Morticia's Rabbit Hole

Documentaries You Need To Watch!

2011-07-10T00:47:00.000-05:00

Hey there my loverlies..
I know its been awhile since I have written anything.I do apologize.
I've been adjusting to mommyhood..
But I am gonna get back in the swing of thing's and start sharing thing's that are close to my heart.
Also updates on Miss Saraphina..
BTW she's born now..haha I'll blog about that next..
But this blog is to bring awareness to some amazing Doc's that everyone NEEDS to watch.
They have to do with what's in our food and the need to become sustainable.
Because honestly ladies and gentlemen we are in such a need to become aware of what is going on.
We need to stop being sheeple and wake the hell up and realize that here in the U.S. and the rest of the word are in an economic crisis which our govt refuses to fess up to.
Our oil dependance is at a dire rate of usage.Which believe it or not is about to run out.
Most of these Doc's were made between 2004 and 2008.
Most everything they talk about has happened or is happening.
How scary is that..
The truth of the matter is we need to rethink the way we live.
Which means that it will take us out of our comfort zone.
We as a society have become accustom to comfort that we dont want to feel the teeniest bit of uncomfort.
We don't wanna believe our food is killing us,we don't want to believe that our dependence on oil is the reason we cant pull our troops out of the middle east (which aside from the crazy ass terrorists that's the reason).
Man this list might be long so I apologize in advance.
I will post the trailer's if they are available on youtube.
I will also separate them into categories.
All are available on netflix instant play!
Ok here we go!

Food Documenties

Food Inc.

King Corn

The Beautiful Truth

Ingredients

Deconstructing Supper

Fed Up!

Food Matters

Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead

Oil Documentaries
Escape from Suburbia

Collapse

A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash

Dirt: The Movie

Broken Limb's
http://www.brokenlimbs.org

Thirst

Blue Gold

Tapped

The Future of Food

Natural Birthing Documentaries
The Business of Being Born

Orgasmic Birth

Pregnant In America

Soap Recipe's

2011-05-06T21:30:00.003-05:00

Well I was reading one of the posts off a group I'm apart of and thought I'd pass along these soap recipe's.
I have not tried to make soap myself yet..but I know a lot of people are interested in it..
So here ya go.

Oh also there is a natural berry called a Soap Nut that you can purchase that makes natural soap as well.After its done producing you toss it into the compost pile.This is what I personally use.You can get a sample at http://www.thelaundrytree.com

Ok on to the recipe's...
Copy and Pasted from the posting...

Making Your OwnHerbal Soap
With The HappyPeasant

Makingsoap is a passion of mine. Working with herbs is healing to me. When I put bothof them together it just doesn’t get any better. I’m going to share one of my herbal soaprecipes with you to help you achieve the dream of making your own soap

Manyof you have creatively pondered making your own homemade soap. Some of you havealready made some, either way, this recipe will let you enjoy the fun andcreativeness involved in making, and using, your own herbal soap.

Let mestart out by saying that if you can follow a recipe, you can make soap. The first rule in soap making is safety. Since soap is not soap without lye (inactuality a very strong salt), you will need to protect your eyes and skin. Ifanyone tells you they can make soap without lye, they are ‘lye-ing’. Lye is thecatalyst that turns any oil into soap. Without it, you’ve just got a bar of fator oil, not soap. Don’t worry though,when the oils or fats are mixed with the lye at the proper temperature, the lyeand oil change chemically and become soap. You will no longer have lye.

Whenwe talk about old-fashioned lye soap, we are referring to how much lye to oilproportionately that was used. The more lye, the stronger (and harsher) thesoap.

Oldfashioned lye soap had a high percentage of lye to oil. This made it good forcleaning and cleansing clothing and hands that had been plowing and farming allday. In this recipe, we will be usingthe smallest amount of lye to produce a beautifully primitive and useful soapthat is not harsh to the skin.

Suppliesyou will need to assemble ahead of time are:

~1Glass Pyrex bowl
~1Stainless Steel Pot
~2Cooking Thermometers
~1Wooden Spoon
~Powderedlye (can be purchased at most hardware stores or grocery stores) Do not useDraino or Red-Devildrain cleaner. Use only 100% lye powder/granules.
~Distilledor filtered water (cold)
~ CoconutOil (purchased at any local health food store).
~Driedherb of your choice (for this recipe we will be using Sage, but any dried herbcan be substituted)
~Gogglesto protect your eyes
~Glovesto protect your hands (common yellow dishwashing gloves are fine).
~Cardboardbox lined with clean plastic garbage bag, cut to fit (tape to stay put).

Rulesto Remember:

Do notwash any globs of uncured or untraced soap down the drain. This will clog yourdrain.
Mixthe lye INTO the cold water, not the water into the lye.
Themixing of the lye into the water will create temporary fumes. Do not breathethe fumes. Instead, work near an open door/window if possible.
If youget lye on your skin or in your eyes, rinse immediately with cold water. Keepcider vinegar handy to dilute the PH of the lye on skin.
Do notuse aluminum or plastic containers. Use only Pyrex glass or stainless steel.

Herbal Sage Soap Recipe

3 PoundsCoconut Oil
2 CupsCold Distilled Water or Filtered Water
7Ounces of Lye Powder
3 T ofCrumbled Sage Leaves or Ground Sage
(ExtraSage for Decorating Top of Soap)
EssentialOil of choice (3-4T) (Lavender is nice)

Placemeasured oil in a stainless steel pot.
Warmoil slowly on low stove setting to 110 degrees.
Whileoil is warming place goggles and gloves on and measure cold water into Pyrexbowl.
Slowlyadd measured lye powder into cold water and stir gently with a wooden spoontill fully diluted.
Placelye solution in a cool place to reduce temperature to 110 degrees.
Whenboth lye solution and oil solution have simultaneously reached 110 degrees,carefully pour the lye solution into the oil solution and stir. You can stir voraciously by hand or use astick blender.
Blenduntil the consistency of the mixture begins to feel/look like frosting. (Approximately 10 minutes)
Liftspoon/stick blender and drag the mixture across the surface. If it leaves afirm ‘trail’ it is ready or ‘tracing’.
Addyour herbs at this time and continue stirring.
Whenthe mixture begins to thicken slightly, add essential oil, mix well and pour soapinto pre-prepared box mold, sprinkle with decorative herbs on top if desired, andplace in an undisturbed spot to harden for 24 hours.
Remove soap from mold, cut and let cure for 3-4 weeks.
Enjoy!

Check Out This Blog

2011-05-04T16:38:00.000-05:00

Hello Ladies and Gents!!
I am gonna try and start blogging regular again.I kind of miss it and also I want to again start spreading green awareness around.
So to start that off right I am going to introduce you to my father's blog!
He also has a fan page to go with it so you can keep up to date with everything goin on with his little slice of the Internet!

His blog is called
Ol'McDonalds Garden Fresh Veggies
http://olmcdonaldsgardenfreshveggies.blogspot.com/

Yep I'm sure you guessed it he's a gardener!
But not just any gardener.He is a very avid organic gardener who has dabbled with it for years, but just last year decided to stop dabbling and truly get rid of all chemical assistance and only do thing's mother natures way.
He has always had an incredible green thumb where as I can kill Ivy.. I know I know its almost impossible to do that but trust me when I tell you it can TOTALLY be done.He just shakes his head to..
Its ok I'm at one with my non green thumbness!

Anyway his blog will be chock full of information.We hope to eventually do product reviews so that you can learn about different organic products and methods of gardening.Plus there will be video how to's!!
So go by and check his blog,subscribe and let us know what you think!
If you have any gardening questions please feel free to ask!
Here are the links!

http://olmcdonaldsgardenfreshveggies.blogspot.com
http://www.facebook.com/olmcdonaldsgardenfreshveggies

Got my maternity portraits taken!!

2011-04-18T23:20:00.002-05:00

Hey guys!!
I know I know..been forever...haha..
Im a slacker I know..
Anyway I finally got my maternity images done by the amazing Amanda Keith of Indie Jane Photography!
http://www.indiejanephotography.com
She's amazing and we are SO SO happy with our images..
We had such a blast shooting with her which makes all the differance.Portraits should be fun and I can tell ya..we had ton's of it!
Check it out ya'll!!

WE'RE HAVING A LITTLE GIRL!!

2011-01-03T19:49:00.002-06:00

Hey there my darklings!!
I am so sorry Ive been M.I.A. for awhile.Life's been very interesting to say the least and I really need to get back on the band wagon and start blogging again.I feel guilty for neglecting it.
But I've also kinda stopped shooting to so it all just stopped when my life went down the toilet.
I wont bore u with the details..
The only good that's come of this is my baby that is currently growing inside of me.
I wont lie Ive not been 100% green during my pregnancy but its also be 1000% stressful around me so something had to give.
But we are having a little girl and she's super healthy and super active.
Im due in may between the 14th and 18th.It was May 18th but at my ultrasound I measured at 20wks 6 days so that puts me in my 21st week now.So Im entering into my 6th month.Wow time flies..
Well I will share my ultrasound pics and will try to keep ya'll updated on my adventures..
I am going to be cloth diapering,breast feeding and making my own baby food.For many reasons..
Most of which are better for the baby and cost effective.Not to mention eco-friendly.
I'll admit the cloth diapering is a lil intemidating..its kind of a mystery in this day and age because we live in a disposable world.Which is sad..
Well here she is..
Her name is Saraphina Annaliese!!

Baby Update and yay stress!!

2010-10-02T16:10:00.002-05:00

Ya know I dont normally just complain alot..
But dude Im am TOTALLY sick of stress.
Ive been trying to find my zen for the past 2 week's and its has just escaped me.
Between turmoil's at home and then job issue's..
I am so done..
I cant/wont elaborate on the home issue's but when it comes to the work issues..
I am not even makin close to what I was when I closed my studio biz.
Which is a real eye opener.I mean wow..
Grant it..its a steady 200 or so bucks every 2 weeks.But in the grand scheme of thing's it suck's ass.
I have so much to pay for and prepare for in 7 months and I dont see these 2 job's payin for it.
IDK how people just work part time all the time.
IDK...I just dont know..
Im kinda down.. The hormones dont help AT all..
I did get my soonercare started so I have insurence now.Even if it is through the state.Its a blessing.
I go for my W.I.C. appt on the 6th.So that will help so much when it comes to milk and such thing's.
My darling friend Lindy gave me a baby bed and changing table which I am so so so thankful for.
SO THANKFUL!!

I will post pictures when I get them put together.

If you wanna see them right now just check out my facebook page

http://www.facebook.com/mistiemaystudios

Its in the ze baby blood album.

I am looking forward to getting the babies room put together.I have been brainstorming and designing the room its self.I know how I wanna make the truffela tree's.

Im still debating on weither to paint or not to paint.

I wanna paint but being we dont own the house I dont wanna be responsible for redoing once we leave.

I know that sounds kinda spoil sporty but I just dont.

I think I can rock otherwise..we'll see..

Other than that..I think that's all the new's I have.

I am still needing to be referred to an obgyn.

But I had to get my sooner care taking care of 1st.

I'll update ya'll on that visit as soon as it happen's..

Until Next Time Darklings..

It's Official! We Are Havin A Babeh!

2010-09-21T11:37:00.003-05:00

Were we tryin..

UM NO!

..LOL

But thing's happen

I went to the Dr. yesterday and got it confirmed.

Im waiting on the lab to get my blood test results back for my exact due date.

But by my menstral history it looks like it will be late april or early may.

So now its time to start planning and buying for the little bundle to arrive.

I have decided my nursery is going to be decorated in Dr Suess!

Its really just an excuse to make and entire room nothing but Dr. Suess.

Im a rather big fan..lol

But I think it will be adorable!

What else..

Well this is also the time to start finding the green baby products.

I found a green baby store in OKC so Im super happy about that!

Might have to load mom up and take her with me some sat so we can go shoppin and look..

HMM

I think that's all for now.

I'll keep ya'll updated on dr's appt's and stuff.

Have a great day!

Until next time darklings!

Changing My Course In life

2010-09-15T13:18:00.003-05:00

Have you ever sat there and really looked at your life.The choices you have made and where you thought you wanted it to go when you were in your late teen's/early 20's.

Only to realize that you really dont have the same value system and that you really wanna change something in said life?

I recently went through a reflective period...and realize that as much as I loved photography and the art form in all its glory I no longer wanted to chase it.

I dont know if this was because I have a baby growing inside of me or I just really wanted a change.

Well through this past year well 2yrs really I have become more and more facinated by holistic medicine's and nutrition.

I have also found that I really like healing people (regardless of how I feel about them most of the time).I have also found myself becoming more world concious and eco-concious and have found myself leaning twords this area of life.

So the other day I decided after watching several documentries and doin some soul searching that I would really like to become a holistic healer.I want to learn about the herb's and learn how to use them to heal.Same with holistic nutritoin.

I get so sick of looking around me and watching "Modern" medicine kill people.I mean it nearly killed me several times. I have chronic asthma and by the time I was 18 I had an immune system almost as bad as an aides patient because of all the shit the dr's had me on.So I made the decision at 18 to pull myself off of EVERYTHING and manage my asthma myself...and because of that decision instead of 20 (estimated #) major asthma attacks a year Im down to maybe 1 or 2....

I also dont get bronchitis or pneumonia as much either.Makes life awesome!!

So I started looking around and found a site called http://www.herbmentor.com and fell in love with it.

For basically 10 bucks a month you can learn about herb's.I plan to do this until I can afford to go through an actual herbal school.They give you all the information and resources to truely learn about these wonderful plants that grow all around us.

So I have started my journey down the herbal path.I hope to share the knowledge I learn there with all of you.I also hope to help teach you guys how to better take care of yourselves without the need for Dr's and their bull. In no way am I ever going to discourage anyone from goin to the dr because lets face it that makes me liable for alot.But I can tell you that by taking care of yourself naturally you will see the many flaw's in the modern system.

So come join me in my quest for naturalness....

I look forward to all of your thought's and imput....

Until Next Time Darklings!!!

A Super NUMMY Smoothie I Made This Morning!

2010-09-09T12:00:00.003-05:00

Hi there ladies & gents!!

I just wanted to share a quick smoothie recipe with you today..

I made this this morning for breakfast and lemmie tell ya...

OMGODDESS IT WAS FANTASTIC!

I call it
The Hidden Carrot Smoothie..

Half a can of coconut milk,
1 whole banana,
1 whole carrot,
1 whole apple,
1 handfull of strawberries,
1 handfull of green grapes,
1 handfull ice cubes to chill
1 tbs of diatomacious earth (optional)

This will probably be the most nutritious thing you eat all day!
I try and start each day with a smoothie of some kind.It totally gives you a kick in the pants in energy and some serious nutrition.

There are NO artificial sweetener's in these.Its 100% raw fruits and veggies!
Enjoy My Darklings!!

I Just Love Fall!!

2010-09-04T13:13:00.003-05:00

What is it about fall that makes it so wonderful..

I can tell you..
ITS NOT FREAKIN HOT ANYMORE!!!!

Oh plus the smell of fall is so so wonderful.

The cool wind blowing through the tree's..The leaves turning...The world getting ready to sleep all winter..
The calm that comes with fall is just wonderful.You can feel the whole world getting ready for the slowness of winter (although Im not a fan of winter its too cold)...

Not to mention HALLOWEEN IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER!!!!

I mean yeah..holidays..haha..
I love images of fall.
I wish we got all the amazing transition's here in South West Oklahoma..
But we dont..
The leaves turn quickly and we dont get to enjoy it as much.
IDK maybe I'll move to a good fall place..haha

So I wonder..
What memories do you have of fall..
So...
Tell me your favorite memeories of fall.
Mine are of raking leaves..and destroying the pile shortly after.
Eating candy corn before halloween...
Getting ready for Thanksgiving feasting...NOM!
Walking out of the house and smelling the air and knowing its fall.
There is such a spice in the air at this time of year..
Oh Fall how I love thee!!

Solar Bill of Rights

2010-08-31T12:38:00.000-05:00

Everyone please please click on the link below to sign the petition to push through the Solar Bill of Rights.
Just as oil is fighting biofuels..
Conventional electricity is fighting solar and wind energy.
We need these cleaner energies to help us save our planet.
I thank you in advance for signing the petition.
On the site you can read about the petition and what it stands for.Then please sign.The more signatures the better!!

Solar Bill of Rights

Heirloom Seeds...Plus an update..

2010-08-28T11:26:00.002-05:00

Hello my darklings!!

I know I know..I have been M.I.A. for sometime.

I am sorry...I went through a very uninspired time.

It happens to everyone!

But I think Im back.

I have a new reason to really be rabid over being natural.

We think I am with child.

Thats right Morticia might be carrying a baby bean!

I have a good wait to find out though.Pregnancies hide in my family.Sometimes even with bloodtests!!

I think it sucks ball's that we are like this.Because all I want is a yes or no!

Not sure how many believe in the truth of psychic abilities.But I was told after visiting my dear mary's store that there's a very very high chance that I am.

Then I came home and got my pendulum out and asked and it said yes.

So Im gonna treat it as a yes.

I'll take a test in the middle of sept..then in the middle of oct.

If still a negative I'll have bloodwork done.

But Ive already started having some of the symptom's.

So anyway..

On to the hairloom seed topic!

For those of you who dont know what an heirloom seed let me give you a defintion..

Click this link to find out what they are

http://www.halcyon.com/tmend/define.htm

So why heirloom seed's you ask..

Heirloom seed's are free of all the toxin's and pesticides that conventional seed's deal with.

Plus with heirloom seed's you can help many food species from becoming extinct!

Yes there are thousands of fruits and veggie species that have gone extinct.

Plus from what alot of people say heirloom seed's are easier to grow.

Its proven that organicly grown food is healtheir for you than the food you get in your grocery store.

The amount of toxin's that are ingested in our every day life is astoundingly horrific!

For those of you who have children its your duty to maintain their health.

To give them the best possible start in life.

So why not do that with amazing fruits and veggies!!

There are several places you can buy heirloom seed's.

I will post a few links below so that you can check them out for yourself.

Start the journey with me.

Let's make a new life for our children which will include a healthy non-toxic future!

http://www.seedsavers.org/

http://www.heirloomseeds.com/

http://www.organicaseed.com/

http://www.survivalistseeds.com

Ok ya'll!!

Start purchasing your seed's so you can start your garden's next year!

I cant wait to see what you come on up!

Until Next Time Darklings!!

I can NOT seem to keep up with day's! But here's something cool! Tamanu Oil

2010-08-18T12:57:00.008-05:00

My darklings idk what my problem is here as of late.
I remind myself to blog each day but it doesnt seem to happen.
I even gave myself a structured schedual..haha..
I fail..

Well to give you something to read, which will tie in herbal tuesdays and green wed's here is a very cool oil that I came across.

It has ton's of uses and I think many of you might find it of use.
Article is taken from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/

My darklings idk what my problem is here as of late.
I remind myself to blog each day but it doesnt seem to happen.
I even gave myself a structured schedual..haha..
I fail..

Well to give you something to read, which will tie in herbal tuesdays and green wed's here is a very cool oil that I came across.

It has ton's of uses and I think many of you might find it of use.
Article is taken from http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/
Tamanu Oil Profile
Botanical Name- Calophyllum inophyllumOrigin- TahitiExtraction- Cold Pressed/UnrefinedShelf life- 10-14 monthsKosher Certified- NoNotes- Stores well under any condition but extreme heat will lessen the shelf life. Our Tamanu oil has a rich, deep scent with a bold dark color and because of this it may alter the color and aroma of your cosmetic creations. Can be used directly on the skin or diluted with a suitable carrier oil. While the internal uses for Tamanu have been documented, the material offered by Mountain Rose Herbs was manufactured for external use only.
SpecificationsColor- Green Odor- Heavy, fatty and odoriferousFree Fatty Acids- 0%Peroxide Value- 1.22Non-Saponifiables- 0.6Saponification Value- 194Iodine Value- 84.1Specific Gravity- 0.91pH- 4.11
Fatty AcidsOleic- 37.8%Palmitic- 13.2%Linoleic- 30.2%Linolenic- 0.2%Stearic- 13.8%
IntroductionTamanu oil is a remarkable topical healing agent with skin healing, antineuralgic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antibiotic and antioxidant properties. Tamanu oil’s botanical name is Calophyllum tacamahaca and/or Calophyllum Inophyllum--but it's been called everything from Alexandrian Laurel to Pannay Tree to Sweet Scented Calophyllum, and in London it was once sold as Borneo Mahogany. The Tamanu tree is indigenous to tropical Southeast Asia; it is found in Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia, South India, Sri Lanka, and the Melanesian and Polynesian islands. It is grows up to three meters tall, sporting cracked, black bark and elliptical, shiny leaves. The Tamanu tree blooms twice annually with fragrant, white flowers, which later yield clusters of yellow-skinned spherical fruit. The fruit's pulp tastes similar to an apple, within which a large nut is embedded. The nut contains an odorless pale kernel, called punnai in some Pacific areas. This kernel is dried in the sun for two months until it becomes sticky with a dark, thick, rich oil; it must be protected from humidity and rain during drying. This sticky oil is cold-pressed to make a greenish yellow oil similar to olive oil. To put this spectacular oil into perspective, and to further justify its relatively high cost, It takes 100 kilograms of Tamanu fruit, the amount that one tree produces annually, to yield just 5 kilograms of cold pressed oil! Natives believed the Tamanu tree was a sacred gift of nature and that gods hid in its branches. It was their answer to skin protection from hot sun, high humidity and ocean wind.
Current and traditional use across the globeIndonesians soak the leaf in water; the resulting blue solution is applied to inflamed eyes or taken internally for heatstroke. It is used as an astringent for hemorrhoids in Philippines. The Manus of Papua New Guinea heat leaves over a fire until they soften, then apply them to skin ulcers, boils, cuts, sores and pimples. On Dobu Island, leaves are boiled, and the resulting solution is used to wash skin rashes.In the Philippines, the sap is mixed with sulfur to create an ointment for boils, open sores and wounds. In the 18th century, native Jamaicans used a similar species for wounds and sores. Fiji natives use Tamanu oil for joint pains, arthritis, bruises, oozing wounds, chapped lips and preventing diaper rash. In most south sea islands it is utilized as an analgesic for sciatica, rheumatism and ulcers.Pacific islanders apply Tamanu oil to scrapes, cuts, burns, insect bites and stings, acne and acne scars, psoriasis, diabetic sores, anal fissures, sunburn, dry or scaly skin, blisters, eczema, diaper rash and herpes sores--and even to reduce foot and body odor! In Europe, sometimes called Domba oil, it has a 70 to 75 percent success rate in alleviating rheumatism and scabies. It’s also effective on gout and ringworm. It can be applied to mucous membrane lesions. It heals chapped skin, post-surgical wounds, skin allergies, cracked skin, bed sores, wounds, rashes, abrasions, athlete’s foot, boils, and infected nails. Tamanu oil has even healed severe burns caused by boiling water, chemicals and X-rays. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce rashes, sores, swelling and abrasions. Tamanu oil promotes new tissue formation, accelerating healing and healthy skin growth.Tamanu oil reputedly relieves a sore throat when it is applied to the neck. It’s pain-relieving properties have also been used traditionally to relieve neuralgia, shingles and believe it or not, leprous neuritis! In the 1920s, Sister Marie-Suzanne, a nun stationed in Fiji, topically applied Tamanu oil to leprosy victims with positive results.
More Powerful than an AntibioticTamanu oil possesses significant antimicrobial qualities, as proven in antibacterial and antifungal tests. It contains powerful bactericide and fungicide agents that defeat human and animal pathogens. Tamanu can be applied directly to skin, undiluted.

There are no reports of adverse effects from topical application. Tamanu oil has also compared favorably against antibiotics in alleviating these maladies:
Bladder infections
Wound infections
Septicemia
Pneumonias
Abscesses
Boils
Conjunctivitis
The cause of diphtheria
Infected burns
Urinary tract infections
The cause of Madura Foot, which causes the foot’s skin to swell and split
Jock itch
Ringworm
Athlete's foot
Treatment for scarsTamanu oil fades stretch marks with incredible results. It also works miracles on scar tissue, making scars look less unsightly. BioScience Laboratories conducted a study of Tamanu oil’s ability to improve the appearance of scars. Six subjects with obvious scars aged for one year or more participated in the test. Subjects were not allowed to use moisturizers on their scarred areas for seven days before the test or throughout the nine-week test period. Scars were rated for roughness, length, width and degree of difference from surrounding normal skin. Measurements of darkness and redness were also taken for scarred and surrounding normal skin. Digital photos of scars were taken prior to initial application and at the end of week nine. Tamanu oil was applied to the scarred area twice daily for nine consecutive weeks. There was significant improvement in appearance of scars after six weeks, and improvement continued through week nine. Scar length was reduced by an average 0.28 centimeters, and width was reduced by an average 0.12 centimeters!

You can get this fab oil from

http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/bulkoil/s-z.php#osz_ta

scroll to the bottom of page!

If I find a recipe on how to make this oil I will share.
I hope you enjoyed my darkling's!
Until Next Time

(i'll try not to fail..hehe)

Herbal Tuesday's!! This Week Aloe Vera

2010-08-10T08:46:00.007-05:00

Welcome to Herbal Tuesday's!!

This week

Aloe Vera!

Alright guy's I apologize for not having a blog in over a week.

There's not a real good reason.

Just crazy life....

But I'm back!! So hold on to your mortar and pistol's muh dear's!!

Here's Aloe Vera!

Taken from

http://www.ageless.co.za/

Botanical Classification
Family Aloeceae
Genus and specie
Aloe veraAloe barbadensis

Other names
Barbados, Cape, Curaiao, Socotrine, and Zanzibar aloe

Description of the herb aloe vera
Aloe vera is a clump forming perennial with rosettes of thick, fleshy, spiky, gray-green leaves, young specimens being red spotted and the plant bears yellow tubular flowers in summer.

Parts used
The slimy inside of the leave is used (also referred to as gel) as well as a juice extracted from the pulpy inside and a yellow bitter laxative principle which is an exudate from the leaf which is dried to a crystalline substance.

To prevent any confusion, herewith a summary of uses:

Aloe vera gel
This is the naturally occurring and undiluted gel obtained by stripping away the outer layer of the leaf.
Aloe vera concentrate or extract
This is the product obtained when removing the water from the gel
Aloe vera juice
This is a drink for internal use that consist of at least 50% of the pulped aloe gel.
Aloe vera latex or bitter principle
This is a bitter yellow liquid derived from the pericyclic tubules of the rind of the aloe and which primary constituent is aloin.

Properties
It is a bitter herb with anti-inflammatory, astringent, emollient, anti fungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties, and is useful in the eradication of parasites and stimulating the uterus.
It contains a host of compounds that are biologically active and includes anthraquinones, saccharides and prostaglandins as well as other constituents.

Anthraquinones
The anthraquinones contained in aloe, which has the purging and laxative action on the digestive system includes aloin (barbaloin), isobarloin, anthranol, aloetic acid, anthracene, ester of cinnamic acid, aloe-emodin, emodin, chrysophanoic acid, ethereal oil as well as resistannol.
Saccharides
It contains various saccharides including glycoprotein, mucopolysaccharide and polysaccharides such as galactose, xylose, arabinose, acetylated mannose as well as the remarkable acemannan.
Prostaglandins and fatty acids
The conversion of fatty acids to prostaglandins are rare but the major unsaturated fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid can be converted to 1-series prostaglandins and have a very effective influence on reducing inflammation, allergy as well as helping platelet aggregation (blood clotting at wound sites) as well as wound healing.
Other constituents
It furthermore contains enzymes (oxidase, amylase, catalase, lipase and alkaline phosphatase) amino acids (lysine, threonine, valine, methionine, leucine, isoleucine and phenylalanine) vitamins (vitamin b1, B2, B6, C, E, folic acid, choline and beta carotene) minerals (calcium, sodium, manganese, magnesium, zinc, copper and chromium as well as other miscellaneous compounds such as cholesterol, triglycerides, steroids, uric acid, lignins, beta-sitosterol, gibberellin and salicylic acid.

Therapeutic uses:

Internal use
The herb is used internally to combat most digestive problems, including

constipation
poor appetite
colitis
irritable bowel syndrome as well as
asthma
diabetes
immune system enhancement
peptic ulcers

Studies have also shown that when aloe is taken internally it can stimulate and regulate various components of the immune system by stopping the inflammation and blood supply of tumors and also showed interesting results in preventing carcinogenic compounds from entering the liver and is combined in some cancer treatments.

The juice of the inner leave can be used for its anti-inflammatory effect it has on Crohn's disease but the laxative and bitter principle of aloe must NOT be used by people suffering from Crohn's disease as it causes griping and cramping.

It contains aloemannan which stimulates the growth of healthy kidney cells and helps to slow the formation of kidney stones.

The juice can be used very successfully to treat heartburn as well as ulcers and to soothe the lining of the digestive tract. It is not that effective to treat stress induced ulcers, but can be used for peptic ulcers caused by excess acid, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as well as alcohol use.

The oral use of aloe has produced good results in patients suffering from asthma when the asthma sufferers were not dependant on corticosteroids for treatment.

The exude from the leaves are used as a strong purgative and stimulant laxative but can cause griping and has an abortifacient effect and should not be used in pregnancy.

The bitter principle in aloe exudate which cause the laxative effect is preferable to use than that of cascara and senna, as aloe draws less fluid into the large intestine and are less likely to cause electrolyte imbalance than the other two.

In a study where volunteers ate 120 grams of parboiled aloe for lunch and supper a marked decrease in cholesterol, triglycerides and sugar was found, while in another test using aloe extract, it reduced fasting blood-sugar dramatically which is probably due to the stimulating effect it has on the pancreas to produce more insulin.

External use

Aloe is used externally for the treatment of
skin irritation
burns
scalds
sunburn
wounds
eczema
psoriasis
acne
dermatitis
ulcers
to stimulate cell regeneration.

The gel can be applied directly to the skin as a softening agent.

For burns and other wounds aloe is particularly effective as it activates the macrophages which fights bacterial infection while at the same time increasing circulation to the area which results in accelerated healing.

The enzymes - carboxypeptidase and bradykininase are both involved to reduce swelling, itching, reducing inflammation as well as pain.

Studies confirmed that wounds treated with aloe heal far faster than other wounds not so treated - both for traumatic as well as surgical wounds. This may be due to the fact that it contains not only vitamin E and C as well as zinc but the polysaccharides also reduce inflammation and stimulate the fibroblast and epidermal growth and repair process.

The juice is also effective for the treatment of minor wounds and insect bites by forming a "natural plaster" over the wound.

It has good astringent qualities and is usually combined with other ingredients, to make an excellent, soothing treatments for the skin and can also be used with great success on hemorrhoids (piles).

In studies it also showed a marked result in producing remission in skin cancers and its superb anti-oxidant effect is effective to help prevent skin damage from x-rays and other forms of radiation.

When applied regularly to psoriasis great results are achieved and also relieve the pain and inflammation of eczema.

When people with frostbite was treated with a cream containing aloe, the incidence of tissue loss and amputation was reduced.

Aloe-emodin which is one of the ingredients not only has a laxative effect, but is also involved in killing the herpes virus which causes cold sores and shingles.

Aromatherapy and essential oil use
Aromatherapists use aloe vera oil by infusing the plant material into a base oil, such as almond or apricot kernel oil.
This macerated oil exhibits astringent, emollient, anti fungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
The oil is combined in massage therapy for its healing and rejuvenating properties.
For more information on aloe vera oil please visit us at Esoteric Oils.

Safety precautions and warnings
Pregnant and breast feeding women should not use aloe latex (the laxative part) internally, although the topical application of aloe to the skin has no effect on pregnant or breastfeeding women.
People suffering from problematic hemorrhoids, ulcers, diverticulosis, colitis, Crohn's disease, or irritable bowel syndrome should consult a medical practitioner or trusted herbalist before taking aloe internally.
Extreme care should be taken with the administration of aloe laxatives, as this can cause severe digestive upsets.
When used topically, some individuals may have an allergic reaction and a skin patch test (behind the ear or on the forearm) is advised before use.

Magical Properties

Aloe (Aloe vera) aka burn plant, medicine plant

Feminine. Moon. Water.Protection, Luck.

Guards against evil influences and prevents household accidents.

Plant aloe on the graves of loved ones to promote a peaceful existence until the deceased is reborn.

Use for success in the world. Prevents feelings of loneliness.

Aloes, Wood (Aquilaria agallocha) aka Lignum aloes

Feminine. Venus. Water.Love, Spirituality.

Here are a couple of nummy juice recepie's that Im sure could be smoothied to..
Entries taken from
http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811

1. Carrot-A-Licious
This one is a definite family favourite. Easy to drink, sweet and downright yummy.
2 Carrots2 Green Apples (or any apples you have)
1 Orange (peeled)Put ingredients though a juicer,
add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811#ixzz0wDSF2gMy
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

2. Pineapple Paradise
Seeing as I live in the tropics, I'm very partial to this combination. I also sometimes add a few tablespoons of Coconut Milk to increase the anti-bacterial and anti-viral content. This is a must-try.
1 to 2 Cups Fresh Pineapple
1 Carrot
1 Green Apple
Put ingredients though a juicer,
add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811#ixzz0wDSUBh3X
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

3. Zippy Zinger
If you love the tropics, you'll love this one. Easy on the tummy.
A small piece of Ginger (to taste)
2 Carrots
2 Pears Half a small Red Papaya (known as Pawpaw in Australia)
Put ingredients though a juicer,
add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811#ixzz0wDSvaHtW
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

4. Beetroot Bliss
A great pick-me-up tonic. If you are unfamiliar with beetroot juice go easy at first, use just a small wedge. It can be a little overpowering. Tastes rich and earthy.
One quarter of small beetroot
2 large carrots
1 stalk of celery
Put ingredients though a juicer,
add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811#ixzz0wDTEUkh6
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

5. Cranberry Quencher
For those of you lucky enough to have this powerful fruit available to you fresh, I have included this recipe. Genuine cranberry juice is a powerful weapon in fighting colds and flu as well as being renowned for it's benefits to kidney function. Fresh cranberry juice is far superior nutritionally to the bottled on-the-shelf variety.
As Cranberries have a heavy acid content, when juicing, use one or two handfuls in a glass.
Fill the rest with freshly juiced apple, otherwise it will be too tart.
Put ingredients though a juicer,
add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/Article/5-Aloe-Vera-Juice-Recipes-That-Make-You-Feel-Great/676811#ixzz0wDTadS4w
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

LATE Cookin Saturday's!! This week Raw Food! (Dont Cringe! Read!)

2010-07-31T11:24:00.012-05:00

Hello Hello Hello My Loverlies!!!
Its that time again!!
Cookin Sat!!
But I have to say that this Saturday there wont be any cooking.
I am gonna talk to you about raw food!

GET BACK HERE!! I DIDN'T SAY YOU COULD LEAVE!
GEEZE LOUIS OPEN ZE BRAINS MAN!!

hehe

Ok well I have been doing alot of research as of late on the benefits of raw foods Wondering why these "Vegan's" claim to be so much healthier than most of us.
Well I wont say I am gonna make a 100% switch..
Nor am I telling you to stop eating meat so don't throw in the towel on me just yet please!But I am telling you that when it comes to eating their veggies they have some awesome idea's.
Its true that we do not eat enough fruits and veggies now day's.
Hell there's a good majority of my peer's that don't touch hardly any sort of fruit or veggie.
This is very very sad because we need the vital nutrition from these foods.
So the other day I was doing research as usual (I'm a nerd like that) and thought to myself.
Ok so I hear so much about "Raw Food" why don't I just look it up and see what its really about.
So I jump on YouTube,yes YouTube.Its like the best info finder EVER!!

I find the Life Regenerator & Green Smoothie Girl's channel's.

Can I just say the more I watch video's from these raw foodests and other's that they are the hyperist people on the planet!Well the majority anyway..seriously!
Ive never seen so much freakin energy in my life!
Ok onto the point of me blog!

Most of the raw foodies swear by green smoothies..

Yes GREEN!

Alot of people cant get past the green part so you can add things like berries and such to make it less green..

I can tell you that I am not telling you not to eat meat.That you cant have your bread's..If I said that I would be such a hypocrite because I am a carnivore!
All I am saying is that if you add this to your daily diet then you are gonna add some mega nutrition to your body!

WOOT FOR AWESOME NUTRITION!

Because lord knows not to many of us don't get enough!
So now on to a green smoothie recipe..

I'm sorry its not more.But I need to get one of the cook book's so I can post more later!

I am looking forward to trying some of the ones I've seen online!!

Remember visit those two YouTube channels for some awesome raw food tip's and info!!

The Source for this recipe is from Green Smoothie.com

Some people add water to their Green Smoothie, but I leave the water out because I seldom drink with meals. Water dilutes our digestive juices. Freshly-squeezed orange juice makes a tasty base.

I tend to use less fruit, about 30% fruit and 70% greens, because I eat so much fruit the rest of the day.

Greens are the perfect food for building strong bones and teeth – nearly every animal on earth has discovered that, except the big cats and polar bears!

Here's my basic Green Smoothie Recipe:

2-3 sweet fruits, e.g. apple or pear – blend first to form a tasty base,
1 vegetable fruit or a celery stalk – add next for extra minerals, e.g. summer squash or zucchini,
1 tray of organic baby greens like sunflower or salad mix from my Sprouter, or one packet of pre-washed organic greens, or a handful of farm greens or wild edibles.

Here's a variety of Green Smoothie recipes chiefly from Frederic Patenaude – see his Green For Life program – includes 7-day green detox cleanse and Green For Life book by Victoria Boutenko.

Always blend the fruit first:

2-3 cups any greens of your choice, 2 cups papaya, 2 oranges, 3 dates
1 handful lettuce leaves, 1 handful mint, 4 bananas, 1/2 cup water
Winter Smoothie - 1 cup organic frozen berries (any kind), 2 cups fresh spinach, 1/4 inch fresh ginger, water
Spring Smoothie - fresh orange juice, ripe bananas, frozen mangoes, and several large leaves of kale (extra frozen mango gives lovely thick consistency you eat with a bowl + spoon)
1/2 bunch romaine lettuce, 1 cup strawberries, 2 bananas, water
4-5 kale leaves, 4 apples, 1/2 lemon juiced, water
2 big handfuls mixed baby greens, 2 pears, 2 mangoes, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Choc-mint – 2 cups spinach, 10-12 mint leaves, 3 bananas, 2 Tbs. carob powder, 1 cup water
1 handful of spinach, 2 stalks of celery, 2 bananas, 2 pears, 1 apple, 1 cup water
1 small handful of spinach, 2 cups arugula, 2-3 mangoes, 1 cup water
1/2 head romaine lettuce, 1 small pineapple, 1 large mango, 1-inch fresh ginger
1 handful wild greens (e.g. dandelion), 1 small handful mint leaves, 3 cups honeydew melon
3-4 stalks celery, 2 ripe persimmons, 1 banana
1 handful chard leaves, 5-6 kale leaves, 3 large bananas, 1 cup water
1 handful parsley, 3 cups of peeled papaya

Do you see that anything goes? Buy bunches of greens, a variety of fresh fruits, a GoGreen Sprouter, and CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

There ya have it guys!
Really you can get so creative with these smoothies.Which can make for some rockin flavor combo's..
I so apologize for the lateness of this blog.But my weekend was filled with work,friends,and other things.
YAY LIFE!
But better late than never!
Until next time my darlings!!

I know..I fail...

2010-07-30T14:04:00.003-05:00

Alrighty
Hello ya'll!!
I know I didn't have a blog yesterday..and there's not gonna be a review today.
Why..
Well yesterday was full of errand running..and such..
Today..
I don't have anything I wanna review..
Which is kind of a lie in a round about way..haha

Ok well as far as my gardening Thursday.I really couldn't think of anything to write about.Yes I know there are like endless things to write about.But My brain wasn't working yesterday.
I can tell you that soon I will be writing on how to make a vermaculture bin(worm bin).
Very awesome stuff.

Now on to Friday's review sort of..
As we all know I am currently on a weight loss journey.
I weight over 300lb's and I'm sick of it so there for I am workin my ass off literally to get it gone..
Well between doing alot of research on what to eat and not to eat and such.
I have a personal trainer!

Photo credit Mistie May Studios

Meet Candace!
Photo taken by me...
Anyway
So about 5 to 6 times a week she comes over to bust my ass...
There are day's I think she's tryin to kill me..haha
But she found a great tool online to help us with the getting bored with the same ol routine

It is
http://www.exercisetv.tv/

That have TON'S of free workout videos.
Both full length and mini.
Let me tell ya..some of those mini workouts will kick your ass as hard as the full length ones!
There is a great Pilate's leg work out that we do that even makes Candace feel the burn..and this is a woman who work's out ALL the friggin time..

Its a great site because you can do something different every single day.
So that means no muscle memory issues!
That also means getting results and not dealing with the big plateau!
So check out the site
http://www.exercisetv.tv/

So get your workout on ya'll!!!

Green Wednesday! This Week Composting Toilets!

2010-07-28T15:12:00.006-05:00

WELCOME TO WEDS!!

This week we talk poop!

*cue unanimous giggle*

So if you think about your bathroom..and how much water it really uses does it make cringe?

It does me..especially when I think about how much water is wasted in the toilet.

I know my water bill could be cut in half if it didn't use water at all..

I know odd concept

But what if I told you that you could still have an indoor toilet ..

Not use water..

Not have an oder problem and still be good for the environment?

Well my dear's there is something that actually exists in the toilet world.

Nothing says' green like composting your own poop!

Below I will let the video's speak for themselves.

I am so gonna have one of these when I am able to afford it.

Its not a gross concept at all.There are several places in Europe that now use them for public toilets.

Think how much money the city could save if all the toilets went natural!

Not to mention that if they did this with port-a-potties life would be less gross!

Raise your hand if u have a port-a-potty phobia!

(raises hand and cringes at the thought of them)

Ok well without further adu

Here be ze toilets

And if you want a more affordable option check the vid below!

Alrighty my darklings!!
Isn't this like uber cool! Plus there is no smell..Talk about using your poop for some good!..
Humanure is becoming a fastly usable resource.
So if you have a large family..lol..
Just think ;o)

This takes your composting to new levels!
Between using a worm bin for food and paper scraps,then using a composting toilet you will never need to buy dirt!!!
Plus the money you'll save on water..
YAY saving money!!
Plus its insanely good for the environment.

Until next time my darklings!!

Herbal Tuesdays Angelica & A Great Contest!!

2010-07-27T12:15:00.007-05:00

Photo Credit Tommy Images

Welcome to Herbal Tuesdays!!

This week we are gonna be taking a look at the awesome little herb called

Angelica

But first I wanna tell you about a great contest over at

The Pagan Soccer Mom

Its the Beyond Magic Give Away.

For those of us who are pagan we have a fondness for candle's.

Not only do they add a great atmosphere when lit but they can be used for specific purposes.

Suck as luck,love,healing,cleansing etc...

Well this give away is for a 10oz candle infused with the energy you choose which gives the candle its purpose..

Check the link here to see the blog post.

http://www.confessionsofapagansoccermom.com/2010/07/beyond-magical-giveaway.html

Also Beyond Magic is a very green company!!

Check them out here

http://www.etsy.com/shop/beyondmagical

So pop in to the blog link above and enter to win!

Now on to our herb for this week!!

Angelica

Botanical Classification
Family Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
Genus and specie
Angelica archangelica (European)

A. atropurpurea (American)

A. polymorpha var. sinensis (Chinese) -

also known as A. sinensis

Other species are also found, but have not been included in our database.

Other names
Wild celery, masterwort and dang gui (China).

Description of the herb angelica
Angelica is a robust, aromatic, short-lived perennial with thick, hollow stems and long-stalked, deeply divided leaves, with tiny green-white flowers appearing, followed by ovate ridged seeds.

Parts used
The leaves, stems, roots, seeds, and oil are used.

Properties
Angelica is a bittersweet, aromatic, and anti-inflammatory herb that increases perspiration, lowers fever, and has anti spasmodic and expectorant properties.

The plant is rich in furano-coumarins, including xanthotoxin, imperatorin, angelicin, archangelin as well as coumarins such as umbelliferone, osthol, osthenol.

The osthol is mainly found in the roots and the imperatorin in the fruit.

The roots of the A. sinensis are known as dang gui and the roots of A. dahurica as bai zhi in traditional Chinese medicine, where is it used for a general tonic and is also known as "woman's ginseng".

Therapeutic uses

Internal Uses

Angelica is mostly used for:
stimulating gastric juices
flatulence
stomach cramps
antispasmodic properties
cholagogue effect
reducing menopausal symptoms
premenstrual syndrome
allergies
reducing muscle spasms

Some studies of the Chinese species have found that it helps to relieve menopausal discomforts. It is used as a phytoestrogen and is used to balance estrogen levels in the body by reducing high estrogen levels, as well as increasing low estrogen levels.

Due to the estrogen balancing effect it has on the body it is particularly helpful in fighting menopausal problems, specifically hot flushes.

It also has uterine tonic qualities and is used to relieve uterine cramps.

Asian researchers report that Chinese angelica helps blood to clot (contra indicating the use of the herb for people with heart conditions), and improves liver function in people with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Preliminary research in China has found that the herb may help increase the production of red blood cells, making the herb a possible remedy for anemia.

It helps to dilate coronary vessels and relieve vasospasm, thereby having a blood pressure-lowering effect, which is thought to be due to calcium channel antagonism.

Chinese angelica as well as A. acutiloba (Japanese angelica) have nearly double the analgesic and pain relieving effect than that of aspirin, making it a natural to use for headaches, arthritis, trauma and cramps.

The European species of Angelica is used internally to combat bronchitis, mucus, and influenza, as it soothes the bronchial smooth muscle.

The herb is also used to combat digestive problems, gastric ulcers, anorexia, and migraines.

It is a traditional medicine to be used against allergies and allergic symptoms to a variety of substances; including pollen, dust, animal dander, foods etc. as it has the ability to inhibit the production of allergy-related antibodies.

The coumarins contained in angelica have shown some good immune stimulating action by stimulating the production of white blood cells, to fight off foreign particles, as well as cancerous cells, which in turn fights tumors or tumor forming cells.

It is also used to stimulate the production of interferon in the body.

Angelica leaves and stems are crystallized to be used as sweets and to decorate cakes.

Steamed stems can be eaten with butter, and chopped stems add flavor to roast pork.

External use
The external uses of the European herb include poultices for
rheumatic pain
neuralgia
pleurisy

Aromatherapy and essential oil use
The essential oil made from angelica root is used as an all-over tonic, purifying the blood, "grounding" the person and for digestive problems.

It is a boost for the lymphatic system, and a valuable oil to use after illness, to help clear the body of toxins. It has some excellent anti-fungal properties, yet is lacking in antimicrobial activity.

Safety precautions and warnings

Not to be taken internally by pregnant women, or people suffering from diabetes or heart problems.

Exposure to sunlight while taking medicinal doses of angelica may cause a rash, due to increased photo sensitivity.

Using the root essential oil may also cause photo toxicity when exposed to sunlight directly after application.

Conflicting reports have been received regarding an ingredient of Angelica called psoralens.
"Science" journal published an article, which advised against the internal use of angelica, as psoralens may promote the growth of tumors, while on the other hand, animal studies have shown that alpha-angelica lactone (found in angelica) has an anticancer effect.

It is therefore advised that people with a history of cancer not take the herb until these questions have been resolved.

Angelica roots are poisonous when fresh, but drying eliminates the poison and dried angelica is therefore safe to use.

If you harvest herbs from the wild, please take extreme care when looking for angelica, as water hemlock looks almost like angelica. Water hemlock is an extremely poisonous plant and if taken by mistake, immediate medical assistance must be obtained.

Angelica is also a useful expectorant for coughs, bronchitis and pleurisy, especially when they are accompanied by fever, colds or influenza. The leaf can be used as a compress in inflammations of the chest. It content of carminative essential oil explains its use easing intestinal colic and flatulence. As a digestive agent it stimulates appetite and may be used in anorexia nervosa. It has been shown to help ease rheumatic inflammations. In cystitis it acts as a urinary antiseptic. Angelica is used frequently as a flavoring; in liqueurs such as chartreuse and benedictine, in gin and vermouth; the leaves as a garnish or in salads; and the candied stalks in cakes and pudding.

Alrighty well there ya have it my dear's!!

I hope you enjoyed this week's herbal learning!!

Let me know what ya think!!

Until next time Darklings!!!

Photo Credit Tommy Images

Its My Day Damn it! hehe Welcome to Sunday

2010-07-25T21:02:00.006-05:00

Well I dont know about many of you but this week's been full...
I started back at Bath and Body Work's this week.
Did a couple shoots
Cleaned house...
managed to sprain my ankle standing still.
Yeah dont ask..idk how it happened either..
I fell off my shoe's standing still! So that means tomarrow's workout will be for my ab's...
=o/
All I can say is owies and commence the whining!
Ok well thats all I really feel like writting right now..
Im in pain..
=*o(
I totally could elaborate more but Um..yeah dont want to..haha
Until next time my darklings!

Cookin Saturday's!! This Week Talapia

2010-07-23T23:43:00.008-05:00

Well its that time of the week again!!

Time to bust out the kitchen utensil's and get to makin some serious stomach pleasures!!

Well this week I am going to share a fish recipe.

For those out there that havent really had alot of fish,talapia is a great stater fish.

Its very mild in taste and you can really dress it up with herb's and spices.

Lemon goes awesome with it!

So check it out try it and let me know what you think!!

Baked Talapia

Ingredients
4 (4 ounce) fillets tilapia
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, or to taste
1 lemon, thinly sliced

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Season the tilapia fillets with salt, pepper and Cajun seasoning on both sides. Arrange the seasoned fillets in a single layer in the baking dish. Place a layer of lemon slices over the fish fillets. I usually use about 2 slices on each piece so that it covers most of the surface of the fish.
Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until fish flakes easily with a fork. While the fish is baking, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, lemon juice and dill in a small bowl. Serve with tilapia.

As far as vegitables go you can pair this wonderful fish with alot of things.

Green Beans,asparagus,corn,a nice salad..

Really its whatever you fancy.

Broccoli with Poppy Seed Butter and Parmesan Cheese

Ingredients
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon poppy seeds
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
Place broccoli in a steamer over 1 inch of boiling water, and cover. Cook until tender but still firm, about 6 minutes; drain. Meanwhile, stir together the melted butter, poppy seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the broccoli with the butter sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese to serve.

Parmesan Asparagus

Ingredients
10 medium fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
4 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 teaspoon garlic salt
Directions
Brush asparagus spears with oil; place on a baking sheet coated with nonstick cooking spray. Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees F for 6 minutes; turn asparagus. Bake 6 minutes longer or until asparagus is tender. Combine Parmesan cheese and garlic salt; sprinkle over asparagus.

Pecan Rice

Ingredients
1 cup brown rice
2 tablespoons margarine
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
2 tablespoons minced parsley
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
In a saucepan bring 2 cups water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
When rice is done, melt margarine in a small skillet over medium heat. Saute onions, pecans, parsley, basil, ginger, pepper and salt. When onions are tender stir mixture into rice and mix well.

Freezer Caramel Drizzle Pie

Ingredients
2 (9 inch) prepared graham cracker crusts
6 tablespoons butter
1 (7 ounce) package shredded coconut
1 cup chopped pecans
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (12 ounce) jar caramel ice cream topping
Directions
Place butter in a medium skillet and melt over medium heat. Add coconut and pecans, stirring to coat. Saute until coconut and pecans are lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whip together condensed milk and cream cheese until fluffy. Fold in whipped topping. Spoon 1/4 of cream cheese mixture into each graham cracker crust. Drizzle each with 1/4 of caramel topping. Repeat layers with remaining cream cheese mixture and caramel. Top each pie with coconut and pecan mixture. Freeze overnight.

Can we say OMG NOM!!..

Especially that dessert!..

I cant wait to see who makes this!
Let me know what you think about it!

I look forward to all your comments!

Until next time Darklings!!

Friday's Review! Arm & Hammer Essential's Corn Cat Litter

2010-07-23T12:57:00.008-05:00

If your like me & have fur babies you cherish,then you do whatever you can to make sure their health & well being are always 1st priority.
For many of us our furkids are just that....Kids.
I am a crazy cat lady.I wont lie..I totally admit it.I have 5 bratty felines who take up alot of my time.Between petting,feeding,and litterbox care they have made it to the ranks of spoiled rotten.
Well I am currently trying very hard everyday to green my home.Its not that its hard,its just a gradual process.You pick one thing and change it.If you have the moolah to change everything at once awesome.But most of us dont.
Well recently I took up the task of changing my current litter.I like most was a clay litter user.Normally flip flopping between Tidy Cat & Arm & Hammer.
I have become a big fan of Arm & Hammer.Well recently they have come out with an all natural litter.Its made of corn!! So me being me I decided to give it a try..
When I got it home I immediatly went and cleaned 1 of the litter boxes that was the closest to needing to be redone out.Filled it with the new corn litter and proceeded to do a test.

Ok just for a bit of back story my usual litter bill looks like this..

For 5 cats, 4 adults 1 kitten.

1 20-30lb pale of clay litter $13.00

2 boxes of plastic sifting cat liners $4.00ea

1 box of Arm & Hammer deoderizor for the boxes $2.00

Bought twice monthly....so about 75 bucks a month.

That doesnt count the food costs.I am not complaining but if I can save money I am SOOOO down!
So I did a test with the clay litter & corn litter side by side.Took the cats about 2 days to use the corn litter.I let the boxes get gross.Sorry to do an effective test you have to (cat's werent to happy).

I went to clean the boxes about 3 day's later.
I smelled the clay litter something foul.Even with the deoderizor I use,and the extra step's I take to not smell cat butt it was to no avail.After awhile it just stunk bad.I then noticed I still only got a sweet smell from the corn litter.I cleaned the clay box 1st so I could really see if my nose was tricking me. But to my surprise I put a pee ball up to my nose and did not smell hardly any ammonia.For those who have cats you know their pee smells HIGHLY of ammoia.
I was sold....
When it comes to clumping...I think it works really well.I can say that you dont wanna shake to to hard because it will breakup.But everything has its pro's and con's.I also noticed that it doesnt stick to the sides of the box like clay litter does.I've also discovered that it does NOT sift though the plastic sifting cat liners.So if your a liner user only use the one that cover's the bottom.
Also another great thing about the corn litter is that its 100% bio-degradable!So once you need to toss it out you can just toss it into your compost.Be sure to get the poop out 1st,You can leave the urine because it will add acidity to your compost pile which will help it break down faster.
I am so pleased with this product and hope to god they dont get rid of it.I am also super happy with the fact it has taken my plastic use down significantly!Thats always a plus!
I encourage each of you out there who have kitties to atleast try this product!
Its well worth it!!!

Gardening Thursday! This Week Making A Nature Sanctuary

2010-07-22T13:45:00.012-05:00

Photo Credit Missouri Botanical Gardens

W elcome to Gardening Thursdays!
This week I will be talking about making your garden/lawn into a natural attracting oasis!

The one thing most people think about when they think about their yard is grass.

What kind of grass they want ect.

Why do you have to have grass though?

Ever asked yourself that question?

Idk I personally think we are trained for grass.

Like a yard isn't a yard without a perfect carpet of green stuff..

There is also another idea for a backyard that I truly do love.

What about making it something that attracts nature.

If you don't have pets or children this could be perfect.

All you really need is a place big enough to entertain (table,chair's,grill etc).

Then you can landscape around to attract certain critters.

I don't know about you..But there is nothing like hearing the birds sing,the grasshopper's play their tune,cicada's doing their thing (always seems to be when its hell hot.Their the HEY ITS HOT AS HELL OUTSIDE alarm's..lol).Not to mention the color that each critter brings.

Birds are so fun to watch..

They sing,fly,forage all day.

If you have feeder's around that have places for nest's you could have your very own bird family living in your back yard.

Then you would get to see them grow up,learn to fly,learn to live.

Not to mention the music that surrounds having many type's of birds.

An endless symphony that engulfs your ears.

Its truly wonderful.

Color's galore for your eye's to feast on.

Brilliant feather's that gleam in the sunlight like stain glass.

Its truly a wonderful site!

Photo Credit Kentucky Pam

Then there are squirrels.
Some people just hate them.But I can tell you they are some of the cutest little creatures on earth.If you ever have a min to take the time to watch these little guys you would get a good laugh.They run all over the place.Bark at each other..play chase and just have a general cheery disposition.If you keep feeder's out they will be around all the time.Their really an endless source of entertainment.

Photo Credit Chris Hills
Ok now lets talk about some other fun critter's that you can entice into your gardens!!

How bout butterflies and ladybugs!!

Who doesn't love those two little buggies!

To me garden's are so magical.

The wind rustlin through the tree's..

Birds singin & butterflies flitting around.

Photo Credit by Annamatic 3000

Believe it or not you can plant flower's and plants to attract the kinds of critters you want!

So if its butterflies you love,

Then go do the research to find out what sort of flower's attract butterflies.

You can also do the same for humming bird's,and lady bug's!

Plus don't forget to plan things that make you happy and will grow well in your zone.
Not everything will grow everywhere.Sucks I know but them's the breaks of nature.
I love love love fern's but South West Oklahoma kinda burns them up!
So do your research..design your garden space.
Decide on the critter's you wanna attract..
This could also include deer,raccoon's and other wild life..if you have a large open space in the country.
Put up your feeder's and come next summer you will have an amazingly beautiful oasis that both you and your local critter's will totally enjoy!!
Until Next Time Daklings

Happy Gardening Ya'll!!

Green Weds!!! This Week Reuseable's!!

2010-07-21T12:36:00.007-05:00

So Its Green Wednesday once again!

This week we are gonna talk about reusables..

I know you hear alot of talk about using reusable material's & products.

But if you really sit back and think about it..it makes alot of sense.

The United States as a nation is one of the most wasteful in the world.

We have been brainwashed into becoming consumer's and not taking responsibility for what being a consumer actually mean's.

Consumer goods are ment to be thrown away.They last a short while and off to the landfill they go.Clogging up much needed space and earth.Pouring toxins into the landscape that gets into our ground water which poisons us all.

By using reusables you will start to cut down on our consumer impulses.

We will cut down on our trash output.

Cut down your plastic usage;

Plus save lots of money in the process..

So below I am going to introduce you to a few great reusable products that might seem costly at 1st.But once you figure up how much you pay for each of these a month you will see the savings.

Especially you plastic water bottle user's!

Ok 1st up on our reusable journey is:

The Reusable Shopping Bag!

Reusable shopping bag's make tons of sense.They hold as much as a paper sack.More than those crappy plastic sack's & can be used THOUSANDS of times.

They come in a wide array of styles,color's,& durability's.

Most are very durable & are made with either recycled fabric's,hemp,or other organic material's.

You can check out a whole line of these wonderful bags at

http://www.reusablebags.com/

When you see the prices of the bag sets don't be put off.

If you don't think that the plastic grocery bags cost you anything let me tell you how wrong you are.

Plastic shopping bags are one of the leading polluter's.

Companies have to pay for those bag's.Which means they adjust their product prices to afford them.

Which means you get hit in the pocket book.

By reducing your plastic bag usage,You reduce the amount of bags a company has to buy.

By doing that you are saving the company money.

Which eventually saves you money.

It only takes 1 person deciding to make a change to change the whole world.

That's how its done.

One person at a time!

Not to mention with reusable shopping bags you save on your own trash output.

Which means you have to buy less trash bags.

Might not seem like much.But even pennies add up!

So check out the totes!

Get a set or two!

Start the anti-plastic movement where you live!

Next on our reusable journey is

Reusable Bottles!!

Here is where most people can really save some money!

Bottled water is one of the most purchased beverages in the United States!

That is so ridiculous.Considering that you can buy a filter and use your own water from home!

Next to plastic bags these are the next most thrown away item in the U.S. trash bin.

Its totally unnecessary to!

By purchasing a reusable water bottle or two you will start putting some green back in your bank.

Most who are avid bottled water user will buy a few cases at a time.

Why do that when you can just reuse a bottle.

Get a filter for your home and fill your bottles up.

Throughout the day there are plenty of places you can get good clean filtered water.

It just makes sense.

This will also reduce your trash output and the use of plastic's.

Check out

http://www.reusablebags.com/

There's a reusable bottle for the whole families needs.

They have some really cute children's designs as well.

Start saving money and get you some awesome reusable bottle's today!

3rd on our journey is:

Reusable household good's!

Most of us use lunch bags,plastic storage containers and other everyday kitchen and household goods.Well there is a green solution for that as well!

Even though some of these products are plastic.They are made BPA (bisphenol A) free.There are also many stainless steel options as well.

You can read about BPA here and get better aquanted with its horribleness..

http://www.blogtactic.com/2009/03/bisphenol-bpa-avoid-using-plastic-type.html

Also another great option is to opt for glass when you can!

People are to afraid of breaking things or getting cut now day's.

If we would all learn to be more careful then life would not be so broke ;)

Also I personally LOVE stainless steel.

It doesn't rust,it lasts FOREVER, its durable when dropped.

Makes the greatest pan's and many other awesome kitchen accessories.

You can also get bowls made out of bamboo and other organic material's.

By cutting down your plastic storage container usage you will again curb your trash output.

How many times have you or your kids popped a glad plastic suppose to be microwavable bowl into the microwave? Next thing ya know its pitted and ruined.

That stuff is going into your food!

Scary huh..

I am not saying I am perfect.I am still purging the plastic's out of my home.Its not uber easy at all.Its really hard to get away from plastic in this day and age.

But making the effort to try helps!
They also make reusable sandwich bags!

That's right!

Talk about cutting down on your plastic wrap/ziplock usage!!

You can clean these bags and their totally sanitary!

Heck if your totally crafty you can make your own!

http://www.reusablebags.com/

There are so so so many options out there guys.

Just making the decision to change one thing in your life for the greener will make a huge impact!

Check out the site,Feel free to do a search for more!

Educate yourself on what is being used in your home!

Refuse to be a blind consumer!

Help save the planet one choice at a time!

Until next time darklings!

Herbal Tuesdays!! This Week Echinacea

2010-07-19T21:54:00.007-05:00

This week we are looking at Echinacea...

This is such a wonderful little plant....

Echinacea (purple cone flower)

Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea pallida

Botanical Classification
Family
Asteraceae
Genus and specie
Echinacea angustifolia,

Echinacea purpurea,

Echinacea pallida

Other names
Purple cone flower, pale purple cone flower,

black sampson, scurvy root, Indian head,

black Susan's and hedgehog.

Description of the herb echinacea
Echinacea is a tall perennial with lance-like leaves about 15cm long.

Purple-pink, daisy-like flowers that smell like honey, with orange-brown centers, are produced in summer to early autumn.

Parts used
The roots, rhizomes and parts above ground are used in herbal preparations.

Properties
It is a bitter herb with some aromatic properties, and is used for the boosting effect it has on the immune system.

This healing herb also has anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects.
It contains polysaccharides (PS I - a 4-O-methylglucuronoarabinoxylan and PS II an acid rhamnoarabinogalactan), caffeic acid, lipophillic polyacetylenes and alkylamides (echinaceine).
It has immune stimulant properties as well as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used both topically and orally.

Therapeutic uses

Internal use
Echinacea is the buzzword on boosting the immune system and helping clear up chronic infections.

It is used internally for skin diseases, fungal infections, septicemia, slow-healing wounds, chronic fatigue syndrome, venereal diseases and early stages of coughs and colds.

It is most effective for infection of the respiratory and urinary system.
Medical research proves that Echinacea stimulates the immune system to inhibit viruses and bacteria to enter and take over the cells.

It is used to bolster the immune system in cases of HIV/AIDS - but please see safety precautions below.

External use
Used externally to treat herpes, acne, psoriasis and infected injuries.

It can also be used as a gargle for sore throats.

It is very effective in treating wounds, ulcers and other skin inflammations.

Coneflower is considered a useful product in all cases for improving cutaneous tone and for preventing and regulating blemishes in dry and cracked skins, as well as after acne.

Aromatherapy and essential oil use
None noted.

Safety precautions and warnings
May counteract immunosuppressive drugs.

POWERS:

Strengthening Spells

Wiccan/Magical Use:

Strengthening Spells

MAGICAL USES

Echinacea was used by American Indians as an offering to the spirits to ensure and strengthen spells.

I hope you enjoyed our look at Echinacea!

Its such a wonderous little plant.

I personally believe we should all keep it around for cold and flu season.

Drink the tea and you can bet your immune system will get a much needed kick in the pants!

Couple it with Vit C and your golden!

Let me know what you all think!!

Until Next Time My Darklings!!

Morticia's Midnite Spa Mondays!! This Week Lavender-Eucalytus Bath Salt

2010-07-19T08:16:00.005-05:00

This week in the Spa we are showcasing

Lavender-Eucalytus Bath Salt

This wonderful salt wraps you in the luxery that is Lavender.

Then helps destress you with the scent of Eucalytus.

Both scents mixed together gives a truely relaxing luxurious experiance that makes any bath experiance.

This is such a great relaxing fragrance.This bath salt is wonderful for relieving a stressful day.The lavender will take you on a sweet journey to help relax your mind while the eucalyptus helps take away stress.It also promotes lung health! So breath it in deep!

The contents of this wonderful salt are:

Lavender Flowers-Very fragrant flower that promotes relaxation.Wonderful for helping relieve tension.Helps depression.

Eucalyptus Leaves- promotes lung health.Also a great decongestant.Promotes lung health.Also great to help concentration...

Epsom Salt- Great for helping the body relax and pulls toxins out of you system

Sea Salt- Known for its healing properties.Also doesnt dry your skin out.

Baking Soda- Helps keep your salt from becoming hard and cakey.Also is a light softenr....

Also the actual lavender & eucalyptus plants are in this mixture.

So when done you will probably have to scoop them out of your tub...

So check out the link below

http://www.etsy.com/listing/49983642/lavender-eucalyptus

You can get your very own jar of this amazing mixture!!
Cant wait to make something truely custom for you!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/morticiasmidnitespa