Heros

My “Make-It-Yourself” Heros

I love the idea of being self-sufficient and resourceful. I’d love to learn to grow a garden someday and can or freeze food for the winter. I’d love to learn how to sew and make one of a kind clothing or crafts. I’d love to make my own soaps and breads and other daily staples. For now, I’m living vicariously through some friends. In some cases, I’ve started to try a few things.

My former neighbor, Barbara, started Simply Pure Products several years ago in response to her son’s eczema. She makes all sorts of things: lotions, soaps, face wash, shampoo, make up… you name it. Everything she makes is petroleum-free and all natural. I’ve been to her “factory” in her basement, and I am amazed by the whole operation.

Another former neighbor, Holly, makes her own bread for her family. I’m not taking about a bread kit or something. She grinds stuff and kneads it and does whatever else you do to make wonderful tasting bread. She blessed us with some, and it was yummy! She also has a garden and home schools her two boys. She’s pretty amazing, too.

Both ladies have gifts that are beyond my current scope of skills and aptitude. I aspire to be more like them someday, but for now I’m going to take it one step at a time.

This summer I became Facebook friends with an inspiring and innovative guy with a pretty cool name, Matt Jabs. He introduced me to his site: diynatural.com. After perusing his and his wife, Betsy’s, information, I thought, “Now, this is something I can do.” Among other things, he provides easy recipes for things like laundry detergent, tooth paste and mouthwash, household cleaners, and facial concoctions using only a few common ingredients. As we finish off the products we currently have on hand, I’m going to take a swipe at conquering this brave new world of make-it-yourself products. I may even try a facial tonight. I wonder if I can talk Steve into giving me a scalp message and a facial. Doubtful!

 

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Posted in Balance, Featured, Our Story