Non-Toxic Dad News: Feb. 15, 2024

Welcome another edition of the Non-Toxic Dad newsletter!

My mission is driven by genuine care and a commitment to a healthier way of living. Along this path, we are met with both encouragement and skepticism. Despite facing accusations of fear-mongering or dishonesty from some, the core of my mission remains unshaken.

Adopting a non-toxic lifestyle has taught us an important lesson: we must not let the negative words of others impact our knowledge, diminish our worth, or sway us from our path. Cultivating a non-toxic mindset is just as important as our lifestyle choices, starting with believing in ourselves.

As we strive to build a legacy we can be proud of, let's maintain our focus on positivity, resilience, and self-confidence. Together, as part of the Non-Toxic Dad community, we'll meet challenges head-on and celebrate our achievements, always moving forward with purpose.

Embarking on the journey of longevity? Let's start with a simple swap in our homes and routines. Imagine this: living a life where every choice nudges you a step closer to those golden years, with health and zest. Welcome to the low-tox lifestyle, your foundation for a life well-lived and, dare we say, extended.

Welcome to a chat you probably didn’t expect to have today, but trust me, it’s an important one. We’re diving deep into the realm of menstrual products, and no, it’s not just about picking the most comfortable option off the shelf. Today, we’re getting into the nitty-gritty of something called glyphosate. Yep, that’s the herbicide famous for keeping weeds at bay in gardens and farms but has somehow found its way into places it really shouldn’t be, like menstrual products.

Ever had that “Aha!” moment in the bathroom, staring at your razor, wondering why your skin’s acting up after a shave? Well, turns out, it’s not just about your shaving technique or the sharpness of the blade. The real plot twist? It’s the little strip on top of your razor, meant to make shaving smoother. Yes, the lubricating strip!

One powerful strategy to protect yourself and your space from negative, toxic influences is to establish and maintain clear personal boundaries. Boundaries act as guidelines that dictate how you want to be treated, what you're willing to accept, and how you respond when people cross those lines. Here’s how you can start:

• Define Your Limits: Reflect on past interactions that made you uncomfortable, disrespected, or drained. Identify what specific actions or behaviors contributed to those feelings. This will help you understand where you need to set your boundaries.

• Communicate Clearly: Once you know your boundaries, communicate them clearly and assertively to others. You don't need to justify, defend, or over-explain your boundaries, but you should be clear about what they are and the consequences of crossing them.

• Practice Self-Awareness: Pay attention to how you feel in various interactions. If you start feeling uncomfortable or stressed, it might be a sign that your boundaries are being tested or violated. Recognizing these feelings early on can help you respond more effectively.

• Consistently Enforce Your Boundaries: Staying firm in your boundaries is crucial once you’ve set them. If someone disregards your boundaries, follow through with the consequences you’ve communicated. Consistency is key to ensuring that your boundaries are respected.

• Nurture Positive Relationships: Spend more time with people who respect your boundaries and contribute positively to your life. This positive reinforcement can help buffer the impact of toxic individuals.

By establishing personal boundaries, you create a safe and respectful environment for yourself, promoting a non-toxic lifestyle that prioritizes your well-being and peace of mind.

Tart Cherry Gummy Hearts

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of pure, unsweetened organic tart cherry juice (can be found at Whole Foods)

• 4 Tablespoons of unflavored gelatin powder

• 2 Tablespoons of monk fruit sweetener (adjust according to your taste preference)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Molds: Lightly oil your heart-shaped molds with coconut oil to make the gummies easier to remove later.

2. Warm the Cherry Juice: Gently warm the tart cherry juice in a small saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to boil it to preserve the juice's natural flavors and health benefits.

3. Dissolve Gelatin: Sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over the warm cherry juice, allowing it to sit for a minute to bloom. Then, whisk until the gelatin is fully dissolved and there are no lumps.

4. Add Sweetener: Stir in the monk fruit sweetener, adjusting the amount based on how sweet you like your gummies.

5. Fill the Molds: Carefully pour the mixture into your prepared molds. A dropper or a small spoon can help you neatly fill the molds.

6. Chill: Place the molds in the refrigerator and chill until the gummies are set, which should take about 2-3 hours.

7. Unmold: Once the gummies are firm, gently remove them from the molds. Running the bottom of the molds under warm water for a few seconds can help release the gummies if needed.

Enjoy! Your Tart Cherry Gummy Hearts are ready to be enjoyed! Keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.