Wednesday, March 11, 2015

DIY Moon Sand Tutorial - Baby Safe

In Maryland we have been hit with storm after storm, so we have had a lot of inside time. Plus morning sickness has taken all my energy. I was looking for something fun and safe for my 18 month old and saw this idea here. I used coconut oil and arrowroot powder both amazing for the skin and safe if consumed. The perk of using these ingredients is that they helped with my dried and crank skin from this harsh winter. I also rubbed it all over my toddlers dried spots, he thought that was fun. Love multipurpose activities. Plus adding Wild Orange Essential oils helped with my nausea (at least for a little bit).

Moon Sand Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2-4 cups cornstarch or arrowroot powder 
  • 1/2-1 cups coconut oil, melted 
  • food coloring, if desired*
  • Doterra Oils for scent, click here for more information

Directions

Step One: Add arrowroot powder or cornstarch to a medium/large bowl. I used arrowroot and only 2 cups. 
Step 2: Melt coconut oil in microwave (I started with 1/2 cup). If you’re using food coloring, now is the time to add it to your coconut oil.
Step 3: Mix all together. I kept adding more oil to make the mixture more play dough like, because I thought my toddler might like that consistency. You do what works for you. Add essential oils. 
Step 4: Play time!!! I laid out a old curtain that had a semi water proof side to help contain the mess. Clean up was a breeze. I first stored the moon sand in a jar, shook off the play mat, and then swept the floor. DONE! 




Tuesday, March 3, 2015

Honey Lemon Ginger Syrup - for colds, flu and just pure deliciousness!


My dear, dear friend introduced me to this stuff. My husband and I just love it!!! Use it sooth throats, clam the stomach, uplift the mood and get a spoonful of honey. It is very easy to make only requiring three ingredients. 

Honey, we use honey from our parents beehives
Lemons 
Fresh Ginger

Step 1:
I don't measure the ingredients there is no need. You will need any size mason jar (we use a Quart size jar, but if this is your first time use a Pint).

Step 2:
Cut up the lemons either sliced or cut into chunks (I prefer sliced to get more surface area of the lemon).

Step 3:
Skin ginger and microplane (basically it grates it very finely). I like a bit of a kick of ginger so I add about 2-4 tablespoons of grated ginger to a Quart.

Step 4:
Layer the lemons and ginger till they almost reach the top of jar (they will condense as the sit in the honey over night).

Step 5:
Pour in honey using a knife to get it to fill all the spaces in the jar. Fill till it covers the lemons.

Step 6:
Put on lid and let it sit for 6-10 hours. Use to make ice or hot tea (simple spoon into cup for in hot water or ice water and add more honey lemon ginger mixture to your liking) or my favorite by the spoonfuls. YUM!!