Health in Beranville

Missing In Action

2014-01-23T09:18:00.000-06:00

Hi friends! I'm sorry I've been MIA for a while. So much to tell. Yet I don't write.

Last year around this time I was busy sharing on this blog often. I was moving forward like a locomotive trying to find ways to improve and take charge of my health. I learned so much!! I'm still implementing many of the things I learned. Still making many of the non-toxic household recipes I found or created. Even selling my homemade hand and body cream (lotion). Still making smoothies but, I have to admit, not as often. I still limit wheat and dairy and try to eat "real food", not much processed stuff.

We're enjoying the bounty from last summer's garden even now in January. Praise the LORD for all those yummy veggies to store, can and freeze!

All of that being said, around Christmas time I kind of fell off the healthy living band wagon. I got lazy through all the busyness of the holidays. I comprised what I ate. I didn't get enough exercise. I paid for it, and still am in some ways. It's amazing how quickly a person can get off track!! Then how hard it is to get back on. It would be better to stay on the track, but...sigh.

As the New Year dawned I started slowly inching my way back to a healthy lifestyle.

In the midst of a very harsh winter in Iowa (and throughout the Midwest), it's not easy to get motivated. However, there's time to think it over. Ha. That's what winter is good for; time to slow down, reflect and put into action those thought out plans. :)

There are some new things that I've discovered lately. I want to write about two of them. Two things I'm wondering if my friends out there have considered for better health.

1. Acupuncture. I started seeing an acupuncturist just a few weeks ago. I'm pleased to report that I am seeing some results that years of medical, chiropractic and alternative care have never produced. I believe it's just another piece of the puzzle. It's exciting! I hope to write more about this later.

2. Essential Oils. I've used essential oils for some time now. I've used different brands of single oils. However, I went to an interesting class last weekend on the benefits of essential oils. Not just any oils but a brand called Young Living that is (apparently) the only therapeutic grade essential oil producer. I learned that most essential oils are filled with synthetic fillers, rendering them less effective. Anyway, they did a hand scan which showed which oils my body needs. Not sure how it knows, but the report made sense (considering my health issues). Because the report made sense to me and a friend of mine has found some results using these , I ordered one of the blends they recommended. I also ordered a toothpaste that can also be used as deodorant. Yep, that definitely sounds wacko! :) But I'm eager to get started. Hey, it's worth a try!

This life is a journey. Overall health is something to be pursued on this journey. We need to be good stewards of what God has given us. Our bodies are His temples. Makes me think. How about you?

What things are you doing now to improve/maintain your health? What could you be doing that you are not? It's time to get on the healthy living train...again!

Until next time, take a healthy step today...just one or two. And do the same tomorrow. I will too. :)

Better and Easier than DIY Hand and Body Cream Lotion!!

2013-10-15T15:51:00.000-05:00

Don't want to mess with making your own Hand and Body Cream? But also don't want to poison yourself with all the harmful chemicals (parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl and luareth sulfate, petrochemicals and fragrances) in commercial brand lotions? Or deal with the alcohol in those same lotions that only dries out your skin more, causing you to need more and more and more of it (check out the label...alcohol!). Here's an alternative...

You can now buy my All-Natural Hand and Body Cream on ebay!

It wasn't my intention to sell this lotion when I first started making it. But when several friends began requesting it, I decided to make it available to those who don't want to hassle with making it themselves. "Her Majesty" All-Natural Hand and Body Cream has 3 simple all-natural, healthy ingredients: Cocoa Butter, Coconut Oil and Jojoba Oil. These 3 natural moisturizers together work wonderfully to knock out dry skin and leave you feeling like a princess (hence the name "Her Majesty").

Not only that, it smells edible! One friend said it smells like a chocolate coconut cookie and another said German chocolate cake. Whatever it smells like, it smells yummy! :)

Click here to check out this chemical free, all-natural and healthy hand and body cream!!

If you have any questions feel free to comment here, send a message on ebay or via my

Health In Beranville Facebook page.

All Natural Taco Seasoning ~ Tasty, Easy, Healthy and Inexpensive (a winning combo!)

2013-09-13T21:22:00.001-05:00

It just dawned on my today that I never shared my fabulous Taco Seasoning recipe on here before.

I saw a post on Facebook for a taco seasoning recipe that looked as if it would result in a rather bland and boring taco. The recipe I'm about to share will result in no such thing.

This combo is filled with flavor and kick. And the beautiful thing is, if you don't like it so spicy you can either reduce the ground red pepper in the recipe or use less seasoning as you prepare your beef or chicken. It's really up to you. Whichever you choose, I believe, this seasoning will not leave you disappointed...as many others have left me.

Reasons I love this recipe:

1. It's healthier than that prepackaged stuff (it doesn't include potato starch, whey solids or GMOs).
2. It's cheaper per ounce than the prepackaged stuff too.
3. It's easy to make.
4. It tastes much better than any other taco seasoning I've tried!

If you want to make it even healthier you can choose to buy organic herbs and spices. :)

Here's the recipe:

Fabulous Taco Seasoning

1 Tbsp Chili Powder

1 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin

1 tsp Sea Salt

1 tsp Black Pepper

1/2 tsp Paprika

1/4 tsp Garlic Powder

1/4 tsp Onion Powder

1/4 tsp Oregano

1/4 tsp Ground Red Pepper (Cayenne)

Add 2 Tbsp to each pound of ground beef or chicken

(add less if you want a milder taco)

It's that easy.

Until next time, take a healthy step today...like making this taco seasoning!

Take the time to make good choices and do the right thing. I'm preaching to myself here, friends! <3

If you're interested in reading something a bit deeper focused on spiritual/mental health, check out my other blog where I recently shared a post called "It All Begins In the Mind". What you think affects everything else...including your physical health!

A Bit Overwhelmed (plus my 4 most popular posts!)

2013-08-29T20:25:00.002-05:00

Yes, I know that I haven't written in a while. Okay, in a long while. This summer has been busy. To be honest, I've felt a little overwhelmed at time. Although I had a goal to live healthier and to write more this year, I've done better at one than the other. I'm thankful the healthy living hasn't completely fallen by the way side like my bi-weekly post have. :) Sometimes you have to choose the better things over the good things.

Truthfully, it's not been easy to stay on track health-wise in the midst of the busyness of summer. As I wrote before I've had a lot vying for my time. I've had less smoothies and used my juicer less. I've slipped up a few times and paid for it!! But when I've messed up, I have been able to "reel it back in" and get back on track. I've been blessed with lots of produce from our huge garden. And I've spent a lot of time preserving stuff for this winter which is wonderful!

Thankfully my Health In Beranville Pinterest posts continue to send hundreds of people to this blog each week (sometimes daily). Follow me there to see what I've been researching on the web and to find out what recipes (and other stuff) are on my "Want to Try" list! Although winter is not my favorite season, I could use a few days of "hunkering down" to work on that list and write about it!

Oh, and I hope to get back into a good exercise routine. That has fallen by the way-side this summer.

In the mean time you can check out some of my most popular posts:

Boy Mom Bathroom Cleaner ~ Get that urine smell out from under your toilet!

Easy Homemade Natural Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

Natural Hair Lightener and Deep Conditioner

All Natural Night Cream Lotion (hand and body lotion) (my personal favorite!)

Stay tuned for more...soon...I hope. :)

Tell me, what has kept you busy this summer? How do you maintain a healthy routine? I'd love to learn from you!!

Until next time, take a healthy step today!

Where Have I Been?

2013-07-30T11:44:00.003-05:00

Want to know what I've been up to here in Beranville? Check out the link below to read an update on my other blog:

*Where Have I Been?*

It includes Gardening, Canning, Ministry and Farming...all part of my Healthy Lifestyle! :)

6 Fabulous Ways to Prepare Kale...and Love It!

2013-07-16T15:24:00.000-05:00

I haven't been posting a lot because life is busy here in Beranville. The garden is in full swing production mode...and that means I'm in full swing "pick, eat, and figure out what to do with all of this bounty" mode. :) Not to mention keeping up with our other summer activities. Goodness, I love summer!

Fabulous greens from our garden: spinach, snap peas, kale &
arugula. This is one picking. :)

We've had so much kale and arugula that we've been giving some of it away. Which we enjoy doing! We've also been eating a lot. Spinach and arugula salads have been a staple recently. But I've been looking for new, fabulous ways to prepare kale. It's not exactly my favorite in salads and doesn't blend in my smoothies (even with the Ninja Blender).

Kale is rich in vitamin K (1,327.6% of your daily value in 1 cup!!), Vitamin A (354.1%) and Vitamin C (88.8%). It's also high in Manganese, fiber and Vitamin B Complex. It's an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. It's been linked with cancer prevention and cardiovascular support. To sum it up: it's really stinkin' good for ya, friends!! ;) That is why I want plenty of it in my diet, and you should too! Not only that, it tastes really good when you know how to prepare it right!

Here are 6 ways to prepare kale that I have learned (so far) and loved.

Before you do anything with your kale you first need to wash, rinse and drain/dry it, especially if you're picking it fresh from your garden. Note: If you have a garden, but have never considered growing kale, you should. It's super easy to grow (this I know from experience) and produces all summer (from what I've read).

Rinse the kale thoroughly. Let it air dry. Shake out excess water.

Then, you can make...

1. Stir-fry. Whether you're making a veggie stir fry or you choose to throw in a little meat with your veggies, kale is a fabulous addition.

I love this recipe for Ginger Stir Fry Sauce that I saw on The Time Warp Wife. It works well with just about any veggie/meat combo. Be creative, add a little of this and a little of that, whatever veggies and herbs you have.

2. Simple Sauteed Kale. All you need is kale leaves (cut off/out the stems), add a little extra virgin olive oil to a frying pan and saute on the stove top. Add in a little organic garlic salt. For even more nutrition add Nutritional Yeast, it gives it a yummy, cheesy flavor.

3. Quick and Simple Stir Fried Kale & Bacon from Nom Nom Paleo! This stuff is fabulous!! A friend (Hi Alissa) recommended this recipe on my Health in Beranville Facebook page a few days ago. I've already made it twice. It was a huge hit, even with my husband who has been rather "anti-kale" up to this point. :) The only change I made to the original recipe is I used red wine vinegar instead of Banyuls vinegar. Great flavor combo!

I almost forgot to take a pic! It was good to the last bite!

4. Kale Chips. The first time I saw a recipe for kale chips was here on 100 Days of Real Food. Then, a friend (Hi Jennah) mentioned a similar recipe to me. So I tried it. Believe it or not, they taste like potato chips!

Kale Chips

4 Cups of firmly packed Kale Leaves (cut off the stems)

1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1/8 to 1/4 tsp of Garlic Sea Salt (the original recipe linked above called for just salt, I like Garlic Salt even better!)

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Keep a close eye on them because they go from not quite done to just perfect to burnt in a matter of seconds. You don't want to know how I know...ahem.

I've made these a few times now. It's a good way to use up and consume a lot of kale. I wish I had a picture, I don't...I was too busy eating them!

5. Kale & Feta Crustless Quiche. I mentioned this recipe from Eating Bird Food before. It's still one of my favorites. Instead of using Almond Breeze, I just use whole milk and I use whatever seasonings I have on hand. It is yum-o!

Here I paired it with a Green Smoothie

6. Dehydrated Kale. This is a fabulous way to preserve kale so you can use it all year long. And you can "sneak it" into dishes without your family even realizing it. Just wash and drain the kale as I showed above. Remove stems and cut leaves into pieces. Line dehydrator trays like so...

I have 8 trays so I was able to do a large batch.

Dehydrate at 135 degrees for 5-6 hours.

This is what it looked like when it was finished.

Let it cool for just a few minutes. Then crumble pieces by hand. Store in an airtight container.

As you can see, I ended up with one pint jar full.

I hope to dehydrate a lot more kale before the summer is over. I tasted the dried kale and it maintained it's flavor wonderfully.

I'm excited that now I will be able to add kale to soup, casseroles and stir-fry this winter. My family won't even realize they're eating leafy greens because it will blend in with all my other herbs and spices. Sweet! :)

What's your favorite kale recipe? Do share!

Until next time, take a healthy step (eat more kale!) and I will do the same.

You might also like my: Homemade Ranch Dressing or Quinoa and Black Beans Recipe

Follow me on Pinterest for more healthy eating and living ideas!

Easy All-Natural Rejuvenating Hand Scrub DIY

2013-07-02T10:52:00.004-05:00

I don't know about you, but my hands get so dry sometimes. Doing dishes, housework and gardening can do that to a girl. :)

A while back I saw a recipe for a refreshing hand scrub that I thought I wanted to try. Unfortunately, I didn't have any of the ingredients on hand so I tucked the recipe away for a rainy day. Well, although it was a sunny day, not a rainy one, I pulled out the recipe a few days ago...and I still didn't have the ingredients. So I decided to improvise. I made up my own recipe. Here it is:

Easy All-Natural Rejuvenating Hand Scrub

1/8 Cup Raw Sugar (I used organic raw cane sugar)

1/2 tsp Jojoba Oil

1/2 tsp Pure Vanilla

15-20 drops Lavender Oil

Mix all the ingredients together.

Scrub on hands, a little at a time.

Like so...

It felt so good and exfoliating!

Do you see how shiny and smooth my hands looked afterwards?!

Better yet, this happened with NO yucky chemicals, just all natural, healthy ingredients!!

My hands felt so soft.

And a wonderful side-effect:

my hands smelled like vanilla for the rest of the day! :)

Side note:

Later, at the suggestion of a friend (Hi Teresa), I used lemon juice on my fingernails.

It whitened and brightened them right up too!

Try it out for yourself and let me know what you think.

Until next time, take a healthy step...and I will do the same.

You might also like these other recipes:

All Natural Lotion (my personal fave!)

All Natural Simple Facial Moisturizer

All Natural Easy Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser

Our Garden (Plus Non-Toxic Weed Killer)

2013-06-28T21:41:00.002-05:00

Goodness, life has been full lately. I've taken little time to write because I've been too busy living life. :)

We've been spending quite a bit of time in our yard and garden. Not to mention time with family and friend and all the summer activities we've been enjoying. We're definitely not bored. It's been run, run and fun, fun!

Have I mentioned that I love summer? Well, I do!! I love the warmth, the activity, the sunshine, being outside and growing things.

I'm soooo thankful that I've felt better the last couple of weeks. I'm thankful for a new chiropractor, some new supplements and that I believe I got through another "healthy crisis" which is what happens sometimes when your body adjusts to/revolts against so many healthy changes at once...so that I can now enjoy summer.

I thought I'd show you a few pictures of our garden. Not that it's anything overly special. But, hey, it's ours, I'm pretty happy with it and we've learned a few things.

We planted a bigger garden this year. Because of the healthy lifestyle changes we've made this year we wanted MORE of our own organic veggies and fruits to eat fresh from the garden. And to can and freeze for our winter enjoyment. Plus the exercise, fresh air and family bonding time are good too.

My husband actually worked a few acres of his field right behind our house with his field cultivator this spring (he is a farmer). Then, we planted (between ALL the rain storms we've had this spring) in the wide rows which worked great. On the left in the first picture you see the grass of the edge of our yard. All around the edge of the garden (starting on the right side) you see a few rows of oats which we are growing in hopes to roll it this fall (rolled oats).

This picture is looking the other direction (please disregard the "stuff" in the background). And that is my handsome husband checking out his crop. :) He planted 3 rows of pumpkins with his corn planter. This also worked out really well. We have 107 pumpkin plants! Then, he planted 1 row of watermelon and 1 row of cantaloupe. These were planted much later than the rest of the garden (due to ALL the rain we had!), so they are jut getting started.

Another view. We're growing things we eat the most of. Cucumbers for pickling, snap peas, green beans, potatoes, carrots, spinach, arugula, kale, broccoli, celery, plus a little kahl rabi, yellow squash and zucchini.

Down at the other end, where the oats curve, we planted sunflowers that grow 8-10 feet tall. Not only will they be attractive, we will harvest the sunflowers and feed them to the birds this summer.

Our snap peas and potato plants are looking good. Very happy with the old woven wire fence we put in for the peas to climb/trellis on.

We also have onions planted in a separate raised bed along with our grape vine, and blueberry bushes elsewhere. Our 6 year old is also growing several varieties of corn just for fun in his own little garden.

We put some grass clippings in some of the rows which has helped substantially with weed control. We need to add more. Grass clippings are much cheaper than straw. They're free! :)

Our faithful cat, Mo, checks the garden with us often. Now, if he'd only keep the rabbits from eating our green bean plants when we're not around! :) Instead, I've had to use an all natural rabbit repellent.

Father and son checking the garden. This is a daily ritual that we all love. :) Gardening as a family is the best! Our boys love picking and eating straight from the garden. Our 6 year old even likes using Grandma's old hand tiller between the rows.

Our one lone cabbage plant, some unique variety. Isn't it pretty? I love the variety and beauty God gave us to enjoy in His creation.

I'm also looking forward to harvesting fruit from our apple trees...and even a few peaches from our cold weather peach tree which already has fruit on it although we only planted it last spring! Two years ago I canned 101 quarts of applesauce, plus made cider and froze sliced apples for pies and crisp. We gave the rest of our apples away. Anyway, I hope to put up even more (can, freeze, etc) this year.

A couple of days ago my 6 year old and I went to our local strawberry farm and picked over 35 lbs. I cleaned, cut up and froze most of them plus pureed several cups to stick in the freezer, to make jam later. I not only used 1/2 the sugar called for in my jam, I also used organic, raw cane sugar. It's yummy and convenient to mix in my own homemade yogurt. Unfortunately, our strawberry bed didn't survive last year

drought. That's okay, going to the strawberry farm is much easier anyway. When we had our own strawberry patch we picked strawberries every single day in June.

Here are just a few of the strawberries we picked

We also plan to buy tomatoes at a local produce auction, so I can work with them all in one (or two) days rather than a few here and there throughout the summer. We have one yellow cherry tomato plant in our garden for picking and eating.

Gardeners thumb! I have scrubbed and cleaned, used hydrogen peroxide and everything else. But, I'm not that worried about it. It comes with the territory. Actually, I'm kinda proud of it. It's a reminder of all we're doing and accomplishing. I feel kind of the same way that I do when I take a step back and look at my display of full, sealed jars when I've spent a day canning. It's quite satisfying!

Want to try a Non-Toxic Weed Killer? I used this recipe in and around my landscaping a couple of weeks ago. It did the trick. Too bad more always grow in it's place. ;) Here's the recipe:

Non-Toxic Weed Killer

1/2 Gallon Apple Cider Vinegar

1/4 C Sea Salt

1/2 tsp Dawn Dish Soap

Use a spray bottle to apply.

I like gardening more than I ever thought I would when we began a few years ago. It never ceases to amaze me how we can plant a tiny seed and from it grows something so amazing! God thought of everything! I stand in awe of Him every time I step into my garden, that HE causes to grow!

"You {God} send rain on the mountains from your heavenly home, and you fill the earth with the fruit of your labor. You cause grass to grow for the livestock and plants for people to use. You allow them to produce food from the earth - wine to make them glad, olive oil to soothe their skin, and bread to give them strength." Psalm 104:13-15

Coming up: Some more food recipes, non-toxic products recipes and other ideas. Stay tuned!

Have any good gardening tips for me? What plants do you grow? What do you want to try?

I want to try sweet potatoes and romaine next year. :)

Curly Girls Gone Right! How to Wash, Style and Love YOUR Curly Hair NATURALLY!

2013-06-20T10:03:00.002-05:00

Okay, my friends! Do you have some curly locks like me? If so, this is the post for you! Have straight hair? Stick around, you might learn something useful too. :)

I've had curly/wavy hair all my life. I haven't always loved it and I, definitely, haven't always known what to do with it! In fact, like most curly girls, I've fought against it at times. For several years now, I've decided to go with the curl, but I got relaxers to smooth out the frizz around my face.

A few months ago I decided, "No More!" Not only are relaxers harsh on your hair, they're toxic...very unhealthy as they seep into your skin! And, well, as we all know, I'm on a health quest. So, all natural it is for me!

Here's what I did...

Oh, before we go any further, I must tell you: I am NOT a hair stylist. I am NOT an expert. I do NOT get paid to say anything kind about any product. And my hair does not look like this every day. Some days I make more effort than others. So if you know me in real life, don't expect my hair to look good every time you see me. HA! :) I'm not stuck on myself and I don't think I have the perfect hair. I am just a curly haired girl who wants to help out other curly girls like myself. These are just things I've learned and personal opinions. And you are responsible to form your own as well. :) Okay...

Step #1: Find a stylist that knows how to do curly hair. The average American stylist washes your hair, then cuts it wet. This is not the best thing for a curly top like me, or the other 40-60% of the population that has some curl in their hair. Since the consistency of our curls tend not to be the same all over our heads, we get an uneven cut when it's cut wet. I recommend you follow the link above to find a stylist who has been trained to cut curly hair. They call it a Deva Cut. Or, at least, find someone who understands curly hair. :)

A few years ago I read "Curly Girl: The Handbook" by Lorraine Massey (this link is to the updated version). Lorraine is a genius curly haired stylist who (among other things) set up a school to train other stylists to do curly hair. A team now travels across the country visiting salons to train stylists in these simple, yet fab methods.

I had my first Deva Cut a few months ago. My new stylist cut my hair dry, showed me how to style it (much differently than anyone ever had...and I'm going to tell you in just a few moments!) and hooked me up with a couple of Deva Curl products. Products that actually work! That leads me to tip #2...

Step #2: Get products that work. Here's what I (now) use: DevaCurl

Simple. Shampoo (sometimes Conditioner) and Gel. Not only do they work, they're 100% Sulfate, Paraben and Silicone Free! Which enriches my healthier lifestyle. Sweet!

Step #3: Learn how to style what you've got! Why fight it?! Be happy with, or at least accept, what God gave you and go with it. :)

I will tell you the basics of what my stylist told me and then I'll share my own observations at the end. BUT I recommend you go get a Deva Cut for yourself. It's worth the cost involved!

1. Gently wash your curls. Try to disturb them as little as possible.
2. Flip you head over, shake your head like a dog! This is not so easy for people like me with neck issues, but...
3. Use your hand to scrunch up your hair (not disturbing the curls, but going with them) and squeeze out more moisture.
4. With head still flipped down and hair still wet work in gel (DevaCurl Arc AnGEL). A lot of it! A whole palm full. Do not disturb curls, go with them by scrunching up and not running fingers through them. Start at the base and work down.
5. Use a microfiber towel to dry a little more, using the same method above.
6. Flip up...or is it flip out?! Okay, I mean, stand up straight. :) Now, for more lift, use small clips to gently pin your locks at the base (around your part).
7. Let air dry. If you must use a hair dryer, use one with a large diffuser. But air drying is best!

Hair clips for lift

RARE pic of me with no makeup
I have clips in my hair for lift!

Here's what I've learned:

*I like DevaCurl No-Poo. I know, they say all curly hair is dry. Mine isn't. When I use conditioner everyday (any conditioner) my hair gets so soft, fluffy and uncontrollable that it drives me crazy. So, I only use conditioner about once or twice a week. This probably isn't right for your hair. The stylist recommended using the conditioner every time and leaving a little of it in when rinsing.

*I also really like DevaCurl Arc AnGEL. I've used a lot of gels throughout the years, folks. This one actually does what it says it will do, a rarity! Although it's a little pricier than the stuff I used before, it actually saves me money because I only have to buy ONE product! I like that a lot!!

*I actually like to use the microfiber towel (I use Norwex) throughout the whole drying process.

*The Deva Cut costs a little more than I was use to paying for a cut before. And, honestly, I was a little disappointed with it at first. But my stylist told me that I would be! She said give it a month to get use to the new styling method, etc. She was right. Both I and my hair had to adjust! :) The best part: my stylist said I need only come in every 3 to 5 months for a cut!

*I only wash my hair every 2 to 3 days. Between washes, I just spritz my hair with water and scrunch with my hands to revive my bed head curls. This also keeps my hair and scalp from drying out.

My curls are soft and bouncy, more spiral than before. I like that.

I like being NATURAL!

Don't ya just love silly self
portraits in the mirror?! Here
my hair was still damp

Another day

I'm really not stuck on myself...

I'm just coming to terms with
my inner curl! :)

"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well." Psalm 139:14

Are you a girl with curls? Tell me your best tip. I'd love to learn from YOU!

You might also like my: Natural Hair Lightener and Deep Conditioner

DIY All-Natural EASY-Peasy Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser

2013-06-07T07:23:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago my face was breaking out like a teenage girl going through puberty. Seriously, I'm in my mid 30's, folks. Therefore, you would think that my days of massive breakouts was behind me. Unfortunately, that's not the case. For some reason I've had more recently.

I decided to rage war against this unwanted acne! In the midst of my search for non-toxic, all-natural clear skin treatments I came across a phenomenally simple idea, the Oil Cleansing Method on Thank Your Body. Here the author recommends using either or both Castor Oil or Olive Oil according to your skin type. She also mentions other oil options like jojoba oil. She also explains why oil is your face's best friend (which also explains why all those alcohol based cleansers on the market dry out your skin, doing more damage than good). Oil dissolves oil. What a concept!

Well, back in February I shared my All Natural Simple Homemade Facial Moisturizer Recipe. It consists of three simple ingredients, jojoba oil, rosehip seed oil and lavender oil. I wondered why I couldn't just use this mixture I already had on hand, and that already felt great on my skin. So...I gave it a try. Honestly, what did I have to lose? The worst case scenario: more acne.

I wear makeup almost every day. Each night I rub a small amount of this oil blend on my face (see my recipe HERE). Then I use a microfiber washcloth with hot water to wash my face. It removes my makeup, moisturizes and cleanses my skin all at once. Within a week, my acne had cleared up!

Sorry no "before" picture to show, since I was avoiding the camera. :)

I'm going to continue to use this Easy-Peasy Acne Fighting Facial Cleanser, will you join me? If you do, let me know what you think. Do you have some other fabulous remedy you'd like to share? I like hearing from you.

Until next time, take a healthy step...and so will I.
*************************************

You might also like MY LOTION RECIPE, one of my favorite discoveries/creations so far!

DIY All-Natural Antibacterial Foaming Hand Soap

2013-06-05T18:14:00.001-05:00

A while back I saw a link to this recipe by My Merry Messy Life for Homemade All-Natural Foaming Hand Soap on Pinterest. I put it on my "Want to Try" Board for later. Well, later ended up being last week. :)

Here's what I used:

Dr. Woods Shea Vision Pure Almond Castile Soap (with Organic Shea Butter)

I bought it on Vitacost.com . You can use any Castile Soap, I just happen to like this one a lot. It has a good almondy scent (is almondy even a word?! No. Oh well, you know what I mean!) . This soap can be used for a lot of things, body wash, facial cleanser, shampoo and a natural cleaner too! Okay, on to the recipe...

Tea Tree Oil

Known for it's antibacterial properties, Tea Tree Oil is good for a lot of things...including earaches!

I also use it in my husband's Easy Natural Anti-Dandruff Shampoo.

Purified Water

I just used my Brita pitcher.

A clean foaming hand soap bottle

I had a leftover one from that one place that sells the heavenly scented, although toxic, lotions and hand soaps in every mall across America. I won't name names. You know the place. Anyway, you can buy new ones in the housewares department of most Wal-Mart stores.

Fill foaming hand soap bottle 1/3 of the way with the Castile Soap,

Add 10 drops of Tea Tree Oil (you can add more if you want, but this is all my smeller can handle)

Then fill the rest of the way with Purified Water

Works well. Saves money. Smells good. Non-toxic.

I feel a lot better about putting this next to the sink for my family to use!

Why Avoid the Store Bought stuff? Check out THIS POST, it also includes my "DIY All-Natural Lotion" recipe!

Where I've Been...

2013-05-29T14:13:00.002-05:00

I know, I know it's been a while since I've written. I told you last time that I was taking a blogging break. I wasn't kidding. :)

I haven't vanished off the face of the earth. I haven't given up on living a healthier lifestyle. I haven't quit working on new recipes, non-toxic household items or researching various health topics. I haven't stopped posting on Facebook or pinning on Pinterest. But I haven't blogged. I needed time to rest, to re-group and to write again for pleasure rather than pressure.

Not only that, the truth be told, I haven't felt so well. At the beginning of the year I started this plan of pursing health with great expectation. I have seen glimmers of hope. Yet in some ways I have found myself discouraged at times. For a while I was making great strides and felt that I was reaping the benefits. Most recently things have not been so good. In some ways they have seemed worse. BUT I'm not giving up. I see these as only temporary setbacks. I'm pushing forward...and hope you will join me in doing so.

I told you when I started this blog that I would share the good, the bad and the ugly. I wasn't kidding!

If you want to read a little more about my most recent struggles click here to check out yesterday's post on my other blog. As a bonus you will get to read about our Hummingbird Rescue! :)

There is hope, my friends!

I'll be back soon with some various health ideas, recipes (I made a fab Anti-Bacterial Foaming Hand Soap and some Homemade BBQ Sauce the other day) and stuff I'm learning.

Until then, take a healthy step today...and I'll keep doing the same.

One * Step * At * A * Time.

Simply Rest ~ A Blogging Break

2013-05-08T16:16:00.000-05:00

There are many aspects to health...eating well, exercise, drinking water, supplementation, spiritual care, natural remedies...the list goes on and on, doesn't it?!

But there's one that I need more of, so much more of...REST.

I'm not just talking about sleep (although I'm short on that sometimes too). I'm talking about rest, real rest.

Many days I'm spinning. This life moves fast. In this modern day and age, our days are busy. Running here and there, technology at every turn, barely any down time. Everyone I talk to is "tired" and/or "busy"...and frustrated, I must add. How healthy can that be?

It makes me think, perhaps it's time to get off the hamster wheel, my friends. To simplify our schedules. To turn off the technology more often. To simplify our live and stay focus on what's most important.

I wish I was more like my little sons. They're never in a rush. They see everything. They appreciate the simple things. They take little for granted. They enjoy life.

When they're tired, they rest. :)

Simple!

So, considering all that I just wrote, I'm taking a little blogging break. I'm going to disconnect and refocus, at least for a while. Maybe you should do the same.

~Remember busyness does not equal significance!~

Until next time, take a healthy step and you know I will too, as I simply rest.

Past posts about Things I'm Learning

Healthy Stuff I Buy...and Why

2013-04-27T17:43:00.001-05:00

Here are a few of my favorite things...

From Left to Right...

1.Rumford Aluminum Free Baking Powder

I like to bake (mostly with spelt and oat flour) and want to avoid the aluminum found in most baking powders! Why avoid aluminum? I shared about that when I posted my homemade deodorant recipe. Click here to read!

2. Organic Tamari Gluten Fee Soy Sauce

I loooove stir fry! But I didn't like using stir fry sauce or soy sauce that was filled with wheat or other nasty preservatives. Bonus, it's organic!

3. Braggs Organic Sea Kelp Delight Seasoning

This stuff is sooo yummy on just about everything from stir fry to salad to fish. And sea kelp is full of iodine which is something many of us lack. It's especially helpful for those with thyroid issues and aids in digestion. It's a recommended supplement for blood type Os on the blood type diet (what I believe works and I'm trying to follow).

4. Jarrow Formulas Coconut Oil

Okay, I've tried several coconut oils and haven't disliked any of them. But this one is organic, non-hydrogenated and has a neutral taste (which I like for cooking). I use it to for cooking and greasing baking pans (when I don't use my own homemade cooking spray). I have also used it when making my own homemade lotion.

5. Trader Joe's Chia Seeds

Just recently became a fan of these yummy little seeds. Okay, so these aren't "organic", but on the package they claim they are free from chemicals. Anyway, a single tablespoon has six grams of fiber, three grams of protein and 2.9 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. Ka-bam! That's pretty awesome!

You can put them in yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies or whatever. For a little treat make:

Chia Seed No-Bake Pudding

1/4 cup of Chia Seeds

1 Cup of Vanilla Almond Milk

1 Tablespoon of Raw Honey or 100% Pure Maple Syrup (I make my own)

Mix together. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

Enjoy a tapioca pudding type treat!

6. Rumford Non-Genetically Modified Corn Starch

Again, I love to cook and bake but dislike GMOs! I also use this in my easy Homemade Deodorant (that works!!) Recipe.

Two things I give my sons:

1. Kyo-Dophilus is a pro-biotic blend.

This proprietary blend has 1 Billion Cells of 3 non-dairy, heat stable, stomach acid resistant human strains of beneficial bacteria. It's a tasty, vanilla flavored chewable that supports a healthy digestive and immune system. No preservatives, dairy, yeast, gluten or artificial colors.

2. Animal Parade Multi-Vitamins and Mineral Supplement with whole food concentrates

Free from artificial colors and preservatives. No yeast, wheat, soy or milk.

Two things I like to have around when my boys do come down with a cold:

1. Eucalyptus Essential Oil

I put this in their hot water vaporizer (there's a built in cup for such things). It fills the air for hours, and really helps break up all the "gunk" in their chest, allowing them to breath more easily and get some rest. Once when I had a terrible head cold I boiled a pan of water on the stove, let drops of Eucalyptus Oil drop in it while breathing in the vapors. It did the trick! Can't say enough how much I loooove this stuff!

2. Kyolic Liquid Garlic

Not only is liquid garlic good to take for overall good health, it's great at treating earaches. We have also found relief for earaches with Tea Tree Oil. However, this past week the tea tree oil just didn't cut if for my 6 year old's terribly painful earache (I think he may have had swimmer's ear). At the suggestion of a friend, we tried some liquid garlic diluted with a little olive oil. With a dropper I put 3 drops or so of it in his ear. Within an hour his earache was gone! We will never be without this in our house from now one!

Something I take and don't ever want to be without again:

I take several supplements. With most of them I'm uncertain whether they help or not...and so I won't share about those. :) This one I've been taking for quite some time and can say I really believe it helps me with inflammation and mood. After my first son was born I had a severe case of Postpartum Depression. When I was pregnant with my second son I read about the benefits of Omega-3s in combating depression especially postpartum. I did my research to find the BEST brand. I found Nordic Naturals, and began taking their Prenatal DHA. I had no problems after my second son was born. And have been taking their Omegas ever since.

Tell me, what products do you love?! What new things have you been trying? I love hearing from you...and learning new things! :)

To keep up on this blog and for more health tips follow me on Pinterest or Facebook.

P.S. I'm not getting paid by any company to endorse their products and my opions are my own. I am not a doctor, nor do I intend to give medical advice. Please make informed decisions, do your own research and/or consult your naturopathic doctor for advice.

Bowel Detox for Your Health

2013-04-21T15:26:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm 4 days into a 5 day bowel detox. Actually, it's a bit deceiving calling it a 5 day bowel detox because this detox can take 2 or 3 weeks. It's day 4 and I still have a long way to go. What am I doing?

This comes with two different intestinal herbal formulas, an air detox and this extremely interesting and informative booklet that I couldn't put down! You should read it.

A friend (Hi and thanks Susan!) gave me one of Dr. Schulze's catalogs a couple of years ago. But it wasn't until earlier this year when I started pursuing health more intensely that I gave him and his formulas much thought. I ordered one of his CDs and, although I didn't agree with all of his methods (he thinks everyone should be a vegetarian and I don't) and slightly put off by some of his language, he ignited a fire under my bottom...to do what I already knew I should. What he said was what I needed to hear, and I'm grateful!

Anyway, in this booklet Dr. Schulze writes about things like our colons, digestion, constipation and parasites, among other things. He's traveled the world studying bowel movements (seriously he has!!). Did you know that you should have a bowel movement 20 to 30 minutes after every major meal? Do you? Dr. Schulze says that the Average American (because of the way we live) goes about once every two to three day. He says that puts "the Average American about 70,000 bowel movements short in their lifetime!" YIKES! Even if you go once a day, you're still behind.

He also writes about the problems with modern medicine and his many patients who were cured of numerous deadly diseases by simply cleaning out their colons. He shared some incredible stories. Backed up fecal matter can cause all kinds of problems!

Dr. Schulze also points out that not all detoxes/cleanses are created equal. Hey, I can vouch for that, I've done a couple of others in the past and seen very little results.

Well, after reading all of this, I realized even more that I should have started this detox a long time ago. Then again it's all a process. I just couldn't tackle every obstacle at once. The past few months I have drastically changed my (and my family's) diet, rid our home of (almost) all toxins (personal care products, cleaners, etc) and incorporated numerous healthy lifestyle changes. I still don't have it perfect, but I've come a looooong way. And have learned a TON! Some of which I've shared with you on this blog and on my Facebook page.

Despite all my changes I still have a lot of ups and downs when it comes to the way I feel from day to day, and even throughout a day. I know it's only been a short time, but I also know it could be so much better. Yes, I've seen some positive results. But I want to feel energetic and healthy on a regular basis!

The truth is, I've had digestive issues since...well, for as long as I can remember. I had issues as a little girl, and would cry on the toilet. OKAY, I know, I know...you didn't want to talk about my poo, right?! Well, this is my blog, and I think this is an important topic when it comes to MY health and YOUR health. :) So I'm sharing. Like it or not, it's a fact: we all poop! OR at least we should...and probably more often than we do!!

This past fall I even had my gallbladder removed after another attack (I'd been having them for years). I hoped having it removed would make my "stomach issues" and digestion better. I hoped it would help a lot of things, like the doctor said it would. It hasn't. Why? Well, some of it might be my genetics. However, whatever caused the issues with my gallbladder in the first place hasn't changed. The doctor just cut out the degenerate organ and didn't address the real issue.

Read Dr. Schulze's book and you'll learn more about that.

Okay, this program has three levels: Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced. I've chosen to do the Advanced because I want maximum results! I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. There are numerous things going haywire in my body. I want to get well!

As I said, I'm on day 4. So far I feel pretty icky. It's the truth, I do...maybe because I need this. I haven't even started the second part of the detox (the 5 day). Dr. Schulze recommends taking your time on the first part of the detox, making sure your bowel moves every morning for 1 week before beginning the second part of the detox. I've got a ways to go.

I will let you know how I feel as time goes on. It may seem drastic to some, but I'm willing to do what it takes to get well and stay well, folks!

Want to know more about this detox program message me (rachel76xAT SIGNyahoo.com) or just go order it for yourself (I ordered the capsules). I'm not getting paid to say that, I'm not getting paid to say anything on this blog. I'm simply sharing my personal experiences with you (anyone who wants to read) because I have a feeling I'm not alone in my health struggles, and want to help others however I can.

Until next time, friends, take a healthy step...and you know I will too!

P.S. I've been looking into studying Natural Healing. Me, a naturopath. Wouldn't that be a hoot?! Now all I need is some spare time. ;)

Check out my 17 Easy Recipes for Your Health HERE ~ Food, Cleaning Products, Personal Care Items PLUS. Follow me on Pinterest for more recipes coming up!

What's Up In Beranville? ~ What I've been using, doing, trying...to stay healthy

2013-04-13T18:30:00.000-05:00

Haven't posted much recently. It seems our days are full, lots of running here and there. Trying to keep up with family, home, homeschool and all the extra stuff makes the days
fly by. In the midst of it all, I'm keeping up with my healthy eating plan, continuing to rid my home of more and more toxins and, quite honestly, struggling to get exercise in.

This past week I got my new Ninja 1200 Blender. Got to say, I am very happy with my purchase so far. If you're a smoothie maker or homemade bread baker I highly recommend it! This fabulous kitchen appliance has two pitchers ~ a 40 oz and a 72 oz. It's a blender, mixer, food processor and (almost) juicer in one.

The first day my biggest little cowboy helped me make my first smoothie in my new Ninja. Couldn't believe it could handle a whole raw apple and pear (with peelings still on). I added some frozen blueberries, pineapple juice, flaxseed meal, a little pure maple syrup, spinach and kale. My only complaint, the kale was still a little chunky.

Not sure why the front of the Ninja looks gold, it's silver. :)

BUT my little cowboy didn't seem to mind the slightly chunky kale, he asked for me to put some of this smoothie in one of our Norpro Silicone Ice Pop Makers to stick in the freezer. Later, after it froze, he gobbled it down. We love our Ice Pop Makers and highly recommend them!

That evening my little guy helped me make Spelt Pizza Dough. Yum-o!

Will have to share the recipe later.

Wish I'd remembered to take a picture of the pizza, but I didn't

The Ninja did a great job!

My next smoothie:

1 whole pear (with peelings on)

1 cup of frozen pineapple chunks

Two handfuls of Spinach

(have I mentioned that I'm a HUGE spinach fan?!?!)

A little pinapple juice and
A little local raised honey

Soooo goooood!

My littlest guy thought so too.

This afternoon my smoothie was

1 whole pear

1 whole kiwi

2 Cups of Spinach and

1 Cup of Pinapple Juice

Another Winner!!

So far VERY happy with my Ninja 1200 purchase!

Many more things to try in it...like grinding grain.

Smoothies: There's simply no easier way to get so many raw fruits and veggies in your diet!

Not sure what to put in your smoothies? Be creative! Throw in whatever you like and adjust according to your own taste. There's no wrong way or right way to do it. I DO recommend you try mixing in veggies with your fruits. Think outside the box!

If you find yourself at at loss, there are TONS of smoothie recipes on Pinterest. In fact, I've pinned quite a few myself. While you're there look me up!

I'm going to skip putting kale in my smoothies from now on. Instead I make this fabulous Kale and Feta Crustless Quiche recipe that I saw on Eating Bird Food about every other week (it takes me three days to eat all of it by myself).

This was my lunch yesterday. Kale & Feta Crustless Quiche and a Smoothie :)

Next week I plan to stare this:

Thought I should wait until after my littlest man's 3rd Birthday party (tomorrow) before beginning because I am doing the most intense version of this detox (there are 3 levels)...nothing but raw fruits and veggies, juice and smoothies for 5 days. I say "Bring it!" But, in reality, prayers are appreciated. ;-)

One more random thought: I went to Trader Joe's for the first time this past week. Why had I not been there before?! Why hadn't anyone told me what I was missing? Love that store! Their prices are reasonable and their variety outstanding (compared to where I've shopped before). In fact, their Ezekiel 4:9 Bread was $1.50 less than at my local health food store. I do believe that Trader Joe's has a new loyal customer, me. If you haven't been there...go! And, no, I'm not getting paid to say that. I'm not getting paid to say anything. Ha!

One good, reasonably priced find:

Trader Joe's Almond Butter
Ingredients: Dry Roasted Almonds

Last thought: Any tips on how to get exercise in...and keep it interesting without spending a bundle?

I need to liven it up and keep it going!

Until next time, take a healthy step today...and so will I.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

See something you like? Please share on Facebook or pin to your Pinterest board. I love making new friends

Homemade Ranch Dressing (and an update...back in the swing!)

2013-04-06T22:51:00.001-05:00

Hello friends! Thanks for taking the time to stop by my blog today.

On Thursday I shared about how I cheated on my healthy diet over the Easter weekend...and how badly I was paying for it. I felt terrible, y'all! Seriously bad...for 4 days. Well, I'm happy to report that after 3-4 days of getting back into my healthy eating routine, detoxing a bit and building myself back up, I felt good today! I'm back in the swing of things! Praising the Lord for that!!

It just goes to show what we eat (and how we live) matters, it matters a lot. I can't go back!

Besides I've quoted this scripture before and I'll quote it again and again (to myself)...

"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." James 4:17

I know better. That convicts me. It also motivates me. I must do what I know is right, instead of making bad choices and crying about how bad I feel.

Okay, so anyway, on to our subject for the day. One of my family's favorite things, Ranch Dressing!

First of all, I should tell you why I think it's good to avoid the bottled stuff. Well, check out the ingredients label on your favorite Ranch Dressing bottle. Betcha it's made with modified corn starch and filled with various preservatives. I want to avoid those things. If you do too, try this recipe. If that's not a concern to you, try this recipe anyway, because it's really good. :)

I saw this recipe on a neat site called The Crafty Blog Stalker and modified it just a little bit to fit my taste and healthy diet plan.

First of all I made up the dry seasoning. I only made a 1/2 batch the first time, just to make sure we liked it before making a mountain of it.

Here's the original recipe from The Crafty Blog Stalker with my notes and changes:

Ranch Dressing (Powdered Mix)

1/4 C Black Pepper

1 1/2 C Parsley Flakes

1/2 C Garlic Salt

2 T Kosher Salt (I used 1 T Sea Salt instead)

1/4 C Granulated Onion (I used Onion Powder)

2 T Dill Weed (LOVE THIS!)

Mix together (I just put mine in a mason jar and shook!)

Store in an airtight container.

When ready to make

Ranch Dressing

Whisk together:

2 T of the dry mix with

2 C Mayo

2 C Buttermilk

1 1/2 C Sour Cream (I use my Homemade Plain Yogurt)

1 tsp Lemon Juice

I found this original recipe to be a little on the runny side (even if I used sour cream instead of plain yogurt). I've made it several time now and I've found that if I add a little more mayo (1/2 C) and a little less Buttermilk (reduce by 1/2 C), it is thicker...and more to the liking of my family. Runny or thick this stuff is Yum-o!

Okay, so mayo isn't exactly a health food, but this recipe is still better than the alternative. :) Maybe someday I will make my own mayo...hmm.

Another thought, I could just add more yogurt and a little organic powdered milk, then leave out the mayo. Might have to try it. BUT my family (especially my dear husband) likes mayo, a lot.

BONUS: the powder mix is fabulous on pork chops and steaks! Just coat and bake or grill. Mmmm...good!!

If you like this recipe, you might also like my Condensed Soup Mix Recipe. It's healthier and cheaper too!

Follow me on Pinterst for more healthy recipes and tips coming up.

Until next time take a healthy step (along with me) today!

I Cheated...and I'm Paying for It.

2013-04-04T16:43:00.000-05:00

Yep, I have a confession to make. I cheated. Over the Easter holiday weekend my two little boys and I traveled down to Indiana from Iowa to visit my family. Mostly I did well avoiding all the foods I have cut out of my diet. I followed my own advice for eating healthy on the run as wed traveled. I limited processed foods. In fact, my mom made food according to my "real food" and blood type diet. I wasn't getting as many veggies and fruits (because I wasn't juicing or making smoothies), but I wasn't eating terrible either. And I felt really good.   At least not for the first couple of days.

Easter Sunday rolled around. I visited another relative who insisted on feeding us their leftovers. The hostess put a big, white dinner roll on my plate and just about every food I've been trying to avoid in dishes on the table. There wasn't one thing I "should" eat. I didn't want to be rude. Soooo I ate.

That evening I thought "What the heck, I've already ruined this day." So I ate some of those darn Reese's peanut butter eggs that I had leftover from my boys' Easter baskets. I couldn't eat just one. UGH!

I told you this was a confession. I hate to admit it. I realllllly do! BUT here's why I share...

I'm paying for it!

I woke up feeling terrible on Monday morning. I still feel terrible 3 days later. And all I can say to myself is, "DUH!"

The thing is I didn't even realize just how much better I was feeling living this healthier lifestyle...until I started feeling terrible again.

Not all was wasted because I learned a valuable lesson, two actually.

Lesson 1: What I eat definitely makes a difference in how I feel.
Lesson 2: Only I can choose what I will eat...and stick to it.

Next time I will do what I know is right and risk appearing rude, because my health matters.   I hope you can learn from my mistake and avoid such a mistake yourself.

So now I start all over. It's a new day and a new opportunity to make the right choice...again.

Until next time: take a healthy step (along with me) today.

EASY DIY Toothpaste Recipe

2013-03-26T20:23:00.001-05:00

This toothpaste recipe is not my own original creation. A friend shared it with me on my Facebook page a couple of months ago. I'm not sure where she got it, if I knew I would give credit where credit is due.

Before I tried this toothpaste recipe I tried a different one that I saw on Pinterest. Let me tell you, this one is far superior to that one! Yikes, that stuff was nasty! I bought a tube of another kind after reading good reviews for it online. Gross. You should have heard all three of my guys gagging when they used it.

My point? Just know that although there are a lot of toothpaste recipes out there, and some fluoride free/healthier options available on the market, not all of them are created equal. Some are down right terrible, in fact.

This recipe is easy, chemical free, doesn't taste terrible and leaves my mouth feeling clean. In addition, it's inexpensive to make.

Here's the original recipe (see my notes following):

EASY DIY Toothpaste

3 Tbsp Coconut Oil
3 Tbsp Baking Soda
25 drops Peppermint Oil
1 pkt Stevia
2 tsp Vegetable Glycerin

*I left out the Stevia for two reasons: 1. I didn't think it needed it. 2. I didn't have any. :)

*Next time I will use Spearmint Oil instead of Peppermint, for two reasons: 1. Because I don't love Peppermint. 2. Because I like Spearmint better than Peppermint. :)

I just mixed the coconut oil and baking soda, then added the peppermint oil and vegetable glycerin.

I put it in an airtight container.

Here's what it looks like 10 days later:

Just so you know, my family hasn't tried this toothpaste yet. The others really scared them off. I will give them some time to warm up to the idea. Someday they will try it. I've made a lot of changes around our house lately, and they've gone along rather well. This momma/wife has learned to pick her battles wisely. Until they're ready, I'll continue to use it...and like it. :)

Coming up: Homemade, preservative free Beef Jerky.

Until next time, take a healthy step, friends. I'll keep moving forward too.

Spring Will Come ~ Hope

2013-03-22T09:39:00.002-05:00

It's been quite a week. I limit what I share here because I want to be an encouragement to others who are on this journey with me. But, the truth is, this week has been a struggle health wise. Just when I think I'm seeing improvements, I always have a set back.

Two severe migraines to go along with my raging hormones (I have an inbalance). Now a head cold. I'm doing everything "right" as far as I can tell. So it's easy to get discouraged. BUT I refuse to stay down! When minor set-backs come, I must press on. I have to keep doing what I know is right without getting sidetracked and off course.

I long for days of better health. Much in the same way I'm eager for spring to come, really come, not just on the calender! Won't it be nice to get out in the yard? I can hardly wait to plant my garden and start enjoying fresh produce. Flip flops and shorts. Birds chirping and blue skies. To go on walks in the sunshine and warmth...without even having to put on a coat! :) But I don't wan to miss the joy in today!

Spring will come...and so will days of better health. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow. There is hope for today!

So I pray for wisdom and strength. I keep doing what I know I should. I press on and hope for the future. I find joy in today. So must you, friend!

May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you.

Psalm 33:22

DIY Pain Pouch with Soothing Lavender and Peppermint ~ Great gift idea or make one for yourself!

2013-03-19T14:46:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I shared a fun, homemade (and inexpensive) gift idea on my other blog Life In Beranville. This Do-It-Yourself Pain Pouch with Soothing Lavender and Peppermint would also be a simple thing to make for yourself for those stressful, headache filled or PMS (sorry guys!) kind of days.

Go to my post on Life In Beranville to find out how to make one!

While you're there take a peek around. :)

How to Make Homemade Yogurt ~ 7 Easy Steps laid out!

2013-03-16T15:53:00.000-05:00

Back in January I wrote a post about How to Make Homemade Yogurt. I first learned to make yogurt at Make Your Own Yogurt. Since then, not only have I simplified the way I make it, I've updated that post more than once. Lately I've had several people ask me about the whole process, questions about various steps, etc. My friends at MOPS even asked me to give them a demo at our March meeting last week. Anyway, because of the interest shown I wrote out these simple step by step instructions that I'm sharing here today. Hope those of you who are interested in making yogurt find it helpful! Feel free to copy and paste and/or print as needed or bookmark this page to come back to for reference. :)

How to Make Homemade Yogurt by Rachel Beran

What you will need:

½ Gallon of Milk
2-3 Tablespoon Plain Yogurt (use only quality plain yogurt with active cultures) or yogurt starter
1 4-5 Quart Stockpot
1 Large Spoon and/or 1 Spatula and/or Whisk
1 Dial Thermometer with a clip
1 Heating Pad
1 Dishtowel +1 Large Bath Towel

Step 1: Heat Milk to 185 degrees

Put milk in stockpot and clip on thermometer. Heat on stove. You want the milk to reach 185 degrees to prepare the milk proteins for yogurt culture production. Stir frequently.

Hold milk at 185 degrees for 30 minutes. This will give you thicker yogurt. Don’t forget to stir frequently! **This is the step that takes the longest**

Step 2: Cool Milk to 110 degrees

Fill sink ¼ to ½ way with cold water. Put pot in water. Stir. Cool to 110 degrees. 110 degrees is the temperature at which yogurt cultures will consume lactose in the milk and reproduce themselves. You can wait for the milk to cool on its own, but this is much faster and more efficient. (Note: This doesn’t take long)

Step 3: Pitch Yogurt
Pitch simply means to add. Pour 2-3 Tablespoons of yogurt (or starter) into pot of 110 degree milk.

Step 4: Stir Well, Cover and Keep Warm

Stir milk very well to distribute yogurt you just pitched. Cover with lid. Set heating pad to medium, place on cutting board. Cover heating pad with a dishtowel and set pot of pitched milk on cutting board. Cover with large bath towel.

Step 5: Wait 7 Hours

Keep yogurt still and warm!

After 7 hours of waiting patiently, remove pot from heating pad and uncover yogurt. Use a spatula to see that milk has curdled. Stir vigorously (or whisk) to mix curds in with liquid (they separate).

Pour yogurt into containers (old yogurt or cottage cheese containers work well). Cover with tight fitting lids. (Note: Yogurt will be runny at this point)

Step 6: Chill Yogurt Overnight

Rigorous stirring and then chilling will cause the bacteria in yogurt to stop consuming lactose and instead produce lactic acid. It will thicken and tartering will cease. Place yogurt in the coldest part of refrigerator (the back). Wait overnight.

Step 7: Enjoy your Fresh Homemade Yogurt!

After chilling overnight, remove yogurt from refrigerator. Stir in desired mix-ins like fruit, honey, granola or jams. Enjoy! Repeat as needed. :) Yogurt lasts 10-14 days when kept refrigerated.

P.S. Remember to hold back 3 Tablespoons for your starter for your next batch!

Enjoy FRESH, HEALTHY, CHEAP Yogurt!!

This post is part of Unprocessed Fridays on Girl Meets Nourishment.

Simple Spelt Pancakes ~ Yummy! Wheat free, egg free, can be dairy free. Sweet!

2013-03-14T20:38:00.003-05:00

I know I've mentioned my affection for spelt on more than one occasion. It's true, I enjoy baking with this sweet tasting, easily digestible, highly nutritious ancient grain. Because I'm avoiding wheat and seriously limiting many grains, I find spelt to be a good alternative in the recipes that my family enjoys and that they feel they can't live without...like pancakes.

If you're interested in learning more about spelt you can follow this link.

Anyway, when I saw this recipe for Simple Spelt Pancakes on Whole Grain Council I knew I had to try it. I made some healthy changes to their recipe and this is what I got:

Simple Spelt Pancakes

2 Cups of Whole Spelt Flour

2 Tablespoons of Organic Cane Sugar

1 Tablespoon of Aluminum Free Baking Powder

3/4 teaspoon Salt

1 3/4 Cups of Milk (or Almond Milk)

2 Tablespoons of Olive Oil

2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla

Whisk together the 4 dry ingredients.

Combine the 3 wet ingredients.

Make a well in the center of dry ingredients.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry.

Stir just until the dry ingredients are wet.

Note: It's important NOT to over mix spelt!

Will be very wet at 1st but thickens up after sitting.

Let sit for 15 minutes.

Heat a non-stick griddle...do I need to explain the rest??

Make pancakes as usual! :)

(If you need further instruction look at the recipe link above)

Not only is this recipe easy to make, it's also wheat free (NOT gluten free), egg free and can be made dairy free very easily.

Sometimes for a little different flavor (and variety of nutrients) I will reduce the amount of spelt and add in a little sprouted wheat flour (also easily digestible).

This batch had just a little spouted wheat flour added

Cover with fresh fruit, honey and/or 100% pure Maple syrup!

My whole family loves them...and so do I!

This day my boys covered their chocolate chip (all-natural, organic chips) pancakes with my homemade pancake syrup (no high fructose corn syrup!) because we ran out of maple syrup. :) BUT the maple trees are running now...so I'll be boiling sap soon. More on making maple syrup at a later date!

If you want to make this recipe with wheat flour you should increase the amount of milk (maybe to 2 cups??). Still so much healthier than Bisquick!

Don't want to make your own, but want a healthiER alternative to the norm? Check out Bob's Red Mill 10 Gain Pancake Mix or Gluten Free Pancake Mix. You can buy them at both Amazon.com and Vitacost.com...and most likely even in your local grocery store.

Did you miss my last post with 17 Easy Recipes for Your Health? Follow the link to see more food recipes plus others for personal care products and cleaning products.

17 Easy Recipes for Your Health ~ Food, Cleaning Products, Personal Care Items Plus

2013-03-09T17:57:00.001-06:00

On Wednesday I completed my series "10 Days of Easy Recipes for Your Health". Today I'm sharing the links to each of those 10 recipes PLUS 7 bonus recipes right here, all in one place. Hope you find something that strikes your fancy and leads you to a healthier lifestyle!

Day 1: Homemade All-Purpose Cleaner ~ Bathroom, Kitchen, Floors ~ Non-toxic, healthy, cheap!

Day 2: Easy Healthy Air Freshening Recipes ~ Save Money on Air Freshners and be healthy!

Day 3: Easy Healthy Homemade Ketchup that Tastes Good and isn't runny!

Day 4: All-Natural Simple Homemade Facial Moisturizer ~ 3 Ingredients!

Day 5: DIY Fresh Ginger Tea ~ Never buy teabags again!

Day 6: DIY Cooking Spray ~ 2 Ingredients ~ No artificial ingredients!

Day 7: Two Ingredient Cookies ~ Simple, healthy ~ NO SUGAR, NO FLOUR, NO OIL!

Day 8: DIY All Natural Night Cream Lotion ~ 3 Ingredients ~ My personal recipe and one of my favorite things!

Day 9: Ginger Detox Bath Link ~ Plus thoughts on rest and a link to my Deodorant recipe.

Day 10: Boy Mom Bathroom Cleaner ~ Get "that" smell out from under your toilet. Toilet bowl cleaner and grout cleaner too!

OTHER Healthy Recipes that I've shared...and you might like:

**Natural Hair Lightener (Highlights) and Deep Conditioner

**All Natural Homemade Deodorant (that really works) ~ 3 ingredients!

**Homemade Laundry Detergent (that really works) ~ 3 ingredients!

**Homemade Natural Body Wash and Shampoo in One

**How to Make Homemade Yogurt ~ It's really not that hard and saves money!

**Condensed Soup Mix ~ Cream of Something ~ Cheaper, Healthier and Gluten Free!

**Easy Homemade Anti Dandruff Shampoo (that really works) ~ And how to make liquid castile soap

Day 10 of 10 Days of Easy Recipes for Your Health: Boy Mom Bathroom Cleaner ~ Get that urine smell out from under your toilet! Toilet Bowl Cleaner and Grout Cleaner too!

2013-03-06T16:27:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Day 10 of:

It's hard to believe we're already reached day 10 of this series!

One of my goals (besides a healthier lifestyle) for this year was to write more! I've never blogged 10 days in a row before. Pleased to see that I can accomplish my goals. Now, to keep it up!

Did you miss some of the recipes from the last 9 days? Check them out here...you can scroll down through them and see what interests you. Later this week I hope to share one post with all of these links...plus a few more!

Okay, for Day 10 I'm sharing a recipe that I tried for the first time today.

My mom had told me about it a while back. My friend, Rebecca, had mentioned it in a Facebook comment last week. Today it clicked in my head, "I should try this!" I'm quick like that!

Do your boys (even your hubby) have an issue with their aim in the bathroom. Hey, you all know what I'm talking about! ;) My little boys try. But, gosh, they just can't seem to keep their pee only in the toilet. I find myself cleaning the toilet o-f-t-e-n. Still, there's a smell. You know that smell coming from beneath our toilet. You know, from the gap where the toilet and the floor meet. Yuck!

I've tried harsh chemical cleaners in the past. But since starting this journey toward better health, I've eliminated all (okay, almost all) of those toxins from our home (it's a process!). I was curious to see if an all-natural cleaner would do better than the harsh ones I used in the past.

So I tried this today. It was easy and only required a few simple ingredients that I already had in my kitchen. I don't know it's official name but I gave it one:

Boy Mom Bathroom Cleaner

Here's what I used:

Combine a little baking soda and lemon juice in a small bowl to make a paste.

It fizzes like crazy at first. Then, calms down.

You can make it thicker, but I liked this consistency.

Use an old toothbrush to apply to the base of your toilet.

(I also used it to stir the baking soda and lemon juice).

Note: I use an electric toothbrush on my teeth, so every time my dentist gives me a new toothbrush I keep it for cleaning!)

My little one wanted to help. Is this considered child labor? HA! :)

Let it set for 15 minutes.

Then, spray with white vinegar (white vinegar in a spray bottle).

Wish you could see it fizzing. This picture doesn't really show it.
It totally grossed me out to see how much brown gunk came out
from under my toilet! Yuck!

Let it fizz. When it's done fizzing wipe up with a damp cloth.

The baking soda leaves streaks if not cleaned up well. At this point I cleaned my bathroom floor with my Homemade All Purpose Cleaner.

It worked great, better than anything else I had tried before! The base of the toilet looks clean and smells great! Not only did this cleaner leave a lemony smell, I used a spray bottle (for the vinegar) that I had previously used for my Air Freshening Spray...adding the smell of 3 of my favorite essential oils to the mix. That was a sweet bonus!

When I was done with the base I cleaned the toilet bowl with it. It worked there too.

It can be used as grout cleaner.

I will continue to use this cleaner.

It's easy to make, easy to use, non-toxic and works great!

Thanks Mom and Rebecca for cluing me in!

Another thought: Wondering if adding some caulk around the base of the toilet would be a good idea. Hmm, to add to Honey-do list or not to add to the Honey-do list, this is the question. Wouldn't the caulk get nasty? Or would that be easier to clean? Share you thoughts, I'd love to hear.

Please see the UPDATE I added to Day 8's Recipe for All Natural Night Cream Lotion.

Coming up: Spelt Pancake Recipe, Al Natural Taco Seasoning, Homemade Ranch Dressing and more!

Thanks for joining me on this journey toward better health.

Until next time, take a healthy step today!

Follow me on Pinterest for more good tips to come!