Cold and Flu season is upon us and it’s hitting all parts of Orange County with a force.

Here are some of my favorite natural herbs and products for boosting the immune system and fighting infections:

  1. Oil of Oregano - My number one go-to is oil of oregano. This herb is a powerhouse. It fights infection and has powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
  2. Probiotics - Probiotics are known to promote a healthy digestive tract and immune system
  3. Raw Garlic - Another favorite, but not so pleasant. Raw garlic contains natural antibiotics.
  4. Vitamins D3 and C - Two essential vitamins for fighting illness.
  5. Ginger, Lemon, and Honey Tea - Making this brew at home is a great way to get the vital nutrients you need to stay healthy,…

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Ready to jump headfirst into California coastal living - but without getting wet? 

Check out Voyager Rentals in Newport Beach and spend a beautiful afternoon cruising around Balboa Bay on an electric boat, or "Duffy".

We've already written about how much we enjoy taking a Duffy around the bay. So check out that post to learn more about the experience. Already convinced? Then keep reading to learn how to make it happen...

Booking a Duffy or Boat Rental

You can book your reservation with Voyager Rentals online for however many hours you would like. Then, check-in right at the Duffy (adjacent to the Balboa Ferry which takes you across to the Balboa Peninsula), and a Voyager Rentals employee will be there to show you the ropes.

Voyager Rentals…

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Are you looking for a gym around Newport Beach, California? Consider Equinox on Jamboree Road for the best exercise facilities, fitness classes, and health-related lifestyle benefits in Orange County.

Benefits Of An Equinox Gym Membership

I know a membership at Equinox can be on the pricey side but some of us need scheduled appointments and the perks of an awesome workout experience to meet our weekly fitness goals (ahem, me).

The Newport Beach Equinox, right off of the 73 toll road and Jamboree is where you will find me 4 days a week.

A great atmosphere, challenging classes with motivational instructors that really pump you up, and of course, if you prefer a personal trainer, you have your pick.

Classes at Equinox, Newport Beach, include:

…

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Would you like fresher breath, whiter teeth, and healthier gums? Coconut oil pulling is one of the best ways to remove bacteria and promote a healthy oral cavity.

Coconut oil pulling has been known to treat tooth decay, kill bad breath, whiten teeth and prevent cavities. It's best to do first thing in the morning.

Directions: Take one to two tablespoons of coconut oil and swish for 10-20 minutes, then brush your teeth as you normally would.

I do it upon waking, while I do my morning chores, like making the bed and emptying the dishwasher. When finished, be sure to spit it out in the trash because spitting in your sink will cause it to clog. You can pick up a jar of organic coconut oil at your local Whole Foods at the Fashion Island location in…

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Duffy boat canopies docked in Newport Beach CA

Duffy boats are a characteristic feature of Newport Bay. These little transport boats criss-cross the waters around Lido Isle and Balboa Island at most hours. They're easy to use, comfortable, and great to rent for a few hours of ocean-going fun.

My wife and I thoroughly enjoy renting a “Duffy” electric boat at Duffy Electric Boat Rentals on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach.

Newport Harbor is a fantastic area to cruise with friends and family and view the sights. We enjoy going in the early evening (although anytime is a good time) as the sun goes down and harbor lights light up the night. It is very relaxing.

The boats are comfortable with full stereo and an iPod hookup, cushioned seats surrounding a central table to enjoy your own…

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It was Friday night and I was absolutely craving Italian food. Thinking we could go back to the always delicious Pirozzi in Corona Del Mar, or head down to Romeo Cucina in Laguna Beach - both of which rarely disappoint. But on this night, neither option was going to satisfy my appetite for Italian food - I knew it was time to try something new.

Every time I drive down the 405 to Shady Canyon I pass by a restaurant called Il Fornaio - and since I've heard only good things, it was time I tried it for myself. We made reservations day-of and received an excellent table right at 7 PM.

Right away we noticed the exceptional service and attention to detail. Our server was expedient and helpful as we sorted through an expansive menu, and the army of…

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If you are ever in the mood to just soak up the beauty of nature, stroll around and de-stress, then make sure to visit Roger's Gardens nursery in Corona del Mar.

Located between the intersections where San Joaquin Hills Road meets San Miguel Drive and MacArthur Boulevard, Roger's Gardens occupies a sprawling location with a day's worth of attractions. These include:

  • The Gallery - a store featuring artisanal gifts and home décor
  • Various themed gardens, offering plants for sale and gardening classes
  • The Garden Rooms - source for beautiful arrangements and floral designs
  • Farmhouse - a popular restaurant

The entire Roger's Gardens location is brimming with beautiful design and gardening ideas. I'm always so impressed with their…

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As real estate agents, we’re in our cars a lot. I always prefer to have a clean car, even if clients won’t be inside of it. There are those days though where I’m pressed for time and I can’t go to the 100% hand car wash and wait for a good clean. A friend of mine recommended a newer drive-through car wash that is quick, inexpensive, and gives a good car wash if you’re in a hurry.

Fast5Xpress has a location in Eastside Costa Mesa, just down the street from Newport Beach’s Newport Center. You pull in, pay the cashier (who gives you a free small towel for interior cleaning), and pull into the wash. Upon exiting, there is a large amount of self-serve vacuums should you want to clean the inside of your car as well. I’ve found it’s a great way to keep my car…

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Each day we’re exposed to many different toxins that can affect our health. In recent years, I’ve been very conscious of reducing the toxins and making better choices for my skin.

Roots Beauty in Laguna Beach is a one-stop-shop for non-toxic cosmetics, body and hair care.  Roots (the Beauty Underground) features several cosmetic skincare lines that are organic, non-toxic and sustainable.

Cosmetic Brands at ROOTS in Laguna Beach:

  • Addictive Wellness
  • Agent Nateur
  • Aleavia
  • Alima Pure
  • Antonym Cosmetics
  • Babo Botanicals

...to name just a few! See the full list here.

They also offer various salon services, so make sure to keep them in mind for your hair and cosmetic needs.

I recently tried ROOTS' new line from Hawaii called…

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I was looking for a new barber/ hairstylist near Newport Beach a few months ago when my daughter suggested I use her friend’s husband at TEK Salon in Costa Mesa. The location on East 17th Street was appealing as I live in Newport Beach, so an address in Costa Mesa is just down the street. I was a little hesitant going to a “salon” after using a barber for years. I was initially shocked by his price (compared to a barber) but learned he provides complimentary neck and ear trims between cuts.

Normally, I would have to pay for a regular haircut at that point even though only a light trim was needed. I am glad I used him and will continue going to him. He used a different cutting technique than any other barber/ hairstylist I had previously used. Although…

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