Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Essential Oil 101 Questions & Answers

Essential Oil Questions and Answers

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Remember Essential Oils are not Drugs.

We do not Cure, Treat, Prescribe or Diagnose.

Essential oils help Support and maintain your body's system and allow it to function properly, there fore allowing the body to heal itself in it's own way.

Can you sleep through anything?

THE FARM HAND WHO COULD SLEEP THROUGH ANYTHING

There once was a farmer looking for a your man to help out at the farm. There were several young men who interviewed for the job and as far as the farmer could tell they were about equally well qualified. He then went and asked them each one final question...Tell me, he would say, Why should I hire you above the others?”

Of all of the applicants and their replies, there was one that was really different. One young man said...”because I can sleep through anything.” At first the farmer thought it was just strange, then the more he thought the more he was intrigued and mystified by the response. So he figured, well I will give this young man a chance and he hired him.

Weeks went by and the farmer was pretty happy with the young mans work. He still wondered sometimes what the young man had meant by his strange reply, but he never got around to it. Then one night he was awakened in the middle of night got a phone call from neighbor. There’s a big 33 storm suddenly coming in with lots of wind, maybe a tornado. Better get ready for it,” was the quick message.

Indeed as the farmer went and looked out the door he found that the wind was strong and rising and rain had started. He quickly ran and tried to wake the young man up to start getting everything ready for the blow...but try as he might, the young man couldn’t be stirred. Muttering to himself about what a stupid thing he had done in hiring a lazy boy who wouldn’t wake up when he really needed him...the farmer went out to the farm.

He went out to tie down the hay...but discovered that the hay was already tied down securely. Next he went to the barn and the corrals...and every time he looked, everything had already been prepared. After a while of just wandering around the farm, of discovering that there was nothing that needed to be done at the last minute...because it had all been done before, the farmer returned to the house, but instead of muttering, he actually found himself singing the praises of this young man. He had realized, to his great joy, that the reason that the young man could sleep through anything was because before he went to bed each and every night he had already prepared for the very worst. And so the farmer followed the example of the young man, since everything was already prepared, he undressed and was soon fast asleep, with a huge smile of peace on his face.

Moral of the story....it is better to be overly prepared than under prepared, you get more sleep that way.

 “There is a law, irrevocably decreed in heaven before the foundations of this world, upon which all blessings are predicated-- “And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated.” D&C 130:20-21

 “For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.” D&C 58:26

Over the past the year I have been reading from Jesus the Christ, on Sundays during Sunday School. I have attempted to do this many times over the years. I did not go on a mission before I got married so I did not have that sacred time to read or the charge to read as it would have been a part of the 'library' I would have been allowed. I have been blessed to be allowed chunks of time before Sacraments meetings to sit quietly and read, it has given me some great insight and respect there are times I cry as I read because I feel deeply the word pictures and see them in my minds eye. For those who observe they just see me cry. On occasion during the breaks as the Young men are passing the Sacrament I will read, but usually I am deep in prayer about my children and asking for guidance in how to work with them. I will receive specific answers for me for my children and what to do. Sometimes it is just reassurance I am on the right path. Most Sacrament meetings I take note book to take notes on items that strike a cord within  me.  I take time before we really start the meeting to write an issue or question we are addressing at home or other wise I am asking about or the situation or the child specifically who is in need. Sometimes it is something that comes to me that I must focus on. I will write what comes to mind as prompted. I do my best to implement those items. Some are shared here but not in specific form, because they are for me and my family-I do not even share all of them with my husband. Some pertain to our relationship, and what I need to do to become a better wife. (Those can actually be very tender and tough at the same time.)  I know you want me to get to get to the point and know what all this has to do with the story I shared above and those scriptures.

I have been interested in Preparation for a long time. My library reflects such and so do some of my experiences. I am grateful that is within my heart. I only hope to be of service when the time comes. I have long gathered the information and have practiced and done my best to learn skills that would be helpful. I have even went so far as to volunteer with organizations, to learn knew skills and have a reason to practice them on a consistent basis. I was blessed, though I did not recognize it at the time, to live in a home that had meager means and experienced some choice life events that I would not wish on others. I am healing from these. The passage of time and coming to accept that those events have helped me to become more receptive to the guidance I needed. I have been blessed with an understanding loving husband, who loves me in spite of my short comings and imperfections. I am sure my Great Uncle to talked to the President at BYU to get me into BYU; knew that his little good deed to make sure I found husband would actually pay off. It has been over 24 years of marriage now and 25 years knowing one another.  His only regret he keeps telling me is not marrying within the month of proposing. Which it probably would have been good for both of us. But there were things to learn and live too.

I am comfortable to say I am not 'totally prepared' yet, I am still learning and receiving insight for me and my family.

I have a few more chapters to finish reading, then I will start all over again. I want to learn more. I wan to recognize Him when He returns.

My goal is to be able as the young man above to be able to sleep through anything, because I know that I am prepared in all aspects of my life.

Friday, September 18, 2015

Survival soup



This is Survival soup from the Seasoned Citizen Prepper website by MsKYprepper's article entitled Feed a Family of 4 for 1 Year, for less than $300 giving credit where credit is due.

Measure out (Weigh on scale)

8 oz of white Rice (I used basmati rice)
2 oz of Red Kidney beans (I used black beans, and will switch out Great Northern and Pinto too)
2 oz of Pearl Barley (I used quinoa)
2 oz of yellow lentils (I used Brown lentils)
1 oz Split Green Peas 
1 oz of Chick Peas or Garbanzo beans

Add 6-7 Quarts of water (I made a mistake here and only used 10 cups of water and added anoth 4 cups later, I really need 24-28 cups. eek!)
Add Bouillon or salt to taste. (I used salt)
Then add any other meats, veggies and seasonsings. (I added 1 can 12.3 oz Chicken with water, 2 cups celery,  2 cups Carrots, 1 large onion softball size diced )
Bring to a boil and simmer for two hours.

Tasted pretty good the way I made but, to make it stretch I need to make it the way it says and have bread to go with it.  I have good concentrate I can add water to, which I will do when I serve it later on for dinner.  I will warm it up in the crock pot.

We have most of this on hand already because we eat beans and rice regularly.  My husband served a mission for our church in South America and My oldest in the foreign land of Los Angeles, CA Spanish speaking Mission.  They eat lots of beans and rice.  We will be adding this as a part of our normal rotation especially for this winter.


Monday, July 13, 2015

Under Going FDA Compliance Site Cleanup ** UPDATED**

You will find posts missing and other Trade names the belong to the number one selling essential oil in the world all missing. This is because they and we must become compliant as Wellness Advocates/IPC.

Please pardon my mess and pages that have disappeared.

** UPDATED**

The Essential Oil Resources and Education Tab has come back with Classes Listed for this coming week. I look forward to having class with you.

Mom's Heel & Body Cream recipe

used a custom blend for my Mother-in-law who has issues with occasional cracked heels. She says this is the only lotion /cream that keeps her heels moisturized. She has tried all of the commercial stuff and it just does not do what this one does. 

I made this recipe which has been modified from the original recipe, because of allergies and sensitives to coconut oil.
Everything is done by weight measurements. You will need a scale that does ounces and fraction of ounces. Place your dish on and zero out your scale before weighing you ingredients.
Hard oil:
1/2 oz  (14 g) cocoa butter, grated
1 oz (28 g) beeswax, pellets


Soft oil:
4 oz (113 g) Olive oil
5 oz (142 g) distilled water 
Essentials oils ( 45 drops-opt.)- 



I like to use an Electric Skillet to Heat and melt the ingredients using it as a gentle water bath.

Once all oils are heated and melted. 




Heat the distilled water , place in a bowl, using a stick blender start mixing the water on high. Slowly drizzle or pour in small steady stream the melted oils in to the water this will begin the emulsification process.


 It takes about 15 mins. Once it is done you may add Essential oils of your choice.  Please contact me about my preference in  Essential Oils. (Ask if you would like to know more about these amazing oils, they have been a huge blessing in my family's life.) OR you may Just put it into containers plain for use. 

Use a popsicle stick or spoon to take cream out of the jar to prevent introducing bacteria or spoilage to your lotion/Cream.

Here is the original recipe with the above annotations.

Basic Body Cream Recipe by Tamalu Watkins
   (all measurements are by weight)
·  Hard oils: (Modified used Only 1/2 oz (14 g) cocoa butter no coconut oil)
2 ½ oz (71 g) virgin coconut oil
 ½ oz (14 g) cocoa butter                                                                                              
·  Soft oils:  (Modified used 4 oz (113 g) of Olive oil No Grapeseed or almond)
4 oz (113 g) grapeseed oil or almond
2 oz (57 g) olive oil
·  1 oz (28 g) beeswax, grated                                 
·   9 oz (255 g) distilled water (Modified used 5 oz (142 g) of distilled water)
·  45 drops essential oil (opt.)(Used personal blends)
Place coconut oil in a 16-oz (.5 L )heat-proof measuring cup.  Add cocoa butter and beeswax.  Put the cup containing the oil and beeswax into a pot partially filled with water, place over medium heat and stir with a chopstick or fork until the oil and beeswax melt and dissolve, becoming one liquid. 
Remove from heat and add grapeseed (or fractionated coconut) and olive oils.  Allow to cool to body temperature.  As it cools, the mixture will thicken and become opaque.  Stir as it cools to keep the consistency smooth.  If it cools too much, just reheat it.
While the oil mixture is cooling, warm the distilled water in another heat-proof measuring cup in the hot-water bath.  Test for body temperature with a clean finger.
When the oil mixture and water have both reached body temperature, pour the water into a blender or mixing bowl (I use a mixing bowl and stick blender) and add optional water-soluble ingredients such as vitamin C.  Process at high speed.  If using a high-power blender such as a Vita Mixer, set it on low.  Slowly add the oil mixture by pouring a thin drizzle into the whirling water.  It will begin to sputter and thicken.  Continue to process until the oil and water have blended together into a thick, creamy liquid.  This may take 5-10 minutes in a blender or food processor.  If using a high-power blender, it may take 20-30 seconds.  It may take 15 minutes with a stick blender.  This process, called emulsification, is the secret to creams.
Scoop the cream into a 32-oz (1 L)measuring cup with a spout for easy pouring.  If you are adding essential oils, do it at this point, making sure to stir them in well.  Pour the cream into very clean, dry jars.  Filling them to the top and leaving as little airspace as possible.  Cap with tight-fitting lids and let sit overnight to allow the “flavors” to blend.  Use a clean popsicle stick to dip out your cream if it is in a wide-mouth container, to prevent introduction of bacteria and spoilage.
Variations - Variations on the oils for this recipe are easy.  As long as the amount of hard oil (solid when cool) totals 4 oz and soft oil (liquid) totals 6 oz, you can play with oils to make creams for different purposes.  Have fun!
Other Ingredients - Optional ingredients include PABA for sun protection, MSM for cellular hydration and repair, and natural preservatives such as Grapefruit seed extract or vitamins A, C or E.  Essential oils also act as preservatives due to their antimicrobial properties.

Sunday, July 5, 2015

Closet Seamstress Sews Maxi skirt/ dress

This was posted or so I thought 22 June. Out Internet has been wonky, so.


I admit I am a closet seamstress, I have seen many of the maxi skirts but have not like the color combos and /or patterns in the material. Looking at scale some were just way too big.
I got some knit fabric- T-shirt material and will be making a tee shirt from it later. 
I drafted the pattern today using instructions from so-sew-easy.com. Here is the preliminary sketch.
Here is the full skirt pattern.
This is the waist band pattern.

Sorry no video of me sewing this. 
Construction was easy cut out the waistband, the front and back of the skirt.
Sew side seams of the front and back wrong side together.
Take waist band sew ends together to form a tube( right side facing- comfortable but snug to waist).
Fold band in half wrong side together, slip inside skirt so right sides are together on the inside of the skirt.
Sew waist band in place stretching to fit the skirt. Give room to slip it on and off easily.
Just do the hem, I did 3/4 inch.
You are done, thanks Deby from so-sew-easy.com.

I can wear this under a shirt and have some support*. 
I did make a slight deviation from the directions, where the waistband and skirt come together should have been on the inside versus the outside.
This is the maxi skirt waistband down.
My dress form is a Petite Twinfit by Dritz( I purchased 2003 for around $120 from Hancock Fabrics- I was bodybuilding and could not find decent clothing to fit in size 0-2. She was perfect for that 32-25-33 and 100 lbs soaking wet.) She will adjust to Bust-30-36 inches, waist-22-28 inches, hips-31-37 inches, back to waist length-14.5-16.5, and 12.5+ neck, which means I will not choke making a neck line. I will be padding her up a little bit as she will not expand to the full measure needed for my hips (38-39 inches depending on the day),  waist (28-29 inches), and a few others need some padding. I will be looking to upgrade later to a heavy duty one.

Not bad for about 3-1/2 hours pattern draft to finished product.

(* I do not wear bras very often, because the physical pain they cause is not worth it. I do wear camisoles and I guess  similar to bikini top triangle bra with ribbon, otherwise I do not wear anything. I am LDS so I do have a layer under my clothing.)

Crochet Scarf



This is scarf I started on about three years ago. Ok yes it has been sitting in a bin waiting.
Well it is done. I crocheted through Sunday School, Relief Society, and changed when I got home and continued on. It took a little over three hours. I will need to get some more yarn to redo the fringes.

Now on to my daughter's afghan that was started after she turned 8 years old. I told her I would have it done by the time she was 12 ( entering young women's), then 16 for her sweet sixteen, then 18 because she was and adult. Well she is on her LDS mission Spokane Washington. I have 8 plus just a little to find all the squares finish the last 15 squares and put it together.

I really do not want to put it off any longer or it may not get done until the next mil lineup.

Project Dolphins






Thursday, July 2, 2015

Our New Addition- (a little bit late in posting)



Here is our new addition to our family, he is a pure bred German Shepard, his name is Landon. He came to us at 14 weeks and has grown considerably. He weighed in at 30 pounds. He will be 5 months on the 24th November. He is weighing in 50+ pounds and eats heartily and seems constantly hungry. We found out he is allergic to something in the cat and dog food. So we are feeding him oatmeal, milk, and eggs with supplemental meat and bones twice a week. He does get table scraps and we are careful what he gets. Whatever we do not eat generally goes to the chickens and goats or to the garden compost pile. When you come by if you would give us some warning. We will try to have him calmed down. 

Wednesday, July 1, 2015

Celebration Potatoes

We call funeral potatoes in our house Celebration Potatoes.
I do not eat potatoes, but my family does.
Here is the easy recipe I used when I made them last:

Gluten-free and Corn-Free
Celebration Potatoes

Preheat oven to 350 deg.
9 x 13 pan

32 oz Frozen hash Browns or 2 lbs Freshly Shredded potatoes
2 -10 oz containers Cream of something soup
1 Tbsp Dried or 1/4 c fresh onions
16 oz Sour Cream
10 oz Shredded Cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground pepper

1/2 C Parmesan Cheese

Mix all together except Parmesan cheese.
Spread into 9 X 13.
Sprinkle on Parmesan Cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 30 min or until brown on top.
Enjoy.

My Basic Daily Routine with Essential Oils

Here is a link to my first video about my daily routine.

Featuring Grounding Blend, Calming Blend, Protective Blend, and Repellent Blend

I will have a more in depth routine up on video in the near future.

For those who watch, will you please leave a comment and let me know what you like.

If you would like to learn more please contact me.


Saturday, June 20, 2015

Crock pot meal and make ahead freezer meal

*Sorry no pictures.....
Wednesday this week
I cooked up 12 Drumsticks in the crockpot on High for 4 hours with a little cooking liquid.
I baked 6 Chicken breasts (good sized) they also had cooking liquid with freshly ground Italian spices, Sea Salt, and freshly ground peppercorn medley (green , red, white). I baked on 425 for about an hour plus.
Mean time I used my rice cooker to make up 8 servings of rice. Using the measuring cup that comes with the rice cooker measures only 3/4 c or 145 g of rice. I put water in to the 8 cup line in the pan, than added 3 rice measuring cups. I set it going with an hour delay and let it cook away.  This was Batsmati rice, not the standard Long Grain white rice. There is a carrier used to add nutrients back that I have had issues with so I only use Batsmati, brown, Arborio, or mixes without the stuff added.  I rinse and soak all of my rice.
While this was all cooking. I took out the broccoli and cut it to size I needed.

When the rice and chicken breasts were done. I allowed to breast to cool on the counter. I scooped rice out into two pans about 1/2 to 1 inch. Then I put the broccoli on. I pulled out two boxes cream of something (chicken and mushroom) soup I have diluted them as directed poured half of the mix over over pan and the rest over the other.  (I used Pacific Organic Brand- no Gluten, no Corn or Potato. I may have to pull out my Gluten-Free Gourmet book and find the Cream soup base and make without the boullion.) I then sliced the chicken breasts and added them on top. Pulled out my shredder and just over a pound Medium cheddar. I put half of what I Shredded on each meal. then I took foil and put non-Shiny side down. They are now in the freezer waiting their date with destiny-Dinner.

Now the drum stick were going to do something similar, But I had to feed the kids and husband. 2 drumsticks each with a hardy helping of rice (I ran a second batch.) and some BBQ sauce for them was a meal.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Shoes, shoes, shoes


Here are the shoes left in my closet. 
Left to Right , top to bottom
Brown leather slip-ons from AAFES over 7 years ago
Black soft Leather boots from Park City Outlet Mall over 5 years ago
Brown Leather strap sandals from before I got married, yes over 24 years ago
Dark Gray Suede Boots from Park city Outlet Mall over 5 Years ago
Gray Altra Zero-Drop Shoe From Al's Sport Store purchased 1 month ago. 
-My everyday shoe that ends up in church somtimes and at events that requires a lot of walking.
Blue Asics Running Shoe from Al's Sport Store purchased 1 month ago
Leather strap Flip-flop from Payless over 7 years ago.
Red Sandal from Payless over 7 years ago.
Plus the toe sof my fuzzy blue slippers for around the house in summer.
Not pictured 
-Olive muck boots for yard and irrigation work over 4 years old.
-Insulated Hunting boots over 8 years old
-My rubber sole blue suede fuzzy lined house shoes for winter purchased last winter.
-Bright Blue Water shoes
-Black Patent Leather shoes for Class A military uniform for Funerals
-Shower shoes- on pair in van and one pair for around the house when it is really hot
-BLack Leather combats boots 

Funny thing is that I have gotten rid of all of the heels over 1 inch, because they cause shin splints. My husband and I discussed this last night. I was frustrated at not being able to wear them because of the pain they cause. His response was "Good, you don't need them anyway." He explained that one of the podiatrist he saw says that he loves ladies who wear high heels becuase they are his best patients and keep in business. I guess for all my podiatrist friends, i wion't be a good customer.  

I am so grateful for a man who does care for flashy things, wel except guns and garden tools.

I do need to look for a good quality pair of Leather strap sandals to replace the 20 year old ones. Plus I am looking at a pattern that alloows me to make the sole and upper of a shoe through crochet. WE shall see where that goes. 

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Closet de cluttered thus far


As you can see, I have 4 pair of slacks. I have 5-8 skirts some are in the laundry. My blouses there are two more in the wash so 7 all total for wear. The sweaters are stacked according to color, use and type.
There are 2 jumpers, 2 dresses, 5-7 skirts, a light to heavy shirt that can worn over others, my one jacket from Lands End, Scout uniforming items, and Hunters Education uniform. I do need to add a couple more uniform items for business and volunteer activities.
If I to,d you some of these clothes are 24+ years old you may not believe me, but they are. Interesting for some, I'm sure. Now for the work and relaxing clothing. I may be doing some sewing to add to these.

Friday, May 8, 2015

Cloth menstrual pads for home storage

These are cloth menstrual pads that I would make. I will be finishing to renew Dorothy's supply for when she returns. I will share the pattern if asked.

Friday, April 24, 2015

I strive for and dream of a house of order

I want my house to look like a beautiful house of my friend who seems to keep things up well. I want to improve every room. I hope it will turn out to be orderly, well working and presentable to company always. I desperately yearn and strongly desire to make these changes for my family, my husband, my guests, and most importantly myself. 
I want to expand my potential for becoming a leader that has fruit on the tree.
Self mastery begins with me.

Progress report, we got 8 loads of laundry done, 5 loads put away sorted, 3 loads still need to be, and two more to be washed. This takes care of most of the boys room and the laundry room itself. 

Then of course IT hit me, I have been in bed for two plus daysunable to get up except to go to the bathroom. The coughing has finally eased some, but still there. I need to be careful about activity for a little bit to make sure no rebound happens. I am getting ready as soon as possible to go to my closet.
I had already set all my business clothing in a specific area. I need to go through and see what need to be replaced. I have focused on a lot of classic clothing, because of the timeless nature. The rule is buy better quality and less of it.
 
These are the shirts: uniform items- scouting and other volunteers organization uniforms, blazers, flannel/ denim work shirts, other business appropriate shirts that can be dressed up or down if needed. They all have collars so it makes one feel professional and ready for business. I will fill this out once my laundry is done. The slacks are on the end and skirts and dresses hang in a another area of my closet. I have totes with those clothes from earlier. These will gone through for relevance and need. I will rotate and make clusters using principles I have gleaned from Judith Rasbands book How to Clothe your Family and website conselle.com. I receive her newsletter and gleaned through all of the archives to understand the concepts she talks about. I have had prior training plus a lot of self study in fashion and dress. 
 There are people who will read and face palm but in all truth, I do know how to dress but there are days I decide to let it all go because I am so stessed out. 

I am making an effort to do better to dress even when I am home. It make me feel better, but I hate to ruin good clothes doing house hold chores. Luckily, clusters includes the out in public wear, not so much the doing painting. And caring for animals chores, garden, etc. That does not mean I get to stay in sweats all day otherwise. OK PJs while sick and in bed yes. Fitness clothing for fitness.

Capsules are closed systems and really are limited. Clusters are open and can be expanded to meet the needs of the individual. 
I will show you what I put together in the future.

Monday, April 20, 2015

Confessions of a Messy Homemaker

Yes, that is me.  You read that right.  

I am a messy homemaker.  

I greet you at the door and close it behind me quick. The kids still have dinner on their t-shirts. Their room is not better homes and garden quality, maybe Junkyard quality.

I have struggled with this for years. I have always done my best to be dressed as I should be for events. 

I have come to the conclusion that self-mastery is s must success.

For me that is mastering my schedule and my home. Here is the inspiration I am taking this from.



  • Doctrine and Covenants 109:8

    8 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing, and establish a house, even a house of prayer, ahouse of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a houseof God;

    Doctrine and Covenants 88:119

    119 Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a houseof God;

    Doctrine and Covenants 132:8

    8 Behold, mine house is a house of order, saith the Lord God, and not a house of confusion.


    From some other reading I was looking at. First I am going through clothing for myself and my kids. Then Books, Papers, Miscellaneous things, and finally, Sentimental items.  Earlier in the month I had went through my closet and pulled things out. I am going through again and doing the same thing in my closet. I am finding what I love and getting rid of what I do not. I am finding what fits well and then getting rid of what does not. I am looking at doing clusters of clothing as inspired by Judith Rasband. I have training as a former Beauty for All Seasons consultant. My big take away there was learning to flatter my body as it was with line and design.  I plan on taking Judith training as soon as I can, it is not in my business budget currently. But I know it would benefit not only my business, but those whom I serve in the military and in my entrepreneurial ventures to learn more. The Lord will grant me the time and means to do so. 

  • Now for the rest of the house, We have pulled out all of the excess dishes and have a set color for each person. Now we know who is leaving dishes out. I am getting ready to get the Spoon, fork, and knife all-in-one combo to match. I have also pulled all duplicates of other utensils. It seems silly. but we will pack most of this away and pull out only what is needed and after a while we may give it away to our children or save it for big get togethers. We will see....
  • Join me in the challenge of simplifying your life.
  • Update: I am feeling a bit better than I was the last few days had a bit of a cough and sore throat. Thank you oil pulling with Protective blend, oregano and peppermint essential oil. It did not hit hard so I am much happier. I am up and cleaning anyway. I can see my laundry room and where I am starting seeds.


Thursday, April 16, 2015

Spring Flu with an Icing of Snow

It has been an interesting Spring to say the least. Tuesday and Wednesday we had snow and high winds. Those High winds about took away our chicken kennel. Though we did lose one of our chickens because it got crushed underneath it when it blew over on her. We have to find a new cover for the kennel and a other way to provide shade and wind break for the chickens. Though I think the standard Haybale will work at this point.

The week or so prior we had lost three hens, then Our Roster was AWOL for three days. We found him a little bit worse for the wear and very hungry hiding in a wood pile. More than likely a Racoon has been picking our coop.

Anyway we started over last year (2014) with 11 barred Rocks and 5 Jersey Giant hens plus a roster. We kept a couple of the old barred rocks a couple of our Americunas, plus a another black hen.
Now the count is
One Barred Rock Rooster
5 barred Rock Hens
4 black Jersey Giants Hens
1 Americuna

Plus our new additions
 6 White Leghorns 'the chicklets' or 'the chicken nuggets'

We will be getting more the end of next month.

We will be building new housing for at least 50, but will probably maintain about 40 max.

Well I guess I should get one with the fun part. It is that time of the year for everyone in the US. Everyones favorite stress day of the year. Well last year was our first year not doing our own taxes and it has been a relief. We just really good communication with our tax man. Though we did not get everything, I know we missed a few things, it is ok.

Then enter My dear husband who has been a bit under the weather for few days. He missed church on Sunday because he was laid up in bed from the CRUDE. I did get to church, but was not feeling up to par because of digestive issues, not the CRUDE. I take Protective Blend religiously to keep my immune system supported and it really helps. He did end up seeing the doctor. Nasty little bacterial/viral thing between the nose/eyes/lungs. But he is seeing and singing pretty good  now.

For the really fun stuff-Edward Turned of age to get his learners permit. As is family tradition we get it on their birthday. He did dine for his first bout out. Just if my neighbors seeing me sticking to the window of the car, he is driving.

Oh, Our Missionary is doing well in Washington Spokane Mission, She keeps telling me it is like a big old slumber party. We love and miss her greatly, only 12 more months...

So now to plant some in the Garden-a blog for another time....

There will be more good news that I cannot release until my husband has made it known.

Saturday, March 28, 2015

No Poo and more

Starting in 2005 I was told I had severe chemical sensitivities and list of avoids. I went to one of my favorite authors Janice Cox whose series shows and gives recipes for various body care items. I have used shampoo bars, lye soap, pine tar soap and many others.  I went to just rinses in 2006 or 2007, consisting of Baking soda with distilled water for the first rinse- which currently results in numerous 'suds' usually. Then a rinse with apple cider vinegar and distilled water- which leaves my hair feeling silky and soft. In the past 6 months, I have used a private label shampoo, but felt it was a bit much for everyday use. The conditioner had gluten in it- so I do not use it. The hair gel had the same issue- I do not use it. The hair serum I have used, because of the essential oils in it. Currently, I am going back to simpler things. I made these below in mid March.
I am going to add a pinch of Epsom salts to my rinses to disperse the essential oils through the water.
2 Tablespoons baking soda BS
2 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar ACV
30 oz distilled water (8 oz in each jar with 14 oz in the cup to be split after mixing BS and ACV into its respective jar)
Here is the mixed version plus a dry shampoo/ body powder using rice flour, arrowroot starch, chamomile herb tea, and chamomile essential oil.
I use various essential oils depending on what I am looking for in my BS and ACV rinses. Also shown hair serum, plus fractionated coconut oil, a mixing bottle, with dry shampoo. Right now I will stick with the plain rinses while my hair and scalp are in transition. I will not be doing this everyday but at least once a week Sunday BS and ACV and may only use ACV rinse only midweek plus dry powder as needed with brushing out. It really depends on how it feels to me. I may add EOs to combat candida, what some call dandruff.
I am considering going back to a Basic Bob hairstyle or keeping my long on top pixie, I go through this every 5 years chopping off my hair wishing I hadn't. But like I usually tell the stylist it is hair and it grows back.
I am on my quest for happy hair and scalp.

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Small Steps to Fitness (Cardio, Flexibility, Strength)

Well I know I have needed to re-examine my fitness goals and lack of fitness doing.
Here are the small steps I am taking.

1-Get on the treadmill.
2-Put the magnet in place so it will go.
3-Press the speed button and off we go.
OR
My other activity that includes walking is store walking.
This is where I go to walk around the store looking and it takes more than 30 mins usually.

I am shooting for 30 mins or 1 mile, depending on my day and how I am feeling.

Now as far as Stretching and Strength

I am going for a very simple formula.
Doing a light cardio exercise like marching in place to warm up the muscles and bring blood flow to the body overall to prepare for Stretching and Strength work.

Stretching the muscle group to be worked gently before I perform that exercise.

Chest-Modified Push ups
Abdominals-Crunches
Upper Back-Modified Pull ups/Lat Pulls/ Band Pulldowns
Legs/Lower Back-Deadlifts
Legs/Back-Squats

I am looking at a tabata type format for time not so much for reps.
So 1 min in each exercise, then repeat 2-4 times.
As a cool down I would do some light cardio and stretching.

Initially all exercise would be Bodyweight- gradually adding weight.

The workout schedule to follow would start 2 days a week tabata style and then cardio on off days. Moving to 3-4 days days a week combining tabatas and cardio after to flush wastes.

I also need to figure out the cat rubbing on me or the dogs trying to lick my face off when I am doing floor work. Pet hair can be somewhat invasive. I may need to move my weight set back out to the living room.

Hopefully this will help you start looking forward to warmer weather.

Don't forget Soothing Blend or Soothing Blend Rub for those sore or achy muscles.

Monday, March 9, 2015

Thinking

How I feel on the inside reflects on the outside in my appearance and behavior.
When I eat well and give my body the tools it needs to accept nutrients, then it is able to heal itself.
The biggest factor in my health is my thought process  about myself.
I have to change the way I think about myself, to change how I think about others.
I change the way I think by:
Not putting in degrading and painful information from media sources of all types.
Currently I really have now desire to watch TV even movies, I would prefer to read and ponder.
So I do...
I am putting in the best information I can.
This comes from my Core book(s)-the Holy Bible (KJV-LDS Edition), The Book of Mormon,
Doctrine and Covenants, and Pearl of Great Price. I have gained so much insight from studying by topic. We are encouraged to seek knowledge of the best books, these are but a few of them.
I am studying Complimentary Healing modalities of many forms, it is interesting to be able to find examples of these in the scriptures. I take my Science based background and even find it supported there in the scriptures too. Because Heavenly Father is a being of Order and I truly desire to become like him and His Son. I must learn order in my living-My closet, my books, my clothing, everything must be in order. But I will take in small bits and pieces. I will organize them a little bit at a time, knowing I will return to reorder and chaos exists here. Clothing brings me to an interest would never guess by the way I dress. Fatigue has it's way of making us just pick whatever. Well that needs to come to order too. I know that one of the things I will do is bring my wardrobe back to order, being a former Color and Image Consultant  (yes you may gasp or laugh whichever). I will put it all back together. Because the way I dress affects the way I feel and the way I feel affects the way I think which affects the way I see myself. I no longer want to see myself as less than a precious daughter of my Heavenly Father. I am princess in training, as we all are. I must learn to be graceful and to deal with others with grace and poise. There is a lot to work through there. I will find a good mentor who can help me. Most of that wardrobe will have to be sewn from scratch as most of the things I see really do not like the color combinations or patterns. Luckily, I have basic sewing skills and a body blueprint system that will help me design and make patterns from scratch.
Those Healing modalities lead into another area too. Leadership and self-directed education which will serve me well in the future. That is another topic for another day though...

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Food and Gluten Cross-contamination?

What is cross-contamination?
Cross-contamination is when a substance that causes great discomfort to an individual because they are sensitive or allergic to that substance.

This makes eating out at cheap burger joints or pizza places almost impossible, even low end restaurants or buffet bars. This has improved in the last few years in my experience.

As I have been traveling more for our businesses, I find I can get away with snacking on good food (veggies and fruit leather) as long as I eat one really good hot meal Preferably a 10 oz Steak, steamed veggies with REAL butter, a sweet potato with REAL butter and cinnamon and a good salad consisting of veggies red wine vinegar and Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) plus a big glass of water with some of Lemon essential oil or Metabolic Blend. I find do so much better. I usually can find coconut wraps and use those to surround a 6 oz can of tuna that has EVOO, vinegar and 6 drops of Cilantro Essential oil. This makes a good travel meal and tasty detox meal. The breakfast of choice is scrambled eggs and turkey bacon or chicken sausage OR a huge steak and veggie omelet. Beverages are Herbal tisanes and Yerba Mate from South America. I keep my sugars low, except for whole fruit and the fruit leather. I make or find safe snack bars. I do find at convention centers once I explain and ask, 'can you guarantee gluten-free, corn-free, and white potato-free and no cross-contamination' most places have no problem with me bringing food and drink I can consume safely. You will notice not a lot of grains or grasses (Rice, Amaranth, etc) either, I do eat them on occasion but I keep them very low becase they do not always agree with my body.

Something I saw in an LDS Tech Newsletter, an individual wrote in about the Sacrament stating that only those with Celiac* really worry about having a completely gluten-free experience. Something that should be understood is that a Gluten-intolerant* person can have Celiac or they may not. You can be both*. I learned this through Danna Korn, founder of Raising Our Celiac Kids and speaker at many Gluten-Intolerance conferences, when presenting in West Jordan, Utah over a decade ago now.  I know from experience that the lifestyle can be maintained. But it does take vigilance in your food preparation and the items you use on your body. everything is important. That is what started my journey to making y own body care items. My food journey in reality began with Eat Right for Your Type by Peter J D'Adamo -The Blood Type diet, I experimented upon the word and took out the obvious sources of wheat and gluten for two weeks and felt absolutely wonderful. But I will save that story for a later date. I now eat more along the whole foods and GAPS diet, or maybe just more Paleo. I have done my best to reduce processed foods as much as possible. For us Growing a garden is key to that lifestyle because we can then preserve our own food for our use.

Where exactly am I going with this a very real area of concern. Food seems to be the center of most Church Activities. It is somewhat discouraging to participation in activities when you know there will be nothing there for you  or that it will be cross-contaminated in the preparation process.

It would be like telling the many diabetics in church that 'I am sorry you can't have sugar, but we really can't be expected to meet your dietary restriction.'

Think would you tell the parent of a child with a peanut allergy, 'I am sorry your child will die from consuming or being in the room with peanuts, but we cannot meet those restrictions we are serving peanut butter cookies to all the kids.' How would that really go over?

This is how a person with food allergies or restrictions feels...

I have personally donated the supplies and helped my aunt prepare gluten-free french rolls for 100 people, because they had 3 sisters who were gluten-free. It was pleasure for me to do that because I knew what it meant to those 3 sisters.

How hard is it to separate naturally gluten-free from gluten items? Not very hard it is a matter of thinking it through and planning, and being very clear about the procedures necessary in Preparation and serving. I am very blessed to have children that know first hand the results of 'a little won't hurt you'.  They act as centurions watching preparation and telling me don't eat you will get sick.

The solution is setting aside a Gluten-free and food allergy table being clear that is for those with that issue. Because like at home sometimes our 'free' food looks better than the other 'normal' food. Have plain cut up Fruit and veggies with a plain sour cream dip or safe home made hummus. At the very least share the menu so that person can bring something to eat. OR have the activity and save the time of eating until the end, so they can quietly duck out.

Something else for those who think hand sanitizer cleans up gluten from the bread or other gluten items- sorry no dice there- Only soap and water properly remove the gluten. Please let those who prepare our Sacrament know this. That little speck of a crumb you drop from your finger on that cracker can cause anaphylaxsis-been there done that-don't want to do it again. that is why I am so anal about Sacrament Prep and have been requested to hold mine in my own hands now.

As always, comments and questions are welcome.  I am willing to discuss the matter.

*includes Dermatitus Herpetiformis-includes skin contact with gluten, which results in breakout of acne like looking bumps but are painful and leak clear fluids. It does not make one look pretty.

(Insert Name) made me think...

** Now the disclaimer-I used to think the way another dressed or the lack of dress made me think a certain way. I have since through study and lots of prayer figured out it is totally my choice what I think and I take responsibility for my own thought and actions. **

I am a bit concerned with the thought that I can make someone think something by the way I look. and It is therefore my fault because they are thinking that way.

I remember being taught in Young Women that the way I dressed influenced the way a young man thought.
Where does this leave the responsibility? It leaves it totally on the young woman.
Where is the young mans responsibility to control his thoughts? It does not sound like he has any. It sounds like he can be in any state of dress and it is OK.

I know the Young Women no longer swim at Girls Camp and at youth activities. They don't swim at camp or told to bring capri and t-shirts with sleeves to wear in the water at those youth activities. But here is what I don't understand why can a young man go around in just his swim trunks with no top. Simply put it is a double standard.

What this teaches is that Young Men and Men are not able to control their thoughts and it is always the Young Woman's and Woman's responsibility to keep them on the straight and narrow in their thinking.

I believe when we hit Judgement day. I will be judged on my thoughts alone, not what anyone else chose to think. I know this. I can say it with confidence after I have had somethings happen in my life that I choose not to discuss openly. Those who need to know, know and understand.

A great book that started my healing process was And They Were Not Ashamed by Laura Brotherson. Can you imagine what it must feel like to hear in Genesis that we were created in the image of our Heavenly Parents and pronounced very good. But in the next breath we are told we are defective and our bodies are sinful because they MAKE other think naughty thoughts.
This is just not true.

Our bodies are in the image of our Heavenly Parents-the body is good and beautiful.

Our bodies come in different shapes and sizes. Is that bad? No.
Sometimes because of the care or lack of care or medicines or other enviromental factors there are differences. Considering I know this first hand you see the body building pictures in prior posts. That was a result of very careful planning and care of exercise and what I put in my mouth. Really a huge influence was my thought process about that phase. I used a lot of guided imagery and visualization.

What does that have to do with thoughts?
What we think makes a huge difference in our outcomes. I have been chosen to no longer input huge amounts of media from many sources into my CPU (My brain). GI-GO (Garbage in-garbage out). I am choosing to read more classics. Listen to audios that centered and focused more on true principles. I am choosing to watch that which uplifts the souls as a whole.

My workout music used to consist of music I listened as a Young Adult in high school. Notice I said 'used to' I now listen to audios or books on tape or use my homemade 'treadmill desk' (a board across the part that stick out) to compose papers or reading a book. I have found by using those instead of the music I learn so much more the uptake in my mind is wonderful. I remember more it seems and I process it better, making better connections.

I have found that words in general affect us. Anyone who sees my big mug  notices the words Gratitude, love and joy. I am adding peace. Why? Because It affects the way I feel. I need the positive to counteract the negative that comes in.

It has been said that we need the following ratios of Positive comments to counteract a negative comment:
Positive: Negative
3:1 to move forward
2:1 languishing
1:1 depression
6:1 flourishing
5:1 required for a successful marriage

Words may have more influence than what is seen.

WE need to see others as people, not objects. A couple good books on this is Leadership and Self Deception and The Anatomy of Peace by the Arbinger Institute. If you would like to get copies ask and I will send you links for both.

What we need to do is focus on the persons heart, not what they are wearing.
There are so many beautiful hearts that are hidden beneath burkas or abayas or bikinis or knee length shorts and dresses or T-shirts with sleeves.
Look at them with the Saviors' heart. Love them into fellowship.

Remember our culture is not the only culture, look at the changes within the Church over the last few years and the way programs are able to be modified to meet the needs of a worldwide Church versus just those in Utah. Because Utah is not the Church. We are a very diverse people and it is beautiful. True principles always prevail.



Thursday, January 1, 2015

Crockpot food storage meal-Canned Venison Vegetable stew


Take four cups of Vegetable stew, brand of choice, place in slow cooker. 
Take a quart of canned venison with liquid. Drain liquid into meauring cup add water to total 8 cups of liquid, this makes a broth.
Add meat to top of dry Vegetable stew blend, thenpour in 8 cups of liquid (combined broth and water)
Heat until it smells deicious and veggies are rehydrated fully. 
I put the crockpot on high, will check in an hour.

Venison stew if what for dinnner tonight, for the family. Now to go hunt down my meal.....