Happy Fall!

The temps are official lower than I like in Tahoe, but that’s ok. I’m talking mid 40’s for the majority of the day, eek. We’re enjoying all things Fall like apple picking and leaf peeping! But with cooler weather comes more layers, cozy jackets and warm fires among other things. While I might not be a fashion blogger I know a thing or two about dressing for Lake Tahoe temps.

Here are my 5 Lake Tahoe Fall Essentials 

A Vest For Layering
I love a good vest for layering over a sweater. Truth be told I have 5 vests, but really only where 3. What can I say I’m a creature of habit. You’ll want a basic quilted vest, puffy and a furry number like the one I’m wearing. Vests are perfect on days that are a bit brisk in the morning, but warmer in the afternoon. It will give you the extra warmth you’re looking for.  I’m currently eying this NAU Ellipsis Down Vest.

Puffy Jack
If you walk around Tahoe for more than 5 minutes you’ll notice the majority of folks are wearing a puffy. Why? Well, my friend because they are super warm and easy to pack. I’ll tell you right now they are also worth the investment. There are only two I recommend the Patagonia Down Sweater Full-Zip Hooded Jacket (it also comes without a hood) and The North Face ThermoBall Full Zip Jacket

A cute pair of Jeans
Trust me ladies leggings aren’t going to cut it. Right now I’m digging Levi’s 721‘s. That’s it

Boots 
While I love my cozy uggs they don’t really cut it when it comes to rain and snow. While Hunter boots seem to be stylish they are not going to keep your feet warm. I suggest investing in a pair of Sorel boots. I’m currently leaning towards these or these!

Mid-weight Sweater
A good sweater is perfect for layering in the morning, but still light enough for warmer afternoons. I recently purchased this Lou & Grey Sweater (FYI, I bought a small so it was a tad oversized) and this Lou & Grey Sweater is sitting in my cart. Call me crazy, but A&F has decent layering sweaters too. This A&F asymmetrical pullover was my favorite purchase last fall! I’m kind of digging this A&F Quilted Sherpa Jacket.

Oh and always pack a scarf! You never know when it might come in handy.

There you have it, folks, my key essentials for fall in Lake Tahoe!

The post All Things Cozy for Fall in Lake Tahoe appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

You’re probably thinking we’re crazy. I might agree with you, but it went way better than I expected. Especially considering we don’t have a pack, like one of  these, to carry her in. That’s right she walked or road on dad’s shoulders!

We tried to keep it fun and made sure to snap photos and stop for plenty of snacks along the way.

While we had an end destination we gaged whether to continue based on Emerson. Yes, I would have liked to hike further or faster, but our goal was to keep it fun and get her use to hiking. It’s something we enjoy doing and hope she will too.

Around an hour in we could tell she was getting tired and decided it was time to turn around. On the way back we saw goats! Yes, goats. To top it off they were pet goats. There was a woman walking 3 leashed goats! That was a first. It might have been the highlight of the hike.

Tips for hiking with a Toddler
– keep it fun
– pick a simple hike
– talk about hiking before you go
– pack lot of snacks
– sunscreen and a big hat are musts

This time around we picked a beginner hike to Lake Winnemuca. It’s mostly a covered hike, but offers gorgeous views and if you time it right you can catch the wildflowers blooming.

What type of adventures are you taking with your kids this summer?

Shop our favorite hiking gear:

!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? ‘http’ : ‘https’;if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + ‘://’ + ‘widgets.rewardstyle.com’ + ‘/js/shopthepost.js’;d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === ‘object’) if(d.readyState === ‘complete’) {window.__stp.init();}}(document, ‘script’, ‘shopthepost-script’);

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

The post Hiking with a Toddler appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #NourishInNoTime #SnackWithPurpose #CollectiveBias

Happy Monday!

Life’s about to get crazy again… Yup, I’ve been a tad MIA because work and life. But I couldn’t pass up the chance to chat about Father’s day, fishing and on-the-go snacks. You know this girl and her toddler like to eat.

As you know we live in gorgeous Lake Tahoe where views and adventures are endless.  Well, we’re training Emerson to love all things Tahoe. She’s going to be one fun loving mountain kid. The key is to start early. While she might only been two and a half I think we’re introducing her to the right amount of adventure. So far she LOVES playing in snow/sledding, walking the dog in the forest, biking, beach days and fishing! I can’t wait to get her on skis next winter.

How to Adventure in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler


Step One 
Pick a location with killer views. Just think about how gorgeous the backdrop will be whether your kid is smiling or crying.

Step Two 
Pack plenty of snacks. I don’t know about you but I eat as often as my toddler…not kidding. When I’m looking for grab and go snacks/food I’ll usually grab a quick sandwich, Odwalla smoothie or protein shake (hello I’m trying to hit 100g of protein a day!), and fresh cut fruit package from our local Safeway store.

While I love making smoothies at home I don’t alway have time and Odwalla products are a great on-the-go solution when you’re trying to make smart choices. Plus, their smoothies are 100% juice, Non GMO verified with no added sugar.

DEAL ALERT: Save $1 on your next purchase of in-store fresh cut fruit when you buy any TWO (2) Odwalla 15.2 fl. oz. (You’ll receive a print out coupon at the register.). Offer ends 6/27/17.

Safeway’s fresh cut fruit cups are ideal for toddlers! As you can see Nick (in the background) is setting up the fishing poles and Emerson is checking out the views while enjoying berries. The cup is perfect for little toddler hands, especially if they’re always on the move like Emerson.

Step Three
This one is a twofer. Adventure with friends who have kids around the same age and pick something that will hold their attention — like fishing! These two were having a blast playing with their mini fishing poles…even if they weren’t really fishing.  

Dad + daughters celebrating Father’s Day. Because that’s an adventure in itself.

Well there you have it. Father’s Day and how we adventure with a Toddler! Now I should note step four is the ability to read your toddler’s cues and know when it’s time to head home Side note,  I love the Odwalla Chai Vanilla Protein Shake post workout. It’s just easy!

Just in case you shop at Safeway

What’s your  favorite on-the-go snack?

The post How to Adventure in Lake Tahoe with a Toddler appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

After a day and 5+ inches of rain, which created flooding, the temperature dropped and snow finally started to fall. Tuesday we woke up to around a foot or so of snow at our house.

It didn’t stop there. Tuesday was the worst day of the storm creating white out conditions, road closures, blackouts and fallen trees. Needless to say schools were closed and we didn’t leave the house. I’m lucky enough to work from home, but the hubby’s office was closed. He actually had 3 snow days!

There was a lot of snow removal happening around the clock.

Luckily this one like the snow!

The resorts are finally starting to dig out and I’m looking forward to get some turns in!

It’s been a few weeks and I can honestly say this is the best winter jacket money can buy! While I have a puffy, the last few years I’ve been on the hunt for a not ski jacket that is longer, warm, fitted, etc. Before heading to colorado for Christmas I pulled the trigger and treated myself to a new North Face jacket. Honestly it’s everything I wanted in a casual winter jacket — I can wear to meetings or running errands.

Regarding sizing: The North Face ‘true size’ finder recommended a small so I went with it.  It’s a perfect fit. I can layer a light sweater or hoodie under and still be comfortable. The length in the body and arms are perfect. Without trying on a medium I can safely say it would have been too big.

H: 5’4″ W:130lbs Build: Athletic

Shop the post:

!function(d,s,id){var e, p = /^http:/.test(d.location) ? ‘http’ : ‘https’;if(!d.getElementById(id)) {e = d.createElement(s);e.id = id;e.src = p + ‘://’ + ‘widgets.rewardstyle.com’ + ‘/js/shopthepost.js’;d.body.appendChild(e);}if(typeof window.__stp === ‘object’) if(d.readyState === ‘complete’) {window.__stp.init();}}(document, ‘script’, ‘shopthepost-script’);

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

The post Tahoe Blizzard 2017 appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MyPureRelief #CollectiveBias

If you’re an avid reader then you know my husband and I loving exploring Tahoe. Before Emerson  came along we hiked nearly every weekend. Although we don’t get out as often we still manage to hike with Emerson in tow.

While I might not be an expert, it’s safe to say I’ve hiked enough to know what to pack and what not to pack. I remember the first time Nick and I hiked. Little did I know what I was getting into. I showed up with nothing, but myself. Poor city girl didn’t have a clue. Ten years later I’m now a avid  and experienced hiker.

Between my stuff, Emerson and the dog’s food, etc. my pack is typically pretty full. However, there are a few items I never leave home without.

MY 5 DAY HIKE ESSENTIALS 

BACKPACK
Kind of a no brainer, but you would be amazed at how many people I pass on the trail without a backpack. A backpack is key because how are you going to carry everything? I recommend purchasing a pack with a hydration system.

WATER + FOOD
Please do not hike without water and lots of if. It’s better to have more than you need. Along with water you’ll water to pack snacks/lunch. The length of the hike will determine whether you should pack lunch or not, but I always pack a few bars, fruit and trail mix. Again it’s better to pack more than you need.

SUNSCREEN
Today’s PSA: Never leave home without sunscreen. You’ll want to reapply.

LAYERS
You never know when the weather is going to change in the drop of a hat. Or maybe it’s a early morning start. Maybe it’s super sunny. I personally pack a hat and lightweight jacket.

EYE DROPS
Between pollen, wind, dirt, sun and high elevation the elements might irritate your eyes.  In my pack you’ll likely to find I Clear Eyes® Pure Relief Multi Symptom. Help relieve those irritated eyes.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS AND BENEFITS


Clear Eyes® Pure Relief  Multi Symptom: 
+ Preservative free Relieves red, burning, itchy, dry, irritated, gritty, or watery eyes
+ Provides up to 12 hours of soothing comfort
+ Over 220 drops in each bottle
+ Patented built-in purifying filter that keeps out bacteria
+ One drop control soft-squeeze bottle

Clear Eyes® Pure Relief or Dry Eyes: 
+ Preservative free (for dry eyes, doctors recommend preservative free drops)
+ Provides up to 12 hours of soothing comfort
+ Over 240 drops in each bottle
+ Patented built-in purifying filter that keeps out bacteria
+ One drop control soft-squeeze bottle
+ Formulated with Sodium Hyalouronate, a form of Hyaluranic Acid, for advanced comfort

Hiking is a great way to get out and explore. Happy Exploring!

P.S. You can pick up Clear Eyes® Pure Reliefat my FAVORITE store, Target! Oh, and here’s a COUPON. You’re welcome.

The post My 5 Day Hike Essentials appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

With the warm weather upon us we’ve been spending a few days a week at the beach. I think it’s safe to say I have packing the essentials down. Oh, I’m a less is more kind of gal.

In no particular order…

HAT | While this may be a up hill battle it’s something you’ll want to pack. Even if it’s only on for 10 minutes. A hat is key for protecting our little person’s face, shoulders, etc. The bigger the better. I love this and this from the GAP, but iPlay is currently our go-to. It’s also the only hat she’ll wear longer than 10 minutes. #winning

SUNSCREEN | This is a no brainer! I personally like Hawaiian Tropic for myself and Babyganics for Emerson.

SNACKS | My child is ALWAYS eating. She has no shame in her game. I typically pack a few pouches. Recently I discovered Crunchies [c/o] freeze-dried fruit snacks and well we LOVE them! Yesterday at the beach Emerson was munching on their freeze dried strawberries. Crunchies are available in flavors like strawberry banana, blueberry, cinnamon apple and mango!

With just one simple, authentic ingredient – fresh fruit – Crunchies has developed a snack food that’s not just addictive and delicious but packed impressive nutrition to boot.

WATER | Like sunscreen it’s a no brainer. I pack a water bottle for me and one for Emerson. We use this and this.

TOWEL/Blanket | I suggest an oversized beach towel. The towel is usually for sitting. Trust me, ditch the beach chair and embrace the towel. Unless you have a wheel barrel to shlep everything it just makes life harder.


COVERUP |  For Emerson we personally use a terry cloth coverup. This way it doubles as a towel!


UMBRELLA | When the sun is beating down it’s nice to have a little shade. Plus, it makes for a perfect little area if your toddler feels like napping. However, that never happens for us.

TOYS | You can’t go to the beach without toys! Emerson’s beach toys are from Costco [similar].

DIAPER ESSTENTIALS | You never know when the next diaper change will be. I have a ‘grab-and-go’ clutch with the essentials — a few diapers, wipes, little bags and hand sanitizer.

Whew, are you still with me? If you are I pack everything in a backpack [minus toys and umbrella].

What are your beach essentials?

The post Toddler Beach Essentials appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

A few weeks ago my sister, her fiancé and their crazy vizsla visited. This visit we took them to Taylor Creek to see if the Kokanee were ‘running.’ Unfortunately the Koknaee didn’t know we were coming and decided not to show. Either way we had a great time walking along the Rainbow Trail. Plus, it was finally chilly enough for Emerson to test out her new JJ Cole Urban Bundleme [c/o]. #bundlemegood

Although the trail is dog friendly they must remain on leash at all times. 

Emerson looks pretty cozy in her Urban Bundleme. I’m a little jealous. Girlfriend also has the JJ Cole bundleme hat, but it wasn’t cold enough. 

The air was crisp, but the views were gorgeous! You would never know it poured the day before.

I spy a vizsla on the hunt.

Family of three + Roxy dog. 


We probably spent 45 minutes walking around and there wasn’t a peep out of Emerson. I would say she was happy and cozy in her Urban Bundleme.


JJ Cole Urban Bundleme 
Last winter we purchased something very similar, but ended up returning it. Knowing we would need something this year I was happy when JJ Cole reached out. I couldn’t be happier with the Urban Bundleme [Ice color pictured]. Since it’s not super bulky we’re able to permanently leave it in the stroller. It was easy to install and it’s a breeze getting Emerson in and out. Typically when we’re out she seems content and has no problem falling asleep while in the Bundleme. The inside is soft and cuddly.  I love  how it zips up both sides so we don’t have to worry about her kicking it off. Plus, it’s super stylish! Verdict: LOVE!!! I actually plan on buying the toddler size once she out grows the infant size.


Features/Details
• available in seven colors and two sizes [infant and toddler]
• use with car seats, strollers, and joggers
• wind and water resistant
• machine washable
• removable top for easy temperature control
• allows safety straps to rest directly on child
• side zippers for easy access


Do you have the JJ Cole Urban Bundleme? What do you think?

The post Out & Active with JJ Cole | Lake Tahoe, CA appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

My year round playground is Lake Tahoe — don’t be jealous. Whether Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall Lake Tahoe offers visitors and residents an endless supply of adventure. As we head into what local’s call the ‘shoulder’ season the trails and beaches are wide open and calling our name.

While Fall is my husband’s favorite time to hike I don’t necessarily have a favorite hiking season, but I do have some favorite hikes!

ONE | Echo Lakes
I’m not kidding, but I hike Echo Lakes EVERY year — Just ask the hubby. Since you’re starting at higher elevation it’s mostly flat, but offers hiker some mileage and great views. It’s a great hike to take visitors on. You’re basically hiking along Echo Lakes the entire time, but you don’t have to stop there. Make you hike longer or a little harder and continue on to Aloha Lake or summit Flagpole Peak.

TWO | Mount Tallac
This hike gets the award for best views. Don’t you agree?! However, it’s not meant for beginners. What starts out as a slow and steady climb turns into super exposed steep switchbacks with a rock scramble at the top. Make sure to pack: lots of water, extra layers, lunch/snacks and sunscreen. I suggest hiking Mount Tallac in the Fall and starting early. Don’t let the 9.5 mile roundtrip hike fool you — it’s worth it in the end.

THREE | Maggies Peak
Maybe it made the list because I just hiked it or maybe it’s the amazing views. At only 3 miles roundtrip it’s a short and steep hiking offers amazing views. For an even better experience try hiking at SUNRISE! Yup, the early bird gets the worm.

FOUR | Big Meadow
Another hike we do annually, but with a different destination in mind. Big Meadow isn’t necessarily the stopping point, but a way to reach Dardanelles Lake, Round Lake or a number of other Alpine Lakes. It’s mostly flat with short climbs here and there. It’s a fun quick day hike.

FIVE | Tahoe Rim Trail
Technically, I haven’t hiked the entire Tahoe Rim Tahoe which is a 165 mile loop around Lake Tahoe. Their are a number of trailheads to start from and most hikers break it up into numerous day hikes verse hiking, camping and hiking some more. The TRT is great when you’re looking to get some milage in because you can hike portions of the trail that are relatively flat. The TRT can offer some killer views too. This was along the TRT leaving from the Spooner Summit trailhead.

The post Top 5 Lake Tahoe Hikes appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

How early would you wake up to go hiking? Saturday morning my alarm went of at 3:30 a.m. I hit snooze and thought about how warm my bed was. It went off again 10 minutes later and this time I actually I rolled out of bed. So why was I getting up so early on a Saturday? To chase the sunrise with 50 + of my closest friends.

The plan was to meet #ChasingSunrise at the trailhead around 4:15 a.m. and start hiking Maggies Peak shortly after. I first heard about the sunrise hike from a friend via social media and thought that sounds like fun I want to do that. I’m so glad I did. Seriously, check out this view!

The hike itself is extremely short at about 1.5 miles, but it’s not easy. It’s straight up the whole way. You better believe I was huffing and puffing. The reward was well worth it.

Once at the top we enjoyed good company,  great views and  tunes provided by Ultimate Ears.

Photo via: Justeen Ferguson / @SummitHunnies

Again the views were awesome! I would definitely hike Maggies Peak again even if it wasn’t at sunrise. This view is worth it!

When was the last time you watched the sunrise?

The post Hiking Lake Tahoe at Sunrise // Maggies Peak appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Hat (similar)  | 1/4 pullover | Gap Tank | Camelbak (similar) | Capris | Shoes

We enjoyed sandwiches from Lira’s Market (located in Meyers) and soaked in the views.

Our attempt at an usie… clearly we need to work on it. We were definitely missing our baby girl, but with the smoke haze were happy with our decision to leave her behind.

The post Hiking Lake Tahoe // Dardanelles Lake Trail appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.