Grapefruit and Growing Things

Just 11 days until spring! Things here at the homestead are slowly gearing up for the arrival of warmer weather and growing season. There are pots of Italian parsley, cilantro, and Genovese basil seeds germinating in a warm, sunny window. I ate a Kesar mango the other day, and planted the pit in a pot. How cool would a mango tree be? Very cool. And there is an avocado pit germinating over a glass of water. 

Plants, pits, and seeds know that the equinox is almost here, and are receptive to growing. This morning, birds were singing outside. They too know that spring is almost here.

Here’s a recipe for my favorite homemade body butter. Grapefruit essential oil makes this smell like summer itself, and shea butter is an amazing moisturizer.

Take equal parts of organic shea butter, cacao butter, and raw, unrefined coconut oil and combine them in a large glass jar with a cover. 

Place it, uncovered, in the oven with just the pilot light on (yes, the microwave is easier, but not beneficial). Leave it there until it’s melted (completely liquefied). Add 20 drops of organic grapefruit essential oil, stir, cover, and place in the fridge until it solidifies.

The shea and coconut oil are fabulous natural moisturizers, and the cacao gives it a heavenly fragrance. You can keep this, covered, at room temperature. Glide it on after your shower or bath. It’s wonderful all year round, but especially beneficial for summer skin.

And summer is coming. I can feel it.