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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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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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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FROM CHICKENS TO ALPACAS: EXPLORING THE DELIGHT OF SPENDING A DAY WITH FARM ANIMALS

Nestled in the picturesque landscape in a rural part of Prior Lake, MN, is Whispering Oaks Alpacas where they offer a delightful escape into the world of hobby farming. This charming farm invites visitors to engage with a variety of friendly farm animals, from curious goats to soft, fluffy alpacas. One of the most unique experiences is taking an alpaca for a walk - a joyful activity that brings both laughter and a sense of connection to the animal. The alpacas, with their gentle demeanor, often have minds of their own, and I found it a bit hilarious to negotiate walking terms with my fleecy companion. Initially, he was set on stopping every few steps to munch on the grass; however, after a little persuasion, we struck a deal that kept both of us happy as we strolled along the trail, I'd stop every 10-15 feet to allow him to eat only if he kept the pace and not stop every foot to eat grass. 😂  That agreement worked out well and kept us moving along.

In addition to the interactive experiences on the farm, Whispering Oaks boasts a quaint little shop located inside the owner's home, filled with goodies crafted from alpaca fleece. From warm hats to soft mittens, each item reflects the quality and comfort of this unique fiber. Visiting the shop felt like unearthing hidden treasures, and I couldn't resist the charm of these handmade products so I bought my daughter a Christmas gift. As I wandered around I also spotted the enchanting little goats for sale, whose playful antics warmed my heart instantly. Mojo was my favorite. His adorable face and lively energy reminded me of how much I wished I'd been a hobby farmer. 

Growing up I had often fantasized about becoming a sheep farmer, inspired by episodes of Little House on the Prairie. The dream of harvesting wool and spinning it into clothing painted a vivid picture of a life intertwined with animals. Although that dream remains unfulfilled, my visit to Whispering Oaks Alpacas reignited that childhood passion. It serves as a reminder of the simple joys that farm animals provide. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a fun outing with a stubborn alpaca, Whispering Oaks Alpacas caters to both. It's a beautiful place to appreciate the connections we share with these wonderful creatures and to create cherished memories, even if it's just for a couple hours on a lovely Minnesota day. 

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THE BONFIRE CRACKLES, CRICKETS SING, AN OWL CALLS, AND STARS TWINKLE ABOVE

 

I don't know what it is about a fire and the smell of wood smoke while the insects buzz all around, but it makes me feel more connected to nature than any other time. There's a certain magic in the flames that seems to draw me in, tapping into the primitive parts of my brain that pulls my thoughts back to when fire was first tamed. I feel a sense of nostalgia for a time when life was simpler and survival was intricately linked to the cycles of nature. 

As I sit, mesmerized by the glowing embers, I find that gazing into a fire is an excellent way to practice mindfulness because it anchors me to the present moment, allowing my thoughts to slow and settle. It's a perfect way to relax at the end of a long, stressful day. Being surrounded by the comforting aura of flames,  the gentle humming of nearby insects, and an owl hooting in the distance. I feel an unparalleled sense of peace. Nature is a place of solace and is enduring and timeless as fire itself.

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HOW BIRDS AND NATURE BECAME MY LIFELINE

Six years ago when my health journey began it was a time when I sunk to the lowest point of in my life because my body had betrayed me and I felt trapped in a prison of pain and uncertainty. I'd been to multiple doctors, each appointment filled with glimmers of hope that were swiftly destroyed by the harsh reality that none of them were able to explain why I lost my ability to digest food and why standing more than 10 minutes sent me spiraling into waves of excruciating abdominal pain (among other numerous debilitating symptoms). When I was coming to terms with the likelihood I may not survive or at minimum not be able to walk again I found hope in a surgeon who offered a possible solution through  kidney surgery, but with that hope came the terrifying realization that I'd once again have to go under anesthesia. Having been under anesthesia before for a prior abdominal surgery back in the 1990s held no comfort for me, only the stark memory of my sisters tragic fate in 1984, when due to the medical incompetence of a nurse anesthetist and anesthesiologist she wasn't given the required amount of oxygen during a minor surgical procedure, ultimately leaving her to languish in a vegetative state. Anytime I needed to be sedated following that time I'd become paralyzed with fear. 

My sister was like a surrogate mother, my most trusted friend, my protector. Losing her when I was just 13 was like losing a vital part of myself. I was thrust into a world of confusion and pain, and I lacked the necessary tools to process the enormity of that loss. Although I was sent to therapy to work through my grief I struggled to articulate my emotions and couldn't understand the impact that moment had on my entire being. As the years went on I loss the ability to feel safe. Every doctor visit became nothing more than a reminder of how vulnerable I was. Well meaning people would always tell me "don't worry, what happened to your sister is rare" but the concept of rarity became a complicated paradox. "it's rare" for a plan to crash, "it's rare" to be struck by lightening, or "it's rare" to encounter an aggressive shark. Yet these platitudes felt like a cruel irony - comforts offered to everyone but me. I had lived through something extraordinarily rare and devastating, and the scars it left behind were not easily forgotten. Over time I came to realize those words did nothing to abate my fears; instead they illuminated the fragility of my life and the weight of loss, a reminder that security is often an illusion and that trust in the very fabric of existence can be a heartbreaking gamble. 

I didn't know then that I was dealing with mast cell activation syndrome and that it could be triggered by something as common as stress. 

In the months leading up to surgery I was a mental and physical disaster, grappling with a condition that left me feeling like a stranger in my own body. I hadn't been out of the house for much other than to go see doctors. In search of solace I started laying down on the deck in my backyard. I'd rise in the morning before everyone else in the house and head out to watch and listen. I found refuge in the sounds of nature waking up with me. It was late spring and the birds were slowly returning, there was music in the air. Chirp, chirp, chirp 🎶 It was comforting. I'd do this every morning and afternoon and slowly I started to feel safe again. It was as if the birds were telling me "it's ok, you got this, as long as you have us you have everything." I soon told myself I didn't need to walk, I embraced the idea of using a wheelchair and being pushed around in nature anywhere a paved trail may be. As long as I could sustain myself on the physicians elemental diet formula I was drinking, I told myself I was ok with that too, as long as I had the love of my family I was happy, as long as I had the birds every day I'd be absolutely fine. It wasn't long before I started taking short walks in the park behind my house, first 10 minutes, then 15, then 20. Each day I'd listen intently to the calls of the birds I once overlooked, marveling at their resilience and beauty. I really enjoyed photographing them. Slowly I started learning their names and recognizing their calls. 

At that time I'd lived next to Alimagnet Park for 11 years and hardly explored its wonders but in my vulnerable state I was drawn into a strong desire to connect more with nature. This pursuit became a lifeline for my anxious mind. 

In the years following that time I've developed an enduring love for birds. They are stunning creatures that I could listen to for hours but they're also amusing to watch. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, birds are an essential part of natural ecosystems. They help control insect populations, pollinate flowers, disperse seeds, and some even control rodent populations.

For me spring and fall are the most thrilling times of the year in the avian world. Spring is particularly magical because the birds are returning to Minnesota from their wintering grounds, meaning it's a time of renewal. The silence of winter gives way to delightful chirps and songs; nature awakens once more. I eagerly venture outdoors to find and count the ducks I see, keeping an eye out for the return of the robin, and explore the wetlands in search of my favorite, the red-winged black bird. 

As autumn approaches, I find myself drawn to the places where migratory birds pause to rest and refuel on their journey southward. These fleeting gatherings are thrilling, as one day there may be hundreds, maybe even thousands to see, and the next day they may be gone entirely. The diversity of bird species gathering in the same space is astounding.  Swans, ducks, geese, pelicans... all together on the same lake. It's fascinating to witness their flight patterns and the unity within their migratory routes. 

Birds serve as a reminder, that despite life's hardships it is essential to keep moving forward and find joy in the present moment. 

Wild birds navigate a relentless struggle for survival, from the instant an egg is laid until their last breath. Predators lurk at every turn, targeting their eggs, chicks, and adult birds, while diseases such as avian botulism, avian flu, and West Nile virus threaten their well-being. The challenges they face are many; mite infestations in their nests, dehydration, and collisions with man-made structures can all claim their fragile lives. Yet despite these relentless obstacles they continue to sing, travel, and raise their young, teaching us that joy can be found amid adversity. Their tenacity enchants me and encourages a hopeful perspective on life's challenges. 

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LEARNING ABOUT THE HEALING POWER OF NATURE

About 15 years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Lise Wolff at her elderberry tincture making workshop. Lise, a local registered clinical herbalist, possesses a wealth of knowledge in medicinal plants. With a Master's degree in Science in Herbalism from the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine, her expertise has made her a valuable resource for people in Minnesota. Every time I join her for a plant walk, along with my daughter, I am reminded of just how rich and ever-evolving the world of herbalism is. Today, we learned the beneficial properties of sow thistle and wood sorrel, two plants we hadn't explored before, and Lise's passion for teaching ensures that every outing yields fresh insights and new lessons.

One of the most captivating aspects of Lise's guidance is the treasure trove of stories that she shares about her experiences treating patients with plants. Her stories aren't just informative, they're also deeply inspiring, illustrating the profound connection between nature and healing. Each story highlights the practical application of herbs in real-life scenarios, motiving us to delve deeper into our understanding of plant medicine.

Herbalism is a never-ending journey of discovery. Each workshop and plant walk I attend with Lise reinforces my love for this ancient practice, as there is alway something new to learn and appreciate. Whether it's uncovering the medicinal properties of an unfamiliar plant or listening to the healing tales of those who have benefited from herbal remedies, I find that my enthusiasm for herbalism only grows stronger with time.

Wood Sorrel Oxalis stricta - Minnesota Native

Sow Thistle Sonchus oleraceus - Not Native to Minnesota

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DOES THE WOOLY BEAR REALLY PREDICT WINTER WEATHER?

What is a Wooly Bear? 

The Wooly Bear, also known as the larval stage of the Isabella Moth, is a delightful and fuzzy caterpillar that makes its appearance in the fall. This charming creature is not just an adorable sight to behold; it has a particular fondness for munching on my favorite medicinal plant, plantain. With its unique cocoon that resembles a fur ball, it's fascinating to note that these caterpillars use their own hairs to construct their protective nests, resulting in a reddish brown ball that seems straight out of a whimsical storybook.

Intriguingly, folklore surrounds the Wooly Bear and its potential to predict the severity of winter weather. As these little caterpillars embark on their leisurely strolls across trails and sidewalks, they showcase their distinctive coloring, which typically features two predominant shades: reddish brown and black. According to tradition, the amount of brown vs. black on their bodies serves as an indicator for the upcoming winter. If the majority of their body is brown, it signifies a mild winter ahead. Conversely, a greater proportion of black suggests a harsher season, while an even mix indicates a typical winter. This charming aspect of natural folklore adds an element of anticipation to their seasonal appearances.

So far, I've encountered two Wooly Bears this year, both sharing a striking resemblance, leading me to believe that we might be in for an average winter, according to their color patterns. Notably, I spotted these caterpillars in August, quite early for their usual emergence. This early sighting has me thinking we may experience a colder than usual winter season. It's always exciting to connect the dots between nature and weather, and I can't help but wonder.. what will our winter truly be like this year?

Only time will tell. I'll have to revisit this blog post in March to see if I'm correct. 

Keep an eye out for these little fuzzy buddies and see if you find any that predict the same or different.

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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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EMBRACING YOUR SURROUNDINGS: THE JOY OF LOVING WHERE YOU LIVE

Sixteen years ago my family and I made the decision to move into our current home in Apple Valley. At the time I didn't fully grasp the significance of that choice or how perfectly it aligned with my desires and needs. For years I had dreamt of living in northern Minnesota, longing for the tranquility and beauty of the landscapes I had envisioned. However, fate had other plans, and despite various opportunities, each one seemed to slip away. It wasn't until we purchased a cabin in Ely in 2016, followed by a rough patch with my health in 2018, that I came to appreciate the hidden gem that was my Apple Valley home. The combination of recent struggles and the vibrant surroundings opened my eyes to the reality that this place - not Ely or any other northern haven - was truly my sanctuary.

Living in Apple Valley has allowed me to immerse myself in the breathtaking beauty of nature right at my doorstep. I feel as if I've stumbled upon a nature lover's paradise that I never knew existed. With each passing day, I find myself enchanted by the array of native plants and the abundant wildlife that graces our backyard. From capturing photographs of majestic hawks in flight to watching the lively antics of squirrels and rabbits (excluding that time the squirrel took up residence in my car)🤣, I've fostered a deep connection with the world surrounding my home. The deer, with their gentle presence, visit regularly to forage from our garden, and each summer, the does feel comfortable enough to leave their fawns in our yard, showcasing a delightful trust in our haven. I've also been thrilled to discover a remarkable array of native plants on my own property, more than I ever encountered in the wild. My entire backyard seamlessly blends into Alimagnet Park, a vast natural expanse that further enhances the beauty and significance of our location.

On days when my health feels overwhelming, the solace I find in nature is invaluable, During my illness, simply sitting outside watching the endless dance of wildlife or taking short walks through Alimagnet Park revitalizes my spirit. The presence of deer, birds, and other critters has become a source of strength as I continue to navigate my health challenges. I soon realized that I didn't need to escape to Ely or further north to connect with nature; the vibrant tapestry of life was thriving right here in my suburban backyard. Apple Valley, despite its population density, offers an extraordinary connection to the natural world.

Today Maya and I took a leisurely stroll through Alimagnet Park, eager to see what wild plants had begun to blossom this season. As we walked, I marveled at how much could be learned just by paying attention to the small details. Often, the hustle and bustle of life leads us to miss the wonders right in front of us, as we mindlessly wander through forests or parks, absorbed in our thoughts. I encourage everyone on their next walk to take the time to catalog the various plants encountered along the way. Discover which ones are native, learn about their properties, and unearth their potential uses, whether edible or medicinal. There is an entire world of fascinating information just waiting to be explored and appreciated in our immediate surroundings. 

Northern Bedstraw (Galium boreale). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

White rattlesnake-root (Prenanthes alba). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Allegheny blackberry (Rufus allegheniensis). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Some type of fungi. I don't know fungi well.

Early Meadow Rue (Thalictrum dioicum). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Riverbank Grape (Vitis riparia). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

Wild Lettuce (Lactic canadensis). A native Minnesota Plant. Wild medicinal.

Some type of Fungi.

Canada Mayflower  (Maianthemum canadense). A native Minnesota plant. Wild medicinal.

False Solomon's Seal (Maianthemum racemosum). A native Minnesota plant. Wild Medicinal.

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SPRING IS IN FULL SWING

SPRING BY CHRISTINA ROSSETTI

There is no time like Spring,

When life’s alive in everything,

Before new nestlings sing,

Before cleft swallows speed their journey back

Along the trackless track –

God guides their wing,

He spreads their table that they nothing lack, –

Before the daisy grows a common flower

Before the sun has power

To scorch the world up in his noontide hour…

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