Laundry Detergent

I usually have more time than money, and laundry detergent is very expensive, so I make my own.  Earlier this year I didn't have the time to make any, so I bought Tide.  It smells great, it's suppose to be the best, it lived up to my expectations...almost.  After a few washes I noticed my clothes and sheets we starting to fade, quickly. So back to making my own chemical free version. 
Here's the recipe:

Ingredients all can be found in the laundry section of most stores:
1/3 Fels Naptha or 1/2 bar Ivory soap
1/2 cup 20 Mule Team Borax
1/2 cup Washing Soda (not baking soda-you will not achieve the same results I've tried)
Water
1/2 ounce essential oil (optional, for scent)

You will need an old 6 quart pot, a wooden spoon, cheese grater, a funnel, and three-one gallon containers, such as empty, washed, milk jugs, or a three gallon bucket, etc.

Place 6 cups hot water in pot.  Grate bar soap into water and heat on medium, stirring until dissolved.  Add borax and washing soda.  Remove from heat.  Add 3 cups cool water, stirring mixture until it has started to thicken.  Add water filling the pot to the top.  Continue stirring.  Add 1/2 ounce essential oils.  Once mixture has cooled pour even amounts into your gallon jugs using the funnel.  Fill the jugs almost to the top with warm water.  Shake regularly as it tends to separate.  Use 1/4 to 1/2 cup per laundry load.  This homemade laundry soap is low sudsing, and works well in cold water.

Costs not including tax:
3 1/2 pounds Arm & Hammer Washing Soda       $2.77
5 pounds 20 Mule Team Borax                            $2.98
3 pack Ivory Soap                                               $1.49

Total:                                                                   $7.24

You use a fraction of how much is bought.  These products will go a long way!

Take Care! Pamela Healing Essence Massage

Happy Spring!!??

I know, I know, all of us Minnesotans are in need of a nice day!  Waking up to snow AGAIN was not the most pleasent way to start an April day but keep smiling and know that Mother Nature is planning to pay us back with the BEST SUMMER EVER!!!  ( Yes, I know this to be true as I had a long talk with her about it!) 
The nice weather is just around the corner and the Farmers Market opens for the season in just 2 weeks!  Our little plants are growing fast and will be ready soon to be put in the garden!  My flowers are popping out of the ground proudly showing off the healthy green leaves and I have already enjoyed some fresh chives that came in like clockwork!  So hears to the the Sun and the days ahead! 

Enjoy the day!!  Even if the rain continues, go out and enjoy it!  (Or stay warm and dry inside and watch your kids out the window ;0)

Lisa Fahey
www.speikercompany.com

Amazing

No wise words to share, just a photo to remind you that our Earth is amazing!

Have a most wonderful day!
Lisa Fahey
www.speikercompany.com

Real weight loss journey

I read a beautiful article that I wanted to share with you all.  A story of a woman and her struggles to loss weight and a really good example of how emotions play a part in weight loss and weight gain.  A reminder that it's never to late to make a change in your life and that anyone can do it.

http://www2.tbo.com/content/2011/apr/06/061001/largo-womans-240-pound-weight-loss-highlights-ment/

Happiness,
Sarah Bran de Leon
www.calmwatershypnosis.com

FACES Who Are We?

"Faces Who Are We?" is an interactive children's book that celebrates individuality of children, yet reminds us that we are all human beings. It is available from Bridging the Universe.

Heat vs. Ice

How do you know when to use ice or heat?  No matter who you ask, everyone has their own take on this subject.  Here are a few suggestions.

If you experience general aches and pains, heat is a great choice.  It helps the blood vessels and veins to dilate or open up.  Speeding up healing through increased circulation, and faster delivery of nutrients and removal of toxins.

On the other hand, if you have a sudden onset of pain... you wake up one morning and cannot turn your head, you over used your low back by gardening to much for to long, you painted a room and your forearms and hands are sore, or you sprained a joint such as you ankle or knee...you should apply ice(and if this pain is severe, always consult your physician).  Ice will help constrict or reduce blood flow and reduce swelling and inflammation.  Apply ice for 24-48 hours until the pain subsides dramatically.

When applying heat and ice always use the 15 on 15 off rule: apply heat/ice for 15 minutes, then remove heat/ice and allow to rest for 15 minutes.  Repeat as needed.

Have a wonderful weekend! Pamela Healing Essence Massage