Due to computer issues (broken computer, back up damaged), this issue (and a whole lot of other things that I am too depressed about to discuss) has been delayed. I apologise to those waiting for this issue to come out and I could kick myself for a whole big list of things I could have done differently a couple of weeks ago. Lessons I have learned – stop procrastinating – back up computer regularly – use an external hard drive – be in control. Ack! Good things about no computer though – I have had to let go of some anxiety – what I just could not – can not – control – some lessons indeed! So go and back up your work right now … go!
For many weeks now I have been working on the next edition of Action Pack Magazine – this one is for EVERYONE not just for kids, and I know my whipup audience will especially love it. Family Apothecary – 50+ pages of salves, lotions, balms and crafty projects!
- LAUNCH DAY IS TOMORROW!
Did you know you can make your own air fresheners and deodorisers for your home using all natural ingredients?
1. JARS OF HERBS
Fill jars with fresh herbs, lemon rinds, orange slices, cinnamon sticks etc, top up with water and leave in various spots around the house to gently scent your home.
Have fun experimenting with different combinations: Lavender, rosemary and lemon; orange, star anise and cinnamon; lime and thyme; Pine needles and bay leaves.
2. SIMMERING FRESHENER
Add fresh herbs and spices, (think cloves, cinnamon sticks and orange rind) to a pot of simmering water and let simmer for a couple of hours. Top up with extra water as you need it. {Try some of the combinations from the Jars of herbs above.}
3. BAKING SODA ABSORBER
Place baking soda in an open container in your refrigerators and bathroom to absorb nasty odours.
4. LEMON FRESH
Dissolve 1/2 a cup of baking soda in 2 cups hot water, add the juice of a lemon, and pour into a spritz bottle and use as spray air freshener.
5. THE MATCH TRICK
Light a match for a few moments to soak up bad smelling gases (useful in the toilet) in the air.
6. VANILLA FRESH
Mix a couple of teaspoons of vanilla extract with 2 cups of water and 1/2 cup of baking soda, and use to wipe your fridge, works in the bathroom too!
7. HERBAL CARPET DEODORISER
Sprinkle a cup baking soda mixed lavender essence over your carpets. Leave for half an hour and then vacuum.
8. FRESH SHOES
Deodorise shoes — in a jar mix 1/2 cup of corn starch (corn flour) with 1/2 cup of baking soda, add a few drops of tea tree oil and clove oil. Put the lid on and shake and mix. Add a few teaspoons to smelly shoes at night.
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Action Pack Kids Magazine News
- Computer issues have delayed this issue — We will be launching this issue tomorrow. So sorry!
- Download another project extract — How To Make Healing Salves. These are so amazing … you will love these. downloadable PDF.
- New: Pick up a Double Trouble Action Pack.
- Taking submissions for next year … Read our submissions themes [we have a preschool issue in the works] – check out our Pinterest ideas boards [creating with nature :: preschool sensory projects :: creating with the elements :: and submit an idea!
- Family Apothecary Issue - Out soon!
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Thank you!! You have made a wonderful collection.I don’t like using chemicals around people or The Labradors. I shall be spritzing things tomorrow!! And ideas about repelling those dastardly blowies???
This is right down my alley! Cannot wait to see it!!
I hope all the computer troubles are over!
Almost over! I have to go through all my back up discs and reorganise all my files – and because I had to purchase new software and a new laptop – I have a bit of a steep learning curve. So slowly goes it! thank you. xx
thank your for this very helpful post,
and istagram exist now on the web ;)
Ooh, looking forward to trying some of these. Question about the first one: how do you stop the herbs going skanky in the water? Is there a trick to it, or just keep an eye on it and chuck it before it has a chance to go off? Given the number of furry coffee cups I find in odd corners, I think there’s a chance of me forgetting about it until it’s off… :)
aha – great question. First up don’t use herbs with soft leaves (like mint or basil) use herbs with sturdy woody stems and hard leaves like rosemary and pine, and make sure to include orange or lemon rind as these will hold up for a few days, also add some essential oils like peppermint or cinnamon as well as smelling great they act as a natural preservative. You will need to change the water every couple of days – but you can make it last longer by adding a pinch of salt and baking soda to the water. These work best if gently heated, and will pervade the whole home — heat in a slow cooker or over a candle burner, and they will last about a couple of days, you can keep them in the fridge in between uses to make them last even longer.
Condolescences on your computer – I know how traumatic it can be to lose the use of one AND to have a corrupted/unavailable backup.
Great scent ideas!
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