A New Leaf

I have been making several changes in our home the past couple of months, most health-related. Long story short, I have given a lot of thought to the things I am putting into my body and my childrens' bodies, both food and otherwise, and the consequences of long-term exposure. I feel a proactive approach to my family's health is long overdue.
I spent several weeks neglecting a lot of nutritional issues, claiming that I was too tired and overworked to have one more thing on my plate, which was true, but I also didn't realize that an unhealthy diet can contribute that very thing, fatigue. It seems to become a vicious cycle; not taking care of yourself makes you too tired to take care of yourself and downward it goes.
I've decided that the way I picture my home and everything in it: healthy, fresh, clean, tranquil, a place where the spirit can dwell, is going to take years of tweaking. For me it's going to be a journey of letting go of perfection and remembering the big picture. So here's to the new 'home improvement' section of my blog. I'm excited to be able to periodically update some of the things that I'm researching about health. There is so much more going on that I had realized, but it's important to be educated.

Proactivity of the Day:
So here's the thing, I have recently discovered I am allergic to most household cleaners! I don't even like the way they smell anymore because I associate most scented things with a headache. What's left to do but make your own all-natural household cleaners? Let me tell you, it has been a lot of fun. I feel like some sort of scientist mixing concoctions together until I get the right fit. The good thing is, when you make your own cleaners you are saving a lot of money, not to mention they are better for us to be breathing. Most of these things you already have in your home, so for some suggestions, see here
Which bring me to today's gemstone, tea tree oil. I've been researching a lot about household mold, mostly because I am 100% certain I am deathly allergic to mold, and have come up with a lot of useful information. Mold is not just an annoyance, it is a health hazard. Some studies have shown that household mold can be linked to headaches, depression, and asthma. (Cynical Ryan says everything is linked to headaches, depression and asthma.) Well living here in Texas mold has become my worst enemy, but here is a simple solution. Mix 1/2 tsp tea tree oil with 1/2 cup of water. Spray in affected areas, including clothing, closets, and so forth. See here for more about mold removal. I found a bottle of tea tree oil for 9.99 at my local Walgreens. It's a little pricey but a small bottle will probably last a lifetime. I put mine in a cute little mini-spray bottle and keep it next to the sink. A fresh sink combined with a clean afternoon breeze=a little piece of heaven. My kitchen smells divine.