With spring right around the corner it is time to start thinking more seriously about refreshing our lives. Essential oils can be the easiest and more effective way in which to clean out the hard to reach, hidden corners of our lives. The beautiful and uplifting notes of the citrus and mint families can brighten and refesh everything from furniture and floors to our personal mind set. Essential oils such as clove, gernaium, lavender, spruce, lime and even spearmint are great natural additives in the laundry room and can be used by placing a few drops on a cotton cloth and thrown in the drier.

With the coming of summer the need for pest control becomes more of an issue and there is no better way to repel unwanted pests than the use of Essential oils. Everyone knows that citronella is a powerful warrior but did you know that oils used in a combination can keep the bugs away without harmful chemicals? The following recipe is easy to make, easy to use, SMELLS GREAT and best of all NO chemicals!

In a two ounce spray bottle, combine 1 Tablespoon jojoba oil with 50 drops of Sandlewood oil, 30 drops of cajeput oil, 25 drops of Geranium, 10 drops of Cedarwood and 15 drops of Lavender. Finish by filling the bottle the rest of the way up with 50% distilled water and 50% vodka. Try it you will like it! Mist the exposed areas of the body before going outdoors. CAUTION< avoid spraying the face, instead spray a small amount in the the hands and then gently apply to the face being careful not to get the mixture into the eyes as this will cause a burning sensation.

Spring time pests such as tiny "sugar" ants cannot stand the taste and aroma of lemongrass, tea tree and patchouli. Misting corners and doorways will keep them from returning.

Think about the many properties of the different oils and let your imagination run with great ideas for your home and property while enjoying the fresh aromas that will lift your heart and mind.