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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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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LET THE CRAFT MARKETS BEGIN!!!

 My daughter and I will be at the Riverwalk Market in Northfield, MN this coming Saturday, May 18th from 9 am - 1 pm.  Come see us if you are in town. We'll have the following soap scents on hand:

raspberry jam mini soap cupcakes

bali breeze

electric lemonade

watermelon

blueberry jam

willow and ivy

honey 

lilac

lavender

unscented goats milk

geranium

peppermint

lemongrass

 

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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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COME OUT AND SEE US THIS EARTH DAY WEEKEND

Maya and I will be at the Northfield Earth Day Celebration this Saturday April 27th from 12 noon until 4 pm selling our handmade soaps and knitted washcloths so if you are in town drop by and say hi, we'd love to see you. 

This is going to be a great eco friendly event with educational presentations and workshops.  Come out to make a birdhouse, seed balls, and a pollinator box. Learn about growing your own food, creating bee lawns, composting and much more. 

We hope to see you there!

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SPRING HAS SPRUNG, THE GRASS IS RIZ, I WONDER WHERE THE FLOWERS IS?

The flowers are coming 😊

Spring and autumn uniquely embody the beauty of transition and renewal, and they are, without a doubt, my favorite times of year. Spring, in particular, is a season that feels like a gentle awakening. As the world shakes off the sleep of winter, vibrant colors emerge in a lively chorus of blossoms and fresh greenery. It's a profound reminder of the cycles of life, and during this time I find myself bursting with creativity and inspiration. Last month I immersed myself in making handcrafted soaps and knitting washcloths, fulfilling my need to create tangible expressions of my passions. Now, as the days grow warmer, my focus has shifted to planting. I can hardly contain my excitement as I watch trays of seeds come to life under the grow lights in my home, with the delicate sprouts of chamomile being the first to break through the soil.

Just a few days ago, my husband Ulises and I embarked on an adventure - a 1.5 hour drive north to purchase a locally handmade potting table that I have been searching for over the past three years. The long hours of kneeling and bending during planting seasons have taken a toll on our backs, and we knew it was time for a solution. After much searching, I stumbled upon a beautiful potting table on Facebook Marketplace. It was not only affordable but also crafted with impressive skill using repurposed wood, making it both sturdy and attractive. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this find, knowing it would allow us to take care of our plants while standing comfortably. 

So far I've started the following:

Calendula (for my salves)

Banana Pepper (for food)

Celosia (for the dye)

Zinger Hibiscus (for tea)

Beans (for food)

Bunching Onions (for food)

Gomphrena (for soap decorating)

Mongolian Giant Sunflowers (for the birds)

Spinners Ivory (or my spinning wheel)

Broom Corn (to make a broom)

Bergamot (for the pollinators)

Hopi Black Dye Sunflowers (for the dye)

Echinacea (for tea and tincture)

Yarrow (for pollinators and skin issues)

German Chamomile (for tea to stabilize mast cells)

 

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ANNOUNCING OUR NEW NEWSLETTER

It's that time of year again when excitement brews as we dive into planning for the upcoming craft markets. This season, I'm thrilled to announce a fresh initiative: a monthly newsletter dedicated to all the Soap Pixie fans who cherish our products and love engaging with the world of crafting! Titled: Pixie Particulars, this newsletter will be a delightful space where you'll find not only an array of free recipes and crafting ideas, but also nature photos that capture the beauty of the changing seasons, and even the occasional coupon for our soaps. It's more than just a sales pitch; it's an invitation to join a community that shares a love for creativity and holistic living. 

In an age dominated by the "buy and bye" mentality, I seek to cultivate a deeper connection with customers. That's why my newsletter will go beyond the standard business updates to foster a sense of belonging and engagement. Each month, while I'll certainly highlight my favorite soap of the month and keep you informed about the craft markets we'll be attending, I also want to share the wealth of knowledge I've gathered over the years in aromatherapy, herbalism, gardening, and crafting. This blend of content promises to make every edition of "Pixie Particulars" not just informative, but truly enchanting.

For those eager to be part of this journey, signing up for the Soap Pixie newsletter will be easy. You can enroll at any of the craft markets we will be participating in throughout the 2024 seasons - spring, summer, fall, and winter. Each newsletter will arrive in your inbox every month, delivered in a digital format that's simple, eco-friendly, and perfect for those who craft inspiration and creativity. I'm particularly excited about our first market of the year, the Northfield Earth Day Celebration on April 27, 2024, where you can join us not just to shop but to embrace a lifestyle that honors nature and craft. Let's create something beautiful together!

NORTHFIELD EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

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