SOAPY CUPCAKES FOR THE KIDS ARE ON THE WAY

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

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

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NEW SOAPS FOR THE AUTUMN SEASON

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

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

Autumn Fig

Rosehip Jasmine

Apple Sage

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CONTAINER GARDENING: YES, PUMPKINS CAN THRIVE IN POTS

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

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

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

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A VISUAL DIARY OF MY BIRD WATCHING ADVENTURES

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

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

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

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PLANT FOR THE GARDEN - PRICKLY ASH

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

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

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

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DISCOVER NEW SOAP CREATIONS AT THE RIVERWALK THIS SATURDAY

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

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

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

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

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TRANSFORMING OUR GARDEN INTO A PARTY PARADISE

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

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

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

Painting by Maya Valadez

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