Ayelet Naturals

{Home Spa for Valentine’s Day}

2012-02-14T13:02:00.000-08:00

What's even better than a massage? A chocolate-flavored one! This homemade beauty treatment creates a stunning display when the chocolate mixture is dropped into the oil.

Chocolate Kiss Massage Oil

Ingredients:

1/2 square of unsweetened chocolate (100% cacao)
1/2 tsp. honey
1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
2-3 1/2 tsp water (depending on the consistency of the honey you choose)
3 grates of nutmeg
1/4 cup sweet almond oil
Bottle with a cap

Directions:

1. Microwave chocolate and honey in small bowl for 20-30 seconds. Stir mixture. Add vanilla, water and nutmeg, blend well.

2. Pour oil into small, clean bottle. Drop chocolate mixture in with a spoon or dropper. Cap bottle tightly.

When ready to use, shake oil well. Pour small amount and warm in hands. Apply to your partner, massage and enjoy!

Champagne Honey Bath

Saving champagne just for New Year’s is a shame! This sensual champagne honey bath is made even better in a tub that has jets. If you have any champagne left over, sip it while soothing in the fragrant soak.

Ingredients:

1-2 bottles of Champagne
1/2 cup honey
1 Tbsp. sweet almond oil
7 drops sandalwood essential oil
5 drops rose essential oil
Rose petals, if desired

Directions:

Add sweet almond oil and essential oils to the honey and blend.
As you fill a bath with hot water, add the honey mixture. Continue filling bath a couple of degrees warmer, than preferred. Once tub is filled to desired level, pop the cork on the Champagne and add to the water.

If your bathtub has jets, use them. (With jets, 1 bottle of Champagne is sufficient.) If not, add a second one. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Fill bathtub ¼ full with hot water, add the bag, steep 5 to 10 minutes, then fill remainder of tub with cool water.
Allow the tea to gently infuse your bath and moisturize your skin while you relax.

Seduction Skin Glow for Two

The Aztecs referred to chocolate as "nourishment of the Gods." Almond oil is thought to induce passion in women, while nutmeg is highly prized by the Chinese as an aphrodisiac. This recipe combines all three to create a decadent Valentine’s Day treat for you and your sweetheart

Chocolate-Almond Oil Body Scrub

This homemade beauty treatment combines chocolate, almond oil and nutmeg to create a decadent Valentine’s Day treat for you and your sweetheart.

Ingredients:

3 Tbsp. water
3 Tbsp. honey
2 squares of unsweetened chocolate (100% cacao)
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup sweet almond oil
4 drops sandalwood essential oil
2 drops vanilla essential oil (1/8 tsp. vanilla extract may also be substituted)
12 grates of nutmeg

Directions:

1. Microwave chocolate, water and honey for 30 seconds. Add the sugar, almond oil, essential oils and nutmeg and blend well.

2. Store in a clean plastic, glass or tin container.

To use: Apply the mixture to damp skin in a warm shower. Scrub gently in circular motions. Rinse. Lightly pat the skin dry.

For maximum sensuality, go for food that's slippery or involves dipping or spreading. You might start with fresh fruit -- such as grapes, strawberries or raspberries -- that can be dipped in whipped cream. Or try bread or crackers with soft spreads like goat cheese and hummus. The final bubbly touch: Create a romantic cocktail by dropping pomegranate seeds into champagne.

Ayelet*:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Valentine's Day Gift From Ayelet Naturals}

2012-01-14T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone!

I had bought a block of unrefined beeswax a while back and never used it i guess i was waiting for right time, well guess what? This is the Perfect time, Valentines Day is around the corner, i was thinking - what would be be the perfect gift from me to you my customers, something you can enjoy with your love ones, well, i decided to make a massage bar, made from Organic ingredients like Cocoa and Shea butter, Almond and Apricot oil, vitamin E in “Pink Sugar Marshmallow” scent which many of you have grown to love - Scent description - Delicious and sweet! Base notes of Sweet strawberries and raspberries folded in middle notes of apple, cherry and cantaloupe, sheer top notes of Bergamot, Vanilla and Musk.It's irresistible! i noticed that the scent is sweeter with the beeswax.

These bars are super moisturizing, luxurious and protective especially for this time of year, i attached a label with instruction how to use, i did forget to mention that you will need to store your bar in a cool and dry location between uses, i also realized after i printed the labels that i made a couple of typos, (i really need glasses).

Each bar weighs around 2 oz or more, obviously if you are a vegan this is not for you but maybe you can give it to someone as a gift.

This bar will will be added as a gift to you with an order of $50 or more.

Supply is limited!

If you like to purchase just the massage bar sent me a convo or email me to

AyeletNaturals@gmail.com

Ayelet

{Super Energy Boosters to beat Winter Blues}

2012-01-11T05:08:00.000-08:00

Quick Super Energy Boosters to beat Winter Blues - Natural - Low Cal.

Winter is here to stay for a while, As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, even the best of us can get a little down. The "winter blues" are characterized by the mild depression, lack of motivation, and low energy that many people experience during this cold season. Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to both prevent the blues from coming on with these super foods.

Ginseng Tea

Known for centuries as an antioxidant cure-all, ginseng is also a stimulant which provides increased energy and concentration. It's difficult to find dried ginseng, never mind fresh, so we recommend getting your fill of this ancient root through a cup of ginseng tea. Its warmth will have a calming effect on your nerves while simultaneously giving you the energy to power through any late-night task.

Bananas

Boasting three naturally-occurring sugars - sucrose, fructose, and glucose - bananas are an obvious choice for a quick energy boost. But don't let all that sugar fool you into thinking the fix is only temporary. Bananas also contain fibre, which will help sustain the glucose levels in your blood, thus giving you a steady source of energy over a longer period of time.

Strawberries

Strawberries are a great, low-cal addition to a healthy lifestyle, packing enough Vitamin C, manganese, and fiber for a 'berry' nutritional punch. One serving of strawberries - about eight medium strawberries - is high in fiber and an excellent source of vitamin C. The star player in strawberries is vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps repair the body's tissues, boosts immunity, and fights excess free radical damage.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is chock full of nutrients. In fact, it contains 25 times the nutrients of vegetables. Many people drink shots of wheatgrass juice as a general health booster. Wheatgrass juice which contains chlorophyll, minerals, and vitamins A, B-complex, C, E, and K, protein and 17 amino acids is easily absorbed in human blood.

{10 Skin-Care Resolutions for Year 2012}

2011-12-31T12:50:00.000-08:00

Sometimes even the most beauty knowledgeable woman occasionally sleeps with her makeup on, skips the sunscreen, or forgets to make a yearly appointment to see a skin doctor.

Here are a few tips to help you start the New Year with a healthier skincare habits.

MOISTURIZE AFTER SHOWERING

We all know a warm shower strips skin of oils. Face creams and body lotions are excellent substitutes, as long as you apply them correctly. Keep body lotion right in the bathroom, Seeing it will remind you to apply it when your skin is damp, within a few minutes of turning off the water.

WEAR SUNSCREEN EVERY DAY

Doctors have long advised wearing sunscreen daily (SPF 30) and reapplying it often. The challenge is finding a cream that offers enough protection and doesn't feel cakey, try using organic and natural brand.

TAKE OFF YOUR MAKUP AT NIGHT

Makeup can mix with skin oils and dirt and can cause zits. Cosmetics can also trap skin-damaging free radicals that float in the air, even if you've had a long day, and the bathroom sink is 20 feet away....

• Avoid the situation entirely by washing your face or oil cleansing as soon as you get home and be sure to remove your mascara as well.

BOOK A YEARLY MOLE CHECK

Having a dermatologist survey your body once a year is crucial. After the holidays, or when the kids go back to school is a good time to get checked, before you leave the doctor's office, make an appointment for next year.

EXFOLIATE REGULARLY

A baby's skin replenishes itself completely every 14 days," explains Howard Sobel, a clinical attending physician in dermatology at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. "But by age 30, an adult takes a full 28 days to replenish." With all that extra time, skin cells have a chance to dry out and lose luster—unless you jump-start the renewal process by exfoliating. Use a gentle face scrub, once or twice a week.

BE GENTLE ON YOUR HANDS

For starters, stop treating your nails like tools. Tearing open boxes leads to chips and peeling,

• To keep both nails and hands from dehydrating, use mild antibacterial soap, choose natural and organic moisturizers rich in Aloe, butters, vitamins and botanical extracts, to keep your hands soft, supple and protected, if you are planning to be outdoors, choose a hand cream with sunscreen to protect your hands from harsh UV rays.

CLEAN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES

You probably don't realize what can happen when good brushes go bad: Makeup and skin oils build up, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause irritation. Wash your tools monthly with a mild liquid hand soap and lukewarm water (hot water can cause bristles to fall out), then rinse well, squeeze out the excess water, and allow the brushes to dry thoroughly by balancing them over the sink. Once a week, sprits them with antibacterial.

KEEP YOUR HANDS OFF YOUR FACE

Yes, it's tempting to squeeze a pimple, but touching your face with your fingers brings pore-clogging oil and dirt to the skin. Stop this habit! Get rid of magnifying mirrors.

STICK WITH THE PROGRAM

Waiting for a new skin treatment to show results can be a test of patience. A good anti-aging cream can take six weeks, so don't give up, But if nothing has changed by week six, the product will never work for you, Time to move on.

REDUCE YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE

Now, not taking away all your fun, you can still have a glass of something. But drink more than one cocktail a day and your skin will suffer. Alcohol increases the level inflammatory agents in the bloodstream which can hasten skin sagging over time.

Ayelet •♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{How to Keep Your Nails Healthy and Strong}

2011-12-01T18:17:00.000-08:00

Our nails are dead cells growing out of our fingers. So, there are no nerves in the nails and that is why, we do not have any sensation in the nails. But, while clipping your nails, you should be careful enough not to dig into your skin. Nails have two parts to be cared for. One is the nail plate and the other is the cuticle area which provides a covering to the nail. The cuticle area has two types of skin. One skin is the dead skin which extends on to the nail and the other is live skin which folds around the dead skin. So, while pushing back the cuticles or clipping them during manicure, one should be very cautious not to hurt the live skin. This live skin protects our nails from the nail infections. This was the overview of the nail structure.
Here are some tips to keep your nails clean, strong and healthy.

1. Dip your nails in olive oil (or your choice of oil) once a week. This is irrespective of the fact that you are doing manicure or not. Oil keeps your nails strong and the skin around the nails moisturized. It prevents the skin from cracking and peeling around the nail edges (which are very prominent in some people). If you can't dip it in oil, take a generous quantity of oil and massage your nails and cuticles with it. You can even do this daily with a drop of oil. This is a great tip for brittle nails. You can use jojoba in place of olive oil. It works great.

2. Once a week, you can take some baking powder on a brush tip and start brushing your nails. That will turn your nails white and remove any odd colors on your nail.

3. When filing or buffing your nails, always go in one direction. If you file or buff your nails back and forth, this will cause splitting.
To avoid breaking nails, don't use them as tools, such as digging or picking.

4. Do you file the corners of your nails? This may weaken the nails and cause them to break more easily.

5. Do not use false nails. Better try growing your own nails.

6. Leave your nails free of any nail paint at least twice in a month.

7. While doing manicure to your hands, do not forget to take care of your nails. Do not let your nails dry. Moisturize them every time you apply moisturizer to your hands with a rich hand cream make sure you also apply on cuticles.

8. Your nails show your health just like your hair. So good nutrition will keep them pink. Improve your diet to include more proteins and vitamins which are important for both hair and nails, eat foods that contain folic acid such as whole grains, berries, kale, and citrus fruits.

By following the above tips and making an effort to have healthy and beautiful nails, you will have better-looking hands. You might also want to consider getting a hand massage. This will help boost circulation, encourage nail growth, and best of all pamper you, your hands, and your fingernails!
*:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Décolleté Care}

2011-11-25T17:26:00.000-08:00

Neck and décolleté (chest) are exposed to the sun, wind and cold weather, and must be all cared for in the same way as the face during the professional treatment and at home. The bust is covered with clothes – this is why it has beautiful silky skin, free of sun damage.

Most of us take very good care of our face, but often ignore the neck, décolleté and bust. Taking care of the neck and décolleté is no different than taking care of the face.

The delicate neck and décolleté area is often ignored when it comes to application of moisturizers and sunscreen, and is easily susceptible to dehydration and sun damage.

The signs of aging in the neck area are because our muscles lose elasticity – so we have to learn to firm and tone the muscles to hold the skin nice and tight. As we age, the neck and jowls may start to show some wrinkles and folds and begin to droop because of the daily gravitational pull. This, of course causes the face to look much older than it may look otherwise.

A wonderful way to prevent sagging and wrinkles in the neck and décolleté area is to do special exercises which train the muscles in that area to be firm and lifted. Stretching the neck and spine upward - reduces the likelihood of getting a short and wrinkled neck. These exercises are even more effective when paired with contrast showers – hot and cold. It is best to end your shower with cold water – this way, the neck and décolleté will get a nice toning workout. Wherever the icy cold water hits, the muscles will tighten up and tone.

The neck should be protected from the harsh rays of the sun with clothing and sunscreen. The décolleté and neck must always be hydrated with a great moisturizer.

Use the same serums and moisturizers that you use on your face, on your décolleté area. Look for ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic acid and antioxidants. These ingredients will help to slough off old cells to reveal younger, healthier skin underneath. Use a deep moisturizer; it should contain ingredients such as aloe and Shea butter. Apply both the serum and moisturizer nightly or as often as your skin will tolerate without irritation.

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Winner of October Giveaway}

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for participating in October giveaway!

I am happy to announce!

ElfRenee. You are the Winner of October Giveaway! I have emailed you; please respond within 72 hours to claim your winning!

Congrats!

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Do You Feel Lucky?}

2011-10-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

{October Giveaway}

WIN A BOTTLE OF OPULENCE CLEANSING OIL AND A MOSTURIZER SUITABLE FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE $40 VALUE
To Enter: Please visit Ayelet Naturals Shop, take a look around at the products, than leave me a comment on one product you liked or that caught your eye! EXTRA ENTRIES: Please leave an additional comment for every extra entry you complete.

1. Sign up for Ayelet Newsletter (right side bar)
2. "Like" my Facebook page
3. Follow my blog
4. Follow my blog via Networked blogs
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet this Giveaway.
6. Blog about this giveaway

Win:
1. 2 oz Opulence – Organic Facial Cleansing Oil with Argan Oil - Vegan for all skin types
1. Organic Facial Moisturizer OR 1 oz Clarifying Solution Light Facial Moisturizer

Giveaway will end on October 31st at 12pm E.T. US Residents Only! Winner has 72 hours to respond to my email or a new winner will be chosen. Winner is chosen via random.org

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Highlights For Ayelet Naturals}

2011-10-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

Some of Ayelet Naturals packaging were designed by Oh Boutique and were featured in bp&amp&o.org for your opinion

This is another Highlight for Ayelet Naturals and Oh Boutique and taken from Oh Boutique’s Behance portfolio by Lovely Package - Curating the very best packaging design. Feel free to put your opinion in writing.

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Acne and Smoking}

2011-10-09T11:20:00.000-07:00

Healthy Habits Healthy Skin

Acne is a skin disorder caused by hormonal imbalance on skin's oil glands leading to obstructed pores and convulsion of lesions like pimples or zits. Severe acne can induce permanent scarring on the affected body parts. Acne's main effects are not physical but psychological resulting in low self-esteem and depression. Smoking and acne are two separate problems. One is manmade and another is drawn from nature. Both can have long drawn effects and it is imperative to resolve both the problems successfully to lead happy and normal life. However there is little or no scientific data to prove any correlation between the two.

In simple terms acne erupts when the skin is trying to deal with impurities and smoking only adds to the problem by pumping in nicotine based impurities in the body system. Regular smoking has damaging effects on skin over a long span of time. Tobacco has chemicals which when absorbed while smoking has deteriorating effects on skin tissues causing wrinkling and old looking skin.

Stopping smoking can be a part of overall skin betterment program. Smoking may not have a direct correlation with acne but it is harmful for the body and must be stopped. In an effort to control aggravation of acne the first step should be weaning away from smoking completely. Then face must be washed regularly and diet should be modified to suit the new circumstances. Smoking kills hunger pangs. So when you quit smoking you will feel hungrier. In such a situation try to intake small meals comprising of fresh fruits and vegetables especially the foods that replenish the stock of lost B-2, B-3 and Zinc. These three substances aid in smooth recovery of skin tissues and also help in healing of acne prone skin. Quitting smoking will put a full stop to continuous damage to the skin and will let facial skin breath again and rejuvenate. One must understand that quitting smoking is a long drawn battle and fighting with acne is a short drawn battle. Both are interrelated to the extent that winning one can aid in winning another. Many smokers are of the opinion that smoking helps in relieving stress. Stress provokes acne outbursts. It must be taken into consideration that smoking provides a temporary relief to stress sand is not a permanent solution to stress. While in stress, human brain activates nervous system to fight back and as a response hormones are released from adrenal glands. Also sebum formation is increased. These two together pile on acne and it becomes difficult for you to fight back. Stress can be combated by meditation and yoga and will go a long way in relaxing mind and aid in overall well being of mind and soul.

Smoking affects all vital organs and must be avoided at all costs. Once it is avoided acne treatment can start and skin will heal in no time with result for all to see.

{How to Reduce Puffiness inThe Eyes}

2011-10-02T14:56:00.000-07:00

Is this a familiar scenario? You wake up in the morning to find your eyes hidden beneath puffy lids? Don't worry, puffy eyes are just a common problem. Minor puffiness - the kind that goes away by mid-morning - is usually caused by body fluids combining in the eye area while you asleep. But once you're up and about, gravity works its magic and drains this fluid from your face.
Causes of Puffy Eyes.
1. Puffiness is caused by the changes in body fluid balance due to some weather conditions.

2. Puffy swollen eyes can also be initiated by an allergic reaction to food, dust or pollen, or due to an allergic skin rash elsewhere on your face.If the allergy isn't treated, this temporary puffiness could become permanent.

3. High blood pressure can push fluids into the tissue surrounding your eyes.

4. Another possible cause for puffy eyes could be eyelid dermatitis - a skin rash that irritates just the eyelids. It affects more often people with sensitive skin.
Eyelid dermatitis is often caused by an allergy to a cosmetic or skin care product and, if the allergies keep recurring, it can result in eye bags. Stop using any skin care product on your face as soon as you see a sign of eye irritation.

5. Puffy eyes may also result if you touch your eyelids after handling substances which you are allergic to, like formaldehyde in paper.
If your eyelids swell frequently from an allergic reaction, the connective tissue in your lids can get damaged. The greater the number of times of allergy and swelling, the looser and more puffy your lids get. So if you suspect allergies to be the culprit, take steps to control the problem immediately.

6. Too Much Alcohol is another reason for puffy eyes. The ingredients here cause your body to retain water in many places, in fact.

What is causing your white puffy circles around the eyes? Take a look at your overall health, physical fitness and your diet. If you can adjust these things, you can help to reduce the occurrences of puffy eyes. Avoiding any of these causes for puffy eyes can help to stop the condition from happening to you.

Home Remedies and tips to help you get rid of puffy swollen eyes

1. Keep your chin up in bed. To prevent fluid from spreading around your eyes, raise your head high with two or even three pillows below your head.

2. Sleep on your back. Snoozing on your stomach can make body fluid head straight on your eyes leading to puffy eyes. So try to sleep face-up.

3. Cut down taking salt. Eating too much salt can cause your body to retain water, which shows up in the thin skin around your eyes. Consider taking a low salt diet to get rid of puffiness. This will have positive effects on your general health as well.

4. Dip a cotton ball or pad in a cup of ice water, squeeze it out and apply it to your lids for five to ten minutes to reduce puffiness.

5. Never sleep with eye make-up applied. No matter how tired you are, make sure that you remove all your make-up and especially the eye makeup thoroughly before going to sleep.

6. Apply makeup remover until the cotton ball shows no traces of make-up. This will keep the oil glands in your eyelids clean and protect your eyes from flecks of mascara or eye shadow that can be potentially irritating for your eyes while you sleep.

7. Cream for puffy eyes - Try a soothing eye cream with Cucumber and Vitamin E, which can be applied to the eyes

8. Increase your water intake throughout the day, water actually helps your body flush out excess salt, drink plain water to avoid adding more salt to your body

{Boost the Immune System with Herbal Remedies}

2011-10-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Colds, cough, rashes, infection and many other illnesses can affect the quality of your life. It is easy to get sick because of viruses and bacteria. Since they are not visible to the naked eye, we don't know if we got attacked by them.
But we are not completely defenseless. Our immune system is constantly working in preventing illnesses caused by micro organisms. However, this system does not always work well. Because of poor nutrition, our immune functions weaken.
But don't worry! With proper nutrition and herbal remedies, you can surely boost the health of your immune system. Here are some herbal remedies that can help you out:

1. Bayberry
This herbal remedy has wonderful tonic effects. It has reliable antibiotic effects so it can prevent or shorten the duration of sore throat, flu, cough and colds.

2. Garlic
What is great about garlic is that you can easily infuse it in your food. There are even restaurants that specialize in making food with predominant garlic ingredients. Garlic can fight up to 30 types of viruses, parasites, fungi and bacteria. It is really packed in benefits. It has astringent properties that can cure skin diseases caused by fungi and bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to clear nasal congestion or skin inflammation.

3. Goldenseal
This herb has a good reputation when it comes to strengthening the immune system. It can effectively get rid of toxins and harmful chemicals in our system. It has a cleansing effect to the body. This herb also has anti-bacterial properties.

4. Echinacea
This herb mainly works in improving the functions of the lymphatic system. As you know, the lymphatic system is related to the immune system. By improving the former, you are also improving the latter. It helps ward off common viral illnesses such as colds. This can also help get rid of Candida micro organisms.

5. Siberian ginseng
This has shown remarkable benefits in improving the vitality and strength of the body. You are less likely to feel fatigued if you take ginseng daily. Siberian ginseng can also prevent common immunity-related illness.

6. Green tea
This type of tea has wonderful body-cleansing properties. It can detoxify your body and get rid of harmful elements that weaken the immune functions. Moreover, it also effectively stimulates the rere eneration of immune cells.

7. Ashwagandha
Is known for its stimulating effect on the immune system

8. Wheat Grass dietary supplements defend the body against infection. If you want to become less susceptible to common illnesses, you should try including herbal remedies in your daily regimen. It is ideal to have a reliable immune system so you can actively participate in all the special events in your life
There is an old saying: When you are in doubt, go back to nature. A natural lifestyle and home cooking with daily exercise is going to prevent many diseases.

{Witches Brew}

2011-09-29T08:05:00.000-07:00

Time to dust off that cauldron and stir up a haunting fun and moisturizing facial treat.
Just what the Doctor ordered for dry,
wart infested skin!

Witches Brew
•Carefully select 10 of your best
dragon tears, (fresh cranberries can be substituted if necessary)
•Extract 1/4 cup of distilled Viper Venom, (extra virgin olive oil can be used in a pinch)
•Place your smallest cauldron over a very low flame and simmer together slowly until the dragon tears have decomposed in the venom
•Meanwhile in a small skull add one large eye of newt, (an eye yolk will do)
•2 tablespoons of coarsely chopped Ogre whiskers, (some facial brews occasionally feature fresh rosemary leaves instead)
•Whisk together with 1 tablespoon of gravestone dust, (in the case of allergic reactions kosher or sea salt are alternatives)
•Strain the contents of the cauldron very slowly into the skull while chanting and whisking vigorously to thicken into a smooth, rich potion and allow to cool a bit.
Apply the bewitched potion liberally with a gryphon feather, (or small facial brush) in an upwards sweeping motion and allow to set for 15 to 20 minutes.
Rinse completely with warmed goblin guts ~ strained of course, (though water will work just as well).

The invisible gremlins inherent in this spooktacular facial recipe have natural age fighting attributes that will fill your cauldron with an enriched facial treatment that will peel years off your skin.

Of course, you will need to chant the magical timeless beauty spell to see a dramatic difference right away. Most would rather not expend that sort of energy and simply prefer to let the natural course of time work to their advantage by frequently refreshing their cauldron with natural age fighting concoctions.

Soon, you will be the envy of all the other covens of witches in the neighborhood.
Just Bo-o-otiful!
Witches' Brew

Witches Brew Punch
For spice syrup
•2 cinnamon sticks
•5 whole cloves
•3 tablespoons finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
•1/3 cup water
•1/3 cup sugar

•A chilled 25.4-ounce bottle sparkling cider (about 3 1/4 cups)
•A chilled 1-quart bottle cranberry juice cocktail
•A chilled 1-liter bottle club soda or seltzer water
•1 cup dark rum if desired

For serving:
•Ice blocks in any shape*

•Make spice syrup:
In a small saucepan bring syrup ingredients to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved, and simmer, covered, 5 minutes. Cool syrup. Syrup may be made 1 week ahead and chilled, covered.
• In a punch bowl combine remaining ingredients and strain syrup through a fine sieve into punch. Stir punch and add ice blocks. Makes about 13 cups.

{Pampered Hands, Younger You}

2011-09-25T15:50:00.000-07:00

Most of us try our hardest to stop the clock in our face, but one of the places that shows aging the most is your hands. You make sure to moisturize, exfoliate and apply sunscreen to your face and neck on a regular basis, but do you remember to do the same to your hands? Chances are good, if you’re like most people, the answer is no. Make today the day that you include your hands in your skin care regime so you can knock back a few years. With regular care, you’ll notice younger looking hands.

1. Wash your hands with a Moisturizing Hand Soap Use a moisturizing hand soap to combat dryness.

2. Use an Intense Moisturizer on your hands nightly to keep them looking young. You can also intensify the moisturizer. Place white cotton gloves on your hands after you apply the moisturizer every night. The gloves will insulate your hands and help the moisturizer to penetrate deeper into the skin on your hands to keep them looking young.

3. Exfoliate once a week to keep them looking young. Use your face scrub to wash your hands. Wet your hands and squeeze a small amount of face scrub into them. Work the face scrub between your hands to keep them looking young. This will also remove dead skin cells.

4. Keep your nails trimmed and your cuticles moisturized. Ragged nails and cuticles make your hands look older then they are. A clear coat of nail polish will make your nails look shiny and young-looking.

5. Wear latex gloves when cleaning. This will protect your hands from harsh chemicals and hot water.

6. Use sunscreen with a high SPF on your hands when you go outside.

Ayelet*:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Rosh Hashanah Dinner}

2011-09-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

If you celebrate the holiday of the Jewish New Year, known as Rosh Hashanah, you are probably familiar with some of the more traditional meals and may be looking for new dinner recipes, here are collective traditional recipes with a new spin easy to prepare.

Spinach Pomegranate Salad with Apples and Hazelnuts- serves 8
• 3/4 cup unsweetened pomegranate juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons roasted hazelnut oil or extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon minced fresh thyme leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 5 ounces spinach leaves (about 2 lightly packed qts.)
• 3/4 cup finely shredded radicchio (from 1 head)
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds*
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 1 large firm-ripe Bartlett apple

• 1. In a small saucepan, boil pomegranate juice until reduced to 1/4 cup, 5 to 6 minutes. Let cool. Whisk in lemon juice, oil, salt, thyme, and pepper.
• 2. In a salad bowl, gently mix spinach, radicchio, pomegranate seeds, and hazelnuts with dressing. Divide among 6 plates.
• 3. Quarter apple and core. Thinly slice crosswise, then stack slices and cut in matchsticks. Arrange pear on salads.
• *Splatter-free seeding: Cut a pomegranate into chunks. Put chunks in a bowl of water, and, working under water, use your hands to break seeds free from pith.

Brisket with Portobello Mushrooms and Dried Cranberries – serves 8
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 cup canned beef or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup frozen cranberry juice cocktail concentrate, thawed
• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
• 1 4-pound trimmed flat-cut brisket
12 ounces medium portobello mushrooms, dark gills scraped away, caps thinly sliced
1 cup dried cranberries (about 4 ounces)

• Preheat oven to 300°F. Whisk wine, broth, cranberry concentrate and flour to blend in medium bowl; pour into 15 x 10 x 2-inch roasting pan. Mix in onion, garlic and rosemary. Sprinkle brisket on all sides with salt and pepper. Place brisket, fat side up, in roasting pan. Spoon some of wine mixture over. Cover pan tightly with heavy-duty foil.
• Bake brisket until very tender, basting with pan juices every hour, about 3 1/2 hours. Transfer brisket to plate; cool 1 hour at room temperature. Thinly slice brisket across grain. Arrange slices in pan with sauce, overlapping slices slightly. (Brisket can be prepared 2 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place mushrooms and cranberries in sauce around brisket. Cover pan with foil. Bake until mushrooms are tender and brisket is heated through, about 30 minutes (40 minutes if brisket has been refrigerated).
• Transfer sliced brisket and sauce to platter and serve.

Israeli Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon –serves 8
1 preserved lemon
• 1 1/2 pound butternut squash, peeled and seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch dice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 3/4 cups Israeli couscous or acini di pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta), about 1 pound
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
• 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 475°F.
• Halve lemons and scoop out flesh, keeping both flesh and peel. Cut enough peel into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1 cup. Put lemon flesh in a sieve set over a bowl and press with back of a spoon to extract juice.
• Cut enough squash into 1/4-inch dice to measure about 12 cups and toss with 1/3 cup oil and salt to taste. Roast in single layers in batches in your largest shallow baking pan in upper third of oven 15 minutes, or until just tender.
• Cook 1/2 of onion in 3 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to turn golden. Add to squash. Repeat with remaining onion and more oil.
• Cook couscous with cinnamon sticks in an 8-qt. pot of boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until just tender, and drain in a colander (do not rinse). Toss couscous with 3 tablespoons oil in a large bowl. Add squash, onion, lemon peel and juice, and remaining ingredients. Season with salt (you'll need a lot) and toss to mix well.

Israeli Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon –serves 8
1 preserved lemon
• 1 1/2 pound butternut squash, peeled and seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch dice
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 3/4 cups Israeli couscous or acini di pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta), about 1 pound
• 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
• 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/2 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 475°F.
• Halve lemons and scoop out flesh, keeping both flesh and peel. Cut enough peel into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1 cup. Put lemon flesh in a sieve set over a bowl and press with back of a spoon to extract juice.
• Cut enough squash into 1/4-inch dice to measure about 12 cups and toss with 1/3 cup oil and salt to taste. Roast in single layers in batches in your largest shallow baking pan in upper third of oven 15 minutes, or until just tender.
• Cook 1/2 of onion in 3 tablespoons oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to turn golden. Add to squash. Repeat with remaining onion and more oil.
• Cook couscous with cinnamon sticks in an 8-qt. pot of boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until just tender, and drain in a colander (do not rinse). Toss couscous with 3 tablespoons oil in a large bowl. Add squash, onion, lemon peel and juice, and remaining ingredients. Season with salt (you'll need a lot) and toss to mix well.

Honey & Coffee Cake
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground clove
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup pure honey
• 3/4 cup lukewarm coffee (brewed, or instant dissolved in water)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons packed grated orange zest
For chocolate glaze:
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons well-stirred canned unsweetened coconut milk (not light)
• 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
• 4 ounces bittersweet (60% cacao) chocolate, finely chopped
• For cake:

Heat oven to 350°F with rack in middle. Generously spray pan, including center tube, with baking spray.

• Whisk together flour, baking powder and soda, salt, and spices in a large bowl.
• Whisk eggs well in another large bowl and whisk in sugar, oil, honey, coffee, and zest until well combined.
• Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the honey mixture, then stir with the whisk until the batter is smooth.
• Pour batter into pan (it’s liquid enough to level itself in the pan), and bake in oven until springy to the touch and a cake tester comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes.
• Let cake cool in the pan on a rack for 20 minutes.
• Loosen cake from the pan with a thin rubber spatula, then invert cake onto the rack (see Cooks’ Notes) and cool completely.
• For glaze:
Bring coconut milk and corn syrup to a simmer in a small heavy pan, stirring until combined.
• Remove pan from heat and add chocolate. Let chocolate stand 1 minute, then stir until chocolate is melted and glaze is smooth.
• Let glaze stand, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly, but still pourable.
• Transfer cake to a cake plate and slowly pour the chocolate glaze over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. If desired, let the cake stand at room temperature until glaze is set.

{How to Determine Your Skin Type}

2011-09-15T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am being asked over and over again by both women and men: I am not sure what to order because I don’t know what skin type I have, do I order a sample of each product, or make a guess.
I help them by asking them to follow just a few simple steps that will help identify and choose the correct products.

1. Wash your face with a skin cleanser and pat dry.
2. Wait an hour.
3. Note whether your skin feels tight or not.
4. Press with 2 separate tissues onto each area on your face: Forehead, outer forehead and nose, chin, center of cheeks and outer cheeks.
5. Examine each tissue and for look for oil residue or flaky skin residue.
6. Interpret the results: Oil on each tissue indicates an oily skin, while oil on only some tissues (specifically on the T- zone which is the center of the forehead, nose, chin and center of cheeks) indicates a combination skin type. Flaky skin residue on all tissues- without oil residue- or tight feeling in the skin indicates dry skin type. No oil and no flaky residue on any parts of the tissues indicate a normal skin type.

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Fall Weddings Handmade}

2011-09-07T15:25:00.000-07:00

Searching for fall flavors I stumbled upon some talented artists who bring creative and unique ideas to Fall Weddings.

JEdwardsImages

Thehoneycomb

WildRidgeDesign

Jcbees

{Fun Fun NYC Style}

2011-09-01T09:15:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be in NYC area this weekend or month there are so many great events to go to and places to visit! The weather is absolutely beautiful and comfortable, you will enjoy every minute of your stay. The Food and Wine Festival presented by Food & Wine, you don’t want to miss it, and it’s a huge event and very entertaining, among the star chefs are Jacques Pépin, Giada De Laurentiis, Emeril Lagasse, Martha Stewart, Daniel Boulud, Alain Ducasse, Sandra Lee, Duff Goldman, Paula Deen, Guy Fieri, Bobby Flay, Anne Burrell, Tyler Florence just name a few.

In 2011 the Culinary Demonstrations and the Grand Tasting will find a new home in the historic landmark at Pier 57, at 15th Street and the Hudson River. As the first public event in this new destination venue, guests will spend an entire day watching culinary demos, enjoying Southern Wine & Spirits of New York portfolio and sampling food from the best restaurants New York has to offer.

Food &Wine

http://www.nycwineandfoodfestival.com/2011/index.php

http://www.forbes.com/sites/larryolmsted/2011/09/01/great-food-wine-event-for-travelers-gets-even-better

US Open Tennis 2011 is always exciting, be sure to get tickets to watch your favorite players, there is always fantastic entertainment and great food, be sure to read what can you bring with you, wear a hat and sunglasses and don’t forget your sunscreen , you will need it.

Even a jaded New Yorker can feel like on vacation here, disconnected from the city’s hustle and bustle.

There are many restaurants to choose from,

http://www.usta.com

http://www.usopen.org/en_US/scores/schedule/entertainment.html?promo=subnav

http://usta.usopen.org/US-Open/attractions

http://usta.usopen.org/US-Open/what_can_you_bring

http://usta.usopen.org/US-Open/dining_at_the_open/

http://www.usopen.org/en_US/about/green_initiatives.html?promo=subnav

This month if full of fun activities in the Big Apple which you can find in this website

http://dguides.com/newyorkcity/events/september

http://dguides.com/newyorkcity/features/broadway-off-and-off-off-broadway

http://dguides.com/newyorkcity/activities/cultural-activities

Enjoy!

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Labor Day Cool Recipes}

2011-08-29T15:38:00.000-07:00

Easy and quick recipes for easy entertaining No Sweat your guests will enjoy every bite

Israeli Potato Salad with Peas and Dill
8 medium Idaho or Yukon gold potatoes,
8 hard-boiled eggs
4 carrots
1 box thawed frozen green peas
0.5 (19 ounce) can pickles, in brine – If you can find small Mediterranean pickles, which have a distinct flavor)
1/2-2/3 cup mayonnaise (or reduced fat works great)
2 Tablespoons of chopped dill or parsley (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste.

Wash the potatoes, and leave the skin, the same with the carrots, place in a large pot and bring to a boil, be careful not to overcook, check with a fork, drain and let cool a bit.
Peel and dice the potatoes into 1/2 inch cubes, and slightly smaller for the carrots.
Peel and dice the hard boiled eggs and pickles.
Combine potatoes, carrots, eggs, green peas, and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, and mix until mayo has incorporated you can add more mayonnaise if necessary, I probably use slightly less than 2/3 cup

Refrigerate, serve cold.

Sabich - Iraqi Jewish Eggplant Sandwich
4 Whole Wheat good quality pita breads
4 hard boiled eggs peeled and sliced
1-2 large eggplants, peeled and sliced 1/4" or so thick
Vegetable/canola oil for frying
2 Plum tomatoes, finely diced
1/2 English cucumber, finely diced
juice of 1 lemon
Hummus (bought or make your own)
prepared Tahina (bought or make your own)
1/2 flat leaf parsley
1/2 Small white onion minced
1 Pickle, cut into small slices or cubes
Amba –Pickled Mango, hot sauce of your choice - Harissa maybe?

1. Make a simple salad of the tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon juice, with salt to taste.
2. Fry the eggplant in batches until tender and browned, drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt.
3. While the eggplant is frying, put each of the other ingredients in bowls so everyone can build a sandwich to their own specifications. Yum!

Watermelon and Feta Cheese Salad
There are many variations on this simple salad, some using fresh sage
or mint leaves instead of basil, some adding black olives or sliced red onion,
some substituting other kinds of cheese like Camembert. This version blends hot and cold, salty and sweet for a new watermelon experience.

Serves 6-8
¼ medium-sized watermelon, regular or seedless
8 ounces feta cheese
1 cup extra virgin olive oil
fistful of fresh basil or sage leaves
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Using a sharp knife, cut the ¼ watermelon lengthwise down the center, and
then away from the rind, yielding two sets of triangles. Remove the seeds if
desired, cover tightly and chill till serving time. Just before serving, place on a large platter with raised sides (so the olive oil will not spill out). Cut the feta cheese into cubes and sprinkle over the watermelon.

Heat the olive oil till hot but not boiling, remove from heat, stir in the basil or sage leaves, and pour over the watermelon and cheese. Season with a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper and serve immediately with warm toasted pita, chunks of fresh country-style bread, forks and a glass of chilled wine.
Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Labor Day/End of Summer Skincare Tips}

2011-08-27T09:24:00.000-07:00

End of summer – A ttransition from summer to fall in your skin care routines. During summer, fun activities like swimming and tanning can strip your skin of essential oils and nutrients that will help to keep skin luminous and vibrant. Skin can become dry, brittle and exposed with blemishes. Going from summer to fall can be a breeze. If your Labor Day plans involve any time outdoors by the pool, on the lake or just soaking in September sun be sure to follow these simple steps.
1. Sunscreen
Sunscreen should always be part of your daily skin care routine, no matter the season. When larger parts of your body aren't exposed, most moisturizers for your face come equipped with high grade SPF for sun protection. Many foundations and tinted moisturizers also offer added protection from harmful UV rays.

2. Exfoliate
Dead skin can make skin look dull and old. Scrubbing off those dead skin cells is one of the best ways to revitalize your skin during this transition followed by a natural mask.

3. Change your moisturizer
If you use a very light moisturizer in the summer you may need to upgrade to a more rich formula now to heal the sun damage and protect your skin from upcoming dry weather. Finding a rich moisturizer that has all natural ingredients is the best recommendation.

4. Healthy inside means healthy outside
In taking the daily recommended doses of water (8 glasses or more) will help to keep your skin healthy. Your best defense against gaining skin and damage to the largest organ of your body is to keep healthy habits. Eating right, exercise and drinking lots of water are great ways to keep skin revitalized year round.

5. Fashion tips to good skin
Hats protect your face from harmful UV rays during the summer and harsh winds during the winter. Pick out some fashionable hats this season and you will find the added benefits of healthy skin under the brim. These can be fun additives to your favorite outfit in addition to the skin benefits.
Keeping up with these five simple steps will help maintain a lifetime of healthy skin and benefits to your body. This will make the seasonal transition easier and without major changes to your skin.

Ayelet *:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Aster and Morning Glory}

2011-08-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

Aster
Many people don't know that just like the stones, each month has a flower or two which symbolizes birth. Here is the history and meaning behind your birth flower, the aster.
The Aster includes 600 species of star shaped flowering plants. The name is Greek, meaning "star". Most of the species are found in gardens because of their showy flowers and petals. The Aster is unique for its delicate purple color suggesting a manner in which these core aspects of the Self are brought to a very high spiritual level of expression. The Aster can also be found in a variety of other colors including blue and white.

The Aster is known for its well defined physical structure and strong integrative features. Because of this it is thought that the Aster has qualities of strength, immunity and integration. Depending on the exact species, Asters begin growing in the summer and continue growing through the fall.
In order to multiply and continue to grow well, Asters should be transplanted and divided at the room every other year. It is best to do this in early spring, keeping the root wet the day before and after dividing it. Doing this will rejuvenate the plant, help with size control and also give you more of them to add to the garden. Aster's grow best in rich wet soil, and can be grown either in direct sunlight or in the shade.

Interesting fact: Legend has it that burning the Aster leaves will keep away snakes. In French tradition it is said that placing the flowers on the grave of a dead soldier is a tribute to his bravery.

Morning Glory
As its name insinuates, the Morning Glory is a flower that blooms in the morning hours. However, by the time the sun has fallen, the flower has died. Each morning will give birth to a brand new flower on the plant. Because they bloom in the morning, they are often pollinated by hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and other daytime birds and insects.
Many species of Morning Glory have seeds that contain LSA which is a drug that is up to 10% as potent as LSD. To discourage the growing of Morning Glory specifically for drugs, some cultivators are treating the seeds before they sell them with a chemical that can not be washed off and will cause vomiting and sickness if ingested.

In Japan the Morning Glory is known as asagao, asa "morning" and kao "face". In China it has been used for medicinal purposes as a powerful laxative. During the Edo Period it because a popular decorative flower. It is often used next to walls as it will grow as a vine, blocking out some of the heat and lowering air conditioning bills in the summer.

Interesting fact: By soaking the flowers from the Morning Glory in water for a couple of weeks you can create a mildly alcoholic wine with a good flavor and mild psychedelic effect. You can add herbs or honey to this to enhance the flavor.

Ayelet*:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•

{Misbehaving}

2011-08-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Many of you have asked me regarding this and what is best for you to use, so let’s first understand what it is!

What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin disorder that affects mostly women, and people between 30 and 60 years of age. Initially it may appear as redness like sunburn on the face, but over time gets darker and may eventually develops bumps and pimples on the face and thickened skin.
Causes
There are no conclusive studies that can pinpoint exactly what causes rosacea. That is partly where there are not yet rosacea cures. Some possibilities that researchers think causes rosacea include:

• Excessively acidic diet
• An immune system disorder
• The helicobacter pylori bacteria
• Stress
• Heredity
• A history of blistering sunburn

Symptoms
Rosacea appears on the face as flushing that looks like sunburn. Later it may develop spider veins and more persistent redness. Some people with rosacea experience pink bumps or painful, pus filled nodules on the face.
More severe forms of rosacea produce thickening of the skin and increased redness. Sometimes the nose becomes swollen. Some of the people with rosacea experience some irritation of the eyes.
Many people who have rosacea are not aware that they have it. All they know is that they have very sensitive skin which tends to break out into a rash.
Here are some tips to help you to minimize your rosacea outbreaks.

• Stay out of the sun.

• Do not clog your pores with astringents such as witch hazel, alum, camphor, menthol, alcohol or very cold water. Also avoid waterproof cosmetics that need to be removed with a solvent.

• Avoid using skin care and personal care products that contain irritating ingredients.

• Avoid heavy exercise and sweating. Instead swim or exercise in a cool room. Warm up slowly and drink plenty of water to cool the body so your race does not flush.

• Do not scrub your face or use exfoliants. Pat dry.

• Use cool water on your face several times a day or a natural face mist.

• Do not smoke, which adds toxicity to the body and makes it more difficult for your skin to heal.

• Get plenty of sleep to let your immune system function well. One of the best natural rosacea cures is to strengthen your entire body so it can heal itself more quickly.

• Use a clean facecloths and towels after each use.

• If you need to cover the facial redness, use natural mineral makeup which does not clog pores.

Diet
Focusing on being healthier in general can actually help eliminate rosacea symptoms.
Eat a low acid, high alkaline which is rich in vegetables and low sugar fruits (eliminates refined and processed foods), can help your body to reduce inflammation which will then reduce your rosacea symptoms.
Fruits rich in Vitamin C and antioxidant Berries such as blueberries, cherries, blackberries are excellent; they help your body to constrict the blood vessels, which may help your skin redness.
Eat cooling foods rather than hot spicy foods. If you're eating cooked food, wait until it cools.

Natural Alteranatives even though there are no proven rosacea cures yet available, there is plenty that you can do to manage the symptoms and keep your face healthy and free from redness, bumps and skin irritation. Here are just a few suggestions for natural rosacea treatments
Cleansing Oil /Massage Oil- increases circulation to the skin and helps it to release toxins and impurities.
Use non-toxic skin care - many skin care products contain irritating ingredients that can trigger a rosacea outbreak.

Zinc Oxide - This is one of the most effective natural rosacea cures. Many people have found relief using zinc oxide, either by itself or in formulation with other ingredients. You can also find zinc oxide in some natural sunscreen products.

{Summer Spell}

2011-08-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

Summers Spell
Summer's eiderdown spins a cotton-scented spell
Of dry tongues swapping secrets, sworn not to tell.
Cold ice cream in buckets, hand-cranked under heaven,
And lies served neat, and bitterness unleavened.

Young girls enraging old, beneath a cranky moon.
Half-worked days, under shade trees at high noon.
Hair bleached by sun, with a lemonade wisp;
Shy, freckled faces; never yet been kissed.

Crops on the vine, ripening till dawn;
Orchard trees and berries, to season life's songs
Of weddings on porches, and babies in cradles.
Long arms, big hands working long as they're able.

The soil made richer, with their sinewy strength;
Under the sun, their children add length.
Though a heartier people never may be found,
Their feet on earth so gentle, they never broke ground.
Patti Masterman

Summer Sun
Great is the sun, and wide he goes
Through empty heaven with repose;
And in the blue and glowing days
More thick than rain he showers his rays.

Though closer still the blinds we pull
To keep the shady parlour cool,
Yet he will find a chink or two
To slip his golden fingers through.

The dusty attic spider-clad
He, through the keyhole, maketh glad;
And through the broken edge of tiles
Into the laddered hay-loft smiles.

Meantime his golden face around
He bares to all the garden ground,
And sheds a warm and glittering look

Among the ivy's inmost nook.

Above the hills, along the blue,
Round the bright air with footing true,
To please the child, to paint the rose,
The gardener of the World, he goes.
Robert Louis Stevenson

{August Moon}

2011-08-11T13:27:00.000-07:00

Harvest
August, with its clouds of scented blooms,
August, with its great stacks of giant clouds,
August, with corn plants standing like rows of soldiers,
August, with watermelons, full and heavy, dozing in the sun,
August.

August, remember swimming in the lake?
August, remember baby Alice daintily eating berries from the vine?
August, remember Richie playing with the goat?
August, remember Donald practicing on his new saxophone?
August.

August, and its lightening laced sky,
August, and newlyweds Pat and Chet decorating their first home,
August, and Billy the Brave, Billy the Fearless, on his two wheel bike,
August, and shimmering memories hanging like drops of dew,
August.

August, the bountiful, August the full,
August, Mama hot, but smiling, over a platter of succulent roast chicken,
August, Daddy mixing her a frosty mint julep,
August, blessed harvest of memories,
August.
Mary Naylor

August Moon
August moon echoes of katydids and
the aroma of the lake that summer not
any special aroma, but somehow that
will always be in my heart along with
the first kiss the evening had in store

Hot summer days, and summer nights
with all the mysterious wonders that
lied ahead of my life each one of them
has left its impact on me till this very day

Being young, and turning into a young lady
from a tom boy certainly had its adjustments
in store for me

Remembering how to dive, wear lipstick, and
falling in love all in one summer's august moon
Bonnie Collins

August
She dreams of August in the singing morning..
When all the little things come out to play,
When every spider's web is sticky, lacy,
And every kid will have the pinkest day.
She fell in love in August as a girl...
His smile was melting smooth like green ice cream,
She wanted him in August and she got him,
He was her love, her every glowing dream.
August takes you back to yellow meadows,
To days when Grandmas made you lemonade,
To nights when how you begged to stay out later,
And afternoons with novels in the shade.
To kittens that you loved
and have forgotten...
To mom and dad who loved you for all time..
To him who waited somewhere in the hot night..
To kisses made of moonbeams..green as lime..
August, sultry August, month of magic....
Dragonflies become you...you are rare,
Fireflys annoint you with their glowing...
August burning month...your love I wear.
Donna Earle

{Back To the Garden}

2011-08-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Look at the beautiful Peaches, they are almost ready for picking, I am not sure but shoudn’t they be ready for picking this time a year? It’s august; the squalls are ready to hunt them down.

I think I am the only one enjoying the taste of the Black Raspberries they still ripening turning form green to almost black, from sour to sweet taste, love them, throw a few on top of your ice-cream or a fruit shake.

Lemon Mint- I just can’t remember if it is - it’s delicious and has a lemony scent and flavor, fantastic for lemonade and salads.

Sugar Baby watermelon is a small variety, can t wait to pick one Yum!

Collard Greens are being picked already over and over again, I Love to eat them steamed with garlic and lemon.

Ayelet*:•♥Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥*:•