BEAUTIFUL CHICORY

Driving to my doctor's office today, I was delighted to spot a long, vibrant row of chicory flowers blooming alongside the road. Their delicate blue petals stood out agains the backdrop of lush greenery, a charming sight not far from her farm/clinic in Wisconsin. Chicory is undeniably beautiful, and I find myself captivated by its aesthetic allure. Although it's not a native plant to Minnesota, its temping elegance has often made me consider adding it to my garden. The thought of those cheerful blooms brightening up my yard is enticing, yet I remain aware of the importance of promoting native flora.

Beyond its visual appeal, chicory is a plant rich in versatility and health benefits. The root of this remarkable herb serves as an excellent caffein-free coffee substitute, offering a robust flavor without the jitters associated with traditional coffee. Meanwhile, the nutrient dense leaves can enhance salads, contributing a slightly bitter but refreshing note to dishes. On the medicinal front, chicory is known for optimizing digestion and supporting bile production, making it a valuable ally for gut health. In addition to all of that, its properties for detoxification play a significant role in cleansing the blood, showcasing chicory's utility beyond just a decorative plant.

Chicory is a resilient plant, thriving in zones 3-7, which adds to its allure for gardeners like myself who are interested in cultivating a hardy, low maintenance plant. As I continue my journey, I can't help but appreciate chicory not only for its beautify but also for the wealth of health benefits it offers - an inspiring reminder of nature's bounty that surrounds us every single day. 

 

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ARTS IN THE PARK!

 

Tomorrow marks the final day of our time at Arts in the Park in Forest Lake, Minnesota, and we'd be thrilled to have you join us if you're nearby. This even has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow artists and crafters as well as to showcase our unique soaps. A variety of amazing vendors are participating, each contributing their own flair and artistry, so don't miss out on the chance to explore all they have to offer. You an check out all the great vendors HERE

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NO PLACE BETTER TO SELL THAN NEAR THE SHORE OF LAKE SUPERIOR

This past Saturday we had the wonderful opportunity to sell our handmade soaps at the Festival by the Lake in Duluth. The sun was blazing down, turning the day into a real scorcher, but the host was kind enough to place our booth just a stone's throw away from the shimmering waters of the beautiful Lake Superior. The proximity to the lake not only provided a stunning view but also brought with it the occasional cool breezes that made the day far more bearable. Without that refreshing air, I can't imagine managing to stay outside for the 12 hours that I did!

While the turnout was quieter than I had anticipated, which I suspect might have been due to the heat, the atmosphere was still enjoyable. It was a leisurely day, allowing us to connect with those who did venture out to explore the festival. Even with fewer people, there was a unique charm to the event, and the backdrop of Lake Superior always steals the show. Overall, despite the heat and the relatively low attendance, it was a beautiful day spent in Duluth - our favorite lakeside city with - with our treasured soaps in hand.

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LOVELY LAVENDER

I absolutely love lavender; it's one of my favorite scents. There's something truly enchanting about the way its delicate aroma fills the air, soothing the senses and transporting me to a serene lavender field. Not too far from my house is a hidden gem called the Lavender Barnyard, a delightful little lavender farm that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this fragrant herb. The moment I step onto the property, I am greeted by rows of vibrant lavender plants dancing gently in the breeze, their hues ranging from soft lilac to deep purple. It's a sensory paradise, and I can hardly resist the urge to take in a deep breath of their intoxicating fragrance.

The owner, Marie has poured her heart into creating an idyllic landscape for anyone who shares her passion for lavender. As I wander through the far, I can't help but admire the wide variety of lavender species she cultivates, each offering its unique scent and charm. The gift shop is another highlight of my visits, filled with an array of lavender-themed products from essential oils and sachets to delicious culinary treats infused with lavender. Marie hosts events that celebrate the beauty of lavender, inviting the community to come together and cherish the simple pleasures of life, whether through workshops, picnics, or seasonal activities.

What I enjoy most about the Lavender Barnyard is the delightful company of bees. As I pick my bundles of lavender I find myself surrounded by these busy little pollinators, harmoniously buzzing from flower to flower. Their gentle presence adds to the tranquility of the experience, reminding me of the importance of nature and its interconnectedness. Each visit reinforced my love for lavender and depends my appreciation for beautiful spaces that others have cultivated. 

 

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BOMBS AWAY...

With the Festival by the Lake just around the corner in Duluth, MN I felt inspired to get a little crafty and create some colorful bath bombs for the event. While I've always leaned towards the classic round shapes, I recently received a delightful gift from a fellow soap maker-adorable starfish molds that spark my creativity. It's amazing how a simple mold can transform the entire aesthetic of a bath bomb. Crafting these starfish bath bombs has been not only a labor of love but also a great way to channel the warm, beachy vibes of summer into my work, even if I wasn't actually lounging not he sand when I snapped that pictures, it's all about the magic of imagination, right? I can already picture them sitting pretty at my booth, adding a splash of color and a hint of ocean charm that will surely catch the eyes of festival goers.

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WE NEVER MISS A CHANCE TO GO BERRY PICKING

Who doesn't love berry picking? Every summer my family and I have embraced the delightful tradition of heading out to our favorite farms with baskets in hand, eager to harvest sweet gifts. Since my children were babies, berry picking has become a cherished ritual that fills our lives with joy and laughter. Our favorites to pick are strawberries and blueberries, but when our beloved strawberry farm closed its doors after the owners retired, and our go-to blueberry farm suffered mightily due to the last two years of a drought, we faced the bittersweet challenge of finding new locations of your annual escapade. 

This year our search lead us to the picturesque Little Hill Berry Farm. What a gem it turned out to be! The moment we arrived, we were greeted by rows upon rows of luscious blueberries and vibrant currants waiting to be picked. The air was filled with the sweet scent of ripe berries, and the sight was simply enchanting. The small store on-site was a delightful bonus, stocked with an array of locally made items that showcased the region's artisanal talents. It felt good to support local farmers while enjoying the fruits of our labor - and speaking of fruits, the fact that the berries are organize only adds to the charm of this wonderful farm.

If you're a berry-picking enthusiast and find yourself in Minnesota, Little Hill Berry Farm is an absolute must visit. It's more than just a fun family outing; it's a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in organic delights, and create unforgettable memories together. Each year may bring new challenges and changes, but the joy of berry picking will forever remain a beloved tradition in our lives.

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