I made my first "loaf soap" yesterday. Not terrible for a first attempt, but they still need a little work. I scented them with Cappuccino fragrance oil. Yum!

Book Review: The Unseen by TL Hines

This is a book review of the novel The Unseen by T.L. Hines. The back flap of the book uses the descriptive term “Noir Bizarre”, and that is a fitting description. While I usually enjoy a suspense or mystery novel, this one had a little bit of a creepy factor to it.

As the story unfolds you learn about Lucas, a loner with an unusual hobby, or maybe I should say an obsession. He hides himself in tight spaces and observes individuals without their knowledge. He makes up imaginary “stories” about the lives of these individuals. While that is a creepy hobby, he never did anything dangerous or interfered in their lives in any other way.

Then the story takes a turn. Lucas meets some unsavory characters, and he begins to wonder if he is being watched. Or worse, is his life in jeopardy?

I must admit that this is not the type of book I normally read, but that is precisely why I finished it. In an attempt to broaden my horizons I am looking for different paths than my normal. It took me until chapter 13 or 14 to become very interested in the story line. At that point it seems the pace really picked up, and I had a harder time putting the book down. The action kept coming and really didn’t slow down for the rest of the story.

I was still left with a few questions after completing the book. Some of Lucas’ story is still a little unclear to me. I would have liked to have seen the author flesh this out a little more. All in all, an interesting, “Noir Bizarre” read.

Snow & More Snow

Our local weatherman forecast the possibility of one inch of snow. We got 4 1/2 inches! Good thing we have plenty of groceries because we can't get up or down our driveway. It is nice to be snowed in at least once a winter, and we've thoroughly enjoyed it!

Chilly but creative

Fall and Christmas are by far the busiest time of year for me, and now that January is in full swing I have had an opportunity to catch my breath. This is also the time of year that I do most of my creative experimenting with new products and formulations. After all, who wants to be outside in the rain/sleet/snow for very long? I am not tempted by cold weather at all, except for the first "real snow" each year. Still waiting for it, but in the meantime I've been in my workshop trying some new things, and I'm excited to share some of the "keepers" with you.

So many people have raved about our Pomegranate scent, but it never worked well in our soy wax. Now I think we have a winner in soap. It looks and smells amazing. I am pleased with it and have added it to the store. Hope you'll take a look.

I will tell you about more of my "experiments" soon. Got some ideas. Better go get started on them!

Pink Heart Sparkle Soaps

Pink Heart Sparkle Soaps were added to our store today. They are scented with Buttercream, which does smell good enough to eat (but please don't)!

Sweet Soaps for Your Sweet!

When I found this soap mold I had to make these. I hope you like them as much as I do! They come in a set of five soaps as shown. Each soap is 2 oz. This year give something unique, not the last minute run-of-the-mill chocolates/flowers/card. Too predictable. They'll never expect these.

Fresh Brewed Coffee scent

I can't believe I forgot to tell you...our bundt cake candles are now available in Fresh Brewed Coffee scent. This is a slightly sweet coffee fragrance with a mild hint of chocolate. Hope you like it.

New Additions to our Store

I added some creative soaps to the web store tonight. Check them out at http://www.sweetcakescandles.com/. This is my beverage of choice, sweet tea. Yes, I'm a southern gal.

2009

My sincere wish is that you have a happy, healthy and productive 2009. Happy New Year!