The Fragrant Muse

Aromatic Wisdom Institute,School of Creative Aromatherapy...Open and Busy!

2011-05-04T09:09:00.009-04:00

On March 30, 2011 my new school Aromatic Wisdom Institute, School of Creative Aromatherapy opened its doors with a 235-hour Aromatherapy Certification Program (ACP).

Photos are few because I'm busy instructing rather than being the photographer, but here are a few scenes from the current program:

Making Luscious Body Butters

Bottles, Jars, Carriers, Lotions, Hydrosols
and other goodies for blending!

AWI, School of Creative Aromatherapy
Entrance

No class would be complete without Sassy

Natalie making a Lip Balm

Learning to Formulate Therapeutic Blends

Reading Datasheets and GC/MS reports

Chemistry!

ACP Training Dates Fall 2011
Week 1: September 14-18
Week 2: October 12-16
Week 3: November 9-13

Registration is now open for the Fall Program

Happy Easter from.....

2011-04-24T10:06:00.001-04:00

Fragrant Affirmation: Focus on Goals

2011-03-11T08:03:00.007-05:00

Fragrant Affirmation for March 11
"My energy is focused and directed toward my goals."
"Nothing can hold me back now!"

Supporting Essential Oils

Rosemary for promoting self-confidence and will power
Basil for mental concentration and allowing full attention

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You can purchase these essential oils at Liz's Garden Aromatherapy

Fragrant Affirmation: Permission to Dream

2011-03-10T08:03:00.000-05:00

A scene from one of my personal fantasies realized: A Fairy Garden

Fragrant Affirmation for March 10
"I give myself permission to daydream,
to explore my fantasies and listen to my creative self."

Supporting Essential Oils
Clary Sage for Increased intuition and creativity
Frankincense for meditation and messages from higher self
Sweet Orange for stimulating 2nd chakra creativity and encouraging optimism

Fragrant Affirmation for March 9th

2011-03-09T07:37:00.001-05:00

Fragrant Affirmation for March 9th
My body is getting stronger, slimmer, and healthier every day.
Movement is easy and exercise is fun!

Supporting Essential Oils
Clove Bud for Motivation
Juniper Berry for Detoxification
Black Pepper for Sore muscles
Marjoram for Sore muscles

In this recent post, I mentioned I'd be posting a daily Fragrant Affirmation on both Twitter and Facebook. I received an email from a reader who asked that I post these on my blog too, since she doesn't use either of those social media sites. Her request made me see that by posting them only on FB and Twitter, I was withholding these daily goodies from the very people I was writing to!

Therefore, I will be posting the daily Fragrant Affirmations here at The Fragrant Muse blog until such time that I create a sign-up box on my blog for readers to receive them daily by email.

To purchase these oils just go to Liz's Garden Aromatherapy

International Woman's Day Fragrant Affirmation

2011-03-08T11:19:00.009-05:00

These beautiful women of Aromahead
are stepping out in the world

and embracing their purpose as rockin' Aromatherapists!

Fragrant Affirmation for Tuesday, March 8th:
INTERNATIONAL WOMAN'S DAY!

"I was born naturally creative and resourceful with my own special gifts.
It is safe to let go of what I don't need and
step out into the world and embrace my purpose!"

Supporting Essential Oils: Rose and Bergamot for love, Vetiver for trust, Black Pepper for courage. Now go make yourself a beautiful blend, step out into the world...and embrace your purpose!

That's me stepping out into the world as Nana
so that I may share my gifts with The Bean.

To purchase today's oils click below:
10% discount for member of NAHA, free shipping with $75 or more
Bergamot

Black Pepper
Rose
Vetiver

New Feature: Daily Fragrant Affirmations

2011-03-07T06:18:00.009-05:00

I am now posting a daily Fragrant Affirmation with a recommended essential oil to support the message. These Fragrant Affirmations will appear every morning at 9:00 a.m. EST on the Liz Fulcher Facebook page, Liz's Garden Aromatherapy FB page and Twitter @LizFulcher.

Affirmations are positive statements that help focus your awareness on your power and ability to create what you want. They are stated in the present tense, such as "I have unlimited abundance." Your thoughts and feelings create your reality, and as you say these positive statements to yourself, you can begin to create them as true. This definition comes directly from the Orin & DaBen Affirmation Room.

If there is a specific area where you'd like to see an affirmation with a supporting aromatic, email me at liz@lizsgarden.com

Enjoy and Fragrant Blessings to You!

Natural Soft Scrub: So Easy, a 3-Year Old Can Make It!

2011-03-02T07:21:00.007-05:00

You knew this post was going to be about The Bean, didn't you?

Two weeks ago I taught a workshop called "Spring Cleaning, Naturally" where we made all natural cleaning products using baking soda, white vinegar, castile soap and essential oils. The class made a disinfectant spray, soft scrub and hand soap. We had a blast!

When my grandson - whom we affectionately call "The Bean" - came to visit last weekend, I thought making an aromatic and healthy soft scrub for him to give his parents would be a fun indoor activity. The weather is still yukky here in PA and I'm always looking for indoor activities that we can enjoy together. This one rocked!

Below is the recipe and some photos from our morning in the kitchen.

1 C Baking Soda
1 Tablespoon White Vinegar
4 Tablespoons of Organic Liquid Castile Soap
30-40 drops of essential oil.
In our recipe, we used: 10 dr May Chang, 10 dr Peppermint, 15 dr Scotch Pine
When working with small children, please supervise closely because getting any of these essential oils in the eyes or nostrils will burn. If that happens, use olive oil to remove the essential oil rather than water.

No matter how messy this project gets, it's a breeze to clean up!

Okay buddy, I think we've packed that one full enough.

When he was finished, Nana (that's me), tidied the jars and rinsed everything off. I added extra castile soap to the one on the left and will use it to scrub dirty pots. This is such an easy project that doesn't take too long (keeps their attention) and ends with a useful creation they can be proud of.

Of course....when you're done, get the kids to clean the bathroom with their creation!

Wishcasting My Perfect Home

2011-02-23T11:04:00.022-05:00

It's been ages since I've played at Jamie Ridler Studios but I couldn't resist today's Wishcasting Wednesday prompt:

What do you wish for your home?

Years ago I learned that writing out desires helps clarify exactly what you want and assists the subconscious mind in manifesting it. So today, I'm sending out my order to the Cosmic Kitchen and letting the Universe begin to create the perfect home for me and my family!

Here are some components of my perfect home:

A wood or long home with one floor living (no more upstairs/downstairs)
My home has an attached teaching space OR....

...the teaching space is in a charming cottage behind the house.

The school has a large island in the kitchen where students create
aromatic body butters, lip balms, candles etc.
The space includes a "cold room" for essential oil storage.

My home has a large kitchen/family room
for fun gatherings of friends and family.
I must include a fireplace for cozy winter naps on the couch!

My dream home has a creative space full of natural light
where Musie and The Bean can be creative.
Here we write, paint, soulcollage and make joyful messes!

There is certainly a babbling stream or brook.
I love the sound of moving water.

And I have a colorful garden where I grow aromatic herbs and flowers and sometimes hide and have quiet time with my books.

...and so it is.

Kaleidosoul Tele-Class Tonight!

2011-02-22T16:32:00.011-05:00

I am SO excited! I've been invited by Anne Marie Bennett of Kaleidosoul to present a one hour teleclass tonight on Aromatherapy and SoulCollage®. The call will be at 7:00 p.m. EST and it's called: Discover your Fragrant Muse™: Celebrating Aromatherapy and SoulCollage®

I will be sharing simple techniques for connecting with plant energies and ideas for creating and using aromatically-inspired SoulCollage® cards.

The call is free for Kaleidosoul Kindred Spirit Members, but only $10 for non-members. If you miss the call, don't worry, Anne Marie records all her tele-classes!

HELPFUL LINKS FOR THE TELECLASS
1. To sign up for tonight's tele-class

2. To see the Fragrant Muse SoulCollage® cards I'll be discussing

3. To see all my Fragrant Muse SoulCollage® cards on Flickr

4. To see photos of aromatic plants and descriptions of essential oils on my website.

5. To order organic, pesticide-free essential oils www.lizsgarden.com

6. To read my December 2010 blog interview with Seena Frost

7. To read the May 2010 Neter Letter article about my cards

8. To sign up for aromatherapy classes www.aromaticwisdom.com

Starting 2011: My Ten Core Values. Repost with Yours!

2011-01-03T09:54:00.000-05:00

After reading this post from Donna Maria's Indie Business Blog, I felt inspired to write my own list of personal core values. Identifying your deepest values can give you a "life-direction compass"and help you determine if you're on the right path or way off. If you're spending time and energy on activities that are not in alignment with your list of core values, you'll end up feeling burned out, resentful and exhausted.

What are personal core values? A value is a principle, standard, or quality considered worthwhile or desirable. In a nutshell, what you hold important in your life.

How about doing a repost with your list of personal values? Declaring them a good way to get clear about what you hold important - especially if you're setting goals for the New Year.

MyVisionPortal.com gives a good Personal Core Value List which you may find helpful if you need some guidance in finding out what your personal values are. Many people don't know because they've never thought about it. That's okay. It's never to late to learn.

Gratitude to my Higher Power. Without gratitude to my Higher Power (Spirit, God, Goddess, Grandfather) nothing has meaning and the door to abundance and good would slam in my face. How can you have more when you don't appreciate what you already have? Stop right now, look around the room and quickly list 10 things you're grateful for that you've been taking for granted like electricity, your vision, your spine, your computer, light from the sun, etc.
Family. I need to belong to a tribe. It doesn't have to be huge like my Italian friends have with their 30-something cousins and aunts and uncles, but without my husband, my sons, my grandson, my mother, even my pets, my life would have an unbearable void at the center. My family is my sun around which everything in my life revolves.
Creativity. I can't not be creative. I have to inject creativity into everything I do. If I were trapped in a cave (*shudder*) and waiting for release, no doubt I'd pass the time building dirt snowmen, stacking rocks in patterns or painting on the walls with bat guano. Creativity is my breath and without it, life would be dull dull dull.
Independence. I spent the first half of my adult life working for "the man" and the other half working for myself. There is no comparison to the freedom I feel working at what I love on my own terms. I don't have to wait for a vacation day or settle for the income they decide my work is worth. Being self-employed is hard work to be sure, but so very rewarding.
Humor and Playfulness. This heading could also have been "Honoring My Inner Child" Most people I meet take themselves and life waaaay too seriously. I find humor in my classroom helps learning and makes the day fun no matter what we're studying. When was the last time you did something playful, spontaneous and utterly ridiculous? Go on, dance in your front yard today in celebration of the New Year. Who cares what the neighbors say. They'll be peering from behind the curtains wishing they had the courage to be so free.
Achievement. I have to agree with Donna Maria on this one. Setting goals and achieving them are addicting. I love the validation of kudos from colleagues and family and I love the feeling of obtaining something I set my sights on. Even if I miss my mark, I usually get something else equally cool or better!
Passion. Yet another that Donna Maria and I have in common. If you are living a life without passion for what you are doing - work, education, service - you must stop and begin to do the thing that makes you jump out of bed in the morning with excitement and sets you on fire!
Learning. Education and learning can come in many forms, from formal schooling to taking online classes to simply keeping a journal to increase awareness of yourself. When we stop learning, we stop growing.

There are others, but these were the main ones I wanted to share with you today.

Now, I'd love to read YOUR list of Core Values!

Interview with Seena Frost, Founder of SoulCollage®

2010-12-15T10:23:00.003-05:00

Seena Frost, Beloved Mentor and Creator of SoulCollage®

Readers of this blog may remember a post I wrote earlier this year entitled Aromatic SoulCollage® in which I shared my great love for this amazing creative process.

Seena Frost has just completed her second book on SoulCollage®, entitled "SoulCollage® Evolving". You can read more about her book here and order it here.

Yay Seena! Those of us who are in love with this work have been hungry for another book.

When I learned that Seena would be doing a blog tour, I jumped at the chance to interview her and ask some specific questions that had been rattling around in my head. Her answers were, as was expected, very insightful and soulful.

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Liz: Thank you for joining me today Seena! It's an honor to have you as my guest here at The Fragrant Muse and a delight for me to pick your wonderful brain! How about we start with the basics: What is SoulCollage^®? Seena: SoulCollage® is both a creative celebration of the complexities of Soul and, at the same time underneath this complexity, is the honoring of our Spirit’s unity with Source. It’s a process emphasizing Both/And; Spirit and Soul; One and the Many. To honor the forever-evolving, amazing dance of our Souls, we create many collaged cards using found images to depict our unique parts. We give names to these parts, dialogue with them, and embrace them, even the ones that are shadowed and acting out. Giving a card its own name and allowing it time to say what’s wrong and what is needed often helps these inner parts heal. The inner part is able to find new ways to express its special energy so it has a positive place.

Liz: Tell us the story of the origin of SoulCollage®.

Seena: Many roots in my past eventually joined and grew into the blossoming and above-ground “plant” we now call SoulCollage^®. These are too numerous to identify here, but in 1989, there came a moment at the end of a three year program with Jean Houston, when an integration occurred, and I made my very first cards. I called them Neter cards and these were all cards that now would be in the Community Suit of my deck because they were all for people. Over the years, and with input from others, this first project eventually evolved into people creating cards in the four suits, symbolizing the Manyness of our Souls, and one card, the Source card, as a symbol for the Oneness of all created forms.

At first I used these cards as a therapeutic tool in clinical support groups; then, because everyone loved creating them and found much inner wisdom through them, I introduced the process into other kinds of community groups. It can still be used as a therapeutic tool by licensed therapists, but it also can be used individually as a spiritual practice and in groups as a transformational ritual.

Liz: Do you see a specific personality type in the people drawn to SoulCollage®?

Seena: This is an interesting question, and I’ve given it some thought. Actually, if there is a SoulCollage^® type, it’s a person who is visual and who is interested in looking inwards at their own Soul. As to the Jungian personality types, there are parts of the process that appeal to introverts, especially the silent and intuitive choosing of images. And there are parts that appeal to extroverts—the speaking aloud from the images. In readings I’ve found that extroverts find it hard to be silent witnesses while introverts find that easy; but then extroverts can go on reading from an image forever. Sensates like sitting and doing the collaging part. Thinkers have to be patient and wait their turn, but it does come after the Feelers have had their time to feel out the energy of an image. Intuitives obviously love most all of it. So, I would say there is some activity in the process to please all the types, but, at the same time, there is a stretch for what Jung calls our inferior parts that need exercise to grow stronger.

Liz: Though SoulCollage® has a wide audience, it seems to have a strong appeal to women over 40. Why is this?

Seen: You’re right about that, thus far in our history. Let me talk about the gender issue first and the age issue second. There is no doubt that women are more naturally drawn to collaging images, and to diving into their inner life to examine and work with it. And women are drawn also to share this inner exploration with others.

Men are usually more externally active, preferring to participate in action sports or watch them. Men like to work with solutions and goals and products that have overt value or significance in their world. Generally they do not want to dive into their inner life issues unless there is a huge reason like a mental or marital problem. Thus, the idea of sitting and collaging images, and then pretending to be the image may seem silly to men. And gatherings to do this in groups might seem a waste of time. Not for all men of course, and men, when they experience SoulCollage^®, often are intrigued. It can be as if they just entered an interesting, foreign land.

Part of the reason for the age difference is that the process began with older women (like me!) and so spread most quickly among us. Probably another factor is that women over 40 are no longer chasing little children all over the block, or just trying to break into careers where their masculine aspects must be emphasized and their feminine aspects minimized. At mid-life, there comes a yearning for more time, and a new freedom to be more feminine (not like the ads tell us to be), which is to be creative, intuitive, empathic, collaborative, supportive, noncompetitive, and loving. And also there often is a yearning to explore the inner life so as to find more balance and purpose and happiness.

I truly believe that we who are doing the process now will reach out to younger women, and also to men as time goes on. SoulCollage^® is a practice that can produce changes in the Souls of all people, changes that our world needs right now. In fact, without change towards more heart language, more collaboration and more learning to listen and empathize and imagine, we won’t make it. Young women, especially those who are stepping into leadership positions all over the world, could use this practice. It does not need to be very time-consuming, to honor (alongside their masculine ‘find the solution and act’ aspects), those feminine aspects of their psyches that are so needed to change how we deal with each other and the natural world. And men who come into our community may find help in discovering the value of their own feminine aspects and vital ways to integrate them with their masculine aspects. Let’s see if we who are women over 40 can be inclusive enough to make this happen.

Liz: As you know, in my own personal SoulCollage® deck, I've added a unique suit to honor one of my life's passions, essential oils. I call this my Aromatic Suit.

Liz's Neroli SoulCollage® Card

Each card honors a specific aromatic, the significance it has for me and my personal story with that essential oil as well as it's energetic or therapeutic value. I use these cards frequently in my work as an Aromatherapist. What are your thoughts on expanding one's personal deck beyond the standard 4 suits to honor a unique passion?

Seena: I think this is a fine thing to do as long as each of the oils has a personal significance for you, is a Neter of yours and can speak to you from its special energy. If there were just a couple of oils that were important in your psyche, I would suggest having them in one of the four suits, perhaps as Council archetypes. However, since you are an Aromatherapist and every oil is unique and important in your life story, then a new suit is appropriate.

My problem with adding extra suits to the four basic ones is that it may complicate your deck beyond what is helpful. Sometimes people decide to make a new suit and put in it all the Neters that are traditionally listed in some category, such as the archetypes of the Major Arcana or all the Nine Muses. Doing this gives one’s mind the job of choosing who to include in the deck, and does not leave the choice to the Neters themselves. Each of us is unique as to the collection of Neters that are in our decks, and no external list should dictate our choices.

Sometimes we will recognize the activity of a Neter in our lives… “Aha… that voice was my Advising Self, or that action was from my Warrior archetype, etc” …. and so we set out intentionally to find images and make a card for this Neter. This is perfectly fine too, but the Neter is the one whose energy has alerted us to its presence within our Soul.

Liz: What advice would you give a SoulCollage® Facilitator who has an individual that regularly meets with a card-making group, enjoys creating the cards but doesn't want to participate in the "inner work" of interpreting the cards, journaling or doing readings? Is the person still receiving value from the SoulCollage experience?

Seena: If the person comes regularly, collages cards, listens to others doing their processing, then certainly some inner work is already happening. Resistance to going further with the process is the Neter in charge just now and is to be respected. Encourage her or him to make cards for all their inner voices that are instructing about when and how to participate. Certainly encourage her to continue. Let him know how valuable to everyone a good listener is.

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Thank you so much Seena for taking the time to answer my questions. Your new book is fabulous and I can't wait for others to discover the life-changing adventure known as SoulCollage®!

A Little-Known Fact about Santa

2010-12-08T08:53:00.000-05:00

We began setting up our holiday village last weekend. Bean "helped" of course. In fact, he helped so much that Santa lost his right hand.

I disappeared to fetch glue and when I returned hubby was wearing a suspicion grin. "What?" I asked.

He glanced at the lake and said "Apparently, Santa can't swim".

What Inspires You to Write?

2010-11-30T08:49:00.010-05:00

The Fragrant Muse blog was born in April of 2009 with no particular purpose other than to put my many thoughts and interests into writing.

Initially, blogging was like falling in love. I jumped out of bed in the morning anxious to create and share stories of the world around me. My writing came easily, was spontaneous and fluid. My mind was full of post ideas. I began making friends, following blogs, having followers and a new creative community began to form around me. I was enamoured with the whole blogging experience.

In the past few months, this glow has faded a bit. Recently, when a friend remarked, "Your blog is getting boring", I was taken aback, but also felt the truth in her words. I haven't felt inspired to write.

Upon reflection, the shift occurred when I began putting restrictions on my posts and blog content after reading gobs of material on "how to build a better blog." I bought books, magazines and read loads of web material on how to be a better blogger. I subscribed to CopyBlogger and ProBlogger to learn what makes a blog readable and interesting.

One message I found over and over was "keep your blog uncluttered and tightly focused on one subject." Since my primary personal and professional passion is essential oils, I decided to keep my blog limited to aromatherapy-related posts.

I began to de-clutter my blog by eliminating such topics as The Bean (my grandson), art journaling, massage, Sassy the pug, my fairy garden, miniatures, my family and random day-in-the-life-of-Liz stuff. And you know what? I miss writing about these things that color my world so vibrantly! I've considered a second blog for all my non-aromatherapy interests - and I may someday - but for now, the idea of maintaining two blogs feels daunting.

So I'm going to go back to writing about all my interests and pull from my creative right brain. I'm going to post on everything that interests me and inspires me; everything that makes The Fragrant Muse who she is. Certainly, essential oils will still be my main focus, because that is also the case in my life; however, I'll also include a generous sprinkling of other shiny bits of my life.

I'll save my rational left brain for paying the bills and doing my taxes.

Photo

Because the truth of the matter is this: My world and all that fills it is multi-faceted with many interests and I love sharing my life and all that colors it. If I lose followers or folks find The Fragrant Muse too random then this is what I have to say:

15 Reasons I Like Giving Aromatherapy Talks

2010-11-18T12:43:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I gave a talk called "An Introduction to True Aromatherapy" to a local Garden Club. What fun it was! The more I shared, the more enthusiastic they became. The more oils I passed around, the more questions they asked.

I've been doing the presentation/lecture circuit for about ten years. If you don't do this in your practice, you should. It's great fun, a good way to get the word out about aromatherapy and showcase your services and products. But the best part - it really gets you recharged about essential oils!

Here are 15 reasons I love doing aromatherapy presentations:

It forces me to brush my hair, put on makeup and use the good shoes buried in the back of my closet.
The audience enthusiasm reminds me of my first flush of romance with essential oils.
It's a superb way to market yourself. One fun hour of letting people sniff essential oils, addressing their health concerns and answering questions, builds more trust and interest than a hundred advertisements.
It keeps my "beginner mind" fresh. When your world consists of daily use of essential oils, years of studying their properties, chemistry and applications, it's easy to forget that many people have no idea what they are.
It's a superb way to discover your community, it's organizations, neighborhoods and people.
I get to use my GPS. I set the language selection to "Italian" and pretend I'm driving in Italy.
.
Live Q & A keeps me on my toes. I've learned to say "I don't know"when I really don't....then run home and research the answer!
It gets me out of the house. Sad, I know.
My inner "entertainer" gets nourished.
It encourages me to keep my marketing material up-to-date.
It's another avenue of income. In the early days I never charged for my talks. But I've come to understand that my time, the effort I put into preparing and giving the talks, the materials and oils I share all have a value and I ask for remuneration.
It's an excuse to buy new oils, new clothes, new anything!
It validates how much knowledge I have accumulated in twenty years.
Every audience has the potential for something new to emerge: Will I be asked to come back? To hold a class? To speak to someone else's group? Will I meet a new client? Find a new student? Make a new friend?
And last but not least, my Fragrant Muse comes to life when I see that spark of enthusiasm in their eyes, knowing that they've just "gotten it" i.e., discovered an amazing new healing modality for their lives. It makes me feel I'm living my passion and my purpose.

Do YOU give talks?
If so, what has been your experience?
If not, what is stopping you?

My living room floor with presentation materials layed out.

Essential Oils for Acute Bronchitis

2010-11-09T10:34:00.005-05:00

I pride myself on consistent robust health since I haven't had anything more serious than a pesky cold or tummy ache in over 10 years. I'm just never sick. I attribute this to working with essential oils every day, washing my hands frequently and generally being a pretty happy soul.

Well, in mid-October I fell hard. Out of the blue I began to ache in my joints and well, mostly everywhere, making me wonder if I'd been hit by a truck in my sleep. This fun was followed by three days with a fever of 102 which morphed into a cough the likes of which I've never known. James insisted I see our family doc or he would bind my hands and feet and take me himself. I broke down and saw our Dr. Sally who took one listen to my lungs and said "Woah girl, you've got acute bronchitis." Argh.

My Meds

Dr. Sally prescribed 40mg of Prednisone for five days (never again never again never again), Tylenol with Codeine at night and Albuterol to be used with an "AeroChamber" to assist the Albuterol into my lungs. James called this my "bronchitis bong". Very funny.

I am beginning to come around, thanks to the meds, 10 hours of sleep every night, daytime naps and lots of essential oils. I am too busy to stay sick and ready to have my old energizer bunny self back. I also realize that illness and pain are important messages that we need to heed and I'm treating my body with much love and care.

As much as I embrace the power of natural therapies, I felt that seeing my doctor and taking those meds were necessary for me to reduce the inflammation in my lungs quickly. I'll never say "we don't need doctors" because we do. However, receiving and taking prescribed meds is where many people stop in treating their own illness. I consider my use of the meds only one spoke in the wheel of healing my bronchitis and am positive that my diligent use of essential oils has been an important part of my continued recovery, especially since illnesses of the lung can linger on forever without them.

How I Have Chosen Essential Oils for My Bronchitis
First of all let's look at what action I've wanted from the oils. In a few words, bronchitis is congestion and inflammation of the bronchial passages in the lungs. The body creates a ton of thick mucous which can be sticky and difficult to expel, thereby creating a hard cough - your body's way of getting it out.

Therefore, I've been choosing oils that contain a significant percentage of Ketones which are highly effective mucolytics (help dissolve mucous) and act as expectorants. I've also used oils that are high in Oxides which help decongest, decrease coughing and aid mucous expectoration. Other actions I've sought from my oils are anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, warming and relaxing.

Methods of Application of Essential Oils for My Bronochitis
Steam Inhalations: 1 d eo in a bowl of steamy hot water, 2-3 times/day, 5 min
(I tend to vary the oils I use with each inhalation)

Spike Lavender, Rosemary, Eucalyptus Dives (mucolytic, expectorant)
Tea Tree (decongestant, anti-infectious, expectorant)

Nightly Chest Rub with Jojoba Oil at a 3% dilution (15 drops to 1 ounce of Jojoba) (varying the oils I use)

Spike Lavender (mucolytic, expectorant and I love the smell)
Balsam Copaiba (anti-inflammatory, calming and I find the aroma comforting)
Black Pepper, Ginger (warming)
Balsam Fir (strong antimicrobial, dries mucous, calming for a spastic cough)
Thyme ct. linalol (immune system support. Note: Thyme ct. thymol is another option for immune support, but I find the thymol too stimulating for nighttime rest.)
Basil ct linalol (Note: this is a good anti-spasmodic oil for cough but after one evening application found it too stimulating to use at night. It kept me awake. Better for morning.)

Pre-Bedtime Bath (I use about 10-20 drops in the tub right before I stepped in then soak for 30 minutes breathing in the steam)

2 Cups Epsom Salts (I used these to detox from the prescription meds)
Any of the oils above that I felt drawn to use, although I really felt pulled toward the Spike Lavender these weeks (maybe because of the high Camphor content) and I've used that with Tea Tree quite frequently.

There are many more oils that are good for bronchitis such as Black Spruce, Cedarwood, Marjoram, Cypress, Thyme ct. thymol, but I have tried to listen to my body and use what I felt drawn to.

In addition, I've been drinking gallons of water, eating well, avoiding all dairy products, taking vitamins and supplements and saying no to nearly all social engagements. I have also been diffusing oils in the house to keep airborne germs at bay.

Frankly, I don't know how people who don't use essential oils get along. A condition like bronchitis can drag on for months and even become chronic, but I've been diligent with using my oils and can feel in my body that I'm nearly over it.

I am immensely grateful to have this amazing plant medicine in my life.

Climbing the Emma Tree

2010-11-01T06:50:00.003-04:00

Emma Tree Blog
In the 18 months I've been traversing the blogging world, one unexpected delight has been meeting and making friends with talented writers, artists and the most fascinating creative people. D. Smith Kaich Jones of Emma Tree: Tales of Art and Anxiety is one of those folks. Debi writes of experiences of daily life and describes them in such a rich and exquisite way that you can't help but connect and get what she says as well as feel understood, yourself. I stop there for a visit when I need to refill my inspirational cup.

This is her poetic description of living in East Texas

"It is not Paris.

It is not Morocco.

It is not even Oregon or New Mexico.

It is here, it is Texas, and even then, it is not West Texas,

it is Northeast Texas,

a church on every corner and a taqueria on every block,

feeding your soul and feeding your belly."

Debi's writing talents have earned her three articles in an Authentic Living series for Somerset Magazine and a place in the the Autumn issue of Artful Blogging: Visually Inspiring Online Journals. Both magazines are published by Stampington & Co: Arts and Co, your one stop shop for creativity.

I have many favorite posts by Debi, but below are three I wanted to share:
Night Spring where she writes about her beloved cat Maggie, that we all fell in love with
Empty House, Full Heart After Maggie's passing (still makes me cry)
Sign Day All women should read this one!

Fragrant Friday #26: Clove Bud

2010-10-09T11:54:00.002-04:00

Here's a little teaching secret. When I get to the portion in my classes where I address the limbic system and our smell/memories connection, I always bring out this oil. I don't let the students see what it is as I dip their tester stick
into the bottle of Clove oil. After I advise they keep the stick away from their noses as they smell it, I ask them to quickly write down any associations they have with the aroma (and request they please keep quiet if they recognize it. Everyone is excited to shout out the name when they figure it out.) This is always a satisfying exercise. Most people can recall their scent memory long before they remember the name of the source of the aroma. Some of the associations I've heard are:
Easter ham
Dentist
Spice candy
Orange pomanders.
What memories do you associate with the smell of clove?

Okay, here we go...

Clove Essential Oil
Eugenia caryophyllata

Family: Myrtaceae

Geographical Source: Madagascar

Extraction: Steam distillation of the flower buds

Characteristics: This is oil a pale yellow to brownish yellow free flowing liquid with a warm, spicy, classic clove aroma.

Principle Constituents: Phenols (!): Eugenol

Therapeutic Actions: Analgesic, antifungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antiviral, bactericidal, carminative, warming.

Benefits of Clove Essential Oil:
Warming pain relief Clove is a great oil for those uncomfortable constrictive and cold physical conditions. I use it in my massage practice to warm the feet and legs of clients with poor circulation or pain. Its deeply warming effect reduces pain very effectively.

Toothache: I've had two massage clients in the past year arrive for their appointment sporting a painful toothache. To help relieve their discomfort so they could relax on the massage table, I dipped a q-tip into one drop of clove oil and let them rub it over the surrounding affected tooth telling them to be very careful not to get it anywhere on their lips. Within a few minutes the painful area was warm and numb.

Teething Babies and Clove:
I know someone who rubbed clove oil over her baby's swollen gums during teething. I do not recommend this. Rather than explain my reasoning, I'd prefer you do a simple experiment:
1) Take a drop of clove oil and rub it over your gums making sure to get a tiny bit on your lip or the corner of your mouth just as a drooling baby would.
2) Wait a second
3) Before you run screaming to the nearest sink to rinse your flaming mouth, ask yourself if that's something you'd like your infant to experience.

Digestive Aid: Clove is a super carminative (settles digestion). Add it to a digestive blend and massage it into the abdomen at 1% dilution.

Insects: Place a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball and leave it in a linen closet to help fight moths.

Fall Fragrancing: I love to add this oil to a ceramic room diffuser this time of year with orange and cimmanon essential oils to help fight flu and make the house smell warm and cozy!

Safety: As you can imagine, there's a lot to say here. Clove essential oil is high in a component called Eugenol which is in the Phenol family. Phenols are considered to be the most irritating of all the components to both skin and especially mucous membranes causing dermatitis and sensitization. Because of the eugenol, use it in very low dilutions on the skin (1% in a carrier) and for short periods of time. Don't use them in a bath or you'll most likely experience unforgettable burning in the delicate "nether regions". Avoid using Clove oil in a nose inhaler. Phenols high oils are not used with babies and children.

Robert Tisserand, in his book Essential Oil Safety, states that oils high in eugenol should be used with caution on those with impaired liver function. And, if all this isn't enough to give you a deep respect for the power of Clove essential oil, don't use it (any eugenol high oils) with people who have clotting disorders, as eugenol is an anticoagulant.

Blends Well with: Basil, Cinnamon, Ginger, Orange.

Subtle Properties (vibrational and energetic):Clove Bud essential oil has a strong character making it a great choice when you're feeling week and in need of confidence and self-assurance. It encourages action and motivation and would be a good choice in a weight loss blend! Its spicy, warm aroma lends itself to an uplifting effect when used in a blend. Remember to keep the dilution low (1% is 5-6 drops in 1 ounce).

Liz's Suggested Recipe:
Weight Loss Motivation Blend
Clove 4 drops
Orange 3 drops
Patchouli 3 drops

Blend the essential oils into 2 ounce of Jojoba oil (makes make a 1% dilution). Rub into your abdomen 2-3 times a day or when you feel hungry or need a shot of motivation. In a pinch, just inhale deeply from the bottle. Repeat this affirmation with every application:

My body is getting stronger, slimmer and healthier every day.

My Clove Muse SoulCollage® Card: (Almost finished. wanted to get this out. Will add later today or tomorrow when it's ready and will post a note on Facebook when it's up.)

I am one who helps you embraze zeal, drive and motivation!
I am one who energetically adds warmth and coziness to your home.
I am one who helps you experience the motivation needed to release whatever is hindering your progress.

Buy Clove Essential Oil at Liz's Garden webstore.

Make your own Search Story!

2010-10-08T11:08:00.000-04:00

Pulling the Plug

2010-10-05T07:49:00.016-04:00

"American children and adolescents spend 22 to 28 hours per week viewing television, more than any other activity except sleeping. By the age of 70 they will have spent 7 to 10 years of their lives watching TV." -- The Kaiser Family Foundation

"You watch television to turn your brain off and you work on your computer when you want to turn your brain on." -- Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple Computer

Pulling the Plug
On September 2nd we cancelled our cable service and are now a no-television household. The set is still there if we want to watch a DVD or video, but the actual connection to the outside world via TV is gone.

I'll admit, the first couple of days were weird and we did miss it. Although my husband and I aren't compulsive tv watchers, we've had a long-standing ritual of sitting down around 7 p.m. and letting the busy day melt away by watching a show or two...or three or four depending on our level of fatigue. Ever notice how it sucks you in when you're especially tired (read: vulnerable)? James and I began to observe how we were numbing ourselves with tv and the ease with which we slipped into mindlessly watching one show after another, even when we weren't particularly interested.

What about "good" TV like the Discovery Channel or PBS?
TurnOffYourTV.com has this to say:
"All TV is passive, sedentary and non-experiential. Most viewers tend to watch show after show--not individual programs. Instead of watching a documentary about birds, go out (with binoculars if you have them) and see how many real birds you can identify in your neighborhood." The purpose of National TV-Turnoff Week is to leave behind judgments about the quality of television and focus instead on creating, discovering, building, participating and doing."

So, what is different for us now?
Well, the immediate difference is that we read more. A lot more. We have more conversations in the evening, go to bed earlier and rest better. My husband would frequently fall asleep in front of the tv after a long day. Now he goes to bed, which is where one should be when they're worn out, isn't it? We are beginning to work on creative projects. I spent one evening just sorting my jewelry then made an earring holder out of an old frame with a window screen glued to the back and hung my earrings on the screen. This might sound deadly boring, but was so satisfying and I can now locate earrings easily. If I'd watched another re-run of Bones or CSI, my earrings would still be all over the place. After years of wanting to try mindmapping, I got on mindmeister.com one evening and created five different mindmaps: my website, my youtube channel, my finances, my weightloss goals and personal life goals.

Oh, and one very unexpected benefit. I eat less!

Computer TV
In the interest of full disclosure, I have watched the current episodes of Modern Family and The Office on hulu.com. And you know what? It wasn't nearly as satisfying as I thought it would be. I imagine even that, too, will end eventually.

What we've lost in mind-numbing "entertainment", we've gained in freedom over our brains and our time plus a whole lot more quiet.

What about you?
Could you live without your connection to the television?

SOME SCARY FACTS ABOUT TV

Number of 30-second commercials seen in a year by an average child: 20,000
Number of minutes per week that parents spend in meaningful conversation with their children: 38.5
Number of minutes per week that the average child watches television: 1,680
Percentage of children ages 6-17 who have TV's in their bedrooms: 50
Percentage of day care centers that use TV during a typical day: 70
Hours per year the average American youth spends in school: 900 hours
Hours per year the average American youth watches television: 1500
Percentage of Americans that regularly watch television while eating dinner: 66

Connecting with Mother Moon

2010-09-23T07:45:00.012-04:00

Tonight is a Full Moon. Just how in-tune with the energy of the Moon are you?

In the video below, Flora Peterson challenges us to go outside and connect with the Moon for 29 consecutive days. Although her video was posted in 2009, this powerful exercise can be done anytime.

Flora, aka CharmingPixieFlora, is a tiny powerhouse bursting with positive energy. Her website bio lists her as a Teacher, Intuitive Consultant, Certified Life Coach and New Age Practitioner and she has an information-packed YouTube Channel called Flora's Family Footsteps. Today also happens to be her birthday!

So tonight I'll anoint myself with the oils of Mabon (the Autumn Equinox) which are Benzoin, Myrrh and Sage, and for the next month I'll step outside to face Mother Moon and focus on embracing her energies.

Who knows, I may even howl.

Happy Birthday Flora!

How to Create Your Own Video Channel on YouTube

2010-09-12T19:51:00.014-04:00

If you haven't created your own video channel on YouTube, what are you waiting for? It's free, easy and a great way to showcase your products, services and bring attention to your business. You could even create a channel just for family and friends to watch if you want nothing more than to show the folks back home your new baby.

My Channel
I created a channel for The Fragrant Muse last week with the goal of offering video tutorials, commentaries, product reviews and whatever else Musie and I dream up to boost your relationship with essential oils and encourage personal creativity. The name of my channel is "Discover Your Fragrant Muse".

As will happen when people get their hands on a video camera, you'll find no shortage of ridiculousness, obnoxiousness, amateur attempts at fame and just plain crap on YouTube, but there are also a good many videos that are educational and entertaining. Why shouldn't yours be included?

What Video Camera to Use?

My challenge has been choosing a camera that gives good quality images, good audio, and still allows me to pay my son's college tuition. I did find some good advice here. Because I'm excited to begin and somewhat overwhelmed with all the choices and options, I bought a Flip Mino HD (2nd generation). Although the Flip wasn't my first choice after watching this review by Jon Paula, I bought one anyway because it felt safe. Jon named better starting video cameras in his Camera Buying Guide video. I know that as my understanding of video technology matures, so will my equipment. Or not. Who knows, maybe I'll end up liking the Flip.

Signing Up
You can find very good step-by-step instructions for signing up for your channel on this EHow page. If you look on the right sidebar of this page, you'll see other helpful ehow posts on being a Channel owner.

Note!
When you create your account, that will be the name of your channel. If I had opened my account under Liz Fulcher I would now have "Liz Fulcher's Channel". Instead, my account is under The Fragrant Muse so my channel is "The Fragrant Muse's Channel". You might not want "PrettyBoy123" as your channel name.

Getting a Banner
To get your own header, you must first be a YouTube Partner. This happens after you've produced a certain number of videos and have many subscribers. It's a goal to work toward.

For now, just get your face out there...and let me know when that happens so I can stop by and subscribe. And don't forget to subscribe to my channel!

The Fragrant Muse Gets a New Look. Finally!

2010-09-03T09:05:00.002-04:00

My naked blog has finally gotten dressed. Indeed, embellished with a beautiful party dress fit for all manner of fragrant musings and creative mutterings. I love it!

The new banner was created by the very talented Stacy of the blog Pandora's Compass: Living Life with the Lid Off with minimal instruction from me.

Stacy chose my Jasmine Muse SoulCollage© Card from my collection on Flickr then allowed her own creative instincts to flow and designed a header that she felt matched my energy and my blog message: inspire your imagination (creativity) and enchant your senses (essential oils).

It is perfect. Thank you Stacy!

The Chesterfield Ad

2010-08-23T23:40:00.007-04:00

This Chesterfield advertisement has hung on the wall of every home I've lived in. It's been woven into the fabric of my domestic life like a favorite cushion or set of dishes that's always been there.

The poster is more than just a cool vintage collectible and has a unique significance for me. The handsome model is my father. This particular ad appeared on page 66 of Life Magazine on June 29, 1942 when he was just 25. He posed for other Chesterfield ads that year which appeared in Popular Mechanics, Colliers and Good Housekeeping as well as billboards alongside the road.

Today is my father's birthday and he would have been 93.

Interviews by Julochka of Moments of Perfect Clarity

2010-08-20T11:34:00.003-04:00

Julochka of the magnificent blog Moments of Perfect Clarity has been interviewing other bloggers - specifically her readers - for the past month. She sent her interviewees a list of questions then posted their responses on her blog. Today's interview is with yours truly.

In looking over her collection of interviews, I see a beautiful blogging patchwork, and I can't help but marvel how the blogosphere affords us the opportunity to know amazing and fascinating people that would otherwise be lost to us.

What I found surprisingly (and utterly delightful) was the unexpected nature of her questions. Instead of covering topics on my fragrant life, she asked things like "where do you go to unwind?" and "what do you miss about Italy?".

If you want to read more, go here.

Making a Fresh Start

2010-08-18T08:18:00.006-04:00

Every week, Jamie Ridler throws out a question to those who play at her studio. If you haven't participated in one of her Wishcasting Wednesdays, I suggest you do. Her inquiries can spark an avalanche of self-awareness.

(Pssssssst Hey Jamie! My pug Sassy asked me to find out more about the little one whose photo is posted today. Is she yours? Pug people are an exclusive and elite little group unto themselves dontcha know? Pugs rule!)

But I digress...

Jamie's brain tickler today is: "Where do you wish to make a fresh start?" After mentally assessing the 27 areas of my life where I'd like to "begin anew" (the usual stuff...exercising, eating better, organizing the house, bla bla bla ad nauseum) I knew the answer. I wish to make a fresh start with Liz's Garden.

(Here is the background of my wish. Skip down to the bottom line if you're in a hurry or bored. I'll understand.)
Liz's Garden Aromatherapy was born in 1997 after several aromatherapy classes when my students would announce, "okay, Liz, we're convinced that essential oils are fabulous and we're excited to get started. Now just where can we buy these oils?" This was a real dilemma. Here in rural Pennsylvania and pre-World-Wide-Web, there were few options for obtaining aromatics. So to accommodate my students, I began ordering essential oils from reputable companies, researching where to buy bottles, make labels, etc and gradually gave birth to a modest cottage-industry business called "Liz's Garden Aromatherapy". Initially I resisted this whole process. Oh how I resisted. I had no idea what I was doing having never created a product line, had no mentor and pretty much no idea what I was doing. But I learned and slowly but surely, Liz's Garden has survived and grown.

As the internet has become an integral part of daily life, students and clients have begun asking for a Liz's Garden webstore. Oy vey. Here we go again. Once more, I resisted. Where do you find web designers? Who could I trust? What is involved in running a webstore?

After two experiences of hiring unscrupulous web-designers and losing hundreds of dollars, I had given up on having a web presence for my line of oils. Then, out of nowhere, a brother/sister web design team manifested in my life in January of this year. I trusted them. They were patient with me (only one screaming battle of wills - not bad). They have been honest, trustworthy and have done everything they can to create a website that works for me. In early August, www.lizsgarden.com came to life in cyberspace.

Being nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs. I'm still working and re-working the text. I can't leave it alone. I'm like a new mother fussing over her baby. Then there's that old friend worry. What if no one orders and the site just sits? What if everyone orders and I can't keep up? What if What if What If What if... There is still so much to learn and comprehend.

Nevertheless, deep excitement lies underneath the trepidation because the possibilities that lie ahead for the future are exhilarating!

The bottom line:
My wish for today is to make a fresh start with my online company Liz's Garden Aromatherapy. My wish is that Liz's Garden continues to grow in it's new cyber-habitat, becoming a trusted source of essential oils for my students and clients and a garden of inspiration and education.

Where in your life do you wish to make a fresh start?

Falling into Place

2010-08-17T05:04:00.002-04:00

A deceivingly simple, yet profound message. You'll want sound for this.

Fragrant Friday #25: Vetiver

2010-08-13T11:22:00.005-04:00

Today is Friday the 13th. Yesterday I mentioned on Facebook that I'd be posting an all-new Fragrant Friday today and Stacy of Pandora's Compass jokingly remarked that she hoped it was a "protection-from-Friday-the-13th luck oil" (did you know that the fear of Friday the 13th is called friggatriskaidekaphobia?).

Though Vetiver won't change your luck, she will offer comfort and a sense of safety for emotional and mental unease. With one whiff of this sweet, mysterious and deeply mellow oil, you will be transformed! Vetiver is grounding. Vetiver is comforting.

Being an overthinking, anxiety-prone perfectionist, my own mind is often my worst enemy. When I'm immersed in worry and insecurity, I turn to Vetiver for a renewed sense of calm, comfort and safety and the knowledge that I am protected by Divine Love.

Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiveria zizanoides

Family: Gramineae

Geographical Source: Java

Extraction: The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the roots.

Photo Source

Characteristics:

Vetiver is a very thick and syrupy essential oil which is amber to deep brown in color.

Her aroma is earthy, sweet, musty and mysterious and reminds me of the wet earth smell you experience in the first minutes of a summer rain. I've heard it described as smelling like a damp forest floor. Due to its excellent fixative properties, vetiver is contained in 90% of all western perfumes.

Principle Constituents: Sesquiterpenes, Sesquiterpenols, Ketones

Therapeutic Actions: Antiseptic, aphrodisiac, cicatrisant, nervine, sedative, tonic, sedative and vulnerary.

Benefits of Vetiver:

Emotional: Vetiver oil has a calming and soothing effect on the CNS (central nervous system) and is a wonderful oil to help soothe an overactive, exhausted mind. This oil is a good choice to dispel anger, irritability and neurotic behavior and great for helping with insomnia.

Skin Care: Vetiver balances and assists with drying out acne and oily skin. When combines with Frankincense, it makes a very effective wound care oil with less scarring. Add to your face cream to revitalize maturing skin.

Body: Vetiver encourages stimulation of the circulatory system and can help relieve stiffness from arthritis and muscle cramping. Massage Vetiver into overworked muscles. This is also a wonderful oil to boost the immuse system.Vetiver balances and dries acne and oily skin. It helps heal wounds and cut/scrapes more effectively with less scarring. When added to a face cream or lotion it revitalizes mature and aging skin and rejuvenates wrinkly, irregular skin textures.

Safety: There are no specific safety issues with Vetiver.

Blends Well with: Ylang Ylang,Grapefruit

Subtle Properties (vibrational and energetic): In India Vetiver is known as ‘the oil of tranquility’. It's no surprise that it corresponds with the Root Chakra and is the best oil for making you feel safe and “at home”. Vetiver can help you connect with earth energies and restore your sense of feeling centered in your body.

Liz's Suggested Recipe:
Feel Safe Massage Oil
4 drops Vetiver
2 drops Myrrh
2 drops Ylang Ylang

Add to 1 ounce of Organic Jojoba oil. Repeat this affirmation: I am secure, protected and safe.

My Vetiver Muse SoulCollage® Card:

I am one who is is dark and rich and mellow.
I am one who relaxes your overworked mind and brings you back to your center.
I am one who is ancient yet ever new.
I am one who instills in you a sense of safety and inner peace.
I am one who helps you remember that you DO belong and are exactly where you are supposed to be.

Liz's Garden carries wild-crafted Vetiver essential oil

What do I wish for my Creativity?

2010-08-04T07:20:00.020-04:00

Today at Jamie Ridler Studios, the topic is creativity.

In the past year I've ruminated on the concept of essential oils being a catalyst for personal creativity. That they support physical, emotional and mental health, is well-known and scientifically documented. But what about supporting spiritual health? Specifically, personal creativity.

Can essential oils be a catalyst for creative expression? I say an emphatic YES! I firmly believe that essential oils can influence and support not only creativity, but also intuition, motivation and the occasional flashes of genius!

In my own life, essential oils have inspired me to design healing blends, create an essential oil company and manifest educational programs on their unlimited uses. Aromatics were the spark that ignited my Aromatic SoulCollage^® series and the same energetic force that that propelled me into the blogosphere, giving life to The Fragrant Muse.

Bergamot Muse SoulCollage Card

To answer Jamie's question "what do you wish for your creativity"...

I wish to continue expanding this concept of aromatics bolstering the creative mind. I have an idea for an educational program specifically on how to use essential oils to stimulate personal creativity. And here we go again...my creative juices are flowing!

Meet my Psychiatrist

2010-07-29T06:14:00.006-04:00

Last week James, Bean and I escaped for a spontaneous camping trip. Four days in the woods and I'm a new person. Okay, not completely new but certainly refreshed. It seems that surrounding oneself with trees and sleeping next to a burbling stream is good medicine for an overworked mind. More to the point, the elixir was no electronics. No WiFi. No cell phone. No TV. No radio.

For the first time in months, and I do mean months, I worked in my art journal. I painted, wrote, mused and dreamed. I read The Creativity Book: A Year's Worth of Inspiration and Guidance and found myself enormously inspired, which led to more journaling, musing and dreaming.

We watched in silent awe as a mother black bear with three cubs passed through our campsite at 5 a.m. one morning. We adopted "Chuck" a precious little chipmunk who ate from James' hand. We swam in the chilly mountain lake, took long walks in the cool woods and talked about everything under the sun.

It was good. Very good.

I foresee another therapy session before summer's end.

And Now for Something Completely Different

2010-07-20T07:15:00.004-04:00

1961
Rosemary aged 15
Elizabeth aged 4
(I didn't become Liz until later)
Paul aged 12

This one, I let her win.

2010-07-09T18:31:00.013-04:00

I spent several hours last night working on photographs of my oil bottles for the website. I carried the bottles into the kitchen where the light was best, set them on a beige square tile, added a white background and snapped away.

For the rest of the night, Musie wouldn't leave me alone. She kept poking me in the brain, insisting that the pictures weren't right - that they were flat, boring and, above all, they weren't me.

When I got up this morning, I rummaged around my dresser drawers and found an old cotton quilt with pretty appliqued flowers. I set the quilt on a table in front of a bright window, smushed it around then rested the bottles on the soft fabric and took a picture.

Musie approved.

Negotiating while Giving Birth

2010-07-07T09:02:00.017-04:00

For the past month, I've been immersed in finalizing the creation of the Liz's Garden Aromatherapy website. Did you know there are 47 cajillion details to putting together a website? Correction: a webSTORE. If I just wanted a website it would be a lot easier, but creating a webstore is much more complicated.

In spite of my moaning, I'm super excited (and a little scared) because I'm beginning to see the final product emerge. Musie, however, is being difficult. She can be quite the bossy cow at times and keeps horning in on this project.

Readers, below is a tongue-in cheek poke at myself to demonstrate how my left brain and right brain fight each other when I create. In no way is this meant to shed negative light on my web designer who is doing a great job!

**********

Scene: Liz's kitchen table where she sits in front of her laptop, head bent, fingers flying as she furiously creates website content.

Musie: Yawn. Your website is boring.
Liz: Oh?   What's wrong with it?

Musie:   It needs more pizazz.
Liz:   I don't want to sell pizazz, I want to sell essential oils.

Musie:   Ah, c'mon. You can do both.
Liz:        (Tentatively) Uh, well, what did you have in mind?

Musie: (Jumping around excitedly now that she's getting attention) Let's inject your website with color and music and dancing babies followed by pages and pages on how essential oils can water the garden of your creativity and encourage it to blossom!

Liz:         Look, I just want a simple online store where my essential oils are featured and sold.
Musie:   Oh poo.

Liz:       Besides, that's what our blog The Fragrant Muse is for!
Musie: Blog Shmog. You're all about creativity, tell your story everywhere.

Sigh...

We're still negotiating, but I promise, it won't be long.

Ten Aromatic Pleasures

2010-06-29T21:17:00.003-04:00

I love making lists and haven't posted one in ages.

Here are ten aromas that make me feel good inside either because they smell lovely or they bring back a happy memory.

1:: Coffee, that someone else has made, wafting upstairs to the bedroom first thing in the morning.

2:: The Bean's neck.

3:: I once lived in an apartment in Philadelphia that was directly across the street from an Italian bakery. The morning air was always dense with the mouth-watering aroma of fresh baked bread. Heavenly.

4:: Clinque's Aromatic Elixir because it makes me think of my mom

5:: The wet, dusty earth moistened by the start of a summer rain.

6:: My husband's skin.

7:: Chanel No5 Soap because it was what I bathed with just after the birth of my first son. the aroma can still transport me to that amazing day.

8:: Bookstores and new books.

9:: Fresh cut grass.

10: Vintage Patchouli essential oil.

How about you? What are your favorite aromas?

Leaping into Less

2010-06-09T08:48:00.004-04:00

It's been ages since I've played at Jamie Ridler's studio, so I popped over this morning and her question What Leap Do you Wish to Take? gave me pause.

What LEAP do I wish to take? Jamie, I'm already leaping tall buildings in a single bound and stopping the occasion speeding bullet in order to accomplish my goals. In fact if I keep leaping at this pace, I'm likely to spring myself right into burnout. I've done it before.

Leaping it kinda my thang.

My Meltdown SoulCollage Card

The question begs to be asked: What constitutes a "leap" anyway? Isn't a leap an action performed without knowledge of the consequences? An act of faith? In that case, I'm not leaping at all because I know my hard work and actions will result in success. The leap for me then is slowing down.

Woah...my palms just got sweaty. I must have hit a nerve.

So the leap I wish to take now is letting go, slowing down and doing less...while keeping the faith that it will all work out.

Now that's a leap worth taking.

"Mud" by The Bean

2010-06-08T06:35:00.003-04:00

Nana and Pap like to take me for walks on Sunday afternoon.
Nana thinks its funny when I'm on Pap's shoulders,
'cause it looks like I have a tail.

My Pap knows a lot about plants and teaches me 'bout ones I can eat
and ones I shouldn't touch.
Here he's teachin' me 'bout pois'nivy. "Leaves of three, let them be" he says.

We like to go down to the river and walk on this one tree that goes
waaaaay out over the water. It's a little scary but I like it.
Pap almost fell out of the tree once and Nana laughed real hard.

Sassy our Pug always comes with us on walks.

Nana says she's a "cream puff" but she's part of the family, too.
I never saw a dog climb a tree before.

Pap likes to hold me and talk about what we see like
clouds and water and birds and stuff.
Nana calls him "flosofer".

I love my Pap. Nana says he's "earfy" and "grounding".
I don't know what that means but I feel safe when he holds me.

Nana wanted to get closer to the water for pitchers (she's always takin' pitchers!)
She took off her shoes and walked in the mud.

This made Pap and me laugh.

I wanted to get in the mud too.

And the water.

It feels funny when it squishes 'tween my toes.

Sassy went kinda nuts in the water and Nana kept calling her "mudball"

I fell down. Then I fell down again.
Falling down was fun! I was swimmin' in the river!

Nana told Pap "that's enough he'll get 'monia".
She made me get out of my wet clothes and told Pap to take off his shirt and wrap me up.
It was warm and smelled good, like Pap.

I like having adventures with Nana and Pap.
You never know what's gonna happen.

Three Products that Will Change (and maybe even save) Your Life

2010-06-07T08:06:00.007-04:00

I've become completely enamored with natural cleaning.

Let me be perfectly clear, I am not a woman who loves to clean. Oh no, not me. Given a bit of free time, I'll spend the day writing, surfing the net, reading or eating ice cream before I run the sweeper or scrub the bathtub. But since I like a bright, germ-free, fresh-smelling home, clean I must.

I've always felt uncomfortable with commercial cleaning products for the home knowing that with every use I'm:

1) breathing in toxics and absorbing them in my skin;
2) exposing my family and pets to the toxins;
3) pouring them into the earth;
4) voting with my shopping dollars to keep them on the shelves.

In the interest of full disclosure I admit that, even with this knowledge, for years I have purchased and used common retail cleaning products, trying to opt for the less caustic. Or so I thought.

I've been learning that cleaning ingredients vary in the type of health hazard they pose. Some cause acute, or immediate, hazards such as skin or respiratory irritation, watery eyes, or chemical burns, while others are associated with chronic, or long-term, effects such as cancer. The Mayo Clinic warns formaldehyde in our household and personal care products can irritate the respiratory system, cause skin reactions (like eczema) and trigger heart palpitations. Fragrances added to many cleaners, especially laundry detergents and fabric softeners, may cause acute effects such as respiratory irritation, headache, sneezing, and watery eyes in sensitive individuals or allergy and asthma sufferers.

The EPA warns that our homes are 70 times more toxic than outside! Hmmmmmmm.... doesn't that mean that the dirt in your house is less toxic than the chemicals you use to remove it?

Here's The Bottom Line
To keeping your home clean, toxic-free and smelling wonderful, you don't need to spend a lot of money or use any commercial cleaning products. You only need three items with essential oils being an optional fourth:

1) Baking Soda (Aluminum free: Arm&Hammer or Bob's Red Mill are good).

2) White Distilled Vinegar (found in every supermarket)
3) Castile Soap My online shop, Liz's Garden, carries an Organic Liquid Castile Soap. Also, Dr. Bronner's, Vermont Soap or Mountain Rose are good.
4) Essential Oils (optional if you are on a thin budget, but since they are highly antibacterial, I don't consider them optional). Best to use organic/wildcrafted or unsprayed, of course. Suggest Peppermint, Lemongrass, Scotch Pine, Lemon, Sweet Orange.

Because the internet is rich with information on cleaning with the above items, I'm simply giving you some links and a recipe for a Soft Scrub I like:

Liz's Easy-to-Make, No Chemical, Aromatic Soft Scrub

2 C. baking soda,
4 Tablespoons organic liquid castile soap
1 Tablespoon distilled white vinegar

40 drops organic essential oils of Lemon, Pine, Rosemary, Tea Tree (any preferred aroma really. It's also a good way to use up oils that might be getting older.)

Mix and store in a sealed glass jar. Shelf life is about two years. Tip: For really tough jobs, spray with the distilled vinegar first, let it sit then follow up with the scrub.

I'd love to hear what cleaning products YOU make!

There's No Place Like Home

2010-06-06T12:57:00.024-04:00

In January of this year I began what was initially an exciting three months of stimulating new experiences. I signed up for a series of aromatherapy classes in new and distant cities.

This fresh slice of life thrilled me to bits because my adventures included everything I adore: working with essential oils, meeting new people, flying and driving to unknown cities, leasing cars with state-of-the-art gadgets, renting adorable cottages and - most importantly - flooding my thirsty brain with new knowledge. At one point I added even more classes which meant increased travel, increased expenses and increased time away from home.

And it's taken its toll on my well-being.

Somewhere in the thrill of new experience and seeking higher knowledge, I began to lose myself and my balance. I have a lot of increased wisdom to be sure, but the most valuable lesson has been that it's possible to have too much of a good thing.

I've been away one week every month since January. For some that might not seem like much, but for me that's a lot of time away. This has translated into less focus on my loved ones, overloading my massage schedule when I am home and packing more into each hour of each day. Worse, my creative soul-nourishing activities have been neglected: writing, blogging (only 40 posts since January!), Fragrant Fridays, art journaling, soulcollage and time spent just dreaming. Never underestimate the value of "goofing off" "puttering" and "doing nothing in particular".

Yep. When staying in a gorgeous lake cottage like this isn't nearly as interesting as

moments like this,

then it's time to be home.

So today, I'm putting an end to busy. I've invited my inner child for a visit and we're doing nothing in particular. At home.

Where, it turns out, we like it best.

Road Trip Anyone?

2010-05-25T09:56:00.001-04:00

If you're a Lavender Lover or just want something fun to add to your list of things to do this summer, I suggest you check out these festivals:

Prairie Lavender Farm
LAVENDER FESTIVAL
Bennington, Kansas
June 19, 2010

Hosted by Mike Neustrom, owner of Prairie Lavender Farm, this looks like one fun festival! You can pick your own fresh lavender, take a tour of their farming/processing operation, learn to make lavender gifts, listen to live music and shop in their brand new store.

Questions? Check out their website Prairie Lavender Farm or email Mike, he's one great guy! mike@prairielavenderfarm.com.

******************************

If you live in the Pacific Northwest or have a bunch of frequent flyer miles to use, you'll want to attend the 14th Annual Lavender Festival in Sequim, Washington. Sequim calls itself "The Lavender Capital of North America".

Sequim Lavender Festival

July 16, 17, 18, 2010

They'll have farm tours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily plus a street fair with more than 150 crafts and lavender booths. There will be food, music, and more in downtown Sequim.

For more pictures you can go to the Sequim Lavender Festival blog here or check out the website which is chock full of information and photos.

And if you're going and need some company, write to me...you never know, I just might be up for it!

Aromatic SoulCollage®

2010-05-11T20:52:00.014-04:00

Below is an article that appeared in the May issue of Neter Letter, a monthly newsletter for SoulCollage® Facilitators. Since the newsletter can only be accessed online by Facilitators, I have posted it here for my blog readers. At the end of the article you'll find information (taken directly from the official website), that gives a little explanation about soulcollage. The official website is www.soulcollage.com

************************************************************************

Aromatic SoulCollage®
by Liz Fulcher

Essential oils came into my life in 1991 while I was living in Italy. During my twelve years in Rome, I gave birth to two sons, and it was after the birth of my second son that I had an experience that would change my life.

On May 24, 1991 one hour after the birth of Gianluca, a nurse said “Venga Signora, massaggiamo il bambino?” Did she just say "Come along Signora, let’s massage the baby”? What did she mean? I hadn’t done anything like that after Davide (my first son) was born.

The nurse guided me to a warm, dimly-lit room and taught me how to give my newborn son a massage with aromatic oils. I didn’t even know you could massage babies! ...and what was that amazing-smelling oil she was pouring into her hand? The nurse patiently explained that they used a blend of Calendula and Chamomile oils on the babies for healthy skin and restful sleep. After witnessing the amazing effects these oils had on the infants in the “nido” (nursery), a spark of excitement was ignited in my soul and has grown into a passion that is still very much alive today.

Essential oils touch (and literally “scent”) every part of my life. I’ve spent the last nineteen years learning as much as I can about essential oils from their clinical applications, to vibrational healing, and everything in between. I now teach others about their amazing benefits. Essential oils are as much a part of my life as the members of my family.

Fast-forward to autumn, 2008. James, my husband, and I were attending a creativity retreat in Massachusetts hosted by our friend Jill Badonsky. It was here that I saw my first SoulCollage® card. Jill had asked the participants to bring a creative project to share with the group. I brought my art journals, James had his leatherwork, and as we went around the room sharing our respective creative endeavors, Michele Audet pulled out a box with her beautiful SoulCollage® cards. I was transfixed. I’d never seen anything like it, and I knew that this powerful form of self-expression was for me! I spent much of that weekend looking through Michele's deck, and the first thing I did when we returned home was to begin making my own cards.

As I created my own SoulCollage® deck, I considered how I might include essential oils into my cards since they are such an important part of my life’s story. I decided to make just one aromatic card to represent all the oils and keep it in my Community suit. One afternoon, I down sat at the kitchen table and the next thing I knew I was creating a card for Clary Sage, which is one of my favorite oils, aromatically, therapeutically and energetically.

I began using Clary Sage in 1993 when I discovered how a few drops in the bath helped calm the emotional rollercoaster of PMS. Over the years, my relationship with Clary Sage has deepened and I feel a strong energetic bond with this beautiful oil. It not only makes me feel lighthearted, but also has a special way of opening my inner self and allowing my creativity to be expressed. (Please note, Clary Sage essential oil has important safety issues associated with it. Do not use without first consulting a professionally-trained Aromatherapist.)

CLARY SAGE
I Am One Who ushers in joy and laughter.
I Am One Who awakens your creativity.
I Am One Who opens the sixth chakra, allowing you to experience
greater intuition and inner vision.
I Am One Who soothes the beasts of anger and fear. I
Am One Who offers peace when you are overwhelmed.

I felt like the card was creating itself! During the process of putting together the card, I felt so connected to the aromatic - its aroma, history, color, and overall healing energy. The images fell together so easily that I thought, “Oh I can’t have just one card. I need to honor each one of these precious oils with their own SoulCollage® card!” So began my collection of aromatherapy SoulCollage® cards.

While attending the SoulCollage® Facilitator Training in March, 2009, I shared my Clary Sage card with Seena (note to blog readers: Seena Frost is the founder of SoulCollage®) who was delighted with the idea of SoulCollage® cards for the essential oils! She suggested I give them their own suit. It’s a good thing too. I’m sure I’ll have at least fifty cards in that suit before I’m done!

How I Create My Aromatic SoulCollage® Cards

Before I create one of these special cards, I consider the distinguishing characteristics of each essential oil, such as its energetic properties or therapeutic benefits. In particular, I try to include images that represent our aromatic history together and any special significance that the oil has for me. I spend time quietly sniffing its aroma and connecting with the color and viscosity by putting a drop in my hand. Sometimes I just hold the bottle and ask the oil what message it has for me.

As for the images, if I see a photograph somewhere that pops out at me and shouts, for example, “Lavender” or “Tea Tree”, I’ll tear it out and place it in a file for that oil. Frequently I have to hunt for a specific image that I envision for the card. While making my Juniper Berry card, I wanted an image of St. Michael since I associate Juniper with that Saint. For my Patchouli card, I wanted a strong image that conveyed the first chakra and pored over books and magazines until I found the image that spoke to me.

How I use My Aromatic SoulCollage® Cards

As with all SoulCollage® cards, there are many creative ways to use aromatic cards to assist in your life’s journey. One of my favorite methods is to normal my morning by asking the cards to show me which oil I need for that day. I draw one card and then set it out next to a bottle of the corresponding oil. I’ll diffuse the oil in the air, make a room spray, or simply put a drop on a tissue and stick it in my pocket; all these methods strengthen my bond with the oil. In my massage practice, I might have a client choose a card or two and make a blend for their session. Sometimes I’ll turn to my aromatic cards for guidance in solving a problem Before pulling a card, I might ask “Which oil will help me with…?” or “Which oil has some wisdom to shed on this issue…?” After I draw the card, I consider the energetic qualities of the oil, the chakra with which it has an affinity, or how it might help my body or mind. I’m amazed at how often the perfect essential oil shows up.

Like the aromatics themselves, creating SoulCollage® cards for essential oils has been an unexpected delight in my life and has become an integral part of discovering more about my aromatic companions and myself. If essential oils aren’t your passion, perhaps you have a fondness for herbs, flowers, homeopathic remedies or gemstones.

Whatever your interest, I recommend making a card honoring each individual “member” of your collection and even, if it feels appropriate, creating a special suit. You’ll find your knowledge on the subject will grow and your passion shifting to a deeper level.

PATCHOULI
I Am One Who harmonizes the earth element with your mind,
mentally grounding you and bringing you back to your feet.
I Am One Who invites sensual pleasure.
I Am One Who rescues you from the nervous strain and
mental overload of your own overactive mind.

Liz Fulcher, CA, RA, is an Aromatherapy Educator, Writer, Massage Therapist and SoulCollage® Facilitator. She offers classes in the therapeutic and energetic use of essential oils throughout the year and lives in Selinsgrove, PA. Email Liz at thefragrantmuse@gmail.com. Visit her blog at www.thefragrantmuse.blogspot.com.

****************************************************************

What is SoulCollage^®? Originated by Seena Frost, SoulCollage^® is a process for accessing your intuition and creating an incredible deck of cards with deep personal meaning that will help you with life's questions and transitions.

How to do SoulCollage^®? Following the simple SoulCollage^® directions, your hands move fragments of cut-out magazine pictures around, fitting them together in a surprising new way and gluing them down on a card. Cards containing the images you select -- or the images that select you -- come straight through your Soul, bypassing the mind.

WHO Can SoulCollage^®? Anyone! This is a multi-leveled, creative process which anyone can do. All you need is a good pair of scissors, pre-cut mat board cards, and images you can cut out from magazines, greeting cards, personal photos, postcards, catalogues, and calendars. You can do this work individually, but it is also wonderful to have other people with whom to share the process. The cards are fun to take to a friend's house, to work with in therapy or support groups, or to keep on your coffee table.

Fragrant Friday #24 : Lemongrass

2010-04-30T09:08:00.012-04:00

Today's profiled aromatic is one of my favorites. I know, I know...I say that about all of them, but this deliciously aromatic friend comes with some unique properties. Lemongrass can be a brute when it comes in contact with the skin but an outstanding ally for "Fungus Amongus".

Lemongrass Essential Oil

Cymbopogon citratus

photo

Family: Poaceae

Geographical Source: Native to Asia.

Extraction: Steam distillation of the fresh and partially dried leaves (grass).

Characteristics: A yellowish or yellow-brownish liquid with a strong lemony aroma and an earthy undertone.

Principle Constituents: Monoterpenes (b-myrcene), Monoterpenols (citronellol, geraniol, linalol) Sesquiterpenols (<3%), Aldehydes (citronellal, gernial, neral), Esters (trace)

Therapeutic Actions: Analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, digestive aid, febrifuge, tonic

Benefits of Lemongrass:
Fungus Amongus: Lemongrass is outstanding in a blend for dealing with fungus (eeeewwww). If you add other antifungal oils like Tea Tree or Lemon you will increase the potency of the blend. Use a blend of up to 3% (15 drop to 1 oz carrier) but remember to put the blend only on the fungal area of the skin and not on healthy tissue as it can irritate healthy skin at this concentration. You might want to include a few drops of Patchouli or Sandalwood to soften the irritating effect of the Lemongrass. Plus, it will smell divine! Some yucky conditions it attacks beautifully are athlete's foot, toenail fungus, pediculosis and scabies. Are you scratching your head yet?

Muscles/Joints: Lemongrass is a great analgesic and can be helpful in assisting the healing of any injury to muscle, tendon, ligament, and bone. Lemongrass is helpful for muscular pain, poor circulation and muscle tone. I like to use it in massage for the feet and on sore muscles, especially when blended with Black Pepper. Do remember to keep these oils well-diluted or your client will run screaming from the table and that's never good for business.

Cleaning: I love cleaning my kitchen with Lemongrass. I toss a couple of drops on the countertop and wipe with a sponge. I'll also put some on a tissue and stuff it in my vaccumn cleaner bag which makes the air smell lovely.

Safety: Remember: High in aldehydes = skin irritation! May cause irritation to skin and mucous membranes so use in low doses. Avoid using on individuals with sensitive or damaged skin. Robert Tisserand suggests that the oil nt be used with children under two years of age.

A Story of Armpits on Fire: One summer afternoon in my massage practice while my client was getting undressed, I sat at my desk and suddenly felt that the heat had taken it's toll on my "freshness". Knowing that Lemongrass is a great deodorizer, I got out a bottle and poured a few drops into my palms. I slipped my hands under my shirt and wiped the oil in my armpits. There. Lemony Fresh. I washed my hands and entered the massage room. Within five minutes I began to experience an unpleasant tingling sensation in my armpits. The tingling developed into burning and within ten minutes I thought there must be an army of fire ants chewing away in my pits. I excused myself and ran to the bathroom where I tore off my shirt and began to rub unscented oil into those now-inflamed hollows, followed by cool water. Please tell me this experience wasn't in vane and you have all learned a valuable lesson. Trust me when I tell you, the high aldehyde content of Lemongrass will burn delicate membranes like fire!

(And you thought your job sucked)

weburbanist.com

Blends well with: I think lemongrass is nice with just about everything, but some oils it plays especially well with are Basil (yum!), Cedarwood, Geranium, Lavender, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Rosemary.

Subtle Properties: (vibrational and energetic): Lemongrass clears, cleanses and uplifts! Good to use with pepperming. This oil promotes optimism and dispels negative energy. When used in conjunction with the sixth chakra, it stimulates psychic awareness. Helps release regrets and old ways of thinking. A good affirmation to use in conjunction with Lemongrass is "It is safe for me now to clear away and gently release what no longer serves me".

Liz's Suggested Recipe
Kitchen Countertop Antiseptic Spray

Fill a glass pump-spray bottle with 4 oz distilled water than add the following essential oils

Lemongrass 10 drops
Orange 10 drops
Thyme 5 drops

Basil 5 drops

Shake this mixture well before each use. Spray on your countertop at the end of "clean-up" to kill bacteria and keep kitchen smelling lovely.

Art Journaling: A Day of Color and Mirth

2010-04-29T08:05:00.021-04:00

Working in an art journal really brings out the inner child as I saw on April 17th. Seven powerful, wonderful women turned into creative "little girls" as they played with paint and stamps, tore up magazines for collaging, wore animal hats, ate chocolate and made beautiful art in their journals.

********************************************************

Below are pictures of our day of creative play.
Click on the photo if you'd like to enlarge it.

Have I forgotten to pack anything? The kitchen sink maybe?

Linda and Jennifer hard at play.

Even in an Art Journaling workshop I include aromatics.

Here's Dee adding peppermint essential oil to her paint bottle.

Recommended Reading

Sassy was there, too!
It was her ninth birthday and this is how she celebrated.
In fact, this is how she celebrates everything.

Linda drying her page with a hairdryer.

Pat brought this beautiful Goddess stamp from home.
I am SO ordering one!

Pat and Jennifer

Lots of goodies to play with!

Bobbie, deep in thought.

I love the freedom this process encourages!

I gave them animal hats and asked that them to write
in their journals how they were like their animal.

Cathy created a pretty border around her two-page spread.

Hey, Joleen is a southpaw.

It was truly a relaxing, fun and creative day. When can we do it again?

Certified Aromatherapy Instructor...WooHoo!

2010-04-28T09:22:00.035-04:00

After an intensive five days together, seven students successfully graduated from Andrea Butje's ACP Teacher Training at the Aromahead Institute!

In this program we learned how to instruct an exceptional 235-hour Aromatherapy Certification Program that meets (and exceeds) the guidelines set by NAHA's Level 1 and 2 Educational Standards.

Thank you Andrea for a wonderful class and congratulations to my aromatic sisters (aka the top notes)!

(couch L to R) Chris Carrothers, Terry Miller, Pam Dore, moi

(floor L to R) Amy Vona , Patti Celini and Chrissy Polnyj

Memorizing Molecules

2010-04-13T08:09:00.005-04:00

I recently bought a super-cool set of coasters from this artist.

The weird markings are actually chemical structures of aromatic molecules with punctilious names like d-limonene, linalyl acetate, geraniol and a-bisabolol. These little guys are so delightful to me that I've displayed a few around my massage room.

Sometimes during a massage, I'll catch myself glancing at a molecule and trying to name it. So if you're a massage client and hear me mutter "Linalol C₁₀H₁₈O" or catch me whispering "Linalyl acetate C₁₂H_2oO₂" you'll know why.

I'm officially an aroma nerd.

Upcoming Workshop: "Starting an Art Journal"

2010-04-10T12:38:00.056-04:00

On Saturday April 17th, I'm taking a break from my aromatherapy activities to give attention to another of my passions: Art Journaling. I'm teaching a workshop called Starting an Art Journal. If you're interested (and local), it will be in State College, PA and I have room for two more participants. Below is a description of the day taken from my flyer as well as photos from my last Art Journaling workshop. You can see my own journal pages here on my Flickr account.

***************************

"Starting an Art Journal"

with Liz Fulcher

Explore your creativity in a spontaneous, playful and

imperfect way that will have your inner muse dancing with delight!

What is Art Journaling? Art journaling is vehicle for expressing yourself when words aren't enough. It's also an invitation to your inner child to come out and play! Art skills are definitely not required since I emphasize the process of being creative, rather than the product.

In this one-day "playshop", I will take you step-by-step through a few simple techniques and "recipes" that will enable you to transform a simple blank book into a unique and personalized visual journal. This workshop is designed to be playful and fun and will include lots of paint, stamps, music, aroma (how can I not include aroma?) and maybe even cookies and milk for your inner child. You'll return home full of inspiration and resources to help you continue creating art and words on your own.

We will:

~Discuss various types of visual journals;
~Use acrylic paints, colored pens and rubber stamps to create several two-page backgrounds;
~Choose images from magazines to create a collage;
~Design and render compositions that reflect your personality and mood;
~Engage in writing exercises designed to spark your imagination and get you writing;

Supplies: All supplies will be provided. You are welcome to bring a favorite rubber stamp, scraps of paper or anything significant that you might like to incorporate into your journal.

Clothing: Acrylic paint doesn't always wash out of fabric so Dress to Mess.

Date: Saturday, April 17, 2010

Time: 9:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Place: The Mt. Nittany Institute of Natural Health, State College, PA

Cost: $70 + $7 Materials Fee

Register: Call 814-238-1121

BEFORE (background only)

AFTER (with journaling added)

One Year after the Earthquake Hit Home

2010-04-06T12:17:00.020-04:00

Villa Sant'Angelo is a beautiful medieval village in the mountains and lies in the province of L'Aquila, the capital of the Abruzzo region of Italy. Villa, as we affectionately call it, is about 90 minutes east of Rome and the home of my former husband, Michele. In the twelve years I lived in Rome, Villa was our weekend respite from the chaos of the city. It was cool in the summer and always full of children playing outside. My former in-laws have a huge house whose front door empties right into the town square. Until they were 17, my sons spent every summer of their lives running, playing soccer and riding their bikes on that piazza and up and down the narrow alley-like streets.

One year ago today, at 3:32 a.m., an earthquake 6.3 on the Richter scale hit central Italy.

Early that morning I walked into the kitchen where my son Gianluca was having breakfast. He said "Mom, there was an earthquake in L'Aquila and it hit Nonna's village." Nonna is his grandmother, my former mother-in-law. I've lived in California so I know about earthquakes. Even in Rome we had to run out of our apartment once or twice after a tremor and we'd talk about it for a day or two then life would continue as before. I imagined this to be the case in Villa.

Not so. L'Aquila was at the epicenter and affected 26 towns in the area surrounding L'Aquila. One of the hardest hit was our dear Villa Sant'Angelo. The town was devastated with over 90% of the buildings destroyed. Seventeen people were killed, among them several dear friends and relatives.

This post would be more effective with photos of my kids playing on the square before the quake, but I still need to dig them out for scanning - which I will do one day. In the meantime, all I can find are "after" photos which still shock me.

In the photograph below you can see two homes that had been attached. The one on the right, with the metal shutters, is the home of Michele and his family who were, gratefully, not home that night. To the far right is an oval window and the window directly above that was the bedroom we slept in during years there. The house to the left belong to a cousin named Concetina who didn't survive. You can even see the bedroom of Michele's mother which was left exposed when the wall came down. (click on the pics for a full view)

This is the church across the piazza from Michele's home. We attended many a mass and wedding here. I can still smell the sweet aroma of frankincense that would hit your nostril upon entering.

An alley my sons used to run up and down on their way to the soccer field.

This is what the streets looked like before the quake

How many hours did I spend on this piazza pushing a stroller, riding my bike,
walking with my sons, chatting with friends and relatives?

The iron gate on the right led to the home of Pasqualina, one of my favorite people and Michele's cousin. She was hilarious and lived in NYC for many years so her english was excellent. She had a fabulous sense of humor. I spent many afternoons in her kitchen drinking coffee talking about life with her. Sadly, she didn't survive.

A campsite for those who lost their homes. People are still living here.

What still haunts me is the realization that with all the holidays, weekends, summers we spent in this town, with all the time I spent visiting people whose homes are no longer there, with my wedding in nearby L'Aquila, this earthquake could have happened while I was there. But it didn't.

I could have just as easily been sleeping inside one of those buildings whose walls came down. My boys could have been playing in the home of a friend whose house collapsed. My sense of gratitude for our having escaped this tragedy is profound. I wonder if that's how the people who didn't go to work that fateful day on 9/11 feel?

So today I am, in my own way, honoring the residents of Villa Sant'Angelo and those who are no longer with us.

And giving deep thanks that my family was spared.

Some things I learned this Easter

2010-04-05T10:20:00.031-04:00

Here are a few surprising lessons I learned over the Easter weekend:

Having a spontaneous picnic on the trampoline is awesome

This boy is going to know more outdoor survival skills by the time he's eight than most men learn in a lifetime.

My husband can sit on his haunches for a really long time.

Throwing rocks in water never gets old. Ever.
(The proof is here and here).
And my husband can even perch from a rock on his haunches.

2 1/2 year olds have a lot to say that's worth listening to.

Singing puppet sheep are fun to watch...

no matter how old you are.

If a group of parents are standing in a parking lot waiting while two slow teenagers hide the eggs,
only one adult (guess who?) thinks to run up and offer help.

Egg hunting encourages competition at an early age.
I'm not sure I like it.

Don't wear sandals in a dry thorny pasture
unless you want stickers in your feet.

Live in the moment.
Eat the chocolate you've got before hunting for more.

Walking on a railroad bridge is loads of fun.

There's a thrill of finding a treasure
when you come upon a couple of old railroad spikes.

We have an official company name and two winners...

2010-03-29T19:02:00.018-04:00

In this post of March 15th, I sent out a request for help in making a decision between Liz's Garden Aromatherapy and The Fragrant Muse Aromatics as a name for my line of essential oils.

First of all, I want to thank each and every one of you who took the time to vote and leave a comment. Your words touched me and were tremendously helpful in assisting me in my decision making process.

On the blog poll, The Fragrant Muse came out ahead with 52% over Liz's Garden Aromatherapy at 37%. But what you couldn't see were the many personal emails I received from friends who have been buying my essential oils for years telling me how much they liked the name Liz's Garden Aromatherapy. So, in the end, I've decided to change nothing. The company name will remain Liz's Garden Aromatherapy (with the tagline "Discover your Fragrant Muse") and the blog will remain The Fragrant Muse.

Perhaps from a marketing standpoint keeping my blog and my company name the same makes good business sense, but you know what? Both names were chosen by my muse (whom I affectionately call musie) and she hasn't steered me wrong yet.

The Drawing...

Have I kept you in suspense long enough?

I printed out the name of everyone who left a comment
and cut them into strips,

Then folded each one
and placed them into one of James' hats.

He mixed up the names,

Closed his eyes and drew out...

Spudballoo!

Oh the irony.

I couldn't believe it when James handed me her name. Believe me when I tell you, I did everything to keep this drawing honest and fair, so picking her name was The Universe at work, not me. I've been promising dear patient Spud something aromatic for ages. I mean for something like six months. Today, The Universe put me in a corner. Okay. I get it. Jude (aka Spud), your oils will in the mail tomorrow!

And because I have a generous heart and a soft spot for all of you, I asked James to pick a second name to receive a bottle of Lavender. His hand came out with faerwillow of the blog Serendipity! Faerwillow, please send me your snailmail address.

Once again, thank you everyone for participating!

If I were...

2010-03-28T09:29:00.011-04:00

If I were a month I’d be May

If I were a day I’d be Friday

If I were a time of day I’d be 6:00 a.m.

If I were a font I'd be papyrus

If I were a planet I'd be mars

If I were a direction I'd be south

If i were a piece of furniture I’d be the kitchen table

If I were a liquid I'd be an essential oil

If i were a gemstone I'd be an opal

If I were a tree I'd be an Atlas Cedarwood

If I were an element I’d be water

If I were a tool I’d be scissors

If I were a flower I'd be a red geranium

If I were an element of weather I'd be a sunny day

If I were a musical instrument I’d be a player piano

If I were a color I’d be orange

If I were an emotion I’d be inspiration

If I were a fruit I'd be a ripe fig

If I were a sound I’d be pouring rain with a bit of rolling thunder

If I were a car I’d be an orange Karmen Ghia

If I were a food I’d be baklava

If I were a place I’d be Terme di Saturnia

If I were material I’d be well-worn cotton

If I were a taste I’d be bittersweet

If I were a scent I’d be patchouli

If I were a body part I’d be the hands

If I were a song I'd be Baba O'Reilly by The Who

If I were a bird I'd be a magpie

If I were a gift I’d be given late

If I were a city I’d be Florence

If I were a door I'd open onto a flower garden

If I were a pair of shoes I'd be slip-ons

If I were a poem I'd rhyme and be funny

This exercise was more telling about myself than I expected - the answers came easily and were not necessary "my favorite things." Why not give it a try! To read two more, go here and here.

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Don't forget...today is the last day to vote in my poll and giveaway!

My Blue Room Earrings

2010-03-25T17:42:00.010-04:00

Julie Broberg is an American living in Denmark. We met one year ago in April when I stumbled upon her Flickr account and was mesmerized by the photos she had posted. I wrote asking what camera she used which led to a friendly exchange of emails and an invitation for me to visit her blog Moments of Perfect Clarity It may sound corny and cliche, but I was so inspired by her words and images and unbridled creativity that a month later I created this here bit 'o writing.

When Julie declared me a blog crush last May, that I was it. I had become a firm disciple of Julochkaism*. (*Julochkaism: A doctrine I just this second made up whose principles embody: "writing as the new praying", art journaling, retreats know as "blog camp"and taking photographs of shoes, eyeballs and daily life).

In the past year Julie ~~as been responsible for depleting my savings account~~ has inspired me to purchase my Nikon D60 and MacBook Pro. The only reason I don't have an iPhone is because AT&T isn't my cellphone provider.   If this pattern continues, I may find myself buying a 17-acre farm in the future. Check out her latest project. It's remarkable and I'm so glad that I only have to read about it and not actually get in there and clear cobwebs.

Last December, Julie held a contest of sorts for what she considered the best thoughts on the meaning of one of her photographs. To my utter amazement, I won (scroll to the bottom this post to read about it).    Julie promised a handmade prize and sure enough, it arrived a few weeks ago. I've been wearing it ever since.

Thank you Julochka for the Blue Room Earrings (named for her studio) made by your talented little hands.   More importantly, thank you for enriching my life in the past year with your constantly evolving creativity and your friendship. I can't wait to see what you get up to in 2010.

What Do I Wish to Take a Break From?

2010-03-24T06:47:00.011-04:00

Girl at Mirror, 1954
The Saturday Evening Post, March 6, 1954 (cover)
Oil on canvas
The Norman Rockwell Museum at Stockbridge (Massachusetts)

They say men think about sex every 7 seconds. I'm betting American women think about their bodies every 5 seconds. With me it's about every 3 seconds.

From the time I wake up in the morning to just before sleeping at night, I am aware of my body size. What I actually weigh doesn't matter - thin or heavy, eating well or binging - the awareness is constant.

I wish to take a break from attention on my body and just relax with who I am, how I am.

What do YOU wish to take a break from?

Fragrant Friday #23: Black Pepper

2010-03-19T07:54:00.025-04:00

As we slip into Spring and folks start exercising (in a panic) when they realize bathing suit season is near, Musie thought we should profile Black Pepper today. Why? Because Black Pepper is wonderfully warming to the muscles and joints. So if you've recently returned to the gym, dragged out the stairmaster or finally dug yourself from the depths of the couch to walk, read on! You can order Black Pepper here

Essential Oil of Black Pepper
Piper nigrum

photo source

Family: Piperaceae

Geographical Source: The Piper nigrum plant is native to southwest India.

A Dash of History: This popular condiment has a long history of use as both a spice and a currency. It was so valuable that the ancient Turks taxed it heavily, and the French, Dutch, and Portuguese even went to war over the routes that would allow them to trade the fruit of this valuable plant. Think of that the next time you grind a bit of peppercorn over your Ceasar Salad!

Extraction: The Essential oil is produced by steam distillation of the black peppercorns, dried and crushed.

photo source

Characteristics: A clear liquid with a warm spicy scent which is distinctively....well, peppery!

Principle Constituents: Mainly Monoterpenes (a-pinene, a-terpinene, d-3-carene, d-limonene); Sesquiterpenes (primarily b-caryophyllene); Monoterpenol (linalol)

Actions: (click here for a glossary that explains what these words mean): Analgesic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antitoxic, aperitif, aphrodisiac, bactericidal, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, febrifuge, laxative, rubefacient, stimulant (nervous, circulatory, digestive), stomachic, tonic.

Benefits of Black Pepper:

Circulation, Muscles and Joints:This oil is wonderfully warming. It's a great addition to sports blends to warm up cold, constricted muscles. Used after sports, it will increase circulation, flushing away the toxins that are often a cause of sore muscles. Black Pepper can assist with any kind of pain and inflammation, due to it's high b-caryophyllene content. Use it for increased circulation, aching limbs and rheumatoid arthritis.

Suggested Method of Use:

Blend in a 1% dilution (5 drops to 1 oz of massage oil or cream) and massage over sore muscles and aching limbs. You can also pour this same blend into a warm bath for relief.

Recipe for Muscle Pain and Stiffness
4 drops Black Pepper
4 drops Marjoram
2 drops Patchouli
4 drops Lavender (angustifolia)Blend into 1 oz. jojoba. Rub on sore area several times during the day.

Subtle Properties (vibrational and energetic):

Black pepper promotes strength, motivation and fortitude. If you seek boldness and courage, try adding a drop of Black Pepper to 1 tsp of Jojoba oil and rubbing into the solar plexus energy center. This will help clear the third chakra of energy blockages caused by fear, anger and frustration.

You can also rub your Black Pepper blend into the reflexology point in the foot that corresponds with the solar plexus in the body.

Black Pepper Blends well with: Clary sage, clove, coriander, fennel, frankincense, geranium, ginger, lavender, juniper berry, sandalwood, ylang ylang and all the citrus oils.

Safety: Non-toxic, non-sensitizing, irritant in high concentration due to rubefacient (increase local blood circulation, vasodilation) properties. Use in moderation.

My Black Pepper Muse SoulCollage® Card:

I am one who warms your body and soul.

I am one who brings forth the courage to go beyond your comfort zone.

I am one who has ancient roots and reminds you to value everyday pleasures that some consider a luxury.

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Don't forget to leave a comment here by Sunday, 3/28/10 to be eligible to win two bottles of Therapeutic Blend:
Muscle/Joint Comfort (which has Black Pepper among it's ingredients!)

and Sinus/Allergy Relief (who can't use some sinus relief in Spring?!)

References:
1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy.
2. Keim, J. Aromatherapy & Subtle Energy Techniques

A Poll and a Giveaway

2010-03-15T07:03:00.095-04:00

THE POLL
I'm trying to make a decision about something and would love your help.

In about 6 weeks, I'll be launching an online store to sell my line of essential oils. I began selling essential oils in 1998 as a way to provide a high quality product to my aromatherapy students when they were difficult to obtain locally. The objective at the time was to keep sales small and local. I didn't give much thought to naming the line so when Liz's Garden Aromatherapy popped into my head, that was the name I gave to the small company.

Now, 12 years later, I feel blessed that my career as an Aromatherapy Educator has blossomed and as a result, essential oils sales have grown and my audience has gotten wider. I can no longer ignore the need for an online retail store.

Here's my self-imposed dilemma...

Do I keep the name Liz's Garden Aromatherapy or change it to The Fragrant Muse Aromatics? This is a decision I need to make now before propelling the business further into cyberspace. What are your thoughts, opinions or advice on names for a line of high quality organic oils? I would also love to hear your thoughts on why you made the choice you did. It's always interesting how a name sounds to someone else.

I have placed a poll bar on my right sidebar where you can vote until Monday, March 22. If you have something different in mind, you can either let me know in a comment below or email me at thefragrantmuse@gmail.com.

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THE GIVEAWAY

I've decided to host a giveaway. The prize is a 15ml bottle each of our most popular therapeutic blends: Allergy/Sinus Relief and Muscle/Joint Relief.

How can you win? Just leave a comment here by Sunday, March 28, 2010 at 5:00 p.m. EST. On Sunday evening the winner will be chosen using the very non-scientific method of printing out a list of folks who have left a comment, cutting out the individual names, putting them in a hat and letting my husband reach in and draw out a name.

Remember the contest will run through

Sunday, March 28, 2010 at
5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (NYC time).

The winner will be announced here on Monday, March 29th

Click here to share this post on twitter...Thank You!

Throwing Muddy Stones into Icy Water

2010-03-09T11:15:00.077-05:00

Last fall I wrote this post about taking The Bean to the Susquehanna River where we ended up in a fever of rock pitching. During a recent cold weekend with too much time spent in the house, I suggested we bundle up our little man and take him to the now-icy river bank and try it again.

No need to give this child instructions.

The minute we reached the river, he bent down
and picked up a muddy rock.

James began skipping flat stones
(Note he's wearing his Cifelli Hat to which he's added feathers)

Some things don't change with age.

Ketones and Oxides and Phenols, Oh My!

2010-03-06T08:43:00.005-05:00

AromaChemistry. Day Nine. Deep into it now. Don't send for help. I think I'll make it.

In less than two weeks, Andrea Butje has managed to penetrate my fortytwelve-year-old brain and illuminate it with bewitching new terms and concepts like:

structural isomers
dextro rotary
primary, secondary and teritiary terpenols
2-bornanone (another name for camphor. Duh.)
phynol propenoids
blending from single component perspective
phenolic ethers
polymerized molecules
alpha-phellandrene
beta-myrcene (I haven't mastered making the greek letters on my computer. One miracle at a time please.)
shikimate pathway
anacardiaceae

I'm just happy I haven't had an aneurism or run screaming from the class.

In truth, Andrea is infinitely patient, calm, gently persistent and very thorough and ~~won't let us leave~~ isn't satisfied until she's sure everyone understands the lesson. Truth be told, I'm loving this new material. Even after 20 years of working with essential oils, my relationship with them is being transformed with this new, deeper understand of how they function.

And I'm having fun fun fun!

But don't tell Andrea.

She might take it to a whole new level and so far I've managed to escape brain rupture. I mean, I'd still like to be able to feed myself when I get home.

I'm still here (and there and there and there)

2010-02-26T08:46:00.008-05:00

I fear my blog's feelings my be hurt. Real life has been large and in charge these days and I fear I can't give bloggy my undivided attention just now. I'm hoping she'll forgive me.

I guess that's the cycle of things. Ebb and Flow and all that.

2010 is turning out to be the year of Epic Aromatherapy Education. Here's my travel/class agenda so far:

January: Florida 3 day workshop - Chemical Component Blending

February: Florida 5 days - Advanced Graduate Aromatherapy Program

March: Florida 5 days - continuation from February

April: Florida 5 days - Advanced Teacher Training

May: NY 5 days - participate in Aromatherapy Certification Program as part of my Advanced Teacher Training (I'll be offering this class through my own aromatherapy school in the Spring of 2011)

June: NY 5 days - continuation of May class

July: NY 5 days - continuation of May/June classes

July: NY 3 day workshop - Aromatic Blending. This one I'm taking as fun play weekend with my husband!

In addition I've been doing case studies, working on taking Liz's Garden Aromatherapy to a new level with branding and building a web presence. And now I'm in the process of creating an aromatherapy school. I'm working on a name for it and welcome ideas.

And, of course, life marches on around me. Our precious Bean visits every weekend and we do things like go sledding, throw stones and just be in the moment. My massage practice supports my education habit and once in a while I remind James that he has a wife by cooking a nice meal or going on restful retreats. I try to keep my own inner child alive by working on my soulcollage(r) cards and my artjournal.

Fragrant Fridays will still appear (when you least expect it) and I'll continue to share all my experiences along the way.

So please be patient dear blog and all my wonderful readers if I don't post and don't comment everyday. I'm still here and still reading, enjoying and being nourished by your wonderful blogs.

And I don't remember when I've been happier.

The Bean's First Sledding Adventure

2010-02-24T07:20:00.007-05:00

"Are you ready, Bean?"
"Yep, I'm ready Pap!"

"Okay buddy, give Nana a minute to ~~flounder in the snow~~ get to the

bottom of the hill with her camera."

"aaaand we're off!"

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeee

"Uh, Nana, you might wanna move out of the way..."

"You want me to WHAT?"

"Okay, Bean, I'll carry you up the hill."

Who could say NO to this face?

And Finally....

Bean's face in this picture, taken on their second run,

pretty well sums up his opinion of sledding.

In Memory of Alex

2010-02-23T08:11:00.024-05:00

Dear friends just lost their 17-year old son in a car accident. He was a great kid and a nationally ranked swimmer. He was YMCA State Champion, YMCA Nationals Finalist for two years in a row and a Nationals Participant since 8th grade. Alex enjoyed hunting, fishing, motocross, snowboarding, skate boarding, BMX bikes, mountain biking, golf and photography and had a personality as big as life. He was charismatic and loved by everyone who knew him.

He wasn't wearing his seatbelt. His girlfriend was and walked out of the hospital. Please take 90 seconds to watch this short, powerful video.

Rest, Renewal and Delight

2010-02-22T08:22:00.054-05:00

James and I spent a tranquil weekend in this little building at The Hartman Center in Milroy, PA where we attended a Peaceful Weekend Retreat. The retreat was designed to follow nature's lead into stillness, quiet and inner reflection. There were fourteen participants.

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Much of the weekend was spent in this common room in meditation, yoga stretches and gentle Qi Gong movements. The yoga just about did James in. He tried one session then opted to walk in the woods which is more his style of 'yoga' anyway. I surprised myself by being able to sit relatively still for the meditations.

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We spent considerable time gazing silently out the window at this restful winter perspective, connecting with trees, snow, shadows and the few critters that would briefly show themselves.

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There were contemplative art activities which we did as a group and there was free time for me to play in my art journal. There was one activity that I found insightful. We walked around a table covered with photographs of winter. We were to choose the picture that we felt drawn to. I chose a snowman with spruce "hair" and bits of tree in it's "hand". I've been examining my playful nature and whether it gets in the way of teaching. From this photo, I got the message that it's okay for the plants and I to be playful in the classroom on our journey of teaching about essential oils.

(CLICK ON PHOTO FOR LARGER IMAGE)

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Each evening from 9 p.m. until 9 a.m. we were in Noble Silence. No speaking, no gesturing, no eye contact with the other participants. James teased me that I would probably burst after one hour. I did okay until Sunday morning when I began chatting with James at the breakfast table. He just looked at me, amused. I suddenly remembered and clasped my hands over my mouth. My intentions were noble, if not my actions :-) Within a short time, Jen, Joleen, James and I began to get squirrely at which point we disintegrated into the Noble Silence Rebels.

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We ate all vegetarian, gluten-free, organic and very delicious

meals in this restful dining room

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It was good to be away from cell phones, computers, TV and other outside influences that bombard us daily, removing us from ourselves.

Where Do I Wish to Make a Difference?

2010-02-17T07:07:00.010-05:00

Every Wednesday, LifeCoach Jamie Ridler asks one probing question which is designed to encourage inner work. Truth be told, I first participated in this exercise as a way to fill my blog when I didn't have anything particular to write about. But what started out as mere activity as evolved into examination. Jamie's questions have become powerful prompts for me to look deeper into myself and answer important questions about my life. It has been a surprising adventure and many things I've "wishcasted" have manifested in real life!

Today Jamie asks us where we wish to make a difference:

1. I wish to make a difference in the lives of my children by loving them unconditionally and encouraging them to pursue their dreams, whatever they may be. For years I considered myself a selfish mother because I chose to follow my passions rather than being a traditional, stay-at-home mom or the type of mom who was there everyday when they get home from school. My wish is that my boys have been raised by a living example of following your bliss and they will do the same.

2. I wish that anyone who sits in my classroom is transformed in their knowledge and enthusiasm for essential oils.

I wish to make a difference in the lives of my aromatherapy students by keeping my own knowledge and passion fresh and by being my authentic self. I sometimes worry that my playful nature will get in the way of being taken seriously as an educator. But I simply can't be any other way. I am a high energy merrymaker who happens to adore everything about essential oils from the scientific to the vibrational. I love it all and my wish is that my passion be passed on to my students.

Wanted: One bottle of Braino, for help with clogged brains

2010-02-11T07:34:00.003-05:00

photo

Wouldn't it be great if there existed a concentrated cleaner to unclog a backed up brain? Something yummy to mix in hot water (or glass of wine), gulp down then wait 15 minutes while it dissolves the build up of mental debris that clogs creativity.

My brain has a heavy build up of debris from FAFSA forms, tax papers, bills, vet appointments, travel details, emails to return, spring class curriculum to write, homework assignments, grocery lists, etc. etc. etc., ad nauseum.

I just need to unclog the goop and let the inspiration flow.