tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74001535915979916552024-03-12T20:42:49.708-07:00Desert SoapstoneHandmade Soap. Realize all your soaps and dreams.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.comBlogger86125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-37577488469457998392013-01-28T13:26:00.000-07:002013-01-28T13:26:09.833-07:00Top 3 Essential Oils to Have in Your Medicine Cabinet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBRFcv6TNCU/UQbehMy9YCI/AAAAAAAAArw/oV3NmdmH6ZY/s1600/eo-bottle.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBRFcv6TNCU/UQbehMy9YCI/AAAAAAAAArw/oV3NmdmH6ZY/s400/eo-bottle.gif" /></a></div>
Essential oils are great for a number of applications. They can be used for everything from warding off bugs to perfumery to antiseptic treatments. Below is my favorite list of essential oils to have on hand and why.
<b>1. Lavender Oil</b>
My favorite is Hungarian lavender since its scent is more soft and floral rather than the medicinal scent of French lavender.
Uses:
a. Makes a great room deodorizer when mixed half and half with vodka.
b. Perfect for treating shingles. Helps prevent the spread of the lesions and heal existing ones.
c. Helps relieve tension and promote sleepiness if put on the bottom of feet.
d. Apply neat to acne to lessen the length of the outbreak.
e. Make sachets with dried flowers and a few drops of lavender oil and hang in the closet to ward of bugs and moths.
<b>2. Eucalyptus Oil</b>
Uses:
a. Apply neat to bottom of feet to relieve evening coughing and to break up phlegm in the lungs.
b. You can gargle with warm water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil to treat sore throat.
c. Apply neat to skin infections or abrasions as it has great germicidal properties.
<b>3. Tea Tree Oil</b>
Uses:
a. A common acne treatment, you can mix this not so great smelling oil with lavender oil to make a nice skin tonic. Add the mix to olive oil for a night time moisturizer and watch much of the acne start to fade away. Even if you have oily skin, this helps reduce the output of your pores and treats the acne with nourishing olive oil instead of the falsehood that you need to dry it out.
b. Great for treating fungus, anything from athletes foot to ringworm to certain yeasts.
c. Using soap with tea tree oil can help curb body odor.
For more essential oil uses try visiting <a href="http://www.netherfield.co.nz/index.php">Netherfield</a>.For purchasing, our favorite is <a href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Essential-Oils-C157.aspx">Bramble Berry</a>.
Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-32834008734582139092013-01-23T10:45:00.001-07:002013-01-23T10:47:06.567-07:00When Handmade Soap is Not Better<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nLySmIgSvIY/UQAhtbjFoNI/AAAAAAAAArQ/fEctWUe0iuQ/s1600/Apple.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="280" width="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nLySmIgSvIY/UQAhtbjFoNI/AAAAAAAAArQ/fEctWUe0iuQ/s400/Apple.gif" /></a></div>
Hi Soaperific fans. I've been tooling around the internet on lots of soap sites checking out the awesome wares of the talented people I share the industry with. There are some really amazing soaps and soap makers out there.
One thing bothered me though. Often I saw "all natural" advertised, but when I looked at the ingredient list there were chemicals like sodium laureth sulfate (not to be confused with sodium lauryl sulfoacetate)and diazolidinyl urea. The FDA deems these chemicals as GRAS (generally recognized as safe), but the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=sodium+lauryl+sulfoacetate">EWG</a> says they are high on the list of harmful ingredients.
I don't agree with everything the EWG stands for. In fact most of the time I think they are eccentric and one sided in their view. It has been argued that all things are bad if you use too much of it. You can make your own decisions about the products you use, but consider this. Let's say, your shampoo has 20 ingredients and 19 of those ingredients are on the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/search.php?query=sodium+lauryl+sulfoacetate">EWG's list</a> of top carcinogens, you'd probably look for another brand right?
People look for natural products because they don't want the garbage peddled in the main stream. So maybe its just me being...Well, me, but I really get irked when I see "all natural" on a product that contains even fragrance oil. Fragrance oil in my opinion is safe for the most part, if its phthalate free, but natural it is not.
If there was one good thing the EWG is wonderful for, I would say it is the availability of <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/">Skin Deep</a>. This site can be used by anyone to find the danger level of any one ingredient. I use it frequently when trying to decide what to use in my soap.
The one thing they stink at is this campaign of trying to get everything in a soap bar listed on the label. What I mean is, if there is water in a soap (which there is) they want the water analyzed and each micro ingredient in the water listed on the label. This would make most labels so long that it would take a few pages of chatter that no one would care to read because it would be so long, but I digress.
Bottom line: Read the labels...for now anyway. Make sure the basic ingredients suit your needs and don't believe someone when they say something is "all natural" when its not.
Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-25981285472410014282013-01-19T19:20:00.002-07:002013-01-19T19:20:22.984-07:00Updating The BlogSo I'm in the process of revamping the blog. If it looks weird its not your eyes. The old template worked well with the placement of certain...words, so now I'm reorganizing and in the process losing a bit of quality until I have it right. All the older posts will be wonky, but the new posts should look right.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-4301228741056762322012-06-13T10:59:00.000-07:002012-06-13T11:03:42.521-07:00Argument For Handcrafted Soapy Treats<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PreciousGems?ref=seller_info"><b>Tie Dyed Felted Soap by Precious Gems</b></a><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/10603686/tie-dye-felted-soap?ref=sr_gallery_17&ga_search_query=felted+soap&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_ref=auto10&ga_search_type=handmade"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aiw0iRoFG54/T9jTanG8jTI/AAAAAAAAAgo/4KrFDWvmQZc/s1600/felted%2Bsoap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aiw0iRoFG54/T9jTanG8jTI/AAAAAAAAAgo/4KrFDWvmQZc/s320/felted%2Bsoap.jpg" /></a></a>
I was standing in line at <a href="http://www.starbucks.com/">Starbucks</a> the other day and it hit me. I was getting ready to pay $5 for a cup of coffee. Of course it was a big cup of coffee with lots of frills, but nevertheless, it was a cup of coffee. Coffee! It would be gone in a matter of minutes. I was almost, literally, eating money.
Then, I got to thinking about all the other things I spend money on, food, gas clothing, cleaning supplies...Cleaning supplies!
Naturally this brought me back to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">soap</a>. One of my favorite things. Its a necessary part of life, soap that is. We need it to get clean. Unlike coffee which, even though some people (me) would argue is a necessity, the reality is, we don't really NEED coffee. Then I realized that my handcrafted soap addiction was rather justified. It WAS a need (work with me). If I spend $5-$10 dollars on a bar of soap that I really love that soap will likely last 2 weeks to a month and its getting me clean. With sites like Etsy and local brick and mortar shops, I could choose the scent of my desire and get it without sodium laureth sulfate or phthalates and it can also be <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/83323435/handcrafted-soap-sweet-pea-scented-vegan">visually appealing</a>. I began to realize that handcrafted soap was a far more economical way to spend my money than buying a coffee and it would bring just as much joy. I could even get <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90183093/caramel-vanilla-coffee-soap-handmade?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=coffee+soap&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_min=0&ga_max=0&ga_search_type=handmade">coffee scented soap</a> if I wanted! What a bargain!
Shopping around on Etsy I found these soaps that look like something I (a soap maker) would really love.
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62829625/coffee-soap-java-latte-scented-glycerin?ref=sr_gallery_43&ga_search_query=coffee+soap&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONm4Qa3njZo/T9i9jYI_txI/AAAAAAAAAfw/9pwwGbGcmBs/s1600/Sunbasil%2BGarden%2BCoffee%2BSoap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="186" width="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONm4Qa3njZo/T9i9jYI_txI/AAAAAAAAAfw/9pwwGbGcmBs/s200/Sunbasil%2BGarden%2BCoffee%2BSoap.jpg" /></a></a>
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SunbasilgardenSoap?ref=ss_profile">
<b>Sunbasil Garden</b></a> Use Java Latte Handcrafted Soap in your shower and wake up to the delicious scent of fresh roasted coffee. Made with vegetable glycerin.
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62758261/sale-1-dollar-off-10-very-unique"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMb-JCpjg8c/T9i_J-eboYI/AAAAAAAAAf8/WP2-5B4kUps/s1600/DeShawn%2BMarie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="148" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lMb-JCpjg8c/T9i_J-eboYI/AAAAAAAAAf8/WP2-5B4kUps/s200/DeShawn%2BMarie.jpg" /></a></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/deshawnmarie"><b>DeShawn Marie</b></a> has a 10 pack we are drooling over! DeShawn Marie also offers 3 pound soap loaves which can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/soaploaves">here</a>.
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLZVMlQnTOY/T9jARYZdw1I/AAAAAAAAAgI/r89i-I_48l8/s1600/Sweet%2BPea%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="184" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLZVMlQnTOY/T9jARYZdw1I/AAAAAAAAAgI/r89i-I_48l8/s200/Sweet%2BPea%2B5.jpg" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop"><b>Desert Soapstone</b></a> also offers <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">swirly big bars</a> inspired by nature's color palette and scented with the finest phthalate free fragrance oils around.
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ySicI8dmznA/T9jO9nhpbyI/AAAAAAAAAgY/Krij3kYwvz4/s1600/AJ%2527s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="158" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ySicI8dmznA/T9jO9nhpbyI/AAAAAAAAAgY/Krij3kYwvz4/s200/AJ%2527s.jpg" /></a>
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62330324/chocolate-cupcake-soap-classic-swirl"><b>AJ's Sweet Soap</b></a> (below)
Specializes in dessert themed soaps. They have everything from cupcakes to ice cream. They even have <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99055381/fathers-day-soap-cheers-to-dad-beer-soap">beer in a cup</a>.
As you can see, there's quite a variety when it comes to handcrafted soap. So the next time you head out for a cup of coffee think about how much deliciously scented soap you could buy for the cost of taking your family out and it lasts about 100 times as long (if not longer).
If you have a favorite soap or are a soap maker please post your links and likes. We'd love to hear from you!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-16380282302067634162012-06-10T17:32:00.000-07:002012-06-10T17:32:09.167-07:00Consistency is Hard<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EOf6M4EaNU/T9U8EJlvpvI/AAAAAAAAAes/8PtK2FfLSi4/s1600/consistency.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="133" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EOf6M4EaNU/T9U8EJlvpvI/AAAAAAAAAes/8PtK2FfLSi4/s320/consistency.gif" /></a>
Why is it so hard to be consistent? O.k. Those of you that have it down are thinking, "Um, its not, you just decide to be consistent and then be consistent." That reminds me of a scene in the movie Say Anything when Joan and John Cusack are debating how hard it is to be in a good mood. "How hard is it to decide to be in a good mood and then just be in a good mood?" he asks (something like that). She follows with an annoyed, "Its easy."
Really? Is it easy to do something we loathe, but know is good? I think for those that say its easy are just better at faking it. So what am I struggling with? Better yet, what am I not struggling with? O.k. o.k. life is actually pretty awesome right now, except for a couple people missing from it, I can't complain, but struggling...Yes. Exercise. Why I can't stand this healthful activity that always makes me feel better is a mystery. Maybe its my long history of being a klutz or maybe its the time I went for a jog as a teenager only to wake up on the side of the road with a mouthful of dirt because I forgot to eat before I started on an epic jog without any prior running experience. Run on sentence. Did you follow that?
So exercise is currently a bit of a thorn in my side, but I know its good for me so I'm gonna do it. If anyone has any tips on finding the motivation...What? Hang on, someone's trying to tell me something...Oh you mean I already exercised today when I went on that four mile bike ride with the family? Does that justify donuts tomorrow with a friend? No? So you mean I have to exercise every day for it to really benefit me? What about the donuts?Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-83100415095197630552011-11-29T18:49:00.002-07:002011-11-29T18:56:48.268-07:00Winners!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-spR8aKT5I/TtWNWK6RgmI/AAAAAAAAAeM/klmjJiAYBMk/s1600/goji%2Bberry%2Bbetter%2B4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 178px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L-spR8aKT5I/TtWNWK6RgmI/AAAAAAAAAeM/klmjJiAYBMk/s200/goji%2Bberry%2Bbetter%2B4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5680601917023158882" /></a><br />3rd Prize: Small Footprints wins (1) 3oz bar from our shop.<br />2nd Prize: Anne JK won (2) 3oz. bars from our shop.<br />1st Prize: Salad for Breakfast won 1 pound of soap. Pick a scent from our shop.<br /><br />Thank you for participating everyone. You should be receiving an email soon from us regarding where to send your prize(s).Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-38806445781850900392011-10-27T20:09:00.009-07:002011-10-28T10:33:20.923-07:00Fall Handcrafted Soap Giveaway<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84805504/phoenician-blu-handcrafted-soap-glycerin"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aCLZJ_S17wo/Tqrj7W3yf3I/AAAAAAAAAdo/_5yF-DK0P9w/s1600/Phoenician%2BBlue%2B1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 391px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aCLZJ_S17wo/Tqrj7W3yf3I/AAAAAAAAAdo/_5yF-DK0P9w/s400/Phoenician%2BBlue%2B1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668593689890553714" /></a><br />Phoenician Blu</a><br /><br />Its time for another giveaway! This one is a soapy one. No scrubs allowed. We are streamlining things at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">DS Soap Company</a>. We like focusing on what we love making most...Soap! So check it out. Give us your feedback and follow the hows and whats its below and win some sweet soap!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzsqW9Pa8k/TqrkVeT11_I/AAAAAAAAAd0/KpzW9Ej4eng/s1600/Cran%2BFig%2B4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 157px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YPzsqW9Pa8k/TqrkVeT11_I/AAAAAAAAAd0/KpzW9Ej4eng/s200/Cran%2BFig%2B4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668594138563860466" /></a><br />Cranberry Fig<br /><br />The Prizes:<br />1 Grand Prize: One pound of soap, (4)4 oz. bars, you decide the scents from our shop.<br />2 First Prize Winners will receive their choice of 2(3oz.) bars of soap (you choose any bar scent from our soap shop).<br />3 Second Prize Winners will receive 1 (3oz.) bar of soap from our shop.<br /><br />How to participate (you may do 1 or all of the below):<br />1. Post your favorite things from our website <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com</a> on your FB page and then send us the links in a comment on this blog. = 2 entries.<br />2. Make a blog post about our giveaway on your blog and post the link in a comment on this blog. = 1 entry.<br />3. Make a post about our giveaway on your Twitter account and give us the link in a comment on this blog. = 1 entry.<br />4. Make a post about our above <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">website </a>and post the link here. = 2 entries.<br />5. Follow our blog. = 1 entry<br />6. Become a DS fan on FB https://www.facebook.com/pages/Desert-Soapstone/60275213527?ref=ts = 1 entry. If you are already a fan make sure we know so we can give you an entry.<br />7. Visit our website above and tell us what your favorite item is and what you would like to see more of and post it in a comment here. 2 entries<br />8. Join our mailing list. Send us a comment with your email address (we will not publish these posts. Please post this post separate from your other posts so I can include your other posts on the blog. 1 entry.<br /><br />There is the potential to have up to 11 entries for this contest. We can't wait to hear from all of you and get to know you better on your FB pages, blogs and Twitter. So get busy, your prize awaits you! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VpHtAICViEc/Tqrk2YHReII/AAAAAAAAAeA/Cy9Vex35s5s/s1600/Frank%2Bn%2Bmyrrh%2B3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 393px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VpHtAICViEc/Tqrk2YHReII/AAAAAAAAAeA/Cy9Vex35s5s/s400/Frank%2Bn%2Bmyrrh%2B3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5668594703836215426" /></a> <br />Frankincense and MyrrhDesert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-47906843817577163802011-09-26T19:47:00.002-07:002011-10-27T20:07:25.015-07:00Some New Things<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pmh2QTAWJ4U/ToE6P7T1qrI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/pA1I7znQSrQ/s1600/Goji%2BBerry%2BBliss%2B3%2Bbest.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 378px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pmh2QTAWJ4U/ToE6P7T1qrI/AAAAAAAAAdQ/pA1I7znQSrQ/s400/Goji%2BBerry%2BBliss%2B3%2Bbest.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5656866652247403186" /></a><br />Hi handcrafted soap fans!<br />This has been a crazy year and although its not over yet, it is drawing to a close. We have had the privilege of meeting so many new people all due to our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">Etsy shop</a> and we are so thankful for our new connections. We would like to bring you up to speed with the shop. We have brought <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?section_id=10318855">scrubs</a> back for a limited time, however you will always be able to get them at our Exfoliate site. We are behind on our gift packages as far as photos go as our camera was unfortunately dropped on its eye and broken. The future of our photos hangs in the balance...o.k. not really, but we are thinking we will have to wait until the end of the month for new gift packaging photos. Until then, here are some mediocre shots of some of our new soaps.<br /><br />Please check back at our shop for more items in the coming weeks and don't forget our<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79636866/2011-holidays-bulk-handmade-soap"> 100 bars for $250 deal</a>. Psst... You can use coupon code SUPER10 for 10% off. This is a great package for staying under budget these 2011 holidays with your gifting and you can change it up and request any scent you would like. Did we mention how much people like handcrafted soap? Once you try it you'll never want to use store bought again! <br /><br />So just a friendly hello and what's happening. Hopefully we will have some great photos of us and the soaps and the haps soon.<br /><br />Smiles,<br />Kelli (Sass)Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-241439983986431762011-08-09T13:54:00.003-07:002011-08-09T14:01:27.086-07:00New Clearance Section, Discounts and Incentives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GF0A1Nirr9U/TkGfpCfhmVI/AAAAAAAAAc4/9SBDzv96PT0/s1600/Sweet%2BPea%2B3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 290px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GF0A1Nirr9U/TkGfpCfhmVI/AAAAAAAAAc4/9SBDzv96PT0/s320/Sweet%2BPea%2B3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638963735837120850" /></a>
<br />Greetings bath and body enthusiasts!
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<br />Now that summer is drawing to a close, its time to start pampering your skin again. To help you, we will be adding more and more clearance items to our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?section_id=10265573">new clearance section</a> as we gear up for the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58296651/handcrafted-soap-orange-spice-scented">new Fall</a> and Winter scents and designs. Don't forget to check out <a href="http://www.exfoliate.etsy.com">our scrub site</a> too as we will be adding some amazing scents for this upcoming holiday season.
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<br />Whether you buy clearance or not you can always use coupon code LOYAL20 at checkout for an additional 20% off whenever you shop at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">Desert Soapstone online</a>. Feel free to tell your friends, but make sure they tell us about you. If they mention your name in the comments field at checkout when they spend $30 or more, you get a free bar of handcrafted soap as a reward for the referral.
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<br />So what are you waiting for? Luxurious, premium quality handcrafted soap awaits you. Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-86017548558395117742011-07-29T14:08:00.003-07:002011-07-29T14:18:30.943-07:00A Word From One of Our Nation's Greatest Leaders: Abraham Lincoln<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hInlhRPZZ_w/TjMjc3il_hI/AAAAAAAAAbE/N332RQSrU-k/s1600/Lincoln.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hInlhRPZZ_w/TjMjc3il_hI/AAAAAAAAAbE/N332RQSrU-k/s320/Lincoln.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5634886537622978066" /></a><br />Found this very interesting.<br /><br />“[I]t is the duty of nations,<br />as well as of men,to own their dependence upon<br />the overruling power of God … and to recognize the sublime<br />truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all<br />history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the<br />Lord. … We have been the recipients of the choicest bounties<br />of heaven. We have been preserved, these many years, in peace<br />and prosperity. We have grown in numbers, wealth and power<br />as no other nation ever has grown, but we have forgotten<br />God. We have forgotten the gracious Hand which preserved<br />us in peace, and multiplied and enriched and strengthened<br />us; and we have vainly imagined, in the deceitfulness of our<br />hearts, that all these blessings were produced by some superior<br />wisdom and virtue of our own.”<br /><br />-President Abraham LincolnDesert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-13717219136707271732011-07-20T09:16:00.001-07:002011-07-20T09:17:58.004-07:00Crazy Arizona Dust Storms<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/8W4Cx44XKZ4" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-44904571016307309362011-06-18T21:50:00.008-07:002011-06-18T23:17:49.675-07:00Happy Father's Day All You Dads!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Me2xTfkbewo/Tf2OO7HmlqI/AAAAAAAAAas/LveS8NB-mLI/s1600/Dad%2Band%2BKel%2BCropped.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 159px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Me2xTfkbewo/Tf2OO7HmlqI/AAAAAAAAAas/LveS8NB-mLI/s200/Dad%2Band%2BKel%2BCropped.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619804297067140770" /></a><br />For some people their Dad is not much a part of their lives, but for me, my dad was everything. If it hadn't been for him, who knows where I would have ended up? He taught me to keep my word, love my neighbor, seek truth and was always there for me. My relationship with him as a youth was more important than I realized. When things were hard, my dad was always the one I would turn to. He taught me the life lessons that have lead to this beautiful life I now have. He was my rock in many ways and always corrected me if I belittled myself. He never hesitated to take the time with me that I needed. He taught me what a father should be and what I should look for in a father for my children. In fact, when I met my husband, his voice reminded me of my dad's and for some weird reason, the rest, was history. I have many fond memories of childhood with dad, getting ice cream, traveling across the country, gardening, washing windows and wrestling when I was younger. My dad still means the world to me. He is far away now, but <span style="font-style:italic;">when</span> I get to see him again I am going to give him the biggest hug ever! <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efQ3brEHwrE/Tf2UVa3y7cI/AAAAAAAAAa8/yhrRhpezmjc/s1600/Us%2Bn%2BDad%2Baltered.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-efQ3brEHwrE/Tf2UVa3y7cI/AAAAAAAAAa8/yhrRhpezmjc/s320/Us%2Bn%2BDad%2Baltered.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5619811005739756994" /></a><br /><br />Take care of your father's. You never know what the future holds. May all you father's out there have an amazing day!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-82775801970840676272011-06-08T12:12:00.003-07:002011-06-08T12:14:22.239-07:00Gearing up for Independence DayJuly 4th is fast approaching and we are celebrating with soap!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mJpAy3b1BgE/Te_J0-sTUxI/AAAAAAAAAak/yaAcCjNjj3Y/s1600/4th%2Bsoap%2B2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 317px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mJpAy3b1BgE/Te_J0-sTUxI/AAAAAAAAAak/yaAcCjNjj3Y/s320/4th%2Bsoap%2B2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615929172373492498" /></a><br /><br />How will you be celebrating?Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-50905586300124798152011-06-02T10:09:00.004-07:002011-06-02T10:22:41.496-07:00June Hand Crafted Soap Sale is Afoot!<a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kxEar4KxaSM/TefGBuqPWUI/AAAAAAAAAaY/ctnpiL28Iik/s1600/Soap%2BSale.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kxEar4KxaSM/TefGBuqPWUI/AAAAAAAAAaY/ctnpiL28Iik/s400/Soap%2BSale.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613673193547979074" /></a></a><br />Don't be missin' this crazy hand crafted soap sale. 35% off everything store wide.Use this opportunity to buy one of our bulk handmade soap packages for wedding gifts or your next corporate event. Click on our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?section_id=5801933">wholesale/party section</a> for more details. Just visit us at our <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">Etsy shop</a> and use coupon code JUNESOAPSALE at checkout to receive your discount.<br />Get it while its hot! Sale ends Thursday, June 9, 2011.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-34521565978005297332011-05-25T14:04:00.010-07:002011-05-25T22:08:01.201-07:00Hand Crafted Soap Sale Coming Up.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QqqDJ78OP3U/Td3eIfKUZnI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/esd52_TvBpo/s1600/Peppermint%2BPatty%2Bstacked.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 189px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QqqDJ78OP3U/Td3eIfKUZnI/AAAAAAAAAZ4/esd52_TvBpo/s200/Peppermint%2BPatty%2Bstacked.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610884948158604914" /></a>We're planning a site wide (everything on sale), 35% off sale in the early part of June. Will it be the first week of June? Not sure, you'll just have to keep checking. You don't want to miss this hand crafted soap sale.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Bulk hand crafted soap</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wO0pXryiTUk/Td3d5YJ5rBI/AAAAAAAAAZw/9QiG0D8c2OI/s1600/bulk%2Bsoap.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 287px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wO0pXryiTUk/Td3d5YJ5rBI/AAAAAAAAAZw/9QiG0D8c2OI/s320/bulk%2Bsoap.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610884688579767314" /></a><br />Great for wedding gifts, showers, parties and events. Do you have an event coming up that you want to give out <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56556425/bulk-handmade-soap-glycerin-soap">awesome gifts</a> at? We have the perfect stash of sweet gifts. We can also customize labels if you are having a corporate or other such party and want your logo to get out there.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Soap Loaves</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v-oK_CpjUF4/Td3eb77M6sI/AAAAAAAAAaA/HwcsXilRZUc/s1600/Soap%2BLoaves.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 166px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v-oK_CpjUF4/Td3eb77M6sI/AAAAAAAAAaA/HwcsXilRZUc/s200/Soap%2BLoaves.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610885282297342658" /></a><br />This is a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52923090/soap-loaves-vegan-oil-saponification">great option</a> for parties, events and weddings. Do you know someone who might need some ideas for their event or wedding gifts? We have specialized hand crafted soap options and thrive on custom orders. Hit us with your best shot by contacting us through <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">our Etsy handmade soap site</a> or leave a comment here.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tH01utlTLuA/Td3euoRWD_I/AAAAAAAAAaI/6v7OcYMxlZc/s1600/Sandalwood%2B3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tH01utlTLuA/Td3euoRWD_I/AAAAAAAAAaI/6v7OcYMxlZc/s320/Sandalwood%2B3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610885603439022066" /></a>Want to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74745267/sandalwood-hand-crafted-soap-for-daily">send a bar</a> to a far away friend?<br />We can do it. When you check out as a buyer on <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">our Etsy site</a>, there is a comments field perfect for those special requests that we look for on every order we receive. So don't delay, buy your far away friend or family member that special gift. We'll even use ribbon and include a hand written card if you would like.<br /><br />So many options, where to start? How about starting by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Desert-Soapstone/60275213527">"liking" us on Facebook</a> so you can be up to date with the latest additions, sales and surprises we offer. Next, check back here over the next week or so and find out when this amazing hand crafted soap sale is going to take place. Third, ditch the dispenser. That soap is way bad for you and give <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">Desert Soapstone</a> a try. You won't regret it.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KShshMSfHi4/Td3fDM7kyeI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/M3yJYTnPr0c/s1600/Loaves%2Ball.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KShshMSfHi4/Td3fDM7kyeI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/M3yJYTnPr0c/s320/Loaves%2Ball.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5610885956877208034" /></a>Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-56444884336916131502011-05-23T23:25:00.001-07:002011-05-23T23:25:42.986-07:00An old favorite. Enjoy!<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Z0GFRcFm-aY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-30662389333696499222011-05-02T13:51:00.007-07:002011-05-02T14:40:44.620-07:00Mother's Day is Coming!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTWiPATmKuE/Tb8hNOQ4bBI/AAAAAAAAAZM/m-ADkRHg1bE/s1600/Mother%2527s%2BDay.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTWiPATmKuE/Tb8hNOQ4bBI/AAAAAAAAAZM/m-ADkRHg1bE/s400/Mother%2527s%2BDay.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602232972523105298" /></a><br />What would we do without our moms? None of us would be here for one thing and even if your circumstances are such that that's the only thing you are grateful for, well, that's something big! For the rest of us that have awesome moms that would bend over backwards and do anything for us, we owe them a big thank you.<br /><br />Most moms just want to make sure we are happy and healthy and don't require a gift. Mine for one will and would complain with any gift she gets because she would not want me to waste my money on her. Well, someday that will have to change and she will have to accept my help. Until then all I can do is say THANK YOU!!! I LOVE YOU MOM!!! You make my life better!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Some Mother's Day Gift Ideas</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72792792/little-evening-out-clutch-velvet">Evening Clutch</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/biologyrose?ref=seller_info">Biologyrose</a><br /><br />What Mom doesn't need a Mom Mug.<br />Try <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71668118/mom-mug-ready-to-ship-generous-14-oz%22%3Ethis%20one%20by%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.etsy.com/shop/Misspottery?ref=seller_info">this one</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Misspottery?ref=seller_info">Misspottery</a><br /><br />Jewelry<br />Check out this sweet <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65463759/windsor-ii-vintage-silverware-handle%22%3Esliverware%20bracelet%20by%20%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.etsy.com/shop/MindyG?ref=seller_info">Silverware Bracelet</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MindyG?ref=seller_info">MindyG</a><br /><br />Soap! (of course) by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone?ref=si_shop">Desert Soapstone</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71124932/handmade-glycerin-soap-1940s-girl">1940's Girl Handmade Soap</a><br />Enter coupon code: ILOVEMYMOM and get 20% off your order from now until May 10.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-15219439538904729482011-04-07T08:57:00.001-07:002011-04-07T09:04:15.562-07:00Mac vs WildVegan fans turn away from this post, but everyone else check out this video of my whacko friend, Andy. You'll either laugh your heinecken off or be disgusted.<br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pDoVLhDVWMY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />Vegan fans turn away from this post, but everyone else check out this video of my whacko friend, Andy. You'll either laugh your heinecken off or be disgusted.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-80467621370748278542011-04-01T13:18:00.012-07:002011-04-01T14:41:14.416-07:00Living the Dream!Many of us in the soap making industry would love to open our own <a href="http://bathandbodyworks.com">BBW</a> type body shop. In fact many of us are gearing toward that and doing so by starting small and reinvesting all our proceeds until, one day, we have the right amount and launch. Well, I am unable to do this due to starting home schooling in the fall, assisting my work-from-home husband and let's not forget running an internet based <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">soap shop</a>. <br />So I guess you could say I am a bit envious of those able to do so, but not willing to trade my amazing life for one equally amazing.<span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Caption:</span> Stacie(L) and Me(R</span>) <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LyRLU_Tw_c/TZZD3dJvJNI/AAAAAAAAAZE/SsgQKlxO9cU/s1600/me%2Band%2Bstacie.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 174px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LyRLU_Tw_c/TZZD3dJvJNI/AAAAAAAAAZE/SsgQKlxO9cU/s200/me%2Band%2Bstacie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590730607424382162" /></a>)<br />That brings me to my friend Stacie, from Luster Canyon. I first heard of Stacie from my step dad. They work at the same company and Stacie had mentioned to him that she was making soap also when she found out that I was making soap. Small world. That was a couple of years ago and I actually met Stacie about a year ago when we both had booths at a local craft show. Since then I have watched from a distance, as Stacie built her business from the ground up. She first came to Prescott and opened a little nook at a local craft market. That took off and then the opportunity every soap maker dreams of came along. She found a great location at Bashford Courts, upstairs, right off the square in downtown Prescott. Right next to a booming restaurant called the Prescott Brewery. Stacie found a dream location to live her dream. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrFLD7_y7c4/TZZDl84FFdI/AAAAAAAAAY8/epn00qRPJvQ/s1600/stacie%2Band%2Bashley.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrFLD7_y7c4/TZZDl84FFdI/AAAAAAAAAY8/epn00qRPJvQ/s200/stacie%2Band%2Bashley.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590730306702611922" /></a><br />Her daughter Ashley, is the perfect employee and would do anything for her mom. Together, along with help from Stacie's dear husband, they have <span style="font-weight:bold;">Caption: Stacie and Ashley</span> <br />created Luster Canyon and Stacie has launched her dream career. I'm jealous a bit, but mostly incredibly happy for her. Seeing her live her dream and working so hard toward it should be inspiration for all soap makers and crafters the world over. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPOhxwz9tfk/TZZDUEalLDI/AAAAAAAAAY0/eJtZlagict4/s1600/Lotion%2Band%2BBalm%2BLuster%2BCanyon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPOhxwz9tfk/TZZDUEalLDI/AAAAAAAAAY0/eJtZlagict4/s320/Lotion%2Band%2BBalm%2BLuster%2BCanyon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590729999488724018" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">My purchase at Stacie's new shop.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNIO44EOorc/TZZDESpLqMI/AAAAAAAAAYs/jbAnDrYhkOs/s1600/Luster%2BSheets.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 304px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNIO44EOorc/TZZDESpLqMI/AAAAAAAAAYs/jbAnDrYhkOs/s320/Luster%2BSheets.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590729728430155970" /></a><span style="font-weight:bold;">They even carry sheets!</span><br /><br />You can find Stacie at her Etsy shop, <a href="http://www.lustercanyon.etsy.com">here</a>, or if you are a local to Northern Arizona, visit the Prescott Square. Especially the upstairs portion of Bashford Courts, off of Gurley St. and get ready to slather on luxury. Kudos Stacie! May your endeavors thrive!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-84492243568548458512011-03-31T17:28:00.004-07:002011-03-31T17:45:27.985-07:00And The Winners Are...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ErkXCDGn-Q/TZUgIl80lmI/AAAAAAAAAYk/Z1e23Lhi5HU/s1600/Winners.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ErkXCDGn-Q/TZUgIl80lmI/AAAAAAAAAYk/Z1e23Lhi5HU/s400/Winners.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590409844448597602" /></a><br />Everyone should be home from work now so...<br /><br />First of all we would like to thank deeply, from the bottom of our heart, the pit of our stomaches, the all of us, every single awesome person that contributed to this giveaway. You all gave us a lot of names to drop in the hat and some more than others. You guys are amazing!!!<br /><br />O.k. o.k. o.k. I know, you just want to know if you won...So here you go...<br /><br />Names are posted by blogs and don't think of getting funny if you aren't the real winner because we have their email addresses and ways of finding out. Winners, you will need to email us back your mailing addresses or tell us by leaving a comment on this post.<br /><br />(3) 2nd Place Winners Please tell us which bar you want from our shop.<br />-Rachel<br />-Trixx<br />-Lisa<br /><br />(2) 1st Prize Winners Please tell us which bar(s) you would like from our shop.<br />-Robin<br />-Scott<br /><br />(1) Grand Prize Winner<br />-Scott You lucky dog, you won twice!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-6186694748193755902011-02-28T08:47:00.012-07:002011-03-03T13:25:17.309-07:00It's Time For a Giveaway!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9AVfRQomZAM/TWvQQDm2SoI/AAAAAAAAAXo/lkNqoddTdIk/s1600/Soap%2Band%2BScrub.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9AVfRQomZAM/TWvQQDm2SoI/AAAAAAAAAXo/lkNqoddTdIk/s400/Soap%2Band%2BScrub.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578781537693223554" /></a><br />It has been an eternity since we have hosted a giveaway. We have just been so busy with shop improvements (which are not visible to the general public yet) that we have been wiped out energetically.<br /><br />Now its time to get my counting glasses on and step it up!<br /><br />Winners names will be thrown into a hat, drawn at random and announced March 31, 2011.<br /><br />See below for the many ways you can participate.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Prizes:</span><br />1 Grand Prize: 2 bars of soap (you choose from our <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">soap shop</a>) and a scrub from <a href="http://www.exfoliate.etsy.com">Exfoliate</a>.<br />2 First Prize Winners will receive their choice of 2 bars of soap (you choose from our <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">soap shop</a>).<br />3 Second Prize Winners will receive 1 bar of soap from our all natural line of soaps from our soap shop.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6MZYr_ttfc4/TWvWPbIip2I/AAAAAAAAAYI/tLSsA5p8OO0/s1600/Lavender%2BScrub%2BBack.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6MZYr_ttfc4/TWvWPbIip2I/AAAAAAAAAYI/tLSsA5p8OO0/s320/Lavender%2BScrub%2BBack.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578788123898455906" /></a>Lavender Sugar Scrub<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCWWhO7sITo/TWvRR2GB6yI/AAAAAAAAAX4/k4wEc-vgEJQ/s1600/Lavender%2Bbar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 243px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YCWWhO7sITo/TWvRR2GB6yI/AAAAAAAAAX4/k4wEc-vgEJQ/s320/Lavender%2Bbar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578782667937278754" /></a>Lavender Cold Process Soap<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A3uMyZeRcKo/TWvSi9CMUHI/AAAAAAAAAYA/Pn-bmB7FkZY/s1600/Sedona%2Bcropped.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 302px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A3uMyZeRcKo/TWvSi9CMUHI/AAAAAAAAAYA/Pn-bmB7FkZY/s320/Sedona%2Bcropped.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578784061369634930" /></a>Sedona Glycerin Soap<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />How to participate (you may do 1 or all of the below):</span><br />1. Post your favorite things from our websites <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com</a> and <a href="http://www.exfoliate.etsy.com">http://www.exfoliate.etsy.com</a> on your FB page and then send us the links in a comment on this blog. = 2 entries.<br />2. Make a blog post about our giveaway on your blog and post the link in a comment on this blog. = 1 entry.<br />3. Make a post about our giveaway on your Twitter account and give us the link in a comment on this blog. = 1 entry.<br />4. Make a post about one or both of our above websites and post the link here. = 2 entries.<br />5. Follow our blog. = 1 entry<br />6. Become a DS fan on FB <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Desert-Soapstone/60275213527?ref=ts">https://www.facebook.com/pages/Desert-Soapstone/60275213527?ref=ts</a> = 1 entry. If you are already a fan make sure we know so we can give you an entry.<br />7. Visit our websites above and tell us what your favorite item is and what you would like to see more of and post it in a comment here. 2 entries<br />8. Join our mailing list. Send us a comment with your email address (we will not publish these posts. Please post this post separate from your other posts so I can include your other posts on the blog. 1 entry.<br /><br />There is the potential to have up to 11 entries for this contest. We can't wait to hear from all of you and get to know you better on your FB pages, blogs and Twitter. So get busy, your prize awaits you!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-12870948780633184212011-02-21T23:43:00.003-07:002011-02-21T23:47:02.859-07:00For Those Thinking of a No Makeup Look<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pd4fstFtGFg/TWNbGCJwSyI/AAAAAAAAAXY/ZLSNAunJ3yM/s1600/Headshot%2Bupright.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pd4fstFtGFg/TWNbGCJwSyI/AAAAAAAAAXY/ZLSNAunJ3yM/s200/Headshot%2Bupright.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576400922829933346" /></a> <span style="font-style:italic;">Me before giving up the goop at 19 (I look much older here than without it).</span><br /><br />About 13 years ago I threw my makeup bag away, for good, to embrace a no makeup lifestyle. The following article details the adjustments of going makeup free and hopes to encourage those of you thinking about natural beauty to take the plunge.<br /><br />1. But Will Anyone Want to Marry Me?<br />This was the fear of taking the plunge into no makeup world while having a phone conversation with my awesome dad. "Honey, women wear makeup for other women. In all honesty, men hate it when you gals slather that gunk on your face." This was the response from the most dominant male figure in my 21 year old world. It wasn't too long after this that I realized he was right. To a young 21 year old, makeup was the way to be attractive and without the proper guidance this is the way most young women think today. That is, that being attractive on the outside is THE most important thing. Not to mention the fact that "natural beauty" is considered something you get by wearing paint on your face. I honestly blame the cosmetic industries for this societal pressure. Can I say I love, love, love the Dove campaign for natural beauty? Whoever thought of that should be handed the keys to the company.<br /><br />2. Where! Are my eyes?<br />I remember, shortly after giving up the goop, I had begun a new job. I quickly bonded with Chrissy. The tall, blond, bombshell that had men ogling over her every move. Chrissy if you read this, I miss you! Anyway, after looking at her perfectly model-made face all day while we waited tables, we headed to the bathroom for a break. That's when I saw myself through new eyes. Wait. Where were my eyes? "I know they're here somewhere?" I thought. "I think its cool you have the confidence to do the no makeup thing," Chrissy told me as I looked crunch faced at myself. "I miss my eyes, " I said. "You just need to get used to it," she replied. <br /><br />A few weeks later I had gone on a camping trip with some comrades in the no makeup, natural beauty dept. As a result I brought photos to work for Chrissy to see as I had been interested in a certain beau(now my husband)and wanted her to see a pic of him. There were lots of people pics and all women were makeup free. "These women don't have makeup on!?" Chrissy exclaimed, almost exasperated. "Not one of 'em," I told her. She continued staring at the pictures as if trying to find a flaw. "These women are beautiful!" She shouted. "I never, never would have guessed they weren't wearing makeup if I didn't know you!" She said amazed. Wow! I was amazed at her amazement.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iv3BQgDKaV8/TWNbPHWSbcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/TSAD-8Of4yk/s1600/Kelli%2BGage%2BPark.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iv3BQgDKaV8/TWNbPHWSbcI/AAAAAAAAAXg/TSAD-8Of4yk/s320/Kelli%2BGage%2BPark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5576401078843502018" /></a><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;">Me after giving up the goop at 21.</span><br /><br />3. You have to have support:<br />Its like anything in this world, if you are going to decide to go against the grain you must have a support group. It can be as simple as someone like Chrissy just encouraging you and seeing your inner beauty radiating to make your outer body just as beautiful! I remember visiting some cousins in Oregon one summer and I decided to go without makeup one day. One of my cousins came around the corner and jumped when she saw me so as to indicate that I was a freak without the face. We laughed and I said, "I'm not putting it on today. You'll just have to introduce me as the sheet." I had no support that day and felt naked and ashamed all day. Crazy! I felt ashamed of my own face showing through. <br /><br />So often we just think that if we look a certain way that we'll have it made in life, but in reality if we act a certain way that is far more likely and I don't mean act badly. If you want a great career, work hard for it. Don't rely on looks. If you are in love with Justin Beiber and you were ever fortunate enough to get close to him, be yourself. If he doesn't appreciate your humor or artistic side or sporty athleticism or brainy rationale then he is probably a shallow punk not worthy of your attention. I can't tell you how much more fulfilling my life became when I finally took the plunge and decided to be comfortable as myself. I couldn't have done it without people like Chrissy or my fellow no makeup wearing family of friends.<br /><br />So I hope this has given you a bit of food for thought. Next time I'll talk about the benefits of going makeup free and how you can radiate and glow in your new no makeup lifestyle.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-84503252928073329922011-02-10T23:57:00.000-07:002011-02-11T00:20:27.850-07:00Introducing Exfoliate!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4BUAjX_iHE/TVThdn30VMI/AAAAAAAAAWw/Qh1DXiGsQaM/s1600/Etsy%2BAvatar%2BSalt%2Bscrub.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 387px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K4BUAjX_iHE/TVThdn30VMI/AAAAAAAAAWw/Qh1DXiGsQaM/s400/Etsy%2BAvatar%2BSalt%2Bscrub.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572326537999701186" /></a><br />Our new shop Exfoliate, and why another shop: <br />We've been taking these internet marketing courses and we're going to test them to see if it has been worth the money. They have told us not to put all our eggs in one basket unless it all falls under the same heading. For example, if you make handmade soap, like me, and you want to be successful at marketing soap on the first page of the Google search engines, you would have to sell only handmade soap. It gets a little tricky when it gets down to properly writing the page and etc. <br /><br />Anyway, we figured, since we are going all natural, why not start a site for all natural body scrubs? So we are launching <a href="http://www.Exfoliate.etsy.com">Exfoliate</a>! Bear with us while we stock the shelves of our new little endeavor to add to all the others, soap maker, mommy, wife, screenwriter...I digress. Anyway, if you love <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Exfoliate?section_id=7814070">sugar scrubs</a>, we're the place you want to visit. If you have been a customer at our <a href="http://www.desertsoapstone.etsy.com">other shop</a>, then you will be happy to know, yes, we still carry scrubs, you just have to change sites (Somehow this is supposed to get our ranking up. eh. We'll see). <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mA0pPNnISnc/TVTi0K_XHMI/AAAAAAAAAW4/WZWJRjqGSCA/s1600/2009-31-09-34.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mA0pPNnISnc/TVTi0K_XHMI/AAAAAAAAAW4/WZWJRjqGSCA/s200/2009-31-09-34.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572328024895331522" /></a> The good news is, if you just want a sweet and amazing salt scrub, sugar scrub or other body polish, <a href="http://www.Exfoliate.etsy.com">Exfoliate</a> is your place. You won't have to wade through mountains of soap at our other site just to find that one perfect body scrub for you. Exfoliate will be offering an array of body exfoliation...stuff (eventually), but for now, enjoy these five or maybe 10 by the time you read this. We will eventually do a post as to why exfoliation is so great for you. In the mean time, take our word for it and <a href="http://www.Exfoliate.etsy.com">Exfoliate</a> today! <br />Smiles and All,<br />Sass, The SoapstressDesert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-88490114890582857182011-01-23T22:47:00.000-07:002011-01-23T23:01:01.505-07:00The Flu is No Fun!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ZTQKmBR1vqc/TT0VlpepiUI/AAAAAAAAAWc/SBOybcZyRa0/s1600/Sick.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ZTQKmBR1vqc/TT0VlpepiUI/AAAAAAAAAWc/SBOybcZyRa0/s200/Sick.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565628451033549122" /></a><br />"Great! Now I'm getting asthma." A tiny little cough had been plaguing me for two weeks, coming and going and making me think I was allergic to something one minute and asthmatic the next. Then, after a bit of personal stress, wine and not enough sleep, it became clear that the asthma I thought I was getting, was really my body naturally fighting off the flu until finally, my tissues and limbs succumbed to the evil virus and I found myself bedridden, calling my mom to come rescue the household from imminent death. (How's that for a run on sentence?)Wow! I haven't been this sick in years. My whole body felt like it was giving up on me. Its at these moments that you begin to realize that ultimately you don't care about anything. A giant spider could cross your face in the night and you would welcome it as long as you could go back to sleep. <br /><br />Needless to say, the cough got worse. The whole family got it and my mother? So far no flu for her. I am so relieved. Its miserable and her help was so much appreciated I would hate to repay her with a stint in hades, no matter how short.<br /><br />As for me, I've now had it. No doubt due to the close encounters with the nice people getting the flu shot to protect themselves. I now hope that I have enough antibodies in me to keep this little cuss far away for a while. Needless to say the workout routine has been derailed, but back on the wagon we must climb! Onward and upward. Keep moving forward.Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7400153591597991655.post-71924334322071587352011-01-07T10:48:00.001-07:002011-01-07T10:57:00.966-07:00Featured Artist: Luster Canyon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ZTQKmBR1vqc/TSdTakAWBgI/AAAAAAAAAWU/0LFY4-661vY/s1600/Luster%2BCanyon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 318px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ZTQKmBR1vqc/TSdTakAWBgI/AAAAAAAAAWU/0LFY4-661vY/s320/Luster%2BCanyon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559503980818990594" /></a><br />As a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/desertsoapstone">soap maker myself</a>, I tend to have stringent standards for the soap I use. Recently I had the pleasure of using a Sweet Pea scented bar of soap from my friend Stacie at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lustercanyon?ga_search_query=LusterCanyon&ga_search_type=seller_usernames">Luster Canyon</a>. Her soap met my standards very well. Often, when I use someone else's soap and wash my face with it, I am left with a tightness that I hate, because I know once my face has dried the dryness will ensue. Not with Stacie's soap. Her lather was soft and all over the place and my skin was left feeling not only clean, but moisturized as well. Not only does her soap pass the lather and face test, but it smells divine. She uses the perfect amount of fragrance so that you can still smell the scent on your skin after the shower. Furthermore, I didn't have to use lotion after my shower to keep my skin feeling soft. Her packaging is simple yet elegant, which is perfect for gift giving.<br />Bravo to Stacie of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lustercanyon?ga_search_query=LusterCanyon&ga_search_type=seller_usernames">Luster Canyon</a>. May your soaping days be plentiful and profitable!Desert Soapstonehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08944694533419781653noreply@blogger.com0