Summer Studio Tour: 3

Well, it may be stretching things a bit, but I didn't want to miss another of Heather's Summer Studios (link on right). Mostly, I've been "creating" lots of filled canning jars. But, the zinnias have lots of blooms, which I've been arranging in bouquets. I also made a batch of 930 Pint soap this week. The photos aren't the best quality, but I've been working on doing what I can do, and calling it enough. If any of you want to pass on tips that have helped you with this, I'd appreciate it most kindly.

Potato Salad and a Pond

We've been busy around here as of late, though J has definitely been doing the lion's share of actual work. He's been doing things like carving out a pond, and setting up a solar hot water system for us, while I've been making potato salad (for my Dad's birthday celebration), new labels for the 930 Pint soap, and transplanting flowers. I think I got the better end of the deal, don't you?

Simple Sunday

Today was a simple day. Joseph & I planted Hickory King corn in the places where the first planting didn't come up. We finally got a little rain today, with more in the forecast. It's been very dry here, with "April showers" being almost nonexistent, and none in May until today. We're collecting rainwater in the cistern, which we'll filter and use for drinking water and soapmaking. I made a batch of 930 Pint today. For this batch, I used some STARworks Abbey Ale, blended with some IPA for the hoppy scent. It blended into a nice deep caramel color, though that may change before it's done drying. I hope it will stay close to that color, as it would be perfect for a men's soap. I'm thankful for a simple day.

930 Pint

J & I headed to Winston-Salem last night, meeting up with friends to see NC singer-songwriter Chuck Brodsky play. Chuck is an extraordinary storyteller and wonderful musician. He's been doing the Fiddle & Bow concerts for 20 years, and I've been to see him play many, if not all of them. The latest soap I've been creating is a beer soap, and I've been trying to come up with a creative name for it. The folks at STARworks, who so graciously share their brew with me, have no name for it. Chuck has a song, 930 Pint, that I'm fond of, and I'd been pondering that name. I mustered up my nerve and asked him last night, and he gave his blessings. How cool is that! Give him a listen to on the above link. And while you're there, check out the video, The Man Who Blew Kisses. It's priceless. Have a lovely weekend, friends!