Today is the first day of The Relevant Conference, where two hundred Christian women are gathering to learn more about writing and blogging and to be encouraged and encouragers of one another. Many of us have become good friends through emails, phone calls, Skype, and Twitter, praying for one another and counseling each other through faith and life challenges. This weekend will allow us to deepen and broaden those friendships.

I’m especially looking forward to hanging out with everyone at the beach house party sponsored by (in)courage by DaySpring. Many of the (in)courage writers will be speaking and/or attending Relevant. They are extremely talented writers whom God has blessed with wisdom and skill in encouraging and exhorting women. And in turn, they bless hundreds (maybe thousands?) of women like me. I am looking forward to meeting them in person and thanking them for sharing so boldly.

I’m able to attend The Relevant Conference thanks to Renee of Miss Selby’s Soaps, a blue-ribbon sponsor. Renee is a godly and encouraging woman who makes fabulous soaps and whose business God is growing like crazy. It is a joy to partner with her.

She is currently making some limited-time-only scents for the fall and Christmas season. Oh. My. I snagged an apple pie and a pumpkin spice bar, and I love them. They smell good enough to eat while lathering up, yet the scent isn’t overpowering and doesn’t linger on your skin (which is a quality I love). Don’t forget they are 30% shea butter — you won’t find soap with this much moisture in this price range anywhere.

It gets better. My bathroom smells like a bakery… which is a huge improvement. Say it with me, everyone: “Never ever ever put carpet in the bathroom.”

Note for all you guys: good soap isn’t just for women. These aren’t [all] girly scents. My husband really likes the Pumpkin Spice, and Miss Selby’s Soaps are in huge demand at her son’s high-school.

If you’re looking for a natural soap without all the weird stuff or gifts for hostesses, house guests, or the holidays, give Miss Selby’s Soaps a look. She is offering a special sale for you readers — enter promo code “joy” for a 20% discount off your entire order!

For all you ladies attending Relevant, the first 50 of you who ask about Miss Selby’s Soaps will receive a free sample. Look for the bright pink bow on my tote bag… or around my neck if I get really brave.