I'm sorry there has not been a blog post for a long while.  Time just flies and it has just been hard for me to take the time.  

That is a hard excuse to swallow because I should always take the time to come here. It really is important to me to chat and share info to my friends and customers!

So, let's get to it, shall we?!  

What is in this title?  Superwoman?  Is there such a thing?  I'm sure, right now, someone has already popped into your head, who appears to be a superwoman.  Ya know, the woman who "has it all together" or the woman "who can just do it all" or even the woman "who is so balanced". Yeah, that woman.  Well, I'm here to tell you, there is no such thing!

I've been told a few times over and over, "wow, I just don't know how you do all you do!"  I'm sure you have been told that too!  Well, what appears on the outside is usually never what is happening on the inside.  Right?

Like right now, I'm typing this and eating Halloween candy (Milk Duds as a matter of fact) with my kiddos and we are all still in our pj's.  Yep.  That's how we roll around here!  

So, I'm here to tell ya, we are all our own superwoman!  Even though I am sitting here in my pj's eating candy (don't judge me!), I feel productive today.  Why?  Well, both kids got school in today and had some nice quality time with me and the veggie drawers of the fridge got cleaned.  I also have a clean kitchen.  I do have plans to work in the shop this evening after dinner; but, if that doesn't get to happen that is OK. I will mentally put it on the list tomorrow.  

I have a saying taped to my bathroom mirror that says, "act your way into feeling!"  Even 'superwoman' needs a little help.  And that is OK.

Until next time...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear! And always, remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

Seriously, I could not be more excited right now!  So, you ask:  What is it?!!

Here you go!  Fierce Hair Conditioner!  This is intense stuff and made with our organic flaxmilk, almond oil, fractionated coconut oil, mango butter, and goodies to coat the hair shaft and give shine! I will follow this post up with a more in depth post regarding:  what really is a conditioner?  Why is it important?  And why is it a need?  So stay tuned, as I'll also be posting about the process of making it!

So, what made me make this?  

I have been asked for years via various friends and customers to make shampoo's and conditioners.  And having researched, developed, formulated, and made several variations for mine and my family's personal needs, I really didn't want to tackle all involved with bringing a new product line into the company.

Well, most of you know that I recently went to a retreat for business a week or so ago.  While there, I got to visit with a dear friend whom I've known for years now and she has been a mentor to me in this industry.  She has been in the industry since 1997 and hair care is her passion.  So, seeing and talking with her about hair inspired me again!

Shampoo's really are not fun for me, as you end up dealing with a lot of powdery type ingredients, and honestly, I like my lungs.  Even wearing an N95 mask, these powdery ingredients choke me up and I just don't like making it.  Making a really good shampoo is fussy, so not my thing!

However, conditioner, yep I like that!  And with me getting older, I've noticed that the ends of my hair need some TLC routinely now.  I have oily roots, but dry ends.  So, I decided to make a fierce (aka intense) hair conditioner loaded with all things goody for our hair, and depending on hair type, will determine how often you use it.

I am putting this conditioner through a customer testing period, with only 10 jars available right now.  AND will be at 30% off full retail price.  I'm particularily interested in getting reviews from people with dry hair, and get this, men with long beards!  That's right! This stuff will not only make your hair look healthy, but will help make a man's beard look healthy!  I will have this available at Purcellville Community Market this coming Saturday from 9am-1pm.  If you wish, to give it a try and not able to make it to the market, contact me either via my website here or via my Facebook page.  If you wish to try a jar and have to order online, contact me and I will make a listing for you!

So, tell me, are you as excited as I am?!!  

Until next time...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear! And always, remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

Are you ready for everything pumpkin?!  I am!  Fall is my favorite time of year and I have a confession.  You know that Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer that comes out every year around this time?  Yep, my favvvvvv!  

So, I thought it would be fun to make one of the Limited Editions for Fall 2014 a Pumpkin Spice Coffee Soap!  It is sweet and spicey with a warmth exfoliant feel of coffee grounds.  I tried to replicate a color pallette of all the different types of pumpkins/squash we see around this time of year, hoping that whoever uses it smiles with a cozy feeling of Fall!

Next up is one I carried through Fall & Winter 2013 and was a HUGE hit.  Orange Pekoe Tea is a bit spicier than the Pumpkin Spice Coffee with sharp orange notes to begin with.  It also has a slight exfoliant of some Orange Spice Tea leaves to give a flair.  The smell of this soap is cheerful & bright while providing a warmth happy feeling.

I am so excited to debut these this Saturday at Purcellvile Community Market and see what you think!  They will be up on the website next week, Lord Willing! I will only have these scents in our artisan crafted soap line for right now.  I have not decided whether to put in body products, except maybe the body polish.  So, that is where YOU come in!  You have to help me decide!  So please leave a comment on this blog post and let me know!!  Due to the cinnamon content of the Orange Pekoe Tea, it can only go in wash off products, and it is FAB in the body polish!

Well, I hope you are as excited as I am about these new releases!!  Fall is our favorite time of year in our home and we hope you are looking forward to cooler days & nights with a touch of coziness felt inside.

Until next time...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear! And always, remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

Seriously, I LOVE this Coffee Shop!  Located in the happening small town of Purcellville, VA, the awesome people, style, & decor make the atmosphere rock!  And with EVERYTHING being locally sourced, like coffee, baked goods, dairy, you can feel even better about your experience.

Juanita, the owner & General Manager of the store, is so passionate about being an entrepeneur and always giving back to the community.  She also manages Purcellville Community Market, the BEST little market in Loudan County, VA!  

Most of you know that I am a severe coffee-holic and do not have a pallette for bad coffee, I spend a lot of $$$ on good quality coffee.  To me, life is just too short and good coffee deserves the splurge.  LoCo Joe's High Mountain is my absolute favvvvvv.  It is so smooth, really tasteful without leaving such an after-bite.  So, if you are in Purcellville VA, and a coffee-holic like I am, or just enjoy anything related to coffee...oh, OR just want an awesome NY style bagel, drop in and show your support.  Tell them Jodi from Jodi's Soapbox sent ya! :)  You will not be disappointed!

They are only one of two stores where you can try/use my Foaming Handwash in Sweet Meyer Lemon and the only store where you can purchase the new 8oz. size bottle!  Also, if you bring your empty bottle to me at Purcellville Community Market, I will give you a refill for a substantial discounted price! Also, missing me out at the market and need our skin-loving artisan crafted soap?!  LoCo Joe carries that too!! Win-win!

So go give them a "like" on Facebook and a "follow" on Instagram to check out what this cute little shop is all about! Keep up with cool events they host, such as Mic-Nights! 

You can also check out their website here to learn more about catering for a special event!  They have SO much to offer!  We are so proud to be a part of their store and not to mention all the other local artist goods they carry.  You can find some pretty cool stuff for your everyday life staples or a special unique gift for the special someone.

Until next time...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  And, always remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

I would like to introduce you to Main Street Trolley Flowers & Gifts Shop.  Marysue, the owner, carries a wide range of local artists wares, such as candles, jewelry, clothing, and of course, bath & body products such as our artisan crafted soaps, body polishes, and dry oil body sprays!

They are located in the historic trolley barn next to H.C. Summers in Jefferson, Maryland.  This is a a wonderful place to meet & enjoy the rich history where people once bought their tickets and waited for the local trolley.  Now, it is a place people can enjoy arts and develop friendships.  And with Marysue's (referred to as the Conductor, how cute is that?!) cheerful personality, you will feel most welcome in such a beautiful atmosphere.

So, if you are in Jefferson, Maryland, definitely take the time to visit this wonderful store!
Until next time...

Because of you I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  And, always remember:
You can control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

Our next fabulous retailer is The Green Doors located in Snow Hill, MD and truly is an eye-catching store for unloading creativity! 

Below is a quote from their website, which you can find here (psst, they have an online store too! yay!).

It pretty much sums up nicely the cool things they offer!  I know if I was visiting as a tourist in the area, I'd definitely want to take a class!

"When you enter The Green Doors you will find custom hand painted vintage furniture and home goods as well  as jewelry and other handcrafted items. We are a Stockist for Chalk Paint® decorative paint by Annie Sloan and a certified Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint Retailer where you can take a workshop and learn all about Chalk Paint® or Milk Paint as well as buy the paints, waxes and all other supplies to create your own masterpiece."


The Green Doors carries our fabulous artisan crafted soaps, body creams, & body polishes, as well as some lip balm flavors.  I sure do hope her customers enjoy these luxury handmade items as much as we do around here!  Please go give her a follow on Instagram & a "like" on Facebook, you just may get a spark of creativity to livin' up an old piece of beloved furniture you have around!  Until next time...

Because of you I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  And, always remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

With continuing my July series on our fabulous retailers, I want to introduce you to Southern Charm in Charles Town, WV.  Talk about an adorable store!  Mrs. Christy, the owner, always brings a taste of southern hospitality in this upscale-affordable store.  She carries a multitude of Jodi's Soapbox products, with our artisan crafted soaps being a hit!

There is something for everyone here, from new straight from the manufacturer to gently used consignments, like this Michael Kors bag hanging beside a Kate Spade bag!  Whaaa?!

Southern Charm carries lots of local artists wares & products, such as Niffer's All Natural Products, Misty Blue Candles, & lots of awesome pieces of jewelry.  With the welcoming decoration & high-class style, you may never want to leave!  Check her Facebook page out here & give her a "like".  You may also find Southern Charms info here, just scroll down the page some.

Until next time...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  And, always remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.

I'm going to take this weeks blog post (well, there will probably be more than this one this week) of talking about the retailers who carry our skin-loving goods, to talk about what is going on...right now.

See that sweet girl?  Yep, she is sick.  As most of you know, she has battled a blood disorder since 10 months old called Autoimmune Neutropenia.  It is where an antibody has developed killing off her neutrophils, which are the part of the white blood cells that fight bacterial infections.  Anytime, she gets a fever, we usually end up here.  Children's National Medical Center of Northern Virginia.

Her entire existence almost has been hospitals and doctors, & the dreaded Neupogen injection.  I must say, even for a nurse who has IV therapy certs, giving a shot to your own child does not come easy or get easier as time goes.  Neupogen is her life saving medication and we are so thankful for modern medicine.

So, I write this from my phone as I am holding her.  She is currently getting IV fluids and even though we were going to watch the movie Frozen, well...the battery on their portable DVD player died!  Ummmm......We were looking forward to singing with Olaf, who happens to be my favorite character.

So, I say all that ^^^ to say this.  Life is hard.  For everyone.  BUT, still provides some of the sweetest moments ever.  And I am so thankful to be in the place I am at.  As a wise woman once told me, "If you take the boulders & stones out of the brook, then the brook stops singing."  So very true. 

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  And always remember:
We can't control the dirt that lands on us, but we can clean it with something beautiful.

Happy Independence Day!!  Hope every one of you have an awesome day celebrating our country's birthday!  

In case you are looking to get-away for a weekend or a few days during the week, here is another lovely recommendation...

Stony Ridge Farm in Harpers Ferry, WV is a micro-farm using organic and permaculture growing principles.  Check out their gorgeous, easy to navigate website here.  They do local delivery!!  How awesome is that?!!

Bob & Lorrie, owners & farmers of Stony Ridge Farm, have joined with AirBnb to offer you a rural retreat or base-camp to explore the Appalachian hiking trails, Historic Harpers Ferry, and crafty/artsy Shepherdstown.

Their guests are treated with our artisan crafted favor size soaps and travel/sample packets of our rich body cream.  Talk about a skin-pampering stay!

They have 5 (yes, I said five!) star reviews on the airbnb website.  Follow the link here to check out their beautiful pictures, rates, and accommodations.  If you are planning to be in Harpers Ferry, WV, definitely give them a visit!

Join me again next week to hear more about our fun retailers!  In the meantime....

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  Until next time, always remember:
You can't control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.


~Jodi

For the month of July, I want to take the time in a series of blog posts to thank our retailers who carry our awesome products.  I love developing partnerships in business!  Along the way, I have met, worked with, & currently am working with some pretty cool entrepreneur peeps.  

These posts are also for you lovely customers.  You know I can not be set up everywhere (wish I could!) so definitely bookmark these upcoming blog posts!  You can also find a whole short list of retailers here.  If you are local to any of these storefronts, please give them a visit & get some of our skin-loving artisan crafted products too!  Win-win!

We are currently blessed to be found in six storefronts and two bed and breakfasts.  Since it is beginning summer & people are vacationing, I would like to introduce our bed and breakfast friends first.  If you are looking for a quiet, pampering weekend get-away, they have you covered!

Faith Like a Mustard Seed Farm, in Lucketts VA, is a charming family to work with!  I have the pleasure to vend alongside of them @ Purcellville Community Market and they are always cooking up some of their awesome pork on their Big Green Egg.  

The Gleaser family not only have culinary expertise, but a beautiful 26 acre farm.  Quoted from their website:

"Less than 30 minutes from the Dulles Greenway, Faith like a Mustard Seed Farm provides an escape from the fast pace of modern society, back to a time of hand crafted simplicity and real flavors. "

Part of their hand crafted simplicity they give to their guests are our beautiful, artisan crafted favor size soaps!  Interested in knowing more?  Follow this link & schedule your stay today, or visit them (and us!) @ Purcellville Community Market on Saturdays 9am-1pm.

Join me again soon and find out about Stony Ridge Farm's AirBnb!  In the meantime...

Because of you, I'm here, so tell me what you want to hear!  Until next time, always remember:
You can control the dirt that lands on you, but you can clean it with something beautiful.


~Jodi