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Over time, I became increasingly determined to minimize waste in my family's daily life. One pivotal moment came when I glanced into our recycling bin and noticed an abundance of plastics that couldn't be recycled. That prompted me to explore ways to reduce our plastic consumption. In a world where convenience often trumps sustainability, this endeavor presented its challenges, yet we persistently seek alternatives to plastic in our daily routines.
Our commitment to waste reduction led me to the craft of soapmaking. Starting with melt and pour techniques, I soon craved a more artistic outlet, delving into cold and hot process soapmaking. Today, not only do I handcraft all our bar soaps, but I also create our laundry detergent and household cleaner, using herbs from my garden and vinegar as a base.
I extend a challenge to anyone willing to join: take a look inside your recycling bin and select one plastic-packaged product you can either craft yourself or source locally. It could be as simple as whipping up your own salad dressing. Through small changes like these, we can minimize plastic use while nurturing a healthier lifestyle for ourselves and the planet.
Why I Chose the Name Crilly’s
My maternal grandfather, Bernard Aloysius Crilly, hailed from Ireland, born in 1908. As a teenager, he immigrated to the United States under his brother's name. Eager to contribute to the war effort, he became a citizen in the early 1940s, amidst World War II. Settling down, he married and had three daughters, one of whom is my mother. When my mother was eight, they began spending summers in NH, eventually purchasing a house there. Antrim, NH, reminiscent of Ireland, became their cherished retreat. Though I never met my maternal grandparents, my fascination with family history grew from hearing tales of their lives. In Ireland, my great-grandfather owned Crilly's, a beloved general store. Keeping the family legacy alive, I chose to name my business Crilly's, honoring our heritage.