It has been quite a while since I have blogged.  I was way to busy this month until the 18th with fundraisers and orders to even think about a blog!!  After that then we had Christmas and was busy just trying to be a little prepared.  I have promised my friends and family that will not be the case next year!  I didn't have time to decorate anything other than get the tree put up and just had to make time for that.  My sweet daughter-in-law would have done it for me but I told her I was going to at least do that, hopefully help me get in the Christmas mood but afraid that was not much help. 

There is still time to get your order in and get 20% off before the year ends.  I probably won't have any sales as good as this one for a long time.  I am planning on putting the candles I have left over this year on sale so I can clear them out and get started on I hope some new scents.  If there is any scent you would like please email me here and let me know.  I am also planning on downsizing my scent list and also jar selection.  I have received an email that said the price of my wax was going up so I have to find out more about that.  If that happens I will probably have to have a small price increase.  Just have to wait and see about that.

Hope everyone has a Safe and Happy New Year.

I know it has been a while since I have written anything.  I have been so busy with fundraisers and orders until there just hasn't been time. 

Tonight I have been getting my dressing ready for baking tomorrow.  I made a German Chocolate Cake and now I am topping off candle pillars I made earlier today.  Even though I list on my website that I am supposed to be off, there is no such thing for a candle-maker!  The only day I will really take off will be Thanksgiving Day!

I have also just finished pouring some more chunk pillar candles!  I really love making chunk candles, they are so much fun.  Thinking about putting one in the freezer so it will cool and I can take it out!  The second candle is a picture of the last chunk pillar I made.  It is scented in Aspen Winter.  I also made some mottled pillars scented in Christmas Forrest.

I received this Thanksgiving Song in an email and thought I would share it with you.  It is by Hilda Butler Farr.  Of course this can be for every day of the year also!

Thanksgiving Song

Thank God for countless blessings

Bestowed on us each year,

The precious gifts to treasure

Which daily reappear.

Thank God for every sunset,

The dawning of each day,

The golden flood of moonbeams,

The stars which light our way.

Thank God for every handclasp,

For every loyal friend,

And for the joy of laughter,

The songs which have no end.

Thank God for fragrant flowers,

For every pleasant smile,

For countless blessings

Which meet us mile by mile. 

Hope everyone has a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving.

  

My "IF I DIDN'T HAVE TO DO"  List!

1 - If I didn't have to wash clothes it seems everyday
2 - If I didn't have to take Pepper (dog) out several times during the day
3 - If I didn't have to scoop out litter box for Patches
4 - If I could just call the grocery store and Dollar Store and get essentials delivered
5 - If I didn't have to cook hubby a hot supper every night (he has cold sandwich for lunch)
6 - If I didn't have to get at least 3-4 hrs of sleep at night
7 - If I didn't have to take a bath - why can't I just rub some deo on and spray perfume on.  After all when I   make candles I smell good any way!
8 - If I didn't go on my candle forums, facebook, twitter

Well, thats all I can think of just now!  But if I didn't have to do all those things everyday then I could really get candles made.  Silly, was just thinking this while I was cleaning up jars on 3rd fundraiser.  It will be out of here tomorrow and then time to start on 4th and last this year.  Saturday won't get as much as I would like to done because I have a baby shower for neice to go to.  Have to be through with 4th fundraiser by Dec 14th.

Well back to work!

Just thinking and thanking!

I walked into the kitchen to get a cup of coffee - we have what was called the "great room" when we built the house.  You know, where the kitchen, dining room, and den are all together in 1 big room - that is the way I wanted it cause I spend a lot of time in the kitchen.  Most of my time is spent in shop first and then kitchen second. Not much sleeping time or watching TV time!  Anyway back to my "musing", is that spelled right and what it's called?, ANYWAY - Patches (kitty) was asleep in hubby's recliner and Pepper (dog) was asleep on the couch, room cleaned up (my dear cleaning lady and friend came yesterday), candles burning and just a serene feeling hit me and I thought "God's in His Heaven and all's right with the world"!  You know that saying and probably sometime have that feeling! 

Then I walked back into my shop and the feeling left! Jars, wax, fragrant oils everywhere.  Along with dust, some "tuffs" of dog hair and I am sure cat hair I see and think "Man, I have got to clean up this place!"  Just haven't had the time with orders and fundraisers and probably won't have the time for about a month!  Anyway, if my English teacher saw my writing today there would be red marks everywhere and she would wonder if she really taught me anything!

Got to get busy but just wanted to write while it was on my mind.  I really am thankful for so much, not rich money wise but every other way I am the richest and most blessed person I know!  We have a great and wonderful God!

Some pictures of my pillars and one with my new label on pillar, think I like it.  Hope I can get pictures lined up, don't know why they don't!  Then to wicking jars!  Picking up granddaughters from school today to spend the night.  They haven't been able to for a while because of cheerleading!

October G.C. Drawing & Pictures

The winner of the drawing for the 20.00 gift certificate for October was C Hodges from Texas.   The gift certificate drawing for Nov will be 25.00.  This will be the last drawing for the year.  Took some pictures of my holiday candles and thought I would share.

Sorry I couldn't get pictures lined up better.  Just don't work like I want it to!!

Don't forget, today is the last day for drawing for $20.00 gift certificate.  Get your order in before midnight tonight.  Also remember our time changes, fall back an hour.  Won't help me much because I will change clocks about 8 tonight and still stay up til my usual time - 1 or 2'oclock!

Thought I would check in real quick before I get to work.  Have been making sparkle candles this month and also decided to do a sugar frosting on one just for me.  I like the sugar frosting, sorta gives the candle a sueded look.  Maybe a rustic look also.  It really doesn't show up good in pictures though.  Also a picture of a container I have had for several years and forgot about until I was looking for something the other day and found it.  This will be my candle of the month for November. 

Have to get busy labeling all the extra candles I have made to stock shop and also for 2 consignment locations.  If not, I will forget the scent!  Can't trust my nose cause after 6 years I have candlenose and really can't smell very good!   

Star Dazzle Candle

Just wanted to show you a picture of my Star Dazzle pillar candle. I think they are so pretty. You really have to see them in real life to get the full effect of them though. They really shine and glitter so pretty, and as they burn you can see the flame inside and really is pretty then.

Have 2 orders for this type pillar.  The one shown is scented in one of my Christmas scents that I really like - Country Christmas.  To see my new listed fall & holiday scents click this link.  http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/page4.html

Trying to get to work!

Mondays & Fridays seem to be the hardest days to get to work.  Wouldn't be so bad if I didn't have so much to do.  Have to clean up candles for wholesale order, 4 online orders, and need to be working on my fundraiser.  This is the 3rd fundraiser, the last and probably largest will be in around 15th next month. 

Animals and pets just take up to much time!  I had to clean the filters on my aquarium this morning, they were horrible.  I have 2 of those whatever you call them on the tank and each one has 2 filters.  But these are a little newer and therefore each one actually has 4 filters you have to clean.  Then scoop out litter box, wash a load of clothes or my husband won't have clean socks in AM!!  Had to take off trash because I didn't want all that gunk from filters in my trash.  Can't leave the house without going by Dollar Store.  My outside cat, who is old and cranky, his likes and dislikes as far as his canned food changes almost daily so I never know from day to day what he is going to eat!  And can't forget coffee, probably my coffee and pet food buying is what keeps the Dollar Store in business.  Of course not to mention paper towels.  I go through a lot of paper towels when I am as busy as I have been in the last month or so! 

Now, if my load of clothes will get dry and I can hang them up, no ironing for me, then maybe I can work without stopping until Pepper decides she has to go out!!!  Sure looks like rain here. 

Well, enough!  To work I go!!!

Melek Designs Hit Parade

Melek Designs is based in sunny Corpus Christi, Tx.  She makes unique, handmade creations.  Each piece is made with carefully selected materials and great attention to detail.  I really like this necklace. 

This three-strand silver-plated chain necklace features large round blue glass beads with white swirl designs on them. They measure 21.5mm. They are complimented by 8mm round blue accent beads. The necklace can be worn very close to the neck, or worn longer. The total length is approx. 29". At the end of one strand dangles a beautiful silver plated fan charm.  It closes with a lobster-claw clasp. 

Click this link to visit her Artfire Studio.  http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=44256

Tired & Sleepy

My title says it all!  I am so tired and sleepy would really just love to go to bed and sleep forever!  That won't happen tonight though, tomorrow is Sunday and we go to Sunday School and Church.  Finish dinner when we get home, rest a few minutes, then back to The Candle-Shoppe.  If you are a candle-maker there is really no such thing as having specific hours to work.  Or at least I haven't been able to just make it an 8-5, 5 day a week job!!!  I have been pouring candles all day but have the wholesale order finished except for topping, cleaning, and labeling!  Then on to fundraiser and couple online orders.  

I finished getting all my fall/holiday scents on my website yesterday.  I don't think I will be adding more, though as I type this I remember I did not add Nutcracker.  Will have to get that entered and then I think I am finished!  I certainly don't need to buy any more oils.  I have a small forturne sitting on the shelves in fragrant oil!  

This is it for today.  Got to get back to work. 

Check my website for the new oils I have added.  The new ones are highlighted in red. 
http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/page4.html

Gift Certificate Drawing

Don't forget to place your order this month to be eligible for the 20.00 Gift Certificate drawing.  Spend 20.00 and your name will be entered in the "hat"!  That shouldn't be hard to do with all the "delicious" new scents I have added.
http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/

Pictures

  Just thought I would show some pictures of fundraiser and shop.   Excuse the mess!!

Rainy Day in Georgia

Rainy days really make me feel so lazy.  That would be good if I didn't have anything I needed to do but since that is not the case I have got to get off this computer and get busy pouring candles.  Fundraisers don't wait as well as customer orders.  Got about 3 ready to go out tomorrow and 1 more to work on, or work at between pouring my fundraiser candles.  All Georgians - Think we can  "Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain"!!

Trying to decide if I want to clean up candles poured earlier or just forget working.  Probably by the time I take Pepper out, feed Nome, feed Patches I will have spent at least 30 minutes.  Gotta love pets to have them take up this much time!  On that note I watched Marley and Me tonight.  Wonderful family movie.  Always love movies about pets anyway.  I knew how this was going to end cause my daughter-in-law had told me when I said I was thinking about getting the movie for granddaughters to watch.  I try to have them a new movie from time to time when they are spending the night.  Barbie usually wins over though!  Anyway Susan told me Marley died in the end so I knew it would not work, I cried.  They would be worried about Buddy, their dog, and Pepper.  They love Pepper and she loves them.  I love Pepper also!  She is my constant companion when I am in the shop.  Marley was a lot like Pepper.  Though the only furniture Pepper has destroyed is my couch.  Hubby said I could get a new couch if I got rid of Pepper.  I just laughed and said, "Yeah"!!!  Of course he wouldn't get rid of Pepper either.  She is like a child.  Just throw spread over couch to hid it and you know what?  If you don't love animals then just don't visit me!!!  So much for animals. 

My candle of the month special for October is this - 3 6OZ CANDLE CUBES FOR 15.00 - Click here to shop.  I like setting several of these out in a larger room, sometimes in different scents and create my own special scent!  One by itself is perfect for bathrooms.

Also spend $20.00 and your name is entered in drawing for 20.00 gift certificate at end of month.

I have also added some new scents and will be adding a few more of my holiday scents when I have time.  Hope to have them added sometime this week.

Well, think my decision has now been made - no work tonight.  Take care of animals and "hit the hay"  3:45 - 4:00 comes early in AM.  Alarm is set for 3:45 but usually I hit snooze several times and it is 4 before I make it up!

Break Time!

Taking a break while more wax is melting and thought I would write.  Took Pepper out earlier this AM and heard the greatest Hallelujah Chorus right in my back yard!!  I don't think I have ever heard so many birds singing at one time!  Animals are amazing.  Patches -kitty- had been sleeping on some boxes I had broken down all week.  She would only leave them to eat, potty, and tell us "Hey" in the morning.  I to put an empty box of wax outside and decided it was time for her to be a little more sociable so got rid of the boxes.  She didn't really like that either.  This is picture of both her and Pepper.  They are both usually laying around in shop while I am making candles.   Pepper's picture is kind of dark but you get the idea.  Well, got to run to town while wax finishes melting and get back to fundraiser! 

Just checking in

I have been quite busy in the last couple of weeks.  Got 1 fundraiser completed and started on 2nd one.  Got a wholesale order to get done also.  Another fundraiser due in about 1-2 weeks.  Had orders come in this week to get out.  Helping my son with his sick family - picked up 1 granddaughter from school Tuesday, took other to school Wednesday - mother sick.  Think they are all well today! 

I have listed quite a number of new scents on my website - http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/  Check them out.  I know I didn't need any more oils but there is something about fall and approaching holidays that just makes a candlemaker start ordering new oils!  Haven't had a chance to make more chunk candles.  Would like to get couple made with Christmas colors.  I think Festival of Lights - which I haven't added to website yet, still have some of my Christmas ones to add, would make a pretty chunk pillar.  Colored chunks in red, green, and blue.  Don't really want to go over 3 colors.   

This is all for tonight! 

Well, guess I have it changed back.  For the life of me don't know how that happened!

Wierd

Something totally wierd is going on here.  This is not the correct template for my blog, somehow it got changed and I didn't do it!!!!

Chunk Fever

Man is it fun making these chunk candles!!  You can let your imagination run wild!  Well I was pouring some container candles today and thought "Why Not"!  Decided to pour a container chunk candle.  Will burn it tomorrow to see how it burns.  My friend Rae told me it would be addictive once I started, I believe her now.  Got to think up some good holiday ones now, that is if I have the time.  Between Monday of next week and about the middle of December I will be busy with fundraisers!  Got 4 in all to do. 

This is a picture of my chunkie.  Scented in Carrot Cake.  This is in the 15oz straight sided jar.  I think this is the best jar for chunk, it shows them off better than an apothecary jar would.

Tagged!

Remember when we were young and played tag?  When you got caught then you were tagged!  Well, I have been tagged by Bebs Treasures so it's my turn to tell you 10 things, if I can think of them, about myself and then tag 10 others!  So, Let's See.

1.  I am 63 years old.
2.  I have always lived in Glenwood GA - a little town in southeast GA.  Love it, wouldn't leave for nothing!  Just a country girl at heart.
3.  Guess you could say I married my highschool sweetheart!  When I was probably in the 10th or 11th grade I played "Right or Wrong" on piano for him to sing in a school talent show!  He won 1st place !!  Of course we weren't sweethearts then!
4.  I have a son, 2 beautiful granddaughters ages 6 & 8.  I also have a great daughter-in-law.  I was so busy last Christmas she put up my Christmas tree and decorated it for me.  It had sat in the living room floor in it's box for about a week and she called me up and said "I am coming Friday night to get you're tree up"  I said come on over!
5.  When I was young, like 10-12 I babysat and at Christmas wrapped gifts in a little department store we had in town.  I went to work a week back from my senior trip and worked until 2006 when I retired.
6.  I sewed all the time when I was younger.  Made most of my clothes and made my son's while he was very young!
7.  I started making candles in 2003.  I have been asked what made me start and I really could not give them a good answer.  I was just trying to think of something to do for our Church Super Saturday we used to have in November so early in the year I started reading and searching the internet for info on candle-making.  Then I got some wax, jars, wicks, fragrant oils, dye and started testing several scents to make. 
8.  In 2004 I built my shop onto my house.  It sure was nice to get out of the kitchen and my spare bedroom.  I had just a little path to the computer.
9.  Oh, I like smooth jazz and soft rock.  How many remember Captian & Tennille, Barry Manilow?  Just a few I heard today on the TV soft rock channel and thought, "Oh I can remember when!".
10.  Man I am having to think hard to finish this up.  Can't wait to see NCIS tonight!!!  Love that show.  CSI Miami was a little bit of a disapointment last night.

That was hard to do.  As you can see life in small town USA is not very exciting!!!  Now to the harder part of picking 10 to tag.  I am choosing 10 studios on Artfire that have really nice crafts.  Think you should check them out.  It was interesting choosing the 10, I found some from GA!

1.  Creatively Jeweled
2.  Jennuine Candles
3.  Candles by Donald
4.  Raw Beauty
5.  Indian Weaves
6.  Pink Panzees
7.  Judy B Freeman
8.  NH Woodscreations
9.  Pams Creations
10.  Linda Lewis


Consider yourself OFFICIALLY TAGGED. YOU'RE IT!!!! 

Now it's your turn to select 10 other Blogs or studios whom you choose to promote and tell us a little about yourself!!!

Carmelized Praline Chunk Pillar

Here's picture of Carmelized Praline Chunk Pillar.  Love these chunkies, so much fun to make! 

Taste of Home Slow Cooker Tips

I get the Taste of Home email and this was in one of my emails.  I really like cooking in my slow cooker, put it on in the morning and then forget about it!  Thought this was interesting and helpful to know.
Tips for Using Your Slow Cooker
Fill
To cook food properly and safely, manufacturers and the USDA recommend that the slow cooker be filled at least half full, but never more than two-thirds full.
Leftovers
Slow cookers should not be used to reheat leftovers. Use a microwave, stovetop, or conventional oven to reheat foods to 165°.
Lid
Each time you remove the lid from your slow cooker when unnecessary, you should increase the cooking time by 20-30 minutes.
Old vs. New Slow Cookers
Some newer slow cookers seem to heat up more quickly than older ones. If you have an older model and your recipe directs to cook on low, you may want to set it on the highest setting for the first hour of cooking to ensure food safety.
Power Outage
Following a power outage of less than two hours, you can finish cooking your food with your stove or microwave. If it's been more than two hours or you are unsure how long the power has been out, discard the food.
Preheat
Many slow cooker recipes cook all day. It may be easier to place all ingredients in the crock the night before, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, place the crock in the slow cooker and select the temperature. Do not preheat your slow cooker.
Settings
Most slow cookers have two or more settings. Foods will cook faster on the high setting. However, the low setting is ideal for all-day cooking and/or for less tender cuts of meat. If your slow cooker has a "warm" setting, use it to keep your food warm until you're ready to eat it.
Slow Cooker Size-Use this chart to determine the ideal slow cooker size for your family:
Household Size Slow Cooker Size
1 person 1-1/2 qt
2 people 2- to 3-1/2 qt
3 or 4 people 3-1/2 to 4-1/2 qt
4 or 5 people 4-1/2 to 5 qt
6 or more people 5-7 qt

Hope this will be helpful.  I like cooking pork and chicken in a slow cooker.  I still haven't found the best way for beef though.

Today is a beautiful, sunny, nice Saturday.  Could be a little cooler but still a beautiful day.  No special news today.  Things have been slow.  Waiting for fundraisers to be turned in.  Got to make a couple of pillars in Patchouli.  This is a new suppliers oil I am using and really think it is my favorite patchouli so far.  I have been working on my website the last couple of days.  Trying to decide on a nice fall theme.  I really love "playing" around with different backgrounds and colors that sorta relate to the season we are in.  The background was not exactly what I was looking for but think it will work.  I will try to have it up within the next couple days.  I know after the fundraiser comes in I will not have time to do it.

Every week on Artfire a new crafter is featured.  This week it is Grand Prairie Woodworks.  He makes beautiful furniture.  This is his shop.  http://www.grandprairiewoodworks.artfire.com/
Hope you will take the time to check him out .  He has some really pretty pieces. 

That's about the news for today.  Hope everyone has a great week-end.

Carrot Cake Chunk Pillar Candle

This is the Carrot Cake Chunk Pillar Candle I made today, delicious scent.  This is the description - A scrumptious, decadent, rich Carrot Cake with a note of sweet cream cheese frosting! This is not even remotely like spice cake", it's rich brown sugar and baked sweet goodness!   I really love making chunk pillars.  Can't wait to take them out of the mold and see how they turn out.

I also made some tarts in Carmelized Praline, Harvest Spice, & Vanilla Spice, and a jar candle in Gourmet Sugar Cookie, this is really a nice, strong, scrumptious smelling candle. 

Today is Chunkie Day

Been wanting to make some for a long time so today I am making some chunk pillars.  Don't know what scent, color of chunks, or anything else but I just know I am making them.  Also have to make some tarts for a customer.  Just found out 1 of my fundraisers will be turned in this week-end. 

Looks like we may have a wet day today.  Had to run uptown and got few sprinkles on my windshield and it sure looks like rain!  Probably have to get the Benadryl out for Pepper!!!!!!!!!

Lullabye Moon

The moon was so pretty this morning til I just had to tell you about it so I got my cup of coffee and Little Debbie Honeybun (my breakfast!) and here I am!  I get up early every morning - 4:00 - to get my husband off to work.  He leaves about 5:00 and I take Pepper out.  Love looking at the sky at night and this morning when I saw the moon my first thought was it was a "Lyllabye Moon", so beautiful.  You know, the kind you see with the baby in it, like the moon is rocking it!  Strange how the moon is in different places in the sky at different times of the month.  I always go outside about the same time every morning and sometimes it is directly over me, sometimes to the west and then sometimes to the east.  Guess it has to do with how the world turns.

Pepper thought for sure there was something out there with us this morning!  She has that little gruff bark, her tail really bushes out and she just stares into the woods.  We live in town but where we live there are woods behind us.  She probably saw or felt deer.  We saw one yesterday afternoon when we went out.  Have also seen fox.  Could have been a stray cat that sleeps in the woods.  My neighbor across the street feeds all the strays so it is not unusual to see them about.  Just glad it isn't dogs.  Pepper would never get through outside!!!  Also I have to think about my Nome - outside kitty who is about 11 years old so I always worry about him if I see a stray dog.  Don't really worry about snakes, don't see them to often.  Not really scared of them as long as I can see them.  Just don't want to step on one in the dark!!

Guess that's my thoughts for the day.  Time to get started and sweep up the dog hair, though it may be getting a little better.  Candle orders have been slow the past several days so that gives me time to do some book work I am always needing to do and cleaning my work area in shop.  Hope everyone has a good Monday.   

Little Better

Well, guess I had better leave well enough along.  Lost some stuff but can get it back. 
LESSON:  Do not play with things you know nothing about!

Sorta Messed Up!

Decided to play with some new templates and think I messed up!  We just don't know when to leave well enought along!!

Playing

Decided to play with a template for my blog.  Sorta like this one.  Will try it out.  Nothing better to do today.  Taking a day off and being lazy and playing!!!!!!!  Ready for some Falcons football tomorrow!!  Yeah!!

Dog Hair!

Well, finished vacuuming and got all the dog hair up for a short while anyway.  It was a battle though cause it was hiding from me!  Under chair, under couch, under china cabinet and anywhere else it could find to hide to get away from me, but I got it!!!! 

Today has been a day without making candles.  Had a few I needed to make but there is no hurry.  Anyway, need to take a break.  In about a week I have 2 fundraisers that are due in so I decided today to forget pouring!!  I have been following blogs and twitters of my fellow crafters.  Today is follow me Friday.  I would list one of them but wouldn't want anyone thinking I favored them over the over.  But if you want to check them out just click on their little picture.  They are all so talented and have such pretty crafts! 

Well, I see my Dear Husband coming down the road so guess I will close and try to spend a little "quality time" with him!!!  Hope all have a very good week-end.   

Goat Milk Soap

Today I want to tell you about Goats Milk Soap.  This is a handmade natural cold process Goats Milk Soap.  It is a great soap with lots of luxurious lather and really leaves your skin feeling smooth and moisturized.  My husband and I have been using it and we really love it.  If you would like to buy some this is the link:  http://www.abathshoppe.com/
Below are a few pictures of the soap.  It is beautiful soap!  Just couldn't resist the Dog Bone for you doggie lovers!!

September Special

Place an order for 15.00 excluding shipping and your name will be entered in drawing for 15.00 gift certificate.  Also check out Candle of the Month - Carrot Cake and Carmelized Pralines.  Special pricing on certain jars and pillars.

National Grandparents Day

Thought this was interesting.  Never knew how Grandparents Day was started.  I found this online doing a search on Yahoo for National Grandparents Day.   

The impetus for a National Grandparents Day originated with Marian McQuade, a housewife in Fayette County, West Virginia. Her primary motivation was to champion the cause of lonely elderly in nursing homes. She also hoped to persuade grandchildren to tap the wisdom and heritage their grandparents could provide. President Jimmy Carter, in 1978, proclaimed that National Grandparents Day would be celebrated every year on the first Sunday after Labor Day.



When is Grandparents Day?


In 2009, Grandparents Day falls on Sept. 13th

Pets

Pets!!!  What would we do without them.   I have a beautiful doggie, her name is Pepper.  She is almost 6 years old and just the biggest baby.  Scared to death of weather.  Just mention the word "rain" and she goes into a "hissy".  Finally started giving her 25mg of plain Benadryl and that sorta helps to calm her down some. 

For the last several weeks though we have been chasing hair/fur balls around the house.  They are everywhere you look it seems.  My kitty Patches has decided they are something she can play with!  Pepper is shedding the worse she has ever shedded.  On a forum I visit it seems there are others that are having the same problem.  At least glad to know there isn't anything wrong with Pepper!  I will try to attach a picture of her if I can get it to work.  On the other hand though, an outside kitty "Nome" is shedding very little and he usually sheds bad.  Who can explain??  My only explanation for this has been "It's the moon"!!!!

But seriously, our 4-legged babies become like children, our children, and we love them dearly.  Everytime I have lost one I always say "No More!" because the grieving really hurts!  But that doesn't last very long.   

Just finished up a day of pouring candles and thought I would take a break before I started cleaning up and labeling the ones I finished yesterday.  Tonight I will top off what I poured today.  Hope to get them out tomorrow! 

Here goes for the picture of Pepper hopefully. 

Soy Better Than Paraffin? Think Not

Thought this was interesting since so many candlemakers of soy candles claim all kind of bad things against paraffin and claim soy is better. 

This was written in response to a recent study by South Carolina State Researchers.

National Candle Association



529 14th Street, NW, Suite 750 • Washington, DC 20045 • (202) 393-2210 • Fax: (202) 223-9741


Email: info@candles.org Website: www.candles.org


August 19, 2009 Contact: Barbara Miller


Tel: (202) 207-1113


NCA Statement Refuting Study by South Carolina State Researchers


Suggesting Candles May Be Carcinogenic or Release Harmful Pollutants


The National Candle Association seriously questions the scientific validity of a report by two South Carolina State University researchers* suggesting that candles, especially paraffin candles, can release carcinogens or harmful amounts of indoor air pollutants.


The assertions of Drs. Massoudi and Hamidi contradict the overwhelming body of scientific evidence on the topic. They have provided no data for review, and their conclusions are based on unsupported claims. No scientific study has ever shown any candle wax, including paraffin, to be harmful to human health.


An authoritative international study in 2007 tested candles made from every major wax type and analyzed them for more than 300 chemicals known or suspected of toxicity, health risks or respiratory irritation at elevated concentrations. The study found that all waxes burned cleanly and safely, with no appreciable differences in burning behavior. The combustion byproducts of every candle wax were virtually identical in composition and quantity, with all levels registering far below the most restrictive of any applicable indoor-air standards.


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* Emission products of petroleum-based candles, Ruhullah Massoudi and Amid Hamidi, South Carolina State University, presentation before American Chemical Society symposium session, 2:15- 2:35 p.m., Wednesday, Aug 19, 2009; Washington, DC.

Is Fall Close???

I would love to see a long and beautiful fall this year.  I always think when fall arrives that I love fall more than any other season.  All the pretty colors and the brisk mornings and nights.  Pepper (my 4-legged baby) really loves this cooler weather better.  She has been shedding so bad this summer.  My beige carpet in bedroom stays covered in black patches of hair.  Of course with all the hair she has she never misses it!  Don't know if it has to do with the benadryl I have been giving her or not.  She is so afraid of bad weather.  Just about the mention of rain sends her into a tizzy!  I give her 25mg of straight benadryl wrapped in a piece of ham and that helps some.  She has just about begun to think that when she senses bad weather she is supposed to get ham now!!!

Well, sorta strayed from topic.  Love fall!  Then spring comes and I look around and see everything greening up and it is so beautiful until I say, "Oh this is my favorite time of the year"!!  Aren't we fickle people.  God gives up these beautiful seasons and then we try to say one is better than the other.  What God does can't be beat so all seasons are beautiful and have their upside and downside.  I look up at the pretty blue sky and white clouds during the day and then the sky with the beautiful stars and moon at night and just wonder how do people that don't believe in God think all that happens! 

Right now the weather can make you think that fall may not be far away.  Really makes me want to start making fall candles.  I have been testing some new scents and really liking them.  Just about finished burning a tester of Gingerbread Pumpkin.  Out of the bottle and while I was pouring it I was thinking sure glad I just got a tester of the scent.  But after burning it I really think I like it.  Really makes me think of fall, even seems to have a faint scent of like a fire burning, may not sound good but it is!  This is the definition the supplier gave for it - A drop-dead FABULOUS fragrance! A year 'round favorite that fuses warm, freshly baked gingerbread with creamy pumpkin.  Think I will probably be adding that to my pumpkin line! 

Got another tester poured in Southern Pecan Pie - A fragrance that smells as scrumptious as it sounds! It's an amazing duplicate of the mouthwatering classic dessert of the American South. You can almost taste the creamy butter, Georgia pecans, and real whipped cream. It's a rich, super-sweet aroma not for the faint-hearted. Try it if you dare!  I will test it when I get through with the pumpkin. 

I also want to make some chunk pillars.  Really love the looks of chunk pillars and want to make them with some pretty fall colors.  Today got to deliver some candles to a shop in Vidalia.  Better close and start getting ready.

Oh, almost forgot.  If you did not reach my blog through my website then you don't know about my special this month.  The Carrot Cake and Carmelized Praline is on sell this month in selected jars and pillars.  I also will be having a drawing this month.  If you purchase $15.00 or over your name will be entered to win a $15.00 gift certificate.  Winner will be announced on website Oct 1st.  If you are the winner you will receive an email with a special code to use on your next order.  I am hoping this will go over good and I can add to the gift certificate amount each month until Christmas.  We shall see!!

Happy Fall!

PCI Compliance

Forgot to mention, after all my complaining about all the questions to become compliant, I MADE IT!!  I am PCI Compliant.  Guess I spelled it right.  Think that means you are safe on my site, your cc info and all.

Social Networking

You know, certain things can get very addictive!  All this Social Networking, think that is correct term for it, you just gotta check out and see what everyone is saying.  By the time I get through my list looking, commenting and so forth, half my day is gone!!  Isn't that terrible! Of course it really helps me not to have to do what I need to do.  That is my mile high stack of envelopes to go through, open, throw away, post, file.  Which ever it requires.  This is work I have been needing to do for most of the year and a couple folders still from last year that just need filing!  When you have 3 businessess to keep up with, my business, my husband's business, and my church it can really stack up.  Well I have probably killed a good 2&1/2 hrs so I guess I had better get serious and get to work.

Picking up my granddaughters from school this afternoon, their Mother has a late meeting.  Spagetti night!! they love it. 

Soy Candles

I have finally found "my soy" mix where I get great looks and scent throw both. I just decided to combine the 2 soys I had been working with and that did it!! One wax had great looks but no scent throw, the other had great scent throw but did not look good in container. By combining the 2 I think I have the best of both worlds!! I will be offering them in the 9oz tumbler and the little square cube I have on my website. I have been testing scents to see the ones that are working best in soy and hope to have them on my website in approx 1 week.

This will be the link to the page when I have it up.
http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/page5s.html

Well hopefully everyone has their children back in school and now you can take a breather for yourself. I know it can be like a whirlwind trying to get clothes bought, school supplies bought and everything else. My daughter-in-law was just saying the other day that the oldest girl who is 8 and tall like her "grama - me" has just outgrown everything she had just during the summer and the youngest who is 6 her feet won't fit in practically new shoes she had got before school ended in May! They sure can grown fast.

So now it is time for "you"! I probably have the best special this month that I will be having for some time. One customer asked me if I would have a better one before Christmas and I told her I didn't know, just depended on "how the mood" struck me!! I know, not a very good answer but I will have more but they probably won't be as good as this one.

So, all that said, now is a good time to stock up for Christmas gifts. Beginning about the middle of Sept I will have 2 fundraisers coming in and then I usually have another 1 or 2 from the school. It will probably get busy for several months.

Of course in all the hurry, hurry that things can get there is 1 thing I always try my very best to do and that is to have time for my family and church. To me those should come ahead of everything else. When I was working an 8-5 job I couldn't always do that and I said that when I was not working for the public anymore that would not be the case.

Well, I sorta got wordy here and I had better get to work now. Starting late in the day but Friday's can be like that! Hope everyone has a great week-end.

Saturday Night Fever!

Well, how does that title grab up??? You could call it a fever as hot as it has been today! But actually I am just wrapping up finishing some pillars I made for a couple of orders and thinking. You know, I know people like to do searches for things and then click on every link that shows up under them and that is what they are supposed to do! But, the searches that show up are called ppc - pay per click. Every time someone clicks on my link to go to my website it cost me money. Now that is fine if they end up ordering from me but if they are doing it just to occupy their time, no that is not fine! So to that end I have decided to try some other avenues for advertising.

I am on Facebook, Handmade Georgia, and Artfire. The links are below.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/edit/?id=107131717411#/pages/Glenwood-GA/The-Candle-Shoppe/107131717411

http://www.handmadegeorgia.com/profile/ElainePope

http://www.artfire.com/users/rubyelaine

Now I am still trying to learn all this stuff. To me it gets rather complicated. You know the old saying "You can't teach an old dog new tricks"? Well, that where I am!!

Well, back to my candles. Just thought I would let you know.

PCI Compliance

I have to tell you, this PCI compliance thing is a bunch of bull******!!!!!! There are probably about 230 questions you have to answer and I would need to be a network specialist or whatever you call them to even begin to know what they are talking about! Most of my answers were "n/a".

A little ole business like mine doesn't even have all that stuff they want to know about. Anyway it is a bunch of crock!!! But if you don't become compliant the bank that processes all credit card transactions charge you a monthly fee. You would not believe what all it cost just so my customers can use their credit cards and not have to go through PayPal to complete the transaction!!!

Oh well, cost of doing business I suppose but you would think little people like me wouldn't have to fool with all that crap!!!!

AUGUST SPECIAL

August special is: Buy 1 at regular price and receive 2nd at half off. This applies to internet orders only, no other discount or special applies. This offer is available on select jars & pillars.

FYI:
Well, I have made my decision on which soy I will be using. Now to try and find the time to get more scents tested before I put them on my website.

If you have not seen my special sale this month or on my email list for newsletters I have a 20% off all orders $25.00 and over. This applies to online sales only.

Hello! Hope everyone is having a good week-end. I know I say on my website I take Saturday's off but the truth is if I have an order I usually end up working. It beats cleaning house!

Just thought I would note that I do have my bath & body products up on my website and will be adding my soap probably during next week. If you want to check it out you can click here.

I am still testing soy wax and think I have found the soy I will be usuing. I have tested several scents but there are still several more I need to test before I put soy candles on website. I want to have probably 8-10 scents to start off with. Of course once I get them up if there is a scent you want that I have you can always choose unscented and then write your name in the message box. Of course I will have to make one just to be sure. I think with this wax it is going to have to cure for probably about a week. Would love one with shorter curing time but I am working with what I already have to keep from having to buy more!

Something New

Hope everyone is having a great 4th of July! Our 4th is very low key as we just sorta "piddle" around, my husband and myself! Our son and family celebrate with their friends so it's just me, hubby, Pepper, & Patches!!! Slept in late this morning, until Pepper finally said it's been long enough and made me get up!

I sorta started "piddling" in my shop and decided to pull out my soy wax! I have 2 different kinds of soy that I have had for a long time and decided to give testing another try! Probably in for a bunch of headaches but today is a holiday and not "working" at anything. Will start back officially working Monday AM early.

I am testing 1 scent in each wax to see which has the best scent throw. Really love the scent I am testing - Eucalyptus Spearmint. If you have looked at my new oils this month you will see that I am on a "Eucalyptus Kick". Really do like Eucalyptus that is mixed with other scents and the ones I have smell really good.

If I am successful will only do soy in 1 size container and that will be the tumbler that holds about 9oz of wax. I will probably leave it uncolored as a lot of candle makers say they have trouble with "frosting" when they color. I will probably call this like a spa/aromatherapy line and only do a few scents. Don't want to or have the time to test all my many scents in soy.

When I am ready to start selling soy, if I pass the test! I will post to that effect and also the scents I will be offering. Probably will have a special page for this on my website so it will be easier to order. Of course most soy has to have a curing period of at least a couple days so that will have to factor in with ordering. I do not keep candles made in advance, only make them fresh when ordered.

Now back to "piddling"

The discount of 15% using code BLUE is no longer effective.

Well, as you can see I have changed the looks of my Blog. I have also changed the looks of my website - http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/

It would not do for me to have a web designer do my website because I would go broke just changing it all the time. I like to change things around and decided to try a new look today.

As I said on my website from time to time I offer specials that only appear on my blog. Well, I have decided to "do it again" This time all you have to do is enter BLUE in the Discount Code space and click to apply code to receive 15% off your order. This discount cannot be used with any other codes or specials. I don't know how long this will be in effect but I will post when it is no longer valid.

I still have not completed my B&B section. Still workinig on it in my spare time. Hope to have it up soon though.

Feels like summer time has hit Georgia today so everyone stay cool.

Well, here it has been a month and I haven't written anything. I had told myself I would do better but haven't. Been busy with a fundraiser and then wholesale account. Trying to work orders in between all of this. So lets see what has changed!

My aroma beads have sold well locally. I know I really like them. I discontinued my 10oz apothecary jar on my website and added this jar - It holds 9 oz of wax and sells for $7.99. I really like this jar. It has a really slick smooth look to it, somewhat elegant!

I also made some very pretty I think, chunk candles in Fruit Medley. This is a picture of them. They are really fun to make and I want to make more in different colors when I have time.

I have also been working on my B&B line and hope to have that added to my website by week-end. I will have lotion and soap with Goat's Milk, Shea Butter, and Aloe Vera gel.

Also will have bath/shower gel, body spray, and my perfume. I think my perfume is really great. Used to I only had 1 kind for me because I was the type to buy expensive perfume. Now I can make my perfume and have lots of different designer scents! I have both women and men's designer scents and will be adding more.

As I find all my stock-piled candle jars I will be adding them to my sell page. Keep checking it because you will really find some good buys there!

Well, that's about all I can think of for now.

New Item

I have added Aroma Beads to my line of flameless scenting. Aroma Beads are fragrance absorbing clear plastic beads that fragrance oil and dye are added to. It is really amazing how these little clear beads can absorb the oil. I used to sell Smelly Jellies online but now only sell them locally. A lot of candlemakers have quiet making Smelly Jellies and now make the Aroma Bead so I decided to give it a try. I really prefer them over the Smelly Jellies. I have a bag of the beads in my car and I can smell them every time I get in it, which I really couldn't smell the Smelly Jellies. Probably my "candle-nose" has a lot to do with that. I have some customers that wouldn't be without the Jellies.

You can use them as air fresheners in sachets, smelly jelly jars, closets, automobiles, lockers, shoes, vacuum cleaners, drawers, in vacuum cleaner bags, air cleaner vents, etc. I like mine in the organza bags but some customers prefer the smelly jelly jars. In the organza bag they are so easily thrown under the seat in your car or put them in a drawer. You can also put the loose beads in a pretty decorative glass dish and set several about your room.

I don't have them on my website yet but they will be added in the next day or so. They can be purchased in the organza bags or the smelly jelly jars.

I have to get to bed now! Been working on a fundraiser and always like to get to a good stopping point before I stop, and I am there.

Reminder

Just wanted to remind everyone that the 15% off ends on the 30th at midnight!

Newsletter Special

Sorry if you have made it here and I have not done what I was supposed to do!!!! Get in to big a hurry. SO -- if you are here then I take it you have opened your newsletter and are looking for the special. THIS IS IT: ENTER CODE BLOG15 TO RECEIVE 15% OFF YOUR ORDER DURING CHECKOUT! Discount cannot be combined with any other offer or code.

Rainy Day

Well -- I know it has been a while since I have updated. Just haven't been able to think of anything to say!!! If you live where I live you are beginning to wonder if you need a boat to get out of your yard! I saw on the weather channel though out West instead of needing a boat you may be needing snow shoes! Sure is dreary weather here though.

I just want to say a word about burning your candles, whether it is a container candle or pillar. I know there are some of you that burn one like I do, continuous all day and into the night. Then there are those that burn for an hour or two and then put them out. The correct way to burn a candle is one hour per inch of candle diameter each time the candle is lit. This will ensure your best burning efficiency. Normally though you do not need to burn longer that 4 hours. Always be sure you trim your wick to 1/4" each time you light your candle. I always burn all my candles, jars and pillars, on a candle plate or holder. You can pick up cheap candle plates at places like Wal Mart and the Dollar Store. I just always feel better when they are not in direct contact with the furniture or counter tops.

As I said on my website - http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/ - from time to time I will offer specials that will only appear on my blog. For a time, don't know how long, you can receive 15% off your order by using the code BLOG15. Just enter this code during checkout and don't forget to click to apply. Discount cannot be combined with any other offer.

I have brought back several of my spring/summer scents and taken off some fall/winter scents. If there is ever a scent you like but don't see just email me and ask me about it. I have many scents that are not listed on my website.

St. Patrick's Day Scents

It's not to early to begin planning your St. Patrick's Day party. I decided to add a page for St. Patrick's Day this year. I have chosen 7 scents that to me have Irish origins and hoping you will also. I have listed my 6oz cube container and the 12oz pillar candle for the promotion. The price shown is $1.00 off the listed price.

Of course you can choose other containers and pillar sizes, you just have to write the scent name in the message box on the appropriate shopping page if you want one of the scents listed on the St Patrick's Page. Only the container and pillar shown on the St. Patrick's Day page have the dollar off.

Sale on D/C Jars

Today looks like a beautiful spring day but last night was sorta ugly! The sound of thunder and lightning woke me, hubby, and Pepper up around 1:30 this am really sounding terrible. Pepper is so very scared of bad weather. I am sure the wind was blowing really hard also, even though I went on back to sleep! My son called me this am about 6:15 and said the wind had blown a light pole down and they had no electricity and also blown the roof off a shed type storage behind utility house. He said it was really bad where they live last night. They live a couple miles in the country.

I had to go pick up girls and feed them and get them dressed and taken to school. They have both had the flu, one last week and the other earlier this week. Their mother, who is a school teacher now has the flu. Sure hope my Vitamin C is working!! Anyway, back to a beautiful looking spring day now but tonight supposed to be about 28 and tomorrow night about 26 so there goes my early spring.

Well now to my sale. I have marked down some D/C jars I had and also added 2 new ones. If you know any candlemakers you also know we have all kinds of "stuff" we buy in a weak moment and never use! Mine is jars and fragrant oils. I won't even begin to tell you how many oils I actually have that are not listed on my web site! I have to sit on my hands, which is hard to do and navigate the internet, to keep from ordering more oils I don't need!!!!

Anyway, this is the link to my sale page. http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/page7.html

Hope you see something you want!!! Now to go feed my beautiful red birds. I counted them the other day and there were about 15 in a tree side of my deck where the feeders are. If only I could keep that 1 squirrel away. I run him off but he comes back!

OH! forgot to add that while I was taking the girls to school Pepper was able to reach a container that had about 4-5 brownies in them and ate them!!! Boy is hubby going to be upset with Pepper eating all his brownies!! Just hope they don't make her sick, got to check and see about that. She was upset because the girls didn't play with her and we were leaving!!!

That all for today. Everyone have a good week-end!

BIRTHDAY SALE

No, not my birthday but the birthday of the most handsome guy in the world!!! 40 years ago this beautiful, almost 9 lbs baby boy with a headful of black hair was born. Today he is still just as tall and handsome as can be. Can't you tell I am a proud Mama. Time sure does fly!!

In celebration of his birthday I am running a 25% off sale on all orders over $25.00. This sale will run through 9:00AM tomorrow, the 12th of Feb, 2009. There is no code to enter and your cart will automatically apply the 25%.

This sale applies to internet orders only and no other code or discount will apply.

Visitors

OK, don't be alarmed by my new "widgit thingie" I added. It doesn't give away your secrets!!!! It just lets me know if someone visited by blog and where you visited from. This will help me to decide whether to keep up my blog or forget it as a bad idea!!

I added 2 new pillar styles to my website, an octagon pillar and a spiral pillar. Just a little something different!

That's all for tonight, got to hit the hay. 4:15 comes early in the morning!

Picture!!!

OK! After several request I decided to add my picture. Now I take horibble pictures so in real life I look much, much better. HaHa

Week-end Special

This will be my first special with my new blog. This will run until 8:AM Monday morning - Feb 2, 2009. On orders $25.00 and over you will save 25%. This applies to internet orders only.
Click this link to go shopping http://www.thecandle-shoppe.com/
No other offer or code can be combined with this week-end special.

One More Time

I have decided to give blogging 1 more try! I tried this in the past and didn't really care for the format or anything about that one so I have found this which I think will be better and allow for more interaction!

Hope you will read my blog. I am going to try to do better this time and keep up to date!! From time to time I will offer certain discounts on purchases from www.thecandle-shoppe.com. The discounts will be for the day only so you gotta read me often!