Looking for Inspiration...

Have you ever had one of those funky weeks where you feel unmotivated and lack the confidence to be creative? I find that when I'm overworked or stressed this can happen to me. I've been experiencing this more frequently since dad passed last July. It can be easy to hide from others, but you know that you just don't feel like yourself. In one of my "funky moments" I decided I needed some inspiration. A trip to my local Barnes and Noble was in order.

I love taking a break from whatever is happening in life to make a trip to the bookstore. It seems to calm me to walk in and be surrounded by inspired words that people pour themselves into. Generally I shop for books on my Nook, but I always enjoy the feel of an actual book in my hands. Yesterday I found myself gravitating to the magazines. I found several magazines to leaf through for inspiration. After spending an afternoon with an icy beverage and these inspiring magazines I feel that I am rejuvenated. There are several art processes that I am now dying to try. Of course I had to ask Christopher if he could show me a few things. I can't wait to work on something and share it with you here soon.

Hugs,
Jenni

Homemade Laundry Soap

About a month ago I was perusing the many blogs I like to follow looking for ways to cut costs and cut out sulfates and phosphates. I discovered a recipe for "Homemade Laundry Soap." After purchasing a $30.00 box of Tide that wasn't so great for my HE machine, I decided I had to give it a shot. All of the ingredients only cost me $10.00 and it made 2 gallons. Yikes!

Thanks to MaryJane at thebeehivecottage.blogspot.com for this amazing recipe.

4 lbs. Borax
4 lbs. Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
4 lbs. Arm & Hammer Washing Soda
3 bars Ivory Soap (original recipe called for Fels Naptha, but I couldn't find it until after I made my recipe)

First, grate the 3 bars of Ivory soap with the small side of a grater. Then, combine all ingredients in a large bucket and mix together. (I used a 5 gallon bucket to mix it and found it easier to mix if I added a little of each ingredient at a time.) This makes 2 gallons of laundry soap, and I bought a 2 gallon plain white paint bucket with lid to store mine.

Depending on the size of your laundry load, you would use 1 - 2 tablespoons of the laundry soap. YES! I said tablespoons. It is amazing! I gave it a shot and not only are my clothes softer, but my whites are whiter. I will never go back to store bought again.

NOTE: If using an HE machine, you can dissolve the laundry soap for each load in a small jar of hot water and then place in your machine. I have found that both ways work for me.

If you decide to give it a try, please let me know how it went. Look forward to hearing from you soon!

Jenni