Ms In-Between

Christmafication Has Occurred!

2010-12-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

Wreath is on the door - Mike made the bow!

Christmas tree is up and decorated!

Decorative stocking holders - aren't they cute?!

Martha Stewart glitter cards that I made, and Mike helped me with :)

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Pome-drinkie...

2010-12-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

I found this wonderful pomegranate liqueur in the cabinet. We didn't have any ice... but we DID have some gorgeous frozen Alaskan blueberries. Hmmmm, pomegranate-blueberry tini it is!

Adding the pomegranate liqueur

Adding some clear soda - boy was it ever good! every once in a while you get a little pop of a blueberry in you mouth. Yum!

Blueberry Heaven!

2010-11-14T20:46:00.000-08:00

Mike and I had a great fall day outside cleaning up all the leaves in our yard. While we were outside our neighbor offered us some of his blueberries that he brought down from Alaska. He brought over 3 big bags of them! Now what to do?? Blueberry scones? Blueberry pie? Blueberry pancakes? The possibilities are endless!

Ohhhhh Blueberry Heaven!!!

OW!! ow ow ow ow...

2010-11-08T20:06:00.000-08:00

So remember when I said I was going to take this exercise thing slow? Well, I got a little bee in my bonnet and on Friday when I did my "legs" and I did a little too much. You know those front lunges with weights in my hands - yeah, those were them. And it is my own fault. There were some guys in the weight area while I was there and I was so afraid of looking like a wuss I just did too many and too much. What an idiot! For the last 2 days I've been suffering from overdoing my quads. Considering we have stairs in the house, this is not good. I've been walking up and down the stairs saying "ow, ow, ow, ow..." Although that alone is giving all kinds of giggling fits to my husband! Advil didn't even help. Although the 3 glasses of wine last night sure numbed the pain!

I'll be back at it tomorrow, walking away on the treadmill WITH my hands on the heart rate sensors and not trying to impress the other gym goers....

Just a reminder....

2010-11-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

Hi Guys!

Just a reminder that if you want to follow my soap activities -which are much more exciting than my regular old life - you can find my soaping adventures at my sneaky b* blog.

Hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful Fall!

OK 30 Things!

2010-11-03T09:25:00.000-07:00

So guitar lessons gave way to starting a gym routine. But I have to say I have been very successful with my gym routine.

I am being very methodical this time - not jumping right into some high energy cardio class or weight lifting routine that ends up injuring me and throwing me off the track. I am walking on the treadmill with my hands ON the heart rate sensors. Boy, is my cardio bad!! I made myself do that for one whole week. No distractions, just walking, hands on sensors, all week. This week I added in some weights as I would love to have sculpted arms, wouldn't we all?! And I'm terrified of getting osteoporosis - and weights build bone. Next week I am adding in a weekly yoga class. Baby steps.....

A few things that I have learned at the gym:

Clean your machines people!! Have you ever SEEN ringworm? Ewwww!!
I see you running flat out on the treadmill, good job. I also see that you are running on a flat surface. I'm not impressed. And your face is the color of a beet - that is not fitness.
Keep your headphones in your ears, it keeps the 60 year old men from flirting with you
I love being 40, no one looks at me in the gym so I can go in as ugly as I want to be.
And lastly, if you are flatulent, please don't get on the treadmill next to me (yes lady, I know it was you!)

Happy exercising!

Yumma-do! Butternut Squash

2010-10-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

We tried this recipe last night and oh my goodness was it good. And so easy. I cheated and used frozen butternut squash cubes but I can imagine it would be even better with fresh butternut squash. I wish I would have taken a picture - it was gorgeous!

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Butternut-Squash-Bake-2/Detail.aspx

And tonight.... Chicken Fajita Burritos...

30 Things: September

2010-09-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

We have had some family things going on so I haven't been able to complete my second "thing". Just to fill you in, I will be starting guitar lessons soon. Hello second "thing"!! It just won't be in the month that I planned for it. In fact, we may get 2 things this month! Woo Hoo!

Successful Trip!

2010-09-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Hawaii. It was just the right amount of time to get away and get relaxed without being there too long.

We toured the island one day - had amazing fish tacos at Louie Bueno's on the North Shore. Went to the USS Arizona and were on the same tour with a group from a local high school reunion who were about 5 years old at the time of the bombing. It really was a special experience to chat with them while visiting the memorial. And spent one day just lazing on the beach after watching Susan and Steve renew their wedding vows on the beach. We really had an amazing time!

Aloha!

2010-09-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

So ready to see the sunset in Hawaii....

I'm a Birthday Girl!

2010-09-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me!! Look at what I woke up to this morning! Yummy fuzzy slippers! And then there was an explosion of presents from my hubby all totally perfect for me! I am such a lucky girl! And then there was a whirlwind of happy birthday wishes on my email, phone and facebook page.

Thank you to everyone who has thought of me and wished me well today. I truly am blessed!

The Separation of Life and Soap

2010-09-01T20:11:00.000-07:00

The time has come to separate my life blog from my soap blog. I have folks that want to see soap and I have folks (my folks to be exact) that want to see what is going on in my life.... So feel free to read about my life or go to the other blog and read about my soap. Either way, I'm glad to have you stop by to see what is going on.

Those Who Can Do

2010-08-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Amazing - how can any of us say we can't do anything when we see what this young man has done? I'll need to remember him the next time I start getting discouraged about something...

Thought of the Day - Hold On, This Will Pass

2010-08-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of time by myself working away - so that means a lot of time inside my head. Today I was thinking about a conversation I had with a young man, in his 20s, who was having a tough day because he had wronged the girl he was dating. The remorse and confusion he showed just made my heart feel for him. But being older (than him) I just started thinking "Hold on... this will pass".

The great thing about life is that even though we go through hard times, and it may feel like we will never get past the problem we are facing, it will pass. Even the really hard stuff. And if we look back at our lives, it holds true. If you can hold your breath or sit back and wait for this time to pass or just STOP - things will get better and good things will come back around.... I love that!

My new cool thing!

2010-08-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

I'm a simple soul and I do get excited about simple things. Like knowing what the temperature outside is. Being that I work primarily indoors throughout the year, I can sometimes be shocked by what is going on outside my windows.

I love love love this new little gadget attached to my window :)

30 Things - August - Buy A Boat!

2010-08-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here is my first of 30 things! August's to do item is "buy a boat". And that we have! Well.... actually, we bought 2. Oops! We got a little excited, didn't quite talk it over, and ran headlong into buying the first boat we saw. Of course, the very next day we came across a better boat at a better price. So we bought that one too! Now before you start thinking, "Boy these people are absolutely stupid and run willy nilly with their money!" We will be selling the first boat just as soon as we get the title back and it is in our names to sell.

Can't wait for next month's "thing"....

Wow... Seriously?

2010-07-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

So I got bounced from my job and moved into a new role. There is a first time for everything - but with no explanation or reason it does feel a bit shady. Seriously though, they had put me in a ridiculous situation so I'm glad to be in a new position. I am now in a place where I can turn off work at the end of the day and enjoy my weekends and actually take some REAL vacations! Wah hoo! I'm a fairly open person so it does totally confound me that my manager wasn't able to speak directly to me if there were issues.... but whatever, I'm in a FANTASTIC place now.

So this leads to my new plan - my list of 30 things. 30 things to do over then next 30 months. One new thing a month. I'm still making up the list but here are a few that I'm putting on the list....

1. Flying Lessons
2. Guitar or Piano Lessons
3. Attend a Yoga Retreat
4. Run a 5K
5. Run a 10K
6. Run a 1/2 marathon
7. Do the zipline on Catalina with my sister
.
.
.
.

30. Travel to Bhutan. - This is our present for when Mike graduates from school!

Any ideas or suggestions are very welcome - just remember, these are do-able goals... no extreme travel.

Wah Hoo!! I'm back!

2010-07-06T10:18:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what happened - but it is fixed now and I am thrilled!

I'm off to visit my family tomorrow so I don't have much time to post today. When I get back I'll update with some of my new creations.... experiments might be a better word....

Have a great week everyone!

I want... I want... I want....

2010-06-01T19:00:00.001-07:00

After a day of reading about patience and reconfirming that some goals take time..... Confirming that I'm in the right place at the right time and I need to learn to enjoy the now.... Take the lessons that are here and improve....

WHAM! I come across the Porsche of my dreams. Location: my hometown!... At the price I would pay for it.... And just freakin' gorgeous!

Now keep in mind - I was not looking for a "cherry" Porsche. What I really wanted was a kind of beat up but still in good order Porsche 911 or 912 that I could take out for joy rides on the weekend and play under the hood. THIS IS THAT PORSCHE!!! My heart is beating fast and I'm pacing in my living room! I very rarely react to things this way. I'm usually pretty mellow when it comes to stuff/things/items.... (panting...) Ok, ok, simmer down... It is just a car....

What does this mean??? I thought we were all "good" today universe! What the heck?!

Is this a sign? Is it time to have this Porsche of my dreams? Is it a karmic teaser to make me wait and teach me a lesson... Ohhhh, it is soooo difficult to know! Am I supposed to go meditate on this and find the reason why I'm not supposed to have this right now.... Meditation, not a bad idea....

Ya know, isn't that just what happens? Just as soon as I get my head straight and I'm all content with the world and have things figured out - the universe throws me for a loop!

Or maybe.... it's a gift from the universe for being so patient....... ;) Yeah... I may have to think on this... I do have 5 days until the auction comes down.

Is it bad...

2010-05-27T14:26:00.001-07:00

That I used all of the sugar in the house to make sugar scrubs?!

I guess it is the healthy alternative.....

New Soap - Lemongrass

2010-05-22T10:49:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of new soaps and my soapy sugar scrubs - just the thing you need before you head in for your spray tan! I'll be using one today :) Just because it's snowing doesn't mean I can't be tan....

Sold!

2010-05-02T13:30:00.000-07:00

The new soaps I promised to show (above)My first attempt at cheesy crackers (above)

Lucky us! Through the excellent work of our real estate agent we have now sold the Portland house! It's nice not having to worry about anything going wrong 5 hours away and jumping every time the renters call.

Today the sun is shining - although it is cold outside (48* F) - grocery shopping is done and I'm ready to cook this afternoon. Marinating meat for fajitas, making a shepherds pie, and a new batch of homemade crackers!

Happy Sunday Everyone!

What the heck am I doing?!

2010-04-13T20:41:00.001-07:00

I have some great new soaps to share but what I really need to ask myself is - what the heck am I doing???!!

Work is going full force right now - last week in California went well. Big class and lots going on, but not my best work. I am on a plane to Sydney on Thursday to help them kick off their new event - which is very exciting, but also fast and furious. So 10 days traveling to Australia and back, 2 weeks home, and then off to Vegas! It is such a good thing that I have a very easy going husband keeping me sane. He deserves some kind of special present - maybe I'll bring him back a koala bear to live in the backyard.

In addition, we put the Portland house on the market the Saturday before I left for California and wouldn't you know it - we got 2 strong offers the next day! In THIS market? WHAT?! So in addition to all that is going on at work, I'm trying to keep up with the whole selling a house thing.

Am I crazy??? Yes, yes I am... But did I take the opportunity to make some new soap? Yes, yes I did...

Soap Teaser: Dead Sea Mud, Asian Green Tea, and Waves... but no pics yet - I've been busy people!

On The Road Again...

2010-04-04T15:28:00.000-07:00

It's Easter Sunday - there is ugly weather outside but we are making the most of it. We had a lazy morning with coffee, put up a rain gutter, walked the dogs, ran a few errands (until we realized that in our sleepy little town most retailers close for Easter) and now we are puttering around the house. We did have to give Daisy an impromptu bath today after we lost her in the hills and she came back smelling like she had rolled in a dead animal. Which she probably did. It's her favorite thing in the whole world.... Ew! But as you can see from her picture, she is a little upset about the bath that was the result of her fun.

Mike is studying away in the office and I am doing the Sunday combo: laundry, making homemade mac and cheese, watching movies and preparing for a week away..... It's a lovely day.

No soap for a week but I'm sure I'll be doubly inspired by next weekend to get a batch in and I'll be sure to post about it :) I think I've come to a conclusion about my soap. I just make soap! No matter what other people want me to make - I just make soap! And damn good soap! And that is what I am going to focus on. Of course I will still make the shower gel and sugar scrub and whipped Shea butter and lip balms.... and anything else that I think I am good at and like to make and use. But no more pressure on trying to be everything to everyone. No special requests. No ultra/super/incredible/save the world from itself creams.... Just the things I like to do.... And do well. That is all I can expect from myself.

Have a great week everyone and be good to yourselves....

New Macs and new soap!

2010-03-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

Back from our wonderful week off - it was a busy week full of getting things organized at the Portland house. The renters finally realized that the date for getting out of the house "really was" last Sunday. I don't know when I said it was any other time... so the house is clean, my fantastic realtor is on deck, and she even told me that after looking at comps we could ask much more than what I was imagining! Fantastic! We also stopped in to the Mac store in Portland and got new computers. They are amazing and I just can't seem to decide what to do first! Make a podcast? Create a movie? Learn how to play guitar?.... I'm geeking out. And surprise, Mike is UBER geeking out. He knows more about these Macs than I do at this point! I'm so proud :) We are so dorky that we have been iChatting from the office to the house. This is going to be so fun when I'm out of town for work!

On our way home from visiting friends in Washington state we stopped at a Greek Orthodox monastery that makes beautiful Greek pastries. And guess what! They also make soap and lotions! So of course I had to grab a bar to try it out. I can't wait to get it in the shower. While chatting with the girl who was ringing up our purchases she said that they fight issues with elevation (the monastery is located at the top of a summit near..... well, nothing). Thank goodness I don't have to deal with that!

The sun is shining

2010-03-19T12:45:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update before a week off - Mike has successfully completed his 2nd semester of school. We are taking spring break to head out of town and enjoy this beautiful beginning to spring. We are going to see family and friends along the way and give hugs all around.

I am super excited because we are going to head to a Mac store and look at purchasing a new computer... is it so wrong to be in love with new technology?

Looking forward to a fantastic week! I'll thrill you with some new soap pictures as soon as I can :)

If I were......

2010-03-03T10:18:00.000-08:00

If I were a month I’d be June

If I were a day I’d be Saturday

If I were a time of day I’d be morning.

If I were a planet I’d be Pluto (I still think it's a planet, I don't care what they say...)

If I were a sea animal I’d be a turtle

If I were a direction I’d be North

If I were a piece of furniture I'd be "Hops"

If I were a liquid I’d be water

If I were a gem stone I’d be a moonstone

If I were a tree I’d be an Aspen

If I were a tool I’d be a hammer

If I were a flower I’d be peony

If I were an element of weather I’d be the wind

If I were a musical instrument I’d be a piano

If I were a color I’d be green

If I were an emotion I’d be contentment

If I were a fruit I’d be a nectarine

If I were a sound I’d be a child's laughter

If I were an element I’d be earth

If I were a car I’d be a 1968 Porsche 911

If I were a food I’d be flourless chocolate cake

If I were a place I’d be home

If I were a material I’d be lamb's wool

If I were a taste I’d be savory

If I were a scent I’d be fresh baking bread

If I were a body part I’d be ears

If I were a facial expression I’d be a smile

If I were a song I’d be an upbeat bluegrass tune

If I were a bird I’d be a dove

If I were a gift I’d be a Tiffany silver keychain

If I were a street I’d be a small town main street

If I were a city I’d be Portland, OR

If I were a door I’d be open

If I were a pair of shoes I’d be a pair of Dansko clogs

Inspired by the Pegasus Soaps Blog

Wow it's been a long time!

2010-02-24T19:29:00.001-08:00

Sorry for the delay in posting! Life (ie. work) has been crazy busy and my evenings have been spent recouperating.

I've made 2 new soaps, not named yet but they both turned out GORGEOUS (do that with a little sing-song in your voice and you'll get what I mean). Went back to the old recipe and I am stoked. May make some more tonight if I can sneak out to the soaproom.

We had a bit of snow this morning but it is all gone now and I'm ready for spring to get here!!! I've got my seed starts going in the extra bedroom and I am ready to get the raised beds made for the backyard. Woo hoo! Bring on Spring!

Oh this one too.... bummer...

2010-02-11T19:01:00.001-08:00

Oh and this one smells soooo good - maybe I should try it out just to see if it's itchy?.... :(

Um.... I lied....

2010-02-11T17:51:00.000-08:00

But it wasn't a big one!! I promise!

I tried my new soap and started getting a bit itchy from it. Too much coconut oil? If you didn't already know, coconut oil in higher amounts can be very drying to skin. Am I allergic to shea butter? Never had that happen, but just so all of you are aware, if you have allergies to latex you may also have a reaction to shea....

So I went back to my recipe - recalculated and realized I needed a bit more water in the recipe. Duh! So only 5 batches in but dang it is some pretty soap that I don't want anyone using due to the itch factor. Back to reformulating - or heck, maybe just back to my old recipe and include some shea butter in it?!

Posting pics so that you can see that these were gorgeous..... but they will be even better next time!! L-R Orange Lavender, Summertime, Spring Peony, Linden Blossom, Celestial

Time for Soap

2010-02-05T09:56:00.000-08:00

After a fantastic week in London and a week back home to adjust - I am ready to get back on the soap bandwagon. I am really loving my new shea butter soap recipe and I think I may be making that for a while yet. I just took one of my new bars into the shower yesterday and I AM IN LOVE!! It's soft and smooth and totally moisturizing. I also adore the scent I used. You might too! With my new commitment to smaller and more frequent batches I am looking forward to creating some new and exciting fragrance blends! Stay tuned for pics of my new creations :)

London!

2010-01-31T14:13:00.001-08:00

What a great week! The EMEA team has put on an excellent class - I am thrilled with the way they have approached their training elements. Also, their new hire class was excellent - a phenomenal group of well seasoned sales people. That always makes the week easier and more interesting.

I got to see my favorite ex-pat Shannon and her family. Her little boy is the cutest ever and is growing like a weed! It was so great to spend time with them all. We shopped and had a girls night. It was a great way to relax while traveling for work.

I reconnected today with my friend Jonathon and it was like we picked up just where we left off. He has been in London now for gosh... 4 or 5 years now?! He shared a wonderful restaurant/pub with me and we went to the Tate Modern and walked through St. Paul's Cathedral.... you know, from Mary Poppins "Feed the biiiiiiirds..." They were doing services when we went through and the acoustics when the choir sang were lovely.

I am so excited to get back home to my husband and puppy dogs, but being with friends this week really made the trip worth it. Hope I get to come back and see them again soon!

I am truly a lucky girl.

Dreaming of Italy...

2010-01-13T09:47:00.000-08:00

Today I am dreaming of Italy... I've never been there but hope to go soon to drink the wine, eat the food, and laugh heartily.

I am in a crunch with work and daydreams like this are what get me through - that and standing in my soaproom sniffing scents. Mike has spring break coming up so maybe.... just maybe....

No soap...

2010-01-11T18:29:00.000-08:00

Well, I didn't get around to soaping this weekend but plan on having a good week of soaping since Mike will be heading to a conference. I'll be sure to post the outcome this weekend!

Small Changes...

2010-01-07T11:52:00.000-08:00

Small changes are so much easier to accomplish than big ones. I have made some changes for 2010 that seem to really be working for me.

I am doing yoga everyday - that doesn't mean that I do a heavy 60-75 minute workout everyday but I do at least a 25 minute time out. I've already seen changes in the way I feel inside and out.

I am making my soap in smaller batches with predictable recipes. I can get more made and be just as creative as I was before, but can be more consistent in my practice of soap making.

Just these small changes are helping and I hope I can keep them up for the rest of the year.

2010-01-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2010!! Here are some of my new creations - photographed in my new light box! I'm such an amateur but it helps me a bit...

Lime Margarita - topped with sea salt... happy hour in the shower

Linden Blossom - a gorgeous green floral scent

Posh - a light citrus floral, perfect scent for attending a posh garden party or just pretending to go to one...

And a new 24 oz. soy candle - I found these jars and just couldn't resist making a few HUGE candles... hours of burning time and they smell amazing!

Coast Trip - 5 pictures for you...

2009-12-22T10:07:00.001-08:00

We arrived at the coast to gorgeous weather! And I got my first look at the Redwoods! We had a fantastic weekend away...and the best Mexican Mocha I have ever had! (Hard Rain Cafe - Port Orford)

I got clocked!

2009-12-07T11:54:00.001-08:00

Most of you know that I work from home and because of that I get to see some of the most stellar television. It is absolutely hilarious what the networks decide to target at those who may be watching during the day. Of course you have the vocational schools, Cindy Crawford's skin care line, and any kind of "buy my book and it will give you the cure for anything" fill the day but lately there has been a new addition for the holidays - I GOT CLOCKED!

Does anyone else think this is hilarious?! And if you have that hard to buy for person I can't think of anything more appropriate! Who thought this up? They are a genius - so simple and yet sooooo... I don't know what! Wrong?... And yet completely alluring....

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-25T11:57:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for....

A wonderful husband that makes me laugh everyday
A family that shares their funny stories with me
Phone chats with friends
Well behaved puppy dogs
Having money in the bank
A warm house
A fire to sit next to - either inside or outside
My yoga mat
Food on the table
Bright colors to wear
Fragrance oils!
Creative people who share their gifts with the world
Barnard Griffin's Rose de Sangiovese to share...

Happy Thanksgiving to you all - may you share this day with those you love the most!

Make it a special holiday...

2009-11-19T16:13:00.000-08:00

I have an extremely talented cousin who designs the most exquisite jewelry. Maybe you are looking for that very special present for a friend or family member or perhaps that one special piece to finish your outfit for New Year's Eve. Because most of you who visit my blog understand artisan work, I think you can appreciate her style and level of craftsmanship.

Karin Worden Jewelry

She may just have that one perfect item for you to make it a very special holiday....

Imperfections are Natural

2009-11-06T11:19:00.000-08:00

I have these beautiful cloth napkins that were made in India and I just noticed a little tag on them. The tag says "Imperfections are Natural". I love that! It is so true! I get so hyped up about getting everything done, doing everything well, and not calling any attention to my self by making sure that everything works out they way I think it is supposed to. For some reason I feel like if I do something wrong the world is going to fall off of its axis. I have spent all week stressing out about something that I shouldn't even be worried about. But you know what?! No one is perfect and I can't expect myself or anyone else to be! So keep that in mind when you are stressing yourself out trying to make everything right in the world and maybe even appreciate the flaws and funny things that happen...

Imperfections are Natural!

Calendula Infused Shea Butter Soap

2009-11-03T14:15:00.000-08:00

Here is my latest soap - and I'll tell you, it is heavenly.... it is made with calendula infused olive oil and shea butter. Calendula is a skin calming herb and of course shea is a yummy moisturizer. I made this batch unscented because I really wanted to test the recipe and not be distracted or have a scent interfere with how it came out.

Although, I'm not quite happy with the calendula petals on top... it kind of looks a mess... or like it needs a haircut... oh well, live and learn.

Well...I'd marry me...

2009-11-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

Another lovely Sunday cooking up a storm! Have I told you recently how much I love to go grocery shopping? It is one of my happy places. I love imagining what we can make for the week and feel challenged to think up new and exciting ways to present the regular stuff.

Today I made chicken pot pie, apple pop-overs, and homemade chicken stock. Yum! The house smells amazing! And if we didn't destroy all of it by devouring it at dinner - I would show you a picture.... So, if I was doing the choosing... I'd marry me... :)

What a whirlwind!

2009-10-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

It's been a fun few weeks. I was in CA for a training class and had the opportunity to go with a friend to Napa for the weekend. It was absolutely beautiful and the vinyards were in full bloom. We did quite a few tastings and had a wonderful time. There is nothing to compare to the wine, food, and level of service you get all over the valley. We tasted at Sterling, Hess, Darioush, Acaciaand Rubicon Estate. All of them lovely and all so unique! We ended the weekend at a fantastic vegetarian restaurant that was AMAZING! We left full and satisfied and had not a bit of meat included.

To check it out the restaurant go here.

What do you get....

2009-10-12T14:57:00.000-07:00

when you get to be a lazy soaper? Speckles in your soap! Don't be afraid - it isn't unsaponified lye. (For you non- soapmakers, that means lye that hasn't been eaten up by the oils that can burn your skin).

I've been using the heat transfer method in my soapmaking because it is fast and easy - But I've also been using a recipe with a lot of solid oils. Duh! (Smacks myself on the forehead) So there we go - speckles. Now that I have a microwave and a single burner in my soaproom, there really is no reason for not melting my solid oils. I'll be more careful with my next batch because I, like you, like my soap smooth to the look and feel!

I'm just a soapmaker - learning everyday! And the lesson learned - don't be lazy...

Crater Lake!

2009-10-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about this new little town that we live in is that it is fairly close to Crater Lake National Park. Although my dad has a home not too far away from Crater Lake, I have never actually been there. It has always been mythical in my mind.

When I was young my best friend Karen, who always seemed to know all sorts of stuff that I didn't, told me about Crater Lake. How it was so deep that no one really knew how deep it was... And that the water was so clear you see all the way to the bottom. She also told me that there was a water monster that lived in Crater Lake.... Now, how all that goes together with no one knowing how deep it is, I'm not quite sure. Karen had quite an imagination for an 8 year old. Her family had the Time/Life series of books and I think between those and her imagination she came up with some crazy tales to pull over on little old gullible me. She also told me her house had ghosts and she *did* have a grandma who painted on her eyebrows, so you can see how she might know a few things about the world....

Monster or not, I am still enthralled with going to Crater Lake. It is quite a wonder and I can't wait to see it in person. I'm currently on my crusade of getting Mike to go this weekend.... let's hope I can be convincing.

Coconut Cream Soap - ick!

2009-10-01T15:12:00.000-07:00

The new flooring in the office - looks great huh!

Coconut Cream Soap (shea) - looks good, feels good, smells icky! Definitely not going out for sale

Pirate Party Success!

2009-09-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

Our "Booty for Boobies" party was a great success! With the help of those that donated and the matching funds from our company we succeeded in donating almost $4000 to the Race for the Cure. sneaky b* (that's me!) donated 9 gift bags full of scrubs, soap and other fun things for the raffle. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported us.

Don't mind the beer in my hand - I have the shirt to prove that I got up the next morning and participated in the race :)

Let's talk about arnica...

2009-09-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

I've been working out with a trainer a couple of times during the week. Basically, I'm a lazy a**. Well, no, I shouldn't say that. I just really can't make myself lift weights. Ride a bike - yes! Go for a run - sure! Take a yoga class - please! But try to get me to pick up a weight and suddenly I need to run outside because I think my car is being stolen...

So I've hired a great gal, "Wendy", at the Y to babysit me and count my reps. That is really all it is. It's not like I'm NOT lifting the weights or can't do it myself, but there is something about having someone standing there watching you do it that makes you actually do 10 reps and not suddenly lose count at 3 or take 5 minute interval breaks on the machine. She runs me through my paces in 30 minutes and then I feel like I've done my good deed for the day. She increases my weight even when I say I don't need it and makes sure that I do all 3 sets of lunges across the floor. And she is GOOD. I mean, I can try and chat and distract her all day long and the girl still knows how many I've done. So much for my engaging personality!

So for that reason I've just made some arnica rub to use on sore muscles. It also works well on bruises, but you should never use arnica on cuts or open skin. Mike has been getting a good chuckle out of my warped walking from sore calves or aching quads. And since I don't want him laughing at my self-inflicted misfortune - I need the arnica to soothe my muscles.

Here's a little bit about arnica and what it can do for you - thought I would pass along the info just in case some of you might be torturing yourselves as well.... after all, ski season is coming!

About Arnica from http://www.vitaminstuff.com/herbs-arnica.html:

Arnica (Arnica montana ([Latin]), also commonly called mountain tobacco or leopard's bane, is a wildflower resembling a daisy that grows in the mountains of Europe and North America. Arnica is commonly used in topical herbal medicines to speed healing from bruises and other traumatic injuries. Arnica is thought to provide the body with pain relief as well as anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory benefits. Arnica contains sesquiterpene lactones, substances that are known to reduce inflammation and decrease pain. Arnica prevents bruising by keeping stimulating the white blood cells to disperse trapped blood and fluid from the site of injury. Arnica’s effectiveness as a treatment for bruising, sports injuries, and inflammation is well established and many commercial creams used for treatment of pain, bruising, and swelling contain arnica as an active ingredient. Arnica creams are also used to treat pain and inflammation resulting from carpel tunnel syndrome and arthritis. To read more....

New stuff!

2009-09-14T10:32:00.000-07:00

Arrrrg! Salty Sea Fizzy Bath Melts

Beeswax soap - smells just like warmed beeswax! Although they got quite a bit darker after this pic was taken - they look like dark chocolate now... hmmmm

Mango Tea loofah embedded soap - can't wait to get this one in the shower. It is a great scent!

Next up this week - sugar scrubs and bath gel galore! Pineapple, Salty Sea, and something else... haven't decided yet.... any ideas? Think "pirate"....

Oh Yes... So Martha...

2009-09-13T16:46:00.000-07:00

Update on the new office - Mike has been working away this weekend to get our new office up and going. It is located out in the garage and was covered with wood paneling. Mike completely stripped it and has put in some new outlets. Next, he is drywalling the whole thing and then we paint!

The point of the office is a.) for me to have a quiet place to work during the day and b.) to give Mike a quiet place to study in the evenings.
Again, as always, I'm amazed at the things my husband can do!

New electrical outlets...

And finally - how Martha Stewart is this?! It is a potato, leek, feta tart made with puff pastry. So simple and sooooooooo good! I'm looking forward to Fall and all the comfort food that I love far too much....

And here they are!

2009-09-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

So - I'm Blogger inept and can't move my pics the way I want them. But at least I can show you my efforts from last weekend!

First: Hunter's soap! Why do hunters need soap? Well because they don't want to smell like Irish Spring while they are out in the forest. This one is scented to smell like fresh loamy DIRT with a titch of peppermint! So even if they smell like dirt, at least they are clean...

Next: Sunkissed Sage - this one is so yummy. It has a citrusy scent with just an undertone of deep sage.

Finally: Mango Tea! Yum! It is fresh and mango-y without smelling like you just rubbed fruit on you. I also made a round loofah embedded soap with this same batch (un-colored) that is still curing away.

Soap room pics! Here is my corner to store products

And here is a pic of the other side of the soaproom! I love it - lots of space to work and a sink for all the clean up. I can make a batch of soap so quickly now and not have to heft 50 lb. boxes around. It's a bit messy since I've been working away but it is such a great space! And I'm still trying to find the right place for all of my packaging. It's my own little heaven. The cabinet has my 1 gallon jugs and all of my fragrance oils in it - away from any sunlight.

Soap! Soap! Soap!

2009-09-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

I just can't wait for this weekend! We will be sticking around town and I'm excited about being able to get back in the soap kitchen. I promise there will be pictures of it. It isn't totally complete but it is pretty darn close and I can envision hours and hours whiled away in there. (I know that isn't a word, but work with me people - I get excited).

I have a few hours to myself in the evenings coming up and I can't wait to bust out some of my new fragrance oils and try them out. I can't believe it has been this long since I've made a batch. I must be having withdrawls.

I just got a fragrance that smells just like coconut cream pie - in fact, you just want to lick the bottle when you smell it - although that would be horrendous to the tongue. And about 12 more that are just dying to be made into something. I also have 2 small silicone molds that I want to try out - the thought of not having to trim every single bar sounds like heaven to me and will make production even more efficient. I hope the company that made them looks into doing some bigger sizes (hint, hint, are you reading this?)....

Great visit to Bend!

2009-08-30T18:07:00.001-07:00

We had a great weekend - spent time with Mike's folks and his brother. Nice dinner together and played with the dogs. Did some shopping - much needed jeans! - thank goodness the GAP has redesigned theirs. They fit like a charm! I even got in a great visit with my friend/esthetician Jill to pick her brain about what she does. Mike got some things done at the rental house so all is good there.

All in all a fantastic weekend and now for a relaxing night at home :)

We're going RED!

2009-08-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Here it is! The new wall color! Since this is such a little place it needs a pop of color to off-set our mostly white walls. Can't wait to get it painted. Please excuse the picture - the color isn't quite how it looks in person.

We are going with the one in the middle - it looks luscious in person.

What a great day!

2009-08-23T18:07:00.001-07:00

Mike and I took a long drive this morning to Ashland - playing with the dogs along the way. Went to a beautiful breakfast at Greenfields and then wandered through the Artisan Market. Met a fellow soaper who was so kind and had a great chat with her.

I must say her soap (although I haven't used it yet) is lovely! So soft to the touch, smells beautiful, and so simple. I bought bergomot and geranium (fits with my kapha Ayurveda type!). I sniffed it all the way home and I can't wait to get it in the shower with me.

To check her out here is her link

Bel Tramonto

2009-08-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

All I can say is... AMAZING.

Excellent food and excellent service! This little place in Klamath Falls puts those big city restaurants to shame.

We went to this little yellow house off the side of the road based on a recommendation from a couple we spoke to and it didn't fail to please. They have a menu that has a variety of offerings to please everyone. They have separated all of their main courses into full plates or small plates allowing you to sample many items or have one large meal. They start you off with fresh daily baked bread, roasted garlic, oil and balsamic vinegar. I'm a bit of a balsamic snob and this one was fantastic!

We started with a beautiful glass of wine - a montepulciano for me and a chianti for Mike. Both lovely. For starters we ordered a caprese salad, made with heirloom tomatos, and fried risotto spheres stuffed with cheese topped with crispy pancetta and drizzled with honey. I must say, the combination of savory and sweet had both Mike and I speechless.

For our main course, Mike had the crispy gnocchi with pork confit and I ordered the flank steak special with caramelized onions, Gorgonzola, and garlic mashed potatoes. Both were spectacular. I could have demolished the plate it tasted so good.

We were too full to explore their dessert menu but I have to say a bit of chocolate to finish off my red wine with would have been absolutely perfect.

Like I mentioned before, the level of service was top notch and for their regular customers they get to know what you like and have it prepared for you before you even sit down. They also have a lovely patio for enjoying your evening meal.

If you are in the area or just passing through - I can't recommend Bel Tramonto enough!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Klamath-Falls-OR/Bel-Tramonto/22953053701

We are trying this tonight!

2009-08-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

The great thing about moving to a new place? New restaurants!

Tonight we will be here:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/bel-tramonto-italian-ristorante-klamath-falls

Hope it is as good as the reviews....

Cruisin' the OC&E

2009-08-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

We've been cruising the OC&E Trail on our bikes in the evening. It is an old railroad that they have transformed into a pathway that stretches for miles. Mike can even take it directly to school. Taking our bikes out really seems to be a great way to end the day.

I have videos but am still learning how to get them up here. Mike has a great rendition of the "Rainbow Connection" I would like to share with you all!

Thank you!

2009-08-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

Some of you know that I have been having some struggles recently. Nothing that anyone else wouldn't have to deal with but difficult none-the-less. I just want to say thank you to everyone who reached out to tell me that they love me and care about me. I am truly lucky to have you all in my life and if I haven't told you recently, I am grateful for you.

I've also realized that I need to start listening to my own advice. I am constantly telling people that if there is something in your life you want to change then it is up to you to change it and that anything is possible if you try. Well (smacks herself on the head) I guess I should start listening to myself! I'm going to try and I know that it is hard to make any type of leap. Hopefully I'm able to dip my toe in the water and start taking baby steps to where I want my life to be.

Again, thank you for all of your love and support and I'll be sure to blog often about any new changes or adventures! :)

Soaproom is comin' along!

2009-08-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

New moulding in the corners! It looks so great.

Sink is in!

Sorry can't get this one right side up!

The walls are painted - you just can't tell :( And this is where the new light fixture will go.

More cabinets

Painting the walls

My handsome husband putting on a happy face in order to do this project

The plumbing for my sink :)

Room before paint

Mike is working away on the cabinets and the plumbing as we speak. I'm so lucky to have such a handy husband!

Moms are special

2009-08-13T19:17:00.000-07:00

This has been a great week. I left a tough week at work and went to the care of comfort of my mom's house. There is something to be said about sleeping at your parents' home. It seems like all of the sleep I don't get throughout the year comes to me there. I can sleep up to 12 hours the first night I get there and then my mom of course always says "Boy you slept a long time! Are you ok?". We have coffee and inevitably a game of "misery" ensues.

Then it is off to shopping. I always find clothes when I am shopping with my mom! She just has the magic touch of finding that one thing that I wasn't looking at and it being just the right thing. She found the perfect shirt for my class reunion and then the perfect earrings to go with the perfect shirt. How does she do that...

On top of that, she always has the best books set up for me to take home. I always walk into 2 or 3 of them laying on the bed waiting for me. Boy, she is a hard act to follow.... Happy Birthday Mom!

Great Weekend

2009-08-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

So I went to my 20th high school reunion. Great time - saw lots of people and had some really good chats. I have to say - we were a good looking class!! Or at least we have held up well ;)

Went to church yesterday with my mom and her friend Linda - both women that I would like to be like when I am 70. I have great role-models. Then we had a pool party at my mom's for her birthday. It was a great time. My niece and nephew had me worn out after swimming all day - I'll need to workout before I come down next time! Went for a ride in my dad's "hot rod". Then dinner out where Jared and Alina talked my ear off about Shark Week on the Discovery Channel. I forgot how much fun my family can be - we had lots of laughs together. They all were sad that Mike couldn't be here with us and I promised that he could come next time.

Today - not so good - but I'm keeping my chin up and realizing I could be in worse places in my life. I'm healthy, have great friends and family and I can't ask for much more than that.

How much is too much?

2009-08-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

Ok - I'm having a bit of a differing opinion with someone.

If a man and woman are friends and they are both married (to other people) - how much is too much communication (email/phone/text)?

I would say that catching up once a week or so would be normal. But that contact everyday is way too much and probably a bad sign for both of those respective relationships.

What do you say? What is a healthy level of married male/female friendship?

Happy Birthday Weekend Mom!!

2009-08-07T17:17:00.000-07:00

My mom turns 70 this weekend! I can't believe I have a mom that is 70! But I have to say - she is one of the most fun and bubbly people that I know and has probably never ever acted her age! She knows how to enjoy her days, enjoy her friends and family and make the most out of any situation. In fact, when I told her I was coming down to SoCal for her birthday and proposed that we could do anything she wanted to do - she wanted a pool party/bbq! No fancy dinners out here! Just some good old fashioned fun with the family. I can't wait!

This weekend

2009-07-31T09:18:00.000-07:00

My weekend gets cut short due to a flight to the Bay Area but I'm excited for all the things that we can do at the house. Priming and painting the living room and soap room. Unpacking more boxes and getting more settled. Mike has been working his rear end off in getting us out of the Bend house. He is such a trooper. Joseph our renter has signed his paperwork and we have a check. Things have gone pretty smoothly. We spent last night at Mike's folks house in air conditioned heaven!

Right now, I'm sitting in a very cute locally owned coffee shop in Bend and am getting a bit sad about moving away. We have nice people here in town and the laid back lifestyle that Bend provides is really nice. Hopefully we can find out niche in KFalls for as long as we are there.

Happy weekend everyone!

Light at the end of the tunnel...

2009-07-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

I'm currently in Portland, OR for work. This is the first part of a busy few weeks but I'm feeling like there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm back home in KFalls next week and then head to California the following week for work. I'm also headed to my mom's for her 70th birthday!! Wow, time goes by fast. I also will be attending my 20th high school reunion that weekend. It will be great to see some of the people I graduated with and reconnect. I wish Mike was able to go with me - but with the move and his school and the dogs, it just didn't seem to be in the cards.

Since I'm in the Portland area, I'm going to take advantage of the retail that we don't have in Bend. Maybe I'll find a dress for the reunion that will firm my arms, flatten my tummy, lift my bum and take away my wrinkles.

Here's to hoping!!

Melt Down...

2009-07-20T15:26:00.001-07:00

There is just so much going on. Work is overwhelming and I can't get my boss to see that I'm completely overwhelmed. I don't know how many times I've tried to explain this to her and I don't think I can have that conversation again.

We are moving 2 hours away and that in itself is overwhelming. Although the support and help we have been given by Mike's family has been wonderful. We couldn't do it without them.

I've been struggling with some personal things too which just compound everything else going on. Luckily I have such an amazing husband that I can talk to openly and work things out with.

Whew - I know I'm not the only one that has struggles. I just hope that at some point things will even out.

Going back...

2009-07-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

I stopped using the OCM for my face about 4 days ago because it felt like it was drying it out. The bridge of my nose developed what I like to call a rhinoceros bump. Just this dry dry skin on it. So I went back to using my "gentle" cleanser and now my pores are getting clogged again.

I think the answer is to lighten up a bit on the Castor oil in my mix. Maybe dial it down to a 40/60 mix or 35/65 and then amp up the moisturizer. I was using a fairly light moisturizer so it could be that it just couldn't keep up with the OCM. I have the Jurlique Calendula Cream that I absolutely adore for my skin in the winter here when it gets so dry. Maybe I'll just have to use that full time.

I'll let you know how the new tactic pans out...

A little home...

2009-07-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

We have closed on our little home and Mike is taking the first load of boxes down today and getting the keys. We are going to spend the weekend picking out colors, painting primer, measuring walls, etc.

It's funny because even though we have lived together now for over 3 years, this is our first little home together. Not his, not mine, ours. And we get to unpack, decorate, and make a space and a new life for us together.

And now that I've pulled Mike over to the dark side by getting him to like IKEA... it's going to be super cute!

Oh sleepy head....

2009-07-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

I've been having a dickens of a time sleeping recently. It is understandable with so much going on. Work is busy, but I'm feeling a little better about it and feel like I have a bit of a handle on it. It seems like I get tired, go to bed, and then my head just starts spinning. I've come to know some really bad tv at the wee hours of 2 and 3 in the morning.

We are moving as soon as we can get the paperwork done. I'm excited about this change and think it will be a great time for Mike and I to broaden our horizons. We bought a book of hikes in Southern Oregon and I am planning to take some time off in August for a much needed vacation. There is also a big YMCA in Klamath Falls that I'm excited about joining. But the whole process is also scary and overwhelming.

Keep me in your thoughts and send me relaxing sleepy vibes if you can! :)

A quiet night in...

2009-07-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

Mike is off to KFalls to have his day of orientation and registration for school. I hope it goes well and they tell him that he doesn't have much to catch up on for general courses.

I have the house to myself and the dogs and I are going to have a PARTY!! Not really, I have a late call with Asia tonight so it will be an easy night of just hanging out with the kids. What is going to be tough is ignoring those soaping oils that are calling to me in the other room.

We are still not signed for the house - waiting on the paperwork. Hopefully next week!

I've slowed down my OCM - I think it was too aggressively trying to cleanse my pores and I was getting little bumps like my pores were being encouraged to turn inside out. I am going to continue with it, but maybe on an every few days basis. I do love that my pores are so clean and my skin softer than usual.

Ok off to my call and then curling up with my book and the dogs....

I think I'll start a website...

2009-07-07T15:27:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to stay away from doing that but it looks like it might be in the cards. I have the shop in town that carries my stuff but I really feel like I need to broaden my soap audience. Is there an audience for that type of thing? I guess so. I'm always just very skeptical about buying body products over the Internet myself - scent is a huge part of why and what I buy - so I tend to think that others would be the same way. And I always worry about getting products delivered safely without damage and also creating more waste in the world.

I don't know - what do you think?

BTW - that is my Lime Margarita soap - it smells JUST LIKE a lime margarita!

NO SOAP FOR YOU!

2009-07-06T19:42:00.000-07:00

OK well it isn't that dramatic!

I've been holding off on any soap or bath and body making since we are going to be moving in a short while. But I tell you - it is tough! Everyday I'm thinking up something new that I want to try. Just like with any craft, it is always swirling around in your head. When I get antsy about it, I just tell myself that my new soap kitchen is in the works and remind myself of how much easier it is going to be to do these things once it is done..... but boy that is hard to wait for!

So in the meantime, I'll share the furniture that I've bought for this dream soap kitchen.... all courtesy of IKEA! (above) My new workspace - perfect for concocting the next fabulous item. And lots of storage for gear.

Shelving for important things like measuring cups and spatulas!

The corner cabinet that will hold my fabulous $5 stainless "steal!" sink that we found at a garage sale!

I can't wait!!

Booty for Boobies!

2009-06-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

My friend Tacy has put together a team for the Portland, OR Race for the Cure in September. Being the hilarious girl that she is, our team slogan is "Booty for Boobies!"

If you are interested, check out our fundraising page - it's pretty funny! Oh, and I had better find my running shoes.....

PS. OCM Week 2 - things are looking REALLY good! My face is clear and honestly, I think some of my wrinkles are smoothing out...

OCM - Day 3

2009-06-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Ok - Day 3 and things are good. My skin feels softer, pores feel smaller - I even think it might be evening out my skintone! Could be wishful thinking. :)

I switched to a 50/50 mix of castor and jojoba and I think this might be my combo - the sweet almond oil was good but I think the jojoba is nicer.

On the house front: The inspection is done! No pests or dry-rot, the roof may need to be replaced, and we are looking at a close in July! Woo hoo! I'm off to look at paint-colors!

OCM - Day 2

2009-06-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

So far so good! My skin is feeling great! I used a bit of eye cream today since it seemed like they were getting a little dry. And I'm vain. Things are starting to come to the surface - I had a few blemishes from being in Boston last week with hard water and my clogged (and when I say clogged, I mean DEEPLY clogged) chin is starting to clear up. Woo hoo!

OCM - Oil Cleansing Method

2009-06-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

I've been interested in the Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) for a while now, but had some apprehension about putting oils on my face. I have pretty normal skin but have a problem with pores clogging and allergy based adult onset acne. I decided after all that I have read about it that I would run my own test to see if it works for me. So for the next 30 days this will be my face cleansing regimen.

The thought behind the OCM is that like attracts like - so, in order to get oils out of your skin you should put oils on your skin to lure them out. It's kind of like getting the egg shell out of your eggs. You can try like the dickens to chase that little egg shell shard around with your finger but as soon as you put a piece of egg shell down there it attracts it like a magnet.

The oils that I am using today for the OCM are Castor oil and sweet almond oil. Castor is the oil that acts as an "astringent". That is the cleansing portion to this activity. Generally if you have normal skin you would start with a 50/50 mix of Castor and another oil. Popular choices are olive, sweet almond, grapeseed, or jojoba - most are easily found in any grocery or natural foods store. Jojoba is a unique oil and used in many cosmetic products because it is actually a liquid plant wax and not an oil at all. Its properties mimic the sebum of the skin which is your naturally occurring skin's oil. You can also combine a mix of oils to accompany your Castor oil. Just as every face is different, your combinations can be also. Just remember that olive oil is a heavier oil and not all skin reacts well to it.

Because Castor oil is the astringent for this activity you would want to adjust the amount of Castor based on your skin type - more for oily skin and less for dry skin. Based on feedback from people who have also tried this and have dryer skin, some forego the Castor completely and just use olive or another like oil as their cleansing regime and it works just as well. Those who have oilier skin have used up to 75% Castor and liked it.

For my first day of testing I used a 50/50 mix (one teaspoon each) of Castor oil and sweet almond oil. I added 2 drops of carrot seed oil ( known for helping "aging" skin) and one drop of roman chamomile (known for soothing sensitive skin). Lavender essential oil is also a popular addition to this mix as it is pretty mild and has universal healing properties. I splashed my face with warm water to get the pores opening up and massaged the oil mix all over my face. Now you would think that this would go dripping down your chin but since the Castor is such a thick oil it actually adheres and stays put really nicely. I then covered my face with a warm (as warm as you can get) wet washcloth and let the heat work on opening pores and letting the oils do their stuff. After about 5 minutes (I'm antsy, you can keep it on up to 20 minutes or so) I took the washcloth off. I rinsed the cloth with some more warm water and wiped away the oils and any gunk it may have pulled out of my pores.

The result: My face feels great! I didn't moisturize after so that I could see what my skin did over time. It actually got a bit drier throughout the day where I was thinking that it might get a little oilier as the day went on because of my skin's reaction to the "treatment".

One thing to note - because the oils are opening and pulling things out of your pores you may have a few bumps the first day or two just as it would with any new product you may use. That has not been my experience so far.

I repeated the treatment in the evening before bed - still good this morning!

No photos as I'm having picture issues - but as soon as I have that resolved I'll post a few :)

What a week!

2009-06-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

So I was in Boston last week and so many things happened at home!

Our offer was officially accepted on our little home in Klamath Falls. We will soon be moving to "Uncle Grant's house"

A hail storm came and undid all of my planting from the previous weekend. Now my garden looks a bit like a scraggly mess.

I am pouring over Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, and IKEA for decorating ideas for our new abode.

We went to the Sister's Rodeo - that would be the name of the town, not an all girl rodeo. We saw some good friends and had some great laughs! Although the bulls are getting so big only one bull rider stayed on for his full 8 seconds!

I drank bourbon for the first time and I may be a fan! Bourbon and coke was good but I'm thinking Mint Juleps, anyone?

The Rizor's showed us a very unique way of cooking biscuits on a campfire that looked like something you would learn in health class - uproarious laughter ensued. Let's just say it was biscuit....on a stick!

I am starting a new skin cleansing regimen after a chat with my friend Shannon in the UK who is now turning into a nature girl and forgoing all chemicals in products. I'm trying out the Oil Cleansing Method and will chart my progress over a one month period. Day 1 and so far so good!

I'm also itching to get some soaping done... we'll see if that happens this week. How can I distract Mike away from the house.....?

A little less conversation...

2009-06-06T17:57:00.000-07:00

... a little more action!

What a good Saturday! I slept in until 7:30am, had coffee with my honey, went for a walk with the dogs. Good start, wouldn't you say?

Then I got back and planted all of these starts that our neighbor Jeff let us have that he didn't need in his garden and later I went down and got a few more! Tomatoes, crook necked squash, and I think cucumbers - although Jeff, his wife Karen and I were debating that...I hoed and planted and then went to our local ACE hardware to get some tomato cages. I love our ACE!! Any place that I can shop for home improvement and get a free soda, I am totally down with! Also, when I went to buy 3"pvc pipe for round soap molds they guys easily took it into the back and cut them to length and helped me find the right caps. They did scratch their heads a bit trying to understand what I was up to - but all the same they were extremely helpful. I'm hopeful (with reservations) about tomato production in our high elevations but we'll see what comes. I also got my new herb plants in the ground or in pots. Fresh rosemary and thyme!! Heaven!

I also made a couple of bottles of shower get scented with what I am calling "Beach Glass" so a very light clear blue is appropriate I think! I just showered with it and it is NICE! A clean, light, summery scent. In fact, I am sniffing my arm again right now.... Hmmm, maybe tonight is a good night for some whipped shea butter in "Beach Glass"....

Mike and I have also put in our bid on the house and so far so good. We have a verbal acceptance at this point and they have until Sunday to change their minds. Cross your fingers for us! I've been scouring the Pottery Barn and IKEA site for ideas on how to make this little bitty house very livable for us. And I'm getting a soaping area!! No more lugging oils from room to room and worrying about spills!! Mike also promised me a greenhouse but I think that might have been in the height of trying to convince me to put the offer in! ;)

Happy Birthday to my Honey!

2009-06-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

It is Mike's birthday today and we are going to celebrate at home with friends. Tacos, Pacifico with lime and ice cream cake. Yum!

What a great way to end the day!

Happy Birthday Mike!!!

The first poppy of spring...

2009-05-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

I woke up to this beautiful flower this morning. Happy Sunday!

It's Friday! It's Friday!

2009-05-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

Oh I love a short week! And I get another one next week! We are taking Monday to go and look at houses again in KFalls. We found a really great real estate agent who has been more than helpful. And have a list to go run around and see. I think we may know the one we are going to buy, but you just never know...

I need to get some bath and body done this weekend - I just don't know what I want to do... I'm waiting on some supplies to make the "ultimate" belly butter for a newly preggo friend. I also need to make some new lip balms - it's been quite a while since I did that. Infuse some oils... oh the possibilities are endless!!! Yippee! My Brambleberry order just arrived!!! Such a great day.

The garden is also calling - the potatoes are starting to come up and we have little lines of lettuce. I need to get some onions in the ground. I love growing our own stuff!!

It's all good...

2009-05-26T11:16:00.000-07:00

Today is much better! Thank goodness.

My poor husband - I don't know how guys deal with us women sometimes. One of the reasons I really fell in love with my husband was because I could see that he had superior care taking skills. And me, being that I'm a bit high stung, opinionated, and type-A, needs that more than anything. Instead of telling me to get over it or getting frustrated with me he rolled with the punches and we had a great day watching movies on the couch eating chips.

On the soap front - I'm experimenting with a new pre-shower scrubby lotion-ish bar. I'll let you know if I can get it worked out.

Happy day everyone!

I'm cranky

2009-05-25T13:47:00.000-07:00

I think I'm PMS-ing. I thought I woke up fine. I suggested to Mike that we go to our little local diner for breakfast this morning and when he didn't want to my mood got all grumpy. Plus we didn't find any houses this weekend and the real estate agent that we got hooked up with with a nut job. We didn't find anything like what we thought we would find. And I have to work tomorrow - blech. I'm so done with this job.

And the crazy thing is - I can tell it is just hormonal. I don't want to feel this way and I don't want to be a brat but gosh, it is hard. I literally went and had my coffee outside with the dogs for about an hour this morning and waited for this "mood" to pass. Then I went on a wild goose chase for some essential oils that NO ONE had! Then I came home and took a long, uphill, walk. Even all of those things combined haven't gotten this bad mojo out of my system. I am pissed - at nothing! And soaping won't even help because I know if I even try to make something, everything will go wrong. I'll dump a bottle of oil on the floor, measure out the wrong amount of lye, or get some fragrance oil shot up my nose... something. I tried to do the whole, well at least I have a job, well at least I'm not sitting on the side of the road with a sign, at least I remembered to put my bra on today. Nothing worked. I listened to Liz Phair's song "Extraordinary" while I walked. That helped for a minute. Just a minute. Mike keeps trying to get me to go out and weed the garden. Now does that sound like something that will raise my spirits?! For goodness sake Michael!

Hmph! I think the only thing I can do is sequester myself - but I have no where to go. Our house is teeny. Ugh! Maybe I'll go sit in my car and lock all the doors....

Everybody on da Move! La la la!

2009-05-22T13:35:00.000-07:00

If you are familiar with one of my favorite musicians Michael Franti then you will understand the title.

Well, Mike and I are gearing up for a house-hunting weekend! I can't wait. This is one of the houses we are going to look at. Maybe I should have been a real estate agent. I really love looking at houses and this weekend I get a whole lot of that! The town we are moving to is pretty small and has some great older homes that could use some TLC. I'll need to get my imagineering goggles on to see the potential. It looks like we'll be seeing lots of houses with old formica, small bathrooms and bad additions - but there are a few that really are diamonds in the rough.

Wish us luck! Pre-approval in hand and we are ready to go!!

I'm a bad bad blogger

2009-05-21T19:25:00.000-07:00

I don't have much to say...

I ran yesterday - 3.1 miles - not too bad if I say so myself. But why do I have to run on the same trail that long legged Amazonian marathoners run on??? It's very disheartening to someone with umpa-loompa legs.

I swam last week. I think I'm a nice person but for some reason the 60 year old men in the slow lane of the pool looked like they were going to jump out of their skin if I got in their lanes... was it my shiny swim cap?

I have made no soap or bath products recently. The sun is distracting my mojo.

I planted some potatoes and lettuce - that was fun.

Ok - I'll try and go do something now so that I have something to write about later...

Look what I made!

2009-05-05T15:06:00.000-07:00

Pineapple foaming bath bomb cupcakes!! Seriously, they weigh like... 2 pounds and smell sooooooo good! Pick one up for Mom at Celadon in Bend!

And below - my sad state of affairs in making these....

Lots to update...

2009-05-04T20:44:00.000-07:00

I have been product prolific this week. New whipped shea butter going to Celadon in 3 scents: Pink Peony, Pineapple, and ... one un-named... it's green and yummy, aloe-ish... I'll let you know when I come up with a name. New sugar scrubs to hit the store as well in Pink Peony. I just love that fresh lemony floral scent! It reminds me of my wedding! And spring, of course!

I made up a nice Mother's Day gift bag for my friend Keith who is so supportive of my little hobby.

I'm "this" close to having my labels done. Very simple but will make my packaging look so much better than what I have now.

I'm still working on my supreme facial scrub.... can't quite understand why the stuff I'm using is melting the sugar into the mix. More formulary time needed, I'm sure.

Also, if I haven't already told the world... Mike has gotten into school in the Fall!! He will be studying Geomatics, which is Land Surveying and GIS. It is a fantastic program in a field that will be in need in the upcoming years due to so many folks retiring. I am very proud of my hubby!

The other part of his getting into school is that we will be moving to Klamath Falls, OR. A small town in the southern part of Oregon. It will be quite an adventure and we have already met some great people that we intend to get to know better!

Ah life! What a great journey!

Pop up Issues?

2009-05-04T11:32:00.000-07:00

Hey - has anyone been bombarded by pop-ups when visiting my blog? If so, please let me know so I can find the solution to it!
Thanks!

At this point... I have made crack.

2009-04-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

Yes, you heard me. I made some body crack yesterday.

This is the stuff that you will want to slather on after the shower everyday. In fact, you may just take another shower in order to use some more. It has this great way of carrying just enough fragrance to scent, but not overwhelm. And it softens your skin without being sticky.

IT IS AMAZING!!! I'm going to have to make more - shhhh, don't tell anyone I have it....

sneaky b* Body Crack will be available at Celadon in Bend by the end of the week - supplies are limited.... (name may be changed due to infringement laws and legal implications ;)

Also, I have created a facial scrub for my team of testers - can't wait to hear their feedback!

Back at it!

2009-04-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update - I'm a formulary master this weekend!

I just got back from a week away for work and am back in the saddle in mixing and creating new products. Today I'm working on scrubs for Celadon - more pineapple, can't keep that stuff in stock! And am working on an espresso brownie sugar scrub as a featured scent for the month.

Tomorrow I'll be working on lotion recipes to see if I can create something great! My thought is that I don't want to sell anything that I wouldn't spend the money to buy myself. Let's hope the formulary muses are with me tomorrow. I am also going to try the bath cupcake recipe that Ann-Marie posted on her blog a week or so ago. That is just one of those things that eludes me - can't quite get it right! Wish me luck!

I also just got a box of lip balm tins so I'll be mixing up some honey balm to take in as well - Spring is in the air!

Oh it feels so good to be back in the swing of b&b!

Soap update - the last 3 batches of soap I made are cut and curing - Espresso Brownie will be available at Celadon next week. I don't know about the whole caffeine curing cellulite but I will tell you this - taking it in the shower will cure just about any chocolate craving you may have! I should sell it as a diet aid...

I also head down to CA next week to do a quick little class for my mom's women's group at her church. It should be fun and maybe I'll get some new inspiration while I'm down there....

Will post pics tomorrow!

Oh yes i did!

2009-03-27T12:32:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize I had so much of this pent up soapmaking residing within me. But, yes - I did! So while Mike was out of town I made 4 batches of soap!! And here they are....

Lime Margarita - have happy hour in the bath! with a crystally touch of sea salt for a bit of scrub.

Pineapple - scented to smell like freshly sliced pineapple and best used with your Pineapple Whip sugar scrub!

Blueberry Bliss - the closest thing to smashing a pint of blueberries all over your skin...

Espresso Brownie - now, I'm not a big "chocolate in my bath products" person BUT.... for some reason this one hits the mark for me. Just when I was craving chocolate - I jumped in the shower with this and tah-dahhhh craving averted. May not work for all, but it worked for me. Also it helps that it is made with Bend's own Strictly Organic Harrar coffee as a base and grounds mixed in to give scrubby goodness. And because everything we read on the internet is true, coffee is supposed to get rid of cellulite....

edited to say: Blogger is evil and will not let me post and move my pictures.... will try and fix later...

And now back to our regular progamming!

2009-03-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting! It has been an busy few weeks. We were in London and Paris - amazing trip and so much fun. I really did choose well when I found Mike, we are great traveling companions. We saw so much and ate so much and walked so much. I really think we need to make a point to travel to more places every year.

Along with that, I went to Boston last week to meet with my manager and team. It was a great time and I am so lucky to be able to visit other parts of the country with my work. In addition to having a "rad" team to work with. I spent the night at my friend Jean's house and saw her cute little town of Portsmouth, NH. What a beautiful place - I can see why people give up their careers and move there with the dream of being a wooden boat builder. I think a trip out there with Mike is mandatory especially if we can go while the trees are turning.

And right before I left for Boston, I stopped into Celadon for a facial and to check in on the products. Things are going like gang-busters! They are using my scrubs on their customers and people are coming in regularly just to buy product!! Wow, I am so lucky!!

Today I am spending time with Mike before he heads out for an overnight to work with our friend Kelly to see if surveying might be something he wants to pursue. Of course, while he is gone I'll be making some soap..... ;) Pineapple and London lemon.... oh, I have swirls going through my head.....

Ok, funny stories are on their way - I just don't have time to be funny today... well that is unless you are right here in front of me.... and really that is more about how I look than anything...

Hope everyone is well and looking forward to Spring as much as I am!!!

Hellooooooo Paris......

2009-01-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

Another dream has come true!

In my "adventures in training" I am on my way to London once again to give a course the second week in February. With my manager's consent, I am also going to take the week following off to explore Paris and London!! Mike is going to join me on the Friday that the class ends and the following day - Valentine's Day that is! - we are heading to Paris on the train. Oh yes, we will be kissing under Le Tower Eiffel (ok, I don't speak French...) on Valentine's Day!! I am also lucky in that I have an acquaintance at work from France who is lovely and willing to share insights on things to do in Paris. She has also been kind enough to educate me on how to ask for things properly and not create an international incident. By the way a little tip, if you are in France don't ask for lots of ice in your drink... they only make about a tray per night and you'll take the bartender's entire stash. Good thing to know... especially when that guy is holding all the booze!

I am absolutely giddy and open to any and all suggestions of things to do and see while there.

In addition, I want to thank everyone who has voted in my poll - I really appreciate the input!!

Whew!

2009-01-18T09:55:00.001-08:00

I made it back from San Jose - not without a little bump. My flight from Portland to Bend was cancelled due to freezing fog. So a night in a hotel, breakfast and a visit with my friend Keith and a great husband who drove 3 hours to pick me up and we are home!

I'm working on a cold so I thought I would just update you all on a few things I did before I left...

New pineapple bath bombs....

They are a little "imperfect" as this was my first attempt but I think they came out ok...

And a pile of pineapple sugar scrubs...

Next up shower gel and lotion... then on to the rest of the 2009 scent line...

Ok, more later... this cold sucks....

My vision board...

2009-01-06T11:41:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share my vision board with you all.... I don't know why, maybe to inspire, maybe to encourage...maybe to let you all see how scattered my brain is.

I like doing vision boards - I think they help you to sit with your thoughts in a creative way and spend time resonating with what you want in your life.

I had a funny thought this morning, in the shower, they always happen in the shower... that I have been pushing myself. Pushing myself away from the vision that I really have for my life but to a place where other people think I should be. When I sit down and visualize my ideal life it is simple. It is in our little house in Bend with its very little mortgage payment. It is going to a job downtown that I can ride my bike to, that may or may not be full time. It is enjoying this great little town that we live in regularly, not just when I'm not overly tired from my big corporate job. It is doing yoga consistently in a studio that knows me when I go in. It is formulating my bath and body products to share with others. It is taking my dogs out to the forest to run wild with joy. Gardening in the sunny afternoon to coax those little buds up and create fabulous culinary creations in my kitchen.

And when I sit down and really think about it... I am getting there. My vision board just reminds me that is where I want to go.

Dang you Andrew Shepard!!

2009-01-03T11:18:00.000-08:00

I'm supposed to be soaping today!! I have many fragrances waiting on me and a husband out of the house. But what did I do? I went to see Andrew Shepard play in town last night. I had one too many beers because I was all caught up in the music and fun and dancing, and now I'm a bit tired and don't feel like I should be playing with LYE!!!

Dang you Andrew Shepard, Dang you to heck!!

In all seriousness, the first time I met Andrew was camping at the beach last year - but I wouldn't really call it meeting him. I was out of the trailer for a hot minute while suffering a horrible cold that had me laid out. So I had no idea that Andrew played music or even knew anything about him.

He is an amazing musician (and I'm a pretty harsh critic). I highly recommend checking his MySpace page out. If you are in Portland, OR - catch a show! It is so worth it. I haven't danced like that in a long time. After "ok, just one more song" turned into 12 we let him sit down.

Amazing! Andrew, please come back again soon!

It's a New Year!

2008-12-31T11:32:00.001-08:00

I love New Year's Eve! It always feels like a new start.

It is great to sit down and review what we have done over the last year. My husband and I take time to write down our new combined goals for the year. Also, since I am a big believer in letting the Universe/God/I AM know what my intentions are - I also do a vision board so that I can see what my goals are everyday and focus on them.

I have already visualized my plans for my sneaky b* line. I am slimming down and streamlining things, putting in a few new products, and opening an online store. I can't wait to see what 2009 brings for sneaky b* and for all of you as well!

Happy New Year!

A house full of art

2008-12-28T17:02:00.000-08:00

I admire homes that are filled with things that the owners truly love. My friend Tacy has a retro poster of Mt. Hood on her wall that always reminds me of her. Sam Maloof, famous woodworker/rocking chair maker, has a home filled with his own hand-built pieces. My mom's good friend from college has a home filled with artwork from friends that each have a story and warm memory attached.

In our attempt to fill our home with Mike's beautiful furniture and art pieces that we love, we found a gorgeous lamp today. The base is made by a studio here in Portland, OR and the shade is made in Benecia, CA.