchen, but they generally won’t be staying in the bedroom—so this is where you can stash your other things for now. Use Space StrategicallyThe bedroom can store all your unneeded furniture for the time being. But it can also store jackets, purses, and shoes so that they remain out of the way—and so guests know where to look for them afterward! Alternatively, you can use the bedroom as a playroom to keep all the energetic children busy. If you have a patio, it’s a great place to store coolers for cold food and beverages. If your kitchen is small, de-clutter it immediately. In fact, de-clutter the entire house. It will begin to feel bigger once you’ve thrown away all the stuff you no longer need. Dine CreativelyWorking with a small space is tough, but it also allows for a more intimate holiday bonding experience where everyone can eat together and talk. So when it comes to hosting a dinner party, you only need two things: places to sit, and surfaces to eat off of. You can put several smaller tables together and create a large gathering spot, for example. Even sturdy boxes and accent tables can be used as dining surfaces in a pinch. Just cover them in tablecloth to make them more presentable, of course. Renting chairs is certainly an option, but also consider benches, couches, stools, etc. At the end of the day, you and your guests just want to have a good time. It’s the company that counts, not space. If they can all move comfortably, and the place is clean and organized, then Thanksgiving should be an enjoyable affair. If all else fails, ask for help! Tell guests to bring their own chairs or small tables if absolutely necessary. Here at Livnfresh, we love Thanksgiving just as much as we love Michigan. Be sure to visit us at Livnfresh.com for some great Michigan-inspired apparel. from Livnfresh Blog|The Coolest State Apparel Co. https://blog.livnfresh.com/thanksgiving-dinner/ from Livnfresh Share Your State Pride. https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/post/189170864782 via https://livnfresh.tumblr.com/ via Tumblr https://annchumleigh.tumblr.com/post/189170949570 |
AuthorI set out to share with all the chic Fashionistas that we CAN don the latest and greatest of trends, fashions and styles that are made with US in mind! As a successful entrepreneur based in Michigan, who is constantly trying to grow, I hope to inspire, get inspired and motivated by my readers. ArchivesNo Archives Categories |