A Little Bit Of Me | Lifestyle Blog by Charnita Fance

I admit it: I'm a total sucker for trying new products. I love discovering those hidden gems that make my life easier, more enjoyable, or just plain fabulous. And December was yet another treasure trove of fantastic finds. So, let's dive into my absolute favorite purchases for the last month of 2024 (can you believe it?)! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. Skincare Saviors That Won't Break the Bank (or My Sensitive Skin) Forget those overpriced, over-hyped skincare products that promise the world and deliver nothing but disappointment. I'm here to tell you that you can achieve glowing, healthy skin without sacrificing your entire paycheck (thankfully). Here are my holy grails:

The vlogging landscape has become a strange echo chamber. Thumb through the latest uploads, and you'll see a monotonous parade of identical thumbnails: three to four images placed side-by-side, usually with a selfie or full-body picture in the center. Regarding titles, they're all often very similar (especially around season changes or holidays)—all promising the same "life-changing" hauls and tips, weekly resets, decorating sessions, get-ready-with-me sessions using the same beauty products, and so on. It's enough to make you wonder if you're trapped in a never-ending loop of sponsored content and unoriginality. This trend of vlogger clones isn't just aesthetically uninspiring; it's deeply concerning. It speaks to a culture of conformity that thrives on mimicking what's popular, sacrificing individuality for views and subscribers. Instead of celebrating unique voices and perspectives, we're witnessing a homogenized mass where everyone blends i

Popping up in various formats from the teabag to the ready-to-drink bottle, green tea has woven its way into countless people's routines all over the globe. But why is drinking green tea daily such a popular, and notably, beneficial habit? Source: Pixabay To put it simply, green tea is chock-full of health benefits that extend from the head to the heart, down to the tips of your toes. Let's explore! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. Brewing Health in a Cup 1. Fitness Friend Think of green tea as your low-maintenance gym buddy. Catechins , a type of antioxidant prevalent in green tea, increase the body's metabolism and assist in burning fat . Plus, the boost in fat oxidation it provides during exercise can further support your weight loss journey. That’s a simple formula for shedding pounds: green tea plus your favorite workout.

There's an undeniable charm that radiates from "Echoes of the Plum Grove," a farming sim currently in development by Unwound Games . This isn't your typical farm-to-table experience, though. It's a captivating tapestry woven from love, loss, community, and the mysteries hidden beneath a quaint island's surface. I was smitten from the first glimpse of Honeywood's vibrant meadows and cozy cottages. The art style, reminiscent of my beloved Paper Mario games, evokes a sense of whimsical nostalgia. It's a world begging to be explored, one where every corner holds the promise of discovery and delight. This is why I didn't hesitate to back it on Kickstarter ! Beneath the charming facade lies a surprising depth. Echoes of the Plum Grove isn't just about cultivating crops and raising livestock. It's about building a life, a legacy that will endure for generations. Your character's journey transcends the boundaries of a single lifetime, with the

As the festive season approaches, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, transporting me back to my childhood Christmases, filled with the warmth of family, the anticipation of gifts, and the sheer joy of the season. Yet, as a 42-year-old woman married, without children, but with three furbabies—a spoiled cat named Adah and two guinea pigs named Cinnamon and Sugar—my Christmas experiences have evolved over the years. While the absence of little ones running around the Christmas tree might have initially felt like a void, I've come to realize that Christmas is much more than just about the exchange of gifts or the excitement of "Santa's" arrival. It's a time for reflection, connection, and honoring cherished traditions passed down through generations.  I'm very thankful that my parents instilled the true meaning of Christmas in me at a young age.

As a busy woman in my 40s, I know how hard it can be to keep up with elaborate beauty routines. Between work, family, and everything else on our plates, who has time for 10-step skincare regimens? The good news is that radiant, healthy skin doesn't require hours in front of the mirror or using tons of products. You can reveal your natural glow with some simple habits built into your daily schedule. I've battled my share of skin issues over the years, from acne to oiliness to dermatitis, so I've tried it all. Now, I stick to a practical routine focused on consistency and care rather than perfection. The results have been transformative—my skin isn't perfect, but I often get compliments, which are always lovely! I'd love to share what I've learned so you can achieve gorgeous skin that reflects how you feel inside. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support.

The new year often inspires us to hit the reset button—on our health, homes, and habits. As you gear up for a fresh start in 2024, one of the best things you can do is take a hard look at the products you have in your home. Many everyday items contain hidden toxins, chemicals, and unhealthy ingredients that can sabotage your goals. Source: Pexels That's why this year, you should consider doing a deep cleanse and purging of the most harmful products that have no place in a healthy home. You'll breathe easier—literally and figuratively—once you banish these toxins! Here are the top 32 items to kick to the curb. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support.

Your home is your sanctuary, reflecting your unique style and personality. However, spaces can become dull and uninspiring over time, yearning for a fresh breath of life. Luckily, transforming your home doesn't require a hefty budget. With a touch of creativity, resourcefulness, and these practical tips, you can breathe new life into your abode without breaking the bank. Embrace the Power of Paint A fresh coat of paint is an instant mood booster and a powerful tool for transforming your living spaces. Choose colors that complement your existing décor and evoke the desired ambiance. For a bold statement, paint an accent wall in a contrasting hue, or opt for a lighter shade of your current wall color for a subtle yet refreshing change.

Aloe plants truly are incredible! They bring a refreshing touch of green to our living spaces and offer remarkable health and skincare benefits. I've been fortunate to have my aloe plant for nearly a decade, and it's still thriving! I've found that placing it to the right of the window in my office provides it with just the right amount of light. If you find yourself gazing at your aloe plant with admiration and uncertainty, this post is perfect for you. Let's delve into the captivating world of these botanical wonders and ensure they receive the proper care they deserve. Your Aloe, Your Ally Aloe plants have a unique charm that goes beyond their adorable rosette shape. These succulent beauties are not just eye-catching additions to our homes; they're also like our personal medicine cabinets. Whether it's soothing minor injuries, healing sunburns, or taking care of our skin, aloe plants have got us covered! Quite literally, too.

Keeping your eyeglasses clean is essential for clear vision and eye health. Smudges, dirt, and debris can be annoying at best and cause eye irritation or infections at worst. This post provides a step-by-step guide on the proper methods for cleaning your eyeglasses and maintaining their condition. Why Proper Eyeglass Hygiene Matters When dirt, oils, and other contaminants accumulate on your eyeglass lenses and frames, it can lead to several issues: Blurred or obscured vision from smudges and smears on the lenses Eye discomfort or irritation if debris gets into your eyes Germs and bacteria transfer from the glasses to your face, increasing the risk of infection Permanent scratching or clouding of the lenses if wiped improperly

Shifting to a whole-food, plant-based diet can feel overwhelming, especially if you've been accustomed to eating highly processed foods and takeout for years. However, with some planning, motivation, and hearty plant-based recipes, it is possible to form new, healthy habits that support wellness. Source: Pexels Getting Started With a Whole-Food, Plant-Based Diet The first step is getting into the right mindset . Remember that you're making this change to improve your health after years of unhealthy eating. Keep the long-term rewards in mind rather than seeing it as depriving yourself of the tasty comfort foods you're used to. View it as discovering a new world of nutritious whole grains, produce, legumes, nuts, and seeds that will make you feel more energized and less reliant on supplements and medications. Start by identifying the biggest roadblocks that could make this diet change difficult. Be honest about your habits around convenience, stress eating, emotional attachme

Herbal infusions, also called tisanes, can be a tasty and healthy way to promote longevity. Unlike coffee or black tea, they are caffeine-free and made by steeping herbs, spices, or flowers in hot water. Some research shows specific herbs may help reduce inflammation, balance hormones, improve digestion, enhance immunity, and more. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. Here are 8 delicious herbal infusions to consider sipping for a long, vibrant life: 1. Turmeric Turmeric contains the antioxidant curcumin. Curcumin has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects that may protect cells from damage.

The Nintendo Switch has quickly become a haven for gamers of all ages, offering a wide range of exciting titles across genres. Among these, platformers have emerged as a fan favorite, with their fast-paced, action-packed gameplay providing hours of entertainment.  The Switch's library boasts an impressive collection of platformers, from classic favorites to groundbreaking new releases. To help navigate this vast array of options, I've compiled a list of the 10 best platformers for Nintendo Switch, ensuring that you'll find something to suit your preferences. Super Mario Odyssey Embark on an unforgettable adventure with everyone's favorite plumber, Mario, in Super Mario Odyssey . This innovative platformer takes Mario and his new companion, Cappy, around the globe, where they must collect Power Moons to power their airship, the Odyssey. With its inventive gameplay mechanics, vibrant worlds, and charming story, Super Mario Odyssey is a must-play for any platforming fan.

Cats, our beloved feline companions, bring joy, companionship, and a touch of the wild into our homes. While indoor cats enjoy the safety and comfort of our homes, they can also face boredom and inactivity, which can lead to behavioral issues and overall unhappiness. To ensure your indoor cat's well-being and foster a vibrant, playful spirit, consider incorporating these engaging enrichment activities into their daily routine. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. 1. Embrace Vertical Spaces with Cat Trees and Shelves Cats are natural climbers and love to perch in high places, observing their surroundings from above. Providing a cat tree or installing sturdy shelves along the walls can transform your home into a feline playground, satisfying their climbing instincts and providing a sense of security.

In the spirited world of blogging, generating revenue is crucial for sustaining your passion and dedication. While AdSense remains a popular monetization method, its effectiveness hinges on substantial traffic volume. This guide delves into alternative strategies to monetize your blog without AdSense, empowering you to diversify your income streams and achieve financial success. Source: Pexels Affiliate Marketing: Leveraging Your Influence Affiliate marketing entails promoting other brands' products or services and earning a commission for each sale generated through your unique affiliate link. This approach capitalizes on your blog's audience and established trust, allowing you to recommend products that align with your niche and resonate with your readers. According to Google, these are the top 5 affiliate marketing platforms .

As a guinea pig mom, keeping vegetables fresh for as long as possible is crucial to provide my furbabies with nutritious, tasty treats. Proper storage not only saves money by reducing wasted veggies but also preserves the vitamins, texture, and yumminess my guinea pigs love. This comprehensive guide covers the optimal storage methods for common vegetables to maximize freshness. By following these vegetable storage tips, I can ensure the highest quality produce for my guinea pig's daily salad bowl and my own plate while avoiding spoilage. Overview Vegetables contain living plant tissues that continue respiring after harvest. Over time, this process causes them to use up nutrients and energy reserves. Eventually, the plant cells die, causing the vegetable to deteriorate. The goal of storage is to slow this process as much as possible.

Rose water, a fragrant liquid extracted from rose petals, has been revered for centuries for its wide applications in beauty, health, and culinary traditions. Its delicate aroma and purported therapeutic properties have made it an indispensable ingredient in numerous cultures worldwide. Source: Pexels Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. Unveiling the Essence of Rose Water Rose water is traditionally produced through a process known as steam distillation. Fresh rose petals are gently steamed, releasing their precious essence and creating a fragrant hydrosol, commonly referred to as rose water. This distillation process preserves the delicate aroma and beneficial compounds in the petals. A Symphony of Benefits: Rose Water for Skin Care Rose water's reputation as a skincare elixir is well-deserved. Its gentle yet effective properties make it suitable for all skin types, part

As an avid Sims 4 player since its release in 2014, I've experienced the highs and lows of this virtual world. While the game offers immense freedom and creativity, I often find myself yearning for more unpredictable and captivating scenarios. Fortunately, the realm of Sims mods is here as a beacon of hope, transforming my gameplay into a whirlwind of chaotic fun. One of the most appealing aspects of The Sims 4 is the ability to let Sims autonomously pursue their desires. However, I've come to realize that a touch of unexpected drama and excitement can elevate the gaming experience to a whole new level. This is where mods come into play, acting as catalysts for thrilling storylines and hilarious mishaps.

Warm up on chilly nights with these effortless Mediterranean-inspired soups. Using just a handful of ingredients, let your slow cooker do the work to create hearty, flavorful meals. Source: Pixabay Keep It Simple Crafting a delicious soup with few ingredients is easy when you stick to some key items: Protein: Chicken, turkey, lentils, chickpeas, white beans Veggies: Tomatoes, spinach, zucchini, eggplant, onions, garlic Grains: Orzo, Israeli couscous, rice Herbs and Spices: Oregano, basil, cumin, cinnamon, paprika Broth: Chicken, vegetable, beef Combine items from each category and let them simmer to perfection.

The holiday season often derails fitness goals with busy schedules and tempting treats. However, with some planning and commitment, we can maintain our health and fitness levels during this time. This post provides comprehensive tips and strategies to help you stay active and reach your fitness targets over the holidays. Set Realistic Fitness Goals Instead of attempting aggressive weight loss, focus on maintaining your current fitness level. This mindset reduces stress and sets you up for future success. Write down specific, measurable goals like doing 30 minutes of activity per day or losing only 1-2 pounds. Schedule Your Workouts in Advance Mark workout sessions on your calendar and treat them like important meetings. Wake up earlier, if needed, and complete them first before anything else. Planning ahead and committing to a consistent routine is key.

In today's fast-paced world, it's no surprise that people are always looking for new and innovative ways to make money. While some people are content with their traditional 9-to-5 jobs ( I can't relate ), others are drawn to generating income while sleeping. This is often referred to as passive income, and it can be a great way to supplement your current income or even replace it altogether. Source: Pexels There are many different ways to make money while you sleep, but some of the most popular and effective methods include the 12 below. 1. Real estate investing This could involve buying and renting out property, flipping houses, or investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs). 2. Investing in the stock market This can be done by buying individual stocks, mutual funds, or exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Wellness shots have become hugely popular in recent years as an easy way to get a concentrated dose of nutrients. Typically made by juicing or blending whole fruits and vegetables, these small but powerful elixirs pack a nutritional punch in just a couple of ounces. Source: Pixabay As a health enthusiast, I'm a huge advocate of using food as medicine. Wellness shots are an excellent way to incorporate more vitamins, antioxidants, and superfoods into your diet. They provide a quick boost of energy, support detoxification, and may offer numerous other benefits depending on the ingredients. Here are six of my favorite wellness shot recipes to boost your health! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support.

Peanuts are an excellent food choice for preventing or managing type 2 diabetes. With a low glycemic index of just 14, peanuts release sugar gradually into the bloodstream rather than causing sharp spikes that can damage blood vessels. Source: Pexels This post will explore the benefits of peanuts for diabetes, share new research confirming their positive impact, and provide 10 nutritious and delicious peanut recipes perfect for a diabetes-friendly diet. The Glycemic Benefits of Peanuts The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly foods increase blood glucose levels. High-GI foods like white bread and potatoes cause rapid rises, while low-GI foods like peanuts and non-starchy vegetables release sugar slowly. This is crucial for diabetes management.

In the fast-paced world we live in, convenience often trumps quality. We crave instant gratification, sacrificing flavor and wholesomeness in the pursuit of quick fixes. Source: Cusa This trend extends to our beverage choices, with instant coffee and tea often falling into the category of subpar substitutes for their brewed counterparts. However, Cusa Tea and Coffee has emerged as a game-changer in this realm, offering premium-quality tea and coffee in an instant format that doesn't compromise on taste or ingredients.

In today's fast-paced world, many people rely on coffee to get them through the day (myself included). While coffee can be a quick and convenient way to boost energy levels, it can also have negative side effects, such as anxiety, jitters, and sleep disturbances. Ugh! Source: Pexels If you're looking to break the coffee habit or simply reduce your caffeine intake, there are many healthier alternatives that can provide you with the energy you need without the negative effects. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate, I earn a small amount from qualifying purchases. I appreciate your support. Here are 20 healthier alternatives to coffee: Matcha: Matcha is a type of green tea that is made from finely ground tea leaves. It's a rich source of antioxidants and L-theanine, which is an amino acid that can help promote relaxation and focus.

Gaming can be an expensive hobby. But you don't have to pay full price for games if you know where to look. There are many great sites that track deals across platforms and retailers. These sites make it easy to find discounts on the games you want. Source: Pixabay In this article, I'll share 10 of the top deal-tracking sites for gaming. Whether you play on a PC or console, these sites have you covered. Overview of the 10 Sites Here's a quick overview of the 10 deal-tracking sites I love and recommend: IsThereAnyDeal - Tracks prices for PC/Mac games across over 40 stores. Creates price history charts. Deku Deals - Focuses on Nintendo Switch eShop and physical games. Customizable wishlist and alerts. Fanatical - PC game store with frequent game bundles and discounts. Wishlist alerts. GamesPlanet - Sells PC game keys. Wishlist tracking and email alerts. GOG - DRM-free PC games. Wishlist alerts for sales. Steam - PC gaming platform. Wishlist alerts and custom categories

Collagen supplements have become hugely popular in recent years, with the collagen market expected to reach over $7 billion by 2028. Much of this demand has been fueled by claims that collagen can improve skin, hair, nails, joints, and more. Source: Pexels However, there is a debate about whether plant-based collagen alternatives provide the same benefits as animal-derived collagen. There are also a lot of people (especially influencers) who are providing misinformation about plant-based and "vegan" collagen. Then again, maybe they don't know the facts. Here's the thing: Plant-based collagen is not the same as "real" collagen derived from animals. Let's dive deeper!

The holiday season is often associated with grand displays of festive cheer, from towering Christmas trees adorned with sparkling ornaments to mantelpieces overflowing with twinkling lights and vibrant decorations. However, for those with limited living space, the prospect of incorporating these traditional elements can seem daunting, if not impossible. Source: Pexels Luckily, with a touch of creativity and an emphasis on simplicity, you can transform your cozy abode into a haven of holiday spirit without sacrificing precious square footage. Embrace the Power of Less Resist the urge to succumb to the allure of excessive decorations. Instead, focus on a few well-chosen pieces that resonate with your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your home. A single, thoughtfully placed garland draped over a doorway or a carefully curated arrangement of candles and pinecones on a mantelpiece can create a sense of understated elegance.

The holidays are a joyous but expensive time of year. Between gifts for loved ones, holiday parties, and travel plans, the costs can really add up. In these inflationary times, we all need to keep a close eye on our budgets. Source: Pexels Luckily, there's a free tool called Keepa that can help you score bargains on all your Christmas shopping—everything from the latest toys and gadgets to clothing, accessories, and more. Keepa tracks historical pricing data on Amazon so you can see whether the deal you're looking at is actually a good one or not. In this post, I'll walk you through exactly how to harness the power of Keepa this holiday season to get all your gifts at a steal! Trust me, it'll be well worth your time! Keepa: Your New Best Friend for Holiday Shopping Keepa is a free price tracking tool for Amazon and a tool that I personally cannot live without. It shows you the price history of any product sold on Amazon, so you can analyze the price fluctuations and