How’s everyone feeling? Lovelier? Lighter? Crazy and tired? Yep, me, too. Wrapping up our (almost) two weeks of love spreading, I subconsciously focused the first week on friends and strangers. This week I realized there were a few people who could use some extra impromptu love right under my roof!

I started thinking about what kind of Valentine surprises and treats I would make for the kiddos and Joe when God hit me with a big – Your presence is the best gift they could receive.

Wow. Ok. Got it.

After that very loud whisper I began consciously leaving my phone and laptop in our bedroom or in my purse. If it’s not out, I’m not perusing mindless activity that has nothing to do with the current moment I’m sitting in or who I’m with. And guess what? It worked!

I’ve had a really lovely week with my children and my husband. Nothing mind blowing. No fireworks. We kept our quota of crazy, hair bending moments, too. But there were loads of extra hugs and laughs and giggles.

I, as a woman and mother, of course felt extreme guilt for all of the wasted moments of the past. Then I received another quick nudge that now is now and that’s what we can care for.

I’ve decided to write each one of my kiddos and my amazing husband a love letter for V Day. At first, I thought I would make it fun and crafty, but honestly, there was no time for that. I also realized that the fru fru is wonderful when you can, but a beautiful and honest sharing of “why I love you” on a white notecard will simply be perfect…and of course some Paleo Pancakes on the side!

And I have a special little something for you, too! Here’s a quick and simple DIY Body Scrub. If you’re like me and wait to the last second to share some sweet love with a co-worker, friend or teacher then this will definitely come in handy! We actually made these for the boys’ teachers at Christmas and I love them so much because all of the kids are able to help prepare them.

Lavender+Peppermint Body Scrub

ingredients
1 cup of virgin/unrefined coconut oil
1/2 cup of coarse pink sea salt (I buy our salt in the bulk section for the discounted price)
1/2 cup of sugar
15 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of peppermint essential oil

Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Once well mixed, transfer to a mason jar or a cute glass container. I found ours at Hobby Lobby (and used the 40% off coupon that’s always on their site!). This recipe fills three of the containers with wooden lids.

Have fun with this one – add orange, lemon or lime zest for a splash of color. Or finely chop rosemary or thyme to throw in. Feel free to mix and match oils to create your own signature scrub.

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

In Love and Joy,
B