Clean Those Makeup Brushes!!

Happy Monday to My Friends

So today was cleaning day, blah right? well I decided to clean makeup brushes while cleaning my bathroom

Yeah You know they need it now and then or more often ;) So when cleaning makeup brushes

how do you do it?

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Ingredients for Cleaning Brushes:

2 Pumps Baby Wash

Fill your sink with very warm water

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Swirl to mix and wash your brushes

You can also wash your hair combs and brushes with this same recipe

Well when I clean mine, I use baby soap (see the Johnson's Baby Wash in the Picture)and gently swish them back and forth in the sink in very warm 

water. Then I leave them just a minute or two and rinse out in clear water and shake gently

then I lay them out on a towel to dry, be sure to smooth out your brush ends.

This is only half of my brushes ;)

don't they look pretty and ready to do a lot of fun things

It's very important to clean your brushes because they can Contain Germs that you don't want to put on your face. People don't realize the germs in things

I also do a check after washing to see if the bristles are still in good shape and either I may do a trim

Or it may be time to toss some brushes

My Eyeliner brushes and shadow brushes get washed more often 

For those quick washes I use a gentle swish in the palm of my hand to clean them up quickly

Be sure to check out my beauty DIY and Tips

DIY: The secret to Beautiful skin is Gentle Care, Good Products and Pure Natural Ingredients!

DIY:how to fix broken eyeshadow

So what's the Deal with Coconut Oil

Witch Hazel Benefits

Homemade Beauty Products-My new Craft

Extra Lovely Moisture Oil

DIY: Healthy Flavored Water Recipes

Do you get enough water each day? Probably not, I know some of you say I don't like my water
well learn to like it, boil it, and filter it yourself through a coffee filter or through a water pitcher that has a filter. Flavor it up with these recipes, which are all good for you.
Did you know drinking bottled water all the time really isn't that good for you? So try some of these easy to do, inexpensive water recipes and Drink Drink DRINK!!!!
Your body needs way more water than you can imagine.

I’ve always liked drinking my water with a slice or two of lemon–that extra little touch of flavor just makes water more appealing to me. There are a lot of other ways you can flavor water naturally. You can get really creative with it! Here are some ideas…

**Add a slice of your favorite citrus to a tall glass of ice water…try lemon, lime, or orange slices. Or combine them…slices of lemon and lime…orange and lime…or try all three together!
**Fresh mint is always a great addition to a glass of ice water.
**Combine lemon slices with fresh herbs in your water…try lemon with mint, rosemary, thyme, or sliced ginger root.
**Cucumbers are great in water, too! Slice up a large cucumber and add it to a pitcher of water…it’s really refreshing. You can also try cucumber with some fresh thyme added in. Or cucumber slices with lemon or orange slices.
**If you want a more intense flavor to your glass of water, squeeze the citrus and/or twist the herbs you are using before you add them to your glass.
**Besides lemons, oranges, and limes, you can try adding other kinds of fruit to your glass or pitcher of water…a small handful of your favorite berries (or mixed berries) is a nice addition to a glass of ice water. Other fruits you can try alone or in combination are: watermelon, cantaloupe, mango, pineapple, grapefruit, grapes, and kiwi.
**Jenny from An Oregon Cottage mentioned in a comment on this post that she likes to use orange and mint or strawberry and cucumber combinations to flavor her water–great ideas!
NOTE: I usually drink my flavored water the same day I make it…I think it tastes best that way. Depending on what you add to your water, it may get cloudy or bitter-tasting if stored in the refrigerator too long.

If you’re wanting to make a pitcher of flavored water, you basically just slice or chop up some fresh fruit, cucumbers, or herbs and place in a pitcher, add cold water and chill several hours. The result is water infused with a light, natural flavor. It’s ready to serve over ice, garnished with a slice of fruit or clipping of an herb of your choice. Here are some other recipes for flavored water you may want to try:

CITRUS CUCUMBER WATER

¦1 large lemon, sliced
¦1 large lime, sliced
¦1 large orange, sliced
¦1 large cucumber, sliced
¦1 half-gallon of water
Place all the sliced fruits and the cucumber in a glass pitcher and add water. Refrigerate for two hours to allow flavors to infuse, then serve in glasses over ice.

CUCUMBER–HERBAL WATER

¦5 cups water
¦10 thin slices of cucumber
¦2 lemon slices
¦2 sprigs of fresh mint
¦3 sprigs of rosemary
Put water in pitcher and add lemon slices and cucumber slices. Crush mint and rosemary to release flavor, then add to other ingredients. Refrigerate for several hours. Serve over ice in tall glasses. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

CUCUMBER–MELON WATER

¦1 large cucumber, sliced
¦1/4 honeydew melon, cubed
¦1/4 cantaloupe, cubed
¦1 half-gallon water
Place cucumber and melons in a glass pitcher and add water. Refrigerate for 2 hours, then serve over ice. Garnish with melon balls skewered on a swizzle stick.

HONEYDEW–LIME WATER

¦2–3 slices of ripe honeydew melon
¦1 lime, sliced
¦4 sprigs of mint
¦1 half-gallon of water
Add melon slices, lime slices and mint sprigs to a large pitcher; fill with the half-gallon of water and refrigerate 2–4 hours. Serve in ice-filled glasses. Makes about 8 servings.

HERB AND BERRY–FLAVORED WATER

¦1 cup fresh blueberries, lightly crushed
¦2  4–inch sprigs of fresh rosemary. lightly bruised  (to release more flavor)
¦1 half-gallon of water
Add blueberries and rosemary sprigs to a large pitcher; fill with the half-gallon of water and refrigerate 2–4 hours. Serve in ice-filled glasses. Makes about 8 servings.

LEMON–LAVENDER WATER

¦3 large lemons, sliced
¦1/4 cup fresh lavender
¦1 half-gallon of water
Add lemon slices and lavender to pitcher; pour water over both and refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprig of lavender.

LEMON–MINT or LEMON-BASIL WATER

¦4 lemons, sliced
¦1 1/2 cups firmly packed fresh mint or basil leaves
¦6–8 cups water
¦6–8 cups ice cubes
¦Fresh mint or basil sprigs
Place lemon slices in a large pitcher. Rub the mint or basil leaves between the palms of your hands to bruise the leaves slightly. Add to the pitcher with lemon and pour in the water. Cover and chill 1–8 hours.

Strain lemon–water mixture and discard herbs. Divide lemon slices and additional fresh mint or basil sprigs equally among 6–8 glasses. In each glass, add 1 cup of ice cubes, then fill with lemon water.

LEMON, LIME AND ORANGE WATER

¦1 large lemon, sliced
¦1 large lime, sliced
¦1 large orange, sliced
¦1/4 cup cilantro leaves (optional)
¦1 half-gallon of water
Add citrus slices (and cilantro leaves, if desired) to a large pitcher; fill with the half-gallon of water and refrigerate 2 hours. Serve in ice-filled glasses. Garnish with your favorite citrus slice (and a sprig of cilantro, if you’re using that). Makes about 8 servings.

FROZEN FRUIT WATER

¦2 cups frozen apple chunks, grapes, or berries
¦1 half-gallon of water
Add frozen fruit to a pitcher; pour water over fruit and let sit at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Stir to distribute fruit flavor and serve in glasses with some ice cubes. (Note: you can chop up the same kind of fruit, unfrozen, and follow same directions. You’ll need  to use more ice when serving the unfrozen fruit–flavored water).

ORANGE–MINT WATER

¦3 large oranges, sliced
¦10 mint leaves
¦1 half-gallon of water
Put sliced oranges and mint leaves in pitcher and add water; refrigerate for 2 hours to infuse flavors. Pour over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint and orange slice.

WATERMELON–BASIL WATER

¦2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
¦10 basil leaves
¦1 half-gallon of water
Pour water over melon and basil; refrigerate for 2 hours. Serve over ice, garnished with a sprig of basil.

FRUIT WATER

¦1 each of the following fruits: apple, lemon, orange, pear
¦4 large strawberries
¦Handful of raspberries
¦Handful of mint leaves
¦1 half-gallon of water
Cut large slices or thin wedges of each fruit; place them in a large glass pitcher and add cold water. Refrigerate 2 hours and serve over ice in tall glasses.

detox water

 - helps you maintain a flat belly,
2 lemons,
1/2 cucumber, and
3qts water
fuse overnight to create a natural detox, helping to flush impurities out of your system.


Infused waters.
Here are the benefits to help with detoxification, energy, and hydration.
Put as much fruit in water as you like and let the water sit for at least 30 minutes before drinking
(1) Green tea, mint, lime-fat burning, digestion, headaches, congestion and breath freshener.
(2) Strawberry,kiwi-cardiovascular health, immune system protection, blood sugar regulation, digestion
(3) Cucumber, lime, lemon- water weight management, bloating, appetite control, hydration, digestion
(4) Lemon, lime, orange- digestion vitamin C, immune defense, heartburn, (drink this one at room temperature)

Do not keep longer than 48 hours - you can put more water using the same fruit, but discard after 48 hour

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LEMON MINT CUCUMBER WATER slightly adapted from The Denver Housewife

Makes 1 gallon-size pitcher

12 cups of water (3 quarts)
2 to 3 lemons, thinly sliced (you can also substitute limes or mix it up…use a lemon/lime combination–using organic lemons or limes is best)
1 small cucumber or 1/2 of a medium to large cucumber, preferably organic, thinly sliced
10 to 15 mint leaves. preferably organic
Rinse lemons and cucumbers very well before slicing; slice thinly. Add lemons, cucumber, and mint to pitcher. Cover with water and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight (the flavor will be stronger if you refrigerate overnight, but I like the lighter flavor, too). Pour in a large glass over some ice…it’s very refreshing! This water tastes best the day or day after you make it.
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Jillian Michael's Detox Water

60 ounces Purified Water
2 TBS Diet Cranberry Juice
2 TBS Lemon Water
1 Bag Dandelion Tea - Stewed ( I found my tea at Walmart in the beverage isle near the crystal light)

This is a replacement of normal water intake and not a meal replacement!!

Dandelion tea has a history and reputation for breaking down fat and removing it from your body via good old fashioned waste... So you may have increased bowel movements so be prepared for this.

Now for the part you have been waiting for... Does it work?!??  My opinion is it does! I just added the ingredients to my gallon jug of water that I drink daily and chugged away! It does have a somewhat acquired taste. The first day I had to force myself to chug it.. But after a bit I got used to the taste. I see a few others added stevia and splenda to theirs to help sweeten it up.
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Strawberry Infused Vitamin Water
This hydrating and antioxidant infused-water boasts flavor and skin enhancing nutrients, not to mention a beautiful presentation! Enjoy this refreshing and seasonal anti-inflammatory drink!

Ingredients

1 cup strawberries
2 cups watermelon, cubed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
dash of course salt
filtered water
Directions

1. Muddle the strawberries and rosemary in a bowl.
2. Add the muddled ingredients and the watermelon to a large pitcher. Pour water over the ingredients and stir.
3. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours, and enjoy!
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Apple Cider Vinegar Detox Drink
Ingredients

1 lemon, thinly sliced
1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
4 sprigs mint
2 quarts filtered water
2-6 T. apple cider vinegar (optional)
Preparation

Slice lemon and cucumber as thinly as possible. Divide into 2 separate quart sized bottles or mason jars.
Pluck mint leaves from stems and divide into jars.
Fill to the top with water, leaving room for as much apple cider vinegar as you want. I put 3 tablespoons into 32 oz of water, but love the taste of vinegar, so I suggest starting at 1 tablespoon and going up from there, tasting as you go and stopping when you feel like it is about to get too vinegary.
Refrigerate overnight.
Carry with you throughout the day. Enjoy!
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FAT FLUSH WATER
This water was featured on the "Biggest Loser". There are many variations of it all simple, all delicious.

Grapefruit has tons of vitamin C to help your body turn fat into fuel.

Tangerine increases your sensitivity to insulin, stabilizes blood sugar, and stimulates genes to burn fat.

Cucumber helps you feel full and acts as a natural diuretic, which means less bloating and water retention.

Peppermint promotes better digestion and stomach calm. Make a big pitcher (64oz) of Fat Flush Water at night, and drink the next day, throughout the day.

64 oz. purified Water
1/2 grapefruit sliced
1 tangerine
1 cucumber, sliced
4 peppermint leaves
Ice (made from purified water)

Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher. Make sure you are using organic so you can keep the skins on. The skins have super valuable nutrients and you do NOT want pesticides soaking in your water. Scrubbing does NOT remove pesticides which infiltrate the skins. It is important to clean your organic fruits and vegetables, to remove organic matter.
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Make Your Own Detox Drink for Daily Enjoyment & Cleansing

Whether you’re just trying to steer clear of the sugary drinks, or aim to really help your body flush out any toxins lurking in your system, this refreshing blend of foods and flavors will satisfy your taste buds needs.

Why Watermelon (or cucumber): Watermelon helps the body flush out toxins because it contains the organic compound citrulline, which is an amino acid that has been shown to help the liver and kidneys filter and get rid of ammonia. Ammonia comes in external forms, but is also a by-product of the proteins our bodies are burning up constantly for energy, and it’s quite damaging to our cells. Cucumber also contains citrulline, but not as much as watermelon. Watermelon may also just give the liver an overall boost.

Why water: H20 is just plain good for us, but it’s thought that it helps flush nasty toxins and waste through our system, giving organs like the liver and kidney an easier time doing their job.

Why lemon (or lime): Lemon or lime juice helps stimulate and regulate the digestive track (which is why it’s so helpful with constipation, heartburn and gas), stimulates bile production, and thins out bile, which allows it to flow more freely. Bile is produced by the liver and ends up in the small intestine to break down lipids (fats) that we’ve consumed.

Why mint leaves: Mint leaves are a nice refreshing flavor to add to your drink. On top of that, it can help you digest more effectively, improving the flow of bile from the liver, to the gallbladder, to the small intestine, where it breaks down dietary fats. Mint also helps relax cramped up stomach muscles.

You will need…

-1-2 liters’ of water, depending on how strong you want it to taste
-Part of 1 watermelon or 1 cucumber
-1 lemon or lime
-A handful of fresh mint leaves (approximately 10-13)
-Ice cubes

detox foods

Directions

Slice up a good amount of watermelon into cubes, rind and all, and put them into a jug or pitcher. Cut 1 juicy lime into wedges and toss in with the watermelon. Add a handful of fresh, fragrant, mint leaves and pour in 2 liters of cool water, filling the jug all the way to the top. Let this sit overnight in the fridge and let all the yummy flavors steep and infuse the water. When you want to drink it, put in a generous helping of ice cubes, pour, and enjoy daily.


Flavor Tips

• Try substituting a lemon for the lime, cucumber for the watermelon, or a combination of all of them.

• Pour water in first and then add the ingredients. I feel like there’s more of a burst of flavor when the water gets poured in and everything swirls around, but there’s something to be said for letting it gently infuse itself as well (the water tends to stay a bit clearer as well.)

• Don’t add ice to the entire jug, and leave it on a cup-by-cup basis. If you plan on drinking it over time, this can help prevent it from getting diluted as the ice melts.

• Start with 2 liters’ of water steeping overnight, and then experiment with longer/shorter times and more or less water.

• Squeeze in the juice of 1 lime and/or lemon and then slice up another and add that to give it a little extra citrus kick.

• This isn’t for flavor, but this drink looks mighty appealing in a glass pitcher on a hot summer day.
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Fat Flush Water

Ingredients

1/2 gallon water 6 wedges grapefruit 1 tangerine, sliced ½ cucumber, sliced 2 peppermint or mint leaves Ice
Directions

Rinse grapefruit, tangerine, cucumber and mint leaves. Slice cucumber, grapefruit, and tangerine (or peel). Combine all ingredients in a half gallon pitcher. Allow the ingredients to sit for 2 hours for maximum benefits. Drink throughout the day.

Stir & Enjoy!


CRANWATER. We all know water is a diuretic and great for the entire body, but combined with cranberry juice, it’s a fantastic fat and water flushing drink. Combine 5-6 ounces of water and 8 ounces of 100% cranberry juice. Mix together and drink throughout the day. Make sure it is 100% cranberry juice with nothing else added. The cranberry juice contains high levels of organic acids, and when consumed on a regular basis may help your body actually dissolve fatty deposits.
Looking for tips on fat loss, check out 38 Ways to Cut Fat from Your Diet and these 21 Tips to Make Weight Loss Easy

GRAPEFRUIT JUICE. Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is one of the best things for your body. Grapefruits contain high amounts of Vitamin C, which helps your body to detoxify naturally. This drink helps your liver do the job it was meant to do – detoxify and metabolize your body!
WATER. Yes, we know. What a shock! Plain old water! But, truly your body needs plenty of water to facilitate the breakdown of fat in your body. Drinking water will help flush out toxins and keep you energized so that your body to perform at it’s best. Keep in mind, drinking tons of water is not the answer to losing weight. You will still need to take in a  proper diet and facilitate an appropriate exercise regime. Drinking water will keep your body clean and allow all of your organs to work properly instead of working overtime to keep your body going.

GREEN TEA. Green tea is one of the most famous fat flushing drinks. Like cranberry juice, green tea is extremely high in antioxidants. It is known for helping many dieters lose fat quicker than usual when consumed 2-3 times a day. Green tea not only flushes fat, but also is packed with other helpful benefits for your body.
These 5 drinks won’t work miracles alone, but are a great start and will help increase the benefits of a healthy diet and cardio regimen. For maximum health benefits, it is important to also implement an appropriate fitness program with a nutritious diet. Check out our Total Body Transformation Program eBook to get you started on the path to a new, healthier you.
If you have allergies to fruit or citrus fruits do not consume these Fat Flushing drinks. If you are taking any medications, do not consume Fat Flushing Drinks until you consult your physician to get approval.
Get the Fat Flushing Soup recipe filled with super foods that are packed with antioxidants and aid with flushing toxins and subsequently, fat from the body.
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DIY Detox Drink

We all have different tastes and preferences, and like to mix things up every once in a while too. Experiment by trying out various ingredients, amounts, and methods (like blending, or boiling into a tea, or infusing into water, etc.) Below is a list of foods that have been shown to help boost your built-in detox system (namely liver, G.I., and kidney function.) If possible, always buy organic to avoid chemical ingredients or pesticides.

Cruciferous vegetables & leafy greens: This group includes a lot of veggie superheroes, and is why you see so many “green” detox drinks or smoothies. Included are broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, lettuce, bok choy, and spinach. Broccoli and co. increases the amount of glucosinolate (organic compounds) in our body, which in turn help create enzymes that help our body’s breakdown and digest things. Leafy greens like lettuce and bok choy have the ability to neutralize metals, chemicals, and pesticides that find their way into our systems.

Avocado: Avocados can help your body produce an antioxidant, glutathione, which our liver needs to do its job and filter properly.

Grapefruit: High in antioxidants and vitamin C, grapefruit or grapefruit juice also aids the liver in flushing carcinogens (things linked to causing cancer, like stuff in cigarettes and tobacco, as well as some pre-prepared foods) and possibly pesticides out of the body.

Beets: The systems in the body all work together, and for various reasons beets seem to be helpful to more than one major organ. However, they’ve shown themselves to be particularly helpful when it comes to aiding the liver in detoxification.

If it’s chilly, try making some detox tea to keep you warm and healthy, or mix up an icy cool drink in hot weather. Play around with what you like and keep in mind things you know are good for your body’s own detox system-not things that claim to be a miracle detox system all on their own.
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Breaking Down Detox: Is it Good, Bad, or Just a Fad?

Detox stuff has taken off in popularity recently, but what is it exactly? Does a detox drink just flush right through your system and wash your body free of toxins? Does a detox diet actually work? Wait…what are the toxins anyways? Most importantly, can trying to get rid of them be more harmful than healthful? Many people are quick to jump on the detox bandwagon, but some basic knowledge beforehand can help you determine what will be the most effective when it comes to putting together a personal purifying plan.

Before you can understand the “de” in detox you should have an idea of the “tox” (aka the toxins we’re aiming to get rid of.) They’re little compounds from various sources that, when they build up in our bodies, have nasty effects. They can cause anything ranging from headaches and nausea to death.

To help keep your body healthy and clear of toxins, make sure you’re giving yourself a healthy dose of things that are known to help out the head honchos of the detox system, like the liver and kidneys. Knowing some of these foods can really take you a long ways when it comes to whipping up a drink, smoothie, or plain old good meal.
The less bad stuff you put in, the less you have to clear out.
Various tips and recipes from Southern Living, eHow, Vegetable Gardener, About.com, Eating Well.

DIY: The secret to Beautiful skin is Gentle Care, Good Products and Pure Natural Ingredients!

Take care of your skin, don't use lots of chemicals on it and don't I repeat DO NOT go out and spend hundreds of dollars on products that you do not know what is in them!!!

I hardly buy a thing these days from the cosmetic section I buy natural products and make my own skin care, household cleaners and laundry soaps.

I am going to share many recipes I have tried and used and some I have made myself.

ALWAYS remember be Gentle to your skin, give it some devoted time each day and best of all find something that de-stresses you each day, take the time it will show on you.
You may not like everything you were born with but You can always improve what you were born with even if it's not just what you wanted.
I have to say I'm pretty satisfied with My Self, Mother Goddess and Father God were good to me and I did inherit good genes I must say I have beautiful Patents, Goddess and God bless them always!! I wouldn't have plastic surgery on my face, with age do come some wrinkles anyone who thinks they can outrun the wrinkle faery is just crazy, but we can ease into those wrinkles gently and fight them with magick and good skin care and these recipes so do try some of my recipes I share.

I can't complain ;) 

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5 Simple Ingredients for Homemade Beauty Products

I love it when I know exactly what's going into and onto my body. When I can name every ingredient in something, without resorting to phonetically sounding it out. When the stuff that goes on my lips (or in my mouth) is actually edible. When the oil that soaks into my skin comes from olives, rather than petroleum. When my cleanser smells nice because part of it was once real flowers. 

So now I make a lot of my own beauty products. And actually, it's so easy and really fast, too. Faster than running down to the pharmacy for another tube of whatever. Make a list, go get these things, and try some recipes out!

Here are 5 fantastic and cheap ingredients to get you started: 

Organic coconut oil 

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties (and which babies get a good dose of in mum's milk). It's a good saturated fat, but got a bad reputation from the hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated varieties found in processed foods. So stick to the extra virgin or minimally refined versions. 

*cook with it - it doesn't break down at high temperatures, it lasts ages, and it's creamy at cool temperatures

*use it for creams like deodorant or chest rub

*use it for cleansers and make up removers

*use it as a conditioner for hair or a moisturizer for skin

Um, just looking at all these cross links and you can see how much I love coconut oil! I actually have two varieties - the extra virgin (which is less processed) and the refined (which is more subtle, when you don't want a strong scent).

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Organic extra virgin olive oil

Olive oil is rich in vitamin E and is known as a heart-healthy fat.

*cook with it

*use it in cleansers and make up removers

*use as a natural furniture polish

*use as a moisturizer for skin or lips or hair

NOTE: store out of direct light if possible

I love when I rub olive oil into something I'm cooking - my hands get so soft!! You can also used olive oil to get rid of cradle cap when she was a baby - just rub some onto the scalp and then use a comb to remove the flaky bits.

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Organic lavender essential oil (you only use a few drops at a time!)

Lavender can provide relief from insomnia, headaches, and also has antihistamine properties.

*put a few drops in your bath for extra relaxation

*add a few drops to your laundry rinse cycle to make your clothes or linens smell amazing

*add a few drops to homemade moisturizers or cleansers

*add a few drops to 10 mL apricot kernel oil for a relaxing massage oil

NOTE: store essential oils out of the reach of children and out of direct light if possible

I love the smell of lavender. Though it was one of those smells that repulsed me during pregnancy (along with coffee! what a nightmare that was!) so it took me awhile to get back into it ...

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Good raw honey-buy good honey

Raw honey hasn't been heated to high temperatures, so it retains all its natural goodness. Honey has antiseptic and anti fungal properties, and is soothing on the throat. A truly natural sugar.

*cook with it (or just use it raw!)

*use for mild cuts or burns or fungal infections

*makes a good face mask

*helps soothe sore or dry throats - try 1 Tbs lemon juice + 1 Tbs honey + 1 cup hot water

NOTE: don't give honey to babies less than 12 months old, or as your doctor recommend

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Tea tree oil (a little pricey but like any essential oil it'll last you ages)

Another great antiseptic and anti fungal essential oil. This one comes from an Australian native tree, and has quite a potent smell. So use in moderation! 

*add a few drops to your hot wash cycle as an extra disinfectant for towels and linens

*helps the skin recover from shaving or you can apply a drop or two directly to mild cuts or abrasions

*use in conjunction with white vinegar to clean the house - try 1 c vinegar + few drops oil + a bucket of hot water to mop tiled floors or without the water to clean the toilet

*is a natural insect repellent

NOTE: store essential oils out of the reach of children and out of direct light if possible

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I hope this gets you started on good skin care, get some friends or family members together and have an at home spa day!!

Treat yourself this weekend!

Both avocado oil and shea butter are known for their hydrating and moisturizing properties, making it the perfect marriage of ingredients for the delicate under eye area. 

Avocado oil Benefits:

Extremely moisturizing.

It is a natural source of Vitamins A, D and E.

It is easily absorbed into the skin and can help with regenerating and softening of the dry eye area. 

Contains potassium, which can help with the growth of new cells.

Supports skin elasticity.

Shea Butter Benefits:

It is a natural fat that is extracted from the nut of the African shea tree, which is very hydrating.

It is widely used in skin care to reduce the appearance of fine lines, scars and stretch marks. 

It melts when it comes in contact with your skin (if you buy the real stuff you will see what I mean) and it is instantly absorbed, without making you feel like a greasy mess. 

Has anti-inflammatory benefits. 

Restores the natural suppleness of your skin.

DIY Under Eye Treatment:

Avocado Oil 

%100 Pure Shea Butter *Make sure you read the back label before you purchase. You want to make sure the only ingredient listed is shea butter. 

*You can find both of these ingredients at a health food store in the beauty section. Or you can purchase them here and here. 

Directions:

Take a few drop of avocado oil and gently massage under each eye until fully absorbed. 

Finish by applying a thin layer of shea butter on top. Gently massage into your skin until absorbed. 

So easy and super cost effective!

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ANTI-WRINKLE EYE OIL

Anti-Wrinkle Eye Oil Now for the eyes! You can definitely use a heavier (read:
oilier) combination here as the tissue around your eyes is very thin and obviously more prone to
 wrinkles.

WHY AVOCADO OIL?
Avocado oil is perfect for your eyes because its abundant fatty acids help balance skin’s moisture
levels, and the high levels of vitamins A, C and E rejuvenate dry skin and remove those pesky free
radicals that age skin.
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ANTI-WRINKLE EYE OIL
1 tablespoon gentle oil(found at Mountain Rose Herbs,com) check them out
1 tablespoons avocado oil
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1/8 – 1/4 cup aloe vera
1 vitamin E capsule (optional)
Melt the coconut oil if needed and combine ingredients in a dark glass bottle, preferably one with
 a dropper. Shake well to combine. Put 3-5 drops onto your finger and pat into the skin around your
 eye before bed. If you add the vitamin E capsule you’ll need to shake before each use.
 Note: you can add a couple of tablespoons of cocoa butter to the recipe if you prefer a more solid
 cream. Cocoa butter is another major moisturizer and can make it easier to apply (it won’t slide
 around as much).
 Anti-Wrinkle Eye Oil After you apply the facial serum at night, tap a tiny amount
 of eye cream around the crease of your eye. A little goes a long way – if you go overboard
 slathering it on you’ll get it in your eyes and it will sting a bit (yep, learned this the hard
 way!).
 I love this Eye Oil I made a new batch of it today!
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HYDRATING SERUM
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
2 tablespoons vegetable glycerin
1 teaspoon jojoba oil
1 vitamin E capsule (optional)
2-4 drops of essential oil like lavender, chamomile or rose
Combine ingredients in a small glass pump and shake well to combine. Apply to clean skin at night
for a light, overnight moisturizer. Shake before each use if including the vitamin E capsule. Will
last indefinitely if stored in the refrigerator.

WHY JOJOBA OIL?
 Jojoba and avocado oil (see below) are two of my favorites for skin care recipes. Jojoba is an oil
 that’s very close to our skin’s natural oil, and you can use it for just about anything (much like
 coconut oil). It’s non comedogenic, so it won’t block pores, and, in fact, it helps oily skin
 level out oil generation. Plus it’s loaded with vitamin E, linoleic acid and antioxidants that
 regenerate skin cells.
 But if you don’t have any jojoba on hand you can totally make this recipe without it, and it will
 still be excellent for your skin.

I love this Antiwrinkle serum

****

Avocados are Nutritious

Avocados are fruits which grow on Persea Americana trees which are native to Mexico. Avocado is also known as 'Alligator Pear'. They have green tough skins which are textured and they are pear shaped.

The flesh inside the tough skin is the edible part. It is soft and creamy and very rich. There is also a large stone inside which can be easily removed.

Although avocados are high in fat they are still very healthy. They contain mono and polyunsaturated fats, which are the 'good' fats, as they contain omega 3 fatty acids which are vital for hair, skin and eyes. The good fats are unlike saturated fats which tend to be found in cakes and cheese, as they are less harmful to the arteries and high blood pressure.

Avocado is a versatile fruit, as it is filling and contains many vitamins and minerals.

Eating Avocados

I can't rave on these enough!!

Avocados are eaten raw with the flesh scooped out and the stone removed. They are enjoyable as a snack or in a salad.

They go well with prawns, fish or melon and they are the main ingredient in the Mexican dip guacamole.

Add lime, chopped coriander, onion, tomato and seasoning to avocados and mash together to make the guacamole. It can be chunky or pureed and served on french toasts or to dip chips or bread sticks.

Avocado can also be a luxury treat in a sandwich or wrap with cream cheese or ham.

Baby Food

Avocado is a soft food great for your growing baby. Mash it down or blend it in baby food as a nutritious meal rich in vitamins and good fats. It is ideal for a developing brain. Although it contains a high level of fats, it is good for baby in small amounts. Check with your family doctor if you have any concerns.

Smoothies

Smoothies are a blended drink full of your favorite fruit. You can make them yourself in a smoothie maker or in a blender with ice and fruit juice. Add avocado, banana, lime or strawberry for a healthy morning drink.

Prepare you avocado plants

Avocado Trees

When I had eaten my avocado, I wanted to know if there was anything to do with the stone (pit) in the middle. I then came across a different way of growing plants from them indoors.

By poking cocktail sticks into the middle of the stone it is then able to balance on a cup of water. As long as the bottom of the stone is immersed in the water they should be fine.

Keep them on a sunny window sill and with any luck they should begin to sprout in a matter of weeks. Once there are leaves and roots, allow them to grow about 6 inches. They can then be planted into pots.

Ensure that you use good compost and plant them shallow in the pot, with the roots downwards.

Keep them watered but do not saturate them. They need plenty of light indoors to grow. As new leaves grow pinch out the old ones to encourage good growth. You can them keep them outdoors in the summer, but bring them inside in the winter so they are safe from frost.

You may not get any fruit on the tree for the first year or two, but grow a couple of trees together to aid pollination.

Hair mask!

Avocado Hair Mask

Another use for avocados are to use them on your hair and skin! Try a nourishing hair mask every now and again for glossy locks.

Hair Mask Ingredients:

1 Mashed avocado

1 medium egg

1 tsp honey

Method:

Mash together the ingredients in a bowl.

Massage the mixture in your hair and wrap in cling film or a plastic shower cap.

Relax for 20 minutes and allow the vitamins, minerals and good fats enrich your hair and scalp. The honey is moisturising and the egg contains protein. Add olive oil if your scalp is particularly dry.

Rinse out of your hair after 20 minutes. Use a mild shampoo to remove the avocado mixture as it can get messy!

*___*

Avocado Face Mask

Avocado is great for dry skin. Add mashed up ripe avocado to a spoonful of runny honey and smear on your face avoiding the nose, mouth and eye areas. Honey has antibacterial properties which can help soothe and skin and fight pimples.

If you have a lot of spots, add a few drops of freshly squeezed lemon as this is antiseptic.

For very dry skin, add plain natural yogurt or coconut oil to your mashed avocado. The natural ingredients are free of nasty chemicals which are found in shop bought face masks, and if you buy organic ingredients then all the better.

Cleansing Your Face

Facial Cleansing

Washing your face is essential. It's the first step toward healthy skin, and it's the only way to effectively remove the grimy dirt, oils, and makeup that build up on your skin throughout the day.

Re[psted -- Original By the editors at Daily Glow

People ask me all the time what I do to take care of my skin and I tell them I don't spend a ton of money on expensive Face Products, I have tried a few but honestly I like Natural care and I use simple things, many that I make myself

But these Tips are important and I do follow them..

Wash your face daily. If you have normal, combination, or oily skin, can wash your face both in the morning and at night before bed. However, if you are prone to dry skin or if you have a skin condition, like eczema, you may want to limit yourself to a single face-washing at the end of the day to remove makeup and dirt without drying out your skin.

Wash with lukewarm water. Hot water can have a drying effect on your skin, so experts recommend washing with lukewarm water instead. The warm water will also help open up your pores and prepare them for cleansing.

Get a cleanser for the face. Regular soap and body washes are no-no’s when it comes to washing your face. Look for cleansers that have been specifically formulated for the face. They should be labeled with terms like, “facial cleanser,” “clear complexion cleanser,” or “face wash.”

Use a mild facial cleanser. Watch out for harsh soaps that can strip the natural oils from your skin. The key is to use a mild facial cleanser that is “non-comedogenic,” which means that it won’t clog your pores. Keeping your pores clear will also result in fewer breakouts.

Go fragrance-free. Look for mild facial cleansers that don’t have perfumes, alcohol, or dyes added to them, since these types of ingredients are more likely to cause irritation, rashes, and breakouts. This is especially important for people with sensitive skin. If you see “hypoallergenic” on the label, it’s a good sign that these products are in the clear.

Think about your skin type. Finding a cleanser that is suited to your skin type also may enhance the way your skin feels (and acts) after washing. For example, face soaps with added oils or fats will be gentler on dry skin. Glycerin-based or oil-free facial cleansers can benefit oily skin.

Basic Facial Cleansing Technique

• Make sure your hands are clean before you begin. If they’re not, wash them first.
• Wrap your hair in a towel or use elastics, barrettes, or a headband to keep your hair out of your face while cleansing.
• Use lukewarm water and a good facial cleanser to wash your face.
• Gently rub the cleanser into your face using circular motions.
• Massage your face with your fingers to promote good circulation.
• Use a washcloth or loofah to help gently scrub and exfoliate your skin.
• Rinse well with lukewarm water. Make sure all the soap is off your neck and ears, and has been cleaned from around your eyes and nose, and your hairline.
• Splash cool water on your face to refresh your skin and close your pores.
• Pat your skin dry with a towel, but leave some moisture on the skin.
• Moisturize immediately so that your moisturizer can seal the moisture into your skin.

If you have a skin condition, talk to your dermatologist about the best techniques and types of products to use when washing your face. For example, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that people with rosacea let the face dry thoroughly before applying any topical medication or moisturizers. They should also steer clear of facial cleansers that contain alcohol, witch hazel, salicylic acid, fragrance, and certain oils, according to the National Rosacea Society. On the other hand, the AAD acknowledges that products containing alcohol and acetone, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide are likely to benefit people with acne. For people with inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema, the AAD warns against excessive washing and encourages people to pay special attention even to mild cleansers, since they can irritate the skin and worsen eczema symptoms.

Washing your face properly with a mild cleanser will help remove makeup and clear away the day’s dirt and excess oil build-up, leaving your skin fresh, clean, and beautiful.

DIY: How to Fix a Broken Eyeshadow

What girl hasn't had that moment where you pull out your favorite compact, eye shadow or blush, it slips out of your fingers, hits the floor and crumbles to pieces? This experience is usually followed by expletives. Yep, pretty much anyone who has ever used make-up has had this happen.

Did you know there's a quick and easy way to save that damaged makeup from the trash can?  My guest blogger today, Jennie Lieber, has today's beauty tip for you:  

How to Repair a Broken Eye Shadow or Powder Compact

Broken compact

   Things you will need:
   Rubbing Alcohol
   Knife or Spoon
   The original compact and broken make-up pieces 

Step One:
Collect as many pieces of the broken makeup as you possibly can.  Place the pieces back in the original container. Use the back of the spoon or the end of your knife to break up the remainder of the large clumps that make still be left in your container into as many small pieces as possible.  

Add alcohol and mix

Step Two:
Pour rubbing alcohol in its cap.  Then moisten the broken make-up a little at a time (3-5 drops depending on the size of the compact). DO NOT OVER SOAK!  You want it to be thick - like cake batter - not too runny.

Once the mixture is sufficiently damp, mix the powder together and press the makeup back into place using the back side of the spoon or the flat side of a knife.  Try to get it as smooth as possible, leaving no chunks or holes under the top layer.

As you can see from the photo, it will get a little messy around the edges. Just use your finger or a Q-tip to clean around the edges when you are done mixing it up. 

Good as new

Step Three:
After you have pressed the makeup back down, let it sit on your counter and dry with the lid open.  Wait 2-3 hours and once it's dry to the touch, take a tissue and lay it over the top of the make-up and gentlypress down to make sure that you pack the make-up down all the way through. 

Wait 24 hours before using to make sure it has dried all the way. 

And... wa-la! You can see from the photo to the left that this blush has been restored to its original block form and as ready for use! Here's a video for those who want to see someone actually walking though this process. 

DIY At-Home Spa Tricks

I love a good Spa Visit, don't get me wrong, and when I can I do go

But I can't go all the time like I want, so I create my own Spa Right at HOME

that's right and you can too, Take time to give yourself some much needed beauty and relaxation

YOU know YOU Need it!

Stop and smell the rose (water)

“To save some money, make your own rose-water toner, which has great astringent properties. Here’s my recipe: For every one firmly packed cup of rose petals, pour two cups of boiling water over the top. Cover and steep until the liquid is cool. Strain, squeeze out the liquid from the petals and refrigerate the rose water in a sterilized jar between use.” Lianne Farbes,

Befriend your blender

“When it’s really cold outside and my skin gets a bit chafed, I go home and head straight for the kitchen and dust off my blender. I make myself a hydrating facial mask by blending a little cold cream, yogurt, honey, aloe vera gel and avocado. Using a foundation brush to paint it on my face, I let the mask dry for about 15 to 20 minutes and rinse. Voila! My skin feels refresh and moisturized again.” India-Jewel Jackson, GlamBlush

Heat things up

“Before jumping into the shower, stash your daily body lotion on top of a radiator or heating vent so it’s warmed up when you rub it on. I tell you, there is nothing better than getting out of a hot shower and rubbing on the heated, soothing lotion. Just be aware that your lotion will get much more liquidy when it’s warm, so it might rush out of its container faster.” Petra Guglielmetti,The Girls in the Beauty Department

Deep-condition hair with coconut oil

“Women with especially curly and kinky hair, as well as relaxed hair (it’s great for protecting new growth), will love coconut oil as a hair conditioner and moisturizer. You can leave it in overnight or condition with a heat cap if you are pressed for time. Coconut oil also provides shine, and some studies even claim that it helps penetrate the hair to make it stronger.” Nichelle Gainer, 55 Secret Street and A Novelista

Exfoliate with a sugary scrub

“I have been making my own at-home body scrub since I was a little girl. My grandmother started me when I was only seven years old! Here’s what you need:Mix all the ingredients together and then apply on dry skin, using your hands. You want to perform slow circles—this treatment is to be enjoyed and not rushed. (The real key is standing over a plastic bag or towel to catch the remains.) After scrubbing gently all over, step into the shower and rinse off. Your skin will be like butter.”Julia Coney, All About the Pretty

Mix all the ingredients together and then apply on dry skin, using your hands. You want to perform slow circles—this treatment is to be enjoyed and not rushed. (The real key is standing over a plastic bag or towel to catch the remains.) After scrubbing gently all over, step into the shower and rinse off. Your skin will be like butter.”Julia Coney, All About the Pretty

Even out skin with a fruity solution

“Take a freshly cut lemon and rub gently on rough elbows and knees. The acid in the lemon will soften rough spots on skin and also lighten any dark areas.” Lianne Farbes, TheMakeUpGirl

Turn your shower into a sauna

“Just turn your shower on and run it at its hottest temperature for about 20 minutes. While the water is running and the steam is building, take a warm washcloth and spray with your favorite relaxing oil. (Lavender, vanilla or rosemary are all great de-stressing aromas.) When you step into your shower, put the washcloth up to your face and take a deep breath of your soothing, oil-scented steam. It’s a great way to unwind right before bed—and it also helps clear up sinuses.” Aly Walanksy,eBeauty Daily

De-stress even more by doing it in the dark

“Start—or end—the day in a wonderful, slow, quiet, calming, flickering way with a candlelit shower. Make sure the bathroom is dark (close the curtains, if you have them) and light a sweet-smelling candle. I promise, you will love it.” Joanna Goddard,Smitten

Soften hands (while watching TV!)

Combine a few spoonfuls of cold cream, two drops of tea tree oil, five drops of lavender oil, a spoonful of olive oil and a banana (for a fruity smell) in a blender. When the consistency is smooth, slather liberally all over hands and cuticles. Then slip hands into a pair of yellow rubber gloves—yes, the kind you use to scrub the tub with. For the softest hands ever, I like to sit down and watch TV with my lotioned and gloved hands underneath a heating pad so that the heat will help my homemade salve penetrate my skin that much more.” India-Jewel Jackson, GlamBlush

Take your vitamins

“The winter months can be brutal on the face. The key to super-soft and well-moisturized skin is a dime-size amount of vitamin E oil on your face under your moisturizer every night. Yes, you will feel a little greasy, but you are going to sleep, so you won’t notice for long. And trust me, your face will thank you in the morning.”Julia Coney, All About the Pretty

Oil up

“To repair and revitalize skin, apply a few teaspoons of 100 percent extra-virgin olive oil onto the dry, freshly cleansed face and neck in a circular motion before your night cream. (Just avoid the eye area.) Or, to help boost immune systems, take two teaspoons of it daily, after a meal. (You can add sugar for flavor if it’s too hard to handle.)” Sasha Manuel,Beauty Bento Box

Rethink your pantry staples

“Once a week I give my whole body a nourishing scrub. I mix one cup of granulated white sugar with enough vitamin E oil to make a thick paste. I take it with me as I head to the tub and scrub it in circular motions all over my body. This simple-to-use scrub helps rid my skin of dead cells while taking in the nourishment of the vitamin E oil. Simple and sweet!” Teri Cosenzi, Beautiful Makeup Search

How To Make A Microwave Heating Bag

shared by http://tipnut.com/make-your-own-microwave-heating-pad/

Instead of using electric heat pads & blankets or hot water bottles for your aches and pains, these microwaveable packs are just the ticket!

They’re known by a few different terms such as: bed buddies, stress busters, rice or magic bags, corn cozies–but they’re basically all the same thing.

These serve a dual purpose as you can also keep them in the freezer to use has a cooling pad or freezer pack when needed.

If you’d like to learn how to make them, you’ll find a tutorial below along with tips for different kinds of fillers to try and directions for using them.

Introduction:

No pattern is necessary, simply cut two pieces of cloth in the size/shape you wish (leave a seam allowance about 1/2″). More detailed instructions are found below.

Some prefer regular square shapes, others prefer tubes or more rectangular shapes. Experiment, whip up a few different sizes and shapes to try.

These are really easy to whip up as well as cheap!

Filler Options

• Uncooked rice
• Wheat
• Feed corn
• Buckwheat hulls
• Barley
• Oatmeal
• Beans
• Flax seed
• Cherry pits

You can also add the following to the above for a soothing, fragrant sack: Spices, herbs, essential oils.

• Ideas: lavender, rose petals, ground cloves, nutmeg, ginger, rosemary, cinnamon, peppermint oil, crushed mint
• If using: Mix herbs, spices and essential oil with choice filler (such as rice) and let sit in a sealed container for a few days (occasionally stirring). This will help set and distribute the fragrance a bit.

Fabric Options

• Cotton: (plain, prints, flannels, denims)
• Alternate ideas: old socks (sew or knot end closed), washcloths, old towels

You can also make cozy, removable & washable outer pouches, this is especially nice to do when giving as gifts.

• Fabric Ideas: use old towels, fleece, velour knits, pretty fabric prints and flannels (don’t microwave anything other than cotton fabrics). The softer & fluffier & better!

Instructions

• Cut and sew the fabric in the size and shape you want (usually a large washcloth size works well).
• Leave an inch or two open on one side so that you can fill pouch with your choice of filler (about 1/2 to 3/4 full, more or less as you prefer). You don’t want it too full though, the sack should be able to mold itself around your body when you apply it.
• Once it’s full, sew opening closed either by hand or machine (keeping filler pushed to the opposite side of bag while sewing).

If wanting a removable cover, just sew a “pillowcase” idea with your soft, plushy fabric by making it a little larger than your pad and leaving an open end (make sure to finish off ends by sewing a hem). Or you can add a strip of velcro to close it. Careful: Make sure to never microwave this cover unless its content is full cotton. Remove cover to wash as needed.

Filler Suggestion For Headache Soothers

Rice (or other grain listed above) and a mix of:

• Dried lavender
• Marjoram
• Betony
• Rose petals
• Cloves
• Rosemary

Directions For Use

Heat for 1 to 3 minutes, depending on size. Do not leave unattended “just in case” the filler smokes or starts on fire. As a precaution, you can set a cup of water inside along with it to add moisture or spritz sack lightly with water first. If you add spices and herbs, this is a good idea to do.

If You’re In a Pinch:

• If you need something “now” and don’t have time to sew one, try filling a ziploc freezer bag (use the microwaveable kind) 3/4 full with uncooked rice, seal shut. Zap it for a minute or two then wrap in a hand towel and use as needed.
• You can also fill a clean tube sock, tie closed the open end, heat and use as needed.

Caution:

These are glorious to use for aches and pains, or just to pamper yourself after a long, hard day–but be careful before applying to body. Shake it first, feel around and check that it’s not too hot and won’t burn, especially when using on a child.