"Spa Gnome" Trip to Portland, OR

This week my "Spa Gnome" and I took a trip up I5 from Medford to Portland and explored some of my favorite Garden Beauty spots and also did a TV spot on AM northwest. Here is the link if you want to watch: Natural Beauty from the Garden.

Our first stop was to load up on seeds and plants at Territorial Seed Company in Cottage grove, Oregon. I love their seeds and the packets are full of useful garden information! Here are my picks for a healthy skin care planter: Calendula, Parsley, Mint, Borage, Thyme & Rosemary. I am also planting lots of lavender, cucumber and luffa! Territorial is also celebrating 40 years in the business which is awesome!

I also shopped for some DIY ingredients at the Mountain Rose Herb Mercantile in Eugene this is such a fun shop full of inspiration and cool ingredients. I also love their tea and LOVE and PEACE blends are some of my favorite.

Right next door is the best garden shop "Down to Earth" where I always find something this time I bought african violet plants which remind me of my husband's grandmother who always had these growing in her front living room window.

Happy Spring Everyone!! I am now going outdoors to Plant!

Also here are the recipes I shared on AM Northwest:

Chamomile Tea Toner

This toner is so simple to create like making a cup of tea. It is also soothing to your skin and the perfect toner after cleansing or to soothe your skin. Chamomile is often called "The physician's herb" because it has so many applications for our health.

1/2 cup fresh chamomile or 2 Tablespoons dried -you can also use chamomile tea

1 cup boiling water

In a glass or ceramic bowl place the chamomile buds. Pour the boiling water over them and allow to steep until cool. Strain the mixture and save in a glass bottle or spray bottle. To use: Splash or spray onto your skin.

Yield: 8 ounces

Fresh Tomato Facial Mask

Tomatoes are a popular and easy to grow garden plant. They are also mildly acidic and naturally cleansing to your skin. This is a simple mask to create at home to get your complexion super clean. The cornmeal acts as a mild exfoliate as your wash the mask off. You can use fresh or bottles tomato juice in the recipe.

2 Tablespoons yellow cornmeal

1 Tablespoon French Green clay

1 Tablespoon fresh tomato juice

1 Tablespoon distilled water

In a glass or ceramic bowl, mix together all ingredients and stir well until you have a smooth paste. To use: Spread on clean skin and let sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse well with warm water and pat your skin dry.

Yield: 2 ounces