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Black House Blue Sky
A creative lifestyle blog by Michel McClamrock Van Devender.
  • THE GOODS
    • THE GOODS

      YOU CAN NOW SHOP OUR CUSTOM DESIGNED +…

  • OUR HOUSES
    • OUR HOUSES

      THE HOME EDIT: PAIRING DOWN + LIVING WITH…

      OUR HOUSES

      HOME TOUR: OUR MODERN BLACK HOUSE NEW BUILD…

      OUR HOUSES

      NOTE CHANDELIER: UNIQUE LIGHTING FOR THE HOME

      OUR HOUSES

      OUR MODERN BUILD: STYLE

      OUR HOUSES

      NEW HOUSE UPDATE: WE HAVE DRYWALL

  • INTERIOR + EXTERIOR
    • INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      FRIDAY MUSINGS: I WANT TO LIVE IN A…

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      SUMMER IS COMING: THE BEST IN SWIMMING POOL…

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      FRIDAY MUSINGS: NEW HOUSE 2.0

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      BLACK KITCHEN CABINETS: DESIGN TREND OR NEW CLASSIC?

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  • STYLE + FASHION
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  • FOOD + DRINK
    • FOOD + DRINK

      SIMPLE ONE POT HOMEMADE TOMATO SOUP

      FOOD + DRINK

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  • TRAVEL
    • TRAVEL

      A STYLISH STAY IN MONTAUK, NEW YORK

      TRAVEL

      A STYLISH STAY IN NEW YORK CITY: ACE…

      TRAVEL

      STAY IN STYLE: NEW ORLEANS

      TRAVEL

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      TRAVEL

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  • LIFE + ETC.
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      DIY: HOW TO PAINT LEATHER + VINYL WITH…

health and wellness

LIFE + ETC.

10 FAVORITE CLEAN MAKEUP PRODUCTS THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK

by Michel Van Devender February 6, 2020

My 10 Favorite Clean Beauty Products

1     Beauty Counter Sheer Lipstick
2     Honest Beauty Invisible Blurring Loose Powder 
3     W3ll PEOPLE Hypnotist Eye Pencil in Black
4     RMS Beauty Eye Polish in Lunar
5     Beauty Counter Luminous Powder Highlighter (BC replaced powder with cream.)
6     Honest Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer 
7     Beauty Counter Brilliant Brow Gel
8     Beauty Counter Satin Powder Blush
9     Beauty Counter Velvet Eye Shadow Palette in Statement 
10   Honest Beauty Luminizing Glow Powder in Dusk Reflection

GOING CLEAN

Over the past five years, it has become increasingly more difficult to ignore the information out there on toxins, including in skincare and beauty products. There is mounting research and evidence on the health implications of what goes in and on our bodies. It’s also concerning that many of the ingredients used in unregulated U.S. beauty products have been banned in other countries. Thankfully, there are a growing number of health and environmental advocates devoting their time and energies to shining a light on the issue and leading efforts for change. I’m definitely not a qualified expert, but I am a research junkie who is passionate about health and wellness. My goal is to make educated, informed decisions about my products as well as share what I’ve learned to help others. 

What Can We Do?

Toxins are everywhere and in so much of what we consume, much of which we cannot control (or at least not without drastic, collaborative measures as a community, as a country and as a planet). Over time, I have reached the conclusion that there are certain personal choices and practices within my control, and this is where I choose to focus my attention. I do believe the cumulative impact of small changes can positively affect our health. For me, this includes taking steps to reduce the toxin load for myself and for my family. We have become more discerning and proactive, making different food (another post topic) and product (personal and household) choices, when possible. As consumers, we often forget we have a voice that is silently expressed in every purchase we make. It’s actually pretty powerful, especially if you consider how we collectively influence the products companies are making and selling. I love supporting companies who are striving to make healthier and cleaner alternatives available, especially more affordable options. It is my belief that toxin free products should be available to everyone. 

Where To Begin

I know from personal experience that cleaning up products can be overwhelming and expensive. That is why I made, and recommend making, gradual changes until you can replace your existing products with better, less toxic versions. It does take time and research to find what you like and what works best for you. I try to shop around for the best products and prices. Two apps I frequently use are EWG Healthy Living and Think Dirty. They both make searching the plethora of options quick and easy. Each company rates products and assigns a score so you can make better purchasing decisions. Some items are not listed on either app and therefore have not been tested and reviewed by the companies. When this is the case, I may still use the product, but know I need to dig a little deeper, and do my own research before buying.

Overall, I do feel better about the products I’m using on my skin and in our home. We of course cannot live in a toxin-free bubble, but the more we shift our choices towards safer, cleaner products, the more positively we can impact our health and the environment. Do you have any clean beauty products that you love? Please share. Wishing you the very best in your health and wellness! 

🖤💙,

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LIFE + ETC.

MOTIVATE: JANUARY MANTRA WITH ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND

by Michel Van Devender January 2, 2020

A New Year Begins, Again

In our house, January is a time to reflect on the past year, adjust the sails, dream big dreams and set intentions for the new year. Ahhh, I love the feeling of a fresh start and clean slate that comes with each January. Don’t you? I feel energized,  inspired and motivated by all of the opportunities for love, for change, for learning and for growth. 

The Intention, The Reality

Yes, this is me all feeling good, pie in the sky, pumped on January 1, proudly waving my well thought out, neatly printed “Intentions for 2020”, feeling so proud and accomplished. Oh, how I love myself at this time. My little voice inside says, “High five… damn girl, you got it tooogether, and you’re going to do great things this year.” But, what happens seven to ten days into the month, after the hyped energy fades? And let’s be honest, making the beautifully crafted list is the easy part, right? Believe me, I know this from last year and from the year before that. Will I unconsciously revert back to my old, comfortable routines and habits? Will I slow down long enough to have some self awareness rather than merely going through the motions and charging forward aimlessly? Research says YES to the first question and NO to the second, and apparently this happens to most of us, so I guess we’re all in good, mortal company. Hence, the the rush to the gym with the “eye of the tiger” enthusiasm on January 1, followed by a slow, steady decline in attendance as the month progresses. 

Change Is Hard Sh@#!

I know because I’m the blond, middle-aged mom of three right there beside you on the treadmill at the gym (and in life), internally (and sometimes externally) kicking and screaming in resistance, and that’s when I’m at my best and capable of the good fight. Other times, I’m waving a white flag in defeat, either consciously or unconsciously. The struggle is real! With a basic understanding of human behavior and some level of self awareness, I know it’s not an easy or solo endeavor to change old patterns, habits and behaviors. Over time and through trial and error, what I have learned is without God, intention, a good plan, execution, accountability and other supportive people, well, nothing will happen or change. And even then, as a human, I’ll slip back here and there, beginning again and again, looking to the Divine for guidance and grace. 

Breaking It Down

With all of that said and acknowledging the challenges, I’ve been brainstorming ideas and strategies for how I will stay on track and remain inspired for all of the months in 2020. Breaking down my intentions into measurable action steps helps me plan for reaching my goals. I’ve been looking at my list and identifying themes, actions, desired feelings and then attaching a word that will help me focus my energy and attention. I have friends who chose a word, a mantra, for the entire year, and I love that idea. Adapting this practice, I am pairing a word with each month that captures my mantra for that month… a different one for each month of this year. I see these words less as concrete goals, rather as tools for finding focus so I can achieve my goals. 

January Mantra

So, here we go… my word for January is MOTIVATE! The get moving and keep moving kind of motivate, for the entire month of January and for the entire year. And also, motivation to inspire, create, love, connect and grow! May this be your best January and new year yet! May all of your hopes and dreams be realized! Sending you so much positive energy and love! Thank you for honoring me with your presence on this blog! If you feel so inspired, please drop a comment below.

💙🖤,


Essential Oil Blend

As a complimentary practice and as a way to further enhance the monthly mantras, I will be creating an essential oil blend with the hopes of inspiring the desired, corresponding mood, emotion or feeling. 

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FOOD + DRINK

THE BEST VEGETABLE SOUP WITH GRASS-FED BEEF

by Michel Van Devender November 21, 2019

An Easy, Quick, Healthy Meal

Vegetable soup is a personal favorite comfort food that stays on rotation during the fall and winter months in our house. Although, I’ve also been known to make it in the spring and summer… I know, it’s hot. The last time I made this soup, my 13-year-old son even said, “Oh yay mom, we’re having vegetable soup!” For me, that’s like my kid saying he loves me! Seriously, it’s the small things over here in this mom-of-three-boys house!

Since this is a super easy recipe that requires little time and effort, I usually make it when we have a busy weekday night, and I don’t have as much time to be in the kitchen. It’s literally working to get everything into the pot, and then just letting it simmer. The ingredients are simple, usually staples that we keep on hand in our freezer and pantry. 

The other thing I really love about this recipe is that it has a nice, flavorful tomato base, good for experimentation. You can make several different versions by simply switching up the meat and starch. It can also be made without the meat and/or starch to accommodate different dietary needs and lifestyles. Ideas for meat substitutions include ground turkey, ground chicken, shredded chicken, beef stew, Italian sausage and ground sausage. I sometimes use rice or other grain instead of potatoes. I also like it with quinoa, amaranth, or even cauliflower rice. You get the idea… I’m sure you can think of other combinations as well! Please be sure to share any great variations you discover. We typically serve with gluten-free toast or crackers. It’s also a great candidate for a grilled cheese if you eat dairy. Hope you enjoy! 

🖤💙,

 

Easy Vegetable Soup with Ground Beef

Print
Serves: 6-8 Prep Time: 30 min. Cooking Time: 1 hr., minimum 1 hr., minimum
Nutrition facts: 200 calories 20 grams fat

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 24-ounce jar tomato basil spaghetti sauce
  • 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 1 container beef bone broth
  • 1 16-ounce bag mixed vegetables
  • 2 small to medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
  • 2 medium to large potatoes (can omit or use another starch)
  • 2 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • salt + pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Chop the onion and garlic. Place in a stock pot or dutch oven with the ground beef.

2. Brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic.

3. Once the ground beef, onion and garlic mixture are cooked, add the spices and diced tomatoes. Cook for 2 -3 minutes or until fragrant.

4. Add the spaghetti sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine. Cook for 10 minutes.

5. Add the mixed vegetables. Bring to a boil and then turn burner down to a simmer. Cook for a minimum of 1 hour.

6. Wash, peel and dice potatoes. Add to soup 15 – 20 minutes before serving. If you’d prefer less starch in the soup, you can cook the potatoes separately and add at the end. I never do this!

7.  Serve into bowls and let cool slightly before eating.

Notes

Variation 1 – omit meat or substitute with another type; Variation 2 – omit starch or substitute with another grain

 

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Black House Blue Sky
  • THE GOODS
    • THE GOODS

      YOU CAN NOW SHOP OUR CUSTOM DESIGNED +…

  • OUR HOUSES
    • OUR HOUSES

      THE HOME EDIT: PAIRING DOWN + LIVING WITH…

      OUR HOUSES

      HOME TOUR: OUR MODERN BLACK HOUSE NEW BUILD…

      OUR HOUSES

      NOTE CHANDELIER: UNIQUE LIGHTING FOR THE HOME

      OUR HOUSES

      OUR MODERN BUILD: STYLE

      OUR HOUSES

      NEW HOUSE UPDATE: WE HAVE DRYWALL

  • INTERIOR + EXTERIOR
    • INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      FRIDAY MUSINGS: I WANT TO LIVE IN A…

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      SUMMER IS COMING: THE BEST IN SWIMMING POOL…

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      FRIDAY MUSINGS: NEW HOUSE 2.0

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      BLACK KITCHEN CABINETS: DESIGN TREND OR NEW CLASSIC?

      INTERIOR + EXTERIOR

      KEEPING IT INTERESTING: MAKING A STATEMENT WITH YOUR…

  • STYLE + FASHION
    • STYLE + FASHION

      ALL THAT SPARKLES: HOW TO ADD PRETTY SEQUINS…

      STYLE + FASHION

      I HAVE A BIG STYLE CRUSH: ERIN WASSON…

      STYLE + FASHION

      21 FAUX FUR COATS THAT WILL ALWAYS BE…

      STYLE + FASHION

      I HAVE A BIG STYLE CRUSH: JENNA LYONS…

      STYLE + FASHION

      EASY, EFFORTLESS STYLE: ENTER THE MAXI DRESS

  • FOOD + DRINK
    • FOOD + DRINK

      SIMPLE ONE POT HOMEMADE TOMATO SOUP

      FOOD + DRINK

      NOT GONNA LIE, IT’S THE BEST CARROT CAKE…

      FOOD + DRINK

      THE BEST TURKEY BURGER RECIPE FROM BLUE APRON

      FOOD + DRINK

      OUR FAVORITE HALLOWEEN DINNER: HOW TO MAKE MUMMY…

      FOOD + DRINK

      A SUPER EASY PEACH CRUMBLE WITH GRANOLA TOPPING…

  • TRAVEL
    • TRAVEL

      A STYLISH STAY IN MONTAUK, NEW YORK

      TRAVEL

      A STYLISH STAY IN NEW YORK CITY: ACE…

      TRAVEL

      STAY IN STYLE: NEW ORLEANS

      TRAVEL

      TRAVEL FINDS: A STUNNING NEW YORK CITY MODERN…

      TRAVEL

      GET OUT OF TOWN: HIGH POINT NC FURNITURE…

  • LIFE + ETC.
    • LIFE + ETC.

      HOW TO MAKE EASY NATURAL EASTER EGG DYES

      LIFE + ETC.

      OUT OF INSTAGRAM JAIL: RELEASE DATE 3-24-2022

      LIFE + ETC.

      INSTAGRAM JAIL: WHY I’M OKAY WITH MY DISABLED…

      LIFE + ETC.

      SKIN CANCER: WHEN YOU LEARN YOU HAVE MELANOMA

      LIFE + ETC.

      DIY: HOW TO PAINT LEATHER + VINYL WITH…