WHAT'S COMING IN 2026: A YEAR OF MAGICKAL SOAP INSPIRED BY SEASONS, RUNES, AND THE MOON!

2026 is shaping up to be a year of intention, ritual, and small-batch magick.

I’m excited to share what I’ve been quietly planning behind the scenes: a full year of handcrafted soap releases inspired by ancient cycles, symbols, and plant wisdom. Each collection is designed to help you mark time more intentionally, whether that’s with the turning of the seasons, the rhythm of the moon, or the quiet power of sacred symbols.

Every soap will be made in limited batches, with care given not just to ingredients, but to story, symbolism, and purpose.

Here’s what awaits in 2026.

The Wheel of the Year Soap Collection
Rune Soaps: Ancient Symbols, Modern Ritual
Moon Phase Soaps
Herbal Lore & Plant Wisdom

AND MORE...

WHEEL OF THE YEAR SOAP COLLECTION

The Wheel of the Year honors the seasonal festivals that mark the natural flow of time: birth, growth, harvest, rest, and renewal. These soaps are designed to be released around each sabbat, aligning scent, color, and intention with the energy of the season.

Each sabbat release will come with a small, themed charm as part of the packaging. By the end of the year, customers will have collected eight charms, each corresponding to one of the seasonal festivals. These charms can be:

• Worn as part of a personal charm bracelet

• Used in your own rituals

• Displayed as decorative keepsakes

The charms turn the Wheel of the Year soaps into an interactive, collectible experience, encouraging reflection on the seasons while offering a tangible piece of magick to carry forward.

Expect soaps inspired by:

• Yule

• Imbolc

• Ostara

• Beltane

• Litha

• Lammas

• Mabon

• Samhain

Each release will reflect the season’s themes through fragrance choices, color palettes, and ritual storytelling. The charms add an extra layer of engagement, allowing the collection to become a personal, meaningful ritual by the end of the year.

RUNE SOAPS: ANCIENT SYMBOLS, MODERN RITUAL

Throughout 2026, I’ll be releasing individual rune soaps - one rune at a time, in small, intentional batches.

Each rune soap will center on a single symbol from the Elder Futhark, paired with thoughtful ingredient choices and a simple rune card. The card includes the rune’s name, a brief explanation of its traditional meaning, and space for open or personal interpretation.

These are not mass-produced sets. Each rune release will stand on its own, allowing time to sit with the symbol and let its meaning unfold naturally before the next rune arrives. This slower approach invites reflection rather than rushing through the entire alphabet.

MOON PHASE SOAPS

The moon shapes tides, sleep, emotions, and cycles—and it deserves its own place in daily ritual.

The Moon Phase soap collection will honor:

• New Moon - beginnings and setting intentions

• Waxing Moon - growth and momentum

• Full Moon - release, clarity, and illumination

• Waning Moon - letting go and reflection

• Dark Moon - rest, inner reflection, and quiet renewal

Each soap will be designed to reflect the energetic qualities of its phase, whether that’s initiating new intentions, letting go of what no longer serves you, or embracing stillness. These soaps are perfect for evening routines, intention-setting baths, or simply bringing a sense of rhythm back into everyday life.

HERBAL LORE & PLANT WISDOM

Woven throughout 2026 will be herbal lore soaps, made entirely with essential oils, and herbs from my own garden. Each bar celebrates plants with long histories of use in folk traditions, seasonal remedies, and symbolic magick.

These soaps will bring you more than scent, they’re a chance to experience the stories, traditional uses, and folklore of each herb through a slow, story-driven approach to soapmaking.

Expect each release to highlight:

• Traditional plant associations rooted in folk wisdom

• Botanical textures and infusions directly from my garden

• A narrative-driven experience that invites reflection and ritual

Herbal lore soaps may appear alongside seasonal or lunar releases, or arrive as special limited editions when the timing feels just right.

2026 isn’t about rushing or collecting everything at once. It’s about choosing what resonates, using it with intention, and letting simple daily rituals carry meaning again.

I can’t wait to share each release with you as the year unfolds. Thank you for being part of this journey -  and for supporting small-batch, thoughtfully made creations.

A truly magickal 2026 awaits. 

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UNVEIL THE MAGICK: 2026 SMALL BATCH SOAP COLLECTIONS COMING SOON!

Circle of Enchantment: Wheel of the Year Soap Collection

Celebrate the seasons with 8 handcrafted soaps, each coming with a charm and unique seasonal artwork. Collect them all through the year to create your own magickal wheel of the year bracelet. Small batch, limited supply - these fly fast!

Ancient Marks: Rune Soap Collection

Ancient runes meet modern magick! Each soap is stamped with a single rune and crafted with scents and colors that reflect its energy. Perfect for intention-setting, protection, or just adding a little everyday magick.

Lunar Secrets: Moon Phase Soap Collection

Five soaps inspired by the lunar cycle - New, Waxing, Full, Waning, and Dark Moon. Align your rituals, set intentions, and soak in lunar energy with every bath.

Botanical Magick: Herbal Lore Soap Collection

Step into a world of herbal magick! Each soap is infused with herbs chosen for their scent and ancient wisdom.

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK FOR RELEASE DATES, SNEAK PEEKS & GIVEAWAYS!

SMALL BATCHES, LIMITED SUPPLIES -

DON’T MISS OUT!

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THE SOAP PIXIE IS HEADED TO THE NORTHFIELD RIVERWALK WINTER MARKET & WINTER WALK

I’m thrilled to sprinkle a little early holiday magic your way.

The Soap Pixie is fluttering back to the Northfield Riverwalk Winter Market this season! If you’ve been waiting for handmade soaps, knitted soap bags, and solid lotions, the chilly winds of Minnesota are definitely on your side.

Where the Soap Pixie Will Appear

Northfield Riverwalk Winter Market
Saturdays, 9 AM-1 PM
November 22 – December 20
(No market on Nov. 13 - even pixies need a rest day.)

Each weekend, we’ll bring along our solid lotions, knitted wash cloths, and small-batch soaps, all crafted with cozy holiday vibes and a pinch of pixie mischief.

And don’t forget: The Soap Pixie will be at the Northfield Winter Walk!

Thursday, December 11
On this night, downtown Northfield transforms: twinkling lights line the streets, music drifts through the air, and the whole town emanates holiday cheer. It’s the perfect evening to wander, warm your hands on a festive drink, and gather gifts for the season.

So if you’re nearby, or simply craving a little sparkle in your day, stop by our booth in Northfield and say hello. We’d love to see both familiar faces and new friends discovering Pixie magick for the first time.

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THE SOAP PIXIE JOINS RICHFIELD FALL BOUTIQUE - UNIQUE SOAPS & MORE!

I'm so excited to share that in just one month The Soap Pixie will be at the Richfield Fall Boutique!

Mark your calendars and come shop our colorful, enchanted soaps along with other magickal goodies.

It's the perfect chance to stock up on gifts (or a treat for yourself) while supporting handmade makers. I can't wait to see you there!

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WHAT TO MAKE WITH FRESH APPLES: RECIPES AND IDEAS FROM OUR APPLE PICKING DAY

For years, our family tradition was visiting Emma Krumbee’s Apple Orchard in Belle Plaine, MN. My mom and I used to drive out there every fall just for their delicious apple pie. Once I got married and my oldest daughter came along, it quickly turned into an annual tradition, picking apples and wandering through their scarecrow festival. Sadly, Emma Krumbee’s never seemed to recover after COVID and closed in 2023. By that time, though, we were already searching for a new favorite orchard of our own.

It took a few tries, but we finally found our perfect spot at Applewood Orchard in Lakeville. The staff is always so welcoming, and the variety of apples is endless, whether you want to pick your own or grab some pre-picked. There are extras too: corn maze, jumping pillow, corn pit, hayride, sunflower field, pumpkin patch, and even a playset area for the littles. It's hard to resist their treats, apple pies and caramel apples especially. 

I believe their small bags for apple picking were $6, or you can do what we did and buy by the pound.

Every fall, visiting an orchard together means more than just apples. For us, it’s about tradition, time spent as a family, and soaking up all the cozy autumn activities.

At home, the apples don’t last long. My oldest daughter always requests homemade applesauce, and I usually make it in the crockpot. Her favorite is a spiced applesauce recipe from AllRecipes:

• 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin

• ½ cup water

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice

I prefer the no-sugar version from The Wooden Skillet. 

• 5–6 lbs apples, peeled and sliced

• ¼ cup water

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• Pinch of ground cloves

• Pinch of kosher salt

• 1–2 cinnamon sticks

To make things easier, I use my Norpro Apple Master (with a vacuum base). It peels, cores, and slices in one go, super handy. I found mine at Fleet Farm years ago and it is still holding up. 

My go-to apple variety for sauce is Sweet Tango. I’ve experimented with others, but Sweet Tango has the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Now that our kitchen is stocked with apples, I'll be busy making sauces, pies, and maybe even my first-ever apple crumble. If you have a favorite recipe, drop it in the comments, I’d love to try it!

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WHY I REBRANDED THE SOAP PIXIE: BRINGING MAGICK, FOLKLORE & WHIMSY INTO SOAPMAKING

Rebranding is scary. I spent years being “The Soap Pixie” and selling my uniquely crafted soaps. For the longest time, my business was just that, a name, a logo, and pretty bars of soap. I was comfortable with it, and so were my customers.

But earlier this year, something inside me shifted. I started to feel dissatisfied. I wanted something more.

When I first changed my business name to The Soap Pixie back in 2009, it was because I had a vision: to create soaps that bring magick and enchantment into people’s lives. That dream got a little lost over the years as I focused on the practical side of business; making soap, selling soap, packaging design, how to grow...But deep down, I knew I wanted more than that.

Where It All Began

Here’s a little backstory: When I first started selling soap, my business was called Pixie Lee Soaps & Sundries. I chose the name because my mother had just passed away, and I wanted to honor her. Her name was Dixie Lee, and I’ve always loved pixies and fairies, so Pixie Lee Soaps & Sundries felt right at the time.

This is the very first logo I ever commissioned back in 2007. 

Looking back now, it makes me smile, but a couple of years later, I realized the name and logo didn’t really reflect the magick I wanted for my brand. So, I changed the name to The Soap Pixie and created a new logo.

For years, my focus was on creating high-quality soap and donating part of my efforts to wildlife organizations here in Minnesota. It was fulfilling work, and I loved it. But then life happened, I lost my sister, I faced some serious health challenges, and everything slowed down.

During that time, I started reflecting on what I really wanted for my business and my life. And when I looked around at the world - the endless negativity on the news, the stress, the heaviness everywhere - I knew I wanted to create something that feels like an escape for my customers. 

Returning to My Original Vision

I kept coming back to my original dream: to create something soft, whimsical, and full of light. I wanted The Soap Pixie to be more than just soap.

One day, while walking through the European Christmas Market in St. Paul, I stumbled across a book called The Complete Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm. 

I’ve always loved Grimm tales, so I bought it. And that’s when the light bulb went off.

While reading the book I thought, What if every soap told a story?

Not just any story, but something rooted in folklore, fairytales, and enchantment. Something that brings a sense of wonder back into someone's day.

The Birth of Oona & Poppy

From that idea, Oona the Soap Pixie and her best friend, Poppy the Ladybug, were born. They live in an enchanted forest in northern Minnesota, and their adventures are inspired by old-world tales, some Grimm, some folktales, and some completely new stories I write myself.

Every time I release a new soap, it comes with its own story: Maybe Oona meets a talking mouse that leads her to fresh herbs for her soap. Maybe she brews a potion under the full moon. Maybe Poppy leads her to a meadow filled with wildflowers and hidden secrets.

Each story ties into the soap itself; the fragrance, the colors, the ingredients. Every bar becomes a tiny portal into another world, filled with magic and meaning.

I also weave the Wheel of the Year into my creations because I’m deeply connected to nature and spirituality. Every seasonal collection celebrates the beauty and energy of that moment in time.

Why Stories Matter

I believe fairytales can heal. They lift us out of the noise and remind us that wonder still exists. And honestly, the world needs that right now.

My hope is that when you pick up one of my soaps, you feel something:
Gleeful, Nostalgic, Inspired, Delighted, Enchanted. Maybe even a spark of childlike curiosity.

Maybe for one moment you can imagine yourself in Oona’s world.

Because my soaps aren’t just for cleansing your skin, they’re magick you can hold in your hands.

What’s Next for The Soap Pixie

From now on, every bar of soap from The Soap Pixie carries a story. Each release is tied to folklore and enchantment. When you order a soap, you’re not just buying a bar, you’re stepping into a whimsical tale and inviting a little fantasy into your everyday life.

Because the world needs more light, joy, and wonder. And that’s exactly what The Soap Pixie is here for.

So here’s to magick, whimsy, and finding happiness in the little things, even in your soap dish.

Stay tuned for Oona’s next adventure.

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JUST WHIPPED UP: ROSE QUARTZ SOAP

The Soap Pixie just whipped up a fresh batch of Rose Quartz soap, one of my most popular scents and always a favorite this time of year.

This one's perfect for these long, warm summer days when you just want to feel bathed in love, compassion, and emotional healing. Something that feels pretty essential right now, honestly.

The scent is a soft floral grounded in warmth: bergamot, orange, and grapefruit give it a bright, citrusy top note, clean and fresh. Then it softens into dried rose petals and jasmine, with just enough sandalwood and musk underneath to keep it balanced and soothing. 

It's not overpowering. Just a really beautiful blend that wraps around you like a deep breath and a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself.

Every bar is made by hand, with care and intention, just like always. It's topped with a little shimmer and some sea salt, because small details matter.

If you've been needing a reset, or want to gift someone a small moment of peace, this bear is a good place to start.

Available now, while supplies last.

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WISCONSIN LAVENDER FARM: THE PERFECT DAY TRIP

It's summer in Minnesota and that means hot and humid. Not my favorite season. I love when the wildlife returns in spring and I enjoy the sounds of nature in the summer months, but the weather just makes me long for autumn. With the heat being what it is, our family has pretty much stayed glued to the AC at home, but my girls and I got fed up with being stuck inside. We decided to soak up the summer, heat or not, and take some road trips around the state. This week, we ventured just next door to Wisconsin.

Stockholm, Wisconsin: More Than Just Cornfields!

Our destination was the tiny town of Stockholm which is a 1.5 hour drive from our place. I was actually super surprised by how gorgeous the drive was! I mean, I fully expected endless cows and cornfields, but about halfway there, it transformed into amazing cliffs, rolling hills, and trees stretching as far as you could see. It was seriously beautiful and made the drive just fly by.

Stockholm itself? It's one of those blink and you miss it towns, super tiny but really cute and charming. Everyone we met was lovely, and there's actually enough to see and do to fill up an entire day.

Lavender Fields (and Wildflowers!) Forever

First on our agenda was Allaire's House, a sweet little coffee shop. They had all sorts of coffees and homemade scones - a perfect, cozy spot to just chill for a bit.

Then, we headed to Lavender Bluff Farm hoping to pick some lavender and wildflowers. Sadly, the lavender was a no-show this year (thanks to the mild Midwest winter), but the wildflowers were absolutely blooming and abundant. We got there early to beat the worst of the heat and had such a great time picking under a gorgeous, sunny blue sky. There was even an outdoor yoga class happening when we arrived, which looked really cool, something I might try someday. 

After our picking adventure, we popped into the farm's gift shop. It's a fantastic space with tons of stuff. 

Of course, most things were lavender-themed: dried bouquets, perfumes, face creams, you name it. My oldest snagged a cute pen shaped like a lavender stalk with flowers. Oh, and they offered us free lavender lemonade, which was a nice touch.

Shopping, Scenery, and a Vow to Return

Next, we wandered into town to check out the gift shops and art galleries. There were lots of people out and about, all with great energy and happy faces. Just a really nice vibes all around. Every shop was unique, offering a wide variety of cool items. I even found a candle for a friend that had biodegradable packaging with wildflower seeds embedded in it. How cool is that?!

Even though we were having a blast, I had to call it a little early after a few hours because my back started acting up. But we vowed to return. We're already planning to check out the nearby hiking trails and visit the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, which is just a few miles down the road. 

If you know of any other cute towns we should visit in the Midwest, please let me know. We're always in the mood for a new adventure. 

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THE SOAP PIXIE HAS FLOWN INTO A NEW REALM...YOUTUBE!!

Now you can step into the magickal world of Bristleberry Hollow with Oona the Soap Pixie and Poppy the Ladybug. From behind-the-scenes soapmaking to whimsical stories and enchanted releases, it's all starting now. 

Please check out our intro video over on YouTube. 

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INTRODUCING OUR NEW CAULDRON & MOON SOAP STAMPS FOR MAGICKAL BATCHES

Something new is brewing at the Soap Pixie!! We just added two custom soap stamps that we think you're going to love (thank you Chris for making them). One is a little cauldron that will show up on all of our spell connected soaps, so if you see it, you'll know it's part of Oona's Grimoire. The other is a moon and stars stamp, and that will mark every bar that's connected to the moon phases. Just a small touch, but we hope it makes the magick feel a little bit more real when you hold the soap in your hands. ⭐

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COME SEE US THIS THURSDAY

We will be in Northfield this Thursday so if you're around, drop by and see us. For more info click HERE
 

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WHY I BECAME A WILDLIFE RESCUER

For as long as I can remember, I’ve cared deeply about animals. I’ve spent decades speaking up for them, whether it was handing out flyers outside the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in Minneapolis to raise awareness about how elephants are abused for entertainment, or protesting outside the Mall of America because Victoria’s Secret was using wood pulp from the Canadian Boreal Forest for their catalogs. I’ve even organized a boycott of Red Lobster over their connection to the Canadian seal hunts.

In 2012, my heart really found its place in wolf advocacy. I threw myself into it. I tabled events for Howling for Wolves, met with legislators, protested, marched, and even flew to Washington D.C. to help defend the Endangered Species Act. I was all in. Committed. 

But in 2024, after another devastating failure to pass legislation that would permanently ban future wolf hunts in Minnesota, something shifted in me. I was tired. Tired of begging lawmakers to care. Tired of feeling like no matter how loud I screamed, it wasn’t enough. I needed to find a way to keep helping, but in a way that didn’t leave me feeling so heartbroken all the time.

That’s when I circled back to something I had done years ago, back in the '90s - wildlife rescue. I reconnected with Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release, an incredible nonprofit that helps transport injured and orphaned wild animals to rehabilitators, supports those rehabilitators, and educates the public. I signed up to volunteer again and honestly, it’s changed me.

Lately, I’ve had the joy of rescuing raccoon kits. Some of them (pictured) lost their mother after she was hit and killed by a car. Holding those tiny, scared babies and knowing I’m getting them the help they need - it’s hard to put that feeling into words. It's hope. It's healing. It’s purpose.

For so long, I felt like I was letting the wolves down every time the system failed them. But with rescue work, I get to DO something. Right now. I get to act. And I can see the result almost immediately - a life saved, a second chance given.

Helping wildlife has given me a new kind of energy. I haven’t stopped speaking up for wolves. I never will. But now I also get to be part of the hands-on work, and that’s made all the difference.

At the end of the day, I don’t believe we’re here just to live for ourselves. I think we’re meant to live for something bigger and for me, that “something” has always been the animals.

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3 NEW MAGICAL SOAPS TO CLEANSE YOUR SPIRIT AND SKIN THIS SUMMER SEASON

Our Solstice Soap Collection is here!! 

These summer soaps are available now in limited quantities, once they're gone they won't be back until next year's sunshine returns. Which one will you choose to add to your summer ritual?

BALI BREEZE

GARDEN PARTY

JUICY PAPAYA MANGO

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A MAGICAL NEW CHAPTER FOR THE SOAP PIXIE

Dear Friends, Pixie Lovers, Magical Beings & Kindred Spirits...

Since 2002, I've been making soap - first in small batches for friends and family, then through The Soap Pixie, which I officially opened in 2006. For years, I poured my heart into each bar: blending colors, fragrances, and nourishing ingredients to bring comfort, beauty, and a little bit of handmade joy into people's homes, but something was missing.

Though I named my business The Soap Pixie, I hadn't embraced the full magic behind the name. There were no fluttering wings, no sparkling stories - just soap. For too long, I let the magic in my heart and mind sit quietly behind the scenes.

That's changing now.

Welcome to the reimagined world of The Soap Pixie - a place where whimsy meets wellness, and soap becomes a spell of joy, comfort, and delight. This isn't just a rebrand. It's a reclamation of who I truly am and what I want this business to be in the world and my life.

Let me introduce you to the heart of this transformation: Oona the Soap Pixie, the tiny enchantress behind each bar you hold and Poppy the Ladybug, her curious best friend and loyal helper.

These two characters aren't just cute additions - they're the soul of the brand. Oona's stories, her magical soap craft, and her joyful adventures with Poppy will now guide every product, post, and package. My goal is simple:

1. To make your everyday moments feel enchanted again.

2. To help you slow down, breathe in a beautiful scent, and smile.

3. To offer light in a world that too often feels heavy.

You'll begin to see the changes in a few ways:

* WISHING WELL WEDNESDAYS where you'll receive tiny doses of pixie magic, uplifting thoughts, or surprises.

* SOAP COLLECTIONS introduced by Oona & Poppy, complete with whimsical tales and behind-the-scenes magic.

* MAGICAL GIVEAWAYS designed to spark joy and enchantment.

And more surprises that will make you feel like a child discovering wonder again.

This is still me - the same hands making your soap, the same dedication to quality and creativity, but now I'm weaving in everything I've held back: the stories, the sparkles, the spirit of something truly magical.

I know not everyone will need this kind of enchantment in their lives. But if you're someone who longs for a little beauty, a little wonder, a little something beyond the ordinary... then Oona, Poppy, and I welcome you with open arms (and open wings).

Thank you for being part of this journey - from the very beginning or from this new chapter forward.

With soapy magic and heartfelt gratitude,

Michelle Valadez

Founder & Chief Magic-Maker

The Soap Pixie

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FROM HOMESCHOOL TO PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL - AN INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE HAS COME TO AN END

In 2012, Aiyana and I began our journey into homeschooling. It was an incredible 8 years. She enjoyed the freedom it gave her to truly be herself and I loved that I was able to spend a lot of quality time with her while she grew intellectually and physically into the beautiful human being she is today. 

In 2021 she enrolled in high school, 9th grade, and was quick to adapt to the public school system.  Her teachers would rave about her at conference time; she's so respectful, always engaged, loves to learn... 

I was relieved and happy. 

As the years went on, she bonded with new friends, found her bestie, joined the tech crew and built theater sets, started dating, got a job, and now she graduated. 

I am so proud of my little girl for always being the duck man, because so few people in this world have the courage to do so. 

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CLEAN HANDS, KIND HEART: SOAP FOR WILDLIFE

Are you a fan of artisanal soaps and a wildlife enthusiast? If so, these soap bars are just for you! I'm currently on a mission to raise funds for Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release (WRR). If you're keen on contributing to a cause that aids wildlife, consider purchasing one or both of our unique soaps. Every penny from the sales goes directly to WRR, assisting in rescue operations, rehabilitation efforts, and educational programs.

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ANOTHER YEAR AT THE FRIENDS PLANT SALE

Yesterday's Friends Plant Sale was a delightful experience, as usual. The weather was perfect for browsing the wide selections of herbs, flowers, and veggies, and we had a lot of fun choosing our garden lineup for the year. It seemed like the busiest season yet, but the event was incredibly well-organized, making the flow smooth and enjoyable. While the temptation to buy every plant was strong, I managed to stick to the essentials. Gotta save that money!! Now, I'm eagerly anticipating watching everything flourish and grow. I'm already thinking about eating those sweet peppers. 😊

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DISCOVERING THE BEAUTY OF SPRINGTIME

Wild Strawberries

There's just something magical about this time of year! Spring and Fall in Minnesota are my absolute favorites, and I'm currently riding that springtime high. Give me the crisp air and pumpkin spice of Fall, with those stunning colorful newly fallen leaves, any day. But springtime? It's like the world is hitting the reset button. Everything is bursting back to life, baby animals are popping up all over the place, and the birds are putting on a concert every morning. I love it! I practically bounce out the door like a kid, eager to spot the first signs of new life. Today, I even found an empty rabbit next - those little guys must have just hopped out because I didn't spot it yesterday. Can you believe mama rabbit chose to nest right next to the driveway? Risky move!! Now I'm plotting all sorts of botanical adventures with the emerging plants - dyes, baked goods, tinctures, you name it. This season is just brimming with beauty and possibility. All we need now is a little sunshine and warmth, and we'll be in paradise! What do you think, is springtime one of your favorite seasons too?

Rhubarb

Sumac

Gooseberry

Ramp

Wild Ginger

Chives

Yarrow

Bee Balm

Leftover fur from bunny nest

Empty bunny nest

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I'M OBSESSED! CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF NATURAL DYES

Potassium Aluminum Sulfate - Cream of Tartar - Madder Root

So, I've been playing around with natural dyes for a while now, mostly just for fun little projects like Easter eggs or small pieces of fabric. But, I'm a spinner and knitter, and it finally dawned on me that I should try dyeing my own wool yarn. I started with a small 50g skein and some madder root, and wow, I'm totally hooked! The color was absolutely stunning, and since I have a ton of wool from years of going to the Shepherd's Harvest Festival, I'm diving headfirst into this new adventure. My plan is to spend the next few months learning everything I possibly can about nature dyes, experimenting with all sorts of plants from nature. Once I've got a few go-to recipes, I want to offer classes for homeschooled kids. When my youngest was homeschooled, I was so thankful for the moms who shared their creative talents with us, and now I want to pay it forward. If you have any favorite natural dyes you love to use, please share them with me! I'm always looking for new ideas and inspiration. 

Mordanting Wool Yarn

Creating Dye Bath

Dyeing Yarn

Finished Product!

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