It's beginning to smell a lot like Christmas

How many of you have walked into your local craft or grocery store during the holidays and been immediately knocked over by the overpowering smell of scented pine cones or potpourri? Pure scents you think…? Michaels, AC Moore and Hobby Lobby-you give me a headache!

Many of these are loaded with yucky chemicals that I certainly don’t want in my home, let alone in the homes of anyone I’m gifting to. Since I like the holiday smells so much {even though smiling is my favorite!}, have no fear - you can make your own with our awesome essential oils! Even better, the scent is completely customizable! Fill a jar or cute Christmas basket with these to make wonderful little gifts for teachers or friends. :)

Supplies:
• Unscented pine cones
• Cookie sheet
• Water
• Aluminum foil
• Gallon zip-top bag
• Essential oil(s) of choice

Directions:
1. Fill your sink or a large bowl with water.
2. Place pine cones in the water and then put a plate or other heavier object on top of them to completely submerge (they’ll float otherwise). Let soak for an hour.
3. Place the cones in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet and place in a 200º oven for 30 minutes.
NOTE: Step 2 and 3 help ensure the cones are clean and critter/debris-free. It also helps the cones open up, so don’t skip them! :)
4. Allow cones to cool completely before placing in a gallon zip-top bag.
5. Sprinkle approximately 20-30 drops of essential oil over the cones, seal the bag, and shake until cones seem well coated.
6. Allow bag to sit sealed for at least 1 week, though they’ll smell stronger the longer you allow them to sit.
7. Remove a few from the bag at a time to place in a holiday basket or bowl and enjoy!