Lavender-Vanilla Sugar Scrub

I absolutely love these simple sugar scrubs using Imperial Sugar. They're super easy and a lot of fun to make. Plus, you can add all natural ingredients to help make them truly one-of-a-kind. The possibilities are limitless. With Christmas right around the corner I knew these would be the perfect stocking stuffer or gift for those who deserve a little extra pampering. I used Lavender 100% Pure Undiluted Essential Oil Therapeutic Grade- 10 Ml (Lavender, 10ml) to help create a divine scrub that smells great and provides the extra benefit of relaxation.

You'll need:

Sugar

Lavender Essential Oil (found here)

Grapeseed Oil (also found here )

Vanilla Extract

Mason Jars with Lids (8 oz.)

This recipe's portion fills three 8 oz jars. 

Combine 2 cups of sugar to 1 cup of Grapeseed oil. Add 8-10 drops of Lavender Essential Oil, and a small dash of Vanilla Extract. 

Feel free to add (or withhold) the Lavender and Vanilla to your liking. I love the scent of Lavender so I used about 10 drops. Mix all ingredients well and then fill your jars. 

Also, Grapeseed oil is the perfect moisturizer to add into any body scrub. It is odorless and mixes perfectly with sugar, or salt scrubs.

Lastly, add a fresh sprig of Lavender + a pretty ribbon and a note tied to the jar, and VOILA! You have the perfect pampering gift for your loved ones (or for yourself).

Are you making any hand-made gift for Christmas this year? If so, I'd love to hear all about them! Comment below and share your hand-made gift ideas with us. 

If you're interested in purchasing the tags, message me at arhicks0427@gmail.com. I am opening up an Etsy shop soon but can custom make gift tags of any shape, color, and print. 

DIY - Mother's Day "MOM" Succulent Planter

I'm such a sucker for Succulents. 

They are the perfect little plant.

Succulents need minimal maintenance.

They're super hearty.

Succulents are wonderful center pieces.

They are the perfect addition to any desk, nightstand, coffee table, or back yard patio. 

Most importantly, Succulents make a perfect GIFT.

This year instead of sending Mom a bouquet of flowers 

(which are pretty awesome too)

Give her a lasting gift.
Made from the heart.

This year make your Mom her very own "Mom" Succulent planter. 

Got 15 minutes? 

Follow these four super quick and super simple steps.

Here's what you'll need

SUPPLIES

+  1 large round succulent 

+  15 - 20 small succulents - variety (4 oz containers or smaller)

+   potting soil - "Cactus Mix"

+  long rectangular planter/ pot

+  rocks

+  moss

+ water

*Note: I was able to find the planter, rocks, and moss at my local Dollar Tree for only a $1 each!

STEPS

Step 1: Place rocks at the bottom of the planter.

This will ensure good drainage for your plants

Step 2: next, cover the rocks with a layer of moss.

Step 3: Then, fill the rest of the planter about 3/4 full with the Cactus (Succulent) Potting Soil Mix.

Step 4: Using the small succulents, spell out the word MOM. Use the large round succulent as the "O"

Lastly, fill the rest of planter with soil.

I also like to add some rocks 

Like so:

Make sure that you soak the plants.

Just enough until you see air bubbles.  

Lightly water the plants about once a week. 

Wishing all of the Mother's out there a WONDERFUL Mother's Day!!

Thank you for all that you do!!

oxox, 

Amanda