Oh my...who doesn't love hot from the stove...and made with a dash of love... homemade Caramel Sauce!
Here is a easy peesy recipe for you...to pour over...dip into...and lick from the spoon treat... this holiday season.
Be sure to make extra for last minute gifts...just cool...pour into small clean jars...label...and add a bow...to give as a sweet and thoughtful gift.
EASY HOMEMADE CARAMEL SAUCE
makes 3 cups
2 cups packed brown sugar
8 tablespoons salted butter
1/2 cups heavy cream
pinch of sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add the brown sugar...the heavy cream and salt to a 3-quart saucepan...and heat over medium low heat.Stir to combine...and keep your eye on this while it cooks...so it will not burn. Next add your butter...allowing the butter to melt completely...and continue to cook the mixture until it reaches a rolling boil...and once it does...continue to cook the caramel another 5 to 7 minutes...stirring and watching over the caramel until it thickens. Once it thickens...remove from heat...and add the vanilla. Allow to cool for a few minutes...use immediately...or pour cooled caramel into small jars...cap tightly and store in the fridge for later use...or to give as gifts.
Finger licking good!
Happy Holidays
Victoria
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS DECEMBER 2015
December musings... The holiday celebrations...my family and friends... the shopping.. paper and bows....the gifts...and of course all the good food I will prepare...gladly eat and share with my loved ones...will create another holiday season...of sweet memories that will stay close to my heart forever.
The spirit of Christmas truly is about the rebirth of your soul...and goodwill to all...something I want to carry with me...each and everyday. I am the first to admit that in a world of constant turmoil... violence... and chaos...I have my moments of despair and worry...about what the future will look like for my children and grandchildren. This is only human...to worry and feel fearful...at times. But that is really not the answer for me or for you.To live in constant emotional turmoil is not living at all...or allowing your soul to embrace the goodness and joy that life truly is.
This month of December rebirth that place in your heart and soul...that knows that somehow everything will work out...and that your purpose is to not live in hate...fear or worry...but to have a faith in something that is far bigger than you are...or any human for that matter. Trust and have deep hope. Make each day count...and be grateful for all you have. This holiday season embrace your heart...and share your love for your family and friends...and focus on that beautiful light...instead of the darkness. Love is the most powerful force in the world...and the world needs your love...not your fear.
May you be blessed this holiday month...with all things right and good in the world...and the very best wishes...for a happy and abundant New Year.
Because there is hope...and goodness in the world...always...and you can make a difference...by sharing your love and light...because it is the right thing to do. The only thing to do.
Always.
Happy holidays to you,
Victoria
" I heard a bird sing
In the dark of
December
A magical thing
And sweet to remember
' We are nearer to Spring
Than we were in
September;
I heard a bird sing
In the dark of
December."
By Oliver Herford...I heard A Bird Sing
PRAYER FOR DECEMBER...
" Fill my being with hope...faith...and trust...and to always shine my inner light...out into the world".
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR DECEMBER...
December 7th...Hanukkah begins... December 11th... L' Escalade Chocolate Festival in Switzerland...St. Lucia Day in Sweden December 13th...Winter Solstice is December 21st...December 25th...Christmas Day...December 26th...Kwanzaa... December 31st New Years Eve
FACTS ABOUT DECEMBER... December is the month with the shortest daylight hours of the year...in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest daylight hours of the year in the Southern Hemisphere.
ST.Francis of Assisi is credited with making the first Nativity scene as part of the Christmas tradition...in the year 1223.
DECEMBER IN FRENCH...Decembre
DECEMBER IN ITALIAN...Dicembre
DECEMBER IN GERMAN...Dezember
FOLKLORE FOR DECEMBER...
" Snow on Christmas means Easter will be green."
"The nearer the New Moon to Christmas Day...the harder the Winter."
GARDENING TIP... Rake fallen leaves...prune dead limbs on trees
HOMEMAKING TIP...Find ways to decorate your home this holiday season with natural items...fresh greenery...lovely holiday flowers and herbs...pine cones...nuts...and fruits.
FULL MOON...December 25th
WINTER SOLSTICE... December 21st
FLOWERS FOR DECEMBER...Holly...poinsettia...Christmas cactus
GEMS FOR DECEMBER...Peridot
TEACHINGS FOR DECEMBER...Reach out to family and friends this month...share and give of yourself. Spend time reflecting ways you can live more from your heart so you can rebirth yourself.
NEW YEARS EVE TRADITION FOR THE FAMILY...
Simple...meaningful traditions are such a wonderful way to celebrate and honor all those special events in your life...as well as being a venue to teach and share life lessons and wisdom.
SUPPLIES: 1 large bowl of water...flower buds...tray or plate to hold the flower buds
Gather the family together...including small children...in a room where you have placed a large bowl of water. Have flower buds on a tray or plate next to the bowl of water. Ask each person...how they could be a more loving...positive and giving person in the New Year. Give each person a few moments to ponder this question.
When everyone is ready...have each person take a flower bud and say out loud what they are going to do to be a more loving...positive...giving human being in this New Year...and then place their flower bud into the bowl of water. After everyone is done...encourage everyone to clap and then hug one another...in celebration of everyone making 2016 a more positive life experience for the whole family.
Happy New Year!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Make it a beautiful...welcoming...and warm space...this month... by adding natural...simple...and organic elements...in your rooms. Pine cones...sprinkled with pure Pine essential oil...placed in bowls or trays...will not only look pretty...but smell wonderful too.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Oh my...I know you are ready for some lighter fare at some point during this month...and below is a simple...and healthy snack or before dinner appetizer.
WHITE BEAN AND KALAMATA OLIVE HUMMUS
Makes 6 servings
1 (15-ounce can) cannellini or other white bean...rinsed and drained
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon tahini (sesame paste)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin-olive oil
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives
1 teaspoon sea salt
Place the beans...garlic and tahini in a food processor. With the machine running...slowly drizzle in the oil and blend to the desired consistency. Add the olives and pulse until they are just chopped and incorporated. Season with the salt.
Serve with assorted veggies...such as carrots...snap peas...cucumbers...zucchini...jicama...green peppers...or radishes. The hummus can be stored in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
...FOR YOUR HEART
OUT WITH THE OLD BATH SOAK
There is something so symbolic about taking a long soak...to cleanse and release yourself...on New Year's Eve or as close to the end of this year that you can get...that I believe should be a tradition for everyone. Before you take your cleansing soak to release the old...write down on a piece of paper issues...past hurts...patterns or anything that you no longer want or need in your life...in the New Year.
Run a hot bath...that you add 2 cups Epsom salts...2 cups of apple cider vinegar...and 10 drops of Rosemary...Sage...or Lemon pure essential oil while the water is running. Each one of these natural ingredients has cleansing and detoxing properties...and are also loaded with physical health benefits...for you.
Before you get in your soak...take a moment or two to read over your prepared list that you want to release...and you can if you want ask for guidance or say a prayer...or verbally make a deep commitment to yourself that you no longer what these listed items in your life...and are willing to do what it takes to let them go.
As you soak...imagine you are washing away all you want to release from your list...saying it out loud...to put emotion into it...declaring like you mean it...that you are done once and for all...with these issues.
When you feel complete...take a moment or two to just rest in the bath water...then towel off...and relax for a bit. Spend a few minutes writing down what changes you need to make...and the action steps necessary by you...to move forward without the issues you just washed away...in the New Year.
The spirit of Christmas truly is about the rebirth of your soul...and goodwill to all...something I want to carry with me...each and everyday. I am the first to admit that in a world of constant turmoil... violence... and chaos...I have my moments of despair and worry...about what the future will look like for my children and grandchildren. This is only human...to worry and feel fearful...at times. But that is really not the answer for me or for you.To live in constant emotional turmoil is not living at all...or allowing your soul to embrace the goodness and joy that life truly is.
This month of December rebirth that place in your heart and soul...that knows that somehow everything will work out...and that your purpose is to not live in hate...fear or worry...but to have a faith in something that is far bigger than you are...or any human for that matter. Trust and have deep hope. Make each day count...and be grateful for all you have. This holiday season embrace your heart...and share your love for your family and friends...and focus on that beautiful light...instead of the darkness. Love is the most powerful force in the world...and the world needs your love...not your fear.
May you be blessed this holiday month...with all things right and good in the world...and the very best wishes...for a happy and abundant New Year.
Because there is hope...and goodness in the world...always...and you can make a difference...by sharing your love and light...because it is the right thing to do. The only thing to do.
Always.
Happy holidays to you,
Victoria
" I heard a bird sing
In the dark of
December
A magical thing
And sweet to remember
' We are nearer to Spring
Than we were in
September;
I heard a bird sing
In the dark of
December."
By Oliver Herford...I heard A Bird Sing
PRAYER FOR DECEMBER...
" Fill my being with hope...faith...and trust...and to always shine my inner light...out into the world".
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR DECEMBER...
December 7th...Hanukkah begins... December 11th... L' Escalade Chocolate Festival in Switzerland...St. Lucia Day in Sweden December 13th...Winter Solstice is December 21st...December 25th...Christmas Day...December 26th...Kwanzaa... December 31st New Years Eve
FACTS ABOUT DECEMBER... December is the month with the shortest daylight hours of the year...in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest daylight hours of the year in the Southern Hemisphere.
ST.Francis of Assisi is credited with making the first Nativity scene as part of the Christmas tradition...in the year 1223.
DECEMBER IN FRENCH...Decembre
DECEMBER IN ITALIAN...Dicembre
DECEMBER IN GERMAN...Dezember
FOLKLORE FOR DECEMBER...
" Snow on Christmas means Easter will be green."
"The nearer the New Moon to Christmas Day...the harder the Winter."
GARDENING TIP... Rake fallen leaves...prune dead limbs on trees
HOMEMAKING TIP...Find ways to decorate your home this holiday season with natural items...fresh greenery...lovely holiday flowers and herbs...pine cones...nuts...and fruits.
FULL MOON...December 25th
WINTER SOLSTICE... December 21st
FLOWERS FOR DECEMBER...Holly...poinsettia...Christmas cactus
GEMS FOR DECEMBER...Peridot
TEACHINGS FOR DECEMBER...Reach out to family and friends this month...share and give of yourself. Spend time reflecting ways you can live more from your heart so you can rebirth yourself.
NEW YEARS EVE TRADITION FOR THE FAMILY...
Simple...meaningful traditions are such a wonderful way to celebrate and honor all those special events in your life...as well as being a venue to teach and share life lessons and wisdom.
SUPPLIES: 1 large bowl of water...flower buds...tray or plate to hold the flower buds
Gather the family together...including small children...in a room where you have placed a large bowl of water. Have flower buds on a tray or plate next to the bowl of water. Ask each person...how they could be a more loving...positive and giving person in the New Year. Give each person a few moments to ponder this question.
When everyone is ready...have each person take a flower bud and say out loud what they are going to do to be a more loving...positive...giving human being in this New Year...and then place their flower bud into the bowl of water. After everyone is done...encourage everyone to clap and then hug one another...in celebration of everyone making 2016 a more positive life experience for the whole family.
Happy New Year!
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
Make it a beautiful...welcoming...and warm space...this month... by adding natural...simple...and organic elements...in your rooms. Pine cones...sprinkled with pure Pine essential oil...placed in bowls or trays...will not only look pretty...but smell wonderful too.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
Oh my...I know you are ready for some lighter fare at some point during this month...and below is a simple...and healthy snack or before dinner appetizer.
WHITE BEAN AND KALAMATA OLIVE HUMMUS
Makes 6 servings
1 (15-ounce can) cannellini or other white bean...rinsed and drained
2 cloves garlic
1 tablespoon tahini (sesame paste)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin-olive oil
1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives
1 teaspoon sea salt
Place the beans...garlic and tahini in a food processor. With the machine running...slowly drizzle in the oil and blend to the desired consistency. Add the olives and pulse until they are just chopped and incorporated. Season with the salt.
Serve with assorted veggies...such as carrots...snap peas...cucumbers...zucchini...jicama...green peppers...or radishes. The hummus can be stored in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
...FOR YOUR HEART
OUT WITH THE OLD BATH SOAK
There is something so symbolic about taking a long soak...to cleanse and release yourself...on New Year's Eve or as close to the end of this year that you can get...that I believe should be a tradition for everyone. Before you take your cleansing soak to release the old...write down on a piece of paper issues...past hurts...patterns or anything that you no longer want or need in your life...in the New Year.
Run a hot bath...that you add 2 cups Epsom salts...2 cups of apple cider vinegar...and 10 drops of Rosemary...Sage...or Lemon pure essential oil while the water is running. Each one of these natural ingredients has cleansing and detoxing properties...and are also loaded with physical health benefits...for you.
Before you get in your soak...take a moment or two to read over your prepared list that you want to release...and you can if you want ask for guidance or say a prayer...or verbally make a deep commitment to yourself that you no longer what these listed items in your life...and are willing to do what it takes to let them go.
As you soak...imagine you are washing away all you want to release from your list...saying it out loud...to put emotion into it...declaring like you mean it...that you are done once and for all...with these issues.
When you feel complete...take a moment or two to just rest in the bath water...then towel off...and relax for a bit. Spend a few minutes writing down what changes you need to make...and the action steps necessary by you...to move forward without the issues you just washed away...in the New Year.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS NOVEMBER 2015
November musings...My children...my husband...my grandson...sunrises...my garden...hugs...herbs...warm clothes...fresh water...taking a bath...candle light...rainy days...laughter...a clean house...freedom...good health... goat milk soap...good food...quality friends...quiet...solitude...options...wisdom...fresh flowers in my home...trees...all of these simple...and joyful things are some of what I am most grateful for in my life.
Really as I have gotten older...and hopefully much wiser...I have come to appreciate the small things...which are the big things to me...in my life...with such gratitude. Oh yes of course...I do understand the value...and it's place...of having a nice home...and the resources to live comfortably... but it is all the "love"stuff..that I value more...and give thanks for...than at any other cycle in my life.
Never take your life...for granted.If you look very close...at all you really do have...to appreciate...and be thankful for...you will stay in a place of gratitude. Life is not about the stuff you have...or want to have...but truly is about the quality of the simple...inner heart things you have...that no one...or any situation can ever take away from you...or be replaced with something material.
This Thanksgiving month...embrace all you have to be grateful for...including the gift of being alive.
Gratitude...is seeing your life...with your heart.
And really...that is what it is all about.
Blessings to you,
Victoria
" November comes
And November goes
with the last red berries
and the first white snows.
With night coming early,
And dawn coming late,
And ice in the bucket
And frost by the gate.
The fires burn
And the kettles sing,
And the earth sinks to rest
Until next spring."
by Elizabeth Coatsworth
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...November 1st...All Saint's Day...November 10th...Veterans Day...November 11th...St. Martin's Day...November 26th...Thanksgiving Day
FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER...On November 8th 1731 Benjamin Franklin with members of his Junto Club opened the first United States library.
The name November is believed to derive from "novem" which is the Latin word for the number nine in the ancient Roman calendar.
FIRST THANKSGIVING FEAST...
Turkey was not served at the first Thanksgiving feast.According to history...the New England settlers ate roast duck or goose...seafood such as lobster...clams...and mussels. They also ate chestnuts...walnuts...squash...carrots...and peas.
NOVEMBER IN FRENCH...Novembre
NOVEMBER IN ITALIAN...Novembre
NOVEMBER IN GERMAN...November
I found it so interesting that the word November was so similar in different languages.
FOLKLORE FOR NOVEMBER...'A warm November is the sign of a bad Winter."
GARDENING TIP FOR NOVEMBER...Rake leaves...prune fruit trees
HOMEMAKING TIP... Mop and wax your floors. Put cedar wood blocks or Lavender sachets in your closets and drawers...including your pantry for pest control. Polish your silver. Clean out your freezer...letting go of old food.
FULL MOON IN NOVEMBER...Is November 25th
FLOWERS FOR NOVEMBER...Chrysanthemum
GEMS FOR NOVEMBER... Lapis lazuli
TEACHINGS FOR NOVEMBER... Expressing gratitude for all you have...sharing and giving from the heart. Preparing for the Winter cycle.
THANKSGIVING GRATITUDE SHRINE (ALTAR)
Little altars or shrines are special places...where you can create in a small area... in your home...a way to honor or celebrate a favorite event...holiday...life change...or just for memory making.
It is so pleasurable to take candles...pictures...greenery or flowers...knick knacks and mementos...placed together to make a life story... from them...that gives you meaning in such a creative way.
Find that perfect table...counter...or nook... in your home this month...to make your Thanksgiving Gratitude shrine.Collect items in your home that are a symbol to you of what you are grateful for this Thanksgiving month...such as pictures of your family or friends...postcards of places you were able to visit...coins or paper money to represent prosperity that you have been blessed with...good health etc. Whatever feels right for you...place these items and others on your shrine table. Candles...fresh flowers...or greenery also add a pretty and natural element...that will add beauty to your shrine...for you to enjoy throughout this month.
Once you have created your Thanksgiving Gratitude shrine...set out a bowl or tray...pen...and small pieces of cut paper...and each day write out what you are grateful for...and then place in your bowl...beginning if you can...the very first day of November. Get your whole family involved in this tradition...and ask them to do the same each day for the month of November.
On Thanksgiving Day...light the candles on your Thanksgiving Gratitude Shrine...as a way to focus your attention on all you have to be grateful for...and ask each person who has contributed their written gratitude messages...to take a few moments throughout the day or evening...to pause and say a prayer of thanksgiving for all they have received this year.
At the end of the month...place all the written gratitude messages...in a safe place...and keep them until the following year's Thanksgiving celebration...where they can be read out loud to everyone after your meal is over...sitting together in a circle. This is such a lovely...simple...and heart warming tradition...for you to practice each year...expressing the very important life lesson of gratitude.
Because the truth is...there is always something to be grateful for.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
This is the month to cozy up your rooms...with warm throws...baskets of nuts and apples...and candlelight in each room. Forage outside and find fallen leaves...old branches...pods and seeds...and bring them inside to arrange natural...simple...and beautiful treasures from nature in bowls...vases...and baskets.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I am nuts for spuds...and try just about every potato recipe I find that looks good. This recipe is by far one of the best potato recipes I have ever made and eaten.Seriously... hide them in the back of the fridge for yourself to eat as a leftover...IF there is any left that is.
POTATOES SAVOYARDE
makes 6 servings
3 tablespoons unsalted butter...cut into small pieces
plus 1 tablespoon melted butter to grease baking dish
3 cloves fresh garlic minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf ( Italian) parsley
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
freshly ground pepper
4-6 russet potatoes or 21/2 pounds...washed...unpeeled and cut into 1/4 inch slices
1/12 cups chicken stock
Preheat the oven to 375. Brush the bottom and sides of a 2 quart baking dish with the melted butter.In a small bowl...stir together the minced garlic...parsley...cheese...and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Layer 1/3 of the potatoes in the prepared dish...sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the potatoes and dot with 1 tablespoon of the butter. Repeat with half each of the remaining potatoes...garlic cheese mixture and butter.Top with remaining potatoes.Pour the chicken stock over potatoes sprinkle with the rest of the garlic cheese mixture and with 1 tablespoon of the butter. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered...until the top is browned and crusty and the potatoes are fork tender...at least 30 to 40 more minutes. Serve right away.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Take care of yourself this month...as it is so easy to get stressed...with extra cooking...house work...guests and holiday shopping.
Making your own herbal baths...is such a soothing...nurturing way to give yourself self-care and self-love. It is detoxifying...relaxing...improves circulation...induces sleep...and eases discomfort in your joints or with an illness...and costs just pennies to make.
REVITALIZING GINGER...LEMON...PARSLEY BATH
should make at least 2 baths...depends on size of your bags
Supplies...
inexpensive muslin or cotton bags
1/4 minced ginger root...which will promote circulation
1/4 cup dried parsley...which was valued by the ancient Romans as a tonic for the skin
1/2 cup lemon peel (grated)... for a cleansing and aromatic effect
2 tablespoons oatmeal...to soften your skin
Place all ingredients in a small glass bowl...blend...then fill your muslin or cotton bags with herbal mixture...tie securely...and place in your bath water. Soak for at least 30 minutes. Towel off...and gently massage a body lotion all over. You will feel energized...and refreshed after this bath.
Really as I have gotten older...and hopefully much wiser...I have come to appreciate the small things...which are the big things to me...in my life...with such gratitude. Oh yes of course...I do understand the value...and it's place...of having a nice home...and the resources to live comfortably... but it is all the "love"stuff..that I value more...and give thanks for...than at any other cycle in my life.
Never take your life...for granted.If you look very close...at all you really do have...to appreciate...and be thankful for...you will stay in a place of gratitude. Life is not about the stuff you have...or want to have...but truly is about the quality of the simple...inner heart things you have...that no one...or any situation can ever take away from you...or be replaced with something material.
This Thanksgiving month...embrace all you have to be grateful for...including the gift of being alive.
Gratitude...is seeing your life...with your heart.
And really...that is what it is all about.
Blessings to you,
Victoria
" November comes
And November goes
with the last red berries
and the first white snows.
With night coming early,
And dawn coming late,
And ice in the bucket
And frost by the gate.
The fires burn
And the kettles sing,
And the earth sinks to rest
Until next spring."
by Elizabeth Coatsworth
WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS...November 1st...All Saint's Day...November 10th...Veterans Day...November 11th...St. Martin's Day...November 26th...Thanksgiving Day
FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER...On November 8th 1731 Benjamin Franklin with members of his Junto Club opened the first United States library.
The name November is believed to derive from "novem" which is the Latin word for the number nine in the ancient Roman calendar.
FIRST THANKSGIVING FEAST...
Turkey was not served at the first Thanksgiving feast.According to history...the New England settlers ate roast duck or goose...seafood such as lobster...clams...and mussels. They also ate chestnuts...walnuts...squash...carrots...and peas.
NOVEMBER IN FRENCH...Novembre
NOVEMBER IN ITALIAN...Novembre
NOVEMBER IN GERMAN...November
I found it so interesting that the word November was so similar in different languages.
FOLKLORE FOR NOVEMBER...'A warm November is the sign of a bad Winter."
GARDENING TIP FOR NOVEMBER...Rake leaves...prune fruit trees
HOMEMAKING TIP... Mop and wax your floors. Put cedar wood blocks or Lavender sachets in your closets and drawers...including your pantry for pest control. Polish your silver. Clean out your freezer...letting go of old food.
FULL MOON IN NOVEMBER...Is November 25th
FLOWERS FOR NOVEMBER...Chrysanthemum
GEMS FOR NOVEMBER... Lapis lazuli
TEACHINGS FOR NOVEMBER... Expressing gratitude for all you have...sharing and giving from the heart. Preparing for the Winter cycle.
THANKSGIVING GRATITUDE SHRINE (ALTAR)
Little altars or shrines are special places...where you can create in a small area... in your home...a way to honor or celebrate a favorite event...holiday...life change...or just for memory making.
It is so pleasurable to take candles...pictures...greenery or flowers...knick knacks and mementos...placed together to make a life story... from them...that gives you meaning in such a creative way.
Find that perfect table...counter...or nook... in your home this month...to make your Thanksgiving Gratitude shrine.Collect items in your home that are a symbol to you of what you are grateful for this Thanksgiving month...such as pictures of your family or friends...postcards of places you were able to visit...coins or paper money to represent prosperity that you have been blessed with...good health etc. Whatever feels right for you...place these items and others on your shrine table. Candles...fresh flowers...or greenery also add a pretty and natural element...that will add beauty to your shrine...for you to enjoy throughout this month.
Once you have created your Thanksgiving Gratitude shrine...set out a bowl or tray...pen...and small pieces of cut paper...and each day write out what you are grateful for...and then place in your bowl...beginning if you can...the very first day of November. Get your whole family involved in this tradition...and ask them to do the same each day for the month of November.
On Thanksgiving Day...light the candles on your Thanksgiving Gratitude Shrine...as a way to focus your attention on all you have to be grateful for...and ask each person who has contributed their written gratitude messages...to take a few moments throughout the day or evening...to pause and say a prayer of thanksgiving for all they have received this year.
At the end of the month...place all the written gratitude messages...in a safe place...and keep them until the following year's Thanksgiving celebration...where they can be read out loud to everyone after your meal is over...sitting together in a circle. This is such a lovely...simple...and heart warming tradition...for you to practice each year...expressing the very important life lesson of gratitude.
Because the truth is...there is always something to be grateful for.
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS
...FOR YOUR HOME
This is the month to cozy up your rooms...with warm throws...baskets of nuts and apples...and candlelight in each room. Forage outside and find fallen leaves...old branches...pods and seeds...and bring them inside to arrange natural...simple...and beautiful treasures from nature in bowls...vases...and baskets.
...FOR YOUR HEARTH
I am nuts for spuds...and try just about every potato recipe I find that looks good. This recipe is by far one of the best potato recipes I have ever made and eaten.Seriously... hide them in the back of the fridge for yourself to eat as a leftover...IF there is any left that is.
POTATOES SAVOYARDE
makes 6 servings
3 tablespoons unsalted butter...cut into small pieces
plus 1 tablespoon melted butter to grease baking dish
3 cloves fresh garlic minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf ( Italian) parsley
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
freshly ground pepper
4-6 russet potatoes or 21/2 pounds...washed...unpeeled and cut into 1/4 inch slices
1/12 cups chicken stock
Preheat the oven to 375. Brush the bottom and sides of a 2 quart baking dish with the melted butter.In a small bowl...stir together the minced garlic...parsley...cheese...and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Layer 1/3 of the potatoes in the prepared dish...sprinkle 1/3 of the cheese mixture over the potatoes and dot with 1 tablespoon of the butter. Repeat with half each of the remaining potatoes...garlic cheese mixture and butter.Top with remaining potatoes.Pour the chicken stock over potatoes sprinkle with the rest of the garlic cheese mixture and with 1 tablespoon of the butter. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered...until the top is browned and crusty and the potatoes are fork tender...at least 30 to 40 more minutes. Serve right away.
...FOR YOUR HEART
Take care of yourself this month...as it is so easy to get stressed...with extra cooking...house work...guests and holiday shopping.
Making your own herbal baths...is such a soothing...nurturing way to give yourself self-care and self-love. It is detoxifying...relaxing...improves circulation...induces sleep...and eases discomfort in your joints or with an illness...and costs just pennies to make.
REVITALIZING GINGER...LEMON...PARSLEY BATH
should make at least 2 baths...depends on size of your bags
Supplies...
inexpensive muslin or cotton bags
1/4 minced ginger root...which will promote circulation
1/4 cup dried parsley...which was valued by the ancient Romans as a tonic for the skin
1/2 cup lemon peel (grated)... for a cleansing and aromatic effect
2 tablespoons oatmeal...to soften your skin
Place all ingredients in a small glass bowl...blend...then fill your muslin or cotton bags with herbal mixture...tie securely...and place in your bath water. Soak for at least 30 minutes. Towel off...and gently massage a body lotion all over. You will feel energized...and refreshed after this bath.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
SEASONAL LIVING AND TIMELESS TRADITIONS OCTOBER 2015
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.
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.
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.
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