Sweet Dreams: The Best Bedding Solutions

October 21, 2020

Being married to a Sleep Specialist means hearing a lot of advice about phone usage before bed, ideal meal times, and of course suggestions about bedding. After my recent pajama collaboration with Cozy Earth, I couldn’t help but wonder if their bedding was as soft as their pajamas.

Bamboo Sheets

I ordered a set of bamboo sheets from them and began researching what bamboo fabric actually is. Derived from the pulp of the bamboo plant, bamboo fabric is said to be the world’s softest and most breathable fabric (featured in Oprah’s 2018 Favorite Things) and after wearing it and sleeping on it for weeks, I have to agree (to learn about how it is made, click here).

Cozy Earth Pajamas — Cozy Earth Short Pajama Set (CODE: CHICKS50 for 50% off)

The sheets are not measured in thread counts like traditional sheet sets but feel like an ultra-soft and silky sateen. If you like the feel of mico-fiber sheets, then these sheets are NOT for you. These are super soft, lightweight, and breathable. I am not a night sweater, but people who are, swear by bamboo fabric.

This is a non-sponsored review of Cozy Earth bedding. Afterall, after finding the best sheets in years, I had to share it with all of you! If you are interested in trying out their collection of pajamas, loungewear, or bedding be sure to use code CHICKS50 for 50% off your order.

Bamboo Sheet Set ON SALE (Code: CHICKS50)

Pillows

Of course, a post about bedding would be remiss if we did not talk about pillows. Finding the perfect pillow can be a struggle, but I recently discovered a brand that will work for every single type of person out there. Luxome has a customizable pillow that you can create in your home to the height and firmness that you desire. I got one for me and of course one for the hubby and after customizing ours, they looked totally different. He prefers a flat but firm pillow (I call it a pancake-like pillow), I prefer a taller memory foam type feel. With the inserts provided by Luxome, you can truly make the perfect pillow in minutes.

CODE: RINA20 for $20 OFF

I know that neither the sheets nor the pillow are cheap, however, I tend or splurge on home items like this that I use every single day. This combination for your bed is truly life-changing. So if you are looking to try something new that is vetted and on sale, check out these products and let me know what you think!

Your Chick,

Rina

food, Lifestyle

Always Cooking with the Always Pan!

October 7, 2020

If you follow me on Instagram, you will know that I have been crushing it in the kitchen lately thanks to the Always Pan by Our Place. This purchase was fully influenced by ads I kept seeing on Instagram, but truly, this one is so worth it!!

I am not exactly someone who loves to cook. The whole idea of making a mess really turns me off to the whole thing. The Always Pan was a tempting purchase for me because it promised me fewer dishes. It has delivered on that promise.

Code: COOK15 for 15% OFF

The size of the Always Pan is perfect for cooking EVERYTHING from omlettes, to chicken keema, to pasta, to daal (lentils)! Even after 20+ uses, the pan looks brand new and cleans up in no time.

This is honestly the MOST EXPENSIVE pan I have ever owned, but sometimes you really do get what you pay for. If you are in the market for new dishes, as I was, check out the Always Pan and be sure to use code COOK15 to save 15%!

Your Chick,

Rina

food, Lifestyle

Quest VS. Atkins VS. Built Bar – Which Low Carb Snack is the Best?

September 15, 2020

Since starting Chicks and Salsa I have been fortunate enough to collaborate with several companies who have helped me along in my Keto Journey. Quest, Atkins, and Built Bar, and Splenda are among them. After trying a variety of snacks from these companies I have a few thoughts about where the strengths and weaknesses lie for each.

This post is in no way sponsored and please note that I am not a nutritionist. This is simply a personal review based on my experience with these companies over the past few years. If you have a bias towards a low carb or keto-friendly diet, read on.

QUEST NUTRITION

In my opinion, Quest wins on a variety of flavors that favor people who love super savory foods. From their dessert bars to their chips, and shakes, everything tastes great. HOWEVER, there is a noticeable ‘protein-y’ taste similar to the one that you would expect from a traditional protein shake detectable in everything they have. I don’t mind it, but my husband and friends don’t all love it. To try my favorites from QUEST, click below.

ATKINS

When my daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and I started to learn about carbohydrates and seeking out carb-conscious snacks, Atkins was my first stop. They really have a delicious collection of snacks, these Sweet and Salty clusters are a favorite as are these ‘peanut m&m’ candies. I quickly realized, however, that I have a sensitivity to sugar alcohols that upsets my stomach. Atkins uses a sugar alternative called Maltilol which is known to cause gastrointestinal issues. Atkins is great but needs to be eaten in moderation. Also of all three companies, I am reviewing today, their ingredient list is the longest- which I don’t love.

BUILT BARS

I remember when I first tried these, I was convinced I had found the best bars out there. Built Bars truly taste like a candy bar with the texture of a Milky Way. Even though the flavors are great, after a while the texture kind of starts to ‘get old.’ I keep a few of my favorite flavors around but only indulge in these once every week or two.

SPLENDA

I truly prefer Splenda ten out of ten times to Stevia. Above all, for coffee drinkers, their creamers are literally the best. They are not available for sale in my local grocery store so I shop them on Amazon.

For other low carb and Keto tips, check out my posts below!

Desi Vegetarian Keto Meals

My Love Hate Relationship With the Keto Diet

Your Chick,

Rina

Collaborations, Lifestyle

Masala Your Life

July 8, 2020

I love gift-giving. You read that right, I am one of those people who likes to find the perfect gift for someone and often sends a gift just because. We have all been in a situation where we needed a gift that would be nice, thoughtful, and affordable?

When I discovered Masala My Life, my heart smiled. It’s the perfect gift box for a hostess, get well soon or those fun women in your life. There are so many ways to share the magic that comes in these boxes that they truly are the perfect gift.

To me, the perfect gift is around $40-$50. These gift boxes are not imposing on someone’s style or aesthetic and are thoughtful and fun. For example, I can see myself gifting the LUXE Mango Gift Set to my Mother in Law or an Aunt. I could also share it with someone whose house I may be going to for the first time. It has a cute kitchen towel, candle, a bar of soap, and a cute pair of earrings. It just feels unique and thoughtful and that is what I love about it.

We know life is better with masala.
~Anu Mannar, Founder of Masala My Life

Founder Anu Mannar didn’t stop at putting together cute boxes, she thoughtfully put together each piece of these curated boxes that make you feel good about the purchase. She uses recycled saris in her jewelry, creates everything in the USA, has environmentally friendly packaging, works with local artisans to create unique pieces, AND donates a portion of her proceeds to the South Asian American Digital Archive. It is the whole concept of things coming together to help the community at large which makes is box truly special.

As a South Asian female entrepreneur, I commend Masala My Life for representing the best of our community.

Next time you need a thoughtful gift that will make someone feel great while supporting local artisans, and giving back to the community, consider shopping from Masala My Life!

Your Chick,

Rina

** This post has been sponsored by Masala My Life, but the review and opinions are all my own.**