Sulfate free, no poo, natural, the list goes on. Nowadays health conscious individuals are keen on searching out alternative grooming and beauty products, while some even go the DIY route. I am one of those people who may not try everything, but enjoys an easy, affordable and healthy DIY.
Queue oil cleansing, something I had heard a bit about but didn't really understand. I have been an avid essential oil and carrier oil user for the past few years. The idea of washing my face with oil was baffling, how will my skin get squeaky clean?
It won't. The idea that your skin must be squeaky to be clean is false. You don't have to strip away oils with drying cleansers and soaps to remove impurities. Clean, fresh oil pulls dirt, etc from your pores, before it is removed with a hot wash cloth.
What you want to do is pour a teaspoon or two of a carrier oil into the palm of your hand - even add a drop of essential oil for a bit of luxury! Rub your palms together, and begin massaging it onto your face for 2-10 minutes. Pour hot water onto a wash cloth, wring it out, and set it on your face. Flip it over and let it set for a moment before gently wiping away excess oil.
You can expect your skin to feel differently afterward. You may have felt some bits of grit as you were massaging your face, but those were simply bits of grime lifted from your pores.
Choosing a carrier oil will depend on your skin type, which may require a bit more research. My personal combination is apricot oil with a drop frankincense. Avocado and hazelnut are other excellent choices, while some stick with castor oil. Lavender and Cedarwood are also other good essential oil options to blend into your carrier.
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Second Pregnancy Thoughts
Hopefully you will all be as thrilled as I am to be coming back with exciting news. A little over a month ago we received word that I was pregnant for a second time! Although we have lost two in the past, this one gave us a positive home test right off the bat, two times in a row! Not to mention the positive at the health department to confirm and the additional positive test at my doctor's office. We are a little scared, but very excited.
We have overcome fertility problems with the help of natural herbal remedies, after rounds of Metformin did little to touch my PCOS. After three months on Vitex Berry, Wild Yam and Magnesium Glycinate, bam! I was pregnant. My husband and I also began exercising daily and eating a healthier, more balanced diet, with many fresh fruit and veggie options.
I began reading a little online about how first and second pregnancies may differ, and was a little dismayed to see the negativity floating around. While there were a few regarding women who preferred their second pregnancy over the first, this post in particular highlighted select reasons the second isn't as much fun. So, I have to ask, why can't they be equally as good as the other, but with reasons each one was special or slightly different?
At this point in my pregnancy I am only 3 months along. I do notice some significant differences with the second, especially with how fast you may show or experience body changes, or perhaps food cravings. A few things that have remained the same were morning sickness, early weight loss (due to nausea and food aversions), and fatigue. One big difference is the fact that now I have a toddler to chase around, but she makes up for it each time she wraps her little arms around my belly and begs to kiss the baby.
Clothing has not been as easy this time, but I never got away with regular jeans for long during my first pregnancy, either. I think it is exciting to realize the changes that are coming, as well as impending delivery. I am happy to have an idea of what is coming, rather than the fear of the unknown. While I know it will not be pleasant, the end result will be like none other. And, after all is said and done, assuming everything goes well, you come home with a brand new life. How could that not be as exciting as the first go?
We have overcome fertility problems with the help of natural herbal remedies, after rounds of Metformin did little to touch my PCOS. After three months on Vitex Berry, Wild Yam and Magnesium Glycinate, bam! I was pregnant. My husband and I also began exercising daily and eating a healthier, more balanced diet, with many fresh fruit and veggie options.
I began reading a little online about how first and second pregnancies may differ, and was a little dismayed to see the negativity floating around. While there were a few regarding women who preferred their second pregnancy over the first, this post in particular highlighted select reasons the second isn't as much fun. So, I have to ask, why can't they be equally as good as the other, but with reasons each one was special or slightly different?
At this point in my pregnancy I am only 3 months along. I do notice some significant differences with the second, especially with how fast you may show or experience body changes, or perhaps food cravings. A few things that have remained the same were morning sickness, early weight loss (due to nausea and food aversions), and fatigue. One big difference is the fact that now I have a toddler to chase around, but she makes up for it each time she wraps her little arms around my belly and begs to kiss the baby.
Clothing has not been as easy this time, but I never got away with regular jeans for long during my first pregnancy, either. I think it is exciting to realize the changes that are coming, as well as impending delivery. I am happy to have an idea of what is coming, rather than the fear of the unknown. While I know it will not be pleasant, the end result will be like none other. And, after all is said and done, assuming everything goes well, you come home with a brand new life. How could that not be as exciting as the first go?
Wednesday, August 5, 2015
Back to School with ThredUp
Summer is coming to a close, school has begun or is impending, and your kids are still needing a few more pieces to complete their academic wardrobe. Rather than running from store to store, searching for a few key accent threads, turn to online shopping! ThredUp features lots of options in many sizes, and they are currently offering a discount for first time buyers.
While nabbing some more expensive brands, in gently used condition, you can save up to $50 with a 40% off coupon for new accounts. Simply follow this link to discover ThredUp and enjoy this limited time discount. Before you go, take a moment to look at some of our favorite choices from our friends over at ThredUp.
While nabbing some more expensive brands, in gently used condition, you can save up to $50 with a 40% off coupon for new accounts. Simply follow this link to discover ThredUp and enjoy this limited time discount. Before you go, take a moment to look at some of our favorite choices from our friends over at ThredUp.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Tropical Fruit Cream Cheese Spread
Time to introduce an article catered toward your food cravings! When I was pregnant I really loved the most random foods together, most importantly, pickles. However, I do remember craving and longing for Mexican cuisine and fruit! So today I wanted to give you a tasty treat for enjoying on top of bagels, inspired by Panera's orange bagel spread.
Ingredients:
When you're finished, you can store your spread in the cream cheese tub! Although the leftover that won't fit, must be consumed on a bagel or, my favorite, Biscoff cookie. Too bad, so sad. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 CUP Mango, Peach, Pineapple and Strawberry Fruit Mix (fresh or frozen)
- 1 TBSP Confectioners' Sugar
- 8 OZ tub of Cream Cheese (warmed)
When you're finished, you can store your spread in the cream cheese tub! Although the leftover that won't fit, must be consumed on a bagel or, my favorite, Biscoff cookie. Too bad, so sad. Enjoy!
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
I know as I write this that many of you will understand where I'm coming from, and some of you may not. If you've noticed, I have not been as diligent with my blogging as I used to be, especially when I was a working Mom. However, I feel it's time to come out with what has kept me silent, because I know other ladies are struggling with this, too.
You see, back in December, I was diagnosed with PCOS and Insulin Resistance. After 13 years of irregular periods and fatigue, I went to discuss my concerns with my lady doctor (fun, fun). We thought after I had my daughter that my body would somehow correct itself; a woman can dream can't she? I was stunned when the results came back after multiple tests.
I can remember thinking back to when I was a young teenager, complaining to my Mom about how my hair fell out all the time, my skin looked like the surface of the moon and how I had really painful periods (comparable to labor pains). She didn't understand, doctors didn't believe me, and I continued along my path until I couldn't take it any longer.
On my worst days I hide, wallowing in depression, avoiding the light, and on my best days I sidetrack myself away from the fatigue, pain and obvious weight gain. I understand I don't have something many of the population would deem serious, such as Lyme's Disease, but it is a real struggle on the inside. Someone doesn't have to look unwell to be in their own personal hell.
As I have mentioned in previous posts, I have one daughter who is about to turn two years old. When I asked my doctor how I had a baby without help, he didn't have an answer. She's my own personal miracle. For people who have had no issues in conceiving a child, please take a moment to realize how amazing it is that you don't have to struggle emotionally or financially to become pregnant.
No matter how much I would like to become pregnant again, I'm realizing how blessed I am just having one. After losing three babies, I am grateful one came through without complications. She is here, and that's more than a lot of Cysters have. And maybe you have been unable to conceive yet. It took us many years to successfully get pregnant, and I can truly relate to the pain that goes along with that.
Maybe no one will read this post, but I think it's going to be a healing step for me. To finally have some of my story in "writing". I have struggled with putting this to words, as I am not looking for pity. I feel like I am in a place where I need to find my purpose. Maybe the purpose we dream of as kids wasn't meant to be, but maybe that's okay. Maybe there is something better on the horizon. Maybe I simply haven't gotten there yet.
You see, back in December, I was diagnosed with PCOS and Insulin Resistance. After 13 years of irregular periods and fatigue, I went to discuss my concerns with my lady doctor (fun, fun). We thought after I had my daughter that my body would somehow correct itself; a woman can dream can't she? I was stunned when the results came back after multiple tests.
I can remember thinking back to when I was a young teenager, complaining to my Mom about how my hair fell out all the time, my skin looked like the surface of the moon and how I had really painful periods (comparable to labor pains). She didn't understand, doctors didn't believe me, and I continued along my path until I couldn't take it any longer.
On my worst days I hide, wallowing in depression, avoiding the light, and on my best days I sidetrack myself away from the fatigue, pain and obvious weight gain. I understand I don't have something many of the population would deem serious, such as Lyme's Disease, but it is a real struggle on the inside. Someone doesn't have to look unwell to be in their own personal hell.
As I have mentioned in previous posts, I have one daughter who is about to turn two years old. When I asked my doctor how I had a baby without help, he didn't have an answer. She's my own personal miracle. For people who have had no issues in conceiving a child, please take a moment to realize how amazing it is that you don't have to struggle emotionally or financially to become pregnant.
No matter how much I would like to become pregnant again, I'm realizing how blessed I am just having one. After losing three babies, I am grateful one came through without complications. She is here, and that's more than a lot of Cysters have. And maybe you have been unable to conceive yet. It took us many years to successfully get pregnant, and I can truly relate to the pain that goes along with that.
Maybe no one will read this post, but I think it's going to be a healing step for me. To finally have some of my story in "writing". I have struggled with putting this to words, as I am not looking for pity. I feel like I am in a place where I need to find my purpose. Maybe the purpose we dream of as kids wasn't meant to be, but maybe that's okay. Maybe there is something better on the horizon. Maybe I simply haven't gotten there yet.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Sexy Nursing Lingerie
Any nursing Mom knows that "sexy" is not something you feel while breastfeeding your baby. Most nursing bras are functional and ugly, reminiscent of your granny panties. While you may find easy access for nursing, most do not offer great support. And those that might, come with a larger price tag.
Today, Zulily is offering a great daily deal from Le Leche League! If you aren't sure who they are, you may want to run on over to their official site and see how they support and spread info on breastfeeding so mothers can make an informed decision.
When you are breastfeeding your latest edition, or toddler, it could be important to know that you should try your best to avoid under wire bras. Wireless bras are less likely to contribute to developing mastitis, a painful condition of blocked ducts. It can bring on flu-like symptoms in a matter of hours, including fever, chills, pain and intense swelling.
With all of that in mind, please enjoy looking at our favorite selections from Le Leche League's Zulily daily deal!
Today, Zulily is offering a great daily deal from Le Leche League! If you aren't sure who they are, you may want to run on over to their official site and see how they support and spread info on breastfeeding so mothers can make an informed decision.
When you are breastfeeding your latest edition, or toddler, it could be important to know that you should try your best to avoid under wire bras. Wireless bras are less likely to contribute to developing mastitis, a painful condition of blocked ducts. It can bring on flu-like symptoms in a matter of hours, including fever, chills, pain and intense swelling.
With all of that in mind, please enjoy looking at our favorite selections from Le Leche League's Zulily daily deal!
A Toddler's Solution for Spring Showers
What kind of child doesn't shine with delight as they splish-splash their little feet in a puddle? Much to the dismay of their parents, it may also be a mud hole their joyfully playing in. While it may not be completely convenient to bring them back inside and completely change their shoes, we might have found the perfect solution to the "perfect" rainy day.
Made in America, Butler brings to you a toddler sized (and up) rain boot that easily slips over your shoes! They're simple to keep clean and on hand, for the moments when you find the best puddle for a little stomping. These rain boots are available in several, child friendly, bright colors.
Made in America, Butler brings to you a toddler sized (and up) rain boot that easily slips over your shoes! They're simple to keep clean and on hand, for the moments when you find the best puddle for a little stomping. These rain boots are available in several, child friendly, bright colors.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)