…odd title, I know - but, that’s how I’ve sort of always thought of myself - like a canary..in a mine shaft.

For some reason, I’ve always been sensitive - “ultra sensitive” to quote some of my elder family members:  sensitive to my environment, to the “vibe” from the people around me, to what I see and hear, to environmental “toxins”…

…you name it, I probably have some “sensitivity” to it - or maybe even just a flat out allergic reaction!

(Hang with me…I’m getting to the point!)

Anyway, the past few weeks have been difficult, especially in losing my Oma so suddenly…(even though at 85, it may not seem sudden to those who didn’t know her…and I’d like to say “Thank you” to all of you who have been so kind, with cards, messages and even attending her funeral - you’ll never know what you have meant to me and my family!)

And so I’ve been absent….trying to rebound in a way.  But, also there’s a practical reason that I have been so M.I.A. - ….back to the whole canary thing.

Because of my sensitivities, because I can’t clean with bleach, unless I want to need an iron lung…because my skin can’t tolerate makeups with any dyes, perfumes…or other things in most cosmetics (which really made the 80’s quite traumatic for me)….because I need essential oils, like lavender, to repel dust mites and soften my fabrics (since fabric softeners are loaded with chemicals)….

…because of the “plethora” of reasons that have made me search for all-natural alternatives - and then wonder if I’m the only one on earth that is….like me, I have been busy!

I’ve been busy deciding that I am going to turn my lemons…my seeming “sensitivities” into some sweet lemonade.

So began a process that has absorbed my time…hours upon hours for the last 6 weeks or so.  And now I’m nearly done with it…my answer to the “mine shaft” that this world can be:

I’ve decided to start my own business - providing wonderful, wholesome products for people like me….

And so,

this little canary is almost ready to fly….and to sing - even if I’m still in the mine shaft - at least the mine shaft will smell a whole lot sweeter…

….I’m thinking soft hints of lavender…and maybe some ylang ylang!

Maybe my “handicaps” are meant to be a gift - maybe…..

I’m choosing to see them that way!

I’ll let you know more when I can….

until then,

have peace….

and, you know, love still does win!