Sunday, October 5, 2014

Meet 'Mary'

I have been busy preparing for my first craft fair/festival, which is very exciting, but between that and children in school, a full-time job, etc., I have been lax in adding to this blog, so let me make it up to you!
Next soap that is due an introduction is 'Mary'. Mary is named for my wonderful mother-in-law, who is so supportive of my endeavors into soap-making and is an incredible help and inspiration!
A little background: My in-laws were married for over 40 years, and until Julius' passing, they were inseparable. They were the couple you always wanted to be a part of, not just because their romance was a sweeping epic of true love, but because it was so real and genuine. Mary and Julius were just meant to be together. They met and fell in love almost immediately, but they faced trials and tribulations just like the rest of us. However, there could never be doubt in any one's mind that they loved each other deeply.
It has been a tragic loss for all of us with Julius' passing, but no one has been affected more so than Mary. Who could possibly understand a loss like that? I am so glad that life has given us opportunity to be with her (we moved literally right next door), to allow us to be her strength where she has been ours for so many years. Mary is a strong woman, and I am better for knowing her. She keeps us in line, puts things into perspective, provides a safe haven, nurtures us, reprimands us, and quite frankly, I am rather jealous of her energy and skills!
Like this soap's namesake, 'Mary' is a powerful blend of essential oils that is both energizing and comforting. Rosemary is one of my favorite herbs in the garden and in the kitchen, and you will probably find Mary herself in one of those two places on any given day. Mint is both refreshing and stimulating as well. I chose Spearmint over the more common Peppermint, as Mary told me that she was actually sensitive to Peppermint, and so far, she has absolutely loved the combination.
'Mary' is made with an in-the-pot swirl of natural soap color and Purple Brazilian Clay, with a swirl of Titanium Dioxide white on top for a beautiful contrast. This soap is vegan-friendly, and since I have only used essential oils in this soap, it is also 100% natural!
When I made Mary's soap, I decided to look into making scrubs and lotions as well, so there is a complete set of 'Mary' products available via my Southern Hedgewitch Etsy page.