“Dad, are you going crazy?”That was the major question on my older son’s mind as he walked in on me, sitting at the table, mad scientist style, preparing my luscious and intoxicating peppermint vanilla soap. As the great Tupac Shakur said in Juice, “I am crazy. And you know what else? I don't give a fuck.”Many of you already know that I devoted my Saturday to making my … [Read more...]
Adventures in Soap Making - Lye
A few days ago, I told you about my first foray into soap making. It seemed simple enough – I could make my own soap, leave out all the chemical ingredients, and boom, I’d be Tom’s of Maine. I whipped up a bar of coconut oil soap with a bit of lemon juice. It lasted all of one day in the shower and then melted. For that 24 hour period though, damn, my skin was supple.Okay, … [Read more...]
Grind Your Own Coffee
In an effort to cross the finish line of the caffeinating race with you, we started with a discussion of the French press. Now, I’m adding in one more small recommendation. Get a coffee bean grinder.We go to great lengths to produce a delightful cup of coffee for our daily fresh start. To maximize the flavor and crispness from your java, you must grind your own beans.I … [Read more...]
Showering Without Soap
There isn't much I won’t do for my readers. I’ll be putting my body (and reputation!) on the line to experiment with showering without traditional soap. It turns out that that Johnson and Johnson, among other soap producing companies, have been selling us a form of perfume masquerading as detergent for our skin. As a general side note, I’m becoming my father.I admit that my … [Read more...]
French Press
I use a French press whenever possible to enhance and inspire my personal caffeinating process.Coffee isn't just about consumption; it should be an elegant experience. The first sip of bitter and sweet, just off the boil, should transport your racing mind to the countryside or the beach or the mountains. It’s worth adjusting your routine to make your mini morning vacation … [Read more...]