Eye Pillows!

I will be listing about 5 aromatherapy eye pillows / sleep masks per day on my etsy shop until my inventory is completely listed.  I wanted to share a coupon code with my readers.  At the checkout if you enter "dec10" you will receive 10% off.  Right now I have only lavender chamomile listed.  I will be listing mint pillows, anise and clove, as well as a few unscented.  I also have some herbal heating pads for bumps, bruises, menstrual cramps, headaches, etc.  So keep an eye on the store for new things daily.  http://www.edenessentials.etsy.com/

Cookies to Rival Nestle Toll House

I grew up on Nestle Toll House cookies!  My mom's family is from Pittsburgh, PA so we call them "Nisly Tool Hass."  Inside joke, I'm sure...but it's fun!  I have been searching for a whole wheat cookie with texture and flavor to rival that of "America's Favorite" cookie but have, until now, come up with dense, flavorless, hard, rocks that just make me miss my mommy.  But my good friend, Jeanette, gave me this recipe recently and it is a truly irresistible cookie!  The texture is perfect and the chocolate chips are melty and stringy just like the commercials we've all seen with delicious holiday cookies.

You will need:
1 stick of unsalted butter, room temperature
1 c. sucanat
1 egg
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 - 1/3 c. kamut flour
1 c. whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. chocolate chips

Combine all ingredients.  Spoon the dough out onto a sprayed cookie sheet (about 12 cookies per sheet) and bake at 350*F for 12 minutes.

I get my difficult to find ingredients through Azure Standard.  For more information on buying natural / organic things in bulk, visit the site.  It's a wonderful program.  Chances are you have a drop site in your area.

Tuscan Rigatoni Soup

This is an adaptation of a Betty Crocker Minestroni soup that called for everything canned.  I like my soup fresh, crisp and flavorful.  Betty has really good recipes for when you are strapped for time, but I just like to make it my own and make it fresh!  I will put what Betty called for in parenthesis.

Tuscan Rigatoni Soup
3-4 Medium tomatoes chopped, with juices (28 oz. canned tomato, with juice)
1 c. navy beans cooked from dry beans (15 oz. can navy beans, with juice)
1 c. kidney beans cooked from dry beans (15 oz. can kidney beans, with juice)
1 c. frozen corn (15 oz. canned corn, with juice)
2 celery ribs sliced thin
1 zucchini, quartered and sliced (1 c. zucchini)
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 c. onion)
1 c. cabbage, sliced
1 c. rigatoni pasta, dry (1/2 c. macaroni, dry)
6 c. water or vegetable broth (she called for 1 1/4 c. because of all the canned juices)
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
4 tsp. "Better the Bullion" if using water (called for 2 bullion cubes)
2 cloves pressed garlic (1 clove for Betty)
parmesian cheese
My own additions:
3 bay leaves
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1-2 tbsp coconut oil

Method:
Heat coconut oil in a large pot.  Add each veggies approximately 2 minutes at a time:  onion, garlic, zucchini, celery, tomatoes, beans, corn, cabbage.  Saute until it looks like it's all "coming together."  Add seasoning,  broth and bay leaves.  When it comes to a boil, add pasta and cover for 15-20 minutes.  Garnish each bowl with desired amount of cheese.

This makes a big pot.  Our family of 4 was able to have it for lunch the next day.  I like to store it in washed and reused pickle or olive jars because they are big and clear so you can see what is in there.  Usually if you put it in the jar warm, the heat will seal it to wear the lid pops when you open it...which is always fun for me.  :)

Home Made Garlicy Italian Seasoning

I was making a dish that called for Italian seasoning tonight and I realized that I didn't have any...so I made some.

2 tbsp. each dried herb:

• oregano
• marjoram
• rosemary (crush it in your hands)
• thyme
• basil

To make it garlicy, I added 1 tbsp. garlic powder.  Combine all in a used glass jar that you've washed and set aside for such a time as this.  Return the lid, give it a good shake and set with all of your other spices.  I borrowed a trick from my friend, Jeanette.  I made a tag and attached it with a ribbon so I'd remember what it is later.

You can add about 1/2 tbsp. to ricotta cheese when making any Italian dishes.  You can also season chicken or pasta with it.  Add a little olive oil and you are good to go!

Hippie Rice

I threw a pound of beef at this vegetarian recipe, but you can leave it out.  I got the recipe from The Passionate Vegetarian, by Crescent Dragonwagon.  My kids call it "treasure rice" because there are so many fun things to find.  I will show the recipe as it was intended but put my additions as well.

Hippie Rice
2 tsp-1 tbsp. oil
1 lg. onion (I used half)
1 lg. green bell pepper
1 carrot
5-6 mushrooms (I just grabbed a handful of sliced portabello)
1 celery
4 1/2 c. brown rice, cooked (I used 3 c., but 4 1/2 would make this meal work for 2 nights)
2 tbsp. raisins (I used a generous handful)
2 tbsp. dries apricots (I used 4 big ones that I diced)
2 tbsp. pecans (I used a generous handful of soaked pecans cooked according to the Nourishing Traditions recipe for crispy pecans, chopped)
2-4 oz. cheddar cheese cubes
1/2 tbsp. caraway seed
1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/4 tsp. rosemary
1/4 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. celery seed
1/4 tsp. dried thyme (I used sage bc I don't like thyme)
I added 1 lb. free range, hormone free beef
I also added beef broth to the rice water

1.  Get 3 c. water or beef broth to a boil.  Add 1 1/2 c. dry rice.  Cook for about 30 minutes on medium low, or however you like to cook it.
2.  Chop all veggies (excluding nuts, dried fruit and cheese).  Combine all spices in a small bowl.
3.  Heat oil in a large pot.  Add beef and spices.  Cook about 3/4 of the way, crumbling as it cooks.  Add veggies and stir occasionally until the meat and veggies are cooked all the way through.
4.  Combine raisins, chopped nuts and apricots.  Toss into meat mixture and distribute evenly.  Reduce heat to low and cover with a lid until the rice is finished.  If not using meat, saute veggies in oil and set aside until the rice is done.
5.  Cube 1/2 block (4 oz.) cheddar cheese.  Add finished rice to the large pot.  Stir well.  Remove from heat.  Add cheese and mix well.  Cheese cubes will melt as little bites of happiness through out the rice.  Don't mix to melt all the cheese.  Leave it speckled with cheese.  Serve immediately.

Kitchen Soap

Most of my creations come from moments that I am just sitting around analyzing things or day dreaming, I guess.  This is one of those creations.  I've heard that coffee grounds are great in kitchen soap because they get the smell of onions, garlic and other unpleasant foods off of your hands.  I've also heard that orange zest is a great addition to soap for it's exfoliating properties and it's crisp freshness.  So I was thinking...coffee...orange juice...if I had milk it would be the trinity of breakfast beverages, LOL!  So I came up with this goats milk, orange zest, coffee grind soap.  It doesn't smell like much...kind of just smells like the vanilla and sugar that were in the coffee grounds from using my french press this morning.

To make the soap, melt 12 squares from a block of goats milk soap base (can be purchased at Hobby Lobby).  Add to it about 4 tbsp. used coffee grinds and about 1/4 c. orange zest (also purchased at Hobby Lobby).  Mix well and pour into soap molds.  This should make 4 (7 oz.) bars.  I would not make more than I could use or give away in a month.  The soap base could probably make 10 bars.

Then wrap them in freezer paper and tape closed as shown below.  Keep in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight.

Greek Spinach Pie and Turkish Salad

Greek Spinach Pie
8 oz. fresh spinach
2 green onions
6 oz. crumbled feta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp fresh dill (I used basil), chopped
ground black pepper
4 large sheets fillo pastry (I used 8)
olive oil

Preheat oven to 375*F. Rinse the spinach and shake it off. Heat it in a pot with the lid on until it is blanched. Drain well on a towel. Chop the spinach and mix with everything but the pastry and oil. Oil the baking sheet with a pastry brush and olive oil. Fold one sheet of fillo in half. Brush with oil and spoon 1/4 of the spinach mixture onto the corner of the fillo. Roll it up across the sheet then turn the sides in so that it looks like a crescent. Brush well with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool slightly.

Turkish Salad
1 head romaine, chopped
1 green and 1 red bell pepper
1/2 cucumber
4 tomatoes (I used 1/2 a bag of those cherry tomatoes)
1 red onion (I used 1/4 of a red onion)
8 oz. feta cheese, crumbled
black olives to garnish

For the dressings:
3 tbsp. olive oil
3 tbsp. lemon juice
1 garlic clove, crushed
1 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp. chopped fresh mint (I left this out)
salt and pepper to taste

Chop all veggies into bite size bits and place in a bowl with cheese and olives. Use an emersion blender, whisk, etc. to combine dressing ingredients. Pour over salad and toss well.

This meal would be good with shaved gyro meat.

The Dangers of Microwave Popcorn

I was reading a study today that I felt was worth sharing.  It concerns new findings about the chemicals and artificial flavors and colors used in microwave popcorn.  Popcorn bags are coated with a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). The US government has found that this chemical can cause cancer and lung disease in lab animals. The butter substitute used is called diacetyl and according to health scientists it is responsible for a condition called bronchiolitis obliterans. This disease causes scar tissue to build up in the bronchiols causing a dry cough and inability to breath deeply. For a safe and nutritious (not to mention money saving!) alternative to microwave popcorn, please check out my blog entry on nutritional yeast.

Delicious Smoothie Packed with Green Goodness

I'm not a fan of pills.  Capsules are a little easier but still, if I can get it in a powder or a liquid, I'm all over it.  I decided this morning to see how many capsules I could get away with emptying into my smoothie before it got weird (looking or tasting).

I wanted to put Alfalfa in it because it is an awesome green food!  Arab nations call it the "father of herbs" because it's roots grow up to 20 feet into the ground, collecting nutrients many other foods lack.  I also wanted to use a full serving of Ultimate Green Zone.
Benefits:
• Enhances bodily functions, especially elimination.
• Improves overall immunity.
• Helps the body normalize cholesterol levels.
• Provides a meal that is easily absorbed and metabolized into energy.
• Contains a full array of nutrients the body needs from grains.
• Is pH-balancing.
In addition, Ultimate Green Zone contains many of the raw grains that are moderate-high in vitamin B17, which researchers have linked to curing cancer.

For the liquid I used Herbal Punch because it is sweetened with natural honey and also contains water, natural herbal extracts, ascorbic acid, rose hips, and vitamins A, D, C, B1, B2, B6, B12 and niacin.

I enjoy using a Magic Bullet for my smoothies, but I'm sure any blender could make this work.

Smoothie
5-6 frozen strawberries
1/2 banana
5-6 slices frozen peach
5-6 frozen dark cherries
1 large dollop Greek Yogurt
Herbal Punch to cover
2 capsules Alfalfa, empty into smoothie and discard capsule
4 capsules Ultimate Green Zone, empty into smoothie and discard capsule

Blend until smooth.  You may want to start with less Herbal Punch and add more as needed if you like a thicker smoothie.

Spinach, Feta and Tomato Quiche

This is another great Vegetarian Times recipe.  I did make several adaptations, which I'll explain at the end.

CRUST:
6 sheets frozen phyllo dough, thawed
3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. toasted sesame seeds

FILLING:
1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed, all liquid squeezed out
1/2 c. finely chopped red onion
1/2 c. crumbled feta cheese
10 cherry tomatoes, halved

BATTER:
2 eggs
1 c. low fat milk
dash nutmeg

Preheat oven to 350*F.  For crust, spray a 9" pie pan with cooking spray.  Layer 1 phyllo sheet, brush with oil, sprinkly with 1/2 tsp. seeds, top with 2nd sheet and more oil.  Top with 3rd sheet, oil and 1/2 tsp. sesame seeds.  Repeat process twice more.  Press into pie pan and trim edges with scissors.  For the filling, layer on phyllo dough, spinach, chopped onion, feta cheese, tomatoes.  Whisk together eggs and milk, add a dash of nutmeg.  Pour over phyllo dough and filling.  Bake for 45-50 minutes.

My adaptations:
I used 1 bunch fresh spinach.  Removed stems and chopped it.  In a large pot, I heated about 2 tbsp. olive oil and added 3 cloves minced garlic.  Sauted 30 seconds, then added washed spinach with just the liquid from washing.  Cook covered over medium heat for 3 minutes, toss, cook 2-3 minutes more.  Drain as much liquid as possible and layer in the phyllo dough as directed above.  For the batter, I used 1/2 c. milk and 3 eggs because I had a feeling 1 c. plus 2 eggs would not fit in the pan.  The 1/2 c. milk and 3 eggs fit perfectly.  I did not trim the edges.  I just folded them over.  Rather than brushing oil on, I just continued to use the spray oil for each layer.  It was just easier.  My quiche was perfect in about 35 minutes, so set the time for 25 minutes and check every 5 minutes.  When it looks slightly under done, it's time to take it out.

Spinach 3 Ways

I just hate when I buy a bunch of spinach and half of it goes bad because a recipe calls for only a small amount. This week I decided to try spinach 3 ways to avoid the waste.

Saj Borek with Spinach and Cheese

Mediterranean Street Food

By:  Anissa Helou

1/2 c. bread flour

1/2 c. whole wheat flour

1/2 tsp. salt

Combine flour and salt. Add a touch over 1/3 c. water and knead 5 minutes. Divide into 4 balls and let rest 30 minutes.

3/4 c. crumbled feta (or to taste)

2 tbsp. parsley (optional)

3 1/2 oz. spinach (eye ball it), rinsed and torn

fresh ground pepper (optional)

Combine cheese and parsley in a bowl. Flour a work surface and roll each dough ball out as thinly as you can, about 12" round. Top with 1/4 of the spinach then 1/4 of the cheese mixture. Dust with pepper. Wet the edges and fold over to crimp for closure. Perferate the top to allow steam to escape. Repeat with remaining ingredients.  Fry in a sprayed cast iron skillet, heated to medium, for 1-2 minutes per side. Enjoy hot.

Simple Greek Salad

Spinach

Feta Cheese
Kalamata Olives
Sliced tomato
Sliced Cucumber (optional)
Sliced Red Onion (optional)

Combine all in a large bowl.  I like to layer the biggest stuff on bottom with the smallest or most fragile on top.  Rather than using dressing, I like to make sure a bit of the juice from the feta and olives makes it way to the bowl.  Super yummy!  (Tuna Patties pictured above with salad).

Spinach Omlet
Spinach
Sliced Red Onion
Garlic
Tomato
2-4 eggs
Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste

Heat a large skillet on medium heat.  Beat the eggs and set aside.  Add a bit of olive oil to the pan.  Saute minced garlic and red onions.  For a cooked tomato flavor, add tomato now.  For a crisper, raw flavor add later.  After about 1-2 minutes, add the egg.  Allow it to cook enough to flip without falling apart.  Flip.  Fill with spinach, tomatoes if desired crisp, and cheese if desired.  Fold over (be sure spinach has wilted a bit (about 1 minute) and move to plate.  You may want to add the spinach with the egg for softer spinach.  Salt and pepper as desired.

Nutritional Yeast

Here are 2 pretty good, kid friendly, recipes that include nutritional yeast. I have always loved the flavor of nutritional yeast. I use TwinLab Super Rich Yeast Plus. I found a 16 oz. jar for $20 at the Health Store. Regular nutritional yeast (no "plus") is around $10-$15. The "plus" part is chromium, selenium, vitamins, minerals, digestive enzymes, bromelain, calcium and magnesium. Pretty good stuff!

Pop Corn: this feeds the family
1 c. pop corn kernels
3 tbsp. smart balance or other light cooking oil
1 tbsp. nutritional yeast
20 or so dashes of salt

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add a few kernels and cover. When you hear the kernels pop, it is time to add the remainder of the kernels. Shift the pot around gently from time to time. Pop corn is finished popping when it smell delicious and the kernels are popping about 2 seconds apart.

Immediately transfer the popcorn to either individual bowls or one large bowl to share. Dust the desired amount of yeast and salt over each bowl or the entre family sized bowl. This should be done immediately while corn is still steaming. If the topping does not stick, lightly spray with cooking spray to give the topping something to stick to.

Microwave preparation: Toss 1/4 c. pop corn kernels in a small amount of oil. Place in a paper lunch bag and fold the end over 2-3 times. Pop for 1 minute in the microwave. Flip the bag. Pop another minute. You may need to flip again for 30 seconds at a time. Spray with oil and top as desired.

Tahini Crackers: recipe from my friend, Jeanette
1 c. super flour, which is 1 tbsp. soy flour, 1 tbsp. wheat germ, 1 tbsp. nutritional yeast then topped off to 1 c. with whole wheat flour
2 tbsp. tahini paste
2 tbsp. oil / butter
2 tbsp. water

Combine all. Add water until a soft dough forms. Roll the mixture out on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Cut or prick the dough to allow for even breakage. Bake at 350*F for 10 minutes. Allow crackers to cool. Break into bite-sized pieces.

Delicious Granola

This is my adaptation of the "Daniel Fast" granola recipe.  I don't fast all year long, so using ingredients that are easier to find for this granola just made sense when I'm not fasting.  I will post my changes.

2 c. rolled oats
1/2 c. coconut flakes
1/2 c. sliced almonds
3 tbsp. coconut oil (extra virgin)
Combine these in a glass baking dish.  Toss well to coat.  Bake 20 minutes @ 350*F tossing with a metal spoon every 5 minutes.  Let cool slightly.  Toss in:
1/2 c. raisins
1/2 c. other dried fruit

That is the Daniel Fast method.  I really love Emerald Brand Berry Blend Trail Mix.  I can't find a link for their site, but it's a pretty popular (and expensive) brand.  To make my Daniel Fast granola taste more like Emerald brand trail mix, I use dried strawberries, cranberries and blueberries.  I also use a mixture of walnuts, peanuts and almonds for the nuts.  You can double the nuts and berries to make it more trail mix and less granola.  Then toss in some yogurt covered raisins when the batch is completely cool so the yogurt doesn't melt.  So delicious in rice milk or as a snack tucked in your purse.

Eye Issues

Every Spring my son gets crazy red eyes that are itchy and burn.  Many times it is confused for pink eye but there is absolutely no gunk.  It's allergy eyes.  I found this pink eye remedy that also works well with many eye irritation problems, such as dry eyes, poked eye (kids rough housing), swimmers eyes from too much chlorine....basically anything that would cause an eye to not feel right.

This remedy contains chamomile essential oil, grape fruit seed extract and pure water.

For allergy eyes, you would just apply a bit to cotton balls and hold one over each eye.  It's ok if the liquid drips into the eye.  Do this as often as necessary until redness subsides.  If a runny nose or cough are also present, you should also administer ALJ (orally), a liquid blend of herbs that best relieve allergy symptoms.

For viral pink eye, you would apply often as well.  But in addition, you should take the full recommended dose of liquid echinacea (orally), as it is antiviral.  Be warned, this remedy draws the infection out, so the first day it may appear much worse, but in reality, it is cleansing the eye.

For dry eyes from wind exposure, staring at the computer screen or any other cause of dry eyes, just one application should do the trick.

Herbal supplements described in this blog can be found at mynsp.com/EdenEssentials.  Pink Eye remedy pictured above can be purchased at EdenEssentials.etsy.com.

Four Massage Oil Blends Address Common Ailments

All blends should be combined with 4 tsp. carrier oil or almond oil prior to applying to the skin.   If you only have a few of the oils suggested for each ailment, just use those.  Using all oils are not necessary to achieve the desired effect, in most cases.  As always, if you are allergic to any of these oils, do not use them.  For best results, store in dark glass containers for up to one month at room temperature and 2 months refrigerated.

Sports Massage Blend:  This blend strengthens and energizes the muscles strained or achy from working out.
4 drops rosemary
2 drops lemon grass
4 drops ginger

Foot Rescue:  This blend soothes feet after a long day.
3 drops peppermint
3 drops black pepper
4 drops lavender

Respiratory Relief:  This blend eases the symptoms of a variety of chest problems.
3 drops cedarwood
3 drops frankincense
4 drops lemon

Shoulder and Neck Rub:  Have someone massage these areas for instant relief.
2 drops vetiver
3 drops ginger
5 drops lavender

Many of these oils can be found at mynsp.com/Edenessentials or www.newdirectionsaromatics.com.

The Tomato Family Reunion

 This one is another Vegetarian Times recipe, originally called "Deep Dish Skillet Pizza."  You are directed to bake it in a skillet, but I felt like baking it on a pizza stone.  Because of this, my daughter thought we should change the name since it's no longer "deep dish" or "skillet."  So she came up with "The Tomato Family Reunion."  However you choose to make it, it will be heavenly in every way!

I had never eaten Kale before, that I can remember, so I was going for a new flavor and a little deviation from our spinach filled weekly menu.

For the dough:
1 tsp. light brown sugar
1/2 plg. dry yeast (1/4 oz.)
3/4 c. whole wheat flour
1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 tbsp. flax meal
2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil

Dissolve the brown sugar in 1/2 c. warm water (110*F).  Add the salt and oil, then yeast.  Proof 5 minutes or until frothy.  In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, 1/4 c. all purpose flour and the flax.  Blend to combine.  Gradually add in the yeast mixture.  It will be a sticky ball.  Knead in the remaining 1/4 c. flour by hand for at least 2 minutes.  Oil a bowl and the dough, then cover and let rise 45 minutes.

For the topping:
2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 c. loosely packed Kale (each leaf yields about 1 c.)
1 c. sliced mushrooms (I chopped mine)
1 tsp. ground fennel seed (I just had whole seeds and crushed them to break apart slightly)
2 tbsp. Neufchatel or cream cheese
1 c. crumbled feta cheese
12 cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano and/or basil (I used 1 tsp. each of dry herbs)

While dough is rising, chop all veggies and prepare ingredients for assembly.  Heat oil in large pot over medium heat.  Add garlic and saute for 2 minutes.  Add the kale.  Cover and cook 15 minutes.  (The was a bit too long for me.  Some of the garlic and kale burned at 13 minutes, so watch carefully).  Add the mushrooms and fennel seed.  Cook 7-10 more minutes.  (Again, too long in my opinion.  I moved to the next step at 6 minutes.)  Remove from heat and stir in Neufchatel.  Preheat oven to 475*F (I did this when I put the mushrooms in).  Oil bottom and sides of a 12" skillet.  With floured hands pat dough into skillet and let rest 5 minutes.  (I used a pizza stone.)  Spread Kale over dough.  Scatter feta, tomatoes and herbs on top.  Bake 15 minutes.  Remove from the oven and rest 5 minutes.

Black Bean Recipes

I love bean recipes because they are as nutritious as having meat in the dish but roughly $1 buys enough beans for 3 meals!  Plus there is very little fat in these bean recipes, so you can go back for 2nds without feeling guilty.  Can't beat that!!!

I think all of these recipes are from Vegetarian Times Magazine, except the tortilla recipe I think I got from my friend Jeanette, who has a wonderful recipe blog.  Check it out.  :)

Tortillas (used in the 2 following recipes)
2 c. flour (I do 1 c. whole wheat flour and 1 c. unbleached bread flour)
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. vegetable oil (I use olive oil)
3/4 c. warm milk (I usually use 1/2 c. plain or Greek yogurt and 1/4 c. hot water, mix well)

Mix first 4 ingredients.  Slowly add milk/yogurt.  It will become a loose, sticky ball.  Knead 2 minutes.  Rest in a bowl covered with a damp cloth for 20 minutes.  Divide into 8 balls and rest 10 minutes more.  Roll out as thin as possible on a lightly floured surface.  Heat in a hot, dry skillet for 30 seconds per side.

Black Bean Tostadas with Garlicy Greens
4 (10") whole wheat tortillas
2 tbsp. vegetable or olive oil
1 sm. onion, diced (1 c.)
1 1/2 c. cooked black beans (or 15 oz. can if you're in a hurry)
2 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
4 cloves minced garlic (4 tsp.)
1 1/2 lb. Swiss chard, ribs removed, leaves chopped
4 tbsp. queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded / crumbled
4 tbsp. cilantro (I just grab a big handful and chop)
4 tbsp. sour cream
1 c. salsa

Preheat oven to 425*F.  Spray both sides of the tortillas.  Arrange on baking sheet.  Toast until crunchy but not burned.  Heat 1 tbsp. oil in a pot.  Add garlic for 2 minutes.  Stir in chard, salt and pepper.  Cover and cook 4-5 minutes or until chard is wilted.  Heat 1 tbsp. oil in a pan.  Add onions for 3 minutes.  Add seasoning and beans until heated through.  Spoon 1/4 c. bean mixture in the center of each tortilla.  Top with 1/4 c. greens and 1/4 c. salsa.  Top with cheese, cilantro and sour cream.

Black Bean Pumpkin Quesadillas

1 tbsp. oil
1 1/4 c. canned pumpkin
2 c. cooked black beans , slightly mashed
1 tsp. each:  chili powder, cumin, salt
1 sm. onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper (I usually use the whole thing)
2 garlic cloves, pressed
Tortillas, cilantro and cheese

Preheat oven to 375*F.  Sautee veggies a few minutes.  Add pumpkin, beans and spices.  Fill one side of each of the tortillas with mix and top with cheese and cilantro.  Fold empty half of tortilla over filled side.  Bake 4 at a time, or as many as you can fit on the baking sheet for 15 minutes.

Banana - Black Bean Empanadas
Crust:
1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour
1 c. all purpose flour (I use unbleached bread flour)
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. chili powder
4 tbsp. butter (cubed)
1/2 c. unsweet apple sauce
1 tbsp. white wine vinegar

Sift flours, salt and chili powder together.  Mix in butter until it looks like bread crumbs.  Whisk apple sauce, vinegar and 1/3 c. water together.  Combine with dry.  Add up to 1/4 c. more water.  Knead.  Wrap in plastic.  Chill 1 hour or up to 24 hours.

Filling:
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 med. onion, chopped
1 c. cooked black beans
1 banana
1 clove garlic, minced (1 tsp.)
1 tsp. cumin
1/4 tsp. cayenne
1/4 tsp. coriander
2 tbsp. cilantro
1 tsp. tabasco (optional)

Saute onion in oil 4-5 minutes.  Add beans and garlic for 3 minutes.  Stir in banana, cumin, cayenne and coriander for 2 minutes.  Remove from heat.  Stir in cilantro and tabasco.  Preheat oven to 400*F.  Divide dough into 12 balls.  Spray baking sheet with oil.  Make 6" x 1/4 " thick rounds.  Fill with 2 tbsp. filling.  Brush edge with water and seel with a fork.  Chill 10 minutes.  Bake 20 minutes.  Cool 5 minutes.

Younger Looking Skin

Silver Gel has been clinically tested to reverse 98% of sun damage to skin in only 2 minutes!  That's amazing!  What I love about this finding is that we can get the benefits of direct sunlight and reverse most of the damage.  I know that sounds a little crazy in this sun-phobic nation, but I'm sure if you do the research, as I did, you'll find that the benefits of 1 hour, 3 times weekly or direct sunlight, followed by an application of silver gel will give your family the levels vitamin D it needs to make it through the cold weather season without contracting colds and flu as well as the preventative protection against winter blues.

I began using silver gel years ago because I was dealing with adult acne, which while maybe not all that noticeable to others, really bothered me.  I figured if it reverses sun damage, it may prevent acne.  To my surprise, weeks later I was not only acne free, but I actually looked younger and other people were noticing!

A friend of mine gave some to her mother who tried it out for 2 weeks and she reported the same thing, 10 years younger in 2 weeks!  And other people were noticing.

Since the silver repairs the cells and then healthier cells are duplicating, these results are lasting.  It's not like some of the creams and glue-like things that basically tighten the skin until you wash it off.  This is way deeper than the surface level.

Young moms out there can attest to this fact, having young children ages your hands FAST!  Washing them sometimes 30-45 times a day leaves them looking dull, cracked, dry and worn.  I found that applying the silver gel to the back of my hands each night before bed also left my hands looking younger and the winter weather wasn't as harsh on my skin.

"But what about the BLUE MAN?!," many people may be thinking.  I encourage everyone to youtube the segment of Oprah where Dr. Oz is interviewing the "Blue Man."  The concentration of silver to water that this man used was about 50%.  The silver I use is 18-21 parts per million, which is a very very small percentage.  Dr. Oz said there is nothing wrong with safe levels of silver (the solution should be clear and have no odor or taste) and that it is actually proven to be beneficial.  Silver is widely used in the medical industry in catheter and IV needles as well as silvadene cream which is used on burn victims.  The tradition of giving new babies a silver spoon stems from the finding that children who pacified on a silver spoon did not get sick like the children who did not have a silver spoon.

You can purchase Silver Shield gel at mynsp.com/edenessentials for $15.75.  This bottle should last 6 months to a year.  I buy 1 bottle for the families burns, cuts and scrapes and 1 bottle for myself for the beauty benefits.

Aunt Becky reinvents Quaker's Vanishing Oatmeal Cookie

While visiting family in North Carolina recently, my aunt Becky made some wonderful cookies.  I was amazed that just a few small adjustments made it a healthier, more filling cookie.  My kids love to get a stack of 3 of these cookies for breakfast with a tall glass of vanilla rice milk.

Aunt Becky's Vanishing Cookies:
2 sticks soft butter (I like to use 1 stick butter and 8 tbsp. peanut butter)
1/2 c. raw sugar or honey
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 c. shredded sweetened coconut
1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon (optional if using peanut butter)
1/2 tsp. salt
3 c. oats (I only use 2 when peanut butter is used)
1/2 c. raisins
1/2 c. chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350*F.  Cream sugar and butter together.  Add eggs and vanilla.  Stir in coconut.  In separate bowl, sift together flour, soda, cinnamon and salt.  Add the flour mixture 1/2 c. at a time to the wet mixture.  Stir in oats 1 c. at a time.  Stir in raisins, then cocolate.

Form tablespoon-sized balls and flatten gently on an ungreased cookie sheet.  Bake 10-12 minute or until it becomes a light brown color.  Cool 1 minute then move to a wire rack to cool completely.

This recipe makes about 4 dozen cookies!  Enjoy!

Do-it-All Stain Remover

This is a great little recipe I came up with after years of using Melaleuca Sol-u-mel.  I loved that product so much, but when we canceled for inability to meet the monthly requirements, I decided to see if I could create something that got the job done.

I read the back of the sol-u-mel package and noticed that it was mainly isopropyl alcohol and tea tree oil.  Here is what you will need:

20 oz. spray bottle, preferably an old cleaning one that has "stream" and "mist" functions
2 oz. isopropyl alcohol
20 drops tea tree oil
17 oz. pure water

Combine all in the sprayer and go to town.  I have gotten permanent marker off of wood, laminate, carpet and clothing!  I am currently living in a tiny apartment with 2 children and a carpeted dining room!  It got tomato soup and pomegranate juice out of the carpet recently.  This solution is also great for food stains on counter tops and crusty food on the stove and in the oven.

Since it is alcohol, even in a small concentration, I had my son draw a skull and cross bones on both the alcohol bottle and sprayer, for added protection.

Tea Tree Oil may be purchased at mynsp.com/edenessentials for $11.25.

Veggie Pot Pie

I'm starting the "Daniel Fast" (www.daniel-fast.com) tomorrow and have been searching for recipes that are allowed on this fast.  I'll be posting some of my own creations here.  Today's creation was a veggie pot pie.

Crust:
2 c. flour
2/3 c. vegetable oil
1 tsp. salt
1/4 c. water

Sift together the flour and salt.  In a mixer, slowly stir in the oil.  Allow to continue mixing until it looks like crumbs.  Slowly add the water.  It will be crumbly because of the use of oil rather than butter or shortening, but you can easily flatten it in the bottom of the baking dish and sprinkle above the top.  I pressed 1 c. of the mixture in the bottom and sprinkled the rest evenly above the filling.

Filling:
1 bag frozen mixed vegetables of your choice
2 c. vegetable broth
2 tbsp. oil
4 tbsp. flour

For the veggies, I like a variety of peas, carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, lima beans, okra and onion.  But you can use about 3-4 c. any variety of vegetables that you like.  If you use something I didn't mention, I can't promise that it'll be good.  Boil the veggies until tender crisp.  In a saucepan, whisk together oil and flour until it makes and paste of dough that begins to become fragrant and color a bit.  Slowly stir in vegetable broth and whisk well to combine.  Watch closely, whisking often until it comes to a low boil.  Whisk continuously for 2 minutes.  Remove from heat and combine with strained veggies.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.  If you haven't already done so, press 1 c. crust into bottom of a round baking dish.  Pour veggie / gravy mix over the crust.  Top with the remaining crust.  Bake 20 minutes.  Let cool about 5 minutes before serving.

Immune System Support

Many people do not realize that the first step to an active immune system is a healthy diet.  When your body is fully nourished, it can function on all levels and does not have to work as hard to fight off viruses, bacteria, allergens and other "offenders."  A good cleanse, coupled with better eating habits, can kick start your immune system very quickly.  In an effort to save money when doing my first cleanse in 2006, I went to Wal*Mart and spent $7 on their popular cleanse.  Three days later I was babysitting the toilet and had blood in my urine.  The cheap stuff usually contains harsher ingredients and do not nourish while cleansing, which causes these negative side effects.  With a good cleanse, you will barely notice the process, yet you will feel rejuvenated with more energy and fewer cravings for unhealthy treats.  I use Clean Start twice a year with great results.  Each box comes with 2 seven day supplies, so it will cover you for the year.  A word of caution though, you should drink only water or natural juices during the 1 week cleanse.  Coffee has a laxative effect which will be magnified by the cleanse.  The caffeine in many sodas have a diuretic effect which will also be magnified and may cause dehydration.  You really do need to drink 64 oz. water daily on a cleanse.  More if possible.

My saving grace, Fizz Active!  It is similar to Airborne, though I have never compared prices or ingredients.  My sister-in-law, whom I love dearly, swears by airborne, which prompted me to try Fizz Active.  I take 2 tablets weekly, that's it!  And it keeps me protected.  Before taking this, about once a week I would develop symptoms that my body was fighting something.  I have not felt that since taking this weekly.

Our family also loves echinacea.  We use a liquid echinacea with golden seal.  Pregnant or nursing moms should avoid golden seal.  There is another liquid "ultimate echinacea" that has no golden seal.  We like the golden seal in with the echinacea because of the urinary benefits.  My family has a history and kidney and urinary issues, so it's an added benefit to the immunity it provides.

Echinacea does have a bitter taste, so I wouldn't recommend taking it alone or in water, unless you just like the flavor.  We take it in a wonderful drink called Berry Healthy.  It is full of antioxidants, which are great for immunity.  It is flavored with real berries, which I love.  The flavor is pleasant enough, that I can empty a capsule of other herbs in it to administer to my children who have not learned to swallow capsules yet.  It actually compliments the herbs well enough that my daughter said, "Mommy, you make the best drinks ever!" the last time I did this.

Another immune power house that we live on is Silver Shield.  It really is a miracle in a bottle!  The silver is combined with water and an electrical charge magnetizes the silver.  When it comes in contact with an unhealthy cell, bacteria, organism, etc., it binds the nucleus of the cell and makes it incapable of multiplying or binding with a healthy cell.  For this reason it has been tested on over 650 bacteria, viruses, organisms, etc. and has been effective at dealing with them all.  Brigham Young University has even successfully tested it on the HIV virus!  It is being used to treat malaria in Africa.  It is just wonderful.  Some herbalists suggest taking 1 tsp. daily for immunity.  For us, we take 1 tsp. daily when we've been exposed to something or when we begin feeling ill.  "But will I turn blue?", you may ask.  NO!  Many people were shocked and horrified by the "blue man" who appeared on Oprah several years ago.  I would encourage you to watch that interview again on www.Youtube.com, pay close attention to Dr. Oz's thoughts.  He explains that the "blue man" made his own silver and it was approximately 50% silver.  The silver I am suggesting contains 18 parts silver per 1,000,000 parts water.  Dr. Oz said that this concentration was fine and even beneficial!  He did say, "Why take silver when there are so many antibiotics out there that can help you."  My answer to that is because bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics and are no match for Silver, so why NOT give it a try!

In addition to these I would suggest a good multivitamin to fill in those gaps left from a less than perfect diet.  I would also suggest getting 10-30 minutes of unprotected sunlight daily.  For longer stretches of sun exposure, an SPF 15 sunblock will be helpful in preventing sun damage.  An important thing to think about is that the sunscreen also blocks the rays that produce vitamin D production in the body.  So getting that limited unprotected sunlight on the arms, neck, back or chest are very important.  And finally vitamin c.  That is one I'm sure everyone is familiar with.  We take vitamin c chewables with great results.

Products described in this blog can be found at:  www.mynsp.com/EdenEssentials
Additional products can be found at:  EdenEssentials.Etsy.com

Tabooli, a Complete Meal

I've seen it spelled many ways, but no matter how you spell it, it's always delicious!  This recipe was on the back of a box of Hodgson Mills Wheat with Soy.  If you can't find it at your grocery store, you can order online at www.hodgsonmill.com.

FOR THE SALAD:
1.5 c. dry Hodgson Mills Bulgar Wheat with Soy
1.5 c. boiling or very hot water
1 bunch green onions
1 green pepper
1 cucumber
3 tomatoes, seeded
1 bunch parsley

FOR THE DRESSING:
1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil
1/2 c. lemon juice
1 tsp. salt (preferably Real Salt brand)

TO MAKE:  Combine Bulgar mix with boiling water.  Let it set in the refrigerator for 2 hours.  Combine dressing ingredients and pour over bulgar mixture.  Mix well and let set 2 hours.  Meanwhile, chop all of the veggies finely then combine with the bulgar mix for the remainder of the 2 hours for marinating.

Serve with falafel, tzatziki, and Greek pita or eat all by itself for a delicious one-dish meal!

www.mynsp.com/EdenEssentials
EdenEssentials.Etsy.com

Treat Cuts, Scrapes and Burns Naturally

Most of us don't know what in the world all those ingredients are in Neosporin and similar ointments. Sure, I've never heard of anyone being injured by these ointments, but I, like many others, prefer to know and understand what I'm putting on my children. That's why I came up with a liquid that will heal cuts, scrapes and burns as well as anything you can find OTC, but with all natural ingredients that you know you can trust. These oils are antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, antimicrobial, etc.

Here is what you will need:

2 oz. bottle (amber glass is best, but plastic will do)

4 drops Tea Tree oil

4 drops Bergamot oil

2 drops Lavender oil

4 drops Geranium oil

2 drops Frankincense oil

15 vitamin e capsules

3 drops grapefruit seed extract

2 oz. pure aloe vera juice

Add oils to the empty bottle. Puncture vitamin e capsules 1 by 1 with a sterile needle and empty into the bottle. Add grape fruit seed extract. Fill the bottle with aloe vera juice. Shake well and apply to cuts, scrapes and burns. Also works on sun burns. For added cooling effect and to keep longer, keep refigerated.

To use, shake well and apply to a cotton ball, then apply to cuts and scrapes. For larger areas like sun burns, shake well, pour on desired area and rub in.

For more information or to purchase these ingredients, please visit mynsp.com/edenessentials.

Achieving a Clean and Healthy Home

A toxic home is not a place that you want to live in. You should always be careful to read and research the chemicals in each and every product you buy. There are more chemicals in the home today than were in a typical lab at the turn of the 20th century! They are used without restrictions, are not subject to health and safety codes once in place.

We should never let cleanliness contribute to the toxicity of our world. Thirty two million pounds of chemicals daily and 12 billion pounds annually are flushed down the drain where they eventually become a part of our environment or drinking water supply.

OCEA says there are 884 toxic chemicals in our personal care products. When you read the label, do you know what they are really trying to tell you? Generally, it goes as follows:
"Caution" = 2 tablespoons to 2 cups will kill
"Warning" = 1 teaspoon can kill
"Danger" = a pinch or dash can kill

A few proven carcinogens to look out for are:

• Aerosol, Alcohol and ammonia
• Fluoride, Formaldehyde, certain fragrances
• Mineral Oil suffocates the pores which can trap toxins in the skin
• Talc (used for diaper rash) is from asbestos
  
• Alcohol, commonly in mouthwash, increases oral and throat cancer risks
• Sodium Laurel Sulfate is an endocrine interrupter and mimics estrogen

Xylitol Mouthwash is a great alternative. Bacteria cannot ferment in xylitol, which is derived from corn, because it is a 5 carbon sugar, not a 6 carbon sugar.

So why go green? Because 90% of our lives are spent indoors. We should do it for our health and the environment our family and friends live and work in. Chemicals can be brought to a bare minimum within your life and home so that you can live in a way that is healthy for your body and the Earth. Chemicals kill more children than gun accidents! Scary stuff!

Essentials for the Home: Can all be found at mynsp.com/edenessentials and are pretty inexpensive.

• Lemon & peppermint essential oils (for their cleansing properties)
• Natures Fresh Enzyme Spray breaks down organic matter, such as stains on fabric or food on dishes. It also cleans the toilet (full of organic matter) like nothin' else!
• Sunshine Concentrate Cleaner is a wonderful liquid organic cleanser that is very versatile. You can use it on laundry, to clean floor, counters and windows, at the kitchen sink or in the dishwasher, as a hand and body soap, and also when making your own all natural, organic facial cleansers and shampoos. Just add your favorite essential oils and the possibilities are endless.
• Silver Shield is made made with colloidal silver, which is known for being antiviral and antibacterial. Use it on counters after cutting raw meat or carry it in your purse for hand sanitizer. It is also wonderful for spritzing on your bed linens (a combination of natures fresh, essential oils and silver shield).
• Xylitol bulk can be used in cleaning, but it is also a wonderfully delicious sugar alternative. Since it is actually all natural, not altered in a lab, your body recognizes it as food and processes it accordingly. The same can't be said for Splenda and Equal. Many chewing gums, like Trident use xylitol as their sweetener.
• Xylitol Mouth Wash is wonderful for dental hygiene.
• Sunshine Brite Toothpaste is also ideal for oral hygiene. It contains soothing aloe vera gel, golden seal, myrrh, Icelandic moss, astragalus, green tea and elderberry for natural oral health care. Sunshine Brite is naturally flavored with real mint. It contains no fluoride, which can be dangerous to children in excess.

Where pests are concerned, most do not like peppermint oil. You can make a spray of peppermint and other essential oils, like rosemary and spray around the perimiter of your house, inside and out. You may need to apply it weekly during seasonal changes, but I promise it costs less than calling the exterminator and will only take about 15 minutes of your day. Lemon oil repels flies wonderfully.

A few ideas for household natural cleansers:

• Anti-mold: 8 oz. Natures Fresh, 2 tablespoons xylitol, 10 drops lemon oil. Combine and apply to mold, windows, bathrooms, etc. Use daily for 2-3 days on serious mold. This combination will kill black mold!
• Smelly shoes: Spray with Silver Shield and let dry.
• Cutting board / Counter Top disinfectant: Spray with Silver Shield and let dry for 6-10 minutes. Will successfully kill Ecoli and Salmonila.
• Natures Fresh makes a great, non-toxic jewelry cleaner. It uses plant enzymes and is hypoalergenic.

Want to get even greener?!

• Make a lavendar lemon disinfecting linen spray using Silver Shield, lavendar and lemon in a spray bottle.
• For a clean dishwasher that is bacteria free, use 4 oz. Natures Fresh, 4 oz. distilled vinegar, 10 drops lemon oil - run the empty dishwasher on the fast cycle

There are so many uses for Natures Fresh. Instead of Febreeze, combine Natures Fresh with your favorite essential oils and odors are gone! This even works on cat urine! I've had to use it for that, unfortuantely. You can make a personal deoderant since it will break down the stinky bacteria caused by under arm sweat. You can wash fruits and veggies with it as well. If you combine Silver Shield and Natures Fresh then spray it on grapes which are left on the counter, they will last twice as long. This saves money on costly produce by keeping your food fresher longer.


Sunshine Concentrated Cleaner has no phosphates, borate or acids, is biodegradable and is pH balanced (6.5). It is safe for people, animals, plants and the environment. To wash your clothes use 1-3 squirts depending on load size. Wash your toilet, windows, tubs and even your car with it successfully! Just 1 bottle = 64 gallons of household cleaner. It removes algea from an outdoor deck and your plants will thank you! For 4 hours of clean hands, combine in a soap dispenser with Silver Shield or add some jojoba oil to the Sunshine Concentrate cleaner for a heavenly body wash.

The bathroom is te most toxic place in the home. It has the most chemicals in the smallest area. Spray silver shield and natures fresh everywhere - it even disinfects your toothbrushes!

Consume wisely! Green is in!!! Reduce chances of childhood leukemia by 9X just by using the essential oils mentioned vs. pesticides. Your life and health will be greatly improved by making a few simple changes.

For more information on any of the products mentioned, please visit mynsp.com.edenessentials!

Dealing with ADD / ADHD Naturally

When my son was 5, a brave cafeteria monitor mustered up the courage to tell me that my son was a royal terror during lunch, jumping on tables and slam dunking his tray into the trash can and partaking in other acrobatic feats. I immediately scheduled a meeting with his teacher who told me that for the past 6 weeks he had been acting up but it hadn't reach an unmanageable level yet and she assumed since it was sudden, there must be something going on at home and she was giving it time before addressing the issue since she could manage to get him to focus.

I did some research and found that Omega 3 fatty acids and DHA deficiencies are the most common cause of ADD / ADHD in young children who have never experienced behaviors like this beforehand. The brain is made up of fat and if it isn't given the right types of fat for food, it can literally begin to starve. Some fats thicken the blood-brain barrier, which cause ADD/ADHD symptoms. Fast foods are friend in omega 6 and 9 oils. Eggs are high in omega 6 oils. These thicken the blood-brain barrier. The higher the omega number, the longer the chain and therefor the harder the body must work to convert the fatty acid into DHA. The body's ultimate goal is to convert these omegas into DHA, which is why omega 3s and DHA are so good for the body. It takes the work out and yields immediate results.

This is the regimen I used on my son, which brought about immediate results. I started on a Friday afternoon and by Wednesday his teacher was asking me what I did to calm him down so quickly. I have found that since we eat healthy as it is and I am more careful with eliminating omega 9s and reducing 6s, I can give him 1/2 doses daily or 5 X a week with the same great results.

Sunshine Heroes Omega 3 with DHA: These are gummy vitamins made from whole foods like mangosteen, cranberry, broccoli and spinach as well as 12 fatty acids. It is wheat, soy and milk free. With these I started with the recommended 4 per day until symptoms were relieved, then I moved down to 3 per day and now I do 2 per day 5-7 days a week.

Focus Attention: This drink powder stimulates and supports brain function and blood circulation to neurotransmitters. It also modulates brain activity and energy levels. Focus Attention actually tastes great. It's flavored with natural raspberry and mixes well with juice or water. What I love about this is, it brings immediate results and then I just use it as necessary afterward. One bottle has lasted us close to a year because it works so well. We use it now for exciting times of year, like the holidays. If he is coming home from school cranky or unable to finish his work on time, we know the situation calls for about a week of focus attention powder.

Lobelia Essence: We initially were using this for it's respiratory benefits. Lobelia is like a little miracle. It can be used during menstruation to relieve cramps. Massage it on the forehead for a headache. It can bring relief to asthma suffers or during intense coughing fits with a cold. It also can be used to slow or stop early labor. Because of the relaxing properties, we massage about a teaspoon of this liquid onto his back or feet before bed and it helps him sleep better. When he has an ADD/ADHD moment, lobelia will bring him back to a normal temperament. It will not make you do anything you don't want to do, like I've experienced with Tylenol PM and the like. If you want to stay awake, you'll stay awake. It simply relaxes you and allows you to function without some of the overstimulating thoughts or restless muscles that can keep people awake.

Other Changes:
- Replace one meat meal per week with salmon. My son just loves salmon in any form, but if your kids don't like fish, you can try my mom's salmon patty recipe (picture is from her blog).

Salmon Patties

12 oz. salmon
2 1/2 c. herbed bread crumbs (I like the ones that are in the bag)
1 egg beaten
1 1/2 c. plaint yogurt (or 1 c milk, 1/2 c. sour cream)
shredded carrots, salt, pepper, onion powder, oregano (or whatever you like...thyme, sage, etc.), garlic powder (all to your liking)

Poach and flake the salmon. Beat egg, yogurt, bread crumbs, and desired amount of seasonings together. Add salmon and carrots. Form into patties (I use biscuit cutter on a flat cutting board as a mold, or fill a 1/4 c. dry measuring scoop) Drop patties into hot, sprayed skillet (I like cast iron) 4-5 at a time. Leave center open. Cook until golden brown and comes away from pan easily. Flip only once.

Serve with this sauce: 1/2 c. sour cream or plain yogurt, 2 tsp. dijon mustard, 1/8 cayenne (optional), 1/8 tsp. turmeric, pinch of salt.

- Eat out less and use more extra virgin olive oil when cooking.
- Reduce meat intake as follows:  poultry once a week, fish 1-3 times per week, red meat 1-3 times per month and eliminate pork and shellfish.
- Use cast iron or stainless steal with olive oil spray and avoid "nonstick" type materials since recent evidence is showing adverse effects from Teflon flaking into food when not used correctly.
- Minute Made has a juice called "Brainergy" which we really like. It is high in DHA and omega 3s. It has been increasingly hard to find these days. But when we do find it, it is in the refrigerator juice section next to the "Simply Orange." It has NO high fructose corn syrup, which is one reason we love it so much.
- If you feel that sugar contributes to your child's symptoms, avoid artificial sweeteners since the debate is still on-going as to how they effect children. My cousin sat on the table eating packets of the equal growing up and now she is the only diabetic in our family. Is there a link? I don't know.  But a better alternative would be local, raw honey or agave nectar. I also like raw sugar. It doesn't metabolize the same as processed sugar and it doesn't have the same tooth decay effects that processed sugar does. Also, it does not feed cancer cells as readily as processed sugar does. All good things! The new truvia and purevia sweeteners look like they have potential. We also use xylitol since it has many, many health benefits, although it is very expensive compared to the rest.

Common sense precaution: Please do not ignore medical advice.  I am not a doctor. For more information or to purchase the products mentioned above, please visit www.mynsp.com/edenessentials.

Bladder and Urinary Tract Infections / Kidney Pains

UTIs are something that most parents of little girls have to deal with at one point or another during the first few years after potty training. Wiping incorrectly or not at all is usually the culprit. For adults, many women get them during pregnancy or in times of dehydration.

This regimen has worked well for my daughter, niece and myself many times. The symptoms are urgency to urinate, painful urination and bladder spasms. If these are severe or have been going on for more than 2-3 days, seek medical attention. These suggestions are meant to be used at the onset of symptoms. I'm not a doctor, so please do not go against medical advice. All of these products can be found at www.mynsp.com/EdenEssentials

The products that I use are:
Urinary Maintenance:Brings immediate relief and can usually knock out a UTI in 1-2 days. Since it is pure herbs, a capsule can be broken and poured into a small amount of cranberry juice, Berry Healthy or Herbal Punch for those who have difficulty swalllowing pills. For little ones, a straw usually helps, but my daughter will take it no problem.

Berry Healthy: Antioxidants are very beneficial to the urinary tract. Berry healthy is full of antioxidants and is made without the use of artificial flavors. I like that it is also wonderful for the immune and circulatory systems, so you really get a lot of benefit from this one product.

Echinacea / Golden Seal: Echinacea is great for immunity, while the golden seal brings immediate relief to urinary tract pains by helping the body rid itself of toxins.

Silver Liquid: Silver is a wonderful addition to this if you would like to try to speed things along. It cleanses the body internally. For an external infection, the gel works best. I usually use 1 tsp. of silver before bed because the kidneys cleanse themselves at night. This allows my daughter to get through the night without an urgency to use the toilet often. Rest is very important!

Silver Gel: I love silver gel because it can be used on any cut or scrape. It can also be used as an alcohol free hand sanitizer if carried in your purse. For an external UTI, simply apply about a pea-sized amount to the affected area and let it absorb completely. Usually 1-2 applications are all that are needed, when combined with other methods.

Kidney / Bladder Massage Oil: Organic, all-natural Bergamot, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Lavender and Thyme oils are combined with a carrier oil to bring relief to kidney and bladder pains. Massage onto lower back and bladder area as often as necessary. Available by special order at EdenEssentials.etsy.com.