Trying to make up for my serious neglect of this blog; hope you don't feel overwhelmed with back-to-back posts! Today I wanted to write a bit about my experiences with doTERRA and how it has changed my life. This isn't a "got rich" story, or a "I'm totally healed" testimonial; my benefits from this company are not "big" in terms of something that gets attention, but they have been profound for me. If, after reading all this, you are inclined to want to know more, I'd be happy to answer questions, provide materials, and direct you to places you can get more knowledge. You see, for me, there was a major reason I joined doTERRA in it's incipient stages, WAY back in 2009...
EDUCATION! If you've followed my blog at all, or know me personally, you know I am huge for knowledge. "Input, Input, Input", I like to say, quoting Johnny 5 from the movie "Short Circuit". As a life long reader, investigator, instigator(-oops! how did that get in there?), information dispersion-ist, and extremely curious person, I am always attracted to anything that promises me the opportunity to learn. Especially when it can improve my life or that of my friends and family, and I can pass it on. When I attended my first doTERRA meeting, and was introduced to specifics about how essential oils could benefit my life, and even my wallet, I just had to jump right in. I was very impressed that a major focus of this young company was to educate. They weren't just shoving bottles at you and expecting you to buy. I learned more in two hours than I had in all the years I had been reading about and using "alternative" medicines, including the five essential oils I already had at home from other companies!
To this day, I am learning and growing in my understanding and use of essential oils. There is more information out there than I could probably process in my lifetime, and more research and testimonials are available every day. doTERRA has continued its emphasis on education; providing a vast resource of training materials, third party research, opportunities to learn and grow together as Wellness Advocates, and many forums where we can exchange esperiences and help those who have come along to join us. I could go on for pages about all the wonderful things doTERRA the company does for us, and for others all over the world, but let me just tell you some things about me.
In 2006, I lost the upper half of the middle finger on my left hand. Had it literally ripped off on a lathe. After all the suturing had healed, I was left with shooting pains, numbness, nerve damage to my shoulder, hand and wrist, and that uncomfortable "jumping" effect that often occurs with partial limbs. When I attended my first doTERRA meeting, I was still on heavy duty pain medication, and I wanted to get off that. It seemed to me that essential oils might offer me the relief I needed; particularly the Frankincense oil. At that meeting, however, all I could afford was Lemon, Lavender and Peppermint, and a membership in doTERRA. Over time, as I learned more about different oils and how they worked, I continued to add to my "collection". John was supportive but not really "into" my oils, as he calls them. However, he will let me suggest and apply them to him and the kids, and is supportive of my efforts to learn and use the oils.
Frankincense did make a big difference in my hand. Within two weeks, the jumping and nerve pain had stopped. I still use it daily, because there are still nerve issues in my hand. I have never found an oil I didn't benefit from. With essential oils, you can also often substitute a variety of oils for what you are seeking to do, either through rotation, according to availablity, price, or what particular oil therapy works best for you. I have often had to use a cheaper oil, but still enjoyed the benefits. From time to time I "change out" what I'm using on a daily basis, to let my body experience a different composition and maybe even react in a better way to a "new" oil routine. doTERRA has created blends and products that highlight the natural healing abilities of many oils, and I enjoy using them, as well. I have stopped having migraines since I began using oils every day; learning how to manage my stress, what to do if I feel like a migraine is coming on, how to support my body in the challenges I face. It has been a huge blessing in my life, and also helped my family and close friends- well, those who would listen to the crazy oil lady!
One of my main goals in being with doTERRA has been to help people learn what essential oils can do. It is becoming a more mainstream behaviour, without the stigma that so often accompanies those who seek more natural remedies. Many doctors of all practices, hospitals, clinics, dentistry, spas and wellness centers use and educate about essential oils now. There are major studies going on in several universities that support the benefits of incorporating EO's into everyday life, as well as specialized medicine. We can't make medical claims, or promise specific outcomes- but who can? Even a traditional MD can't promise you results without any complications, or that you will be happy with what he does for you. Much of my own study these past 30 years has involved homeopathic medicine, and it is still what I turn to first. When I need my Dr. I go, but if I can take care of myself, I will. doTERRA has made much of that possible for me, and I am truly grateful.
Sometimes people ask me what my favorite oil is. That's a hard one! I couldn't neglect the benefits of the Balance blend, Lavender, Wild Orange, the Ginger, Peppermint or Cinnamon I put in my breakfast, my beloved Frankincense, Eucalyptus, Patchouli, OnGuard blend and products, or the Lemon and Slim and Sassy oils I add to my water each day. For aroma's sake, there is nothing like the Rose Lotion, and I am positively addicted to the scent of the Deep Blue blend. It's for muscles, but it also opens up your sinuses and can soothe a cough. So you can see, I really can't choose a favorite; I truly love them all! Even woodsy Vetiver, which took me awhile to adjust to, but it's ability to soothe and calm is incredible.
All along, I have intended to get out and make money with doTERRA. Friends who joined just before me, and some even after me, have done very well building a business. They travel and do all kinds of things that I just drool over. But that really hasn't been a part of my life. I have held some classes, gone a few places, and I have an online presence in the doTERRA community, but getting out regularly and having that financial success has been elusive. I figure when the time is right, it will happen. doTERRA isn't showing any signs of slowing down. There are more products, more people using them, and more evidence that they are effective. I do enjoy my role teaching and supporting, sharing information and continuing to learn myself. I have met and continued relationships with wonderful people who inspire me and bless my life daily. I can't ask for more than that! It is truly a privilege to associate with the leadership of this wonderful company, and to continue to have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside of them.
This is the relatively brief version of my history and activity in doTERRA. I could never list all the reasons I love EO's, all that I have learned, the wonderful experiences and my deep, deep feelings for this company and those I know and love in it. Even expressing my gratitude as I have here isn't enough. I have had "light bulb" moments of clarity and understanding that have had a profound effect on my life. Mentally and Physically I am not the same woman I was five years ago when I sat in a room and listened to a Master introduce me to the potential oils could have in my life. He was just the first; all those who have, and continue, to teach me, light the path so I can make my own informed choices and pass along my own experiences and knowledge. It has transformed how I see myself and others, and empowered me to help in situations where I used to just wish I could. That's what doTERRA means to me.
As I said, I am happy to explain, direct and help others make their own discoveries about doTERRA. I'm not a high pressure salesman, and I don't set quotas or other expectations. I want people to know and love essential oils as I do; and then you can choose how you want to use and share them in your life. Post your questions below, email me (loryoils@gmail.com) or contact me on my doTERRA Facebook page: Joyfully Oils 6909. My website is: www.mydoterra.com/joyfullyoils. I hope you'll be able to learn and grow with me!
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Time flies when you're having WHAT????
I could really use being more than one person! I have so many "good" intentions for all the things I want/need to do, but I simply can't get to everything. No matter how much I try to streamline, schedule and make plans so I don't get stressed out, there is always something to thwart my expectations.
In the past two weeks, I have continued in the greenhouse, planted some flowers, we got the potatoes in, stabilized the chicken yard- more on that later- dispatched Sammy to a new home, become more familiar with my online work, did a cleanse and restore program, started walking and using an exercise ball.
I am really pleased with the results of layering in my garden. The kids and I have spent three years following the "Eden" plan; essentially, putting down layers of newspaper/sawdust, compost/manure, and cut grass. The result has created a soft, mulched garden bed. I gave up the raised beds, leveled everything out, and have actually added about 6" to the height of the garden. Theoretically, I could add on infinitum, but after this season I am probably going to wait a year for my big compost bed to finish breaking down. John built my irrigation system last year, and I can water the entire garden all at once, which is really a relief. I'm still hauling hose for the beds around the greenhouse, and in the greenhouse, but that's not such a big deal. This year Kirah asked for her own section to garden, so she has about 10' x 8' to do as she wants. Because of our usual first-of-June freeze, I won't put any plants out in the garden until the second week of June. It is always so fun to me to spend a day putting the transplants out; instant garden!
After Sammy left for his new home, I decided to release the new chicks from their enclosure and build another brush pile in the yard for them to shelter in. Joseph and I went out and worked around, and unfortunately, Bucky and Princess got all excited about the chickens and managed to find several ways to breach the fence and chase chickens! I think it was just fun for Bucky, but Princess was serious about having chicken for dinner. We had a heck of a time corralling them in each escape, and I finally started putting them on a lead when they went outside. The one hen that was already injured by Sammy finally died; it was just too much for her. Joseph got everything battened down, and they haven't been able to get in since. I have had more than one nightmare in the past week that involved chickens and dogs, so I'm glad that's resolved!
On top of that, it became obvious in the course of a couple of days that something was wrong with Czar, the Doberman. He couldn't keep anything down. He has been known to eat socks and then throw them up, but this situation was not resolving itself, so we took him to the Vet. Turns out he had swallowed parts of a tshirt, and they had lodged in his intestines. Monday he had surgery to remove them, and hopefully he's coming home in a day or two.
I'm becoming more familiar with my work on the computer. Still is taking up more time in study and preparation that I had expected, but I'm doing ok. It's finding time, then getting everyone to leave me alone for an hour or two, that is proving to be a challenge. Even when I make sure they all know when and that I'm not available, I still get interrupted. It's life, I know- but I really want to be focused and do a good job.
The doTERRA Cleanse and Restore program is really doing a lot for me. I am just over half way, have let go of a few pounds, and feel more energetic. I'm very pleased about that. Am watching my diet, eating only my homemade "healthy" chocolate, and moving more. The swiss ball is fun; Hannah and Princess react whenever I slide off, but the stretching feels really good and it is supposed to strengthen my core, which I really need.
So my life is full, and not looking to get simpler anytime soon. I am looking forward to the summer weather, the trip to New Orleans, and anything else that might come my way. Hoping to be open to whatever happens! Leave me a note about your summer plans, and I hope we can all enjoy each other's experiences!
In the past two weeks, I have continued in the greenhouse, planted some flowers, we got the potatoes in, stabilized the chicken yard- more on that later- dispatched Sammy to a new home, become more familiar with my online work, did a cleanse and restore program, started walking and using an exercise ball.
I am really pleased with the results of layering in my garden. The kids and I have spent three years following the "Eden" plan; essentially, putting down layers of newspaper/sawdust, compost/manure, and cut grass. The result has created a soft, mulched garden bed. I gave up the raised beds, leveled everything out, and have actually added about 6" to the height of the garden. Theoretically, I could add on infinitum, but after this season I am probably going to wait a year for my big compost bed to finish breaking down. John built my irrigation system last year, and I can water the entire garden all at once, which is really a relief. I'm still hauling hose for the beds around the greenhouse, and in the greenhouse, but that's not such a big deal. This year Kirah asked for her own section to garden, so she has about 10' x 8' to do as she wants. Because of our usual first-of-June freeze, I won't put any plants out in the garden until the second week of June. It is always so fun to me to spend a day putting the transplants out; instant garden!
After Sammy left for his new home, I decided to release the new chicks from their enclosure and build another brush pile in the yard for them to shelter in. Joseph and I went out and worked around, and unfortunately, Bucky and Princess got all excited about the chickens and managed to find several ways to breach the fence and chase chickens! I think it was just fun for Bucky, but Princess was serious about having chicken for dinner. We had a heck of a time corralling them in each escape, and I finally started putting them on a lead when they went outside. The one hen that was already injured by Sammy finally died; it was just too much for her. Joseph got everything battened down, and they haven't been able to get in since. I have had more than one nightmare in the past week that involved chickens and dogs, so I'm glad that's resolved!
On top of that, it became obvious in the course of a couple of days that something was wrong with Czar, the Doberman. He couldn't keep anything down. He has been known to eat socks and then throw them up, but this situation was not resolving itself, so we took him to the Vet. Turns out he had swallowed parts of a tshirt, and they had lodged in his intestines. Monday he had surgery to remove them, and hopefully he's coming home in a day or two.
I'm becoming more familiar with my work on the computer. Still is taking up more time in study and preparation that I had expected, but I'm doing ok. It's finding time, then getting everyone to leave me alone for an hour or two, that is proving to be a challenge. Even when I make sure they all know when and that I'm not available, I still get interrupted. It's life, I know- but I really want to be focused and do a good job.
The doTERRA Cleanse and Restore program is really doing a lot for me. I am just over half way, have let go of a few pounds, and feel more energetic. I'm very pleased about that. Am watching my diet, eating only my homemade "healthy" chocolate, and moving more. The swiss ball is fun; Hannah and Princess react whenever I slide off, but the stretching feels really good and it is supposed to strengthen my core, which I really need.
So my life is full, and not looking to get simpler anytime soon. I am looking forward to the summer weather, the trip to New Orleans, and anything else that might come my way. Hoping to be open to whatever happens! Leave me a note about your summer plans, and I hope we can all enjoy each other's experiences!
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
Sammy Has To Go!
You might remember that when I went back into the "chicken business", I acquired a free rooster. His name is Sammy- named by his former owner, and he's French; a Faverolle rooster. Exquistely gorgeous and brilliantly colored, I was so thrilled to get him! He took right off with a new flock of ladies, and as the months have passed, he's become increasingly protective and vociferous. Anyone in the vicinity will hear from him! Around here, the noise isn't such a big deal, as we have other flocks with roosters nearby.
The big problem with Sammy is that he will attack almost anyone who enters his domain. He has it in for me, since I feed, water and collect eggs every day! You would think he wouldn't bite the hand that feeds him, but he'd be more than happy to peck my legs or scratch my face. I can't go out there without a tool in my hand or someone to keep him at bay. It's rather stressful when it's time to clean the coop or do something else out in the yard.
So my "hot" rooster has to go. I am trying to trade him for a Dominique or another calmer breed. Roosters are usually a pretty common commodity around here. I have feelers out and am hoping to trade Mr. Excitement for a peaceful companion to the ladies. There are currently seven layers, and I raised eight more from chicks this Spring; 5 Americaunas and 3 Dominiques. Last week I put the chicks out in an enclosure in the chicken yard. They are doing well, and I plan to let them out with the rest of the flock next week.
Despite the rain and colder weather this week, Spring has sprung. There are plants in the greenhouse, I put down some more flats, and planted beds of lettuce, spinach and peas. There have been early greens to harvest and the perennial beds to put in order. In a week or so I'll put the potatoes in, as well.
Miss Whiskers is quite a caution. Three weeks ago all the male suitors were hanging around, and we were pretty sure kittens were in our future. It is really funny to watch her adjust to her new status; she's filling out, sleeping and eating more, and we are hopeful that the "wild kitty" will permanently settle down.
In six weeks I'll be headed to New Orleans for the 41st American Harp Society Convention. John is helping to man the Harps International Booth. We will also take a truckload of harps from Utah to Louisiana, although we are hoping to not bring any back! I am very excited to be included and function as support staff, as well. I've never been further east than Nebraska, and I have always wanted to see New Orleans. It's really generous of our distributor to include me, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity.
I am fortunate to have many things to focus on and do; I thrive on the variety and even the challenges of my life. It's great to have work, a home, my family and everything I am interested in. I am grateful as well for all of you who read my posts and stay in touch. Thanks again!
The big problem with Sammy is that he will attack almost anyone who enters his domain. He has it in for me, since I feed, water and collect eggs every day! You would think he wouldn't bite the hand that feeds him, but he'd be more than happy to peck my legs or scratch my face. I can't go out there without a tool in my hand or someone to keep him at bay. It's rather stressful when it's time to clean the coop or do something else out in the yard.
So my "hot" rooster has to go. I am trying to trade him for a Dominique or another calmer breed. Roosters are usually a pretty common commodity around here. I have feelers out and am hoping to trade Mr. Excitement for a peaceful companion to the ladies. There are currently seven layers, and I raised eight more from chicks this Spring; 5 Americaunas and 3 Dominiques. Last week I put the chicks out in an enclosure in the chicken yard. They are doing well, and I plan to let them out with the rest of the flock next week.
Despite the rain and colder weather this week, Spring has sprung. There are plants in the greenhouse, I put down some more flats, and planted beds of lettuce, spinach and peas. There have been early greens to harvest and the perennial beds to put in order. In a week or so I'll put the potatoes in, as well.
Miss Whiskers is quite a caution. Three weeks ago all the male suitors were hanging around, and we were pretty sure kittens were in our future. It is really funny to watch her adjust to her new status; she's filling out, sleeping and eating more, and we are hopeful that the "wild kitty" will permanently settle down.
In six weeks I'll be headed to New Orleans for the 41st American Harp Society Convention. John is helping to man the Harps International Booth. We will also take a truckload of harps from Utah to Louisiana, although we are hoping to not bring any back! I am very excited to be included and function as support staff, as well. I've never been further east than Nebraska, and I have always wanted to see New Orleans. It's really generous of our distributor to include me, and I'm so grateful for this opportunity.
I am fortunate to have many things to focus on and do; I thrive on the variety and even the challenges of my life. It's great to have work, a home, my family and everything I am interested in. I am grateful as well for all of you who read my posts and stay in touch. Thanks again!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Neverending Life Lessons!
You thought I had dropped off the map, didn't you? Truth is, I have had several personal challenges in the past six weeks, and trying to document and sort through what was going on was just too much. Three major events/issues were occuring all at once, and yes, I got overwhelmed.
Number one- I have needed to bring in some money to keep us going, beyond my current resources. I heard about an opportunity to work from home for an international company, 10-15 hours a week. Sounded perfect! I was accepted for the testing, downloaded the 160 pages of material, and proceeded to study. It was one of those one-chance tests, so I was pretty stressed about passing it. Only I didn't. That led to more stressing about finances. Three weeks later, out of the blue, I get offered to take the test again. More studying, praying, lots of focus and devoting a lot of time to it, and I passed. Thought I had it made! Then I start getting more study materials, more tests and practice on the website to fully learn all the standards and procedures. I am still not done getting it all figured out, even though I have been working for about a month now. There are updates, webinars, formats change...it has seemed to me like this is really taking over my life, and it's a lot more than 10-15 hours a week! I am hoping it will lessen as I get more proficient.
Number two- In the midst of all the studying and testing and stressing, I started having chest pains, and my blood pressure went up into the 200's. Everybody in my life freaked out, even me. All my health progress went down the tubes. Went to the ER a couple of times, and all I got was a migraine and "normal" results. The second trip was actually in an ambulance- one of the most terrifying rides of my life. People, MOVE OVER when you see- or hear- those guys coming. I could see out the windows and there's no way on earth I would ever want to be behind the wheel in an ambulance. The benefit of sending me up at that point was to establish again that I was in serious trouble, although it wasn't a heart attack, and also so I could be referred for a stress test. A few days later I went up for that. Words cannot describe how awful I felt after the chemical injection; took me two hours to even start to feel normal! But all that came back normal, too, and it has really helped me to know that I don't have heart disease at this point. My Chiropractor has continued to help me deal with all of this, and my blood sugar has stabilized along with my blood pressure and there are no more chest pains. I am cleansing and exercising, and feeling a lot better about everything.
Number three- Not quite as easy to define. Spring. Family. Gardens. Chicks. Weather. I am always full of possibilities, dreams, plans, my own expectations for what I ought to be able to accomplish. Feeling ill and scared that I truly was headed for stroke or heart attack has really impacted my ability to enjoy Spring, plan and especially do all the things I want to. The mental adjustments the past two months have been like pendulum swings; positive and planning one moment, focusing on numbers and scary things the next. It hasn't been until the past three weeks that I've started feeling like I'm going to be ok and had the strength and focus to deal with being normal again. Well, normal for me! The pots are on the porch, waiting to be planted- it's still a bit early yet. My fountain is running in the front yard, framed by gorgeous tulips. Lots of family things being planned, I'm working in the greenhouse, raised some chicks that just went outside today, and we seem to be past that nasty stretch of cold temps from last month! Gaining some equilibrium, trying to schedule and have a new routine. So I'm hopeful and moving ahead.
Now it's the first of May, birthdays and graduations ahead, warmth and planting and letting go of the difficult winter, as well as 50 lbs of belly! I am serious about dropping weight and being able to wear clothes comfortably again. Getting all my systems on board, and being extra careful about what I'm eating, how I'm feeling, and what I expect of myself and others. Balance is the keyword for May!
Thanks for sticking with me and for sharing my posts with others. My audience is very small at this point, but I'm hoping it will grow and my experiences can touch others. I would love to hear your own Spring adventures and what you have planned- until next time!
Number one- I have needed to bring in some money to keep us going, beyond my current resources. I heard about an opportunity to work from home for an international company, 10-15 hours a week. Sounded perfect! I was accepted for the testing, downloaded the 160 pages of material, and proceeded to study. It was one of those one-chance tests, so I was pretty stressed about passing it. Only I didn't. That led to more stressing about finances. Three weeks later, out of the blue, I get offered to take the test again. More studying, praying, lots of focus and devoting a lot of time to it, and I passed. Thought I had it made! Then I start getting more study materials, more tests and practice on the website to fully learn all the standards and procedures. I am still not done getting it all figured out, even though I have been working for about a month now. There are updates, webinars, formats change...it has seemed to me like this is really taking over my life, and it's a lot more than 10-15 hours a week! I am hoping it will lessen as I get more proficient.
Number two- In the midst of all the studying and testing and stressing, I started having chest pains, and my blood pressure went up into the 200's. Everybody in my life freaked out, even me. All my health progress went down the tubes. Went to the ER a couple of times, and all I got was a migraine and "normal" results. The second trip was actually in an ambulance- one of the most terrifying rides of my life. People, MOVE OVER when you see- or hear- those guys coming. I could see out the windows and there's no way on earth I would ever want to be behind the wheel in an ambulance. The benefit of sending me up at that point was to establish again that I was in serious trouble, although it wasn't a heart attack, and also so I could be referred for a stress test. A few days later I went up for that. Words cannot describe how awful I felt after the chemical injection; took me two hours to even start to feel normal! But all that came back normal, too, and it has really helped me to know that I don't have heart disease at this point. My Chiropractor has continued to help me deal with all of this, and my blood sugar has stabilized along with my blood pressure and there are no more chest pains. I am cleansing and exercising, and feeling a lot better about everything.
Number three- Not quite as easy to define. Spring. Family. Gardens. Chicks. Weather. I am always full of possibilities, dreams, plans, my own expectations for what I ought to be able to accomplish. Feeling ill and scared that I truly was headed for stroke or heart attack has really impacted my ability to enjoy Spring, plan and especially do all the things I want to. The mental adjustments the past two months have been like pendulum swings; positive and planning one moment, focusing on numbers and scary things the next. It hasn't been until the past three weeks that I've started feeling like I'm going to be ok and had the strength and focus to deal with being normal again. Well, normal for me! The pots are on the porch, waiting to be planted- it's still a bit early yet. My fountain is running in the front yard, framed by gorgeous tulips. Lots of family things being planned, I'm working in the greenhouse, raised some chicks that just went outside today, and we seem to be past that nasty stretch of cold temps from last month! Gaining some equilibrium, trying to schedule and have a new routine. So I'm hopeful and moving ahead.
Now it's the first of May, birthdays and graduations ahead, warmth and planting and letting go of the difficult winter, as well as 50 lbs of belly! I am serious about dropping weight and being able to wear clothes comfortably again. Getting all my systems on board, and being extra careful about what I'm eating, how I'm feeling, and what I expect of myself and others. Balance is the keyword for May!
Thanks for sticking with me and for sharing my posts with others. My audience is very small at this point, but I'm hoping it will grow and my experiences can touch others. I would love to hear your own Spring adventures and what you have planned- until next time!
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