Guest User

September 18, 2022

Staff Picks

Staff Picks: Autumn 2022

Guest User

September 18, 2022

Staff Picks

**Meara**

**Natural Stacks Ciltep (Neuro Fuel) Natural Nootropic**

As I gear up for a challenging and exciting fall semester, I am happy to have Neurofuel to support my focus and motivation. Natural Stacks uses natural ingredients that work as fuel for neurotransmitters, supporting greater signaling between brain cells. This supplement helps me to combat the brain fog, fatigue, and procrastination that can come with the added demands of the semester. With Neurofuel, I can approach my schoolwork with more creativity, curiosity and enthusiasm to tackle my assignments and get the most out of my semester.

**Laura**

**Forest School for Grown Ups by Richard Irvine**

A newer book to CN shelves this season is this adorable guide to exploring the wisdom of the woods! This book balances a surplus of practical knowledge as well as blurbs of myth and folklore. From map reading, foraging & basket weaving to forest spells, mythical forest beings (and so much in between) this book has it all. A really sweet gift for your nature loving friends (or yourself!), this is a lovely book that anyone would be happy to have in their collection. Come see for yourself!

**Dev**

**Juniper Ridge Douglas Fir Spring Tip Botanical Tea**
Juniper Ridge's Douglas Fir Spring Tip tea is for sure going to be a staple in my coffee and tea cabinet this fall. Its bright and earthy flavor is both grounding and soothing; drinking it reminds me of a nice autumnal hike in the woods! Just breathing in its steam makes you feel like you've been transported to a wooded trail deep in the pacific northwest...

**Shannon**

**Mad Hippie Face Cream** **and** **Vitamin C Serum**

Believe the hype!! Almost everyone at BL has heard me gush over Mad Hippie and their products so I had to pick these for my staff pick! I have been using the Mad Hippie Face Cream for almost 2 years now and it does not disappoint, no matter what time of year. I have sensitive skin and personally struggle with sensory issues with skin care when products are too sticky, oily or feel thick on my skin. This face cream absorbs fast while also keeping my skin feeling moisturized all day, even when the weather starts to cool down and conditions outside get harsher. And I don't know how they engineered the pump so perfect but you're able to use every last drop in that bottle, so you really get every dollar's worth! I also started using the Vitamin C Serum in my daily routine recently and I love the added brightness I have noticed in my skin. As someone with extremely fair skin I appreciate how all of Mad Hippie's products are protecting me from further sun damage all year long.

**Allison**
**Everyone Body Lotion Unscented** **and** **Just Soaps Oatmeal Honey Bar Soap**
Fall, to me, means getting back to the basics and inviting a grounding level of self care and routine back into my life after a fun-filled summer. Part of how I do that is through body care. The Everyone lotion is nourishing while also being lightweight and quick to absorb which makes it perfect the lotion as we transition into the colder months! The Oatmeal Honey bar soap from Just Soaps is another staple in my cold weather skincare. Oatmeal is known for its hydrating properties, so it helps keep my skin extra soft this time of year! Just Soaps are also 100% package free!

**Sally**
**Seemore Chicken Kale Pesto Sausage**
Seemore Meats & Veggies founded by a 4th generation butcher, currently a women owned business, that uses humanely raised meat, and local farm vegetables gluten free ingredients, to create the most deeeeelicious sausages. My favorite flavor is their Chicken Chili Verde. These sausages pack a powerful punch, you can really taste the spicy green chilis & fresh cilantro. I buy 2 packages of these sausages at a time, keeping 1 in the freezer for back up. They can quickly be diced, sliced, or cooked whole to create a quick eggs & sausage breakfast or dinner. They make a great taco, or nacho topping, grilled like a hot dog - the possibilities are endless and yummy! You can find the variety of Seemore sausages we carry in our cooler case.

**Molly**

**Organic Bath Co. Skin Cream Naked**
For me, the changing of the seasons brings on the dreaded cracked and dry hands. Organic Bath Co.'s skin cream is just the solution I needed! I love it as a hand cream specifically, but it's great on any other dry areas (feet, elbows, etc.) It's fragrance free and doesn't irritate my sensitive and temperamental skin, but has a pleasant mild aroma from it's amazing ingredients, cocoa butter and rosehip oil. This skin cream is beautifully rich and creamy, but non-greasy and absorbs quickly, which is key. Out of the many hand creams I have tried, this one is by far my favorite.

**Gabriela**

**Mikes Hot Honey**
The BEST thing I've ever bought in my life... maybe. I've been putting it on everything recently such as avocado toast, tomato's, and even vanilla oat milk ice cream with a tiny bit of sea salt. It's the perfect mix of sweet and spicy to add to any dish!

**Megan**
**Wooden Spoon Herbs Fire Cider**

The changing seasons can really put our bodies through the ringer increasing our chances of getting a bug. This is the time when I start pulling out all the stops to boost my immune system as we head into the colder months which is where fire cider comes into play. A folk remedy used for centuries that may be used for a variety of issues including as a immune boost, for digestion, and for warming the body. The Wooden Spoon Herbs Fire Cider is certified organic made with apple cider vinegar, honey and a variety of herbs and vegetables including: ginger, garlic, onion, horseradish, rosemary, thyme, and cayenne fruit. I like to dilute it in hot water as a warming tonic but it can also be mixed with sparkling water or used in a salad dressing! Yumm!

**Amber**
**Upstate Elevator CBG Gummies**

These tasty gummies combine CBD with CBG (Cannabigerol) in a convenient 20mg dosage. CBG, which is often called 'the mother of all cannabinoids', is being studied for its aid in mood support as well as its potential anti-inflammatory benefits. I like it for the uplifting, energizing effect it has on me--it's great for when I want to get the benefits of CBD without the sedative effects of many other products. As a Supplements Buyer for Cambridge Naturals, I've tried almost every CBD product we carry, and this is by far my favorite.

**Sarah**
**Soul Chai**
Fall is here and I am craving all things warm and spicy. Enter Soul Chai. Aside from being one of the most delicious Chai blends I've ever had, Soul Chai uses mindful sourcing and sustainable practices. Also... it comes in the cutest, most eye catching, reusable little tin.

**Alina**
**Andalou Naturals Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask**
What is autumn without pumpkin-themed goodies?? This clean (and affordable!) face mask has organic pumpkin, honey, and glycolic acid that help soothe, brighten, and exfoliate the skin. It smells so nice and tingles so goooood. If you are hesitant to commit to the full-sized jar, we also have little 1-time-use mask "pods" you could try!

**Nora**
**Bulk Nettle leaf (Local, Organic)**
As we re-enter allergy season, one of my favorite daily rituals comes into play - a morning cup of nettle tea. Nettles, in addition to being incredibly nutritive and mineral-rich, can support the body's immune system to reduce its histaminic responses to seasonal allergens, especially when taken regularly. I particularly like our bulk nettles sourced from Foster Farm Botanicals in East Calais, Vermont. Steep in hot water with a tea bag or infuser of your choice, and mix in a spoonful of raw local honey for extra allergy support and tastiness!

**Alyssa**
**Cambridge Naturals Passionflower Tincture**
As we move from summer to fall, many of us transition from play mode to work mode which at times can be stress inducing. As the to-do lists ramp up, I often find myself ruminating on what I need to get done the next day as I'm trying to fall asleep. I've been taking passionflower (also known as maypop) in the evenings to help me unwind and slow the mental chatter so that I can fall asleep easier and wake up up feeling more rested.

**Keilah**
**Brown and Coconut Hydrating Face Oil**
It's that time of year again, where the air gets a little more crisp and your skin gets a bit more dry. But have no worry,treat your skin with Brown and Coconut’s *Hydrating Face Oil!* Whether you have reactive-sensitive skin to oily-combination skin type; this silky fast absorbing facial oil is ultra lightweight, and provides instant nourishment to your skin. Transport your senses into Autumn with this neroli-manuka oil blend that helps soothe, and aid with hyperpigmentation. This aromatherapeutic oil will elevate your facial care regimen leaving skin dewy and radiant.

**Caleb**
**Vibrant Health Green Vibrance Drink Powder**
This is the highest quality, most nutritious, greens powder on the market. As you can tell by list of ingredients that takes up more than half of the label, it’s packed with a multitude of beneficial nutrients for body and mind. I drink mine on its own in a glass of cold water or in a smoothie. Pro-tip: store it in the freezer to keep as fresh as possible!

**Aiden**
**Good Morning, Good Night Deck**
Are you as baffled as I am by how quickly Summer passed us by? What do you mean we only have four months until 2023?! WHAT DO YOU MEAN 2010 WAS OVER A DECADE AGO?!? It's tough to remember to slow down and take care of yourself when life moves so fast, but the Good Morning, Good Night Deck is here to help! These 78 double-sided cards with mindfulness exercises, yoga poses, and self-care tips are perfect for anyone who wants to reconnect with themselves.

**Brenden**
**Carlson Cod Liver Oil (Lemon) 8.4 fl oz**
The natural food industry doesn't call Cold Liver oil a super food but, I do! Why might you ask? Cod Liver Oil is high on Omega-3, Vitamin A & D, EPA, and DHA making it a nutrient powerhouse supplement. Daily use may support brain health, heart health, immunity, and a healthy inflamation response. What more could you ask for? Try it on your kids! My son doesn't bat an eye at the Lemon flavor. Pro Tip: Storing it in the fridge gives every dose a crisp experience.

**Emily**

**True Grace One Daily Probiotic**
As we head into the season of hearty, delicious meals and more time spent indoors, my digestive and immune health are top of mind! I absolutely love this probiotic from our new vendor partner, True Grace. As a company, they put high quality sourcing, manufacturing, and transparency at the forefront of their decision making - and I love seeing the exact percentages of each probiotic strain contained within their products. The One Daily is a blend of prebiotic fiber and 90 billion count of 12 probiotic strains to support gut and immune health. It's shelf-stable and gluten-free, vegetarian, and non-GMO verified.

**Nancy**
**Rose Cordial Syrup by Portland Syrups**
I loved this product right away. The smell, the flavor and the delicate color that adds to my rose mocktails! It has just the right sweetness and a touch of tartness that enhances the rose flavor. Made from Rose Petals, Rose Hips, Rose Buds and Real Cane Sugar. No artificial flavors or colors. You could definitely add it to seltzer water, smoothies, sparkling water, pancakes, drizzle on fruit/ice cream and cocktails. I regularly add it to my special delightful signature mocktail: in a mason jar I delicately smash organic peaches, blueberries and mint leaves. Then I add "Cucumber Seltzer by Something and Nothing", coconut water, 1 or 2 tablespoons of "Portland Syrups Rose Cordial", a hint of ceylon cinnamon and a couple of ice cubes.
P.S. I garnish it with dried rose buds to add visual impact and flavor. You will wow your friends.

Guest User

July 20, 2022

Staff Picks

Staff Picks: Summertime 2022!

Guest User

July 20, 2022

Staff Picks

**Amber**

**Ultima Replenisher Electrolyte Drink Mix (Raspberry)**

With the advance of hot, muggy summer days, staying hydrated is crucial. A scoop of Ultima Electrolyte powder in your water bottle gives you a boost of electrolytes and replaces minerals lost through sweating, with zero sugars and zero carbs. All the flavors are great, but the Raspberry is my personal favorite.

**Zach**

**Cambridge Naturals Preworkout Mix - Citrus Flavor**

Summertime is sun-time for me, but often I want that 'extra boost'. And I've tried a lot of preworkout powders - some I've liked and some others not so much. One of my favorite go-to's is our Cambridge Naturals Preworkout Powder - NSF Certified for Sport, it's got just enough energy to get me going and keep me going but without the isolated caffeine in many mainstream preworkouts.

**Dev**

**Dandy Blend Instant Herbal Beverage with Dandelion**
If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious alternative to iced coffee this summer--or to cut the caffeine but still have something bittersweet to sip over ice--give Dandy Blend a try. It's a tasty herbal combo of roasted dandelion root, beet root, rye, barley, and chicory, and it's versatile enough to use as an iced coffee or iced tea substitute in terms of flavor potency. It dissolves so well in cold water that you'd never suspect it was formerly a powder! It's super useful for day trips, hikes, and just wherever. For those among us with a sweet tooth, it pairs well with maple and chocolate syrup in iced Dandy Blend lattes.

**Tatum**

**Dram Hemp Extract Adaptogenic Sparkling Water**

This drink has a lovely blend of apoptogenic herbs to assist you in the ultimate wind down after a long, hot day! It has a nice bubbly refreshing effect and tasty vanilla tones in flavor.

**Allison**
**Ruby - Organic Sparkling Hibiscus, Unsweetened**
This is new to our cooler, but I just can't get enough of it! I love everything hibiscus, but this is by far my favorite. It's crisp, tart, and refreshing - everything you want on hot summer day. Perfect for beach bev or enjoying outside on the porch!

**Brenden**
**Counter Culture Coffee, Apollo Whole Bean**
Coffee is life, am I right? Summer is life, am I right? If you disagree, please drink your tea in silence! ...Anyways, this year-round coffee is a perfect bright roast for your summer homemade cold brews! Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee and is home to many of the best coffees in the world. Inspired by their floral and citrusy notes, Counter Culture uses 100% Ethiopian coffee in Apollo, for a coffee that tastes silky and sweet.

**Alyssa**

**Fat of the Land Strawberry, Hawthorn & Rose Elixir**
The Fat of the Land Strawberry, Hawthorn & Rose Elixir is bright and tangy, sweet and sour- a perfect summertime taste combination in my opinion! The apple cider vinegar base provides digestive aid and the rose and hawthorn are great heart tonics. Rose can also help us to stay cool in the summer heat. The honey and strawberry provide sweetness and help us to celebrate strawberry season, which is upon us! Enjoy the tincture on its own as a tasty digestif, add it to sparkling water to create a functional and refreshing beverage, or maybe even add it to some white wine if that's more your speed. There's definitely room to get creative with this delicious elixir.

**Molly**

**Death Valley Nails - Tomb of Wrestlers**
The perfect summer color! Fun! Bright! Spicy! Goes with Everything!

**Emily**
**Klean Kanteen TKPro - Insulated Thermos (Stainless Steel) 16oz**

Summertime for me is all about being outdoors as much as possible - time at the beach, hikes on cooler days, and picnics with friends. This Klean Kanteen insulated thermos is perfect for toting an icy cold beverage (be it coffee, electrolytes, or a homemade mocktail or cocktail) on my adventures, and even comes with its own attached insulated mug to pour and sip from while enjoying the scenery.

**Caleb**
**Ursa Major Force Field Daily Defense Lotion**

Of all the sunscreens, Ursa Major’s Daily Defense Lotion works best for me. Light and clean, it blends in with my skin well and provides the right amount of protection and moisturizing for everyday use throughout the summer. I keep a bottle at home and another in my car!

**Vicki**
**Gayatri Designs Jewelry - Earrings and Necklaces**
This jewelry makes me feel like a sparkly and magical human gracing civilization with my presence. Just kidding, but you get the point. Handmade with intention, each gem chosen with concentration, these pieces are for sure going to make you or your loved one shine this summer. They look especially good under sunlight, their magic sparkling extra bright.

**Alina**
**Heart Grown Wild Strawberry Fields Hydrosol**
Sweet, tart Strawberry Fields is super rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants and has the perfect pH level to bring hydration and balance to all skin types. It pairs so nicely with Heart Grown Wild's serums (Veil of Love is my favorite) or another plant-based oil of your choice! This seasonal face toner is going to be a staple of mine all summer long and truly, my mouth is watering at the thought of a big bowl of freshly picked organic Vermont strawbs.

**Laura**
**Starwest Botanicals Waters - Rose**
Rose water truly becomes my go to for all things once the weather heats up! I find it useful for freshening up my hair in between washes, to hydrate my skin, and for soothing rashes or bug bites. Lately when I wake up and my skin is feeling extra dry, I will use a few sprays in lieu of cleansing. The Starwest Botanicals Rose water is also food grade, making it the perfect addition in a nice seasonal beverage... A summer staple with so much versatility!

**Meara**
**BjornQorn Truffle Popcorn**
It's the same Bjorn Qorn we know and love, but truffle flavored! The truffle salt makes it decadent and savory while still keeping it nice and light. I will be snacking on this all summer long!

**Aiden**
**The Wild Unknown Pocket Tarot Deck & Guidebook**
I love this deck. It has vibrant imagery, a booklet for identifying cards, and it comes in a metal case for perfect for travel. Throw it in your beach bag, break it out at a pool party, or bring it camping and use it to communicate the with fairies in the forest! Endless fun!!

**Dev (2nd pick!)**

**Short Creek Farm - Fennel & Citrus Dry Salame**
Dust off those charcuterie boards, we have a great addition on our hands (and shelves)! Short Creek's fennel and citrus dry salame is deliciously salty and full of bold flavor. A bright combination of toasted fennel seed, white wine, and lemon/orange zest add a special and tart kick to the delightfully rich pork taste. This one is sure to be a crowd-pleaser this summer!

Emily Kanter

October 25, 2021

Staff Picks

Sam’s Spooky Season Picks

Emily Kanter

October 25, 2021

Staff Picks

Sam, our former resident official Goth Maestro, was generous enough to share with us their favorite picks for this spookiest of seasons. We hope their picks inspire you to celebrate this All Hallows’ Eve in style!

Eze Nri by Triple O Polish

Black nail polish is a must-have for those who are spooky at heart, and Triple O Polish does a tremendous job with their small-batch offering: a smooth, clean formula free of 13 chemicals of concern found in conventional polish.. While decay and corruption might be very gothic concepts to consider, one might wish to avoid formaldehyde on one's fingertips while doing so. For extra darkness, top this with Triple O's mattifying top coat, to turn the black polish into a cavernous shade that absorbs the light.

Fruit Bat & Pomegranate Card by Little Gold Fox Designs

Bats are emblematic of both autumn and the outsider - misunderstood pollinators, communal nocturnal mammals that have become a symbol of the eerie and uncanny. Paired here with a lushly-colored pomegranate, which recalls Persephone's chthonic autumnal journey to the Underworld, this design is both gorgeous and gothic as heck. This would make a lovely greeting card for someone close to your dark heart, or a gorgeous ornament for your wall.

Cinnamon Clove Bar Soap by Just Soap

Don't let the simple appearance of this soap fool you - this isn't your average bar. The scent is enchantingly spicy and dark, calling up associations of both pumpkin spice and evenings spent outside Xmortis in Cambridge (if you know, you know). The formula is cleansing, but not drying, due to the blend of olive, coconut, and ethically-sourced palm oil; as an added bonus, the coarse-ground spices provide a gentle, non-abrasive scrub. Soothing for both a mo(u)rning person's early shower, or a nocturnal creature's late-night soak.

Absinthe Dark Chocolate Bar by Endorfin Foods

Absinthe has long been a staple of those fascinated by the demimonde, perhaps most emblematically captured in author Ernest Hemingway's favored champagne cocktail Death In The Afternoon. For a taste of the realm beyond the veil, without the delirium of the actual liquor, try this chocolate bar: a piquant blend of fennel, anise, and mugwort in a rich base of vegan coconut milk dark chocolate. A square of this late at night makes a dreamy treat.

Lapsang Souchong Bulk Tea by Mountain Rose Herbs

Richly smoky and smoothly tannic, this tea is a marvelous pick-me-up after a night of dark dancing, or as a companion cup on a brisk morning's graveyard walk. The scent and taste call up autumn bonfires; to make this truly a cup of distilled October, follow staff member Amber's lead and add a teaspoon each of cinnamon chips and whole cloves when you brew.

Cute but Spooky Sticker by Graphic Anthology

I'm almost tempted to let this one speak for itself - a skeptical but adorable black cat sticker with a wholesome, Halloween-y thesis stated front and center, perfect for adding a bit of lowkey goth flair to a water bottle, notebook, laptop cover, or embalming kit. (Maybe not that last one.)