Seasons of Self-Care: September as a Reset
By: June Buzzey
September
Scavenger Hunt Activity
Formula Flawless
Rae Indigo’s Revolution in Medically
Potent, Organic Skincare
Formula
Lyrics
Seasons
The
The
Rivian is coming to Farm to Table
This fall, join us at the North Las Vegas Farmers Market for a chance to explore our all-electric adventure vehicles.
Ready to get behind the wheel? Stop by our Las Vegas Service + Demo Center for a demo drive in the R1S SUV or R1T truck. We can’t wait to meet you!
Book your demo drive in advance using the QR Code.
Rivian Service + Demo Center
1914 Mendenhall Dr
North Las Vegas, NV 89081
General hours
Tues–Sat: 8:00am–5:00pm
Sun–Mon: Closed
Heartfelt Moments of Gratitude
“My daughter spilled glitter all over the kitchen making her ‘back-to-school vision board.’ I’ll be sweeping sparkle until Christmas… but I’m grateful for her big dreams and messy magic.”
“I’m grateful that my son asks the funniest bedtime questions like, ‘Do squirrels get homework?’ His curiosity makes even the sleepiest nights entertaining.”
“This month, my son started saying ‘thank you’ before I even remind him. Sure, it was for extra dessert, but a win is a win!”
“This September, I watched my daughter help her little brother carry his oversized backpack down the sidewalk. I didn’t even ask her to — and my heart grew three sizes in that moment.”
“I’m grateful for the way my daughter still slips her little hand into mine on the walk to school, even when she pretends she’s too cool for hugs in front of her friends.”
“I’m grateful for the chaos of family dinners — spilled milk, loud laughter, and arguments over who gets the last roll — because those messy moments are the ones I’ll remember most.”
To Understand Each Other’s Views
To understand each other’s views Requires listening with grace And love diffused
As there is a role For each to do An action to take By many not few A working together With great respect On focused issues Without defl ect Though to accomplish this It also takes Order and balance Within its wake Yet our Creator is love And love for all So let’s open our hearts And hear His call
Ask Rae
With Rae Indigo
Rae Indigo, is an esteemed yogi and martial artist known worldwide for her unique courses on wellbeing, including mind science, meditation, and breathwork. As a biochemist, she also pioneered a line of high-end, organic skincare. When she’s not teaching others how to live stress-free, she’s likely surrounded by the love of her three feisty Pomeranians.
Gratitude as a Family Practice: Cultivating Positivity and Spiritual Growth
As the crisp air of September ushers in a new school year, families often face a whirlwind of emotions, as excitement, anxiety, and hope mingle with the unique challenges of navigating accessibility, inclusion, and daily routines. Amid these transitions, cultivating gratitude as a family practice can be a powerful tool for fostering positivity, strengthening bonds, and nurturing spiritual growth.
For kids and their parents, gratitude rituals offer a way to center joy, build resilience, and find meaning in both the big and small moments. This article explores why gratitude matters, how it can be adapted to diverse abilities, and offers practical, inclusive rituals to help families embrace the new school year with a sense of peace and connection.
Why Gratitude Matters for Families
Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you.” It’s a spiritual and holistic practice that shifts
focus from what’s challenging to what’s possible, fostering a mindset of abundance and hope. Research shows that practicing gratitude can reduce stress, improve mental health, and strengthen family relationships. For families with disabled children, gratitude can be especially transformative, helping to counterbalance the frustrations of navigating a world that isn’t always accessible while celebrating the unique strengths and joys of their journey.
For kids, gratitude builds emotional resilience and selfesteem, helping them process their experiences and feel empowered. For parents, it offers a way to pause, reflect, and find moments of light amid the demands of caregiving, advocacy, and daily life. When practiced together, gratitude becomes a shared language that deepens family connection, aligning perfectly with the spiritual focus of embracing life’s gifts, no matter the circumstances.
September, with its back-toschool energy, is an ideal time to start. The season’s themes of renewal and fresh beginnings invite families to set intentions for positivity and growth.
Below, we share fun gratitude rituals that can be tailored to children of all abilities and family dynamics, ensuring everyone can participate in meaningful ways.
Gratitude Rituals for Every Family
Here are five gratitude rituals designed to be flexible and engaging. Each can be adapted to accommodate sensory, mobility, cognitive, or communication needs, making them accessible to all.
1. The Gratitude Jar: A Visual and Tactile Tradition
A gratitude jar is a simple yet powerful way to collect moments of joy as a family. The idea is to write, draw, or symbolize things you’re thankful
for and place them in a shared container, creating a tangible reminder of positivity.
How to Start:
• Choose an accessible container, like a widemouthed jar or a soft fabric bag, that’s easy for everyone to interact with. For kids with motor challenges, consider a lightweight box with a large opening.
• Provide materials that suit your child’s abilities: paper and markers for writing or drawing, tactile items like textured stickers for non-verbal kids, or voice recordings for those who communicate differently.
• Each day or week, invite everyone to add something they’re grateful for. For example, a child might draw a picture of a favorite toy, while a parent might write about a moment of laughter.
• Make it sensory-friendly: Use bright colors for kids with visual impairments or add scented markers for sensory seekers.
• At the end of the month, gather as a family to read or share the entries. For kids who use assistive communication devices, parents can read aloud while they select or respond to entries.
Why
It
Works:
The gratitude jar is a low-pressure, creative way to reflect on positivity. It’s adaptable to all abilities and fosters a sense of shared accomplishment as the jar fills up.
September Spin: Tie the gratitude jarl to the school year by focusing on classroom moments, like a kind teacher or a fun activity, to help kids feel connected to their new routines.
2. Daily Reflections: A Moment of Connection
Daily gratitude reflections are a quick way to pause and share positivity, perfect for busy families. This ritual involves a short, intentional moment where everyone shares something they’re thankful for.
How to Start:
• Choose a consistent time, like during dinner or bedtime, to make it part of the routine.
• Adapt the format to your child’s needs. Verbal kids might share aloud, while non-verbal kids could point to a picture board (e.g., images of family, pets, or favorite activities) or use a communication device to select a word or phrase.
• Parents can model gratitude by sharing first, keeping it simple: “I’m thankful for your smile today” or “I’m grateful for the sunny walk we took.”
• For kids with sensory sensitivities, keep the setting calm, dim lights or soft voices can make the moment feel safe.
• If writing is preferred, create a family gratitude journal where everyone contributes in their own way (writing, drawing, or sticking on symbols).
Why It Works: This ritual builds emotional awareness and encourages kids to notice positive moments, no matter how small. It also fosters closeness as families share openly.
September Spin: Focus reflections on new beginnings, like meeting a new friend at school or mastering a new skill, to align with the back-to-school theme.
3. Gratitude Walks: Connecting with Nature
A gratitude walk is a holistic way to combine movement, sensory exploration, and appreciation for the world around you. It’s especially meaningful in September, when nature’s changing colors reflect the season’s transitions.
How to Start:
• Choose an accessible location, like a flat park path or your backyard, suitable for wheelchairs or mobility aids.
• Encourage kids to notice something they’re grateful for in nature, a cool breeze, a soft leaf, or a bird’s song. For kids with visual impairments, focus on sounds, smells, or textures.
• Parents can guide the experience with prompts: “What feels good around you?” or “What makes you happy outside today?”
• For kids who don’t walk, adapt by bringing nature to them, collect leaves or flowers to touch and smell,
or describe the surroundings vividly.
• End with a quiet moment to share one thing everyone’s thankful for from the walk.
Why It Works: This ritual grounds families in the present moment, promotes sensory engagement, and fosters a spiritual connection to nature.
September Spin: Link the walk to seasonal changes, encouraging kids to notice signs of fall and express gratitude for the beauty of the changing seasons.
4. Gratitude Art: Creative Expression for All
Art is a universal language that allows kids of all abilities to express gratitude creatively. This ritual involves creating visual or tactile representations of what families are thankful for.
How to Start:
• Set up an accessible art station with adaptive tools: large-grip brushes, textured paper, or clay for tactile learners.
• Invite kids to create something that represents gratitude, a drawing of a favorite person, a collage of magazine cutouts, or a handprint with help.
• For kids with limited motor skills, use hand-over-hand assistance or digital art apps on a tablet.
• Parents can join in, creating their own pieces or collaborating on a family
artwork.
• Display the art in a shared space as a reminder of gratitude.
Why It Works: Art allows kids to express emotions in ways that words might not, fostering creativity and self-esteem.
September Spin: Create a “Backto-School Gratitude Board” where everyone adds art about school-related joys, like a favorite subject or a helpful aide.
5. Gratitude Rituals with Music: A Soundtrack for Joy
Music can be a powerful way to express and share gratitude, especially for kids who respond strongly to sound or rhythm.
How to Start:
• Create a family gratitude playlist with songs that feel uplifting or meaningful. Let kids pick songs or sounds they love.
• During a quiet moment, play a song and invite everyone to share something they’re thankful for, using words, gestures, or movements.
• For kids with hearing impairments, use visual cues like flashing lights synced to music or tactile instruments like drums.
• Alternatively, create a gratitude chant or rhyme that’s easy to repeat, like “I’m thankful for you, and you, and me!”
inclusive way to connect as a family.
September Spin: Choose songs that evoke new beginnings or courage to inspire kids as they start the school year.
Making Gratitude a Habit
To make these rituals stick, start small and be consistent. Choose one ritual that feels manageable and adapt it to your family’s unique needs. Involve kids in shaping the practice, let them decorate the gratitude jar or pick the music, to build ownership. Celebrate participation, not perfection, and be patient as everyone adjusts.
For parents, gratitude can also be a personal practice. Take a moment to reflect on your own blessings, like your child’s resilience or a supportive community, to recharge your spirit. By modeling gratitude, you show kids its value in navigating life’s ups and downs.
A Spiritual Anchor for the School Year
Why It Works: Music engages emotions and creates a joyful,
As September unfolds, gratitude rituals can be a spiritual anchor, helping families find joy, connection, and meaning. Whether through a jar filled with colorful notes, a quiet walk in the autumn air, or a shared song, these practices remind us that even in challenging times, there’s always something to be thankful for. By weaving gratitude into your family’s rhythm, you create a legacy of positivity that carries you through the school year and beyond.
Fall Skincare Quiz:
Is Your Routine Autumn-Ready?
As the weather shifts and cooler air moves in, our skin feels the changes too. Fall is the season of cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, but it’s also the season when dryness, dullness, and sensitivity can sneak up on us. Take this quick quiz to see if your skincare routine is ready for the season—and pick up some tips along the way.
1. How often are you moisturizing right now?
A) Once a day, maybe twice if I remember.
B) Twice daily, morning and night.
C) Only when my skin feels dry.
Tip: Fall air pulls moisture from your skin faster than summer. Switch to a richer moisturizer or add a hydrating serum.
2. What kind of cleanser are you using?
A) A foaming or gel cleanser.
B) A cream or hydrating cleanser.
C) I’m not sure—I just grab whatever’s in the bathroom.
Tip: Harsh cleansers can strip natural oils. Choose gentle, creamy formulas that clean without leaving skin tight.
3. Are you still wearing sunscreen every day?
A) No, the sun isn’t as strong now.
B) Yes, at least SPF 30 daily.
C) Only when I’m outside for a long time.
Tip: Even in cooler months, UV rays are strong and can cause damage year-round. Stick with SPF 30 or higher.
4. How’s your exfoliation game?
A) I exfoliate daily—it makes my skin feel smooth.
B) Once or twice a week.
C) I don’t really exfoliate.
Tip: Over-exfoliating in fall can lead to irritation. Once or twice weekly is enough. Choose gentle scrubs or lactic/glycolic acid.
5. Do you make changes to your skincare with the seasons?
A) No, I use the same routine year-round.
B) Yes, I switch products as needed.
C) Sometimes, but I’m not sure what to change.
Tip: Just like your wardrobe, your skin benefits when you “dress” it differently for fall. Think richer creams and nourishing balms.
Formula Flawless
Rae Indigo’s Revolution in Medically Potent, Organic Skincare
The skincare industry is drowning in chemical-laden products and overhyped promises, but one company, Formula Flawless, emerges as a force of nature, delivering medical-grade potency with the heart of organic purity.
Founded in 2021 by Rae Indigo, a biochemist, international yoga instructor, and martial artist, this Nevada-based brand has rewritten the rules of beauty with the world’s first 100% fresh, organic, plant-based skincare line. Rae’s creations don’t just nourish skin, they transform it at a cellular level, blending cutting-edge science with the soul of Ayurveda to deliver results that leave competitors in the dust. With a fierce commitment to purity, potency, and sustainability, Formula Flawless is more than a brand, it’s
a revolution, and Rae Indigo is its fearless trailblazer.
A Biochemist’s Quest for Truth
Rae Indigo’s journey to Formula Flawless began in her 20s, when she battled persistent skin issues, sensitivity, redness, and acne, that no commercial product could tame. As a biochemist with a deep understanding of organic chemistry, she was horrified to discover that most “natural” skincare was packed with over 9,000 toxic additives, from synthetic preservatives to bulking agents that prioritized shelf life over skin health. “The products you find in stores are loaded with chemical preservatives,” Rae explained in an interview. “I wanted to use ingredients that were 100% fresh and organic, with probiotics
for a more gentle and natural preservation. It’s literally food for your skin.”
Frustrated by the industry’s lies, Rae took matters into her own hands, retreating to her lab to craft formulas that worked. Her background in organic chemistry gave her the tools to dissect skincare at a molecular level, while her passion for yoga and Ayurveda infused her work with a holistic reverence for the body. When the global pandemic grounded her from teaching yoga in places like Switzerland and Peru, Rae saw an opportunity to turn her personal quest into a mission. She poured her expertise into developing Formula Flawless, a brand that would challenge the skincare industry’s status quo with products as potent as clinical
treatments and as pure as nature itself.
Rae’s story feels deeply personal, like a friend sharing a hardwon secret. She didn’t just want better skincare for herself, she wanted it for everyone. “I originally launched this as a hobby to help the people I love get fresh skincare,” she shared on her website. “As it became popular, I saw the bigger picture, that people wanted honest and effective skincare.” Her small batches sold out instantly as friends and yoga students marveled at her radiant complexion, sparking a cult following that’s now growing into a global movement.
Potency That Redefines Skincare
What sets Formula Flawless apart is its unrelenting focus on medical-grade potency delivered through fresh, organic ingredients. Most skincare brands formulate products to sit on shelves for years, using stabilizers that sap their efficacy over time. Rae rejected this model entirely. Every Formula Flawless product is crafted weekly in small batches and refrigerated to preserve the raw, bio-active power of its ingredients. “Any product that isn’t fresh only decays the skin over time,” Rae asserts, and her approach proves it. These aren’t watered-down creams—they’re high-octane elixirs that hit your skin with the intensity of a dermatologist’s treatment, minus the synthetic chemicals.
Rae’s expertise in epigenetics, the science of how
environmental factors influence gene expression, is the backbone of her formulations. Her proprietary blends target “zombie” cells, senescent cells that linger in the skin, secreting inflammatory proteins that break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. By clearing these cells and stimulating new protein production, Formula Flawless delivers results that are both immediate and lasting. Clinical studies back her claims: users see up to 35% improved elasticity, 40% increased hydration, and significant reductions in redness, acne, and hyperpigmentation in just two weeks. This is skincare that doesn’t just cover up, it rewires your skin’s biology for a radiant, youthful glow.
A Lineup of Powerhouse Products
Formula Flawless’ product lineup is a testament to Rae’s scientific precision and passion for results. Each formula is crafted to address specific concerns with unparalleled potency, rivaling clinical treatments while staying true to organic roots.
Here are the stars of the show:
• F108 Intense Collagen
Creation Serum: This is Rae’s answer to retinol, a side-effect-free powerhouse that turbocharges collagen production. Applied beneath your moisturizer, it penetrates deep to erase fine lines, reduce adult acne with its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, and deliver a timeless glow. Users report a noticeable difference after just one use, with skin
looking 5–10 years younger in weeks.
• F107 Peptide Power Lift Serum: Hailed as the most potent peptide serum available, this silky formula is a knockout for all skin types. Infused with four high-powered peptides, including Copper Peptides and Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, it restructures collagen and elastin, lifting the eye area, reducing under-eye bags, and tackling redness and wrinkles. Its ceramide-rich base restores the skin’s barrier, obliterating sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and rosacea while delivering instant firmness and hydration. “It’s like a facelift in a bottle,” one user raved.
• F3 Deep Hydration & Plumping Serum: A juggernaut for dry or mature skin (ideal for those 35+), this serum is a cellular powerhouse. Packed with bio-active botanicals, it leverages epigenetics to clear zombie cells and boost collagen and elastin. Clinically proven to enhance elasticity by 35% and hydration by 40%, it wipes out wrinkles, redness, acne, and hyperpigmentation in as little as two weeks. Its intense hydration makes it a go-to for pro-aging concerns, though younger skin might find it too rich.
• F12 Intense Face Lifting
Serum: Designed to combat sagging, this serum penetrates the skin’s structural layer, delivering molecules that lift, tone,
and firm. Paired with facial massage, it reverses the effects of gravity, supporting the skin’s architecture for a sculpted, youthful look.
• F46 Activated Charcoal Detoxification Face Mask: This mask is a weekly workout for your skin, pulling impurities, shrinking pores, and removing blackheads. Its charcoal and clay formula detoxes while brightening, leaving skin smoother, softer, and primed for hydration.
These products don’t mess around. By skipping fillers and low-grade botanicals, Rae ensures every ingredient is a heavy hitter, delivering results that rival dermatologistexclusive treatments. Her formulas are tested and approved by dermatologists and aestheticians, earning praise for their clinic-level rejuvenation without the chemical overload.
Purity with a Purpose
Formula Flawless isn’t just about power, it’s about purity that packs a punch. Rae’s products are free of the 9,000+ toxic additives that plague mainstream skincare, from artificial preservatives to synthetic fragrances. Every ingredient is organically sourced, often wild-crafted, and packaged in reusable glass bottles to protect both your skin and the planet. “Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It literally eats anything that’s put on it,” Rae says, emphasizing her foodgrade approach. Her products are as nourishing as a fresh, organic meal, designed to feed your skin at a cellular level.
Sustainability is woven into the brand’s DNA. Rae’s direct-to-consumer model ensures freshness by bypassing retail shelves, where products often sit for years, losing potency. Instead, orders are shipped straight from her lab, keeping costs down and quality skyhigh.
A Movement Rooted in Wellness
Formula Flawless is more than skincare, it’s a movement that celebrates holistic wellness. Rae’s background as a yoga instructor and martial artist infuses her brand with a deep respect for the body, mind, and spirit. “When people are happy within their skin, everything changes, emotionally, physically, and spiritually,” she says. Her products aim to unlock that inner radiance, making makeup a choice, not a necessity.
fed up with the poisons they put into products,” she declared on Facebook, a sentiment that resonates with her growing community.
A Radiant Future
By avoiding chemicals and embracing nature, Formula Flawless delivers skin that doesn’t just look younger, it is younger.
Rae’s passion for truth in skincare is palpable. In a YouTube interview, she called out the industry’s reliance on “petrochemical stews” that harm skin over time, urging consumers to demand better. Her mission is to disrupt an industry built on lies, offering products that work because they’re fresh, not because of marketing spin. “I’m taking on the entire skincare industry because I’m
Formula Flawless is a testament to Rae Indigo’s grit, genius, and heart. From a frustrated 20-something to a visionary biochemist, she’s built a brand that’s as fierce as it is flawless, delivering medical-grade results with the purity of nature. With a cult following and glowing reviews from dermatologists, aestheticians, and customers, Formula Flawless is poised to redefine beauty standards. Whether you’re smoothing on the F108’s collagen-boosting power or indulging in the F3’s hydration explosion, you’re joining a revolution that proves skincare can be potent, pure, and deeply personal. In a world of compromise, Rae Indigo’s vision shines, transforming skin and lives, one radiant face at a time.
Home Cooked Happiness: Cooking with Love with Jennifer Affronti
Jennifer Affronti is a former model, actress, stage performer, television personality and burlesque dancer. Her personal journey through chronic illness led her to completely change her career path to become a resource and advocate for people who want to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. She is now a certified Holistic Health Coach and the founder of Wholelistically Healing, where she focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being through personalized coaching and guidance.
Baked
Brie in a Puff Pastry
With Autumn here, I like to make “cozy” food. One of my favorite appetizers to make is baked brie in a puff pastry. Believe it or not, for those of you that have to be gluten free, you can purchase a gluten free puff pastry from Whole Foods now. This is a quick recipe and I’m using everything premade to put this together. This will be a hit in your home, and you’ll want to cozy up on the couch and eat this. Remember, first things first… let’s get happy! When you are in a good mood, it translates into the food you are preparing and don’t forget your blessing!
September has always felt like a natural pause button. The long, hot days of summer begin to fade, school routines return, and the air has the promise of change with the upcoming holidays. Even in a city like Las Vegas, where the desert heat lingers well into fall, there’s something about September that makes us slow down and take stock.
It’s a month that quietly invites us to reflect. What worked for us over the summer? What didn’t? Where do we feel stretched too thin, and where do we feel strong? September is the perfect reminder that self-care isn’t something extra we squeeze in when there’s time it’s something we choose intentionally as the season shifts.
And self-care isn’t just about individuals. Families and communities thrive when care becomes a shared practice. This September, the call is to slow down, reset, and create rhythms that nurture not only ourselves but also the people around us.
Seasons of Self-Care: September as a Reset
By June Bussey
Why September Matters
There’s a reason September feels like a new beginning. For many families, it’s the start of a school year a natural transition point. Calendars fill, routines change, and expectations rise. The rush can leave us feeling like we’re sprinting into fall without a plan to care for ourselves along the way.
But the truth is, transitions are when we most need care. It’s not just about keeping up with schedules or pushing harder. It’s about pausing long enough to make sure we’re grounded, rested, and connected.
Self-care in September means giving ourselves permission to reset. It’s about asking: what do I need right now to feel steady? What does my family need to feel supported? How can we create an environment where everyone feels included and cared for?
Self-Care as a Family Practice
Often, self-care gets talked about
as an individual act bubble baths, gym time, meditation. Those things matter, but families benefit most when care is woven into the everyday fabric of life. When children see their parents or caregivers practicing self-care, it normalizes it. It teaches them that caring for ourselves isn’t selfish; it’s essential.
Here are a few ways families can bring self-care into September:
• Create a weekly ritual. Pick one evening a week to slow down together—no screens, no rushing. Cook a simple meal, sit outside as the evening cools, or take a family walk. Let it be a rhythm that signals, “this is our time.”
• Set a family reset goal. September is a natural month for new goals. Instead of just focusing on academics or sports, set a family selfcare goal. Maybe it’s getting better sleep, cooking more meals together, or spending Sunday mornings outside.
• Model care openly. When you rest, hydrate, or take a break, let your kids see it. Say out loud, “I’m going to rest for a few minutes so I feel better.” These small moments shape how they’ll care for themselves.
The Power of Letting Go
Self-care isn’t always about adding more. Sometimes, it’s about subtracting. September is a good time to ask what needs to be let go. The pace of summer often leaves us overextended. New schedules in the fall can pile on quickly.
Decluttering whether it’s a closet, a calendar, or old expectations creates room for care. It’s not about doing everything. It’s about doing what matters and creating the space for everyone in the family to breathe.
Action item: Choose one area of your life to simplify this month. Maybe it’s committing to fewer evening activities, letting go of a habit that drains you, or cleaning out a space at home that feels overwhelming.
Building Inclusive Environments at Home
September is also about creating environments where everyone feels like they belong. An inclusive home is one where care is shared, voices are heard, and each person feels valued.
This might mean asking your children what helps them feel cared for and truly listening. It could mean shifting routines so everyone has input. It might even mean inviting extended
family, neighbors, or friends into your circle in new ways, reminding yourself that care doesn’t have to rest on one person alone. Care becomes sustainable when it’s shared.
Action item: This month, ask each family member, “What’s one thing that helps you feel cared for?” Write the answers down and look for small ways to weave them into your routines.
Rest as Perseverance
It’s easy to think of perseverance as pushing harder. But September teaches us something else: perseverance can look like slowing down. After the intensity of summer, our bodies and minds often need rest to keep going well into the fall.
Giving ourselves permission to rest isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom. It’s what allows us to keep showing up for our families, our communities, and our commitments.
For families, rest might look like shorter days out, early bedtimes, or simply building in quiet moments together. It’s not about doing nothing—it’s about creating a rhythm that sustains rather than depletes.
Action item: Plan a family “rest day” this month. Clear the calendar, put away the to-do list, and allow space for everyone to relax in their own way.
Reflection and Renewal
Self-care in September is also about reflection. The year isn’t over, but the rush of spring and summer has passed. It’s a natural
moment to look back and look ahead.
What have you learned about your family this year? What has strengthened you? Where do you need more support? Reflection isn’t just about evaluating; it’s about renewing your commitment to what matters most.
Action item: Take 15 minutes one evening this week to reflect as a family. Ask, “What’s one thing we’re proud of from this year so far?” and “What’s one thing we’d like to work on together this fall?”
September is more than just another month—it’s a season of reset. It reminds us to slow down, to notice what we need, and to choose rhythms that nurture instead of drain us.
Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s in the small choices—drinking enough water, saying no when schedules get too full, gathering around the dinner table without distractions. It’s in creating homes and communities where care is shared, not carried by one person alone.
As we step into this season, let’s remember: caring for ourselves is what allows us to care for others. Families grow stronger when self-care is part of the rhythm. And communities thrive when we all make space for one another to rest, reset, and renew.
September is here. Let it be the month you give yourself permission to slow down, to reset, and to care deeply—for yourself, for your family, and for the life you’re building together.
September Nature Scavenger Hunt
Explore the outdoors together and welcome the season of change. Check off each item as you go!
A Leaf That’s Changing Color
Action Item: Collect the leaf and press it in a book. Write the date and place where you found it.
A Bird Preparing for Migration
Action Item: Draw the bird or describe what you saw in a family nature journal.
Something That Smells Like Fall
Action Item: Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and have each family member describe the scent in one word.
A Bug or Critter at Work
Action Item: Talk about how animals prepare for the season and what ‘preparation’ looks like in your own lives.
A Smooth Rock
Action Item: Bring it home, wash it, and let each family member write one word of gratitude on it.
A Fallen Branch or Twig
Action Item: Use it to draw a shape, word, or picture in the dirt before leaving it behind.
A Sound of the Season
Action Item: Sit in silence for one minute and share the sounds you each noticed.
A Wildflower or Desert Bloom
Action Item: Snap a photo instead of picking it. Later, look up its name together.
A Shadow That Makes You Smile
Action Item: Take turns making funny shapes with your shadows. Capture a family photo if you can.
Something That Reminds You of Summer
Action Item: Share one favorite memory from this past summer as a family.
The Garden That Wouldn’t Quit: A Las Vegas Story of Perseverance
If there’s one thing Las Vegas knows, it’s how to thrive where others might give up. Our city rose from the desert—dry, harsh, and unforgiving— into a vibrant community full of energy, color, and resilience. And nowhere is that spirit clearer than in a little neighborhood project that began, of all places, on a forgotten patch of land in the valley.
Planting Hope in the Desert
Planting anything in Las Vegas is no small feat. Our soil is stubborn, the sun blazes most of the year, and water is scarce. But armed with determination (and a lot of mulch), the neighbors began digging. They brought seeds—tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, herbs, even wildflowers...
The Garden Grows Back
By the time September rolled around, the lot looked completely transformed. Bright marigolds spilled over the edges of the beds. Cherry tomatoes ripened in clusters. Basil and mint scented the air. Children from the neighborhood proudly pointed out the cucumbers they helped water, while seniors swapped recipes using fresh herbs...
Lessons in Perseverance
The Garden That Wouldn’t Quit became more than a patch of green in the desert—it became a reminder of what happens when people refuse to give up. Every plant told a story of resilience: the tomato that regrew after being gnawed by rabbits, the peppers that somehow survived the August sun, the wildflowers that returned brighter after being trampled...
Action Items for Readers:
1. Replant a Dream
Think of something you once started but put aside—maybe a creative project, a class, or even a fitness goal.
2. Water a Friendship
Relationships, like plants, need tending. Reach out
to one friend you’ve lost touch with.
3. Start Your Own Desert Bloom
Try planting something this September. Watching it grow will remind you daily of your own ability to persevere.
Interactive Prompt: We want to see what you’ve grown—whether it’s plants, projects, or personal milestones. Share a photo on Instagram and tag us with #VegasPerseveres. We’ll feature our favorites in next month’s issue.
Desert Garden Salsa
Ingredients:
• 3 ripe desert-grown tomatoes, diced
• 1 roasted Hatch green chile (or jalapeño), peeled & chopped
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 1 small cucumber, peeled & diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Pinch of salt & pepper
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Let sit for 10 minutes for flavors to blend.
3. Serve with tortilla chips—or spoon over tacos for a taste of perseverance straight from the garden.
Tip: If you can’t grow it, shop local! Many Las Vegas farmers’ markets carry desert-grown produce.
Las Vegas is a city of reinvention. From neon lights to hidden desert trails, this city thrives because it knows how to keep going. The little garden on Maple and 5th may seem small in the shadow of the Strip, but it holds the same spirit: resilience, creativity, and a refusal to quit.
So this September, what will you choose to replant?
The Top Ten DIY Items to Make and Sell on Etsy or at Your Local Farmers Market
By: Crystal Nicole
The beauty of DIY (do-it-yourself) is that it’s never just about the product—it’s about the story, the craft, and the personal touch behind it. Shoppers on Etsy and at local farmers markets aren’t just looking for things to buy. They’re looking for unique items that carry a bit of heart, creativity, and authenticity. That’s what makes handmade goods so irresistible. If you’ve been thinking about turning your creativity into a side hustle—or even a small business—this is your season to start. September through the holidays is one of the busiest times for both Etsy and local markets, and people are eager to buy things that feel warm, thoughtful, and handmade. Here are ten of the best DIY items you can make and sell—along with tips and tricks to help yours stand out.
1. Handmade Candles
Candles never go out of style, and fall is their golden season. Think pumpkin spice, vanilla chai, cedarwood, or eucalyptus blends. Shoppers love candles that feel cozy and seasonal.
Engaging Tip: Add a twist. Use unique jars, dried flowers embedded in the wax, or ecofriendly soy wax with wood wicks that crackle like a mini fireplace. At a farmers market, light one on your table to draw people in.
Pro Tip: Bundle candles in sets of two or three with a theme (e.g., “Autumn Nights Collection”). Bundles tend to sell faster than single items.
2. Soap and Bath Bombs
Artisan soaps and bath bombs are crowd-pleasers because they combine practicality with self-care. Handmade soaps with natural ingredients (like oatmeal, honey, or lavender) feel special and luxurious.
Engaging Tip: Colorful, swirled designs or seasonal shapes (pumpkins, leaves, snowflakes) are irresistible to buyers. Bath bombs that fizz with glitter or flower petals are especially eyecatching at markets.
Pro Tip: Offer a “Build Your Own Gift Bag” option—customers can pick a few soaps or bombs, and you package them in a cute bag. Perfect for gifts.
3. Jewelry with a Story
Handmade jewelry is one of
Etsy’s top sellers for a reason. But the trick is to stand out from mass-produced accessories. Think minimalist charm bracelets, gemstone necklaces, or desert-inspired earrings that tie into your region.
Engaging Tip: Use materials that tell a story—locally sourced stones, recycled metals, or beach glass collected on family trips. Customers love to connect to the narrative behind the piece.
Pro Tip: Display pieces in sets (earring + bracelet combos). People love coordinated looks and are more likely to buy a set than a single item.
4. Knitted or Crocheted Goods
As soon as September hits, cozy season begins. Handmade hats, scarves, and mittens become market favorites. On Etsy, chunky knit blankets and boho-style throws are in demand yearround.
Engaging Tip: Offer customizable colors or even on-the-spot orders if you’re at a market (“Pick your yarn, I’ll make it for you!”). Personalization is a huge selling point.
Pro Tip: Have one or two pieces styled on a mannequin or chair at your booth so people can see how cozy and stylish they are.
5. Homemade Jams and Preserves
Farmers markets are perfect for edible DIY items, and jams are always a hit. Flavors like strawberry-basil, peach-lavender, or classic blackberry stand out, especially when packaged in small mason jars with rustic labels.
Engaging Tip: Offer free samples. A small cracker with a dab of jam can turn a passerby into a customer.
Pro Tip: Sell in small jars for impulse buys, but also offer larger “family size” jars. Buyers who taste and love it will go for the bigger option.
Important Note: To sell food items like jams, you’ll need to check your local and state regulations. Licensing and permits are usually required for handling, packaging, and selling food to the public.
6. Art Prints and Stationery
For creative souls, hand-drawn or painted prints, greeting cards, and journals are easy to package and ship. On Etsy, digital downloads of your art are booming too—customers print at home, and you avoid shipping costs.
Engaging Tip: Seasonal quotes and illustrations (think cozy fall phrases or watercolor pumpkins) are perfect sellers in September and October.
Pro Tip: Offer bundle packs of cards or “three prints for one price” deals. At markets, frame
a few prints for display to help people imagine them in their own homes.
7. Pet Treats and Accessories
People love spoiling their pets. Homemade dog biscuits, catnip toys, or stylish pet bandanas can draw big crowds. Etsy buyers are always on the lookout for healthier, natural options for their pets.
Engaging Tip: Highlight ingredients—organic peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or grainfree recipes. At markets, hand out tiny dog treat samples to pups walking by (they’ll drag their owners to your booth!).
Pro Tip: Create seasonal pet bundles—like a “Pumpkin Spice for Pups” treat pack in September.
8. Home Decor Items
Rustic wooden signs, macrame plant hangers, and seasonal wreaths are always in demand. With fall décor being such a trend, handmade wreaths made of dried flowers, corn husks, or eucalyptus are perfect to sell now.
Engaging Tip: Make smaller versions of your big décor items for impulse buys. A small macrame keychain or mini wreath lets customers support you without spending as much.
Pro Tip: At markets, display one large “statement piece” to draw attention, then let customers shop your smaller, affordable versions.
9. Art and Handcrafted Originals
Original art is timeless, and both Etsy buyers and farmers market visitors love pieces that feel one-of-a-kind. This doesn’t have to mean large canvases—it can be small, affordable works like mini watercolors, sketches, or even hand-painted bookmarks. Buyers want something they can take home that feels like a little piece of your creativity.
Engaging Tip: Offer seasonal art (like fall landscapes, pumpkins, or cozy-themed illustrations) alongside your more timeless pieces. On Etsy, consider adding digital downloads of your work so buyers can purchase and print instantly.
Pro Tip: At markets, set up a small display area where people can browse through prints or flip through a portfolio of your originals. Have a range of sizes and prices—small affordable items often spark impulse buys, while larger pieces draw serious art lovers.
10. Baked Goods
Fresh bread, cookies, and pastries are irresistible at markets. Seasonal treats like pumpkin bread, apple hand pies, or cinnamon rolls practically sell themselves.
Engaging Tip: Make your booth smell amazing. Bring fresh-baked items and let that scent do the work of attracting buyers.
Pro Tip: Always have some items individually wrapped for quick grabs, but also sell larger packs for families. If you’re allowed, offer a coffee pairing for extra sales.
Important Note: Selling baked goods also requires compliance with your local and state food laws. Be sure to get the proper permits and licenses, and always follow health and safety guidelines for food preparation and packaging.
Whether you’re crafting candles, baking bread, or making cozy scarves, the key to selling successfully—on Etsy or at your local farmers market—isn’t just the product. It’s the story, the presentation, and the experience you create for your buyers. People love buying handmade because it feels personal, thoughtful, and connected.
So, as you step into September, ask yourself: what do you love making? Start there. Add a little seasonal flair, package it with care, and share it proudly. You might be surprised at how quickly your hobby can grow into a thriving side hustle—or more. The truth is, DIY isn’t just about the items you sell. It’s about creating things that bring joy to you and the people who buy them. That’s what will keep customers coming back for more.
Your dog is learning just like you do in school—it takes time, patience, and practice. The more fun you make it, the more excited your dog will be to learn new tricks with you. Soon, you’ll have a superstar pup who can spin, shake, and roll over on command!
• End every session with fun, love, and maybe one last treat!
• If your dog seems tired or frustrated, take a break.
• Use a happy voice and praise—never yell at your dog.
• Always use small, yummy treats so your dog doesn’t get too full.
• Keep training sessions short (5–10 minutes is perfect).
Training Safety Tips for Kids & Dogs
Tip: Be patient—this trick can take some practice!
• Say ‘Roll Over!’ and reward them with the treat once they complete the roll.
• As they follow the treat, encourage them to roll onto their side… and then onto their back.
Tip: Soon your dog will offer their paw all on their own.
• When they give you their paw, reward them with the treat and a happy cheer!
• Gently lift their paw with your other hand.
• Close your hand around the treat and say, ‘Shake’ or ‘Paw.’
• Hold a treat in one hand and let them sniff it.
• Ask your dog to sit.
Shake Hands (Paw)
Tip: Once they get the hang of it, add the command ‘Spin!’ so they learn the word too.
• When your dog makes a full spin, give them the treat and lots of praise!
• Slowly move your hand in a circle, encouraging them to follow it.
• Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
• Hold a treat near their nose and slowly move it toward their shoulder.
• Have your dog start in a lyingdown position.
Roll Over
Dogs love to learn new things, and teaching them tricks is a great way to bond while also giving them exercise and brain power. All you need is some tasty treats, patience, and lots of encouragement. Here are three fun tricks you can try with your furry friend! Spin in a Circle
By: Rissa
Teach Your Dog Fun Tricks!
4. Once you have done all 12, place them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Once they are cooled, enjoy them!
3. Take your donut hole out and place it back onto your cookie sheet.
2. Now drop each cooled donut hole into your glaze and cover it completely.
1. Put your powdered honey or Swerve in your bowl. Gradually add your ¼ cup of cream or water to it. Mix it until you get an icing consistency. Taste it and if you would like add your vanilla extract.
Directions:
• Medium sized mixing bowl
• ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
• ¼ cup of heavy whipping cream or water
• ¼ cup of powdered honey or Swerve
What You Will Need to Make the Glaze:
7. Once baked, sit them out to cool down for about 10 minutes before you glaze them.
6. Place them evenly throughout your cookie sheet and bake them approximately 22-25 minutes.
5. Next, I scoop out about a tablespoon sized dough and roll it into a ball. I make 12 balls.
4. Once mixed together, add your frozen blueberries. I fold them into the dough by using my clean hands. I mix the dough with my hands until the blueberries are throughout the dough.
3. Add your almond flour, powdered honey or Swerve, and cottage cheese into a mixing bowl and mix together.
2. Blend your cottage cheese in a blender and get it as smooth as possible. It’s okay if there are some lumps but you want it to be as smooth as you can get it.
1. Preheat your oven to 350’ and cut a piece of parchment paper to fit your cookie sheet.
Directions:
• 1/3 cup of frozen blueberries
• 2 tablespoons of powdered honey (I buy mine from Pahrump Honey) or Swerve Sweetener
• ½ cup of cottage cheese
• 1 ½ cups of very fine almond flour
• Parchment paper
• Cookie sheet
• Blender
• 1 medium mixing bowl
What You Will Need to Make the Donuts:
My favorite donut as a little girl was from this place in Destin, Florida called the Donut Hole. They make these amazing blueberry cake donuts that have just a hint of glazing on them. I have not been able to find a donut like it since. Now with me having severe gluten intolerance/Celiacs disease, I cannot have gluten. I know some of you have various allergies or intolerances and cannot have certain things as well. This recipe for these donuts is a healthier version of my favorite donut in the world that I cannot eat anymore. These are so tasty, you won’t even know that they are healthy! First, things first! Let’s get happy! If you can, turn on your favorite music and get ready to dance in the kitchen! And don’t forget to say a little blessing while you create these. Everyone will taste your gratitude and happiness.
Protein Blueberry Donut Holes
Absolutely! When your dog wags its tail after you feed it or your cat purrs when you scratch its chin, that’s their way of saying “thank you.” Gratitude shows up in many forms.
DO ANIMALS FEEL GRATITUDE TOO?
Choose the person who makes your days brighter maybe a parent, a grandparent, a teacher, or a friend. Whoever it is, your words of gratitude will mean the world to them.
I COULD ONLY SAY “THANK YOU” TO ONE PERSON THIS MONTH, WHO SHOULD IT BE?
IF
“I’m glad you’re in my life.” Gratitude doesn’t need to be big small words and actions count a lot.
You can write a thank-you note to your teacher, help your parents with chores without being asked, or even tell a friend,
GRATITUDE IN SEPTEMBER?
CAN DO TO SHOW
WHAT’S SOMETHING I
Fall reminds many adults of cozy feelings cooler air, warm drinks, and colorful leaves. It also feels like a fresh start, just like a new notebook at school.
ALWAYS SAY “FALL IS THEIR FAVORITE SEASON”?
WHY DO GROWN-UPS
SHARE THE MIC
