Spring is surely in the air as the magnolia tree that stands next to the soap shop building is budding forth.You can see it too in the photo below.

Each day during this Lenten Season is leading us deeper into anticipation of Holy Easter.Where does the time go…we celebrated the 4th Sunday of Lent just yesterday.As a child I was overjoyed to take part in an Easter Egg hunt at Grandma’s house.I’m sure you have similar memories such as dressing up in your Easter finery and making your way to Church to celebrate in full voice the glory of the Ressurrection.Even into his senior years it was my Mothers’ task and my Fathers’ expectation that she would fix him an Easter basket!

I have so much to be grateful for this in this holy time of year.One of the topics near and dear to my heart is the theme of ‘gratitude’.  Gratitude for the countless volunteers that have made my work and success here in the soap shop possible. First on my list of many more to come is:  Sr. M. John Meyer, OSB.   Sister has for years now been ordering the bolts of fabric as well as overseeing the cutting of strips to be used in the sewing of the soap bags.Thank you Sr. M. John for your selfless generosity and for all the behind the scenes work you have accomplished.

I’ve  measured out my oils for a batch of soapmaking tomorrow. Many have asked me how many bars of soap I make in a year.  I am finally keeping track this year and so far I have made 3,750 bars. Swiss Lavender is still the overall favorite!

Blessings!