4 lbs. Lard
13 oz. Lye
5 cups cold water
1 Tablespoon lavendar oil
1 Tablespoon patchouli oil
1 cup fresh strawberry juice
1/4 cup dried soap bark herb (optional)

In large enamal or iron kettle, meld lard over very low heat, never use metal...

In a separate pot, stir together the lye and water. Heat lard till small bubbles appear...DO NOT BOIL!!!

Remove from heat and slowly pour the lye solution into the lard. With large wooden spoon, stir in lavendar oil, patchouli oil, and the strawberry juice and the soap bark herb. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring frequently.

Pour into 2 inch greased pans and allow to cool overnight. Cut soap into squares, leaving in the pan for three days before removing.

Place soap bars on waxed paper and allow them to age in a draft-free area aprox. 4 to 6 weeks before using.

--Submitted by Michelle