My front porch is a gathering spot where problems are discussed, histories are shared, projects are launched and dreams are nurtured. It can be a busy place with kids and dogs running free, but it can also be a place where time slows down and cups of coffee are lingered over. For years I struggled with constant dry scalp and itchy patches on my skin. I tried numerous medicated shampoos, body washe
s and lotions and the problems just got worse. Desperate for any solution, I ordered a few pounds of soap nuts thinking that they could save me money on laundry detergent and possibly eliminate one product that could be contributing to my skin irritation. The soap nuts worked great on my laundry so I started using them to replace other cleaning products around my house with much success. Then I tried using them in the shower. Using soap nuts "tea" to wash my hair and body healed my scalp in a week and within a month the itchy patches on my skin disappeared. I was so excited that I started researching the ways that other people were eliminating detergents from their lives. The common thread I found was a simplicity of ingredients and a respect for the past. Our ancestors knew what they were doing!! It was surprisingly easy to replace 95% of the commercially produced personal care products and cleaning supplies in my home. The most amazing part of this change is that I now, quite literally, feel more comfortable in my own skin. A while back a particularly difficult change happened in my life. Friends and neighbors visited my front porch often to offer support and a large number of them encouraged me to follow my passions. I have taught many of my friends and family about soap nuts and herbal products and I have gifted hundreds of bars of my handmade soap to just about anyone willing to try them. The overwhelming consensus was that I should start a small business selling my soaps and personal care products. I craft small batches of handmade soap, medicinal salves and natural personal care products with a heavy emphasis on beneficial herbs and a decided lack of artificial coloring and perfumes. My ultimate dream is that I can turn this business into a socially responsible job training program and entrepreneurship incubator. I have spent my adult life actively volunteering in social service agencies and I fully believe that a civilized society must care for those who can’t take care of themselves. The problem I see with most social service agencies is that they are only equipped to stabilize a crisis rather than offer a long term solution. I think my community would benefit greatly from a program that can offer temporary employment and, ideally, a good reference while clients are seeking permanent employment. I’m also very enthusiastic about facilitating a program that educates and promotes entrepreneurship for those inclined to leverage their skills to create their own financial opportunities. Pull up a chair!
