Suet Is For The Birds (And How To Make It For Them)

After an unusually warm start to winter (temps have been around 80º!) we are now having what we consider really cold weather (anything below 40º). For me that means I don't go outside unless I have to. But I will go outside to check the bird feeders. I enjoy watching and photographing the little feathered beauties and I know that in the winter they can really suffer.  Wild birds can use all their energy stores just to survive in very cold weather. During this time of year they need and want fat!

Roll-On Mood Enhancer

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is over. Most of us have packed up the decorations, kids are back in school, and things are beginning to get back to normal. During this time of year we may find ourselves with moods that swing all over the place. It's not unusual to find ourselves unable to get going when we need to or to relax when we need to.

These two simple but effective natural formulas may help you regain a bit of sanity. The first blend is for those days when the coffee just isn't doing it or you find yourself in a mental fog. The essential oils used in this formula will uplift your spirits and help you get moving again.

The second mixture should help you relax and let go of tension. It even helps with falling asleep and staying asleep when your mind is in a whirlwind of thoughts.

Healing Salve For Dogs

My senior beagle, Barclay, has some issues, mainly skin issues caused by food allergies. He has been on all sorts of meds (some very expensive) and now is on a restrictive diet that only includes a few things we know he is not allergic to.

While the change in diet has drastically helped, he still has the occasional flair up of everything from bacterial ear infections to fungal infections in the deep folds around his mouth. He also has problems with thin dry skin that cracks on his elbows.

Healthy Dog Treats Made From Leftovers

Making your own dog treats is very simple. You really don't even need a recipe, just make sure you use ingredients that are safe and healthy. Today I used some chicken left over from some fried chicken we had for dinner. I also added a few leftover string beans.

Melt in Your Mouth Parmesan Chicken Breast

Looking for an easy dinner recipe that is still sure to please? You can have this main dish ready for the oven in no time and let it cook while you unwind....did I really just hear you laugh? Okay, let it cook while you get something else done. lol

Almond Pinecone Cheeseball

Want something simple that is also simply delicious for your upcoming holiday meal? I originally posted this recipe on November 2, 2012, but it's been a big hit in our family for many years before that and has become a holiday staple. The filling can be made the day before and refrigerated overnight, another reason I love it!

Hope you enjoy this oldie but goody!

Homemade Glycerine Soap Gift Idea

Want a great DIY gift idea that is sure to be appreciated and used? These simple melt and pour soaps are so easy to make. I have given away lots of these, in different variations, and so far everyone LOVES them! I crocheted a few simple facecloths recently and thought I would pair them with some of these soaps. I chose a holiday themed mold for the soap and tied the folded facecloth and soap together with some red raffia I already had. Voila! A great gift idea.