Peppermint, Christmas time or all the time?

Why is Peppermint attached to Christmas? I have always wondered that. I love Peppermint anytime but you really hear and smell it around the holidays. Here, I made a peppermint snowflake. I sprinkled alittle Gold Mica in the mold first. I do love the color Gold anytime also. I just used Peppermint F.O. because I was in a hurry. I enjoy the E.O. much better!

I think this winter , I want to try some methods that look interesting, Play with some different oils. Try and get ready for spring time. Look into some different marketing venues also. the day care business is slow right now, so now is the time to really throw myself into the other business.

Still trying the natural hair!

I am still wearing my hair natural. Some days are easy, some days are hard. I have never spent so much time washing, conditioning, and styling my hair ever! I have been getting alot of feedback about the way my hair looks. To my surprise, most positive. I complain about the time invested in my hair but once I style it, I love the way it looks.

I feel so free wearing my hair in it's natural state. Once now, I put a texturizer in my hair because it was getting crazy and my braider was booked. Having one person to braid my hair is hard because I go by her schedule. The other braider moved out of town. So, I have been trying to braid my own hair. Two braids is looking good. Anything else, I'm working on it.

I really wish I had the guts and confidence to wear my hair in it's natural state years ago.

Hello Again!

Hello again all,

I have been gone for awhile, life takes you on different paths at different times in your life. But I found my way back.

Sooo, much has happened in the last few months. I turned the hoppy (soapmaking) into a business, did my first show, and recieved my fifth grandchild. Now, here comes the holiday season.

Here is a picture of my table at my first show. The show for others was a disappointment. There was not alot of traffic for a two day show. Plus, there were like five other shows the same days. I felt it was just right for me. I did not get slammed, or overwhelmed. I was not there for alot of the time because I still had to work my other job. Asked for the time off, but no one was listening I guess. But my daughter, Elizabeth, worked the whole show. Did I mention, she was nine months along? She knows everything there is to know about the soaps from beginning to end. So we have decieded that she will be the public face of the soap line. I do enjoy behind the "velvet" rope. We signed up for another show but had to back out due to family things happening. But we will be ready for the spring!

I will try and write more now, seeign that there is so much to fill in from my "trip". Stay tuned.

No soap, but I have some scrubs!

So...I haven't made any soap. I had every intention to make some. I even went to my "lab", and looked around. I spent about four hours down there and came up with no soap. I, did, however, come up with some scrubs and organized supplies.

This week I have been again giving out samples. I have been asked by many, many people. My friends asked why I wasn't selling soap. My answer was easy..I don't want to! I figure, the first bar/sample is free. If/when you come back a little fee may be imposed. Third time, I gotcha and it is gonna cost ya.

I have had 10 third timers! I must be doing something right. Tonight, I will be working on more scrubs. I have many people asking for them. I have to make some soap this weekend for the swap I am in. So I will report on how that turns out later.

Happy Soaping my friends!

So I didn't make anything.....

Okay, last Sunday I was planning on making some soap. Well, I didn't make any soap that day or any other day since. I was disappointed in myself at first. Then I was glad that I was otherwise busy with my soap. I spent most of my free time this week, re-cutting my soap. I cut down full size bars to make samples bars. checked inventory, supplies, made a shopping list, and networked (by phone, email & Facebook). So Thursday, Friday & Sunday, I was on the road. I delivered soap. Alot of soap. Two people I threw in some rolls. (they had been asking for some).

Two people I delivered to on Thursday, called Saturday night wanting full size on Sunday. So now, what I had in the basement is almost gone. Well, by my standards. So the fun truly begins. I have some room to store new things. But I feel that my scrubs go faster than the soap. Go figure.

Next week I have a long weekend. I think I will work my butt off on all my other "things", so I can have a soaping weekend. sound good? Sounds GREAT to me!

Have a good week and Happy Soaping my friends. Talk to ya next week!

Taking a break

Today is raining and just a blah day. I am taking a break from the house "revamping", I think after catching up on my blog roll, I will make some.....soap! Yes, I said it. Now I am gonna do it.

I have alot of fragrance leftovers. You know, alittle here, alittle there. So, I will be on a mission to use them ALL today. Some way, some how.

I will let you know how I or they do!

Wish me luck!

Change...

Well, I am back. It has been awhile. I have so much going on and really didn't feel like writing.

I have had some major changes come into my life. I did not respond well to them. But everyday is getting better. While the major changes were unwanted, I have made some minor changes that were not really wanted but needed.

I have been changing things around the house. working so much that when I do get to bed, I just drop. I have made so kind of change in every room. The major changes, kitchen & my bedroom.
I love the changes! I never really used color before. My husband was a plain kind of man. So...... Color is the first word people say when they come over. The second...Wow!

My kitchen is a warm chestnut brown. For curtains, I went with a orange with small yellow & green flowers. Cleaned out cupboards, moved appliances around. I enjoy cooking much more.

My bedroom was soft beige walls, black & grey bedspread. Some ugly like beige & Burgundy curtains. Well, the walls are still the same color but the curtains are red. Yes, I said red. Bright red with white flowers. Bedspread is not quite done. (I am making) But it has red, black, & white in it. Brightened the room bunches.

I know my friend, Mary tells me all the time, "baby steps", but I had to take big kid steps right now. It is part of my grieving process. Everyone grieves in their own way and in their own time. this is how I am doing my.

I also have been exercising, losing weight, changed my hairstyle, growing my nails. Many changes now, let's see how long they last!

More time coming...

The start of a new month sometimes brings just a "new" start. I have been told that my hours for the day care will be cut. I have lost one little boy because Mom is having her baby next week. then the other Mom is going on a Volunteer Layoff for three weeks. As with any other business, things are not great. They asked employees to please take time off.




So, now that I will only have three kids for the next few weeks, I have "time" to soap!! Hopefully, I can give my soaping some major time. I so miss it. I will do as much as I can because the month after, My hours increase. I guess I will be thinking and working on Fall and holiday soap.




Life is crazy at times. But I love life, so I just have to take my time, plan out my time and enjoy the ride!

My hand at CP

This is my third attempt at making CP Soap. I made this one unscented. Three different oils. Today, I tested out a small piece. Lathered up good, Non drying. I should have used a scent.

I tested the other two I made the same day as I made this one. They were both Satsuma fragrance. (I love it.) But I used different oils in each.

They both turned out good. I think I like this CP stuff! I just hate the wait. I have now made five different types of CP. I want to make more but use different oils, Goat's Milk, and who knows what else. I will still do my MP, but I do enjoy the CP method alot.

Oh, I did hear back about that fair I was trying to get a booth at. It is a no go. They have all the vendors that they need. Then just yesterday, a friend called and wanted me to try and do a Farmer's Market. I can't do it because of the Day Care. I would have to find someone to run the booth for me and at this time I have no one. But have no fear! The show will go on. I have had my first repeat customers already!

Product Junkie...Who Me?

This picture was taken almost two weeks ago. These are just small box braids. They curled on their own. I haven't had any chemicals in my hair since October 2008.

I had my hair braided because I have decided to let my hair lock. People have said I am crazy, it takes to long, they look sloppy and I will look nuts! It is my hair and I want to try. Hey, if it doesn't work out or I change my mind...I shave my head and start all over. No big deal.

I would show a "now" picture but I haven't done anything to my hair since. But buy things! Many things! Too many things! I was never a product junkie. Strange huh? I mean, I am a girl. But I have always been a plain and simple girl. No time to primp, crimp, apply, reapply, gel, hairspray. Wash and go or curling iron, bump and I'm done. I had just the necessities. shampoo, conditioner, grease. I own two different sized curling irons, blow dryer, flat iron (daughter got me one, used one time.).

I went to Sally's over the weekend. Plus, I went to the supermarket. Now..... three different shampoos, three different conditioners, gel (hemp) five different oils (just for my hair). Apple Cider Vinegar, Liquid Amino's, Avocado's, clay. I can't see my dresser! I have five different silk/satin head wraps, bandannas, Two packs of shower caps. Clips bobby pins, I have it all. Then after reading a couple of blogs, there is more I want to try.

I think I am ready for whatever when it comes to my hair. I think I turned into those girls I hated in high school, minus the makeup!

Quiet times are learning experiences

To love like a child, to learn something new, to look at the world around us differently. Things change, people come and go. Some things stay the same. It never surprises me how true some statements are so true. Wise people before us, passing things down. You listen and think, "whatever". But when something happens that changes every thing around you including yourself, your mind goes back and you only remember half. You search for the rest and come up empty. When you are not even thinking about it anymore, BAM, to comes back and hits you like a ton of bricks.

I have always befriended older people. Older than myself. I love to listen to stories of the past, wise advice someone who has lived longer than I. Now, I know what they were talking about. You can listen but what you do with it matters most. I was told to live like I were dying, love like a child, & be ready to learn more and more each day.

I will take all of this and run with it. As things are changing so am I. I learned my lessons and am grateful for the knowledge that I now have. The future is what I see. It is bright and full of new things. I will take chances and not worry about what others say or feel. I will take the love of my family, cherish it and build upon it.

Life is good. It goes on and so will I!

Cleaning up & out

I cleaned out a corner in the basement. went to Wal Mart and got some shelves. This is a start. I knew I had to do something. I was losing my mind. After doing this, I knew I had to make another trip to my store. (I need to have stock. I am there all the time) So, once I do that I will feel much better with my organization. Helps my OCD! My friend Mary said, "small, baby steps". She was right once again! Thanks Mary!

My first time..

I decided to try my hand at making soap the long way. I was first afraid of the lye (all the stories of mishaps) but what the heck. I went to the supermarket and get the oils. The basic three oil recipe. I could not find regular Palm oil so I got Red Palm oil. I didn't like the looks of it. I hated the smell of the Red Palm Oil. The Red Palm oil changed the color of the whole batch. I didn't want to add fragrance or color. Why waste it, costs to much to throw it away. This is what I got.

this is what I got after cutting the soap. Now comes the worse part. The wait. One thing I like about melt & pour, no wait! But I put my time in and waited.

Time is up! Still smelled bad. Nice and hard. I broke off a small piece and washed my hands. Not to much lather, smell wasn't as bad once I used it. My hands felt clean. Squeaky clean. Smell almost gone. Not bad for the first time. My fears are now gone. Not so bad. But I will keep this one for household use. I WILL try this again but this time with scent and color (maybe). Cheaper to make, easier to get some of the oils.

I am proud of myself. It is true what they say...you can teach an old dog new tricks!

No time..

I have not put any time aside to do ANY soaping. I have been cleaning and fixing things up. I think I am just about done except the painting the porch. I plan on doing more yard work Saturday morning.

I got the hair done last night. Like I had two hours to kill!! Well, while I was getting my hair done, I got a phone call. One friend calling mad. She was mad because she ran into another friend who talked about some of my soap. I laughed. Like she was the only one who had some. Well, then I got another call from another "friend", not really friend but we speak. She heard from someone else that I make soap and she wanted to come over right then and "smell". I am expecting her Friday.

While this makes me happy, I then realized that I need to get busy and start making some more soap. So, Friday night, I will be making soap. What kinds? Who knows what ever comes out of this crazy mind of mine.

Happy Birthday..

I know that I talk alot about my grand daughter, "The Queen", but haven't really put a picture up of her. Well, here she is. she turned two on the first. Since, my grand son, Deondre had a birthday the 29Th and Nazariah, had hers on the 1st, we really didn't want to party all weekend. what we did do is just have dinner and cake on their day. Then (crazy us) took them along with my other grand son, Kendren, and my nephew, and my brother's girlfriend's THREE girls to Chuckie Cheese. Yeah, I know. I am with kids all day everyday. Why the hell would I do this to myself? I am still asking myself that question! LOL

Over all, the day went pretty well. But the Queen doesn't like Chuckie Cheese himself. He is ugly and scary!

This is what I had to look at Friday night. she got a new swimsuit, roller blades and baby stroller. I think I will get her ready to be America's Next Top Model. Only a two year old could pull this outfit off.


Oh, and she loves the Disney Princesses. So her Aunt brought her this little getup. Everyday is a experience with Nazariah around. she demands attention & I must say she gets what she wants!

Do you have?

Do you have a box or area in your home, full of projects that you need to finish? I have a box, a area, and three shelves in a closet! I have the energy to do the work. Do I commit to the work? Ah, no. I find something else that grabs me and I pour myself into that. I have knitting, scrapbooking, sewing, soaping, quilting, just to name a few.

I am making a commitment to finish at least three things a week until I can see the bottom. I made a list. I need to make room to the new stuff that I want to get. I live in a medium size apartment, not to many closets, and a basement that is full! Once I started having grand kids, the items just appear out of no where.

I will get these things done. I might die or go crazy trying, but I will get it done! Wish me luck!

Getting things done..

Well, I spent this past weekend getting things done around the house. I started to paint and fix a few things. I called the handyman, he is coming to the house early next week. I have all but three papers complete. I was on a roll.

I locked the door and turned on my music on Sunday. I would not even answer the phone until after noon. Some were mad but I really didn't care. I think if I do the same again this weekend, all the things that I can do will be done.

I spent the better part of the day yesterday getting paperwork done. Yes, I still had kids but I did it. Today I will get end of the month things done. I have someone coming over later about child care for third shift. Not that I need anymore kids. But she is in need and hey it is money. I know what your saying, money is not everything. Well, it's not but it helps pay the bills. Plus, there are things momma wants!

So, I must close for now. work calls. Hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Why is it that some people don't take their jobs seriously? If that is the case, change jobs and find one that makes you happy. Try doing a job you enjoy. When people don't take their job seriously, it affects others in ways they have no clue about. This makes me want to scream!!

As I have said before, I run a Day Care. Most of the kids are family members or very close friends. I take this seriously! I care for kids. Even if I work for myself, I have to answer to others for just about everything I do. Kids, Parents, Department of Social Services & most of all, the State of New York!

My house has to be a safe, clean, & nurturing environment. I have to keep very detailed paperwork. I have deadlines, reports, everything any other business has. I have strangers who come into my home and inspect EVERYTHING!

I started this business 5 years ago. I had two people come in from the county and inspect inside and out. I had to complete 30 page application. Get state clearance for child abuse. Have a physical, TB testing, radon testing, the whole nine yards. Not to mention, insurance agents come and reinspect. I passed everything with flying colors. The state gave me a license, I have a contract with the county. I make decent money. I have to have at least two inspection a year. I have never had more than two things wrong. Dumb things that could be corrected in a matter of minutes. That is just one aspect of the business. We won't go into the food componet of it all.

So, I ask you, why after 5 years, I have an inspection and I came very close to failing because of something that should have been caught 5 years ago from at least 6 people? Now, I have to do work triple time and spend who knows how much money to fix this mess!

Where are these people who let all of this slide you ask? Gone! Moved on to different jobs. Making someone's life a mess. Hell, I don't know. But I do know this...If I could see & talk to them right now, They would REALLY not like what I have to say.

Okay, I guess I am done. It just makes me sick. All this time and money I have to waste. As if I have that so readily available.

"I can do that!"

When looking online for different methods of soaping, I ran across felted soap. Wow, is all I could say. I looked at all kinds of felted soap. After a week of looking, I said, "I can do that!" My mind started to work over time. I logged in Etsy to look for wool. I can not get wool from anywhere where I live. I found many beautiful wools. But the ones above grabbed me. I grabbed the card (my down fall) and ordered away. Above is "Daffodils" and "Valentine", I got them from Chimera.

Once they came in I hurried to felt them. I have made felted bags before. One Christmas I went alittle crazy with the bags. So, the feting process was not totally new to me. Below, is the first bar I felted. as you can see, I needed to spread out the wool better. I have a few lumps.

This is my second try. This one came out much better. (My picture taking is not great but I think you can see the felting. It did not take to long to do each bar. I think the first one about 30 minutes, second 20. With anything, practice makes perfect. I have alot more wool left so I will be felting more soap.

But, now I have to try it out. I am hooked at this beautiful outcome. The things you learn. You are never to old to try new things! It was fun and nerve racking at the same time. I wanted to see the finished product right away. I think I will pull the knitting needles out, felt up some small bags with similar colors of the soap and use them for my packaging.

when my partner comes over, I am sure she will love these too. But I am glad she is on vacation so Grandma can felt these by herself, I can't imagine the mess with her helping me!

Glad it's over

Well, I for one am glad that Easter is over. I love my family but I like not seeing them that much. I had myself all ready for atleast one argument, heated discussion or something. I am happy no such thing happened. The first time in many years!

The kids got along, my uncle kept them busy. The old bitties kept their comments to their selves. The young folks just eat and played on cell phones. It was very nice.

Nazariah was not happy with the scent of her soap. "No smell, it's broke." I assured her it was not "broke", I guess she was okay with that answer. She then (without anyone really paying attention but grandma), went around and took every ones soap. She had a gift bag filled. After about an hour, I got every one's soap back. Came home and got another bar of a different kind and gave it to her. I don't know what I am going to do with her!

I hope everyone else had a nice Easter day. Just two weeks and I have three birthday parties in two weekends. Fun......Wow!!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

This day finds me at a lose of sorts. I have been a mother for so many years. Now a grandmother. Things change, people change. My daughter is hosting Easter dinner today. That leaves me much free time. I have to only cook a few items. I am used to putting on the whole spread.

So, I decided to whip up something for my little bunny. My partner in my soaping ventures. Nazariah, smells every soap, puts labels on, and helps me clean up.

She takes a bar of each and every soap for herself. Never asks, just tells me that it is hers. Puts it in her backpack and moves on to the next chore. Mind you she is only 23 months old!

So, this year grandma is not doing the candy thing. They get WAY to much. So grandma bought each an outfit and made them each a bar of soap. Each bar made with them in mind. Above is Nazariah's soap. It is made with a clear base and I put an Easter eraser in each bar. She will be alittle upset, I put no fragrance in them. I was worried that the fragrance might cloud the soap.

I can't wait until she comes for dinner at Auntie's house. Now, she really has her own soap!

Happy Easter to all. May all of you be blessed this day and always.

Late last night

Have you ever been so tried? I mean, dead dog tried. MY whole body hurt from being so tried. I took a hot shower, lotion up, and hit the bed. Couldn't even read my 5 pages, couldn't keep my eyes open. (you know the same paragraph read 4 times)

I just want to know why someone called me at 2 am. No, 2 am! Are you serious? Of course, it was someone I didn't want to talk too. Hell, I don't even want to talk to them at 2 pm! But once that phone wakes you up, sleep is gone. Your mind says, "that's enough."

So, I was up from then on. But I think I should get up at that time more often. My creative juices were flowing.

This is a new Lavender Flowers I came up with. It is made from Goat's Milk base. I like how my coloring went inside and to the bottom. I never really liked Lavender before making soap. I am starting to like it. One of these bars is going to a dear friend, just because.

Here is Cucumber Melon. I put some green and yellow coloring in. That is gold mica on the top. Way to much mica, my hand slipped and alot came out. I was mad at first but once it was done, I love it. This is for the daughter in law. She has been bugging me since I started making soap. I know this is her fave scent but not mine! I hate the smell. But I love her and she is the mother of my grand kids so..........

My aunt has always told me, "what's done in the dark will come out in the light". I know she was talking about "Other" things, but I like what came out of last nights darkness.

I'm gonna do it!

Well, I sent in my application for the craft show in July. I wasn't nervous when I was filling out the app. I wasn't nervous when I was putting everything together. But now that it is in the mail, I am nervous!

I don't know why. If I get accepted, fine. If I don't, that is fine too. Then, on my way to the post office I was told to try for three other shows. I am thinking. I don't know if I can do that many shows. My day care business keeps me real busy. I don't know how I find the time to even do any soaps. I have kids from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. atleast three nights a week. On the other nights, I work until atleast 9:00. Maybe just one.

But I want to think my "friends" who gave me the advice. I listened and decided to just jump!
I'll let you know if I get accepted.

Online Art Award..

I received an online Art Award. I got this award from http://daisysoapgirl.blogspot.com/. Delores is a talented soaper, who writes a very good blog. I am just dying to try some of her soaps. Why she picked me, I have no idea. I am just a newbie in the soapmaking world. I have many things to learn but will enjoy learning from experienced soapers like herself. I very much appreciate the gesture! Things like this are a great boost for the ego.

I guess the rules of this award is that you have to list seven things or people that you are passionate about. You are then to list the person who gave you the award, the award logo and seven other bloggers you feel are wothy of this award in a post on your blog.

Seven things I am passionate about:

1. My Grandkids - I would do and say anything on thier behalf. They have changed this grandma in ways they will never know.
2. Romance Books - they take me away from the stress and hassles of everyday life.
3. Gardening - calms my soul.
4. Soapping - nuture my creative side.
5. Walks - me time is a wonderful thing.
6. NASCAR - nutures the "wild" side that I put away once I became a grandma.
7. Shopping - never know what is out there waiting just for you!

The Seven blogs are:

1. Daisy Girl Soap - http://daisysoapgirl.blogspot.com/
2. All NAPTURAL - http://allnaptural.blogspot.com/
3. The Soap Seduction - http://thesoapseduction.blogspot.com/
4. Annie's Goat Hill - http://anniesgoathill.blogspot.com/
5. Soapaholics Anonymous - http://soapaholicsanonymous.blogspot.com/
6. Soap & the finer things in life - http://soap-queen.blogspot.com/
7. Soapylove Daily ditties - http://soapylove.blogspot.com/

Roses

While raking my yard, I had to stop and look at my poor rose bushes. These are just two of them. I have four bushes right now but have been looking to buy more. I know this will make the old man VERY happy. But here are two of them brown and naked. My poor babies.
I love Roses! Any color, any variety. I just love Roses!
I wanted some Roses so bad that I went to the store, not the flower shop. Cost to d*** much. I went to the supermarket. I found some beautiful pink Roses. As soon I picked them up the smell got to me. They relax me. Crazy I know but that is what flowers do to me.

As you can see, my main helper Nazariah ( granddaughter #1), had to smell them and report back. " They 'mell pretty Bam Ma."

While eating lunch and looking at my pretty flowers, the wheels were turning. So while the kids were napping, I got out some tools. Haha. I could not help myself. Below you will see my Bath Petals. They were made from silk petals, Rose Fragrance, clear soap base. They look very nice in a small dish. The smell is just enough to scent a room.

These are my Wavey Rose Bars. Rose Fragrance, Red coloring, clear soap base. I just love them. I used my wavey cutter and then cut them uneven. That gave them more waves. I guess I did good because when my helper awoke, she went and got some plastic wrap, took a bar off the table, wrapped up the bar the best she could, she is not even two yet. That bar found a new home. She must have a bar of each soap I make. That is after she 'mells it to see if she likes it.

I know the warmer weather is coming so my Roses will bloom. Not to mention ALL my other flowers. I have a small yard that becomes a large flower garden in the summer. Every one says I over do it. I tell them "if I don't play in the dirt, one of you would be dead right now." Now I get flowers to plant for Mother's Day, or just because it is Sunday. I guess my family and neighbors want to live just one more day.

I believe that it is time for the nice weather to come. Right about now, I need some dirt to play in!

Should I or shouldn't I???

I have been asked by a friend to do a craft show. Well, it is more like be a vendor at a festival in our area in July. It is a weekend long event. I am unsure if I think that I am ready. I have the product, I am working very hard on my labeling. I just don't know if I am ready for that big leap!

I enjoy what I do and others are enjoying the end result. But these others are my friends and family. I know I really should not care to much what others outside of my circle feel, but I can't help it.

I have only a week to fill out the application and submit it. Then comes the hard part...waiting for a appectance/denial letter. Who knows what I am going to do. I must think real hard. Do I stay in my little safe world or do I take that leap of faith and just do it?

This past weekend...

I was alittle busy over this past weekend. But I have found that soaping is a form of relaxing for me. I love trying different things out and finding what works for me. I know that I like color. Lots of color! Scents come in second. Below, are some hand soaps that I made. Apple fragrance with silk flowers and marbles. I only made three to start. I was unsure how they would turn out. But to my surprise they turned out great. Here are some Bath Salts. They are Lavender/Vanilla. Colored light purple and Teal. I added some Lavender buds also. The bags are Beige and light Lavender. The smell is great. But I should have gone with different colored bags. But they came out pretty all the same.

This is some Goat's Milk soap. No scent, played with color. Neons. they are pretty but the color did not continue all the was down. I will work on that because I like the color that I did get.

I am so happy that my form of networking is working. I have a busy weekend ahead of me. I have requests for at least 10 intro bags. I also have a high school friend coming in town this weekend. She got in touch with me on Facebook last night wanting some soap. she will be picking it up this weekend.

Also, while I was working my other job, my daughter called to ask if I could get some samples together. She has some co-workers asking about the soap. I am in a good place right now. I feel that nothing can stop me.

I ordered some supplies, checked inventory, and am pulling it all together. I even made some more soap.

I guess I better not slack to much anymore! Just wish I didn't have to work 14 hours today!!

Ends taken off..

I bite the dust and trimmed my ends. I had about 2 inches taken off and here is what I was left with. I have worn my hair like this before. I am comfortable with this style.
Since cutting my hair I have seen that it looks healthy and has a shine to it. Now I am hoping that it will grow, grow, grow!

Back in the game..

I am back up and moving! I made up these shower gels the other night. Even able to make up labels. I was so happy they turned out so well. I added so glitter to some and left the others plain. I used some last night and smelled so yummy! I used Satsuma fragrance. I must buy some more fragrances. I will be making more.
These bars were made up Saturday night. I used Butterfly Hugs fragrance. My daughter said they look like they have Jolly Ranchers candy inside. They look so pretty and spring like. I really don't want to give them away!

I am off to order supplies. I am ready to make some soap, woo hoo!!

Falling off....

Well, I feel that I have fallen off the soapmaking trail. I haven't made anything all week. Shame on me. But I did put together a basket and a box. Both left the house yesterday. I delievered the basket. I mailed the box to Florida. I hope both enjoy the goodies they got.

Just my way of networking. I really need to network more but with the job I have during the day and the cold and snow, sometimes it is hard for me. I can't wait until Spring/Summer. Hopefully by then, I will have alot more product to offer.

I am pretty sure that I will. A nice person, I want to call a friend, sent me a book of "how to" melt & pour. I have the book just about finished. I got it on tuesday. She will be getting a basket of goodies when I am done to show my thanks!

So, I must close for now. I have muffins in the oven for the kids. I want to freeze them so I don't have to take time to make more in the near future! (LOL) I need that time to make soap!

Sorry

Sorry I ranted like I did earlier. I had a bunch of things on my mind. But now that it is all off my chest, the sun is shinning, & my granddaughter gave me a great big hug, I feel better!

Sorry again. But sometimes you need to act like a fool. In my case, it's alot.

Haters

I just sit and shake my head. I mean damn, I am 42 years old. I raised three kids all by myself. I have been married twice (still in the second one). I am a grandmother of four. Why do I get sh** for doing what I want to do?
Your wasting your time, your wasting your money, what do you think your doing? I hear this everyday. It is making me sick.
If you don't like what I am doing, please leave my house! Leave the space where I get my air. Just leave me the hell alone!
Why do people feel that they can say and do anything they want but when you get ready to do it, all hell has to break out? I guess I was raised in different times and my Aunt taught me when to speak & when to just let things go. I was raised that you respect your elders at all costs. Taught that somethings are better left unsaid. My grandfather told me once,"if you smile, they have no idea what your thinking". That is how I live.
With my own kids, I have learned (the hard way) to let go. They need to make their own mistakes. Once I got the basics down, it has been heaven. I don't want to be all up in their business.
I feel that I don't need someone always in my space, face or bed! I can do bad all by myself. I am trying to better myself. I have goals I must reach at all costs. If I lose people along the way, then they were really not suppose to be there. If you want to support me, fine. But if you don't, that's okay too.
I was there when they did their thing. I was there when the sh** hit the fan. I had mop, broom, garbage bag ready. Sometimes I even had the checkbook out with pen in hand. Just because I feel that I need to let go of some of the strees and bull that was in my life, I am wrong? No, I am not the one who is wrong. Things have never been more right! I have let go of alot of things and if my happiness depends on letting go of even MORE, bye bye, see ya later, peace be with you! 2009 is all about what Arnita wants, feels and needs.
Maybe I sound a little harsh. But no one is gonna break my spirit, determination, or my faith in myself. I know I can. I know I will. It may not be tomorrow, but it will happen!!

Blog Reading

I had no idea that there were so many people out there blogging. Let alone how big the soaping world online was. I started reading my fave blogs and ended up "finding" at least 20 more. Now, I didn't get a chance to read them all. But at midnight (I started at 7:30) I called it quits. Plus, I was suppose to be working. Thank God for cartoons!
When reading ones blog, they mentioning some other blog, and so on, and so on... Not all have good info. But most not only have good info, but everyone is so helpful!!
and the soaping community online is the Best! I just wish I had decided to join this community a long time ago.
It is like one great big family!
I am real glad that I am like a distant cousin!! Hopefully, I will be able to read the blogs I bookmarked last night. I know they will point me in the right direction to other Great blogs/soapers.

Props for Vintage Fresh Soaps

I got a rebatching kit the other day from Vintage Fresh Soap. I wanted to try all methods of soap making. I found that the price was good for all that you got in the kit. For $25 plus shipping, I got 2 pounds of base, kelp powder, green tea fragrance & avocado butter. Heidi also added printed out instructions and two sample bars of her soap. (Both smell heavenly). While I was waiting for my package to arrive, I read her blog many times. I also read a few others. I wanted to make sure I was ready for this.
It took me about 1 1/2 hours to grate the base. I put it in the crock pot to melt. It took some time to melt this way but for that I was happy. I am a multitask er. I really try hard not to be, but it is there. This is what the base looked like before anything was added.

Once I had a mushy mess in the pot, I added all the additives plus 1/2 cup of milk. What a sight and smell. It was not really smelling that good. Once I was sure that everything was mixed well, I put it in the mold.

Now comes the worse part, the wait. I love the coloring, not so much the smell. I found that it was easy to do. Heidi does an excellent job explaining the whole method. The packaging was great. The turn over time was also nice. I know for a fact I will be a repeat customer!

Now, I must venture into a different method for the month of March. Who knows what I can get into!

My hair....

So, last October for my birthday, My girlfriend put some weave in my head. The last time I had weave was 2000. That was just braids. This time it was sewn in, alittle past my shoulders. She did a great job, I looked good. But.......

Hurt like hell! The braids were too tight, not use to the weight of the weave. Could not wait to wash my head. Needed to loosen the braids some.

Well, I left it in until January. When I took it out, OMG! The mess I had on my head. After getting my hair back to close to normal, (four hours later) I decided that I no longer wanted to be a slave to fashion. Hell, I am 42 years old. I am one - to damn old to try and "fit in", two - I am living life according to how I feel.

So, No more relaxers! Yeah, I may put on my wig (looks good on me), throw on a scarf (have many colors/types), put some braids in (when I can track my braider down), or do whatever, the bottom line is no more chemicals!

My kids think I am crazy. My braider said, "you sure you don't want to put a mild relaxer in"? My answer was, "Hell No"!!! I am not sure where I am going with this, not even sure how long I can stand it. But for right now, I am natural at the scalp, little perm left near the ends. I will get my ends trimmed soon. But for right now, they are fine.

Fashion/trends come and go. One minute I fit right, the next I don't. Who gives a flying @#$%! I want to do what I want and whoever doesn't like it can kiss my *%%. I can't post a pic just yet. Don't have any right at the time. But I will.

And to think, I went to school to do hair!!

Poofy/Loofah, whatever!

My daughter saw a soap like this somewhere. Of course, she says, you sould be able to make that Mom. She is my biggest hater/supporter. Love her dearly but........

Well, I came up with this. Loofah, Oatmeal, Milk & Honey fragrance. I have some tweeking to do for the next batch but other than that, so far so good. I have been getting alot of feedback on this one. The girls just love the colors, the scent - some like, some don't. So I will play.

This weekend, Walmart, here I come!! Can you believe they are cheaper than the Dollar store? I love how they have so many pretty colored ones. All like spring! I remember back when they were becoming popular, just one color. Boring!! I am lovin' this.

Who knows what else I can come up with after a trip to MY store!

Busy weekend

This is my Goat's Milk. I am waiting to hand paint these. I don't know where I will get the energy, but I will paint them. This maybe the only bars I ever do. But atleast I will try it.






Below are Angel Wing Bars. I love the scent of these. My daughter just loves the color! She is a pink girl. Has been for all her life. I guess they are okay. I am not crazy for the color but the smell is Great!

I love Roses! No matter what kind, what color! If it is a rose, Arnita is loving it. I have 5 rose bushes in my front yard. I have told people, if your gonna give me flowers, they better be Roses. Don't get me wrong, I love flowers. My small yard is filled with flowers every year. I have a Lily that most gardener's would die for. I guard the thing with my life! But I love Roses!

It was just a matter of time before I did a Rose soap. Goat's Milk base, fresh cut roses fragrance and real rose petals. I like the fact that the flowers stayed near the top.

I am not a beer drinker. But sometimes, I will have one or two. Not much more after that. But my brother loves beer. We have a brewer near where he works (southerntierbrewing.com). He has tried so many of their beers. I get a flavored beer every year for my birthday.

I brought this Raspberry Wheat beer. I like raspberries. This should be good, right? Wrong! I hated the stuff. Bitter, bitter, bitter. Couldn't even choke it down. Can't pour it out. No matter if I like it or not, that is a waste of money!!!

I push it from one side to another. I have done this for a few months.

Should I? How will it turn out? Never know until you try, right? well, I listened to that voice in my head. Goat's Milk base (loving the stuff), Southern Tier Raspberry Wheat Beer, raspberry fragrance, purple coloring. Here you have the finished soap!

Love the scent, the color, hopefully, the soap.

I will be doing more beer soaps. Southern Tier Brewing, is only maybe 20 minutes away from where I live in Lakewood, New York. They have great names for their wares like Hop Sun, Uber Sun, Cherry Saison, just to name a few. They are open year round, but have seasonal beers/ales. I will be trying some more of their products. Oh, soaping of course!!

This weekend

This is Chocolate Peppermint. Very ugly! The smell is great. I was really nervous about this one. Never know what your gonna get once you cut into it.

This is what I got. It is just beautiful! (even if it's just me). I don't know how the bottom layer formed but it adds to the whole picture. The smell was even better once the soap was cut.

Here a few pictures of some of the soap that I have made. I am not happy with the out come of the picture taking and some of the soap. But I will keep trying.

Above is my Chai Tea made from Goat's Milk. Below is Lavender Flowers, also made with Goat's Milk. Colored with Purple. This was my first try at swirling. I was very pleased.
Below is my flowers for a friend. I made this with Clear Soap Base. The roses are colored with Neon Pink coloring. Scented with Best Friends Fragrance. The flowers melted alittle, but I know why, made note of it so it will not happen again. (Hopefully)

Above is another picture of Lavender Flowers. Below is what I call Carnival. White Soap Base, Transparent cubes of Red, Blue & Yellow. Scented with Tahitian Vanilla. I put it in a cake pan to mold. The smell is to die for! I love any kind of Vanilla. I have yet to try this one. But maybe real soon.

And lastly, this is my Monkey Farts. Made from Goat's Milk, colored with Neon Green. I tried my hand at swirling again. I didn't get the swirl I wanted, but I am happy with the end results!

Looking at the pictures gives me hope and encouragment. I know that I love doing this and have sooo many ideas running in my head. I may not be selling any of it anytime soon, if ever, but I sure will still making soap for many years to come!

Last night I was busy trying my hand at sugar scrubs. I made quite a few. My favorite is the Peppermint. I could not wait to try this. I love sugar scrubs!

I felt so good after trying this scrub. The peppermint made my skin tingle. My skin was soft and smooth after. I was so excited that I made 5 more. All 5 were different scents.

I even tried my hand at the labels. Still not to sure which I want to go with but wasn't that disappointed with any of my tries.

Tonight, I think I want to try a salt scrub. I have never used a salt scrub before. I see this as a good time.

I will let you know how it goes.