3-Ingredient Samoa Cookies

These are quite possibly the yummiest and easiest cookies I’ve ever made! I’m calling them a Samoa cookies because that’s what they look like… and taste like, however they’re not crunchy like a true Samoa, the texture is more similar to a coconut macaroon. ??

I love these because they have minimal ingredients + you can throw everything in the blender so it’s an easy clean-up! So let’s get to it! ??

Store these in an air-tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, although I know they won’t last that long! ?

If you have any questions please reach out to me! And be sure to take me, @figs.and.freedom when you make these toddler-and-husband-approved cookies!

Here are a few affiliate links to the kitchen items I used:

Kitchen Aid High-Powered Blender

Baking Pan Set

Reusable Baking Sheet

Butterscotch + Cranberry Oat Cookies

Who else is using this Quarantine as a time to bake and cook in the kitchen? If you haven’t been in the kitchen much, try this super easy + DELICIOUS cookie recipe.

I used my favorite “healthier” cookie base for these and switched it up by swapping out regular chocolate chips for butterscotch and adding dried cranberries. If you omit the butterscotch chips, these could pass as a breakfast cookie… but I won’t judge if you keep the butterscotch and still have them for breakfast! ?

Be sure to tag me, @figs.and.freedom on social if you make them, and of course, reach out to me with any questions! Happy quarantine baking everyone! ?

Sustainable Living for Less Guide

Hi friends! With the endless options of sustainable living or less-waste, less-plastic swaps out there, I wanted to take the time to share a few of my favorite + affordable swaps. There are always areas in our life where we can improve for the betterment of our community, this Earth + our own personal health.

Sustainable Living Graphic

First, what is Sustainable Living?

“Sustainable living is the practice of reducing your demand on natural resources by making sure that you replace what you use to the best of your ability. Sometimes that can mean not choosing to consume a product that is made using practices that don’t promote sustainability; and sometimes it means changing how you do things so that you start becoming more of an active part of the cycle of life.”

Read More Here

With that being said, this is a process y’all and it can be overwhelming and our tendency is to think that in the bigger picture, our tiny choices don’t make a difference, but they do. I encourage you to take small steps… make simple changes where you can because it all makes a difference. These swaps are better for this beautiful place we live in but also better for your bank account!

Let’s dive in!! First I’ll start with tips, and then go into my favorite Sustainable Living Swaps for Less…I say for less because we ball on a Firefighter + Yoga Instructor budget so we rarely buy expensive items.

Sustainable Living Tips:

-Unplug all electrical outlets when not using them.

-Open your blinds and use natural light before flipping the light switch.

-Use LED lightbulbs (they last longer which reduces the need to keep purchasing).

-Grow your own herbs.

-Take the stairs over the elevator.

-Carpool when available, ride your bike, or walk if in a larger city.

-Re-purpose your jars (salsa jars, pasta sauce, anything that’s glass… just soak in boiling water or use lemon essential oil to remove label and residue)–use these for meal prep, when buying in bulk, for storage (cotton swaps, bobby pins, office supplies, etc).

-Buy bulk nuts, oats + granola when possible (bring your old jars for these).

-Opt for digital bills versus paper + emailed receipts versus printed.

-Shop local when possible.

-Cook at home versus eating out.

-Make coffee at home + use a reusable mug instead of swinging into starbucks.

-Use a stainless steel water cup versus buying water bottles.

Those are just some simple swaps that literally cost NOTHING to start implementing! Now here are a few links to my favorite #LessWaste or #LessPlastic items.

Most of these items are linked to Dot + Army, a local shop in Downtown Brunswick where shipping is available, or linked to Amazon! This post may contain affiliate links, for which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for keeping Figs + Freedom up and running!

Stainless Steel Straw Set

I love love use using my metal straw for my Yeti. I do NOT leave my house without a big bottle or cup full of water. So for me, I get tons of use out of my metal straws + it’s a super simple swap from plastic straws. I wash mine in the dishwasher and then use the brush it comes with just to ensure it washed all the way through!

Utensil Set

This might be one of my favorite new items I’ve gotten! I keep this cute set it in my lunch box so it cuts down on the use of plastic utensils at work or just out and about. It comes in a handmade linen pouch with a wooden spoon, fork, knife, stainless steel straw and napkin. Mama’s–this is also perfect to throw into your diaper bag so you don’t have to bite grapes in half for your little… don’t judge me, we’ve all been there, lol. It also comes in clutch when you’re at that trendy restaurant that has paper straws instead of plastic… just whip out your metal straw because no body likes a soggy straw, am I right?! Don’t get me wrong, kuddos to those places because duh, this is a #LessPlastic post, buttttt paper straws are NOT the move for me.

Reusable Bowl Cover

This saves you money by not having to buy ceran wrap or aluminum foil! These are the cutest and perfect cover for salads big meals that you’ve prepped or anything you need covered. However, if it is something that will go stale–I don’t recommend this as it is not sealed. Check the option below for that 🙂

Silicone Stretch Lids–12 pack

These have been sitting in my Amazon cart for a few weeks so I don’t have a personal review yet but have hear GREAT things! I added them to this guide so that you had the option. I’ll be ordering them soon so stay tuned for my review! Again, this option will cut down on your cost of cream wrap and aluminum foil!

Reusable Produce Bags

These are quite possibly the easiest less plastic swap. Bring these cute produce bags with you to the farmers market and grocery store. The grocery store will probably always have plastic bags available near the produce but if we all make this small swap, it will decrease the amount they provide. I keep these bags in my trunk so that I don’t forget them! They also come in a mesh style of you’re buying bulk items like quinoa or nuts.

Reusable Shopping Bags

These are also one of the easiest swaps! You can usually get these free at health fairs, or with your purchase at Lululemon or Athleta. I have a variety of reusable bags that I use but I’m linking my most favorite here. It’s cute, durable and affordable! I also leave these in the trunk of my car so that I always have them! However, for full honesty, about once a month we will intentionally have them bag our groceries in plastic bags because we use them to clean up after our pup + for Char’s stinky diapers.

Reusable Scrubbies

I LOVE my reusable, handmade scrubbies. I haven’t bought sponges since I was introduced to these last year. Once it’s been well used, just throw it in the wash machine with your towels and it’s as good as new! Also, it’s made with sustainable materials unlike most sponge options ?? This one-time purchase will save you money on your weekly or monthly grocery bill. You might not realize it, but $3-$4 adds up quickly. I have had my 5-pack of these for a year and have not even used all 5 yet. Do the math, I promise it’s worth it. PLUS, you’re supporting a small business that’s precious to my community, so why not?

Stasher Bags (Dot + Army or Amazon)

Goodbye ziplock bags, hello reusable bags! Investing in these bags will also cut down on your bill and the amount of plastic used. Not only can these be used for sandwiches and snacks but also meal prep… did you know you can use them in the freezer and some you can even bake with?!

Reusable Silicone Baking Mat

I love this mat SO much. I don’t have to spray my pan or worry about parchment paper. And seriously, nothing sticks to this bad boy. It’s life changing for roasting veggies, baking, ANYTHING!

Stainless Steel Yeti Cup

I use this thing every single day. I bring it to work, to yoga, shopping, literally EVERYWHERE. And because it’s larger, I find that I drink more water throughout the day when I have it. Stop buying water bottles and invest in a stainless steel water cup or bottle.

Coffee Tumbler

I make coffee at home every single morning instead of stopping by starbucks. This is my favorite tumbler to use because its skinny at the bottom so it fits perfectly into my cup holder! If it doesn’t fit into my cup holder, I will spill it everywhere! Huge plus–It’s only $6.99 at Academy.

Nut Milk Bag

I absolutely love my nut milk bag but I’ll be honest, I haven’t used it in a long time. We typically just buy almond milk for confidence. However, if you have the time to make your own milk, this bag makes it super easy. Maybe I’ll use mine this week and try out a new recipe… homemade is always the better option versus store-bought. You can find multiple recipes on their website! If you’re interested in trying one out, use my code FIGS10 to save some money!

Wool Dryer Balls

This was also a great amazon purchase of 2019. Just add a few drops of essential oils and toss them in the dryer. You’ll have static-free, super soft clothes without all the chemicals! AND you won’t be purchasing dryer sheets every month, it’s a win-win! ??

I’m not going to go into the realm of clean beauty, cleaning products or all that jazz but I do have one super simple swap that I wanted to share….

Ditch your make up remover and use coconut oil. Once you wash your face, remove excess eye make up by rubbing a small amount of coconut oil over your eyes and wipe away with a wash cloth. Easy peasy, natural and chemical-free!

I hope this guide was helpful and NOT overwhelming. Again, there is always a simple swap that you can choose to incorporate to live a more sustainable lifestyle. It’s a race, not a marathon. As usual, if you have any questions, please reach out… I’d love to hear from you!

XO.

 

 

My Favorite 2019 Amazon Finds!

My Favorite 2019 Amazon Finds!

HAPPY 2020, FRIENDS!

Can you believe that we have arrived to a whole new decade? 2019 was such an amazing year of growth. It was filled with challenges, changes, successes, ups + downs but also, filled with so much love. Moving into a new year and a new season, I wanted to share a quick round up of some of my FAVORITE finds from 2019. So, let’s dive in to my favorite Amazon purchases of 2019!

HEADS UP: My post may contain affiliate links. If you make purchases using these links, you won’t pay more, but I may make a tiny earning. Thanks for keeping Figs + Freedom up and running!

Booty Bands

Xero Z-Tek Shoes

Robot Vaccuum

Portable Tens Unit

Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Himalayan Pink Salt Lamp

Wool Dryer Balls

Manduka Recycled Yoga Block

Girl, Stop Apologizing: A shame-free plan to embracing and achieving your goals

Wellpreneur: The Ultimate Guide for Wellness Entrepreneurs to Nail Your Niche and Find Clients Online

Own the Day, Own Your Life: Optimized Practices for Waking, Working, Learning, Eating, Training, Playing, Sleeping, and Sex *(THIS IS A HUBBY PICK!)*

Amazon Basics: Silicone Baking Mat

Phone Portable Tripod

Garage Gym Battle Rope

Honestly, I had so much fun putting this together for you guys + I hope you enjoy it, too! Also if you have any questions on any of these items, just shoot me a DM on insta.

Happy shopping and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

XOXO

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan 5.12-5.18

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan 5.12-5.18

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone had a great Mother’s Day weekend! We went to a local craft festival, yoga, new restaurant opening + the beach, so I’d say it was a GREAT weekend ?

I am currently watching Call To Courage by Brene Brown on Netflix + it’s SO good! I haven’t watched her Ted Talk but I’ve heard such amazing things and after watching Call To Courage, I’m definitely a fan!

Anyway, I am sharing my workout plan a day later than usual, but here it is!

It should be a pretty fun week of workouts! New to this week, I am going to try out a Fit4Mom class!

FIT4MOM is the nation’s leading prenatal and postnatal fitness program, providing fitness classes and a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. From pregnancy, through postpartum and beyond, our fitness and wellness programs help make moms strong in body, mind, and spirit.

I will be doing the stroller strides class on Wednesday.

“Stroller Strides® is a functional, total-body conditioning workout designed for moms with kids in tow. Each 60-minute workout is comprised of strength training, cardio and core restoration, all while entertaining little ones with songs, activities and fun! Each Stroller Strides instructor is skilled to meet you where you are mentally and physically. You’ll leave class feeling connected, successful and energized! No more mama guilt! This class is all about self care in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Stay tuned for updates on what I think of the class and how my weekly workouts are going. I’ll also be adding my weekly meals to Instagram, so be sure to follow along over there!

??

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan 5.5-5.11

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan 5.5-5.11

Happy Monday!! I hope you all had a rested weekend and took the time to plan out your week, because failing to plan is planning to fail, right? But hey, don’t stress if you didn’t have time to plan out your week, it’s only Monday morning and you still have time! Take time to invest in yourself this morning, whether that means a 5 minute meditation, 10 minutes to plan out your meals for the week or even just 2 minutes to screenshot my workout plan + tweak it to fit into your schedule!

Typically I don’t do active recovery days on Monday BUT I had a long and hard weekend full of yoga training so I’m listening to my body by programming a slow day! I’ll challenge you to get so in tune with your body that you know when to push and when to pull back. It takes time but eventually we can learn how to listen to our bodies. And we all work differently so if you’re feeling like pushing the envelope today, feel free to switch the rest and recover days around to fit your bodies needs.

If you have any questions regarding the workouts or just in general, feel free to reach out to me!

Also, update on the 6 AM workouts–I loved getting up and getting after it early morning because it made the rest of my day more productive and gave me an ease because I didn’t have this workout looming over my head. On the other hand, I’ll need to start waking up at 5:30 because Char has decided to revert back to 6:30 instead of 7 ? But no biggie, I’m just going to roll with it and push myself a little more. What’s 15 minutes anyway?

Be sure to follow my updates on Instagram and tag me if you try any of the workout plan–I would love to hear how it goes!

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan

Garage CrossFit Workout Plan

Happy Sunday, friends!

To be honest, I’ve been struggling a bit to find a good, CONSISTENT workout schedule between mom-ing, working, wife-ing, yoga training, the excuses could go on. While I’ve still been able to work out on my days home with Char (during her nap), the days that I go into the office, well that’s another story. Mom + wife guilt sets in an once I’m home, I just want to be present. And once she goes to bed, I’m ready to relax + spend time with my hubby if he’s home.

With that being said, I’ve decided I just have to get up and do it in the morning. If you know me, you know I’ve never been a morning person. However, since having Char, mornings don’t really bother me anymore, I actually kind of enjoy them. So, on the days that I go into the office, I will be getting up at 5:45 to get my workout in before she wakes up at 7. I went ahead and planned out my week of work outs to hopefully make this new schedule a little easier! I wanted to share it with you guys for 2 reasons: 1. By putting this out there, it will help to hold me accountable and 2. in case you’re looking for inspiration too! Feel free to screenshot it, save it + share it 🙂

I have my 5th weekend of yoga teacher training this upcoming weekend. We have long training days filled with tons of yoga so I did not incorporate any other workouts on those days. I will also be adding in at least one yoga class during the week and will do some at home as well.

workout plan 4.28

If you’ve been following along for a bit then you know we have converted our garage into a home gym where we do CrossFit style workouts. Most of these workouts can be transitioned into a global gym as well. If you need help making modifications or have questions, just send me a DM on Instagram 🙂

So I know not everyone knows all the CrossFit lingo so I wanted to breakdown what AMRAP means since I have it on a couple workouts this week.

AMRAP stands for As many rounds and reps as possible. So, for Metcon #1 it’s AMRAP 12 minutes–as many rounds and reps as possible in 12 minutes of 24 hang power cleans and 24 wallballs. Once you’ve completed 24 of each movement, that’s one round. You continue those movements until the 12 minutes is up and your “score” is the total number of rounds you completed, plus any additional reps of a uncompleted round. Make sense? If you workout at an actual CrossFit gym, you will compare your scores with others in class which makes working out more fun bc who doesn’t love a good competition?

I hope this was helpful and I will keep you guys updated on stories with how the morning workouts are going!! Let me know if you guys like seeing my workout plan in advance and I can share it more often 🙂

 

XO.

Journey Into Power: Yoga Teacher Training Intentions

Journey Into Power: Yoga Teacher Training Intentions

In just 2 short days I will be in my first training weekend for my RYT-200 certification in Baptiste Power Vinyasa Yoga + I am so excited to share this new journey with you guys!

During this 200hr training I will learn the following:

  • Anatomy and physiology foundations as they relate to practice and teaching
  • Traditional yoga philosophy
  • Alignment, modifications + adaptations
  • Meditation teaching
  • Sequencing + essential language
  • Hands on assisting
  • 200 hours sounds like a heck of a lot of yoga training but with my stack of 6 books, an empty journal + a brand new mat, I’m sure the time will FLY. The training is set up to be one weekend a month (Friday-Sunday), for 8 months. My particular training will take place from January to August.
  • My personal intentions:
    • I intend to grow my personal yoga practice from a mind, body + spiritual aspect. I want to connect more deeply with the poses–not just take them at physical value, but really strengthen my mind to push past any barriers or limitations I’ve set for myself.
      I want to focus on my drishti, which means gaze, on and off the mat. From the Journey Into Power book, Baron Baptist’s says “Part of drishti is samadhi, which is neutral vision. Neutral vision means to see without judgement, without ego, without impatience. It is to see through a clear lens, rather than viewing your experience through the rear view mirror of your past perceptions.”
      Flexibility–this is something I will have to work at daily for my entire yoga life. I would love to take pictures of my poses BEFORE my training and AFTER.
      Flow–I cannot wait to learn all the poses and how to put them together so that way I can experiment in my own practice with fun flows?????
      The Lingo–I will make flash cards to learn them all, but eventually I won’t have to glance at my neighbor when the instructor says “CHATURANGA DANDASANA” because I will know that she means low push up ?
  • Most importantly, I am looking forward to having this time for myself to work on my own practice, so that in the future, I am able to help others do the same. I’ve always had a passion for health + wellness and I cannot wait to see where this new journey leads. This is only the beginning my dear friends ??
  • I will document my journey on here with a monthly recap of my trainings, so be sure to check back! But for daily updates of my journey, follow me on Instagram!
  • It only feels right to end this post with namaste ??

    Holiday Gift Guide: Fit Foodie

    Happy December!! Can you guys believe that Thanksgiving has come and gone and that Christmas is basically tomorrow? I mean, we might as well start saying Happy New Year already. It always feels like time goes by so quickly when all I want to do is freeze this Holiday season as we get to celebrate Char’s FIRST Christmas.

    If you’ve been following me on Instagram for a while then you know that my husband and I have a garage gym where we do CrossFit style workouts. In addition to those workouts, I’ve been practicing yoga, both in a studio and at home as I am gearing up to start my 200hr Yoga Teacher Training in January. I AM SO EXCITED to start that journey but I’ll save all the deets for a future post. Anyway, I say all that to say that this gift guide is a compilation of both items that I have for my garage gym/practice and items that I want. I’ve also added some of my favorite foodie items, or items that are on my wishlist this year. I tried to include gifts of all price ranges for you guys–some might even be better as stocking stuffers!!

    Here is my Holiday Gift Guide for the Food + Fitness Lover!

    1. Lululemon Namastay Yoga Mat | $88 | I just got this yoga mat as an early Christmas gift and I AM OBSESSED. I got it in the black and white marble and it’s so pretty and a very comfortable mat! “Extra grip at the ends keeps you firmly grounded in downward dog, while a smooth middle allows for fluid jump throughs. Cover with The Towel during hot yoga. Made with our newly developed Luvea™ rubber that’s natural, sustainably-sourced, and certified to the FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council®).”
    2. Lululemon Align Camo Leggings| $98 | I know I have a pair of lulu’s under the tree… maybe it’s these?! I am super picky about the fabric of yoga pants or workout shorts. This will be my first pair of lulu’s…I know, I know, I’ve been missing out. I’ll be sure to let you guys know what I think of them after Christmas! “These lightweight, high-rise pants minimize distractions and maximize comfort as you flow through your practice. Designed for yoga, buttery-soft and sweat-wicking Nulu™ fabric needs a little extra love. For best results, machine wash with like fabrics in a cold, gentle cycle and lay flat to dry.”
    3. Manduka Recycled Yoga Block | $16 | If you are working on your yoga practice at home or looking for assistance with stretching, this block is a must!! It’s firm, but not too heavy and provides the right amount of ‘give.’ Not to mention, it’s made out of recycled materials and has “practice on” etched onto the top.. so cute!
    4. InstantPot | $99| I love my crockpot but I am dying for an InstantPot. As a workin mama this would be so helpful for all those last minute meals!
    5. Cast Iron Skillet | $14.88 | Honestly I am still baffled that I don’t have one yet. These little guys are so versatile. I’ve had my eye on this Chocolate Chunk Banana Bread Cookie Skillet by Rachl Mansfield for a while and it will be the first thing I make in mine!
    6. Stainless Steel Straws | $7.99 | I need these little cuties for my Yeti–also, I chose this pack because I love the silicone tips!
    7. Healthy Human Water Bottle | $24.99 for 21 oz | As mentioned above, I love my Yeti but I have the tumbler and I would love a water bottle stein to take with me to the studio. And I LOVE the marble print that I linked… so cute!
    8. Stasher Reusable Bag Bundle | $21.98 | Goodbye ziplock bags. I’m a total snacker you guys, like will not leave the house without throwing a snack in my purse for myself, my husband and our little babe, so these reusable bags will help cut down on cost and also reduce the amount of waste and plastic! I liked the sandwich and snack size–buying them as a bundle is cheaper than individually!

    I hope that this gift guide was helpful for you guys and maybe gave you a few ideas for friends, family and maybe even a few ideas to add to your wishlist 🙂

    Happy Saturday and Happy Shopping, Friends!

    How to Get Started with Essential Oils ?

    My sister has been using Young Living for a couple of years now + about 6 months ago I finally decided to start my oily journey! And y’all, I have legit been obsessed ever since. I always knew about diffusing essential oils but honesty I didn’t think much past ‘oh they smell good and they’re better for you than glade plug-ins.’ But y’all there is so much more to oils than that.

    Why I chose Young Living

    First of all, I chose Young Living because they are the worldwide leader in essential oils and have an unmatched seed to seal promise that ensures their quality. NO ADDED FRAGRANCES OR DILUTIONS, which is often what you are getting when buying basic, store-bought oils.

    Secondly, I chose YL because they could offer more than just oils. They have become a one stop shop for me. YL has a make up line, household items, dietary and fitness supplements and even a baby line, all in addition to their amazing oils! I love being able to experiment with my oils and find different uses + “home remedies” for each oil. With my new little one around I also wanted to make the switch to non-toxic household products and YL is helping me do just that!!

    And lastly, the community. When you join YL as a member, you will get exclusive access to our private Facebook pages with all the tools and resources to help you get super oily! This community gives me new tips + tricks on the daily and I am so thankful for that.

    How to Get Started

    There are a few different ways to get started on your oily journey but the Premium Starter Kit is definitely the most bang for your buck, and it’s the gateway to a Young Living wholesale membership–hello 24% discount for LIFE!!!!

    Premium Starter Kit options:

    -Oily starter kit

    -Thieves starter kit

    -Ningxia starter kit

    -Savvy Minerals (makeup) starter kit

    Sign Up Here!

    1. Click the signup link above, and follow these steps:

    +Be sure to check Wholesale Member to earn 24% off any future orders.

    +Click Continue.

    2. Then select the Premium Starter Kit and choose the diffuser you’d like!

    3. Step 3 is for Essential Rewards, which is the BEST. BOX. EVER. If you know you’re going to add more oils or makeup or household cleaning products on top of the kit, I’d do this now! It’s a monthly subscription box that is completely customizable. Free to join, free to cancel anytime, only requires 50PV (PV amount is almost always the same as dollar amount), and you earn a percentage of points back to use on FREE stuff.

    +Check “Customize Your Kit”

    +Click “Customize Monthly Order” to add your products

    +Check box to Confirm Monthly Order

    4. If you’re hopping on Essential Rewards today, I would grab: the Thieves Household cleaner, it’s seriously amazing! I also love the thieves fruit and veggie spray, thievesdish soap + the thieves laundry soap. Basically Thieves anything!!! For ER, if you order for 3, 6, 9, 12… consecutive months with a minimum PV of 50 you’ll get a free oil on those months! ?? ER is optional and you can skip it for today and sign up at anytime if you want!

    5. Follow the process all the way through to the end….yay! You did it!

    + That’s it!! Once I receive my email from Young Living that you’re a new member, I’ll get you added to our amazing Facebook groups where you will have access to boatloads of information and resources!

    I would love to help you get started with your oily journey so if you have questions please contact me on here or Instagram ?

    Xo ?