Black Austrian Bracelet - Only $8.00

Reg. Price $15.99

GiveAway - Sponsored by DigitalRoom.com

Gwendolyn's Gate is happy to announce that we are hosting an 18 x 24 Rolled Poster Print giveaway sponsored by DigitalRoom.com. Check this out included in this giveaway is free shipping - yes I said FREE SHIPPING and imagine UPS Ground. Now I have never heard of free shipping with anything. Remember that old saying, "Nothing is Free". But, this is totally free! For those of us who are creative you can create your own photo enlargement or custom poster again for FREE! Did I say Free? I must add that this is open for U.S. Residents only.

Since I am a blogger, I, too am eligible to enter - of course not through this giveaway. If I win I plan on using a photo of my grand daughters blown up into a black & white - how sweet is that?
Enter to win this wonderful prize by simply posting a comment explaining how you would use the Poster Print if you win.
The winner will be chosen on Sept. 29th, 2009 and will be announced on Sept. 30th, 2009. So come on tell me how you would use your FREE Poster Print today!
For further information click on the heading above or http://www.digitalroom.com/poster-printing.html to discover the endless possibilities as to how to use your FREE Poster Print!

Natural Products From Starwest Botanicals

Good Morning. Today is a beautiful day here in Lake Villa, Illinois and I am happy to announce that you can visit Starwest Botanicals right here from my blog. Starwest Botanicals offers many natural products to enhance your overall sense of well being.
For many years I have bought products from Starwest including dried herbs to aromatherapy products and accessories. I have created my own product and used theirs - I especially like the essential oils and the aromatherapy blends.
Discover how to improve your lifestyle with Starwest Botanicals. Just click on the banner to the right!

Tea for Pink Eye

Another issue of children back to school is Pink Eye. Which is very contagious, uncomfortable and everything must be cleaned to enusre that it does not surface again! Not only that, but the kids must stay home from school - let's get them back so that don't miss anymore assigments.
A simple recipe of boiling tea bag's is the key to help alleviate the symptoms of pink eye. Plain ole Lipton Tea is the cure. Simply boil a tea bag or multiple, let bag cool (but still warm) and place on the eye. You may also use a washcloth soaked in the tea - wring out and place on the eye. Do this 3-4 times a days and you will be amazed at how quick and easy the infection subsides.
As for cleaning make sure th bdding is washed and all toys are washed and sanitized. Be sure to use organic products to help preserve Mother Nature!
Note: Please consult a physician regarding any medical issues. These recipes are not intended to replace any necessary treatment required.

Natural Therapies to Help Treat Your Cold & Flu Symptoms

The children are back to school and not only do they bring home assignments but also the cold season.  Combined with the flu season fast approaching we need to take precautions to ensure our health. There are several things you can do to help alleviate your symptoms - or prevent any ailment from occurring.

One that I like is a simmering potpourri of health!

From the herbs in your cabinet to your home garden you may naturally enhance the atmosphere to keep you and your family healthy with an aromatic pleasure.

My favorite blend of herbs and flowers to simmer are lavender, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Add a little peppermint to enhance the affects further. Peppermint is great to help alleviate those headaches that accompany the cold and flu symptoms and will give you the energy needed to get through the day.
To make your simmering potpourri of health simply add dried lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint to either a crock pot or a pan on your stove filled with water - enough to cover your blend. The proportions may be as desired. I do suggest that you add more lavender than eucalyptus and rosemary due to the strength of the aroma's. Also, before placing your blend in your pot gently rub the herbs to help release the aroma and medicinal properties. Check the water frequently and add more as needed. If your headache and other symptoms persist place a washcloth in the potpourri wring out and place on area of desired relief.
Oh what a wonderful way to heal! Not only will you feel good but your home will be filled with the aromatic pleasure of God's wonderful gift of nature.

Benefits Of Peppermint Essential Oil

What brings me to write about peppermint is the other day my allergies were in full swing. I felt absolutely terrible from the runny nose, watery eyes to the exhaustion allergies can cause. By the time I took my medication it was too late. Although, the symptoms subsided the affects were still there - especially the exhaustion. I remembered an article I posted in 2008 and would now like to share this with you again. Allgery season is upon us and peppermint can come to your rescue!

Peppermint is sometimes known to be the world's oldest medicine. There is archaeological evidence dating this plant as far back as 10,000 years. Peppermint flowers are large nectar producers and honey bees as well as other nectar harvesting organisms forage them heavily. The uses of peppermint are plentiful. You will find peppermint in cosmetics, toiletries, pharmaceuticals, culinary delights, topical agents, and is taken internally.
Some of the properties in peppermint are as follows: antibiotic, antidepressant, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, astringent, stomachic, antispasmodic, sedative, antiseptic, digestive, expectorant, stimulant, tonic (nerve), and vasoconstrictor to name a few.
The benefits of this wonderful plant are also incredible and may be used in many different ways. Such as an inhalant, topical applications, taken internally, added to a bath or lotions and oils to help relax and act as an anti-inflammatory for muscles, a great ingredient for soaps, and may be added to many foods as a flavoring agent. Here are some of the ailments that peppermint will help alleviate: acne, bronchitis, clears the sinuses, colds, coughs, dermatitis, eczema, flatulence, indigestion and irritated colon, mouth or gum infections, muscular pain, mental fatigue, headache, migraine, motion sickness, hysteria, insect bites, and poor circulation. As you can see there are many ways in which peppermint may be used. Also, a recent report from Italy has shown that patients who took peppermint oil capsules for 4 weeks had a major reduction in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
Another interesting fact about peppermint oil is that it is an "all-natural way" to deter ants from being inside and outside your home. Just apply to desired areas in sparse amounts until the ants are discouraged from returning. Please note that the application will have to be reapplied every few days.
To grow peppermint it is best to do so in a container - it expands quickly by underground rhizomes. Plant in part-sun to shade areas and needs a good water supply.
As you can see, peppermint essential oil and the plant should be in every home and garden. A beautiful way to enhance your well being.

Welcome Back

Oh, it feels good to be back. It has been a long 6 months but I am ready to get, shall we say, "Back in the saddle again"!
Gwendolyn's Gate is now returning with a new format. I will still continue to offer recipes for natural health care and of course my product. But, in addition to this I am reviewing product, will list relevant links to my posts such as where to buy and other information. I will also be able to answer any questions you may have in regards to natural care - calling it "Ask Gwendolyn".
If any of you would like me to review your product and link your website please feel free to post a comment and I will get back to you with the information needed, terms and conditions.
Stay tuned & I look forward to working with all of you again!
Wendy

Coming Back Soon - Gwendolyn's Gate With A New & Exciting Format

Look for exciting news about Gwendolyn's Gate return. I look forward to working with you all again after Labor Day. So stay tuned to learn more about my return!

News About Gwendolyn's Gate Retail Location

Due to unforeseen circumstances Gwendolyn's Gate retail location at 117 W. Slade St. in Palatine, Illinois is closing. But, have no fear our product line Chrysalis and the scent your own products will be available at Mane Street Hair Salon just down the hall from the original Gwendolyn's Gate. Also, note that Mint Julep Bistro will be expanding into this unit!
Lois and Beth of Mane Street have been so kind as to carry our lines continuing to offer you our products. You may also call me personally at 847-714-6836 to order your product in which I will deliver to you at little or no charge for shipping depending on your location. We are still promoting our home shows which have gone over well Thanks to our many loyal customers and friends.
Our last day of operation will be February 26th. Please visit us for our spectacular sales on organic clothing - all at 70% off original price and the many product lines we carry such as JR Watkins, Kiss My Face and more all at 30% off. Jewelry and other items are now 50% off.
Please note that the fixtures and decorations in the store are also available to purchase.
Stay tuned to our blogs for further information.

Celebrate Valentines Day With Gwendolyn's Gate

Can you think of a better way to say "I Love You" with gifts from the heart?
At Gwendolyn's Gate you will find many beautiful aromatic gifts for your loved ones. And you may create that special gift by choosing from our many different fragrances to be added to your choice of bath and body products. Did you ever think to purchase a bouquet of fragrant flowers or a heart shaped box filled with fragrant roses for the bath?
We also have beautiful jewelry to please, and organic comfy sleep and lounge wear.
Come pamper your loved one with Gwendolyn's Gate unique gifts!
We look forward to seeing you soon!

Be Green With WXRT FM Chicago

Last summer I was fortunate enough to meet one of the employees from WXRT. Not only did I learn that WXRT was celebrating their 35th anniversary but also how they are involved with "GREEN".
In today's world it is important to recognize the necessity in preserving Mother Nature. By visiting WXRT's web site you will be informed of ways to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Including products, tips, restaurants, events and other items of interest. Click on the heading above or to the right on the side bar to learn more about GREEN from WXRT - Chicago's greatest radio station!
As some of you may know Gwendolyn's Gate is in the process of turning GREEN. Currently, we carry organic products (bath & body) and organic clothing.
On a personal level my husband and myself have been going GREEN. This involves food that we buy, how we heat our home, conserving on natural and man made energy, and discarding of waste. It's not an easy task and living the way we once did many years was a lot easier. But, we think not only of our Mother Earth but also our grandchildren and what the future will hold for them.
Let's join together in saving our beautiful planet.

Gwendolyn's Gate & Mint Julep Bistro Will Unite At 117 W Slade St

I am happy to announce that Mint Julep Bistro will expand into the 117 W. Slade St. building here in downtown Palatine. The Bistro will still be open at 53 W Slade where you will be served the finest in Southern Gourmet Cuisine. The new location will be called the Mint Julep Room where High Tea will be served along with other delicacies available for lunch. The Mint Julep Room will also be available for private parties, breakfast clubs, private meetings, office events, showers, masquerades and any other event to suit your needs.
In addition to their move, Gwendolyn's Gate will join the Mint Julep Room creating a unique establishment offering you an array of eclectic products. Gwendolyn's Gate will still continue to offer natural products and aromatherapy along with Mint Julep's tea pots, teas and gourmet treats.
Access to Gwendolyn's Gate will be available from the Mint Julep Room. We are creating the opening to provide you with an experience to enhance your overall sense of well being. From the gourmet delights to the comfort for oneself. And where you may shop for all your personal and gift giving needs.
This wonderful union will be ready for reception in mid February of 2009.
Stay tuned for more info to come!

Introducing 2 New Products

A big Thank You to Sherri of Barrington asking that we carry a Body Spray. And a Thank You to Lady D' of Mint Julep Bistro asking that we make available our fragrances in their purest form. Upon these request we now have a Body Spray with a fragrance of your choice in a 4 oz spray bottle for $12.00 and the pure fragrance in a 1/2 oz bottle for $9.00.
In addition to these products we have also decided to offer more fragrances. Especially with the winter months now here we carry the warmer tones including beautiful and exotic blends of vanilla, sandalwood, musk, and tonka to name a few. And due to the popularity of the Gardenia Lily blend we now carry straight Gardenia.
You may now create your own line of personal care to include the bath/shower gel, body cream, body spray and let's not forget the reed diffuser.
Come visit Gwendolyn's Gate so that we, Wendy or Christine may assist you in choosing your personal scent.
Happy Holidays and we look forward to seeing you soon!

Downtown Palatine Holiday Open House

Come join the downtown Palatine merchants as we celebrate the holiday season beginning Friday November 21st from 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm and Saturday November 22nd 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.On Friday begin the celebration with the Wine & Taste Walk which enters you in the drawing to win a $600 (or more) shopping spree. To enter when visiting the assigned merchants pick up your entry card, visit each assigned merchant and have your card stamped at every merchant. After visiting the last one leave your entry card. The drawing will be held on Saturday, November 22nd at the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:00 pm.Along with this walk you will be able to taste many delights, shop, and have the pleasure of listening to the Strolling Carolers from 6:00 -7:00 pm. Just a reminder - a lot of the merchants are offering special holiday discounts during the Open House!On Saturday November 22nd the holiday events will continue with Winter Story Time, Winter Art Fair, Visit with Santa Paws, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides, Holiday Market. and visit with Santa Claus. And of course the Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Drawing for the Winner of the Shopping Spree!We look forward to seeing you then!

Have A Happy & Safe Spooktacular Halloween

Don't you just love the kitty cat? He's armed and ready to work any pumpkin that comes across his path.
Here in Chicago we are having an absolutely beautiful Halloween. Normally, it is cold and rainy - but today it is quite pleasant. Very sunny, slight winds, and almost 70 degrees. We are looking forward to this evening with all the trick or treaters. And of course a bonfire with Martini's to help keep us warm on a cool night!
Be safe and have a spooktacular Halloween!

Feng Shui - Is Your Feng Shui-ing?

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice believed to utilize the laws of both heaven and earth to help improve life by increasing the positive Qi (ch'i) or energy as we call it. The word Feng Shui translates into "wind-water" in English.
Modern enthusiasts as myself, believe that arranging objects will help to achieve our goals. There is also a claim that Feng Shui has an effect on health, wealth and personal relationships. But, traditionally Feng Shui is important in choosing a place to live, finding a burial site and agricultural planning.
Do you believe that everything has energy? I do! And Feng Shui is one practice that I try to utilize in my personal and business life to increase the positive Qi (ch'i).
As for business, since opening the store in June, I felt things were going well but could be better. As I looked around the store I felt that the energy was not flowing and that I needed to move things around and apply Feng Shui a little more than I originally did. So I began and low and behold it worked. Since moving the shelving and other items around sales increased and I received positive feedback from returning and new customers. Just try it - it might work for you!

Supersplendifforous Kudios to Mint Julep Bistro

Located at 53 W Slade St in downtown Palatine The Mint Julep Bistro is by far the best new restaurant in town. The southern cuisine is absolutely Divine. Lady D, the head chef is probably the sweetest person I have ever met and has such great passion for her cooking. Always wanting to please with her culinary delights I truly believe that all will enjoy this fantastic bistro. Dave, Lady D's husband is the CEO extraordinaire and connoisseur of wine. The wine list is phenomenal - again all will enjoy! There is nothing like an educated pallet to assist you to further enjoy your meal with a fine glass of wine.
The food is outstanding - you have never had fried green tomatoes like Mint Julep's - and the sauce that goes with it is very tasty. The country fried chicken is so juicy, tender and delicious - well, it is soaked in buttermilk and fried to perfection! Yum yum! Served with Sawmill Gravy, Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Corn - how could you resist this tasty delight.
Other food served is Catfish, Shrimp & Grits, Salmon Croquettes and of course the catch of the day. There is Pulled Pork, Butchers Cut Steak and Ribeye too! Appetizers, soups, salads and desserts too! Brunch menu, kids menu and a tea room too!
Come on down y'all. 53 W Slade St.(downtown Palatine) 847-934-3000. Maybe I will see you there!

Announcing The Opening Of Mint Julep Bistro

Ladies and Gents if you ever wanted the best southern cooking around I highly suggest the Mint Julep Bistro.
On Wednesday, Sept. 10th the Bistro will be open to the public. Located in downtown Palatine on Slade St just east of Gwendolyn's Gate.
Here is just a little hint of what will be offered. - Fried Green Tomatoes. Yes, you heard from me and I can not wait to try these wonderful delights. Not only do I love the movie but also the fried green tomatoes and any other type of tomato.
On Tuesday, Sept. 9th. I have been invited to participate in the test run. I am excited to be a part of this wonderful event and will share with you the results.
Stay tuned for more info to come!

Knowing Your Target Market In Business

Changes in business are inevitable and sometimes for the best. When first creating your business plan it is important to know your target market. When I first created Gwendolyn's Gate "Chrysalis" Skin Care line my target market was the mature women. This was working out great as the results and testimonials came in. Then we opened a retail location with my product line, scent your own product, eco friendly sleepwear and lounge wear and a few other related items. Suddenly we noticed that our target market had changed and expanded to young teens, in between, and the mature woman. All female keep in mind the young teens and in betweens. Then, - oh I sound like that girl from American Pie, and then and then I went to band camp. Anyway, this past weekend the town Palatine where our business is located had their yearly Street Fest. This was a great success as we extended our hours and days of operation. During this time we had a lot of couples who came in to purchase. To my surprise the men who entered loved the line and purchased items for themselves as well as their wives. This was absolutely amazing. I can honestly say that although my husband loves aromatherapy he has never gone out of his way to purchase a skin care product because of aroma or natural ingredients. This was a great lesson to learn as we received a lot of feedback. Now, once again, we are expanding our product line - but not too much - we still need to test the market.
Change, as in the seasons is always good. Still remember your purpose!

The Breakdown Of Preservatives In Make-Up

As reported today, your make-up does have a shelf life. What amazed me is that although there is a preservative the shelf life can be anywhere from 2-3 months to 2 years. The reason for this is that as you use the make-up the preservatives begin to breakdown and anything that is a water base is more susceptible to bacteria. When this happens you can get an infection, conjunctivitis, and irritated skin.
The worse enemy is mascara because it is dark and moist. The shelf life of mascara is 2-3 months. As for your eye pencil this will last longer the more you whittle it down removing the possibility of infection. But, don't forget to clean your sharpener. Liquid make-up usually has a shelf life of 10-12 months. Face powder and blush can last as long as 3 years because there is no water. But, whoever has make-up for that long? And finally, lipstick can last as long as 2-3 years.
There are a couple of ways to tell if the preservative is breaking down in your make-up. One is the sniff test - if it doesn't smell right then time to get rid of it or look for discoloration!
Time for me to clean out my make-up drawer!