creamy lavender body wash

Note: This post was previously published here as a part of my freelance work. 

Making your own soap is surprisingly easy, and a very satisfying thing to do. I like making this blend and having it on hand anytime my skin feels like it needs some extra love. You can substitute any essential oil that you’d like, but I happen to like lavender for the soothing nature that it provides.

You’ll Need:

1/4 Cup Dr. Bronners Pure Castile Soap - Lavender

1/2 Cup Softened Coconut Oil

3 Tbs. Sweet Almond Oil

15 Drops Lavender Essential Oil

Kitchen Hand Mixer

Bowl

       Glass Container

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients to a bowl and whisk together using the hand mixer until creamy.

2. Store in glass container and use as needed.

3. Easy as that!

florence, my heart

A big piece of my heart will always be in Florence. The city is like a second home. It's where, as a kid, I spent Christmases, summers, a year of my high school career. Despite the miles of distance, some of my closest family members reside there. Every time I return, my soul is washed in happiness. Love for my family, adoration for my grandma, the way of life -- it's all so perfect. Calming. Soothing. Every day spent in Florence is filled with delicious food, interspersed with long walks. The countryside is never far, and a good hour long walk will have you in the hills outside, gazing over cypress trees and centuries of beautiful architecture. What happiness. Florence, until we meet again, my heart will be homesick for you.