REOPENING OUR BOOTH: WE ARE BACK TO SELLING AT THE CRAFT MARKET

After taking the month of August to focus on home projects, we are excited to announce our return to the Riverwalk Market in Northfield, MN on September 14th. This break allowed us to recharge and tackle a variety of tasks at home. Now with those things out of the way, we are eager to reconnect with the vibrant community at the market.

The Riverwalk Market is a wonderful venue filled with local vendors, artisanal crafts, and fresh produce, making it a hub of creativity and community spirit. We've missed the lively atmosphere and are we're thrilled to engage with fellow artisans and visitors once again. If you find yourself in the area, we invite you to stop by our booth, say hello, and explore our latest soaps. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to share what we've been working on during our time away!

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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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WE SAID GOODBYE TO OUR PRECIOUS BOY

Nine years ago, while tabling at an event for the organization Howling for Wolves, our lives took a delightful turn when we met our precious little boy Pancho. The event was hosted by a woman who ran a chihuahua rescue and she was showcasing a selection of her adorable dogs in hopes some would be adopted. As my daughter walked past her bundle of little chi chi's our Pancho instantly captured her heart. Within two days he was officially ours. Originally named Toby, we decided that the name Pancho was more reflective of his spunky personality.

Initially Pancho didn't transition well into our home. We already had 2 other chihuahuas, so we were very unprepared for the realization that Pancho had an intense dislike for other dogs. At the even where we first met him he seemed cheerful and sociable, happily mingling with his fellow dogs, but it was a facade that misled us. Behind his happy exterior lay a dog who didn't enjoy the company of other dogs and had a lot of anxiety. Once inside our home he quickly became defensive, and what ensued were constant altercations with our other pets and many emotional outbursts towards us that resulted in a few bites on our hands. At one point we found ourselves questioning whether adopting him had been a mistake. Yet, abandoning Pancho was never an option for us. His history of being abandoned before weighed heavily on our hearts, propelling us to try and work with him the best we knew how. We invested time in creating a nurturing environment, striving to help him acclimate to his surroundings. Although he never shed his animosity toward other dogs, he gradually calmed down and grew to co-exist peacefully, most of the time, with our other 2 chihuahuas, and he'd only get snappy with us in the evening.

Pancho would get cranky at bedtime, when strange dogs would walk by our house, and when he was hungry.  He had seizures that were triggered by too much human activity around him. He loved nature and would have lived outdoors if we allowed it. He loved going for walks and really enjoyed when I carried him on a walk, especially as he aged. He had a very sensitive stomach, and vets thought maybe it was IBD (irritable bowel disease) since he became very restricted on what he could eat. He had many trips to the ER vet, multiple surgeries, was on a plethora of medication... but he wanted to live. He fought harder than any dog I've ever known. Pancho had a larger than life personality and he was stubborn. I loved how when any of us would cry he'd rush over and lay his head on our legs to draw our attention to him away from our sadness. He loved to lightly play rough. He'd make what we called his little "exorcist" noises as we teased him. If we'd stopped he'd nudge for more. When we'd go on walks we'd pretend to chase him and then reach down to grab his little butt and his ears would go straight up and he'd stop quick and give us the side eye, bark or growl once and take off running. It was adorable. Days when he was hungry but we couldn't feed him because he had just taken his medication and needed to wait an hour he'd sometimes go find a paper bag in the kitchen and look to see if there were food scraps in it to snatch. If Maya tried to grab the bag away he'd go Cujo and she'd be pulling the bag in one direction and he'd pull the other. It was hilarious. He'd eventually stop but it was his way of saying "woman, feed me now" and of course he'd inevitably do it immediately after he was given medication. Ironically he wasn't interested in his food at all before the meds. We think it was his way of getting the nasty taste out of his mouth. 

Pancho was a special boy. He had the silkiest fur, something we've never seen in other dogs. Even other people commented on it. He was a little guard dog, would sit in front of the picture window facing the street every single day and bark anytime a dog went by. He was always game for an adventure; trips in the woods of northern Minnesota, bike rides, nature walks. Even when he'd get sick if I said "wanna go for a walk" his little head would pop up and he was raring to go. He loved to be in the sun. Once we had an X-ray that showed the extent of his arthritis we understood why laying in the sun felt so good to him. 

In this last month he deteriorated quickly. He lost his ability to walk much, he'd flinch when touched. He was sleeping a lot more and his weighT was dropping fast. He had chronic acid reflux for years which we treated with famotidine and the occasional sucralfate but 7 months ago he ended up in the ER and he was put on heart and blood pressure medication. Around the clock we were giving him famotidine, sucralfate, vetmedin, and sildenafil. He wasn't doing too great afterwards so we opted to get his teeth looked at and sure enough he had 4 abscessed teeth. 10 extractions later he was a new dog. Like a new puppy, running everywhere, ready to explore and live life. A few months later, a few days ago, his health took a nosedive. He started coughing and couldn't stop. He had labored breathing. A trip to the ER resulted in him getting new drugs; a diuretic and pain medication. They didn't help. He kept coughing and he was in serious distress. We brought him into the ER vet again but they said the condition was progressive. They said maybe they could squeeze a couple months more out of him but they weren't sure. It was incredibly hard to make the decision to let him go when his mind was still intact. The night before I had asked him "do you wanna go for a walk" and he didn't flinch so I knew, I knew this was the end of the road for him.

It was so hard to let him go. We had to decide to bring him home and let him progress through the heart failure which would include slowly suffocating or we had to end his pain at the vets office. It never feels right to make these decisions for a living being that can't speak for themselves. We're ending our pain just as much as we're ending theirs and that always makes me worry if it is clouding our judgement. I've been down this road before with other dogs and it never gets easier. No matter what decision is made it always feels like the wrong one. One thing I know for sure is if we had more time to book more appointments, connect with other specialists, and explore other options I would have taken it. Time just wasn't on our side.

When I think about Pancho now I think about how he saved me from a broken heart. My Gypsy died suddenly 2 years ago. We had her the same amount of time as we had Pancho, exactly 9 years. I was so broken after she died and Pancho knew. He instantly started hanging around me, wanting my attention more than ever before. We bonded even though he was my daughter's dog. I'm so grateful for that and all our moments together. 

I have faith that someday I'll see little Pancho again. He'll be standing right next to my Gypsy to greet me when it's my turn to exit this body and journey to wherever they all have gone. Until then I'll be thinking about him every day. 💜

 

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THE JOY OF TOO MUCH

 

Every year, as the gardening seasons approaches, I find myself unable to resist the allure of planting seeds. What begins as a modest plan often spirals into an ambitious project. This year was no exception - I decided to plant abundantly, putting in about 14 seeds of each variety I chose. The gamble paid off better than expected; out of dozens of seeds sown, maybe only five didn't germinate. Before I knew it my deck was overwhelmed with a lush assortment of plants, creating a verdant jungle that feels both enchanting and chaotic. I carefully selected the varieties the deer won't munch on, which only added to the dense growth. However, as the plants flourished, I quickly lost track of what I had grown. initially I labelled each pot, but in the rush of transferring them to larger containers, I convinced myself I would remember their names. Spoiler alert: I don't. Now, I hold a pepper plant bewilderedly, debating whether it's a mild banana pepper or one of the fiery varieties I'd intended for my husband.

I've promised myself that I've learned my lesson this time around: next year, I'll scale back on planting and meticulously label everything. Yet deep down I know the truth - it's merely a hopeful fantasy. With plans of diving into cut flowers next season and the realization there are countless beautiful options to try, I can foresee my deck being just as overrun in 2025 as it is now. Instead of wallowing in the madness, though, I've entertained the idea of hosting a plant sale, offering my delightful extras to friends and neighbors. Perhaps by sharing my bounty I can reclaim a bit of order in my gardening chaos and bring joy to others in the process. Wouldn't that be great? After all, every gardener knows that with every season comes the promise of fresh growth, unexpected lessons, and (hopefully) fewer chaotic jungles in the future. 🤣

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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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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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ARTS IN THE PARK

We had a wonderful day selling yesterday at Arts in the Park in Forest Lake. This was our first time participating in this event as well as our first visit to Forest Lake, so we were a bit uncertain about what to expect. However, our experience exceeded all expectations. The sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the park, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and smiles from the many friendly visitors. Our booth was bustling with activity, and we found ourselves engaging with a variety of delightful people who were genuinely interested in our offerings. We truly couldn't have asked for a better day to debut our presence in such a vibrant community.

I must also commend the organizers of the Arts in the Park for their dedication and professionalism. They were incredibly easy to work with, always ready to lend a hand or provide guidance whenever we needed it. Their hard work behind the scenes ensured that the event ran smoothly and was enjoyable for both vendors and attendees alike. It's evident that they are passionate about creating a welcoming atmosphere that brings people together. We found ourselves wishing we could participate every Tuesday! If only the distance weren't a factor, we would undoubtedly be regulars at this wonderful event.

For those in the area, we're excited to announce that we'll be returning to Forest Lake on July 16th and July 30th. We would love of you to stop by, say hello, and check out what we have to offer. Connecting with the local community has been the highlight of our experience, and we look forward to seeing familiar faces as well as new ones.

If you want more information about Arts in the Park, be sure to follow this link CHECK IT OUT HERE We can't wait to see you there!

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IT'S TIME FOR SUMMERWEEN!!

Did you know there's a Halloween celebration at the start of summer? I certainly didn't until last year when my daughter excitedly shared the concept with me. The whole idea of Summerween, a quirky celebration that stems from the fictional town of Gravity Falls, Oregon, intrigued me. Gravity Falls is a beloved Disney cartoon that my girls used to adore, and even though it's long off the air, my youngest remains devoted to its charm. The unique blend of autumnal festivities int he bright day of summer resonated with her, and a group of friends eagerly embraced the chance to celebrate this whimsical event.

As Summerween has transformed into a nationwide phenomenon embraced by young people and Halloween enthusiasts alike, I felt inspired to join in on the fun this year. To spread the word and encourage others to participate, I created this graphic for Instagram, celebrating the delightful spirit of having Halloween at the beginning of summer. It's a chance for those who cherish everything Halloween; candy, costumes, and community - to come together and revel in the joy of this imaginative tradition.

If you're curious about how this enchanting celebration originated, you can check out the Gravity Falls Summerween episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SNEwiG98SM Feel free to share the graphic I created for your own social media posts; let's keep the magic of Summerween alive and thriving in our communities!

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WILD NEIGHBORS

One of my favorite quotes comes from Aldo Leopold

"There are some who can live without wild things, and some who cannot."

I cannot.

The essence of life in its purest form is intertwined with the presence of wild creatures. Each day I wake up, I am enveloped in a profound sense of gratitude for the myriad of wild critters that choose to call our property home, however temporarily. Our living space is nestled right in the heart of their territory, yet they seem to hold no enmity towards us. Instead, they come to graze, to play, and then to depart, leaving behind an indelible mark on our lives. Their existence transforms the ordinary in to the extraordinary, elevating our surroundings into a vibrant tapestry of life.

Recently, I took a short trip up north that enhanced this appreciation tenfold. I was fortunate enough to bask int he company of numerous feathered friends; there were mallards gliding gracefully across the water, geese honking overhead as they flew in formation, and mergansers diving with purpose, while gulls danced playfully on the shores. These avian creatures inhabit both the town dan the forest, embodying the wild spirit that enriches our daily lives. They are a constant reminder that beauty exists all around us, just waiting to be noticed. As I reflect ton my encounters with these wild neighbors, I am reminded of the delicate balance of nature and the joy it brings. Here are a few photos of my feathered companions and the stunning scenery that accompanies them - a testament to the wildness that fees my soul. 

Me just admiring the beautiful scenery at Grand Portage state park.

A mallard and her ducklings. We encountered this bunch on a walk in Grand Marais. 

An overlook near the Grand Portage reservation.

A ring-billed gull we encountered walking around in Grand Marais.

A waterfall at Devil's Kettle

A gorgeous loon.

The shore of Lake Superior at dusk.

Mama mallard and her babies.

The bay in Grand Marias at dusk.

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WILL YOUR SKIN LOVE MY SOAP?

Over the years, my journey into soap making has been one of constant evolution and experimentation. Initially, I relied on a simple blend of palm, coconut, and olive oil. However, as I became more mindful of both ethical and personal health considerations, I felt compelled to remind my formula. The guiding principle behind d my crafting is straightforward: I will not sell a product that I wouldn't feel comfortable using on myself, and my soaps are. direct reflection of that commitment. In my early days I learned this lesson the hard way; I had incorporated an excessive amount of coconut oil, oblivious to the impact it was having on my skin. While my husband and children experienced no adverse effects, my own skin rebelled, leaving it uncharacteristically parched after showers. Through research, I discovered that many people share this sensitivity, particularly when coconut oil exceeds 20% in a soap recipe. This realization prompted me to adjust my formulations accordingly, ultimately leading to more balanced and skin friendly products. 

As I delved deeper into the craft, I found myself tinkering with different oils, meticulously considering their individual properties and how they would influence the final bar of soap. Questions about lather, quality, moisture retention, and bar hardness became central to my experimentation. Each adjustment revealed new facets of what might make the perfect soap, meticulously balancing functionality with the soap characteristics that could benefit various skin types. It was a rewarding yet challenging process but one that deepened my understanding of the materials I was using.

Another significant shift in my recipe arose form the growing awareness of the environmental implications tied to palm oil production. Disillusioned by the industry's "sustainable palm oil" claims, I made the decision to eliminate palm oil from my base recipe entirely. This presented a new conundrum: how to maintain that ideal blend of texture, lather, and durability without it. The journey was punctuated by the numerous trails and errors as I south the perfect formulation that delivered on both performance and ethical standards. yet, after endless experiments and a commitment to finding a balance that would suit a variety of skin types, I ultimately discovered a recipe that achieved all of my desires. This meticulously honed blend is one I'm proud to use and share, standing as a testament to the careful journey I've undertaken in my soap making endeavors. 

My current recipe consists of the following butters and oils:

Almond Oil is said to soothe dry skin and improve skin tone. It's highly emollient which means it can prevent moisture and water loss. It's full of vitamin A and vitamin E which may help heal sun damage and reduce signs of aging, scars and wrinkles. 

Babassu Oil is said to be packed full of antioxidants which can help moisturize skin and reduce cellular damage. 

Coconut Oil is said to be a hydrating oil so it can prevent moisture loss and be very nourishing to dry skin. It also contains antibacterial properties and is helpful at removing dirt and makeup buildup. 

Olive Oil or Rice Bran Oil OO is known for moisturizing the skin and helpful at improving skin tone and texture due to its antioxidant and polyphenol properties. It is also known for easily penetrating the skin to cleanse it by removing dead skin cells. RB is said to be deeply hydrating and helpful at protecting the skin from sun damage. It shares many of the same properties as OO. 

Shea Butter  is known for being very moisturizing. It easily penetrates the skin and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used after sun exposure or to help reduce acne or calm rashes. It is contains a high amount of Vitamin A & E.

Mango Butter is known for being anti-inflammatory and soothing. It contains vitamin A which is known to reduce signs of aging, wrinkles, and scars. This oil can be helpful at cleaning the skin and unclogging pores. 

Cocoa Butter is said to be moisturizing, protective and prevent moisture loss. It is known for being high in antioxidants, protecting against sun damage and good for sensitive skin.

Avocado Oil can be helpful at neutralizing free radical damage and protecting skin cells. It contains a lot of Vitamin C which may prevent wrinkles. This oil is helpful for dry and sunburned skin. This oil moisturizing and helps soften skin. 

Now the big question is, will your skin love my soap? 

To truly answer the question, there's only one way to find out: give it a try! The transformational power of a good soap lies in its ability to cleanse without stripping away the skin's natural oils. With a luscious lather and a captivating aroma, each use becomes a pampering ritual rather than a mundane chore. As you embark on this journey of discovery, you'll have the opportunity to see how your skin responds - whether it becomes softer, clearer, or simply radiates a newfound glow.

So, why not take the leap of faith? Embrace the trial and let your skin tell the story. After all, the relationship between you and your skin is personal, and it deserves only the best. Find out if your skin will love the soap that I so passionately create. 😃

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