I was listing the gifts that I opened and forgot about the yorkie. Plus, I was NOT very happy about the weather station. It rates right up there with getting a weather barometer!!!!!!

One year my MIL got a weather barometer and I told my husband that that was an awful gift to give someone for Christmas.........sure enough, I got one too!

Judy, I don't use a base. I make mine from scratch using lye (100% sodium hydroxide, NaOH), water and oils to make bar soap. Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) and oils are used to make liquid soap.

There are soap forums with lots of information. There is information on bases as well as making from scratch. The one I am a member of is:
www.thedishforum.com. I think you have to register to see the threads, but there is a wealth of information there about making all kinds of soaps, lotions, cosmetics, you name it. I have not been a very active poster & I'm Marilyn there just like here, but have learned a LOT from this site.

Ok, here goes.

A really nice pair of gloves.
Green Bags by Debbie Myers?? (for veggies and such)
2 pair of those nice soft fuzzy slipper socks.
Bath kit with soaps and body wash.
Gift basket with yummy goodies.
Homemade fudge.
Really nice check from my wonderful mom!
Ugly jacket.. from Christoper Banks. So I returned it, got two nice tops and still have a 15:00 store credit!
Cold Cash... from my wonderful father!

Oh and I bought one of those Shark steam mops for myself!!!

You all did great!!! Now............who has started shopping for next year already???

I picked up all the pieces to a Christmas china set at Target for 75% off, does that count lol also got a few ornaments for next year keeping in my winter color theme :D

I didn't even go out and shop after Christmas because it means a trip out of town. So, no, I haven't bought anything for next year. Sometimes I look for birthday gifts for the kids but anymore they're so happy with money that I'll probably just do that again.

I bought glazed/candied fruit for next year's fruit cakes on sale 1/2 price. It will keep well in the freezer until next November. They had lots of cherries, but no pineapple. Will have to check another store for that.

Thanks Marilyn. I registered. Do you use essential oils? If you do, where do you get them? I have mine for years. They are beautiful, but some need replacement.

I have bought essential oils, but have not used any yet. I don't remember where I bought them now. I researched some of the threads discussing them and found some of the supply sites referenced. I have bought essential oils, fragrances, clays and color pigments. I just need to find the time to make more soap. Maybe this weekend I can get my stuff out and get it organized so I can soap again.