Infant Teeth Wipes!

RaddestMom — Thu, 23 May 2013 04:55:03 +0000

Who was the wizardly genius that created these?!?! I must meet him or her. Brushing an infants tiny little toofies can be super hard. Unfortunately, it is necessary for healthy mouth hygiene. These tooth wipes are such a clever invention. They are called “My Dentist’s Choice”, and no chemicals are used, so they’re totally safe! Definitely RaddestMom approved. Get them online HERE

Lisa O

Microwave Mug Cake

RaddestMom — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:19:36 +0000

So I know most of you think I eat nuts, berries, and kale all the time since I post a lot about healthy, organic food, but that’s not really the case. I believe in indulging in moderation. This recipe is pretty cool because it takes a couple minutes to make an awesome, personal sized cake that is then made INCREDIBLE by putting some ice cream on top. You can make this paleo or gluten free by subbing the sugar for honey and the flour for gluten free flour. Enjoy:)

Lisa O

Late Night Thoughts on Butter….

RaddestMom — Mon, 06 May 2013 05:20:08 +0000

Something that really erks me is when I hear people say they don’t eat butter, but in the same breath pour cream into their coffee. Where do they think butter comes from? I mean, essentially, when one consumes heavy cream, they are consuming butter in a different form.

Ice cream is also something that comes from heavy cream. Does this mean that Ice cream is basically frozen butter? Not exactly, but they are very close. Butter contains more saturated fat, since it is essentially a conglomeration of the solids within the cream. But, nonetheless, the calorie count between the two is not too far off.

I used to be one of those people who didn’t have any butter in my house because I thought it was the devil, yet I would eat ice cream and put heavy cream in my coffee and tea. Since then, I’ve come to a compromise. I switched to frozen yogurt, and I now use coconut milk or half & half in place of cream. I can now enjoy butter when I fry eggs, on my gluten free toast, and in many other delicious ways. Moderation is key!

I apologize for this random outburst, but I just felt like I needed to share!

Lisa O

5 Minute Salt & Sugar Scrub

RaddestMom — Sun, 05 May 2013 04:53:12 +0000

Instead of buying exfoliants with tons of chemicals and additives in them, make this 5 minute scrub that you can use on your body and face! You only need salt, sugar, fractionated (liquid) coconut oil & essential oils. For this particular recipe I used Lavender, Geranium, Rose & Roman Chamomile. Feel free to mix it up and use whatever soothing oils you like!

sea salt, raw sugar, coconut oil, essential oils

Step 1

Combine 1/2 cup turbinado (raw) sugar & 1/2 cup fine sea salt in a bowl. Whisk together with a fork to remove any lumps.

Step 2

Add your essential oils now. I did 5 drops lavender, 3 drops geranium, 3 drops roman chamomile, & 1 drop rose. You can do just lavender, or combine it with any other oil good for the skin. Whisk together to remove any clumps.

Step 3

Now, add 6 tablespoons of fractionated coconut oil, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking together after each tablespoon. This is to evenly combine the oil with the crystals. Liquid coconut oil is easier to work with than solid. If you only have solid, just soften it in the microwave, but make sure it isn’t hot or else it will melt the salt & sugar.

the mixture will make a gritty paste

Step 4

Put the mix into a jar & keep in the shower or next to the sink. Use at least twice a week as an exfoliant or body scrub. No need to wash yourself with soap afterwards. The coconut oil is good for your skin. Just towel dry afterwards! Enjoy your silky, soft skin.

voila!

Lisa O

Chamomile Tea for a Cranky Baby

RaddestMom — Sun, 05 May 2013 02:20:34 +0000

Did you know that you can give a small amount of Chamomile Tea to calm a fussy baby down? Gas, upset stomach, restlessness, colic, etc. can all be helped with just a little spot of tea!

First, you need to get some fresh chamomile flowers, not the ones that are pre-packed in tea bags. They look like this:

Most stores that sell tea have “loose leaf” teas, and that’s what you want. Chamomile tea. Just brew a cup of this tea using a tea infuser:

Or, if you’re feeling crazy, you can use a tea infuser that looks like this:

Let the tea steep for at least 10 minutes. For smaller babies, give them a dropper full of this cooled tea for teething, crankiness, colic, etc. For toddles & babies that are a little older, they can have a few ounces.

My favorite online tea shop hands down is David’s Tea.

I order all of my tea from them, especially my “Egyptian Chamomile”

Lisa O

Flower Identification!

RaddestMom — Sat, 04 May 2013 19:38:44 +0000

Something I find rather frustrating is not knowing what a certain flower is called when I receive it in a bouquet. Also, the question always stumps me when someone asks me what my favorite flower is. I can visualize it, but I never know the names. Here are some common flowers you’ve probably seen before but don’t know what they’re called!

1. Hyacinth

I have been calling these “snap dragons” my whole life. Womp Womp

2. Hydrangea

Ya know, the puffy ones.

3. Ranunculus

Commonly mistaken for a peony (by me)

4. Peony

Commonly used for wedding bouquets, these flowers can change colors!

5. Chrysanthemum

Not my favorite flower. I find they wilt very fast.

6. Snap Dragon

I like these, but I always confuse them with hyacinth.

7. Lisianthus

These are usually mixed in with roses for wedding bouquets as filler flowers

8. Lily

Beautiful flower, but a lot of people sneeze when they are around : /

9. Calla Lily

These are very common, so you’ve got to remember the name!

10. Daffodil

Love these!

Now that you’re all learned up, don’t forget to tell your husband which flowers are your favorite!

Lisa O

Pearl’s First Birthday Party!

RaddestMom — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:10:06 +0000

It took me about 10 seconds to come up with a theme for my daughter’s first birthday party. My go-to in life, style, decor, and apparently party planning is “Shabby Chic”. What’s so great about shabby chic decorating is that you have endless options no matter how big or small your budget is. Here’s a look into the party & decor!

Happy Birthday Pearl!

RaddestMom — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:40:36 +0000

Our darling Pearl is 1 year old today. I can’t believe how big she’s gotten. She took her first 2 steps today, on her birthday! Can you believe that?! She is the best gift Jack and I have ever received, and we thank God for her every day! Thanks for all your love, support, and well wishes. XO

All About Essential Oils

RaddestMom — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:34:05 +0000

The #1 thing I’ve been getting e-mails and questions about recently is Essential Oils. It has taken me a while to figure out how I wanted to approach this topic, because for me, it’s very personal. Ever since I started using essential oils every day, it’s changed my life in such a positive way.

The first thing you need to know is that not all essential oils are created equally. Most brands on your shelves at Whole Foods contain preservatives and fillers, EVEN IF the bottle says “100% pure”. The FDA allows them to write that as long as the bottle contains at least 10% essential oil. What this means is that they lack the potency you need to be able to treat ailments & have good results. The ONLY brand of oils I use is DoTerra

DoTerra’s oils are miraculous. For instance, ONE drop of their peppermint oil is equal to 24 cups of peppermint tea. You cannot find this potency anywhere else. Unfortunately, they only sell their product online. The oils are more expensive than most sold in stores, but they are SO worth it. I’ve gotten rid of 75% of my moisturizers, medications, and cleaning supplies and now use oils exclusively in their place.

I’ve gotten my whole family, including my mother-in-law addicted to the oils. Sharon’s favorite oil is peppermint, and she uses one drop on the tongue as a breath freshener instead of gum or a mint! You cannot do this with most oils. DoTerra’s oils are SO pure, they can be, and are recommended to be ingested( (most of them, but some plants ya just can’t eat). This is why I had to put the disclaimer up before I start telling you what to do with these oils. Don’t go swallowing up something from the store unless it specifically says on the bottle that it’s suitable for ingestion (dietary use).

What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are non water-based phytochemicals made up of volatile aromatic compounds. They are found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants.

Facts about essential oils:

They do not include fatty acids or lipids found in animal or vegetable oils
Essential oils are IMMEDIATELY absorbed by the skin
They have been used throughout ancient history, and have recently been recognized as medicine by cutting edge physicians
You cannot overdose on essential oils because your body recognizes it as a food source, not a foreign substance
You can mix as many oils as you want, meaning they won’t interact with each other
You can benefit spiritually, emotionally & physically from oils
Essential oils can be used aromatically, topically, or dietarily
When inhaled, essentials oils trigger the limbic system, connected to your heart rate, hormone balance, stress level, breathing, memory, & blood pressure
The use of essential oils can have profound effects physically and psychologically
Oils can be used on babies and children, the stronger ones should be used with a carrier oil such as coconut oil

Here are my top 10 oils and what they can be used for, as well as a personal healing experience I’ve had with each:

1. Lemon

Lemon oil can be used aromatically, topically, or ingested. I put several drops in my water throughout the day. It tastes and smells incredible. It can be used to treat heartburn, depression, anxiety, blood pressure, cold sores, colds, concentration, bug bites, dry throat, diarrhea, fever, stress, varicose veins, and literally 100 other things. When I start to feel a sore throat coming on, I drink tons of lemon oil in warm water, and I also rub lemon oil all over my neck. I also put it in my aroma diffuser & the scent calms my anxiety.

2. Serenity

Serenity is a special relaxing blend sold exclusively by DoTerra. The beauty about their blends is that they contain several different oils which costs you less money because you don’t have to buy them all! It can be used topically or aromatically. Serenity is like natural Xanax for me. I smell it and rub it on my temples before I sleep at night and it knocks me out. I also rub some on Pearl’s chest every night. When I fly on an airplane, I keep it in my pocket & give it a sniff when I feel nervous. Serenity contains: Lavender, Sweet Marjoram, Roman Chamomile, Ylang Ylang & Sandalwood. I can’t live without this stuff! Hands down, a must-have for me.

3. On Guard

Another blend from DoTerra. This oil is as legit as it gets. Can be used topically, aromatically, or internally. Forget about using clorox, because this stuff is the ultimate germ killer. You can use it to make mouthwash, toothpaste, household cleaners, and to fight off that nasty cold. This blend contains: Wild Orange, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus, & Rosemary…all powerful anti-bacterial & antiviral containing oils. When I feel the slightest bit like I’m getting sick, I put 3 drops of On Guard in a shot glass of water & toss it back. I also rub it all over the bottoms of my feet ( it’s absorbed quickly into the blood stream that way). I make my own hand soap with this stuff as well as a germ killing spray I use on airplane surfaces. This oil comes with high recommendations from yours truly.

4. Melaleuca (Tea Tree Oil)

If I had to marry one oil it’d probably be Melaleuca. We spend a lot of time together. I have cured so many things with this stuff. From my friend’s dog’s yeast problem in her ears to my own daughter’s ear infection….the list is endless. It is a highly antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory miracle oil. I use this stuff almost every day. Can be used topically, aromatically, or internally. Here are some common uses: wounds, ear infection, earache, canker sores, bronchitis, acne, allergies, staph infection, warts, etc.

5. Oregano

Oregano Oil is one of the main things drug companies DON’T want anyone to find out about. It is one of the best antibiotics out there. Forget about your Z-Pack, this stuff is the tits when it comes to killing any type of sinus infection, sore throat, or whatever type of crud you have going on. It is so strong and potent I cannot bare to ingest it in pure form. Since I am a wuss, at the first sign of a cold or infection, I put 3 drops in an empty gel capsule and take it 3 times a day. You have to be really aggressive with the oils when you’re sick. Also, don’t take the oregano oil in high doses for longer than about a week. It is SUCH a strong anti-biotic you want to stay on it about as long as you would a prescription. It’s so cool because oregano oil seeks out the BAD in your system and kills it whereas a prescription antibiotic just kills everything good and bad thus making you feel crappier than before while lowering your resistance. Funny how that works, huh?

6. Digest-Zen

This oil blend is awesome for all things stomach related. It contains: Ginger, Peppermint, Tarragon, Fennel, Caraway, Coriander, & Anise. If I ever have heartburn or feel a little off in the tummy area, I put 3 drops of this in a shot glass of water & down the hatch. Can also be rubbed on the stomach in the bothersome area. I have yet to run into a situation where digest-zen hasn’t stopped a stomach ache within 5 minutes.

7. Peppermint

Such a great, natural way to clear out those nasal passages. ONE drop of this in your mouth makes your eyes water. It’s amazing for freshening the breath. You will never want to use a breath mint again. It’s like the equivalent of 10 Altoids in your mouth at once. One drop of this oil is equal to 24 cups of peppermint tea. It’s wonderful for clearing out your sinuses, allergies, stomach ache, asthma, autism, bacterial infections, cold sores, flu, gastritis, bug bites, itching, & aids in alertness. My favorite thing to do with peppermint oil is to mix it with Frankincense & inhale it. It is like an instant cup of coffee!

8. Frankincense

One of the most ancient and widely used oils in the world. I love this oil because when mixed with any other oil, it enhances the healing properties. It’s great for anti-aging, arthritis, asthma, MS, depression, vision, and preventing diseases. Frankincense was one of the oil used in “grave robbers’ oil”. In ancient times, the grave robbers would rub the oil on themselves before they robbed graves of victims of the plague as not to get sick. Not to sound like a hippie, but something about this oil makes me feel really connected to history and the Earth.

9. Helichrysum

I remember getting this oil thinking, “I’ll never use this one.” Funny, I ended up finishing this bottle first out of all of my oils! This stuff is so bomb I get all worked up when I think about it. I’ve used it to treat eczema, cuts, bruises, ear infections, etc. It’s one of those oils where If I don’t know what to do, I just throw a lil’ helichrysum on it. I had this weird rash on the back of my neck once, and it kept getting worse over a week’s time. So, I said, “ok here goes nothing…” I applied helichrysum a few times a day for 2 days. That’s all it took, it was completely gone after that.

10. Balance

Balance is a beautiful blend of Spruce, Rosewood, Blue Tansy, and Frankincense. This oil has really aided in calming me down if I’m anxious as well as making me feel more balanced, overall. I just inhale it or put a few drops in my bath water. It makes me feel so clear headed, I swear, it turns me into a monk. It’s great for ADHD, back pain, depression, anxiety, mood swings, seizures, jet lag, energy, etc. I really love the smell of this one as well!

So by now you’re probably thinking, “Damn, this shit is expensive and she’s crazy for even suggesting I buy this stuff.” Yeah, this shit is expensive, at first. But so are pharmaceuticals. It’s a great investment if you’re serious about making the change. My friend just recently got off of Nexium for a stomach ulcer that was costing her $450 dollars a month. She switched to a wheat free, processed food free diet & is now on an oil regimen. She is doing absolutely amazing & loving the oils.

You don’t have to get all the oils at once. Find out what is most important to you, and build your oil collection from there. I’m to the point now where I use practically zero over the counter medicines. I have found replacements for pretty much everything I had in my medicine cabinet & more. Your initial investment will be costly, but the oils last FOREVERRRRR unless you’re like me and you like to drink them a lot….

One last thing…The handbook I use for the oils is the most immaculate Bible for essential oils. You can buy it on amazon. It has almost every single ailment in the book, and it is also a glossary for every oil and oil blend. It is crucial to get this book when you get the oils. Buy it HERE

I hope this was an informative lesson for you all. Please feel free to e-mail or comment with any questions! Good luck in your oil endeavors!

Lisa O

My Favorite Maternity Clothes!

RaddestMom — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 04:20:36 +0000

Dressing yourself when your body suddenly has bulges in places it normally doesn’t can be frustrating. Here are a few ideas for you moms-to-be as far as clothing goes.

1. Side Stretch Maternity Jeans

Much more chic than the traditional elastic/cloth waistband jeans. These jeans are meant to go UNDER the bump, and they secretly stretch on the side, above the pocket. Obviously, J Brand Mama J’s are the best, but if you don’t wanna spend $200 bucks, Forever 21 makes some, as well as Asos.com

2. Maxi Dresses

What’s great about a maxi dress is that you can wear it after you have the baby as well. Even if your ass has gotten 5 times bigger, you won’t be able to tell in these dresses! They are classic, flattering, and always in style.

3. Tight Shirt and a Blazer

One of my favorite maternity looks is a simple, tight shirt & a fun blazer. By accentuating the bump with a clingy shirt, you’re actually making yourself look thinner. You can dress this look up with dark colors, or keep it casual with a fun print.

4. Flowing Top with Tights

Combine any type of flowing caftan or blouse with tight fitting bottoms to create the perfect “I’m definitely pregnant, not fat” look.

5. A-Line Dresses That Cut off ABOVE the Bump

These are perfect for pregnant bellies. You can find these year round for virtually any price range. My favorite maternity store is on Asos.com

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***HERE ARE SOME LOOKS TO AVOID WHILE PREGNANT:***

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1. PEPLUM

Just, no. A frill around the waist of a pregnant woman is less than flattering.

2. High Waisted Things

Covering your bump with tight, unflexible leather is not only uncomfortable, it’s not cute. Stay away from restricting materials such as leather, unless it’s tight in the right places.

3. Outfits that Meet in the Center of Your Belly

Do you see how weird it looks when you try to wear the clothes you normally would wear, only in a bigger size? Most of the clothes you’re used to wearing aren’t meant for pregnant bodies. Avoid outfits that split you in half like this one.

Remember, your body isn’t stuck like this forever! Embrace your curves for the time being and try to feel cute amongst the bloat

Lisa O