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At Cage Free, we are here to help with all of your holiday shopping, and we have a lil something for everyone! Check out the categories below to help you find the perfect gift for each person on your list. And while you're here, you might as well treat yourself!  😉  For the Fitness Queen    For that female who lives in the gym, you can't go wrong with a sports bra, leggings and comfortable t-shirt. Pull the athletic look together with Sorrel Kinetic sneakers.   For the Lounge-y Lady   To the ones who love cozy and comfortable, we have some groovy tie-dye sets and luxurious satin sets. Add some faux fur slides and either CBD gummies or flowers, and this lady will be set!    For the Professional   For the career woman on the go, these plaid joggers, Kut from the Kloth oatmeal sweater, ivory funky oxfords, and topped with this long, fuzzy coat will take out the guess work for your business lady's schedule.    For the Garden-Her    Have a green thumb who lives in their garden? We have some items she will relish: Herb snips for trimming; straw hats to keep the sun at bay; planters for her indoor plants; and market bags for all her backyard treasures.    For the Bad Ass Got a rebel on your Christmas list? We have all the punk-rock elements to complete her renegade look: Sorell combat boots, black jeans, a long Camo coat with snakeskin accents, and a chunky black leather handbag! Rock On, Rebel Child! For the Trendy Tween   To shop for a tween can go either way- she'll love it, or she'll hate it! Be sure she loves all her gifts by getting her hair accessories, cute jewelry, and of course, a jewelry box to keep everything in. Can't go wrong with these stocking stuffers!    For Little Girls   Deck the halls and your little girl in this adorable outfit: long sleeve shirt with pockets and patchwork jeans, topped with a funky sweater and Sorell boots (they make them in lil girl sizes too!)    For Babies   Babies might not remember their first Christmas, but here are some items their parents will definitely appreciate: a 4-in-1 cover; Mason Jar bottles; muslin sheets or swaddlers; or even a eco-friendly wooden geode rattle.    For Him We even have a few things for the man in your life- CBD soap; manly-scented candles; CBD coffee (for relaxing start to the day); or cookbooks (because he can learn to make his own sandwich!)    For Pets   We can't leave out our furry friends!! We offer several CBD options for pets (chews, treats, and drops) and adorable pet sweaters.    We hope that this guide will help you with your Christmas list! And be sure to check out the Cage-Free (in store and online) for our 12 Days of Christmas for sales in store and online, which starts today!!!!     

CBD and brownies? What magical deliciousness is this? Well... I had to try it! So I brought them home for my daughter and I to make together. After some convincing and explaining that the brownies in question were not only CBD-infused, but also, gluten-free, my teen daughter finally agreed to participate. We gathered the other ingredients and began our cooking venture by mixing everything together. This was our first time baking anything gluten-free, so we were slightly perplexed by the consistency of the batter, but after a quick call to my mom, the gluten-free cooking expert, we were assured that was to be expected. We did not have a the recommended size baking tin, so we used the smallest glassware I own. We then placed them in the oven for them to bake, and patiently, waited for the timer to go off. Not long, the shrill beep of timer and the aroma of brownies soon filled the kitchen. We raced to open the oven to be greeted by.... well... the flattest, most lopsided brownies I had ever seen.   And for this.... I take complete responsibility! If I had used the right bakeware, they would not have been so flat. And actually, if they are put in a cupcake wrapper within a muffin tin, they fluff up so much better!  The contorted flatness did nothing to affect the taste of the chocolate yumminess. They were so soft and very tasty! We added some ice cream and dug in to our delicious treat. Afterwards, we felt at ease, relaxed, and we both slept very well that night. Try out the CBD brownies for yourself, and let us know what you think! 

Growing up in the South in the land of debutantes and cotillions, I often heard the fashion rule of "No white after Labor Day." Another influencing factor comes from growing up in the nineties and watching "Serial Mom," the scene where Kathleen Turner beats a lady to death for wearing white shoes after Labor Day during her murder trial, literally put the fear of God in me to never wear white. But where did this crazy rule originate?  A few theories have been developed over time, but they pretty much boil down to two distinct points: "it's kinda rich people's fault" to "it's ALL rich people's fault."  And let's be honest here... like most things are in life. 😝  There are a couple schools of thought circulating over the decades: Some deduce that the white clothing was worn due to the lack of air conditioning in the summer months (logical); others blame the rise the Gilded Age and summers in the Hamptons (think The Great Gatsby); while a few posit that it was an earlier segregation in New York's high society (old money from the nouveau riche- Think Titanic's Molly Brown). Either way, the rule came from New York and the fashion editors that lived there and dictated fashion to rest of the country....so imagine my surprise when I learned that this came from New York and not handed down from Scarlet O'Hara.  Luckily, Fashion has changed, Kathleen Turner!! You can wear white all year around- thanks to Coco Chanel, who broke this rule by instituting a year-round white ensembles circa 1920! Over the past couple decades, this rule has went out the window.  Even Emily Post’s Etiquette, 17th Edition, gives approval for wearing white after Labor Day. Just one minor guideline when wearing white during the winter months- it's all about the fabric! When wearing white, steer toward more luxurious fabrics such as a thick cotton, wool, or cashmere which will add a streamlined element to your all-white outfit or create a stunning contrast when paired with other colors. But when in doubt, you can always rely on a cream color, which be worn all seasons and go with most skin tones.  Here are a few of our favorite white or cream pieces....    (Adah Sweater)  (42 Gold- Yours Truly Fine Leather Oxford) (Debutant Debbie Sweater)   (Mireya Faux Sherpa Bomber) (Satin Daze Top and Joggers)   (Hepburn Hooded Coat) (Casually Comfy Cardigan)  

Due to the pandemic and spending lots of time at home these days, everyone is having babies!! New moms are busy. There are diapers to change, errands to run, and jobs to do. They deserve to have baby products that are both functional and adorable. Whether it’s you or one of your friends, Cage-Free has launched several new baby brands to ensure a smooth ride when the baby train comes through town. Added Bonus: We launched it just in time for Christmas!   We have carefully selected to use these brands because of their women leaders,  standards in manufacturing, their passion for helping little ones, and the overall good feeling of helping a small business grow. (Nudge, nudge… wink, wink)    DockATot Dock The DockATot Deluxe+ dock is “an award-winning multifunctional docking station for babies 0-8+ months old.” Voted as the baby must-have product, it is the ideal spot for babies “for supervised lounging, playing, resting, cuddling, diaper changes, and tummy time.” Created to mimic the womb, it can be used around the house and is ideal for travel. The Deluxe+ dock adheres to strict standards to ensure a safe environment for little ones.  Dockatot.com (Dock-A-Tot Baby Lounger)   (Dock-A-Tot Deluxe Cover- Painted Spots)   Mason Bottle Mason Bottles allow you “to store, heat and serve milk all in the same container,” as the jars are ideal for storage of baby food. Their FussFree (TM) ventilation system and wide nipple mimics the way the human body works to keep milk flowing smoothly and keeping upset stomachs to a minimum. The best thing about the Mason Bottle: so easy to clean! masonbottle.com (Mason Bottle) Covered Goods  Made in the USA, Covered Goods 4-in-1 cover can be utilized as a cover up for breastfeeding, to cover your carseat or stroller, shopping cart cover, or as an infinity scarf. When using it for a breastfeeding cover up, it provides an all-over coverage from the front and back and the peace of mind that your baby will not be able to pull or kick the cover off. They are made with “a high-quality spandex blend that is both soft and lightweight, yet not see-through, with the perfect amount of stretch.”  coveredgoods.com  (Keep 'Em Covered: the 4-in-1 cover)   Clover & Birch Clover + Birch was created by a Georgia mama of three with “a desire to provide purposeful, modern toys to eco-conscious families.” Tired of throwing away useless toys year after year, “Clover + Birch was inspired by a desire for families to have beautiful toys, made of natural materials, that would become heirloom pieces.” cloverandbirch.com   (Clover & Birch's Play & Activity Gym) (Clover & Birch's Peg Puzzle)   Brixton Phoenix  Brixton Phoenix started out as a new mom “making teething rings and pacifier clips” in Southern California in 2016 to expanding online and including muslim swaddles, quilts, and crib sheets in fun, funky prints. Each muslim swaddle, crib sheet, and quilts are all made from 100% cotton, making them softer and more resilient with each wash. “They are light weight, breathable, and versatile.”  Brixtonpheonix.com    (Brixton Pheonix Crib Sheets)  (Brixton Pheonix Muslim Swaddle) Use code: BABY15  for 15% off all products listed! Because we are moms, too, and we completely understand that every little bit helps! 

“The great thing about all these "essentials" is that they can be mixed and matched for several different outfits, which is great for packing for those overnight holiday trips or simplifying your routine during the week.”

CBD vs THC: What’s the tea? Is CBD the “Devil’s Lettuce?”  Because CBD and THC come from the same “Mother” plant, cannabis, it’s easy to see how people could think CBD is going to cause the same effects  as “smoking the ganja.” Although these two are siblings, CBD predominantly comes from hemp, and THC is from marijuana.   It’s like comparing a pit bull to a shitzu; they’re in the same family, but serve different purposes. Same for CBD and THC.  THE “BAKED” GOODS  The biggest difference between CBD and THC is the “blazed” euphoria.  Inside your un-stoned, sober body, there are CB1 receptors on all your cells that bind with anandamide,  your body’s naturally-made THC molecule. This controls your pleasure, motivation, and eating habits. Anandamide is released when you are meditating to create that sense of calm or during exercise to create the “runner’s high.” THC’s structure is SO similar to anandamide that it fits perfectly in the CB1 receptor, and thus causes the person to become “baked,” discuss conspiracy theories and eat a whole box of doughnuts. CBD, on the other hand, DOES NOT fit in the CB1 receptor, therefore, it doesn’t make you “blitzed.”  In fact, CBD binds with other receptors throughout your body in your immune and central nervous systems, creating a balance throughout your body. So let’s talk about the elephant in the room? The other huge difference between the two is legality. In the United States, the cannabis-related laws are ever-changing. Marijuana/THC are on the list of controlled substances, so they are federally banned. However, there are many states, and our state capitol, have passed laws about medical marijuana as long as it is prescribed by a doctor. Additionally, recreational use of marijuana has been allowed in several states. But thanks to the new 2018 Farm act, hemp has been removed from the controlled substance list, and when sourced from hemp, CBD can be purchased and consumed in all 50 states.    SO HOW ARE THEY ALIKE? Both THC and CBD  have similar molecular structure, found in cannabis, interacts with your endocannabinoid system, and have potential medical benefits. What are THC’s benefits? THC is being studied to potentially treat: pain, muscle spasticity, insomnia, low appetite, nausea, anxiety, glaucoma, and as a mood enhancer. CBD is used to treat: seizures, inflammation, pain, anxiety, depression, migraines, inflammatory bowel disease, and psychosis/ mental disorders (to name just a few). Although they are used for similar treatments, CBD is a better option for those who want the obtainable therapeutic effects without the “high,” and without the jail time.     THE TAKEAWAY: Although THC and CBD are very similar in some ways, there are two fundamental differences: THC gets you “stoned” and confines you to a jail cell and a fine; CBD does neither!  CBD takes you to peace; THC takes you to space… and potentially to the penitentiary.     

Vocabulary  (If you need the full science definition, please click this link or this link) Endocannabinoid system (ECS)- it’s like a suit of specialized cells that help your body maintain homeostasis (see below) Comprised of 3 parts: endocannabinoids, Cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that help make and break them.  Homeostasis-  internal balance; stability within your body Phytocannabinoids- phyto means “plant,” compounds produced in a cannabis plant Endocannabinoids (eCBS)- endo means “within” and cannabinoid is like your body’s natural THC; body’s “messengers;”- see below for 2 known endocannabinoids  Anandamide- Sanskrit for “bliss;” known as the bliss molecule; bodies create this on demand; source of “runner’s high;” involved with appetite, memory, pregnancy… to name a couple; binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors (more on this below) 2-AG- sister molecule to Anandamide; linked to emotions, heart health, and seizure protection; binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors; post-sexy time euphoria? That’s 2-AG.  Cannabinoid receptors- sits on outside of cell; body’s “guards” on post, waiting for “messengers;” effects immunity, sensation, mood and consciousness;   CB1- the most common receptor; in brain, central nervous system, lungs, liver, and kidneys; moderators of memory, mood, motor function, and pain perception; “hangs out” with neurons… like allll the time!  CB2- most often found on cells of immune system; help reduce inflammation; only “hangs out” neurons in brain stem and hippocampus- sometimes in microglia in response to inflammation and injury…. Like she only wants to hang out if we only go out to  these 2 clubs, but she’ll show up if you’re in a wreck.  Enzymes- builds and tears down eCBS; see Regina George from movie, Mean Girls  FAAH- enzyme that degrades  anandamide MAGL-enzyme that breaks down 2-AG    Now that we have learned some big words….  SO…. WHAT IS CBD? According to the US National Library of Medicine, CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the hemp plant that  stimulates the endocannabinoid system, promotes homeostasis in the body, reduces pain and anxiety, and lower inflammation. CBD is THC’S sober cousin, who elevates your level of chill and calms your anxiety without the “high,” or the midnight munchies. CBD is the yin  to THC’s yang. Both have zen-like qualities, but only one is legal.    IS CBD IS EVEN LEGAL?  CBD extracted from industrial hemp (meaning the plant contains less than 0.3% of THC) is not illegal. But not all CBD is created equal! The best way to avoid this issue is to shop from an approved provider (such as The Georgia Hemp Company and Cage Free Boutique) that can guarantee that its products have been sourced from legal, industrial hemp.    (Sympleaf Wellness CBD Capsules)           (Georgia Hemp Co.'s CBD Sour Gummy Bears) HOW DOES CBD WORK WITH THE BODY? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EENvemARPiQ&feature=share Without going into an extensive biology lesson, imagine this: Your foot is the body system, and the endocannabiniods are a sock. The stressors are a gravel driveway you must walk down. The walk down is only slightly cushioned by the sock, but it’s still a pretty rough trip. Then imagine a shoe is CBD. With your sock and shoe, you are able to maintain balance and walk smoothly down the road and through life.  For our visual, football fans, click on the link for a better understanding.  https://youtu.be/l1zMpkvni40   SO WHAT ARE PEOPLE USING CBD FOR?  CBD has been proven to help several different ailments (such as but not limited to):  For Your Mind Anxiety  Depression Panic Disorder OCD PTSD Schizophrenia For Your Body Pain relief and inflammation  Helps fight cancer Relieves nausea  Promotes heart health Lowers risk of diabetes  Treats seizures Reduces acne   CONCLUSION:  Even though the cannabis plant has been around for… forever, research into the ECS and CBD is still in it’s infancy.  With so many CBD products becoming mainstream, it can be overwhelming and confusing at times. So come with me as I do the research for you, and we discover the world of CBD together. I encourage you to do your own research as well (you don’t have to take my word for it). But one thing remains true: people are incorporating CBD into their daily regimens and seeing positive results.  So let us raise awareness about CBD and what it can do for people!