Let's make jam!!!!

I love jam.  It's good on toast, with ice cream and on crackers with peanut butter (maybe even some cookie butter.)

I had a ton of blueberries and blackberries and I needed to use them up before I could no longer.

I decided to make jam, because, why not??

Jam is pretty simple to make.  You have fruit, pectin, sugar and possibly some lemon juice.

For this recipe I had 5 cups of the blueberry/blackberry (with 5 TB of fresh lemon juice) mixture.

Here it is cooking for a couple of minutes.

It already looks good.  After it cooks and gets to a rolling boil that can't be stirred down it's time to add the sugar.  I think I added about 5 cups of sugar (and this is the low sugar recipe.)

It's starting to look like jam.  Bring it back to a rolling boil and cook for one minute more. You need to stir this whole time!

During this time I like to heat the water in my water bath (for canning the jam.)  I also sterilize the jars in that water. At the same time, I put the lids and rings in some very hot water to sterilize and get the glue on the lids soft.

Once the jam is done, I used a "canning kit" to funnel the jam into the jars.

After the jam was canned, I cleaned the rims, added the lids and rims and into the bath they went.

Let the water get to a simmering boil, put the lid on the canner and process for 10 minutes.  Once the 10 minutes is up, turn off the stove and let the jars sit for 5 minutes.

After the 5 minutes take the jars out with a jar lifter and place them on a towel, not touching, for 24 hours.  The lids will "pop" down sealing the jars.  After this is done, they can be put in the cubbard for a year I believe until opened.  I don't think they will last that long though. ;)

This batch made 6 half pint jars.

Try it someday, and thank me later.  Keep some, give some as gifts, save some!

-April

The many uses of coconut oil

If you've been reading the blog you will know that I've been researching and trying a lot of new recipes for household and beauty items.

The one thing I have been using a lot is coconut oil.  I have found many ways to use it, and have had a while to try them out.  I would like to share my recipes and reviews with you now.  Keep reading if you want to save money and chemicals in your body.  It's just true, remember, I'm a bad lair ;)

The most simple things I have been using coconut oil for are for cooking and moisturizer.

In cooking in place of butter, mostly:

In cooking I have been very pleased.  I have used it to fry up veggies, in bread in place of butter and to fry up eggs.  Now I have read some reviews online where people don't like it to fry eggs, but I haven't noticed a bad flavor.  They didn't taste like coconut eggs, but I felt more healthy!  In bread I didn't notice the difference not using butter.

All in all I'm very pleased.  Pleased enough to purchase a 54 oz jar from Vitacost.com.  If you are interested in getting a $10 off coupon, click here.  I am not getting paid to endorse them, I am just very happy with the product and love to share!  Also, who wouldn't like 10 bucks off??

Moisturizer:

I really like it for  a face moisturizer.  I won't lie, I haven't been pimple free, like I usually am, but I've maybe gotten 2 or 3 since I started using it.  I can live with that.  I do know that your body does go through a detox period when changing any beauty product, so it might be that.   If you are wondering, I have combo skin.

It could also be because I stopped using traditional shampoo/conditioner for 3 weeks now, and my body's adjusting to that as well.  People call it no poo, but I think that's silly.  Maybe one day I'll will write about my experience, but if you are at all interested, it's going well!

All in all I do like it as a moisturizer, and my skin feels much more smooth.  I use it on my body too, no more store bought lotion!

Deodorant:


I have read a lot about aluminum in deodorant, and I'm not terribly happy about that.  I decided to do some research, and what do you know, you can use coconut oil to make deodorant!

Below is the recipe I've been using.  They claim it's just a deodorant and not an antiperspirant, but for me I notice it works for both.  Just in case, I keep a tiny jar of it in my purse, but I have yet to use it.  I'm doing ok, unless my co-workers are nice and not telling me!

6 TB coconut oil
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup cornstarch

I just warm up the coconut oil and mix everything together.  I leave it in a small jar and just use it with my fingers.  The coconut oil is very moisturizing and it will kill any bacteria or odor.  It's antibacterial and anti fungal.  I'm not a scientist, but I believe the cornstarch is what makes the sweat stay away!  Do be careful though, in the summer it will liquefy due to the oil, but it won't affect the way it works.  I've read of people putting it in empty deodorant containers and keeping it in the fridge in the summer, it's up to you.

Toothpaste:


We all know that baking soda is good in toothpaste, it whitens teeth, but did you know coconut oil is good for them as well?  As I mentioned before, coconut oil is antibacterial, it's also great for your gums.  When combining the 2 ingredients, it gets exciting!  I haven't used this long, but since I have my teeth and gums feel great and I'm liking the results so far.  I will try to update a few months down the line to let you know how it's going.

Equal parts coconut oil and baking soda (I started out with 4 TB each)
25-30 drops of peppermint essential oil

Mix all ingredients together, dip your toothbrush and brush away!

Well, so far that's all I've tried, but I do intend to try more.  If you are interested in trying any of these, please do, and please comment and let me know what you think.

I hope that I have helped some of you to save a little money and your health!

Until next time...

-April

Canning

If you have been reading my blog, you might know that I am in the process of trying to make anything I can homemade (see here for an example.)  Not only do I want to try to save some cash, but I really want to know what I'm putting in/on my body.

Recently my husband told me about a conversation he had with a friend of ours about canned goods.  I won't go into detail, but needless to say, I will no longer purchasing them (I may be a bit over-dramatic, but if you read my last post, you know I like being a grown-up and I can do what I want!) :P

Anyway, I have been wanting to get into canning for some time now, and it seems to be the best time.  I have been all over the Internet learning about it, and it seems I am very close to starting.

I bought a couple cases of jars today and ordered this pressure canner (and got 5% off as well as free shipping using my Target red debit card.  Get one, seriously.) I am SO excited to get this and start canning.

Since we joined the CSA, I am looking forward to trying new things and canning what I like so we can enjoy it when it's out of season.

I think the first thing I will try is canned tomatoes, since we use that most.  I will probably process some seasonal fruit as well.  Let's not forget pickles!  I do love pickles.

So, if you are interested in learning what I am, stay tuned and you can learn with me.

Until then...

-April

Homemade dishwasher detergent

If anyone read the post of my newest obsessions, you will know that I'm trying to save money and our health by making products myself without chemicals.

The first thing I wanted to try was dishwashing detergent. I wanted to try this because dishwasher soap can get pretty expensive.

I've tried only one recipe, and I'm happy with it so far.  I'll keep using it and update if I find something better, but so far this is what I am using:

Homemade dishwasher detergent:

* 1 cup washing soda 

* 1 cup Borax (Borax and washing soda are both natural disinfectants and mild abrasives.)
* 1/4 cup salt (reduces the effects of hard water)
* two packets of lemonade flavored Kool-Aid (ONLY lemon and ONLY unsweetened!)

Mix everything together and use 1-2 tablespoons per load.  I use 2 because I think we have hard water.

If you are looking for an inexpensive rinse agent, use vinegar.  You can also add about a cup of it to the bottom of the dishwasher before washing.  This will also wash your dishwasher as it washes the dishes! Don't worry though, your dishes won't smell like the vinegar.

Coming up: homemade deodorant and toothpaste.

-April

My new obsessions

People, I have to tell you a little about myself.  I have ideas and plans all the time, but fail to follow through, and if I do, it's for a short period of time.  I don't know, maybe my mind can't sit still.


I guess you could say I know a little about a lot of things.  In the past few years here are have been a few things I have picked up, and put down:


Playing piano
Sewing
Making flower pens
Decorating
Gardening
Exercising (I know, this is common, it's still on the list though)
Makeup (buying and making)
Blogging!


I have made a resolution to stick with things longer, and I think I will be happier with myself.


One thing that has been with me for a while now is cooking/baking and making my own products.  I've done a lot of research, and I think I'm ready to take it a bit farther.


Now for the meaning of the subject of this post, my new obsessions.


I have been reading a lot about Coconut Oil and Dr. Bronner's Castile soap.  I will share with you some great things about both of these products, so read on if you are interested in hearing awesomeness!


Let's start with Coconut Oil.  Apparently this gem has been used widely for many many years now.  Who knew!  I'll start with a link to a great site that has good information on it's greatness.


Here are just some wonderful things I have found on the Internet that  Coconut Oil is good for (I'm not sure if I need to capitalize the "C' or the "O", but it's so awesome I will!)

Personally I've only tried making the toothpaste, but you can be sure I'm going to try the rest.


Face moisturizer-  It can also help with skin problems like psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema and other skin conditions.
Stress relief- Massage a bit on your forehead and relax.

Digestion- use it in your food.  Saute some veggies. You can eat it straight out of the jar too!

Fitness- it's been showing to boost metabolism, help your thyroid and increase energy.

Healing- put it on a scrape instead of a topical medicine from the store. It protects the scrape and helps with healing.

Hair Care- it's seriously the best conditioner.  Be careful tough, a little goes a LONG way.

Did you know that it's Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Anti fungal, Antiviral and Improves nutrient absorption??

Eye cream – apply under the eyes to reduce puffiness, bags, and wrinkles. Use on the lids in the evening.
Pre shave – it will prep skin for the pending damage caused by shaving.
Aftershave – it will help heal your skin after shaving without clogging pores.
Deodorant –  alone it can be used as a deodorant, but even more effective in combination with cornstarch/arrowroot powder and baking soda!
Hair Gel/Defrizzer – rub a little between your palms and either scrunch into hair (for curly hair) or finger comb in through from scalp to ends (for wavy/straight hair).
Toothpaste – there are numerous recipes out there but I just mix coconut oil, peppermint oil and baking soda and dab a little of the mix on my toothbrush.
Make up remover – use a cotton swab and a dab of coconut oil and you would be amazed at how well it works!
Chapstick – just rub a little into lips and it not only acts as a softening agent but it also has an SPF of about 4 so you get a little protection!
Massage Oil – pretty simple; grab some and rub!
Lubricant – it is an all natural, perfectly safe personal lubricant. Not compatible with latex!
Stretch Mark Cream – it is great at nourishing damaged skin. It may not be the magic stretch mark cure but it will help.
Diaper salve – very comforting on a rashy bum with no harsh chemicals. Also safe for cloth diapers.
Cradle cap – it will not only nourish your baby’s skin, it also helps eliminate cradle cap. Just rub a teaspoon onto scalp daily.
Body scrub – mix coconut oil and sugar together and rub all over! Rinse off and your skin will be super soft! You can add in essential oils if you would like a specific smell.
Bug Bites – when applied directly to a bug bite, coconut oil can stop the itching and burning sensation as well as hasten the healing process.
Swimmers Ear – mix garlic oil and coconut oil and put a few drops in affected ear for about 10 minutes. Do this 2-3 times a day and it usually works within one or two days.

Insect repellent – mix coconut oil with peppermint oil extract and rub it all over exposed skin. Keeps insects off better than anything with Deet! Tons safer too.
Great for dogs and cats for general wellness. Just add a teaspoon to their water bowl daily.
Goo Gone – just mix equal parts coconut oil and baking soda into a paste. Apply to the “sticky” area and let it set for a minute. Then scrub off with an old toothbrush or the scrubby side of a sponge.
Chewing Gum in Hair Remover – just rub some coconut oil over the stuck chewing gum, leave in for about 30 minutes, then roll the gum between your fingertip. Voila! It’s out!
Baldness – apply three times a day to affected area of hair loss. Coconut oil supports cell regeneration. 

Burns – apply to burn site immediately and continue applying until healed. Will reduce the chances of permanent scarring and promotes healing. 

Mole Remover – when applied after an apple cider vinegar compress for several weeks, moles have been known to “slide off” or just disappear. 

Oily Skin Fix – prone to oily skin or an oily T-zone? Use a pea sized amount underneath makeup or alone to reduce the appearance of oil. 

Improves insulin secretion and utilization of blood glucose making it great for both diabetics and non-diabetic. 

Nausea – rub some coconut oil on the inside for the wrist and forearm to calm an upset stomach. 

Make healthy Magic Shell ice cream topping.

Oil pulling, this site is interesting to find out about it.  I might try it sometime.

For nursing mothers, consuming coconut oil will help increase your milk flow.

If you’re prone to nosebleeds, coat the inside of your nostrils with coconut oil regularly.

Take a spoonful to help with heartburn, acid reflux, or indigestion.

Massage into your nails and cuticles to help strengthen them.

It's also linked to helping with Alzheimer's disease <3

Information compiled from here, here and here.

This is just what I've found so far, I can imagine what more research will unleash.  I'm ready to go buy more!

Now, on to the next obsession, Dr. Bronner's Castile soap.

This wonderful soap comes in 8 scents: peppermint, almond, citrus, eucalyptus, rose, tea tree, lavender and baby mild (for the little ones.) I have only purchased the peppermint scent (because I LOVE peppermint) but I really want to get some rose next.

This is what I have found that you can use this soap for:

Body/face wash: mix with water.

Toothpaste: just a couple drops will do.

Hand soap: mix with water.

Fruit wash: use a bit with a lot of water and wash away!

Dish soap

Disinfecting counter spray

Household cleaner: normally a ration of 1:40, or 1:20 for heavy duty cleaning.

Pet shampoo

Cleaning make up brushes/paint brushes

Washing clothes

Basically you can replace all of your soaps/cleansers with some form of this soap.  Imagine how much money you will save!

I bought a 16 oz bottle for $11 at Target, and from the small amount you need to use in each recipe, it seems it's going to last me quite a while.

I'm thinking the Rose for body wash and hand soap.  Oh, or peppermint... 

I hope this post was helpful to some (or at least one person.) I will make sure to post about my individual recipes and my thoughts.

I will leave you with 2 products that I made this weekend:

First is the toothpaste.  I combined 3 tablespoons each of Coconut Oil and baking soda with 25 drops of peppermint essential oil.  I like it.  It's definitely different, and you can tell there's baking soda in it, but for only having 3 natural ingredients in it, it's amazing.  Coconut Oil is great for your teeth and gums, and the baking soda will whiten and keep them clean.  

The other thing I tried is a shower cleaner.  I needed something to fight the soap scum.  I came across the recipe of equal parts of vinegar and dawn soap.  I sprayed this in the shower and let it sit for an hour or so.  The soap scum scrubbed off so quickly and easily.  I think what I'll do from now on is spray this in the shower a few times a week and just rinse, no scrubbing needed!

Well, there you have it.  An in depth post of my newest loves.

If anyone tries one of these 2 things and loves them, please let me know.

-April