Kicking a Cold

Friday morning I woke up with a scratchy throat and didn't think much of it. Took the toddler to play group and felt alright. That night I felt a little worse, so I knew what was coming my way. It was the dreaded common cold, which prior to parenthood and responsibilities isn't a big deal - but now is HUGE. It's hard to curl up in bed all day with a toddler who needs to draw on everything and go to the park across the street 12 times a day. So... I knew I needed to kick this - and fast.

 My cold regimen

1. Zinc Lozenges - These lozenges are full of immune boosting goodness like Zinc, vitamin A, and larch. Also, the soothing herbs marshmallow, mullein, and slippery elm for the cold symptoms.
2. Elderberry Extract - I take this liquid as a supplement everyday in the winter for immune support. Elderberry is a potent antioxidant that supports the immune system to help ward of illness. We all take this extract, and it tastes great added to any beverage, I drink mine with tea. It does contain alcohol though, so be aware when giving it to kids.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar - I begin everyday with 2 tablespoons of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with filtered water. Though this is part of my daily regimen, it is especially beneficial during cold and flu season. Once again, it is awesome for the immune system, but also helps to soothe a dry, scratchy throat, and remove toxins.
4. Organic Garlic - Garlic is so important to our health, especially raw garlic, and especially, ESPECIALLY when fighting off a cold. Garlic significantly reduces the time of recovery. Also, the flavor of raw garlic helps clear out the sinuses.
5. Umcka - This is definitely the best homeopathic medicine for colds out there. It even works better than more conventional medications in my experience. I swear by this, not only does it help with symptoms, but actually helps to get over the illness itself.
6. Vitamin C - It's well known that vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and boosts the immune system, also these taste amazing.

These, plus a little help from the husband, and watching reruns of The Office on Netflix, helped me to feel better quickly. The weekend was a little rough, but now on Monday I feel (almost) good as new!

You're not alone

I wanted to start a blog to let people in our situation know that they are not alone.
It's okay to be different!
For us, that difference is being a bright blue family in the depths of deep red Wyoming. Sure, we get a little tilt of the head when we ask for a vegetarian option, or tell people that our daughter was born in an apartment. We may be off kilter for this town, but it's alright to spice things up a bit.
So here's an introduction, we are a "crunchy", young family trying to make ends meet, change a few minds, and have some fun at the same time.

Our little family