tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22775936883705780982024-03-14T00:24:14.931-07:00Discourses of a Healthy Frugal FamilyUnnecessary possessions are
unnecessary burdens. There is
great freedom in simplicity
of living. - Peace PilgrimMelissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-2537703905816884672013-04-06T10:38:00.002-07:002013-04-06T10:40:18.314-07:00Raw Vegan Chocolate Mint MilkshakeThis is a recipe I made up so, as always, you will have to be patient with me as I'm not perfect at exact measurements. If you want this to be raw you will have to make your own almond milk. If you only care that it is vegan but not raw, you can start with a base of store bought almond or soy milk. First, the recipe for the almond milk.<br />
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For the almond milk you will need the following<br />
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">1 C. Almonds (soaked 8+ hours) throw soak water away</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">4 C. Water </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">4-5 Dates (if you don't have a vitamix you may want to soak the dates for 10-15 minutes to soften)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">1 t. Vanilla </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">Cheese cloth of some kind and pitcher</span></div>
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Start by adding all the ingredients except 2 C of the water. Blend until WELL blended then add the remaining 2 cups water and blend again.</h3>
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Pour the mixture through the cheese cloth and squeeze as much liquid out as you can.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is what the pulp will look like. Do NOT throw this out! I put it in my <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/08/dairy-free-gluten-free-and-raw-yummy.html" target="_blank">raw cookie recipe</a> or raw crackers. Also, you can dehydrate it until dry, blend it well, and use the almond flour in recipes for baking.</div>
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You can enjoy your milk plain, but to make a Chocolate Mint Milkshake you will need to pour some milk into an ice cube tray to freeze.</h3>
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This is what you will need for the Chocolate Mint Milkshake:<br /> </h3>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">1-2 C. Milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Frozen banana</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">2-4 T. Raw Cacao Powder (add 2 then taste to see if you want more)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">6 Cubes frozen milk cubes or more if you want it to be thicker</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">3-6 drops of peppermint oil (you can omit this if you just want a chocolate milkshake)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">Agave to taste (I use between 2-4 T. depending on how sweet I want it)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">This pic shows a double recipe or more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">You can't tell by the picture, but these milkshakes are thick and frozen like a milkshake you would get from an ice cream shop. They are sweet, creamy, and delicious! Next time, I'm going to make a strawberry milkshake! :P</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #783f04;">Have a happy healthy DAY!!</span></span></h2>
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Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-87025340212352479202013-04-02T12:05:00.002-07:002013-04-02T12:06:28.829-07:00The Almost Free Way to Improve Your Health Instantly!<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><u>WATER</u></span></h2>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fitnesstipsforlife.com/drinking-water-first-thing-in-the-morning.html" target="_blank">Picture Source</a></td></tr>
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I could make an entire blog on water if I wanted to, but I'm going to make this post short, sweet, and simple. Water, believe it or not, has become a controversial topic amongst the health gurus. I'm not getting into the controversy on this post. I'll leave that up to you to research on your own.<br />
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I'll start with the benefits of drinking water. Everyone knows them right? Well, let's see if you learn anything new! We all know the obvious benefits of water, number one being to hydrate the body. However, there are some unique benefits to drinking water that are not as commonly discussed.<br />
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The Not So Commonly Known Benefits:<br />
~Gives you energy<br />
~Reduces risk of Cancer<br />
~Helps to eliminate headaches<br />
~Helps with weight loss<br />
~Less likely for sickness<br />
~Enhances your mood<br />
~Helps brain to function properly<br />
~Decreases risk of sprains<br />
~Helps to prevent cramps<br />
~Helps with constipation<br />
~Healthy skin<br />
~Helps to build muscle<br />
~Good for the joints<br />
~Improves workouts<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thewaterq.com/wnews1/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=80:how-much-water-do-you-need&catid=55:benefits-of-water&Itemid=412" target="_blank">Picture Source</a></td></tr>
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Sometimes when you have a lot of information in your head, it is hard to keep things simple, but that's what I am going to do! My best advice: Drink, Drink, Drink!! My second best advice: Don't drink TAP water! I don't care where you live, don't drink it! Below is a pic of what we install in every house we move into. They are about $150 on average at Lowes or Mendards. It is an under the sink RO system. Money WELL spent for healthy clean water. We replace the filter every 6-12 months and that usually only costs us about $40-50.<br />
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Also, I want to stress something here you may not be aware of. Please do not drink water, or any other beverage, with your food. There is a thick digestive juice in our stomachs that aid in the digestion of our food. When we drink fluids we dilute that thick juice into an extremely thin liquid. This slows the digestion process down immensely. Proper digestion is such an important part of our health, proper bowel function, and even weight loss. Drink water at least 30 minutes before a meal and don't drink for at least 2 hours after a meal. This may be a very hard adjustment, but you will notice the benefits almost right away. </div>
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My tips for drinking water:</div>
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Fill 2 quart size jars with water in the morning. Store them on the counter or in the fridge. That is the water you should be drinking each day. This is a great way to track how much water you are drinking and to ensure you are getting enough. Drink more if you are trying to lose weight or cleanse your body.</div>
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Fill a pint size jar with water, put a lid on it, and keep it on your nightstand or by your bed. Each morning upon waking, drink the entire jar before you even get out of bed. There are many benefits to drinking water first thing in the morning.</div>
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One more don't. Do not store water in plastic water bottles in your car if it is warm. Never drink water in plastic that has been hot at any point. Toxins from the plastic get into the water when the plastic is heated.</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Have a happy, healthy, hydrated day!</span></h2>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com77tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-24269832913671578822013-03-18T08:38:00.001-07:002013-03-18T08:44:49.213-07:00Making Fire Starters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since school was canceled today due to ICE I decided to do a post that will bring some warmth and a sweet reminder of summer! Fire starters. These are super easy, fun, and inexpensive to make, and they work GREAT!<br />
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Candle wax (I buy cheap, broken candles at <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/08/salvation-army-love-hate-relationship.html" target="_blank">Salvation Army</a>, garage sales, or other thrift stores)<br />
Cardboard egg cartons (Styrofoam does NOT work)<br />
Lint from your dryer (FREE:)<br />
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I use a size 10 can to put the wax in. When I was taught how to do this they suggested using a crock pot, but I didn't want to deal with the mess of cleaning it out or having an extra one just for this purpose as they suggested. I put the can directly on the stove to melt the wax.<br />
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Once the wax is completely melted, I spoon the wax into each individual well of the egg carton. The first few times I did this, I filled the carton with the lint first then poured the wax in (as I was taught). I found it sticks better when you put the wax in first then fill the carton with the lint. Below is a picture of both methods.</div>
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Below is a picture from the bottom on the difference between the two. Putting the wax in first definitely works better! The one on the right had the wax put in first. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6zNJhhewW0/UUcjYb4ndVI/AAAAAAAAAus/Eeq_2Ml5dhQ/s1600/photo+%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6zNJhhewW0/UUcjYb4ndVI/AAAAAAAAAus/Eeq_2Ml5dhQ/s640/photo+%252840%2529.JPG" width="480" /> </a></div>
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The more lint you can cram in there the better. Cram, cram, cram it in there. This is the free part so don't be afraid to use it.The more you use the more affective the fire starter is and the longer it will burn. I often will pour more wax in over the top once the lint is in. There always seems to be a little more room for more lint. I even have other people collect lint for me. However, with a family of 8 we collect lint pretty fast ourselves. :) </div>
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Once the fire starters have cooled (putting them in the fridge or freezer is ok), you can leave them whole as they are and break them apart when you need one or you can break them apart and store them as individual starters. My kids enjoy breaking them apart so we do that before we store them.</div>
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One day when we made these, my son and I decided to turn it into a "science experiment" and time how long the a single starter would burn.</div>
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What it looks like when it is initially lit.</h2>
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After 12 Minutes!!</h2>
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After 18 Minutes!! It finally stopped burning at 21 minutes!</h2>
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What are the results of these fire starters? Free Family Fun!!! I am SO ready for summer to come and enjoy some campfires! I think I'll go make some fire starters today to help "burn" away my winter blues. These are also great to put in your 72 hour kits!<br />
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Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-66429023413334802382013-02-10T20:08:00.001-08:002013-02-10T20:09:55.770-08:00Strawberry Banana Ice Cream (Raw, Vegan Style)<br />
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This is a simple 1-2 ingredient recipe requiring only 2-3 steps! That being said, I will use very few words to explain this recipe. If you have more questions post them below and I will be happy to answer them. =) First, peel and freeze several bananas. Be sure they are very ripe, but not super brown and soft.</div>
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Second, put them through a juicer (twin gear works best) or a blender.</div>
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Watch the FuN!! </div>
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Dish out the YuMMineSS!</div>
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Add a few frozen strawberries if you'd like a strawberry flavor. We also make a chocolate syrup made w/raw cacao powder if we are in the mood. You can add nuts for a variety if you'd like. There is all kind of things you can do. =)<br />
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Watch the children enjoy!! Sit back and wait. . .yep, they will ask you SOON to make that again! The frozen, creamy, sweet texture is addictive, yummy, and super good for you! Oh, and did I mention, it's even cheaper then ice cream!? And this is a treat mommy can eat w/out the guilt. ;) Enjoy my friends. :)<br />
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Have some quick, easy, inexpensive, and HEALTHY snack or meal ideas? Please, share them below.<br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Have a HEALTHY, happy day!! =)</span>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-9898360294614056982013-01-02T20:21:00.001-08:002013-01-03T06:41:26.578-08:00Let Positive Thinking give you a Happy New Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I LOVE this time of year! I know people say that we shouldn't wait until a new year to set goals and evaluate our lives. I agree! However, there is just something so powerful, exciting, energizing, and magical about the beginning of a new year. It is as though the last year of mistakes are erased and good memories are recorded in our minds and sometimes our journals or facebook statuses. It's not as though we will forget our bad choices but rather learn and grow from them. A new year has the tendency to give us the sweet feeling of a clean slate, a chance to "start over". I personally love that feeling! It makes me feel like a new woman! The draw back?. . .Why does it have to be COLD outside!? The new found energy I get from the new year makes me want to go outside and run! But alas, I hate the cold. I have the tendency to hibernate in the winter causing me to eat more, sit more, watch movies more, take more long hot baths, and read more; all of which are not physical activities. Well, I found a way to combine one of these activity with a physical activity and I was able to do it for FREE! Well, except the $7.99 monthly fee for Netflix.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This post is actually more about the power of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/positevethinking?fref=ts">positive thinking</a> and giving love and service. Several years ago I gave my brother and his wife my old treadmill. I bought a nicer one later only to sell it when we made our big move this last summer. Well, now that winter has hit and we are settled in a bigger home, I REALLY wish I had kept my treadmill. If you read my<a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/11/black-friday-frenzy-how-to-benefit-wout.html" target="_blank"> previous post</a> you'd know we bought a large TV for very cheap. Well, my niece gave me her old large TV a little while later. I liked it better so I gave mine to my brother and his family. I thought nothing more of it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the snow began to DUMP here in the mid-west (and stick)I really began to long for a treadmill. I began to look on Craigslist, but the truth was I had already spent enough money on Christmas that I couldn't justify spending more money. We did keep Christmas simple, but even at that simple for 7 kids and 2 parents does dip into the budget. I was able to purchase all presents on eBay or Craigslist. Anyway, I decided I would stay positive and something would come my way! (just like the tv) =) My hubby came home from taking the TV to my brother's house (it wouldn't fit in their van) and told me all about the very nice treadmill my brother got for very cheap for his wife for Christmas. Light bulb!!! I immediately sent my sil a text:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I picked it up at the New Year's Eve party we went to at their house. I dragged it in the house first thing in the morning of New Year's Day. I scrubbed it up, tightened some screws, and shifted the belt a little. My iPad fit on it perfectly. I put in the headphones I got for Christmas, turned on Roswell on Netflix and started walking! Thanks to my new old treadmill I got in my 10,000 steps goal from the <a href="https://jawbone.com/up">UP bracelet</a> my niece and her hubby got me for Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to point out here that the whole reason I wanted to post this was because this happened on my first day of my<a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/09/7-day-mental-diet-who-wants-to-join-me.html" target="_blank"> 7 day mental diet challenge</a>. I wanted to record positive things that happened to me when trying this mental diet. You can join me on the mental diet challenge by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/positevethinking?ref=hl" target="_blank">clicking here</a>. This is my 16 yo dd's page.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I can't promise things you want will appear "magically" as it seems to have done for me. What I can promise you is that you WILL feel more energized and excited about life if you begin to focus on nothing but the positive in your life. Trust me when I say there is SOMETHING positive in your life no matter what you might feel now. Take note of changes you see in yourself and even in others as YOU begin to think positive! Positive thoughts bring positive things in your life. The harder you work at this, the more you will see the sad, negative, and hard to handle stresses in your life will either be gone or feel much more manageable to you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What will 2013 bring you? THAT is up to you, your mind, your thoughts, your actions, and your words my friend! =)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow; color: red; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Have a wonderful, positive, healthy new year!</u> </span></div>
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Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-53455878070138182742012-11-29T09:11:00.000-08:002012-11-29T10:43:17.667-08:00Black Friday Frenzy!!. . .How to benefit w/out the craziness!If you know me, you know I HATE shopping! I especially hate crowds. I hate grocery shopping, clothes shopping, and even "necessity" shopping (for things we need). I have endured a few Black Friday shopping days for the sake of my daughter (it falls on or near her bday), but it is only out of the love of my daughter. She is fully aware of this and expresses her gratitude.<br />
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This year she requested again to go black Friday shopping for her bday. By some miracle, we got my hubby to go this year.We live in a fairly small area so the crowd wasn't insane as I have seen in the past, but it was still a little too crazy for me (and poor hubby). However, as most people there, I had an agenda! Socks, jeans, and a movie or two. I felt justified, as these were necessities (except the movies) and super cheap. Frugal and simple! That's me!<br />
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However, as I walked (rather squeezed) through the crowd, two things came to mind.<br />
1. I was SO glad I couldn't find a cart! There was NO way I would have gotten through the crowd with a cart!<br />
2. The TV's tempted me! The prices were great and we were in "want" of a new TV! We are a family that enjoys movie nights (and popcorn), and the 8 of us were crowding around a 32" TV that was slowly losing the sound! The TV's were so big and pretty and cheap! No wonder people went nuts buying them.<br />
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But, I controlled myself and so did my hubby! After all, it was a "want" and not a "need". If we still wanted it later, we would find an even better deal (positive thinking)! We left the store with 8 packs of socks, 7 pairs of jeans, 5 $2 movies, and a curling iron and perfume for dd's birthday. I left feeling accomplished, free of guilt, and without unnecessary "things".<br />
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A few days later, a thought came to me! What are all those people who did buy TV's on back Friday going to do with their old TVs? Why, sell them of course! I got on Craigslist and went "shopping". I was shocked!! There were LOTS of TV's for sale. . .big, in good shape, and cheap! At least 5 of the posts that I read said that the TV's worked great, but they just bought a new one on black Friday. My assumption was confirmed! To make a long story short, we bought a 60" TV (with remote) that was only 5 years old. How much? $100! Our 32" had a built in dvd player so I talked to my daughter and she had an extra one that she gave us for FREE! So we went from this:<br />
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We fulfilled a family want with a very inexpensive budget and in a much more Earth friendly way. We were able to benefit from the sales of Black Friday without the expense to our wallet. And we did not have to contribute to this:<br />
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-9584414791160418722012-09-26T17:02:00.007-07:002012-11-29T06:48:39.887-08:00My Weakness. . .How I plan to eliminate it. . .maybe!So when it comes to whatever lifestyle we choose to live, we inevitably have our down falls, pitfalls, or weaknesses. For those wanting to eat healthy they might have that certain food that they fail to resist. Those wanting to live a life of positive thoughts seem to have the one vice that brings them down to negative thoughts. For those who wish to not judge others, might have that one person they struggle with.<br />
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I wish to live a life of simplicity, minimalism, and to consume as little as possible. I can pass garage sales w/out thought, go into a Salvation Army and walk out with only items of great need, go into a Wal-Mart and only buy necessities like food and TP. I am no longer tempted by ebay, Amazon, or other online shopping. Commercials no longer entice me. I have no sentimental attachments to "things", and have NO problem discarding unwanted and unneeded items. It brings me great joy and peace to see empty spaces. Yep, I've come a long way. . .<br />
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So, what is my weakness?. . .HALLOWEEN!!!<br />
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I love EVERYTHING Halloween!!! I love the cute as well as the scary,
decorations and costumes, animated specials and horror movies, carmel apples and candy corn, grave yards and haunted houses, spider webs and witches, dry ice and fog machines, passing out candy and dressing up the kids, parties and carving pumpkins, telling scary stories and <a href="http://christmas.organizedhome.com/crafts/halloween/boo-youve-been-booed-poem-signs">BOO-ing the neighbors</a>, trunker treating and trick or treating! I love
it all! It is one of the reason Fall is my favorite season. When I drive by the Halloween City stores or see Halloween decorations in the store a sense of joy permeates through me. Emotions and feelings take over my common sense. I want to buy it all, make it, all, and decorate every square foot! A begin making a list of the the 31 things I want to do with the family to do a 31 day countdown to Halloween. I begin to plan costumes and decorations before October even comes. Our Halloween budget was once bigger then our Christmas budget!<br />
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How do you downsize such a passion when trying to live a frugal minimalist lifestyle? I don't completely. I have downsized a lot of my budget, keep decorations to use next year (I used to do a different theme each year), and don't decorate inside anymore unless it's a craft the kids make (that I throw out each year).<br />
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I don't downsize the type of candy I buy for trick or treaters, I haven't eliminated my outside decorations, and have not stopped having the party we throw each year. Some things I will just have to keep the same. How do I justify this? Because we ARE the Adams Family! Seriously, this is what our family loves. We love this holiday and to change it too much would take away a very fun family tradition.<br />
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I am not saying that if you have an expensive family tradition that you should stick with it at all cost. Sit down as a family and discuss your expectations. Be open and honest with your kids on what the budget is. We still have deep rooted Halloween traditions, without a lot of cost. We shop used stores and come up with very creative costumes. We also do a lot of our shopping after Halloween for the next year (not for candy). We save a LOT doing it that way. We don't feel like shaving our budget has cut down on our traditions in any way! In fact, it has put a fun twist on it as we play on pinterest to find fun ways to make up our own decorations. Click <a href="http://pinterest.com/melissajoadams/halloween/">here </a>to see my Halloween board on<a href="http://pinterest.com/melissajoadams/"> Pinterest</a>.<br />
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Traditions are a VERY important part of creating strong family bonds. However, traditions can still be accomplished on a budget, without over consuming, and while maintaining a simple life.<br />
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<span style="color: orange;">H<span style="color: black;">a</span>P<span style="color: black;">p</span>Y <span style="color: black;">H</span>a<span style="color: black;">l</span>L<span style="color: black;">o</span>W<span style="color: black;">e</span>E<span style="color: black;">n</span>!</span><br />
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-5902969961909703402012-09-12T08:38:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:57:58.668-08:007 Day Mental Diet. . .Who wants to join me?<br />
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My 15 yo daughter started an amazing facebook page called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/positevethinking">Positive Thinking</a>. On this page there is a challenge to do a 7 day mental diet. I LOVE this concept! The idea came from a youtube video of Tony Robbins. The idea is to go on a mental diet for SEVEN days; a diet of absolutely NO negative thoughts or words. He explains in the video how to accomplish this and how to redirect the negative in your life. Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/positevethinking">here</a> to like the her page, watch the video, and then make a comment below the link to join us in this 7 day mental diet! I am SO excited to try this. What a wonderful way to improve our health, relationships, and SO much more! Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-18393271067228714522012-08-28T17:28:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:48:39.885-08:00Salvation Army: A Love-Hate Relationship!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a love-hate relationship with Salvation Army. I LOVE the organization itself and the wonderful service they provide. I also LOVE the great deals I get for the things I need. So where does the hate come in? I'm a minimalist of course! OK, perhaps hate it a strong word. I strongly dislike the feeling I get in the store full of "stuff". This "stuff" calls to people (ok, I admit. . .it used to talk to me too!). It says, "Buy me! I'm cheap! You need me! It IS for a good cause! And my favorite. . .If you don't end up using me you can always re-donate me!". How many of you have heard these words run through your mind as you shop at a Salvation Army or Goodwill? I have! </div>
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How do you avoid the "Cheap, but don't need it trap"? DON"T go in! I make it a point to only go into a SA if I am looking for something specific (that I need)! Never go to just "shop". You run the risk of becoming a victim to the words in your head! </div>
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I went to SA today with a specific need. My daughter will be moving back in with us soon and having a baby. =) Yep, I'm going to be a grandma! =) We have a dinning room table without enough chairs. We have made do with using an old piano bench (because I am frugal and minimal). Even with a piano bench we were crowded. I decided I needed at least 3 chairs, but 4 would be better. I cashed an unexpected check and headed to SA with $43 in hopes I could buy 4 chairs and a center piece for less then that. It was my lucky day! They were having a one day sale on all furniture. . .50% off! YiPpEe! I bought 4 chairs, a center piece, and a mat for it for only. . .$18! As a minimalist, I don't usually do center pieces, but the room is very
plain with no decor on the walls. It is still a very simple room. A picture of my results is below. It is not beautiful and fancy, but I love the country feel and the miss matched chairs. It matches our miss matched family! =) BTW, one of those chairs was white! I bought some inexpensive brown spray paint ($2) and my daughter painted it. Can you guess which one? </div>
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So, what did I do with the extra money? I began to walk out of the store, proud that I only bought what I needed and that it was a lot less then anticipated! Wait. . .not so fast! Yep, something caught my eye! It was a box. It was a little logo that caught my attention. "Organic?" What could they possibly sell at SA that says "organic"? I was curious. . .I walked over and picked up the box. I was so jazzed! It was a starter kit for organic heirloom seeds for tomatoes. This wasn't a temptation, but rather smart shopping. It had the kit with a small pack of several seeds. I stuck it in the cart without hesitation. Then looking up again, I saw another one for carrots and lettuce. Now looking around, I saw another box on the shelf over. Three boxes (basil & cilantro; my favorite herbs)! Now I was on a treasure hunt! I ended up finding NINE boxes scattered throughout the store (don't ask me why they weren't all together)! <br />
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For those who may not know,<a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/why-buy-heirloom-plants-seeds.html"> heirloom seeds</a> are seeds that are NOT GMO <a href="http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=george&dbid=207">(Genetically Modified Organisms)</a> and the seeds from the product of that seed can be reused. In essence, one seed can ultimately produce hundreds and even thousands of produce. And these were organic heirloom. Each box was only $1! I also found a bag of Jiffy-7 Peat Pellets for $.80! This was a future homesteaders find today! =)<br />
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So, some "collectors" might say, "See, you would have missed out on that amazing deal had you not gone in there?" Some might argue that this is why they must go in there to "shop" on occasion, especially if there is a sale or special. My response to that would be that I wouldn't have missed out on anything! Why? Because I wouldn't have known! You can't "miss out" on something if you don't know you're missing out. On the contrary, I believe this was a blessing I received for being frugal and sustainable.<br />
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So what happened to the rest of my money? I took a friend out to lunch. :o) What a happy, frugal, sustainable day! =)Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-72124271529312756602012-08-21T19:41:00.003-07:002012-11-29T06:49:40.717-08:00Dairy Free, Gluten Free, and Raw! Yummy Cookies.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">These cookies were SUPER easy to make, very inexpensive, and very healthy. You can bake them if you'd like, but I just stuck them in a dehydrator for a few hours and they were SO yummy. They are vegan, raw, and gluten free. Here lies the challenge. . .when I make up recipes I don't measure! So I will do the best I can. </span></div>
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2 ripe bananas (soft, but not too brown)</div>
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about 1 cup of gluten free oatmeal</div>
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1 t. vanilla (i love vanilla so you can adjust to your taste)</div>
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about 1/2 t. cinnamon</div>
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honey to taste (about 1 tbs)</div>
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pecans, raisins, and coconut (w/no sugar) to taste </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">I smash the the bananas and then pour in the water. Then I add the cinnamon and vanilla. Then I fold in the oats. When it's mixed well, I add the pecans (cut into small pieces), raisins, and coconuts. I then form then into cookie shapes, put them on a dehydrator sheet, and place them on about 105 degrees for a few hours until they are the consistency I like. If you prefer to bake them in an oven you can put them on 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes. My kids love these!</span><br />
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If you'd prefer a fat free version you can omit the pecans. The ingredients are easy to find and pretty inexpensive. Most importantly, they are good for you and the kids will love them! Enjoy!</div>
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<span style="background-color: #274e13;"><span><span style="background-color: #274e13;"></span></span><span style="background-color: #274e13; color: #274e13; font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="background-color: white;">Have a Happy, Healthy, and Frugal day! Live Simple. =)</span></span></span>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-8410174062144371662012-08-19T20:15:00.006-07:002012-11-29T06:59:57.311-08:00I'm Still Here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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SO sorry so much time has gone by. Moving to a big city (for me), homeschooling, doing a <a href="http://calorielab.com/news/2008/07/17/master-cleanse-in-detail/">cleanse</a>, and house searching has been very distracting! However, I am having SO much fun! I love living in my new city (even though I am out in the country). This new town has SO much to offer! My daughter and I went to our first raw food meet up nearby. We met some wonderful people, ate some delicious raw food, and had an amazing time. There are so many health food stores, co-ops, farmers markets, and even a YUMMY <a href="http://www.lovingcafefw.com/">vegan/raw restaurant </a> that we've been to a few times. For being in the mid west, this is a frugal healthy girl's dream! We even have an Amish community nearby with a wonderful discount store and lots of farmer's markets with organic produce. My kitchen has been full of yummy fresh produce that my kids, hubby, and I are loving!<br />
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The challenge of living here? GAS! ugh! Everywhere I go, I have to drive, drive, drive! With us increasing our amount of fresh raw produce that we eat, we are forced to grocery shop more often. I have discovered GFS out here that we can get bulk food items without a membership for a great price. However, fresh produce is a tricky subject as it has to be purchased more often. Once we have our own home and can grow a garden as large as we want that will make things easier in the summer time.<br />
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I was able to get a TON of free corn from my parents. We picked it, cooked it, cut it off the cob, and froze it. I did cut quit a few off the cob raw and froze it so I could add it to some yummy raw food recipes. I also got lots of free tomatoes from a friend. That is my favorite food on earth. . .fresh, warm tomatoes from a garden. . .aahhh. . .I also helped a friend cut and freeze some peaches and she gave me a few gallons of frozen peaches for helping. They are so yummy and perfect plain or in smoothies. It has helped to have family and to have met some amazing people willing to share. See why I have LOVED living here! OH, I forgot to mention that my mom had me help her clean out her 3 (yes 3) freezers and sent me home with almost a freezer full of food that her and my dad would just never be able to get to. A lot of it was some very yummy homemade meals. Thanks mom! ;)<br />
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Things are getting a slower and more simple for me now. I think about my blog and my readers often. I have more I want to share with all of you. I would love to share with you my journey to cleansing my candida and parasites. . .well, perhaps you may not want to hear about that! haha!<br />
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<span style="color: #274e13;"><b><i>Have a happy, healthy, frugal, and simple week. =)</i></b></span>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-80453783616310992052012-06-07T05:02:00.000-07:002012-11-29T06:59:19.594-08:00Illness, Death, and Moving. . .I can't believe it has been nearly a month since I last posted. This post isn't a post tips for health or frugality, but rather an update. I haven't had the time to blog lately, as we have been going through a LOT!<br />
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I have spoken in at least two other posts about the elderly lady that was living in our apartment with us. Well, she became very ill and required full time care. I had promised her years ago that I would never take her to a hospital, doctor, or nursing home. She was very into natural health and wanted nothing to do with medical. I wanted to honor her wishes, but she did become very ill. Taking care of her required a lot of time and our family was more then happy to do so!<br />
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A few weeks into her illness, my husband got another job in another state! It was so sudden and unexpected! I wasn't sure what to do with my dear friend. I new she was too ill to make that far of a move. We decided to move her in with another dear friend of ours. She had become so frail and week that moving her seemed a difficult task. It was SO sad and disheartening to see her leave. However, she was so ready to "go back home" as she put it. She wanted to be with her husband who had passed a few years ago.<br />
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Well, I still went over there each day and helped my friend take care of her. . .feeding her (what little, if any, she ate), changing her, and more. On the third day of her being there my friend called me over to her house. My dear friend and I held this sweet woman's hand for nearly an hour as she passed away (5-24-12). It was a bitter sweet experience for me. I've never been so intimate with death before.<br />
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After her death came the tears, the planning and preparation for her funeral (and all the drama that goes with that), and the grueling efforts to relocate a family of 8! To make a long story short, we went to the funeral on a Friday, then spent the day with my adult children we were leaving behind, then took off to our new place on Saturday! Our stuff did not reach us until the following Wednesday.<br />
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I thought before this move that I was a minimalist. However, when you move from a 4,600 sq. ft. home with 8 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 living rooms, and 2 kitchens to a home a little over 2,000 sq. ft. (if that, I don't know what the sq. footage is really), you run out of room very quickly! However, I am VERY excited for the smaller space. I LOVE the simplicity of this small country home. I am definitely going to get rid of more "stuff", but when I am all settled my home will be SO easy to take care of!<br />
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I hope you can see now, why I haven't posted for a while! As soon as I get a little more settled, I'll get right back on the wagon of giving great tips to being frugal, healthy, and more simplified!<br />
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In memory of Ruby Chrisman 8-24-24 to 5-24-12 You will be loved and missed by many!</div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow;">Have a Happy Simple Day!!</span>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-24723077414495534632012-05-10T04:40:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:49:40.716-08:00Green Smoothies~Yum!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yum! A bit on health tips here today. I LOVE my green smoothies! I like to keep mine basic and simple as usual! I try to feed my kids smoothies at least once a week (sometimes more) and I usually drink one 3-7 days a week. For those of you who know me, or have read previous posts, I am NOT good at doing exact recipes. I am not my mother's daughter when it comes to that. :(</div>
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I basically start with a blender full of greens (spinach, kale, or a dark lettuce), Then I add a cup full of <a href="http://www.mychiaseeds.com/Articles/Top10ChiaBenefits.html">chia seeds</a> (2 tbs to 2 cups water, let set until "gooey"), 1 frozen banana, a handful of frozen berries (about 1/2 c.), 1-2 organic carrots, and an organic apple. I also had a teaspoon of <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-anti-wrinkle-serum.html">Truly Vitamin C</a> and a little bit of honey if I feel like it.</div>
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I blend it in my Vita-Mix and it usually makes about a quart. If you are new to drinking smoothies, you may want to start with less greens and more fruit. As you get used to drinking the smoothies gradually add more greens and less fruit. The greens that you put in the smoothie are the most nutritious part of the smoothies. Greens are a VERY important part of our diet. Greens are a healing food that help the body to be at the proper pH balance. Now as a person who believes in whole foods and really tries to avoid animal products, please don't put milk or yogurt in your smoothies! If you are a person who likes the creamier tastes then add some soy milk or almond milk. I'll do another blog post on how to make your own almond milk and even soy milk at home. I am all for homemade whenever possible!</div>
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I would suggest drinking a smoothie to start your day each day. What a healthy way to start your day. For more smoothie recipe ideas and info go see <a href="http://greensmoothiegirl.com/">the green smoothie girl</a>! This is an excellent website to get more ideas on smoothies, the benefits of them, and some great success stories. Also, I sometimes add a few <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/05/kefir-water.html">kefir crystals</a> to mine!</div>
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Have a Healthy, Happy, and Frugal day!</div>
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Stay Tuned. . .I am working on a post to give you my menu for all of my vegetarian dinners that I prepare for my family. I'll show you that it doesn't have to be expensive to eat healthy! </div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #330000; font-family: georgia, 'bookman old style', 'palatino linotype', 'book antiqua', palatino, 'trebuchet ms', helvetica, garamond, sans-serif, arial, verdana, 'avante garde', 'century gothic', 'comic sans ms', times, 'times new roman', serif;">By sowing frugality we reap liberty, a golden harvest. ~Agesilaus</span>
</div>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-19170888770182742332012-05-04T20:57:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:49:40.714-08:00Kefir Water ~ Please HELP!!<h2>
I have a 3 fold purpose for this post:</h2>
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1. Teach you the benefits of Kefir water</div>
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2. Teach you how to keep it alive and grow more!</div>
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3. To BEG you to take some off of my hands! Mine is growing out of control!</div>
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As usual, I want to start by sharing with you the many benefits of drinking Kefir water. I'll start with a short, simple list:</div>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Contributes to a healthy immune system</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Promotes a relaxing affect on the nervous system</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Helps relieve insomnia</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Helps support your normal intestinal tract function, promote bowel movements and a healthy digestive system</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Restores balance to the digestive tract, so VERY useful during and after a course of antibiotics and after food poisoning</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Has been used to treat metabolic disorders, atherosclerosis, allergic disease, tuberculosis, cancer and other gastrointestinal disorders</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">They have been shown to control facial acne in 80% of adolescents </li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Rich in vitamin B-12, vitamin K and biotin</li>
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Get a lot more information on Kefir water <a href="http://users.sa.chariot.net.au/~dna/kefirpage.html#kefiran">HERE</a></div>
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Now, how to make it! This is what the water kefir crystals look like.</div>
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The recipes and ratios are not an exact science. Kefir water crystals require sugar to eat. For those who are brand new to kefir or who have never heard of it, kefir is a live bacteria and requires certain things to stay alive. You can research this out on your own. I have done lots of research and have learned more by trial and error.<br />
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I start with 8 Tbs. of RAW sugar. There are lots of different forms of sugar you can use, but I would stay away from the white processed sugar. You can also use pure maple syrup. Do NOT use honey, as it has wonderful anti-bacterial properties and can actually kill the kefir crystals.<br />
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I then poor in a little bit of water to let the sugar dissolve a little. This isn't absolutely necessary, but I prefer to do it this way. </div>
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I then add approximately 3/4-1 c. of kefir crystals, one date or other dried fruit that does not have sulfate on it. Citrus fruits do not work as well for the first fermentation. Then I fill the quart jar with SPRING water. Do NOT use purified water or RO water. I learned this the hard way and could not get my kefir to grow. The kefir NEEDS the extra minerals in the water.</div>
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I then add a milk nut bag on top with a ring or rubber band to hold it on. Kefir also needs air to live and breath, so do not put a solid lid on it unless you put it in a larger jar and leave lots of "air" space. You could also use cheese cloth. Depending on where you live the ring/rubber band is important as fruit flies LOVE kefir water! </div>
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I then let the kefir mixture ferment for 24-48 hours. It can sit longer then that (up to 3-4 days), but that time frame is optimal. If you can see it, I put a little black mark on the jar below to show you where the kefir started out. Below that picture is where the kefir is after only 27 hours! Keep in mind, that is only ONE jar and I'm doing THREE! See why I need people to come take some off my hands?!</div>
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When it is time to strain and rinse the kefir crystals, I just dump it through one of the nut milk bags, rinse it well, and pick out in debris the dates may have left. Be sure your hands and any utensils you are working with are CLEAN!
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The picture below is the same measuring cup from above only 27 hours later. If you notice, the Kefir has doubled in size!</div>
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Once you have a full fermentation, you have a few choices. You can simply drink it plane or add a small amount of juice (Welch's 100% grape juice is our family favorite). It only takes a small amount of juice to flavor the water. I've never measured exactly, but I would guess about 2 cups kefir water to 1/4 c. juice.<br />
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You can also do a 2nd fermentation with fruit. Be sure to drain the kefir crystals before doing a 2nd fermentation. My favorite with that one is to smash some fresh or thawed frozen strawberries and add a few slices of lemon. If they are not organic lemons be sure not to put the peel in there. I learned the hard way to still allow AIR in this 2nd fermentation. LOL! I woke up one morning to water ALL over my counter top and dripping on the floor! This 2nd fermentation should only ferment for 24-36 hours. Be sure to strain the fruit. It tastes like strawberry lemonade. YUM!!<br />
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Just to recap a little: water kefir needs water, air, and sugar to survive and grow. If your kefir is growing out of control and you can't drink as much as it is producing, or you will be gone and can't take care of it, there is a few options. First, SHARE it with others! Second, it's ok to eat the kefir crystals, or Third, if you want it to be dormant for a while, put it in a jar w/some sugar water and put it in the fridge for a few weeks.</div>
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Ok, now for the fun part! I get to share!! If you live close by, please just call or stop by and grab some! Please!! I can't keep up with this much! If you are long distance, I am figuring out now how to send it in the mail. I will only charge you the cost of shipping! I'm not set up to receive payments online, so you will have to send me a check. </div>
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So readers, please help me help yourself! You will be so pleased with the benefits on your health! You will also be pleased with how EASY it is and soon you'll be begging to share!</div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow;">Have a Happy, Healthy Day!!</span></div>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-91402335203682830662012-05-03T12:04:00.001-07:002012-11-29T06:48:39.886-08:00Bedroom Make Over for under $5, Minimalist StyleOne of the things I've been curious about is what a minimalist home looks like. I have googled pictures and videos and haven't had much luck. When I first began my journey, I wanted to know what a home of a minimalist would look like. I love the aesthetic look of simplicity and clean empty space. I more wanted to know for the sake of inspiration.<br />
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A few days ago, a friend stopped by. As she stood looking at my living room she said, "Your living room feels so calm and peaceful." She had NO idea what a compliment that was to me. That is my entire goal in this journey for peace and simplicity! When I began all of this, I started first with my bedroom. After all, as a mother of many, my bedroom HAD to be my sanctuary!<br />
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It was filled with dark red everywhere! Dark red comforter with 100 pillows! Ok, maybe only 8-10 pillows, but it feels like 100 when you are taking them off at night and strategically placing them each morning when you make your bed. Some mornings I would just give up and shove them under the bed or not make the bed at all. What a waste of time that was!! Then the sliding glass door was covered in red along with the other window. I also had a big, dark, heavy dresser in there that covered a big portion of the wall across from my bed. It may have felt dark and cozy, but I didn't want to get up in the morning, and it always seemed to be a mess that took forever to clean up.<br />
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Now the dilemma! I had already started my frugal ways looong before that. So, how do you do a bedroom remodel on an extremely tight budget? Well, it only cost me $4.76! I'll break it down for you if you don't believe it!<br />
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The curtains on the window to the left of the bed are one shear panel I bought for $1.00 at Salvation Army. The 2 outside panels where made from a cream colored flat sheet that I bought at Goodwill for $1.38. The elderly woman who lives in our apartment made them for me. I LOVE the whimsical cream color and the way the panels create the "pool" affect on the floor. The cream colored pillow shams were also from Goodwill for only $2.38 for both. You do the math.<br />
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I went to my giveaway pile and pulled out the picture frames (usually a no, no!) and grabbed some paint from the basement and painted them all to match. I repainted the little night stands the same color. The valance hanging above the sliding glass door actually belonged to another curtain set (again from the giveaway pile. . .shhhh. . .). I just cut the panels off so I would just have valances. I already had the blanket and the bed skirt is an old king size flat sheet. I do have plans to make a quilt to go on my bed. I won a whole pile of beautiful squares at a women's retreat!<br />
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So, the turn out? I love it! My hubby loves it! And it is SUPER easy to clean! I once timed myself cleaning the room. With vacuuming and cleaning it only took me 6 minutes!<br />
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What you see in the following pictures is just what there is. I have no other furniture in my room except my bed, 2 night stands, 2 lamps, my rebounder, my chi swing, and my hubby's guitar. That's right, no tv, no dresser, no headboard, and no chairs! Oh, I do have a clothes hamper by my door that's not in the picture.<br />
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But what does the CLOSET look like? Ok, that's only fair! Here goes. . . </h2>
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Before you look at the pictures of my closet, I want to point out a few things. First, there is no dresser anywhere full of clothes. There is no more then maybe a load of dirty clothes. This is it! This is ALL the clothes that my husband & I own! You will see I have two vices when it comes to clothes and style. One, I have LOTS of bras (*blush*). Bras are the one thing I am NOT frugal on! I pay a lot for them, so I repair and wear them out to nothing before I will part with one. Two, I LOVE jewelry. Actually, this is an after picture. Before I reduced, I had at least 2 times the amount as what you see in my closet. I have a very sweet friend who makes <a href="http://theamazingsteens.blogspot.com/">AMAZING jewelry</a>! Well, she only lives 2 houses down so. . .she is one of my weaknesses! However, I like to barter!</div>
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So here goes! Don't judge. . . </h2>
(and don't laugh at the amount of bras!)<br />
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Thank you for coming to visit my home! If I get a good response or if others request it, I will post more pictures of other rooms in my house. I just have a strong curiosity as to what a minimalist house looks like. If you are aware of others pics or videos on the internet please share the link in the comment section.</div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow;">Have a clutter free day! =)</span></div>
<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-13344999375524806282012-05-02T11:41:00.001-07:002012-11-29T07:22:58.789-08:00Living in The Land of Enough- A Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once again, I bring you a very simple, inspiring, quick, inexpensive read. This book focuses on 7 ways to live in the land of enough.</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #660000;">From the book:</span></u></b></div>
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<b>1. Save Your Money</b>. There is no need for credit cards or therapeutic shopping in the land of enough. There are also no overdraft fees or ATM charges. Just put your cards away for 10 days. Then, keep a list of purchases you would have made if you were using your credit card, or if you were shopping for sport, and take note of the money you didn't spend.</div>
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<b>2.</b> <b>Take Your Time</b>. In the land of enough, you have time to breathe. Stop trying to squeeze so much in. If you are always running late, falling behind,or trying to catch up,try slowing down. Cancel a few unnecessary appointments and don't schedule any new ones if you can help it. Hen, make a little time everyday for <a href="http://www.becomingminimalist.com/2010/08/19/solitude-where-your-life-is-waiting/">solitude</a>.</div>
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<b>3. Disconnect. </b>Set a specific time to disconnect each day. In the land of enough, there is less need to be plugged in. If you can, commit to not using a computer after dinner or before lunch time. Be mindful of how much time you spend online and are virtually available. Protect your time and your mind.</div>
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<b>4. Eat Real Food. </b>Only eat food that you prepare. Now is the perfect time to eat fresh, seasonal. Do not eat anything from a box, restaurant or drive-thru. While you may choose to eat less when eliminating processed foods, you may find that you naturally eat just enough.</div>
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<b>5. Make Space. </b>Clear out some space in your home. You don't need to take on big purging projects during this time to make space. Simplify one room (or even just the corner of that room) and keep it as clean and clutter free as possible. Even if the rest of your house is cluttered, this area can be a great reminder of how you might feel living with less.</div>
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<b>6. Entertain Yourself. </b>Unplug your TV and plan to enjoy your friends, family, the great outdoors, or a book you have been meaning to read. Do not spend time and money on expensive shows, travel or recreational activities. While the land of plenty calls you to spend more money for entertainment, you already have enough right where you are.</div>
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<b>7. Say Thank You. </b>As you go through these steps, you will find enough time and space to be grateful. Through prayer, thank you card, or a kind gesture, share your gratitude every day.</div>
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There is an entire chapter written on each of the 7 steps and how to implement each one into a short term, long term, or permanent goal. </div>
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<b>Here is a few of my favorite quotes from the book:</b></div>
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"When you can get anything you want, anytime of day, you become unsatisfied, uninspired and kind of lazy."</div>
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"Do not buy to feel. If shopping gives you a rush, you are missing something else."</div>
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"Keep in mind that open time on your calendar doesn't mean that you aren't important, it means that you value your time."</div>
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"Gratitude makes everything smell sweeter, taste better and feel softer. being thankful for something is like enjoying that something all over again."</div>
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I downloaded this book on my kindle app for only $.99 back in February. When we were doing our <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/03/30-day-do-nothing-challenge.html">30 Do Nothing Challenge</a> I was tempted to buy a cheap book. Instead, I looked on my Kindle app to see if there was something I hand't read. Viola! I loved the simple, straight forward format of this book. It believe it only took me about 30 minutes to read. </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7i_xjCQrfvw/T6F_M0mL_-I/AAAAAAAAAY8/BsO6TenkUMk/s1600/american-flag-sunset-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7i_xjCQrfvw/T6F_M0mL_-I/AAAAAAAAAY8/BsO6TenkUMk/s320/american-flag-sunset-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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(<a href="http://www.patriciarossi.com/2011/05/american-flag-etiquette-for-memorial-day/">photo source</a>)</div>
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As I read the book, I pondered on the name: Living in the Land of Enough. We live in America. We have enough. We have enough time. We have enough food. We have money. We have enough space. We have enough to keep us entertained w/out electronics. We have enough sense to disconnect. We have MORE then enough to be grateful for!</div>
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Please, share with me what you are grateful for!</div>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-8560434351412791482012-04-30T20:37:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:46:12.617-08:00All Natural Homemade Anti-Wrinkle Serum!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The moment you've all been waiting for!! Magic in a bottle, well a half pint jar anyway! =) This is the recipe for the anti-wrinkle or anti-aging serum. Anti-Wrinkle creams or serums are by far the most expensive skin care product on the market. People pay hundreds, even thousands to attempt to get rid of any sign of aging, especially wrinkles. Women especially, will endure shots, surgery, and other painful and very costly procedures just to take a few years off their face. Sad, but true!</div>
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This serum is not my creation alone. I got the original idea from an episode of <a href="http://renegadehealth.com/blog/?s=episode+%23871&imageField=">Renegade Health</a>, one of my favorite sources for health, nutrition, proper eating, exercise, and healing. I changed the recipe as it made WAY too much at a time and I also added the Patchouli Oil to improve the aroma, and to add more anti-aging and moisturizing properties to it. However, you should click on the link as there is a video presentation on how to make the original recipe that also has lots of great info!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5VbU9LDzbY/T57xSldZEMI/AAAAAAAAAXk/d0wiQHVHdMw/s1600/photo+%252875%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G5VbU9LDzbY/T57xSldZEMI/AAAAAAAAAXk/d0wiQHVHdMw/s400/photo+%252875%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Start with what is shown above: <a href="http://store.renegadehealth.com/cart.php?m=search_results&search=irish+moss&x=2&y=12">Carageen Irish Moss</a>,<a href="http://store.renegadehealth.com/cart.php?m=search_results&search=Truly+vitamin+C&x=0&y=0"> Truly Vitamin C</a>, and Patchouli Oil. Please note that it is very important to not use just any Vitamin C. Click <a href="http://store.renegadehealth.com/Healthforce-Nutritionals-Truly-Natural-Vitamin-C-500-g-p86.html">here</a> to watch a very short clip on the importance of Vitamin C. Then please read the article below the video to understand the importance of a natural source of vitamin C.</div>
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<b><u>Recipe</u></b></h2>
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1/4 C. Irish Moss (dry)</div>
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3/4 C. Water</div>
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1 1/2 tsp. Vitamin C</div>
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10 drops Patchouli Oil</div>
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First Soak the Irish Moss in the water for 20 minutes.</div>
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Then dump the Moss and the soak water in the blender and blend for 40 seconds. Then add the vitamin C and blend for another 20 seconds. This works better in a Vita-Mix or Blentec. If you don't have either, you may have to blend it longer.</div>
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Pour into a glass container of some kind. I use a 1/2 pint jar. It will be a "serum" like consistency.</div>
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The serum should be stored in the fridge and will be good for 2-3 weeks. The picture below shows the gel like consistency it will turn into. Just rub the mixture between your fingers to soften it back into a serum. </div>
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Rub the mixture into your face, neck, and hands (I stated in a post before that whatever I put on my face, I put on my hands and neck as well). You can just leave it on if you'd like, however it does dry like a mask almost. You can wash it off, or spritz it with water to re-moisten. It is not something you would want to put on under your make-up or go out with it on. It is perfectly ok to leave it on when going to bed.</div>
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Now for the fun part! I get to share with you all the benefits of the Irish Moss, Vitamin C, and Patchouli Oil. Each one of these ingredients are great for the skin, and the body. After all, this is edible skin care! Click <a href="http://www.zimbio.com/Anti-Aging+Skin+Care/articles/fXg1K4EqHGO/Health+Benefits+Of+Irish+Moss">here</a> to read the wonderful benefits of Irish Moss for skin, weight loss, respiratory health, and more! Click <a href="http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/information/nutrition/vitamin-c-benefit-skin.htm">here </a>to read the amazing benefits of Vitamin C for your skin. I wrote a previous post about <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-skin-toner.html">the benefits of Patchouli Oil.</a> After reading the benefits of each of these, you may want to eat this stuff by the spoonful. Go ahead! =)</div>
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Most of the recipes I give on my blog have very inexpensive ingredients. However, these products seem to be a little more costly up front. However, I want to point out to you that the picture of the 1/2 pint jar only cost $2.32 per batch. If you leave out the Patchouli Oil, it is only $1.32 per batch. Image how much a bottle that size would be on the market! Have you ever even seen a anti-wrinkle serum come in an 8 oz. bottle? You are usually lucky if you get 1 ounce!</div>
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I order the Irish Moss<a href="http://store.renegadehealth.com/cart.php?m=search_results&search=irish+moss&x=0&y=0"> here</a>. I order the Truly Vitamin C <a href="http://store.renegadehealth.com/cart.php?m=search_results&search=Truly+vitamin+C&x=0&y=7">here</a>, and I have a private source I order my Patchouli Oil from that I hope to be able to post soon. Until then, <a href="http://youngliving.com/en_US/">Young Living</a> is a good source for high quality oils. You can also check other online sources, just be sure they are a good quality before purchasing. Do not be fooled by the cheap stuff!</div>
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This pretty much wraps up my all natural homemade skin care line. Thanks for following. I just want to sum things up by giving you a general rule of thumb when it comes to choosing or making your own skin care. The only rule: IF YOU WON'T EAT IT, DON'T PUT IT ON YOUR SKIN! Simple enough? Whatever you put on your skin, DOES get into the body!</div>
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<span style="background-color: yellow; color: #274e13;">Have a happy, healthy, frugal day!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #274e13;"><a href="http://juliecache.com/2012/04/30/get-ready-for-mothers-day-with-the-frugal-tuesday-tip/.html">Check out this site</a> to find lots of frugal ideas for Mother's Day!</span></div>
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Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com216tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-42792443059751884752012-04-28T19:42:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.159-08:00All Natural Homemade Facial Mask<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I covered this a little in the post on <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-acne-treatment.html">acne treatment</a>. The recipe is basically the same, however, like all my skin care recipes, you adapt the essential oil to what your needs are for your skin type.</div>
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2 parts water to 1 part clay (don't worry about making too much as you can store it in an air tight container and it will last several weeks)</div>
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1 tsp. of RAW honey</div>
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5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil<br />
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You simply put the mixture on your face the same way you would any mask and let it set for 15 minutes. Take a hot wet cloth and place it on your face to soften the mask once it is dry, then just wash it off. Be sure to follow with <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-skin-toner.html">toner</a> and <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/moisturizer.html">moisturizer</a>.</div>
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I would add more to this, but it would be repetitive. I discussed all of the benefits of the clay and honey on another <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-acne-treatment.html">post</a>. . .<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Stay tuned for the Anti-Wrinkle cream! =)</span></h2>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-47376191564620642102012-04-25T06:35:00.004-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.160-08:00All Natural Homemade Tooth Powder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QeRTQ51r_B8/T5f0gv1UUgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/a6m9_CqEoqA/s1600/bakingsoda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QeRTQ51r_B8/T5f0gv1UUgI/AAAAAAAAAWA/a6m9_CqEoqA/s320/bakingsoda.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB1Wwdy9flA/T5f0lW_a1VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/FGJ5Akgse2M/s1600/seafine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VB1Wwdy9flA/T5f0lW_a1VI/AAAAAAAAAWQ/FGJ5Akgse2M/s200/seafine.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">3 T + 1 t. Baking Soda</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">5 t. sea salt</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">2 capsules of black walnut</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">1 capsule of white oak bark</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">The black walnut kills fungus and the white oak bark removes plaque. We buy our capsules from Nature's Sunshine</span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">This recipe was given to me by a very special friend who is an elderly lady. My kids call her grandma and she lives in the apartment attached to our house. She is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to health, nutrition, and frugality! However, this is the recipe she makes for her. In order to make a larger batch you start with being to sure to use double the amount of baking soda as you do sea salt. As far as the capsules, I don't know the exact amount to adjust to, but just make sure you always use 1 or 2 more capsules of black walnut then you do white oak bark.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Puritan; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> Obviously, this wouldn't be anywhere close to what we would need for our family of 8. This is one recipe I have not convinced my husband to use yet, and my children weren't too thrilled about it. They are getting used to it though. I haven't started using it regularly yet as I am still finishing up my supply of <a href="http://www.therawfoodworld.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=0&products_id=1001104&zenid=j0ga3kcs561caufjp52imif2c5">tooth soap</a>. Personally, after using tooth soap for the past few years, I really enjoy the taste of the tooth powder. Of course, that is from an opinion of a person who has not used traditional toothpaste for years.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Puritan;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> If you are transitioning from toothpaste it may take some getting used to. If it helps you any, you should know that traditional toothpaste has fluoride in it along with artificial sweeteners (how else do you think they make the toothpaste sweet?), and other nasty chemicals that are known carcinogens and neurotoxins. You may ask, "But I thought fluoride was good for you and helps to strengthen your teeth?". I'm so sorry you have been lied to and do not yet know the truth! Read the truth<a href="http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/health-hazards-to-know-about/where-the-yellow-went"> here</a>! Please stop being brain washed by dentists, doctors, society, and old, outdated information. Please stop giving fluoride to your family!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Puritan;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Oh, and don't forget to floss everyday! =) Enjoy your new, healthy, non-toxic, beautiful smile! =)</span></span></div>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-75667959706919595032012-04-24T06:31:00.001-07:002012-11-29T06:50:13.987-08:00We Interrupt This Series. . .We interrupt this all natural skin care series. . .to bring you a PROUD MOMMY MOMENT!! You know as moms, we all have those moments when a child or children finally "click" on something we have been teaching them. Unfortunately, these moments don't happen as often as we'd like so as mothers we must relish in them. Here is my moment of relish. . . .aahhhhh. . .aahhhh. . .sorry, just a few more minutes. . .YiPpEe!! OK, so I decided to document this moment as I am super excited and want to give my daughters proof that they really are amazing!<br />
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When we began our minimalist journey, it really was just MY journey that I wanted to draaaggg my family along with. Well, very quickly a few kids jumped on board and really enjoyed the journey we were on. I'm not sure if they enjoyed it because they really felt the joy of it, or if they were just super excited that we were getting rid of enough to actually eliminate chores! =)<br />
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My husband has had nothing but positive things to say about it. He mentions quit often how much he loves the house and how good it feels. As a matter of fact, he feels the change so dramatically that he actually notices and makes comments when we are somewhere where he feels it is way too cluttered. Clutter is really starting to bother him more. I've had his support from the beginning. However, in our closet hangs his graduation gown from his master's degree. When I argued with him on why he really needed to keep it he said, "It will hang there until I get all my student loans paid off!". It's almost like a punishment for him, and a motivation for me to pay that debt down! hehe<br />
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In our minimalist journey, our only road block, or detour were my two teenage daughters (15 &14). Their only road blocks were clothes for one, and items of "memory" for the other one. The rest of my family did so well, and I really didn't want to push my girls into anything they weren't ready for. They already struggled with the mass amount of things we were getting rid of as a family. I was actually surprised at some of the things that made them sad or upset that we were getting rid of (like furniture and some kitchen items). I decided to not push too far on their personal items, so I let them get rid of what they felt they could. Needless to say, I wasn't excited as I didn't feel as though they got rid of enough. However, they felt SO accomplished at what they had purged, that I could only feel excitement for them.<br />
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Well, as the journey continued, My 15 yo dd said, "Mom, you making this house so clean and de-cluttered only makes me hate my room when I go in it." I only smiled and said, "You can do the same to your room if you wish." Well, having two teenage girls share a room isn't always easy as it is always the other one's fault right? Neither one of them could take responsibility for the mess being exclusively their own.<br />
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Sorry, didn't mean for this to be so long, I will get to the point. This morning as I laid on my <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/exercise-yes-i-said-e-word.html">Chi Swing</a>, my 14 yo dd came in my room, grabbed my hand, and said, "Mom, come with me. I have something I have to show you!" She was so excited that I couldn't help but anticipate what she was about to show me!<br />
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This is what she brought me to see. . . .<br />
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Now, this is more clothes then what I would choose to have, but this is the closet of TWO teenage GIRLS!!! I was SO impressed I had to go grab my camera (after all, who knows how long it will look this good!). I said, "WOW! How does this feel?" The beautiful grin of her face and sparkle in her eyes said it all! She said that this was just the closet and that she wanted her entire room to look like this!</div>
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The best thing of all. . .</div>
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I get to take even more stuff out of my house!! YiPpEe! I wish I could explain the emotions and feelings I get when I take things out of my house. It's like a rush you feel when you buy a brand new shiny object at the store that you've had your eye on. My rush has gone from bringing things home in bags w/tags to getting it out of my house! This rush has REALLY curbed my desire to buy things that are not of necessity, hence saving me lots of $$$!</div>
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I am one proud mommy today. Really, I am one proud mommy everyday. The truth is, I knew my girls would come around. I have been blessed with some really amazing kids. I am so very grateful for the family I have! =)</div>
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<br /></div>Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-91899568370352778102012-04-23T08:16:00.000-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.166-08:00All Natural Homemade Acne TreatmentOk, I first have to get on my soapbox for acne before I give my topical treatment for it. There are several factors involved in why people get acne. Topical treatments alone are NOT the solution. Topical acne treatments should be accompanied with internal treatments like what we eat, drink, and how we balance our hormones.<br />
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Click <a href="http://freshandagelessblog.com/2011/04/11/why-are-you-breaking-out-the-10-most-common-causes-of-acne/">here</a> to read 10 very common reasons we have acne breakouts in the first place. The first thing I would say to cut out is any refined sugars. Yes, this means soda!! The link I gave has a lot of great information on how sugar and dairy can cause acne.<br />
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Now off the soapbox and onto what I use for my teenager's acne and mine on occasion. It only takes two simple ingredients and of course one is an essential oil. I use Tea Tree (aka Melaleuca) oil mixed with Master's Mircale II Neutralizer Gel. You might ask after reading so many posts, why I use the gel for so many skin care products.Well, many of these oils can just be put on the skin directly, many cannot as they would burn the skin. However, with my acne treatment and <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/cold-sore-medicationputting-myself-out.html">cold sore medicine</a>, I like to use the gel so that the oil stays put on the skin for a longer period of time. Also, the Neutralizer Gel has many amazing benefits for the skin as well. It helps to regulate the proper pH balance of the skin that causes so many skin conditions including acne, age spots, wrinkles, and more.<br />
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I also have my girls use a mask or spot treatment using Bentonite Clay</div>
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Below is a recipe for both:
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sD05mSo79EQ/T5VyxmhNZDI/AAAAAAAAAVg/cxS64GBwpHU/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sD05mSo79EQ/T5VyxmhNZDI/AAAAAAAAAVg/cxS64GBwpHU/s320/image.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQQfz5VJFW0/T5VtospCDBI/AAAAAAAAAVY/3ysbLUwH2dQ/s1600/photo+(68).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hQQfz5VJFW0/T5VtospCDBI/AAAAAAAAAVY/3ysbLUwH2dQ/s320/photo+(68).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<u>Treatment</u></h3>
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3-4 ounces Neutralizer Gel</div>
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15-20 drops of Tea Tree Oil</div>
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<u>Mask</u></h3>
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2 parts water to 1 part clay (don't worry about making too much as you can store it in an air tight container and it will last several weeks)</div>
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1 tsp. of RAW honey</div>
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10 drops of Tea Tree oil</div>
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You can either put it over the entire face and use it as a mask (let dry 15 min.), or spot treat the acne and even sleep in it. </div>
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I plan to have another post on this mask, but the reason I wanted to be sure to add it to the acne treatment post is because both the clay and the honey add a very important element to eliminating acne. When Bentonite clay is added to liquid it develops a mild electrical charge that helps it to draw out toxins, heavy metals and other impurities away from the skin. You can read more of the benefits of this clay on acne <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/197536-bentonite-clay-for-acne/">here</a>. </div>
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Honey is well known for it's strong antibacterial and anit-inflammatory properties, and it has been used as a treatment for wounds and other skin conditions for decades. However, it is important that you use a raw honey. Many brands of honey go through a process that includes heating the honey to such a high temperature that it will kill of the properties that carry these important properties.<br />
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Like I said before, changing the diet is the most important factor to eliminating acne. I realize there are severe cases in which special treatments may be needed. Consult with your physician in these cases.</div>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-40338101375536557682012-04-21T20:25:00.000-07:002012-11-29T07:00:31.109-08:00Earth Day! =)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tomorrow is Earth Day! Our family has celebrated Earth Day every year in some way or another for the past several years. Sometimes we have even planted flowers, trees, or a garden. One year we went one entire week with no TV. We actually really enjoyed it.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EnomzbiKyR0/T5N23E3gd5I/AAAAAAAAAUo/xH_8faQM_5o/s1600/no-tv.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EnomzbiKyR0/T5N23E3gd5I/AAAAAAAAAUo/xH_8faQM_5o/s320/no-tv.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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For tomorrow we are turning off everything! Cell phones, TV, computer, lights, and even our car! Yep, we are walking to church. =)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M15QJVgMsso/T5N24QKOaBI/AAAAAAAAAU4/jmofldS3mx0/s1600/no_computer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M15QJVgMsso/T5N24QKOaBI/AAAAAAAAAU4/jmofldS3mx0/s320/no_computer.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We've been celebrating Earth Day all month with our buy nothing challenge. We have had to purchase gas. :( We wanted to leave that off the list, but with emergency dental surgery, dentist appointments, play practices, track meets, church activities, scout activities, and other school activities it just wasn't possible. We haven't had to go shopping for anything yet though! The only thing we have had to purchase was a weed eater as ours broke down. We've saved lots of money this month though, and have learned a lot about not being consumers! =)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lXkCgBgP9o0/T5N5cl3AsjI/AAAAAAAAAVA/6AJ64qDDps4/s1600/Sunset+6-25-09+small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lXkCgBgP9o0/T5N5cl3AsjI/AAAAAAAAAVA/6AJ64qDDps4/s640/Sunset+6-25-09+small.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We are really looking forward to tomorrow. We will be walking to and from church. Then we'll play some games, read some books, sing some songs while Tom plays the guitar, and then take a walk down to the beautiful Mississippi River (we only live a mile from it). It will be nice for our family to turn everything off and get back in touch with nature and each other!</div>
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What will you and your family be doing to celebrate Earth Day? Please post below some of your ideas.<br />
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<span style="color: #274e13; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Make everyday Earth Day! Happy Earth Day!!=)</span></h2>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-65468505008952568482012-04-20T20:56:00.000-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.162-08:00All Natural Homemade Skin Moisturizer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPHT8tYhqik/T5IpvtD8gwI/AAAAAAAAATg/tnpSaPDomxs/s1600/lavender+field.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="403" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UPHT8tYhqik/T5IpvtD8gwI/AAAAAAAAATg/tnpSaPDomxs/s640/lavender+field.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Moisturizer. . .One of the more expensive skin care products on the market, but also one of the most important. As usual, mine is simple, easy to make, all natural, and inexpensive.</div>
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The base is Virgin Coconut Oil (4 oz.)</div>
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15 drops of Patchouli Oil</div>
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5-10 drops Lavender Oil</div>
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15-20 drops vitamin E oil</div>
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Mix all the ingredients together. Keep in mind that coconut oil solidifies when it is cold and melts when it is warm. </div>
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I also wanted to mention that everything I use on my face I also use on my neck and hands. A very small amount of the moisturizer goes a long way, so this amount last a LONG time. I love the smell, and my skin feels like silk after putting it on. </div>
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I wrote a previous post that gives a long list of <a href="http://healthyfrugalfamily.blogspot.com/2012/04/all-natural-homemade-skin-toner.html">benefits of Patchouli oil. </a></div>
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Lavender is good for:</h2>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Pain relief</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Headaches and migraines</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Muscle aches and sprains</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Menstrual cramps</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Allergies</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Asthma</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Relaxation</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Anxiety</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Depression</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Inducing sleep</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Digestive distress, gas and colic</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Inflammation</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Burns</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Insect bites</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Chicken Pox</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Acne treatment</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Dermatitis</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Insect repellant</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Dry skin</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.4em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0.4em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Muscle relaxant</li>
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<span style="color: #322e2f; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">Enjoy! =)</span></span><br />
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-3976615621501934042012-04-19T20:48:00.002-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.157-08:00All Natural Homemade Skin Toner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aaahhh. . .looove the feeling of my skin toner. . . I feel such a sense of relaxation and spa like experience when I use my line of skin care products. I'm sure most of that is attributed to the fact I use essential oils in each product I make. My toner is one skin care product I make that does change every time I make it. For now I use the following:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3-4 oz. of Miracle II Neutralizer Gel</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10-15 drops of Eucalyptus Oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5-10 drops of Patchouli Oil (not pictured)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love the smell of Eucalyptus and the many benefits it has. </span></h4>
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Benefits of Eucalyptus Oil (to name a few)</h2>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Treatment of minor respritory illnesses</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Natural decongestant</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Massage therapy</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Antispasmodic</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Pain relief</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Sore muscles</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Rids dandruff</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Stress relief</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Helps to relieve depression</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Air Purifier</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Relief from drowsiness / Fights mental exhaustion</strong></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Deodorant</strong></li>
<li><strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Natural bug repellent</strong></li>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Patchouli has a way of bringing me to nature! I love the aroma of Patchouli and the natural musky smell! After reading the benefits below, you will see that it has a massive variety of benefits.</b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6yBE2BBokds/T5DThZR-wbI/AAAAAAAAATQ/XynYnw6dWQQ/s1600/patchouli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6yBE2BBokds/T5DThZR-wbI/AAAAAAAAATQ/XynYnw6dWQQ/s400/patchouli.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">Benefits of Patchouli:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> -helps relieve stress and controls depression
& anxiety<br />
-helps
treat skin problems like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis<br />
-antiseptic
(protects the wounds from infection)<br />
-acts
as a fungicide<br />
-</span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">has anti
aging properties<br />
-helps
in healing wounds<br />
-prevents
acne and scars<br />
-wonderful
for dry skin and wrinkles</span></span><br />
-<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">a refreshing deodorant and cooling astringent<br />
-musky
and spicy aroma helps to keep away the irritating body odor<br />
-induces contractions in muscles,
nerves, skin and works as an effective astringent<br />
-helps prevent sagging of skin, and
loosening of muscles.</span></span><br />
-<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">insecticidal properties to help keep insects
away<br />
-use
it in a diffuser<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span> to help
remove mosquitoes, ants, beg bugs, and fleas<br />
</span> </span>-<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;">help cure inflammation, burns, cuts and boils</span></span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"> <span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-helps in weight loss, lowers
cholesterol, and flushes out toxins<br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-helps to cure cough,
nausea, colds, headaches, diarrhea, and abdominal pain</span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-treats infections causing fever<br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>-helps boosts immune system<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2277593688370578098.post-86503422149414145532012-04-18T19:09:00.000-07:002012-11-29T06:47:18.164-08:00All Natural Face Wash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KMll4XWMhKw/T49lENtuKgI/AAAAAAAAASw/qNNYqaLKF6E/s1600/60560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KMll4XWMhKw/T49lENtuKgI/AAAAAAAAASw/qNNYqaLKF6E/s320/60560.jpg" width="156" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nwMeZi3Cm4A/T49kiYCLQHI/AAAAAAAAASo/XXR4Y5VwkE8/s1600/photo+(53).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nwMeZi3Cm4A/T49kiYCLQHI/AAAAAAAAASo/XXR4Y5VwkE8/s320/photo+(53).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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You'll learn that I am a very simple, basic woman who LOVES to make life easy and all natural! My face wash is simple. . .I use one of two products as a base; Master's Miracle II Moisturizing soap or Dr. Bronners Castile soap. I find the MM doesn't dry my skin at all. Dr. Bronner's costs about $35 a gallon and MM costs arounc $50 a gallon. However, the MM is VERY concentrated and can be made into 2 gallons or even more!</div>
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Now comes the tricky part. All skin types are different and even our individual skin changes from time to time. With each skin type requires a different essential oil. I put Patchouli, Lavender, or Peppermint in mine. I usually don't put more then 2 in at a time. I start with about 3-4 ounces of soap and add 10-15 drops of oil.</div>
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I have made a list of oils I own that I feel are good for the skin. I am linking each one to the benefits they have for your skin so that you can make an educated choice for your own skin. <a href="http://bodyecology.com/articles/tea_tree_skin_miracle.php">Tea Tree</a> <a href="http://www.wildcrafted.com.au/Grapefruit.html">Grapefruit</a> <a href="http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/natural-essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lavender-essential-oil.html">Lavender</a> (scroll towards the bottom of this site to see benefits for skin) <a href="http://www.beauty-tips.net/skincaretips/generalskincare/my-skin-eucalyptus-oil-the-perfect-match.htm#axzz1sRm8Ys00">Eucalyptus</a> (does great with lavender) <a href="http://www.patchoulioils.com/patchouli-benifits.html">Patchouli</a> <a href="http://www.basicsbodycare.com/2011/01/17/the-skin-care-advantages-of-using-peppermint-oil/">Peppermint</a> and <a href="http://www.basicsbodycare.com/2011/01/17/the-skin-care-advantages-of-using-peppermint-oil/">Elemi</a> (scroll down a little on this site).</div>
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My personal favorites for face wash is Patchouli or Elemi.</div>
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<br />Melissa Adamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16413800991309445225noreply@blogger.com1