because it's not safe to write while driving

I always have these random thoughts that I'd like to explore that may or may not make for some good bloggin'. I've even started carrying around a small notebook to record those ideas so they don't disappear into the black hole that all those dreams which never get written down go. Alas, typically these ideas come while I'm driving. By the time I reach my destination... *poof* it's gone. I do remember one general idea I had though; gratitude posts.

I've been trying immersion learning. Basically, I've been trying to constantly surround myself with environments, information and people in an effort to completely overhaul my way of thinking. It's starting to gain momentum. I am easily thrown off track when things temporarily beyond my control prohibit me from getting the sleep, food or other fundamental things I need. I have found, though, that I rebound relatively quickly and that's a sign of growth. I've incorporated yoga 4-5 times per week as well as body pump 2-3 times per week. I take walks. I have introduced myself to books, cd's and dvd's that contain information that is anywhere from common sense reminders to concepts completely new to me. I find it's been and continues to be tremendously helpful.

The yoga is the greatest addition. By attending classes, it's been a way for me to block out those destructive thoughts I've had about my body since about the age of 12 and be still, practice discipline, forgiveness, non-judgement and focus on my breath and my position from my mind's eye rather than a mirror. Approaching yoga as a source of healing of body, mind, spirit is a place I've wanted to get to for a long time and am happy to finally have found an open door to that place. Off the mat, it's been tremendously helpful as well. When I'm in an uncomfortable position - like a long line, traffic, stifling humidity - I can breathe through that anger or frustration and create a better world for myself in a situation that I can't control until I can get to a better place. I've definitely not mastered this, but any relief in those situations makes a world of difference. I'm learning to create my own happiness no matter where I am.

Forgive me for this rambling post. I meant to just pop in and say "sorry for not posting, been busy, here's a picture of my cat," but I kept going. I also don't plan to re-read and edit for better composition because I don't have the time. So, I'll leave you with the intention I had for this post:

Gratitude is the open door to abundance.

Yes, I got this off of a yogi tea tag. However, it's a concept that has helped me take my focus off what is wrong or missing in my life and realize just how much there is to be thankful for. Once you start noticing, it seems like more and more amazing, beautiful things appear. This one small phrase has such a broad interpretation. I encourage you to think beyond the literal, beyond abundance meaning wealth in the form of money. I had an a-ha moment because of this phrase and I hope you will too.

Now, a picture of my cat, whose love and health I am grateful for, which I have not had the chance to edit; much like this post.

new retail location

Hey my Atlanta peeps! Thanks to Jordan Chadwell, co-owner of Meringue, a beautiful fashion boutique in the Morningside neighborhood of Atlanta, for choosing to carry sudstress soaps. You can find Meringue at 1393 N. Highland Avenue across from Alon's Bakery. So far Jordan reports that people love my soap (aww, shucks) and has already sold a number of bars. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, or even if you don't, please support two independent businesses and pop in for some shopping.

Currently you can find the following scents:

black raspberry

sunshine

silk & shea

mint meditation

sale. help me make room for new soaps, please.

I'm having an inventory sale on a few scents to make room for new and seasonal scents. I can't guarantee how long this sale will last, just until they run out. There aren't very many left of each, so the sooner the better. Here's what's on sale....

mocha café

white gardenia

naked

Happy discount shopping!

one of three

You know how sometimes when one area of your life is going kinda crappy, the universe has a certain way of lifting your spirits by introducing exciting possibilities in other areas? Well, in the last couple of weeks, surrounding my break-up with Peter, three big possible opportunities for either wholesale or press have popped up. I will not reveal all three to you, but rather make you wait and wonder and work yourself into a tizzy with anticipation. *insert evil cackle here* I have learned over the last few years to allow myself to get excited about possible opportunities without blowing my load right off the bat, only to be crushed if and when it falls through or falls flat. With that said, nothing as big as these three has come my way before now, so I'm taking deep breaths, working hard and keeping everything crossed.

I just got home from Java Monkey where I met up with Jen Ray who has been working with Etsy this summer. She came to Atlanta to interview artists who will be featured in the upcoming Etsy City Guide, of which I am one! (I'd provide a link, but it doesn't exist yet) We had more of a conversation rather than the standard interview. We talked about soap, of course, but I rambled as I tend to when I'm nervous and we ended up talking about factory farming, bacon and people that we discovered we both knew from working in bars around Atlanta. I'm glad she recorded it, because I can't remember most of it; another unfavorable result of the nerves. We ended the interview with a short photo session wherein I babbled nervously and made awkward motions while looking anywhere but the camera. It's not that I'm uncomfortable with my picture being taken, it's just that if the specific purpose is to have a picture of me, I get all weird and don't know how to relax and act natural.

So, the feature should be out in the next month or two. I'm super excited about it and so thankful that she found me. Actually, she went to school with Maggie of Young Blood Gallery & Boutique. When Jen asked Maggie for a recommendation, she recommended me! Maggie has popped up at some of the festivals I've done over the years and they even sell my soap in the boutique. I guess networking can be more subtle and genuine than shoving your business card down people's throats and putting on a fake smile.

Speaking of Young Blood; I will be there from 7-10 p.m. this coming Thursday, selling my wares at Kraftwork. If you've never been to one, please come by. There are always several very talented artists selling all kinds of high quality, neat stuff. Here is a list of this month's participants.