Pressed Flowers:
I received a lovely email from Elizabeth regarding her use of pressed flowers and botanical art on handmade paper.
Please visit her at www.Elizabeths-Flowers.com
You may also be interested in reading her blog at http://pressed-flowers.blogspot.com

Creating Tub Teas (Bathing Herbs)
By Tina Sams of The Essential Herbal Magazine
www.essentialherbal.com

Aside from the hundred years here or there when bathing was considered dangerous and wicked, we have always enjoyed our baths. Entire vacations and resorts are planned and built around mineral springs. In many places the water itself is thought to cure, bringing throngs to soak in it.

Currently, new homes are built with luxurious spa-baths...huge tubs, multi-head showers, heated floors, and built-in speakers. Once again we are turning to water to sooth our cares and wash away the worries of the world. Bubble baths are fun occasionally, but those of us who enjoy our herbs can concoct delightful additions that far surpass a brief wave of bubbles.

To assemble the apothecary, begin at the grocery store. Powdered milk, Epsom salts, sea salt and oatmeal are good bases to start with.

Mix the dry ingredients well, and store in a pretty jar or canister. To use, muslin bags are very handy but a square of light cloth works well too. Tie about 1/4 cup of the mix into the cloth. Fill a 1/2 gallon pitcher with very hot water and steep the herbs, etc. for 10-15 minutes.

Collect candles and music. Place a soft fluffy towel nearby.

Run the bath, adding the liquid from the pitcher and up to 10 drops of essential oils, plus any other liquids. Swish the water and step in. Ahhhhh.

Even a 10 minute soak is enough to make a difference...leaving you feeling pampered and cared for. A big fluffy robe, good book and glass of wine would complete the experience.