SMF

El Alamein -

I found both Culmack and Floris 89 on Amazon. FWIW, I agree with your observation concerning manufacturing PS based soap from veggie source. Thanks for the feedback.

About a year ago, I read an article claiming that Potassium Stearate is a key ingredient to look for in a top-shelf soap, because PS produces a more creamy and stable lather. Looking back a year later, it seems that my best performing soaps do indeed contain PS. On the other hand, I sometimes convin...

Rachael -

I nominate two in my area, not in any particular order of wonderfulness: Hog's Breath Barber Shop in Dublin CA (what a name!) and Charlie's Barber Shop in Danville, CA (where Sully Sullenberger, the Miracle on the Hudson pilot, happens to be a customer).

I learned from trial and error how to make the Harris soaps come to life (same thing that happened with MWF) I've been experiencing one of the best soap lathers I ever hoped for. In my particular case it's in the water and product mix. I had to write it down when I finally got it right, so I wouldn...

Those of us who don't do the laundry might be able to learn a thing or two from those of us who do! For example, I've always wondered how much starch and softener to add to load of towels, and what would be the best means of ironing and folding them properly. You actually IRON towels? Gee, Gary, I ...

To KAV - sorry about the title of this post, but I just couldn't resist! I am no expert, but as I understand it scuttles serve primarily to keep the brush and its contents warm. I believe those who don't see that as an advantage will simply use a cup or mug. As for me, I prefer soap also but use an ...

Most recently finished The Civil War by Ken Burns. Fascinating, reveals many details not taught in school, definitely NOT a dry chronology of dates and places. Highlly recommended. Currently reading The Federalist Papers -- again, not having read them since high school in the 60s. With a little age ...

Skin Food is pricey IMO in the small bottles, but is about 50% cheaper per ml when purchased in the 500ml bottle. The 500ml bottle is costly initially, but cheaper per ml and lasts almost forever. Not all vendors carry the large size -- but West Coast Shaving, Lees Razors, and Amazon do have it, and...

Gary -- What's the line from Dr. Phil -- "you choose the behavior, you choose the consequences." But then again, if your AD is indeed compulsive, there is no element of choice to begin with. I am truly SAD for you (pun, heh). But at least you are not a CAD (pun, heh). I will go now and adj...

Curse you, Ben and Gary

You have rationalized the expense of MdC, so now I can get some. This is an extremely bad development for my SAD. My grandchildren's inheritance is going down the drain (pun intended).

Thanks for the location help, Ed. Can't believe I had a hard time finding it. Duh

Hi Ed --

I;m having trouble identifying the scuttle on DB web site. I know the color would likely be different, but can't seem to find the style. Can you help me nail this down? Thank you.

W5eo - For restoration, I would recommend the Razor Emporium's "Razor Revamp" service at www.razoremporium.com which includes complete cleaning, mechanical adjustments if needed, and a full replating. You can replate in your razor's original finish or in rhodium which is an inert metal and...

Wasn't it Doris Day who sang the ad that went - - - "Seeee thuuuuuh USA in your Chevrolet, American is asking you to call - - -" I wish I could remember all the words by heart. Those were the days when you could fire up an American-Made V8 and hear the throaty burble now unknown to the you...

I am in a quandry. Who do I value most? On the one hand, I admire KAV for his candor, accuracy, and classy way of putting things. Excellent points all around. On the other hand, I believe that HARPER adds immensely to the discussion because he has the perspective that only age can bestow. Hats Off t...

KAV - What are the social liabilities associated with palm oil? Seems that I am ignorant.

So we're saying that Murray would like a customized 67 Volvo 122S with a two-speed rear end?? Or was that with duel rear wheels? I missed it. Guess I will have to pay closer attention.

Yes, KAV, the Astras are one of my favorites. Not only do they give me a really good shave, but they are reasonably priced. This means that when traveling I can use them for a couple of days and move on, without thinking I am wasting money. If I used a 7 o'clock blue for two days and then had to mov...

Yes, we could be macho and shift without a clutch, or be really macho and double-clutch (even though it wasn't necessary, it was cool that you could do it). A white '59 Volvo, can't remember the model but I bet Jim remembers it since it was his car. A year later, my father bought my first car -- a b...

Dosco, you will love this one. Back in the day, I had a college friend with a Volvo whose throw-out bearing failed -- which of course made it impossible to shift gears. Being college kinds with no money, the three of us proceeded to jack up the car in the parking lot, drop the transmission out of th...