August 2025

Endless Summer

As summer comes to an end, we want to thank everyone for your business and friendship. Our family-owned business would not be what it is without you, our customers. We are always trying to find ways we can improve our business to make things easiest for our customers. We will be rolling out with some exciting technology updates in the near future. You can look forward to our annual newsletter releasing shortly. We understand insurance can be a stressful subject and our agency is here to answer all your needs. We hope you and your family had a relaxing, safe, and enjoyable summer! 

Homeowners Insurance FAQ's: 

Many of our clients have been questioning home owners rates and rightfully so. Here is a little information that can help answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get from clients and homeowners shopping around for insurance. We understand insurance rates have increased and we do our very best to make sure you are covered appropriately without over paying for your needs. 

What Factors May Impact the Cost of Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowners insurance rates vary by provider, but they’re largely based on one key element: risk. Insurers look at your home, your location, and even your personal history to determine how likely you are to file a claim—and how costly it might be.

Here are the main factors that can influence your premiums:

• Location: Rates may be higher if you live in an area prone to severe weather, wildfires, or high crime. Proximity to a fire station or hydrant can also make a difference.

• Construction Type: Materials matter. Brick or masonry homes are usually cheaper to insure than all-wood homes because they’re more resistant to fire and storm damage.

• Age & Condition: Older homes and roofs are riskier to insure. New roofs or recent updates may qualify you for discounts.

• Coverage Choices: The more coverage you select—such as add-ons for valuables, earthquakes, or sewer backups—the higher your premium will be.

• Deductibles: Choosing a higher deductible typically lowers your monthly premium, but it means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.

• Other Variables: Past claims, pets, pools, trampolines, local medical costs, and even state regulations can all play a role.

While many of these factors are outside your control, you can take steps to help reduce costs. Regular home maintenance, improving security, installing fire protection, and asking about available discounts may all help lower your premium.

Workout of the Month - 

Our whole family is on the workout grind now that we are just over 200 days away from a wedding! 

🏋️‍♀️ 30-Minute Bodyweight Workout Circuit

Format:

• 5 moves per circuit

• 40 seconds work / 20 seconds rest

• Complete 3 circuits (about 10 min each)

• Rest 1 min between circuits

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🔹 Circuit 1 – Warm-up & Core Activation (10 min)

1. High Knees – 40s (cardio warm-up)

2. Plank Shoulder Taps – 40s (core + shoulders)

3. Glute Bridges – 40s (glutes + hamstrings)

4. Mountain Climbers – 40s (core + cardio)

5. Squat to Calf Raise – 40s (legs + calves)

(Repeat 2x, rest 1 min)

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🔹 Circuit 2 – Strength & Power (10 min)

1. Jump Squats (or body squats for low impact) – 40s

2. Push-ups (modify on knees if needed) – 40s

3. Reverse Lunges – 40s (alternate legs)

4. Plank Jacks – 40s (core + cardio)

5. Supermans – 40s (lower back + glutes)

(Repeat 2x, rest 1 min)

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🔹 Circuit 3 – Burnout & Core (10 min)

1. Burpees – 40s (total body)

2. Side Plank Hip Lifts – 20s each side

3. Jumping Lunges (or step-back lunges) – 40s

4. Bicycle Crunches – 40s (obliques + core)

5. Push-up to Down Dog – 40s (upper body + stretch)

(Repeat 2x)

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✅ Cool-Down (2–3 min)

• Child’s Pose

• Cat-Cow Stretch

• Standing Hamstring Stretch

• Shoulder Stretch

This workout can be easily modified for your fitness level! If you are new to working out, try each circuit for 30 seconds of work, and 30 seconds of rest. If you are leveling up your fitness, you can always add in and do each circuit for 4 rounds rather than 2! Modify to fit your fitness goals and your time constraints. 

Restaurant of the Month - Birdseye, Encinitas, CA 

Location: 540 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024

Hours: 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 4:30–10 PM

Birdseye - Menu 

We enjoyed some yummy Thai food for a birthday celebration! Always crowded so we suggest making a reservation. They have a blend of yummy Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese food. 

Recipe of the Month - 🍋 Garlic Butter Chicken with Veggies & Rice

Take the thinking out of what to make for your dinner next week! 

Servings: 4

Time: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients: 

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp butter, divided

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lemon (juice + zest)

• 1 tsp paprika

  

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

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Instructions:

1. Prep Chicken: Pat dry, season both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil + 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, cook 4–5 min per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In same pan, add remaining butter and garlic. Cook 1 min until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice and zest.

4. Add Veggies: Toss in broccoli (and tomatoes if using). Sauté 3–4 min until just tender, coating with garlic butter sauce.

5. Combine & Serve: Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over top. Serve with rice.

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🌟 Tips: 

• Swap broccoli for asparagus, green beans, or zucchini.

• Add red pepper flakes if you like spice.

• Make it creamy: stir in ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.

July 2025

4th of July, The Day I Met Jenifer

The above date is significant in the Domingo Family for many reasons.  First of all, it is Mama Fili's Birthday.  Although she is in heaven now, we remember this day as we always celebrated her birthday as well as Independence Day for the United States of America.  Secondly, its the 4th of July.  Finally, its the day that our agency owners first met, July 4th, 1993, and it has been fireworks ever since !!!  

What an amazing summer we have had! We are blessed in this life and have had the opportunity to travel, visit our brother, relax in Hawaii, and now get to begin careers we have been praying for. Our Farmers office is MOVING! Well, not too far...we are just downsizing. You can now find Glenn, Jen, & Liane all working in our bottom office at 3520 College Blvd. They love having visitors, so if you are ever in the area, feel free to stop by, or if you would like to talk over your policies in person, you are always welcome. We hope this change helps our elderly clients as well. 

July Recap 

Kauai, HI 

Cooking class with Dad

Visiting Pop-Pop 

Family Photos 

Farmers Discount 

If you didn't already have enough reason to make sure your kids are getting good grades, here's another reason as we start the school year next month - "Good Student Discount". For full-time students younger than 25 with a 3.0 or better GPA, or are on the dean’s list or honor roll, or are in the top 20% of their class, or home-schooled students in the top 20% on standardized testing. Farmers also offers discounts for students under age 23 who are rated drivers but attend school at least 100 miles away from home without a vehicle. 

You can visit this link to learn more about driver discounts that Farmers offers. If you are not already taking advantage of this or would like more details, give us a call at (866) 486-3276. 

Car Insurance Discounts

Workout of the Month 

Were about 250 days away from our wedding, which means we are getting serious about working out & nutrition. Here is a fun 30 minute sweat for ya!

AMRAP - 30 minute timer 

A. Goblet squat x 10

B. Push press x 10

C. Bicycle crunch x 20

D. Reverse lunge x 20

E. Bent over row x 10

F. Shoulder taps x 20

Repeat exercises A-F with as much rest as you need. Try to see how many rounds you can get in during 30 minutes! 

How to Get Back Into a Routine & Actually Stick to It

Whether you’ve just returned from vacation, wrapped up a busy season, or life has simply thrown off your groove, getting back into a routine can feel overwhelming. But routines are more than a checklist—they’re an anchor. They help us regain control, feel accomplished, and move toward the life we actually want to live.

If you’re feeling unmotivated, scattered, or unsure where to start, here’s your simple guide to getting back on track—without the pressure of being perfect.

1. Start Small—Seriously

Don’t overhaul your whole life overnight. Choose one or two habits to reintroduce first—maybe it’s making your bed, a 10-minute walk in the morning, or prepping your meals again. Small wins build momentum.

📝 Try this: Write down 2 things you can commit to each day for the next week. Keep it simple and realistic.

2. Stack New Habits to Old Ones

A powerful way to get back into a routine is to connect new habits to ones you’re already doing. This is called habit stacking—and it works.

💡 Example: After you brush your teeth, stretch for 2 minutes. After your morning coffee, plan your top 3 priorities for the day.

3. Set the Mood with Your Environment

Your surroundings influence your behavior more than you think. Lay out your workout clothes the night before, tidy your space, or create a calming morning playlist. Make it easy to follow through.

🎧 Pro tip: Use sensory cues—like lighting a candle before journaling or putting your phone in a drawer before bed—to signal it’s time for your routine.

4. Give Yourself a Grace Period

It takes time to get back into rhythm. You might miss a few days. You might feel like giving up. Don’t. Progress isn't lost just because you took a detour.

🧠 Reframe it: Instead of “I have to get back on track,” try “I’m learning how to care for myself again.”

5. Plan Ahead—But Stay Flexible

Structure brings calm, but rigidity brings burnout. Map out your week (even loosely) so you know what’s coming. But leave room to pivot when life happens.

📅 Hack: Time-block your non-negotiables like workouts, meals, or sleep. Then build the rest around it.

6. Celebrate the Small Wins

When you honor your small efforts, you stay motivated. Don’t wait until the big milestones—celebrate showing up today.

🎉 Try this: At the end of each day, ask: What’s one win I’m proud of today?

Recipe of the Month 

🖤 Gluten-Free Protein Overnight Oreo Oats

Tastes like Oreos, packed with protein, and easy to prep the night before.

✨ Ingredients (1 serving)

• ½ cup gluten-free rolled oats

• 1 tbsp chia seeds (for thickness + fiber)

• 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder (make sure it's GF)

• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt (dairy-free if needed)

• ⅔ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

• 1–2 crushed gluten-free Oreo-style cookies (like Glutino or Kinnikinnick)

• ½ tbsp maple syrup or sweetener to taste

• Optional: ¼ tsp vanilla extract or cocoa powder for extra flavor

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🥣 Instructions

1. Mix Base: In a jar or bowl, combine oats, chia seeds, protein powder, yogurt, almond milk, and sweetener. Stir until smooth and creamy.

2. Crush + Fold: Gently crush GF Oreos and fold into the oat mixture.

3. Chill: Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).

4. Top + Serve: In the morning, stir well. Add a splash of milk if too thick. Top with extra crushed Oreos, whipped cream, or a drizzle of almond butter if you’re feeling fancy.

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✅ Macros (approximate, varies by ingredients):

• Calories: ~350–400

• Protein: 25–30g

• Carbs: 30–35g

• Fat: 10–12g

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💡 Tips:

• Use chocolate protein powder for a richer Oreo vibe.

• Add a layer of crushed Oreos on top for texture.

• Make it a parfait by layering with more yogurt and crushed cookie.

June 2026

Welcome Summer with Peace of Mind: 

Stay Protected All Season Long

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, summer invites us to enjoy everything from family road trips and backyard BBQs to home improvement projects and beach getaways. While this season brings plenty of sunshine and fun, it also comes with its own set of risks—from increased travel and extreme weather to water-related accidents and home maintenance issues.

At Farmers Insurance, we want to help you soak up every moment of summer with confidence. Whether you’re hitting the open road, firing up the grill, or simply relaxing by the pool, now’s the perfect time to make sure your insurance coverage is ready for the season ahead. We hope you and your family are having a great start to your summer. Always feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding you and your family's protection! 

🍪 Edible Protein Cookie Dough (Single Serving or Double!)

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop (about 25g) vanilla or chocolate protein powder

• 2 tbsp almond flour or oat flour

• 1 tbsp peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter)

• 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• 2–3 tbsp milk (almond, oat, dairy—your choice)

• 1–2 tsp mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs

• Optional: Pinch of sea salt or a dash of vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix dry ingredients — In a small bowl, combine the protein powder and almond/oat flour.

2. Add wet ingredients — Stir in the peanut butter, sweetener, and milk a little at a time until it reaches a cookie dough consistency.

3. Fold in chocolate chips — Mix until evenly distributed.

4. Taste and enjoy! Eat it straight from the bowl or chill for 5–10 minutes if you prefer a firmer texture.

Tips:

• Add cinnamon, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes for variety.

• For extra indulgence, roll into bites and freeze for grab-and-go snacks.

Home Maintenance from Farmers Insurance 

Video Tips!

Top Summer Maintenance Tips:

• Gutters: Inspect for damage, clear debris, and ensure water flows away from your home. Even with guards, gutters need cleaning every few years.

• Roof: Look for loose shingles, flashing issues, and signs of leaks. Binoculars can help spot trouble areas before you climb up.

• Decks: Inspect railings and support structures for weakness. Reseal decks regularly to prevent water damage.

• Paint: Paint early or late in the season to avoid high heat. Don’t skip prep work—sanding and priming make the difference.

• Grill: Deep clean the inside and out. Burn off grime and check drip trays.

• Gardens: Inspect irrigation systems, mulch beds, and fix hose leaks to keep your water bill in check.

• Windows: Use vinegar and water to clean frames and screens. Clear tracks with a foam brush.

• Indoor Systems: Change HVAC filters, clean dryer vents, range hood filters, and fridge coils. These help systems run efficiently during high use months.

• Moisture & Mold: Use your nose to detect musty areas. If a dehumidifier doesn’t help, consult a pro.

• Big Projects: Know when to DIY and when to hire out. Saving time can be just as important as saving money.

As home expert Dan DiClerico says, maintaining your home in summer is like "Christmas shopping in July"—doing it early helps avoid emergencies later. Take your maintenance step by step, and your home will thank you all year long.

Farmers Guide to Home Maintenance!

Workout of the Month 

2 10-minute AMRAPS! 

This means you will set a timer for 10 minutes and try to get through as many rounds as you possibly can in the 10 minutes. You can complete each circuit 1-3x through depending on how much time you have. Each workout can be done completely bodyweight! 

BLOCK A: 

- Jump Squats x 15 

- Reverse Lunges x 15 each side 

- Push Ups x 10 

- Crab Dips x 10 

- Mountain Climbers x 30 total 

BLOCK B: 

- Lateral Hops x 20 total 

- Shoulder Taps x 20 total 

- Hip Dips x 20 total 

- Glute Bridge x 20 

- Burpees x 20 

Perfect to take while traveling or if you are in a crunch for time! 

Restaurant Review - Manka Peruvian Cuisine 

Carlsbad, CA 

11:00 am - 10:00pm 

A new restaurant in downtown Carlsbad, CA! We took our Dad here for Father's Day and had an amazing meal. We got appetizers, a salad, and one entree and split it all to try many different things. The food was full of flavor and the service was incredible. They were very welcoming and the general manager took time out of his day to tell us how Manka came to be. We will definitely be back. It is more of an upscale dining experience, but no dress code is necessary. They provide kid-friendly options, but be prepared to spend a little bit more for quality food. 

From the Agency Owner    

As we enter the second half of 2025, I reflect on how quickly the year has passed.  I am trying to honor my word of the year in my networking group which is INTENTIONAL.  The older I get, the more I would like to take time to personally communicate with my family, friends, sphere of influences and clients.  If you would like a mid year Farmers Insurance Review, call our agency at 866-486-3276 ext 1 to schedule your appointment.  

We are upgrading our dwelling fire policy from the Fire Insurance Exchange to a more comprehensive policy with the Foremost Insurance Group, a Farmers Insurance Group Company.  This will give our clients better coverage, more options and an up to date policy.  

Finally, we are consolidating our upstairs office to the entire downstairs office as we say good luck and farewell to our 13 year old office mate, Barrie Elliott.  Wishing him a smooth retirement from the Farmers Insurance Group.  No more climbing the stairs to visit Domingo & Associates, Your Agency For Life.  

Kindly, Glenn, Jenifer, Leticia, Liane, Amanda and Lexie

May 2025

Memorial Day 

Honoring Our Heroes: A Memorial Day Reflection

As we gather this Memorial Day to enjoy time with family and friends, it’s essential to pause and reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. Memorial Day is more than a three-day weekend or the unofficial start of summer—it’s a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Their sacrifices remind us that the freedoms we enjoy today have come at a cost, and it’s our responsibility to honor their memory with gratitude and respect.

But Memorial Day is also a time to extend our appreciation to all veterans and active-duty service members. While this day is set aside to remember those who gave their lives, we should also recognize the contributions of those who have served and continue to serve. Their courage, strength, and selflessness inspire us to be better citizens and community members. 

Whether you’re enjoying a barbecue, spending time outdoors, or simply reflecting at home, let’s make space in our hearts and minds to express gratitude. Today, and every day, we thank our veterans and remember our fallen heroes.

Happy Memorial Day  USA

-Domingo & Associates, Farmers Insurance 

Do You Have COMPREHENSIVE Coverage?

With all your summer road trips coming up, it is important that you can clearly see out your windshield! Luckily, Farmers has you covered. With comprehensive auto coverage, you can get your windshield replaced easily for just $100 deductible. 

FORE!!!

If a golf ball shatters your car’s windshield, comprehensive auto insurance likely covers the damage. Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision-related incidents, like theft, vandalism, or a wayward golf ball. The claim payout depends on your deductible—if the cost to repair is less than your deductible, you’ll cover it yourself.

Glass Deductible Buy Back is an optional add-on available with some policies (e.g., Farmers) that lowers your deductible for windshield and glass repair to $100.

If a golfer damages your car while driving or parked, and you can identify the responsible person, you might be able to make a claim through their insurance. If the incident happens on someone’s property, like a golf course pro shop, homeowners insurance may cover the damage.

To be prepared, discuss with your insurance agent about comprehensive coverage and options like the glass buyback deductible.

Glass Repair Claim

Workout of the Month - THE MURPH 

The Murph is a hero workout (WOD—Workout of the Day) done to honor Lt. Michael P. Murphy, a Navy SEAL who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2005. The workout was one of Lt. Murphy’s favorites and was originally called “Body Armor.” After his death, it was renamed “Murph” to honor his sacrifice.

Here’s what the Murph consists of:

• 1 mile run

• 100 pull-ups

• 200 push-ups

• 300 air squats

• 1 mile run
  All while wearing a 20-pound weighted vest (or body armor) if you’re able.

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Why Do People Do the Murph?

1. To Honor a Hero: Completing the Murph on Memorial Day has become a tradition in the CrossFit and fitness community. It’s a way to honor Lt. Murphy and all fallen service members who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

2. Physical Challenge: The Murph is physically grueling. It tests your endurance, strength, and mental toughness. It’s a benchmark workout to push yourself and see how far you’ve come in your fitness journey.

3. Sense of Community: Gyms and fitness communities come together to do the Murph, creating a powerful sense of camaraderie and collective purpose.

4. Personal Growth: Completing the Murph isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about resilience and perseverance. It teaches you to keep going when things get tough.

Recipe of the Month - Protein Coffee 

Protein is essential for:
✅ Building and repairing tissues – including muscles, skin, and organs.
✅ Making enzymes and hormones – which regulate many body processes.
✅ Supporting immune function – by creating antibodies.
✅ Providing energy – though it’s not the body’s primary source.
✅ Promoting satiety – helping you feel full and satisfied.

For active individuals, protein is vital for muscle recovery and growth. And for overall health, it’s key to maintain healthy hair, skin, nails, and a strong immune system.

One of the easiest ways I get protein, by mixing it in my coffee! I like to make my coffee the night before with my Nespresso and keeping it in the fridge so it is ready to go in the morning. 

Directions: 

1. Fill a cup with ice. 

2. Add small amount of creamer of your choice. 

3. Add in coffee from the night before. 

4. Top with protein drink of your choice. 

(Fairlife, Premier Protein) 

5. Stir, sip, and enjoy and easy 30 g of protein! 

A Note from the Agency Owner

Below is an update from Chat GPT

🏠 Home Insurance Market: Rising Costs and Regulatory Reforms

🔥 Escalating Premiums and Coverage Gaps

Homeowners in California are facing substantial increases in insurance premiums. State Farm, for instance, has announced a 17% rate hike, with a potential additional 11% increase pending approval. These adjustments are attributed to severe capital depletion following significant wildfire-related losses, such as the $7.6 billion in damages in Los Angeles County. If approved, average annual premiums could rise by $600 for homeowners, $163 for condo owners, and $30 for renters .The Guardian+2San Francisco Chronicle+2CalMatters+2The Guardian+1San Francisco Chronicle+1

Moreover, a concerning trend of underinsurance persists. A California State Board of Equalization hearing revealed that 40-80% of wildfire survivors report being underinsured, with some estimates indicating that two-thirds of disaster-affected homeowners were underinsured by an average of 34% .San Francisco Chronicle

🧭 Regulatory Reforms and Market Stabilization Efforts

In response to these challenges, California has implemented significant regulatory changes. Insurers are now permitted to use advanced catastrophe models to set rates, allowing for more accurate assessments of wildfire risks. In exchange, insurers are required to write policies in high-risk areas equivalent to 85% of their statewide market share. Additionally, insurers must offer discounts for homes that meet specific fire mitigation criteria .The Guardian+8PR Newswire+8Los Angeles Times+8PR Newswire+5Los Angeles Times+5Los Angeles Times+5

The state has also introduced a rule allowing insurers to pass on reinsurance costs to consumers, a move intended to stabilize the market and encourage insurers to remain in the state .Los Angeles Times+4San Francisco Chronicle+4Los Angeles Times+4

Please call our agency for your Farmers Friendly Review.  We hope you are enjoying of Family Insurance Agency Blog.  

Kindly, Glenn & Amanda Domingo

April 2025

Let's Spring Into Action

Time to call our agency to review your insurance portfolio.  Take action to protect your assets.  Do not react, instead be proactive to understand your coverages and options to save.  Call our agency for your complimentary Farmers Friendly Review.  (866)486-FARM 

What's with Homeowners Insurance? 

Is Homeowners Insurance Required in California? Here’s What You Should Know

While homeowners insurance is not legally required in California, most mortgage lenders will require you to carry it before they’ll approve your home loan. And for good reason—homeowners insurance helps protect what is often your biggest investment. Standard California home insurance policies generally cover your dwelling, other structures (like fences or sheds), personal belongings, liability for accidental damage or injuries, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable after a covered event like a fire or windstorm. However, common California risks like earthquakes and floods aren’t included in standard policies—those require special coverage through agencies like the California Earthquake Authority or NFIP. With customizable options such as Extended Replacement Cost, Water Backup coverage, and even E-Bike protection, companies like Farmers offer flexibility to tailor your policy to your needs. The average annual premium in California is around $1,241, but your rate may vary based on factors like home value, location, and deductible. To make coverage more affordable, eligible homeowners can take advantage of discounts for bundling policies, being claim-free, wildfire mitigation, and more.

Call us at (866)486-3276 for a quote today! 

The Viral Recipe 

One of the most simple, filling, and protein packed recipes that takes less than 30 minutes to make! You may have seen this all over the internet, and if you haven't tried it yet, it is a MUST. Only 4 simple, clean ingredients are required. 

Ingredients: 

- 90% lean ground beef, seasoned taco flavoring mix 

- cottage cheese 

- ripe avocado 

- baked sweet potatoes 

Combine all ingredients into one bowl. Top with your favorite hot sauce and honey for the perfect sweet, spicy, & savory combo! 

Spring-Cleaning 

Why is spring-cleaning worth it? 

1. Boosts Mental Clarity:

Clutter can quietly weigh on your mind. Tidying your space helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a clearer mindset and more focus in your daily life.

2. Improves Air Quality:

Dust, pet dander, and allergens build up over winter. A deep clean can improve the air you breathe and help prevent seasonal allergies from flaring up.

3. Encourages Productivity:

A tidy space can spark motivation. When everything has its place, you spend less time searching for items and more time doing what you love.

4. Promotes Health & Hygiene:

Disinfecting high-touch surfaces and cleaning overlooked areas like air vents and baseboards can help minimize germs and reduce the risk of illness.

How to get started without feeling overwhelmed? 

1. Make a Plan:
List out the rooms or zones you want to tackle. Breaking it into manageable chunks helps you stay focused and less overwhelmed.

2. Set a Timer:
Commit to just 20–30 minutes per session. You’ll be surprised how much you can accomplish with short, focused bursts.

3. Gather Your Supplies First:
Having all your cleaning supplies in one caddy—microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaner, gloves, garbage bags—saves time and keeps you moving efficiently.

4. Go One Room at a Time:
Start with the area you spend the most time in or one that’s bothering you the most. Small wins build momentum.

Tips and Tricks to Spring- Cleaning: 

• Declutter First: Before wiping down surfaces, remove items that don’t belong. Use the “keep, donate, toss” method for quick decisions.

• Work Top to Bottom: Dust ceiling fans and shelves before vacuuming the floor so you don’t have to clean twice.

• Use Natural Cleaners: Try vinegar and baking soda for a non-toxic, budget-friendly way to tackle grime and odors.

• Freshen Soft Surfaces: Wash curtains, vacuum under furniture, and sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming for a deodorizing boost.

• Digitally Declutter: Don’t forget your digital space! Clear out old files, unsubscribe from emails, and organize your desktop.

• Reward Yourself: Celebrate progress with something small—a coffee break, a walk, or a new candle for your freshly cleaned space.

Spring Spritz 

We are still on the no alcohol kick for me! I love finding new fun mocktails that are refreshing and make social occasions a lot less awkward when everyone always asks the dreaded question, "why aren't you drinking?". Enjoy these spring mocktails and let us know what you think! 

Citrus & Mint Sparkler

Bright, bubbly, and impossibly refreshing.

Ingredients:

• Juice of 1 orange

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

• Sparkling water or club soda

• Fresh mint leaves

• Ice

Instructions:
Muddle mint in the bottom of a glass. Add orange and lemon juice, top with ice and sparkling water. Garnish with an orange wheel and mint sprig.

Cucumber Lime Cooler

    

Crisp, cooling, and spa-day worthy.

Ingredients:

• 3 slices of cucumber

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• 1 tsp honey or agave

• Sparkling water

• Ice

Instructions:
Muddle cucumber with lime juice and honey. Shake with ice, pour into glass, and top with sparkling water. Garnish with a cucumber ribbon.

Pineapple Ginger Fizz

Tropical with a zesty kick.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 tsp grated fresh ginger

• Sparkling water or ginger beer

• Lime wedge

• Ice

Instructions:
Mix pineapple juice and ginger. Pour over ice, top with sparkling water or ginger beer, and squeeze in a lime wedge.

Tips for Serving Spring Mocktails:

• Use fresh herbs and edible flowers for stunning garnishes.

• Serve in pretty glassware to elevate the experience.

• Prep ingredients in advance for easy assembly at parties.