It's been all over the news for about six months now: there is a bee shortage. While this probably means catastrophic things for our planet in general terms, more specifically, it leaves us with a lack of honey for cooking and body care products, and less beeswax than we'd like to make lip balms and other lovelies.

What about the long-term effects the dwindling bee population could have on our plants? Without bees to pollinate them, our blooms could fade into just a memory.

Have you thought about becoming a beekeeper?

Join me each week as I explore the naturally aromatic side of DIY.
herbs, and other botanicals to soap-making, body care products and other useful blends.

As the last days of February approach, I know that I find myself pining away for Spring's arrival. Here in New England, we've had a snow cover since November 20, and I yearn to see turf again.

Reality check: Spring won't be here for another two months, and since I have no tropical vacations planned, I decided to bring the tropics home, in the form of home scents, soap, body butter and lip balm.

There are so many tropical-themed fragrance oils out there, but don't be tempted. With a little creativity and some carefully sourced supplies, it is easy to create tropical scents naturally.