2 cups Castor Oil
2 cups glycerin
1 teaspoon jojoba oil
12 drops vanilla essential oil
6 drops ylang-ylang essential oil
Mix all ingredients together thoroughly. Pour the mixture into a bottle and store.
To use, apply to hair and rinse well.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Winner of Neki Naturals Giveaway is....
The Winner is Icitea! Congratulations! Thanks to all you participated!
Monday, April 26, 2010
Giveaway Monday at Neki Naturals
In Celebrating Neki Naturals first Ever Craft Event in Summit NJ yesterday, we are sponsoring a Giveaway handmade item TODAY and TOMMORROW!
It is very easy to participate. All you need to do is to comment on this blog post on the following question:
"Name one handmade item do you have in your home or closet? If so in which color?
Two winners will be picked on April 28th 2010!
Join in the Fun!
You have a chance to win an item from the Neki Naturals item valued at more than $13.00
It is very easy to participate. All you need to do is to comment on this blog post on the following question:
"Name one handmade item do you have in your home or closet? If so in which color?
Two winners will be picked on April 28th 2010!
Join in the Fun!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
CELEBRATE EARTH DAY WITH NEKI NATURALS
Today is Earth Day!
I am glad that this year we all can do one thing to help the earth. Maybe it will not be as drastic as switching your energy sources. It can be using one less plastic bag, buying more organic fruits,
using Eco friendly cleaning products or even donating used products to non profit organizations. There is one thing we can do today to celebrate and incorporate into our daily lives.
After I became a mother and researching toys, I decided to crochet toys for him. He seems to like the bright color ones but it makes him happy. Today, my 18 month old took his pink baby elephant to school! First time this has happened and I am so happy he is celebrating his earth day with his handmade toy. I am beyond thrilled.
Enjoy your day today! Remember we have little ones who need the earth in the future.
More of the handmade toys can be found either at www.nekinaturals.com or http://neki.etsy.com.
I am glad that this year we all can do one thing to help the earth. Maybe it will not be as drastic as switching your energy sources. It can be using one less plastic bag, buying more organic fruits,
using Eco friendly cleaning products or even donating used products to non profit organizations. There is one thing we can do today to celebrate and incorporate into our daily lives.
After I became a mother and researching toys, I decided to crochet toys for him. He seems to like the bright color ones but it makes him happy. Today, my 18 month old took his pink baby elephant to school! First time this has happened and I am so happy he is celebrating his earth day with his handmade toy. I am beyond thrilled.
Enjoy your day today! Remember we have little ones who need the earth in the future.
More of the handmade toys can be found either at www.nekinaturals.com or http://neki.etsy.com.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Count Down Begins to Craft Show
It is a crazy week for me as the craft show is this upcoming weekend in Summit NJ. My husband just called me to let me know that my portfolio just arrived and I can breathe easy on that item!
There are still a lot of things to do before the 25th but I am trying to stay calm and focus and enjoy the process. No matter what happens on Sunday whether I sell something or not, it really does not matter because I will be check off conquering my fear of presenting my craft to the public.
In addition, I still have customized orders that are lined up to be completed. I just completed one messenger bag yesterday and my client is thrilled with it. What do you think? I have also added some items to my etsy store.
I had planned to do a giveaway today but I will hold off till Friday! More Fun and Excitement!
Stay Tuned!
There are still a lot of things to do before the 25th but I am trying to stay calm and focus and enjoy the process. No matter what happens on Sunday whether I sell something or not, it really does not matter because I will be check off conquering my fear of presenting my craft to the public.
In addition, I still have customized orders that are lined up to be completed. I just completed one messenger bag yesterday and my client is thrilled with it. What do you think? I have also added some items to my etsy store.
I had planned to do a giveaway today but I will hold off till Friday! More Fun and Excitement!
Stay Tuned!
Monday, April 19, 2010
Leading -The Healthy Way
Yesterday marked the first race I participated for 2010 running season and this year, it felt different. I have ran so many races with my husband but this time around, my entire family ran and walked including my mother and my toddler! We, as a family have walked or ran last year but there was something different this time. Everyone was talking about how they will improve on the next run. Next run? Here we were talking about the miles, the breathing, the killer hills and exhaustion. I think they all now have the running bug!
As a family, my husband and I have made started to make some changes and we are not pushing everyone to jump on the same bandwagon. We discuss some of the substitutes we have made in our diet such a brown rice for white rice and the reason behind it. We try as much as possible to explain the reason for some of the changes so they can understand even if they do not agree with it.
We also try to live by example by exercising regularly and explain why it is absolutely necessary change our eating habits and exercise. Now, I just have to convince them to take a multivitamin.
We hope as they move into their own homes in future that they will remember these small changes and incorporate in their own family lifestyle. But for now, I am on top of the world and proud that they will like to run another race. This is success to me.
Enjoy your week!
As a family, my husband and I have made started to make some changes and we are not pushing everyone to jump on the same bandwagon. We discuss some of the substitutes we have made in our diet such a brown rice for white rice and the reason behind it. We try as much as possible to explain the reason for some of the changes so they can understand even if they do not agree with it.
We also try to live by example by exercising regularly and explain why it is absolutely necessary change our eating habits and exercise. Now, I just have to convince them to take a multivitamin.
We hope as they move into their own homes in future that they will remember these small changes and incorporate in their own family lifestyle. But for now, I am on top of the world and proud that they will like to run another race. This is success to me.
Enjoy your week!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Green Tea, Blueberry, and Banana Smoothies
This is a receipe that is in Prevention.com.This nutritious beverage is a healthful snack or breakfast on the go.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons water
1 bag green tea
2 teaspoons honey
1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries
1/2 medium banana
3/4 cup calcium-fortified light vanilla soymilk
Directions
1. In a small glass measuring cup or bowl, microwave water on high until steaming hot. Add the tea bag and allow to brew for 3 minutes. Remove the tea bag. Stir the honey into the tea until it dissolves.
2. In a blender with ice-crushing ability, combine the berries, banana, and soymilk.
3. Add the tea to the blender. Blend ingredients on ice crush or the highest setting until smooth. (Some blenders may require additional water to process the mixture.) Pour the smoothie into tall glasses and serve.
Try it and comment.
Enjoy!
Ingredients
3 tablespoons water
1 bag green tea
2 teaspoons honey
1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries
1/2 medium banana
3/4 cup calcium-fortified light vanilla soymilk
Directions
1. In a small glass measuring cup or bowl, microwave water on high until steaming hot. Add the tea bag and allow to brew for 3 minutes. Remove the tea bag. Stir the honey into the tea until it dissolves.
2. In a blender with ice-crushing ability, combine the berries, banana, and soymilk.
3. Add the tea to the blender. Blend ingredients on ice crush or the highest setting until smooth. (Some blenders may require additional water to process the mixture.) Pour the smoothie into tall glasses and serve.
Try it and comment.
Enjoy!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Managing Stress and Preparing for Big Events
April 25, 2010 will mark my first craft show and the fear of the unknown is sometimes paralyzing. At the same time, I am excited and cannot wait to meet other crafters and consumers.
How am I handling these few days of stress and preparation?
1. Meditate - I have started the process of meditating prior to bed time to quiet my mind and look forward to another day and listening for instructions. I recently learned that 20 minutes each night of meditating can help keep you motivated and inspired.
2. Cut Out TV shows: I am a big fan of all the crime shows- Law and Order; CSI; NCIS; I noticed that I am not quite happy after I finished watching all the shows. I can watch them as I am crocheting as multitasking but I have noticed that I do not energetic or satisfied and I need another show to uplift my spirit and the clock is ticking away! So, I began the process of weaning myself off. I will only watch one or two crime show a week not the marathon shows. My goal is to eventually stop watching completely. This is not only just buying back time but buying back my mind as I tend to lean more on the glass half empty mentality.
3. Exercise and Nutrition: I am a runner but sometimes I make the excuse of not having enough time; working late, stressed out for not running or weight lifting in the past few weeks. Time is a finite resource so I am learning to fit in exercise as a daily routine either during my lunch hour or if I have 30 minutes in the morning, run as fast as I can and get ready for the day. Jillian Micheals stated that we need to maximize out workout time. So when I workout, I focus on the workout and forget about everything else. It gives me extra energy and a sense of accomplishment. I have also added drinking at least 6 to 8 cups of water daily as this helps me not to feel so drained and dehydrated and lethargic.
4. Talking back to myself: This may seem strange. But with the help of my life coach Clestine Herbert, I write and talk back to myself. I am now in the process of telling myself not to listen to the fear of failing but to enjoy the process; to stop viewing life as stressful but to view it as a learning process. Most of the time, it works. But there are some days that I dwell on not selling or not accomplishing much for the day that I need a quick reminder to snap back into writing or having a chit chat with myself
These tips are helping me to deal with the business of preparing for a craft show. I hope it helps you too!
Enjoy!
Some of the items that will be featured at the raft show can be found at http://nekt.etsy.com
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tips to maintain Handmade Clothing and Blankets
Any handmade item needs care to maintain its quality and last for a long period of time.
With proper care, handmade items can become heirlooms and vintage items for families. Appropriate care must be given to retain its color and quality.
These are tips to guide you in maintaining handmade items:
1. Read the label if the item was bought from a departmental store. If purchased from a local artist, ask them for maintenance tips.
2. Try not to wash your hand made items as frequent as other items unless it is frequently used. For example, a quilt used on a bed not be washed more than twice a year but if it has to be washed, the handmade cycle on the washing machine and air dry is recommended.
Better recommendation is to hand wash handmade items manually. Try not to
dry handmade items in the dryer. Ensure that you lay the item down flat to air dry.
3. As the winter season is drawing to an end and you may need to store your handmade items, lay tout items flat and store in a storage container. If you have to fold it, wrap the item first in acid free tissue paper and store in the tube container.
Try not to keep these containers in the attic or basement because of the heat and humidity.
If you need to store the items for a long period of time, periodically check for bugs and mildew and air the items out and return back to the storage container.
I love handmade items and try to keep them as long as I can so I can enjoy and cherish them and hopefully be able to pass it on as a family treasure. Enjoy!
Stay Tuned
Neki Naturals handmade items can be found at www.nekinaturals.com or http://neki.etsy.com
Friday, April 9, 2010
Protect your Face with this Chemical Free Recipe
I found this great natural recipe from a spa book I use at home to keep your face well hydrated and protected throughout the day. I am giving you natural alternatives to chemically enhanced cosmetics. You can do put this together quickly at home and will cost you pennies.
6 tablespoons almond oil
2 tablespoons jojoba oil
1 ounce lanolin
1 ounce white wax
6 tablespoons rosewater
2 tablespoons witch hazel
3/4 teaspoon benzoin essential oil
Please the almond oil,jojoba oil,lanolin and white wax into the top of a double boiler set over simmering water.
When all the ingredients are melted, take the top out and slow stir the mixture constantly until cooled, adding little by little, during the stirring, the rosewater, witch hazel and essential oil.
The result will be more than half a pound of luxurious cream. Place the mixture in a bottle, cork tightly and put aside for future use. To use gently rub into face as required.
Hope you enjoy this recipe. Email or send me comments for feedback.
Stay Tuned.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
The Power Uses of Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is an around oil for the skin and hair care. It is a yellowish-green oil extracted from the leaves of melaluca tree in Australia. Its uses ranges from anti-bacterial, anti-septic, fungicidal and cosmetic.
Some of the uses of Tea Tree Oil are:
1. Tea Tree Oil is a powerful organic solvent that can help clear the skin of boils and sores when used as cleanser.
2. When mixed with hot water, tea tree oil can be used to relieve sinus and bronchial infections.
3. Tea Tree Oil can be used to kill in killing stubborn germs. I recently just found this out with the Melaluca disinfectant that I use at home. You do not need Bleach or harmful chemicals to kill the germs in your home. Adda few drops to water and vinegar as a disinfectant.
4. It can be used to treat hair problems such as dandruff, itchy-scalp, and head-lice prevention. For young children, you can mix a few drops of tea tree oil in their shampoo. You can mix a few drops tea tree oil in a base oil and massage into the scalp to relive itchy and dry scalp
Note : Even though there are no known side effects of Tea tree oil, ensure that it is always diluted especially for sensitive skin.
Green Living begins at home. Some of these natural products are just as powerful as the harsh chemicals that we use on a daily basis especially on our body. Pick up a small bottle of tea tree and integrate this oil into your daily routine. It will also save you money as your skin and hair care process use natural products.
In addition, check out the Neki Naturals Tea Tree hair oil at www.nekinaturals.com under the Women category.
Enjoy!
Some of the uses of Tea Tree Oil are:
1. Tea Tree Oil is a powerful organic solvent that can help clear the skin of boils and sores when used as cleanser.
2. When mixed with hot water, tea tree oil can be used to relieve sinus and bronchial infections.
3. Tea Tree Oil can be used to kill in killing stubborn germs. I recently just found this out with the Melaluca disinfectant that I use at home. You do not need Bleach or harmful chemicals to kill the germs in your home. Adda few drops to water and vinegar as a disinfectant.
4. It can be used to treat hair problems such as dandruff, itchy-scalp, and head-lice prevention. For young children, you can mix a few drops of tea tree oil in their shampoo. You can mix a few drops tea tree oil in a base oil and massage into the scalp to relive itchy and dry scalp
Note : Even though there are no known side effects of Tea tree oil, ensure that it is always diluted especially for sensitive skin.
Green Living begins at home. Some of these natural products are just as powerful as the harsh chemicals that we use on a daily basis especially on our body. Pick up a small bottle of tea tree and integrate this oil into your daily routine. It will also save you money as your skin and hair care process use natural products.
In addition, check out the Neki Naturals Tea Tree hair oil at www.nekinaturals.com under the Women category.
Enjoy!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Shea Butter - A powerful natural product
I began to use Shea Butter in the mid 2000s when I realized it was
the same product used in Nigeria for massages especially with body aches
from illness. I did not realize that Shea Butter was the same as Ori,
an Ibo name (Nigerian Language)for the product. It was not until
someone showed me the unrefined Shea Butter that I exclaimed and
laughed hysterically for a while.
Wikipedia states that Shea butter is a slightly yellowish or
ivory colored natural fat extracted from the seed of the African
Shea tree by crushing and boiling. It is widely used in cosmetics
as a moisturizer and salve. Shea butter is edible and may be used
in food preparation, or sometimes in the chocolate industry as
a substitute for cocoa butter.
Wiki also states that Shea butter is used as a base for medicinal
ointments,and has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Now,I do not know how our grandmothers and grandfathers know all
this with limited education but they use it for everything.
Shea butter has been claimed to be effective treatment for the
following conditions: fading scars, eczema, burns, rashes, severely
dry skin, dark spots, skin discolorations, chapped lips, stretchmarks,
wrinkles, and in lessening the irritation of psoriasis.
My entire family use Shea Butter both unwhipped and whipped.
I normally use it as a massage oil for the aching running legs and
I feel like new in the morning. My son also has enzema. Even though it
does not cure it, it is effective as long as I use it to keep his skin
nice and smooth.
He no longer itches and scratches his skin out as long as I maintain it.
In Nigeria, Shea butter is used for the management of sinusitis
and relief of nasal congestion. This is due to its hydrating properties
which helps in relaxing the tension in the face skin thus easing respiration.
Shea butter has been used as a sun blocking lotion, although the level
of protection against the sun's ultraviolet radiation is extremely variable,
ranging from nothing to approximately SPF 6.
When you buy an product that claims Shea Butter as its source, please
read the label and ensure that Shea Butter is the number one or two
main ingredient.
You can also check out our Shea Butter products at http://www.nekinaturals.com
Stay Tuned!
the same product used in Nigeria for massages especially with body aches
from illness. I did not realize that Shea Butter was the same as Ori,
an Ibo name (Nigerian Language)for the product. It was not until
someone showed me the unrefined Shea Butter that I exclaimed and
laughed hysterically for a while.
Wikipedia states that Shea butter is a slightly yellowish or
ivory colored natural fat extracted from the seed of the African
Shea tree by crushing and boiling. It is widely used in cosmetics
as a moisturizer and salve. Shea butter is edible and may be used
in food preparation, or sometimes in the chocolate industry as
a substitute for cocoa butter.
Wiki also states that Shea butter is used as a base for medicinal
ointments,and has been claimed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Now,I do not know how our grandmothers and grandfathers know all
this with limited education but they use it for everything.
Shea butter has been claimed to be effective treatment for the
following conditions: fading scars, eczema, burns, rashes, severely
dry skin, dark spots, skin discolorations, chapped lips, stretchmarks,
wrinkles, and in lessening the irritation of psoriasis.
My entire family use Shea Butter both unwhipped and whipped.
I normally use it as a massage oil for the aching running legs and
I feel like new in the morning. My son also has enzema. Even though it
does not cure it, it is effective as long as I use it to keep his skin
nice and smooth.
He no longer itches and scratches his skin out as long as I maintain it.
In Nigeria, Shea butter is used for the management of sinusitis
and relief of nasal congestion. This is due to its hydrating properties
which helps in relaxing the tension in the face skin thus easing respiration.
Shea butter has been used as a sun blocking lotion, although the level
of protection against the sun's ultraviolet radiation is extremely variable,
ranging from nothing to approximately SPF 6.
When you buy an product that claims Shea Butter as its source, please
read the label and ensure that Shea Butter is the number one or two
main ingredient.
You can also check out our Shea Butter products at http://www.nekinaturals.com
Stay Tuned!
Websites Showcasing Everyday Inspirational and Motivational Women
Yesterday was a holiday and it was spent running around my toddler hence I was not able to publish a new post.
Enjoy this weekend post!
For me,Part of my motivation and inspiration on lazy days comes from reading and seeing women that I admire
reach new levels in their personal, financial and business lives. My spirit is uplifted when I read a blog or book
or magazine that showcases women who are creative, women who are dedicated and committed to their families and their business. I try as much as possible to take one thing away from each woman and apply consistently in my life.
I am sharing these websites and if you can, you can share yours as well and I will keep a compilation to publish at a later time.
As hard as it is to read any adult book these days with a toddler, one key advice from these women is to read and read and read. So today, I am sharing some of the web sites that I visit often for advice and inspiration.
1.http://www.success.com
2.http://www.womenwholaunch.com
3.http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/mostpowerfulwomen/2009/ - This is a quick read for powerful women in 2009.
4.http://www.pink.com
5.http://www.womenentrepreneur.com/
Have a great weekend!
Stay Tuned!
Enjoy this weekend post!
For me,Part of my motivation and inspiration on lazy days comes from reading and seeing women that I admire
reach new levels in their personal, financial and business lives. My spirit is uplifted when I read a blog or book
or magazine that showcases women who are creative, women who are dedicated and committed to their families and their business. I try as much as possible to take one thing away from each woman and apply consistently in my life.
I am sharing these websites and if you can, you can share yours as well and I will keep a compilation to publish at a later time.
As hard as it is to read any adult book these days with a toddler, one key advice from these women is to read and read and read. So today, I am sharing some of the web sites that I visit often for advice and inspiration.
1.http://www.success.com
2.http://www.womenwholaunch.com
3.http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/mostpowerfulwomen/2009/ - This is a quick read for powerful women in 2009.
4.http://www.pink.com
5.http://www.womenentrepreneur.com/
Have a great weekend!
Stay Tuned!
Websites Showcasing Everyday Inspirational and Motivational Women
Yesterday was a holiday and it was spent running around my toddler hence I was not able to publish a new post.
Enjoy this weekend post!
For me,Part of my motivation and inspiration on lazy days comes from reading and seeing women that I admire
reach new levels in their personal, financial and business lives. My spirit is uplifted when I read a blog or book
or magazine that showcases women who are creative, women who are dedicated and committed to their families and their business. I try as much as possible to take one thing away from each woman and apply consistently in my life.
I am sharing these websites and if you can, you can share yours as well and I will keep a compilation to publish at a later time.
As hard as it is to read any adult book these days with a toddler, one key advice from these women is to read and read and read. So today, I am sharing some of the web sites that I visit often for advice and inspiration.
1.http://www.success.com
2.http://www.womenwholaunch.com
3.http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/mostpowerfulwomen/2009/ - This is a quick read for powerful women in 2009.
4.http://www.pink.com
5.http://www.womenentrepreneur.com/
Have a great weekend!
Stay Tuned!
Enjoy this weekend post!
For me,Part of my motivation and inspiration on lazy days comes from reading and seeing women that I admire
reach new levels in their personal, financial and business lives. My spirit is uplifted when I read a blog or book
or magazine that showcases women who are creative, women who are dedicated and committed to their families and their business. I try as much as possible to take one thing away from each woman and apply consistently in my life.
I am sharing these websites and if you can, you can share yours as well and I will keep a compilation to publish at a later time.
As hard as it is to read any adult book these days with a toddler, one key advice from these women is to read and read and read. So today, I am sharing some of the web sites that I visit often for advice and inspiration.
1.http://www.success.com
2.http://www.womenwholaunch.com
3.http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/mostpowerfulwomen/2009/ - This is a quick read for powerful women in 2009.
4.http://www.pink.com
5.http://www.womenentrepreneur.com/
Have a great weekend!
Stay Tuned!
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