FOODIE FRIDAY! ::: Cinnamon Apple Chips

Cinnamon Apple Chips

What a Great Treat!

Cinnamon Apple Chips are the perfect anytime treat. They are sweet, crispy, and have a delicious hint of cinnamon. Pack them in your children’s lunchboxes as a healthier alternative to potato chips. Just beware—they are addicting and make your home smell like the holidays.

What You Need:

7 – 8 medium sized apples

1 tablespoon sugar or sweetener of choice

6 drops Cinnamon Essential Oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 225 degrees F.

2. Put parchment paper onto two baking sheets.

3. Combine sugar and Cinnamon essential oil into a small bowl. Stir to combine. 

Slice apples into thin slices. Note: Use a mandolin for best results.

Place apples onto parchment covered baking sheets in a single layer.

Sprinkle apple slices with cinnamon sugar mixture.

Place baking sheets in preheated oven for 45 minutes  –  1 hour. Halfway through, flip the apples over.

When edges of the apples are curled, take out of oven and place on a wire rack until cooled and crispy.

Enjoy!

FOODIE FRIDAY! ::: Herbed Dinner Rolls - EASY!

Easy Herbed Dinner Rolls

Yumm Yumm Yummy!

This recipe provides an easy way to add a subtle hint of essential oils toyour freshly baked dinner rolls. Everything is better with a little essential oil!

INGREDIENTS:

1 dozen freshly baked dinner rolls
2 Tbsp. butter, melted
2 toothpicks rosemary essential oil
2 toothpicks thyme essential oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and the essential oils (dip a toothpick in the essential oil, and then swish the toothpick around in the butter; use a separate toothpick for each oil).

Brush the tops of your freshly baked rolls with the butter/essential oil mixture.

Return the rolls to your warm oven for 2–3 minutes.

Remove the rolls from the oven, and serve warm. 

h/t AromaTools

TIPSTER TUESDAY! ::: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Just wanted to give you a little tip that I learned about using empty oil bottles.

Pull apart lid, dropper, and bottle and submerge in baking soda or Epsom salt. You can use the Epsom salt for a bath or make your own soft scrub with the baking soda. 

Epsom Salt: Let it soak for 1-2 nights - the salts will absorb the oils. Then just add it to your bath water!

Soft scrub: 4 cups baking soda, empty essential oil bottles, 10 drops citrus oil, water. Let the oil bottles sit in baking soda for at least 24 hrs and then remove. Add citrus oil and enough water to make a thick paste.

h/t to Roxy Pittman

FOODIE FRIDAY! ::: Jalapeno & Goat Cheese White Bean Dip with Cilantro and Lime EOs

Perfectly paired with goat cheese, spicy jalapenos, and hearty beans, this dip is full of terrific taste and healthy ingredients. Serve with veggies or bread for a cunning combination your guests will be howling for.

Jalapeno & Goat Cheese White Bean Dip with Cilantro and Lime EOs

2 cans white kidney beans
1-2 jalapenos, depending on your preferred spice level
2-ounce plain goat cheese
1 toothpick Cilantro essential oil
1-3 drops Lime essential oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp honey
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1-3 tbsp water for desired consistency

Directions

Preheat oven to broil (500°F).

Place jalapenos on a baking sheet and rub with olive oil. Roast peppers under the broiler until jalapeno skin is blistered and blackened (about 5-10 minutes). Turn them with a pair of tongs periodically to ensure all sides are equally done. Once done, pull jalapenos from the oven with a pair of tongs and place in a covered bowl. This allows the skin to steam and loosen. Remove skins (they will peel off), tops, and seeds, then roughly chop.

Place all ingredients, except Cilantro essential oil and olive oil, into the bowl of a food processor.

Pulse 5-6 times. Add a toothpick of Cilantro essential oil by dipping the toothpick into the oil and then swirling it into the dip.

Pulse 10-15 times adding small amounts of olive oil until the desired consistency is reached. Taste and adjust any seasonings to your liking. Store in the refrigerator but serve at room temperature with garlic crostini, veggies, whole grain chips, or pita slices.

Health Highlights:

* White Kidney Beans- These legumes are filled with antioxidants that can help fight off certain types of cancer, heart disease, and other degenerative diseases. A one cup serving of white kidney beans contains almost half of your recommended daily fiber needs. (1)

* Jalapenos- Capsaicin is the substance in jalapenos that gives it its kick. Additionally, capsaicin can also help raise your metabolism and diminish your appetite, which can aid in weight loss. (2)

* Goat Cheese- This type of cheese has significantly less sodium than most cheeses. Switching to goat cheese can help reduce the risks associated with high sodium diets such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. (3)

1 //healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-white-kidney-beans-4420.html; //www.healwithfood.org/health-benefits/white-beans-navy.php

2 //www.livestrong.com/article/409721-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-jalapeno-peppers/

3 //www.livestrong.com/article/402645-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-eating-goat-cheese/

Oil of the Week ::: On Guard Protective Blend

ON GUARD PROTECTIVE BLEND

PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Supports healthy immune and respiratory function
• Protects against environmental threats
• Supports the body’s natural antioxidant defenses
• Promotes healthy circulation
• Energizing and uplifting aroma

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 
On Guard, a proprietary essential oil blend, provides a natural and effective alternative for immune support. On Guard protects against environmental and seasonal threats with essential oils known for their positive effects on the immune system. It can be taken internally on a daily basis to maintain healthy immune function and support healthy cardiovascular function.

 It can also be used on surfaces throughout the home as a non-toxic cleaner. When diffused, On Guard helps purify the air, and can be very energizing and uplifting. On Guard provides cleansing and purifying benefits.

USES
• Add two to three drops in a veggie capsule for a quick immune boost.
• Add to water for an effective all-purpose surface cleaner.
• Soak sliced apples in water and a few drops for a healthy, immune-boosting snack.
• Combine a few drops of On Guard with Fractionated Coconut Oil for a natural hand cleanser.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Diffusion:  Use three to four drops in the diffuser of  your choice.
Internal use:  Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use:  Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil for sensitivite skin.

Also available in beadlets!

Contact me TODAY for a 15% discount on the Oil of the Week!

Tipster Tuesday! ::: DIY Essential Oil Infused Tissues

DIY Essential Oil Infused Tissues

Making a Bad Day Better!

If you've ever had a cold, you know how awful it is to keep needing a tissue. Make blowing your nose more enjoyable by adding essential oils to your tissue box!

Just open the bottom or side of a tissue box, and add a few drops of essential oil directly to the tissue. Seal the box again, and enjoy the scent each time you blow your nose.

You may also enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the essential oil you choose as you breathe in its aroma. Some oils to try include Lavender, On Guard, Eucalyptus, or Lemon.

Magical Monday! ::: Let The Dream Begin!

Have you ever wondered what your dreams meant?

They can be like a movie - full of story line & character, or as random as the Mad Tea Party!

Rather than their intellectual meaning, how about the way you felt?
That might be more to the point.

So, what about here, in the 'real' world?
What about the Dream you have of & for your Life?
How does that dream leave you feeling?

It ought to be full of joy & optimism & a great big helping of Love.

Living Dreams take a lot of work & sacrifice.
Make sure yours is the one you want.

Gratitude S'attitude! ::: I'm Glad To Have It

For You, My Dearest Wendith

Sometimes this crazy world doesn't make any sense at all.
Our intentions shine, but we repeat mistakes ...
we hurt ourselves ... we hurt others ...

Face it.
There are times when we find ourselves curled up in a ball on the floor wondering how we could be so stupid ... again.

Oh, my Dearest One, believe this ::: It IS a messy Life.
But it is my mess, your mess. I'm glad to have it.

                                 ..........................

You are worth it. Just the way you are.
You don't have to do anything, or be anything or
say anything to make me love you.

I already love you.
You are worth it.
Just the way you are.

SO MUCH LOVE GOES TO YOU.
EveryDay.

Foodie Friday! ::: Fresh Caprise Salad with Basil Essential Oil

Fresh Caprise Salad with Basil Essential Oil

h/t to Adrienne Snyder, NC

INGREDIENTS

• 1 c cherry tomato halves
• 1/2 c mozzarella cheese ball halves

• Fresh basil leaves
• 4-6 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2–4 drop Basil essential oil
• Mini wooden skewers*

DIRECTIONS

Blend balsamic vinegar, olive oil & basil
essential oil in bottle (or glass). Mix well.

Place tomatoes and cheese in bowl.

Top with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and basil essential oil mixture and eat!

* Need a quick and easy appetizer? Thread tomatoes and cheese onto mini wooden skewers and drizzle with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and basil essential oil mixture.

Oil of the Week ::: Vetiver

Vetiveria zizanioides

Beautiful in Every Way!

Shane & I wouldn't be without Vetiver.  It has a powerful relaxing effect that is perfect for a good night's sleep!

PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Calming, grounding effect on emotions
• Immune-supporting properties


PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Vetiver, a member of the grass family, is grown for many reasons. Unlike other grasses, the root system of Vetiver grows down, making it ideal for helping to prevent erosion and providing soil stabilization. Vetiver has a rich, exotic, complex aroma that is used extensively in perfumes. Due to Vetiver’s calming, grounding effect on the emotions, it is an ideal oil to use in massage therapy. It can also be rubbed on the feet before bedtime to promote a restful night’s sleep. When taken internally, Vetiver can support a heathy immune system.


USES 
• Add 1–2 drops to tea or hot drinks during winter time to promote immune-supporting properties.
• Use as a massage oil to calm emotions.
• Take a warm bath with a few drops of Vetiver essential oil for deep relaxation.
• Diffuse with Lavender, Serenity, or Balance to calm emotions and lessen stress.

Vetiver is quite viscous. Use a toothpick to help get the desired amount out of container if it is too slow getting out of the bottle. A little goes a long way.


DIRECTIONS FOR USE 
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil for sensitive skin.

Contact me TODAY for a 15% discount on the Oil of the Week!

Workaday Wednesday ::: You ARE!

Yes You Are ~ Never Forget It!

Tipster Tuesday ::: DIY Bath Bombs

DIY: Fast-Fizzing Bath Bombs Made with Essential Oils

Creating a spa like environment in your home can easily be done using simple household ingredients and essential oils.

Bath bombs are a fun way to add excitement to your senses while enjoying the benefits of essential oils. They are also entertaining to use, and are loved by both kids and adults alike; because really, who doesn’t love a bath that fizzles?!

Even if you don’t have a bathtub, these bath bombs can still be effective in a shower. The water will help dissolve the bath bomb and release the aroma of the essential oils into the steam.

What you need:

1 cup citric acid*
1 cup baking soda
½ cup cornstarch
½ cup oil (almond oil, olive oil, Fractionated Coconut Oil, etc.)
8-10 drops of your favorite essential oil(s)
silicone mold or saran wrap

* citric acid can be found at most major supermarkets in the canning section

Instructions:

In a bowl, place citric acid, baking soda, cornstarch, and oil.
Add 8-10 drops of the essential oil(s) of your choice.

Note: Choose an essential oil to best suit your needs. The options are endless.
For relaxation, try Lavender or Serenity.
For a mood boost, try Wild Orange, Citrus Bliss, or Grapefruit.
For a decongestant, try Eucalyptus or Breathe Respiratory Blend.

Mix well with a spoon or with your hands until a soft dough is formed. It should have the consistency of damp sand. At this point you could also add food coloring, dried herbs, or flower petals to the mixture. If the mixture is too wet, try adding a little more baking soda and cornstarch until the consistency is right.

Put the mixture into a silicone mold. Let it sit for at least 24 hours before removing from mold.

If you don’t have a silicone mold, you could use cupcake liners or saran wrap to help mold your bath bombs.

The bath bombs are ready to use once they are completely dry. To use, just drop them in the tub/shower until they dissolve.

Bath bombs are excellent gifts for both adults and children. When making for kids, try adding some color to the mixture. Not only will they love when the water changes colors, but will also love the fizz and bubbles from the bath bomb as well.

Show us your results! Take a photo of your homemade creations using essential oils products and post on here or on my Auntie J's facebook page, with the hashtag #athomEOs for a chance to be featured!

Foodie Friday! ::: Guacamole with Cilantro & Lime Essential Oil

Guacamole with Cilantro & Lime Essential Oil

This guacamole recipe works great as a garnish for any Mexican recipe or simply as a dip for tortilla chips. 

Ingredients

In honor of Cindo de Mayo ... Enjoy!

2 avocados, pitted and smashed
4 diced tomatoes
2 chopped jalapeños, seeds removed
2 Tbsp. minced cilantro
1/2 minced purple onion
2 minced green onions
A pinch of kosher salt
1 drop cilantro essential oil
2 drops lime essential oil

Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl.

Serve with tortilla chips or your favorite Mexican dish. Enjoy!

Oil of the Week ::: Marjoram

Joy of the Mountains!

Oh, what a lovely little oil is Sweet Marjoram! You can cook with it ... soothe with it ... bring peace with it ...

But did you know that, added to Frankincense, it becomes a powerful remedy for soreness? Read on!

Also known as “wintersweet” or “joy of the mountains,” Marjoram was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of happiness. Marjoram has been used in culinary dishes, imparting a unique flavor to soups, stews, dressings, and sauces: in Germany, this herb is known as the “Goose Herb” for its traditional use in roasting geese. In modern applications, Marjoram is valued for its calming properties and its positive effect on the nervous system. It also supports both healthy cardiovascular and immune systems.


PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Valued for its calming properties and positive effect on nerves
• Supports a healthy immune system
• May promote a healthy cardiovascular system

USES
• Apply to the back of the neck to lessen feelings of stress.
• Apply to a fussy child’s feet prior to a nap.
• Replace Marjoram essential oil in your next recipe that calls for dried Marjoram.*
• Apply to muscles before and after exercising.

* Usually 1 drop of essential oil is equivalent to 2 tsp. of dried herbs.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil for sensitive skin. 

Pretty in the yard, or in the soup!

Contact me TODAY for a 15% discount on the Oil of the Week!

Workaday Wednesday ::: Use It or Lose It

Among my many talents (oh, Yeah!), I have a BFA in Graphic Design with many years experience in Marketing Design. Last year I created a page to show a portfolio sampling, and today I went to visit it.

Couldn't find it.
Anywhere.

This is a truism ::: If you don't USE what gifts you have, the resources, contacts &/or ideas ... they will slip away as surely as a hill of sand.

Keep Planting Seeds ~ Keep The Soil Fertile!

You Are Magnificent!
Never Doubt It.

So keep it going.

Tipster Tuesday ::: DIY Powder Cleanser

DIY: Powder Cleanser

Deep cleaning doesn’t have to mean hours of scrubbing on your hands and knees. This powdered cleanser makes it easy to clean even the grimiest of surfaces with little to no work. Just sprinkle on the surface, walk away for 15-30 minutes, and then wipe clean.
It’s that easy!

What You Need:

2 cups borax*
1 cup baking soda
½ cup citric acid
½ cup kosher salt
20 drops Lemon essential oil

Directions:
Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and stir until combined.

Store in a large shaker bottle.
Tip: Use an old Parmesan cheese shaker.

To use, dampen surface and sprinkle powder over area you want to clean.

Let sit for 15-30 minutes. For an extra cleansing boost, spray distilled vinegar on powder and wipe clean.

You’re done! Enjoy your new sparkly-clean surface.

* Although borax is natural, it can be toxic when ingested and should be kept away from children and pets. If you are concerned about using borax, you can omit it.

Show us your results! Take a photo of your homemade creations using essential oils products and post on here or on my Auntie J's facebook page, with the hashtag #athomEOs for a chance to be featured!

Magical Monday! ::: Share Your Magic

Man, the pity pot can be too damn big for me. In crisis & left to my own devices, The Descent Into The Maelstrom is more than a chilling Poe story. It can quickly become a mindset. I drown in that pot.

It is undeniable that the best way to help yourself is to help others.

It's Magical Monday ~ Let's Make Some Magic!

A good friend of mine signs her emails, "If you see someone without a smile, give them yours."
Sounds like pretty good advice to me.

Gratitude S'attitude! ::: What You See

Sometimes 'seeing' just isn't enough.

A Leaf At My Foot?

Sometimes you really have to LOOK.

A Wild Camoflauge of Beauty!

Foodie Friday! ::: Rainbow Fruit Cup with Wild Orange Whipped Cream

Rainbow Fruit Cup with Wild Orange Whipped Cream

Hey, it's the weekend ~ Enjoy yourself!

One drop of Wild Orange, fresh whipped cream, and your favorite fruit make up this healthy and festive treat. The only thing hard about this recipe will be keeping the kids away from it.

Ingredients

Fruit (You can try grapes, blueberries, kiwi, pineapple, oranges, and strawberries to get the perfect rainbow.)

1 cup whipping cream

1-2 drops Wild Orange essential oil

Directions

Wash and dry fruit. Cut into small bite-size pieces.

Beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add 1-2 drops of Wild Orange essential oil and stir.

In a glass cup, layer cut fruit by colors of the rainbow. 

Top with Wild Orange whipped cream and enjoy.

Taste the rainbow! 

Show us your results! Take a photo of your homemade recipes using essential oils products and post on here or on my Auntie J's fb page (https://www.facebook.com/AuntieJsApothecary), with the hashtag #FooiEOs for a chance to be featured!

Oil of the Week ::: Geranium

Spring has sprung & the Geraniums are in bloom!

Geranium ::: Pelargonium Graveolens

Earlier this week I shared a tip using Geranium in a
hair-strengthening de-tangler. Well, here are some more
amazing Geranium facts!

PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Promotes healthy skin & hair
• Helps calm nerves & lessen stress
• Naturally repels insects 

USES
• Use in an aromatherapy steam facial to beautify skin.
• Add a drop to your moisturizer for a smoothing effect.
• Geranium is great for both dry and oily hair. Apply a few drops to your shampoo or conditioner bottle, or make your own deep hair conditioner.
• Diffuse aromatically for a calming effect.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE 
Diffusion ~ Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use ~ Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
Topical use ~ Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil for sensitive  skin.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Uses of Geranium essential oil date back to ancient Egypt when Egyptians used Geranium oil to beautify skin. In the Victorian era, fresh geranium leaves were placed at formal dining tables as decorative pieces and to be consumed as a fresh sprig if desired; in fact, the edible leaves and flowers of the plant are often used in desserts, cakes, jellies, and teas. (I've even had them in salad!)

A member of the Pelargonium genus of flower species, Geraniums are grown for their beauty and as a staple of the perfume industry. While there are over 200 different varieties of Pelargonium flowers, only a few are used as essential oils.

As an essential oil, Geranium has long been used to promote the appearance of clear skin and healthy hair — making it ideal for your own skin and hair care products. It calms nerves and lessens feelings of stress. Geranium is known to naturally repel insects.

Contact me TODAY for a 15% discount on the Oil of the Week!

Workaday Wednesday ::: Have a Good Time!

Look, there's enough huffing & puffing in the world already. So when it comes to how you spend the largest lump of your day ~ HAVE A GOOD TIME!

If you're not doing something you absolutely love, change it!

Live inside your passion ~ The rest will be provided.

Happy You = Happy World

Tipster Tuesday ::: DIY Natural Hair Detangler with Essential Oils

DIY Natural Hair Detangler with Essential Oils

There are few things worse than tangled hair–it can often lead to a tender scalp and lots of unnecessary hair stuck in your brush. Detangling Spray is a great way to get your hair tangle-free without the sore scalp. Marshmallow root and apple cider vinegar are natural detanglers and essential oils add additional benefits to help keep your hair healthy, beautiful & smelling great!

Ingredients
12-ounce or larger spray bottle
1.5 c distilled water
3 tablespoons marshmallow root (marshmallow root can be purchased at most health food stores or online)
1/2 c apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp conditioner
5 drops Rosemary essential oil
5 drops Patchouli essential oil
5 drops Geranium essential oil
5 drops Melaleuca essential oil

Directions

Boil water and marshmallow root in a small pan.

Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Let cool slightly and strain through a cheesecloth or very thin wire strainer.

While warm, pour into bottle and add the conditioner, apple cider vinegar, and essential oils.

Shake until combined.

To use, spray a generous amount on wet hair and comb through. Style as normal.

Show us your results! Take a photo of your homemade creations using essential oils products and post on here or on my Auntie J's fb page (https://www.facebook.com/AuntieJsApothecary), with the hashtag #beautEOs for a chance to be featured!

Magical Monday! ::: The Dream Begins

Did you ever postpone something that you really wanted to do? Ever wonder why?

Yes, there will always be lots of 'reasons' - valid & unquestionable - that get in the way of changing our lives. But haven't you ever achieved an unstoppable goal? ... something that no thing, no person, could  prevent?

Change Your Mind ~ Change Your World

It is the changing of our own minds that is at the core.

This is a daily deal. Even if yesterday stopped you, even if you're unsure of how it will all work... every day you get to look your limits in the face & say YES! I CAN! 

Each moment is only yours. Each day it's up to you to choose your beliefs.
No piece of history gets to write your future. This story is YOURS.

Your Beliefs ~ Your Story

Every day The Dream begins anew!

Sunday Spirit ::: What The World Needs Now ...

Love Is Always Beautiful!

In keeping with the Earth Day theme, the Dionne Warwick song has been running through my mind all day.

Thought I'd share a little love with you!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=w7CXpOAbPgo

Gratitude S'attitude ::: The Garden in the Forest

The point of my long & untold tale is that even pulling weeds can be a wondrous, enriching experience!

My Weeding Job? ... Feels More Like Meditation!

Yeah. I'm pretty blessed.
Bet you are, too. (I'd love to hear about it!)

Foodie Friday! ::: Honey-Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

Honey-Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry

What's for Dinner Tonight?!

This stir-fry is easy to make and you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It has a sweet, mild flavor that is quite delicious and sure to please.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, sliced
4 carrots, sliced at an angle
1 small head of broccoli, cut into florets
4 tbsp soy sauce
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1 1/2 tsp curry powder
2 toothpicks Ginger Essential Oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
(lemon slices, green onion, &/or sesame seeds to top)

Sauce Ingredients
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
1-1/2 tbsp honey
5–7 drops Lemon Essential Oil

Directions
Sauté heated olive oil onion and carrots, over medium heat for a few minutes*.

h/t AromaTools

Mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Ginger Essential Oil in a small bowl.

Add chicken, soy sauce mixture, curry powder, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Stir to make sure everything is coated and mixed well. Continue to cook until chicken is cooked through.

In a separate bowl, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients.

Once chicken is cooked, add broccoli, cover, and let steam for a minute. Remove from heat, and transfer the chicken and vegetables to a clean bowl, leaving the soy sauce mixture in the pan.

Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the soy sauce mixture, and cook over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Pour the chicken and vegetables back into the pan, and evenly coat with the sauce.
Serve immediately over rice, and top with lemon slices, green onion, &/or sesame seeds.

* Always heat your cooking oils before adding food - it creates a more even cooking surface.

Show us your results! Take a photo of your homemade recipes using essential oils products and post on here or on my Auntie J's fb page (https://www.facebook.com/AuntieJsApothecary), with the hashtag #FooiEOs for a chance to be featured!

Workaday Wednesday ::: Change Isn't Failure

Cramped & Painful

Change.
Fail.
Security.

These are some pretty supercharged words ... fraught with fear & guilt, they can bring an entrepreneur to her knees wondering just what she did wrong.

I'm here to tell you ::: As long as you don't quit, you are succeeding.

Some days The Dream of self-directed employment may not look anything like you imagined. When you are your family's sole supporter the demand to get-it-right is extreme.  If you have a spouse, that brings in a whole new set of burdens.

But understand this ~ If you don't discipline yourself, somebody else will.

That's a powerful reality. For me, it's enough to keep going even when those first three words pop up.

Last week I picked up a part-time job. Building a business is expensive; right now my finances needed a tourniquet. That doesn't mean I've failed.

Quite the opposite.
It shows me and God's Green Earth my commitment to do whatever it takes to ensure my financial freedom.

So what about you?

If there is some boogeyman in the back closet of your entrepreneurial mansion, I challenge you to throw wide the door and shine a different light inside! It may be hard, it may be scary. But, Change isn't failure.

Be Willing to Become a Butterfly!

It is successfully adapting to the permutations of Life and business. By the very act of persevering,
YOU are transforming your home, your family, your Dream into a strong and glorious new design.

Tipster Tuesday ::: DIY Natural Dishsoap

Homemade Natural Dishwashing Soap

Clean & Toxin-Free!

I'm so excited to find this recipe! What about you?
Are you looking for a more natural soap to clean your handwashed dishes? 

This dish soap is thick like commercial brands and produces a good lather as you clean. Our scent is an excellent one, but you could try something new, too! Just add 15–20 drops (total) of your chosen essential oils to the mixture before whisking.

Ingredients & supplies
1 c liquid Castile Soap
2 tsp Vegetable Glycerin
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
10 drops lemon essential oil
4 drops orange essential oil
2 drops thyme essential oil

8 oz. plastic bottle with snap-top lid

h/t to AromaTools

Instructions
Place all ingredients in a glass bowl; gently whisk until the mixture thickens.
Pour into the 8 oz. bottle.
Place a small amount on a sponge and use to handwash your dishes, or add some to your dish water as the water is filling the sink.

Sunday Spirit ::: Happy Earth ... Celebration!

Honor Her Who Cherishes Us!

Yes, Earth 'Day' takes place on the 20th, but many festivities are taking place today in honor of Mama Gaia.
(I guess we're still missing the lesson that Mom comes before corporations -- ah, well. That will change.)

In any case, Happy Earth Celebration!
Revel in the wonder that is this Great Blue Marble ~ however she came to be.

Without her, we'd just be spaced out.

I Love You, Mother Nature!
Sure glad you love us, too. 

Gratitude S'attitude! ::: Grateful for Today

Yesterday was filled with fear & frustration. Money problems loomed BIGGERTHANLIFE ... I'd had a commitment for a Spring Bazaar today, but yesterday it seemed like too much work.

I just didn't have it in me.

Still, the car got packed and I went to bed early with the disgruntled agreement to go.

So Rise Again.

.............
My dreams must have been really good.
I woke up ready for a great day ... feeling excited,
and glad to be alive.

So what's my point?

I guess it's just that ... I don't know, things can be hard. Money can be tight. People don't always get along.
Your hours can be long, or work too far away.

BUT.
Every day is new. That's pretty terrific.
You get another chance.

And some days, we even get it right.

Foodie Friday ::: Black Bean & Ham Soup with Cilantro & Lime Essential Oils

CROCKPOT COOKERY - Black Bean & Ham Soup with Cilantro & Lime Essential Oils
So, I created this earlier in the week, and it was just too darn tasty to keep all to myself! Really, I think part of it's yumminess came from the ham glaze. If enough of you request it, I'll post that next week. This was good enough for my son - the critical chef - to say how much he liked it (and he doesn't like soup!) 

It's Fun To Be Creative In The Kitchen!

Ingredients for Base
ham roast leftovers, bone-in
1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 celery, cut into 4, 3, 2 sections, respectively
1 bag black beans*
1 box chicken broth
water to cover
10 or so whole peppercorns**

* treat the black beans first by soaking them for 1/2 hr in hot water with 1/2 c baking soda. Stir it a 2-3 times. Rinse it thoroughly (3-4 times)
** I used no salt in this - the ham was enough

Directions
Add all together in the crockpot, simmer on high for 1-1/2 to 2 hrs.
Pull out the ham & all cooked veggies (those were for the stock, discard or puree to add back)
Separate what meat comes easily from the bone. Put the meat & bone (& pureed veggies, if desired) back in the crockpot

Add in
1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery, all cubed
cracked pepper to taste (I have Southern roots - so I use a lot of pepper!)

Cook another 1-1/2 to 2 hrs on high (Test beans for doneness)
Remove bone & separate the rest of the meat. Return the meat to the soup.

Finish with
1-2 drops Cilantro Essential Oil
2-4 drops Lime Essential Oil
Simmer on low for another 1/2 hr

Enjoy with cornbread or tortillas, and a healthy salad!

Oil of the Week ::: Melaleuca

Add It To Your Favorite Shampoo!

Melaleuca Alternifolia 

Earlier this week you got a DIY tip on shampoo for soothing an itchy scalp with Melaleuca & Peppermint essential oils. Well, here's some more info on the many uses of amazing Melaleuca.

PRIMARY BENEFITS
• Renowned for its cleansing and rejuvenating effects on the skin
• Promotes healthy immune function
• Protects against environmental and seasonal threats

Commonly known as “Tea Tree,” Melaleuca essential oil has over 92 different compounds and limitless applications. The leaves of the Melaleuca tree were used by the Aborigines of Australia for centuries. They would crush the leaves and inhale the oil to promote feelings of clear breathing and apply the leaves directly to the skin for a cooling effect. Melaleuca is best known for its purifying properties. It can be used to cleanse and purify the skin and nails and to support a healthy complexion. Taken internally, Melaleuca promotes healthy immune function, and Melaleuca can be used on surfaces throughout the home to protect against environmental threats. Melaleuca is frequently used on occasional skin irritations to soothe the skin. Diffusing Melaleuca will help purify and freshen the air.

USES
• For occasional skin irritations, apply 1–2 drops of Melaleuca essential oil onto affected area.
• Add 1–2 drops to water, citrus drinks, or veggie caps to support healthy immune system function.
• Combine 1–2 drops with your facial cleanser for added cleansing properties, or apply to skin after shaving.
• Apply to fingernails and toenails after showering to purify and keeps nails looking healthy.
• Add a few drops to a spray bottle with water and use on surfaces to protect against environmental threats.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE
Diffusion: Use 3-4 drops in the diffuser of your choice.
Internal use: Dilute 1 drop in 4 fl oz of liquid.
Topical use: Apply 1-2 drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize skin sensitivity.

The Amazing Melaleuca Plant!

Contact me TODAY for a 15% discount on the Oil of the Week!