October 16, 2012: Natural scents for your home and pierogis!

One of the nice things you can do for your home that is relatively affordable is invest in some essential oils. Around the time my daughter was born, I was a heavy coupon-er. Well, our printer broke and I started experimenting with more natural living, and I found it harder to find products that I approved of for my family's health.  One of the things that goes on sale with coupons is air fresheners.  I started thinking about how toxic that could be, especially since we not only had a newborn, but a small animal living with us (our kitty Katherine- Lizzy).

I decided to experiment with natural smells. I tried boiling lemon peel in water. I used to make lemon poppyseed muffins every morning (hence the lemon peel idea) from scratch for the family, but that got old as it became time consuming.

The lemon peels did not do much for the family, so I bought some essential oils. I used rose oil, and dropped about 30 drops into a small pump bottle. I added a few tablespoons of water and use that to spritz around my house.

Try doing this as you can feel more comfortable that you are not breathing in toxic fumes and benzene derivatives. Now, I do have a degree in biology with a lot of background chemistry. I worked in industry for a little bit for a very well known drug company. I also got my certification to teach science. On the other hand, I am not an expert to say the least so please do your own research on essentials oils and which ones are best for you and your family.
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I made pierogis for my family this Sunday and they were a hit with the baby, my husband and myself.

Pierogi recipe
2 cup flour (I used King Arthur's unbleached)
1/2 t salt
1/2 c Greek yogurt (I used Chobani plain non-fat)
1/4 c butter (I haven't bought butter in a long time, but it's worth it:) )
1 egg

Mix flour, salt and egg together. I beat my egg before putting it in the mixture. Add yogurt and butter. Soften the butter and add in small chunks.

I make small 3-4 inch circles with my pierogis and filled them with mashed potatoes and sauteed onions. I wish I would have tried cabbage or sauerkraut but I didn't have time.

I boil them until they float to the top.

I then fry them until golden brown in grapeseed oil. I topped mine with cheese and more yogurt.

Photos to come!