When I say this isn't suitable for men, I am not kidding. This post is going to be all about relieving female issues. Women still here? Men tune out?
I have suffered with menstrual problems for pretty much my entire life. I got my "gift," young, and it was never on time like a lot of people I know. It could vary up to a week difference every month. When I was 16 I was told my ability to have kids was extremely small. I don't remember exactly why, doctor speak and all. As I got older, the varying in my menstrual cycle got worse. First, it was two weeks. Then, I wouldn't get it for an entire month. Then, I didn't have it for almost 3-4 months. I had some health issues about two years ago and then it started being normal. My doctor even said for some reason, things cleared up. Then, the whole cycle started over. So you can about imagine, the pain and cramps that came with it every time my "gift" did decide to present itself.
Up until recently I would just take 5 Ibuprofen and use a hot pad for a few hours and feel sort-of better. There would still be a dull throbbing, but at least I would be able to walk. Right? I was miserable though. Sometimes I wouldn't even get out of bed, sometimes I would take 8 baths in a day. Anyone know what I am talking about?
Recently, one of a friend's mom, who is really into oils, told me to try Lavender and Clary Sage together. She knew I was getting into using oils, and she is like a fairy Godmother when it comes to the topic. So, I went a long with what she told me to do. I put the two oils right around the area of my abdominal (or lack there of) that I was having pain. Now, the difference wasn't instantaneous. I won't lie about that. It took a while to kick in, much like those 5 Ibuprofen. Not like those Ibuprofen? It actually did take all the pain away eventually. I ended up having to rub some on my back as well, due to pain back there. But, it really worked.
Research! Apparently Sage and Lavender and about 10 other herbs/oils have been used to relieve menstrual cramps for YEARS. I wish I had known this sooner. You would think in the day and age of Google, I would have thought to look up something that would help more. Oh well, lesson learned.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Friday, June 20, 2014
Literally.. Dance in the Rain!
Where I live is a pretty small place. I used to live in a bigger city (Mandan-Bismarck) but we moved for a job. Ever since we got here I have noticed weather here is more tempermental than it was there. Yes, North Dakota has weird weather all the time. At any point of the year, you can hear someone complaining about the weather changing too fast.
For the most part, it has been pretty hot in this part of the state ever since May. This week though, rain after rain and it is still hot so it is extremely muggy. It's making a lot of people crabby, and I can honestly say one of those people was me. Last weekend, Chris and I went to ribfest and it rained the whole time. At first, everyone else was super upset about it so I let that influence my mood and I was sort of crabby. Then Chris and I talked about how, when we were little, the rain never bothered us. We would play in it, dance in it, and it was just another day. So, I did. We finished the whole ribfest in rain and had a great time.
This week it chose to rain all week, but because it was muggy the rain was warm! I sat outside spinning around and looking up to Heaven smiling at God. It was beautiful. I remembered that we need the rain, even if it is making the humidity in the air attack my hair. I remembered to look at the positive side. I remembered, to be a kid again, and isn't that when you were the most natural?
For the most part, it has been pretty hot in this part of the state ever since May. This week though, rain after rain and it is still hot so it is extremely muggy. It's making a lot of people crabby, and I can honestly say one of those people was me. Last weekend, Chris and I went to ribfest and it rained the whole time. At first, everyone else was super upset about it so I let that influence my mood and I was sort of crabby. Then Chris and I talked about how, when we were little, the rain never bothered us. We would play in it, dance in it, and it was just another day. So, I did. We finished the whole ribfest in rain and had a great time.
This week it chose to rain all week, but because it was muggy the rain was warm! I sat outside spinning around and looking up to Heaven smiling at God. It was beautiful. I remembered that we need the rain, even if it is making the humidity in the air attack my hair. I remembered to look at the positive side. I remembered, to be a kid again, and isn't that when you were the most natural?
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Skin Care the Natural Way
I have been telling you all about Essential Oils for a while now. No, I probably haven't found the BRAND I will be sticking with, but I will be using oils for the rest of my life. My latest find is Frankincense and Lavender combo. Every one of us at some point in our life has had a pimple, even if it was just one, that drove us nuts. Now, I will admit to having pretty awesome skin, partially because of good genes, and partially because I have ALWAYS taken care of my skin. It's my one routine. But, I get pimples too, and when I do, they leave scars. No one wants scars all over their face, right? So ... more research! Actually, the credit goes to my sister-in-law for this one. Brit found this lovely cure and "pinned," it for me. (Did I also mention I am a Pinterest nut?)
On to the main event, as they say. After Brit pinned something to her board about getting rid of acne with Essential Oils, I had to try it. There are a couple more than Frankincense and Lavender that you could use, but for the purposes of this conversation, that's what we got. I put a drop of each, not diluted, on a pimple that really hurt last night. It was large and under the skin and right by my mouth. Anytime I talked, yawned, breathed, or whatever, it hurt. When I woke up this morning, even after sweating all night because we forgot to turn on air conditioning, my pimply was almost completely gone. GONE. What the heck? I felt my face, even though they tell you not to touch your face, and I felt a tiny bump but it didn't hurt! I would show you a picture, but I didn't take a before, so all you would see is my face close up. Next time, I swear I will get those shots for you all!
About the brand thing, if anyone has any brands of Essential oils the recommend, let me know! These seem to work really well for topical and aroma, but they aren't digestible. Before you go asking how I put Peppermint in my water on Monday, I will tell you I had a trial packet of it from a friend. HER brand is digestible.
Also, last little tidbit for the day. We didn't put Rose Geranium on my puppy yesterday, and I completely regret that decision! He had to visit the Vet this morning for shots, and they found a wood tick IN his ear, completely engorged. It looked like it would pop if it was there for any longer. My poor baby bled for like 10 minutes after that thing got taken out of his ear. ROSE GERANIUM YOUR PETS! (and yourself, obviously.)
On to the main event, as they say. After Brit pinned something to her board about getting rid of acne with Essential Oils, I had to try it. There are a couple more than Frankincense and Lavender that you could use, but for the purposes of this conversation, that's what we got. I put a drop of each, not diluted, on a pimple that really hurt last night. It was large and under the skin and right by my mouth. Anytime I talked, yawned, breathed, or whatever, it hurt. When I woke up this morning, even after sweating all night because we forgot to turn on air conditioning, my pimply was almost completely gone. GONE. What the heck? I felt my face, even though they tell you not to touch your face, and I felt a tiny bump but it didn't hurt! I would show you a picture, but I didn't take a before, so all you would see is my face close up. Next time, I swear I will get those shots for you all!
About the brand thing, if anyone has any brands of Essential oils the recommend, let me know! These seem to work really well for topical and aroma, but they aren't digestible. Before you go asking how I put Peppermint in my water on Monday, I will tell you I had a trial packet of it from a friend. HER brand is digestible.
Also, last little tidbit for the day. We didn't put Rose Geranium on my puppy yesterday, and I completely regret that decision! He had to visit the Vet this morning for shots, and they found a wood tick IN his ear, completely engorged. It looked like it would pop if it was there for any longer. My poor baby bled for like 10 minutes after that thing got taken out of his ear. ROSE GERANIUM YOUR PETS! (and yourself, obviously.)
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Sickness.... BLAH
Sorry I was out yesterday. I either had food poisoning or the flu.. we aren't sure which. It was sort of a miserable day. I was up at four getting sick and when I went back to bed I didn't wake back up until ten am. Then, when I woke up, I woke up to the dog's tornado that destroyed a whole bunch of stuff in the house. So, to clean up that mess. Then sick again, back to sleep.. Dogs got sick from eating part of a leather couch.. I got sick cleaning it up.. etc. You get it. I don't think I have ever felt worse in my life...
And yet, I woke up this morning feeling better than I have in a couple weeks. Sure, my tummy is still queasy, but my body isn't sore, I'm not stressed about what I forgot to do at work, and I feel extremely rested and ready to go with the day.
Now, I am not encouraging you to go get sick and be miserable. I am, however, encouraging you to take a random day off every once in a while. The pace the world moves at now-a-days is extremely unnatural and with all the stress and little sleep we get, we are harming our bodies but too busy to realize it. If you have vacation days, or even if you don't, take a day and just say ... no. No to the world, no to your job, no to getting out of bed. Trust me, your body will thank you for it.
Have an issue getting yourself to relax? Try Lavender on your temples and the base of your neck. I did it to my husband the other night. I had to vigorously shake him five times to get him to wake up, and he is normally an extremely light sleeper.
Also, for a stomach ache, use peppermint. Trust me on this one! I put three drops of Peppermint essential oil in my water yesterday after I woke up the second time. About three hours later, I felt a ton better and even a little hungry. I ate a salad for dinner last night and it stayed down. :-D
<3 Tif
And yet, I woke up this morning feeling better than I have in a couple weeks. Sure, my tummy is still queasy, but my body isn't sore, I'm not stressed about what I forgot to do at work, and I feel extremely rested and ready to go with the day.
Now, I am not encouraging you to go get sick and be miserable. I am, however, encouraging you to take a random day off every once in a while. The pace the world moves at now-a-days is extremely unnatural and with all the stress and little sleep we get, we are harming our bodies but too busy to realize it. If you have vacation days, or even if you don't, take a day and just say ... no. No to the world, no to your job, no to getting out of bed. Trust me, your body will thank you for it.
Have an issue getting yourself to relax? Try Lavender on your temples and the base of your neck. I did it to my husband the other night. I had to vigorously shake him five times to get him to wake up, and he is normally an extremely light sleeper.
Also, for a stomach ache, use peppermint. Trust me on this one! I put three drops of Peppermint essential oil in my water yesterday after I woke up the second time. About three hours later, I felt a ton better and even a little hungry. I ate a salad for dinner last night and it stayed down. :-D
<3 Tif
Friday, June 13, 2014
...Be Happy
Today's post is probably an unusual one. It is about being happy, naturally. Some of you may have noticed, or not, I am generally in super high spirits. I like to use a lot of ! and I rarely get down about things. If I do it is because I feel extremely under pressure or forget things. To some of you, this may be annoying. However, some of you probably want to be happy and not take life too seriously. So, I will let you know my trick.
First, when you wake up in the morning you have to stretch. I don't know what it is about a good stretch, but it can put a smile on my face faster than anything. Now, I am not saying do toe touchers as soon as you wake up. Actually, I am saying quite the opposite. Don't sit up, don't get out of bed, just stretch out as far as you can lying down.
Second, look outside and thank whoever you pray to for the beautiful day. I don't care if it is snowing and you hate snow. Try to find a reason why the snowfall is a good thing at that moment. Same if it is raining, sunny, or whatever. When it rains, I thank God for supplying the farmer's crop with water. (If you need an example.)
Third, tell yourself to be happy. If you decide you are going to have a good day, truly decide, nothing can talk you out of it. Period.
Last, but certainly not least, don't let other's attitudes about life ruin YOUR day. Here I will give you an example; the other day I was having such a terrible day. Everything that could have gone wrong that day, did. It was so frustrating but I kept telling myself there is a silver lining to everything. Until, someone else's attitude upset me to the point that I couldn't get back from the crabbiness anymore. I sat moping for almost an hour before I realized I was letting that person control me. That's not okay.
Be the best and happiest person you could be every day. Yes, I know the world these days is stressful as heck. However, if you can't find something beautiful in all the chaos around you, what is the point of living? The world isn't a dark place, (unless it's night) but we try to make it. If you have to, think about people who have things a lot worse than you. If you can still maintain your sucky attitude to the world after realizing how fortunate you are, no one can help you. Also, remember you being happy can turn someone else's day from bad to good because of your influence.
One last thing- Good music can also naturally lift your spirits!
First, when you wake up in the morning you have to stretch. I don't know what it is about a good stretch, but it can put a smile on my face faster than anything. Now, I am not saying do toe touchers as soon as you wake up. Actually, I am saying quite the opposite. Don't sit up, don't get out of bed, just stretch out as far as you can lying down.
Second, look outside and thank whoever you pray to for the beautiful day. I don't care if it is snowing and you hate snow. Try to find a reason why the snowfall is a good thing at that moment. Same if it is raining, sunny, or whatever. When it rains, I thank God for supplying the farmer's crop with water. (If you need an example.)
Third, tell yourself to be happy. If you decide you are going to have a good day, truly decide, nothing can talk you out of it. Period.
Last, but certainly not least, don't let other's attitudes about life ruin YOUR day. Here I will give you an example; the other day I was having such a terrible day. Everything that could have gone wrong that day, did. It was so frustrating but I kept telling myself there is a silver lining to everything. Until, someone else's attitude upset me to the point that I couldn't get back from the crabbiness anymore. I sat moping for almost an hour before I realized I was letting that person control me. That's not okay.
Be the best and happiest person you could be every day. Yes, I know the world these days is stressful as heck. However, if you can't find something beautiful in all the chaos around you, what is the point of living? The world isn't a dark place, (unless it's night) but we try to make it. If you have to, think about people who have things a lot worse than you. If you can still maintain your sucky attitude to the world after realizing how fortunate you are, no one can help you. Also, remember you being happy can turn someone else's day from bad to good because of your influence.
One last thing- Good music can also naturally lift your spirits!
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Coffee and Tea
So, one of the major things people ask me since I started doing my whole natural living, and getting back to nature thing is, did you give up coffee? No. I can assure you right now, if I ever had to give up coffee my head might explode. However, I did change how I drink coffee.
I don't add sugar and cream anymore, I don't buy French Vanilla flavored things to overload my coffee, and since I live in an area with no "gourmet," coffee, I don't get a fancy type coffee more than once a month. Basically, I drink my coffee black. Now, for some of you I know you just said, "Oh, I can't do that. I hate the taste of black coffee." I have two things to say to that; One, you don't really like coffee then, you like the super sugary packaging Starbucks and other companies of the like put on coffee. Two, coffee is an acquired taste. No one just woke up one morning and said, "I will ground these beans and this will be delicious." Most times, we start drinking coffee because our parents do, so it is sort of a learned thing. I know I didn't really like coffee when I first started drinking it. I just wanted to be just like my dad. If you drink it every day, you will grow to love the taste.
The other thing is, I started drinking more tea. Green tea, Black Tea, Herbal Tea, it doesn't matter. Find a flavor you like and drink at least two cups a day with a little honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is so good for you, and so natural. There is also a little caffeine in green and black tea so if that is what you worry about, problem solved. :-D
I don't add sugar and cream anymore, I don't buy French Vanilla flavored things to overload my coffee, and since I live in an area with no "gourmet," coffee, I don't get a fancy type coffee more than once a month. Basically, I drink my coffee black. Now, for some of you I know you just said, "Oh, I can't do that. I hate the taste of black coffee." I have two things to say to that; One, you don't really like coffee then, you like the super sugary packaging Starbucks and other companies of the like put on coffee. Two, coffee is an acquired taste. No one just woke up one morning and said, "I will ground these beans and this will be delicious." Most times, we start drinking coffee because our parents do, so it is sort of a learned thing. I know I didn't really like coffee when I first started drinking it. I just wanted to be just like my dad. If you drink it every day, you will grow to love the taste.
The other thing is, I started drinking more tea. Green tea, Black Tea, Herbal Tea, it doesn't matter. Find a flavor you like and drink at least two cups a day with a little honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is so good for you, and so natural. There is also a little caffeine in green and black tea so if that is what you worry about, problem solved. :-D
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Weight Loss Much?
Hey all!
I went to lunch today and in the place I went to they have a scale you can weigh yourself on. Daring to be brave, I said, "Why not?" I haven't weighed myself in a little over a month which is sort of amazing for me. I was always one of those girls who was on a scale every day with no noticeable difference what-so-ever. Ever since I made the decision to get healthy and start eating more natural and nutritious things though, it hasn't seemed important because I have been focusing on health, not weight. Let me tell you how this scene played out.
I left work, (after falling down a flight of steps because I am the most clumsy person in the world) and wondered why I am having such an off week. Now, I am just sore and crabby and my pride hurts. Maybe stepping on that scale was the unhealthy side of me coming out because I was so upset, I don't know. I got on and it seemed like it was taking forever. You know the scale on, "The Biggest Loser," that shows you around eight numbers before it will actually give you the weight you really are? Yeah, it was like that. So now I am crabby, and impatient. When it finally showed me the number, I didn't believe it. I stepped off the scale and tried again. SAME NUMBER..
Wait... but that means ... I have lost 10 pounds in a month ... I am not normally the type of person to share this kind of thing, I swear. Even when I do, I take it with a grain of salt because generally it is like three pounds and mostly water weight, right? I am so proud of that number you guys. I am proud because it means I am getting HEALTHIER, not skinny. You want to know my weight? As of January 1, 2014 I was 272 pounds. I am now 251. I know I have a very long way to go to be truly healthy, but I have never felt more proud of an amount in my life.
So, I guess, my two points of advice for today would be this; Don't step on a scale everyday, it isn't healthy for any part of you, and it isn't natural. Two, going natural and organic truly does make a difference. If you have thought about trying it before and decided not to, I implore you to change your mind. I want you all to feel this way!
<3 Tif
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Dancing and Lawn Jenga?
So last night I posted late, and you guys will never guess why. My husband comes in the house and says, "Hon, come outside you need to see what happened. Please don't get mad at me."
If you have a spouse, or a child, you know those words are the worst thing to hear on a good day.
"What did you do? I am trying to write!" I say back to him. (He has a tendency to not care what I am doing until I am writing.)
"Just come look," he says and starts walking outside.
I literally only had to get outside the front door to see the ridiculously tall "Jenga," that sat on the dirt road in front of our fire pit. "What .. did you doo...?" I ask him slightly surprised, which is even more surprising.
"I accidentally built lawn jenga?" Needless to say I swore I wasn't going to play on principle because he scared the crap out of me for no reason and interrupted writing. I did anyway, and I lost. It lasted quite a while because it was as tall as I am. (5 foot 7) Surprisingly though, it was really fun. Who knew something built simply out of wood fire could be such a blast. We took a ton of pictures so I will post those a little later.
Then this morning, I woke up and felt like dancing. As I haven't randomly danced around the house in quite a while I was sort of happy about this random mood. I blasted Lucy Hale on repeat and danced around the house while the dogs played with each other and the whole world looked beautiful. Nothing is more freeing to your soul than just dancing around and smiling. It is such a beautiful and natural thing. Next time you need a pick-me-up blare a good song and try it. I promise, it truly does help.
So these are my two natural recommendations for today. While neither was something you could eat or drink, or make into a lotion, they both are beautifully pure for your soul! It is definitely something you want to try in the near future.
If you have a spouse, or a child, you know those words are the worst thing to hear on a good day.
"What did you do? I am trying to write!" I say back to him. (He has a tendency to not care what I am doing until I am writing.)
"Just come look," he says and starts walking outside.
I literally only had to get outside the front door to see the ridiculously tall "Jenga," that sat on the dirt road in front of our fire pit. "What .. did you doo...?" I ask him slightly surprised, which is even more surprising.
"I accidentally built lawn jenga?" Needless to say I swore I wasn't going to play on principle because he scared the crap out of me for no reason and interrupted writing. I did anyway, and I lost. It lasted quite a while because it was as tall as I am. (5 foot 7) Surprisingly though, it was really fun. Who knew something built simply out of wood fire could be such a blast. We took a ton of pictures so I will post those a little later.
Then this morning, I woke up and felt like dancing. As I haven't randomly danced around the house in quite a while I was sort of happy about this random mood. I blasted Lucy Hale on repeat and danced around the house while the dogs played with each other and the whole world looked beautiful. Nothing is more freeing to your soul than just dancing around and smiling. It is such a beautiful and natural thing. Next time you need a pick-me-up blare a good song and try it. I promise, it truly does help.
So these are my two natural recommendations for today. While neither was something you could eat or drink, or make into a lotion, they both are beautifully pure for your soul! It is definitely something you want to try in the near future.
Monday, June 9, 2014
Lavender and Mosquitoes
One thing I love about living in the country is how green everything is around me. The tree line only enhances the glow of the lush grass as it sprouts out of the ground. Almost every day is happy in this place. The only thing that sucks is the mosquitoes. Along with the plush grass we get, come blood sucking bugs that make my skin itch night and day. As you all know I recently started using Essential Oils to get healthier and make my life a little bit better.
Something I noticed about using those oils? Lavender seems to repel those mosquitoes. I had it on both of my temples to help with a headache. I didn't even realize until later that night I wasn't getting eaten alive. I thought it was a coincidence but this whole weekend I didn't get eaten by those vicious creatures. So, I started the research just like last time. Apparently, Lavender has been used to repel mosquitoes for a long time. Normally, it is applied just like the Rose Geranium for ticks. Once on the wrists and behind the ears. It worked just fine for me to put on my temples.. then again I was getting rid of a headache!
Tomorrow, I will tell you about lawn Jenga!
Something I noticed about using those oils? Lavender seems to repel those mosquitoes. I had it on both of my temples to help with a headache. I didn't even realize until later that night I wasn't getting eaten alive. I thought it was a coincidence but this whole weekend I didn't get eaten by those vicious creatures. So, I started the research just like last time. Apparently, Lavender has been used to repel mosquitoes for a long time. Normally, it is applied just like the Rose Geranium for ticks. Once on the wrists and behind the ears. It worked just fine for me to put on my temples.. then again I was getting rid of a headache!
Tomorrow, I will tell you about lawn Jenga!
Friday, June 6, 2014
Essential Oil Creations.
Found out something absolutely beautiful! So my husband and I have been researching how to live healthier, right? Essential Oils is pretty much a huge answer.
Live in an area where you have ticks? Rose Geranium is fricken amazing. We have so many ticks in our yard and until we can find an all over solution that will also not bother the dogs, we start small. Only, starting small is sort of the opposite since the magnitude of this discovery was awesome. We read about this amazing "cure for ticks," on a review one board and couldn't believe it but we tried it anyway. Put one drop on your wrists and one behind each of the ears. For some reason, (which I am going to research) ticks hate the stuff! If you want to protect a dog, one at the base of the tail and one drop in between the shoulder blades is all you need. Make sure you do it once a day before you go outdoors, as it doesn't soak into the skin like Frontline for dogs would. One thing I will warn you about with the Rose Geranium, do not do it in a small, enclosed space, like a car. The smell can get too strong and for those that are seizure prone, it could be a trigger. We read about a man who used it on both his dogs and him and his wife in a car and the dog had a seizure until he rolled down the window to let air in.
The other thing I discovered? Lavender oil! Now, I know it sounds sort of dumb, but it actually works for headaches! I have been having the worst headaches this week which I don't understand, because I never get headaches. Anyway, I researched this too. I found multiple people who said Lavender really does work. I ordered and tried it, and they were right. I just rubbed some of it into my forehead and whether it was from the smell or something else, the headache melted away.
We are going to keep trying new essential oils to see what they help with, so stay tuned!!!
Live in an area where you have ticks? Rose Geranium is fricken amazing. We have so many ticks in our yard and until we can find an all over solution that will also not bother the dogs, we start small. Only, starting small is sort of the opposite since the magnitude of this discovery was awesome. We read about this amazing "cure for ticks," on a review one board and couldn't believe it but we tried it anyway. Put one drop on your wrists and one behind each of the ears. For some reason, (which I am going to research) ticks hate the stuff! If you want to protect a dog, one at the base of the tail and one drop in between the shoulder blades is all you need. Make sure you do it once a day before you go outdoors, as it doesn't soak into the skin like Frontline for dogs would. One thing I will warn you about with the Rose Geranium, do not do it in a small, enclosed space, like a car. The smell can get too strong and for those that are seizure prone, it could be a trigger. We read about a man who used it on both his dogs and him and his wife in a car and the dog had a seizure until he rolled down the window to let air in.
The other thing I discovered? Lavender oil! Now, I know it sounds sort of dumb, but it actually works for headaches! I have been having the worst headaches this week which I don't understand, because I never get headaches. Anyway, I researched this too. I found multiple people who said Lavender really does work. I ordered and tried it, and they were right. I just rubbed some of it into my forehead and whether it was from the smell or something else, the headache melted away.
We are going to keep trying new essential oils to see what they help with, so stay tuned!!!
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Dangerous Lessons Learned.
Well, we found out something a little scary yesterday. Unfortunately, it was only after the dog had already eaten something dangerous. Luckily, he seems to be okay so that is good.
We have Bandit outside quite a bit because he is a cattle dog. They are meant to be outside and heard animals. We sit outside with him of course, we don't just let him roam. He is teething and a few days ago he started eating sticks. Everyone told us it was okay so we figured no harm no foul. Then, he started chewing on plants. I didn't know, so I am assuming some of you don't either. Some plants can be mildly, or seriously toxic to dogs if ingested. Rhubarb, one of the family favorites for pies and cookies, is actually pretty dangerous for dogs to chew on. It isn't the shoots, that part of the plant is okay. However, chewing on the leaves can cause drooling, lowered appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, tremors, bloody urine, and changes in thirst and urination. (For more information get a hold of a local vet.)
He seemed fine at first, but this morning he got really warm and seemed to start sleeping more than usual. I called the vet and she said to watch him closely and if it seems he is getting worse to bring him in. So far, he is doing well. He isn't as warm, and he is playing a little more.
This led me to google other plants that may be bad for my pet. I suggest anyone reading this do the same thing. Some of the prettiest flowers can literally kill a dog.
Most days nature is a beautiful and wonderful thing, but you also need to remember like anything else, nature is sometimes dangerous.
We have Bandit outside quite a bit because he is a cattle dog. They are meant to be outside and heard animals. We sit outside with him of course, we don't just let him roam. He is teething and a few days ago he started eating sticks. Everyone told us it was okay so we figured no harm no foul. Then, he started chewing on plants. I didn't know, so I am assuming some of you don't either. Some plants can be mildly, or seriously toxic to dogs if ingested. Rhubarb, one of the family favorites for pies and cookies, is actually pretty dangerous for dogs to chew on. It isn't the shoots, that part of the plant is okay. However, chewing on the leaves can cause drooling, lowered appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weakness, tremors, bloody urine, and changes in thirst and urination. (For more information get a hold of a local vet.)
He seemed fine at first, but this morning he got really warm and seemed to start sleeping more than usual. I called the vet and she said to watch him closely and if it seems he is getting worse to bring him in. So far, he is doing well. He isn't as warm, and he is playing a little more.
This led me to google other plants that may be bad for my pet. I suggest anyone reading this do the same thing. Some of the prettiest flowers can literally kill a dog.
Most days nature is a beautiful and wonderful thing, but you also need to remember like anything else, nature is sometimes dangerous.
Monday, June 2, 2014
Teachings of a Baby
Sorry I have been absent for a couple days. I have decided that I will only write during weekdays, as my weekends get too crazy as of late and I can't even get on a computer half the time, let alone give you guys good, unjumbled, useful nature advice. I did learn a lesson about nature this weekend though.
My husband and I have been talking about getting a baby puppy for a while. He wanted a Blue Heeler and refused to budge on the subject. I don't know if you guys know how difficult a breed to find that is. Unless, you want to pay almost a grand for pure bred, which I certainly didn't. Needless to say, I like to make my husband smile so I found him a Blue Heeler. We picked him up on Sunday and he is adorable. I will include a picture so you guys can see what I mean.
While researching these dogs we found out a couple things; Don't get one as a first dog, They are outside dogs and kennel training probably isn't the best idea, and they are really hard chewers. While Chris and I have both had pets growing up, we have never raised a dog alone so number one CHECK. Chris had planned on kennel training for bed and for when we were at work, atleast until he grows up a bit. Second no-no, CHECK. For the really hard chewing we bought rubber toys that he was not likely to rip up right away. Problem with that, he doesn't even have all him baby teeth yet. He is still gumming his food so he cant even get his mouth around these toys. I realized later that he could grow into these toys so yay, but I felt like a really bad mommy.
So far, everything is going really well with Bandit though. He is biting with the four teeth he has but we have rope toys he can actually chew on now. He is listening for the most part unless he gets around another dog, then forget it. Bandit hates his collar, but what dog doesn't, right? He cried for an hour while in the kennel, but we laid him down beside us and he slept through the night so thank God for small favors. We have decided he won't sleep in the kennel. Bandit gets to sleep right beside our bed on a puppy bed. Last but not least, Chris got up at 1 am to let him out and both of us got up at 5:30 am to start our day with him. YAWN.
So what did I learn? I learned that you have to put someone, or something else's needs before your own to truly get back to Nature. I actually feel more awake and alive since I got up with the sun. I got to see a sunrise for one of the first times since high school, and it was beautiful. So, maybe, I should be thanking Bandit.
My husband and I have been talking about getting a baby puppy for a while. He wanted a Blue Heeler and refused to budge on the subject. I don't know if you guys know how difficult a breed to find that is. Unless, you want to pay almost a grand for pure bred, which I certainly didn't. Needless to say, I like to make my husband smile so I found him a Blue Heeler. We picked him up on Sunday and he is adorable. I will include a picture so you guys can see what I mean.
While researching these dogs we found out a couple things; Don't get one as a first dog, They are outside dogs and kennel training probably isn't the best idea, and they are really hard chewers. While Chris and I have both had pets growing up, we have never raised a dog alone so number one CHECK. Chris had planned on kennel training for bed and for when we were at work, atleast until he grows up a bit. Second no-no, CHECK. For the really hard chewing we bought rubber toys that he was not likely to rip up right away. Problem with that, he doesn't even have all him baby teeth yet. He is still gumming his food so he cant even get his mouth around these toys. I realized later that he could grow into these toys so yay, but I felt like a really bad mommy.
So far, everything is going really well with Bandit though. He is biting with the four teeth he has but we have rope toys he can actually chew on now. He is listening for the most part unless he gets around another dog, then forget it. Bandit hates his collar, but what dog doesn't, right? He cried for an hour while in the kennel, but we laid him down beside us and he slept through the night so thank God for small favors. We have decided he won't sleep in the kennel. Bandit gets to sleep right beside our bed on a puppy bed. Last but not least, Chris got up at 1 am to let him out and both of us got up at 5:30 am to start our day with him. YAWN.
So what did I learn? I learned that you have to put someone, or something else's needs before your own to truly get back to Nature. I actually feel more awake and alive since I got up with the sun. I got to see a sunrise for one of the first times since high school, and it was beautiful. So, maybe, I should be thanking Bandit.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Forgetting Things!
I apologize to anyone who actually reads my blog. I forgot to post yesterday and thought I did because I had the day's idea in my head. Do you ever do that? Think you did something or told someone something because you thought about it to extent? So, here was yesterday's nature lesson for me.
I found out something really cool today. I learned how to spot (some) things that you can eat in the wild if it were needed. These things are edible and to my surprise, taste rather amazing! I will list my two favorites here and you guys can tell me if you are willing to try them or if you refuse to based on principal.
First, Dandelions. I know, I know, gross. They surprisingly aren't. I learned two things about Dandelions. The leaves, which don't look real inviting, can be used as a salad. All you have to do is pick the leaves. They will have sort of a sour taste because as you can imagine, dandelions are strong. To get rid of this, boil the leaves and then lay them to dry. An hour later, voila! I promise you it tastes just like salad, and I didn't load it down with dressing before you ask. I tried it with barely any so I could see how it actually tasted. The second thing to do with dandelions, is use the flower(or weed, however you look at them) and roots for tea. Wash them off really well, unless you don't mind the extra protein from bugs. ;-) Let the roots dry before continuing. Grind both the flower and roots up and put in two-three pints of water. Bring the water to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Add a tsp of baking powder and mix. Let it cook for 25 minutes and add a little cinnamon! It is really good.
Second, Nettles, also known as Stinging Nettles. Now you all think I am really crazy. Once picked, they lose their "stinging," quality. Okay, so you will want to pick these with a glove or something to prevent yourself from touching them. After you get them picked, wash the leaves and get rid of the stems. Put them in boiling water for 5 minutes, or until the leaves look sort of wilted. Get rid of excess water and you have a salad. No, I am not kidding.
So now I am learning to eat directly from the earth. There is something amazing about getting back to nature!
I found out something really cool today. I learned how to spot (some) things that you can eat in the wild if it were needed. These things are edible and to my surprise, taste rather amazing! I will list my two favorites here and you guys can tell me if you are willing to try them or if you refuse to based on principal.
First, Dandelions. I know, I know, gross. They surprisingly aren't. I learned two things about Dandelions. The leaves, which don't look real inviting, can be used as a salad. All you have to do is pick the leaves. They will have sort of a sour taste because as you can imagine, dandelions are strong. To get rid of this, boil the leaves and then lay them to dry. An hour later, voila! I promise you it tastes just like salad, and I didn't load it down with dressing before you ask. I tried it with barely any so I could see how it actually tasted. The second thing to do with dandelions, is use the flower(or weed, however you look at them) and roots for tea. Wash them off really well, unless you don't mind the extra protein from bugs. ;-) Let the roots dry before continuing. Grind both the flower and roots up and put in two-three pints of water. Bring the water to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Add a tsp of baking powder and mix. Let it cook for 25 minutes and add a little cinnamon! It is really good.
Second, Nettles, also known as Stinging Nettles. Now you all think I am really crazy. Once picked, they lose their "stinging," quality. Okay, so you will want to pick these with a glove or something to prevent yourself from touching them. After you get them picked, wash the leaves and get rid of the stems. Put them in boiling water for 5 minutes, or until the leaves look sort of wilted. Get rid of excess water and you have a salad. No, I am not kidding.
So now I am learning to eat directly from the earth. There is something amazing about getting back to nature!
Monday, May 26, 2014
Walk With Purpose.
I told you all how one of my pledges was to get into shape and be healthy again. I started another part of accomplishing that today. My husband and I went for what was supposed to be a stroll for two miles on a gravel road by our house. As I was walking I kept looking at Chris who looked utterly bored. So, before I knew it I said "Go," and took off full sprint toward a road sign. He seemed confused at first but soon caught up, and passed me. Instead of getting discouraged, I closed my eyes and tried a little harder. Eventually, I made it to the sign and I felt a little proud.
On my way back I told Chris to make me jog from a cross section all the way to my house and not let me stop. He took his job seriously, acting as a drill sergeant of the highest command and when I slowed he yelled and got behind me pushing me on. When we got back a friend asked if I was being chased by a Tiger so my face must have been redder than red.
I am not the type to brag about exercise because, lets face it; those times have been few and far between lately. So, why do I insist on telling you about this experience? One, the entire experience was on two miles of pure nature. There was no gym, there was no treadmill, there weren't even paved streets. I was in nature and it felt so good to hard breathe that beautiful clean air. Second, in order to get back to nature you have to get back to the real you. I am here to tell you, you can't do that without a little exercise along the way. Hopefully, that exercise is natural, and outside, because you won't regret it.
On my way back I told Chris to make me jog from a cross section all the way to my house and not let me stop. He took his job seriously, acting as a drill sergeant of the highest command and when I slowed he yelled and got behind me pushing me on. When we got back a friend asked if I was being chased by a Tiger so my face must have been redder than red.
I am not the type to brag about exercise because, lets face it; those times have been few and far between lately. So, why do I insist on telling you about this experience? One, the entire experience was on two miles of pure nature. There was no gym, there was no treadmill, there weren't even paved streets. I was in nature and it felt so good to hard breathe that beautiful clean air. Second, in order to get back to nature you have to get back to the real you. I am here to tell you, you can't do that without a little exercise along the way. Hopefully, that exercise is natural, and outside, because you won't regret it.
Sunday, May 25, 2014
Hard Day's Work
I look down at my body and I have cuts all over, my skin is more dirt than skin, and my socks are black. No, they didn't start that way, they were white. I am sticky all over and can feel so many knots in my hair I doubt it will ever come untangled again. Yet, somehow, I feel more at peace than I have in months.
I spent my day, along with my husband, outside pruning trees, yanking roots of weeds out of the ground, raking remaining leaves, and staring at the sky asking why the heck it needed to be 90 degrees while I did all these things. I know, I know, the first one that complains about the heat... The fact remains, had I been sitting on my butt doing nothing, I wouldn't have. However, getting off topic here, I was working my butt off.
A little background into my life; I grew up a military brat, and then a "city," brat. If you can call Mandan, North Dakota a city, that is. I do remember doing some hard work when I was little, and I remember climbing trees. However, I guess that "city," side got the better of me and I can honestly say I haven't done real hard work like I did today, in quite a while. My husband and I just moved into a house in the country not too long ago, and it takes a lot more work than an apartment. We made a pledge to each other to grow our own food and to do more work outside. We also made a pledge to start taking care of ourselves.
The reason I tell you all this isn't to bore you. It is to inform you that doing a hard days work is one of the most beautiful ways to get back to nature. You drink more water because you get so thirsty it is the only thing that will quench the burn in your throat. Pulling weeds give you this sense of pride you don't experience from run-of-the-mill jobs. Pruning your trees makes you happy because you know they are getting healthier without all the dead things hanging all over. Climbing trees gives you that invincible feeling you had when you were 10 again, as my husband and I experienced today. Nature is just a beautiful thing and a perfect Endorphin raiser when you need one. When I go to bed tonight, I will know that I did the most with a day as I could and I got to enjoy beautiful nature around me.
I would stay longer, but we need to have a fire to burn all those branches we pruned. Catch you soon!
I spent my day, along with my husband, outside pruning trees, yanking roots of weeds out of the ground, raking remaining leaves, and staring at the sky asking why the heck it needed to be 90 degrees while I did all these things. I know, I know, the first one that complains about the heat... The fact remains, had I been sitting on my butt doing nothing, I wouldn't have. However, getting off topic here, I was working my butt off.
A little background into my life; I grew up a military brat, and then a "city," brat. If you can call Mandan, North Dakota a city, that is. I do remember doing some hard work when I was little, and I remember climbing trees. However, I guess that "city," side got the better of me and I can honestly say I haven't done real hard work like I did today, in quite a while. My husband and I just moved into a house in the country not too long ago, and it takes a lot more work than an apartment. We made a pledge to each other to grow our own food and to do more work outside. We also made a pledge to start taking care of ourselves.
The reason I tell you all this isn't to bore you. It is to inform you that doing a hard days work is one of the most beautiful ways to get back to nature. You drink more water because you get so thirsty it is the only thing that will quench the burn in your throat. Pulling weeds give you this sense of pride you don't experience from run-of-the-mill jobs. Pruning your trees makes you happy because you know they are getting healthier without all the dead things hanging all over. Climbing trees gives you that invincible feeling you had when you were 10 again, as my husband and I experienced today. Nature is just a beautiful thing and a perfect Endorphin raiser when you need one. When I go to bed tonight, I will know that I did the most with a day as I could and I got to enjoy beautiful nature around me.
I would stay longer, but we need to have a fire to burn all those branches we pruned. Catch you soon!
Saturday, May 24, 2014
Peace of a Puppy
Well, last night was difficult for me. My family dog of thirteen years got sick and we had to put him down. I cried for a half hour and I still tear up a little. However, talking to my mom led me to a realization; I need to be happy he's gone. Before everyone starts calling me a monster, I will explain why.
My dog was in pain, he couldn't even stand to pee anymore. He couldn't get up steps, he was thinning out extremely fast, and he just looked tired. Wishing I could keep him here is extremely selfish of me. He went to a better place last night and I was crying because he left me.
I thought of all these things, and then I felt at peace because I realized he is at peace. I sent up a prayer that he chase my housecat who also is deceased around Heaven. I thanked him for being a wonderful puppy, and I took a deep breath.
My husband of course ended my acceptance with a wonderfully cheesy joke and I thank him for that. He said "Don't worry honey, all dogs go to Heaven. Haven't you seen the movie? Sheesh."
And with that, I am smiling again.
Friday, May 23, 2014
Beauty of a Bee
I was sitting in my yard yesterday and a bee started swarming around my head and like a typical person, I jumped and ran. As I was running though, for some reason I stopped and looked at it. I remembered this article I had read in a natural health magazine where an actress said that bees are so beautiful and you never really see them anymore. Those words ran in my head and I watched as this little bee landed on me. He must have gotten bored of me because he flew away but I kept thinking, "I really hope he doesn't sting me." That thought led me to another thought that was both beautiful and terrifying to me. Bees only sting once because once their stinger is gone, they die.
Can you imagine that for a second? It is allowed to be completely free and fly, create honey, and build massive hives, but should it harm another being, it dies. Could you imagine if that were the case for humans? We would have gone extinct by now. Think back on your life and try to tell me, or yourself, that you never harmed another soul. I know I can't do it, and I am guessing you can't either.
I think we all need to start thinking like we are bees. We shouldn't harm others emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Maybe remembering the life of a bee will help us force ourselves to stop next time we even think a harmful thought. I know I will.
Can you imagine that for a second? It is allowed to be completely free and fly, create honey, and build massive hives, but should it harm another being, it dies. Could you imagine if that were the case for humans? We would have gone extinct by now. Think back on your life and try to tell me, or yourself, that you never harmed another soul. I know I can't do it, and I am guessing you can't either.
I think we all need to start thinking like we are bees. We shouldn't harm others emotionally, physically, or spiritually. Maybe remembering the life of a bee will help us force ourselves to stop next time we even think a harmful thought. I know I will.
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