Stress Management

Running a small business is very rewarding, but also very stressful. Especially when you are the owner and sole employee, you are the only one accountable for everything in your business. It’s impossible to “pass the buck”. Some people thrive on the challenge and even the stress. I am one of those people, most of the time. Normally I seem to run on adrenaline as I multi-task my way through making soap, filling orders, fielding emails, and on and on. But, there are times when I just need a break. I’d like to say I do something exotic and fascinating to relax and de-stress, but the truth is I rarely stop working. I do get breaks here and there, mostly in the form of play dates with my 3-year-old son. So what’s a mom-business owner to do?

Believe it or not, there are activities that can be relaxing and child friendly. I love to garden. It is something I can do to exercise my body and relax my mind. Getting out and digging in the dirt can really “ground” a person- pun intended. When I need to get away from working, gardening is at the top of my list. Fortunately for me, my son gets immense joy out of digging in the dirt, watering plants and helping me garden. It’s relaxing and we both have fun. This is one reason that I simply can’t wait for warmer weather.

If you’d rather hire a landscaper and find another way to escape the daily grind, there are plenty of options. An island get away would be great, right? But how often can most of us pick up and globe trot? I found a lot of great ideas for relaxing both the mind and the body here. One of my favorite suggestions is writing. I have used this technique in the past to help deal with stress. By writing down what’s weighing on you, you can actually help relieve your stress. It gets it off your mind and onto the paper. Another easy technique is to listen to some music you enjoy. It’s amazing how this can brighten your day. And if you get up and dance, I’m willing to bet you’ll feel even better.

Do you have a creative way to manage stress? I welcome you to share in the comments section below.

Peep Peep

Do you love Peeps? You know... those sugary marshmallow treats that were once only an Easter treat. Now they are available for nearly every major holiday. I don't know about you, but as much as I love them this time of year, I just can't bring myself to eat a ginger bread shaped Peeps at Christmas, or a pumpkin shaped Peeps at Halloween. Maybe I'm a traditionalist, but to me Peeps are an Easter thing. When I was a child I'd eat bunches of them every year. My Easter basket always contained a generous supply of Peeps. These days, although I don't eat as many Peeps as I used to, I still love them. Over the last few years I've been using them to decorate the carrot cake I make every Easter. Not only are they cute, but the memories they hold from Easters past really makes me smile.

It seems there's a lot of Peeps love going around. This year over 800 people entered the Washington Posts 2nd Annual Peeps Show. Contestants created Peeps themed dioramas. This years winner was called "The Tomb of King Peepankhamun." You can buy Peeps earrings. You can view countless videos about Peeps. Some of the wackiest are Optometry Peeps, and A Guide to Recovery. You can even join a Peeps fan club at the official Peeps website.

Do you love Peeps? Have a favorite Peeps? Perhaps you have a fond Peeps memory. Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Peep peep.

What's Your Passion?

My son Pearce has been playing the guitar since he was 21 months old. He's now 3 and still loves to play. Sometimes he even provides the entertainment in the car when we are out doing errands. He's never been very interested in the usual baby and toddler toys with flashing lights and loud electronic sounds. He'd rather make his own music. It's his passion. Even at his young age he has learned and grown so much from playing his guitar.

I believe that having a passion for something in your life is incredibly important. It could be music, dancing, gardening, cooking, reading, making soap... anything. Having a passion drives us to learn and explore. It helps us grow as individuals and gives us a sense of accomplishment. If you don't have a passion, take the opportunity to explore. Try something new. Take a class. It's never to late to enrich your life and find a new joy.

Do you have something you are passionate about? If you do, I bet you love talking about it. Tell us about it in the comments section below.

Meet Nardia and Zena

Do you love goats? We do! They are the most lovable, gentle animals with their own unique personalities. Did you know that we don't own our own goats? We love them, but we also love supporting small local family farms. Pictured here are Nubian goats, mom Nardina and her daughter Zena. Nardina has been producing a lot more milk than Zena can drink, so she has been kind enough to share with us, so we can make soap for you! These goats are positively pampered. They are free to roam around their large yard, but often simply enjoy "hanging out" on their porch as seen in this photo. Every day their "parents" make them fresh fruit salad to enjoy. These girls are well loved!

Whole Foods Market Local Vendor Day

Last Saturday Deal Farm Soap Co. took part in the "Taste of the North Shore" local vendor day at Whole Foods Market in Swampscott, MA. Many thanks to our loyal customers who came to show their support, despite the snowy weather. We met some people who are already fans of our soaps, as well as people who couldn't have been more shocked to hear that we make soap out of goat milk. I sent them home with samples, and I imagine that by now they understand why goat milk soap is the best there is. (Yes, sometimes I can't resist giving myself a pat on the back.)

If you missed our in store demo, and you have questions or comments you can reach me anytime here. If you live locally, I encourage you to stop by the Swampscott Whole Foods. The people in the Whole Body department are incredibly nice and I'm sure they'd be happy to talk soap with you too.