October musings... Pumpkins...apples..nuts... sweaters... slow simmering soups and baking...oh my! These are the things that October brings.
And these homey things makes my heart sing.
I love the nesting and return to home of this month...and you will find me puttering in my garden...checking on my herbs and roses...and cleaning my house from top to bottom. I love the smell of furniture wax...and the Rosemary and Sage essential oils I use to clean my home. And nothing gives me greater pleasure than cooking something that not only tastes good...but makes my whole house smell like the comforts of home...and my family.
As I tend to my home this month...cleaning...clearing out...and letting go of items that I once thought I needed... I use this time.. cleaning my home...to soul search and reflect on what I need and want to release from my life too. The clearing out of items that I think I needed is such a powerful symbol for me personally of people...and issues... wants and desires...that seem now to no longer belong in my life. Maybe they never did...it was just where I was at in my life.
It is so very true that as a human whether female or male...you experience different cycles in your own life...that creates change...about how you feel about things...the way you think...even your wants and needs are so different with each season of your life.
Other times lessons or difficult situations... makes you rethink and deeply reflect your life...causing you to make changes that resonate more with your soul.You become more aware at some point that life is short...and to waste your precious time on anything that doesn't hold true to your soul or self-worth...just needs to be released from your life..to make room for something more loving and real. Whether by changing cycles in your life...or by lessons or difficult times...beginning a journey of living a more soulful life...adds so much more meaning and authenticity to you as a human being.
And enriches your life tenfold.
May you be blessed this month with all that October offers you...pumpkins...good food...happy times...fun Halloween treats...and also the time to reflect...to release...and let go...of all those things...that is holding you back from your joy and happiness.
You can do it. Because truth is...your life is just that...your life.
And your time here on Earth...is just a blink of the eye...and your time is priceless.
And you are priceless too.
Make each moment count.
Happy October,
Victoria
"There is no season when such pleasant
and sunny spots may be lighted on,
and produce so pleasant an effect
on the feelings, as now in October."
- Nathaniel Hawthorne
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR OCTOBER...
October 4th...Feast of St. Francis of Assisi... Patron saint of ecology...October 10th...Canadian Day of Thanksgiving...October 16th...World Food Day...Sponsored by the United Nations...October 24th...United Nations Day...October 31st...Halloween...or All Hallow's Eve.
HALLOWEEN TRADITION...
The week of Halloween...get out all your scary and spooky movies...and as a family watch one movie each night...with all the lights off! This is so much fun...to do with everyone. Allow screams!
***Not for very small children please.
FACTS ABOUT HALLOWEEN...
Halloween has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain ( pronounced "Sah-win")...which for the Gaelic culture was a celebration of the harvest season.
Irish and Scottish immigrants carried versions of the Halloween tradition to North America in the 19th century.
In Belgium...
The custom on Halloween night is to light candles in memory of dead relatives.
In China...
The Halloween festival is known as Teng Chief. Food and water are placed in front of pictures of family members who have departed and lanterns and bonfires are lit in order to light the way of the spirits to travel the earth on Halloween night.
In Sweden...
Halloween is known as "Alla Helgons Dag" and is celebrated from October 31st until November 6th.
OCTOBER IN FRENCH...Is Octobre
OCTOBER IN ITALIAN...Is Ottobre
OCTOBER IN GERMAN...Is Oktober
FOLKLORE FOR OCTOBER...
When deer are in a grey coat in October , expect a hard winter.
A warm October means a cold February
GARDENING TIP FOR OCTOBER...
Plant potted trees and shrubs in the ground
FULL MOON IN OCTOBER...October 27th
FLOWERS FOR OCTOBER... Are the marigold and cosmos
GEMS FOR OCTOBER... Is the opal
FACTS ABOUT OCTOBER...
TEACHINGS OF OCTOBER...This is the month to reflect on what you want to release in your life to create more positive change. Work on creating more harmony in your life.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Purchase lovely marigolds and cosmos...the official flowers of October...and put them in small vases in each room of your home...for a simple but pretty October feel and look.
A bowl of dried Bay leaves in a pretty glass bowl...makes a lovely center piece for your kitchen table...you can if you like...place small glass votive candle holders...with a white candle... around the bowl of Bay leaves...for added decoration... and it will look so festive when the candles..are lit...adding such a warm...cozy ambiance too.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
It is always the case in October that social activities take center stage...and unexpected invites mean you need a quick...but very good dish to take or put out in your own kitchen table. You will love this Cheese Spread...trust me.
OLIVE GOAT CHEESE SPREAD
makes 3 cups
16 ounces organic soft goat cheese
fresh garlic to taste...try maybe 2 small cloves
2/3 cup grated sharp white cheddar cheese
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1/4 to 1/2 chopped pitted Greek olives
Using a food processor thoroughly mix the goat cheese...garlic...cheddar cheese and thyme.Toss in the chopped olives and pulse just until they are mixed in with other ingredients.Chill...and then serve at room temperature.
Serve with crackers...fresh crisp veggies...or toasted bread.
...FOR YOUR HEART
October is a month of reflection and release...so write down on fallen leaves with a magic maker all those things you want to release from your life.Once done with this process...crumble up the written release leaves...and scatter them in your yard. This simple act will empower you to release and let go...but remember you must follow through with the action steps too...to release...unwanted situations or issues.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS HOME BLESSING 2015
Here at Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...we believe in celebrating your home...because we know your home is a reflection for who you are...and all the care and attention you put into creating a beautiful haven for yourself and those you love... who live there. We also know that your home is so much more than wood or stone...brick or mortar... it is your safe sanctuary from the outside world...worthy of harmony...and peaceful balance...as you cross the threshold into your private environment.
Have you ever gone into someone's home...and felt it wasn't quite right? And couldn't wait to leave?That is because a home has energies within it's walls...from those that reside there...and sometimes those energies need to be cleared out and released...to bring more positive and loving qualities into that home environment. Your home has energies too...whether from change...illness...a remodel...or other life transition...that you sense... needs to be cleared out and released...to restore a more positive and joyful "sense of balance"...to your home. Whether you live in an apartment...buying a new home...or renting...our "Home Blessing" is perfect for any dwelling.
Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions has designed a wonderful celebration for you to cleanse stagnant energies within your home with our HOME BLESSING. A Home Blessing is a timeless tradition going back to ancient times...which I find so endearing...nurturing...and so very much needed in today's world. When you create our Home Blessing... you will be creating a prayer or clear intention for the qualities YOU want in your home and all who reside within it's walls...in a simple...loving and easy format...that we provide for you...in an e-course form.
Included in your purchase of our "Home Blessing" written in easy to follow instructions...you will also receive a fact sheet of ancient facts about Home Blessings...and a document that you can cut out and frame...stating that your home has been blessed. And with your initial purchase... you will have the loving means to begin your tradition of blessing your home...again and again each year or when needed,
To order your "HOME BLESSING" just go to the sidebar on the right...click on the link to Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...and then click on the button TRADITIONS.
May your home be blessed,
Victoria
CUSTOMER REVIEW FOR OUR "HOME BLESSING" E-COURSE
from a happy customer...Laura Chiaramida
Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions has created a beautifully written "Home Blessing"! Thoughtful...easy to follow instructions...makes it practical for everyone. This Home Blessing can involve the whole family or be completed quietly by yourself.
I have performed this "Home Blessing" a few times since purchasing Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions "Home Blessing" and my home always feels lighter...calmer and brimming with positive energy after doing so.
Victoria Silva...founder and owner of Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...has created a lovely "Home Blessing" and I cannot recommend it enough.
Have you ever gone into someone's home...and felt it wasn't quite right? And couldn't wait to leave?That is because a home has energies within it's walls...from those that reside there...and sometimes those energies need to be cleared out and released...to bring more positive and loving qualities into that home environment. Your home has energies too...whether from change...illness...a remodel...or other life transition...that you sense... needs to be cleared out and released...to restore a more positive and joyful "sense of balance"...to your home. Whether you live in an apartment...buying a new home...or renting...our "Home Blessing" is perfect for any dwelling.
Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions has designed a wonderful celebration for you to cleanse stagnant energies within your home with our HOME BLESSING. A Home Blessing is a timeless tradition going back to ancient times...which I find so endearing...nurturing...and so very much needed in today's world. When you create our Home Blessing... you will be creating a prayer or clear intention for the qualities YOU want in your home and all who reside within it's walls...in a simple...loving and easy format...that we provide for you...in an e-course form.
Included in your purchase of our "Home Blessing" written in easy to follow instructions...you will also receive a fact sheet of ancient facts about Home Blessings...and a document that you can cut out and frame...stating that your home has been blessed. And with your initial purchase... you will have the loving means to begin your tradition of blessing your home...again and again each year or when needed,
To order your "HOME BLESSING" just go to the sidebar on the right...click on the link to Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...and then click on the button TRADITIONS.
May your home be blessed,
Victoria
CUSTOMER REVIEW FOR OUR "HOME BLESSING" E-COURSE
from a happy customer...Laura Chiaramida
Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions has created a beautifully written "Home Blessing"! Thoughtful...easy to follow instructions...makes it practical for everyone. This Home Blessing can involve the whole family or be completed quietly by yourself.
I have performed this "Home Blessing" a few times since purchasing Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions "Home Blessing" and my home always feels lighter...calmer and brimming with positive energy after doing so.
Victoria Silva...founder and owner of Seasonal Living And Timeless Traditions...has created a lovely "Home Blessing" and I cannot recommend it enough.
Friday, September 4, 2015
SEPTEMBER HERBAL RECIPE 2015
September is a month of harvesting...and herbs carry on the tradition of culinary use in your kitchen...whether from your own garden...your local farmers's market or fresh organic from your grocery store...be sure to use them in abundance this harvest month of September.
Here then is a easy...simple and fantastic herbal recipe ...for you to enjoy. Great on beef...gratins...veggies...and chicken.
HANDMADE GREMOLATA
Makes about 2 1/2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 clove garlic...minced
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Mix together the ingredients and scatter over the top of a dish you are preparing a few minutes before the end of cooking.
Here then is a easy...simple and fantastic herbal recipe ...for you to enjoy. Great on beef...gratins...veggies...and chicken.
HANDMADE GREMOLATA
Makes about 2 1/2 tablespoons
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 clove garlic...minced
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
Mix together the ingredients and scatter over the top of a dish you are preparing a few minutes before the end of cooking.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS SEPTEMBER 2015
September musings... The Sun casts certain shadows in the month of September...that I just love to observe...and actually sit or stand in... for a minutes outside each day...and just "be" in it's waning light. It feels different...it looks different...the Sun's light that is...because it is retreating...slowly...as if by some cosmic clock...so the lovely season of Autumn can begin.
This month offers...soothing energy...as if the whole Earth...can sigh a big breath of release...from the intense heat of the Summer cycle...and the frenzy of growth. Just as the Sun is retreating it's bright light of the Summer season...you are given this natural yearly signal...to retreat also...and embrace the Autumn...known as the cycle of "gathering in"...to reflect... to release...give thanks...and explore yourself more deeply...for your personal growth in the future.
This is a time of great change and release in my own life...my youngest and last child at home...has spread her wings and moved away to college...leaving a feeling of emptiness for me in my heart...and her echo left here in our home. I miss her something fierce...but I know that this is such a very necessary step for her growth...and one for me too...as her parent .I need...and each person needs... to know how and when to release and let go...no matter how painful that experience might feel in the moment.
As one door closes...another door opens.
No matter what release you are now facing...embrace it...because something new awaits you on the other side. It may not be what you want...but more than likely it is what your soul needs for your life to expand...and for you to grow. Take the gift of this month of September...to be like the Sun...and retreat within yourself...connect and honor your feelings...and reflect on your life events...change... and what you need to release from your life...no matter what that might be.
This is what I must do right now...reflect...feel...release...so when the time is right...I can move forward...to embrace a new chapter in my life.
And be at peace.
Peaceful release to you,
Victoria
There are flowers enough in the
Summertime
More flowers than
I can remember-
But none with the purple,gold,and red
That dyes the flowers of September!
by Mary Howitt
(1799-1888)
THE SEPTEMBER HOME...Is all about nesting..bringing order...beauty and balance once again to the place you call home.Return to your kitchen for Autumn baking...making hearty soups and stews...and place apples...nuts and herbs on your kitchen counters. Fall cleaning is also in order this month...so clean your home from top to bottom. Be sure to add natural pest control buy placing small cedar squares in closets and drawers.
LEAVING THE NEST REFLECTION JAR...
My youngest daughter and last child at home...has just left for college...and my emotions feel so raw...and I know they will remain a roller coaster for some time...as I settle in to my cycle of being an "empty nester". I wanted to express my feelings and keep them...as I feel it is so important to write out how I feel...and hold the memories too. You might want to do this also...for a child of yours who is going off to college...moving into their first place...or moving to a new city...away from you.
Fill up your Leaving The Nest Reflection Jar ...starting the very day your child moves out and add to it each day for a FULL year...then present it to your child...on the exact day...the following year...to cherish forever your heart emotions...and deepest inner feelings when they left home for the first time.
Supplies you will need:
1 large recycled bottle or jar
small blank tags
pen
Each day record your feelings or thoughts by writing them out on one of your blank tags...then place in your jar or bottle. If you wish say a prayer or express a loving message to your child as you finish placing the written tag in the bottle.
Present your Leaving The Nest Reflection Jar to your child one year from the day they left home as a cherished gift to them...and ask them to carry on the tradition with their own children.
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...
September 7th...Grandparents Day... September 21st.. International Day of Peace...September 23rd...Fall Equinox
In Greece the September Equinox is associated with the Greek mythology of the goddess Persephone and her return to be with her husband in the underworld. It is also a time when the Greeks reflect on successes or failures from the previous months.
In China...The mid-Autumn festival also known as the Moon Festival is celebrated around the time of the Fall Equinox...which honors the abundance of the Summers harvest with special moon cakes that are filled with lotus...sesame seeds...duck eggs or dried fruit.
SEPTEMBER IN FRENCH...Septembre
SEPTEMBER IN SPANISH...Setiembre
FOLKLORE...
Married in Septembers
golden glow, smooth
and serene your life will go.
FULL MOON...September 27th
LUNAR ECLIPSE... September 27th
FLOWERS FOR SEPTEMBER...Lily...asters
GEMS FOR SEPTEMBER...Sapphire
FACTS ABOUT SEPTEMBER...In Old England September was called Haervest-Monath (Harvest Month). This is the month to gather up the rest of the harvest and prepare for Winter.
TEACHINGS OF SEPTEMBER...This month is wonderful to reflect on your successes and failures so far this year...and make peace with situations that did not go the way you wanted them to. Do Fall cleaning and organize your home.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
September is such a great month to clean out and clear out...your home environment...and creating a Home Blessing is such a special way to cleanse your home... once you have completed your cleaning and clearing out process. I have designed a simple...lovely... and meaningful HOME BLESSING e-course that offers you a wonderful way to clear your home of unwanted energies and add the qualities you really want for your home and family. You will be able to feel the positive difference in your home creating my Home Blessing...and will want to make it a yearly tradition. By ordering my Home Blessing just once...you will have the directions...and easy to follow format to do just that...year after year ...after year. My Home Blessing e-course also makes a great gift to give to those you love and care about.
To order my Home Blessing...just click on the TRADITIONS button that you will find on my website found on the right sidebar...or www.seasonallivingandtimelesstraditions.com
..FOR YOUR HEARTH
Carry on the tradition of baking...and make fresh baked goods this month of September in honor of the harvest season.
I am crazy good over any fruit dessert...and cobblers to me are so comforting and wholesome. Try this ever so good blackberry cobbler...and enjoy this wonderful traditional fruit dessert.
BLACKBERRY COBBLER
serves 6 to 8
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 cups fresh blackberries
1 cup sugar...plus a bit for sprinkling on top
1 cup all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
pinch of fine sea salt
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
vanilla ice cream,,,,optional
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.Melt the butter in a large cast-iron skillet or ovenproof baking dish in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Do not let the butter burn.
While the skillet is heating up...place the blackberries in a large bowl. Using a potato masher...mash them to release some of their juices.If the berries are tart...sprinkle them with some of the sugar.
To make the batter...in another bowl...whisk together the flour...baking powder...and salt. Add the 1 cup sugar...milk...and vanilla extract...and stir until evenly blended.Next...remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the melted butter to the batter...and stir to combine. Pour the mixed batter all at once into the hot skillet...then add the blackberries and the juices to the center of the batter.
Bake until the top is golden brown and a cake tester (knife) comes out clean...about 60 minutes. Serve warm...or at room temperature with ice cream if you wish.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Have a good old-fashioned scavenger hunt...in your neighborhood or nearby park...and embrace your inner child!
Go to an apple orchard and pick your own apples.
This month offers...soothing energy...as if the whole Earth...can sigh a big breath of release...from the intense heat of the Summer cycle...and the frenzy of growth. Just as the Sun is retreating it's bright light of the Summer season...you are given this natural yearly signal...to retreat also...and embrace the Autumn...known as the cycle of "gathering in"...to reflect... to release...give thanks...and explore yourself more deeply...for your personal growth in the future.
This is a time of great change and release in my own life...my youngest and last child at home...has spread her wings and moved away to college...leaving a feeling of emptiness for me in my heart...and her echo left here in our home. I miss her something fierce...but I know that this is such a very necessary step for her growth...and one for me too...as her parent .I need...and each person needs... to know how and when to release and let go...no matter how painful that experience might feel in the moment.
As one door closes...another door opens.
No matter what release you are now facing...embrace it...because something new awaits you on the other side. It may not be what you want...but more than likely it is what your soul needs for your life to expand...and for you to grow. Take the gift of this month of September...to be like the Sun...and retreat within yourself...connect and honor your feelings...and reflect on your life events...change... and what you need to release from your life...no matter what that might be.
This is what I must do right now...reflect...feel...release...so when the time is right...I can move forward...to embrace a new chapter in my life.
And be at peace.
Peaceful release to you,
Victoria
There are flowers enough in the
Summertime
More flowers than
I can remember-
But none with the purple,gold,and red
That dyes the flowers of September!
by Mary Howitt
(1799-1888)
THE SEPTEMBER HOME...Is all about nesting..bringing order...beauty and balance once again to the place you call home.Return to your kitchen for Autumn baking...making hearty soups and stews...and place apples...nuts and herbs on your kitchen counters. Fall cleaning is also in order this month...so clean your home from top to bottom. Be sure to add natural pest control buy placing small cedar squares in closets and drawers.
LEAVING THE NEST REFLECTION JAR...
My youngest daughter and last child at home...has just left for college...and my emotions feel so raw...and I know they will remain a roller coaster for some time...as I settle in to my cycle of being an "empty nester". I wanted to express my feelings and keep them...as I feel it is so important to write out how I feel...and hold the memories too. You might want to do this also...for a child of yours who is going off to college...moving into their first place...or moving to a new city...away from you.
Fill up your Leaving The Nest Reflection Jar ...starting the very day your child moves out and add to it each day for a FULL year...then present it to your child...on the exact day...the following year...to cherish forever your heart emotions...and deepest inner feelings when they left home for the first time.
Supplies you will need:
1 large recycled bottle or jar
small blank tags
pen
Each day record your feelings or thoughts by writing them out on one of your blank tags...then place in your jar or bottle. If you wish say a prayer or express a loving message to your child as you finish placing the written tag in the bottle.
Present your Leaving The Nest Reflection Jar to your child one year from the day they left home as a cherished gift to them...and ask them to carry on the tradition with their own children.
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...
September 7th...Grandparents Day... September 21st.. International Day of Peace...September 23rd...Fall Equinox
In Greece the September Equinox is associated with the Greek mythology of the goddess Persephone and her return to be with her husband in the underworld. It is also a time when the Greeks reflect on successes or failures from the previous months.
In China...The mid-Autumn festival also known as the Moon Festival is celebrated around the time of the Fall Equinox...which honors the abundance of the Summers harvest with special moon cakes that are filled with lotus...sesame seeds...duck eggs or dried fruit.
SEPTEMBER IN FRENCH...Septembre
SEPTEMBER IN SPANISH...Setiembre
FOLKLORE...
Married in Septembers
golden glow, smooth
and serene your life will go.
FULL MOON...September 27th
LUNAR ECLIPSE... September 27th
FLOWERS FOR SEPTEMBER...Lily...asters
GEMS FOR SEPTEMBER...Sapphire
FACTS ABOUT SEPTEMBER...In Old England September was called Haervest-Monath (Harvest Month). This is the month to gather up the rest of the harvest and prepare for Winter.
TEACHINGS OF SEPTEMBER...This month is wonderful to reflect on your successes and failures so far this year...and make peace with situations that did not go the way you wanted them to. Do Fall cleaning and organize your home.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
September is such a great month to clean out and clear out...your home environment...and creating a Home Blessing is such a special way to cleanse your home... once you have completed your cleaning and clearing out process. I have designed a simple...lovely... and meaningful HOME BLESSING e-course that offers you a wonderful way to clear your home of unwanted energies and add the qualities you really want for your home and family. You will be able to feel the positive difference in your home creating my Home Blessing...and will want to make it a yearly tradition. By ordering my Home Blessing just once...you will have the directions...and easy to follow format to do just that...year after year ...after year. My Home Blessing e-course also makes a great gift to give to those you love and care about.
To order my Home Blessing...just click on the TRADITIONS button that you will find on my website found on the right sidebar...or www.seasonallivingandtimelesstraditions.com
..FOR YOUR HEARTH
Carry on the tradition of baking...and make fresh baked goods this month of September in honor of the harvest season.
I am crazy good over any fruit dessert...and cobblers to me are so comforting and wholesome. Try this ever so good blackberry cobbler...and enjoy this wonderful traditional fruit dessert.
BLACKBERRY COBBLER
serves 6 to 8
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 cups fresh blackberries
1 cup sugar...plus a bit for sprinkling on top
1 cup all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
pinch of fine sea salt
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
vanilla ice cream,,,,optional
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.Melt the butter in a large cast-iron skillet or ovenproof baking dish in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Do not let the butter burn.
While the skillet is heating up...place the blackberries in a large bowl. Using a potato masher...mash them to release some of their juices.If the berries are tart...sprinkle them with some of the sugar.
To make the batter...in another bowl...whisk together the flour...baking powder...and salt. Add the 1 cup sugar...milk...and vanilla extract...and stir until evenly blended.Next...remove the hot skillet from the oven and add the melted butter to the batter...and stir to combine. Pour the mixed batter all at once into the hot skillet...then add the blackberries and the juices to the center of the batter.
Bake until the top is golden brown and a cake tester (knife) comes out clean...about 60 minutes. Serve warm...or at room temperature with ice cream if you wish.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Have a good old-fashioned scavenger hunt...in your neighborhood or nearby park...and embrace your inner child!
Go to an apple orchard and pick your own apples.
Saturday, August 1, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS AUGUST 2015
August musings... This month is bringing such great change into my life...that feels so bittersweet... because my youngest daughter is leaving home for college. She will not be that far away...the trip is only an hour and a half tops...from our home...but to me it feels like a thousand miles away...to my mom heart. If you are a parent you do know how very difficult it is...and how heavy your heart feels when your children leave home. Yes...you did know that someday this would happen...but when it does actually happen...you feel frankly overwhelmed with this reality. I keep thinking " can I put the brakes on this... and just forget about it"? Or better still..."can she not go away to college"? The mom thing...can be so irrational and filled with inner turmoil...all of it fed by emotions you can't or will not even begin to understand.
It just is.
I am about to become what is known as an "empty nester". Doesn't that term even sound lonely? I feel like a label...has been imposed on me...ready for a trailer park somewhere...playing bingo...and drinking cocktails beginning at 10 am...with a bunch of other "empty nesters". Yikes! That vision scares me!
It is hard enough...often sad enough for me that my oldest daughter and grandson live an airplane flight away...which makes my heart hurt...I miss them so much. Now my soon to be "empty nester" mind is now going to bingo and trailer park mentality. I need to get a grip.
I hope this "empty nesting" change doesn't mean my husband will now have to take Viagra...so we can experience that special moment. That would be the ultimate this is "s..."crap...and my life is over now...for me.
Maybe I will just become a hippie...oh wait...I pretty much already am one. Or get a tattoo? Have one already... ear piercings...already have double pierced ears. Smoke? I already love to smoke cigars. Cats...nope. Travel the country in an RV...not even no... but hell no.
On the brighter side...I keep reminding myself...she is going to her first pick college... and the town where she will be living is really pretty neat...and she has a few friends going to the same college...so she will already have folks she knows... to hang with. The college is close by...an easy drive...for us to drive down and see her. She has made a vow to come home once a month...which believe me I will hold her to...or put her on the worst guilt trip ever... for the rest of her life!
It is her time to go out on her own...and spread her wings...and my heart...best wishes...and blessings go with her...it goes without saying. Her being able to go to a great college...where she will be laying a solid foundation for her own future...and my husband and I being able to give her this gift...is part of my personal harvest this year...and I am so very grateful.
My cup is full.
This season in my life...right now...is the cycle...of that bittersweet feeling that any parent knows and experiences...as the years of parenting...watching over...and nurturing your children...come to a close...not completely...ever...just in a different way.
I trust that all will go well...very well...for my daughter...and for your children too. Our children are...our most priceless harvest...our wealth beyond measure...and I know you are as grateful as I am...for the gifts of being a parent.
Blessings always,
Victoria
All that I have comes from my
Mother!
I give myself over to this pot.
My thoughts are on the good,
the healing properties of this
food.
My hands are balanced, I
season well!
I give myself over to this pot.
Life is being given to me.
I commit to sharing, I feed
others.
I feed She Who Feeds Me.
I give myself over to this gift.
I adorn this table with food.
I invite lovers and friends to
come share.
I thank you for this gift.
All that I have comes from my
Mother!
by Luisah Teish
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR AUGUST
August 1st...First harvest...August 5th...Workers Day in Iceland...August 15th...Independence Day...in India...August 25th...Women's Equality Day
FULL MOON IN AUGUST...August 29th
FLOWERS FOR AUGUST... sunflower...marigold
GEMS FOR AUGUST...agate...onyx
TEACHINGS FOR AUGUST...This month marks the beginning of the harvest season...and is a month for you to ponder all aspects of your life that you can acknowledge appreciation for. August is also a month to honor all you have harvested thus far this year personally and professionally...including lessons that you learned.
FOLKLORE FOR AUGUST..."If the first week of August be warm...the winter will be white and
long."
HOW TO SAY AUGUST IN OTHER LANGUAGES... In French...August is Aout...In Italian...August is Agosto
FACTS ABOUT AUGUST...
Many cultures call this month The Harvest month...or The Time of the Harvest.
For three weeks in Scotland... the world's largest art's festival is held in Edinburgh...Scotland's capital. This yearly tradition features classical music..opera...theatre and dance.
In Japan starting August 13th...and ending August 16th...The Obon or the Festival of Lanterns is held. This celebration is much like The Day of the Dead...which honors a family's departed relatives.
During The Oban special food is prepared to place on home altars and in temples... and as the sun goes down... paper lanterns are lit and hung in doorways so their ancestors spirits can find their way home.
HARVEST CELEBRATION
Researching history can be great fun...and is such a wonderful tool for you to discover how your ancestors lived...their traditions and what their daily lives were like...and perhaps the struggles they encountered just gathering enough water to drink...and the long process of even preparing a simple meal.
This August marks the beginning of the harvest season...a time of harvesting the crops...giving thanks for the harvest...and celebrating with special foods brought in from the fields.
Here is a great way for you and your family or friends to celebrate this harvest season. Assign each person a task of doing research on a particular subject...such as...how did the the early pioneers celebrate the harvest season? What crops did they grow? What food did they prepare as a special treat for the harvest meal? Did they play music or dance that day? Also include as part of the research the customs or traditions of any particular country that you are a descendant from...including foods eaten or other traditions held during the harvest season.
Now for the fun part...after all the information is gathered from the research.Set a date in early August and plan a harvest dinner around the foods or recipes you have researched and gathered.Get everyone involved in the food preparation...including table decorations that have a theme of the harvest season.
After all the food is prepared...gather round the table and have everyone share what they learned and what they found out about what it was like during the harvest season in days gone by...including the traditions and customs held during that time period. This will be such a great experience for each one of you...learning the deeper meaning of the harvest season and how important it was for our ancestors survival...as well as a teaching format of history of your family ancestors. Open up the discussion also about the difficulties of living and surviving then..and how important the fields...crops and harvest season was...and how much we have today with our modern conveniences. This is such an insightful discussion...that hopefully will give each person present a deep appreciate for their food...and the many other blessings they have each day.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Set out pretty little bundles of wheat tied with gold ribbons...on tables...as a reminder of the harvest season.
Set out vases in each room...with this month's flowers...the sunflower or marigold.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
The month of August is the time to harvest your home grown herbs...or purchase organic fresh ones...and make some really healthy and good dips.
Herb and Yogurt Dip
serves 4
1 cup strained plain yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
a pinch of salt
freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons fresh sage leaves...finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh marjoram leaves...finely chopped
11/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Mix together all ingredients and refrigerate...serve with veggies...in baked potatoes...or with chips.
GARLIC HERB and TOMATO DIP
serves 4
3-4 fresh organic medium sized tomatoes...skinned
4 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 clove garlic crushed
5 fresh basil leaves
a pinch of salt
freshly ground pepper
Skin the tomatoes by dropping them into a pot of boiling water for a second or two.The skin can then be easily removed..
Chop the skinned tomatoes into very small pieces.Add the chopped chives...and the basil that you have torn into small pieces....followed by the seasoning. Put all the ingredients into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth...serve with veggies...chips...or to spread on sandwiches.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Make a Harvest shrine or little altar on a little space in one room of your home...where you can place little stones...where you have written with a paint pen...things you have harvested this year...both personally and professionally...as a loving reminder for you to see each day...how much you have to be thankful for.
It just is.
I am about to become what is known as an "empty nester". Doesn't that term even sound lonely? I feel like a label...has been imposed on me...ready for a trailer park somewhere...playing bingo...and drinking cocktails beginning at 10 am...with a bunch of other "empty nesters". Yikes! That vision scares me!
It is hard enough...often sad enough for me that my oldest daughter and grandson live an airplane flight away...which makes my heart hurt...I miss them so much. Now my soon to be "empty nester" mind is now going to bingo and trailer park mentality. I need to get a grip.
I hope this "empty nesting" change doesn't mean my husband will now have to take Viagra...so we can experience that special moment. That would be the ultimate this is "s..."crap...and my life is over now...for me.
Maybe I will just become a hippie...oh wait...I pretty much already am one. Or get a tattoo? Have one already... ear piercings...already have double pierced ears. Smoke? I already love to smoke cigars. Cats...nope. Travel the country in an RV...not even no... but hell no.
On the brighter side...I keep reminding myself...she is going to her first pick college... and the town where she will be living is really pretty neat...and she has a few friends going to the same college...so she will already have folks she knows... to hang with. The college is close by...an easy drive...for us to drive down and see her. She has made a vow to come home once a month...which believe me I will hold her to...or put her on the worst guilt trip ever... for the rest of her life!
It is her time to go out on her own...and spread her wings...and my heart...best wishes...and blessings go with her...it goes without saying. Her being able to go to a great college...where she will be laying a solid foundation for her own future...and my husband and I being able to give her this gift...is part of my personal harvest this year...and I am so very grateful.
My cup is full.
This season in my life...right now...is the cycle...of that bittersweet feeling that any parent knows and experiences...as the years of parenting...watching over...and nurturing your children...come to a close...not completely...ever...just in a different way.
I trust that all will go well...very well...for my daughter...and for your children too. Our children are...our most priceless harvest...our wealth beyond measure...and I know you are as grateful as I am...for the gifts of being a parent.
Blessings always,
Victoria
All that I have comes from my
Mother!
I give myself over to this pot.
My thoughts are on the good,
the healing properties of this
food.
My hands are balanced, I
season well!
I give myself over to this pot.
Life is being given to me.
I commit to sharing, I feed
others.
I feed She Who Feeds Me.
I give myself over to this gift.
I adorn this table with food.
I invite lovers and friends to
come share.
I thank you for this gift.
All that I have comes from my
Mother!
by Luisah Teish
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR AUGUST
August 1st...First harvest...August 5th...Workers Day in Iceland...August 15th...Independence Day...in India...August 25th...Women's Equality Day
FULL MOON IN AUGUST...August 29th
FLOWERS FOR AUGUST... sunflower...marigold
GEMS FOR AUGUST...agate...onyx
TEACHINGS FOR AUGUST...This month marks the beginning of the harvest season...and is a month for you to ponder all aspects of your life that you can acknowledge appreciation for. August is also a month to honor all you have harvested thus far this year personally and professionally...including lessons that you learned.
FOLKLORE FOR AUGUST..."If the first week of August be warm...the winter will be white and
long."
HOW TO SAY AUGUST IN OTHER LANGUAGES... In French...August is Aout...In Italian...August is Agosto
FACTS ABOUT AUGUST...
Many cultures call this month The Harvest month...or The Time of the Harvest.
For three weeks in Scotland... the world's largest art's festival is held in Edinburgh...Scotland's capital. This yearly tradition features classical music..opera...theatre and dance.
In Japan starting August 13th...and ending August 16th...The Obon or the Festival of Lanterns is held. This celebration is much like The Day of the Dead...which honors a family's departed relatives.
During The Oban special food is prepared to place on home altars and in temples... and as the sun goes down... paper lanterns are lit and hung in doorways so their ancestors spirits can find their way home.
HARVEST CELEBRATION
Researching history can be great fun...and is such a wonderful tool for you to discover how your ancestors lived...their traditions and what their daily lives were like...and perhaps the struggles they encountered just gathering enough water to drink...and the long process of even preparing a simple meal.
This August marks the beginning of the harvest season...a time of harvesting the crops...giving thanks for the harvest...and celebrating with special foods brought in from the fields.
Here is a great way for you and your family or friends to celebrate this harvest season. Assign each person a task of doing research on a particular subject...such as...how did the the early pioneers celebrate the harvest season? What crops did they grow? What food did they prepare as a special treat for the harvest meal? Did they play music or dance that day? Also include as part of the research the customs or traditions of any particular country that you are a descendant from...including foods eaten or other traditions held during the harvest season.
Now for the fun part...after all the information is gathered from the research.Set a date in early August and plan a harvest dinner around the foods or recipes you have researched and gathered.Get everyone involved in the food preparation...including table decorations that have a theme of the harvest season.
After all the food is prepared...gather round the table and have everyone share what they learned and what they found out about what it was like during the harvest season in days gone by...including the traditions and customs held during that time period. This will be such a great experience for each one of you...learning the deeper meaning of the harvest season and how important it was for our ancestors survival...as well as a teaching format of history of your family ancestors. Open up the discussion also about the difficulties of living and surviving then..and how important the fields...crops and harvest season was...and how much we have today with our modern conveniences. This is such an insightful discussion...that hopefully will give each person present a deep appreciate for their food...and the many other blessings they have each day.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Set out pretty little bundles of wheat tied with gold ribbons...on tables...as a reminder of the harvest season.
Set out vases in each room...with this month's flowers...the sunflower or marigold.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
The month of August is the time to harvest your home grown herbs...or purchase organic fresh ones...and make some really healthy and good dips.
Herb and Yogurt Dip
serves 4
1 cup strained plain yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
a pinch of salt
freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons fresh sage leaves...finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh marjoram leaves...finely chopped
11/2 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Mix together all ingredients and refrigerate...serve with veggies...in baked potatoes...or with chips.
GARLIC HERB and TOMATO DIP
serves 4
3-4 fresh organic medium sized tomatoes...skinned
4 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 clove garlic crushed
5 fresh basil leaves
a pinch of salt
freshly ground pepper
Skin the tomatoes by dropping them into a pot of boiling water for a second or two.The skin can then be easily removed..
Chop the skinned tomatoes into very small pieces.Add the chopped chives...and the basil that you have torn into small pieces....followed by the seasoning. Put all the ingredients into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth...serve with veggies...chips...or to spread on sandwiches.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Make a Harvest shrine or little altar on a little space in one room of your home...where you can place little stones...where you have written with a paint pen...things you have harvested this year...both personally and professionally...as a loving reminder for you to see each day...how much you have to be thankful for.
Friday, July 3, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS JULY 4th PERSONAL FREEDOM CELEBRATION
Traditions practiced each year for certain holidays are a unique and valuable venue to help you grow and heal as a human being...and can mark your personal declaration to make positive changes in your life.
This July 4th...honor more personal freedom for yourself as a human being...by holding this simple but empowering PERSONAL FREEDOM celebration.
PERSONAL FREEDOM CELEBRATION
SUPPLIES: pieces of paper...pen...fire proof container...matches
Take pieces of paper that you have cut...and your pen...and find a quiet time during your day to write down on the pieces of paper...all issues and patterns you have now...that keep you from having freedom in your own life. Some examples might be...your need to worry...being in debt...negative people in your life...living in fear...etc. Just write them all down...without shame...or judging yourself.
When you are complete with this process...hold all your written pieces of paper in your hands...and say a blessing of release over them...a prayer...or any other message you want to communicate about your desire to release these issues or patterns from your life...so you can claim more personal freedom for yourself. Set these aside in a private place until the evening.
At some point in the evening...when you feel it is time...go outside...with your matches and a fireproof container...and then place your pieces of written paper in the container...proclaim your personal freedom out loud and then set fire to your pieces of paper...watching the paper burn to ashes...and seeing these issues or patterns released from within you.
Remember that you must take the necessary action steps to create positive change in your life to gain your personal freedom...but this freedom celebration is a powerful step...to create that change... and will set in motion your intentions.
Happy July 4th and freedom,
Victoria
This July 4th...honor more personal freedom for yourself as a human being...by holding this simple but empowering PERSONAL FREEDOM celebration.
PERSONAL FREEDOM CELEBRATION
SUPPLIES: pieces of paper...pen...fire proof container...matches
Take pieces of paper that you have cut...and your pen...and find a quiet time during your day to write down on the pieces of paper...all issues and patterns you have now...that keep you from having freedom in your own life. Some examples might be...your need to worry...being in debt...negative people in your life...living in fear...etc. Just write them all down...without shame...or judging yourself.
When you are complete with this process...hold all your written pieces of paper in your hands...and say a blessing of release over them...a prayer...or any other message you want to communicate about your desire to release these issues or patterns from your life...so you can claim more personal freedom for yourself. Set these aside in a private place until the evening.
At some point in the evening...when you feel it is time...go outside...with your matches and a fireproof container...and then place your pieces of written paper in the container...proclaim your personal freedom out loud and then set fire to your pieces of paper...watching the paper burn to ashes...and seeing these issues or patterns released from within you.
Remember that you must take the necessary action steps to create positive change in your life to gain your personal freedom...but this freedom celebration is a powerful step...to create that change... and will set in motion your intentions.
Happy July 4th and freedom,
Victoria
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS JULY 2015
JULY musings... July is a month to focus and commit to one's goals...and so with great passion... I find myself this month wanting to dig deeper into my love of fresh herbs...and the study of herbalism. I have always loved herbs...have grown them in my container garden...used them in my kitchen for my culinary needs...as well as for natural medicine...and soothing bath remedies...for many years. Nothing has given me greater pleasure than to pick my own herbs...smell their lovely aroma and then come into my kitchen and use them in my food preparation or to make a soothing bath or massage oil for physical healing. I have researched and studied them along the way...but now I want to know more...to experience more... of the ancient tradition and healing wisdom of the natural world...and my journey with herbs.
I feel very familiar and at home...in my heart and in my mind...touching...smelling...and using fresh herbs...perhaps in my memory...in another place and time...this was my calling or daily work...making herbal infusions...tinctures and soothing palms for women in childbirth or folks who were ill.
Whatever the case may be...I am feeling that inner urge to reconnect on a deeper level...my love of nature and her gifts of plant medicine through herbs. I know without a doubt that studying herbalism in a much broader scale than I have ever done before...is leading me somewhere that I am meant to go...to not only enrich my life...but to share the knowledge and wisdom of herbs with you too. Because one thing I do know for sure is that the use of herbs...whether in cooking...personal health...or emotional well-being...herbs work...are very affordable...and anyone can hugely benefit from their use.
Including you.
It is so empowering to pursue that nudge within...because of course...you are supposed to pay attention to such intuitive whispers when they happen...and truly trust those gifts of inner whispers...that always lead to new more positive paths...directions...and opportunities. Don't allow your negative mind chatter...talk you out of something that you just KNOW...it the right thing for you.
Just do it. One brave step at a time...no matter how big the task might appear to be..because truth is...you are so worthy of pursuing your goals...and will be so proud of yourself when you achieve whatever it is that you are aiming for.
You have my support,
Victoria
"Answer July-
Where is the bee-
Where is the blush-
Where is the hay?
Ah, said July-
Where is the seed-
Where is the bud-
Where is the May-
Answer Thee- me-"
by Emily Dickinson
FULL MOON FOR JULY...July 1st and 31st
FLOWERS FOR JULY... The lotus...water lily and jasmine
GEMS FOR JULY...The pearl...and moonstone
TEACHINGS OF JULY...Focusing on goals...and taking time to relax and enjoy life
FOLKLORE OF JULY...
Ne'er trust a July sky
If ant hills are high in July, the coming Winter will be hard.
BOOKS TO READ FOR JULY...
The Soul Garden
by Dr. Donald Norfolk
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR JULY
July 1st...Canada Day...July 2nd...11 Palio Siena July 4th...Fourth of July...July 14th...Unity Day Rwanda...July 14th...Bastille Day France
SAY IT WITH HERBAL BOUQUETS
There is something so special about making an Herbal Bouquet...to place in your own home...but also to give as a delightful gift to those you care about. Small little bundles of beauty...Herbal Bouquets are perfect for weddings too...for the bridesmaids to carry...or as table settings.
To make your Herbal Bouquet ...gather together fresh herbs in various shades of green...shapes...and textures...including flowering herbs...and then tie with a pretty ribbon. Enjoy!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
We all get the itch to fix up ...paint...or redo our homes at some point...and the Summer cycle...seems to be the perfect season to spruce things up. Chemical free paint...is very affordable...easy to use...and comes in so many colors...that there is no good reason for you not to give this wonderful interior paint a try.
Here is a link for you to view this wonderful paint product...that will not harm you...your family...pets or the environment. This paint is organic...odorless and 100% VOC free.
www.ecospaints.net .
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Warmer weather this month...calls for refreshing...but ever so good salads...here is one sure to please.This salad is also quite pretty
AVOCADO AND RUBY GRAPEFRUIT WITH CHILE SALAD
serves 2
1 ruby or pink grapefruit
1 small avocado
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 small fresh red chile...seeded and finely chopped
a handful of fresh cilantro leaves
extra-virgin olive oil
Slice off the top and bottom of the grapefruit. Stand it upright on a cutting board and work your way around the fruit with a sharp knife..cutting off all the skin and the white pith.Now hold the grapefruit in your hand over a bowl...to catch the juices and cut out the segments from between the membranes...letting the segments fall in the bowl.
Next..halve...peel...and pit the avocado...then cut lengthwise... into thin slices. Arrange on a large plate with the grapefruit segments and trickle on top...any remaining juice.
Sprinkle a little salt...fresh ground pepper...and the red chile over the salad.Finish with the cilantro and a generous trickle of olive oil. Serve at once in chilled bowls.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Take a class this month that will improve your quality of life...and give you a sense of pride. Herb classes...cooking classes...yoga...an art or writing class...is such a wonderful way for you to expand your life and make it better.
Join a community garden group...growing veggies ...herbs..fruit or even beautiful flowers...to give to those who are less fortunate than you.
I feel very familiar and at home...in my heart and in my mind...touching...smelling...and using fresh herbs...perhaps in my memory...in another place and time...this was my calling or daily work...making herbal infusions...tinctures and soothing palms for women in childbirth or folks who were ill.
Whatever the case may be...I am feeling that inner urge to reconnect on a deeper level...my love of nature and her gifts of plant medicine through herbs. I know without a doubt that studying herbalism in a much broader scale than I have ever done before...is leading me somewhere that I am meant to go...to not only enrich my life...but to share the knowledge and wisdom of herbs with you too. Because one thing I do know for sure is that the use of herbs...whether in cooking...personal health...or emotional well-being...herbs work...are very affordable...and anyone can hugely benefit from their use.
Including you.
It is so empowering to pursue that nudge within...because of course...you are supposed to pay attention to such intuitive whispers when they happen...and truly trust those gifts of inner whispers...that always lead to new more positive paths...directions...and opportunities. Don't allow your negative mind chatter...talk you out of something that you just KNOW...it the right thing for you.
Just do it. One brave step at a time...no matter how big the task might appear to be..because truth is...you are so worthy of pursuing your goals...and will be so proud of yourself when you achieve whatever it is that you are aiming for.
You have my support,
Victoria
"Answer July-
Where is the bee-
Where is the blush-
Where is the hay?
Ah, said July-
Where is the seed-
Where is the bud-
Where is the May-
Answer Thee- me-"
by Emily Dickinson
FULL MOON FOR JULY...July 1st and 31st
FLOWERS FOR JULY... The lotus...water lily and jasmine
GEMS FOR JULY...The pearl...and moonstone
TEACHINGS OF JULY...Focusing on goals...and taking time to relax and enjoy life
FOLKLORE OF JULY...
Ne'er trust a July sky
If ant hills are high in July, the coming Winter will be hard.
BOOKS TO READ FOR JULY...
The Soul Garden
by Dr. Donald Norfolk
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR JULY
July 1st...Canada Day...July 2nd...11 Palio Siena July 4th...Fourth of July...July 14th...Unity Day Rwanda...July 14th...Bastille Day France
SAY IT WITH HERBAL BOUQUETS
There is something so special about making an Herbal Bouquet...to place in your own home...but also to give as a delightful gift to those you care about. Small little bundles of beauty...Herbal Bouquets are perfect for weddings too...for the bridesmaids to carry...or as table settings.
To make your Herbal Bouquet ...gather together fresh herbs in various shades of green...shapes...and textures...including flowering herbs...and then tie with a pretty ribbon. Enjoy!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
We all get the itch to fix up ...paint...or redo our homes at some point...and the Summer cycle...seems to be the perfect season to spruce things up. Chemical free paint...is very affordable...easy to use...and comes in so many colors...that there is no good reason for you not to give this wonderful interior paint a try.
Here is a link for you to view this wonderful paint product...that will not harm you...your family...pets or the environment. This paint is organic...odorless and 100% VOC free.
www.ecospaints.net .
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Warmer weather this month...calls for refreshing...but ever so good salads...here is one sure to please.This salad is also quite pretty
AVOCADO AND RUBY GRAPEFRUIT WITH CHILE SALAD
serves 2
1 ruby or pink grapefruit
1 small avocado
sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 small fresh red chile...seeded and finely chopped
a handful of fresh cilantro leaves
extra-virgin olive oil
Slice off the top and bottom of the grapefruit. Stand it upright on a cutting board and work your way around the fruit with a sharp knife..cutting off all the skin and the white pith.Now hold the grapefruit in your hand over a bowl...to catch the juices and cut out the segments from between the membranes...letting the segments fall in the bowl.
Next..halve...peel...and pit the avocado...then cut lengthwise... into thin slices. Arrange on a large plate with the grapefruit segments and trickle on top...any remaining juice.
Sprinkle a little salt...fresh ground pepper...and the red chile over the salad.Finish with the cilantro and a generous trickle of olive oil. Serve at once in chilled bowls.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Take a class this month that will improve your quality of life...and give you a sense of pride. Herb classes...cooking classes...yoga...an art or writing class...is such a wonderful way for you to expand your life and make it better.
Join a community garden group...growing veggies ...herbs..fruit or even beautiful flowers...to give to those who are less fortunate than you.
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