- NicoleDeRosa
- Feb 6
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 22
Check out my SHOPMY platform by clicking on the photos below for
Gift Ideas, Decor, Outfits + more!
Shop Valentine's Day for HER
Shop Valentine's Day for HIM
Shop Valentine's Day for KIDS
top of page
Search
- NicoleDeRosa
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 22
Mama Joy's birthday was in January and I was thinking of gift ideas for her when I remembered she said that she wishes she could replace her awful, dull kitchen knives.
I didn't want to get her knives that were average that would dull + rust. So many knives are made with toxic materials with enamel or plastic handles + I wanted to stay far away from those.
Lucky for me that we live together, so I can use them too!
Why I Chose SEIDO
I researched a bunch of knife brands and chose Seido which I liked the best + I knew Mama Joy would too. So, why did I choose Seido Knives?
Japanese Craftsmanship
Made of High Carbon Stainless Steel
Pakka Wood Handle
Ruthlessly Sharp Blade
Ergonomic Handle Design
Protective Bolster
And...because I also loved reading about....
The PEOPLE Behind The Brand
"As Italian-Canadians, cooking has always been at the center of our lives. Growing up in an Italian family, the kitchen was the heart of our home, where we gathered, shared stories, and cooked meals that brought everyone together. But we constantly faced a common frustration – the knives we were using didn’t offer the precision or sharpness we needed to create the dishes we loved, whether for everyday meals or gourmet creations."
Seido's CRAFTSMANSHIP
Seido's goal was to create razor-sharp, high-quality knives that would stand the test of time. To bring this vision to life, Seido partnered with master blacksmiths + the finest knife factories across Asia, blending centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship with modern design. Each Seido knife is meticulously hand-forged using premium imported materials, including Japanese steel, ensuring exceptional sharpness, balance + durability. The result is a collection of Japanese-style knives that deliver professional-grade performance for both home cooks + seasoned chefs.
High Quality WITHOUT The Hefty Price Tag
By eliminating the middleman + selling directly to customers, they’re able to offer top-tier knives at an unparalleled value. Seido believes that everyone deserves access to high-quality kitchen tools without the hefty price tag + they stand by the quality of every knife they create.
They're so confident you’ll love your Seido knives that they back them with a free limited lifetime guarantee.
I contacted Seido to see if they would like to do a collaboration with me. They enthusiastically got back to me letting me know they enjoyed my work + other partnerships + collaborations I have done that I share on my website + we agreed on working together.
I remembered Mama Joy told me that she needed better knives to cut fruits + vegetables + in addition she also wanted a complete set of steak knives for hosting.
Out with the Old and in with the NEW
Seido was so helpful finding the perfect sets for Mama Joy. Here is what I chose for her:
I'm not exaggerating when I say these chef knives slay! They cut through steaks, fruits + vegetables as smooth as butter!
DULL KNIVES Are DANGEROUS
The dull knife on the left with the cheap black plastic handle is the one that Mama Joy has been using. She cut her fingers a few times with them + THANK GOODNESS they were small like a papercut.
You can see in this side by side picture how sharp the Seido serrated knife is ready to slice into a steak, no problem!
This might sound obvious, but you must remember to regularly sharpen your knives. It's frustrating, tedious + most of all DANGEROUS to cut with DULL KNIVES.
SEIDO KNIVES = A Very Happy Mama Joy!
Here are Mama Joy's new gifted Seido Knives:
2 boxes (5 per box) of the
Seido's serrated blades ensure effortless cutting + precision slicing, making them the perfect compliment to any steak dinner! They're also great for slicing through crusty bread, tomatoes + other delicate food!
and Mama Joy also got the...
Each knife is meticulously crafted to feature a comfortable ergonomic handle for excellent control. From dicing vegetables to slicing meat + preparing sushi, these knives have made cooking effortless + fun!
I still need to get us a knife sharpener, so follow me over to Seido's website to shop for yourself or that special someone, HERE.
Many thanks again to Seido for agreeing to do this collaboration with me!
- NicoleDeRosa
- Jan 14
- 14 min read
Updated: Dec 14
It’s hard to truly gather the words to describe what has transpired the last few days in LA. I lived in California from 2009 - 2018 in various parts of town including Glendale, Sherman Oaks, Los Feliz, Malibu, Calabasas + Thousand Oaks. I know all these areas extremely well.
I heard back from most of my friends + my Uncle John who lives in California who are all physically okay. I worry for them + their children mentally as the days go on + their reality set in.
Since the fires, I've been in"I'm not there, but how can I help" mode on how I can personally help. I've put aside boxes to individuals of my own clothing that I'm removing off my Poshmark to match up with those in need. By Thursday there were Google Docs made by friends where anybody in need of clothing could submit their info for tops, pants, pjs, undies + bras for families + individuals. I've added all the reputable Google Docs I could find below which are a brilliant resource because they are constantly being updated in real time.
Donations help at anytime as the road to recovery + healing will take years, so if you can’t help right now, please save this post for when you are able to.
I’m still connecting with brands so we can all help to continue to deliver what’s been lost. HERE is the form you or anybody in need can fill out to have clothing delivered. If you don’t have an address right now then use any friend or family member where you can pick up from.
Taking action is vital to helping our fellow communities, so below is a compiled list of donation funds, shelters, volunteer opportunities + organizations working on the ground. If you’re looking for ways to help, please check out these resources + share this post far + wide.
Google Docs of BRAND DONATIONS
THE DONATION DIRECTORY - Google Doc of Fashion + Beauty Brands Supporting L.A. Fire Relief Efforts.
Click HERE for another Google Doc of BRANDS that are DONATING ITEMS to those in need.
WOMEN'S CLOTHING designer, Christy Lynn + stylist, Lindsay Weiss (Cocoincashmere on IG) have teamed up to create this sign up form HERE as Christy Lynn has up to 1,000 pieces she can donate from tops to pants + dresses.
MUTUAL AID LA NETWORK - another Google Doc from this incredible + reputable volunteer group. Click HERE to view ongoing updates.
If You Are A Family with YOUNG KIDS IN NEED
Please fill out THIS form (as detailed as possible) + set your Instagram (if you have one) to public so that people can direct message you!
Beloved Toys + Stuffed Animals Are Gone.
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP KIDS
UNDERSTAND THE FIRES.
Click HERE to read the Los Angeles Times article.
Human SHELTERS
AirBnb: offering FREE emergency housing. Click HERE to learn more.
Arcadia Community Center – 375 Campus Drive
Arcadia Public Library
Black Lantern Books
Burbank Armenian Center
Cafe Tropical
El Camino Real Charter High School
Friends in Deed Bad Weather Shelter
Hollywood High School
IATSE Disaster Response Team
Junior High LA
LA Dream Center Emergency Shelter
Northridge Park
Pacific Community Center
Pan Pacific Rec Center
Pasadena Convention Center
Planet Fitness (all locations)
Re/Creation Cafe
Ritchie Valens Recreation Center
Sender One Westwood and LAX
Sepulveda Recreation Center
Studio DDLA
Tapestry Church
The Kinn
Westwood Recreation Center
YMCA of Metropolitan LA
Animal SHELTERS
Agoura Animal Care Center
Animal Wellness Foundation
Belles Boarding
Best Friends Animal Society
Chino Hills Animal Shelter
Feed Play Love
Grateful Dogs Clubhouse
Hatch Ranch
Industry Hills Expo Center Stables (Horses)
LA Animal Shelter
LA Equestrian Center (Large Animals)
Marilynn Ebrecht
Milo's Sanctuary
Montebello Barnyard Zoo
My Pet Garden
Pasadena Humane
Pasture Space
Paso Robles Horse Park (Horses)
Paw Works
Pierce College Equestrian Center (Large Animals)
Pico Rivera Sports Arena
Rose Bowl Stadium (Large Animals)
South Bay Rodent Rescue
Western Veterinary Center
White Memorial Church
White Wolf Wellness
Whittier Dog Club
RESTAURANTS Offering FREE MEALS
The list below is ever changing, so always call ahead to find out their status.
Bar Etoile (East Hollywood)
Bé Ù (Silver Lake)
Danny Boys (Downtown and Westwood)
Dtown Pizzeria (West Hollywood)
Dudley Market Venice (Venice)
Fiorelli Pizza (Venice)
Foundation Grains + Greens (East Hollywood)
LaSorted’s (Silver Lake)
Oy Bar Studio City (Studio City)
Sonoritas Prime Tacos (Sawtelle)
Sora Craft Kitchen (Downtown LA)
Sunday Gravy Inglewood (Inglewood)
Yeastie Boys (Multiple Locations)
Wabi on Rose (Venice) - my incredible family + friend, Tricia Small's restaurant.
HOMEOWNER + RENTER Resources
FEMA - FEMA will have a Palisades Wildfire Disaster Recovery Assistance Center at the UCLA Research Park at 10850 Pico Blvd. L.A., CA 90064. Every Monday - Sunday from 9:00am - 8:00pm. Support services include: accounting for lost vital records, disaster relief, mental health services + more. Traci Park, L.A. District 11 Councilwoman will be onsite to answer questions.
DONATION + ESSENTIAL Resources
For Families in Need
Please continue to check back in on THIS spreadsheet + monitor whether there are families in need of supplies you have available to give. If so, please DM the person + confirm that they are in need and where the best place is for you to ship them to.
BSTRONG - Providing emergency assistance to people in crisis, an initiative in partnership with Global Empowerment Mission.
BABY2BABY - Providing diapers, clothing, hygiene products + emergency kits to families in need through hundreds of their community partners.
WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN - supporting first responders + families impacted by wildfires in the L.A. area with sandwiches and warm meals.
MUTUAL AID LA NETWORK - is continually working to compile an extensive list of organizations offering assistance + accepting donations through this spreadsheet.
INSTACART - has set up Community Carts banners or click instacart.com/donate where people can make donations of essential items directly to YMCAs across Los Angeles.
HELP CLEAN THE PALISADES - A GoFundMe directly helping to clean up the affected areas of the Palisades. Funds will be used for supplies + a portion will also go towards the LAFD.
SHOP PICKLE - Is coordinating LA clothing donations. You can donate or sign up to receive support through them.
Urgent Care Needed for Fire-Affected Horses - A GoFundMe organized by Philipa + Natasha Price.
Anderson Munger Family YMCA - Donate for food + supplies.
Calico Fish House - Donate for food + supplies.
Celebration Nation - Donate for emergency drive w/ water, face masks, blankets, baby food, pet supplies, toiletries + more.
Disconnect Foundation - Donate for food, prepared foods, bottled water, hygiene supplies + blankets.
Dream Center - Donate for emergency shelter for victims of the fires.
Food Not Bombs LA - Donate for free meals to those displaced.
Hollywood Food Co - Donate for meal distribution.
Koreatown YMCA - Donate for food + supplies.
Mutual Aid LA - Donate for food, supplies, mutual aid efforts. Includes an ongoing list of resources + aid orgs.
The Sidewalk Project LA - Donate for supplies such as tents, sandbags, tarps + shelter supplies.
Mutual Aid Directory - Google Doc of GoFundMe Campaigns for Displaced Black Families in Altadena + Pasadena
Act Blue - Support Immigrant Workers impacted by the L.A. Fires.
Donate To Latino Families Who Have Lost Everything - Google Doc with real time updates. You can email: latinefamileslawildfires@gmail to add your GoFundMe to the Google Doc.
VOLUNTEER Opportunities
7th Street Collective - Emergency Response kit making, collecting resources.
Alma’s Cider - Drop off essential items like clothes + general supplies
Anderson Munger Family YMCA - Volunteers to drive supplies to sunset fire evac centers.
Best Friends Animal Society - Help board animals.
Disconnect Foundation - Local individuals can volunteer to cook + distribute meals.
Halfsies + Dog Haus Running Club - Help needed.
Halfsies Snack Shack - Help needed to prep meals + distribute.
It's Bigger Than Us - Distribute donated items.
Koreatown YMCA - Volunteers to drive supplies to sunset fire evac centers.
South LA Cafe - Prep groceries for distribution.
Pair + Care - NOVA is pairing up volunteers in the LA area directly w/ families + individuals impacted by the wildfires. NOVA seeking people who are available to pick up, sort + deliver donations (clothing, food, etc.) catered individually to those in need.
FIRST RESPONDER Resources
CALIFORNIA FIRE FOUNDATION - Provides critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters + the communities they serve.
LE GREAT OUTDOOR - You can send a meal to firefighter or first responder - they are sending meals 2x daily.
LOS ANGELES FIRE DEPARTMENT FOUNDATION - Donation to first responders. Equipping firefighters with tools + supplies to contain the infernos.
MERCY CHEFS - a Virginia-based nonprofit specializing in disaster relief, is on the ground in Southern California. Meals are being distributed today to victims, volunteers, firefighters + other first responders. Support Mercy Chefs current efforts here.
More RESOURCES
Let me start by saying that I am NOT trying to profit off of tragedy. I'm just brainstorming right now what would be helpful + providing resources + discounts where I can. Besides this post, you can find more resources on my Facebook page HERE.
Billboard has an article that is constantly being updated with a list of organizations providing relief for those impacted by the devastation, from families to first responders which you can view HERE.
Billboard's article includes support for the following:
Support For Families + Outdoor Workers
The LAUSD Education Emergency Relief Fund - providing immediate assistance to families + Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) employees.
Creative Artists Agency (CAA) Foundation the philanthropic arm of CAA, global humanitarian organization Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE) + the LAUSD have come together to launch the SOCAL FIRE FUND - This ongoing collaboration will provide immediate + long-term support for community-centered recovery initiatives that aid the most vulnerable impacted by the January 2025 fires. The fund will be administered by the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF).
The Black Music Action Coalition - an immediate relief fund with a focus on Black residents + small businesses in L.A.
Inclusive Action has launched a GoFundMe to provide cash relief for people whose jobs require them to work outside, including street vendors, landscapers + recyclers
impacted by wildfires.
This Is About Humanity has launched a fund supporting front + 2nd line migrant farm workers, day laborers + other essential workers + their families.
Save the Children is helping ensure essential, child-focused supplies are getting into the hands of children + families. This includes supplies like hygiene kits + caregiver kits – with flashlights, water bottles, blankets, portable chargers + more – as well as children’s activity kits, to enable kids to be kids during stressful times. Contribute to the Children’s Emergency Fund here.
Community organizers The Kindness Hub have put together a Volunteer Spreadsheet for daily opportunities to help out, as well as an overall Aid Tracker spreadsheet with helpful tips for those impacted by the fires.
Support For Music Professionals
The Recording Academy + MusiCares have launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to support music professionals impacted by the crisis + made a combined pledge of $1 million to kick off a fundraising effort. You can donate here.
Sweet Relief Musicians Fund has launched a natural disaster relief fund for music professionals in L.A. County + the surrounding areas. Funds raised will go to help those recoup the loss of music-related equipment as well as medical bills related to the fires + other vital living expenses. Head here to donate or fill out an application.
The We Are Moving the Needle Microgrants Wildfire Relief Fund is designed to support “early + mid-career producers, engineers + creators who have lost studio space or gear” in the wildfires. Those wishing to donate can go here.
The 100 Percenters has launched an LA Wildfire Relief Fundraiser to benefit professional songwriters, producers, artists + music professionals “with verifiable industry contributions” who reside “in wildfire-impacted areas” in L.A. County.
Mid / Long Term Relief
California Community Foundation‘s Wildlife Recovery Fund focuses on mid-term + long-term recovery efforts for those affected by the fires.
Pasadena Community Foundation‘s Eaton Canyon Fire Recovery and Relief Fund is mobilizing local resources to support resilience + immediate + long-term recovery initiatives in the L.A. County cities of Pasadena + Altadena.
The PLUS1LA Fires Fund will help local nonprofits offering shelter + care to those who have lost their homes, including PPE to prevent smoke inhalation, food, clothing, diapers, formula, hygiene items + mental health support to help those coping with trauma. Over the long term, it will support efforts to help individuals, families, communities + the environment recover from the destruction.
Team Rubicon is a veteran-led humanitarian organization that assists disaster response across the globe based in L.A. The organization is currently assisting with a point of distribution (POD) to give out much-needed supplies to survivors, such as food, water, ice + other essential items.
SMOKE + FIRE SUPPORT
Practical Tips for Detox Support + Resilience
The air + water in the affected areas is quite toxic at this point as many of the homes + properties that burned are older + full of asbestos, lead + more. Having a GOOD air filter + water filter (at least for drinking water) is PARAMOUNT.
These air purifiers are portable + can work in an most temporary living spaces like an AirBnB, RV, hotel etc.
Click HERE to shop the above Air Purifiers + more clean air products.
My favorite air purifier brand is AIR DOCTOR.
Per Dr. Tyna, the good people at Jaspr have increased the discount on their air filters by $200 OFF.
If you don’t have access to a high-quality air purifier, you can make a simple DIY air cleaner using a box fan + a high-efficiency furnace filter (rated MERV 13 or higher). Attach the filter securely to the back of the fan, with the airflow direction arrows pointing toward the fan. This setup can help reduce particulate matter in your indoor air for a low cost.
PODCAST
LA Wildfires: Hidden Dangers in the Air You Can't See
Click HERE To Listen To The Episode
Are you worried about the air quality in LA after the recent fires? You're not alone. On this episode of Heal Thy Self, Dr. G has an urgent + impromptu conversation with Anthony Wexler, Director of the Air Quality Research Center at UC Davis, who shared critical insights about what's really in the air we're breathing right now.
When we think about wildfires, we often focus on the visible smoke + then move on once it clears. But here's the shocking truth: the recent LA fires, particularly in the Palisades area, present unique dangers because of all the homes that burned. The materials in modern homes - plastics, metals + various synthetics - release toxic substances when burned that can be harmful to your health, even when you can't see them!
Here are the key takeaways you need to know to protect yourself + your family:
Get a good quality air purifier with both HEPA + carbon filters for your home
Download air quality monitoring apps (like Purple Air) to track local conditions
Consider wearing K95 masks when outdoors in affected areas
Keep windows closed until air quality significantly improves
Looking ahead, Anthony emphasized the role of climate change in these events, suggesting that similar situations might become more frequent. It's crucial for LA residents to be prepared + informed about proper safety measures.
Remember, even if you can't see the smoke, potentially harmful particles might still be present. The standard AQI (Air Quality Index) doesn't tell the whole story when it comes to these specific toxic elements from burned structures.
This episode is absolutely essential listening for anyone in the LA area or regions prone to wildfires. Your health + safety might depend on understanding these crucial insights!
These water filters are portable + can work in an most temporary living spaces like an AirBnB, RV, hotel etc.
Click HERE to shop the above Water Filtration Systems +
SUPPLEMENTS + Ways To Support Your Body
MAGNESIUM - Most people in the US are magnesium deficient + stress + toxins chew up your magnesium reserves. Magnesium is critical for keeping your nervous system regulated as well as for keeping smooth muscle (like that which lines your vessels) relaxed. Now would be a good time to consider supplementation. You really can't overdo it with magnesium, if you take too much you will get loose stools. Magnesium malate is a great form in this situation.
MANAGE YOUR CORTISOL - When your body is not processing oxygen well, especially if there's toxins in the air, you may very well feel like freaking out. It's how your system reacts to oxygen deprivation. If your anxiety is up, it's not just because this is a devastating situation, it's also because you are under oxygenated. Ever freak out as you ascend a mountain or the plane is taking off? That's oxygen deprivation in the brain hitting the panic button. I say this only so you know what is going on, which may help you calm yourself more readily.
SUPPORT YOUR ADRENALS - When stress hits, always support your adrenals.
SALT - Salt for hydration. Salt for adrenal support. Salt is so incredibly helpful in so many ways. Electrolytes if you have them, sea salt with a sprinkle of sugar if you don't (a bit of sugar helps the salt absorb).
NASAL RINSE - Using a saline nasal rinse is an excellent way to flush out fine particles + toxins that may accumulate in your nasal passages from wildfire smoke. A saline spray or rinse helps clear mucus, reduce irritation + keep your airways hydrated. You can use a pre-made saline spray or prepare your own saline solution at home. To make your own rinse: dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt + a pinch of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm distilled or boiled water (cooled to a safe temperature). Use a nasal spray bottle, neti pot, or bulb syringe to gently rinse your nasal passages. Regular rinsing, especially after being outdoors, can help reduce respiratory irritation + improve comfort.
WASH YOUR SHEETS REGULARLY - Smoke particles can cling to your hair, skin, + clothes, as well as settle on bedding + furniture. Changing your pillowcases + sheets regularly can help reduce your exposure to these particles, especially if you’ve been outdoors. For best results, use warm or hot water for laundering + consider a shower before bed to avoid transferring smoke residue to your bedding. This simple step can help you sleep better + breathe easier.
Click HERE for a shoppable list of emergency / disaster relief items. Note: I did not post non-perishable food + water, but make sure you have a 3 day supply of food per person + a 1 gallon of water per day per person.
Also, pack some cash (make sure to have small denominations as well) + copies of your passport. I put the copies on the clipboard in a ziplock bag.
If you wear glasses, an extra pair would be good to have.
Also, don't forget covered tennis shoes.
MY Affiliate Partners
ACTIVE SKIN REPAIR - Join Logan Barris, Active Skin Repair + I in Supporting Los Angeles Fire Relief Efforts - If you know any first responders or individuals affected by the fires who could benefit from Active Skin Repair, please let me know. They would be honored to send FREE complimentary products to support their recovery + care. Please help me drive awareness + support for this critical cause.
LUV AJ - BOGO Sale for Palisades Fire Essential Aid - Amanda, owner of jewelry brand, LUV AJ lost her home in the fires. In order to start aiding some relief for our community, Amanda is launching a BOGO Sale where you can BUY 1, GET 1 item FREE (equal or lesser value) + will be donating the proceeds to the Essential Aid Go Fund Me which was started by Amanda's dear friend Birdie who she grew up with in the Palisades. Birdie is working direct with victims of the fire + getting people the help that they need. You can shop the sale HERE + use the code BOGO2025
Additionally, if you were directly affected by the fires, please email orders@luvaj.com with one of your old LUV AJ order numbers + the LUV AJ team would be happy to send you a gift card to start rebuilding your jewelry collection.
MATE THE LABEL is actively donating + sending clothing care packages out to those affected by the recent fires.
In addition, to contribute to our first responders, MATE THE LABEL are donating a portion of sales to Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
If you would like to find out more about clothing care package donations or if you wish to shop MATE THE LABEL, click HERE
LITTLE WORDS PROJECT are donating 25% of their Love Club collection net proceeds to the CCF Wildfire Recovery Fund.
Click HERE to shop the Love Club collection.
Note: Please help one another where you can. I realize there is tragedy still ongoing from Lahaina + North Carolina right now. In fact, FEMA just kicked the folks in North Carolina out of their temporary housing + out into a snow storm. I have no words. Let's just all help where we can.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only + is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I am not the reader’s personal doctor. Individuals should always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about treatments, supplements, sauna use, or significant changes to their exercise routine. The benefits of strength training + other exercise interventions can vary among individuals, so personalized advice is essential to avoid potential injury. Professional medical advice should not be disregarded or delayed because of something read or heard in this content.
This blog may contain affiliate links, meaning Nicole DeRosa may earn a small commission if purchases are made through these links, at no additional cost to the consumer. Links to items + supplements are provided for informational purposes only + are not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Statements about supplements + products have not been evaluated by the FDA + are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Individual results may vary.
Readers are advised to consult a licensed healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.
bottom of page