Because why not? It's my blog and I can give you random stuff if I want to.
I noticed earlier this week that I hit 2000 Facebook fans for Clean and almost 3000 for LuSa Organics. And frankly I was kind of jazzed. That's a decent number of folks who either show up to read to what I write each week – while wearing my pajamas – or love the products we create.
I mean seriously. How did you all find your way here?
I wonder that often.
You see, I started writing this blog as a way to create a bit of transparency between what we do for our income and who we are as people. Because lots of body care out there is… well… eh in my opinion.
Questionable safety records, sketchy ingredients, synthetic surfactants and fragrances, you know. Eh.
And much of it is made by companies you might not want anywhere near your skin (or your baby for that matter). But I don't think most people know that.
But we're us. We're parents. We're real and quirky and likable – okay, and perhaps a wee bit non-conformist – us.
And we make body care that you can trust with your precious baby and your precious body.
So I started to write.
And then a funny thing happened.
Writing here became a joy in and of itself.
Transparency for my business ceased to be my motivation. I simply love to share with you, why-ever you are here.
I love writing this blog.
And so I don't do it to create transparency anymore. I do it because I love it.
Today I wanted to say thank you for showing up.
For coming here and reading, maybe commenting, and perhaps even stretching what you've held before as truth. For learning and feeling and growing right along side me.
I love that even though we might see the world from different perches, what I share here has a chance of changing something in your life. What fun that is!
The same goes for me when you share of yourselves.
It's that connection is what keeps me coming back.
Maybe it's the same for you.
To celebrate all of you wonderful people coming along on this journey I'm hosting a random giveaway of all kinds of goodies I'm just dying to share.
I'll choose two winners. Each winner will receive the following:
Three bars of LuSa Organics soap (Because that's what got me into this to begin with!)
Three LuSa Organics lip balms (because they're crazy good)
An early copy of my soon-to-be released (first ever!) sewing pattern – Festive Felt Birthday Crowns – (Your early copy will come later this spring. The pattern will be in my Etsy shop this summer!)
A copy of Celia the Great – Tricks of Being a Happy Kid (Author Abby sent me two copies to share with you.)
A set of four wee little peg dolls, for your favorite board game. (Because they're adorable, that's why.)
One zipper pull of your choice from my Etsy shop (acorn or mushroom)
One favorite recipe from my family (you choose the type – main course, dessert, or side)
One of Sage's amazing sachets (Yes, yes. I'll pay him for it.)
And one big scoopful of Mid-March Wisconsin snow! (Okay. Not really. Now I'm just messing with you.)
How does that sound? Fun?
Yes indeed.
To be entered tell me something real and wonderful in the comments below. Something about you or your family or your heart or why you come here. It's that easy!
Oh. My. The comments you left on this post have cracked my heart wide open. I've cried over and over again and am humbled by what you have shared. Thank you. Thank each and every one of you for coming here to share your hearts.
Comments are now closed. The winners are…
Amy who said:
"Your
blog is inspiring and real and honest, and I really appreciate it, and
you for keeping it, and for sharing so much of what you do and who you
are. We share very similar values and lifestyle choices, and it is nice
to know other amazing people who are choosing to live consciously. I
hope to move to a homestead one of these days in the near future, so it
is extra fun and inspiring to read about your journey in that too.
Thanks for being so cool! 😉 And thanks for a yummy giveaway!"
and k who said:
"i
found you via a random image on instagram. I'm always looking for
natural products – especially ones good for travel. well, i bought my
firsts from you last month and i loved everything. i smell great ;)"
You can also like my business or my writing on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, like, share, tweet, or pin this post, or talk me up to your friends.
But you don't have to. Because I'll keep writing anyway.
Thanks you lovely people. Have an awesome weekend!
So much love,
Rachel
We are expecting baby # 3 in early May. We will have three kids age three and under! That is both real and wonderful!
oh I’m honored to be the one of the 1st comment!!!! How wonderful in a vast world to be connected, via blogs, to people that live in a similar way as we do. You and your family are an inspiration….and you kiddos inspired my son to sell on my etsy shop too…
https://www.etsy.com/listing/125944659/pine-cone-weaving-kit?
I am going to have an 8 year old in less than a month! I can’t believe how she has grown in the blink of an eye. Thanks for the chance!!
Well, I already “like” you on Facebook and you are on my Blog roll! Your blog is such a nice treat for me to read, and your products look awesome!
I love your blog, always looking for homemade and natural anything. Love the little zipper pulls. Have 4 kids and 7 grand kids that I love to create for
Something real and wonderful you say? I love my family of four and I am crazy happy. My daughter just turned 3 yesterday and we are gearing up for her big birthday bash! Ok it’s only a couple people… But exciting nonetheless!
I like you everywhere and your blog is my favorite. Ever. Congrats on your oodles of followers 🙂
My little guy is almost 4 years old and watching him figure out the world is the most real and most wonderful thing that I know!
Well, today is my birthday and tomorrow I will have a scan to see the little princess who reigns in my belly since 33 weeks and 4 days ago.
Same said princess who keeps on sticking her little foot in my ribcage as she is disappointed I gave up eating ice cream.
Do I qualify? =)
Greetings from Denmark ^^
Rita
Love your products. I found them at a cloth diaper store and had to try your sleeping potion. Unfortunately it didn’t help much for my then infant’s sleeping problems (she’s almost 3 now), but I loved the stuff, so relaxing!
I recently pared down the blogs I “follow” but yours I just couldn’t give up. It’s honest and thoughtful. I need that in my life as I am suffering cabin fever with a 4 year old and twin 16 month old girls and winter has no intention of leaving us anytime soon! With love from the Canadian Rockies,
Kat
I “real”ly love reading your “wonderful” blog. ;). Seriously though, these glimpses into your family mean so much to so many…because you’re raw. You put it all out there. Thank you so much for the bravery that requires. You say the things that need to be said. <3
Well, I’ve already told ya this a couple of times but my 2 year old daughter loves the Calendula Baby Soap SOOOOO much that she carries it around like a lovey! haha We have to hunt for one of several bars scattered about come bathtime 😉 So grateful that you make such wonderful natural products!
P.S. I continue to request my Whole Foods carry your awesome products!
I love the simple connections that are made through these threads of communication. A wonderful way to be inspired and supported unconditionally! With a busy family of five children it is comforting to know there are people out there like you!
I first started coming here when a friend posted a link on facebook to your post about Sage as a baby and becoming a mother. I’ve been following you ever since, and love your blog! I’m constantly trying out your recipes (love the egg nog and almond milk) and I’m always excited to see what you have to say! So thanks!
I love the calm, peaceful feel of your blog and love to sort of peek in to other people’s lives when they are living naturally and intentionally. Thank you for doing what you do!
Real and wonderful – i have four boys ages 6, 8, 16, and 18 and I cherish the time I have with them and my husband. I homeschool my kids and we are a team, a team that usually works together well, plays together well, and celebrates each others lives together well. Life is good!
What an amazing and generous giveaway Rachel! I originally found you almost 5 years ago when I bought some of your booty balm for my son. A while later, a friend sent me a note saying she was following your blog and and I might enjoy it. She was right. I love reading your posts. Your food is amazing, your parenting stories help me to be a better parent to my own children, and now your farm, is pictures of the future DH and I have been dreaming of. Your words are an inspiration to me and often a peaceful bedtime story as I read them each night, tucked in bed between my two precious sleeping toddlers. Thank you so much for sharing your life with us.
I adopted my son at birth, he’s 6 now. He’s been such a blessing to my husband and me. I come here every day to get ideas to help raise my little one. Thank you for all of the heartfelt posts that you post on here. 🙂
I love the window into your life, you are one of my daily stops. I really look up to you as a mother, unschooler and small business owner. Thank you for doing what you do.
I’m an artist and Mom. I sew little things of felt and sell them at the local market. I used to have a line of organic homemade herbal products. You seem a kindred spirit and I really enjoy your blog. Thanks
I first found out about your company when I started to cloth diaper. Your booty balm has become a mainstay in our cupboard and an obvious gift for every expecting woman I know:) The booty balm started my transition into more all natural, truly good health and beauty products. Thanks for doing what you do!! Enjoy your first spring on the farm!!
I found you when I googled Simplicity Parenting and fell in love! I remember finding your blog an pouring through the posts was like Christmas! I still come visit nearly daily and you inspire me each time. Oh, and your shop rocks too. I have your trio of baby oils and use them daily (newest use? Mixed with distilled water and vodka Ina spray bottle to use as a pillow spray or air freshener!)
I would be swoony if I won, especially for a family recipe. How sweet and personal. I was hoping you’d include a peg doll or mushroom too so yay! Wonderful giveaway so thanks for the chance!
Son is no longer fighting us to go to speech therapy.
Jess, Right about when you commented I noticed that the set of four peg dolls had disappeared from the giveaway. They are back in there now!
Our second boy just turned 1 month yesterday and I have been re-reading your peaceful parenting posts as my 2 year old and I struggle to figure out this new balancing act. I also love reading about how and why you make the choices that you do for your life and family.
Watching my two boys grow and learn at home, its such a beautiful thing to see. Also the passion and imagination in the two of them!
My sister just moved back to town after having been out of state four years. I’m giddy that she’s home. 🙂
I will marry my best friend six months from today! That is so real and so wonderful in so many ways.
Thank you for doing what you do, you are an inspiration!
I think I found you through SouleMama, and I definitely found Ginny Sheller through you. I read you three every day. For peace, for ideas, for inspiration in my going back-to-school-to-pursue-my-dream-while-working full-time-with-two-kids-under-5-life. 🙂
Real and wonderful – watching crabs and fish in a tide pool with my 4-year-old and seeing the pride in her eyes as she climbed the rocks all by herself.
I think I found you through Uncommon Grace. I am a college student and I love reading your blog and looking forward to the life I will build in the future.
I’m expecting my third baby at the end of April:) it’s been a tough pregnancy and this past week I have been very sick, but I feel so unbelievably blessed to be welcoming this little girl into our family. Can’t wait to snuggle with:)
I am a young natural-minded mama and I love looking to your blog for intrigue and inspiration. Love the body care line and I have hooked my whole family and some friends on your soaps and other products (men and women alike). So happy there is such a wonderful creation as Lusa Organics that is good for my and my family’s and friends bodies (minds and senses!), the environment, and a family business!
You have given so much to me and my family in the last almost-4 years. We started with booty balm and wipe juice when my son was born in 2009. Those are still staples in my house. Chest rub keeps the coughs under control on winter nights. Cheek and chin balm soothe my daughter’s chapped face. Lotion bars feel good on winter dry hands and breeze through airports. Your lip balm smells good and saves me from using petroleum products. Your sleeping potion helps my little girl get to sleep every night. Oddly, it smells of bubble gum. I wonder why? When my son was 2 I used to let him pick out soap at the co-op. he chose Gitchigumee every time saying “Blue soap!”,
From your blog you have given me a glimpse of your patient and thoughtful parenting. And awesome recipes for egg nog and nettle chai. Every time I have met you, at the Dane County Farmer’s Market or the Natural Parenting Expo, it has been like meeting a celebrity. I am in awe.
Real and wonderful.. one time you wrote about seeing a girl sparkle when her mother didn’t see her. That made me think, a lot. And made me wonder what happened to my own sparkle, and really look at what my daughter’s sparkle looks like, even if I don’t get it all the time. Now for the wonderful; that post catapulted me into a whole other world of parenting, and of recognizing my daughter’s shining self, and my own light under the basket. Thank you.
After getting an accepted offer on our first home, my husband and I invited our parents along for the inspection. This was their first chance to see the house. My parents were very excited and loved the house but my Mom seemed a little more quiet then normal. After some thought I came to the realization that this was a very big day for them…having me at a young age and for years sacrificing so much just so I could have so much more then they did! Being successful in life, owning my own home and being with the love of my life was exactly what they wanted for me. That being said I think my Mom was coming to the realization that time has flown by and the days are fleeting…. After reading your amazing “Fleeting” post I knew she needed to read it. I forwarded the post to her before going to bed that night with the subject being I Love You. The next morning I woke to an email from my Mom describing how emotional she got when reading your blog. She felt as if you took the words right out of her mouth and organized them in such a manor that she never could have. Saying “she described exactly what I was feeling in your new house”. I could thank you for writing such amazing blog post, or making such wonderful products….but mostly I would just like to Thank You for bringing my mother and I that much closer as I start the next phase of my life!
I bump into you everywhere, most often pinterest, and we have very similar tastes–pins reveal a great deal about us as people, 😉 but, I’d love to win this sweet giveaway!
I can’t remember how I found you, but I’m glad I did and I keep coming back. There is so much on the internet that’s not worthy of my time, but here I always appreciate how you say what you say and the care and thought you put into your writing. I like the little glimpses into your family. It’s never TMI and often the perfect imperfections shine through. It’s a quiet comfort that I enjoy.
I think it may have been your spurt of postings on Pinterest, but I found my way back to the “Repeat After Me” post about Sage selling play silks. I sat for a moment thinking how young he looked, but I remembered reading that post when it first went live, how could it have been from so long ago? Then I realized that the post was almost a year and a half old, and I had been reading for even longer than that. Originally I came for your toothpaste post and stayed for everything else. Everything about the way you live speaks to me.
We’re actually going to be moving into a 700sqft house soon and we’ll be spending this next week downsizing our stuff. I’ve already started going through your archives and Pinterest page for references and inspiration for this process. My husband is the hoarder, so I’m drawing on the calming energy you radiate from your writing to help me help him in letting go.
I am a homeschooling mum of four in New zealand, my youngest is one and I enjoy your blog because you write inspirational and real stuff and knitting stuff. I’m entering your giveaway because its awesome and because the idea of it is already taking me out of myself. Its one of THOSE days you see, tired from a baby that doesn’t sleep much, premenstral, coming off a busy few weeks and I am struggling today to stay on top , to choose how I react to my kids, struggling to remind myself I can make it until hubby comes home and we will manage to pay those plumbing bills… even if i I don’t win, your giveaway has given me already: craft ideas, gift ideas and a reminder to stop and think. Thanks!
Your blog is inspiring and real and honest, and I really appreciate it, and you for keeping it, and for sharing so much of what you do and who you are. We share very similar values and lifestyle choices, and it is nice to know other amazing people who are choosing to live consciously. I hope to move to a homestead one of these days in the near future, so it is extra fun and inspiring to read about your journey in that too. Thanks for being so cool! 😉
And thanks for a yummy giveaway!
I also think it smells like bubble gum. Even though I created it and when I did I did’t think it smelled like gum. I’m not sure I’ve ever told anyone that!
That made me cry. Thank you.
Oh! You also made me cry. Thank you so much for sharing (and for sharing).
I’m a homeschooling mom of six and we love handmade/homemade products (buying them and making our own). We love to craft and make music.
Amazing. Go rock it, mama!
Oh my! It utter sweetness.
Thank you!
Hang in there! Spring always comes. Eventually…
Best baby soap story ever.
Lovely. Thanks.
I am a mom to a wonderful 2.5yo boy. He’s the sweetest thing. I love to read your blog to help ground me, to make me feel good about the way my husband and I are living and raising him. And to top that all, we LOVE your products! Thanks for the kind words to read, the wonderful smelling products, and for this great giveaway! PS I’m a Wisconsinite living in NY, so you also connect me to my home roots. 🙂
Beauty.
Be well and blessings!
Today my dear 4 year old son and two of his buddies found a toad under a brick in our backyard. They found such joy in watching it hop around, daring each other to pick it up, but truly just being content to watch it. I love seeing the world through new eyes as I watch my son, the child I never imagined I would have. I found your blog through my previous job, which was working as a representative for a cloth diaper retailer, E ological Babies. I come here For inspiration and cameraderie as I strive to provide a life of simple contentment for my little family of three. Thank you for making honest products!
That I am learning to trust that the void that is coming fast after my husband finishes school will be filled. That I know, somehow our family of 5 will find a source of income. That “what’s next?” will be answered, and I don’t need to know right this second.
wonderful . . . ah, watching the birds, frogs, owls and chickens lay there eggs in a welcome to spring. watching my boy heal from the inside out with homeopathy and foods. visits from grandparents. love love love
P.S. – And thank you for your kind words.
This past weekend, my brother got married. True, it’s not his first, second, or third marriage, but he’s at a good point in his life and his new wife is just lovely. I’ve only met her twice, but she has worked so hard to make sure we are connecting. We drove 14 hours to stay with my sister, since my brother had a house full. We got to stay with my sister all day Friday, letting my kids get to know her two children a bit better. We usually stay with my mom 2 hours away, which doesn’t allow the kids much time together. Plus, while my children are 15, 12, and 9, hers are 4 and 1. Saturday, we went to the wedding, then spent 5 hours dancing and hanging out with my brother and his new wife. One of his friends from high school was there and I was able to catch up with her. We got back to my sister’s house at 3 in the morning, only to get up and drive home Sunday. We got home about 2:30 Monday morning. It was wonderful.
Then, to top it all off, we arrived at tae kwon do Monday evening to discover that 2 very good friends had moved back home from Florida. They kept it a secret and just surprised everyone when they showed up. Needless to say, we’ve been over the moon this week.
I don’t remember how I first found you…maybe a friend recommended LuSa. But somehow, I became addicted to your soap, which led to the Booty Balm and Wipe Juice and Lip Balm. My son is almost four and we used Booty Balm and Wipe Juice on him when he was a baby. My daughter just turned one and she gets wiped with Wipe Juice every day and Booty Balm saves her lovely booty any time it gets a little red or sore. I’ve come to trust LuSa to come through and save us when we need saving… and I know I’ll continue using it with baby #3 in a few years.
Hi Rachel, I’m new to your blog but have met you and our girls hit it off when they met last fall/summer. I’m wanting to buy more locally and knowing who makes my stuff is even better – thanks for putting yourself out there! I appreciate your passion! We should get the girls together again…
Unlike many of your readers, our daily lives are very different. We are, however, both passionate mothers and that makes us very much the same. I adore how you express love for your family and share your marvelous craftiness. Often you help me remember to peel back the noisy layers of my life. Your blog is a pause in my day that helps me refocus and drink up the moments that matter.
(P.S. I’m also grateful for Booty Balm.)
How fun! I think I may have started reading your blog regularly after you were a guest contributor for Heather’s first Whole Food Kitchen workshop. But I realized later that I had bookmarked your felt Easter egg tutorial. My kids and I made them last year – they were fun to make and use. I hope we have time to make some more this year.
My little baby will be 8 months old at the end of the month. Becoming her Mother has been the most real, beautiful, wonderful, and HUMBLING thing I’ve ever experienced.
Hear, hear sister.
Self employed wife, soapmaker, crafter, chicken keeper, and mother of four beautiful boys (our youngest was our first home birth) . . . I see similarities and a lovely simplicity in your style and writing . . I have long enjoyed your products (Your lip balm and bath salts are on my counter!), using your lovely soaps encouraged me to make my own. I just recently discovered your blog. It struck a cord with me as I was purging closets of unnecessary clutter, and rearranging life to remove the “static” of television, computer time etc. I was working to focus on more outdoor time, more music, more creativity and intentional parenting . . . your blog beautifully captures this journey of life and parenthood and encourages us all to rely on one another for advice, support and inspiration. Because it truly takes a village to raise a child. Bravo from Sparta WI!
Something wonderful? The most wonderful thing I can think of right now is the fact that my 5 year-old autistic daughter gave me a kiss yesterday and told me she loves me without me having to ask for it or say it first. It’s very rare and I can count the instances on one hand, so when it happens I cry almost every time.
Happy tears.
I fell in love with your soaps but we are about to have a new love, our third child in June!!
Lupine would LOVE that. She still talks about your little one. Let’s connect soon.
Well we’re nearly neighbors!
I found you because one of my friends liked your business on Facebook. Your blog quickly moved to the top of my list and is my favorite! I have four children ages 2 – 11 and I feel I can see a little bit of all of them in your two precious children. I am drawn here by your peaceful nature in all you do, and your honesty!
Oh, beauty. Savor.
I’ve never been happier since becoming a mother. My two babies have made me happier than I ever thought I could be. Thank you for such wonderful products for them, and for your thoughtful blog for me.
Well lets see. My sweeties and i cant wait for the farmers market to start again because on those rare saterday mornings where im struggling to find the motivation to want to deal with traffic and parking downtown you and thesmell of lu sa is what gets us there. Youre almost always the first place we visit then we go buy all our yummys for the week then we stop back (maybe to buy a little something else if we have any extra money or for a quick good bye :). Hey its our routine now. So there ya have it.
I don’t even remember how I found your blog. I think it was a few years ago when I saw a recommendation for your Baby Wipes Juice on a cloth diapering forum? I ended up on your blog and, over the course of the next few months, worked my way through all the entries in your archives. Lots of things about your life are different from mine. One difference that particularly intrigued me was that you unschool; my husband and I are both public educators. At first, that seemed like a pretty significant difference, but as I read and got to know you (which I feel like I’ve done through reading what you write each week), I don’t think we’re that different at all. We just move through the world in a slightly different way. Why do I keep reading? Because when I feel like yelling at my daughter to stop whining or to stop screaming or whatever, I remember to just try validating her feelings like you suggested a while back. And it works–often. I think reading about your experiences, successes, and struggles motivates us all. For REAL!
I came to your blog through a dear friend and your words resonated with me & my crazy silly kids! My husband & I are pretty unconventional in our approach to parenting- in comparison to our family & friends. Although we live so far apart & have never met in person my kids think your kids live just down the street & always want to know what they are doing in the pictures- mine are young 3 & 5- I love every second I get to spend with them!!
Oh my, what an exciting giveaway. Something about my family? The place my family is today, is strangely enough a lot to do with blogs, it was a blog that I first (before mama-hood) learned about Mothering Magazine, and that a whole community of off the beaten path families exist out there. I have learned so many things (that I think my heart already knew)and while I think the internet can be a huge time zap, I gain so much inspiration and strength in following my convictions as a mama & woman as well. Thanks for a chance at such an awesome giveaway.
When I’m having a rough day and struggling to stay connected to my kids, I think of you! You’re so inspiring, stumbling across your blog has literally changed my life 🙂 (PS The first post I ever read was about the pine needle tea and pertussis)
As a true fan of Viroqua where my father-in-law was born and my husband I’m so excited to use your locally made organic products on our baby due in late May. My husband and I love to give your products as gifts. It all started with hey you shoo bug spray and I’m pretty sure I own every essential oil, and baby gift set and picked up my belly balm at the natural parenting expo this past weekend. I’m addicted and tell everyone about your products. Thank you!
I am a mama to four with many blogs in my google reader with yours being 1 of 2 that I am sure to read every day. We seem to be on similar paths and your honesty inspires me daily to continue on in the direction that my intuition tells me to go (even though that is often the opposite direction of everyone around me!). You say many of the things I am thinking, but I am totally not a writer so I lack the ability to share my thoughts way too often :). Thanks again for taking the time to inspire me (almost) daily!
I found your company when searching high and low for something to help me take care of my son’s sensitive skin when he was a wee little. And then I found this blog. And I read your post about motherhood. And I was forever grateful. Your words were almost spoken from my own heart about my own son. Not a single person understand my sweet, but mama-needy baby. And I was a wreck. And exhausted. And probably smelly, which makes a mother benefit of initially finding your delightfully-smelling soaps!
So, thank you. For being real. For taking time to share with us. To make one mama realize she may of be completely nuts and feel understood. For making wonderful products that care for our families in ways we aren’t able to ourselves. Thank you. You truly rock!
I’m a Mama to 2 beautiful boys 🙂 I found you when I began cloth diapering and was looking for Wipes Solution – I LOVE yours and have been buying it for the past 5 years (I use it on my face too!). I’ll be honest though – I’ve never tried any of your other products and I would LOVE to! I hope I win! 😉
My 5 year old got hit in the eye with a golf club today. Oh how that very real mama bear (freaking out/protection mode) kicks in when you have a hurt child! Poor sweet Violet with a big swollen eye and cut, but thankfully no stitches. My favorite Lusa products are the tofani naughty soap (smells sooo good) and the chin and cheek balm that I use around Violets mouth for this little red rash she gets.
Thank You!
Sorry for the massive number of typos. Proof reading. Sheesh.
I found you through Soulemama and now i follow you everyday! I only read three blogs to keep life simple and you are one of them! I homeschool as well and love all the inspiration. Somedays I really need it!! Thank you for that!
wow what a giveaway. Mini peg dolls as counters in a game – genius. Wisconsin snow, yes please! I worked and lived there for a short time and I used to keep some snow in my freezer just because. I first found you when searching for simplicity parenting, have stayed as I find your blog calming, informative, honest.
Something real – Yesterday our 25 month old daughter sat in my lap and together we knitted her first stitch, she wanted to help me make the knitted square bunny.
Oh poor honey! (And mama.) If I may, I suggest arnica 30 C, Booty Balm, ice, and sleep. Rest well over there.
So good. Thank you.
So kind. Thank you.
Love it. A new acquaintance when Sage was born gave me a Mothering Magazine subscription. It made me feel normal.
So sweet!
i kept telling myself, through this hard day and that one: “and yes, here i am.” if there’s anything real and beautiful, i think it’s that.
i’ve always found inspiration in your words. and it might sound a little strange, since you don’t know me at all, but your voice is interwoven with all the sweet voices of mothers and sisters and friends carrying me through this life. thank you for that.
and that new shampoo bar? please don’t stop making it. i’m in love. 🙂
I think so often where we see differences if we look deeply we see our shared path. Thank you for your words.
I have loved you and your products since I was lucky enough to end up with the special gift at the CWES christmas party gift exchange!
I adore your blog and am loving reading all these comments- this kind of spirit and feeling is why I read your blog. I found you when you were celebrating baby wearing- I was working away from my home at my “dream job” and completely miserable. There was a huge disconnect between who I was and my daily life as a corporate attorney. Your blog and the commenting community reminded me of who I was at my core and made me feel not so alone. When my daughter was born, I quit the “dream job,” cut our income by over two-thirds, and our family started living the (new) dream. After the birth of my son who had difficulty sleeping, we purchased sleep potion and fell in rapture with the scent. I love that when I use your products, I can picture your family and I know good juju went into making the product and our money was spent in support of another family living their dream. It’s a very generous giveaway, and I’d LOVE to win (especially because my LuSa lip balm is almost gone and I am officially addicted).
I remember that! It was cut-throat. (And I still have my gorgeous Sigurd Olsen Christmas Cactus from you at that same party. It’s thriving!) 🙂
Your blog for me is like laying in a field of daffodils and looking up at the clouds. Beautiful, soulful, and peaceful. 🙂
Yeah what fun!! We are planning our first homebirth in June. With our first pregnancy, the birth was natural and my husband and I labored by ourselves for the entire time at our home before going to the hospital. We had a midwife and a doula but it was really just the two of us:) Postpartum was a very trying time for us as it is for so many other families. This pregnancy we have decided to make a better PP plan including building a safe and understanding nest in our home for ourselves. Taking time to adjust to our growing family. That being said, I am making a PP relaxation basket that is soothing and comforting and calming. So far I know I want a lavender candle but I know that the basket will also be full of your wonderful products. I think I would feel your positive and encouraging energy all the way from Viroqua!
Real = the heartburn I have right now- and have had all day for that matter. Wonderful? Yes, because it means that my baby is growing bigger and in 5 weeks, more or less, we will have the joy of welcoming our 7th child 🙂
We have had a couple of months of just plain no good crazy events happen to us. All the while we tried to keep a postive outlook and as soon as we finally wrap our minds around the idea of our plans changing, Poof, something magical happens and well…..My husband got the much deserved promotion at work that will certainly help our family in many ways. Also after months of complications with sickness and other realated issues we finally are cleared to have our homebirth. OOOooooooh the PEACE of MIND we feel being able to birth at home with our last babe (#4)just like the 3 ahead of her were!!! These are real and wonderful things that took place today and so what a treat to get to share it here with you and all your wonderful readers. We live in a community where we are not the majority, and so your blog helps remind me, we are not alone!!! XOXOXO
For real, I just finished coating my daughter in your lip and cheek balm! It’s part of her nightly routine. I think I found you looking for natural toothpaste. I stay because even if I don’t live and parents just like you do, you are one of the women that helps me feel like it’s okay to parents the way I feel is right for my daughter. I love your non-judgement, it is really invaluable to me.
I’ve ‘liked’ you on facebook for a while now, mostly because I appreciate your lovely, natural items and the bits of knowledge and joy you share with us. “You are never to old to learn.” 😉
Hooray!
We recently began our journey into unschooling and your family was partial inspiration for that. I keep coming back to your blog for the gentle support your words have offered me when I struggle to understand all this new information and transformation. I realize we are probably very different people, but I feel we are kindred spirits in mama-hood and family and that feels so good to me. Thank you!
I have a few blogs that I look to for inspiration in raising two (not so) little ones (just 6 and soon 4) and yours is one. I love how real, down to earth and fun you guys are :-). My focus lately is the food we eat, finding more local. I’m now getting local raw milk (why did I not know about it before?!), making our jam with self picked berries and we joined a meat, veggie, and egg csa. Loving small businesses! Thank you for offering such a generous giveaway!
I found lusa while searching for a diaper rash cream to use with cloth diapers. I tell everyone that booty balm is the miracle cure-all! After trying and loving booty balm, we tried and loved many more products: soap, sugar scrub, lip balm, chin and cheek balm, sleep potion, lotion bar.
I discovered your blog through lusa and look forward to your honest and heartfelt words. Sometimes I read and feel encouraged. Sometimes inspired. Sometimes I laugh. And sometimes it challenges me to think. But each time I read I take something away. Thank you.
I started coming because of Ami, but truly enjoy the photos, musings and of course the amazing products. 🙂
I stumbled across this blog by accident a few years ago when I was researching Waldorf education and I thought to myself, “Wow, this family gets it. This is what I want for MY family when my husband and I have children.” Of all of the blogs I found in that research, yours is the only one I still read regularly. You are one of the first on my blog bookmarks list and I am constantly inspired by what you write. Thank you for being here. I also love LuSa Organics products and have started buying them as gifts for my expectant friends. They all love them too. My husband and I are finally ready to start our family and are hoping to have a babe in our arms by this time next year. I look forward to re-reading older posts and preparing myself for motherhood with your words of wisdom. Much love.
I look forward to your blog, I feel like it helps to balance me a little. Life can get out of control and your blog reminds me to chill out and enjoy the moment, enjoy my children and the fact that they are the best gift I have ever received. Thank you for that.
I have a 10 year old, an almost 6 year old, and my youngest is getting ready to turn 1 in April. We live in a house that is way too small, but we’ve been house hunting! We’re very excited to find a house big enough for our little family!
I always tell folks I only follow one blog, yep this is it. I might randomly read other blog posts here or there but this is my homepage because it inspires me, encourages me and affirms me. I met you by chance at the Mpls Earth Fair or something right after my first daughter was born and after reading a Mothering Mag article on bath products. You are as genuine and beautifully spirited in person as one might think reading this blog. And by that chance I began using Lusa products and reading this blog. So each new mother I know gets your products and a note encouraging them to do the same – use lusa and read this blog. Because in your words I find love, love for myself and strength to be the mother I hope for my children to have. I cherish that you hold no judgement of me and that I have chosen the same and different from you all at the same time and its okay. You have a gift and I am blessed by it each time I come here to read your words.
Peace to you and your family!
I have given up me, my career, my status, me…for my family. Most days I wouldn’t look back, but once in a while, you ask yourself why? Then one day, this wonderful article called “Fleeting” showed up in my inbox and it touched my to the core. I thought LuSa was about wonderful products that would save my family’s physical health; little did I know, your words would save my soul. I showed it to my husband and with tears in his eyes he said, “yeah.” I wanted to do something that would remind me of that one word that has changed me and my entire outlook – fleeting. I joked about getting that word tattooed on my hand where I could see it everyday, but my husband took matters into his own hands and found me this wonderful bracelet he had engraved with my new mantra. Thank you.
Tears, Lisa. Thank you for sharing. <3
Thank you thank you Jen. So much.
Rachel, I read your blog because you speak the truth. The good and the bad of it, the wonderful and the difficult. Thank you for speaking your mind and showing us that we are not alone when we choose to make decisions that are different from our family and friends.
I found out about your company through a friend who used your cloth wipe spray. I went a little crazy and bought soap, oils, balms… And the wipe juice. Even though I don’t know you personally, you’ve helped me transition my new little family to becoming natural and organic in almost all things. Before I knew it I was reading your blog and following and repinning everything on Pinterest. You have even been a role model in helping me learn more about attachment parenting. I also plan to do unschooling which I think I may have first heard about from you! I always reference you to my husband as,”well you know the Lusa Organics lady… She was saying…” You are a true inspiration.
your blog is simple, like its title. it offers simple wisdom in an unhurried fashion. i love what you write about. how diplomatically you offer your life as example. we thank you!
(XXfingerscrossedXX)
I found your blog and fb page through a mutual friend. I love how you love your children. How you love what you do and how excited you are to share. You are so inspiring and real. It’s very refreshing. Thank you!
Hi! I found your website because I work with your sister-in-law drawing blood. (yes! I’m a vampire!) She has told me of her wonderful experiences while staying with your family, and how you make your own soap and have your own business. So I decided to check out your blog. I have had many medical issues at a young age, and at my work place I draw peoples blood as they tell me of their health issues. Seeing and experiencing this has made me want to go back to basics with my diet and the products I use on my body.
In reading your blog I have been inspired to make my dream of creating my own organic lotion line a reality.
I have not tried your products but plan to, because as other pre-posters I too am expecting! Yay! Heartburn!!! (I feel your pain @Rachel Marie)
My husband and I are aching to buy a farm. And we are not farmers. Not yet, at least. I moved to Wisconsin five years ago from New Mexico. It is beautiful here. But there’s one thing that is absolute agony for me: a snowy, cold March. We have three sparky children ages five and under. Here’s the “real” part: We’re not done growing our family. It seems silly, but I’m afraid of being judged for having a big family. Thank you for all that you do and share with us. It’s a beautiful glimpse into your family’s life.
Wow. You are a beautiful, graceful and powerful woman. As of this last week, I am engaged!!! My fiance, the most wonderful man in the world, and I aspire to care for my beautiful husband-to-be, and thus, children-to-be in a manner much like yours. Through your products too! Thank you for being a light in this world and providing families and people alike with your products that are filled with love and honesty. Grace be with you and yours.
I noticed you are from southwestern Wisconsin!!! So am I! Are you familiar with Viroqua?
I actually don’t remember how I found your blog but I love natural, healthy and loving and it seems that led me to you. Thanks for all that you share with us!!
I love that you live. You seem to move forward through time and space with purpose. I like that. You’re real.
I’ve been following you for awhile now and continue to love your blog/ company/ family because you’re so refreshing! It seems our family lives in a completely different “world” of toys and iPads and a constant stream of busyness and stuff. It’s so refreshing to come read about you and your simplicity. You and your stories have been inspiring to me and have given me such a desire to start changing the way we live. We’re actually selling our big house and tons of our “stuff” to move into a smaller home and living with less. We’re trying to just…simplify our lives and our family…so that we can just be…just be together, spend time together and not have to constantly be running around like crazy people and constantly cleaning up all this junk in our lives. I was home-schooled, and I look forward to spending time home-schooling/ unschooling my littles. Thanks for subliminally encouraging me to step back from the world itself and dive more into our little family’s world. And thanks for always reminding us mommies how important every little second is with our little ones. You’ve been a blessing to me and my family.
What is real and wonderful was the springtime sunshine that soaked into my bones this afternoon. Real and wonderful indeed!
Hey Rachel! What a great giveaway!! I love it!!! I found you when I read about your lotion bars on another blog. I immediately ordered some along with some soap. My daughter who is currently in nursing school uses your relaxing oil just before she takes a test and is sharing it with her classmates!! They love it!! Thanks for making all your great products!!
Wonderful. The lifetime of memories I have with my amazing extended family. Their love, support and kindness as we care for the beloved matriarch of our family during a serious illness. The sunshine. Hope. Being here, now. My children. How they heal a broken heart with a simple touch or a carefree giggle.
The most real & wonderful part of my life right now is watching my beautiful daughters growing and learning. My husband and I are awed by them daily and the joy they being us is immeasurable.
Your blog has always had a place in my reading- I keep a link to it on my phone for quick access! Congrats on reaching so many followers.
With love from Delaware <3
My family’s journey to a more simplified, less wasteful and more natural lifestyle started when I became pregnant with my son. I have grown to love him more than I ever thought humanly possible, and my desire to honor the purity of his new little body by scrutinizing what goes in it and on it has changed the course of my family’s way of life (and, led me to you!). I was very unsure and lacking confidence the first 6 months of my son’s life, but I eventually got the hang of this motherhood thing and can’t even begin to comprehend the magnitude of the responsibility I have or the immense joy that constantly overflows from my heart. What a juxtaposition of fear and elation! My son is the most incredible child, and I am so blessed to know him better than I know any other person. He has also taught me more about myself than I knew there was to learn. Thank you for your pure, delightful products!
I have been following your blog since we ordered soaps and lip balm for holiday gifts (I of course got myself some too because it was all too delicious not to keep just a little bit for ME too). I started reading because I was curious about soap making, but then I couldn’t believe how many things we have in common (unschooling, knitting, recipes, etc)! I look forward to your posts and like to see all the fun things you are doing with your kids. You inspired us to buy some peg dolls this winter. My four kids painted 100 of them in a day and wanted me to order more immediately.
I come here because it helps me keep my sanity, being a transplant in this small southern town where most people don’t share my lifestyle ideals. Blogs like this show me there are ways to parent peacefully, which is a great reminder, when all I ever see is about as far away from peaceful as you can get.
Real…I am so appreciative of your words and products! This weekend at the Parenting Expo, you gladly gave me a chestrub in exchange for a product that didn’t work for me. Even though our kids were disorganizing your display, and spilling your lovely oils on the floor, and “testing” everything, and we didn’t actually make a purchase, you were patient with us, and made my day! Thank you for that, and for everything you do 🙂
We tried your recipe for date balls last week. My kids LOVE them (and so do I). We have made them three times since,and we will be making them regularly from now on. Thank you for a lovely recipe
And my four year old is standing here saying she really, really hopes we win. She is especially in love with “those rainbow colored people”.
Your boys were just demonstrating how overstimulated we all were feeling! They were a perfect visual aid. 😉
Real: My 4 year old is struggling with a UTI. The second of which in about a year, and that means that I’m pulling all of my herbal references and trying to come up with a game plan for next time. And I’m learning that I don’t solo-parent so well when someone is sick. I need to fill my personal toolbox with ways to help myself with these situations. (And I’ll be honest, I’m not sure where to start!) As an added challenge, we’ve been living with family for the last year and a half, and we’re so, so ready to be on our own.
Wonderful: After a year of unemployment and wondering just what on earth we were going to do, my husband is gainfully employed, we’re finally building our savings back up, getting family paid back, and repaying the kindness others gave to us in our time of need. We want to find land, and finally get our dreams off the ground and my husband home and working alongside me, instead of apart from.
I laughed about the scoop of real Wisconsin snow – my husband and I are hoping that once we’re able to get on our feet, its in your neck of the woods. Tonight he’s just up in Marshfield, and tomorrow he’s finally headed toward home, here in Kansas. (He’s a truck driver for a company that’s based out of Marshfield, incidentally. So being in WI would get us closer to home base, and hopefully, make it easier for him to get home more.)
You are so kind to so this! I have two boys one and three years old. I trust your opinions and think the way you look at things is awesome. Your style of parenting is right up my ally. I always get excited when I see you have a new post – what will I learn or do differently today! Thanks for being you!
I have recently begun following your blog. The serenity of your home and family is almost palpable – I crave that for our family. (We are Mom, Dad, and 4 kiddos – all adopted from China – and anything but serene…)
Been using your products and following for a while. Oldest baby is reaching puberty. It is a daily struggle for me to let her grow up. Your clay based face soap is the only thing that I will allow her to use on her changing skin. She is after all my baby.
I love your products ever since I won your wipes juice from Happy Bambino 4+ years ago! I love reading this blog and meeting you at the expo over the weekend was lovely. Your sweet, creative, caring character spills out into your writing and I love it. You always inspire me:) And it’s so genuine and real. I love that too. Something real and wonderful? My daughters, who have inspired me and made all the parts of myself come together and find what I love to do (teaching kids cooking classes). Nothing like the honesty of children to help you see yourself honestly.
i think now is as good a time as any to let you know why i visit this place regularly. i, having young ones of my own, have been truly inspired by several blog land mamas. But it is because of this particular place that i was first introduced to the idea of peaceful parenting, something that i, in part, felt instinctively, but was quite sure how to apply in most situations with my children as it is a bit different from the structure i grew up in. I have loved to see how you communicate with your children and have used your advice/example to evolve my own relationship with my three little girls. *I will have to say, i do love the little crafty bits of inspiration as well* (along with the soaps and baby products we frequently order. lovely!)…but the insight you have gained from your own wrestling through early motherhood and evolution into a respectful parent as your children have grown (just a bit older than my own) is one of the main reasons i keep returning. Thank you for your willingness to share your real and wonderful life! you have been an inspiration to this mama!
My son wouldn’t latch for his first two months, but I pumped a lot, cried a lot, and stuck with it. He just turned two and we’re still nursing. He is my light and my joy and I cherish the quiet close moments we have together.
I love your blog! Your peaceful parenting methods are truly an inspiration.
What a generous giveaway, thank you!!
I was first introduced to LuSa by a coworker and have been in love ever since. Your products have seen me through one pregnancy, two kids, one job, and one busy life. I look forward to unwinding and relaxing a little bit each day with LuSa. Thank you for keeping me sane!!
I also started blogging for my business and then fell in love with it. I don’t have as much time to write as if like to, but I enjoy it when I get chance. 🙂 and some thing real (not that my first statement wasn’t!) – I tried your chai recipe a couple days and I am HOOKED! 🙂
It’s amazing to me, to come to a screen to find connection. But I find it here every time. I feel as though my tribe isn’t always around me, in my day to day life. But we’re here, reading and sharing, all these wonderful people are here. We’re trying every day to be more connected to our kids, more connected to the earth, less connected to the ‘way everyone does it’. I feel part of a tribe here. I’m always grateful to you for sharing, and for being honest. It’s hard to find some days out in the world, and I’m ever so happy to know I’ll always find it here.
So much awesomeness! I have enjoyed your blog for well over a year now. It was one of the first I started following when I finally caved in to Facebook. I purchased some soaps from LuSa around Christmas and really enjoyed them. Immensely, actually. What a great chance for some great goodies! Thank you!
I keep coming back to your blog because you are one inspiring mama! Seriously, I think it was partly your blog that made me wanna start a family.
I have never felt so close to products I use before. Thank you for giving us all the chance. I am a nurse-midwife and a mom of a toddler. I felt the magic of LuSa first with Booty Balm, which is as magic a salve as I’ve ever known. My son’s butt and my cloth diapers are the better for it as well as numerous scrapes and bruises and boo boos of all kinds. Honestly, though I think that I started using your other products not because of how fantastic Booty balm is, but because I could know you and like you and feel the intention, the research, the intelligence, the love behind them. I feel even luckier to be able to live close enough to you that I can stop and chat when you are selling and express my product desires and try out new things and give my honest feedback. Truly I wish that all our body care products could come from you. So many of your blogs are so helpful. You share so freely and that is what makes LuSa special to me. When I smell Diaper Wipe Juice on a stranger’s baby I can’t help but smile. Right now my nose is full of chest rub scent. We don’t have colds anymore, but it smells so comforting. Thank you, thank you.
I started reading your words and using your products long before I met you. Then I met you and your words came to life. Now I follow along because I love you all and you encourage me to be a better me in every way I possibly can. And it is good.
Thank you for the frequent morsels of goodness sitting in between the less frequent decadent fill-me-up visits we get.
And…regardless of winning I need some acorn zipper pulls in my life. Can I get them straight from you or is etsy best???
luv
I’m a homeschooling mama to four little ones (8, 6, 4, and 2) and found your blog and products not too long ago. I usually need a hanky when I read your posts (I’m still doing some back reading) and I feel that if you didn’t live in Wisconsin and I in Oregon, that we would be the best of kindred spirits! I’ve had an email in my head to go out to you since receiving my order from you (my first and surely not the last!) and hope to connect with you more soon! Many blessing to you and your sweet little family!
Real-I so enjoy your blog. Even though we don’t know each other in person, you are a part of my “village” in raising a family in a way that is quite different than how I was raised.
Wonderful-my two daughters are sleeping peacefully after a homeschool day full of blossom catching, tree climbing, badminton playing, tissue flower making, rhyme making at circle time. Life is wonderful.
Oh and I will never go back to any other lip balm………yours ROCKS!
Thank you so much for the generous giveaway! Real: I’m a mama to an intense, bright star of a boy (17 months old) and he challenges my thinking and actions every day. Your words about parenting inspire me to think differently. Listen more. Unplug and engage. And celebrate who he is, even when there is struggle and discord, and constant push and pull. And there is also pure bliss. Sweetness. Balance. Your writing resonates, and I’m grateful.
Real and wonderful- some friends and I are working towards renting our first ever apartment for next year (our sophomore year of university). Expensive and a lot of work but very exciting!
Hi Rachel! What an incredible giveaway!
I wanted to tell you about what my daughter did the other day that show such kindess it made me cry and still does when I tell people about it. We were having a garage sale (selling everything we own, literally because we are moving to France) and at the height of the chaos I realized that I hadn’t seen my kids in a while. When I looked behind me to find my three year old and my one and half year old I saw them sitting on the toddler bed. My three year old had taken the baby on her lap and was holding her and reading a book to her. I leaned down to ask if they were ok. She replied, ” Don’t worry mama, I’m taking care of Viola so she doesn’t get scared.” Bahhh I couldn’t be more proud. 🙂
I am quite excited for this year, we have been putting life on hold for about 4 years now… lets just say it has been four years of healing from childhood past and I have an amazing and loving husband who has put off Law School for me and our family. I love our little family and I love that no matter how busy life gets I know that we will always put each other first…and from what I hear of Law School…life is going to be very busy. But the time we will have together will be our choice on how we spend it. Reading your blog has helped me solidify in my mind how I would like to live my life. Loving my family, being there for others, helping those in need in anyway that I as an individual can best give it. Thank you for sharing your life. ❤
I found you through my sil 🙂
Real and wonderful about my family. Hmmm. The two very best things to ever happen to me are my husband and son.
The best news I’ve ever gotten was the day we heard from the adoption agency telling us we had been picked by a birth mother. Hands down best news ever.
I am new to your blog, just a few weeks. A friend sent a link, and now I’m hooked. I love reading about the possibilities that you see in the world, and it helps me as my family has gone through a tough year, with our little one needing brain surgery to remove a brain tumor. Thank God for little breaks where I can get re-filled up with taking care of myself for a few moments.
Love Caren
Jerusalem, Israel
I found you when researching GAPS, and have been in love with your blog ever since. Something real? The crackling woodstove, the snow that just keeps on falling, the two sweet sleeping boys in their beds, remembering how they said goodnight to the baby in my belly with such earnestness, reading the last two chapters of “Charlotte’s Web” with them tonight and fighting tears at the death of a spider, the great pile of pillows in my bed that is calling to me! Thank you for being real, and for encouraging others to do the same. Goodnight mama!
We are going crazy right now trying to simultaneously renovate and move into our new-to-us old house. I am up late trying to catch up on work (taxes and paperwork for my company) and I am really looking forward to taking my first shower here in the house – and I remembered to bring over my shampoo bar!! I love your products and the fact that they come from a family who really cares. God bless you for what you do and may He look out for you always!
This blog. The first one I ever signed up to follow a few years back. The only one I never deleted. The one I always look forward to no matter what. The one I save for last, as I save the best for last. Thank you for your blog, for sticking through, I really appreciate and love your place.
Wonderful – to sit in my darlings kids room to work on the desk where he used to make his homework back when he lived here, the little boy. Well, I can hardly work thinking of all that time gone (when I didn’t know him yet), and how wonderful it is I met him, and when our girl will be the one sitting and writing and oh sweetness.
Thanks for sharing your thing Rachel, it’s so inspiring and honest and inviting!
Last week I made your revised chai (the first time I’ve made chai since moving last fall- I used to make it almost weekly!) and I had to *buy* nettles and raspberry leaves. It was a little sad (sobering?) as I always just foraged and dried them myself back in Germany… yea, not going to happen in the AZ desert… it made living here really, really, real.
Wonderful was the aroma permeating the house and the moment I sat down and took a sip and, all of a sudden, this foreign place felt like home. A strange house we are finally settling into, making ours, and new friends we can share some happiness in a cup with in the future (although probably less warm and more… iced. hah…) makes life just that much more interesting.
I’m so glad you are still writing and sharing all your warmth and comfort with us!!
~ Something Real ? well, I may be one of the Oldest Mamma readers, with my son being nearly 21, that is a REALity check !! What, me over 50 yrs ? yep, its true.
Why do I read the blog of a family so much younger than mine ?
Because I support the REAL things in life, soap from natural REAL ingredients, children spending a snowy afternoon with a REAL book in their hands, knitting with REAL wool yarns, slowing down to enjoy REAL nature.
Although my only son is nearing 21 years, I see it like it was a moment ago, those bright eyes wide open at birth calmly looking at mine, as in, Oh, I’m REALlly here after all !! I celebrate homeschooling life. We did homeschool for 12 years. One WONDERFUL project we did was create a family flag-banner, with our most favorite things embroidered onto the felt, sunflowers, ocean birds, special buttons added from baby shirts, animals we dreamed of having, and a coat-of-arms made up just for us, M & O. (Mom & Oren) I’m inspired for our humanity by young families, such as yours, 🙂 who are making the choices to farm, grow organic, raise hens, sheep and other critters, teaching their children about REAL nature, making things, being independent, with an appreciation for Mamma Earth.
What’s even more ama-ZING & WONDERFUL is that you have also created not only a way of life, but a way to support your family financially with this lifestyle !!!
AND, that is indeed a hen feather in your wool cap ! ~ ta-da ! ~
Now there are such great communities of like-minded folks who have the ability to connect in this unique way, its helping people be supported with ideas and then we can support the great products that you make.
When O was a baby, I was the Odd-Mamma-out, cloth diapers,(ew) choosing no vaccines,(are you crazy ? you’re not a doctor, how can you decide that ?) thinking of homeschool, (he won’t get to ride a school bus if you homeschool) or Waldorf,(wal-what ?) breastfeeding Mamma till O naturally weaned at age 3 yrs.(that’s just odd) and one of my personal favorites… (I’ll buy you a t.v., what does he do all day if he doesn’t watch t.v. ever ???)
So, yeah. I appreciate YOU and what your family has created with having beautiful, ~ WONDERFUL ~ magical ~ terrific heartfelt intentions, that contribute to the health of our MamaEarth.
(And I like the way you write & the photos.)
~ Absolutely, hen feathers in your wool caps ! ~
So COOL that you added Sage’s sachets, a family recipe & the sewing pattern is outstanding !!
Best,
Shell ~
p.s. peg people,… too adorable. I wrote a little illustrated book for O with peg people we made up that I am trying to get published. 🙂
Thank you for the wonderful offer, Rachel!
Why I come here: I have been reading your blog for a long time (years?). I think I came via NVC, or maybe it was homeschooling. Your move into the farmhouse is what has kept me coming back, to read about the peaceful simplicity you manage to provide your children. I read about your farmhouse with envy, but not the kind that makes me feel bad or jealous. I enjoy the peacefulness of your stories, they bring some peace to me at this very difficult time of my life.
My heart: has felt broken since my mom died last year, 3 months before the airplane was to take us to visit her, 5 years after the last time I saw her in person. Mourning the loss of my mother, while I am a mother, has been a heart-wrenching process. All the while still being expected to care for my children and be there for them every day. Your stories bring me some peace, and help me stay connected to the good parts of my heart, the happy parts, my beautiful children.
My children are similar in age to yours, 6 and 9. I love reading your unschooling stories, it reminds me of the ideals I strive for. And your craftiness inspires me to create.
Thank you for your wonderful stories, for sharing your peaceful simplicities. Thank for the opportunity to try, and to enjoy, some of the treasures you make!
You give me hope ;)and I am deeply thankful for that!
Have spent the last three days in bed with my babies (4 and 2) we are all down with various stages of the flu. I kept thinking about your blog and how I first got here from Soule Mama when they were not well in the summer and got a remedy from you. I was grateful to you and all the wonderful woman who share so much with us, it is always beautiful and an amazing resource when you need it. Thank you
Following your blog reminds me that it is possible to LIVE doing what you love, and it doesn’t have to look like one always assumed it would.
I stumbled upon your blog just recently, but you have inspired me to live simpler in more ways than I can say. I love how “real” your blog is and how much you share of your personal life. You have motivated me as a mother and homeschooler. Thank you.
I love your products, your business model and your willingness to be open and honest. I trust your products on the people that mean the most to me. this blog keeps me sane as a work at home mom!
I wake up and read your blog every morning while everyone’s still asleep. Your blog makes my heart smile..a good way to start the day! Keep up the wonderful and inspiring work! You’ve touched many hearts. God bless you and yours.
What a thoughtful giveaway! I’m over the border in Minnesota, and I read your blog because you have some inspiring and wise things to say about homeschooling and family living. We’ve got new babies in our family, these would make great gifts! I’ve been meaning to try your products for a while now 🙂
I homeschool my two daughters (12 and 10) here in Chicago and they are the most real and wonderful souls I know! Thanks for such a beautiful and generous giveaway.
I come here for inspiration and for the beautiful pictures! I have gone through a lot of changes since I started reading this blog, including graduating from college and moving from MS to MN-your neck of the woods! My wonderful news is that I am moving out of my tiny city apartment into a house with a yard for my dogs. It’s not the country house I want, but it’s a step in that direction and I am so excited. Real news: I am moving in 8 days and haven’t started packing.
Rachel, I love your products and your blog. I usually check your posts the first thing in the morning, it became my morning routine. You are a very good writer.
The only LuSa product I tried was the solid bar which smelled amazing! I would love to try some baby products since we are expecting a baby body at the end of April!
Yesterday, my husband ordered me out of the house. For dinner. It’s been two months of teething baby and preschooler sick with a cold and it’s just MARCH here in Wisconsin, isn’t it, and this winter has worn us down. So I called a girlfriend and we went out for food, while wonderful husband stayed home to cuddle the baby and teach the preschooler how to make a meal all by herself. I love this gang of mine.
You know what I love. That you’re a REAL mom. From the midwest, like me. Who lives your passion day in and day out.
When you first started writing years ago, I began reading your blog. I’m not sure exactly how I found it, but I loved the way you wrote about parenting. It resonated with the way we do things. Even though we’d probably never ever meet I felt like you guys might just be “kindred spirits” as Anne would say. We had already started down the path to a much more natural lifestyle, and have always been co-sleeping- baby wearing- breast feeding- don’t let ’em cry it out type of parents, and to find your blog it felt like…aaah! We’re not the only ones. Since then, through blog land, I have found other mamas who seem to have many of the same core beliefs as we do about raising babies, but yours was one of the first. An online community, when the one nearby isn’t always as supportive or understanding of why we choose to do what we do!
You, your beautiful family, your natural life is such an inspiration to me. It’s what keeps me coming back here tima and again. Your stories inspire me to believe that we can achieve what we are striving for, that a simple pure natural and authentic lifeis possible. That by casting fear aside and living with a view toward love, and a bit of hard work, dreams are manifested. I love living the natural life!
~ Amber mother, wife, artist and fellow blogger natural parenting two beautiful blossoming kids
My family and I are happily awaiting the birth of our baby girl in early May, and her 2 big brothers can’t wait.
(We are naming her Sage! 🙂 a name I’ve loved for many years- through all 3 pregnancies!)
Thank you for writing/sharing all that you do every day. I really look forward to reading your blog on a daily basis.
i found lusa through a mama friend. her son is almost exactly one year to the day older than my son, and she’s been an amazing resource for all things baby. she’s my “village” in the adage “it takes a village”. we started with booty balm, expanded to baby wipe juice, then exploded into lip balm, baby massage oil, soap, shower scrubs, chest rub, chin and cheek balm, even booby balm. my now 2-yr-old knows chest rub, booty balm, and chin and cheek balm by name. we are a lusa family. thank you for sharing your knowledge and creations!
I love reading your blog. Its truly inspiring. It helps me to be a better parent to my 2 yr old son. I love the joy and simplicity of everyday moments with him. They mean the most. Thank you so much . What a great giveaway.
You’ve mentioned before that you chose to show us the happier moments of your life…the highlights. I know some people don’t like that…they prefer to see all the negatives too, but i actually really like the highlights version better. I find it helps me focus on the highlights in my own life too. And when you do share the not so pretty stuff, you still tend to find a way for it to not come off as “poor me”. I love this as a reader, because it helps me try to deal with my own stuff that way. So thanks for all you share and the way you do it!
Dear Rachel,
I stumbled on your blog through Pinterest of all places last fall. I was hunting for ideas on how to revamp a thrifted cashmere sweater into leggings or tights for my three year old girl, Bodhi. The first post I found was about the law of attraction- exactly what I was reading and exploring at the time. Of course. 🙂 Thanks universe. Since then I have been reading your words, yes normally in my “jam-jams”, because you are so darn inspiring! Because your words are wise and your photos are beautiful. And with that, I must go- someone needs a snuggle. Thanks for sharing!
I first found your awesome stuff at an LLL of WI parenting conference years ago. Your lip balm (mint is my favorite) is the the best in the world, hands down. Your soap is amazing, but my favorite might be your bug spray. I loved that when I dropped the bottle once (I’m a bit of a klutz!) I had a big mess to clean up, but my house smelled pretty good for awhile! Thanks so much for giving me safe, locally made products that actually work!
Real and wonderful – expecting baby #2 and hearing the excitement from my toddler when she talks about ‘the baby.’ Makes a mama’s heart so full 🙂
Hello Rachel,
I’m Alex, french mama to two kids, soon-to-be mama to three; I live in France, and I’ve already written a few comments here, but I must confess that I’m not a big fan of writting comments. I come here every day or so, and I feel so inspired but your words. I think we’re like-minded people! I mean, that’s what I like to think!
Reading your blog helps me stay on track as a non-violent person, as a parent who, along with her husband, tries to be as peaceful as possible. I’m also into NVC.
Right now, we’re considering settling (again) in the USA for a while, maybe for our whole life, and this is a tough decision to make… but if we do move to the USA in less than a year, after our third child is born, I already know where I will buy our soap and baby lotion!But for now, ordering your soaps and having them shipped over to France seems like an eco-nonsense to me!
I discovered your blog by reading Amanda Soule’s blog, and since that day, I never “left” it. Your words recharge my battery so often! I feel also guided when reading your blog, I’m currently working on my parental mission statement for instance(and also maybe another mission statement as a person, not only as a mama!).
Thanks for all this positiv energy, for showing up here so often, and for being who you truly are on this space!
Alex
nifty giveaway! I found you guys at the Madison Farmer’s Mkt, but I live in Vermont now so I have my Chicago-based mother send me things (sure, I could order things myself, but that is less fun). I’ve used a lot of nice soaps, but LuSa has stayed high on the list of awesome handmade soap. Shampoo bars are also my new thing and it’s very exciting that there’s another option out there, because I am growing increasingly unhappy with all the STUFF in conventional products. It definitely cuts down on clutter in the bath, too: we have a shampoo bar and a bar of soap! Hooray!
In the summer of 2007, I had just met the man who was to become my husband and we stumbled upon your booth (then Queen Bee soaps) at the Dane County Farmer’s Market. Awed by the wonderful scents, we made our first purchase–including some little shaped soaps made by Sage–and, at that time, had no idea how much our lives would be changing. I credit your natural products and methods for motivating us to continue to make more natural choices and persistently lessening the number of toxins involved in our life.
Here we are, six years later, married and living in our dream home…with your soaps, essential oil blends, chap sticks, sugar scrubs, lotion bars, wipe juice, chest rub, postpartum herbs, and booty balm each playing their rolls in our reality, many on a daily basis, as they have ever since that very first purchase. It feels so good choosing your creations for ourselves and our children, especially as we prepare for our third to arrive this fall.
Thank you, sincerely, for all you and your family do.
I come here because you’re lovely and you’re real. Love your photos. Thanks for the giveaway.
Well hello from nd! I happened to stumble upon these wonderful products from hearing of the wipe juice, then I found all these amazing products! We love our Lusa! This last week I gave my nephew some Lusa and his mommy loved it! Putting in yet another order, we couldn’t be without! Thank you for your wonderful products!
I googled ‘reupholstering a chair’ nearly two years ago and one of your posts came up..clicking on your beautiful pictures and I just kept clicking…baby wearing, home birth, decluttering & simplifying your home, simplicity parenting – Love it all! But its your wonderful reminders that help me notice my two.little angels sparkle on days when I’m in danger of extinguishing it and treasure the fleeting wonderfulness of their three&four year old energy that I Love most!
We LOVE your products. Booty Balm, Chest Rub, Time Travel Soap, and a while lot more can be found in our home at all times. You’re local as well which just adds to the benefits of your AMAZING products!!
I think what’s wonderful is that you are one of many women I “know” – in real life or over the internet – who are taking charge of their lives and deciding how *they* want to have a family – how to feed it, grow it, house it, clothe it. When women make healthy choices, the whole family, and thus, our communities, thrive! Thank you!
I love my little growing family! My wonderful husband who works so hard as a mission trip coordinator in the McDowell county West Virginia, my 18 month old daughter who recently potty trained herself and is constantly kissing my belly in anticipation of our new little one with whom I am 32 weeks pregnant! We’re planning our second homebirth! Can’t wait!
I really enjoy your blog and your beautiful pictures! I think it’s awesome that your husband knits! 🙂
Oh and you introduced me to the law of attraction! oh my god, powerful stuff!! I have got so much from reading your blog – thank you! X
I found you on simple homeschool while finding ideas. I’ve been backreading your blog ever since :). I haven’t been to the library for a book in a few weeks now. Anyway,I keep coming back because I’m inspired. To be a more present parent, to create, to learn, to dream. We have a dream of a farm, so I’m so excited for your upcoming spring and all the things we’ll get to learn from you.
Real: Postpartum depression. I’ve struggled with it for a little over 4 years now. I have good days and bad days. I would give anything to not have to deal with it.
Wonderful: I have 3 children. This most recent time around, I have finally learned how to manage my PPD, and I now understand the term “babymoon!” I had no idea having a newborn could be so…blessed…amazing…beautiful! Newborns had stressed me out before, this time I just want time to stand still! I’m so very grateful that I have found a way to make this work, and eternally grateful to have this new experience, and to see parenthood in a whole new way!
I homeschool our two children. I don’t know if it is from having kids or from homeschooling, but I’m on this health nut kick. Teaching my kids to eat clean and to have everything that goes into or onto their bodies to be CLEAN. It’s not too difficult of a change to make. I guess my only complaint is the cost of being clean. Clean products are pricey. I know, I know…”pay now or pay later”, but on one income that is sometimes easier said than done.
It’s just all about educating my children so when they have children they will know right from the start the importance of embodying the notion of being CLEAN. I don’t want for it to take an illness for them to figure out the need, in today’s world, to use pure products and to eat clean foods.
This is a wonderful give-a-way. Good luck to you all in this list and thank you so much Rachel for sharing your knowledge and love of all things CLEAN.
My something wonderful for you: Your posts inspire me to be a more conscious parent. To be more patient. To listen more fully. To trust my kiddo to be exactly, perfectly who she is. I come to your blog to be reminded about the simplicity of parenting and to be inspired. Oh yes. 🙂
I come here because you are real. You write from the heart. You live from the heart and that inspires me. I don’t always agree with what you write (but how boring would that be if we were all the same) but you care deeply and you have made me think about so many things in a different way and I like that. Plus, my husband can’t live without your lotion bars and I can’t live without the Grounding Oil. We wash with your soap too. I bought my three adult daugthers almost one of everything from your shop last Christmas AND, I just bought the brand new baby kit for my newest granddaughter so there is another generation who is able to enjoy your goods.
I found your blog through Pinterest and I was immediately drawn in. I love the calm and peace in your writing. I’m working on becoming more peaceful myself (although it’s a hard journey) and I’m always inspired when I come here. The wonderful is using that inspiration to create an amazing experience with my 5 homeschooling children (that I may not have thought of myself) and having more fun watching them have fun than doing it myself! Thanks for the inspiration!
What a generous giveaway! Something real right now is that I tried to drop my son off at school and realized it was closed for the day. Something wonderful is that now I don’t have to work and we can just be together!
I had the most wonderful shower this morning. I took a little extra time for me and scrubbed up with the orange sugar scrub I love so dear. It has given me the energy to get through an exhausting week. Thanks for all your hard work–my body and mind appreciate it.
I love reading your blog, a while ago it inspired me to start my own business to help get through college a little easier financially. It also helps me remember that there ARE other people in the world like us (we live in a college town and there aren’t many people in our age range here). Thanks for all your words of encouragement with homeschool, as well. Some days, reading your blog makes all the difference in my mood!
Honestly, my mind is a blank at the moment…I’m suffering a stomach flu (passed along from my darling children). BUT! I am very thankful to have a supportive husband who took it upon himself to stay home from work today to help me out…and it was his idea!
I found your products and your blog about the same time without knowing it:) I stumbled onto your blog during your baby wearing celebration week a few years back, and during the course of that week I made the connection between Clean and the LuSa booty balm I had just begun using for my cloth diapered son. I couldn’t believe it! Also, I am a fellow Wisconsinite, so it’s always thrilled me a little to know you are only a short trip away, living your beautiful life.
Thanks so much for all you offer here. It’s no small thing to open up so much of yourself.
Hi Rachel,
I found LuSa through another blog that had recommended your lotion bars for traveling instead of carrying liquid lotion in a carry on bag. After ordering, I found your blog and I love it! I’ve ordered soaps, sugar scrubs, bath salts, lip balms, and more lotion bars since that first time. I’ve never been disappointed! My daughter is in nursing school and she uses your relaxing oil just before she takes a test and insists it’s helping calm her down and focus. Some of her classmates think she’s crazy, but some of them ask her to pass the bottle to them! Thanks for great products and a great blog.
Something real and wonderful is my 5 year old telling me he loves me several times a day… the sweetness!
I’d love to win as I haven’t had the chance to try your products and would love to as I read wonderful comments on them! xx
Everything looks fantastic! I’m a homeschooling mama of 3 who is expecting a bonus baby this fall.
I just discovered your blog this winter and it is a delight for me to sit down in the middle of my busy day (we farm, raise beef and vegetables)and breathe and let your words help me think a little differently. Already, you have changed my life, in meaningful ways, and I am grateful for that.
What a beautiful idea! What is real and wonderful me is how I have changed in this last year, from a full-time worker bee to a way more than full-time mama at home with my first-born, and how that has changed me in the course of a year more than I have ever changed before in my 30-some years. While I was working, I’d sneak time out of my day to read your blog and dream of someday being home with kids, getting so much lovely inspiration from your words and family’s rhythm, which is so palpable in your writing. While I was pregnant, I received so much quiet confidence in myself and my ability to carry and birth a baby naturally by just knowing that strong mamas like you are in the world and sharing their beautiful stories and wisdom with others. And how I loved how the LuSa products nurtured me and my little one through my pregnancy and her birth…I think I’ll forever have the scent of Wipe Juice imprinted on my brain and senses after all these hundreds of diaper changes. 🙂 While I no longer have the time to keep up with your blog daily, ever once in awhile I catch a little time with the laptop and binge on your blog posts, and come away feeling so light and happy, full of new ideas and inspiration, and still very glad for mamas like you and conscientious companies like LuSa.
Oh, and ps – we met once at the Dane County farmers market in Madison and I asked you about oil to help my daughter’s dry skin and you recommended the baby massage oil – it’s worked wonders! We do a bath nightly now and slather on the oil on as soon as she gets out of the tub, without towel drying. Incredible!
I found your blog while looking for homeschooling ideas on simple homeschool. Now, I’ve been backreading and haven’t been to the library in weeks for a new book 🙂 I keep coming back because you inspire me: to be a more present parent, to create, to learn, to dream. I’ve been wanting to teach myself to knit and sew and since I began reading your blog, I actually started doing it. We also dream of a farm and I’m so excited for your upcoming spring to learn all kinds of things.
i found you via a random image on instagram. I’m always looking for natural products – especially ones good for travel. well, i bought my firsts from you last month and i loved everything. i smell great 😉
I feel as though you are a soul sister way over on the other side of the country. Love your writing, and seeing all your endeavors come to fruition!
i’ve said this before. i love your blog. your honesty, the giving of yourself, sharing your family ways and ideas, and i’ve learned a lot from your this blog. to me, you’re a very wise woman. because of you, it is my desire and my plan to home(un)school my son. i also love how your write, your positive energy and of course your lusaorganics products. i do hope to meet you and your family someday! after reading this blog, i always have tons of ideas in my head. thank you so much!!
Hi,
I found you through Soulemama with a link to you for natural whooping cough remedies. This was in the context of the CDC stating that many who contracted the disease had been vaccinated. My son is largely unvaccinated so I wanted to check out your site not knowing your “position”, really. I have stayed here because you words ae so heatfelt and thoughtful. You are also so open-minded.
I feel so very alone regarding the vacciation issue. I only know two people or so who haven chosen not to vaccinate and I live in a huge city. People who have found out my path act as though I am a criminal. My new husband and I are trying to get pregnant and he literally thinks not vaccinating should be a crime. Needless, to say, this is a tough discussion. My 12 year old from my first marriage is very healthy but I just feel so alone and marginalized, I guess.
Thnaks so much for offering a peek into your holistic, natural and heart-felt approach. I really appreciate it.
Cheers!
Ok, so really why I love Clean?!? Your play dough recipe! I fill it with lavender so it’s calming, yet it’s super soft and malleable so it’s creative! Which is why I find myself with my afternoon cup of tea heading towards your blog because its exactly that – calming and creative! I space that I can frolic around in, then leave feeling refreshed and inspired ready to head back into the madness of my three babes! With love from Ireland x
I slept with my daughter (2.5) next to me ever since she was born, until about 4 months ago, when her little brother joined our family. Nobody was getting any sleep in the family bed, so we split up: my husband slept with her, while I slept with my son. It made me so sad; I missed sleeping with her so much!
A few nights ago, we gave the big family bed another try, and this time it went much better! I woke up this morning for the third day in a row with my beautiful children on either side of me. What a wonderful way to start the day!
Congratulations on all your followers!
I like your posts about peaceful parenting, Rachel, and your wonderful girls’ photos are my favourites:) Cause I have 2 little girls too and 4 monthes ago our third baby-boy was born. This week is special in our country (Russia), we have traditional folk festival Maslenitsa when all mothers and grandmothers baking a special Russian pancakes – “bliny” – like sun symbols and saying “Goodbye, Winter!” – “Hello, Spring!” in special folk songs:)
The realness of my amazing partner going back to his paying job in a few short days, leaving me with my two littles during the days. The change in rhythm and family closeness that has developed makes me anxious….but ready to embrace the change it will bring too.
Wonderful is what i feel when i watch my almost 1 year old share kisses with his big sister, or how she will dote on him and tell us he’s her best friend.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your inspiration, reminders that we are only human, sharing of dreams and hopes, and glimpse into your life.
Thanks for the chance with your generous giveaway, and for your constant giving of your self. Sending love from the Kawarthas
You are so generous! So the reason I come here every day (while I nurse my youngest, to be precise), is because you inspire me! Not only because you make a living doing what you love, but also with the homey simplicity you carry on your days with. I really think that if I were not all the way up here in Canada, or you were not all the way down there- we would be friends who watched our kids play, while we drank tea together! LOL oh, and I do so love your Lusa stuff! 🙂
We have a small farm in Western New York with goats, chickens and a large garden…and two children ages four and 20 months. I teach natural birth classes and work as a doula, and I’m just starting out on the to homeschooling path. I find your blog a calming reminder that these days don’t have to be anything but simple and sweet and my presence is the most valuable thing I can give my children. The blog I will always remember is the one where you reflected upon the Sandy Hook incident and listed the names of the children who passed in that event. I think back to it often and hug my babies extra tight. I would love to win your giveaway and would share the gifts with my family and dear friends. Thank you!
Our mutual friend Sarah K.(from NC) went to graduate school with you. She sent me a link to your blog several years ago so I could see someone who was living a life that I was hungry for. Although we live very different lives, I often take many things that you are doing and explore tweaked versions to suit my family. I especially enjoy many of the ways you play with your children (including the toys your choose) and your comments on the vulnerability and great joy associated with being a mother. I am also determined to learn to use my sewing machine, because some of the things you make are simply beautiful! Keep up the inspiring work and thanks for letting us watch!
I was first introduced to you and your products by my mother. She bought me and my sisters each a collection of your products for Christmas a couple of years ago. I love your products so much- they became a special treat for me. I looked forward to creating a special peaceful space for myself, having a bath, using my patchouli bar, just relaxing- creating a perfect mini sanctuary of texture and aroma to wind down my days. I keep my essential oil blends with me at work- and my coworkers know that it they need a pick me up, I’ve got something for that. If they have a headache- yeah I can help with that- and the list goes on: cramps, stomach ache, muscle ache, nausea, you name, and your oil blends to the trick. After using your products for year, I read one of your articles that my mom had shared with me and I was hooked! I love your attitude and approach towards life, your family, and the world around you! I have so much admiration for you and I have never even met you! Thank you for all the great information, inspiration,and ideas you share on a daily basis- from Pinterest to your blog to the products I enjoy at home!
We are a Waldorf homeschooling family of four with a bun in the oven. To be honest, I can’t recall how I came up on your blog, but it’s one of my favorites in my reader. I love seeing other like minded families online because they are few and far between where I live. And I love that you and you’re husband’s names are Rachel & Pete…we are also a Rachel & Pete going on 18 years 🙂 Blessings!
I come here for the inspiration…to see that it is possible to live your dream. And to get there not all at once, but in stages. I spent all day last Sunday in my garden, digging in compost and peat moss, getting ready for spring planting. And while my production is low, I feel like I am helping the neighborhood anyway – letting the bee-friendly plants go to seed and planting their own anise hyssop (when I can find it), replacing useless landscaping gradually with food-producing plants for me or wildlife. I am taking baby steps, but taking them!
I have 3 kids and strive to make most of our food and clothing. I used to blog but since our baby turned two I’ve been refocusing on real time living. Your writing helps keep me centered and focused on why I’m doing what I’m doing inthose moments where I’m less “on”.
I’ve been solo parenting 3 kids, 3 dogs, 2 cats, and 22 chickens all week and its been intense. Joyful, funny, stressful, angry, all the real stuff but with none of the respite. Last night I got everything done, everyone feed, cleaned, and sleep and then I went out into the backed to close the coop and was stopped in my tracks by a frigid, clear, stay sky. It smelled wonderful, and I stood in the dark under a massive canopy of stars and breathed with my face upturned and my arms spread wide. I stayed still and silent for ten minutes before going on with my night, but oh, the replenishing of spirit, the return of calm, the centering. It was wonderful.
The real part for me would be how clumsy my smart phone is with posting comments – an unfortunate mix of overzealous spellcheck and stubborn buggy functions. My apologies 🙂
Real – the State of ND (where I live)takes a swing at homebirth every legislative session and added rawmilk/herdshares this time around. Wonderful – nothing has passed yet and I am optimistic that it will all be legal for 2 more years! Also wonderful – I can read here where homebirth and raw milk are seen as the beautiful things they are! 🙂
Hi Rachel, I’m trying to be a homesteading mama from the UK. I like to land here for a breathe of fresh air and I’m looking forward to getting to know your farm …
Real is the inspiration you have given me to become healthier and more whole-some in all areas of my life. My family’s lifestyle has almost done a 180 because of a few people like you in my life who have inspired and taught me about living in a way that is w.h.o.l.e. THANK YOU!
i love LuSa and Clean. how i stumble upon your blog is hazy in my memory. i think it was through one particular acquaintance who posted something on facebook. why i stay is because i love it, and the things you share *have* changed my life. or rather, they’ve helped me further down the path that i want to be walking. i’m so glad to be here, and so thankful that you share so much.
Wow, what a cool giveaway, Rachel! I live in southern California with my two daughters and almost one year-old son. I have been enjoying your blog since I started following it some time last fall. Your writing is beautiful, honest, and so relatable.
My world is filled with knock-knock jokes, reading stories, cooking whole foods, herbal medicine, funny chickens, sweet family and love… I stay home with my girl who is 6 and 1/2, and create and celebrate and love. Thanks for your great blog, I love learning about your life, and your loves. It’s such a blessing to see someone really authentic, living and creating a vibrant, real, sweet life.
I’ve been wanting to try your products for some time, but in all honesty, have really tender skin, and don’t want to spend the money on something from afar that we couldn’t use. It would be such a sweet surprise to receive such a great giveaway gift!
I fell in love with your soap and called to place a local order one day…I am so happy you remembered me from our birthing sessions for our now 10! Year olds 🙂 I’ve now moved very far away and still love to visit your blog for inspiration! Thank you for being you, you are wonderful at what you do!
Thank you for your honesty, generosity and inspiration as a parent, small business owner & dreamer. Peace to you all.
I emailed my brother a link to your “Fleeting” blog from last month. He wrote me back, “sobbing my eyes out.” He has a (completely marvelous) six-year-old who recently had her first moment of not wanting him to come to lunch at school with her because it would “embarrass” her. I had so hoped that day was a little further out! Heartbreaking moment, but wonderful in it’s realness, I suppose. And wonderful to think of, despite what will inevitably be lost, what will be gained as the children we love grow and evolve on their own.
This morning, a black speckled bird sang it’s heart out: to the sun, the wind, the universe. I was captivated by it’s marvelous song – part scrape part melody. My daughter’s smile makes my heart strain against my chest like some strong winged bird seeking escape. A feeling unlike any other. Watching my sweethearts face light up when he tends to our daughter – seeing his love for her transform his face…I think how similar we all are. Braving any environment to sing our heart song into whatever winds blow around us.
Something real and wonderful… There are so many things in my life that are real and wonderful, I will just list them off in no particular order:
– my wonderful husband and beautiful kids
– healthy, natural pregnancies and home births
– the gift of being with cancer patients and their families
– sunshine in the desert
– the beautiful Waldorf community we have discovered
– your blog and the bit of simplicity and light it brings to my life
– an open heart
I just love reading your blog (and others like it). You inspire me to be the best mother I can be. I love using craft ideas, and adventure ideas… so thank you for sharing a little of your world and giving me ideas when I need them! 🙂
Well, my family is all over the place. Well, two places actually. I am in Texas with my husband and youngest daughter for a while. My other two big girls are home in Ohio. They were “grown up” this year and stayed home to go to school…college, while the rest of us traveled for work and adventure to Galveston Texas. I still homeschool our little girl and I check out your beautiful blog regularly for good ideas and to see your beautiful world where you even share the troubles, which I really appreciate.
Today’s give away is like a beautiful birthday package…which I have had on my mind as I have been making one for my sweet first baby who will be 21 tomorrow! yikes!
What is real is the first hint of spring outside my door. Our home may be an apartment, but there are trees with blooms right behind my building, and the sun is shining! We are finally over the dreaded stomach bug. My health is REAL, thank God. My baby cuddled up in the sling is soft and sweet and real beauty right here in my arms. My neighbors, all with their windows and doors open too, are cooking on their porches or washing dishes and I can hear their real voices chattering instead of the fake sounds of a t.v. The birds sing their springtime conversations in the really, truly warm air. Life is real today!
I always appreciate your reminders…whether it be to listen, to cherish, or to respect our children. Parenting is hard work and I find I am a much better mama when I draw inspiration from others around me…your blog has been a big part of that!
Now that my little one has started talking, he wakes to nurse and often pulls away to as ‘nummy, nummy’. It fills my heart with such love for this sweet caring little being. Thanks for sharing little glimpses into the wonder that are your little ones.
Fellow Wisconsinite mom here, slogging through this mix of rain/snow/mud we have going on here still. Everything’s a little disgusting and discouraging to look at these days, so your blog is one of that happy places I check every day. Also, I love your stuff. Used to buy it all the time at the People’s Food Co-op in La Crosse when I still lived in that area.
I came here bacause a friend told me you were following the same diet as my family and I. I read often for the inspiration and the knowlege that I’m not the only one living outside the norm. Isn’t it awesome? Thank you for writing!
I must be honest – I love reading your blog – I find it relaxing and real. I homeschool our now 11 (yikes!) year old son and I like to find refreshing new ways to raise and teach him. I have never tried your products but love reading about them and would love to use them! I appreciate all of the bloggers who inspire, create and share so thank you!
My little baby is nearly five months old already! That’s real and wonderful, and really difficult for this mama to accept!
What a generous giveaway! Your products and blog continue to inspire me to do better for my family.
I found your blog over a year ago when I was looking up Simplicity Parenting. I stumbled across your virtual book club, started poking around the blog, and I was immediately hooked. I now read your blog every day. Seriously. Your words connect with me at the deepest of levels – I feel as if you’re an old friend. But, in the strangeness of the internet, you don’t even know I exist. How odd! So let me share with you a little how you’ve impacted my life for the better. My daughter is now 20 months and reading about your parenting journey, from the perspective of having older kids, helps validate and reaffirm the path that my partner and I are choosing. We had a home birth, I exclusively breastfed and am now doing extended breastfeeding, we have a family bed, we center family in our life decision instead of our career, we (try to) follow peaceful parenting…And when I look around at the examples I see at the playground, in the neighborhood, and around town (here in NJ), I can feel pretty weird. Especially with peaceful parenting. And, as you know, there’s so much self-doubt and worry as a new parent. I take great comfort in your voice and experience and in the example of your family. It’s so helpful to see where this path can lead you, the struggles faced and met along the way, and the joy it brings. I have learned so much from you. You’ve pushed my thinking about parenting and helped me evaluate and reevaluate in fruitful ways. I truly feel that you have helped me gain confidence and a solid footing as a parent. And for that I am deeply grateful.
I am embarrassed to say that I have not tried any of your products yet! How awful! I plan to ask for some for my birthday 🙂 They look truly amazing. And, like you, I really care what are in my and my family’s products. So thank you, also, for creating them and putting them out in the world!
I am trying to break out of my shell. I have signed up to volunteer multiple times at my daughter’s school during their book fair.
I love the simple beauty you bring to your blog. It reminds me to embrace simplicity in my own life and see the beauty all around me. Thank you.
Today, my whole family is sick. Yucky sick. I’m pregnant, and have been sick all the way along, so this is a double whammy. But we did manage to step outside to check the cold frames today and our spinach is growing. Growing! Among the snow. In spite of the sick. Our own little supply. The tomatoes we planted in our kitchen in October are turning red. And even on bad days, I know that we are extremely lucky for our unusual life.
I’m so glad I stumbled thru cyber world into you, your blog, your business and your lovely family.
Our family bid on your Waldorf baby during the craft hope for Haiti. It was our girls first doll! Then by chance I happened on your business website looking for something to help a diaper rash. Thru your business I found your blog. I felt so lucky!!!
Your products rock our world! My husband gets so bummed when we run out of soap and we still by the booty balm for our hands and cuts and windburned cheeks and luscious smell. Your blog inspires me. We set an intention board up and things are happening!
Thank You for sharing your life and passion with all of us!
As for real, Magnolia ( my girl) is asking for some music to be put on and I need to think of something for supper…….
I have three beautiful children. We have some different syndromes in our family and each and every day is a challenge. But we laugh and hug each other often, often in a day, because it´s our way to handle hard things. We are very close to each other and a good team in spite of the “syndromes”. 😀
Sorry for my poor english…I sit in Sweden and now it´s time for bed… Good night and thank you for a lovely blog and a lovely giveaway!
/U.
I found your blog recently from the Whole Food Kitchen class.
Here is something that I am rejoicing right now. We have six children, one of which had a stomach virus earlier this week. Today another boy texted home to say he was feeling sick. I just found out that it’s probably not a stomach virus, but the fact that after he ate his lunch, he had a party in Spanish class and ate approximately 32 pieces of fudge, a few cupcakes, a cookie, a pancake, lasagna, a big bowl of ice cream and hot chocolate made with whole milk. Oh my. It’s a good thing this boy runs track.
What a beautiful and generous giveaway!
Your blog is a recent discovery for me – and I am very grateful I found it. It makes me feel normal, unjudged and accepted and part of a wider community out there – especially on the days when mothering is very challenging and I feel so all alone. Some of your posts feel like someone has climbed into my head and given voice to how I think and feel! Thank you for understanding and for sharing – truly awesome blog goodness!
I come because your parenting advice/guidance/opinions resonate with me. I will always find comfort in your realization that just because a partnership is 50/50, parenting doesn’t always work the same.
Thanks!
Something real, I already have two beautiful kids but i desperately want to be pregnant again.
Wow! What an amazing giveaway. I am a mama living and learning along the way. My amazing almost four year old teaches me so much and we are expecting another little in the fall. I am inspired by empowering homeschooling blogs because it is the path we plan to take. Your whooping cough remedies helped us and a few if my friends. I share your blog with many. Congrats on all the “likes” you deserve it!
Hello, I found you after I read Simplicity Parenting and thought that there must be more about it “out there”. I stumbled across your book club. I had never read a blog before – I was hooked – you resonated with me so deeply – and transformed my life. It has been about a year and a half now. I learned about Nourishing Traditions, GAP and Wild Fermentation- I have lost weight, and in my community at least 10 Nourish Traditions have now been bought where as before it was unheard of. Parenting, what would I have done without you! I had been so stressed and at my wits end, beside myself with guilt and helplessness – I used to check up Clean daily to keep perspective and come find the path of love with my children. We are all fine now and life is wondrous, then life was so hard you were truly my life line. I have spoken about you and accidentally said friend instead of blogger 😉 You are pure inspiration and sincerity – I thank you will all my heart.
Wherever you go, there you are. Thank goodness for this blog. It helps me parent the way I want to and not the way I was raised. <3 Thanks. Jess & Family
Real stuff from me to you: Sometimes, when I feel a little lonely, or a little insecure for parenting the way we do, choosing unschooling, eating the stuff we eat (or not eating all the other stuff) or whatever, I come here, and it makes me feel better. Thanks for doing what you do, and for helping those of us who are on a similar path.
baby number one due to enter the world any day now! love reading what you have to say here!
Real & wonderful? My oldest turned five last month, and my baby turned two (TWO?!?!) last weekend. And after months of discussion we finally made the decision to homeschool next year…and I’m excited and terrified and overwhelmed and so, so very hopeful.
It all started with your soap. It was love at first scrub. Then my sister sent me pretty much every baby item you make for my first child (and now i include some LuSa goodies in each baby shower gift i make!). The next thing i know, years have gone by and i read every single blog post. Why? For the beauty. For the great ideas. For the community of kindred spirits linked by your well-turned words. As i slowly pick my way along the meandering path to living the life i truly want, i come here to be inspired. thank you for the wonder.
Did I miss it? Doesn’t matter I want to post anyway.
I got a Lark book in the mail today. It has a necklace I designed in it!
I submitted it over a year ago. Nice surprise.
Where to begin? Reading you blog is one of the consistent things that I look forward to in my day. When work has me down, you’ve usually written just what I need to read. Your free spirit is inspiring and helps me to remember that following ones bliss really can work. Hanging on to that truth is often what I need to remember when dealing with difficult situations. A cat on the lap, happy pigs, and a wonderful husband, along with you’re inspirational wisdom helps me to keep it all real…and wonderful.
Love this blog and we love LuSa.
Just had our parent teacher conference for our kindergartner at our Waldorf school, and hearing about our daughter from her teacher’s perspective makes me so excited to see who she becomes in her life. Such a gift to be part of.
Today my second daughter had her 1 month check up..she was born at 4lbs 11oz is EBF and today is at a wonderful weight of 6lbs 12oz!! (and i love your soap) 😉
I found you after visiting a friend who uses your products. I washed my hands in hee bathroom and knew I had to have that soap!! 🙂 we’ve never gone back. love your soap, sleeping potion, chest rub, and booty balm. I love your simple, prioritized lifestyle as well. it’s refreshing and encouraging!
I read your blog and follow you on FB. Your blog is so refreshing and inspiring to me. My daughter will be 3 in a few weeks. I try to raise her much the way you raise your children, but we live in a semi-big city. I love reading your blog, especially after days of being around parents who just don’t get it. 🙂
Your writing exudes warmth & love, and is inspirational in its simplicity and honesty. Thank you for sharing. I’m a french Canadian reiki practitioner, and mom of 2 beautiful children 🙂
I get seriously excited when I see a new post pop up from your blog. It’s not just what you say or how you say it — it’s the lifestyle you embody and share with us. I always close the page feeling a lot like, well, Clean. It’s a place for me to get refreshed and renewed!
I found your blog just over a year ago, when I was about to do what Pete did a few years back – quit a really well paying job and go to the country to do something I’ve always dreamed of. Ironically, what I’d always dreamed of was running away to the country to start my own little soap company! You’ve been an inspiration to me since that day – the way you run your business, and raise your family, and the joy that you live your life with! Keep up the joy, it warms the hearts of many!
real = i often don’t think i can live up to the task of parenting my amazing, spectacular, children. and i love how you shine across the miles.
It’s a precious space you have created with your blog! Gems of goodness! Thank you and blessings!
I read very few blogs but yours is one of the ones that I must read because you are so real and inspiring. Thank you for sharing through thick and thin. Also, we’re quirky and non-conformist too.
Oh Rachel…you are amazing, what an incredibly generous giveaway!
So many things here are REAL & WONDERFUL – where should I start!?!? I visit you here because YOU are REAL & WONDERFUL!!! Your blog offers me both inspiration & validation… & for that I must say Thank You! I also have to share that your MINT Sugar Scrub is what keeps me grounded – sometimes I just open the lid & INHALE DEEPLY… & your ‘citrus blend’ lip balm is all that my daughter has ever used on her lips – that is definitely wonderful! One more REAL – tomorrow I celebrate 39 trips around the sun – what a journey!!!
** Oh & you don’t even need to include that scoop of WI snow-mud mix, if I am chosen – because we are experiencing it right along with you!(;
So sorry for the repeat! Didn’t see it show the 1st time and I thought the computer was being squirrely.
We love you guys because you just make real, wonderful stuff. It’s just that simple! No rashes on my baby’s skin, keeps my skin clear, smells awesome. Just real, wonderful stuff! Thank you for all that you do. We are on vacation in New Orleans right now, and I needed an unexpected supply of cream for my son’s bottom. I didn’t know what to do when I couldn’t find my LuSa! xo
I’ve been enjoying your products since you were Queen Bee (and, uh, I still refer to you as that. And my family knows who I’m talking about). Talking to you at the Farmer’s Market in Madison always put a smile on my face. Having my son and getting your products gave me peace. Still using those products on a now 5 year old brings that smile back to my face. I know you believe in what you do and I believe in you too.
I’m ridiculously excited that Sage has sachets again. I might just buy him out. I have the ones that I bought from him almost 6 years ago.
Libby- One of your fan girls :).
I found Clean a few years ago through a homemade toothpaste link at progressive pioneer, I think. And I’m happy to say that your words (and your soaps/lotion bars 🙂 have transformed my life. Real and wonderful? To sum it up… My daughter, born almost 5 years ago, turned my world upside down. There was a lot of screaming and very little sleep. For a very long time. My husband and I moved 1000 miles away from anyone we knew so he could immerse himself in grad school. My daughter was 2 months old when we moved. It was hard. I found very few people I could connect with in our new location. When I found your blog it was heaven sent. I had very little computer time as mine was not a “content to sit and be with me” type baby, and I found I only had time to keep up with about one blog, even though there were several that I liked. Yours was the one that stuck. I can’t explain how your words have resonated to my core so many times and how you helped me find peace and beauty and yes, sparkle, in motherhood and in my daughter that I struggled for so long to find. I continue to struggle often, but I like the path I’m on and feel like we’re progressing in the right direction as a family. The path I’m on is one that you guided me to. It sounds crazy to me to think a woman I don’t really know has made such a significant impact in helping me find my path, but I can put it no other way. Thank you 🙂
I started coming here because I purchased some booty balm and fell in love. It’s still my go-to when people ask me what baby products I use. But I keep coming back because I love reading your blog. Love the calm feeling I get, love the beautiful pictures, the whole deal. I hope you continue to blog for a long time!
You said “heartburn”. I heard “pregnant”. Congratulations!
Wonderful! I remember meeting you as well. I saw your cooking class brochure and wanted to ask you about it but didn’t have a chance.
Thank you Stephanie.
Amazing and inspiring. Here’s to perseverance!
Yes! I do too.
Oh!
I’m so glad. Thanks for “getting it”.
Love you and your amazing family, Angie! I’ll get you the acorn hook-up (of course!).
Lovely.
Blessing Caren. Hugs to you across the sea.
~ kindness ~
So fun. Thanks for sharing your story, Shell.
Hugs, Jackie.
Sage! Congratulations.
I love it!
Oh my. Sage was just a toddler at that show!
So beautiful. Thank you, Alex. I love the idea of a personal mission statement as well!
What a wonderful giveaway! I love your reasons for choosing each of the items. My real this morning is that my husband and I are taking turns catching up on rest, as our 5 yr old woke up last night suffering from a nasty stomach bug. The wonderful here is that my amazing husband cleaned up the mess while I was able to tend to our little man. Additionally, our son seems to be on the mend, our 2 daughters don’t seem to be showing any symptoms, and fingers crossed, hubby & I will manage to get through unscathed!
So sweet. And I love how LuSa/Queen Bee is woven into your story. <3
Oh, my. I need to finish those chairs! 😉 Thank you for your words.
I agree!
Sending blessings to you.
Yes. It is a hard journey. We all falter, but intention – and getting back on track – means so much.
Congratulations on your business!
Thank you Ana.
So glad you made that transition home that you wanted!
No worries! I’ll delete the extras. 🙂
Thanks Tameka!
One thing I try to remember when emotions rise around the subject of vaccination is that we all truly want the same thing: for our children to be healthy and safe from harm. That’s something to try to keep in your heart. I hope that you and your partner find resolution and a common truth. Blessings, mama!
Congrats!! My family & I love your products! I’m not sure how we ever lived without the sleep potion or the chin & cheek balm. We are also from Wisconsin & love to support local companies, especially small family run ones! Some exciting news for us is that we are excepting baby #3 in the fall! We are so thrilled & can wait to use your products on him or her! Thanks for your wonderful blog, keep doing what your doing! 🙂
Lupine and I JUST made a batch this morning (she’s heading to a birthday party in the afternoon). Glad you love it, too. I’ll tell my Ireland-obsessed mother that her dough recipe is being loved there, too!
Beauty.
We recently read about Maslenitsa! How fun. I spent one summer in the Amur River basin in Russia. So much beauty. I was here: http://www.savingcranes.org/whats-new/2011/08/field-notes-muraviovka-parks-first-captive-bred-crane/
Found you from Soulemama…used to live in Viroqua….love having alternative products to try and use for my kiddos!
We’re on year 18 right now! Amazing.
Here’s to kindness.
I thought of this last night when I went outside to turn off a light that was left on. It inspired me to also stop, stretch, breathe, and connect. Thank you.
Have I mentioned that my milk is illegal? Um, yeah. Hang tight over there, ND!
Brilliant! Congrats.
I get it. I have tender skin too. (Thus the product line.) If it helps, we unconditionally guarantee everything. No exceptions.
Aloha, old friend! We miss you.
Oh. My. Big tears. Thank you…
I found your blog after deciding to try your soap and sleep potion through a coop order group I deal with on facebook. Checked out the blog and loved it. I’m planning to homeschool and really enjoyed your posts about that part of your lies. We also loooove the products we’ve purchased so far and intend to continue buying 🙂 .. something real: I truly admire you for all you do! And something wonderful: heavenly hash ice cream when you’re sick and feeling indulgent 😉
Thanks for that.
I remember those days…
This is beauty. It makes my heart glad.
I love that doll! She is precious. So glad she found a sweet home. <3
i really like to checking and read your blog just to ground myself after a home school day . it so good to see how simple and easy life can be
Hugs to you, Nikka. I’m glad things are on-track.
Here’s to finding a new path.
Oh! So sweet.
Blessings, strong mama!
Thank you.
How wonderful!
I love the honesty put forth here. That’s why I keep coming back.
And how we are all just trying our best to be the best we can be.
And how no matter what, enjoying the days seems to be of prime importance.
I dig it.
Real. Raw. About me. 3 weeks after my 4th (and supposed to be last) baby was born my husband had emergent open heart surgery followed by months of complications, I follow you, clean, and other wonderful blogs as a way to remind myself that this survival mode we have lived in since October 2011 is not forever. That as hard as life has been, my husband didn’t die from an undetected heart defect….that our lives have purpose and meaning and it is going to be okay. And most importantly? That I am not alone.
I came across this blog during my first pregnancy, and I now have two beautiful girls, and still keep reading regularly. You inspire me to be a better mother and a better person. Thank you!
I follow your blog because when I read it I find a sense of peace in my stressful commute- and meeting-filled life. It makes me smile.
For years now I’ve been living in the city planning and hoping for a return to the wilderness, to a slower, more ‘homestead’ kind of life and also dreaming of the day we would be blessed with a child. I’ve been living vicariously thru your blog for years now! It’s beautiful to see your family really living it, the good life, it’s an inspiration to me, thank you. For everything! And now we are finally pregnant after many years of wondering if it would ever happen for us, and we are plotting our escape from the city!! Blessed be, life is wonderous!
I found you through a comment you posted on Soulemama–about making cashmere long underwear for Lupine. I was very intrigued!
When I first started reading your blog, I was living in France and working as an English teacher. I lived in a house with several other people, including a mother and her three year old. Kindness and respect have always been guiding principles in my interactions with children; in France, this idea is beyond radical–it’s simply unheard of. I had the hardest time watching people treat children disrespectfully, in the elementary school classes I was teaching and at home. Your blog was like a beacon. Through your posts, I was reminded that there are others out there who share my deep belief in the importance of kindness in our interactions with people of all sizes, and who value spending time with children and dwelling in their world for a while.
I come to your blog day after day because you talk about both the easy things that I love (sewing, knitting, crafting, cooking, playing outside), and the hard things that make life meaningful–peaceful parenting, and thinking deeply about what we want to get out of life. THANK YOU for putting a piece of yourself out here for us. For being willing to risk getting hurt in order to express yourself, and inspire us. I LOVE coming here each day; it’s something I always look forward to.
I come here because you are real. We share many similar thoughts, but you always make me think outside my own box, and I love that. I respect and appreciate you!
Hmm. I can’t even remember how I found your blog, it’s been so long!
Something real and wonderful… my family of 4 is building our own house on our own land with our own hands. It’s so gratifying to lift solid white oak beams onto posts together with my husband, knowing that in a few short months, we’ll have created our own shelter, and a (very tiny) home.
Dear Rachel,
Yours is the first ever blog that I looked at. Really. And you really inspired me in many ways. Not only because you are being counter-cultural and living in the heart land (ME TOO! Hello from Iowa!) but because you wrote about life…the grit and the glitter. I appreciated that for many reasons. One, I didn’t feel so alone anymore as a homeschooler and a self-employed family(we do not have a large Homeschool community here and my hubby is a cabinet-maker with a shop in our two care garage so he can be home and I am an intuitive counselor.) And for two, it inspired me to write! Thirdly, you’ve inspired me to be more creative with my kids!!!I have subscribed to many other blogs and they have come and gone. Yours and simple homeschool (which I found through you!) are the only ones that have stayed in my inbox. Thank you for putting yourself out there to be seen. I see you and am grateful. Lots of love and support!! Jai
Dear Rachel,
Your blog is the first ever blog that I read. Really. And you inspired me in many ways. First, I love that you are living counter-culturally in the Heart Land (Me too. Hello from Iowa!) and that your blogs speak about life…the grit and the glitter! Your words saved me from the isolated feelings that I was having since there is not a big community of homeschoolers in our town and not many of my friends are living the self employed route (my hubby is a cabinet maker with his shop in our two car garage so he an be home and I am an intuitive counselor.) Second, you have inspired me to write. I have wanted to for some time now and had thought about blogging, but your words made it seem like a reality I could achieve. Last but not least, you inspire me to be more homemade and crafty with my kids.
Since I subscribed to your blog my inbox has seen many other subscriptions come and go. Yours and Simple Homeschool (which I found through you!) are the only ones that have had staying power. I look forward every day to see if you have blogged. It’s like a friend in my inbox. So thank you for putting yourself out there to be seen. I see you and am grateful! Love and Light. Jai
Sorry for the double post. I am still getting used to this technology thing!
I keep coming back because my family is moving to a more “clean” lifestyle and your blog encourages me and inspires me!! We are changing what we eat, how we spend money, etc. thank you for sharing with us!!
What an amazing and generous giveaway! I love your products and am so grateful that you continue to write your blog as you do. It has been an inspiration to me while parenting my beautifully spirited son and now my sweet baby girl who has arrived with a whole new set of challenges, this time physical. I really appreciate your posts on NVP in particular as they help me stay true to the path that seems the most natural for us.
I found your Etsy shop first through a facebook friend who loved your soaps and became intrigued. When I saw you had a blog, I added you to my handful of blogs I check in with every morning over my cup of coffee at 6am before I go wake my three daughters for the day and accept two more girls for before-school-care to make ends meet as a single mom. I find that when I sit with my coffee and my few blog families who choose natural, sustainable, gentle lives like we try to, I am calmer and ready to meet my day the way I want to. And if that 20minute piece of my morning is overlooked I feel incomplete and stressed. I never comment but I check in DAILY to see if you’ve written anything. Thank you for sharing your family.
I discovered your divinely smelling Baby Wipe Juice when cloth diapering for the first time with my third child. That product alone made us wish we had cloth diapered our other two! Then I came across your blog through another homeschool blog and just loved the peaceful tone of it. We recently moved to the country and are getting chickens and although I have started homeschooling you introduced me to the idea of unschooling and make it sound very appealing. I love your photographs as well. Thanks for what you do!
This wonderful and exciting week my baby girl learned how to wave! Seeing her chubby little hand flapping in the air just fills my heart right up to the top.
A friend from Point came to visit and shared some of your bar lotion. I looked it up and was pleasantly surprised to see that I knew you – mostly in a round about mutual friends way. I saw you were writing from the town we had at the top of our “Lets move there” list for a decade. So, while I started reading (1st post read was your 1st Easter post) because it was neat to have some shared circles, I kept reading because you see glasses half full (and drink from them with glass straws). I’ve made nearly all the recipes you’ve posted. But what I love the most – you cause me to stop and reflect and to savor more moments with my three children. A sincere thank you.
Did you know you are “my” blogger? My husband has long ago stopped asking, “who?” when I start my sentence with, “Rachel wrote…” or “Rachel said…”. To think it all started with Baby Wipe Juice.
My husband and I decided this week that we’re homeschooling our son for kindergarten next year. Heck we’ve been doing it for five years already.
Real and wonderful… my 18 month old son. He is wonderful, but it’s been a long, REAL road for me in becoming a mother. I am always learning and he is always teaching me. He came 7 weeks early and I wasn’t prepared. In many ways I feel like I’m still not prepared, but I am grateful every day that he accepts me for who I am and loves without question. I still have much to learn from him!
Hi Rachel. We are a family of 5 living in Cape Town, South Africa. Summer is waning, but most times we hardly notice. We leave early for work and school and we arrive too late to spend some time outdoors. (OK, I lie – the two boys 9 and 8 jumps on the trampoline while we try to feed their beautiful 1 year old sister…) Headless chickens: that’s what we are. To read your blog, is to take a breath. It is to know other choices could be made if we are willing to take the risk. Thank you! 🙂
My friend posted today on Facebook that she had been feeling very frustrated with her toddler when she remembered that God forgives her and is patient with her even when she does something wrong over and over again, and she should aim to do the same for her child. It just so happens I have a very bright, willful two-year-old who also repeats unsafe or unkind behavior sometimes, even though I’ve tried so many times to teach him not to do those things. I get frustrated, too. I needed to hear just what my friend wrote today. And I think, whether you (collective you) believe in a higher power or not is irrelevant–we all, at times, do things we know to be “wrong” (wherever our definition of wrong and right comes from, be it religion or elsewhere), and we all want second (and, okay, third) chances. Such a useful thing to remember when striving to practice the gentle parenting that you talk about here, Rachel–my own fallibility. 🙂 I’m so thankful for your beautiful blog and for friends like mine who help me “reset” my thinking when I get overwhelmed by parenting.
What an amazing and generous giveaway! I’m not sure how I started coming to your blog, but now I check it every day. 🙂 I admire your spirit! Just yesterday I followed your directions for freezer paper stencilling. It worked really well!
How lovely is this giveaway! So true to who you are and how you love… Right now enjoying some down time as I sip coffee & snack on dark chocolate during the wee hours of the morning. Both real & oh so wonderful.
I come here because of the fresh inspiration and perspective that I receive from you and the way you are raising your family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing who you are with us.
I’m living vicariously through Clean, trying to lead a more organic life in the suburbs. I enjoy your blog so much! Keep up the great writing and pics.
Every once in a while I go for days without checking my google reader …. but then I see you post stuff on Facebook and it reminds me to go check out yours!! If I’m going to be honest, I’m actually a little bit jealous at all the fun things you guys do together. My kids are 4.5, 3, and 1 and most days, we’re surviving BY THE SKIN OF OUR TEETH. I read your blog and it helps pull me forward a couple of years to a time when we can enjoy each other and the days a bit more than living snack-to-snack and poop-to-poop!!
Thanks for your beautiful writing and heartfelt sharing. You’re an inspiration!
You and your family are such an inspiration….that why I enjoy coming here! Thanks for the great giveaway 🙂
i came for the toothpaste recipe (still using it!) and stayed for the good times! thanks for sharing so much of you, rachel.
I read you because you are fun, your living your dream and honoring nature.
I also feel like I’m accepted here. My two mom family wouldn’t be alone if we all had a picnic. And yes we love your products too. Sometimes buying direct, sometimes stocking up when we are near your co-op.
Life is good. Cheers.
Denise
I love that you make so many things at home, especially with your kids. We have three girls and are looking for ways to simplify our lives. Things can get pretty stressful just in daily life, so a good project is always welcome.
My 17-month old son keeps me real and constantly reminds me of the important things in life: geese flying in the air, feeding the birds daily, playing outside, relaxing with sand & water, smiling because life is happy.
To be honest, I don’t recall how I stumbled upon your blog, but I liked what I saw and bookmarked it for later when I had more time to visit. I’d like to say I was retired, but my husband and I babysit our three grandbabies 40 hours a week (Monday-Thursday)–5 years, 4.5 years, and 3 years. They are long, exhausting days but the hugs and love is worth it. Too, we get to laugh all day long! It started out we were going to help get them through the “new born baby stage” and five years later we’re still at it. But it is a full-time job being aware of what I put in my grandkids bodies or what they use to wash their hands or put on their lips. I’m glad I found your blog and intend to spend more time looking through it.
We love your things because they are local and natural so when the dog gets into the booty balm it is semi okay.
I loved when you moved to your farm & all your dreams for your future. We will be moving to our small hobby farm soon, we are so excited to get out there. I will look for your soap at the farmer’s market this summer!
Awhile ago you wrote a post about a girl in a store that sparkled. That post changed how I look at my own super high energy 8 year old girl, who sparkles so brightly that she is blinding. I, at times, find myself losing my patience with her. And, when I do, I try to think of that post, to take a deep breath, and to see her for all that she really is…an amazingly strong, independent, free-thinking, smart, sparkly little soul. I can’t wait to see all that she grows up to be. Thank you so much for changing my perspective on things.
This is a beautiful giveaway, and a great example of the reason I follow your blog. As a teacher and mama to two littles (who are quickly becoming not little anymore) I seek out authentic voices from people (okay mostly from women) who share my values. And, I find that in your blog, from the focus on simplicity to the dedication to real food, this blog real and I appreciate that!
I come to your blog to satisfy part of me that wants to live life like you – when city life is overloading my mind, when I feel lonely among all these people. Peace in your heart – that is what you have that I admire so much and want to learn:). I know, I know I have to find it, not learn it…
The REAL thing is that I am so tired of city.. and I know I wouldn’t last long in the farm:) I need nature soooo much and your blog makes me feel like we are all so connected. That is the wonderful thing! Your blog makes me feel like I can do it and it will be ok.. (I’m in the dark place right now and hopefully it won’t last very long) Like your family is friend of mine..:)
Keep doing whatever magic you are doing! I wish there were more families like yours!
I’m new to your blog and when I first read a post here, I felt like I had just run into an old friend I’d forgotten about. Sounds super cheesy, I know. But I love what you are doing…thanks for being such good inspiration!
xo Jules
We have 4 kids, and since reading your blog we have chosen to make and use our own toothpaste… which is hit or miss with our little ones. We also have FINALLY decided to homeschool (or unschool specifically). I think reading about your guys’ experiences has really helped with that decision, and the kids are very excited for it too start (they are finishing the school year, and then it’s a go!). All while I am going to school for nursing, and my husband is either working full time or getting deployed to the middle east. A lot going on, and some inspiration from many sources… including you and your family. Thank you.
This week, my oldest daughter learned that maple syrup comes out of a tree and gasped, her eyes wide and mouth agape as she stared at the tree. Living in Brooklyn, I have to seek out opportunities like that for her. I appreciate the inspiration I find here for all kinds of topics- guiding learning, living simply, eating healthfully, parenting gently- and I love seeing how similar ideas can lead families down vastly different paths that often lead to a very similar endpoint. Oh, and I love that what I learn here can actually be put to use in my life.
I’ve been waiting my whole life to be a mother. And at 40, the stars aligned and here we are—a little family of three hoping to grow to four soon. But I had nearly 20 years as a childless adult (not without children–I know and enjoy plenty of other people’s kids but without my own kids) to create a life. And the transition from the “life I have” to the “life I want” is taking a slower pace that I want it to. I’m on a quest for balance, transitions, acceptance. I feel sandwiched between an old work life and a new mama life, between endless hours of being my daughter’s first teacher and the rush to and from a day care four days a week, between the desire to return to my rural routes and enjoying life in the city, between taking care of my daughter and taking care of me, between being super aunt and being super mom at family get-togethers. And those are just the tip of the iceberg. Your blog, which I found via a friend of many Viroqua transplants, is where I go when I give myself permission to be in the “life I want.” It inspires me to create the birthday traditions I want, to consider homeschooling, to ponder when I can put a knife in my daughter’s hand at side as I make apple pie, and more. It makes me know the transitions are happening. Thanks.
A wonderful thing- My dad is coming to visit in a couple weeks. It is always special to get to spend time together, especially now as he’s in his 80’s.
When my youngest was a baby and I was very sleep deprived and overwhelmed with meeting his needs and the older 2 kids as well I started feeling like I was losing myself. I started doing 2 things to treat myself everyday – one was showering in the morning with your soap and the other was eating a little square of dark chocolate.
I read your blog because your words are authentic and make me think and grow. I hope it doesn’t sound weird to say that I hear them in my head especially when I’m not “parenting peacefully” or “being in the moment”. Your words inspire me to be a better parent and make more informed choices. Congrats on the thousands of facebook and blog fans.
something wonderful for today… we all got out for a wander in our woods today while it was warner and thunk out loud of plans for little hideaway spaces and clearings after our new property was vacant for many years. Now the cold wind is blowing and we’re happy inside by the fire eating popcorn. Happy moments.
thank you so much for sharing tidbits of your life, crafting, products and family rhythm.
Blessings and good wishes to you all.
From Sunny Nova Scotia…..
I think I found your blog linked from another mom’s blog, but quickly found you on Facebook so that little posts of inspiration would show up in my news feed every day 🙂 I like reading words of everyday life from a parent who just really tries to keep it real for her family… I am trying to go more natural in many aspects of our life, and body products is one of the toughest – that is finding good ones I like! And everything down to playing with real toys (not so much plastic) and cooking from the heart… I think it’s great you’ve found an outlet for your words and your love of many things – maybe one day I will find mine 🙂
Real and wonderful = walking in the bedroom to find little sis with her head on big bro’s chest as they watch a show he has long outgrown. She asked him to please watch with her and he agreed so he could cuddle her. That’s the wonderful. That it made up for hearing a growl of ‘stay out of my room’ earlier that day is the real. haha
Real and wonderful: we’re starting month three of the adoptive placement of our second child, a daughter, 9 years old. Not always easy but so rewarding as we watch her grow and change into a more confident, loved person. Thanks for what you share on your blog!
Your blog and business have inspired me for years. When I found out I was pregnant 4 months ago, one of the first things I did was scour your blog with all the pregnancy/baby advice I could find to ‘pin.’ I can’t wait to cloth diaper my baby, breast feed, baby wear, etc. thanks to you!!
<3 nicole
I come here because I like the way my closet smells. (I keep my backup bars of Lusa soap in there…)
I also come here because I find inspiration in small ways from the adventures and crafts you show us – without feeling like a personal failure.
Thank you for both!
I honestly cannot remember how I found this blog, butI do know it’s kept me coming back.
Because I LOVE watching a family live it’s dreams and care for one another in such amazing ways.
You keep me upbeat even during the most trying homeschool days.
I found your blog after my babies were too big to be worn any longer(my youngest is 5) but I so enjoy reading your words on babies and mommyhood.I have always felt like the odd momma out–attached parenting wasn’t a practice one did–regulation and definitely no co-sleeping! Your little space lets me know it was all worth it. You have inspired me in the last year to spend more time enjoying my Littles and enjoy them for who they are-your tutorials are fantastic! I can not thank you enough. Can’t wait for your crown pattern- I am super excited!
We have two beautiful girls (3 years and 15 months). My husband stays at home with them and grows vegetables, cans sauces, and raises pasture-fed animals. I am a veterinarian for shelter animals. We love your products and similar parenting.
I come here because your blog makes me feel fresh and happy, and that anything is possible. Also, I used to live in Wisconsin, and sometimes your pictures make me miss it. 🙂
I only have one jar of canned tomatoes left from last summer, and it fills me with sadness that there will be no more until August when they are ripe in the garden, but also with pride that I grew so much food!
I found your products at the Living Green Expo a couple of years ago and I’m hooked! 🙂 (Especially anything you make that has LAVENDER in it!) (I was sad to lose my healing lip balm in Florida this past Christmas and I haven’t gotten around to replacing it yet. 🙁 )
Thank you so much for your blog and FB pages! You make me think twice about the products I’ve always used in the past and that I CAN make some changes that will benefit my husband and myself!
Something real- the winter is dragging on too long and I can’t WAIT for it to be over! My husband suffers from depression and the cold/snow is really getting to him by this point. It has been a tough winter! Spring can’t come soon enough!
First time mom and I absolutely love watching my 4 month learn new things and I love learning new things about her. Congrats on so many fans!
I am here because I love all the natural, homegrown life you have created. I fantasize about moving near you so we can be neighbors and knit and homeschool together 🙂 Often on a rough day I will think “what would Rachel do” and proceed accordingly. Thank you for sharing your life with all of us out here!
In 2006, my husband and I chose to move to Gays Mills for a new life. We didn’t anticipate our lives changing so much simply by living in The Driftless Region, but it has helped us forge an entirely new lifestyle.
First, I came here because you were a local business that had products in several stores that I frequent (like the Viroqua Food Coop). You and your products intrigued me.
Then, for reasons still unexplained, I have had six miscarriages in the past few years. Somewhere along this process was when we made the decision to live a more natural life. From choosing local food sources to reducing chemicals present in our lives, we’ve been making changes, big and small, over the last couple years. Honestly, these miscarriages have been a big motivator in switching to natural products (thinking that maybe synthetic products had a hand in causing my body to reject pregnancies). But now that we’ve switched, I’m so thankful for the research we’ve done and the changes we’ve made; it just feels GOOD to know we’re taking care of ourselves. Your products are in line with our lifestyle changes, and we feel good to use them. I even started a blog called Simply Driftless to journal some of our progress.
Now, we’ve decided to adopt a child. Having HOPE that we’ll eventually find our family makes me happy. Knowing I’m a mother of six babies that I will never hold is heartbreaking and sad, but I am hopeful that we may soon have a baby or child in our home. So we’re preparing. From getting a nursery ready, buying cloth diapers, collecting books (LOTS of books!), and starting to make/sew/build many of the things we’ll need for a baby, I’ve found joy in the possibilities.
And that, Rachel, is why I’m here today. There is joy in the possibilities.
I’m expecting baby #4 and I am thrilled to be able to use your products this pregnancy! I love they way you inspire me to be a better parent even in the most challenging of times. I also love your laundry soap recipe, it is the only laundry soap I use now.
Real – I have never felt more alive than the past 9 months of being a first-time mother. The lows are the lowest and the highs are the highest! There are moments when I feel my heart is going to soar out of my chest and other times when I am not sure I can survive one more night of constant nursing.
Wonderful – I adore using all your products since I know what they are made of and where they come from. I trust you with my baby’s health and well being, using your products daily on her delicate skin and in the air she breathes. Thank you for making local, quality products that are a joy to use!
I’ll say something wonderful about Lisa is that’s ok? I love that our second child is 19months old and we just finished our first bottle of your wipe spray! We started using it when my now four year old was just a little toddler!
I’m from the Midwest, but moved away at 18 and haven’t been back. When I had my daughter, I started to pay more attention to healthy living and family. Your company has both.
What is real and sweet and true for me is the amazingness of the very intentional family — family within the four walls of my home, and the larger “love family” — that we have been lucky enough to create for ourselves.
I’m happy because even though we had two inches of snow yesterday in eastern Wisconsin and it was cold, cold, cold today, the light is shifting, the days are longer, and I can feel the beginning of Spring.
I found out about your products by visiting your stand at the Saturday morning farmers market:) found my way here from Facebook 🙂 love your products, your blog and your outlook. <3
I love reading your blog…the posts resonate within me and help me to further re-affirm the choices that we have made as a family in our home, and the way that we live our lives.
Actually, today is the first time I stumbled across your blog, but certainly not my last. I read your poem ‘Fleeting’ and it took my breath away. Our family was made through adoption. I waited over five years for my daughter. It was nearly unbearable. I cherish each moment with her. I reveled in her toddlerhood and I’m cherishing each new turn…learning to read, riding a bike, the endless string of questions about everything under the sun. Each day, the enormity of my love for her stuns me.
Something wonderful….I love the impact people can have in stranger’s lives through this here the Internet. You are a total stranger to me, but then you’re not because you share your life, your dreams, your wonderful products with all of us. You make the world a better place, with your own two hands, and really we can all do that if we want. Thanks for being wonderful Rachel!
I love your unconventional notions about parenting. You make me think, and rethink some of my parenting decisions. Thank you for that.
Our fourth baby was born last year with spina bifida. 90 percent of these babes need a shunt to drain fluid from around their brains. She just turned one last week and had an MRI on Thursday, and still no shunt for her! And for us that is very wonderful.
Oh no, it seems my lovely comment disappeared! It was so well written too! 😉 The gist was this: you’re an inspiration to me, my family, and my own tiny soap company!
Something wonderful? My daughter gets married in less than 2 weeks! And we will have our first sweet grandbaby in August!! LOVE!
That should say Lusa!!! Thanks so much autocorrect!
Thank You! I definitley need to get some Arnica and Booty Balm.
I don’t remember exactly when or how I stumbled on your blog, but it has been years and always seems to be exactly what I need at the right moment. Always relevant and inspiring. I adore your honesty and ability to make me take a deep breath and remind me of the Mom I strive to be. Thank you!
And my favorite moment of my day……crawling into bed with 3 month old son at the end of the day. Sleeping curled around his sweet warm body brings me so much joy and with 2 big brothers together in their bed and a hubby who always stays up much later, it is our moment together.
Something real: we have been an unemployed family for over 2.5 years, with no end in sight. The beauty of it? My cooking has improved, we are eating healthier, I make more ‘products’ at home (I LOVE your recent chai recipe), and we have been able to spend more time together as a family. This also means that special treats have become more rare. I have even stopped frequenting the thrift stores. Which has led to a whole other level of craftiness in using what I have. I value your sharing of ideas, recipes, and honest words. Thank you.
I am trying to be the best Mama that I can be to our little boy. Because he is in my life, I have changed so much-for the better, I think. He amazes me everyday. I want to make sure that I am teaching him to humble and polite. About which food and products to eat/use and which to stay away from(and why). To live on this earth for the duration of his life and be a light in peoples lives and try to leave it a better place.
I come here for inspiration, ideas, recipes, and to feel the love! 🙂
Such a fun giveaway! Thanks Rachel!
We have a 6 year old son who is the light of our lives. When he was 2, his dad spent a year in Iraq and came hope from war with permanent scars. Not long after that, we started trying to have #2. After 2 miscarriages, we got pregnant again…only to lose our baby boy to a devastating stillbirth at 25 weeks. Within 6 months of his death, our dear girlfriend and mother of 2 babies, my aunt who was like my mother, and our family dogs… all died of cancer. It was a very hard time. Then I found out I was pregnant again… followed by 6 months battle with hyperemesis which included bed rest and hospitalizations…then 3 months of prodromal labor, 60-80 contractions per day, bed rest til the end…phew! It was a long and hard road, but we finally had a healthy baby girl at home in October!
Now we have 2 beautiful angel babies here with us…and one more in Heaven. We feel so blessed to be where we are now. With all the challenges life brings, we have truly learned to savor all the joys that come too…and it may sound a bit corny, but for me using clean local products on my family, like LuSa, is one of those small joys. Thank you for adding some bits of joy to our life. 🙂
This is where I come in the busy, busy internet for quiet and calm. Thank you for all you do!
I nanny for 2 amazing kids ages 8 and 9. A while ago I was kinda having a rough day and when I got to work, the older girl surprised me with a rock she saw while bouncing on the trampoline that made her think of me. It was so touching that she was a) thinking of me b) climbed out of the trampoline to get me a rock. These relationships that I build with the kids and families I work for are so special and important to me. I am so grateful for the opportunities to meet such awesome people.
I still have that rock. It’s on my desk.
HI Rachel,
Thanks so much for being out there! Your blog is the first ever blog that I read! And you are still my favorite. Others have come and gone, but yours has remained. I appreciate how you write and how you let us see the grit and the glitter! Thanks for being an inspiration to many of us!
We’re looking to buy our first house. Scary but good for our marriage — we’re having to talk a ton! haha
I love reading your blog; it’s definitely one of my favorites.
We just returned from an emotionally draining and difficult family trip and I’m taking it as easy as I can today to recuperate. Lots of blog reading and coffee during nap time, while the snow falls outside. Much-needed medicine.
Oh honey, you know we love you. I am happily facebook-less so I’m afraid I cannot “like” you officially, but please believe me when I say I do “love” you (as much as I can having never met you – trying not to be creepy).
You’re blog has been very inspirational to me as I started my own journey in motherhood. I’m 28 months into that journey now and I’ll keep coming back to you for more ideas on how to be the best mother I can. My family also loves your booty balm more than any other. Although I’m really hoping to be potty trained before we run out of the jumbo tub of it! 🙂
Keep writing! We’ll keep reading!
i don’t know if your giveaway is over, but i would still like to tell you that i love your blog. i try not to look at blogs everyday, but there are 3 that i can’t stay away from. yours is one. cool, right? 🙂
i have been a “gypsy” all my life, and i am happy to announce to whoever! that we just bought our first house! its small, and it won’t be the last. we still have our sights set on 20 acres and a house that we build ourselves. but that won’t happen for a couple/few years yet. it is so nice to finally think of what we will do with OUR space 🙂
and hopefully baby #2 will find its way into our lives, sooner rather than later.
so that’s my realest self right now. grateful and glad.
keep it up. i enjoy peeking in 🙂
I have an amazing daughter named Abigail. And though this new road I’m on with her has not been the least bit easy, I know I am blessed. She is so beautiful. Her smile lights my heart. Her laugh is infectious. Her head shaking-tushy bounce is my favorite dance. And EVERYTHING is a “dog”, lol. She amazes me everyday, and I am grateful for the privilege of being her mom.
Thank you Rachel for your blog, your LUSA products, and all the ways you inspire.
I still don’t know how I got so lucky to have the little boy who was 3 months premature, who had to fight for his life in an incubator, standing next to me tall and strong and always laughing. And my other boy who slipped into the world, strong and bold and alive, in our bedroom, a blessed homebirth. Nothing has ever been the same again, thank goodness : )
Hi Rachel! I found you through googling ‘natural whooping cough remedy’. I was instantly drawn to the way you express yourself and give us a glimpse into your family’s life.
I’m a social worker, from all the way over in New Zealand. I spend a lot of my time delivering parenting tools and techniques to my clients. I constantly hear my parents say “I could be better if I could only give my child *insert something of monetary value here*”. It makes me sad that our wonderful parents feel like that are failing their children if they cannot buy them things.
I work from a strengths based perspective. The child is our focus but they are only as strong as the family who wrap around them. This is a very common theme in Maori culture (the indigenous people of New Zealand) and we very much believe that this is the key to our children’s happiness. Your blog supports and promotes everything that I as a social worker, as a wife, a friend and a mama-to-be stands for. Time, attention, positive reinforcement, playing with your children, nurturing their strengths and providing them with opportunities to succeed. I believe that these are the building blocks of great parenting. My parents always seem surprised when I tell them that their children will get more out of them sitting down and asking about their day – or perhaps taking them out into the front yard and kicking the leaves around (yay Autumn!). Sometimes, society teaches us that in order for children to feel accepted, they should have ‘things’. I discourage this, and encourage all of the above and my parents LOVE it. My happiest children are the ones who tell me all about the things they DO with their parents, rather than the things their parents GIVE them.
Thank you for representing everything that I stand for, and everything that I aspire to be when I am fortunate enough to be a mama. All the blessings of the Goddess to you and your family.
Carole 🙂 x
I’m guessing that by now you choosed a winner, so I can comment then. I have a rule of never commenting on giveaways on blog I have already won something, to give it a chance to someone else.
I know that most of the time I share sad stuff with you, and so maybe my internet face has rainy cloud for you when it comes.
But I wanted to say that I came here for inspiration. It’s very basic, but not. Were I live things are very different and most people not only do not question about educational or lifestyles issues, but they just can’t imagine anything different, even when they wish it. SO this is an incredibly magic window for me. I define myself, I know that the parent I want to be is inside of me, as an onion that needs to be peeled, so I don’t feel unstable because you are different, I feel marvalized because you are, it gives me courage to explore inside and imagine something different. To write our own path. I’m very thankful that even when you are very busy and have a lot of readers you have invited me (methaphoracly and really) to you living room and listen to me, you have offer friendship, you have consider me as important as you and not less, and so you have answer when I have ask your advice.
And in the end, it’s beautiful, I really need to be in a weather more like yours than mine, so just looking to your pictures I can almost breath the cold air and feel better.
And as the second end, I come here because is beautiful, it’s nice and peaceful, and kind, but specially beautiful, and makes feel good.
Thank you.
I found you when searching for a make it yourself toothpaste recipe and signed up to follow you because I liked what I read. Our family is moving to Peru for sabbatical and I want to know what is going into our bodies. I’ll be whipping up a batch of toothpaste as soon as we procure some xylitol. 🙂 Thanks for the chance to enter.
I come (back) here bacause you inspire me. It’s that easy ;).
Not sure if the giveaway is over or not… Oh well. I come here because I am also interesting in healthy living. And I like your candid writing. Thank you.
-Violet
Thanks, Libby. Sage is stocking up for you.
Oh, thank you. Blessings, Susan.
Oh, yes. Blessings.
This is fascinating to me Mikaela. There was (as you may recall) a flurry of “let’s be French” parenting ideas set forth a year or two ago. About how French children never fuss, eat anything, don’t interrupt, etc. Something about the articles I read concerned me and rubbed me the wrong way. I think you nailed it above. That’s what I was feeling.
Amazing work!
Smiles to you across the big river.
Thanks for commenting now and sharing who you are and why you are here.
Glad you are here, Amanda. Point feels like lifetimes ago!
THAT is adorable. 🙂
Sweet!
I told a friend recently that I didn’t knit, sew, craft (or clean, come to think of it) when Sage was little. It was very much survival mode. Pete would come home to me laying on the floor playing blocks or trucks with Sage, with breakfast and lunch dishes still in the sink. Surviving. But it changes. They grow, we expand, and suddenly there is so much time for the fun business of life. It will come! I promise.
Completely accepted. Because anything else is nonsense.
What a gift you are giving your family!
That gave me goosebumps. Blessings, Melinda. To you and your sparkly one.
Your light it shining and you’ll find your way.
Exciting changes! Congratulations on making the leap.
I thought of this when I put our maple in our yogurt this morning. Love those connections when you see the spark in their eyes.
Thank you Nahuatl! Blessings to you and your sweet one.
This is lovely. Thank you, Carole.
So very sweet. Thank you!
Hugs, Kristy.
You found the gift in the struggle. Beauty.
Wonderful indeed!
Thanks Marlo.
Ha! It took me a minute, but I figured.
Oh yes. Truth.
So big, Rebecca. Thank you for sharing your heart and your pain and your story. Hope to see you around the neighborhood!