RUN, RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN! YOU CAN'T CATCH ME, I'M THE GINGERBREAD MAN!

Get ready for a delightful treat this holiday season! I'm excited to announce that I'll have some adorable gingerbread men available for purchase at the Winter Market in Northfield on November 18th. These charming little soaps not only look festive but also smell absolutely divine, reminiscent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through the air. Just imagine the comforting aroma of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enveloping your senses.

These gingerbread men soaps have become a favorite among our customers, and it's no surprise why - they are perfect for adding a cheerful touch to any holiday gathering or for giving gifts. Each batch is crafted with care, ensuring that they not only lather beautifully but also bring a smile to someone's face. With their irresistible scent and cute shape, they tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to stop by early to snag your own. Join us at the Winter Walk and bring home a little piece of holiday joy!

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UPCOMING CRAFT MARKETS, HERE WE COME!

We will be at the winter market in Nortfield Minnesota every other weekend starting November 18th.  Here are a few of the soaps we'll have on hand.

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SOME NEW GOODIES IN THE SHOP

I finally have the website back up and running. Phew!

The excitement of launching new products is always a thrill, and this time is no different. I've uploaded the new soaps that are here for sale, and I can't wait for everyone to experience the fresh scents and vibrant colors that I've been working on.

Here are the latest additions to my collection: from calming lavender bars to invigorating citrus blends, each soap is handcrafted with love and care.

Be sure to check out the website for not just the soaps, but also to find out about other upcoming products. Your support means the world to me, and I'm eager to share these delightful new creations with all o you. Thank you for your patience during the website revamp - let's get back to enjoying the art of self-care!

Lemonade Stand

Smell the Rainbow

Pumpkin Souffle

Spearmint

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UNLEASHING MY INNER BAKER

I am so proud of myself! For someone who has always considered themselves a terrible cook and even worse at baking, it feels like a monumental achievement to whip up something my family absolutely loved. The inspiration for my culinary adventure harkens back to nearly 30 years go a friend's delicious cake at her daughter's birthday party. The cake was incredible, but it was the frosting that really stole the show, so light and fluffy, it had everyone buzzing with curiosity about its ingredients. When I learned that the magic was simply Cool Whip and pudding, I couldn't believe how easy it was. Who knew such a delightful treat would be so easy to create.

Recently the cake popped back into my mind, sparking a determination to create something similar on my own. As I recalled my friend's recipe, I knew the base had to be a box cake mix, but I was unsure which one. I decided to go with lemon, a flavor I had always loved. I bought lemon curd for the filling because I remembered the cake had a zesty punch, though I couldn't pin down if it was lemon curd or pie filling. Breaking some culinary rules, I opted for a single layer cake instead of the traditional two layers, using an injection took to disperse the lemon curd through the cake's moist center. Finally, I found a Cool Whip frosting recipe online and topped it off with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. The result? A creation my family became instantly obsessed with, devouring the entire cake and begging for more. It's ironic that I, who always shied away from the kitchen, could produce something so delicious, but the satisfaction of their enjoyment is more than enough to make me beam with pride

You can find the frosting recipe here: All Recipes 

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MY DOCTORS UNIQUE APPROACH TO WELLNESS

After nearly five years of grappling with persistent medical issues and feeling like I was navigating a labyrinth of inadequacy in healthcare, I am overjoyed to have finally found a doctor who truly resonates with my needs and genuinely wants to support my healing journey. Her approach is refreshingly empathetic, and it feels as though she understands me not just as a patient, but as a whole person. What sets her apart, aside from her compassionate care, is the enchanting location of her clinic. Tucked away in the picturesque Wisconsin countryside, she built her practice right on her property, transforming it into a sanctuary that feels more like a serene retreat than a sterile medical facility.

The drive to her clinic is an experience in itself-a rolling landscape punctuated by the vibrant colors of nature, all of which sets a calming tone well before I even step inside. Upon arrival, I'm enveloped in an atmosphere that balances the warmth of a bed and breakfast with the peace of a spa retreat. The gentle mooing of the cows crazing nearby adds an extra layer of tranquility, creating a unique backdrop that fosters relaxation and healing. I often find myself imagining how beneficial it would be for clinics and hospitals to embrace the serenity of nature in their design. There's something profoundly restorative about being surrounded by the peaceful presence of animals and open spaces; I could almost commune with the costs in a way that nurtures my spirit and aids my recovery. In a world that often feels chaotic and rushed, this oasis of calm truly makes a world of difference for patients seeking solace and health.

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LUFFA, LOOFAH, LUFA, LOFA, LUFA

Is there really a right way to spell luffa? 😂

It seems like a simple question, but one glance at the various spellings can spark debate. Perhaps it's spelled "loofah" in one corner of the internet, while "luffa" garners its supporters in another. Whatever the spelling, there's no denying the versatility of this remarkable gourd. I learned this firsthand when I tried my hand at growing luffas a few years ago with the intention of incorporating them into my homemade soaps. My quest quickly came to a halt, however, as Minnesota's brief growing season left me with little more than a dream of a succulent, homegrown luffas.

Fast forward to this year when I spotted a promising luffa at the Farmer's Market. Eager to finally experience the pleasure of crafting my own, I decided to buy it and dry it myself. It was green, which raised a red flag about peeling, so I sought guidance from a garden guru on YouTube.  Her oven-drying technique yielded decent results. While the skin slid off easily as she said it would, half of my luffa deflated. Not her fault - the luffa was bad. After washing it, it still had an odd greenish hue that made it look a bit funky. In the spirit of experimentation I decided to dry it anyway to see if was usable as an exfoliant in my soaps. (update: it became moldy). 

I'm determined now to return to the Farmer's Market for a second chance at getting this right. Then in January I plan to start seeds indoors, giving my future luffas ample time to grown, aiming for a bountiful harvest that I can let dry on the vine. Then I'll make sure they are vibrant and ready for my future soap creations. 

Exceptionally long luffa 🤣👀

I cut it up as instructed by YouTuber

 The two luffas on the left are no good. Completely deflated and mushy. The ones on the right look pretty good. I'll update once they are dry. 

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FROM ORCHARD TO TABLE

Every year at this time, our family eagerly anticipates our annual apple-picking outing. It's a cherished tradition that brings us all together, with the girls delighting in the thrill of plucking ripe apples from the trees while I can't wait to transform our harvest into delicious handmade applesauce. Among the various varieties we encounter, Sweet Tango apples have emerged as my absolute favorite. Their unique blend of sweet and tangly flavors makes them incredibly versatile for all types of applesauce recipes, whether I choose to add sugar or go the healthier route with no sugar at all. For myself, I prefer the pure taste of the apples, relishing the natural flavors, while my daughters enjoy a richer, sweeter version infused with brown sugar.

As the autumn sun filters through the leaves, creating a picturesque backdrop, we gather our bounty and return home, excited to jump into the kitchen. I have two favorite recipes that never fail to bring smiles. The first is a simple, no sugar added applesauce that highlights Sweet Tango's natural sweetness, where I gently cook the apples in the crockpot with a touch of cinnamon until they are tender and then mash them to the perfect consistency. The second recipe is a delightful brown sugar version, where I cook the apples in the crockpot with brown sugar and pumpkin spice, creating a luscious treat that my girls can't resist. Each time I make applesauce, not only do we create a delicious fall staple, but we also weave unforgettable memories together that make this season truly special. 

Here are two of my favorite recipes for you to try:

With Sugar

Without Sugar

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TRANSFORMING A SINGLE MAGICAL MOMENT INTO MULTIPLE

For quite some time my husband has been urging me to resume feeding the hummingbirds that once filled our yard with joyful activity. Memories of those days flooded back-the little feathered creatures flitting from feeder to feeder. However, I resisted, knowing my track record with maintaining their feeding station was spotty at best. In the past, I frequently forgot to clean the feeders or change out the sugar water every three days, which can be detrimental to the delicate birds. So, I chose to give up on the endeavor altogether, convinced it was for the best.

But recently, something changed in my mind. As I lounged on the deck I noticed a solitary hummingbird flitting around the flowers, seeming to search for sustenance. The moment took an enchanting turn when this little bird ventured closer, hovering just two inches from my head. It held its position, eyes fixed on me, as if trying to communicate something profound. That brief moment felt almost magical, and I couldn't shake the feeling that it was a sign - a gentle nudge urging me to bring the feeders back to life.

Motivated by this unexpected connection, I hurried inside to whip up some sugar water. With eager anticipation, I placed two feeders, one on the deck and another in the garden, strategically positioned to invite the beautiful birds back. To my amazement, it wasn't long before a flurry of activity erupted. Almost immediately half a dozen hummingbirds appeared, darting around in a lively dance that I had never witnessed before in such numbers. Capturing their fleeting beauty on camera proved to be quite a challenge; their speedy movements often resulted in a blurry images. Yet, after several attempts, I succeeded in snapping a couple of shots, preserving a glimpse of the vibrant chaos. The experience transformed my outdoor space, rejuvenating not just the environment but also my spirit, reminding me of the joys that come from reconnecting with nature.

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SOAPY CUPCAKES FOR THE KIDS ARE ON THE WAY

In June, I decided to take my passion for crafting to the next level by bringing mini soapy cupcakes to the Riverwalk Market in Northfield. To my delight, they turned out to be a tremendous hit! children were particularly drawn to these adorable little soaps, especially the ones designed to resemble popular treats like cupcakes and donuts. There's something magical about the way these whimsical creations capture their attention. The vibrant colors and playful shapes spark joy and imagination. While it was an absolute blast to make them, I must admit that my piping skills still need a bit of work. 😅

Fast forward to September, and I've whipped up a new batch of soapy cupcakes, this time infused with the delightful scent of Berry Bliss fragrance oil. The aroma is simply irresistible, reminiscent of sweet summer days. Of course, I have to remind everyone that while they look good enough to eat, they're purely for pampering and not for consumption. It's such a thrill to share these enchanting creations with others, knowing that they not only brighten up the bath time but also bring a smile to anyone who encounters them. Who knew soap making could be such a fun creative endeavor?

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NEW SOAPS FOR THE AUTUMN SEASON

As September approaches, the excitement for fall begins to fill our home, where we eagerly embrace the start of meteorological fall on September 1st. 🍁 The transition is marked by a vibrant burst of autumn colors-orange, yellow, and red - as we adorn our living space with seasonal decorations. Halloween motifs start to appear, inviting a sense of playfulness and nostalgia, while the cracking warmth of bonfires fills the air with that unmistakable scent of cozy gatherings. We indulge in the comforting aroma of pumpkin scented candles, which flicker gently, heralding the comforting embrace of fall. Additionally, our handcrafted fall soaps make their way to our website, ready to delight customers with their seasonal fragrances. 

This year, we are thrilled to introduce a curated collection of fall soaps just in time for the season. Each handmade creation is infused with scents that epitomize autumn, inviting everyone to indulge in the essence of this magical time of year. I'll be featuring these delightful soaps not only on our website but also at the Northfield Riverwalk Market, where I'll have the pleasure of showcasing them on September 2nd, September 16th, and October 14th. I warmly invite anyone in the area to stop by our booth, where you can experience the wonderful new scents firsthand. There's nothing quite like the thrill of fall, and I can't wait to share with you!

Autumn Fig

Rosehip Jasmine

Apple Sage

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CONTAINER GARDENING: YES, PUMPKINS CAN THRIVE IN POTS

For the past few years, my quest to grow pumpkins on my deck has been nothing short of a comedy of errors. Initially, I tried my luck in the garden, dreaming of vibrant orange fruits adorning my space, but each time a wild critter - a mischievous squirrel or hungry bunny - would sneak in and devour my tender plants before they could even bear a single fruit. Frustrated, I switched to pot gardening, hoping that the elevated space would keep my crops safe. While the plants flourished and produced beautiful flowers, I was left disheartened as they failed to develop pumpkins. This year, however, my determination propelled me to conduct some research that revealed I had been underestimating the importance of pot size. I promptly upgraded to a larger container, and to my surprise, I found two pumpkins developing! My excited was palpable, but I faced a new challenge: I planted them far too early, meaning I needed to strategize on how to keep my pumpkins healthy and vibrant until Halloween - a goal that had been my inspiration from the very beginning.

Reflecting on this year's experience, I've gained valuable insights that I plan to implement in the future. One of the main lessons was that size truly matters; next year I will invest in a 10-gallon pot to give my pumpkin plants ample room to flourish. Perhaps this change will not only yield larger pumpkins but could also increase the number of fruits I can harvest. Armed with newfound knowledge and a hint of experience, I'm more optimistic than ever about pumpkin growing endeavors. With each setback I've grown a little wiser, and I can't wait to see what next season brings. For now, my two early pumpkins will be lovingly tended as I plot my strategy for a bigger, better harvest in the coming year.

Update in Sept. 2024. The two pumpkins kept for nearly one year in perfect condition in our cold basement. No treatments to preserve either one was needed. Just shy of a year the larger one developed a soft spot that became moldy.

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A VISUAL DIARY OF MY BIRD WATCHING ADVENTURES

When I first got sick in 2018, the world around me felt heavy and daunting. Each day was marked by physical limitations, and the simplest tasks became monumental challenges. It was during this time that I rediscovered the simple joy of watching birds. Having always appreciated their beauty and grace, I never imagined the depth of solace they could provide. As I sat on my deck, unable to walk, I turned my attention to the vibrant life fluttering in my yard. The cheerful chirping sparrows, the elegant swoops of the robins and the delightful songs of the thrusts created a soundtrack that eased my mind. In those moments as I watched them playfully flit about, I found a sense of contentment and calm that was desperately needed. 

Recently, as I venture back into the world, I find myself reflecting on those early days. I can hardly believe how far I've come, yet the connection I have forged with my wild bird neighbors remains strong. Each photograph I take is a testament to my journey - both the struggles and the healing. These images are filled with the laughter of birds flitting about, a stark contrast to the silence I felt when I was at my lowest. 

As I share these snapshots of my avian friends, I hope to convey not only my love for them but also the pivotal role they played in my recovery. They serve as a reminder that beauty persists, even in the toughest of times. 

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PLANT FOR THE GARDEN - PRICKLY ASH

Prickly Ash, scientifically known as Zanthoxylum americium, is a fascinating native plant of Minnesota that holds a special place in both ecological and cultural spheres. This unique plant is often mistaken for the ash tree due to its name, but it actually belongs to the olive family. My first encounter with its distinctive berries was like stepping into a new world of flavors and sensations. My daughter's playful curiosity led her to sample a berry first, igniting a series of reactions that left both of us in fits of laughter - her tingling lips and my eventual, intense experience of drooling and tingling sensations, taught us just how potent this little fruit can be.

Beyond its amusing effects, prickly ash is a significant contributor to our local ecosystem. Its fragrance flowers attract butterflies while providing birds with ample shelter, making it a haven for various forms of wildlife. Additionally, the indigenous people of the region recognized its potential long ago; they harnessed the plant's numbing properties to alleviate tooth pain by chewing on the fruit and bark. In contemporary herbal medicine, practitioners have embraced prickly ash for treating ailments such as arthritis and digestive issues, showcasing the enduring legacy of this remarkable plant.

Personally, I cherish prickly ash not just for its medicinal qualities but also for its delightful aroma. The crushed leaves and berries emit a refreshing lemon like scent, elevating my culinary curiosity. Although I haven't experimented with prickly ash in recipes yet, I've heard that many who have tried it incorporate its fascinating flavor into various dishes, including teas. With its intriguing sensory experiences and benefits, prickly ash has piqued my interest, and I look forward to exploring new ways to appreciate this native gem.

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DISCOVER NEW SOAP CREATIONS AT THE RIVERWALK THIS SATURDAY

As I sat in my booth at the Riverwalk, reflecting on the joyful faces of the kids who often visit my table, an idea sparked in my mind that would merge fun with functionality. I envisioned creating a line of soaps specifically designed for children, transforming an ordinary bath time into an extraordinary adventure. The first product to emerge from this whimsical concept was a soap shaped like a real rubber ducky. Not only would it serve a delightful cleaning companion, but once the soap was used up, the cheerful little duck would remain, ready to add some splashes of joy to every bath. This blend of playfulness and practicality was the perfect way to engage young imaginations while promoting good hygiene. 

Every kid loves a bath time buddy, and what could be more perfect than a bright, cheerful rubber duck that doubles as soap? Designed to be gentle on their skin and infused with fun scents that delight the senses, this soap aims to make the bath experience something they eagerly anticipate rather than a chore. This rubber duck soap is a first in a series of imaginative soaps I plan to create for kids, each designed to make bath time a magical adventure, ensuring that each kid who visits my table will leave with not just a product but a little piece of fun too.

And of course we always have something special for the adults! Introducing our latest creation: a luxurious soap that marries the invigorating scent of orange essential oil with the vibrant hue of orange mica. This delightful combination not only makes for a stunning addition to your bath routine but also offers an uplifting sensory experience with every use. And that's not all - I've added a unique twist to this soap: a luffa embedded within. This natural exfoliant works wonders to help remove dead skin cells and promote circulation, leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated and silky smooth.  Whether you're starting your day or unwinding in the evening, this soap is designed to elevate your bathing experience to new heights, ensuring you have just as much fun in the tub as the little ones do.

Both of these soaps will be at the Riverwalk Market in Northfield this Saturday. 

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TRANSFORMING OUR GARDEN INTO A PARTY PARADISE

After years of thinking about it, my daughter and I finally transformed our forested backyard into a space for a potluck garden party. With lush native plants and winding trails, our yard had always been enchanting, but the abundant pollinators, stinging insects, and overall natural chaos made hosting a gathering seem too complicated. For some time we wondered how we could invite friends into our wild sanctuary without the interference of biting bugs or the need to keep a watchful eye on our food. This year, however, brought a unique turning point. The ongoing drought meant that our usual influx of wasps was absent, with the blooming schedule of the Joe Pye weed and goldenrod slightly delayed. This unexpected change presented us with the perfect opportunity to carve out a little party nook.

With determination and a bit of elbow grease, we cleared a spot by removing some overgrown mint and chives, relocating them to a sunnier area. Soon, our makeshift tables were nestled among the vibrant foliage, and the excitement of finally hosting was palpable. When the day arrived, the atmosphere was nothing short of delightful. To our surprise and joy, not a single mosquito dared to join the festivities, and only a few curious insects made a fleeting appearance to inspect our delicious spread. It was a perfect blend of nature and friendship, a testament to how even the wildest spaces can be transformed into inviting settings.

The highlight of our gathering was undoubtedly the crafting, as we shared laughter and creativity under the open sky. Surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors, we felt a deep gratitude for the wonderful friends who joined us, each contributing their unique touch to our creative projects. In that moment, amidst the vibrant plants and gentle breezes, we celebrated not just our shared friendship, but also the joy of creating and enjoying life in harmony with nature. Our potluck garden party was a beautiful reminder that with a bit of flexibility and a love for the outdoors, even the most intricate plans can come together seamlessly. 

Painting by Maya Valadez

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OUCH! ACUPUNCTURE

For years I've had people tell me I should try acupuncture but I have a severe needle phobia so I've avoided it. I don't care how tiny the needle is, it's still a needle and just knowing it's being stuck into my skin is enough to make me sweat and worry. 

A few months ago I finally broke down and went for my first treatment. I had such severe anxiety at the time and nothing was helping with the reflux, insomnia, and adrenaline rushes that I thought acupuncture couldn't hurt. I first tried a place in Burnsville. I was amazed at my first session because I didn't feel the needles at all and the rush of energy I felt flowing through my body made me euphoric. I knew right away that I was hooked. My new doctor recently had me try a new acupuncturist in Roseville, one with more knowledge and experience with Chinese medicine, and I'm so glad I switched over to her because she's truly a master at what she does. 

Every time I get a treatment I walk out feeling 100x better than when I went in. I still fear the needles and I cringe every time I have to lay down on the table and be poked but I love the outcome so much I just don't care. I feel the needles more now which is a good sign according to the acupuncturist. My favorite part of each session is feeling the energy flow through my entire body. I use to only feel energy in my hands but now I sense it from my head to my toes. It's calming and healing for sure. 

If you've ever tried acupuncture I'd love to read about your experience. 

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MET WITH A NUTRITIONIST

My new doctor has a group of people that are part of her healthcare team and so far everyone she has sent me off to see I've been impressed with. My most recent appointment was with a nutritionist. She went over my medical record before meeting with me so she had plans for me the moment we sat down to speak to each other. 

First priority is to find foods I can tolerate and gain weight so she had me experiment with cassava flour today. I've had cassava before in the form of pasta but hadn't eaten it since getting sick again back in December and never worked with the flour. I cooked up two tortillas, added some almond butter and blueberry jam (100% pure fruit) and ate both. It was a nice change from eating the same foods over and over for months. I hope my body handles it well. 

Normally not handling well means becomes abdominal pain, bloating, loose stools, and horrific reflux. Fingers crossed for a good outcome. 

For anyone interested in a gluten free no grain flour alternative, the recipe on the bag is:

3/4 casava flour

1/4 tsp sea salt

2 Tbs olive oil

1/3 cup warm water.

Mix together well and then make six balls. If the consistency is a little dry just add a tiny bit more water. Roll out the balls in between two sheets of parchment paper and place on non stick square griddle pan on medium heat and wait for bubbles to form on each side like you do with a regular flour tortilla. 

The cassava tortilla is close in taste to a flour tortilla but a little more doughy tasting. 

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LAWN BE GONE!

 In 2020 we removed a large portion of our front lawn and today we have just about 1/4 left to remove before it's all gone. We filled the empty space in with 90% native plants and have been very pleased with how it turned out. 

We aren't strangers to replacing non natives with natives. When we moved into our home nearly 16 years ago our entire backyard was buckthorn. It was an extension of the forest into Alimagnet park. Our first year we hired a company to remove all the buckthorn then after that we had to deal with flooding all the time so we had the yard regraded. After the regrading we bought a large sack of native wildflower seeds and spread them all over the backside of the house and within a year we started to see native grasses, goldenrod, Joe pie weed, daisies... Today we have so many natives growing back there I've lost count. The amount of wildlife that loves to be in our yard is what makes me the most happy. Frogs, toads, turtles, fox, rabbits, deer, snakes, wasps, hornets, bumblebees, hummingbirds, butterflies... We now see so many insects that we'd never seen before planting natives. We also stopped raking up our leaves in the fall and that has caused a boom in the firefly population around us. It's truly incredible and very special. 

Some people are surprised to learn that the adults of most firefly species are in fact pollinators. 

 

The honeybee isn't a native pollinator but it's a pollinator none the less.

Beautiful Monarch butterfly.

The bumblebee has some pollen on her legs.

When we removed a portion of our lawn in 2020. We did this on both sides of our driveway.

These are the plants we put in to replace the lawn. We have mountain mint, butterfly weed, bergamot, boneset, pearly everlasting... and many more.

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