I just needed to post this:

I have lived with my new soapstone countertops and sinks for 6 months now. I have to say that they are BY FAR the favorite part of my kitchen. The soapstone came from Vermont Soapstone. I love, love, love, them.

My only regret was listening to my hubby and the counter fabricator/installer who talked me out of runnels next to the sink. Every time that water runs off of the counter and on to the floor, I curse his name;-)

If you are thinking about soapstone, I recommend it highly. Be sure that you see the product first, all soapstone is not created equal! Some are hard and some are really soft.

Good luck!