Updates from Terri Bonin

Dryer Nightmare: What I Learned After My Dryer Almost Caught Fire

Dryer Nightmare: What I Learned After My Dryer Almost Caught Fire

SAY NO TO TOXIC DRYER SHEETS AND EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR DRYER


Dryer sheets leave a film on your lint screen that blocks circulation and makes your dryer use more energy. They also have a toxic ingredient that sticks to your clothes then rubs into your skin when you wear those clothes or lay on those sheets. This ingredient destroys your natural hormone flow and causes skin issues, emotional issues and general health problems. Ditching toxic dryer sheets will save you money, and extend the life of your dryer. 
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5 Simple Swaps to Support Your Daughter’s Hormones (Without Overhauling Your Whole Life)

5 Simple Swaps to Support Your Daughter’s Hormones (Without Overhauling Your Whole Life)
Let’s talk about your girl for a minute.
She’s growing fast, her hormones are finding their rhythm, and some days it feels like emotions are on a roller coaster you didn’t sign up for. (Been there. 💁‍♀️)

But here’s the thing — it’s not all “just puberty.”
Our girls are exposed to hormone-disrupting chemicals every single day — in their makeup, food, clothes, and even their water bottles.
Let’s break down a typical day, shall we?

A Day in the Life of Hidden Hormone Disruptors

🌞 Morning: She swipes on mascara and lotion made with parabens.
🏃‍♀️ Afternoon: She snacks from a plastic bag while wearing synthetic leggings.
📚 Evening: She eats dinner from BPA-lined cans and fights through homework tears.

You’re not imagining things — her body is overwhelmed.

But here’s the good news: you can make simple swaps that truly make a difference.

5 Easy Swaps to Support Her Hormones Naturally

You don’t need to throw everything out overnight. Just start small. Each of these swaps lightens her toxic load and helps her body find balance again.

Healthy Swap 
Hormone Disruptor 
Glass water bottle
Plastic water bottle
Natural deodorant
Conventional deodorant
Beeswax food wraps
Plastic wrap
Fresh produce
Canned goods
Unscented lotion
Scented body products

Little by little, these shifts create a cleaner environment for her growing body — and for the whole family, too.

Natural Hormone Support: Essential Oils for Puberty & Mood

When hormones surge and moods swing, a few drops of the right essential oils can make a world of difference. These Young Living favorites are gentle, effective, and 100% plant-based:

🌿 Dragon Time – Supports mood swings, cramps, and monthly cycles
🌿 Progessence Plus – Soothes acne, migraines, and PMS (My 13-year-old’s favorite!)
🌿 EndoFlex – Balances the endocrine system and supports energy (She LOVES this one too!)
🌿 Lavender – Calms emotions and promotes restful sleep

🧴 Apply on her lower belly or back, or diffuse during those “rough days.”


Skip the Synthetic Perfumes — Try This Instead

Let’s be real — tween girls love to smell good. 💜
But most body sprays and perfumes are loaded with hormone-disrupting chemicals.

That’s why I’m obsessed with Wyld Notes — a plant-based, emotionally balancing scent line made just for tweens and teens.
No synthetic junk. No hidden toxins. Just pure, beautiful blends that help her feel confident and calm.




The Heart Behind It All

Mama, this isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress — one healthy swap, one empowering choice at a time.
When we help our daughters support their hormones naturally, we’re teaching them to listen to their bodies, honor their emotions, and care for themselves from the inside out.
You’re doing great. Truly. 💛
Big hugs,
Terri




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Love Your Liver: The Overlooked Hero of Your Health

Love Your Liver: The Overlooked Hero of Your Health
Okay, don’t roll your eyes at me just yet.

I know “liver support” doesn’t exactly scream fun lunch convo, but hear me out—this quiet little organ is doing the absolute most for you behind the scenes, and it deserves some serious love.

So picture us sitting across from each other—maybe sipping something warm, maybe pushing strollers past the park—and I lean in and say:
“Hey, can we talk about your liver for a second?”

The Overachiever That Never Asks for Credit

Right under your right rib cage is this amazing multitasking boss called the liver. It’s not dramatic. It doesn’t throw a fit or cry out for attention (like some parts of our body, ahem). Instead, it quietly juggles hundreds of jobs all day, every day:
  • Filters your blood
  • Stores energy
  • Helps you digest food
  • Regulates hormones (hi, mood swings)
  • Clears out toxins you don’t even know you’ve been around
And when it’s overwhelmed? It doesn’t throw a tantrum. It whispers.

The Subtle Signs Your Liver Needs a Little Love

You know that stubborn acne that just won’t clear? Or the weird 2 a.m. wakeups? Or that feeling like you’re dragging yourself through the day even though you slept?

Yep. That could be your liver saying,
“Girl, I’m doing my best here… a little help would be nice.”
Sometimes it shows up as:
  • Brain fog or sluggish focus
  • PMS that feels like a freight train
  • Weight that won’t budge even when you’re eating right
  • Low energy or cranky moods for no reason
Your liver is sneaky—it’s not dramatic, but when it’s tired, your whole body feels it.

How to Naturally Support Your Liver Every Day

Now, I’m not about to tell you to do some crazy juice cleanse or expensive detox. You know me better than that. 😉
We’re going for gentle, consistent, and doable—because real results come from simple habits you can actually stick with.
Try adding these into your daily rhythm:
  • Start your day with water and Lemon Vitality oil to flush and wake up your system.
  • Eat bitter greens like arugula, dandelion, or kale to help bile flow and digestion.
  • Swap harsh household chemicals for cleaner, plant-based options to reduce toxic load.
  • Create emotional space—because yes, your liver processes feelings too.
Small steps, big difference.

Essential Oils That Support Liver Health

You know I’m a huge fan of natural support, and when it comes to the liver, Young Living’s JuvaFlex and GLF blends are my go-tos.
Here’s my nighttime ritual:
After the kids are in bed, I rub a few drops of JuvaFlex or GLF over my liver area (right side, under the ribs). Sometimes I even pair it with a castor oil pack, take a few deep breaths, and pretend I’m at a fancy spa. 😂
It’s peaceful, grounding, and feels like saying “thank you” to my body.

NingXia Red: The Easiest Liver Love You’ll Ever Give

If you’re already sipping this magical red drink—yay, you! If not, here’s why I’m obsessed.
NingXia Red is packed with:
  • Antioxidants from wolfberries (aka goji berries) that protect your liver cells
  • Detox helpers like pomegranate and blueberry that make your liver’s job easier
  • Nutrient-dense support for the whole family—because our kids’ livers deal with daily toxins too
It’s one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to give your liver a big warm hug.

Final Thoughts from Across the Table

If you’ve been feeling a little “off” lately—low energy, cranky for no reason, skin acting up, or just feeling blah—this might be your cue to tune in.
Let’s stop waiting until our bodies shout. Let’s start listening to the whispers.
Your liver works hard for you every single day—so give it some love back.
And if you’re not sure where to start, I’m your girl. 💛
Let’s chat oils, NingXia, castor oil packs—all the things.
Big hugs and happy livers,
Terri

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10 Natural Ways to Help Prevent (and Support) Varicose Veins + My Favorite Vein Vanishing Oil Recipe

10 Natural Ways to Help Prevent (and Support) Varicose Veins + My Favorite Vein Vanishing Oil Recipe
Hey Friend,

Let’s talk about something a lot of us deal with—but don’t always want to: varicose veins.
While they’re often seen as just a cosmetic issue, they can also bring discomfort, heaviness, and sometimes even lead to more serious circulation problems if left unchecked. The good news? There are plenty of natural ways to support healthy veins and circulation, starting right where you are.

What Are Varicose and Spider Veins?

🚩 Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs.
🚩 Spider veins are smaller, more delicate-looking veins that often show up on the surface of the skin.
While they’re usually painless and not dangerous, that doesn’t mean we want them sticking around. Prevention and gentle support go a long way!

1. Exercise Regularly 🏃‍♀️

Moving your body—especially your legs—helps your veins pump blood more efficiently. Walking, cycling, or swimming are excellent choices to get circulation flowing without too much strain.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight ⚖️

Extra weight adds pressure to your veins, particularly in the legs and pelvic area. Keeping your weight in a healthy range can reduce this burden and support overall vein health.

3. Watch Your Diet 🥗

A high-fiber diet keeps things moving (ahem—no constipation), which means less strain on your veins. Also, lowering salt intake helps reduce swelling that can make varicose veins worse.

4. Elevate Those Legs 🦵

Whenever you can, elevate your legs above heart level to help blood flow back toward your heart and ease the pressure on your leg veins.

5. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing ⏳

Whether you’re at a desk or on your feet all day, changing positions frequently encourages better circulation. If you can, take short breaks to walk around or stretch throughout the day.

6. Wear Compression Stockings 🧦

These are a tried-and-true way to encourage blood flow and reduce swelling. There are different compression levels, so talk to your doctor to find the right type for you.

7. Choose Clothing That Supports Circulation 👗

Skip the tight waistbands, restrictive leggings, or super high heels that can interfere with blood flow. Loose, comfy clothing helps your body circulate naturally.

8. Stay Hydrated 💧

Water keeps your blood flowing smoothly and supports healthy circulation. Aim for plenty throughout the day.

9. Don’t Smoke 🚭

Smoking affects circulation and weakens blood vessels over time—both of which can make varicose veins worse. If you’ve been wanting to quit, consider this one more good reason.

10. Manage Hormones Naturally 🌿

Hormonal changes (like pregnancy or menopause) can play a big role in the development of varicose veins. If you suspect hormones are a factor, talk with your healthcare provider about options for natural hormone balance or therapy that fits your needs.

DIY Varicose Vein Massage Oil Recipe (a.k.a. “Vein Vanishing Roll-On”)

Now for my favorite part—a natural, essential oil–based massage blend that supports healthy circulation and helps improve the look and feel of varicose and spider veins over time.

✨ What You’ll Need:

  • 🚩 5 drops Cypress Essential Oil — The MVP for vein support. Its vasoconstrictive properties help tighten and strengthen veins, easing that dull ache—especially at night.
  • 🚩 3 drops Helichrysum Essential Oil — Helps dissolve coagulated blood and supports nerve regeneration, with anesthetic and antispasmodic properties for relief.
  • 🚩 5 drops Lemongrass Essential Oil — A natural analgesic that soothes throbbing veins and eases that “fullness” feeling.
  • 🚩 7 drops Lemon Essential Oil — Supports circulation, tones the appearance of veins, and gives the blend a fresh, uplifting scent.
  • 🚩 Cel-Lite Magic Massage Oil — Your carrier oil to fill the rest of the roller.

🧪 Directions:

  1. Start with a clean, dry 10 ml roller bottle.
  2. Add your essential oils drop by drop.
  3. Top off with Cel-Lite Magic Massage Oil.
  4. Pop the roller ball back on and roll between your palms to mix.
  5. Store in a cool, dry place.

How to Use the Varicose Vein Roll-On

To get the best results, I like to pair the roll-on with warm and cold compresses to stimulate circulation first:
  1. Prepare one bowl of hot water and one of cold water.
  2. Dip a soft washcloth in hot water, wring it out, and press gently over your varicose veins for 1 minute. Repeat twice more.
  3. Switch to the cold water and repeat the process.
  4. Pat the area dry.
  5. Gently roll your vein vanishing blend over and around the veins—always roll toward your heart.
  6. Elevate your feet for about 15 minutes afterward (propping on a pillow works great).
👉 Do this once a day for ongoing support.

A Gentle Reminder

These natural methods can go a long way toward supporting healthy circulation and reducing the appearance of varicose veins, but if you’re already experiencing pain or complications, check in with your healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Final Thoughts

Friend, taking care of your legs doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple daily habits and the power of authentic essential oils (hello, Young Living quality!), you can support your circulation naturally and feel confident in your skin again.
You’ve got this. 🌿
— Terri
Empowering health one drop at a time.


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DIY Non-Toxic Nail Polish Remover (With Essential Oils!) 💅✨

Hey Friend,
I love having pretty nails as much as the next girl. Sometimes I’ll rock nail stickers, but other times… a certain shade of polish just calls my name, by golly! 🎨
I live by the 80/20 rule—super duper clean most of the time, with a little wiggle room for polish. But here’s the deal: while nail polish isn’t always the cleanest thing, it’s actually the removal process that can be the real troublemaker.

Why Switch to DIY Nail Polish Remover?

Most conventional nail polish removers rely on acetone—a harsh solvent that seeps into the skin, stings, and can build up in the body over time. Repeated exposure has been linked to headaches, respiratory irritation, and more. Yikes. 😬
That’s why I went on a little deep dive into safer nail care. And guess what? Certain essential oils can actually dissolve polish naturally—no acetone required.
This method is:
  • Safer for your skin and nails
  • 🌿 Free of harsh chemicals
  • 💅 Effective, even on stubborn polish
  • 🍊 Naturally fragrant (goodbye chemical fumes!)

What You’ll Need for Your Natural Nail Polish Remover

Before we get started, grab these ingredients and tools:
  • 🧪 2 oz Glass Dropper Bottle – Perfect for storing and applying your remover.
  • 🍊 Essential Oils:
    • 2–3 drops Grapefruit essential oil
    • 2–3 drops Orange essential oil
    • 5–6 drops Lemongrass essential oil
      These oils smell amazing and have natural cleansing properties that help break down polish.
  • 💧 Rubbing Alcohol – Helps lift polish effectively.
  • 🍎 White Vinegar – A gentle acidic agent that boosts cleaning power.

Step-by-Step: How to Make DIY Nail Polish Remover

🪄 Step 1: Add Your Essential Oils

Start by dropping your grapefruit, orange, and lemongrass oils into the clean 2 oz glass bottle. This combo smells so fresh and gives the remover its polish-dissolving magic.

🧪 Step 2: Mix the Solvents

Next, fill the bottle with two parts rubbing alcohol and one part white vinegar. This creates a powerful yet skin-friendly base.

🤝 Step 3: Shake to Combine

Secure the lid and gently shake the bottle. This blends the essential oils with the solvents so they can work together beautifully.

💅 Step 4: Remove Your Polish

Apply a few drops of the DIY remover to a cotton pad. Press it onto your nail for a few seconds, then gently wipe. Repeat as needed until all the polish is gone.
No harsh fumes. No chemical burn. Just clean, happy nails. 🙌

Why I Love This DIY

This recipe checks all the boxes:
  • Non-toxic & safe for you and your family
  • 🌿 Environmentally friendly—no acetone going down the drain
  • 💰 Budget-friendly—you likely already have most ingredients at home
  • 💅 Effective—because clean beauty should work, too!
Plus, it turns a routine task into a little self-care ritual. ✨

Final Thoughts

Switching to DIY nail polish remover is a simple step toward a healthier, cleaner beauty routine. This gentle, acetone-free remover keeps your nails and skin happy while supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.
Give it a try—I have a feeling you’ll never want to go back to the harsh stuff again. 💚
Here’s to pretty nails the natural way,

Terri
Empowering health one drop at a time


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A Busy Mom’s Guide to Natural Health 🌿✨

In today's fast-paced world, finding balance between work, family, and personal well-being can often feel overwhelming. Embracing natural health solutions like essential oils, whole foods, and mindful practices is a great way to regain control. These simple changes can lead to improved physical health, mental clarity, and even save you money, all while positively impacting the environment.

Getting started with a natural health lifestyle is easier than you might think. Begin by researching practices that resonate with you, such as incorporating essential oils or trying yoga. Gradually detox your environment and diet by using natural cleaners and consuming whole foods, which are both beneficial to your family's well-being and the planet.

Success in natural health comes from small, intentional changes. Begin by swapping one item, such as choosing herbal tea over soda, and invest in high-quality essential oils and fresh foods to see the most benefit. Build a supportive community and consider professional guidance to tailor your lifestyle changes, and remember—every small step you take contributes to a healthier, more intentional way of living.
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Night Owl or Early Bird? You Can Actually Change Your Rhythm 🕊️☀️

Night Owl or Early Bird? You Can Actually Change Your Rhythm 🕊️☀️
Hey Friend,
Did you know you can actually change whether you’re a night owl or a morning person? 🤯
Yep — your body’s internal clock isn’t set in stone. With just three consistent days, you can start to reset your circadian rhythm and wake up feeling more energized, focused, and ready to take on the day.
If mornings have always felt like a struggle bus 🚎, keep reading. I’ve got four simple (and science-backed!) habits you can stack into your morning routine to shift your natural rhythm.

1. Soak Up That Morning Sun ☀️

Morning sunlight within 30 minutes of waking is one of the most powerful ways to reset your internal clock.
Why it works: sunlight tells your brain, “Hey, it’s daytime!” This boosts alertness, improves mood, and helps your body know when it’s time to wind down at night.
👉 Step outside, even for 5–10 minutes—no sunglasses if you can help it. Let that light hit your eyes and skin.


2. Get Moving with Light Exercise 🚶‍♀️

You don’t need an intense workout—just a brisk walk, some gentle stretching, or a few yoga poses will do the trick.
Light exercise in the morning:
  • Signals your body to wake up naturally
  • Improves circulation and mental clarity
  • Helps set your energy levels for the day
Bonus: combine this with your morning sunlight for double the impact!

3. Enjoy a Little Caffeine or Breakfast ☕️🍳

Whether it’s a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a nourishing breakfast, a small morning “anchor” helps cue your body that it’s time to be awake and alert.
The goal isn’t to rely on caffeine—it’s to use it strategically to support your rhythm. Pairing this with light movement and sunlight works like a charm.


4. Connect with People (and Pets!) 🐶🧍🏼

This one might surprise you, but social interaction plays a role in your internal clock, too!
A quick morning chat with a friend, a smile from your barista, or some snuggles with your dog can actually help reinforce your wake cycle.
Morning connection boosts mood, reduces stress, and tells your brain it’s time to engage with the world.

Reset Your Rhythm in Just 3 Days 🌅

By stacking these four simple habits every morning, you can teach your body to wake up earlier—without dragging yourself out of bed or relying on endless coffee.
Here’s the quick recap:
  • ☀️ Morning sunlight within 30 minutes
  • 🚶 Light exercise
  • ☕️ A little caffeine or breakfast
  • 🐶 Social interaction
Do this consistently for three mornings in a row, and you might be surprised at how naturally your body adjusts.

You’ve Got This 🙌

Shifting your sleep rhythm doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. With a few intentional habits, you can turn those groggy mornings into your new favorite part of the day.
So, are you Team Morning Person yet? 🌞

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Calling All Ladies. Can We Talk? 💁‍♀️

Calling All Ladies. Can We Talk? 💁‍♀️
Hey friend,
This one’s for the ladies—because let’s be real: the luteal phase (that stretch of time after ovulation and before your period) can be rough. 😵‍💫
Mood swings? ✔️
Heightened emotions? ✔️
Impatience and irritability that seem to come out of nowhere? ✔️✔️
No bueno.
But here’s the best part: you don’t have to just “deal with it.” There are simple, natural ways to support your body and bring things back into balance.

Essential Oils for Hormone Balance 🌿✨

The four oils I’m sharing today have the power to seriously change your life. We’re talking:
  • 🌸 Total hormone balance
  • 💆‍♀️ Less irritability and mood swings
  • 🧠 A clearer, calmer mind
  • 🙅‍♀️ No more hormonal headaches
These are some of my favorite tools for navigating that tricky time of the month with a little more ease and a lot more grace.

Start with Just One 🌼

If you’re new to essential oils or just want to keep it simple—start with just one. Seriously. You’ll notice the difference.
Apply topically (diluted) on your lower abdomen, diffuse throughout the day, or add to your evening routine for extra emotional support.
And if you’ve got loyalty points, this is the perfect time to cash them in and treat yourself to something that truly supports your well-being. 🙌

You Deserve to Feel Balanced ❤️

The luteal phase doesn’t have to control your mood or energy anymore. With the right natural hormone support, you can feel more steady, calm, and empowered all month long.
Give these oils a try—you might be surprised at how much easier this time of the month can be. 

👉 Grab yours here and Balance Your Hormones Naturally

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WELL, HELLO!

 
Hi Friend!


I’m Terri Bonin—wife to my favorite dentist (who keeps me smiling in more ways than one!) and mama to eleven incredible kiddos… yep, on purpose! Now, they’re growing up, getting married, and multiplying, so our family is basically the size of a small town!

I’ve homeschooled for over 25 years (with several more to go until our youngest, who’s eleven, graduates). I was crunchy before it was cool and slathering essential oils on my kids before they were a thing. Around here, I share mom hacks, marriage wisdom, wellness tips, and real-life glimpses into our beautifully chaotic, laughter-filled home.

I hope you find this space happy, helpful, and relatable! And if you love good conversations, come hang out with me on my podcast, "Terri Bonin At Home", where we chat about building a strong family culture, natural remedies, and navigating the wonderful (and sometimes wild) world of marriage and motherhood.

Let’s do life together—one drop, one laugh, and one lesson at a time!

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