Something else that is brightening my mood every day: scents! I have always been a huge fan of perfumes and scented beauty products, and now more than ever – because dressing up is not really a thing at the moment – I enjoy choosing perfumes depending on my daily mood and using them to escape on a sensual trip. So many scents remind me of trips I have taken in the past, of summer days or specific places.

One perfume that I recently discovered and fell in love with is “Leather” by Malin+Goetz. It is not a typical summer scent, as it has heavier notes of leather, sandal wood and cedar. But paired with flowery notes of orchids, lotus and others, and seasoned with pepper it becomes the ideal scent I want to wear this spring and summer. It’s beautiful and unique! … I have to say, I am a big fan of Malin+Goetz products and scents in general – they make sooo many amazing scents and products!

Three other perfumes I love to wear during summer: “Santal 33″ by Le Labo, “Coccobello” by Heeley, and “Soleil Blanc” by Tom Ford.

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BYREDO “BAUDELAIRE”

It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Byredo scents (I have been wearing “Blanche”, “Gypsy Water”, “La Tulipe” and “Velvet Haze” for years) and every time I visit a Byredo store or counter and fall in love with new scents. My recent discovery is “Baudelaire“, which has notes of black pepper, incense, leather, hyacinth and papyrus. I think it’s a wonderful scent for autumn and winter. It’s always surprising – I fall in love with it again and again.

SIGNET RING BY SIF JAKOBS

This golden signet ring by Sif Jakobs Jewellery perfectly matches the scent: it’s a mixture of masculine and feminine, classic yet modern. I find golden and silver signet rings very beautiful because of their old-school heritage feeling and unisex appeal. This one is my new favourite! I got it in a small size so that I can wear it as a pinky ring.

Other favourite things in the photo: diamond “Vita ring” by Nives, vintage rolex.

PAULA’S CHOICE SKINCARE ROUTINE

I had read and heard a lot about Paula’s Choice before and when my skin was thrown off balance when I decided to quit taking the pill this summer, I thought I would finally give these products, that receive so much praise, a try.

I had a skin and product consultation with Paula’s Choice via phone, to make sure I pick the right products for me (great customer service, if you ask me!). These are the products I am using daily: “Resist Skin Restoring Moisturizer” with SPF 50 as a day cream, and “Resist Barrier Repair” as a night cream. Both have a moisturizing and anti-aging effect. I use the “Resist Hydrating Cleanser” in the evening. I love these products, because they give my skin, which tends to feel very dry, enough moisture and care without feeling “too much” or greasy on my skin.

Whenever I feel like my skin needs some extra care and moisture, I apply the “Super Hydrate Mask“, which can be used overnight or washed off after 20 minutes.

And now to the magic product: Paula’s “2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant“. I couldn’t live without acid peelings or gels, they are a vital part of my skincare routine, and this one is truly amazing! I don’t use it every day, but around 3 times a week, in the morning – but it really depends on my skin condition. If you’re using this product, please remember to always apply a face cream with SPF during the day (after your skin has completely absorbed the peeling)!

I am definitely a fan of Paula’s Choice now.

Also in the photo: “Mini Sunshine Necklace” by Logan Hollowell jewelry.

SOUVENIRS FROM LA

You could get a glimpse of it in the first photo – here’s a little souvenir I bought myself in Los Angeles: a custom lighter case by Are You Am I. I also bought crystals (obviously!) and sage for smudging. The modern witch/ eso hippie in me is cheering!
The ceramic shell is by Frances Costelloe.

MORE TIE-DYE

… and more souvenirs from Los Angeles: a vintage tie-dye sweatshirt by I Stole My Boyfriend’s Shirt (which I actually found in the hotel gift shop of “Shutter’s on the Beach” in Santa Monica), a vintage tie-dye T-Shirt, which I bought at “Varsity“, and a tie-dye longsleeve shirt by Reformation. Groovy, aren’t they?

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I had heard so many great things about the face creams by Augustinus Bader – from women who had been using the creams for a while, and also from the man behind the brand himself: the stem-cell scientist who has developed a technology which improves the skin’s healing process. It was originally developed to heal burned or injured skin – and was then included in a face cream, because the technology also heals scars, spots, acne and softens wrinkles.

I was actually a little worried to start using it, because I was afraid I would be disappointed after everything I had heard. But what can I say? After around four weeks my skin looked better! It had visibly less impurities or red spots, and dry, flaky areas looked softer. Overall, my skin looked more even and clearer.

The only downside is that Augustinus Bader’s face creams do not contain SPF. So I like to combine it with a few serums (which I currently try not to change, so my skin can get used to this routine and does not have to deal with different products every few weeks).

In the morning, after washing and cleaning my face, I apply eye cream and a few drops of Dr. Barbara Sturm’s “Hyaluronic Serum” *. I let my skin soak up the serum, then apply Augustinus Bader’s “The Rich Cream”. I use my rose quartz roller (straight from my fridge) to massage my face and to work the cream into the skin. Then, after a few minutes, when my skin has absorbed the cream, I apply Dr. Barbara Sturm’s “Sun Drops” with SPF 50. Sun protection is so important – whether it’s sunny or not.

In the evening, I thoroughly wash and clean my face, apply an eye cream and a serum – currently I am using a Retinol serum by Jungglück – before applying “The Rich Cream” by Augustinus Bader again.

(* Okay, I know I just said that I am trying not to change this routine, but sometimes I like to use a Vitamin C serum in the morning, for instance by SkinCeuticals. In that case, I will use the “Hyaluronic Serum” in the evening.)

I am aware that these products come with a hefty price tag, but I would definitely buy all of them again.

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A friend gave me Mario Badescu’s “Henna & Seamollient Shampoo” as a Secret Santa gift last year. I had already been a fan of the brand due to its amazing face sprays and iconic “Drying Lotion“. The shampoo is super efficient – you really only need a few drops and it’s lasted for months – and it’s said to increase your highlights.

Another favourite: When I came across Playa it was love at first sight – or rather smell! The scent is exactly what I want my shampoo to smell like, it’s actually additive. And not just that – my hair looks amazing when I use it. I can highly recommend the “Everyday Shampoo“. Lately, I have been using Playa’s “Supernatural Conditioner” and it’s truly incredible! It actually feels so rich and soothing, more like a hair mask than a conditioner.

But speaking of hair masks: I try to use the “Coco & Eve” hairmask at least once a week. It really helps my hair when it’s dry from too much washing (I often wash my hair twice daily because of my workouts).

(The leopard scrunchie in the photo is by Ganni.)

After washing my hair I like to use a hair oil. As I have said before, I simply LOVE Ouai’s hair oil, but Playa makes an amazing hair oil as well, which even protects your hair from UV damage. I’ll make sure to bring it on my next beach holiday in June.

After applying hair oil on my wet hair (just the ends), I dry my hair, then twist it into two buns in order to create some waves, and when it’s totally dry I apply some wave spray to the lengths. My favourite one is Ouai’s “Wave Spray” (I love that it comes in a travel size, too!)

Also in the photo: my favourite brush by Michael Van Clarke and silk scrunchies which look beautiful and are super gentle to your hair.

I have written about haircare favourites before – and I still love the products that I shared in my previous post, so make sure to check it out for my recommendations.

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SAINT LAURENT BANDANA BAG AND DIY-TIE-DYE

Even though I am generally trying not to buy too many things – and even though I generally believe that I have everything I need – sometimes love at first sight strikes me like a lightning bolt. When I saw this bag in the Saint Laurent boutique I just knew it was perfect for me. (I actually missed the Chanel bandana bags a few years ago, but dreamed of them ever since.) Well, last Friday I decided to get this bag for me – and it is making me so happy!

In the background of the above photo you can see a tie-dye T-Shirt I made myself a few weeks ago, during the DIY-tie-dye-session I had at my home with a friend. I am obsessed with tie-dye shirts, sweaters and hoodies at the moment. They’re so much fun! And I am already planning a second tie-dye-party with friends.

BAROQUE PEARLS

How beautiful is this baroque pearl necklace by Sophie by Sophie? I have been a fan of her classic, yet modern designs for years and this necklace is definitely a new favourite piece in my jewellery box! Every baroque pearl is unique – I like to look at them as the rebels among the pearls.

The golden signet ring in the above photo is by Maria Black. I absolutely love it and I wear it almost every day. Such a cool piece that really upgrades every outfit! I think Maria Black is making amazing tough and cool, but equally elegant signet rings – this one is great, too.

DIPTYQUE CANDLES

Even though spring is coming closer (when it’s sunny it seems like it’s almost here!), February is still a good month to lighten candles and to enjoy cosy evenings at home (I got hooked on “Sex Education” on Netflix this week and finished watching it last night).
My favourite scented candles are by Diptyque – I’m a big fan of their classics like “Figuier” and “Baies”, but I also love their limited editions and special collections, like the candle “La Prouveresse”, which comes in a beautiful handmade porcelain pot.

COCONUT BATHS

… and speaking of cosy evenings at home: I am addicted to the “Coconut Milk Bath Soak” by Herbivore (via Niche Beauty). It smells so so good – a mixture of coconut and vanilla –, like the best dessert I can imagine. … It’s kind of hard not to eat it. Haha! It’s also quite moisturizing, so it’s a real treat for your body and skin during winter!

HEALTHY WAFFLES

Buying a waffle iron was one of the best decisions I made last year. (It’s the simple things, eh?) Since then I have been perfecting my recipe for healthy waffles every other weekend. I really like this recipe by Heavenlynn Healthy, which I have slightly adapted for my own waffles (I always use oats, wholegrain flour, bananas, oat milk, no sugar, coconut oil for the waffle iron and loads of yummy toppings. I haven’t figured out how to make waffles without eggs yet, my vegan waffles never turned out right, but I’m working on it …)

For more favourite things and discoveries, follow me on Instagram!

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BLACK AND WHITE INTERIOR TREASURES

The very talented artist and illustrator Ralf Nietmann drew this Picasso-inspired postcard and gave it to me as a gift. It will always remind me to stay optimistic whenever I look at it.

The vintage Fornasetti tray I found in an antique shop in Hamburg. I think it had been waiting for me. The candles are by Diptyque and Bella Freud; and the ceramic shell is by Frances Castelloe.

HAIR CLIPS

This Copenhagen trend got me all of a sudden! Glitter hair clips by Pico (via Hello Love and Mili Store) and “Love” clip by Pico for Edited.

NEW PIERCING AND JEWELLERY

When having the pleasure to host Hamburg’s first “Fine Piercing Party” together with Anita Hass and Juuls Juuls I also got a new piercing myself! Thank you, Juuls Juuls!

The little diamond stud is by Maria Tash (just like the triple diamond stud), the new diamond hoop is by The Last Line (similar here).

CRYSTAL TOOLS

My quartz and crystal obsession was elevated to a whole new level with this quartz water bottle (via Soul Zen), which I absolutely love and which is a daily reminder to keep my thoughts clear (and which hopefully gives me energy as well – at least that is what quartz is said to do).

My favourite beauty tool at the moment is this rose quartz face roller (via Niche Beauty), which is not only very beautiful but also the most relaxing and wonderful thing in the morning! I keep it in the fridge for an extra refreshing face massage. I am obsessed!

BEAUTY FAVOURITES

And speaking of beauty … I had been wanting to try the Foreo face brushes for a while – and ever since I used the Foreo “Luna Mini 2″ for the first time I understand why so many people love this brand. My skin just feels so much cleaner and smoother after I have used the face brush.

Two other discoveries I made: the “Noni Glow” face oil by Kora Organics (via Douglas) and Skinceutical’s “Hydrating B5″ serum (I basically love all their serums!).

I have also been taking two new “inner beauty” supplements: “Daily Biotic Complex” by Ogaenics and “Beauty x Hyaluron” by Ylumi.

Something else that made me very happy: one of my favourite hair care brands ever, Ouai, has created a travel set which contains three of their best products: “Dry Texture Foam”, “Volume Spray” and “Wave Spray” – and it also includes several hair clips to create wavy hair! You can shop it via Niche Beauty.

“PALM SPRINGS” BY RALF NIETMANN

I have changed a few things about my home: a new rug, new pictures, … and some other little things that help to give my apartment a fresh look.My favourite new additions are the artworks by Ralf Nietmann (you have seen the other one above). This one is called “Palm Springs” – and I am always on board with California dreaming …

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1. CHUNKY TRAINERS

Yes, that trend finally got me, after all. However, I’m really only in love with this specific pair and still do not like ugly sneakers “in general”. Anyway, while participating in a fashion flea market this month, a girl told me about these sneakers by the Korean brand Anna Kastle. I do not usually buy lookalike-products (I think it’s so much better to invest in a few high quality pieces that you really like instead of buying tons of trendy products), but in this case I had to make an exception …

2. FACE CARE

After trying Dr. Barbara Sturm’s “Hyaluronic Ampoules” last year – and absolutely loving them! – and after meeting the woman herself this summer, I was dying to get my hands on more products by Dr. Barbara Sturm. I have been using the “Calming Serum”, which I can really recommend, as well as the amazing Face Cream, which you can combine with the “Sun Drops” for sun protection (a must!). … By the way, I have heard great things about the “Enzyme Cleanser”, too!

At night I have sometimes been using the famous “EGF Serum” by Bioeffect, which is quite rich but also has an amazing anti-aging effect.

When I’ve used up these products I will try the “Serum 10″ by SkinCeuticals, which sounds very promising. Stay tuned!

Do you have any experience with these products?

3. MAKE-UP

If you are still looking for the perfect foundation, buy NARS “Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation” immediately! I am not joking, this is the best foundation I have ever come across. It has a great coverage but still feels very light. I am using the shade “Vienna”. By the way, I am also a huge fan of NARS’ best-selling blush – currently I am using “Orgasm”.

In terms of eye shadow: I finally bought MAC’s “Paint Pot” in the shade “Groundwork”, which is a wonderful everyday “no eyeshadow”-eyeshadow colour. I love it!

And speaking of … My favourite “no lipstick”-lipstick is Charlotte Tilbury’s “Miss Kensington”.

Also pictured: my make-up bag by Woouf

4. HAIR CARE

Maybe you’ve heard or read of Playa: it’s my new haircare obsession! Their “Every Day Shampoo” (via Niche Beauty) smells so heavenly that I am desperately waiting for Playa to bring out a scent! It’s the perfect “beachy” summer scent: coconut and orange blossom (two scents I LOVE!!!) combined with sandalwood and pacific musk. I NEED this as a perfume!!! You hear me, Playa? Furthermore, and before I forget, the shampoo also works very well. It makes my hair look and feel very healthy. A+!

After washing my hair I always brush it with “The No. 1 Brush” by Michael van Clarke (via Niche Beauty). It’s the best hairbrush I have ever used. It easily brushes and detangles my wet hair without breaking it, which isn’t easy to do.

5. NEW JEWELLERY BY OTIUMBERG

You should know by now that I am a huge fan of the London based jewellery brand Otiumberg (and of Rosanna and Christie, the two sisters behind the brand). For one of their new collections they made the most beautiful pendants: little moons, eyes, protective hands and more. And since I couldn’t wait, I got to buy a moon in advance (the collection will launch very soon!). I also treated myself to their “Cool Gradient Ring” a few week ago. Isn’t it magical?

6. AWAY SUITCASE

Since my big suitcase broke on the return flight from Bali (thanks, KLM!), I was looking for a new spacious travel companion. And AWAY was kind enough to send me their “Large Suitcase”. The colour is a limited edition from AWAY’s “Salt&Stone” collection. I cannot wait to travel with it (I am dreaming of a trip to California very soon!). It’s actually very light for its size and there is so much space inside! I also love that it comes with a hidden laundry bag inside (I often forget mine at home). I will show and tell you more when I have travelled with this suitcase.

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CERAMIC SHELL BY FRANCES COSTELLOE

I discovered this artist via Lucy Williams’ instagram and fell in love with her ceramic scallop shell at once. As you might know I love decorating my home with sea shells, crystals, corals and the like – and this ceramic shell looks so beautiful as a jewellery tray, doesn’t it?

SUMMER JEWELLERY

… Speaking of jewellery: I have added some colourfull pieces to my collection! From left to right: “Strawberry Blonde” bracelet by Anni Lu, “My name is” bracelet by Wald Berlin, Zodiac necklace “Gemini” by Swarovski, “Iris Light” bracelet by Anni Lu, “One Stone” bracelet by Sophie by Sophie, pendant necklace by Nives, rainbow necklace by EF Collection.

THE PERFECT DENIM JACKET

It’s incredible how happy it makes me to find the perfect basics, especially denim pieces. This denim jacket, “Alia” by Wood Wood, is certainly one of them, and since I’ve bought it I have pretty much worn it every day.

FACE CARE DISCOVERIES

You know I am a beauty addict – and these are three discoveries that I absolutely have to share with you: MUTI’s “Calm Down Serum” helps to improve stressed skin: it reduces redness and moisturizes the skin.

By Nacht’s “Über glow gel peeling” is an amazing exfoliator, which renews your skin with fruit acids.

And I have discovered a new eye cream: Grown Alchemist’s “Age-repair eye cream” (via Niche Beauty) makes the area around my eyes feel very smooth and nourished and it’s a great base for my eye make-up as well.

COCONUT HAIR CARE

I am obsessed with anything coconut scented – perfume, lip balm, hand cream and especially hair care. I have been using the “Mermaid Hair Shine Spray” for a while (mainly because I love the scent – Haha) and I am now finally trying out the shampoo (via Niche Beauty) as well. The scent is amazing and so far my hair really seems to like this shampoo, too.

Maybe you have seen the Coco & Eve hair mask advertised on Instagram? I admit, these ads totally worked in my case – I was very curious to try out this hair mask which promises to turn brittle hair into glorious, shiny waves (and yes, it, too, has a coconut scent). And, what can I say, this mask actually does make my hair feel very soft, nourished and strong.

HERMÈS BANDANA

One of my favourite types of shopping experiences? Online vintage treasure hunts! … I remember when Hermès launched their silk Bandana scarves in 2014 – I marveled at them at their press event, because I’ve always loved anything Western-themed and because they are such an elegant take on the classic cotton bandana (a staple accessory in my wardrobe). The bandana scarves are not available in stores anymore, but a few weeks ago, I found one of my favourite versions – in blue and navy – online: second-hand but brand new! Yee-haw!

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FAKE TAN THAT DOESN’T LOOK FAKE

It’s a bit strange, given that I live in Northern Europe, but I don’t feel too comfortable when I’m super pale. Usually I spend some time in the sun during September (the perfect time for a Southern European holiday!) to make it through autumn and winter, but last year that didn’t work out and I haven’t really seen the sun since July. So, looking at my sad pale self in the gym mirror, I decided I had to do something to bridge the time until my trip to Bali in Mid-April (one more week to go!).

Enter: Coola’s “Tan Dry Oil Mist“! It’s as natural as a fake tan can get – and organic. You just spray it onto your body (I recommend doing that in the shower), massage it into the skin and it only takes a few minutes to dry. It doesn’t smell weird and it creates a very pretty light tan.

The “Bronzing mousse” by James Read is amazing, too. However, it’s a little more difficult to apply and you need a mitt to apply it. I’ll also be trying the new “Coconut Water Tan Mist” and I’ll let you know how that is working out.

For my face I’ve been using this James Read face spray. Alternatively, you can use these tanning drops, which you just add to your moisturizer.

 LINEN DRESSES

Speaking of a tan … I’m very excited to finally go to Bali for two weeks this month (it has been on my travel list forever)! And obviously this made me think about summer dresses, swim- and beachwear (even though I’ll probably be spending most of my time there in the jungle). My go-to brands for summer and holiday dresses are Réalisation Par and Faithfull The Brand. But I made two exciting new discoveries: Verge Girl (can I have everything, please?) and Glassons!

I ordered the above black linen dress from Glassons and absolutely love it. Also, the shipping was extremely fast. The white linen dress is last summer Mango.

I always get very excited about “holiday dressing” because I so rarely get to wear my summer dresses at home (almost never) – including my straw hats, straw bags, sandals and “holiday jewellery”. However, I’ll be travelling to Bali alone (my first trip alone since Japan in 2005!), so I cannot promise many photos (this probably makes me sadder than you).

NIVES DIAMOND LIGHTNING PENDANT

 I’ve written about Nives, the beautiful Zurich-based jewellery brand by Nina Euler, before. I am so happy I discovered her jewellery via Instagram – and I am extremely happy to say that I added the stunning “Diamond lightning pendant” to my collection. I am wearing it with the little “North Star pendant” – don’t they make a great pair?

The little star bracelets in the background are by Nives, too.

TILDA BIEHN EARRING

Another amazing jewellery discovery: Tilda Biehn. The label was founded by Andrea Lipsky-Karasz, who makes very unique, edgy yet elegant fine jewellery. I treated myself to the beautiful “Aurora Earring”, which is also available via Catbird.

Above I’m wearing it with a “Huggie Hoop” by Otiumberg and a “Princess Helix Earring” by Venus by Maria Tash.

ZOE KARSSEN “COBRA SNAKE” T-SHIRT

A loose fit, a soft but not thin material, a slightly washed colour and an eye-catching, beautiful detail with a little Rock’n’Roll twist – everything I love about a T-Shirt comes together here. (I’m loving this Tee, too!)

CALL ME BY YOUR NAME

Something else that gave me great joy last month: the film “Call me by your name”. I think everything, from the cast and the acting, to the setting, to the outfits, the music and, of course, the story, was absolutely perfect. It reminded me of the 80s, of summers when I was a teenager, of holidays in Italy, of these very special first moments of a new love … If you haven’t seen the film yet, check if it’s still in cinemas or watch it when it’s out on DVD/online!

GUCCI SUPER MINI DIONYSUS & CARRERA SUNGLASSES

Maybe you’ve spotted the above super mini bag by Gucci and sunnies by Carrera in my previous posts. Yes, sometimes (very often) a new special accessory can certainly help to make old outfits feel shiny and new. Especially when you’re feeling the winter blues.

INTERIOR FAVOURITES

I found this photo print of McWay Falls at Big Sur in California via Society6 and I love that it always reminds me of our magical road trip down the Californian coast.

My sister gave me this beautiful quartz when I was feeling low – and even though I’m not really a believer in the healing powers of crystals, it still makes me enormously happy whenever I look at it or touch it. (So, who knows, maybe it has special powers after all …)

FACE CARE FAVOURITES

I’ve already written about By Nacht in November, when I started using their face serum and night cream. And I must say: it honestly feels very nourishing and my skin has been looking a lot better during the last couple of weeks. It comes with a hefty price tag, but it actually works wonders! I’ve been using it with Perricone MD’s “re:firm” eye cream (via Niche Beauty), another product which works super effectively against wrinkles and dry skin. Especially during winter I couldn’t miss a nurturing eye cream!

The “Coconut water face mist” by Herbivore Botanicals had been on my beauty wishlist for ages – I’m a sucker for anything coconut and for face mists! It feels so refreshing! I use it in the morning and after workouts. I found this one via Niche Beauty, too.

A beauty product I have rediscovered: Glov, which removes make-up (even my black liquid eyeliner and the tons of mascara I use) with nothing but water. And all you need to clean it is soap. It’s amazing for travels!

The little star bracelets in the bowls are by Nives.

MAKE-UP FAVOURITES

This month, I found the perfect shades of “nude” lipsticks. They’re the matte lipsticks “Miss Kensington” and “Between the sheets” by Charlotte Tilbury. They’re ideal for an everyday make-up look – like my own lip colour but better. It seems like they are sold out online but maybe you can still get them at a Charlotte Tilbury counter.

Two more wonderful everyday products: “Cake by the ocean” by Deborah Lippmann (the best shade of light pink!) and their “Addicted to speed” top coat.

As you might know, I love products which look amazing, have a beautiful packaging and also work really well (looks are nice, but function is even more important). Douglas’ “Pearls Harmony” blush pearls tick both boxes – they’re very pretty and they give your cheeks an amazing healthy glow.

VEGAN HEALTHY ENERGY BALLS

Sometimes I find it very relaxing to spend time in the kitchen and to prepare something delicious and healthy for me. During the last weeks, I’ve tried several recipes for vegan, healthy energy balls (ideal healthy snacks in the afternoon or before workouts!).

I made these almond energy balls, these easy vegan chocolate truffles, and coconut balls by Eat Like Eve. Yummy!

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