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It's a joy spreading, smile inducing, uplifting blogathon project from the Natural Perfumer's Guild!  It's January and we aim to spread joy and fragrance.  January is often called the cruelest month.  Here in New England it's cold, it's dark, and the days are short.  Many suffer from the "winter blues" brought on by the lack of sunlight.

I call this particular season the Winterless Winter.  Here in Rhode Island we've had no snow.  This is bizarre.  Having lived my entire life in New England, from Vermont, to New Hampshire, to Massachusetts to Rhode Island I do not recall ever having a snowless winter.  According to an article I read online at Discover Magazine http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/80beats/2012/01/12/why-this-winter-is-so-crazily-warm/
the reason this winter is snow-free is due to an unusual jet stream pulling warm air across the country (shades of global climate change?)  Whatever the reason for the lack of snow, wildly fluctuating temperatures and frequent thunderstorms I feel the effect.  Something is off.  The trees and plants are confused.  Trees bud in the warm rain and then freeze.  I'm as confused.  The holidays felt strange with no snow.  Lighting a fire in the fireplace feels odd when it's 50 degrees outside in December.  My children ask me everyday when it will snow.  "When can we build a snowman Mom?"

So, in order to help spread cheer I look to scent.  Scents of citrus, jasmine and lilacs feel warm and happy, a reminder of impending spring.  I often find myself reaching for essences that I find uplifting when it's cold and grey outside.  I recently discovered the finest bitter orange essential oil I have ever experienced.  It's sunshine in a bottle.  Bright, clean and sparkling.  Excellent quality.  I use this bitter orange along with others such as rose, orange flower, amber, vanilla and ambrette in Divine eau de parfum.

Would you like to try Divine?  Or the incredible uplifting bitter orange essence I've found?  Leave a comment below and the chosen winner will receive a sample of Divine and the fab bitter orange!  Look for additional giveaways tomorrow and Wednesday.

Please check out all the talented generous participating Guild Perfumers blogs.  We are all giving away fabulous scented treats to brighten your January!