edensong

Hi westbrook!

Hi Lois, Have you made this cream recipe? I don't mean to butt in, but I really wouldn't recommend most of those ingredients. SAO (sweet almond oil) has a very short shelf life. Cocoa butter is good (protective and water repellent), but is does clog the pores, so you wouldn't want to use it on your face. Glyercin is quite sticky and gives cream that "drag" most folks don't like. Emulsifying wax is okay, but it's not organic, so you might consider using lecithin, but that's not crucial if organic isn't an issue for you. Another emulisfying combo is beeswax and borax. The first beeswax/borax emulsion is attributed to a Roman physician name Galen (130 - 200 AD). Without preservatives, adding water to any cream is asking for "cooties" and "bugs" to grow, even if you can't see anything growing (like mold). Water is susceptible to bacterial, fungal and yeast growth and must have an anti-microbial agent added to it. You could use grapefruit seed extract, alcohol (more than 15% ethyl alcohol is self preserving ) -- also Vit E and Rosemary oil extract help to extend the life of the oils/butters. Here is a super, super easy formula without water, using cocoa butter and SAO, so no preservatives are required. You could add a bit of Vit E, if desired, to extend its shelf life. Easy Hand Cream If you're looking for a fabulous gift or just a treat for yourself, try making your own hand cream! It smells wonderful, it's all natural (all the ingredients you'll need are available at your local grocery or drug store), and it's easy to make -- it only takes a few minutes. Here's how: 1. Over medium-low heat, melt 4 tbsp. cocoa butter (coconut oil could be subbed) with 4 tbsp. beeswax. 2. Stir in 4 tbsp. warmed almond oil (jojoba or grapeseed could be subbed). This mixture will thicken quickly. 3. Stir until lump free, then pour into a pretty dish. Cream will solidify as it cools. (You may add Vit E and essential oils at this point -- never when hot, only as it's cooling.) Here are some suggested oils to try: apricot kernel oil (great for sensitive and older skin); avocado oil (one of the most moisturizing oils and good for older skin); cocoa butter (protective and water repellent); grapeseed oil (a dry oil, good so the cream isn't too greasy); jojoba (actually a liquid wax and good to use so the cream isn't too greasy); peanut oil (good for all skin types); sesame oil (natural sunscreen); Shea butter (natural sunscreen); and wheat germ oil (high in vitamins and minerals). Also, it's actually better to work in percentages, as it's easier to increase/decrease quantities. It's also more accurate when formulating. Here's an easy calculator to convert to percentages: http://soap.indiboi.com/m2p.php Hope this helps.

That would be Haley Mills in the 'Parent Trap'. We would get into the theater with a William's Bread wrapper Wonderful time with my mom...

Okay Miss Debbielee...If I was one to not accept responsibility for my actions, I would be blaming you for this full tummy feeling at 9:40 tonight...My DS and I ate a whole pie!! At our next school potluck, I know what I'm sharing...Thanks Deb

It's your's((((((((((Becca))))))))) Many of us have been there. ... it's okay to cry. And call on Jesus

Lowlander...do you have a link to a financial page for this prospective sale? Safeway is divesting of several stores at the moment, but had no idea they were downsizing this much. Their stock has taken a large hit this last year...dropping more than half the value. Thanks for any info. Sandie ------------------

Aahhh....you're one of the snow bunnies that hop across the ocean to soak in some rays We head south to Mexico! Love the culture. Thanks for being a Frank supporter. ANWR...YES! The SeaLife Center is getting stronger due to research opportunities. They're upgrading the tanks and such this winter, so viewing is limited to two floors. Needless to say...admission price is down It is good to 'meet' another Alaskan at MrsS. Used to be two others a couple years ago, but they moved on. Get a moose this year??? Not my favorite meat. It's okay, but I'd rather have salmon or caribou. The moose hang out in my yard tho... Now if I can get them to leave my precious perennials alone! Throwing spruce cones at them just doesn't seem to have an impact I wish some more sunshine for you! Sandie ------------------

Hello there Kathy! I'm just across the Sound from you in Seward. Since they changed the laws here in Alaska, I'm an 'Undeclared'. Don't like anyone telling me what ballot I have to vote on! "See" you October 1st at the polls Sandie ------------------

A suggestion....Is there a local quilting group in your town?? Quilters are always wanting machines that do more and sell the one they have at a bargain! Especially if they think you want to quilt. Quilting Buddies You'll get a great machine that is very affordable. Good Luck ------------------

Hi Marjorie...you can find Kay if you go to http://www.board.prophecynet.com/ They have private messages there, and you can send her one. Sunny wishes from Alaska Sandie ------------------