Unlimited Water in Hotel Hack

Is it just me, or is it a fact of life that the higher end the hotel, the more limited your complimentary water supply is? While I can refill my water flask for free at certain inns/hostels/hotels, I've never seen a water dispenser in those fancy shmancy ones that I (very rarely) go to.

Rather than call for service, and possibly paying extra, here's what I use to stay hydrated:

Tap Water+Kettle = Drinking Water.

Yep. I usually boil as much as I can once I wake up, have a cup or two of coffee, and use the rest for later. If the room comes with a ref, I'll sometimes store it in there once the water cools.

Granted, this will be difficult for tired people who just want lots of free, and hopefully iced water, but this helps keep my costs down, with less plastic waste, when I, myself, travel.

5 Things You Should Know About Reusable Menstrual Pads

I've recently been transitioning from disposable pads (see previous posts on favorites) to reusable cloth pads and here are 5 things I think people should know before buying one:

1. Not all pads are created equal. Aside from coming in different sizes, and shapes, pads come in different materials. Some have waterproof backings and some have removable inserts. Think about WHY you want to use reusable pads because microfiber cloths and impermeable materials mean plastic but mean a bit more security down there. Do your research instead of buying the first one you see.

2. Be prepared to use a lot of water and soap. Either toss 'em in a washing machine or handwash, but don't start until you have a good soaking, or you'll just be spreading that period smell (and possible germies) around. Soak at least once! Yes, some people just toss the lot in a washing machine, but I don't recommend doing this unless those pads are the ONLY thing you'll wash in that load.

3. The sun is your best friend. Leave them out in the sun for a few hours after to make sure you kill any bacteria hanging around. Put the design side down to better preserve that pattern, but I'd rather have a pad with a shorter lifespan than a contaminated one. You're better off with disposable pads if you can't make the commitment of letting them dry, because infections are not a good thing.

4. Pads are absorbent, but not foolproof. You can still leak, especially if you choose one without absorbent backing or an extra lining during those heavy days. Additionally, sizing and fitting is still necessary. Make sure it doesn't slide by choosing the correct size (and using tight-ish undies) and changing when needed.

5. Ask questions if you are unsure or do your research beforehand. I wish I didn't have to say this, but I've seen videos on YouTube where pads were used the wrong way, so ask if you're not sure or check the FAQs on reputable sources before checking out.

There are many advantages for using reusable cloth pads, and I'm certainly glad of my purchase. However I'm pretty sure they aren't for everybody.

+1: Use whatever feels right for you and don't let anyone shame you for your choices.

Elizabeth Arden Green Tea

Saying goodbye to my nth bottle of EA's Green Tea perfume.

You were the first thing that made me realize clean scents were something I could wear.

But now it's time to move on after 2 decades of use.

Thank you, next.