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Just because summer temperatures approach doesn’t mean dry skin goes away. For those who have chronically dry skin or deal with eczema, warmer weather doesn’t necessarily mean a relief from dry, flaky skin. That’s why this Burt’s Bees hydra balm is so perfect. It gets to work targeting dry skin while also simultaneously smelling like the beach. It’ll put you in that summer mood while also adding a serious boost of hydration wherever you need it.

To get your hands on this balm, you have to go to Target or shop at Target.com. This product is completely exclusive to the one-stop shop, so you’ll only find it there. But since it’s less than $9 per bottle for 4 ounces of product, it’s the easiest *add to cart* choice you’ll ever make.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Target is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Courtesy of Burt’s Bees.

Burt’s Bees Shea + Creamy Coconut Balm

The natural inclusion of coconut oil is what gives this balm it’s beachy smell. One reviewer wrote, “This lotion feels so nice on my skin! I have psoriasis so I have to be careful with that I use but this lotion doesn’t make it worse at all. And a huge bonus for me…it smells like the beach!”

This product line earns the Target Zero seal of approval, meaning that the ingredients and packaging of the product either can be recycled, uses less plastic, or can be refillable. It’s also made with a 100 percent natural origin formula, meaning the product is made without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS, and is Leaping Bunny Certified.

The key ingredients that target dry skin are vitamin E, coconut oil, responsibly sourced shea and beeswax.

“This is a great lotion,” wrote another shopper. It’s “perfect for sensitive skin. My fiance even uses on his eczema. Works wonders! Keep your skin hydrated this winter with this awesome soothing and healing lotion.”

If you’re a fan of the lotion and Burt’ Bees low-waste packaging, it’s also available in a lip balm.

Courtesy of Burt’s Bees.

Burt’s Bees Shea + Coconut Oil Paper Tube Lip Balm

Like the hydra balm, the lip balm also earns a Target Zero approval. The balm is formulated with shea butter and coconut oil for lasting hydration on the lips. Plus, the tube is made from over 90 percent recycled materials and paper so you can feel better about choosing this plastic-free option.

Living in Chicago, you automatically qualify as a Frank Lloyd Wright (FLW) fan. Many of his famous commissions still stand, some owned by single families, or open to the public and owned by churches (Unitarians), communities (Oak Park, IL), and universities (University of Chicago). We love our prairie-style architecture, even if FLW was a misogynistic, brilliant autocrat.

Taliesin Is Wright’s Summer Home in Wisconsin

FLW made sure he had wonderful places for him and his students to work and live, so he always had free help. Home base was Chicago. His family is from the Wisconsin River Valley in South Central Wisconsin, so when he prospered, FLW returned to build his summer home and studio, Taliesin.

Later, he built his winter home and studio in North Scottsdale, AZ, Taliesin West. Both Taliesins are well preserved; Taliesin more so because it was built to withstand northern winters. Its deeply shaded windows serenely overlook the Wisconsin River Valley just outside the town of Spring Green.

A day can be devoted to the building tour and ride around the farm to visit the schoolhouse, family buildings, even Wright’s grave. Plan on ½ day if you are warm to architecture – a full day if it’s your jam.

American Players Theater Is Next Door to Taliesin

The other Spring Green attraction is the American Players Theater (APT), 43 years old, and better than ever. At Spring Green, we are only 45 minutes from Madison, three and a half hours from downtown Chicago and an hour and a half from Milwaukee. There are plenty of “locals” looking for a bucolic summer break featuring fine theater.

APT has two theaters, The Hill, an outdoor amphitheater, and The Touchstone, indoors, with a broad projecting stage. Yes, The Hill is a healthy climb, and the Touchstone is a lengthy walk from the parking lot. But lots of volunteers drive electric carts around transporting patrons looking for theater, not exercise. There are lots of picnic areas and families traditionally meet around large pre-theater dinners.

Most productions are directed and performed by the APT repertory company, in residence about five months over the summer. There is a group of mature regulars, added to each season by younger talent seeking intense summer work experience. Never a dud among them. We limited ourselves to two plays: The Moors at The Touchstone Theater, and A Raisin in the Sun at The Hill.

A Raisin in the Sun at the American Players Theater Outdoors Hill Theater

A Raisin in the Sun, a world-famous play written by Lorraine Hansberry, directed by Tasia A. Jones, was a bit of an anomaly for APT as the starring roles were not company members. Most of the supporting cast were. It was an excellent production.

Even performed outdoors, in daylight, you felt the confinement of the small Chicago apartment from which the family planned to escape. (If you’ve read my pieces here on Sixty and Me about Black theater in Chicago, you will understand the appeal to playgoers of time-proven Black classic playwrights like Hansberry and August Wilson.)

Two out of nine shows produced by APT that were written by and featured Black casts: A Raisin in the Sun and The Brothers Size by Tarell Alvin McCraney.

The Moors at the American Players Theater Indoors Touchstone Theater

The Moors by Jen Silverman, directed by Keria Fromm is a lusty romp. To quote the program notes:

“Every so often a new play arrives that we simply can’t ignore. And oh my, The Moors. There’s no genre big enough to contain it. A dark and glimmering jewel that explodes from the stage through a Brontëan cannon, at various times absurd, romantic, vicious and deadly. At times, all of them at once, delivering pitch-black comedy that is desperately beautiful and deliriously entertaining. And all that before you hear the major players (Tracy Michelle Arnold, Kelsey Brennan, Jim DeVita and Colleen Madden) and the roles they’re playing (mysterious sisters, a mastiff and a moorhen). An irresistible confluence of the contemporary with the classical; a play that dares you to keep watching and pays off in theatrical gold.”

It’s a fun play, filled with “over the top” characters. It’s likely to appear in your local live theaters in 2023.

Two Suggestions Where to Stay in Spring Green WI

We’ve stayed in two places among the many motels and B&Bs in and around Spring Green. The House on the Rock Resort is not adjacent to the notorious House on the Rock. It’s a failed condo development located right down the road from Taliesin and American Players Theater, converted into a hotel overlooking a lovely golf course.

Since it’s converted condos, you have a small kitchen, bedroom, living room, and balcony. There’s a pool, but I’ve rarely seen people taking advantage of it. What The House on the Rock Resort lacks in charm, it makes up for in location and space.

We’ve also stayed at an excellent B&B, The Silver Star. The owners, Kevin and Elise Dallman, are terrific hosts. There are only 10 rooms, and their list of repeat guests is large. Book early. The only reason I don’t return is the several mile drive on backcountry pitch dark roads at night. And I like the additional private space at House on the Rock Resort.

What to Expect

The pandemic devastated rural Wisconsin. APC closed, Taliesen closed, little shops and seasonal restaurants closed, most permanently. So don’t look for lots of retail/fine dining experiences – it’s rural Wisconsin.

A day trip down the peaceful Wisconsin River Valley is ideal for the adventurous. There is a wonderful bookstore in downtown Spring Green, Arcadia Books, that’s open seven days a week, sells good craft coffee and sweets, and has chairs and tables – a find.

Tickets are now on sale for the 2023 season at APT.

Hope to meet you there.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you planned a theater season in 2023? Where would you like to go? What plays would you like to see? Have you planned out your trip already?

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

Anyone hanging out in the hair growth sector of TikTok is likely up to date on all the benefits of applying rosemary oil to the scalp; it can soothe inflammation while promoting fresh growth on receding hairlines and balding patches. Best of all, you only need pure rosemary oil to see these results, leaving out the need for any harsh chemicals or ingredients touching your scalp skin.

There are plenty of ways to secure a bottle of rosemary oil—including at your local pharmacy or Whole Foods—but if you’re going to start using something on the reg, it might as well come vetted by others. That’s the case with SVA Organics Rosemary Oil on Amazon; it has thousands of reviews from shoppers who say it really does work as intended.

Amazon

SVA Organics Rosemary Oil

“In as little as 5 weeks, I started seeing baby hairs and was amazed at seeing my after pic at 7 weeks,” wrote one 55-year-old shopper. “My hair, although still thin, was looking a lot fuller…I’m just blown away and so excited that a natural product is so effective and would highly recommend!”

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “researchers found rosemary oil to be as effective at encouraging hair regrowth as minoxidil, a medication better known as Rogaine.” This is huge news for those that were overspending on hair growth treatments, because the SVA Organics option retails for just $10. Additionally, since rosemary oil is a less harsh substance compared to minoxidil, those with sensitive scalps may notice less sensitivity and itchiness. 

RELATED: This On-Sale Neck Cream Makes Wrinkles Disappear So Well, Shoppers ‘Wish They Took Before & After Photos’

That said, since rosemary oil is still very potent, you’ll want to dilute it with a carrier oil or water before applying to your scalp. Some folks have found putting their chosen blend into a spray bottle (Amazon carries this mist bottle for hair styling) and spritzing it onto the scalp regularly is the easiest form of application.

Considering reviewers say this oil in particular has a “light, non greasy texture that absorbs into the hair, leaving it soft and shiny,” you won’t want to waste anymore time without it. While some have remarked on its pungent scent, the pros truly outweigh the cons: “The oil has also helped to reduce frizz and prevent split ends, which is a big plus for me. I appreciate that the oil is 100% rosemary,” wrote another fan.

Many adults are happy and healthy, aging in place. However, as they age, they may encounter physical and mental changes that can interfere with their independent lifestyle.

A decline in their health may indicate a need for extra support. Family members often provide support; however, in-home help may be necessary if their needs increase.

If you are wondering if it’s time to hire an in-home caregiver, now is probably the time. Here are some factors in determining the right time to hire an in-home caregiver and how to hire one.

Loved One’s Needs Are Increasing

Changes in personal appearance or household cleanliness may indicate a change in a loved one’s physical or mental well-being.

Here are some examples of when a senior may need more help at home:

Doctor’s Advice

If a doctor believes that your loved one is not safe to live at home alone.

Difficulty with Activities of Daily Living

If you have noticed that your loved one has problems with personal activities, like dressing or bathing.

Fear for Personal Safety and Health

As your loved one’s health declines, many seniors experience increased falls and illnesses. A caregiver can reduce the risks of injury and illness by keeping your loved one safe.

Unexplained Injuries or Self-Neglect

Many seniors are unlikely to admit when they need care. If you see unexplained bruises or cuts, this can often be a sign of neglect.

New or worsening health issues often indicate that a senior requires an evaluation to see if they could benefit from increased assistance at home. Home assistance can help a loved one monitor their vitals, manage medical conditions, and help them improve their independence.

Experiencing Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving is emotionally and physically exhausting. Therefore, it’s essential as a family caregiver to be honest about how caregiving affects you, your family, and your time.

Recognizing the signs of caregiver burnout and acknowledging when you need to share the workload with others is vital. When the level of care involved with caring for a loved one becomes more than a caregiver can handle and negatively impacts your work, relationships, finances, or health, it is time to look into additional care options.

Hiring a caregiver for extra help may be the best solution to ensure you and your loved one get the support you need.

Top Factors that Stop People from Hiring Help

Here are the most common reasons families choose not to hire caregivers to care for their loved ones:

Cost

Money is one of the biggest concerns of hiring a caregiver. A home health aide can range from $15-$26 per hour. The number of hours needed and your loved one’s financial situation will determine if the cost of care is reasonable.

Logistics

Unfortunately, caregiving doesn’t stop just because you have hired care. A family member is often needed to supervise the paid caregivers. For some people hiring help might feel like more work because they don’t want to bother with managing or causing their aging parent more stress.

Family Conflict

Only some care team members will likely be receptive to hiring in-home help. When deciding on an in-home care provider, you and your siblings may disagree over when and how to pay for in-home care.

How to Hire In-Home Care: What’s Next?

Finding a suitable person to care for your loved one is essential. Here are three brief steps on home to hire a caregiver:

Create a Job Description

Before starting your search, determine what you seek. Then, make a detailed list of tasks your loved one needs assistance with, like transportation, housekeeping, and medical care. Writing a clear job description is essential for determining candidates who can do what’s required to care for your loved one. For specifics, ask a doctor or geriatric care manager to examine and create a list of services needed.

Determine Whether to go Through an Agency or Independent Contractor

While agencies are often more expensive and less flexible, independent contractors can present a higher level of risk and liability. Before deciding, book several interviews to find an ideal fit. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their experience or what they would do in specific scenarios.

Sign a Contract

This will vary based on whether you choose a care agency or an independent contractor. Those who choose an independent contractor may find the process more intensive since you must prepare your contract. If you hire a home care agency, you will likely have a standard agreement and other documents to complete before starting the service.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you hired in-home help for yourself or a loved one? How did you determine when to hire in-home care? What factors have discouraged you from hiring help?

Madison LeCroy’s Cream Button Down Dress on Her Instastories

Southern Charm 2023 Instagram Fashion

Madison LeCroy was looking cute in cream wearing her button down off the shoulder dress. She was also looking cute in the pose for the pic she took with her son. Thankfully Madison did us a solid and let us know who the dress is by. So we can all pose with our Favorite son Daughter dress too.

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

Click Here to Shop Her Favorite Daughter Dress

Click Here to Shop Her Ray Ban Sunglasses

Photo + Info: @madison.lecroy

Originally posted at: Madison LeCroy’s Cream Button Down Dress