Search Results for: why

Why I Chose Young Living

Why I chose Young Living went like this.

As a slap to the face, a new and ugly truth stung me to the core.

I’d been greenwashed.

Hard.

I chose everything so carefully.

All the white, clean, fresh, natural bottles.

And they had all been big fat lies.

Mama on a Mission

There’s something you should know about me as we become friends here.

I’m not your average mama.

I, Andrea Dawn Marshall, am a childhood cancer warrior mother.

I’ve seen things no parent should ever see.

And I don’t play games when it comes to my kids’ health.

So you can imagine the anger that bubbled up inside when I began peeling back the onion of toxic junk in our home I had thought was so safe.

Even more so the war path I set out upon when I learned 90-95% of all cancers are toxin-caused.

And the all out battle plan I drew up when I learned my brand new baby’s cancer was one of the 95%.

Nine Months of Research

No one.

I couldn’t find anyone who wouldn’t spray their plant-based products with pesticides.

Who refused synthetics.

I stood alone in a store aisle with the weight of fighting off relapse with tears streaming down my face.

Then I remembered.

My friend used YL oils.

What if they were different than these other oils full of junk and pesticides?

With oil companies popping up like crazy and cheap oils lining grocery store shelves and social media posts, why Young Living?

About a Year Later

The friend who helped me get the best oils on the planet heard I’d walked away from teaching to come home to my boys.

She asked if I’d like to tell people about Young Living however I felt most comfortable.

I’d get a huge part of our home’s needs covered financially.

Cleaning, personal care, over-the-counters, natural remedies, makeup, kid care, and dog care.

All covered when I helped other families become healthy, too.

About a year-and-a-half later I was more than covering this part of our budget.

After taking away a large chunk of our financial stability, this felt amazing.

Even better, we were healthier and paying almost no co-pays anymore.

We saw other families changing and becoming healthier.

I fell in love with this company and their mission bigger than I ever thought possible.

Getting to a Farm

I couldn’t believe it!

I’d made it to the Mona farm in Utah.

I got to see the distillation, the growing, the baby plants, the fields.

And I can’t wait to see more all over the world!

This is me taking the picture and my friend, Laurie, who helped me get started is in the purple shirt.

That trip changed how I viewed not just YL but every company I shop with.

If they could create what they do without pesticides or synthetics or fragrance, so could everyone else.

They became my new standard.

I saw with my own two eyes, deep in the heart of those beautiful mountains, on a gorgeous day in Utah what I was sharing here on my blog and in person with the people I care about most.

And it felt good.

Nerd Alert: I Love the Distillation Process!

Laugh it up, friends.

I’m nerdy for distillation!

It is, in a word, fascinating!

I learned more about how our founder studied ancient distillation practices as I breathed in the lavender being distilled that day.

Okay, this is going to sound crazy, but…

The whole farm smelled like Fruity Pebbles, and everyone was at max chill.

Lines like crazy. Hours of waiting. And yet…total…calm.

I was in awe of the huge drums, the oil I could smell and see being made, the steam coming up through the grates.

There were no words.

I just kept walking, eyes wide, taking in all of the careful process.

All too clear was the reason why I could never go back to the way I used to do life.

They’re the first company I’d ever seen actually care about my family’s health.

This was a big deal after all we’d been through.

Our Family’s Blessing

A Fresh Start

Wonder what it looks like to live this lifestyle?

Here’s a day in the life of an oily family for you to see if it would be a good fit for you!

Heard enough and ready to get started? This page can help you get rolling.

No matter where you are or what you need I’m here for you, friend.

I stand behind this company because they have helped us so so big.

Email me any time at andrea@graceblossoms.com. I’d love to get to know you and help your family feel as good as we do!

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Why You Should Do a Book Trail Christmas Morning

What’s a Book Trail?

I got the idea of a book trail from my friend years ago, and it’s been a hit ever since!

A book trail is a line of books going from your child’s bedroom leading them to the tree Christmas morning.

Why do One?

Building your home’s library is key to your child’s education.

The journal Research in Social Stratification and Mobility stated that, â€œGrowing up in a home with 500 books would propel a child 3.2 years further in education, on average, than would growing up in a similar home with few or no books.”

The excitement of Christmas morning puts books in a fun light.

Where reading can quickly grow to be a chore with the frustration that can tag along with homework and learning to read, these books are special and chosen especially for your child.

What Books Should You Get?

Books of high interest.

Too often when I taught, I had sad conversations with my 8th graders’ parents about how they once loved reading but lost it somehow.

Then they’d tell me that not only did their child hate reading, but he also refused to read books at “his level.”

Let’s look at these Christmas books a little differently.

These tree trail picks are the fun books.

The who cares what “level” I’m at choices.

They’ll get there, friend, but first we have to draw them in.

Open their eyes to the wonderful world they can find between the pages of a book that speaks to them.

In fact, I’d even argue we can nudge your child toward his or her “level” while keeping interest high!

Where to Get Good Quality Books

We like Usborne books because they’re easy to browse for the kinds of books we like.

Our boys are really into adventure, dogs, and inventing right now, and Usborne has it all!

I especially love this for the tree’s trail of books because I can find SO MANY for around $5 that have been super popular with our kids!

You can click here to go directly to their site.

Final Thoughts

I’d love to hear all about how the trail goes for your family if you choose to do one this year!

What books have your children loved?

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Why You Shouldn’t Buy Just ANY Essential Oil

With essential oil companies popping up left and right, here's how to spot a fake, and here's who's always got your back.

Essential Oil Key Info: Before You Buy

With essential oil companies popping up all over the place, there are a few things you should know first.

1. The 26 Second Rule

Anything on your skin is in your bloodstream within 26 seconds.

Yes, this means it alters your DNA.

2. The 5% Law

One more thing before we get into the nitty gritty here.

The law only requires FIVE PERCENT of what is in an essential oils bottle to be actual oil from the plant.

This five percent bottle can be called “pure” and “therapeutic.”

Keep reading to find out what the other 95% is.

3. Organic Confusion

As consumers we generally see organic as safest, but that is hardly the case when it comes to essential oils.

The 5% law means that the “organic” oils you see on the shelf are packed full of synthetics and fragrance for highest profit.

Your body, very real and non-synthetic cannot handle fragrance or fake stuff, so every little cell in your body freaks out. Not good.

4. Pesticides Matter

Both inorganic and organic pesticides are still just that: pesticide.

And you do NOT want pesticides in your bloodstream.

There is only one company who never sprays their plants, and that’s Young Living.

Want proof?

You’re welcome on any farm, anywhere in the world, any day of the week.

5. Other Factors

I could go on forever about how Young Living is the only first distillation, zero pesticide, zero synthetics, and zero fragrance company and why all that matters.

However, it really comes down to pesticides.

They’re a big factor when it comes to the crazy-huge rise in disease, and it has to be stopped.

6. One-Stop Shop

Young Living has over 600 lifestyle products all bearing the Seed-to-Seal promise.

Zero junk. 100% oil in every single bottle–whether that’s chapstick, body wash, deodorant, CBD or anything in-between.

7. Your Vote Matters

When you buy from Young Living only for every cleaning, personal care, and supplement need, you’re saying to the rest of the world, “This is our demand. Real, body-helping products. Or you don’t see a dime.”

8. Less Expensive than In-Store

Young Living is less expensive despite the sticker shock much like when you’re at Costco or Sams for the first time seeing how much bulk costs.

Young Living is simply buying in bulk.

Because of this, I can get 29 household cleaners for $22.

300 times I’ve rid of fever for $21.

Not too shabby considering the store comes nowhere near these prices.

9. Start Today

The way Young Living works is simple:

Choose your wholesale kit (priced $35 and up–click HERE)
Choose Essential Rewards for max benefit (read more about it here)
Click “accept” when I add you to our education group and become a part of our tribe. We learn together–you’re never alone. It’s amazing!
Accept the free reference guide app I send to you, so you know what to use when making the start of this journey SO EASY!

10. Questions?

Email me anytime at andrea@graceblossoms.com.

I would so love to chat oils and healthy living with you.

Our family has been toxin-free for three-and-a-half years as I write this in February of 2020.

All in an effort to stop disease in its tracks, feel better, and keep our six-year-old from relapsing (childhood cancer).

I teach Young Living because I have researched like crazy and cannot find anything else that matches Young Living’s purity, cost, and efficacy.

I look forward to meeting you and learning more about your needs!

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Why the LSP Essential Oils Reference Guide?

Learn why the Life Science Publishing Essential Oils Reference Guide is the only guide you'll want for your Young Living essential oils.

Why the LSP Reference Guide?

Ever find yourself wishing you had a reference guide to oils?

Something to tell you what you should use when?

A reference for how to use certain oils?

A place to learn about Young Livings 600+ oil-infused products?

The Life Science Essential Oils Reference is the answer.

Option 1: Pocket Reference Guide

The Pocket Reference is basically a smaller version of the Desk Reference guide.

It has the same sections on singles and blends like the Desk Reference and also has a section to look up specific products for support.

It is not as thorough as the Desk Reference, but is smaller in size and great for travel.

Option 2: Desk Reference Guide

The Desk Reference is bigger and about double the price, but loaded with a ton of information!

It teaches more in-depth studies on everything from the start of Young Living to specific bodily support.

The index is ultra-valuable, especially for new oilers.

No matter what the situation, oilers know this guide will help in any situation.

It is particularly helpful in conjunction with the iTovi and Zyto Scanners for those digging down into root causes.

Why Life Science Reference Guides?

Choosing a Young Living-approved text ensures best practice.

Synthetic and adulterated oils cannot compare to Young Living oils the same as other guides cannot compare to Life Science.

Knowing the research comes from a Young Living approved source lets readers rest easy.

Need Young Living Oils?

Click here for help. This link will also be extremely helpful in starting the journey.

Need step-by-step directions? Click here.

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Why is Everyone Talking About Young Living?

Why is everyone talking about Young Living?

Is it just hype? A fad?

Everyone and their brother offers “essential oils,” so why should we even care about Young Living?

Aren’t they one of those MLM things?

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Why Oils?

This Will Impact Your Life Forever

A proactive lifestyle just will.Â

Our family will never be the same–praise God!

We had no idea what we were doing to our bodies in this generation or the next, and I’m willing to bet that neither do you.Â

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Immune and Lung Fall Favorites

These immune and lung fall favorites are powerful.

Want to jump ahead to learning more about oils and this lifestyle?

Text “Learn More” with your first and last name to (937) 419-4783.

Zero spam. No salesy stuff. It’s really me, Andrea Marshall, talking to and helping you.

Not quite ready?

Read on for amazing, yet really simple changes you can make to be healthier this fall.

IMMUNE: Inner Defense & Thieves

The big guns.

We take one drop of Thieves essential oil blend in raw, local honey when we’ve been exposed to germs or when we’re starting to feel a little under the weather.

We diffuse it all night and day.

The bottoms of our feet are covered in Thieves and tucked in cozy socks.

Consistent use is absolutely key here. We use it a few times per day or every couple of hours if we’re really run down.

If we’re a little late to catch an icky feeling, we’ll take Inner Defense to get our bodies back to performing above the line of wellness again. It’s easy. Just follow the directions on the side of the bottle.

Want to hear something really crazy?Â

We’ve used nothing but Young Living products for the last six cold and flu seasons.

No prescriptions. Nope.

Zero doc visits. Zilch.

Why?

We’ve got everything we need in our home.

Need some in your home, too? Click HERE.

Not so sure yet?

Read on.

LUNGS: R.C., Breathe Again, and Snifflease

R.C. and Breathe Again open up passageways and help your lungs work at optimal function.

Snifflease is the kids’ version, which just means it’s pre-diluted.

Diluted doesn’t mean weaker here, though.Â

Just that it stretches a bit further and is ready to apply because there’s a fatty oil inside.

So, I’ll carry Snifflease in my purse for all four of us and keep the others in the house.

R.C. and Breathe Again are our go-tos (I prefer the pre-diluted roller of Breathe Again for late night coughing fits).

Dilution…what?

We dilute for many reasons, and not all need diluted, but don’t worry.

It’s super simple.

Why?Â Because the ratios are on the side of the bottle.

However…

I usually follow this rule: 1 drop essential oil to 4 drops carrier (fatty oil like coconut, olive, grapeseed, hempseed, etc).

Don’t be afraid.

You won’t mess this up…promise!

Why Young Living ONLY?

I know…what a weird thing to say, right?

We *only* use one oil company. Sounds odd. I know.

But here’s what happened to us in a nutshell:

Our two-month-old was diagnosed with a toxin-caused cancer (we know it’s toxin-caused because it wasn’t genetic…seriously, go down *that* rabbit hole for a minute…).
Two years later I stumbled upon what it means to have toxic makeup, cleaners, etc.
I tried multiple types of “organic” and natural “essential oils” from big and little companies. None of them worked. Some of them made me feel worse.
I learn about Young Living’s Seed to Seal promise: zero pesticides, zero fillers, zero synthetics, zero fragrance, period. I could not find this anywhere else.Â
We start using Young Living and were overwhelmed by it’s purity and efficacy.
Six years later, I write to tell you all about it.

Learn More

Wish there was a way to learn without being sold to?

Have you been hearing about oils in a negative (or positive) light but know deep down there’s something to it?

If you follow me on social media, do you ever wonder why we’re so healthy…consistently?

For years?

Or why we get better really fast we are sick?

Text “Learn More” and your first and last name to (937) 419-4783.Â

Zero spam. Always an option to opt out. It’s literally me, Andrea Marshall, talking to you.

Simple information to learn about toxin-free living in just a few easy steps.

Because why not live the healthiest life possible for the least amount of financial investment possible?

We’ve saved *thousands* since leaving traditional living and switching to Young Living.Â

I can’t wait for you to see how!

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Hormone Tracking and Balancing Free Printable

Women have been sold a life that only works outside the female cycle.

We’ve bought product after miserable, hormone-crushing product to deal with it, too.

I’m guessing that, if you’re here, you’re so over it.

Guess what?

Today you can choose to quit feeling like a dumpster fire every single month.Â

Normal or Common?

What I’m suggesting to you today is big.

You’ll be giving up some things we all hate. For some reason we’ve believed they’re just a part of being a woman.

What will following this plan allow you to say goodbye to?

No more PMS…because that’s not normal. Common? Okay. Normal? Nope.
Goodbye, cramping…because that’s not normal.
Lock up mood swings…they’re not normal.
Huge blood clots have got to go…because that’s so not normal.
Long periods….because lengthy, drawn-out cycles are notÂ normal.

Our bodies have been crying out, begging for help for years. It’s about time we listened.

You may scrunch up your nose at the following suggestions, and that’s okay.

Now, it is a package deal, but it can be done easily.

I’ve been free for six wonderful years, and you can be, too!

1. Say Goodbye to Synthetic Fragrance

Greenwashing

First, you’ve got to know about Greenwashing. It’ll save you so much time and money.

Long story super short, just about every “green” or “natural” product out there is a farce.

How can you know for sure?

Is something created for our health full of synthetics? Pesticide-sprayed plants? Fragrance?

Just because the bottle says “free of,” doesn’t give it the right to trick you into buying their lie.

How to Start Fresh

This is how I was able to let go of all the synthetic fragrance in our home.

At first glance I thought it would cost more. In reality, it’s saves us thousands every year.

It’s an absolute shame that marketing starts with our pre-teen girls (and boys!) and works their way up the age ladder with this harmful version of “normal” living.

If I had one bottle ofÂ “Country Apple” lotion or “Cucumber Melon” body wash when I was a girl, I had them all. They became the standard teenage girl gift.

Add in all the candles I burned.

Now, mix in all of my household cleaners.

Add a dash of perfume, makeup, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and feminine products.

Top it all off with laundry detergent and fabric softener, and you’ve got a recipe for adrenal fatigue and hormone failure.

You can follow a plan like this to slowly ditch and switch your products if it feels overwhelming to start.

2. Peace-Out, Pesticides

There were two main ways I got rid of pesticides. First, I had to fully understand why I needed to get rid of pesticides.

Thankfully, the first way I let go of them (here) allowed the budget to burst wide open for the second way.

The second way was buying only organic (or better yet, chemical-free) foods.

Be careful with your organic produce, though.

I use this to wash off the carcinogenic gasses sprayed to help make the long trek from farm to table in our country.

*Note: Highly concentrated products stretch to last! This is part of what saves us so much financially!

3. Healthy Water

Test it for yourself, but I think we all know the tap is not for drinking.

The water jug filter I thought was so great was almost as bad as the tap, unfortunately.

Not to mention how bad bottled water is…don’t even get me started on how many petrochemicals we drink from those things…yuck!

Healthy water, I hate to say it, is an investment.

It’s something we should all have free access to, but sadly it isn’t just yet.

I’ve settled on this second best option and was gifted this first rate option.

4. Balance Hormones

The lack of education we receive on hormone health or even how to mange our cycle is unfortunate.

Thankfully I was blessed with this new lifestyle.

Here’s how I balanced my hormones (in addition to what I mentioned above): free hormone balancing printable!

If I were you, I’d either laminate or slip it into one of those old school paper covers like this.

I keep mine in the bathroom where my hormone balancers are stored.

If you don’t already have an app that tracks your cycle, I like the free version of Flo, but I’m sure there are a ton out there.

Also, if you’ve opted for synthetic birth control, let this be your sign to throw it in the trash or have it removed ASAP. Those things have damaged enough women’s bodies (including long-term on my own). Don’t be another statistic!

5. Encouraging Note to You!

Take it from someone who’s been right where you are now– you can do this!

It does take time.

Like…sometimes a lot of time, if you’re like me undoing 15+ years damage.

With the help of functional medicine, I’ve made huge strides over the last two years in addition to these at-home remedies.

Every product I use in the air I breathe, clothes I wear, or place on my skin matters.

Each piece of food I eat changes things.

Is everything I eat organic? Nope. Had food from a restaurant last night.

BUT

I’ve learned that I feel and look much better when I’m 95% clean and enjoy desserts and a night out a little in between.

It just became increasingly clear that either I paid intentionally with wisdom now, or I pay much more later.

Physically, mentally, emotionally, and out of my pocket.

Illness or health is generational.

We can choose to turn it around today.

And when we choose for us (and four generations beyond us), we have the amazing benefit of never looking back.

To your health,

Andrea

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1 John 1 Bible Study Questions

With new Believers in our home, I wanted to walk through 1 John together.

I’m definitely not some great theology major, but I have actively studied the Word for the last 15 years.

Even that many years in, I’m still so amazed in wonder each time I open the Bible. This raised the question: how do I help my family go through a book of the Bible together?

With the ESV Study Bible to help, I created questions based on what the commentary would answer for me.

Next Steps

I typed out all of my questions, then got to thinking.

What if other families could use these questions?

I’ve joyfully added them to my Teachers Pay Teachers site for FREE for anyone to download.

You can click right here and get access to it now.

Also, please PIN the following image and follow me on Pinterest here for the follow up chapters.

This FREE download is a simplistic study guide on 1John 1 that was made to work in conjunction with your ESV study Bible.

Let’s Work Toward 1 John Together

I’m nowhere near proficient in writing any sort of Bible study. That’s why I created questions the commentary could answer.

If you have a great question you think I should add to this study guide, please comment below!

I’d be super grateful for your input.

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Kindergarten Reading Mini-Lessons Master List

Why a kindergarten reading mini-lessons master list?

Aren’t we wanting to teach full lessons?

You’ve likely noticed your child has an attention span that’s about as long as they are old.

So, if I’m teaching a five-year-old, my lesson should be short and sweet if I want it to stick.

This article is meant to be a resource to you throughout the school year.

PIN the following image to keep it easily accessible:

MASTER LIST

The beauty of homeschool is time.

Take your time. Practice these daily until your child can do them on his/her own, achieving true mastery.

The following are things good readers do. You’re setting up your child’s reading foundation.

To make it strong, practice is key.

This, of course, is not an exhaustive list, but it’s a great working one!

This kindergarten reading mini-lessons master list is adapted from state standards. Read here about how you can add these to your homeschool without allowing it to crowd out the good you’re already doing!

This list could lead to a month-long study on each.

Or more. Or less.

The best thing you can do for your child is dig into lots of books with you!

The more they’re exposed, the greater their vocabulary and a better reader they’ll be.

DID YOU PIN THE GRAPHIC ABOVE YET?

NINE SIMPLISTIC LESSONS:

Find key details in a text.
Retell a familiar story, including key details.
Identify characters, settings, and major events in a story.
Ask and answer questions about unknown words in a text.
Recognize common types of texts (e.g.,storybooks, poems).
Name the author and illustrator of a story and define the role of each in telling the story.
Describe the relationship between illustrations and the story in which they appear.
Compare and contrast the adventures and experiences of characters in familiar stories.
Activate prior knowledge and draw on previous experiences in order to make text-to-self or text-to-text connections.

Just Keep Reading!

Check out this list of 20 different Kindergarten read alouds!

One of the best things we’ve done is added to our home library in gift-giving seasons.

Even better is when we surprise them with a new book just because.

As our boys have aged, they’ve come back to their kindergarten books time and again.

There’s just something special about those first favorite reads.

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20 Kindergarten Read Aloud Books

Great kindergarten read aloud books aren’t hard to get your hands on if you know where to look.

Today, I want to share our boys’ top 20.

I’ll separate them into two categories: picture books and chapter books.

Pin the following graphic, so you can come back when you need it.

This handy list of our top 20 kindergarten read aloud books is great to help your child become a strong reader.

Chapter Books

The Kindergarten read aloud list is linked so you can easily add it to your child’s library.

Picture Books

*NOTE: While these are great for Kindergarten, our boys (now 8 and 10) have loved every one of these for years beyond!

Another Way to Use this List

Check out this master list of mini-lessons.

They’ll help your child become a strong reader while enjoying good stories.

I hope you love this list as much as we have.

We like to add books to our home library as often as possible. The trail to the tree, Easter baskets, and birthdays are some of our favorite times to surprise the boys with new ones!

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The Case For Year-Round Homeschool

When I was a public school teacher, I longed for year-round school.

Other teachers told me I was crazy…they loved their summers off.

But I knew in my gut I could make it amazing.

I’ve been blessed in our homeschool setting to prove just that.

In this article, I want to share six reasons we’re grateful for year-round homeschool.

I hope it gives you hope in your schooling situation, wherever you may be.

1. Mental Break

We school four weeks, then take a week-long break.

With this schedule, we school many more days than the typically schooled child.

But it feels like so much less.

That fifth week is amazing for the kids and for mama.

It’s like a fresh start every time!

The mental break is beyond helpful.

However, the overall mindset shift might be my favorite part.

Waiting until the next extended break while I was teaching was such a drag. We don’t experience that anymore!

2. Travel Year Round

Hiking, mini-trips, or even exploring our surrounding area has been so fun.

Especially when we’re not confined to the school year.

I had no idea how much there was to do out there in the other 3 seasons!

We’ve had a blast.

No long lines, and we can bring all the homeschooling friends we want?

Win!

We also get homeschool discounts in lots of places, too.

How and why we love year-round homeschool as a fun, easy-going, and enjoyable school option in all seasons of the year and in life.

3. Nix the Summer Gap

The one thing I hated most as a teacher was how it never seemed like anything stuck after summer vacation.

My new students sat there in August, year after year, with a whole lotta nothing in their heads.

That summer gap is for real, y’all.

We don’t have to experience that anymore with year-round homeschool.

I see their skills and building blocks growing stronger in every four week session, and it’s so exciting!

They’re much more confident.

We waste no time reviewing because everything is always fresh.

Best of all, their excitement for learning doesn’t fade.

4. What About Schooling While Friends are Off?

People ask me this all the time.

But they forget one important little detail: homeschooling is flexible!

We’re at the pool, out back with the neighborhood kids, and spraying each other with the hose just as much as all the other kids.

There is one thing we don’t have though: summer boredom!

Schooling is what happens around life.

This means when everyone is tired of the heat, thirsty, or hungry, they’re inside learning!

We also really enjoy schooling outside. The trampoline, swings, treehouse, and a blanket in the grass are some of our favorite spots.

Our days are so full and fun all summer long!

5. Our Kids are Invested

It was harder when we knew our next extended break time wasn’t for another two or three months.

Especially when you’re little…everything takes forever!

It’s amazing to see their ability to jump right back in after a nice week-long rest.

We said goodbye to the drag of waiting for the next break.

6. The Children Make SUCH Fun Plans!

It’s exciting to encourage and assist in our boys’ fifth week plans.

Where will we go?

What will we do?

Do we need rest and relaxation doing a whole lot of nothing?

Or would we enjoy lots of outside time or a quick trip somewhere?

They can help us budget, map out hikes, and pack the essentials.

It’s an amazing way to train up adults who are cognizant of the balance between work and rest .

Final Thoughts

I pray this finds you excited or at least interested.

This has added such an element of fun to our homeschool experience.

Would you try homeschooling year round?

Have you done it before with a different schedule?

I’d love to hear what you think of this in the comments below!

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How We Beat Covid Naturally

It took two years, but there we were: Covid.

Losing our smell and taste (how we got it back fast!), headache, achy joints.

All of it.

Spoiler: We each experienced symptoms for only 1 and a half days.

The following is, I believe, why.

Our family beat Covid naturally with these simple items and tricks every home should have in their wellness arsenal.

Pre-Game

Not too much changed for us when we learned about Covid in November of 2019.

We still ate whole, organic foods that I prepared for us. We very rarely eat outside the home.

Young Living toxin-free products kept our bodies from pesticide, synthetic, and fragrance burden.

We’d been antibiotic and prescription free for almost 4 years when the world locked down in March of 2020.

I trust that our pregame health measures were huge in getting us through Covid easily.

Where I Went Wrong

The busyness of Christmas along with family deaths meant I took my eye off the ball for a few weeks.

I wasn’t giving anyone Thieves and honey as preventative.

We weren’t making sure we put Lemon oil in our water all day to flush out any ickiness.

I wasn’t filling diffusers each day.

And on top of it all, we were eating more sugar than usual, lowering our immune systems.

Caught it From the Kids

Both boys complained of achyness in their lower back (in the same spot).

Our functional medicine doc said their immune function needed some boosting. After a day-and-a-half of supplementing, they were back to normal.

To be fair, they never really slowed down…kids!

They had no other symptoms except one morning each of a mild headache and some smelling issues.

Knowing they were low on immune function, I did go back to adding in our preventatives and our detox/flushing.

Then a few days later, like a ton of bricks, it hit me: the headache.

Taking Action

These are powerful tools every home should add to their wellness arsenal as soon as possible.

Building up and Knocking Out

Inner Defense: Every 3 hours when symptoms were at their worst. 3 times per day the second and third days. How we ever lived without Inner Defense is beyond me. It. Just. Works.

Geranium + Lemon oils: We always have these on hand. I like Geranium for my skin and hair. Lemon is amazing for so many things, (read more here) outside of kicking this “big bad” illness. I put one drop of each on my spine, undiluted, every hour while I had symptoms.

Flushing Out the Bad

Quality water + Lemon oil + AminoWise: Lemon oil in water (no plastic!) for flushing out the gunk. AminoWise for the zinc, branched-chain amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals. It also supported my sore muscles, and produced nitric oxide, which can improve vascular blood flow. I drank this in 32 ounces of water as much as I could.

Soothers

Deep Relief + M-Grain: For the sinus pressure and headache during Covid, I applied these as often as I felt pain or pressure. They were my only relief along with an ice pack.

Peppermint + Lime: My fever never got out of control (shaky/painful). I embraced it and thanked God for something else that would allow me to beat this quickly. I was prepared to bring my fever down if needed. Add one drop of each to 4 drops of carrier oil (any fatty oil like olive, almond, coconut, etc). You can apply to the spine. I’ll also apply without carrier to the bottoms of my feet until it comes down to a comfortable level. You can read more about our experience with fever since toxin-free here.

Kick the Covid Cough!

Thieves Chest Rub + Cedarwood: Covid was the first cough that’s gotten me in a while. I typically fight it off with Peppermint and Cedarwood as soon as I sniffle. However, I coughed more than I had in years with this one. These two are always on our shelves just in case. I’m so glad I had them in our health arsenal for when I needed them most.

Thieves Cough Drops: When it was socially acceptable to go back into the world, I needed my cough drops. While I’d kicked it mostly, a tickle would make me look like patient zero while with family and friends. Thieves Cough Drops are an investment I’m always glad we’ve made. They work so well without the synthetics and immune suppressors you find in even “natural” store drops.

Food as Medicine

Organic foods/fruits and veggies: I know; this one is obvious. I focused on what I could keep down that first day when nothing looked good to eat. Mostly I had apples and carrots. I had one slice of homemade bread and felt like I’d had an entire meal. It’s always my belief that quality food is medicine, and this was no exception.

Zero Sugar for a solid week or more: Sugar weakens our immune system like crazy. The sad fact is, it’s in so many of the “get better” junk on the shelves. It’s why I refuse to take any cold medicine, cough syrup, cough drops, electrolyte drink, etc. They simply make matters worse. I’ll stick to my Young Living pesticide-free, synthetic-free stuff that works, thank you!

Three Key Players

DetoxZyme, Super Vitamin D, Super C: DetoxZyme-The name says it all. There’s a toxin in my body or I wouldn’t feel like garbage. Out with the bad, in with the good! Super Vitamin D-I’m sure you’ve read about how helpful this is for all illness. It’s especially been in the news since Covid really hit in March 2020. Finally Super C– because vitamin C is great! However, it’s harmful if you’re taking the in-store junk with synthetics, added sugar, or sugar substitutes.

Building Your Wellness Arsenal

What if you’re new to all this and it feels overwhelming?

This is simply ditching synthetics and switching to a healthy version.

Subscribe and Save on the Young Living website will give you 24% discount.

You’re never locked into anything and can cancel anytime.

If you order monthly like we do, you earn points up to 25% of your order to spend like cash.

We also get the monthly freebies including free shipping.

Concentrated formulas means we’re saving or spending the same as the toxic stuff from the store!

With the sharp increase in our health, it just makes the most sense for us all around.

Thinking of going toxin-free?

Tell me what your biggest questions or fears are below!

*We are not claiming to heal, treat, or cure anything. We are not doctors. This is what worked for our entire family. It’s simply a testimonial to how we’ve used these products. Now we live a simpler, healthier, and stronger life.

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Natural, Emotional Health Support

Why not boost emotional health as a part of your daily routine?

Emotional Support Diffuser Recipes

Each morning and night, fill your 12 hour Desert Mist diffuser with the emotional support you need.

After 6 years of research, I can only in good conscience recommend pesticide-free, synthetic-free, fragrance-free oils. Learn how and why we chose our favorite company here.

Be proactive with your emotional health with these 7 diffuser recipes that will quickly target specific emotional needs.

1. Emotional Harmony

3 drops Lavender

2 drops Clary Sage

2 drops Bergamot

Have you learned about balancing your hormones?

No, not with a tiny, synthetic pill.

With toxin free living and Progessence +.

I said goodbye to PMS and long, painful cycles years ago!

2. Releasing Anger

3 Lavender

3 drops Frankincense

Are your oils in convenient locations? We use our oils to bring us down after intense emotion, but it’s much easier when they’re accessible.

3. Liquid Bravery

3 drops Northern Lights Black Spruce

3 drops Sacred Frankincense

2 drops Idaho Grand Fir

How amazing to put one drop of each of these oils on your wrists and breathe in deeply before a big meeting or presentation, too?

4. Joy in My Heart

4 drops Lemon

3 drops Lime

2 drops Grapefruit

2 drops Orange

We add 1 drop of Lemon oil to our water throughout the day to flush out the bad, too! Just no plastic water bottles, please!

5. On Solid Ground

4 drops Sacred Mountain

3 drops Cinnamon Bark

6. Soothing Jitters

4 drops Lavender

3 drops Vanilla

7. Restful Sleep = Happier Emotions

4 drops of each:

Lavender

Cedarwood

Vetiver

We know how edgy we can get when we’re not well rested. This is such a great one to add to your routine each night!

Toxin free is easy, less expensive, and this article shows how you can begin with your emotional health.

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF GOING TOXIN FREE?

Letâ€™s face it.

We all know pretty much everything is toxic on the shelves today.

But how do you overcome this when everywhere you turn, Greenwashing is soâ€¦allowed?

Young Living is the only company in the last 6 years of searching that has checked all my boxes.

Zero pesticides on plant material
Zero synthetics or fragrance added to final oil product
Dilutes to save our family money

Thatâ€™s right.

I know, I know. Itâ€™s hard to believe when you go to the website.

Save money?

Yes!

Think about it: 100 drops in the six dollar bottle means Iâ€™m getting 100 doses.

What on the store shelves gives you 100 doses of pesticide-free, synthetic and fragrance-free (unscented is still fragranced) for six bucks?!

Click here to learn more about why we choose Young Living only for makeup, personal care, home cleaning, â€œscents,â€ supplements, kid/baby/pet, hormone care, and more!

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Natural, Effective Seasonal Relief!

Seasonal relief shouldn't mean reaching for expensive and harmful over-the-counters. This is a much simpler and healthier solution!

Seasonal relief is so simple!

After 6 years of research and digging into every company I possibly can, I will only in good conscience recommend this pesticide-free, synthetic-free, fragrance-free, and hand-weeded company. Here’s why.

Recipe

1 drop of each:

Lemon essential oil

Peppermint essential oil

Lavender essential oil

How to Get Relief

There are two ways to use this blend.

I suggest you do both.

Method 1: Inhale

Put the oils in the palm of your hand. Rub them together. Cup your hands and cover your nose and mouth to breath the blend in deeply.

Do this a few times until you feel relief and repeat as necessary.

We like to carry a rollerbottle with us because it travels so well.

For that, add 10 drops of each oil and fill the rest of the bottle with your choice of carrier oil.

Carrier oil is just a fatty oil you have in the kitchen like olive, sweet almond, grapeseed, jojoba, or coconut oils.

*For rollerbottle recipes, you’ll need liquid coconut oil like I linked above.

You can also diffuse. My forever favorite diffuser is the 12 hour Desert Mist by Young Living.

Method 2: Ingest

Put one drop each in a vegetable capsule (you can get these here) and take with a glass of water as needed.

Put one drop of each in raw, local honey (said to have its own allergy-busting benefits) and take as needed.

Put one drop of each of the three oils in raw milk and take as needed.

Consistency is Key!

You’ll need to continue using this for relief as often as needed.

It’s amazing that with how often your allergies kick up, you can be free from scary ingredients.

In fact, you’ll be supporting your entire body while doing so!

There is a belief that allergies, while common, are not normal.

Until you sort all of that out, keep consistent and carry your oils with you, so you don’t have to reach for the dangerous over-the-counter junk.

I’m so grateful with what we can do with a truly clean, toxin-free routine!

You're not alone. Let me help you create the safest,healthiest home possible for the least expense.

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF GOING TOXIN FREE?

Letâ€™s face it.

We all know pretty much everything is toxic on the shelves today.

But how do you overcome this when everywhere you turn, Greenwashing is soâ€¦allowed?

Young Living is the only company in the last 6 years of searching that has checked all my boxes.

Zero pesticides on plant material
Zero synthetics or fragrance added to final oil product
Dilutes to save our family money

Thatâ€™s right.

I know, I know. Itâ€™s hard to believe when you go to the website.

Save money?

Yes!

Think about it: 100 drops in the six dollar bottle means Iâ€™m getting 100 doses.

What on the store shelves gives you 100 doses of pesticide-free, synthetic and fragrance-free (unscented is still fragranced) for six bucks?!

Click here to learn more about why we choose Young Living only for makeup, personal care, home cleaning, â€œscents,â€ supplements, kid/baby/pet, hormone care, and more!

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12 Easy + Powerful Ways to Use Lemon Oil

What is Lemon Oil?

(I can only safely and in good conscience recommend Lemon oil from this pesticide-free/synthetic-free oil company).

$6. 50 for 100 “doses/drops” or $11 for 300 “doses/drops” from the link below for “lemon.”
You can Subscribe and Save for every 1, 2, or 3 months. Whatever you need!

Lemon oil is cold-pressed from the rind of lemons.

It has a neutral pH, something you don’t get when squeezing the acidic insides into drinks.

It supports your circulatory, respiratory, renal, and digestive systems.

Lemon also supports a healthy memory, vibrant skin, and balanced emotional health.

12 easy and powerful ways to use Lemon oil in your home that will make life, health, and keeping a home simple!

12 Easy Ways to Use Lemon Essential Oil

Seasonal Relief
Happiness/mood support
Nighttime Lip Serum
Clean home and uplifting home smell
Immune support
Large intestine support
Liver support (had a lot of Acetaminophen in your life?)
Spleen support
Nail bed support
Respiratory support
Sinus support
Healthy weight support

How to Use Lemon Oil

There are three ways to use Lemon essential oil.

1. Topical

Mix one drop Lemon oil with 1 drop carrier.

Rub into skin where needed, avoiding places that will see the sun.

Some good places to apply are the spine, brain stem, and bottoms of your feet.

Carrier is just a fatty oil you have around the house like coconut, jojoba, almond, olive, etc. They help dilute, stretch, and absorb the lemon oil better.

2. Aromatic

Put a few drops in a diffuser.

My favorite will forever be the Desert Mist 12 hour diffuser from Young Living.

You can also put a drop of Lemon into the palm of your hand, rub them together, cup and inhale deeply.

Internal

Because Young Living is hand-weeded, synthetic-free, additive-free, and pesticide-free, we’ve had tremendous success ingesting Lemon essential oil.

Put 3 drops in a vegetable capsule (available on the Young Living website) and take 3 times daily.

We put lemon in our water (no plastic bottles!) all day to help detox any pollutants or toxins we take in from the world or food we encounter.

Have You Ever Thought of Going Toxin Free?

Let’s face it.

We all know pretty much everything is toxic on the shelves today.

But how do you overcome this when everywhere you turn, Greenwashing is so…allowed?

Young Living is the only company in the last 6 years of searching that has checked all my boxes.

Zero pesticides on plant material
Zero synthetics or fragrance added to final oil product
Dilutes to save our family money

That’s right.

I know, I know. It’s hard to believe when you go to the website.

Save money?

Yes!

Think about it: 100 drops in the six dollar bottle means I’m getting 100 doses.

What on the store shelves gives you 100 doses of pesticide-free, synthetic and fragrance-free (unscented is still fragranced) for six bucks?!

Click here to learn more about why we choose Young Living only for makeup, personal care, home cleaning, “scents,” supplements, kid/baby/pet, hormone care, and more!

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Get Strong, Healthy Lungs

Are You Harming Your Lungs?

The top lung-suppressing items are commonly found in our homes.

How many times a day are you burdening your lungs?

Laundry detergent and dryer sheets (Even fragrance-free has fragrance. They’re labeled “emulsifiers” and are masked by heavy chemicals so they smell “free.”)
Air fresheners, candles, wax melts, etc.
Household cleaners (even fragrance-free)
Perfumes and colognes
Makeup, personal care (lotions, shampoo/conditioner, creams, etc)

Did you notice the common factor was synthetic fragrance?

Did you know many synthetic fragrances have been labeled carcinogenic yet are still allowed to be used in the United States?

Don’t Be Fooled

Even when you buy “organic” essential oils at the store, they’re loaded with synthetics and fillers!

What’s a family to do?

Decide for yourself what’s truly healthy.

What will you allow in your home?

Who earns your business?

Here’s our quick checklist:

Is it pesticide free? How can I be sure?
Did the company add synthetic fragrance?
Is it crazy cheap–this is a big, red flag.

I’ve searched for 6 long years for something that’s truly safe.

The only product line that fits into all three on our checklist is Young Living (you can read why here).

The great news?

It’s so super concentrated that we save money even though the price tag looks more expensive.

How?

Read on!

Be Proactive

Once you drag those lung-suppressing items out of your home, you get the most amazing benefit.

Living proactively!

Now you’re not weighing your body down with toxins in the form of pesticides and synthetic fragrance and additives.

This means you can use Young Living to strengthen your lungs!

Yes! It’s true!

The Right Tool

First, you need the R.C. oil blend. <–Click the link to get it. (I can only, in good conscience, recommend Young Living. See why here.)

In a 5mL, $11 bottle, you get 100 “doses.”

We get to use this proactively and if we get a cough! How great is that?!

To get the same with generic cough syrup, you’d have to buy seven of their $9 bottles. That’s $63!

Not to mention R.C. is pesticide-free, synthetic-free, and powerful.

Cough syrups (even “natural” ones) have immune-suppressing sugar, dyes, and synthetics along with drugs that harm your body.

See how easy it is to switch? Save your money and your health!

Easy Use

It’s so crazy-easy to use R.C.!

You can use it on your chest or in a diffuser.

I suggest you use it both ways.

Here’s how:

Topical (on your chest):

Put one drop of R.C. in the palm of your hand (cup your hand) with 4 drops of carrier oil (if more than that comes out, no biggie!).

Carrier oil is just a fatty oil you have in your kitchen.

A lot of people use olive, grapeseed, or coconut oils. It doesn’t matter what you use–(well, don’t use vegetable oil, but that’s another wellness topic for another day).

This is to stretch the R.C. and help it absorb into your skin.

Mix together and rub over your chest, throat, and lungs a few times a day.

Diffuser

Simply fill your diffuser (I like this one) to the fill line and put oil inside.

The diffuser I chose was a large one, so I put 20 drops inside for the 40 hour setting.

If I use a smaller diffuser like this one, I’ll just put in 3 or 4 drops of R.C. for its 5 hour setting.

My favorite diffuser will always be the Young Living Desert Mist diffuser that runs 12 hours!

Keep It Simple!

The easiest way to get this toxin-free life is to keep it simple.

For us, I knew what I wanted to tackle first: our air quality.

So, I clicked this link , made an account, chose Subscribe and Save, and made sure my PV (point value) was always at least 50.

This way I could get up to 25% back in points to spend like cash (AKA get free stuff) and enjoy a 24% discount on everything we needed to make our home healthy.

When they began the 100PV get free shipping program, I now make sure my order hits that mark! Love me some free shipping!

Here’s what I think makes an amazing first month order:

Diffuser (I like the Desert Mist) It comes with two free oils!
R.C. oil blend
Thieves Household Cleaner (read about how this allows you to stop buying all other cleaners here)

Looking at this first order is so exciting!

Why?

Because just look at the huge change you’ve made for your health in just three easy clicks!

From this order you now can stop buying the following:

Candles or any type of synthetic fragrance
Cough syrup
EVERY. SINGLE. CLEANER. YOU’VE. EVER. BOUGHT. YAY!!!

The cleaners are so hard on your lungs, friend! And Thieves Household Cleaner does it all!

Want ideas for the following months?

Read this!

You’ve GOT This!

You can do this!

Bit by bit.

Month by month.

You can make careful choices, save time, money, and health.

You can live free and proactive!

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Natural Bleach Alternative

This natural bleach alternative works!

It’s super simple to put together, stores nicely, and is something the whole family can use.

What a relief to know that your surfaces are clean, your whites are white, and your home isn’t toxic.

Ingredients List

Glass jar like this one

3/4C hydrogen peroxide (I use this one)

1/4C lemon juice

15 drops Young Living Lemon oil (why we only trust YL here)

3/4 C baking soda

1/4C Thieves Household Cleaner (the only household cleaner you need!)

7C water

Directions

Mix all ingredients in the 1/2 gallon jar.

For laundry, use 1C per load, or use in sinks and tubs like you would regular bleach.

Printable

You can get the free printable below right here.

Do you have a Young Living Recipe book like this one? How cute is it?!

Why Traditional Bleach is Highly Toxic

You probably already know bleach isn’t good for you based on the smell.

If you’d like to read solid research behind why bleach is toxic, here’s a site I trust.

Where to Use

We like to use this bleach on the following areas of our home:

Laundry whites
Sinks
Tubs
Showers
White tile
Pest/rodent repellant (add Peppermint essential oil to boost)
Wipe down counters (that can handle bleach–be careful!)

A New Generation of Clean

Our boys help clean our home because we know Thieves Household Cleaner or alternative bleach mixes like this are safe.

We do our research on cleaners and essential oils.

It had to be Young Living and no other brand after months of learning.

Now, we work together as a family to take care of our home.

Our children learn the value of hard work in keeping a clean and safe, toxin-free environment young.

This means they’ll pass this on to their children creating a new generational health.

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5 Easy Steps to Working the New Young Living Website

How to Work the New Young Living Website

Struggling with how to work the new Young Living website? Need pictures to help?

Look no further!

I have really fallen for our new site and found it much easier to navigate once I got the hang of it!

1. Unlock Your 24% Discount

Simply put one or more items on Subscribe and Save, and boom!

You now get 24% off all Young Living’s over 600 lifestyle products and essential oils!

You can decide if you want these to come to you every 1, 2, or 3 months.

My top 5 favorites to keep on Subscription:

Thieves Essential Oil Blend (think: strong immune system in a bottle)
Thieves Whitening Toothpaste
CitriGuard Deodorant
Progessence Plus (hormone balancing favorite–serious game changer, ladies!)
Lavender essential oil (when in doubt, lavender it out!)

Set yours up here: Subscribe & Save

How to Work the New Young Living Website — Photo credit: Life Steps App

2. Get the Most Out of Your Subscription

Our family always keeps at least 50PV in our Subscribe and Save.

Why?

Because we get a percentage (we’re up to 25%!) back in Loyalty Rewards points we use like cash to get other oily products for FREE!

*Random orders of 50PV won’t get you points; only if it’s on Subscribe and Save.

*If you skip a month of ordering 50PV, you’ll lose the points you have and the percentage will drop back to 10%.

*You can change your subscription items each month.

3. Redeem Those Rewards!

Once your order ships, you’ll be able to see how many Loyalty Rewards points you have for the month.

*Whatever you order must fall at or under the PV amount you have in points.

My top 5 favorites to Get with Rewards points (AKA Free!):

Savvy Minerals makeup
Over-the-Counters like Acne Treatment and Bug Spray
More expensive oils like Frankincense
Oils I’ve never tried before
Smelly good oils (fall faves, unique blends, etc)

Here’s how to redeem your points:

4. Keep Up With Your Health

I love Subscribe and Save for more than just the free stuff (like 100PV’s free shipping).

Our family’s health has greatly benefited from me keeping up with this for the last five years.

If you fail to plan, you plan to fail, right?

That applies when it comes to thinking about health.

I can’t ever think of a time I ever thought about our wellness before Young Living.

Oh, I thought about illness all the time.

But health?

Nope.

Now with each month’s subscription on the day of my choosing, I’ve got my phone’s alarm ready to remind me to get my order in the day before.

What’s this mean?

That every single month I assess our family’s wellness instead of waiting on our family’s illness.

It’s been the best!

5. Share the Wealth!

How are you going to have access to a truly healthy lifestyle and not tell everyone you know?

Can you imagine having an endless supply of 24% coupons for your favorite store but not giving them to everyone you love?

Or can you fathom having a bonus coupon for up to 25% back for free stuff in that store and not giving them that, too?!

Exactly!

Oh, and guess what?

You’ll see a balance of money when you login that you can use to help pay for your Subscribe and Save boxes each month!

Here’s how to give Young Living to anyone:

A Friendly Reminder:

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9 Fall Diffuser Recipes for Your Health

Grab your diffuser; this year we’re creating a strong offense for your health.

Diffuser Blends for Fall Wellness — Credit: Life Steps App

Why Diffuse?

We use our diffuser every day for our health.

Thankfully, our 12 hour Desert Mist Diffuser makes it super simple to fill just twice!

Diffusing purifies the air (if you’re using Young Living oils)
Makes your home smell great
Zero flame
Can increase concentration and memory function
Eliminates pollutants and odors
Maintains a healthy immune system
Relieves tension
Improves mood
Supports all the systems of the body
If using YL, zero pesticides and fragrance

Types of Diffusers

While I’ve used other diffusers from Amazon like this one, and they’ve been okay, Young Living diffusers get top billing in my opinion.

Their medical-grade plastic and long diffusing settings are amazing.

Their look is even better.

Get Started With Young Living

A toxin-free lifestyle is so easy to achieve!

You can read more about it here.

Maybe you’ll start with diffusing and work your way around the house.

Perhaps it’ll be a slow transition or an all-in-one shot, but whatever you choose, you won’t be alone.

When you use this link to start, I’ll be with you every step of the way with over 5 years experience and training from doctors and scientists who’ve used Young Living oils since their start in 1994.

Subscribe & Save for the Win!

The Subscribe and Save option through Young Living is the best thing that ever happened for our family’s health and wellness.

Makes grocery shopping faster
Concentrated products dilute to save $$
Saves you 24% off all products
Gives up to 25% back (see graphic below) on top of that
Loyalty gifts the first year
“Loyalty” blend oil (cannot buy) given to you each year on your oily anniversary
The best way to consistently work toward your health

Here’s how our family uses Young Living to save thousands every year:

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