I can’t believe July is coming to an end and August is fast approaching! Summer seems to be flying by, but hopefully you have been able to relax and spend plenty of quality time with family and friends. It seems like this is the time many like to get away and go on a vacation before getting back to “reality” or before starting another school year. Sooo…with that in mind, I’ve picked 5 essentials for you to pack for your vacation–and all of these items can be found at the Mustard Seed!

The Leakey Collection Marula Oil

Customers have raved about the Leakey Collection Marula Oil. Not only does the oil help prevent skin-aging, but it’s also great for holding in moisture. Another plus is the oil isn’t greasy-a relief after using sunscreen all day long. Used daily, your skin will look great AND smell great!

Moisturizing Lip Balm Chapped lips can be very painful and ruin a beautiful summer day. Lately, the sun has been scorching–evaporating the moisture from our lips and making them dry and cracked. The Bead for Life lip balm will moisturize your lips while leaving a nice glossy coat.

A Lightweight Scarf     Mustard Seed features a wide selection of beautiful scarves that can dress up any summer outfit!  Whether you prefer silk or cotton…or stripes versus tie-dye- there is a scarf for you. Scarves are so versatile and can be used to complete the casual day or dressy night outfit. The scarf can also keep you warm when you’re shivering from the A/C in the airplane or when you’re admiring the stars late at night at the beach. Best of all,  scarves are so light, its easy to pack a few in your bag!

A Comfortable Summer Dress

I have to admit, most days I prefer wearing a loose, big athletic t-shirt and Nike shorts. Comfort is KEY to me. But once in a while, I have to look acceptable in public and wear something more appropriate. The Avatar Indigo Tie-Dye dress is so easy to throw on and is SO cool and comfortable. It’s a Mustard Seed favorite, and one of our volunteers gives it the ultimate praise, “it’s like wearing a big, long t-shirt!” Dress it up for dinner by adding neutral wedges, belt and a bold necklace. When sightseeing, wear it with canvas colored Toms or “Jesus sandals” (as many of my friends call it…look below). Best of all, this dress is great to throw over a swimsuit at the beach or pool.

A Roomy Beach Bag

When I’m on vacation, being around the pool or beach is one of my favorite summer activities. There are days where I’ll end up spending my whole day lounging and enjoying the warmth of the sun. I like to stay glued to my chair (unless I need to jump in the pool or ocean to cool off) which means I need to have everything I need close by–a good book, magazines, sunscreen, hat, crossword puzzles, water, snacks, iPod, sunglasses…the list goes on! This means a roomy beach bag is a necessity!  Whether you choose to take along the durable rice bag tote or patchwork crossbody bag, you won’t have to worry about getting it greasy wet or sandy. Best of all, they’re both light and  flexible and can easily fold into your suitcase!

Hope to see you at Mustard Seed soon!