Curative Powers

I've been hearing some hints of a runny nose around these parts.  Some post-nasal-drip clearing of the throat.  The voice sounding a little scratchy, some snorting.  And this year I want to be PREPARED.  I want an arsenal of natural remedies with curative powers that I can call upon at the first glimpses of illness.

Last week I made Elderberry Syrup.  Elderberries are a powerhouse of good medicinal compounds and used as a preventative medicine can help boost the immune system.  I used this recipe from Meadowsweet Herbs.  It turned out delicious, and a little more runny than traditional cough syrup.  I have been giving it to our whole family everyday, one tablespoon for adults, and one teaspoon for kidlets.  I feel like it really helps, and I'm pretty psyched that I made it in my own kitchen, and I know every ingredient in it.  No harsh chemicals, just plain ole elderberries and honey.

I'd like to make some chest rub next, and maybe some sort of bath bomb for sickies.  Any of you have any magical potions that you use to keep your kids healthy?  I'd love to hear about them.

Elderberry Dresses

I'd like to give October a warm, friendly, inviting and sincere welcome.  I'm psyched to see October, he/she is a truly beautiful month.

Leaves are falling to the ground, mornings are chilly, days are hot.  Andy is pressing nine million gallons of cider.  Honestly, he is probably spending a good twenty or more hours per week doing something apple related.  I'm ok with it because it means I will get to drink tasty cider during the winter months, AND I can use some of it to make apple cider vinegar, and cider jelly.  Both are totally new for me, and both seem totally easy.  Famous last words.


Something I did do, and is totally easy is making Elderberry Syrup.  I got the recipe from the Meadow Sweet Herbs website.  This store is local and has every natural remedy, herb, tincture, salve etc. you need to keep your family healthy.  I now have several jars of it, and am actually looking forward to the first cough that escapes someones lips onto an unassuming family member, so that I can test the stuff out.  Maybe we'll go hang out at the mall to better our sick getting chances.  kidding.  of course.

I am a total dork for this witch doctor stuff though.  I love the idea of making our own medicine.  I recently ordered some facial oil from Angry Chicken, and I really love it.  She uses amazing oils, it smells super good, and probably the best part - she did a "magical incantation" on it, promoting radiance and confidence!  I really love that.

I made a dress recently, and it is only the third thing that I have made for myself that I actually like on.  And, I have made a lot of garments for myself. 

I like the neckline, the fit, and the comfort.  I even slept in it and it was really comfortable.  Also, it is simple, simple to make.  It would probably be very cute in a light weight wool for winter as well, with tights and a sweater.  Or perhaps long sleeve shirt underneath? 

Looking forward to some rain and cooler temps to keep us inside for a few days.  Happy Wednesday!