Three Year Blog Birthday and a LuSa Organics Giveaway.

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Four years ago I had a baby on my hip and an almost five year old at my side, a new small business venture of my own making, and a very happily full plate. I was home with my kids, my man, and our body care business wondering what the next phase of my life was going to bring.

Four years ago I did not even know what a blog was. Really.

Then while searching on-line for some craft tutorials I found a handful of lovely blogs. I found community, education, and inspiration through my computer. This was new for me. I dug it. Real people. Like me! People who share my values who were talking about things that inspired me. I loved it.

Then three years ago I decided to write my own. Three years. Nearly 500 posts. Sewing patterns and knitting updates. Holiday celebrations and recipes. Unschooling ideas and gentle parenting advice. So many posts, and so many more yet to be written. I feel like I've barely begun. Suddenly (three years later) I am a Blogger. And you get a peek into my life each week, to see how we live, what we treasure, and what makes me tick.

Why "Clean"?

I am a soapmaker so I named my blog Clean. I own an organic body care company so I believe deeply in what I would call Clean ingredients (whole, natural, non-synthetic, organic). I believe in what I think of as Clean food (local, organic, whole), and Clean relationships (non-violent, connection-based) and a sustainable Clean lifestyle. So Clean it was. And then I sat down and started typing. And I really haven't stopped. 

Why Blog?

Initially I started blogging to create some transparency for people learning about my body care company, LuSa Organics. I wanted customers to have a chance to get to know me so that they knew where I was coming from when it came time to choose safe, natural body care products for their family. I wanted to show people who I was, what I believe in, and why I do what I do. I am not a corporation. I am a mama who cares deeply and believes passionately in how we go about our business. I am also a teacher, so reaching out this way was a natural fit. And that is what I did. And it felt great.

And then… something shifted.

This transparency for customers and future customers was still an important component, but the connection to my readers and the act of writing became an important part of my life in-and-of-itself. Writing became a passion in its own right. And that shift was really about all of you. You came here, day after day, either through LuSa Organics or separate from it and you cared about what I had to say. You kept coming back. And you brought your friends. And you shared your own ideas, your own inspiration, your words. Community manifested out of thin air.

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The more I wrote the more important it became to me. And so today, thanks to your support and encouragement I have started working on my first book. A book! It is an exciting time in so many ways. Good things brewing on so many fronts. Thank you for showing up here (the frequent commenters and the quiet folks alike). You've given me the courage to take on a big exciting project that will change my life.

To celebrate my blog's birthday I am giving away some LuSa Organics goodies. LuSa Organics is how our family makes its living. We also are a portion of the income of thee other local families. Because of LuSa Organics it is possible for me to be home, unschooling my kids and bringing this blog to you.

One blessed winner will receive an assortment of LuSa Organics goodies, from either our Mama and Baby lines or our Body Care product line. Choose from a Baby Mama Gift Set or a Blissful Bath Gift set. 

Oh, and for everyone, how about a LuSa Organics coupon code? Place an order before the end of the week (By June 4, 2011) and receive a free scrumptious LuSa gift with your order. Just say "Blog Birthday" in the comments field. You won't regret it. Best. Body care. Ever. I promise.

Allproductsmed Comments are now closed. I'll announce the winner later in the week!

To be entered in today's giveaway, do as many of the following as you wish. (Be sure to leave one comment for each action for up to five entries per person.) Thanks for celebrating with me! I'll close comments and annouce a winner after the weekend.

  1. Tell us why you read Clean and/or why you love LuSa Organics.
  2. Share with us one new (natural) scent combination for product or one new product you would like us to offer.
  3. Become a fan of LuSa Organics on Facebook.
  4. Become a fan of Clean on Facebook.
  5. Share a link to this giveaway via Facebook or Twitter OR Invite your friends to Clean via email (for the non-social media folks).

Thanks again for coming here and for sharing in the little moments of my life.

276 thoughts on “Three Year Blog Birthday and a LuSa Organics Giveaway.”

  1. Erica Kalinoski says:

    I recently became a fan of LuSa Organics and the Clean Blog, both suggested by my mom. 🙂 She also gave me a sample of soap and had me try her lotion bar… I fell in love!!! Your soap leaves my skin feeling oh-so-very soft and clean, I feel like I’ve been treated to something fancy after my shower 🙂

    I have recently begun naturalizing my entire family’s body product usage. We eat organic and healthy, so it just makes sense to use healthy things ON our body as well. Love your stuff (especially because its made in Wisconsin, like me!) and I look forward to using it for years to come.

    New product/scent idea? A manly/musky scented lotion bar… Maybe something with orange? 🙂

  2. Casey says:

    Congratulations on THREE YEARS of fantastic blogging and on starting your book — what a wonderful journey you’re beginning! (If you need an editor, let me know — I love writing and reading. :))

    I read Clean because you and your family are living the life I dream of. You inspire me to be a better mother and a more conscious human being. I love LuSa Organics because doggonit they WORK…and smell nice…and smell good — all while being safe, natural, and healthy!

  3. Casey says:

    I would love to see fragrance sprays (for home and/or body) and a bubble bath…I know that’s really difficult!

    Lavender-Mint is my favorite combo right now.

  7. Lynette says:

    I originally bought your booty balm while I was pregnant, and I’m not going to lie, it was mostly because I thought the name was great and it was made in WI.
    I’m already a fan of LuSa and Clean on Facebook:) I’ll share a link to the giveaway on my FB page, but I kind of don’t want to because those people may get in the way of my chances of winning!
    I’ve recommended your products to a lot of my friends who have kids and also my friends who have dogs. The products work great on our furry friends too!
    Now we love the booty balm, cheek and chin balm, calendula soap, lotion bars, and I think the next time I order I’m going to try some lavender soap.

  8. marniduff@yahoo.com says:

    I come here and read because I feel a kindred spirit. Gentle parenting, somewhat against the grain, striving for a natural path of your own choosing, attentiveness, and dreaming. I really like the dreaming! And I definitely love the nature inspired posts, specifically the ones highlighting your foraging.

  9. molly says:

    I read clean because I am a mommma. I am inspired by your homeschooling and craft ideas.
    Recently I have been following because I am on the book club journey. I have since recommended the book, and your site to my friends.
    “like” you on fb already!
    Thanks for your words and sharing your family.

  10. Stephanie says:

    i LOVE your products because i feel 100% confident in the ingredients used to create them, and because you are such a rad person!

  14. Jessica says:

    I love your blog because it is good for the soul, and practical at the same time! We made the Kool-aid silks, and donated 2 blankets through Project Hope 🙂

  15. Danielle says:

    I think what originally attracted me to Clean was your toothpaste recipe, but my interest in natural parenting, unschooling, and the like (even though I don’t have children) has kept me around.

  17. Jessica says:

    Oh! And I am already a fan everywhere that I can be, am reading “Simplicity Parenting”, and I love anything Lavender/vanilla/eucalyptus. 🙂

  20. Jenn says:

    Congratulations on 3 years of beautiful soap making and dreaming weaving!!!!
    When I stumbled upon my authentic self and all I/she believed in I stumbled upon your wipe juice and fell in love! Wanting to know more about the people who made this wonderfully smelling product that actually had me excited to change cloth dipes I searched for you on facebook! Once I found you on facebook I discovered you had a blog and couldn’t wait to tune in. I have read your blog pretty much everyday since I found it and the days I cannot get to it I am excited to catch up the next day! your blog is so inspiring to me in many ways. It encourages me to not only embrace the beauty of this world but to actually live in it (I am working on my manifestation board).

    I read and followed the things going on in Wisconsin during the rallys and protests and shared every post and video that you shared because I could hear the passion in your writing. Anyhow I love Lusa not just for the wipe juice and soap but also for keeping it real.
    I would love to smell a lemon/basil mixture! I use this with walnut oil to polish my wood and it smells just like spring!
    I am sharing your post via facebook! Thanks again!

  21. Renee says:

    Congrats! I love LuSa for the yummy-smelling products (and beautiful packaging with a SHORT ingredient list) that I know are safe for my family. I keep Clean as one of the few blogs I read because everything from the recipes to the parenting wisdom is so inspiring. In fact, it is one of those grounding parenting-type blogs that I can come to for a deep breath, so to speak, when tantrums, fights and all those challenges are looming.

  22. Renee says:

    One product that I would love is some natural deodorant! Also, any way to have more of your yummy soap scents in the lotion bars? I don’t know how easy that would be to do, but I’d love more choice 🙂 I love the bars, but I don’t like patchouli and my husband doesn’t like lavender, so it’s a bit limiting for me.

  25. Anna says:

    I’ve used Lusa baby products with both of my little boys, and shared them with many mamas. I was just talking to a friend the other day, and we both said that we know if we catch a whiff of booty balm many years down the road, it will immediately bring us back to the time when our little ones were tiny babes. Scent memory is so powerful, and Lusa booty balm will forever be the smell that reminds me of this special time.

  27. Amy says:

    I love clean because it is such a peaceful and inspiring place to come and read each day 🙂

  28. Erynne says:

    What’s not to love? Clean gives me a calm, centered place to visit and remind myself that there IS more to the world (and to parenting) than what pop culture would have you believe. And LuSa Organics gives me delicious products I don’t have to feel guilty for using. 🙂

  29. Erynne says:

    A scent combination I’d LOVE for you to carry… nag champa and patchouli. Truly hippy and absolutely lovely. The sweetness of nag champa really accents the woody smell of patchouli.

  32. mandyfriedl@gmail.com says:

    Can’t wait to try the sugar scrubs!! The owner of High Brow Waxing Boutique recommended your products to me for preparation prior to a waxing appointment!

  33. Em says:

    I love reading Clean because I’m inspired by your lifestyle- repurposing items creatively, making your own toys for your children (there’s a dyed silk at my feet this moment, thanks to your recipe), and unschooling. When you started the GAPS diet, I was making similar changes in my own diet already at home, so now I’m enjoying that, too. While I originally found Clean through your LuSa products, I’m enjoying it for many new reasons. Thank you for all your wonderful posts!

  36. Em says:

    Do you have any grapefruit scented items? I especially love grapefruit mint- so invigorating and refreshing!

  42. Azulitoclaro says:

    Well, I´m in. I love and read your blog because I feel so close to the way of life you live. No because I have one like your, but because I wold love to. I haven´t use your products yet (I hope your give away coul go out of the States), but hope I will. In fact, I would like to have some fragances like wild flowers (those that you find at rural areas without knowing what they are).

    And happy birthday. It´s a pleasure to be here with you all,
    A.

  43. Libby says:

    I must have stumbled on your products at the Farmer’s Market. I loved the scents and the fact that YOU made them all. And you lived in Baraboo (at that time on the packaging) which I thought was neat (we ended up living in Baraboo too for a while).
    You make excellent, quality products and stand behind a lifestyle that shows in your work. A goal I am striving to find myself in the organic/minimalist/community I search for. It is kind of a big picture explanation of why I like your products!

  44. Libby says:

    One product I would love is a linen spray. I try to get your scent combinations on everything and that would be easy for the bed/closet/dresser drawers/even in the air! I tend to hide bars of soap in my underwear drawer.

  45. Lina says:

    Well I’m a super fan of your products, I import many of your calendula naked soap to Colombia so that I can have a stock for my sensitive baby daughter and of course after looking up your products in campaign for safe cosmetics I was hooked! And your massage oil and baby wipe juice is just beyond anything I have tried. Recently a week or so I dicovered your blog, go figure where was I and also love it! You gave me inspired to start reading the simplicity parenting book that was in my shelf waiting to have some time, any way you are such an inspiration and I love to be able to read about you guys from far far away!;o)

  46. Kara says:

    Congratulations!! I love reading your blog because it is reassuring, and encouraging, and I always learn something new. And it is awesome to find someone who likes Simplicity Parenting as much as I do! :o)

  47. Leah says:

    I found your products while reading one blog or another. I was particularly interested in LuSa because of your location; Wisconsin is where I grew up and I love the idea of supporting a company/family that produces organic products made IN Wisconsin. I haven’t been able to try the products just yet, but I hope to change that soon. As luck would have it, I am now expecting my first child this winter. The timing is pretty perfect!

  55. Dongdong says:

    I have yet to try LuSa but I first read about it on Soulemama’s blog. I would really like to try it. I read Clean because it is refreshing.

  58. Kim says:

    I love lusa b/c I know its safe to use on me and my babies! The scents are fabulous and the soap really lasts ya know – doesn’t go all gooey after a couple of uses. And I love Clean b/c I’m a crafty Waldorf mum and you have great ideas for stuff to make – and fabulous recipes too!
    I’d like to see a deodorant range and shampoo bars.
    Off to like on facebook:-)

  61. Jane says:

    We love the Breath Easy Oil, we use it for anyone in our house who is sick. We are also rocking our way through a bag of Soap and love all of those so far. We gave my mom a bar of the gardners soap and she says it works great.

  64. amanda says:

    I just (very) recently started following your blog, I think it was the link from Progressive Pioneer that got me here, and I am absolutely enjoying what you share of your life and work! Thanks for all the inspiration!

  67. Erin says:

    I am new to finding your blog & I find it inspiring, beautiful & I feel I can learn something here. I haven’t tried your products yet but I would love to.

    Do you do anything for a natural sunscreen or do you believe in that?

  68. Julie says:

    Hi Rachel,

    I visit your blog almost daily and found you several months ago through a link from another blog (on your list of favorites). I am often quite inspired by your posts and even more taken by the parallels to my community of Mothers here in Maine – foraging for “weeds,” crafting, gardening, cooking, unschooling, GAPS, and even the recent buzz over Simplicity Parenting. Thanks for taking the time to sit and write to all of us, putting ideas and concepts into words.

    One of these days I will order some of your soap because it seems that I suddenly cannot bear to use anything not homemade. And one of these days after that I will attempt to make my own soap. Congrats on starting and growing your business in the midst of a young family.

    J.

  69. Kathleen says:

    I read and love Clean….simply put, it inspires me….as a mama and as an artist….it feeds my soul 🙂

  72. Tanya says:

    I love to read your blog because you inspire me with your mindful living, daily rhythms, unschooling. I am also inspired by moms balance parenting and running their own business and still find time to write a fantastic blog!

  74. Kathy says:

    I read your blog because I fell in love with all of you.
    I LOVED your booth at the Dane County Farmers market.
    I LOVED the quick response when I placed an order.
    I LOVED the way your house smelled (even on the porch) when I picked up my soaps.
    I LOVED the way your husband interacted with your little girl(who is the cutest thing ever).
    I LOVE perusing your website, gauking at the products.
    And I LOVE CLEAN. Your words, your insight, your honesty about life, ALL of you.

  75. Lori says:

    Oh Rachel, congratulations on all your success. Your blog is inspiration for me, where there isn’t a lot of that in my life sometimes. I look forward to your daily posts. There are recepies and suggestions my kids and I have loved. And simplicity parenting is such a wonderful book – had it not been for your blog I wouldn’t have heard of it.
    A new scent, Hhmm, what about something citrus for summer (from my sniffing I don’t recall anything citrusy in your line up)
    A new product : DEODERANT!!! 🙂
    I’m already a fan of both LuSa and clean on Facebook
    If I were a computer wiz I would know how to share the link (will have to work on figuring that out 🙂
    Thank-you so much for all your products – I can saftly use them on my babies knowing that they are well made 🙂
    Oh and your book, will defiantly be waiting for that to be finished to get a copy : how wonderful!!

  76. Cassie says:

    I read your blog because I love the homeschooling, natural, and family inspiration I gain from it. And through it, I’ve found your LuSa products, and our entire family LOVES them! Even my husband has now switched over to your soap.

  79. Jannis Mindel says:

    I just bought a pack of products from you at the Farmer’s Market on Saturday. I LOVE the lavender sugar scrub. I’ve been using it in the shower everyday and love how soft it leaves my skin. I’d love to see a product scented with Sandalwood. I liked LuSa on FB the other day and just liked your Clean blog on FB as well.

  80. Sara Adams says:

    I love, love, love clean. I’m a Midwest, paleo, waldorf mama and I can relate.

    I would love to see lemon-lavender lotion bars or sugar scrub. 🙂

  83. Cassie says:

    I’d love to see LuSa bubble baths or tinted lip balm. Or maybe a vanilla scent, although I know vanilla is something that is very difficult to find local.

  85. lisa says:

    my favorite scents are lavendar & citrus–so already covered. what about something spicy? or musky? bu tnot patchouli.

  86. andrea says:

    i love lusa because it all smells so darn good! and how great that it is local and good for you too?! and now, by reading your blog and seeing you at the farmer’s market, i feel like i know where my soap is coming from. bonus!

  87. lisa says:

    I love LuSa most of all becasue of the sugar scrub. a friend gave me a bag when I was going through a rough time and said “here. shed your old skin. refresh yourself.” i keep sloughing and regrowing…

  91. Lori says:

    I’m proud of my technically inept self – I figured out how to share your link on Facebook 🙂

  94. Sommer says:

    I dig your blog for all the great family, parenting, creating, and natural living ideas. So many of your offerings have enriched our family life. I also HEART your amazing products. I gave them as holiday gifts and everyone still raves about them. I’m hooked on the lavender body bar, your lip balms, and the Booty Balm is so great for the baby’s tender tush. Thanks for sharing your ideas with all of us and for putting out such high quality products that are so full of love and goodness.

  96. kirsten says:

    I found Clean when researching Simplicity Parenting on the internet. I have been following the blog for about a month now and check it almost daily. Since I have been inspired by simple children’s crafts, recipes and the idea of living a sustainable lifestyle. I simply love your blog.

  97. Angie says:

    1) Clean helps me to breathe and think more clearly when I am having a hard time achieving the things I want to in life. The soaps also help with that too 🙂
    2) my husbands really wanting a nag champa soap
    3) I’m a fan!

    Thanks for all you do and share.

  99. tlhenderson@centurylink.net says:

    I was intrigued by the “Booty Balm” I saw at Cutie Patootie when I was registering for the birth of my daughter. I have since fallen in love with your soap, lotion bars and quite frankly, anything and everything you have for babies! I wanted to find out more about these wonderful local products and stumbled onto your blog. I haven’t turned back! I love your ideas/inspirations and creativity. I have to admit that “clean” is my soap-opera – no pun intended ;). Thank you for sharing your authentic self with all of us. You are truly inspirational and soooo can’t wait for your book! Good luck!

  100. Renee says:

    I would love to see extra emollient creams such as an organic shea/avocado cream. My son has winter eczema and emollient/natural oils help him immensely.

  101. Renee says:

    I especially love your products because they are made in Wisconsin. I also love that your scent have a natural scent to them.

  103. Alison says:

    I am inspired every time I make my way to Clean. We love your products: booty balm, lip balm and diaper wipe juice, etc..

    I LOVE the projects you do and the resources you provide, especially the Simplicity Parenting book club.

    Congrats!

    Alison

  111. Kristi says:

    I love your blog because you are so down to earth and just take care of your family in the most healthy, natural way possible. You are an inspiration to how I want to raise my family. I come to this place for refreshment in my day and leave motivated to minimize my life and our household more and more. I love it!

  114. KaitlynK says:

    I recently found your blog and website through Farmama, and I immediately loved everything about your products and have been inspired by your simple, sweet lifestyle. I really love your baby care line and your essential oils and am looking forward to placing an order soon so I can try them!
    Happy Blog Birthday, and thanks for the great giveaway!!

  115. KaitlynK says:

    Since you already carry a natural bug spray, how about some sunscreen? I also love anything with vanilla in it!

  116. Melanie says:

    Wow! What a wonderful journey you have experienced! Blogging is very intimidating to me, so I am so thankful for those out there who do it and and do it so well like yourself.
    I read Clean because it gives me inspiration to slow down, step back and enjoy life. I struggle with letting the pace of the world sneak in to our daily lives. Since I have been reading your blog, so much has changed and we are all happier because of it.
    Oh, and LuSa…well that’s just about the most wonderful stuff on earth! I am just starting to explore scents, so I am sure when there is a new one, it will be lovely.
    Thank you Rachel for all that you share with us!

  121. Mama Jen says:

    Congrats on three beautiful years. I found clean from lusa organics after talking with you over 5 years ago at a Green Fest in Mpls. We talked about a recent Mothering Mag article and we’ve been buying soaps and such ever since. Love them! All my mama to be friends get at least one present from you all.

    I love Clean because I find it resonates with my soul and is life giving.

    Peace.

  123. Sharee says:

    I love LuSa organics because it’s a mommy created company that’s natural and “clean” and smells incredible!

  124. Sharee says:

    I would love to see a baby soap without calendula. (we’re allergic. 🙁 ). Or maybe a fun kid soap. 🙂

  126. Lisa says:

    I love your unscented products, especially the Calendula Baby Soap. In a family will a lot of allergies this works wonderfully. The cheek and chin balm works on my eczema prone skin. LOVE your products! Thank you.

  129. Sherrie says:

    A BOOK?! Congratulations! That’s so exciting. A scent combo? Something with basil eo… it’s got that nice licorice-y hint, but sweet and lovely. 🙂

  133. crystal.m. says:

    I come here everyday because I first fell in love with your baby line and your perfumes. I get so many compliments on my perfume with patchouli in it! Oh, and your packaging? Beautiful 🙂

  136. L says:

    Hi again! Love your blog for so many reasons…inspiration, appreciation, simple living, honesty, patience…I could go on. Oh, and the fact that you live in my beloved home state doesn’t hurt either!

    As for scents, I go bonkers for anything citrus…lemon/lime, grapefruit…ahhhh! Perhaps you could mix something like orange & lavender together…would that even work?!? Did I miss it and you already have something like that? 🙂

  137. Kateri says:

    I love your Booty Balm. We received some as a gift before our first son was born, and we’ve been fans ever since! We use cloth diapers, so the “usual” diaper rash creams don’t wash well and therefore we needed something better. Not only does it help us in our cloth diapering, but it’s been amazing and healing for so many different things – from his diaper rash to drool rash to his now-pregnant Momma’s dry hands! Thanks for the tremendous product!

  138. Kateri says:

    I’m 36 weeks pregnant, and packing for the hospital! I’ve been trying to find good essential oil products with lavender that I can bring with for the labor and delivery room (lavender always helps calm me, and when do you need it more than giving birth?!); our hospital won’t let us use candles, and it’s hard to find a good product that will produce the scent without us having to continuously smell it or spray it or something…I’d love to see a product like this – some kind of non-burn candle or auto releasing scent bar or something of the sorts for us delivering mommas.

  139. Morgan says:

    I love your blog! I think I must have found you via soulemama, but I honestly can’t remember. You’re wise and real. Two things I admire!

  140. Stefanie McLaughlin says:

    My coworker got me hooked on LuSa, and now I recommend them to EVERYONE I know — whether for themselves or for their kids. It is truly a product you can believe in!

    I love reading Clean and getting ideas from you — for the home, for the kitchen, for LIFE! Thanks for being you!

  141. Stefanie McLaughlin says:

    New scent/product:

    Would love to see a bubble bath or lotion. Would love something in a “musk” type scent also!

  145. Jeanette says:

    I love LuSa because it smells great, is in line with my worldview, and it reminds me of my honeymoon in Viroqua/Westby 🙂

  148. Lynne says:

    I read Clean because I didn’t think there was anything good on the internet. I’ve worked with people who think I’m crazy for avoiding chemicals and paranoid for avoiding preservatives and caffine while pregnant(1!). I needed likeminded people to share with and learn from. Serendipity, while looking for a diy on playsilks I have found a wealth of insight and food for thought. I’m a lifer. Thanks for letting us in. Wish you lived in my neighborhood! lol

  150. Mary says:

    Hi Rachel,
    I read your blog, because I really resonate with the way you live your life. I love your focus on the sweetness and magic of each day. I appreciate your honesty, your integrity, and your bright enthusiasm for growth. It is nice to feel connected, and even appreciated, for the values and choices our family holds dear (even though you know nothing about me- funny blog world). You are inspiring, encouraging, and full of talents. Congratulations on your book, and for trusting and following your dreams!

  151. Mary says:

    Smells I would like… Some sort of grounding, cedar/pine woodsy scent. Also, I’m always fond of a wee bit of bergamot/ grapefruit citrus happiness.

  152. Marian M-S says:

    I think I originally found Clean for the natural parenting and I just continue to find so much inspiration in the mix of parenting, crafts, and home. Thank you for a wonderful blog!

  155. Caroline says:

    I like the blog because I like learning more about home schooling and un-schooling. I also like learning more about how people (and families) slow down and engage with purpose. I also like the recipes- I’m not on the GAPS diet but I am grain free, dairy free and mostly sugar free. Most of the tweaks you do work really well for me. Thanks!

  157. Karlamcurry.wordpress.com says:

    Ooh… I agree with one of the above commenters about some natural deodorant. And I’m always looking for a simple, effective facial moisturizer.

    Not feeling too creative with scent combinations, but I always love coconut, clove, and lavender by themselves.

  159. amy says:

    Congratulations on three years! I read Clean for your cool tutorials and inspiration. I’m currently deciding whether to homeschool and it’s encouraging and inspiring to read/see others who do it so successfully. Keep up the good work!

  163. dogwood says:

    I read the Clean blog because I love to read about your projects and recipes, and because it’s really nice to see another family who appreciates being together and enjoying life.

  164. dogwood says:

    I’m a big fan of Jasmine and Vanilla together.

    Congrats on the anniversary, by the way!!

  167. Mikaela says:

    Your blog is, quite honestly, my favorite on the web. (And there are SO many wonderful ones!) There are few things in life that roll so many of my passions and values into one: healthy eating, gardening, playing in nature, Wisconsin!, sewing, knitting, children, gentle parenting, conscious living, and in general caring about the choices we make and the impact they have on our lives and others’. Your ideas have affirmed many of my own and caused me to reflect on others. I am so grateful for your near-daily presence in my life. Thank you for doing what you do!

  168. Mikaela says:

    And I meant to add: a hearty congratulations on three years, and very best wishes on the book! I so look forward to seeing the project unfold.

  169. susan says:

    I read Clean because I find more inspiration in your words than in any other blog I have encountered. I made a conscious choice long ago to limit the number of blogs I regularly follow to three – it was seriously all I could handle. When I found Clean, it replaced another I was following. And now, as I’m in the midst of a big move with all the chaos that goes with such things, your blog is the only one I’m making any effort to catch up on. I hope you know how grateful many of us are for this little blog of yours! Thank you!

  170. Rachel Wolf says:

    Erin,
    We use Aubrey Organics sunscreen on occasion. If were going to the beach or going to be in full sun for the mid-day hours. Id say we are outside every day and apply sunscreen once a week or less. All the best,

    Rachel

  173. Mariah says:

    I’m not sure if the give-away is still going but I thought I would leave a comment anyway. I read this blog because I love learning how to do things differently. I adore the lifestyle and parenting techniques that your family employs and it also makes me feel like there is a growing community of people like me~ Thank you for doing all that you do.

  174. Jillian L. says:

    I’m a fan of Lusa on fb. Love your sleep potion. It has been our saving grace with our kids. I bought my first one last week. I am now one of your biggest supporters. Plan to buy in bulk next…lol…thank you for your great clean products!

  175. Brooke says:

    I became a fan of Clean when i discovered the babywearing week last year… I have been hooked ever since. I use your products (and love them), I tell people about LuSa… I seriously love you guys!!!

  176. Brooke says:

    A scent combo…. maybe something cinnamon-y? I love cinnamon, but I don’t know how that would play out.
    I would love some deodorant. Hmmm……

  180. anna ritter says:

    I am a BIG fan of Lusa and Clean (on FB too)!
    And just wanted to say thank you for writing this beautiful blog!
    You can’t believe how much of a inspiration you and your family has been to me and my hubby (I am addicted to your nettle chai and my husband just try out your tortillas recipe! Yum!
    And I can wait to use all this good advices when we finally start our family 🙂

  185. Kristin says:

    I happened across what became LuSa 3.5 years ago when I was pregnant with my oldest child and was looking for baby wipe juice. 2 more babies later, we’re still using LuSa! My family smells great and I feel safe using the products on everyone. As an aside, I initially emailed you about an ingredient in one of your products and you offered to pour me a bottle before it was added – AWESOME customer service which gained you a life long customer!

  187. Kristin says:

    What about a kitcheny soap? Anything to cut through the red onion I love so much lol! Cilantro & lime. Cilantro, lime, coconut. I’m a fan of patchouli – straight patchouli and lavendar…

  189. Lise says:

    Happy blogiversary! I started reading your blog because a good friend spoke so highly of it, and I’m hooked. Thanks for the chance to win!

  190. Marlo says:

    I love reading Clean because I want to implement many of these same things in my family’s life. I am just getting my feet wet, but Clean gives me new ideas. Thanks.

  191. Radicalmamalaw.blogspot.com says:

    I’m just starting mt journey with Waldorf education and Simplicity Parenting, and found your blog whilst searching for examples of little gnome friends to make today. I love your blog. It’s lovely, and so very connected to the way we are moving with our family and our life together. I’m taking up quilting, andso today’s post spoke to me so much – because my youngest had to have eye surgeries before he was three weeks old and I was so moved by your hospital experience. I’m a knitter, and I knit tiny blankets for preemies in the nicu. I just discovered you, but will be back often, and look forward to trying your products and supporting your beautiful family.

  198. jec4g@hotmail.com says:

    I read Clean and just recently made my first purchase of Lusa Organics soaps and lotion bars. I LOVE both products. I found you through Fig+Sage and I’m so glad I did. Love reading the blog and love that I’m supporting an actual family! Thanks for the chance to win some of your great products!

  201. Erin says:

    I read Clean because I was reading the Simplicity Parenting book and somehow I found a link to your blog and book review about it.

  204. Jay says:

    Happy Birthday LuSa blog! We’re so pleased to have gotten to know you over the past year, and it’s a sincere pleasure to be a part of your journey. Wishing you so many more years of luminous, heartfelt posts.

  205. Tonya says:

    I love your blog. I just ordered for the first time and am excited to get your products. Can’t wait for the bug spray. Deodorant would be fabulous. Also unscented products would be great as well.

  212. Christy says:

    I would love to see a lotion bar with Jasmine or Jasmine and Vanilla! I *love* jasmine!! 🙂

  213. Christy says:

    I found LuSa at the Living Green Expo a couple years ago and I love that you are an environmentally friendly company. I also love the lovely scents you use! The lavender lotion bar is one of my favorite products – such a lovely *natural* lavender scent!!

  214. sarah says:

    i love knowing the faces behind your lovely products, so that’s why i read clean. plus you are so darn inspirational! 🙂

  216. Jennifer M. says:

    I enjoy LuSa organics products because they smell heavenly and work wonderfully. Booty Balm is my favorite item. As for LuSa as a company, they have the best customer service, fast order fulfillment, and are quick to respond to comments and inquiries.

  217. Chantal Myers says:

    I haven’t got a chance to use LuSa yet, but plan on buying some baby wipe juice to use on my soon-to-arrive son. I can tell from all the rave reviews that I am going to love it!!

  219. Jennifer M. says:

    A product I would like to see you carry would be prenatal herbs to accompany the postpartum herbs. Also, I would love it if you could formulate a LuSa Laundry Soap that smelled heavenly for all clothes but also cloth diaper friendly.

  228. Kathy says:

    I’ve been a fan of LuSa Organics for a long time (has it really been 3+ years?). I found you through a reader of my SafeMama.com blog and have fallen in love with your products ever since. Congratulations on the book! Can’t wait to be reading it! I *just* ordered some stuff the other day! Was out and missing my LuSa Soap.

  236. Erin says:

    I just found your blog through another blog (Jonah Lisa’s). I home school my kiddos in an unschooling kind of way (except for math, especially as I get my older ones ready to go to college; oldest is almost 16). We are lovers of natural soap around here but haven’t tried yours yet. I might have to order some!

  239. Lea says:

    I come to your blog for inspiration. I really enjoy reading about your parenting, crafting, and living adventures.

  240. Lea says:

    I think it would be great to partner with a local crafter and sell soap dishes that you think work best with your soap. I’ve just switched to your hand soap, and am in a bit of a quandary about which dish works best. Other than that, I think a natural deodorant would be great.

  243. Becky says:

    Congrats on 3 years! I love LuSa organics because: 1. products don’t irritate my childrens’ sensitive skin, and 2. I am obsessed with the Grounding essential oil scent. I haven’t found anything else like it!

  244. Becky says:

    A scent combination that I have really been loving is geranium, patchuli, and orange (heavier on the geranium).

  249. Tori S. says:

    Oh my! A book Rachel?? Yay! Grateful to watch you grow, and learn a ton along the way. I would love to see a haircare product for thin/colored hair with sensitive scalp. I buy your products for several reasons, you are local, you emulate the exact business I have dreamt of for years, your products are free of chemicals, additives, and basic yucky stuff, the quality is high, and I can always count on the consistency. I simply love your stuff. Of all the natural, organic bodycare stuff I’ve tried, yours really duplicates what’s been in my head for a long time. One other reason I love your stuff, is cause I can buy it at the Farmers Market, right from your stand, and I can say hi every time, and you say hi right back. I don’t ever feel like you are just trying to make a buck off of me, but rather, that you are interested in the consumer, me. I love the way your write the blog, and the look of it.
    Congrats on it all! The Universe is giving back what you have given to us!

  250. Michele says:

    Thanks for sharing bits and pieces of your life with us on your beautiful blog! I’m expecting my first baby in a couple of months and been inspired by all of your parenting/life wisdom. I’ve given many sets of mama and baby Lusa love to other new mothers and now it is time to indulge in my own!

    Best of luck on your book! I look forward to reading it someday 🙂

  251. Kristin says:

    I would LOVE for you to make deodorant! Would rather buy local from you than have to order and have natural deodorant shipped from Utah.

  252. Kristin says:

    I love LuSa because I know your products will not harm my child, my love, myself, or mother earth! THANK YOU for making safe, yummy, and lovely products!

  256. katie steege says:

    I love reading Clean b/c it inspires me to be a better person, mom, friend, wife, cook, crafter, photographer, creator, etc. YOU inspire me! 🙂

  257. katie steege says:

    How about a new Lusa scent using frankincense, ylang ylang, myrrh, and sandalwood. i think the combo of those would be fantastic!

  258. Amy s says:

    I really love LuSa, the products are great, natural and I love that the products are home grown in WI. I echo the sentiment for deodorant. Laundry soap would also be great! I love the smell of verbena.

  261. Funky Mommy says:

    I love your blog and your products…I am already a fan of both, but I will post the giveaway now on my fb page. Please enter me. I would love to try out your baby line.

  262. Lindsay says:

    I read Clean because I love to read blogs from likeminded mamas. I think the community that blogging creates is so important.

  268. alison says:

    we love lusa soap bars and baby products. and checkign in on the blog for updates, craft ideas and inspiring natural parenting tidbits!

  273. Carrie says:

    Congrats on three years! Blogging is such a great way to keep a family record, isn’t it. I’ve been reading for about 6 months, and keep coming back because we share so many of the same parenting/lifestyle ideas, and I love going away from your posts feeling inspired and re-invigorated.

  274. Carrie says:

    I would love to see a lemongrass/chilli muscle rub. I helped out at a local food fair last weekend and the South Devon Chilli Farm had samples of a natural muscle rub that used super-hot chillis as pain relief.

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