Use it up; wear it out; make it do or do without!

GOING GREEN?

Green is my favorite color. But it's not what you're thinking.

I am pretty "Green". But I don't consider myself  "Green". Large families live differently. I think by necessity. It's that old saying, "Use it up; wear it out; make it do or do without!" Thank goodness for what my mother taught me! 
I've seen a few articles about being more earth friendly. I can't say I have studied them - but I'm always looking for a way to save a few dimes, and I just might find an idea to use. What usually amazes me, is how much Going Green our household already does. I re-use gift bags. I mix my own biscuits. No, I don't drive an electric car. Yes, I consolidate my errands. I wash full loads of laundry. No, I don't own reusable grocery bags. Yes, I save and use most of my plastic bags. I stick two toddlers, or more, in one bath (Heaven forbid)! Short showers? Not a problem! 

All of these things help me out, either by saving time or money. 

A few  of my creations

For years I've made many of my own products; smelly soaps, lip gloss, candles, balms, laundry soap, household cleaners, etc. And that's not counting the cooking mixes. We'll save those for another post.
Lately I've been in the mood to make soaps. It's been a while. It all started when my oldest son brought me fresh goat milk. My first thought was not drinking the goat milk, but how it makes such great soap!

Good natural products....

... but pricey!

This morning while searching around for tea tree oil in my local department store, I stumbled on a "natural" aisle. I had a double take when I saw the prices of these good products. Obviously, I have been out of touch.


For me, making my own products is a creative thing. I love thinking of new "flavors" for soaps. I love experimenting with blending different essential oils to get a good result.
It's been too long. I need to get creative!
If you don't make your own products, you may want to try it! Just for fun! That's how I started - by searching for soap making instructions.

Here's a few sites that will get you started: 

Soaps, Balms, Lotions
http://www.thesage.com 

This is my favorite. I also buy most of my essential oils and containers from this site. I don't get any kickback from them - they wouldn't even have a clue who I am. I just like their product and their price. Their instructions and calculator is great.

Laundry Soap

http://www.thefamilyhomestead.com/laundrysoap.htm

Make Your Own Mixes

http://www.budget101.com/frugal/mix-recipes-166/

Household Cleaners
http://www.thefamilyhomestead.com/homemadehouseholdcleaners.htm

Watch out, once you get started, you won't want to stop! Have fun!

"Use it up; wear it out; make it do or do without!"