Hello, hello!

And here we are, November. Another week, another month for discovery, our daily rituals creating energy, feeding the mind, body and spirit. This month we have a mushroom buckwheat salad. Ideal for saving, it’s going to be your new go-to meal. For those interested in recreating nostalgia, we have chocolate cups, but manageable. Expanding our willingness and capacity to self inform, a piece on endocrine disruptors and a form of creative escapism—a series of images taken for Koha Apparel, perpetuating circularity.

While current freedoms of travel and its associated distractions persist here in New Zealand, we find this stillness offers a tremendous portal for creative thought, our dreams, healthy escapism and new waves of perception. Constant thoughts surrounding our future, what opportunities remain for an existence that respects individual and planetary wellbeing—creating sustenance and sustainability for ourselves, one another, our communities. A future where we all have the opportunity to thrive.

Comprehension of our ecology is life learning, and we are either conscious or unconscious. We must question what is it that we are losing? What are we consuming, producing, communicating? Nobody will give us a better world. We have to recreate our world beginning with our own lives, homes, communities. And when we start to take control of our own lives, others will. What needs working out this week, this month for you?

Warm-season has kicked off in New Zealand, and so salads are on high rotation in the house. This one can be done all year round, though and is simply delicious and healthful. Gluten-free, loaded with Fibre and Vitamins, this salad is also easy and quick to make. Perfect for popular park gatherings at the moment.

A few weeks ago our friend Charli, founder of Koha Apparel, dropped off a box of clothes and we created some images. We also discuss how second-hand clothing is given a new life in more than one way, circularity, waste and community work. All the pieces are available exclusively online at Koha Apparel and some are still available. All purchases support the ongoing community work.

Endocrine disruptors. Words rarely uttered in mainstream media but gaining importance in medicine, research or safety consumer offices. What are they? Are they detrimental to our health? And can we avoid them? Our friend Isabel Forner PhD is back with a new article that will answer all these questions and more.

Constantly seeking to simplify our diets, and so what better way to do that than to offer up a plant-based version of the classic—dark chocolate cup. Here, we’re leaving the dairy and palm oil behind. Each chocolate cup reclaims dessert, completely plant-based, and champions the powers of nature and pleasure as it melts in your mouth.

1. "This story is one of inequality, as well of instability". Watching Sir David Attenborough's statement at COP26 to reacquaint ourselves of the world situation, and seeing our leaders' faces while he is reminding them of the fate of this planet, which they are responsible for, says it all. No doubt change will come from the bottom up!
   
   
2. On grassroots movements. If you are based in Auckland, Open Homes is a fantastic initiative to support. Founded by wife and husband Grace and Charles, Open Homes questions the relationship between city dwellers and quality food, exploring the opportunities around urban living and self-sufficiency, re-connection with the soil and re-invention of life and social connection in the suburb. How does this translate? As a beautiful, abundant backyard food garden, producing so much that Grace and Charles sell their high-quality production. Go over their account for the latest, contact and grab a pay-as-you-can "no-jet lagged kai" for the week. Expect good vibes and thoughtful conversations. Also, purple radishes!
   
   
3. Books. I am still going through The Proof is in the Plants—I am such a slow reader, but getting there! My next pick will be Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Recommended by Charles, this book is a perspective between indigenous wisdom and conventional science, how to relate to the land and reconnect with nature. I can't wait.

1. Serious Food Co Puffs. The Barbecue ones are quite possibly one of the greatest alt-chip snacks. They’re smoky, salty, Certified Organic and perfect to reach for when the craving hits. If you don't like chips, then you might like these. Any other recommendations, email me.
   
   
2. I've been on the hunt for cushions for my bedroom for some time now but when I resisted the Penney & Bennett website recently to source pieces for an upcoming client photoshoot, I realised the hunt was over. Responsibly sourced, printed textiles are available in 100 per cent linen, silk or ramie.
   
   
3. After searching the Internet for bras, this zero waste knit bralette from Rowie checks all the boxes—they’re also more open and honest regarding ethics than most. Byron Bay based, sustainable, and inspired by nature and women. I am wearing this one now. SO comfortable. I’m purchasing this one next.

Thoughts, questions, you can always direct reply to these emails.
We look forward to hearing from you!

Tracey Creed & Amandine Paniagua