My last blog entry, posted on 27th Feb, was actually written in early January. I was unsure as to what to write about, whether I actually wanted to blog or not, whether I could stay focused, committed. I saved it as a draft, figuring I’d get back to it. Needless to say, I did not achieve either focus or commitment, but in my defense I’ve had a busy couple of months. Aside from a three week trip to Western Australia – the opposite side of the country to the beautiful state of Tasmania that I call home, I have been busily making beeswax candles. It is my partners idea, something he wants to do, to work for himself – but at the moment he is working for someone else, and I am working at home, so I am the one making the candles. I love it. The beeswax has a natural honey scent that fills the house and the act of melting the wax and pouring the candles has to be done slowly – to ensure the wax is not burnt when melted, or spilt when poured; making me slow down – forcing me to be patient.
Making these candles I have learnt so much about beeswax and about paraffin, which has been the main product used to create candles for some time now. Aside from the fact that beeswax is a sustainable by-product of honey, it also acts as a natural air purifier, removing the toxins from our air – toxins that regular, paraffin candles actually add to (did you know paraffin is made from a sludgy by-product of petroleum!!). Beeswax also has a higher burning point than parafin, which means that the candles will last longer, and beeswax doesn’t result in a smoky flame like paraffin can. There is so much more information out there – if you’re interested to know more just google “Benefits of Beeswax” and see what comes up.
But I have digressed. In my last post I mentioned that I had started reading The Pact, by Jodi Picoult. I did get through it, although there were several occasions when I put the book down and decided I couldn’t read anymore. And my suspicions were partly right – but mostly wrong. As usual Jodi managed to surprise me with an ending I did not see coming. It is another brilliant book by Jodi, I love her stories – her portrayal and understanding of human emotions is something I envy.
Heather Ewings 