The Four Daughters

IT'S BEGINNING TO SMELL A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS SCENT

2012-09-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

I finished my tinted lip balm. Just a hint of tint with a soothing feel. You can email me if you are interested in getting one. sjbrueck@gmail.com Only $3.00 plus shipping.

Today, I am making Pepper Berry Soap and Jojoba oil based perfume to compliment the soap. It smells wintery crisp and refreshing. A must have for the season. These would make a nifty Christmas stocking stuffer. Need a gift for your child's teacher? Try this great winter combo!

LIPS, LIPS, LIPS

2012-09-04T11:38:00.000-07:00

Lips. Do you realize how much money we spend on our lips? Not just women either. Men tend to care for lips, as well. Why? For me, I like the feel of smoothness and moistness. I tend to be in environments that leave my lips feeling parched, yucky and longing for attention. And, the last thing I want to put on them is something chalky, waxy, and dry. I know you know what I mean. Where you find yourself picking off little flecks hanging from your lips. Who wants that?
I got to looking into some of the ingredients that go into some of the products for your lips. Pretty creepy. Particularly lipsticks for women. Did you know that many of the lipsticks you use on a daily basis contain LEAD! YIKES.
You might want to do a little investigating on your own since what you put on your lips you tend to ingest. I make a lip product that really helps with dry weather conditions. I love it and so do those who have used it. I am working on a tinted line for those that prefer to add a little color to there lips. I will keep you posted!

Shiseido Perfect Rouge Tender Sheer - # Rs628 Natural Wine - 4G/0.14oz (Google Affiliate Ad)

2012-09-01T10:42:00.000-07:00

TEA TREE OIL AND LAVENDER OIL

So many of you love the benefits of Lavender EO and Tea Tree EO...Sooo I have combined the two. This lush bar of soap has a remarkable fresh scent and lathers very well. I also combined Tea Tree oil and French Green Clay into a great cleansing bar for rebellious skin! If you are interested in purchasing a bar you can email me at sjbrueck@gmail.com. They sell for $5.50 a bar or three for $15.00 plus shipping and handling. These are long lasting bars that I am sure you will enjoy. Have a great day!

A LOT CAN HAPPEN IN A COURSE OF A FEW MONTHS

2012-08-31T11:31:00.001-07:00

Wow! I have been gone for quite sometime. I have been dealing with a lot of issues of the last 6 months and I am excited to get back online. My mom went to be with the Lord in May. I have been working on the last few items of her estate, and now I am ready to get back to business. I am still making and selling soap. And I plan on expanding in the area of beauty products. I look forward to hearing from you all!

WORKING FROM HOME

2011-12-05T06:27:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about working from home. It is a challenge since we are a homeschooling family. We are still learning to balance everything.

Lots of ideas are being tossed around. My daughter, Jackie, would like to do some home shows. Well, I have a lot of product to make today!

I have an open house in the works. I am attempting to line up several other vendors in the area. I will fill you in on the details soon.

TOXIC BABY PRODUCTS

2011-11-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Two chemicals considered harmful to babies remain in Johnson & Johnson's baby shampoo sold in the United States and some other countries, even though the company already makes versions without them, according to an international coalition of health and environmental groups.

Now the coalition is urging consumers to boycott Johnson & Johnson baby products until the company agrees to remove the chemicals from its baby products sold around the world, including in China and the U.K.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics has unsuccessfully been urging the world's largest health care company for 2 1/2 years to remove the trace amounts of potentially cancer-causing chemicals — dioxane and a substance called quaternium-15 that releases formaldehyde — from Johnson's Baby Shampoo, one of its signature products.

Johnson & Johnson has said it is reducing or gradually phasing out the chemicals.

"Johnson & Johnson clearly can make safer baby shampoo in all the markets around the world, but it's not doing it," said Lisa Archer, director of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.

The campaign's new report, "Baby's Tub is Still Toxic," is set to be released Tuesday, when the group was launching the boycott via its Web site, http://www.safecosmetics.org.

The updated report was based on an examination of label ingredients for Johnson & Johnson baby products in 13 countries.

On Monday, the campaign sent Johnson & Johnson a letter, signed by about 25 environmental, medical and other groups representing about 3.5 million people in the U.S. and other countries. It urges the company to publicly commit by Nov. 15 to removing the chemicals from all personal care products worldwide.

In response, Johnson & Johnson said in a statement that formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are safe and approved by regulators in the U.S. and other countries, but that it is gradually phasing them out of its baby products. It said it is also reformulating baby products to reduce the level of dioxane below detectable levels. But it did not say whether it would respond to or meet the campaign's full demands.

The letter, addressed to CEO William Weldon, was signed by groups including the Breast Cancer Fund, Environmental Working Group, Friends of the Earth, American Nurses Association, Physicians for Social Responsibility and Green America.

According to the report, obtained by The Associated Press, one of the suspect chemicals, quaternium-15, is a preservative that kills bacteria by releasing formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, used as a disinfectant and embalming fluid, was declared a known human carcinogen this past June by the U.S. National Toxicology Program. Formaldehyde also is a skin, eye and respiratory irritant.

Quaternium-15 is still an ingredient on Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo sold in the U.S., Canada, China, Indonesia and Australia, but the campaign's research this summer found it's not in the same product sold in at least eight other countries, from the U.K. and Denmark to Japan and South Africa.

The second chemical, 1,4-dioxane, is considered a likely carcinogen. It's a byproduct of a process for making chemicals more soluble and gentler on the skin.

The campaign's May 2009 report, called "No More Toxic Tub," stated that studies by an independent laboratory it hired, Analytical Sciences LLC, found that 1,4-dioxane was contained in Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo, Oatmeal Baby Wash, Moisture Care Baby Wash and Aveeno Baby Soothing Relief Creamy Wash.

According to the report, the company has since launched a baby shampoo called Johnson's Naturals, sold in the U.S., that does not include 1,4-dioxane. But original Johnson's baby shampoo, which costs about half as much, has not been reformulated for the U.S. market, according to the campaign.

Analytical Sciences tested multiple J&J baby product samples from the U.S. for the first report, finding low levels of the chemicals. After that, according to Archer, consumer groups in South Africa, Sweden and Japan contacted her group to note that quaternium-15 was not being used in products in their countries.

Archer noted that some of the countries where the products did not contain the harsh chemicals had bans on them in personal care products, but others didn't.

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Lotion Bars

2011-10-04T11:55:00.000-07:00

I am making my lotion bars today. If you have never tried a lotion bar, I highly recommend it! They can be a bit pricey, depending on the ingredients. I use a high quality, Shea butter. The benefits of Shea butter are amazing. Shea butter really penetrates deep into the skin to help restore and maintain the skins elasticity.
It will not block the skins pores, unlike many commercial products that contain petroleum products. It is also rich in vitamins A, E, and F. I do add organic Beeswax to my bars. This adds to the luxury of this bar, and the price. The Beeswax forms a barrier to protect and keep in all the moisturizing benefits of the the butter. This is especially nice with the changing weather. Great for hands exposed to water. What good is a lotion if it goes down the drain every time you wash your hands? I also add some other nice essential oils such as Ylang Ylang, Lavender, and even a splash of Jasmine. This also make a nice, natural perfume bar.

A one ounce bar sells for $18.00 plus shipping

I AM STILL HERE!

2011-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

I want to update you on some things I am working on. I have been so busy. I don't have time to post right now, but will soon. Just wanted to let you know, 'I am still here, just busy'. Busy can be a good thing.

BA BA BLACK SHEEP....

2011-09-25T17:24:00.000-07:00

I made some yummy Goats Milk Soap. I tried some new molds. Let me tell you...I have about six pounds of funny looking soap. My husband said I could call it "Rustic Goats Milk Soap." I don't think so. I put the rest in my regular molds and they turned out beautiful. I think I will 'hand mill' the other six pounds.

Did you know, Goats Milk is great for your skin? It helps to keep that youthful appearance. It helps with all sorts of skin ailments. It's ph is a near match to human skin. It is loaded with vitamins and minerals. The protein found in goats milk helps to nourish the skin. Glycerin is naturally occurring in goat milk soap, so it is extra moisturizing! Who doesn't like that. I made mine unscented, however I might add some lavender essential oil to the next batch.

IMAGINE MY SURPRISE!

2011-09-21T16:35:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise when I went on Etsy.com and found that my soap was showcased! Yep! You can see for yourself at http://www.etsy.com/people/GildedLegacy?ref=af_shop_tre.

This soap is made with Shea Butter and other quality oils. There is nothing artificial about this body bar. It is moisturizing and has great bubbly lather. It is scented with Geranium Rose and a hint of Orange Citrus. Geranium Rose essential oil has a sweet floral scent with a distinct richness that is quite enjoyable.
You will feel spoiled with the richness of this wonderful bar. Currently, this is a 3.5oz bar. I will begin making this a 4.5 oz bar.

Lavender, Rosemary Soap

2011-09-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of my Lavender, Rosemary soaps. I straight cut them most of the time. Some people prefer the wavy cut. This a very nice soap. It produces plenty of lather. My husband uses it as a shampoo bar. If you decide to use it on your hair, I recommend an Apple Cider Vinegar rinse. Just put a small amount of the Apple Cider Vinegar in a glass and add warm water. Pour over your hair and work through. Give it a good rinse. You will feel a difference and even notice a difference in a matter of days.

CHRISTMAS SOAPS

2011-09-19T06:30:00.000-07:00

These are some of the Christmas soaps I have been working on..They almost look good enough to eat. Dad made the mistake of saying they look tasty. Now, I am having a hard time keeping them away from my three year old.

The soaps are pleasantly scented with the smells of Christmas. These are not natural soaps. They contain mica coloring and fragrance.

I will be taking special orders for these soaps. Just shoot me an email by going to my profile. The Gingerbread men are 3.5 oz bars. They are great for gift giving!

CONGRATULATIONS!

2011-09-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank the ladies that participated in the soap give-away. I am sure you will enjoy all the benefits of 'real' soap.

This soap is a real gem..

Green French Clay has so many cleansing benefits for the body. If you have rebellious skin, as many teens do, you might like to add this bar to your daily wash routine. It is a body bar or can be used on your face alone. The choice is yours. You also get the benefits of rosemary essential oil and cedarwood essential oil.

This is a 3.5 oz. bar (almost 4 oz)

Soaps available in stores today are not really soaps at all, but detergents. Detergents are petroleum-based products that tend to leave your skin feeling dry, itchy and tight.
Handmade soaps are made with natural ingredients instead of detergents which may cause irritation. Coconut, olive, and palm oils and other oils are carefully blended to create a skin smoothing soap that cleanses the skin without drying it out. Glycerin soap is believed to help replenish the skin and add moisture where other conventional soaps, such as some commercial brands, may have been stripped. In handmade soap, however, the glycerin is not usually removed.

Gingerbread men

2011-09-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

I am making Gingerbread Men soap for Christmas. I will have Christmas Tree soap and Sleigh soap, also. I will have Snowmen soap that are fitting throughout winter. I will upload photos of some of my Christmas Soaps when they are ready. These are not all natural soaps. They have fragrance and mica coloring in them. These are specialty soaps. They will be available for a limited time, beginning in November. They make great gifts. They look quite festive in the bathroom or kitchen. Tis the Season...soon!

FREE GIFT!

2011-09-14T07:27:00.000-07:00

Get a free sample of soap. I am sending out 10 guest bar soaps to the first 10 responders. Click my profile and shoot me and email!

Essential Oils

2011-09-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

Some of you have been asking about Essential Oils. Essential Oils are wonderful. They add many benefits to your products, when used rightly. However, you need to know something about using these oils safely.
An essential oil is the end product, of a chemical process, using plant material. You end up with a very potent, botanical fragrance. We call that an essential oil. It is a pure oil that is extremely concentrated. Caution must be exercised when using essential oils. When you work with EO, make sure you are in a well ventilated area. They should ALWAYS be accompanied with a carrier oil, such as olive oil. Never use full strength on the skin, to do so can cause adverse side effects. Keep out of reach of children. Although some essential oils can be ingested, some are very toxic. To learn more, you should speak to an herbalist or to someone who understands the uses of essential oils. There are also many books available.
Essential oils are used in aromatherapy. They have a unique effect on the body.
I use mostly essential oils in my products. Sometimes I use fragrance oils. My products are labeled for your preference. Fragrance oils are not the same as essential oils. They are synthetic. Some people like them for their many uses. Some people don't. I want to encourage you to educate yourself in the benefits of using essential oils.
Amazon does carry a variety of essential oils. I like the NOW brand.

Changed Comment Settings

2011-09-13T06:19:00.000-07:00

Some of you continue to ask me about posting a comment. I was able to fix this problem. Please, feel free to add a comment relevant to the content of this blog. I look forward to hearing from you!

What Is Lurking In Your Favorite Bath Products?

2011-09-12T12:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stopped to think, "What is in my favorite shampoo." Have you ever investigated some of those long names in the ingredient list? Most folks trust that what they are getting is safe. Some folks, you can educate, and they may make some changes. But lets be honest, most people only read what the product will do for them. I want to talk about one ingredient that is commonly found in personal products.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a pesticide. It has been registered with the Govt., as a pesticide. It is used to fight flees and ticks. It is used as a foaming agent. It can be found in some foods, toothpaste, shampoos, soaps and many more products. The ingredient, Sodium Laureth, Sulfate is closely related to SLS. These chemicals have been known to be potential carcinogens. I read one study that suggested that the effects of SLS on the liver were particularly troubling. The liver is unable to breakdown and properly process these chemicals. The skin is the largest organ of the body. It is sucking in everything you put on it. The last thing you want to do to your body is burden it with toxic waste. You can find products that do not use these chemicals. I have shampoo bars that are made of quality products. Coconut oil, Castor oil, and essential oils. These oils produce a nice lather. Please, read, and educate yourself and your family.

A PENNY SAVED IS A PENNY EARNED

2011-09-10T05:31:00.000-07:00

Who wants dirty counter tops? Not me! I clean my counter tops multiple times a day. When you have kids, it seems like an endless task. You don't have to spend a lot of money on cleaners. You can make your own!
You will need the following:
1 Spray Bottle
Rubbing Alcohol 99%
Essential Oil (I like Orange Citrus)
1 squirt dish soap

Mix 2 parts Rubbing Alcohol and 2 parts water (I use purified water or distilled)
add your dish soap
10 to 20 drops of Essential oil

You now have a product that is safe to use and will kill germs.

marketing your products

2011-09-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Marketing is a biggie if you want to sell your products. You put a lot of thought and hard work into your creations, market them. Get the word out. Read all you can. Talk, talk and talk about your products. If you love your products, others will. There is a lot of "How to Market" material out there. One book that I found very helpful was "Handmade Marketplace". It is packed full of information. It has information about local craft shows to advertising online. I highly recommend this book.

2011-09-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

THIS IS A "BEAUTY MONSTER"

2011-09-08T17:21:00.000-07:00

The FDA is asking Brazilian Blowout to reduce the level of formaldehyde from its products and change its misleading labels and advertising, which state that the products are formaldehyde-free.

The FDA conducted their own sample analysis of the product, and found dangerously high levels of the liquid form of formaldehyde, ranging from 8.7 percent to 10.4 percent. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires an occupational hazard alert at levels higher than 0.1 percent.

Formaldehyde, commonly found in a number of "Brazilian style" keratin-based hair straighteners, is extremely dangerous and a known carcinogen, the FDA said.

The FDA reported that salon workers and consumers have already reported a number of injuries to the FDA, including eye disorders, nervous system disorders, respiratory tract problems, chest pain, vomiting and rash.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/09/08/fda-brazilian-blowout-must-stop-misleading-consumers/#ixzz1XPSxBQ4C

A DELICIOUS BODY SCRUB

2011-09-08T15:21:00.000-07:00

This simply delicious body scrub is easy to make.
You will need the following:

2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup sweet almond oil
1/2 tsp vit E oil
45 to 50 drops of essential oil or fragrance oil

Mix all the oils together in a glass bowl.
Add the brown sugar to the oils and mix well.

yields: about 5 oz.

Rub some of the delicious scrub onto your body to gently exfoliate the skin. Rinse well. Your skin will be left soft and radiant.

STIll CAMPING AND MARKETING SOAPS

2011-09-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

kids are having a blast. i have been able to sell some soap to the gift shop. i am using my cell for this update. the capital letters won't work. bummer.

CAMPING FOR A FEW DAYS

2011-09-04T09:27:00.000-07:00

The family and I are going on a little camping trip. The weather is suppose to be beautiful. When I get back, I would like to talk about "Beauty Monsters". Did you know, you have things lurking around your house that can make you sick. Stay tuned for more information!

Picture of us camping when the oldest two were babies.