Blog - Blue Bottle Passion

November 8, 2018 by Sue 2 Comments

Choosing to be Happy Today

Many years ago when Denny and I were just dating, his grandmother died suddenly in a car accident. He felt so bad for his mother, because night after night he’d find her crying for her mother, saying if only she had been happier while she was alive. This made such an impression on me. All that unhappiness in a mother and her daughter. How sad is that. I knew for sure I never wanted anyone feeling bad for me because I was never happy.

To a certain extent I think it’s human nature to postpone our happiness. There are just so many reasons we will be happy later.

It can begin in childhood. I’ll be happy when:

Summer vacation starts
Santa brings me that new game or bike
I get to high school
I get a part in the play
I get asked to go to prom

The cycle continues as adults. My life will be so much better:

When I lose some weight
When I get a better job
When I find someone who loves me
When my health improves
When my kids are older
When I get out of debt
When my business takes off
When I can travel
When I retire
When I get married
When I get a divorce

Don’t get me wrong. It’s great to have goals. We need goals and things to look forward to. It’s more about finding the joy in the journey as you work toward your goals.

It’s so easy to get stuck waiting for some outside force to make us happy. If you hate your job, what are you doing about it? If you can’t make yourself take steps toward doing something else, why not? I know it’s not easy if you are the main breadwinner. But maybe you can take an online class, or start a side hustle. We are only stuck if we allow it by being afraid to take the steps necessary to change. Maybe you have a friend or family member or even a life coach you can ask for advice. Sometimes it takes an outsider to see through our excuses and make suggestions when we are too close to the problem. Once you take some positive action, it’s so much easier to find the joy in your life.

Of course at times we get dealt some really difficult situations. Change is scary. But every day I see how some people get sucked into a spiral of negativity, and others start the day with gratitude. We are meant to enjoy the journey, as much as the destination. Life is short. Stop postponing your joy. What is keeping you from being happy today? Are you brave enough to do something about it?

Let’s continue the conversation over on Facebook.

October 25, 2018 by Sue 1 Comment

Remaining Relevant in Retirement

Everyone’s retirement will look different. How will you make this time of your life count?

If retirement is on the horizon, you may wonder how you will fill your days. If you speak to a retiree, you will probably hear they don’t know how they found time to work. But the biggest fear many have before pulling the trigger on retirement is becoming irrelevant, especially when so much of our identity can be tied to our work. One of the first questions we ask when meeting someone is “what do you do?” Choosing to retire should be carefully thought out.

Retirement can be an amazing time in your life. Finally you have the time and ability to design your life, complete with purpose and meaning. So how do we accomplish that?

Stay connected to family and friends

Now may be the time to get on Facebook, if you haven’t already. Our kids and grandkids don’t communicate the same way we do. Some don’t even get the news the same way. Facebook can open the door to staying connected with your former co-workers, and old friends, even if they move. Join a book club or play bunco with friends. Spend time with your grandkids.

Get physical

Once you’re retired there’s no excuse for not getting exercise. I still invented excuses right up until I got a dog. Get out. Walk the dog. Go to the gym. The best way to feel better and sleep better is to exercise regularly.

Be a life long learner

Nothing is stopping you from learning to play an instrument or how to paint. Read books. Take a cooking, photography or computer class.

Get a job

Now is your chance to get a job at that place you’ve always thought would be fun. Is it a bookstore, fabric store, or maybe the airport? You will have a chance to meet new people, and make a little extra cash. If you want a job with lots of flexibility, check out Direct Sales is the Perfect Retirement Job.

Be a part of something bigger than yourself

What’s important to you? Now you can finally get involved in what interests you. Volunteer at a hospital, get involved in politics, chair an event at your church or help out at a nearby school. Start a blog.

If you aren’t ready to sit back in a rocking chair, you have a lot of options. How do you plan to make the most of the rest of your life?

Join my Facebook community and let’s continue the retirement discussion.

September 30, 2018 by Sue 1 Comment

Neal’s Yard Remedies 2018 Organic Holiday Gifts

Once again, Neal’s Yard Remedies / NYR Organic has outdone themselves with stunning organic holiday gifts for everyone on your list.

It may not feel like the holidays are right around the corner, but they have a tendency of sneaking up on me. The Neal’s Yard Remedies 2018 organic holiday gifts are beginning to show up, and there is something for everyone! Starting at $18 and up, you’re sure to find the perfect gift to fit your budget.

Skincare

The first one I HAVE to have, is the Frankincense Intense Lift – Age Defence Collection. This gift box includes full sizes of the Frankincense Intense Lift Serum, Frankincense Intense Lift Cream, and Frankincense Intense Lift Eye Cream. This is the ultimate gift for the woman who prefers a holistic approach to aging well naturally. The Frankincense Intense Lift collection helps to reduce the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles. The highest quality frankincense sustainably sourced from the resin of the Boswellia sacra trees of Oman is collected, sorted and distilled to extract the pure essential oil used in these amazing products.

The Rejuvenate Frankincense Collection has been a favorite since my beginning days as a consultant. This gift box is a complete skincare routine including full sizes of the Frankincense Refining Cleanser and Frankincense Hydrating Cream, as well as a travel size Rejuvenating Frankincense Toner and an organic muslin face cloth. Perfect for all skin types.

Every year the gift that sells out the quickest is the One Pot Wonder – Wild Rose Beauty Balm Gift and it’s no wonder. (ha ha) I’ve written about what this amazing balm can do in a previous post, and it gets down to what doesn’t it do?

Bath and Body

Whether you prefer a quick shower, or a long, luxurious bath, we got you covered. The Revive Your Senses – Shower Gel Collection and the Sink Into Bliss – Foaming Bath Collection make perfect gifts for yourself or that special someone.

For the Home

New this year is the Warm Your Soul – Hand Wash and Lotion Collection. Warm your soul and delight your guests over the holidays with the festive aromas of orange, mandarin, clove and cinnamon organic essential oils in this hand wash and lotion gift. Included is an elegant ceramic dish as well as a 6.76 oz hand wash and lotion in a gorgeous gift box. Keep it by your sink for a welcoming treat, or give it as the perfect hostess gift.

The elegant bamboo diffuser is back again with two fabulous essential oil blends in the Aromatherapy – Diffuser & Essential Oil Collection. The Esta Aromatherapy Diffuser is beautifully boxed with the Aromatherapy Blend – Night Time, the Aromatherapy Blend – Calming, and the Little Book of Essential Oils.

The most popular Neal’s Yard Remedies holiday gifts can sell out early, so don’t wait too long! Check them all out here.

Keep up with all the latest Neal’s Yard Remedies / NYR Organic news, specials and products on Facebook!

August 12, 2018 by Sue 2 Comments

Let’s Support a Belief in Miracles

Do you believe in miracles? Growing up, I recall my mother praying to St. Anthony for help in finding lost items. On more than one occasion, he came through in nothing short of a miraculous intervention. One time, a small diamond fell out of my mother’s wedding ring. After a quick prayer, she looked down and saw it sparkling in some sand. Another time a friend of my sister’s had a contact lens pop out. Mom said a quick prayer and found it in the grass.

St. Anthony was born in Lisbon in 1195, and is traditionally known as the patron saint of lost items. It may have originated with him more importantly being the patron of lost souls – those who have fallen to serious sin or have abandoned the Church.

Friday morning my granddaughter, Ava, realized one of her little fox earrings was missing. She was staying with us while her mom was out of town. She slept while wearing the earrings, and even showered and washed her hair before she realized one was missing, and she couldn’t pinpoint exactly when it fell off. It could have fallen off in her bed, during her shower, she had no idea. It could be anywhere. They were a souvenir of an Alaskan cruise, and she was upset that one of her favorite earrings was lost. Denny and I did our best to look for it, but had no luck.

Later that day, my granddaughter and I drove to have lunch with my mother. On the way I told her about St. Anthony, and explained a little about how a saint has to have documented miracles credited to them before they are considered a saint. I told her St. Anthony is her Auntie Bee’s favorite saint because he’s helped her many times, and how it’s tradition to ask St. Anthony for help finding something missing. I suggested we each quietly say a little prayer in our head.

After having lunch with my mother, we returned home so Ava could pack up and get ready to go to a sleep over. Shortly before it was time to leave, Ava spotted her earring, in the middle of the kitchen floor in front of the stove. It seemed impossible the earring could have been there the entire time. Someone would have stepped on it. The dog could have gotten it. I said, “Wow, Ava, did you say a prayer to St. Anthony, because I sure did.” She admitted she hadn’t. My husband was there, and he said he had prayed for help from St. Anthony.

Could it have been stuck to her clothes, and fallen there right before she saw it? Perhaps, but shouldn’t it have made a sound? I choose to believe it was just another of life’s little miracles, and I pray my granddaughter will always believe in miracles.

“St. Anthony, please look around; something is lost and must be found.”

August 1, 2018 by Sue Leave a Comment

Introducing Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream

Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream is now available in the USA!

I’ve been a huge fan of Neal’s Yard Remedies Frankincense Intense™ Eye Cream for the past two years. I saw a reduction in the (not so) fine lines around my eyes after two applications! Since I began using the “Lift” serum and cream, I continued with the eye cream. Once I heard there would be a “Lift” eye cream, I couldn’t wait to try it. Can an eye cream be life changing? I never would have guessed how important an eye cream is to a skincare routine!

Why Use a Separate Eye Cream?

The skin near the eyes is thinner and more prone to UV damage, congestion and dehydration. Using a facial moisturizer too close to the eyes can actually cause puffiness. Not the look we want!

What Makes Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream Special?

From the moment you feel the lightweight, ophthalmologist tested silky, smooth cream to the non-sticky sensation after it’s applied, you will know this eye cream is special. It’s scientifically formulated to target skin beginning to show a lack of firmness, elasticity and crow’s feet. You’ll love that it’s an amazing, organic alternative to the synthetic anti-aging products on the market. It’s loaded with ingredients to improve the area near your eyes.

green tea caffeine
turmeric – brightens and increases radiance
organic free coffee seed oil – antioxidant and essential fatty acid
restoring ribose
redefining linseed extract
stimulating micro algae
hyaluronic acid – hydrates and plumps
Frankincense Active Photo Complex – helps protect against environmental factors that accelerate skin aging

How to use Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream

Apply Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream to clean skin morning and evening. Using your ring finger, dot a small amount of cream, about the size of a cooked grain of rice, around the orbital bone of the eyes, then lightly dab in until fully absorbed. For maximum results, apply after Frankincense Intense™ Lift Serum and before Lift Cream, however you can certainly enjoy the benefits of this eye cream with whatever skin care products you are using.

Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream is made with 82% organic ingredients. Like other Neal’s Yard Remedies / NYR Organic products, a little goes a long way. Speaking from experience, the NYR eye cream I have been using lasts me about 6 months, so I would expect this one would as well. All Neal’s Yard Remedies products are covered by their 45 day satisfaction guarantee.

Now if only there was a Frankincense Intense™ Lift Neck Cream, or perhaps I just a nice, pretty scarf…

The best way to get the latest NYR Organic / Neal’s Yard Remedies news and specials is to subscribe to the monthly eNewsletter and join my Facebook group! What are you waiting for?

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July 29, 2018 by Sue 2 Comments

As We Forgive Those…

The Lord’s Prayer, or religion for that matter, is not my usual subject,

but I ask a little leeway here, as I do believe spiritual health is part of wellness.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father who art in Heaven

hallowed be thy name.

The kingdom come, thy will be done,

on earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us.

Lead us not into temptation

but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, the power

and the glory, for ever and ever.

Amen

As I sat in church this morning, The Lord’s Prayer was speaking louder than usual to me. “…as we forgive those who trespass against us.” in particular. I asked myself who out there do I need to forgive? I know I haven’t forgotten some “trespasses,” but have I forgiven? Truly forgiven? And why is forgiveness so darn hard sometimes? The Lord has forgiven us, and He proves it over and over.

I wondered how many others are saying this same prayer around the world, weekly, daily. How many denominations pray The Lord’s Prayer? How many congregations, just on Sunday mornings, are saying these same words? Does each individual think about what they are saying and praying? I don’t mean that in a judgmental way at all. I’m a big believer in judge not, lest ye be judged. But seriously, if every one of us praying The Lord’s Prayer said these words and really meant them, what would the world look like?

We are all works in progress. Forgiveness is part of that work. I don’t believe we can summon forgiveness the same way we can force a smile. If only it were that simple. We can commit to giving forgiveness serious consideration. Forgive the driver that pushed in ahead of you. Forgive the relative that made a hurtful comment. Forgive the friend that voted for the other political party. With forgiveness, comes tolerance, kindness, peace and even love.

Join me on Facebook where we discuss a variety of wellness topics!

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June 22, 2018 by Sue 4 Comments

Is it Time to Deal With Your Old Makeup Cemetery?

How long is too long to keep expired makeup?

I had cataract surgery today, and I have to tell you, cataract surgery is a definite reminder you’re not a kid anymore. But that’s a blog post for another time. My discharge instructions included telling me to throw out all my old eye makeup, and buy fresh.

I don’t mind the idea of buying new eye makeup. I love shopping online, reading reviews. But I have a confession to make, to you, my dear friends. I have hoarding tendencies. I’ve had an empty mascara with an awesome brush on it forever, that works just right to remove the excess clumps another mascara tends to leave. There’s the foundation I bought for a special wedding that was how many years ago? I have makeup that I have replaced with newer makeup, but it wasn’t quite bad enough to throw out, so why not keep it in my travel bag? I haven’t used nail polish regularly for years, but I have a shoebox full of cute little bottles. How about those small bottles of shampoo and conditioner in hotels? I always think I’m going to use them for travel, but I never do. And then there are my Neal’s Yard Remedies products. A little goes a long way, but when a shiny new product comes out that I want to try, I can’t always wait until I use up the old.

When I was telling my sister, Nancy, about this dilemma, she said her friend Ana refers to this as the old makeup graveyard or cemetery. Well this is the push I need to deal with my old, expired makeup cemetery.

How Long Can You Keep Makeup?

Well it depends on the product. Neal’s Yard Remedies labels have information about how long to keep a product once it’s opened. Check out this blog post to better understand Neal’s Yard Remedies labels. Here in the US companies aren’t required to put expiration dates on cosmetics. Guidelines for when to throw vary.

Mascara should be tossed anywhere between 2 and 6 months. Liquid and gel eyeliner from 90 days to 1 year. Foundation lasts from 6-12 months, with pump bottles lasting up to 2 years. Powdered blush and eye shadow can last up to 2 years, and lip sticks and lip liners 1 year. Nail polish lasts about a year.

Keeping it Fresh

Makeup is an investment, and there are a few things you can do to keep it fresh. Wash your hands before applying your makeup. Keep your jars and bottles tightly sealed. Use a spatula for products in jars, rather than sticking your fingers in the product, and wash the spatula in between using. Sharpen the tips on eyeliner and lipliner pencils. Wash your makeup brushes regularly.

Powders and dry products last longer than products with water in them. Finally, be aware of changes in color, textures and smells, and throw anything that seems off, regardless of how long you’ve had it. It’s not worth an eye infection, or worse.

Next Task

My next eye procedure is coming up in a little over a week. I guess I’ll be dealing with the glasses graveyard next, because I’ve kept close to 50 years of them as backups, lol! Anyone need a pair of vintage glasses from the 80s?

Join my Facebook community for fun, information and the latest Neal’s Yard Remedies news!

June 2, 2018 by Sue 2 Comments

A Matter of Life and Death

Once in a while, something happens to get us thinking about life and death and hope. That’s probably a good thing. -Deep thoughts by Sue

I went to a funeral today. A 57 year old neighbor passed away suddenly of a massive heart attack. She was a wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, sister, friend, employee, and so much more.

When someone significantly younger passes away, it opens your eyes. We all live in denial of our own mortality, but the only certainty is we will die. We just don’t know when. None of us is guaranteed tomorrow.

Knowing that, what really is important? Family is at the top of the list. And with family, I can’t help but think about the world I’m leaving my children and grandchildren. A country divided. A planet ruined by trash and pollution. I’d like to think we can somehow change that.

We all want what’s best for our kids and grandkids, we simply have different ideas about achieving that. I do know mean-spirited name-calling and horribly adolescent behavior by celebrities in public forums isn’t helping make this a better country. How can we wonder why bullying in schools is a problem, when the news is full of this kind of behavior? News reporting with obvious bias that encourages division and anger isn’t helping. I believe deep down most people are good, and are capable of working with, and dare I say, liking people who disagree with them politically. Hate for the opposite party isn’t serving anyone.

At the end of the day (or your life) it’s people and relationships that matter. Make your peace with that family member that you’re experiencing tension with. Forgive who needs forgiving, and ask for forgiveness if appropriate. Go to church and pray, really pray. There’s power in prayer, and because of that, I have hope for the future and the world we leave our children.

If you knew you had only days left to live, what would you do? What would be important? Think about it. It’s a matter of life and death and hope.

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May 21, 2018 by Sue 1 Comment

Why Organic Skincare Saves Money on Make-up

Is there anything more important when it comes to appearance than your face? Taking care of your skin is crucial. Is your daily skincare routine cleansing, feeding and strengthening your skin, or damaging and aging it with chemicals and toxins?

Maybe you don’t feel you have the time for a healthy skincare routine. If you have been slacking in the skincare department and using a heavy foundation to cover up skin issues, you may be creating bigger problems. Heavy foundations could be clogging your skin, settling in wrinkles and fine lines, making “peach fuzz” more prominent, and dulling your face with thick, cakey make-up.

Imagine your skin looking so great, all you need is perhaps a light CC cream to even out your color, or just a brush of mineral make-up, some mascara and lip gloss. How would it feel to be ready to go out the door with minimal effort each day? How much time and money would that save?

As we age, less is more when it comes to make-up. Talc-based foundations can dry out skin, and dehydrated skin accentuates fine lines and pores. Ingredients to avoid in make-up are harsh, drying sulfates, mineral oil which can irritate and inflame, and chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone.

Cleanse and Tone

Whatever routine you have to care for your skin, cleansing before bed is important. Choose a cleanser for your particular skin type. Follow cleansing with toner. Toner balances and sweeps away the last traces of cleanser, and prepares your skin to better absorb serum and moisturizer.

Serum and Moisturizer

Serums are magical potions designed to penetrate deeper in the skin, and therefore many are able to smooth and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while increasing radiance. A good moisturizing cream plumps and hydrates for a lifted and recontoured appearance. Serums and moisturizers work best when used together, however younger skin may not need the serum.

Even Out the Color

Once you begin a healthy skincare routine, you may need to even out the color of your complexion. Your choices are foundation, BB cream, CC cream or tinted moisturizer. How much coverage you need, and time you want to spend in the morning will determine which product is best for you. You may be able to get by with a CC cream (color correcting) or tinted moisturizer after cleansing and toning in the morning. (Shhh! Or just toning, if you are really in a hurry!) I find toning and serum followed by a CC cream works best for me.

I recommend giving a new skincare routine 30 days or more to give your skin a chance to replace the old skin cells with new. If your skin is super sensitive, it may be best to introduce or replace one product at a time. Neal’s Yard Remedies Skincare Kits are a great way to test drive an organic skincare routine, and are perfect for travel. If you have any questions about which products are best for your skin type, check out the information on the Skincare Organic Collections Neal’s Yard Remedies has to offer, or contact me.

For the latest Neal’s Yard Remedies news and specials, join me on Facebook!

April 1, 2018 by Sue Leave a Comment

How to Deal with Blemish Prone Skin

What is your biggest skincare concern? If you are prone to blemishes, it can be tricky balancing skin’s natural oils, while leaving it hydrated and soft. Whether your skincare concerns are seasonal, related to your cycle, or always prone to breakouts, Neal’s Yard Remedies Purifying Palmarosa products have you covered.

Cleanse

Cleansing is the first step in any skincare regimen. Purifying Palmarosa Facial Wash cleanses, decongests and removes impurities while balancing excess oils.

Tone

Purifying Palmarosa Toner gently cleanses, tones, balances and minimizes pores without over-drying combination skin. Toner primes skin to better absorb serum and moisturizer.

Serum

Oily, combination and blemish prone skin can actually be lacking in hydration. Purifying Palmarosa Mattifier is an oil balancing serum that reduces shine and minimizes the appearance of pores while leaving skin with a soft, matte finish.

Moisturize

Purifying Palmarosa Daily Moisture is a lightweight, easily absorbed blend of palmarosa, alpine willowherb and elemi, to help balance excess oils, purify, nourish, hydrate and mattify oily, combination or blemish prone skin.

Exfoliate

Once a week exfoliation with Purifying Palmarosa Facial Polish will refine, decongest, balance and refresh blemish prone skin.

Special Treatment

Clarifying Mahonia Skin Gel is the perfect spot treatment for blemish prone skin or for occasional breakouts. This dermatologist tested gel is suitable for even sensitive skin. For a weekly treatment that removes impurities, detoxifies and rebalances moisture levels to reveal fresh, radiant skin, try the Palmarosa Purifying Facial Mask.

Will you need to use all of these products to successfully treat your blemish prone skin? Maybe not. Many of us benefit by changing up our skincare routine depending on the season. Neal’s Yard Remedies products are highly concentrated, and a little goes a long way, especially if you are layering toner, serum and moisturizer. I love that Neal’s Yard Remedies products are covered by a 45 day satisfaction guarantee, and they follow the Precautionary Principle, meaning you won’t find anything in these products they believe could cause you or the planet harm.

I recommend starting with the Purifying Palmarosa Collection. You save 15% and the collection includes facial wash, toner and moisturizer. Another option is the Purifying Palmarosa Skincare Kit, which includes a 10-14 day supply of facial wash, toner, moisturizer and facial mask in a canvas bag, perfect for travel.

What’s your biggest skincare concern? Neal’s Yard Remedies has a skincare line for you. Earn Neal’s Yard Remedies wonderful products for free and half price by having a Facebook party! Contact me for details. Keep up with the latest Neal’s Yard Remedies news and specials on Facebook.

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Choosing to be Happy Today

Remaining Relevant in Retirement

Stay connected to family and friends

Get physical

Be a life long learner

Get a job

Be a part of something bigger than yourself

Neal’s Yard Remedies 2018 Organic Holiday Gifts

Skincare

Bath and Body

For the Home

Let’s Support a Belief in Miracles

Introducing Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream

Why Use a Separate Eye Cream?

What Makes Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream Special?

How to use Frankincense Intense™ Lift Eye Cream

As We Forgive Those…

Is it Time to Deal With Your Old Makeup Cemetery?

How Long Can You Keep Makeup?

Keeping it Fresh

Next Task

A Matter of Life and Death

Why Organic Skincare Saves Money on Make-up

Cleanse and Tone

Serum and Moisturizer

Even Out the Color

How to Deal with Blemish Prone Skin

Cleanse

Tone

Serum

Moisturize

Exfoliate

Special Treatment

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