My Orange Summer

                This summer has been one of the best summer’s I have ever experienced. Usually I feel exhausted and become an air conditioned couch potato, but this year I felt great. Perhaps it’s because I’m in better shape than I have been in years, or maybe it’s because I have become more involved with summer activities now my children are older. Either way, this summer has rocked.

                I wanted to share some recipes and ideas using my favorite summery drink - good ol’ orange juice! It’s just so sunny and invigorating, not to mention filled with vitamin C. Even the color makes me feel uplifted!

Orange Julius-

This is a nice twist to plain orange juice; it takes away any tartness.

6 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate
1 cup milk
1 cup water
¼ granulated sugar

¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
8-9 ice cubes

1. Combine all ingredients except ice cubes in blender.
2. Blend for about 1-2 minutes, adding ice cubes one at a time.

Enjoy!!!

Here are some other GREAT ideas to use orange juice-

Simple Softening, Smoothing Face-Wash
Let the AHAs and vitamin C in orange juice add softness and smoothness to your skin. Simply apply orange juice to the face like a wash, then rinse. (Worked GREAT! I loved how my skin felt after using this!)

Facial Wrinkle-Buster

1 egg white, beaten
2 teaspoons orange juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
a few drops sweet almond oil

Combine ingredients and apply to face. Allow to remain on for 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. ( I love this. I used to use just egg whites on my face once a week, but this makes me feel pampered. Smells great.) 

To Banish Blemishes

Mix equal parts honey and orange juice and apply to affected area. Allow to remain on skin for 5 minutes, then rinse with warm water. The honey is a natural healer, while the orange juice’s astringency helps to dry up excess oils. (Again, LOVE this!! I always use honey on my skin (no, it won't be sticky once rinsed), but never thought about mixing orange juice with it! Everyone always asks how I keep my skin so nice, well here is the secret. Also try using olive oil for a moisturizer afterwards for GORGEOUS summer skin!)