tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27525289520971773972024-02-07T04:30:38.553-05:00Manor Hall Soap BlogLife inside and outside The Manor. Manor Hall, that is. As in, "Soap Company". Who put the olive oil in the soap? Must've been Manor Hall...Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.comBlogger607125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-49593250426680086562015-12-11T07:37:00.001-05:002015-12-11T07:37:46.590-05:00Today Is The Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJok7TzK-o9SzhCFtHnkMQF9AVUgNuYAKM-rQPr1duaRZwVTBJ_9PiUCyjXQvQ15wfe47n6_Y7qwwSk50j2_E5WKXNTwzcf-9znhiT8PiJ_irkcvFObEaJwIfyPrVi1JmrslBr2eFNo0LO/s1600/shipping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJok7TzK-o9SzhCFtHnkMQF9AVUgNuYAKM-rQPr1duaRZwVTBJ_9PiUCyjXQvQ15wfe47n6_Y7qwwSk50j2_E5WKXNTwzcf-9znhiT8PiJ_irkcvFObEaJwIfyPrVi1JmrslBr2eFNo0LO/s400/shipping.jpg" /></a></div><br>Off to an early start this morning continuing the week long mission to have all order boxes shipped by close of business today. The office will then close for our annual family Christmas break until we re-open in January. If you're planning on buying your faves in time for the Holidays, today is the day!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-14080804779195736682015-12-01T08:30:00.002-05:002015-12-01T08:30:59.287-05:00Bright little Blast of Fresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-AsAY2PF0VZU728_Vy1iN2mzfYFHxvywIoxbPtKO-kYacyZLcDpkR-o0w0taQ2u2JqsI8Pu9Trk9_GfJoG_uuGrNsBu3O5nSYCQ7B0AyjnkCy1WRmNRwsNo5gEXFnUWiToYG3ZHv3SYjm/s1600/orangetop1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-AsAY2PF0VZU728_Vy1iN2mzfYFHxvywIoxbPtKO-kYacyZLcDpkR-o0w0taQ2u2JqsI8Pu9Trk9_GfJoG_uuGrNsBu3O5nSYCQ7B0AyjnkCy1WRmNRwsNo5gEXFnUWiToYG3ZHv3SYjm/s400/orangetop1.jpg" /></a></div>On my workbench this morning are a few batches of <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=64&products_id=6389">Orange Tree Blast</a> waiting for the trim, clean, and slice. Here's a close up pic of the top showing linear sprinkles of poppy seeds and orange peel. Bright little blast of fresh!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-16260144241712386922015-11-23T06:19:00.005-05:002015-11-23T06:22:05.907-05:00Who's Your Honey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZLfQ1v1bTeJ1ODRnVWxv0VmcDOwugXAMIgBQ-x1Ecgb38HUgvAcZwDZcwml3L_FCOcr1nUP8SX00uIJOVptnkw06Fsa2qPptM1NeX4-WTkrpADhEsSH7uadxlRFC8FVIKSgDzWKU8fUZ/s1600/logshoneyrose.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisZLfQ1v1bTeJ1ODRnVWxv0VmcDOwugXAMIgBQ-x1Ecgb38HUgvAcZwDZcwml3L_FCOcr1nUP8SX00uIJOVptnkw06Fsa2qPptM1NeX4-WTkrpADhEsSH7uadxlRFC8FVIKSgDzWKU8fUZ/s400/logshoneyrose.jpg" /></a></div><br><br><a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=61&products_id=308">Honey Rose facial bar</a> all logged and lining up for the slice. Waiting patiently in the background for his turn is a batch of <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68&products_id=6441">Goatmilk with Honey and Oatmeal</a>.<br><br>In stock and ready to be your honey now!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-70608723642854992852015-07-30T09:20:00.001-04:002015-07-30T09:25:49.992-04:00All a Fall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xJ9SXEtxv9XXhpEIBuMexguRyteftoUBjdJSGaIwQJnDmO1y7ys7IBczYBG03jybsnq5te4Ba789vIxqxGd-k0k5kXDxre0QZgcxzkvBU-TTjDWpsvlsNAAoGk-Df4QvpBZkVf5vBJzw/s1600/DSC_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6xJ9SXEtxv9XXhpEIBuMexguRyteftoUBjdJSGaIwQJnDmO1y7ys7IBczYBG03jybsnq5te4Ba789vIxqxGd-k0k5kXDxre0QZgcxzkvBU-TTjDWpsvlsNAAoGk-Df4QvpBZkVf5vBJzw/s400/DSC_0745.JPG" /></a></div><br><br>More <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=64">Manor Hall Soaps</a> are hitting the curing shelves this week as I gear up towards some new Fall scent releases. Also happening during the Fall are new additions to the <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=35">Manor Hall facial line</a>, a new order box experience, and fingers crossed... a new mobile responsive website (thank you, Jason!).<br><br>
-sm Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-16869474043150183692015-06-16T11:43:00.001-04:002015-06-16T11:45:15.163-04:00And The Cycle Ends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZzRpGeROZuQTNVHeBZdlYsFdaYXiksXCANPYgFg2WMSIWLA2ag-igsW5eQWE45HnnUKUlK7w0vp-JXytu47hvj3-pm7cBrz7WbUrUMEQBCZp9s5jDY6at0nt3Gk5f3Bb9DoV3BZfUps_/s1600/curing+shelves3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIZzRpGeROZuQTNVHeBZdlYsFdaYXiksXCANPYgFg2WMSIWLA2ag-igsW5eQWE45HnnUKUlK7w0vp-JXytu47hvj3-pm7cBrz7WbUrUMEQBCZp9s5jDY6at0nt3Gk5f3Bb9DoV3BZfUps_/s400/curing+shelves3.jpg" /></a></div><br><br><a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=aboutus">For me</a>, soaping goes in cycles. Today is the end of the cycle. It's a "finish off different things to start it all again tomorrow" days. Clear curing shelves, clean soap bars, wrap 'em up, label, count stock, update database, wipe off curing trays, line afresh, shelve.... and the list goes on until the workshop is prepped for a ten day soap fest. Tonight will be a late one. Weighing out the pans begins tomorrow. Life feels good.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-55278622891441249902015-06-08T11:06:00.001-04:002015-06-08T11:06:22.073-04:00Shadowland Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3QQaRnLGBruauHEk7iprzEU_u4mubzVMgHiDXxw1Z76_Zsd1n8H2Tyz0f07C9g3eu5oo-pitjeQmzGOgbBFri5vr0tLK8vJWRXDrS1lWUMl52SDeoQpTRZ6B8WszMBmGesfXfWoBOGbP/s1600/shadowlandlogs1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3QQaRnLGBruauHEk7iprzEU_u4mubzVMgHiDXxw1Z76_Zsd1n8H2Tyz0f07C9g3eu5oo-pitjeQmzGOgbBFri5vr0tLK8vJWRXDrS1lWUMl52SDeoQpTRZ6B8WszMBmGesfXfWoBOGbP/s400/shadowlandlogs1.jpg" /></a></div><br><br> Logs of Shadowland. The colors follow each other around, and so do the notes of the Cedarwood, Lavender, and Patchouli essential oil blend. Careful... she's a heady temptress. Returning to <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com">the website</a> for the summer and ready for purchase on the 22nd.
Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-5770744712684775132015-04-20T11:29:00.000-04:002015-04-20T11:40:14.797-04:00Is It Spring Yet?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Km3_MDnrxS5Jpm1N-vDGb1oLEerjgcKEh8G4hNS-GNtm-geQ0Go63GPY4cTOaBivRZSy397oRsavihf5VAR_iEAUspDW_ceK5lVsSyvntxp7EgkILoKblvmMdCh-GmqVzC3INYfaQHkp/s1600/springlife1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Km3_MDnrxS5Jpm1N-vDGb1oLEerjgcKEh8G4hNS-GNtm-geQ0Go63GPY4cTOaBivRZSy397oRsavihf5VAR_iEAUspDW_ceK5lVsSyvntxp7EgkILoKblvmMdCh-GmqVzC3INYfaQHkp/s400/springlife1.jpg" /></a></div><br><br>
I love the New England snow here so much that in all my fifteen years of the cold season I have kicked against us getting a snow blower. I have always been out there at the first sign of snowfall with my shovel at hand. I wait through the fall with the eagerness and expectation of a child at Christmas time. I polish my snow shovel with olive oil to a gleam, and I finally put it away over the weekend but I think my love affair with the New England snowy winters maybe over.<br><br>
Ordinarily, I relish making soap over the season of nip and bite. The lye goes out on the deck, and it's cooled before I even have time to make me a cuppa and line the molds. Production is much faster, smoother, and the workshop is just a great place to be. But this past winter has been brutal. It just never stopped. One day after the other. One 48 hours into the next. Weekdays or weekends. Just the same falling white, ice, wind and freezing rain. It made the news daily, and broke records across the state.<br><br>
A yield in the basement wall. On the rainiest pour from the dark of winter skies I have ever experienced in my whole life. Outside, courting midnight with a yard brush, scooting the ponding slush of wet and freeze the full length of our front path to keep it from breaching the basement window sills. No wellingtons to wear my feet, I had to pull on my best black GAP knee high biker boots... and of all the things to reduce me to tears that night it was feeling my sodden socks ruffling the plush in-soles in the knowledge that come the morning my fave boots would forever be relegated to gardening work.<br><br>
Though the night was a horrendous one, the water damage indoors wasn't much to write home about once it had all dried out. Oh, at the time we were ankle deep at the front door and it was a dreadful catch 22 situation. The room below needed towels, and a truckload of them at that. But it was no use attempting any kind of mop-out while the water was enjoying its new found freedom through the hairline crack in the foundation wall. My wet woolly hat was icy cold against my head, but I grinned like a Cheshire cat with every push of the brush past the dry of the mulched bed under the workshop window. In a weird way, the safety of the workshop kept me going. An hour and half later, it was all done with. The rain slackened off, and we spent most of the night mopping up and thanking our lucky stars.<br><br>
I lost eighteen days of soaping all tolled. Sometimes the personal side of life has to take priority, and the knock on effect was many delayed soap batches as I gave the time needed to home and family. February's annual Manor Mania event almost didn't happen. But I made the decision to go ahead with it in March so everyone could still enjoy buying their faves at the silly prices they wait all year for. My Manor Maniacs have been fantastic, and have waited so patiently for their soaps through the curing delay. There's only four more batches on hold for the cure, and by the end of next week as April leaves us, the last of the Manor Mania follow-on soaps will have shipped and what has been an awful and trying time will all be behind me. It will be nice to move forward.<br><br>
Though very late this year, Spring has finally sprung here in Springfield, MA and I've just had a wonderful weekend in the garden with some beautiful sun shining down. However bad things may be, there's comfort in knowing that nothing stays the same forever. The green shoots of the new season's life are upon us and you know what?... maybe there's something to be said for wearing knee high GAP biker boots while heeling on a spade in the soil. Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-41524828455398547822015-04-06T09:42:00.000-04:002015-04-06T09:42:32.456-04:00Ohhhh Is For OliveThe olive tree has a commanding tenacity. No matter how harsh the winter, or burning dry the summer, it still grows strong and upright in stoic resolution to bring us a fruit renowned for its nourishment and salve. A very emollient oil, it has been used for thousands of years on the skin to calm, <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=35&products_id=336">to cleanse</a> and to moisturize. <br /><br />The olive is very high in polyphenols. These are a broad class of antioxidants that include flavonoids and catechins, common also to red wine, chocolate, grape juice and tea. Antioxidants are useful in the aging process... they help slow it down.<br /><br />But antioxidants also hold other qualities of importance to us. The phenols found in olive oil have an antifungal and antibacterial action. Phenols also prevent "Oxidative Stress", a highly oxidized environment within cells where there is an overflow of free radicals and a lack of antioxidant support. Oxidative Stress always leads to inflammation, a common aggravator in dermatitis and other similar skin conditions.<br /><br />Olive oil is a great humectant. Attracting external moisture to the skin, it still allows normal function to take place such as shedding, sweating and sebum release. Olive oil doesn't clog pores, It is gentle, and hypoallergenic.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-13583010545687415872015-03-26T05:42:00.002-04:002015-03-26T06:52:54.422-04:00Hand It OverTaking time out for a manicure isn't just about relaxing in the salon and catching up on all the gossip with the girls. Looking after your hands is important, and the purpose of manicuring isn't only about improving the look and feel of your hands, fingers and nails, but also to cleanse and strengthen. <br /><br />Manicuring hydrates and exfoliates the skin on your hands, and also the skin that surrounds the fingernails. Massaging the hands is great for unwinding and for melting away the stress of the day, but combined with gentle exfoliation it can work to slough off the old skin cell build up that often prevents full absorption of your moisturizing creams. <br /><br />Hard skin, flaky skin, dry skin... all of this only serves to create a barrier, preventing much needed moisture from reaching the healthy young skin below. Trying to moisturize dead or dying skin cells is a losing battle. Creams and lotions settle on the surface, and that's about as far as it goes. Skin needs to be maintained if you want to avoid dryness, and the "weathering" problems often associated with it.<br /><br />Regular hand exfoliation will maximize your moisturizing routine. There are many polishing products on the market specifically for this purpose, but a simple one can be made easily with a little olive oil and sugar. You can even warm the olive oil and add a little honey to really kick up the silky effect. Once rinsed, you'll notice a difference immediately in the condition of your skin. <br /><br />Regular use of cream or lotion will keep hands moisturized, and again, try to take a few minutes to massage it in. This not only serves to relax and de-stress, but also helps to deliver the moisture where it's needed - into the skin.<br /><br />Looking after the finger nails is also an important step in the manicure routine. Finger nails can be brittle, split or dry. And the cuticle area can be hard, often cracked and painful. A nice soak in warm water will soften them up, and a <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=546&products_id=402">good cuticle balm</a> or <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=549&products_id=83">butter</a> will deliver nourishment to where it's needed. This all serves to aid strength and growth.<br /><br />All in all, there's more to a manicure than first meets the eye. It's not about striving for pretty hands... it's about maintaining hands. The prettiness naturally follows.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-14324354710114562792015-03-25T13:19:00.000-04:002015-03-25T13:20:45.343-04:00Music To Soap By - P.P. Arnold<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/6AMZWRF7odY?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/6AMZWRF7odY?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br><br>We have rain coming in late this afternoon. Last thing I need when I'm soapmaking. I cool the lye out on the deck, and any rain, snow or wind means everything stops.<br><br>Full on panic, I was up at the crack of dawn to try beat the rain. This track is keeping me going today. I love P.P. Arnold. Yes, there goes that all too familiar percussion of mine. I am such a sucker for a half decent drum beat. And I don't mean the heavy rock stuff either. I love drums that build into something. The anthem type song that you just can't help yelling along to when it gets to the good bit.<br /><br />This is the only video I could find of P.P. Arnold singing this. Have a guess of her age as she shimmies about in this knockout dress. Like... are you kidding me?<br /><br />P.P. Arnold, late 1960's - Everything's Gonna Be AlrightSusan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-17189423683816815072015-03-25T10:18:00.002-04:002015-03-25T10:18:49.055-04:00Pause For Thought<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQy1RNKV5YO2E8FclTJsfsy7O9XljQsmy8HZCfPs9JZPJTejzdB6SEczznWLCcLK-o0O2MPsdjaEW8_RE3XVcjs_dLSizFfWYTRYIxRPGUffybd4x5nEg8CuwmsJtEt7KKVAKGd0LOok7K/s1600/rockport+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQy1RNKV5YO2E8FclTJsfsy7O9XljQsmy8HZCfPs9JZPJTejzdB6SEczznWLCcLK-o0O2MPsdjaEW8_RE3XVcjs_dLSizFfWYTRYIxRPGUffybd4x5nEg8CuwmsJtEt7KKVAKGd0LOok7K/s400/rockport+022.JPG" /></a></div>
“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” -Milton BerleSusan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-78535955700283130902015-03-24T07:19:00.000-04:002015-03-24T14:20:27.926-04:00A Mug Or The Soap<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8Dv-u4ud3Pkdm_smgp8-92m9Z7h2QGy4000BlvaFhTxafdDz_Ve4PB1OUUYG-lPjA6aicqtUK7ve97vpqbiUJ6q1GGsZBnj11FDLgapk5Bp1xjVMom6FcvHwavX5tmSntbsQ0THE4UtB/s1600/workshop_xmassoaps+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO8Dv-u4ud3Pkdm_smgp8-92m9Z7h2QGy4000BlvaFhTxafdDz_Ve4PB1OUUYG-lPjA6aicqtUK7ve97vpqbiUJ6q1GGsZBnj11FDLgapk5Bp1xjVMom6FcvHwavX5tmSntbsQ0THE4UtB/s400/workshop_xmassoaps+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683748649919440434" /></a><br>A good day's soapmaking is always measured by the mess left behind for the clean up. Oh, and the tea mugs. It wouldn't be a work day without an army of empty ones scattered about the workshop. <br /><br />And office. <br /><br />And packing room. <br /><br />And... oh, every room you can imagine. Yes... it's a close call between which I love best - making soap or a cuppa. Please, don't ever make me choose!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-50358970328212674022015-03-20T12:29:00.000-04:002015-03-20T12:46:00.416-04:00Music To Soap By - Fun<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q7yCLn-O-Y0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br><br>
It's been a hard winter here at <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/">The Manor</a>.<br><br>
Ohhhh, let me just wallow in a bit of self pity as I write that again. It's been a hard winter here at The Manor.<br><br>
<a href="http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2015/03/15/parade-day-snow-but-snowiest-winter-record-unlikely-today/BCxfh7yPtIrxtHVzty5sPM/story.html">The winter storms</a> here in the NorthEast have been relentless, and try as I may... I had to cave into it. I tried, I really tried to stay on top of things. In the end, I closed the office for a couple of weeks while I waited for the delivery times to be more predictable and also tend to the mounding snow from the skies and the plows.<br><br>
My usual post-Holiday supply purchasing of bottles and jars, soaping oils and ingredients, and many other assorted shipments that my little soap business needs to keep it ticking over had to be postponed. Deliveries just couldn't be relied on as many states were having their own weather dilemmas, and my Manor Hall order boxes couldn't be left for mail collection. Manor Mania couldn't go ahead as it usually does each February. Curing times of soap were seriously messed with, and some soapmaking just couldn't get done.<br><br>
It's the first day of Spring today. <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/">Manor Mania is on</a>, and the orders have been pouring in. I'm still waiting for a few supply deliveries, as well as being behind on curing times. I've lost the whole of this morning to the water men, who have been here to do their repairs. Like... after all my years on earth I know this time will pass. Right now though... I just wanna keep my head in my hands for a few. But you can't, can you? You can't run a business and keep your head in your hands. You really do have to suck it up and carry on. And that's what I'm doing just as soon as the last drop of this cup of tea has hit the back of my throat. <br><br>
On loop and blaring out of <a href="http://blog.manorhallsoapcompany.com/2011/03/new-workshop.html">the workshop</a> today is this one. It's a slow starter, but it builds into a great chant and will keep me going as I work late tonight and on through the whole weekend. The work men are gone, and the workshop door is finally open again. Sing it with me now... "If you're lost and alone, Or you're sinking like a stone... Carry on."<br><br>
Fun, 2012 - Carry On
Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-63790938553490595982015-03-18T09:38:00.000-04:002015-03-18T09:38:07.990-04:00Ready, Pedi, Go.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn7F3AbFIGnzoy8xMfA95d_pyQtWTUqwu3hDjbLClUW0BwZFlTt9tL78wwRTQAO10XMOX0QIKoj88H9FvreRpBRGbM8g4UsXKauPUQp8pYDDtU9ooLLaDmddXHClXE0E2_Olgp7JIxw-m/s1600/footscub.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEn7F3AbFIGnzoy8xMfA95d_pyQtWTUqwu3hDjbLClUW0BwZFlTt9tL78wwRTQAO10XMOX0QIKoj88H9FvreRpBRGbM8g4UsXKauPUQp8pYDDtU9ooLLaDmddXHClXE0E2_Olgp7JIxw-m/s320/footscub.JPG" /></a></div>
Feet walk thousands of steps a day. They are squashed into shoes, bumped into table legs, and stubbed against curbs and sidewalks. They swell, they sweat, they throb. Yet despite what they shout out to us, we tend to ignore it all until there's nothing left to do but hide them away.<br /><br />The soles of your feet don't have any of their own oil glands to soften them, which is why feet and heels so often become dry and cracked. Caring for your feet isn't difficult, and needn't take much time out of any busy schedule. A foot makeover is one of the simplest and effective beauty transformations you can do for yourself, with little other than a bowl of warm water, a pumice stone, and fifteen minutes.<br /><br />* Soaking the feet for ten minutes will soften, soothe, and relax. Adding an <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=561&products_id=56">aromatic foot wash</a> or salts to the water will deodorize and freshen, and a drizzle of olive oil kicks it up a treat. Soaking also softens the nails, making cutting so much easier. Always make sure to clip the nails straight and across, as rounding the corners can cause ingrown nails.<br /><br />* Use a pumice stone to reduce the hard skin, making sure not to employ the "once and for all" attack method. Hard skin is better conquered with a gentle and regular approach. Smooth skin off with an exfoliating paste product. This helps reveal the new layer of skin, delivering hydration while sealing the moisture in. A <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=561&products_id=57">salt polishing paste</a> also infuses the skin with natural nutrients and minerals, and can also be used with a light brushing over the toes for nails and cuticles.<br /><br />* Finish off with a slathering massage of moisturizing creme, <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=549&products_id=83">natural shea butter</a>, or <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=561&products_id=59">favorite balm</a>. Massage increases the circulation, relaxes muscles, and also relieves the aches and pains of the day.<br /><br />Pretty soft and silky smooth. Perfectly pampered feet, all refreshed and ready to skip through the distance of your next working day.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-9253480856958412082015-03-17T12:25:00.002-04:002015-03-17T12:56:46.676-04:00Back To The Future<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEsDt6SQVDdxo6x3YFJ8pvAtj-wlsndiwVtBJEnKIccziFvL3p17_WFrtOW-2IxyMooydIcfeJtSsSMx2qVzzBaCvNkL-wG-sZlZdj7e5JECDuBf4nZFoiiWR05jaDeU8-SFQeWik0XM1/s1600/herbybalm1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNEsDt6SQVDdxo6x3YFJ8pvAtj-wlsndiwVtBJEnKIccziFvL3p17_WFrtOW-2IxyMooydIcfeJtSsSMx2qVzzBaCvNkL-wG-sZlZdj7e5JECDuBf4nZFoiiWR05jaDeU8-SFQeWik0XM1/s320/herbybalm1.jpg" /></a></div>
It's a "Back To The Future" kinda day for me. On <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/">the website</a> I've got February's Manor Mania happening - in mid-March. In the workshop, I'm four weeks into the future as I begin work on the new product line that I'm launching in April. In my head, I'm plotting the summer products. On my jotting pad beside the phone, is a pen and some ideas for the Fall. In the pic, is today's work. Which is really for next month... that I'll be telling you more about soon.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-52265840843528888422015-03-16T11:01:00.001-04:002015-03-16T11:56:43.340-04:00A Loving Smooth for the Mighty Rough<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKmG8veal-RYcypumTGlVdeqbaSvdejJ_obAPh8e71DSHfugWwoj7mZ9ItBCzXC6Nco1cdOqnLbQl7pZAxFc1GgkhiorRhoVRjE36IyS7nNpl7C0fuSJHVYQBqwjKgAtcG4YuSmwF4Vck/s1600/honeyoatsgoat1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKmG8veal-RYcypumTGlVdeqbaSvdejJ_obAPh8e71DSHfugWwoj7mZ9ItBCzXC6Nco1cdOqnLbQl7pZAxFc1GgkhiorRhoVRjE36IyS7nNpl7C0fuSJHVYQBqwjKgAtcG4YuSmwF4Vck/s320/honeyoatsgoat1.jpg" /></a></div><br />My hands are in water a lot. When I'm soaping, they tend to take the brunt of it all. Yes, I wear rubber gloves, but I take them off whenever they're not needed for protection. I watch the ads for soap on television, but as mild and gentle as they claim their products to be... they're only mild and gentle compared to other detergent bars. A commercial detergent bar just cannot compete with real handmade soap.<br /><br />With my hands constantly in water, my wrists seem to feel it the most. The skin where the hands meet the lower arms dries out much faster than the rest of me when I'm soaping. I suppose the rubber gloves don't help either. Making my own soap affords me to pick and choose my ingredients according to what I want them to do. When I first started to make soap, I quickly discovered my hands needed a little more protection than just a pair of rubber gloves.<br /><br />So, a purpose made bar was the order of the day. Of all the ingredients on my shelf to choose from, there were two that I wanted to build a working-hands bar around. Honey, and almonds. I often used both together as a paste... it's great on the face, and on the hands. Actually, it's great as a gentle exfoliating scrub for the whole body too. I'd warm the sweet almond oil with the honey, and add a heaping of almond meal. It's probably one of the best home made beauty recipes around. It's basic, it's simple, and it offers one of the richest moisturizing treats you can give your skin.<br /><br />Honey is a humectant. It grabs hold of the moisture from the air, and keeps hold of it. It forms a barrier on the skin, and protects it. It's also anti microbial, so it does the duty with the nasties too.<br /><br />As for almonds? Oh... boy. When ground fine the almond fruit doesn't half yield some wonderful skin softening properties. Sweet almond oil is very similar to our own skin's natural oil. It's gentle, and helps with the relief of dry itchy or sore skin. It boasts naturally occurring vitamins, including the valuable anti-oxidant Vitamin E. It's considered to be anti-inflammatory, and is very emollient. It's a light oil, readily absorbed without greasy after-feel, and it is often the oil of choice for use with skin troubles such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. <br /><br />Almond meal is what remains after the pressing of the almonds used to yield the sweet almond oil. As with sweet almond oil, the meal is very gentle and anti irritating to the skin. Dry, dead and flaking skin cells form a hard barrier on the skin, which prevents it from absorbing much needed moisture. Almond meal is moist with the oil from the pressing and gently exfoliates these cells. <br /><br />And so <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=64&products_id=64">Honey Me Smooth</a> was born. It's my soapmaking bar. A bar for hard working hands. It protects my hands, and smooths any dry that might be flaking around. It's one of the few bars that doesn't have any essential oils in it. They weren't needed. The simplicity of the ingredients alone were enough for what I wanted. I wanted to be able to wash my hands often, and not have my skin take a pounding. <br /><br />"Honey me Smooth" is great for winter itch. It's also a dream on the scaly skin we get on forearms, shins, and thighs... and it's an absolute warrior on chafe. There's not many jobs out there that beat soapmaking for repetitive wear and tear on the skin. And there's not many soap bars that take on the duty like "Honey Me Smooth" does. It was made for sore hands. Those hands were mine. And for me, this bar is just what they need.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-51550862578795113862014-08-27T09:52:00.000-04:002014-08-27T09:52:21.655-04:00Sunsetting Skies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLQ5nNP6CEtUHQY6DNZgjRqrX86rtDm50L3h6DD-BMGrU0fCYSOoZ2qLtu1VkIC3IAPHTykTPDOXPwT6IyOo9o8Cmd_ftpQ27ujYYVn1DOd1v7fcneB29fISnsnVJ1hBKpXgbj1NwTiVX/s1600/sunsetlog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGLQ5nNP6CEtUHQY6DNZgjRqrX86rtDm50L3h6DD-BMGrU0fCYSOoZ2qLtu1VkIC3IAPHTykTPDOXPwT6IyOo9o8Cmd_ftpQ27ujYYVn1DOd1v7fcneB29fISnsnVJ1hBKpXgbj1NwTiVX/s400/sunsetlog1.jpg" /></a></div>
Fresh cut log of <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=64&products_id=6403">Almost Sunset</a>. An essential oil blend of Lemongrass, Ylang and Patchouli... to name but a few. Sometimes the result of the artwork frustrates me as I cut into a new batch and see how the colorway has played out. Not this time though. I am pleased and grinning my head off with the sunset skies in this slice-up.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-59551143982466281902014-08-19T08:20:00.004-04:002014-08-19T08:20:48.964-04:00That Time of Year Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJ8Vx-OdfrE5I0JymbRxcy5s0rdzNbnMeqtsfSOGDdPkNik8zC_saZqJNbUD2R6Wm5Zxpm8ClEmz_lc7eebhFvZkFS4fj7jOxJEjQ9hJGFXTaU95wXS7BPFCJZjHJNJxzJwg_ex_98B5l/s1600/manormania12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJ8Vx-OdfrE5I0JymbRxcy5s0rdzNbnMeqtsfSOGDdPkNik8zC_saZqJNbUD2R6Wm5Zxpm8ClEmz_lc7eebhFvZkFS4fj7jOxJEjQ9hJGFXTaU95wXS7BPFCJZjHJNJxzJwg_ex_98B5l/s400/manormania12.jpg" /></a></div>It's on, you Manor Maniacs. It's on! <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/">Head on over</a>, find your save-faves, and take them all home with you. Don't you just love stocking up!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-89791996278046494482014-08-18T08:39:00.001-04:002014-08-18T08:40:33.539-04:00Morning Chorus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjdnNjQHAjN8vGF1OgkbavlbDwyYV2Rxw34WcwkI63bxG6Lh2DpdL8dPN7ywaA5NTwkABehcQSVIoUAmBVnJcf6N5RZcJ9c-Ux70k1qatUdEigQTr2fTkaZj3vDWQTL6VFj-FZU4QFkDf/s1600/batches2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjdnNjQHAjN8vGF1OgkbavlbDwyYV2Rxw34WcwkI63bxG6Lh2DpdL8dPN7ywaA5NTwkABehcQSVIoUAmBVnJcf6N5RZcJ9c-Ux70k1qatUdEigQTr2fTkaZj3vDWQTL6VFj-FZU4QFkDf/s400/batches2.jpg" /></a></div>
Batches of soap waiting to greet me this morning. Hello workshop!Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-41103651039858460642014-04-07T17:35:00.000-04:002014-04-07T17:42:03.645-04:00The Value of Exfoliation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnF2wXJZlnlKVhhPnGSCPUBAIZHmPsA-WnGOASJyjTu7w2FMoDQYNOJ5giIM68sZxalVypOEC_ycjb5AbsTcq6T0zoJLK37SX7QQglA63PEApeVcBUw_uVrQLc48QRTZUk_dbBwtSVO9s/s1600/natural-facial-cleansing-grains.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVnF2wXJZlnlKVhhPnGSCPUBAIZHmPsA-WnGOASJyjTu7w2FMoDQYNOJ5giIM68sZxalVypOEC_ycjb5AbsTcq6T0zoJLK37SX7QQglA63PEApeVcBUw_uVrQLc48QRTZUk_dbBwtSVO9s/s640/natural-facial-cleansing-grains.jpg" style="width:500px;"/></a></div>The value of facial exfoliating is often underestimated, and many never consider to include it in their skin care routine.<br /><br />Old skin cells are shed easily when we are young, but as we age this process slows down, causing dead skin cells to build up on the outer layer of the skin. This is often the cause behind a dull and lifeless complexion.<br /><br />Exfoliating the face helps to remove the layer of dead skin cells, and as the old is gently buffed away from the outer surface, the new skin cells underneath are exposed revealing a brighter, fresher complexion. This new layer of skin readily accepts moisture, and regular <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=65">facial exfoliating</a> increases the absorption of your moisturizing skin care routine, which over time can reduce the appearance of the fine lines and wrinkles.<br /><br />Facial exfoliation is only needed once or twice a week. It increases blood circulation, and will bring a glow to your face. It helps with clogged pores, and breakouts, and also helps maintain the balance of excessive oil. It removes toxins, and stimulates skin cell renewal. The benefits of <a href="http://www.manorhallsoapcompany.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=65&products_id=67">facial exfoliation</a> are many, and it could be the missing link if your skin care routine is lacking in luster.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-74195847579350472542014-02-16T17:17:00.002-05:002014-02-16T17:17:50.885-05:00Our Natural Ingredients - OatmealThe use of oatmeal in skin care has a long history dating right back to the ancient Egyptians. The Romans and Greeks recorded how bathing with oats helped with healing skin troubles. The tiny oat has had a long journey through the centuries as a natural skin healer, and in 1989 after years and years of well documented and respected studies, oatmeal was finally recognized by the FDA as a safe and effective over the counter skin protectant.<br><br>
The high concentration of starches and beta glucan in oats are what give oatmeal the ability to hold onto moisture, and protect the skin. Oatmeal also boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which come from the presence of its different kinds of phenols.<br><br>
The avenacins found in oatmeal, have potent anti-fungal activity as well as having a soap-like cleansing quality. When finely milled, the tiny oat particles adhere to the skin, smoothing and removing dry skin build up. When introduced to water, the ground oat powder forms a viscous barrier which is important protection from outside irritants. These different moisturizing properties found in oats all contribute toward maintaining the integrity of the skin's barrier, preventing water loss, and alleviating itch.<br><br>
Among the many sugars, vitamins and minerals to be found in natural oats, is vitamin E, a valuable antioxidant. Oxidative stress is implicated in many skin complaints, and different inflammatory conditions can be helped with the protection offered by antioxidants.<br><br>
Oatmeal is a natural product, and is helpful with a long list of skin troubles, including: dry skin, prickly heat, hives, sunburn, chickenpox, poison ivy, oak and sumac, insect bites, winter itch, atopic dermatitis, and allergic or irritant contact dermatitis. Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-6372837928557225482013-09-13T06:16:00.003-04:002013-09-13T06:16:36.009-04:00Our Natural Ingredients - Jojoba OilThe woody shrub that grows jojoba seed is a slow grower, and lives for between one and two hundred years. Its properties of moisturizing amazement have been known throughout many ages. From the dry Sonoran Desert of North Mexico, stretching through California and Arizona, Native Indians used the jojoba seed oil in many ways, but its use for hair and skin has endured.<br /><br />Though it is called jojoba oil, it isn't a tryglyceride oil at all... it is actually a liquid wax. Highly moisturizing and conditioning, it is a golden richness of extraordinary chemical makeup which mimics sebum, the natural oil released by human skin.<br /><br />Hypoallergenic, non toxic, and carrying the natural antioxidant, vitamin E, the skin softening qualities of jojoba oil are exceptional. It penetrates the skin with ease, and is readily absorbed without any greasy after feel. It is non-clogging on pores, and with its anti inflammatory qualities, is a very useful oil for acne.<br /><br />Jojoba oil is also good for the scalp and hair, working well in breaking down the build up of excess oil. It is also effective in breaking down product build up and the everyday pollutants that cling to the hair. Jojoba oil nourishes, conditions and adds shine, restoring dull and lifeless hair back to health.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-20012905927842372302013-09-11T07:19:00.000-04:002013-09-11T07:19:18.151-04:00Remembering This Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoJFKoKOS0D442mg49ufYZbft_7e3-oBpRaO9_78Be4RsnFTgfsrRMtrKvWi36N0WFrO7UR4ivNGgFw_Va8XS7OEEXcDW9iE7mymsMDNEvdr-0QRFsxZTrWZIr_1aJmwFHhaViZIfbs69/s1600/946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFoJFKoKOS0D442mg49ufYZbft_7e3-oBpRaO9_78Be4RsnFTgfsrRMtrKvWi36N0WFrO7UR4ivNGgFw_Va8XS7OEEXcDW9iE7mymsMDNEvdr-0QRFsxZTrWZIr_1aJmwFHhaViZIfbs69/s400/946.JPG" /></a></div>Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-29045829696039423262013-08-31T09:31:00.002-04:002013-08-31T10:57:18.084-04:00Photo Journal - AugustCan you believe September is tomorrow? August has been another great soapmaking month, with more new soaps taking their place in the curing room. July's new soaps hit the website during August, and it was also the month of Manor Mania, where the Manor Maniacs got to go manic for their faves at silly prices. Here's some of my August in pics.<br />
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I love the color that honey lends to soap. Here's a tray of goatmilk with oatmeal and honey bars, ready for the curing shelves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uy1hrLRw56w8iXoB1P5Y_s9q0NFC9mxwX0OAVebCK7ciXNDXL7Vah3b4G4A15Ck8aMrYvy-1Iv2UaGyR2-tQ1ziENlc1A3SpXBUFlN0IcNb1H_tSw5TaKMsQkEUUMq28qt2Owbm8CA_t/s1600/bounty1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uy1hrLRw56w8iXoB1P5Y_s9q0NFC9mxwX0OAVebCK7ciXNDXL7Vah3b4G4A15Ck8aMrYvy-1Iv2UaGyR2-tQ1ziENlc1A3SpXBUFlN0IcNb1H_tSw5TaKMsQkEUUMq28qt2Owbm8CA_t/s400/bounty1.jpg" /></a></div>
An afternoon's bounty. I'm was so looking forward to waking up the next morning and turning them out of their moulds. Some batches were brand new soaps, and I couldn't wait to see inside them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglp1BbuFzIbqpnnAxWWN5U_nr694gMyjNSDxznJoVaHhE3qVxhukqi6ytZMlojMaxJOJxLxmMHIfiELLboVO-O8h6EHqiIi2mfmPhQrlzK6ZISmuzhjH6Q-2BrseZL8VpSkcQv0_jPyqA/s1600/logsgroup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglp1BbuFzIbqpnnAxWWN5U_nr694gMyjNSDxznJoVaHhE3qVxhukqi6ytZMlojMaxJOJxLxmMHIfiELLboVO-O8h6EHqiIi2mfmPhQrlzK6ZISmuzhjH6Q-2BrseZL8VpSkcQv0_jPyqA/s400/logsgroup1.jpg" /></a></div>
A line up of the soap logs from the four afternoon batches, all waiting to be cut into bars.<br />
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A bevy of bars, hanging around the green room waiting to take their place in front of the camera. It was a Happy Monday Morning, from each and every star-studded one of them.<br />
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Into the pot goes... lavender essential oil. I like to add most of my ingredients when the soap batter is at trace. "Trace" is the stage when the oils and lye water have married and is evident by the "trace" that the batter leaves on the sides of the pan.<br />
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All sliced up and ready for the curing shelves. 2oz bars front left. Sample bars just beyond them. And 4oz bars to the right. The foreground batch is scented with essential oils of Spearmint and Pink Grapefruit, with added Babassu Oil for that extra moisturizing touch.<br />
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Soap bars waiting to board the 6.00am wrapping train to Stock Shelf Station. Passing through Clean Off Junction, WrapFest Bridge, Label Crossing, and arriving at the final destination of Stock Shelf Station sometime late afternoon.<br />
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Another bounty of logs, running clockwise from top: Lime n Thyme O'lyptus, Rainy Day Sunrise, Goatmilk, Goatmilk Oatmeal with Honey. Is it September yet? Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2752528952097177397.post-5714730619679939772013-08-30T08:42:00.002-04:002013-08-30T08:42:44.540-04:00Little Slices of Nices<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkkoMN_EIRyWBZOFoB8HBO50NCCF-wzqjqvk8sCdzkZkQhib3lenFATjy52UUkp7G_16eS6prMZ87MuNdnLmuMmRKjqxh3pW-dNwBrJXdsXODSzlhKsQfN6bRuvl9tlpqWZmldV4gNSFL/s1600/samplerpile1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUkkoMN_EIRyWBZOFoB8HBO50NCCF-wzqjqvk8sCdzkZkQhib3lenFATjy52UUkp7G_16eS6prMZ87MuNdnLmuMmRKjqxh3pW-dNwBrJXdsXODSzlhKsQfN6bRuvl9tlpqWZmldV4gNSFL/s400/samplerpile1.jpg" /></a></div><br><br>Sampler bars, all dressed up and ready to go. Photo shoot is in the can, and the new pic should go live on the product page sometime over the weekend.Susan Mannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12662636506648407230noreply@blogger.com0