Aromatherapy Thursday - Orange

During this time of year the lovely orange blossoms have faded away and little oranges are slowly developing.  According to the Sunkist Website some oranges will mature as early as 5 months while some oranges will take an astonishing 18 months fully mature.  This wonderful fruit is used so frequently in our lives that we may not even realize how much oranges, and in general citrus, we consume or use.   Not only do we eat bushels of oranges as fresh fruit but we consume products that use it for flavoring and as a natural preservative.  We also use many household products that utilize the heavenly scent to clean and fragrance our homes.  It can be found as notes in perfume, shampoo, and other personal products.

You can purchase Sweet Orange Essential oil from Etsy shop RJsCloset at http://www.etsy.com/shop/RJsCloset?ref=seller_info

While there are too many types of oranges to mention in this blog, two that are commonly used in aromatherapy are simply called Bitter Orange and Sweet Orange.  Bitter Orange comes from a tree that is named the same.  It is very similar looking to other oranges but the fruit is too sour to eat whole and mostly grown for flavoring and the fragrant peel. The oil comes from cold pressing the peel and has a slight grapefruit scent, these characteristics gives it the name Bitter Orange.

This great print come from Etsy shop EarlyBirdSale at
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/earlybirdsale?ref=seller_info

Sweet Orange oil is also produced from the peel of that fruit and a cold press process.  The difference is that Sweet Orange oil comes from an edible fruit which is why it is deemed sweet.   There are some subtle differences other than just the grapefruit like tone in Bitter Orange but overall in aromatherapy they can be used pretty interchangeably and will be based more on personal preferences.

Both Orange oils are very prized and inexpensive additions to your aromatherapy collection.  The fragrance is up lifting and can help relieve some people from symptoms of depression.  The invigorating scent can help you feel refreshed when struggling with emotional and physical fatigue.  It is said to help calm the nerves and raise your spirit, overall a very invigorating aroma.  It is also used in products because of its know antiseptic properties. 

Here are some fun products that use either Bitter Orange or Sweet Orange essential oils in their making:


The essential oil from citrus peels can cause photosensitivity so you should avoid sunlight if you have just recently used a massage oil or product that has the oil in it or at least be aware that you may be more inclined to burn.  It will, of course, depend on your skin type and the strength or the oils that you use.  Some people may fine they are highly sensitive while others may not have any issues at all.
Never use any essential oil (except lavender) neat on your skin; always mix with a carrier oil.

Please note that you should always consult your physician prior to using essential oils if you have any medical conditions.  Also note that aromatherapy should never take the place of medical treatment, physically and mentally.  Always do an allergy check prior to use.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Bee Balm - Wild Bergamot

When I lived in the Midwest I had a giant herb garden, approximately  50 feet wide by 70 feet long and in the shape of a tear drop (I was feeling creative at the time.)  It was trimmed with salvaged red bricks and along side this lush patch ran a path of small bricks that was also salvaged.  My herb garden was filled with so many amazing treasures and one of those was Bee Balm.


Just a small part of my garden in Wisconsin

I loved the Bee Balm because it was part of the mint family making it easier to grow than to contain.  One thing about mints is that if you do not keep them in a confined area they will completely take over your spaces (including the grass.)  Bee Balm is a wonderful plant it has many properties, it makes a lovely tea, and the plant itself is extremely pleasing to the eye.  Deep mint green leaves whirl up it stalk and at the end a blast of fire red flowers that look like exploding fireworks; simply beautiful!   Butterflys and humming birds are especially attracted these lovely blossoms making it an added bonus for planting them.

This beautiful Giclee Print of Scott Hamber's original art work  can be found in Etsy shop
Trillium Studios at
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/TrilliumStudios?ref=seller_info

Bee Balm also has other relatives and I stumbled upon one accidentally on a hike through my home land in Wisconsin.  At times I would get so frustrated with the short Wisconsin growing season and I often felt a little short changed, at least until something like my discovery of Wild Bergamot then I would feel in good gardener spirits again.  On this walk I noticed a plant that resembled a member of the mint family that donned a familiar tuft of flowers but in purple.  I took some home and it was only a matter of minutes that I was able to confirm that it was indeed Wild Bergamot.  Of course shortly after that I transplanted some from the hills on our property to my garden and it, like it kin, took off into a lovely little patch.

You can purchase seeds for the Wild Bergamot from Etsy shop Nature Maid Treasures at http://www.etsy.com/shop/NatureMaidTreasures?ref=seller_info

Bee Balm's fuzzy leaves are often used in tea.  Other people have described the flavor as being similar to oregano but I found it to be a little bit more on the order of other mints.  The tea is reported to aid in digestion; helping in a range of mild irritations such as flatulence and indigestion.  As with most things it is more up to the individual whether this truly works to relieve any of those symptoms.

Topically it has been used to help relieve things such as fungal infections and athlete's foot.  The Wild Bergamot had been used by Native Americans to treat wounds and for many other medicinal purposes.

This lovely handmade soap can be found in Etsy shop Goodies By Heather at http://www.etsy.com/shop/GoodiesbyHeather?ref=seller_info

I love lip balm and this wonderful selection can be found in Etsy shop Heavenly Honey Farm at http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeavenlyHoneyFarm?ref=seller_info

Bee Balm is another member of the mint family that can stimulate the senses when used in aromatherapy.  The essential oil comes from the flower head giving it a sweet citrusy floral scent.   It helps combat fatigue (which is always a good thing for me) along with having a calming affect.  The aroma is uplifting and can help you in those tense and stressful moments. 

As with all herbal, natural and aromatherapy products, Bee Balm should never be used in place of medical treatment or a visit to your doctors office for treatment.  Always consult your physician prior to use of any homeopathic or natural remedy.  Note always be aware and check for allergies prior to use of any new products.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Clary Sage

Congratulations to the Winner of my Gift Set Giveaway sponsered by Christie Cottage at http://christiecottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/win-it-wednesday-new-giveaway_22.html

Our winner was  kimfdim -at- aye-oh-ell -dot-com!

Please contact me with your mailing address.  Thank you




I know it seems my memory may be slipping because I just did Sage last week but there are several different kinds of Sage and Sage essential oil.  Clary Sage is completely different and has a completely different process to producing it.

These wonderful Clary Sage seeds can be purchased from ETSY shop GranMarysHerbGarden
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/GranMarysHerbGarden?ref=seller_info

The Sage we talked about last week was the kind that you could use to season a chicken or burn to smudge.  Clary Sage is a different plant all together; its leaves are not fuzzy like the other, it has thinner leaves (not as fleshy,) it is a more true green and has a more angular (has points) leaf than the other Sage.  Clary Sage essential oil is distilled from the flowers the plant produces rather than the leaves as with the other Sage.

Clary Sage has many useful properties and can often be found in cosmetics because of its tonic and astringent action.  It is mainly used as an ingredient in cosmetics that are for sensitive and dry skin.    It is also used as a main ingredient of lavender toilet water and Eau de Cologne. 

Because of its known cooling effect on the skin and has been used to help relieve fever symptoms.  It can be used as a soothing eye compress simply by soaking a clean washcloth with clean potable warm water that has 3 - 5 drops of Clary Sage essential oil mixed into the water well.  Ring out the cloth so it is not dripping and lay across your closed eyes why you are lying on your back.  Note:  While this has been a traditional use of Clary Sage I am not a medical professional and this is just to help with tired eyes not treat medical conditions. 

Clary Sage also has many useful properties used in aromatherapy.  It is considered to be soothing and calming, uplifting and relaxing at the same time.  It may help provide relief in those moments of stress and nervousness.  Here are some products that I found that use Clary Sage as an ingredient.  Enjoy!


Please Note that prior to using any herbal or natural treatment you should always first consult your physician.  You should also check for allergies prior to use because each individual is different and you may find that you do have allergies.   

Butterfly's Giveaway - Hosted by Christie Cottage

I am very excited about my very first giveaway.   Christie Cottage has been so kind to host my giveaway on her wonderful blog.  To enter please go to http://christiecottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/win-it-wednesday-new-giveaway.html   and follow the instructions found on this post. 

I am giving away a package of items that has a value of over $23.00 that will be shipped free to the winner.  This lovely package includes:
12 Blank Postcards from Postcards In The Attic...

3 Lovely Handmade Lavender Sachets from Butterfly In The Attic...

And 1 Bag of Lavender Oatmeal Bath Soak from Butterfly In The Attic...

Entering is simple and you have multiple chances to win!  Click here http://christiecottage.blogspot.com/2012/02/win-it-wednesday-new-giveaway.html for this great giveaway!
Good luck everyone!!!!!

Aromatherapy Thursday - Patchouli

Patchouli is a shrub that is found in Southeast Asia; it is related to the mint family.  Patchouli has a musky, earthy sent that very nicely blends with other oils for a rich perfume.  Natural musks come from a gland found in specific animals such as Musk Deer and it was used for the highest grade of perfume years ago because of its unique scent and strong fixative qualities.  However since musk can only be harvested by destroying the animal during the 20th century perfume makers started using synthetic musks.  Many people want something natural so instead of relying on the synthetic musks they found Patchouli, along with a few other similar scented plants, to be a great alternative giving Patchouli more notoriety in the perfume industry.

You can grow your own Patchouli by purchasing this plant from ETSY shop JensiesSoaps at http://www.etsy.com/shop/JensiesSoaps?ref=seller_info

Because Patchouli has such a strong distinct scent it should be used as a "bottom note" in perfumes.  This means that there should be less patchouli than other fragrances and should be used to enhance the perfume not dominate it.  Often I will pass by someone that is only using Patchouli by itself  and while I don't find it offensive, it is strong and probably not quite the scent that the wearer was intending.  So when using Patchouli as a component keep in mind that less is more and that it should be used as if it where a musk.

Patchouli is known as "warm" scent that can help relax you and can help enhance sleep.  It also is heralded as an aphrodisiac.  Using Patchouli as a relaxant can be as easy as adding 1 drop of it along with 5 drops of lavender on a cotton ball and placing it in a dish or as complicated as specially formulated massage oil. 

Soaking in a bath water infused with a Patchouli bath salt or oil can be very soothing for most people (but remember to always do an allergy test prior to using any new natural product.)  It has nervine and anti-inflammatory properties that can make it very useful in treating dry and irritate skin.

Here is a list of some scents that would be complimented by using Patchouli as a bottom note:
Lavender, Rose, Bergamont, Lemon, Orange, Rose Geranium, Violet, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang and neroli.  When mixing scents always use just a very little of the bottom and middle notes at first because you don't want them to over power the top notes. 

As with any essential oil, homeopathic treatment, or aromatherapy, you should always consult your physician prior to use and never substitute a home treatment for medical treatment. Pregnant ladies should always use caution (and consult their physician) when using any essential oils, herbs and home treatments. Remember that just because it is natural does not automatically make it safe, so treat it with the same respect you would with a prescription and talk to your doctor first. Also you should always do allergy test prior to using any products with essential oils that you are not familiar with.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Eucalyptus

In the 80's Eucalyptus emerged (outside of a vapor rub) and has taken off like wild fires.   Everywhere you looked they added it to lotions, facial tissues, face masks, etc.  There were bunches of the dried branches tied together with jute and placed in a vases, a swag over every door and floral arrangements had at least a few sprigs of it.  Because of this, I get a little wave of nostalgia every time I smell Eucalyptus.  It reminds of my country home as a teen and brings back memories of fresh air wafting over the little bundles of carefully arranged branches next to the open window. 

This beautiful and frangrant wreath can be found in ETSY shop Eligant Holidays at http://www.etsy.com/shop/elegantholidays?ref=seller_info

It also brings back memories of sick days and sniffles as I plunge my hand into a box of Eucalyptus flavored Kleenex.  By that time I am thanking God that I spent the extra $1.00 for the lotion infused tissue instead of going El Cheapo and allowing my nose to drop off.  Eucalyptus wasn't just a fad because it was a good looking abundant plant, it really has some great therapeutic properties.  It is used in Vick's because they discovered long ago that its oils work the best to open up a congested head and chest.

There has been many times that I have placed cotton balls with little drops of Eucalyptus essential oil around my sick rooms.   I have placed drops of it in vaporizers and in pots of simmering water so I could breath it in.  Provided you are not allergic to it, it works great!

Not only does Eucalyptus have the ability to relieve you from your stuffiness but it can also be uplifting, stimulating and invigorating, all things that we desperately need when we are sick.  But don't hide this wonderful oil away until you are under-the-weather because who couldn't use a pick me up every day?  I have also used it to refresh rooms after I have been sick (or had a near miss) as it is a known antiseptic with cleansing properties.

Aside from the properties that work so well to clear the head and mind, Eucalyptus is also found in things like Icy Hot because it helps relax muscles and relieve muscle spasms.  Eucalyptus is known to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antispasmodic properties.   What a wonderful diverse little tree. 

As with any essential oil, homeopathic treatment, or aromatherapy, you should consult your physician prior to use and never substitute a home treatment for medical treatment.  Pregnant ladies should always use caution with all essential oils, herbs and home treatments.  Remember that just because it is natural does not automatically make it safe, so treat it with the same respect you would with a prescription and talk to your doctor first.  Also you should always do allergy test prior to using any products with essential oils that you are not familiar with.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Lemongrass

These wonderful Lemongrass plants can be purchased from ETSY shop Allzeros at http://www.etsy.com/shop/allzeros?ref=seller_info

I have just become a proud owner of some Lemongrass plants.  A friend of mine has giving me some cuttings and they are sprouting like mad.  I love this herb because not only does it look pretty, it smells heavenly (just like lemons) and the aroma really uplifts my spirits in the gray winter months.  But not only is Lemongrass great for aromatherapy it is wonderful to cook with and in teas; this is one of the more versatile herbs that I have found.  Lemongrass is very mild and has a wonderful flavor of lemon that will pair very nicely with fish and chicken.  This herb is also thought to aid in digestion.

Topically Lemongrass has been used to treat large pores and improve scalp condition.  You can add a few drops of essential oil to your shampoos or body wash and mix well to benefit from these properties.  If you would rather purchase products that are rich in these oils and smell wonderful there are many available for sale at ETSY that are handmade. 

Its aromatherapy properties is known to help with nerves and to ease stress.  I personally find this to be true as I package my lovely Sunny Lemon Grass Sachet mix I feel more calm and relaxed.

My sachet mix includes lemongrass, citrus peel and lemon verbena along with other dried botanicals
and essential oils for a bright sunny lemon scent.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/77902335/50-off-sale-handmade-sunny-lemon-grass

Aromatherapy can be as simple as adding a few drops of Lemongrass oil to a cotton ball to use in the car for travel or as complex as diffusing oil with multiple tones.  I like to keep things simple and often will use only one or two essential oils together.  Lemongrass paired with mandarin is a very refreshing and mood stabilizing fragrance.  Here are some other products from ETSY shops using Lemongrass that are handmade and absolutely beautiful.

As with any homeopathy and aromatherapy you should always consult your physician first, never use it in replace of medical treatment and do a allergy test before using.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Cinnamon

A wonderful fragrant tart found in ETSY shop Back Home Scents at http://www.etsy.com/people/BackHomeScents?ref=ls_profile  

As the weather became cooler and it seemed to be raining or at least misting every other day I would start longing for one of my other favorite scents...Cinnamon.  During those chilly Midwest Septembers Apple and Cinnamon just seemed to be the appropriate scent wafting through the rooms, it warms the heart and the home.

Scent your home with this wonderful Cinnamon Room Spray found in ETSY shop Inside Brogans Behive at http://www.etsy.com/people/InsideBrogansBeehive?ref=ls_profile

While the spice, Cinnamon, is harvested from the soft inner bark of the Cinnamon tree, the sweet aroma of Cinnamon essential oil is distilled from the tree's leaves.  This wonderfully fruitful trees are found in Southeast and South Asia.  Most people will find the spice a common seasoning in their kitchen, but most of them are also using the preground or "powdered" Cinnamon.  I suggest to the passionate cook invest in a spice grater.  Nothing compares to the scent and flavor of a freshly grated Cinnamon or even Nutmeg.  It is a little time consuming but well worth the investment, I actually grate my own spiced right before using them in my dishes and find the difference well worth the time.

This wonderful fragrance oil was found in ETSY shop Ecco Lights at http://www.etsy.com/people/eccolights?ref=ls_profile

The scent of Cinnamon essential oil from the leaves is much more delicate than the hearty scent of the bark.  The oil from Cinnamon has a rich history in religions and spiritual traditions.  Although I think of it more for its aesthetics, Cinnamon oil has many practical uses.  It is a known antiseptic  and its scent can help reduce nausea so it could be a wonderful aid during the flu or other illnesses.  Cinnamon dons other holistic properties that are said to help with respiratory symptoms, as an aphrodisiac, an astringent and also to combat fatigue and depression.  Please see the safety notation at the end of this post.

What a beautiful find!  This amazing soap was found in ETSY shop RUSTICONATURAL at http://www.etsy.com/people/RUSTICONATURAL?ref=ls_profile

There are a few simple and inexpensive ways that one can enjoy the fragrance of Cinnamon. One  would be to add a few drops of Cinnamon essential oil or sprinkle a teaspoon of Cinnamon spice into a small pan of simmering water, turn heat off, and allow the fragrance to waft through the room.  While traveling you can use a cotton ball with one or two drops of the oil stored in a sealed bag until used.  I prefer to buy a wonderful finished product such as the ones found on ETSY.

Note:  When using any essential oil too much of a good thing can have a negative impact so make sure to practice safety.  Aromatherapy should never replace medical treatment and you should consult your physician before using any alternative medicine.  Please note that Cinnamon oil should be avoided during pregnancy and with small children.  Also dilute essential oils prior to use directly to the skin by mixing 2 drops essential oil to 1 teaspoon carry oil such as sweet almond.  Cinnamon oil can irritate the skin so preform an allergy test prior to use and remember that natural and homeopathic treatments have side affects so consult an expert before using for any kind of treatment.

Show Your Support! Vote For Us At THE TOP 10 TEAMS CONTEST

Please show your support by voting for the Promotional Frenzy Team that I and many other wonderful ETSY Shop owners belong to.  Each of the members of this team have posted two of their favorite times to be featured in this contest.  You will not only get a chance to show your support for small businesses and artisans but also see many beautiful and useful items. 

The winning team will receive $450 in free advertising.

Click on the widget below and vote 10's for all the items featured or as many as you can to move our team to the top!
So I will see you there!  Have a wonderful day.

You are here...Atlanta Georgia

I have been blessed with a short trip to the beautiful city of Atlanta, Georgia as part of my training for my new position.  I have a few minutes of down time and thought I would visit a minute and collect a treasure trove representing this fine city and state.  Plus the power keeps flickering off and on due to the storm and my notebook battery if keeping me occupied. 

Postcard featured is found at
http://www.etsy.com/listing/69671394/postcard-president-and-mrs-jimmy-carter

This beautiful state is rich in history and home of our 39th president, Jimmy Carter.  Jimmy Carter was born in Plains, Georgia that holds an annual Peanut Festival.  Sounds like a lot of fun to me! 

This wonderful piece of memorabilia can be found in ETSY Shop 
The Dish Dash Kitchen Co.
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/DishDashKitchenCo?ref=seller_info

Along with the great history I have always love the architecture of Atlanta and the state's lush trees when visiting this part of the country.

This Beautiful Photograph Note Card can be found in ETSY Shop at Schutterbug Photo at
http://www.etsy.com/people/SchutterbugPhoto?ref=ls_profile 

Aromatherapy Thursday - Rose

Around age 9 we moved to the country farm that had been in my family for years.  My Grandmother had just passed away and the farm was pretty much done but there were still fields to work and buildings to tend to.  My grandmother was an avid garden and took great pride in her flowers.  I remember mostly her Lily of the valley and Trumpet Lilies in the spring and her Rose bushes in the summer. 

This beautiful piece can be found in ETSY Shop Nightside Ink at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/nightsideink?ref=seller_info

I was blessed as a child because I was able to spend most of my days outside in, what seemed at the time, thousands of acres of fields, forest, and flowers.  We had a driveway that passed over a creek and on either side were beautiful pink Wisconsin Wild Roses all the way up to the edges of the fields.  They were not ever-blooming but their fragrance is sweeter than any other rose.     

Found in ETSY Shop Lannarfelt at
 http://www.etsy.com/shop/lannarfelt?ref=seller_info

Every summer, as soon as they started to bloom, I would grab paper grocery bags and run down the driveway. I picked bags of their beautiful petals, but I was always careful to leave enough in each area so that it would still be pretty as we drove by.

This beautiful print is from ETSY Shop The Butterfly Letters (I am partial to the name:) at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ButterflyLetters?ref=seller_info

After I picked my fill I would bring my treasures back home and begin my little projects.  I would dry many of them and in my early years I just kept them as they were but some I would add to paper pulp concoctions and other fun crafts. 

This Wisconsin Wild Rose Bath Salts is found in ETSY Shop Summer Wind Soy at http://www.etsy.com/shop/SummerwindSoy?ref=seller_info

The best craft was one I had found in a book that belonged to my grandmother; Rose Beads.  Although this is an easy craft it was very time consuming but well worth the work.

I would hoard a box full under my bed and throughout the winter I pulled it out and find my heavenly scented black beads.  And I would plan all the things I would do with them and how the next summer I would make even more beads as presents for everyone. 

In those days I didn't have access to fragrance or essential oils so the scent they had was purely from the wild roses themselves.  This recipe is a treasured recipe and can be especially fun for kids, with supervision of course.  But once the clay is made it will keep them busy for a long time, making the time invested well worth it.  For the recipe click on the icon below.

Using roses to fragrance the skin and home has been traced back as far as ancient Egyptian times.  This alluring fragrance has a long history and for many cultures it was reserved for the elite. 

This beautiful Cleopatra Pocket Mirror can be found in ETSY Shop Solocosmo at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/solocosmo?ref=seller_info

The image of the rose conjures romantic thoughts and is often related to femininity.  Its fragrance has been found to be uplifting and sensual.  The aroma can also help enhance moods and relieve feelings of grief.  The rose also is known to be good for dry skin and can help with relieving feminine issues during times of PMS and menopause.

This wonderful bath set can be found in ETSY Shop The Bonnie Bath Co. at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/BonnieBath?ref=seller_info

Not only can the rose be used to create beautiful sensual baths and beauty products but it has other great properties such as toning the skin and increasing circulation.




As with any aromatherapy and essential oil, check for allergies first and consult your physician prior to use.

Today's New Listings and Teasuries

Time has been a we bit tight lately so I am posting my new listings and the treasuries that I am featured in.  Oh, and if you visit any of these treasuries make sure you comment that Postcards sent you; often they offer a free spot to those that get people to stop in.  Have a great Hump Day!!!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74780859/vintage-postcard-im-trying-to-make-ends

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74780738/vintage-postcard-airbrushed-parrot-rose

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74780496/vintage-postcard-forget-me-not-flower

http://www.etsy.com/listing/74780211/vintage-postcard-pink-rose-in-river-art

The Monday After the Packing

So my Butterfly In The Attic Shop is all packed up and ready to go. I am really out of shape because that little bit really wore me out. But on the upside Postcards In The Attic is still up and running strong and it will give me a chance to give it a little bit more love. It has been kind like the middle child and needs some TLC. So to kick off this new dedication here are a few of the treasuries featuring some of my fun postcards in them. Please take a little time to check them out. They offer beautiful handmade jewelry, amazing organic soaps, and other wonderful treats. I am absolutely addicted to shopping at ETSY.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Neroli

Neroli sounds so exotic and unobtainable but it is simply the fragrance of Orange Blossoms.  True Neroli essential oil is expensive, similar to Rose Otto; but unlike Rose where you are readily able to find fragrance oils that are beautiful, I have not found a substitute for Neroli essential oil. 

ETSY Shop, Shifflett Studios, has created a beautiful "Lotion Bar - Mandarin Neroli Essential Oil Blend" the shop can be found at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShifflettStudios?ref=seller_info  

I love the scent of Neroli because it reminds me of my first summer living in California.  I had the windows open at night; there was a warm gentle breeze with a light floral scent wafting through my bedroom window.  I had a water fountain in my Japanese garden and I could hear the trickling sound as I drifted off into my deepest sleep ever.  The next morning I left refreshed for work and seen all of the orange groves in bloom and realized that the heavenly scent that lulled me to sleep the night before was coming from these fragrant groves.  I had fallen in love with that sweet floral scent ever since.

This vintage postcard found in ETSY Shop Vintage Plum at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/VintagePlum?ref=seller_info

I hope that everyone gets a chance to experience the scent of actual orange blossoms because that is something that you cannot copy or truly capture in a bottle.  But there are many absolutely beautiful products made with high quality fragrant essential oils that tantalize the senses and are well worth purchasing.Neroli is known to be calming and sedative when used in aromatherapy.  Some of its other properties are as an aid in relieving depression symptoms and as an aphrodisiac. 

This wonderful organic vegan all natural votive candle can be found in ETSY shop Lil Sprout at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Lilsprout?ref=seller_info

It can also be used in rubs and massage oils to calm and heal the skin.  Note never use any essential oil in straight (neet) form due to having many possible negative effects.  Essential oils should always be mixed with carrier oils such as grape seed or vegetable oil or mixed into a bath blend such as Epsom salts or sea salts.

Create a home spa and add this wonderful relaxing Sugary Shea Scrub from ETSY shop Deda Notions at
http://www.etsy.com/people/DedaNotions?ref=ls_profile

A wonderful and simple way to enjoy the sweet calming scent of Neroli is to place 2-3 drops of oil onto a cotton ball and leave next to your bed on the night stand.  What a wonderful fragrance to fall asleep to.  But I prefer the luxury of bath soaks, massages and other home spa pampering.  So here are a few of the wonderfully tantalizing treats found on ETSY.

This wonderful Essential Oil blend of Bergamont and Neroli can be found in ETSY shop Kim's Scents at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/KimsScents?ref=seller_info

Please remember to always use patch tests for topical mixtures prior to using and that some people may have allergies to certain scents.  Always consult your physician prior to using aromatherapy and aromatherapy should never take the place of medical treatment.

Monday's Treasuries

Well I made through my Monday...Phew!   The only energy I have left is to post some treasuries I am in.  Don't forget to look for the coupon codes!!!    Have a great night everyone.


A T For The Boys



lazy afternoon



OPEN~ Summer Fun BNR ~ Sales 213 Today 2



OPEN BNR NO MINIMUM MAGIC 16 ~ 12 SALES



OPEN ROSE'S BNS - round 6 THREE SALES TO GO!

Memories of Mother's Days Past

My memories of Mothers' Days past are so sweet.  My children did not have the luxury of buying me store bought gifts but I always received something beautiful from them.  Most often it was a handmade card, a beautiful decoration made with glue and doodads, or handpicked flowers.

This wonderful little character is designed by a little girl and found in ETSY shop Shelley Faye at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/shelleyfaye?ref=seller_info

When children are little they know that they are the center of our world and so they create uninhibited and give these gifts knowing that they will become our prized possessions.  Unfortunately as they get closer to their teenage years they are skeptical that these beautiful gifts from the heart are good enough.  But what they don't know is that they give us still hold the same meaning as when their little hands gave us bouquets of dandelions and made us crayon sketches.

Sweet Oil Painting found in ETSY shop Art By Marylin at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtByMarilyn?ref=pr_shop

When my youngest son was around 11 or 12 years old he want to buy me a bracelet and earring set while we were shopping at  a clothing store.  Of course he had to ask me since he didn't have the money of his own at the time.  He wouldn't let me see it but told me how much he needed.  It was expensive for someone who survived off of allowances and birthday money.  I told him that he would have to use his allowance for several weeks to pay for it and I assured him that I love the cards and things he made for me. But he insisted that he wanted to pay for this gift for my Mother's Day.  I could tell that he felt he had honestly found the perfect gift for me so I agreed.  It was a beautiful set and when I opened it on Mother's Day I knew that he had saved so long to get it for me.  He sacrificed many things that he wanted to give me this special gift.  I still have the set and wear it to this day almost 9 years later.

My daughter has special needs and she will always be between 5 - 7 years old cognitively.  One year she made me a simple wire wrap-around bracelet.  She picked out the colors of the facetted beads herself.  I am always amazed at how well my children know me because her choices were perfect.  I have worn it so many times especially with one of my dress blouses that match it perfectly.  I have had so many people make comments and ask where I got the bracelet.  I proudly tell them that my daughter made me it for Mother's Day several years ago.

It has been several years since my beautiful Grandma Dorothy passed away on an April day just before Easter.  I was around 30 years old and even though I knew that it was a natural course of life it was devastating.  She was the rock of our family and she was not only someone that I love deeply but someone I truly admired.   Not only was she the prettiest woman I knew but she had the most beautiful soul. 

Shortly after the funeral I received a large manila envelope that someone thought I would want.  It was worn and tattered with age; I wasn't sure what it was. 

This is such a neat idea This is a Laptop Sleave found in ETSY shop Lauren H Designs at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/LaurenHdesigns?ref=seller_info

Inside were numerous pieces of construction and typing paper along with bits of other odds and ends.  I pulled out one of the pieces and unfolded it.  While it was faded I could still make out the image of a very crudely drawn cat (I think) and some other pencil sketching in the background.  It still didn't dawn on me what these were until I seen the back where my grandmother wrote "Colleen - 1973."  With tears streaming down my face I finished going through the pile of material in that envelope; each project had been carefully preserved with my name and the date I made it.  I had complete forgotten all those pieces of "art" but she lovingly saved them until the day she died.

This pack of ephemera was found in ETSY shop Shane Lily Rain at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ShaneLilyRain?page=4

I still have a box of art that my children have made throughout the years.  Although construction paper fades and the images may get a little worn, I would never be able to part with my treasures.  Knowing how special the gifts my children made for me are has made me realize how much my grandmother loved me when she saved all those pages for over 30 years.

Being a mother is a hard job but it is the most rewarding job that many of us are blessed with.  Maybe for today instead of signing my name with my credentials I will sign my name Colleen Roush, Mother.  After all that is the one credential I am most proud of.

My daughter sent me these this Mother's Day.  It makes me especially happy; she still has special needs but it shows just how grown up she has become.

May your Mother's Day be as blessed as mine have been and still are.

Saturday Treasuries for Butterfly In The Attic

Good morning. I would love it if you would visit me in the following treasuries that feature some of my items. Some times the treasuries are BNR or BNS but they are truly a lot of fun sometimes they are curated. 

I just purchased an item that is absolutely perfect for a friend and would have never been able to find it anywhere outside of ETSY. So stop by, chat and say "HI Butterfly" in the comments so I know you visited me. 

Thank you in advance.

Friday's Treasuries with Butterfly In The Attic

I would love it if you would stop by these treasuries and say HI to the Butterfly. They have lovely items with great discounts on many of the shops (including mine) at the BNR and BNS treasuries. The regular treasuries are simply pretty and fun to look for what wonderful items are featured. Hope to see you there.

Aromatherapy Thursday - Chamomile

Grow Your Own!!!  Seeds found in ETSY shop Cubits at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/cubits?ref=seller_info

Chamomile is such a sunny dainty little flower that has a clean soothing scent.  It looks and smells like came straight from the summer sun.  I am particularly fond of Chamomile because it was the first "herb" I discovered growing wild in the Midwest fields.  Of course there are many kinds of Chamomile and typically those that we relate to aromatherapy are German, Roman, and English Chamomile.  Their fragrances are more delicate than the wild Chamomile I found.

These dried flowers can be used to make your own wonderful relaxing blends.  Found in ETSY shop Herbal Sunshine at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/herbalsunshine?ref=seller_info

Chamomile is heralded for its soothing properties not only through aromatherapy but in teas.  It is often used to sooth stomach aches and noted for calming the nervous digestive tract. 

This scrumptious Chamomile Tea can be found in ETSY shop Spirit Horse Herbals at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/spirithorseherbals?ref=seller_info

In aromatherapy no other pair seems more natural as Lavender and Chamomile; Lavender aides in sleep and relaxation while Chamomile provides an additional soothing property.

This relaxing combination can be found in ETSY shop Skinplicity at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/Skinplicity?ref=seller_info

Using these two wonderful herbs together can be as simple as adding 3 drops of Chamomile oil and 2 drops of Lavender oil into 2 Teaspoons of vegetable or grape seed oil.  Because of their clean scents, many other oils, such as Bergamot, can be easily added for additional "tones” creating a little more complex aroma.  Using this same combination you can treat yourself to a relaxing bath.

This wonderful Organic Herbal Bath Soak can be found in ETSY shop Organic Pagan at http://www.etsy.com/shop/ThyLocalOrganicPagan?ref=pr_shop

Chamomile has also been noted to add special shine to a person's hair.  Used alone steeped as a strong tea it, can be used as a rinse to highlight blonde hair.  But it can also be used in companion with other herbs and ingredients to bring out highlights for anyone and it will give your hair a beautiful luster.   (My mother never let me color my hair so finding that large patch of wild Chamomile was extra important to me as a teen.)

This wonderful Herbal Rich Hair Oil was found in ETSY shop Brown Butter Beauty at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristineGant?ref=seller_info

To Chamomile the flower that makes you smile...




Remember to always check for allergies prior to using any essential oil or aromatherapy product.  Use the patch test as described in my blog post, Aromatherapy Thursday - Lavender.  Also note that aromatherapy is to enhance and bring enjoyment to a person's life and never to be substituted for medical care with your physician.  If you are a pregnant woman or if you are planning to use aromatherapy on a child you should check with your physician first.