Review: The Rising Phoenix Perfumery

Artisan perfumery is a growing movement where individuals are exploring unique olfactory direction ... It’s been a very busy year in fragrance and a good one to note. It seems that the world is discovering how gorgeous scent can be ... and powerful!  I was really excited to find a gem that stood out in the treasure chest of fine perfume jewels called The Rising Phoenix Perfumes.

Founded by brothers JK DeLapp and Kyle DeLapp, The Rising Phoenix Perfumery is a natural perfumery based in Denver, Colorado.  A designer perfumery, with 5 perfumes in currently being offered ... all recently launched this year, 2013.  They are all natural and synthetic-free perfumes.  The names of them are GreenVelvet, Preda, More Beauty Than Beast, Phoenix Fougere and Poisoned Fig.  

Of all of my the perfumes by  my favorite by The Rising Phoenix Perfumery, my favorite by far is the Preda ... a luxury unlike any other ... The first impression is one of wiskey, an almost drunken' and hypnotic trance falls over me as the top note captivates me in the web of its spell.  The heart notes begin to weaken me ... as I fall in love ... with Preda, with life ... with the essence of love itself.  The base note lingers, lasting long into the morning hours ... I smell it on me as I wash if off ... only to fall in love with life again ... one day at a time, one moment at a time, one breath at a time!!!

For more information, please visit The Rising Phoenix Perfumery



From the Rising Phoenix Perfumery website

Description

Most are unaware that perfumes have their origins in incense. The word "Perfume" means, "Through Smoke", and is an acknowledgment to the historical role of incense in perfumery. The Phoenix, being reborn only through fire, has a special kinship with incense and perfumery, and is an age old symbol in both Eastern and Western Alchemy.
The Rising Phoenix is a rebirth of Natural Perfumery.
Rising Phoenix Perfumery is both a perfume house AND a boutique supplier of hard-to-come-by ingredients, many of which are made from scratch by us. 100% Real-nothing synthetic.

Our scents run the aesthetic gamut of historical and modern formulations, and cross-cultural influences. From ancient Rome, Greece, Egypt, and the Orient, the Renaissance, Medieval, and Victorian eras to modern French and English perfuming, as well as our own intriguing creative formulations--our creations are formulated to be 100% REAL--free from any synthetic ingredients, all blended by hand with an artist’s attention to detail.

We also offer a special service unique in today’s perfumery: Specialty custom blends formulated by our in-house, formally trained Chinese Medical Herbalist. These blends are prepared to treat you as an individual, specifically treating your specific needs.

By utilizing our knowledge of Chinese Medical Herbology, Homeopathy and Aromatherapy, the Conceptual Theories of Hermetic Alchemy, an Insider’s Knowledge of Industry Secrets, and the Aesthetic Artistry of Perfumery, we have mastered the art of encapsulating allegorical ideas into singular olfactory experiences. We are the first of our kind. Our expertise shows. Your nose knows.

Our products are made exclusively from REAL materials: essential oils (the distilled, aromatic compounds from herbs), tinctured herbs, the occasional natural isolate, and raw ingredients. 100% Real.

Rising Phoenix also has a fully digital laboratory for Custom Extraction and High Vacuum Fractional Distillation of Natural Isolates and Rare Fragrance Ingredients from Ethically Sourced Natural Materials of both plant and animal origins.

Specializing in many different Natural Musks (Civet, Castoreum, and Ambergris; Musk Mallow, Ambrette, Angelica, etc.) Extracts are prepared as Tinctures, Absolutes, Concretes, Resins and Resin Absolutes. We provide our community of Natural-minded people with hard-to-find ingredients that were once critical to the industry: Natural. Sensual. Unique.

We pride ourselves on the artistry of our products and our skill in their creation. All of our products are hand-blended here in our laboratory. Integrity and dedication is vitally important to us, and we do our best to provide the best possible product and slavishly good service to all our clients.

Review: Grasse Roots Perfumery

"Natural perfume epitomizes beauty, purity, and grace.  These qualities unfold within us when we live in harmony with the natural world.  The essences of plants and flowers can bless us with sacred wisdom if we let them." -Claire Lautier (owner, perfumer)

Years ago I began to explore the luxurious and anointing world of perfumery and I have since been obsessed with them.  I recently discovered a lovely shop on the internet called Grasse Roots Perfumery.  These perfumes are made with all natural essences and botanicals ... nothing synthetic whats-so-ever.  When available they use organic.  They have a great selection and the prices are reasonable, lower than some comparable products ... good news.  Every effort is made at Grasse Roots Perfumery to use plant materials responsibly.  If you have a known allergy, exercise discretion in your choice of perfumes ... they will help you if this is the case.  Their customer service receives and A+++. 

I received the $32.00 sample set, as well as three samples of bath salts from Grasse Roots Perfumery. 

All the perfumes are simple lovely ... never too heavy or aggressive and I find that they each represent a different mood.  Of the 7 samples, my favorite by far is the blood orange.  Full sizes of all the perfumes on Grasse are very affordable, making them perfect for gifts as well as using everyday.  The salts, also reasonable are nice.  The fragrance lingers well after the bath is over, one of my favorite parts of using them.  My hubby likes the conifer salt ... me too.

For more information, or to order visit Grasse Roots Perfumery.   

Review: Jade Microfiber Yoga Towel

I was pretty excited about giving a Jade Towel a spin in the yoga studio, mainly because I know that Jade is the place where the yoga teachers shop.  Also, I am a huge fan of their yoga mats, as it is the best of my collection of ten ... It arrived in the mail and I excitedly opened it up and skipped (yeah, that right, I was feeling happy) to my husband's office to show him.  He said, "hhmm, looks like a curtain", and you know what it kind of does.  This towel is pretty enough to hang up as a curtain ... all smiles.

I tested its efficiency the next day.  As we all know, pretty will only get you so far ... but before I share my experience, a little background.

The Jade microfiber yoga towel is made with polyester microfiber and weighs about 8 ounces.  It is said to be super absorbent and quick drying, as well as providing a great grip.

Towels are 24" x 72", made in the US in compliance with all US environmental, labor and consumer protection laws.

My thoughts ... This towel is so soft and lightweight.  Sometimes I use it as a blanket.  It does have a great grip, dries quickly and is really absorbent of moisture.  Very nice ... nice price too.

Jade will provide one month's worth of clean drinking water for one person in the developing world for every towel sold.  For more information, please visit Jade Yoga.

Review: Medicine Woman Tarot Deck

"The Medicine Woman Tarot honors Mother Earth and respects all beings, embodied and in spirit. It guides through the seasons and the powers, which they provide to all who live in earth’s embrace. Seventy-eight positive images depict the feminine strength in both men and women." ~ Introduction to The Medicine Woman Tarot Deck by Carol Bridges

A 78-card deck, the  Medicine Woman Tarot Deck is one the best decks I have found in a long time.  The colors are warm, pleasant and inviting and the the pictures tell the story of the cards meaning.  I really like these cards ... ALOT.  This deck really speaks to me, and connects me to an authenticity that I love so much.  The 22 Major Arcana, referred to as the Great Mystery, depict a path of life, starting from the Seed/Fool card and completing with the Dancer/World card. In the Minor Arcana the four suits are Stones (coins), Pipes (wands), Arrows (swords), and Bowls (cups). The four cards that correspond to the traditional court cards are: apprentice (page), totem (knight), lodge (queen), and exemplar (king). 

They are basically your traditional tarot, with a Native American spin and wise woman, earthy lessons and guidance.  The cards remind me of having a great teacher, the wisdom of an elder ... of a grandmother, of a wise woman, a shaman ... who lives with me in my heart and helps me live the best life possible.

A shaman by heart, this deck really resonated.  For more information, please visit US Games.

Review: The Green World Oracle

The Green World Oracle is a 33 card set focuses on trees and plants as primal symbols of life and includes the legends, folklore, nature spirits, deities and divas associated with them.  Also included is a 256 paged book with the cards, both housed in a beautiful box.  This set is incredible ... a must-have for nature-lovers like me.

The cards are 4” by 5” and the backs show a green background, with a thin gold border around the edge.  Each card features a scene illustrating the energy of the tree or plant.  

The book deeply describes the energies, meaning, folklore and botany of the tree or plant with great detail.  The book itself is priceless. 

A treasure ... would make a great gift for anyone who appreciates the natural world.

To learn more, visit Schiffer Books. 

Review: Ask the Queens: Advice Card Deck

My goodness ... what an interesting and different oracle deck.  The first thing I thought when I found this oracle was, hhmm ... what a strange deck ... and I love it.  The Ask the Queens advice cards are an oracle deck with advice straight out of the history books from the lovely ladies, the Queens themselves.  Each card contains a quote, as well as some background of the Queen, highlights of her life.  

If you love only the positive side of life, and neglect the darker polarity of a perfect equation, these cards may make you a bit queasy.  Some of the advice, although certainly something you could take to heart and follow is rather humorous.  Advice such as the pretty, long-haired Ostrogoth Queen Amalasuntha gives, "Don't let your education make you stupid".  This is actually very good advice, although I could not help but find it knee smacking, cheek-hurting hilarious.  This is a good one for those "holy than thou" educated types ... enough said.

I love Queen Maria's advice, "The soil is only as good as the seed".  True, very true ... also in reverse.  

Thought provoking, rich in historical reference and delightfully creative, Ask The Queens would compliment any coffee table, especially during a woman's group or meet-up.  

Get a taste of these cards and visit Ask The Queens for a free reading.  For more information or to order, please visit US Games.

Here is some royal advice for you dear readers, straight from Queen Margarita Theresa, who was a favorite child of Philip IV of Spain, "Though a picture tells a story, it may not reveal the truth". 

Review: Inner Realms Tarot

 

This beautiful 78-card deck comes with a book to help you understand the basics of divination and  inspire you to give readings that are full of love and inspiration.  The cards are vivid shapes and images on darker backgrounds ... very elegant and serve well as a gateway into the subconscious. 

Truly lovely ...

Filled with rich colors and dynamic designs, this deck is for the neophyte and the professional alike because each card is marked with key words of definition. 

They are fun and they take you to another realm ... an inner realm, if you meditate on them.

The companion book is informative, easy-to-follow and well-written.  This set would make a marvelous gift, for your student or your teacher ... 

For more information, please visit Schiffer Books.

Review: The Healing Tarot: 78 Ways to Wellness

The Healing Tarot: 78 Ways to Wellness is one deck and book set that is sure to be unlike any you have ever seen.  It has an archaic and authentic feel, as though the deck has preserved something only few entitled, initiated eyes have seen ... yet is simple and modern in design.  I am reminded of the Freemasonry and the Rosicrucians ... 

The Healing Tarot: 78 Ways to Wellness is a joint project from Juno Lucina (The Kingdom Within Tarot) and Monica Knighton (the Tarot of the Dead). Each black and white card is loosely based on the Rider-Waite and whimsically portrays a health and wellness message that is explained in the book that is included in this set that are encased in a box with magnetic closure ... that you can easily hide a few things in, if you look in the right places.  The deck is rather large because the cards themselves are thicker than most, although it is a traditional 78 card deck, using traditional titles for the Major Arcana, with Strength at VIII and Justice at XI. The suits are Wands, Cups, Swords and Pentacles and of course all the court cards.

This is a tarot deck that specifically addresses health and healing, containing perspectives and elements of Astrology, Archetypes and the Qabala. 


Serving as a tool for holistic healing, The Healing Tarot: 78 Ways to Wellness is in a class all by itself.  I love this deck.  Although ethically, as a professional tarot reader I am against advising on health issues, this set serves me well for my personal readings for myself and my family.  I proudly display it in my collection ... and it proudly stands out.  I noticed that it gets a lot of attention from guests ... especially my reader friends. 

 For more information, please visit The Healing Tarot.

Astral Insights ... Star of David – Merkaba – Grand Sextile Portal on July 29th 2013!

Star of David – Merkaba – Grand Sextile Portal on July 29th 2013!

ART: JETTER GREEN

On July 29th, 2013 when we will experience a RARE Star of David / Star Tetrahedron configuration in the heavens!

It is actually two Grand Trines, one in Water and one is Earth (all feminine) which create this configuration called a Grand Sextile or a Star Tetrahedron. Many names and much symbolism tied into this Sacred Geometry.

The essence is that this mystical configuration of Sacred Geometry opens a portal of energy that is accessible for those who choose to tune in to it. That is the key.

>>>As with everything, nothing magical is going to happen on it’s own. It is up to us to bring the magic, to add our magic to creation.<<<

This energetic portal is an opening in the subtle realms so to tune in to it, all we need is our relaxed awareness. It is simply an opportunity to find a moment of connection, of prayer.  

>>>Visualize Peace<<<

Let’s use this moment to meet in our hearts, in the place of intention, the place of the dreamtime,  and hold a vision of ~~~peace~~~ for our planet.

Here are the Astral insights on the astrology and symbolism of this >>>STAR TETRAHEDRON<<<

~Taken from Mystic Mama.  For entire article please visit here ... STAR OF DAVID/ MYSTIC MAMA.

PHOTO: TRACY CONTI MCCARTY

Reveal Your Chic With Egg

Eggs are not only a necessity in many culinary recipes, but a main ingredient in some of the best organic, home made beauty potions.

The incredible edible is even more incredible than I was previously aware of. When I heard that eggs were good for hair and skin I must admit, I had doubts. Were the benefits really worth putting raw egg all over my head and face? Is raw egg even safe? As a did a little digging I realized that not only were the woman of centuries past keen on using raw eggs as a beauty aid, but this is a very popular modern technique among cosmeticians and there clientele. It turns out that eggs have a pretty big reputation and are highly valued in assisting with beautiful hair and skin. There are many ways of using eggs in your beauty regimen. Best of all eggs are very inexpensive. I looked into the safety of raw egg and according to The Incredible Edible Egg the risk of an egg being contaminated with Salmonella bacteria is very low, about 1 in 20,000 eggs. Proper handling of eggs can reduce, and even entirely eliminate this risk. For more information on the proper handling of eggs and egg safety please visit the Egg Safety Center. So whip up your favorite omelet (eating eggs also contributes to health and beauty), turn on some meditation music and prepare yourself some spa quality beauty treatments in the comfort of your own home.

Eggs for skin care

• An egg white mask can be an effective way of healing acne and correcting oily skin. This will also tighten skin and shrink pores. If desired add lemon juice to the egg whites for extra strength healing mixture but be very careful. Lemon juice can cause skin to lighten because of its bleaching action, especially if exposed to sunlight. You could also add honey or avocado to your face mask.
• For dry skin, use egg yolk mixed with 1/2 avocado and a teaspoon of coconut oil. Apply to clean skin and leave on for about twenty minutes before rinsing off.
• Mix together on egg yolk, 1/2 avocado and 1/2 cup of milk. Use as a skin cleanser. Apply with cotton ball and rinse with water.

Eggs for hair care

• For dry hair blend coconut oil with egg yolk. Apply to hair liberally and cover with a shower cap. Shampoo hair as usual, after about one hour.
• To add shine and deep condition, whip an egg or two until frothy. You will want enough to cover entire length of hair. Apply egg to hair and allow to dry on hair before shampooing.
• Make a shampoo from one raw egg. Simply whip up egg until it foams. Mix with a quarter cup of warm water. Use as a shampoo. A raw egg shampoo will keep your hair clean, strengthened and conditioned.
• Condition hair with a mixture of plain yogurt and egg white. Leave mixture on hair for well over an hour, before shampooing.
• Bring dull hair to life by combining olive oil, lemon juice, egg yolk and beer. Shampoo hair and follow by working egg mixture into hair. Leave on for five - ten minutes before rinsing out.
• Encourage hair growth by mixing egg yolk with flax seed oil. Using a circular motion, message mixture onto scalp and wet hair. Leave mixture on hair for at least ten minutes before shampooing. Repeat weekly.

Closing Notes

When separating the egg yolk from the egg white use chilled eggs. This makes it a lot easier to separate. Also note that the fresher the eggs the easier it will be to separate the yolk from the whites. The yolk will be tighter and the whites firmer. If you are still having trouble or just want to make things a little easier on yourself there are several different kinds of egg separator tools on the market these days.
Have fun and be beautiful!

Sources

• http://www.eggsafety.org
• Cox, Janice "Natural Beauty From The Garden: More Than 200 Do-It-Yourself Beauty Recipes" (Henry Holt and Company, LLC, 1999)
• http://www.incredibleegg.org
• Freeman, Sally "Every woman's Guide to Ageless Natural Beauty" (GuildAmerica Books, 2000)
• Handa, Parvesh "Herbal Beauty Care" (Orient Paperback Books, 2006)

Headache Relief With Cayenne

When a headache is getting you down reach up to the "Queen of Spices" to remedy your trouble.

Using cayenne pepper should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. 

Next time a headache is getting the best of your day, by-pass your medicine cabinet and head straight to the spice rack. Headache relief can be found in the healing properties of the cayenne plant. My husband and I both use this remedy with great success. I hope it works for you too. Before we begin let's get to know a little bit more about this red hot spice.

Cayenne pepper is a widely respected and studied medicinal spice. Used by indigenous people for thousands of years, for both culinary and medicinal purposes, cayenne is known as one of the best medicinal spices in the world. This heat producing, bright red pepper has been known to help with so many ailments it could easily be mistaken as a snake oil in the plant kingdom. It is best not to toss the idea of cayenne aside too quickly, however, as it has earned its title as the "Queen of Spices".

Cayenne is best known for its ability to instantly control blood pressure, lower the chance of heart disease, improve digestion, help lose weight, improve circulation and as a topical cream or ointment for various conditions. Known for removing toxins in the blood, urine, skin and intestines, cayenne pepper is great for detoxing and cleansing the entire body. A well-known aphrodisiac, cayenne has a big effect on the libido. Cayenne causes the brain to secrete endorphins when ingested. Endorphins resemble opiates. They are a feel-good chemical released during consumption of spicy foods, at orgasm, during times of excitement or pain, when feeling love and during exercise. Convinced to give it a try yet? A proven anti-fungal, cayenne pepper is terrific for those with candida and yeast troubles. Not to mention that cayenne is very nutritious, containing significant amounts of the complete B complexes, vitamins A and C, calcium and potassium. It would take an entire book to shed light on all the wonderful things that cayenne pepper is used for. Remedying a headache with cayenne, however, is very simple and most likely you will only have to read this article once to know what to do. So let's get started.

The active ingredient in cayenne pepper is capsaicin. Cayenne helps to relieve pain because of both its endorphin enhancing properties and also because, when diluted and used topically, it helps to block the transmission of substance P. Substance P transports pain messages to the brain.

Internal Consumption: Sprinkle cayenne pepper on your meals as often as possible. Not only has this been known to alleviate migraines and headaches in general, but your health will thank you in many other ways.

Topical Application: Apply cayenne pepper diluted in water nasally to treat headache. In a small bowl mix 4 ounces of water to 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Dip a cotton swab into the diluted cayenne pepper. Apply to the inter walls of the nostrils. Be careful not go too far into the nasal passage. This could be very dangerous. It will most likely burn which means that it is working. The burning sensation will help to take your mind off your headache while the cayenne is remedying the problem.

Exercise Caution:

• Cayenne pepper can cause a burning sensation. Use proper care when handling.
• Always work with the supervision of a healthcare professional.
• Wash hands thoroughly after using cayenne pepper. Use gloves if necessary
• Avoid getting cayenne pepper in eyes or other sensitive parts of the body.
• Heat and hot water will intensify the heating effect of cayenne.
• Cayenne pepper could interact with certain drugs such as cocaine, anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs, aspirin and other medications. For more information please visit WebMD

Sources:

• http://www.cayennepepper.info/
• http://www.ehow.com
• www.webmd.com

Doctors Nutraceuticals products

Having had great success with Doctors Nutraceuticals products in the past, I was excited to give a couple more a spin in the household - GI-Digestive Advanced Tract-900™ & Ultra Pure Omega-3 1440.

The GI-Digestive Advanced Tract-900™ is a great enzyme formula that rings in at a lower price than comparable products at $24.95.  This works excellent for digestion and contains probiotics as well as plant enzymes.  I cannot recommend this supplement enough.  Both my husband and myself are completely reliant upon it.  

The Ultra Pure Omega-3 1440 is a high-quality omega, if you can tolerate fish oil.  I have a difficult time, as do many others.  I have learned that the only way to know is to try it out yourself.  If you are looking for a great omega fish oil, this is a good place to start.  Known to help the mind and the heart, omega fish oil is often talked about and prescribed by holistic and naturopathic doctors.

I am really impressed by the quality of Doctors Nutraceuticals products and will continue to purchase them.  Free samples are available of the PH50 Protein Greens, Muscle Ezze, Muscle Ezze PM and the B12 Ultra Fruit Immune Energizer.  There is a $4 flat shipping fee.  It is definitely worth the shipping costs for these samples.  

For more information, please visit Doctors Nutraceuticals™.

RV Travel With Children

RV travel and camping is a great way to pass along your love of the outdoors and the joys of travel to your children or grandchildren. RV travel can be a very rewarding experience for the entire family. Whether you have escaped the rat race and are a full-time RV nomad or just taking a RV camping vacation, RV travel and camping strengthens family relationships. The confinement of the RV gives the opportunity to spend quality time together as a family and really get to know one another. RV travel is a terrific way for parents or grandparents to develop strong bonds with the children. The freedom of a long road trip can be a very exciting and fun way of practicing decision-making as a team. So many sights to see and so many places to experience, RV travels are full of enlightenment and growth for all ages. Long road trips can be, at times, difficult for children but with a little planning you will feel rest-assured and enthusiastic about hitting the road with the young ones. Here are some tips to help you bring out the best in your RV experience.

• Involve the children in the planning procedure.

Before you even hit the road get the children involved. Involving the children is great way to help them develop important planning skills, problem solving skills and organization skills. Children almost always love when you ask them for their opinion and take great pride in giving their thoughts and ideas. This helps build a very strong unshakable foundation of confidence within them. The planning procedure shapes enthusiasm, excitement, and anticipation for RV travel and camping. Give the children choices and really listen to what they want and have to say. Work as a team. Take a vote when conflicting desires arise. Post a map and allow the children to draw a route of the entire trip. This is a great way to teach children map reading and direction skills. Supply each child with their own personal map and compass. Children love to learn and this will keep them involved and active the entire trip.

• Expect good behavior

Make and post a list of rules. Be sure to enforce it. It never hurts to have a little bit of leverage. Reward children with the activities, toys, games, snacks, etc. that they love and punish them by taking something away. You can also use campground activities as rewards for good behavior. Campgrounds provide a fun environment for children. Encourage team work by rewarding the entire family with an activity such as horseback riding, canoeing etc. Rewarding everyone for doing such a great job is very encouraging. Team work builds strong communication skills and teaches everyone to value and appreciate each other. Remember to follow the rules yourself. Children learn more by example than anything. Teach children to be responsible for themselves, respectful to themselves and to others.

• Understand child passenger safety.

Be aware of child passenger laws and follow them to a tee. There are differences in child passenger laws from state to state. Child passenger restraint requirements vary based on age, weight and height. No matter what state you are in be sure that children stay seated and belted while the RV is in motion. Stop the RV often and take frequent breaks to give everyone a chance to stretch and go to the restroom.

• Teach children to pay it forward.

Encourage random acts of kindness toward each other. Acts of kindness are small, simple, selfless acts done for others without expecting anything in return. Teach the children to look around and see if anything needs done at camp, in the RV or if anyone needs anything. Help mold acts of kindness and get them into the habit of doing one nice thing for someone everyday. Take turns talking about how doing nice things makes everyone feel about themselves.

• Get as crafty as a fox.

Busy minds need activities to participate in. Keep children entertained and focused by giving them special crafts to work on. There are lots of crafts that you can do while traveling. Many children will look forward to crafting. Some fun crafting include making jewelry, knitting, origami, aluminum foil art, paper dolls, sticker collages, sock puppets, etc. Choose crafts that are not very messy or require any scissors or sharp, dangerous objects. Prepare craft kits before-hand if scissors are necessary or pack child safety scissors to avoid any preventable accidents or injuries.

• Play games.

Keep children entertained, busy and happy for hours with fun games that they can play on the road. Bring a deck of cards and a book of card games. Road trips are a perfect opportunity to learn a new card game along with playing some all time favorites. Magnetic board games, especially the car version games are nice because they are small, compact and easy to play even on bumpy roads. Bingo is lots of fun to play in the RV. Plenty of places online offer free printable Bingo games. There are lots of road games that have no requirements other than participation and everyone can play together, even the driver. Some fun road games include I spy, the license plate game, the alphabet game, license plate poker, twenty questions, scavenger hunt and a is for armadillo. For extra fun, purchase small toys, crafts, special snacks, etc as prizes.

• Bring audio books

Audio books are a great way to keep children, and adults, entertained. While it is tempting to keep children quiet and behaved with DVDs, storytelling is a healthy way to encourage creativity, to teach listening skills, help build vocabulary and improve overall language skills. Audio books are also lots of fun.
Closing Notes: Create memories. Enjoy life. Have fun and be happy!

Elderberry Life

For years I have been studying the medicinal effect of many of the plants that grow in the area.  I am fascinated by the rich history, folklore and healing potential of so many wild weeds, trees and shrubs that grow liberally at there own leisure at my fingertips right outside my door.  One of my absolute favorite of these wild natives to the area are the Elder trees.  The Elder tree is the mother of all trees, of all weeds ... and of the fairies too.  She is the mother of the forest and her medicine is powerful, delicious and loved by many.  It is said that a dryad dwells within or near the Elder, protecting it.  There is so much rich and mysterious folklore surrounding the elder and its many medicinal, culinary and other uses that make it hard to know where to begin.  This wealth of folklore, romance and superstition that surround this dual-natured, English tree shares a story and memory with so many for centuries.  

The Elder is one of the most revered of all herbs. The Romany people considered it a tree so sacred that they never cut it down.  In fact the tradition of many cultures says that it was very unlucky to cut down an Elder tree or remove any branch or twig without first asking permission to do so.  It is customary to first kneel beneath the Elder with the head bowed low and repeat three times, ”Lady Ellhorn, (one of the names of the spirit who lives in and protects the tree) give me some of thy wood and I will give thee some of mine when it grows in the forest".

The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates called the Elder his medicine chest and folk healers have used elderberries to treat colds, the flu, arthritis and other diseases for centuries.  The healing and medicinal potential of the beautiful Elder and her gorgeous berries are not just tales from the past either.  Science has begun to prove these benefits.  Modern research in recent years has corroborated Elder’s reputation as a flu remedy, revealing that a constituent in Elder berries surrounds the flu virus and stops it invading our cells, while boosting the immune-system.  Clinical studies are starting to confirm what ancient healers always knew: that elderberries are good for you.  Elderberries contain powerful amounts of antioxidants,vitamins and minerals and are known for boosting the immune system. Studies indicate that anthocyanins, flavonoids and a high profile in vitamin A, B6, and C, iron and potassium give elderberry its ability to fight at least 10 different strains of the flu virus and play a role in the treatment and prevention of diabetes, herpes, HIV,  arthritis, cancer and other chronic diseases.   Elderberry is an essential home remedy.


This is truly an amazing plant, with great healing potential for everyone on the planet.  There is a method to cultivation and preparation of the ripe berries of the Elder that may be way-to costly, time-consuming or overwhelming for most people and finding elderberry products in the stores is most likely not-going-to-happen in most community grocery markets.  The berries must be handpicked and the labor-intensive process generally limits acreages to small plots.  When I found Elderberry Life, a wonderful company with a passion to spread the good news about elderberries by creating the best elderberry products available, I was so excited ... and everyone around me knows it.  They have awakened an "elderberry passion" within me from the "elderberry passion" in their hearts and I have been talkin' elderberry for months now.  It is safe to say that I have got the "elderberry fever" and let me warn you ... it is contagious.  All of the products that I have tried from Elderberry Life are completely wonderful and so good to the taste buds. Yum ... These products are absolutely delicious.  They are the tastiest jams and jellies my husband and I have ever had and the juices and syrups are wonderful because they are lip-smacking, yet they have not added any sugar or unhealthy sugar substitutes.  I love all the products from this company.  

I must share the deliciousness of the elderberry from the Elderberry Life products that I have grown to love, trust and rely upon.  Elderberry Life grows and harvests their berries on a privately owned farms in the United States using natural and sustainable farming practices.  They make a lovely array of healing products from the ripe and gorgeous elderberries of the Elder tree.  All their products are packaged in recyclable glass jars and bottles that are reusable and nice looking.  

Available in jams, jellies, juice and syrup ...

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE ALL THE DELICIOUS PRODUCTS THAT ELDERBERRY LIFE MAKES.  I TRUST THEM TO MAKE THE HIGHEST QUALITY ELDERBERRY PRODUCTS THAT BRING OUT THE FLAVOR AND MEDICINE OF THIS BERRY THAT HAS BEEN LOVED BY MANY OVER THE YEARS.   

I cannot recommend these products enough.  This is a great company with amazing products that you cannot get anywhere else unless you have a friend ... and even then ... Elderberry Life is a company that is dedicated to elderberry products.  They know what they are doing and they do it right.  The choices that they make lace all of the products with good karma.  Good choices such as sustainability, recyclable glass, respect for the Elder tree, excellent customer service, highest quality possible, etc.  ... making them taste even better with greater healing capabilities.  It is difficult, if not impossible to find elderberry products this good, unless you make them yourself and even then you certainly will lack in experience ... Please be aware that there are some varieties of the Elder that are toxic and parts of all the Elders that are toxic.

The good people at Elderberry Life have done the work for us, making it easy to use nature's medicine and heal ourselves.   The family of Norm’s Farms, the maker of Elderberry Life products, believe in the power of elderberry to help people heal themselves naturally, which is why Norm’s Farms is working hard to improve the supply of American elderberry products in the US.  Plants are grown naturally and sustainably by family farmers, and Elderberry Life products are made with love.  For more information, or to order please visit Elderberry Life.


Thank you Elderberry Life ... I still got the elderberry fever!

Review: Tha Tribe - Stoic

Released April 16, 2013 from Canyon Records, Stoic is an intense collection of Pow-Wow Songs recorded live in Southern California last year at the 2012 Pala Pow-wow.  A compilation of 16 songs composed by various members of the drum group, Stoic is dedicated to the original members of this very successful and loved group.

I would love to see Tha Tribe live someday.  The energy and spell they create has immediate effect on me.  Comprised of singers from diverse tribal backgrounds, Tha Tribe have a unique style that is popular and well-known in Pow-Wow circles today.  Tha Tribe has been a mainstay on the Pow-Wow Trail over 15 years.

For more information, please visit Canyon Records.

Track Listing

        1     Micayla's First Song
        2     Victory Song
        3     Fox Trail
        4     Skype Step J [side-Step]
        5     Apple Blossom
        6     The Valley of Tha Sun
        7     Grand Entry
        8     Pala Hoppin' [foot Slide]
        9     Intertribal
        10     Budge Boys
        11     Laframboise
        12     Tha Lafleur Shuffle
        13     Sioux Valley
        14     Celtic Tradition
        15     Grand Entry
        16     The Slow Gamble

Review: Something Special

It is Something Special!  What could it be???

Something Special is a charming story about a cute, little frog, who I suspect to be actually be a prince that has received a special gift but doesn't know what it is.  What could His imagination runs wild as he thinks about the gift. Something Special by Terri Cohlene is a charming story for young children.  

This book really is something special ... and it is even more special, when given' as a gift with love.

For more information, please visit Illumination Arts.

Reviews: Jody Bergsma Collection, Illumination Arts

"Art is a tradition that helps define who we are and brings us a vision of who we can become. My painting is my expression and request for a more beautiful, peaceful and harmonious world. Wishing you an endless childhood" - Jody Bergsma

Author and illustrator, Jody Bergsma is has earned the respect of many in the art and literary community with her collection of children's story books at Illumination Arts.  Six in all, the three I will be reviewing today are titled The Little Wizard, Dragon and Faerie.  Her Dreamkeepers style has been deeply inspired by her visits to Ireland and the sixth century city of Glendalough and her Natural Elements style was inspired by visits to Alaska, the Queen Charlotte Islands, and Washington's Olympic Peninsula.  

Jody Bergsma is currently one of America's most accomplished watercolorists.  Jody has a diverse painting style that has developed over many years and literally thousands of paintings.   Her lyrical writing is lovely, as are her gorgeous full-color illustrations,  creating lovely  tales of magic and morals.

The finalist for ForeWord Magazine’s Children’s Book of the Year Award and best children’s book for 2000 by the Coalition of Visionary Retailers, Dragon is a must have for all those fantasy lovers out there.  The book has a beautiful message ...

I am a huge fan of the fae ... and this book encourages my obsession.  A rich and dynamic story, with art to match ... children will love this book.  With Celtic-inspired illustrations and several colorful characters, Faerie can easily be read again and again ... 

Faerie received the Coalition of Visionary Resources Award for Best Children’s Book and was a finalist for ForeWord Magazine’s Children’s Book of the Year Award. 

The Little Wizard is a lovely tale about a young wizard who discovers his purpose and gifts.  Those who love the Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter will appreciate the fantastical realm of magic and myth.  









For more information on Jody and her wonderful children's book collection, please visit Illumination Arts.

Secret Toxic Chemicals: From the SC Johnson Family to Yours

Review: Gymini Activity Mat

"We believe that when a baby is born a parent is born as well." - Tiny Love

Established in 1991, Tiny Love has some of the coolest developmental toys and products that i have seen in a long time. Products that get comments and lots of them ... The Tiny Love company is a multiple award winning global toy and baby product manufacturer that belongs to the Shilav Group, Israel's leading baby supply / toy store chain, owned by Isaac and Shosi (Shoshi) Oren. The brand is headquartered at Tiny Love, Ltd., a small company located in Israel. This is where the toys are created and made and the website is managed. The company also has an American subsidiary based in New York City, "Tiny Love, Inc.".

I am really expecting a lot from Tiny Love in the coming years, as they have already proven an innovative and creative heart with their award-winning, high-quality products. I am amazed by their high standards and commitment to innovation, originality, safety and quality. Tiny Love goes the extra mile to assure product safety and efficiency. They test their products for quality and safety every step of the way to be sure that children are safe with their products and toys.

Tiny love is the original inventors of the Gymini Activity Mat which they launched back in 1993. The gymini put Tiny Love on the map, and the areas they conquer expand as the years pass. The gymini is a portable, collapsible sensory environment for floor playtime for small babies. It is basically an activity mat and gym with lots of extra cool features and cool toys. It has multi-positions and a revolutionary design. There are no other activity gyms like it to be found ...

The Tiny Love Gymini Move & Play Tiny Princess is just what you would expect a regal play mat to be. I love this activity gym, as their is lots for your little doll to do ... Made for a princess, the royal treatment is what both mom and sugar, spice and everything nice deserve in an activity mat. This extra large mat will be cherished for years by your budding rose blossom. Smart motion system allows you to place toys
within your little princess' s reach, stimulating and encouraging the development of eye-hand coordination and grasping abilities, thereby helping develop baby's fine motor skills.

It folds up easily, making it perfect for travel, especially when visiting the royal palace. This is what every little girl wants, even as a baby because at the heart of every good women, is the heart of a princess! Sorry - Frog Not Included!!!

For more information, please visit Tiny Love

Price: Around $80.00

Pros

  * Can be easily folded and packed
  * Easy to travel with
  * Multi-position play
  * Machine washable
  * Easy to use
  * Adjust to baby's changing needs and abilities
  * Overhead gym featuring a variety of fun toys
  * Raised, closed borders option for a cozy feel
  * Allows plenty of tummy-time play
  * Changes and grows with your baby, adjusting to development
  * Extra large, spacious mat, Mat size - 45"X41.7" (114cmX106cm)
  * Revolutionary smart motion system
  * Fun electronic lights& music toy with 7 different tunes

Cons

  * a small pillow attached to mat for babies sweet head would make this
    gymini even sweeter ...

Review: Organic Cotton Swaddle Blanket, by Aden & Anais

Aden and Anais make the best swaddle blankets that I can find. They are the softest swaddle blanket on the market, made of muslin they allow baby's body temperature to regulate itself. This swaddle blanket is chemical and pesticide free. The muslin a is light open weave fabric with a rich and lengthy history in many cultures. These award winning wraps are woven with 100% organic cotton muslin certified by GOTS - global organic trade standards. The global industry organic certification leader is environmentally and socially responsible for manufacturing. Aden and Anais wraps are produced with 100% organic cotton and the entire manufacturing process uses organic practices, including the use of recycled water. Everyone wins when you use the Aden & Anais swaddle - baby, mother, the environment and humanity.

I use this swaddle blanket for everything. Most swaddle blankets are too
small for much else other than the intended purpose. Not only does the
larger size of this blanket make it easier to use, but it makes it
practical for many other purposes. I like to use it as a blanket while
taking walks with the stroller, especially in the summer or as a cover
when carrying baby in the icy winter winds. It works great folded up as
a burp cloth - if nothing else is around. It is easy to wash and holds
up well to washing often. Most blankets become aged and ragged over time
due to laundering, but this one actually gets softer and softer the more
you wash it. It folds up nice and fits into a gift bag made from the
same organic cotton that is included with it. Highly Recommend!

For more information, please visit Happy Green Baby.

$34.00

Pros

  * Breathable cotton muslin (open weave fabric) helps to prevent
    overheating
  * Multiple uses - portable crib sheets, burp cloths, nursing shields,
    stroller covers to protect from cold wind, sun, and insects, car
    seat liners, stroller liner, tummy time blankets, change table cover ...
  * Fashionable designs
  * Made of organic cotton that is grown and manufactured in an
    environmentally and socially responsible manner, 100% certified
    organic, no pesticides or chemicals
  * Durable
  * Softer with each wash
  * Extra large 47" x 47" makes it simple to swaddle with ease

Cons

  * Takes some skill to swaddle properly (although it is easy once you
    do it a few times. The large size of this swaddle helps tremendously)
  * Must wash before using ... (Cannot pick-up on the road and use it
    immediately)