The Herbal Way-

MOVING......

2009-01-03T15:38:00.003-05:00

Hello again,

It has been a while since I posted regularly. I have been experiencing technical difficulties with blogger and finally decided to start over.....so

The Herbal Way has moved and has been spiffied up.........

Here is the new address

http://plantinggreendreams.wordpress.com

do come by and say hello, recipes, ideas, inspiration, tutorials, book reccomendations and if course giveaways will follow

hope to see you soon...........

Books I am reading....

2008-11-09T13:29:00.001-05:00

and totally inspired by

1) Letter to my daughter by Maya Angelou

2) Mother Power by Jacqueline Hornor Plumez

3) Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin

follow up on WIP's

2008-10-09T14:31:00.000-04:00

Done! and in time for the big 5

A Book Recommendation

2008-10-08T09:52:00.000-04:00

We have really been enjoying the following series

The Lighthouse Family by Cynthia-Rylant. We have just read the first two.....The Storm, and The Whale next up The Eagle. Although they are intended as a early reader, the series also works as a read aloud.

What we have been up to....and a sneak preview

2008-10-05T09:40:00.000-04:00

WIP Kiddo Ties

WIP B'day Crowns

WIP Ruffle Pants

It has been a busy few weeks. I'll be back with regular posting very soon.......Birthday celebrations, Give Aways and more.....

Still going strong....

2008-09-11T19:36:00.000-04:00

T'was a crisp September morning, corduroys and socks were in order......but someone had something else in mind

Make Believe Frock GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

2008-09-10T22:42:00.000-04:00

yet another wonder from Grosgrain!

Make Believe Frock GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

Times they are a-changing

2008-09-04T21:25:00.000-04:00

This week has been glorious. We have spent most every afternoon at the lake. Most afternoons it has just been the two of us, the water so still, the afternoon light fabulous, and the beach quiet, so quiet........just a week ago it was full of life.

There are signs what comes next, what lies ahead.

Still, I wonder when Zoe will wake up and not ask to go to the lake first thing.....will we be alone at the beach in November Zoe swimming to the ladder and back and me in my down jacket, wool socks, hat and mittens pouring carrot and ginger soup from a thermos?

Plannning ahead and someone I would like to meet

2008-09-02T21:14:00.000-04:00

or maybe I should rename this post planning behind! for I am still not clear about Zoe's "homeschooling" plan for this year. I thought I had a plan.....continuing her exploration of letters and numbers steadily and gently. However, over the past few summer months I have noticed her change and become much more in her head. Whenever given paper and crayons she wants to write words or numbers, "mama how do you write ......." or "look mama what number is this 31. She can fill page after page with letters and when she gets tired of focussing she shifts to pretend letters. This isn't all bad. Her speech has progressed in leaps.....trying out new words, and sentences daily. But she spends less time daydreaming and much more time "figuring things out." I have noticed her less apt to draw a picture or make something. She seems more stressed out and fearful and for the first time ever is not wanting to leave my side.

She turns 5 in about a month, so she is officially still in preschool

Seeing this change i am thinking about more art, colorful handwork, storytelling, nature exploration, dance, drumming, music and an introduction to the fairy tales. We're going to put away the letters and numbers until Solstice and then re-evaluate.

I have been a fan of Byrd Baylor's books for a while.

The Way to Start a Day
She and illustrator Peter Parnall were awarded a Caldecott Honor for The Way to Start a Day in 1979. Written in free verse poetry, it tells how our ancestors, from the cave people to the Native Americans, greeted, praised and were blessed by the dawning of a new day.
Everybody needs a Rock
Here is my favorite page from this one
"Everybody needs a rock. I’m sorry for kids who don’t have a rock for a friend. I’m sorry for kids who only have TRICYCLES, BICYCLES, HORSES, ELEPHANTS, GOLDFISH, THREE-ROOM PLAYHOUSES, FIRE ENGINES, WIND-UP DRAGONS, AND THINGS LIKE THAT — if they don’t have a rock for a friend."
The Other Way to Listen
those are illustrated by Peter Parnall- super complimentary!
There is also When Clay Sings

are the ones I had already read......
and I just discovered a new favorite

I'm in Charge of Celebrations

I looked for a website and this is about all I can find

Naturalist Byrd Baylor celebrates her birthday on March 28th. Baylor lives and writes in Arizona, presenting images of the Southwest and an intense connection between the land and the people. Her prose illustrates vividly the value of simplicity, the natural world, and the balance of life within it.

and here is a picture of Byrd- Don't you want to meet her?

So our fall reading will include the above Byrd Baylor books as well as some Elsa Beskow "Christophers Harvest Time" and "Woody, Hazel and Little Pip"

I am also introducing some Fairy Tales beginning with Princess Stories

I think we'll also do a unit on the moon, memorize some poems as well as some seasonal crafts.

Bubbles and Sprinklers

2008-08-30T08:28:00.000-04:00

childhood magic!

in other blogging news I am participating in a few swaps a kid's stationery kit swap over at Kiddio

and also a Gratitude Swap over at Day to Day- better get crafting!

After much determination and practice.......

2008-08-28T12:13:00.001-04:00

MVI_1177
Originally uploaded by HerbalT

she's a Swimmer !

Blazing Star Herbal School

2008-08-23T21:55:00.000-04:00

I am so excited about this class that we are hosting in a few days

Anyone who has ever taken a class from me knows how deeply I respect and how much I have learnt from Amanda McQuade Crawford over the years. I am so excited that she has agreed to return to BSHS. She was last here in 2002 (6 years ago!!!) and taught an unforgettable workshop. I am still receiving letters from those lucky people who attended wondering when she'll be back.

Monday August 25 2008

The good news is that this class will be inspiring, educational and informative to the advanced student and beginners alike. So here is the scoop......The class still has a few openings.

What Herb Books Don't Tell You
A Day in the garden with Amanda Mcquade Crawford

Monday August 25
10 am to 4pm (lunch included)
$125

The power of plants to call our deep healing potential to the surface is a gift. Spend the day deepening your connection to the medicinal herbs you know. How the chemistry works with physiology is fun to learn, like learning the back story of your new friend's first home. But the mystery between any two friends, including our connection to our green allies is
rooted below the surface of matter and molecules. Join me for a happy mix of focused meditation and the newest research on healing herbs.

In the second part of our day, studying the people we serve brings case studies and your herb knowledge to life.

Amanda McQuade Crawford herbalist and author of of two popular books on women's health, "The Herbal Menopause Book" and "Herbal Remedies for Women." She earned her degree in Phytotherapy from Britain's College of Phytotherapy She is a regular on *What A Relief*, a show on herbs for Veria, a holistic cable television network. Previously she was in private practice formany years in Beverly Hills, and Ojai, California, where she grew, gathered, and made most of her plant medicines surrounded by orange groves, oaks and avocados. She was appointed the Senior Clinical Tutor at Canterbury College in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she spent 2005 integrating their curriculum, new research and clinical practice. Her most recent adventure has been caring for family elders while hunting urban weeds and growing an organic garden in the wilds of Los Angeles, California.

Please email me ASAP if you think you might like to attend this class blazingstarclinic (at) gmail (dot) com

Shark Teeth and Fossilized whale bone!

2008-08-21T21:48:00.000-04:00

Fossil Panning in South Deerfield was a HIT! I wasn't sure.......Some of her favorite finds were various shark teeth and a piece of fossilized whale bone!

Another Kids market Post

2008-08-14T08:29:00.000-04:00

the busy face painter...

Each week this makes me happier and happier....

thanks to the women of ashfield hardware that make this possible-

Blueberry Fields Forever

2008-08-09T20:38:00.000-04:00

Bensons Place, Heath, MA

On a dark and stormy night

2008-08-07T22:36:00.001-04:00

Songs were sung, prayers shared, peace defined.......and at 9pm Candles were light

“May no harm come to us.
May we love each other well.
May we be kind to all the creatures of the earth.”

from Tenzin’s Deer by Barbara Soros

Tonight !!

2008-08-07T07:36:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to Light your Candle for Tibet Unite with more than 100,000,000 people in THE GREATEST LIGHT PROTEST ON EARTH.

Lipbalm and Rainbows!

2008-08-06T21:12:00.000-04:00

Zoe and I spent this morning at the local preschool making lipbalm with all the kiddos. Zoe had prepares a chart listing the ingredients

Lipbalm Ingredients
Solids:
beeswax, coconut oil, cocobutter
Liquid:
grapeseed oil, strawberry essence
Accessories:
Glitter (can add color too)
(we used a ratio of 1 part solids : 3 parts liquid)

Each child decorated their container with stickers while waiting for thebeeswax to melt and then the lipbalm to solidify.

We took the left over Lipbalms to the

where Zoe set up her table as a face painter again. This week she sported a great money apron with our good friend Kate made for her during the week.

It was a busy market this week.......The kids market is really one of my favorite times of the week

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-08-05T10:52:00.000-04:00

I have not posted class photos fora few weeks so here I am playing catch up by expressing my gratitude

Much gratitude for our magnificent tuesday lunches:

For the Pollinators:

For Seeds and Roots

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) (Special thanks Marcelle for giving us the heads up before bulldozing)

Blue Cohosh Berry (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

Early Spikenard flowerhead (Aralia racemosa)

Oats Milkyhead(Avena sativa )

Light A Candle for Tibet

2008-08-03T08:21:00.000-04:00

Some of you may already know about "Candle for Tibet" who are organizing a light protest on August 7th, just prior to the opening day of the Bejiing Olympics in support of Freedom For Tibet.

To support this here at Blazing Star Herbal School we are going to have our second fire circle this summer. Please bring a candle and a blessing/prayer/poem/song you would like to share and don't leave your drums/rattles behind! (other instruments also welcome)

August 7th, 7:30-9:30pm
Blazing Star Herbal School, Ashfield MA

If you are interested please also add your light to their website, as of now 508,035 people have joined worldwide. As many of you know this is a cause near and dear to my heart. It is so painful everytime Zoe looks at a map and says "mama why is Tibet not on this map. how can I be from somewhere that is not on the map?"

Hope you will join us. (I know it is late but please bring the family).
Please email (blazingstarclinic (at) gmail (dot) com) for directions.

Please feel free to spread the word. This is a free event open to the community.

Find more videos like this on Candle4Tibet

Sending Summer Blessings your way,

Crazy Science Part 2:

2008-08-02T21:29:00.000-04:00

Sand Clay Volcano

Recipe for the clay:

1 cup sifted beach sand
1/2 tsp alum
About 1/4 cup corn starch
1 cup water

Combine ingredients in an old, saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat. When clay starts to stiffen and hold its shape a bit, remove from heat. Turn onto foil until it is cool enough to work with. It cools pretty fast. We molded the clay into a volcano shape placing a toilet paper roll in the center.

Next step takes a while. Let dry in the sun 4-8 hours! Zoe was too impatient to wait for it to dry so we decided to just forge ahead..........

Lava Ingredients
1 cup baking soda
1 paper cup
4 drops red food coloring
3/4 cup vinegar

Pour the baking soda into the toilet paper roll. Add the food coloring on top of the baking soda. Poke a pencil through the bottom of the cup. Place a paper cup upside down over the (empty) toilet paper roll. Voila! Your volcano.

To make erupt pour the vinegar into the hole in the paper cup. We used a turkey baster.

Let's do it again mama even bigger!

Reverisble Bird Seed Skirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

2008-07-27T18:29:00.000-04:00

Reverisble Bird Seed Skirt GIVEAWAY!!!!

Wow this is one of my favorite fabrics! Love the fact that it is reversible also!

The return of the Wednesday Kids Market

2008-07-17T10:06:00.000-04:00

Seemed like we were living in a boomtown

FACE PAINTING

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-07-15T09:40:00.000-04:00

Week 12

July 15 2008
Sunny Hot Hot

A Garden in Bloom

Bee Balm, Monarda dydyma

Bee Balm, Monarda fistulosa

California Poppy, Eschscholzia californica

German Chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla

Elecampane, Inula helenium

Echinacea purpurea

Goop, Slime, Goo, Ooo, Blue Goo, Gunk, Floam, Putty, Ooze, Oobleck, Flubber!

2008-07-13T09:01:00.000-04:00

It all began innocently with "National Geographic Little Kids" Cheetah family magazine.

"Mama do you have any corn starch"

"Sure Zoe. What do you need it for?"

"I want to make "blue goo"

Looked simple enough...........A simple recipe. Many hours of play. Perfect.

Somewhere during the 3rd or 4th hour of play with her purple goo......"mama"

"yes zoe"

"i want to have a mad scientist birthday party" (her birthday is not until Oct) "did you hear me"

"yes zoe"

"lets plan it now"

"ok zoe"

She had it already planned. Costumes. All kind of goos, baking soda volcanos and color mixing. And hand made recipe books for all her friends.

We'd better get cracking! Where does she get all these ideas?

Here are a few fun "slime" links

Five Minute Popsci

and here is one from the Ellen show (thanks Jaeden!)

Don't try this at home!

Consider this your warning and start planning your crazy scientist costumes.

Lighthouses!

2008-07-12T09:34:00.000-04:00

Most recently Zoe has been fascinated by Light Houses. While in Maine recently we saw Cape Neddick Lighthouse fondly known as as Nubble Lighthouse. Funnily, her beach towel that was given to her by a friend last year, which she is really attached to, pictures this lighthouse as well as dolphins swimming (another obsssion!)

(made on photo-notes)

I am thinking next month of an overnight camping trip to check out a few more New England Lighthouses (either Maine or Mass).

Here are some books we have from the library that we are enjoying....

The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Grey Bridge by Hildegarde H. Swift and Lynd Ward
The Lighthouse Cat by by Sue Stainton and Anne Mortimer
The Sea Chest by Toni Buzzeo and Mary GrandPre
Birdie's Lighthouse by by Deborah Hopkinson (Author), Kimberly Bucklen Root (Illustrator)

2008-07-11T06:36:00.001-04:00

small version
Originally uploaded by mommycoddle.

here is something easy to participate in this summer........

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-07-09T10:46:00.000-04:00

Week 11
Tuesday July 8th
HOT HOT HOT

We took a short walk to explore a stand of Mullein which I had noticed a few days ago.

Mullein flowers (Verbascum thapsus)

.........and while the Mullein was glorious there were a few other plants in their golden glory.

St Johns Wort flowers (Hypericum perforatum) (other common names include Tipton's Weed or Klamath weed)

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) flowers -up close
(other common names include Common Yarrow, Gordaldo, Nosebleed plant, Old Man's Pepper, Sanguinary, Milfoil, Soldier's Woundwort, Thousand-leaf), Thousand-seal)

And here is my favorite photo of the afternoon

A Wild Columbine (seed pod)
(Aquilegia canadensis ) Buttercup family (Ranunculaceae)

Columbine nectar and pollen benefit hungry birds and insects, such as hummingbirds, butterflies and bees. An edible flower.

RIP Annabelle

2008-07-06T18:55:00.000-04:00

Annabelle the Angora

Happy July 4th

2008-07-04T21:40:00.000-04:00

Hope you had a good one too!

The Artist at Work

2008-07-01T07:15:00.000-04:00

Yesterdays sewing

2008-06-28T17:38:00.001-04:00

Hedgehog of a different color (Green) fabric from superbuzzy. The top is a Butterick (B5019) Super Easy!
Linen pants with hedgehog trim and pockets are inspired by SouleMama/

8 months ago

2008-06-27T19:10:00.000-04:00

I stayed up into the wee hours to finish a birthday dress for Zoe's 4th Birthday. My first dress. She hated it! She threw it across the room. It landed on the rocking chair ........

Fast forward 8 months.
Seven o'clock this morning

"Mama look what i found. (it has been on the rocking chair for 8 months! waiting for a new life.....place mats? napkins?) i love it. can i wear it? "

The beautiful "Zoe" stamp worn as a tattoo is a custom made name stamp from Craft Pudding on etsy. I love all her stamps.

So i took it as a sign and pulled out the sewing machine which has recently been collecting dust, cleaned off the table and got to work sewing a summer outfit. It flowed....a great sewing day. Pictures tomorrow as it is dark and gloomy again.

Now maybe I can finish the barettes and floral ponies that I began this Spring and get them into my etsy store.....

Introducing

2008-06-26T21:27:00.000-04:00

Herbert Rainbow Sherbert

the new addition to our family! Our family now consists of Zoe (girl child age 4) Annabelle the Angora (Rabbit age 2 1/2) and Old Man Ashley ( our Maine Coon Cat age 12)

zoe and annabelle

We are dreaming about purchasing two Alpaca.....maybe in a few years........

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-06-25T09:40:00.000-04:00

Week 9, Tuesday June 24, Dark and Wet

Self Heal Prunella vulgaris Breaking it down.......

Laminaceae (mint) Family

Other names: Prunella, All-Heal, Hook-Heal, Self Heal, Slough-Heal, Brunella, Heart of the Earth, Blue Curls, Carpenter-weed, Common Selfheal, Consolida Minor, Lance Selfheal, Sicklewort, Woundwort, Xia Ku Cao Dragonhead, Hercules' Woundwort, Hook-Heal, Xia Ku Cao

Prunella Vulgaris is found just about anywhere.....growing in waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic and neutral soils.

Taste: mineral salt, mild bitter
Energy: Cool and Dry

Prunella Vulgaris is an edible and medicinal herb, she can be used in salads, soups, stews, or boiled as a pot herb.

Over the centuries she has been used as medicine, on just about every continent in the world, and for just about every ailment known to man, Prunella is something of a panacea. This last line makes the apprentices and many herb students crazy. I hear them all saying "how will be ever learn the best way to use this herb? How can Self Heal be good for sooooo many things. Most apprentices over the year find it easier to use herbs that have fewer and more specific uses such as Boneset. Again and again I urge them not to give up on these herbs that seem to be used for everything. The best way to learn is to just slowly familiarize your self with the herb: collect information, draw the herb, sit with the herb, try every recipe you can find, if it is an edible eat it raw, eat it cooked.....keep a journal.

Western Classificationa: alterative, antibacterial, anti viral, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-oxidant, astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, nutritive, stomachic, styptic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary. (It is really important to familiarize yourself with these terms, hint hint)

Prunella is an astringent herb that has been used extensively in the healing of internal and external wounds. There is a simple use that everyone can try!

Plant Constituents are Betulinic-acid, D-Camphor, Delphinidin, Hyperoside, Manganese, Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid (more than in rosemary!!) , Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and Tannins. (It is worth noting this info though in the beginning it really does not mean a lot unless you are a chemistry buff)

Prunella is taken internally as a medicinal tea in the treatment of fevers, diarrhea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding, and weaknesses of the liver and heart. Prunella is thought to be effective in treating Grave's disease and has also been used as an immune system booster. Clinical analysis shows it to have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas iatragenic hospital infections) , Bacillus typhi, E. coli, Salmonella, Mycobacterium tuberculi, which supports its use as an alternative medicine internally and externally as an antibiotic and for hard to heal wounds and diseases. It has also shown promise in research for cancer, AIDS, diabetes, and more recently the Herpes Virus. The research done for herpes shows that salves made with Prunella are useful in stopping outbreaks.

Simple ways to start using Prunella:

Gather flowering tops, and dry in small bunches for later herb use. Store in cool, dry, dark, place for best shelf life. Alternatively you can tincture it fresh.

A cold water infusion of the freshly chopped or dried and powdered leaves is a very tasty and refreshing beverage.

A weak infusion of the plant is an excellent medicinal eye wash for sties and pinkeye.

Medicinal tea or infusion: Add 1 oz. dried or fresh herb to a pint of boiling water, steep till cool, take in ½ cup doses, sweetened with honey, as a general immune strengthener. Can be used to help recover strength after illness.

If you are interested in furthering your study of individual plants our Materia Medica class will be starting up again in September. Just email me and I will put you on the list.

Please be aware that this information is provided is meant to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.

Fun for Nothin' Challenge

2008-06-24T08:48:00.000-04:00

secret message scavenger hunt

I just added some pictures to this Flickr group! Love it!

Blazing Star Herbal School Class

2008-06-24T07:45:00.000-04:00

Blazing Star Herbal School (founded 1983)

Herbal Remedies For Summer Maladies
(at BSHS just outside of Shelburne Falls, MA)

June 29th, 12:30-4:30pm $50

In this hands on medicine making class we will focus on creating a home first aid kit for summer maladies. We will address the following conditions:

Cuts and scrapes
Burns (sun and fire)
Bug bites (ticks and other infestations)
Contact rashes
Muscle aches (Sprains/strains)
Bleeding and Bruises
Poison Ivy and Poison Oak rash
Dehydration (sun poisoning)

We will talk about safety and effectiveness of various ingredients as well as child friendly dosages. We will also discuss simple homeopathic remedies.

Extensive handouts will be provided.

Pre Registration Required.: In order to register please send email to tlemos (at) noho (dot) com or call 413 625 6875
Paypal or checks accepted.

For more infomation on our upcoming classes check out http://blazingstarherbalschool.typepad.com

__________________________________________________

Tony(a) Lemos is a graduate of Natural Therapy at Raworth College in England. Tony(a) teaches at conferences and colleges throughout New England including Ct Institute of Herbal Studies, International College of
Herbal Medicine, Flower Essence Conference and the Womens Herbal Conference. She has also maintained a herbal medicine and massage practice in the Valley since 1994.

Blazing Star Herbal School is dedicated to teaching traditional herbal medicine in a way that supports a more sustainable future for all members of the green world and shows respect for the integrity of nature. We offer a unique perspective on herbalism, weaving social and political aspects of health and healing through the study of medicinal herbs and food
practices. We inspire students to find their own healing path by creating a personal relationship with the plant world. The school also serves as a local and national resource for education and networking

Please note that Blazing Star Herbal School events, classes, photos and recipes are always listed here That Blog is still a work in progress! getting all the book links to work and the photos the right side up!

Peace Cairns and Pollywogs

2008-06-22T15:18:00.000-04:00

Day 4

Zega Lockatong Preserve Rosemont, NJ

Day 2

2008-06-20T08:44:00.000-04:00

Island Beach State Park, NJ

Shaped by storm and tides, Island Beach State Park is a narrow barrier island stretching for 10 miles between the restless Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. It is one of New Jersey's last remnants of a barrier island ecosystem that once existed along much of the coast and is also one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches on the north Atlantic coast.
The sand dunes and white sandy beaches offer habitat to maritime plants and diverse wildlife that is almost the same as it was thousands of years ago. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here. Island Beach is nationally known as a unique resource with over 400 plants identified, including the largest expanses of beach heather in New Jersey.

A Four Day GetAway!

2008-06-19T23:47:00.000-04:00

Few words lots of pictures!

Day 1

Mystic CT, the Aquarium

Zoe was really eager to see the Beluga whales. She seems to be drawn to marine mammals.......and really wants to participate in the encounter prgram....it is her dream! but five feet she is not!! As we drove down we listened to a few Sarah Pirtles Cd's favorites these days with a few great Whale/Dolphin Songs (Dolphin Drummers, Whale Watch, Whale Sounds, Dolphin Dog, While Whales).........as well as Maria Sangiolos "Under the Mystic Sea" Sienna are you reading........What do you think a Marine Mammal Episode?

We had lots of fun trying to pick out the frogs and turtles in the marsh

Birds of the Outback Exibit

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-06-18T07:36:00.000-04:00

Week 8 June 17 Sunny and Cool
Juliette of the Herbs

I look forward the first rainy rainy tuesday as an excuse to do a showing of my dear friend Tish Streeten's film" Juliette of the Herbs" But they were wrong! When I checked the weather yesterday it called for a stormy day- a stormy week infact! When I woke up it was bright and the sun was shinning.

Juliette of the Herbs is a beautifully filmed lyrical portrait of the life and work of Juliette de Bairacli Levy: herbalist, author, breeder of Afghan hounds, friend of the Gypsies, traveller in search of herbal wisdom and the pioneer of holistic veterinary medicine. For more than 60 years Juliette lived with the Gypsies, nomads and peasants of the world, learning the healing arts of these people who live close to nature, and learning from nature herself. Now 85 years of age, Juliette’s life story is as colourful and exciting as her tremendous wealth of herbal knowledge.

Filmed on location in Greece, Spain, France, Portugal, Switzerland, England and America, and interwoven with Juliette’s vast collection of archival photographs, together with scenes of Gypsies dancing and Bedouins with their herds, Juliette of the Herbs is an inspiring portrait of a remarkable woman.

about Tish Streeten - Filmmaker
Tish Streeten has been making documentary films for more than 15 years. She has been studying herbal medicine for more than 30 years. Juliette of the Herbs, a feature length documentary portrait of the grandmother of today's herbal movement, has won many awards and has been shown in festivals and theatres across the country and internationally. The success of this film is a result of Tish's deep understanding of the subject matter and her talent as a filmmaker.

Tish Streeten was born and grew up in Oxford, England. She studied agricultural botany at the University College of North Wales and then decided she could learn more from practical work in the field. For the next ten years she worked throughout Europe and America as an organic farmer, gardener, fruit picker and herbalist. In 1979 she went to work with Danilo Dolci in Sicily as the resident gardener for the Centro Studi e Iniziative. Tish was in Sicily for almost three years.

In 1982 Tish came to New York to make documentary films, studying for one year at New York University with George Stoney and Brian Winston. Here she made her first film, Community Dig, a short documentary about an archaeological excavation in Greenwich Village, which aired on public television. Tish has since worked as producer, editor, researcher, post-production supervisor, sound editor, sound recordist and assistant editor on many independent, cable and public television documentaries. Recently Tish produced, directed and edited Sicilian Sojourn, a 20 minute documentary on responsible tourism and the cultural traditions of Sicily. She also co-produced and edited Ecological Design: Inventing the Future, which has won many awards and was shown at the 1995 Sundance Film Festival. She was researcher and co-producer of Sangoma, a film for Canadian television about traditional healers in South Africa. A few years ago Tish worked on the highly acclaimed television series, Healing and the Mind with Bill Moyers. She is currently producing two series - one called Green Witches, on women herbalists and traditional healers world wide; and another, Trees That Heal, about medicinal trees world wide. Juliette of the Herbs is Tish's first feature length documentary.

Tish formed her production company, Mabinogion Films, to produce and distribute documentaries on women, the environment and the cultural traditions of the world. The Mabinogion are a collection of mediaeval Welsh romances of Celtic origin. The word mabinogion means storytelling. Tish's films are made with an intimate knowledge, caring and respect for her subjects. Sicilian Sojourn grew out of three years living and working with the people of Sicily. Juliette of the Herbs was seven years in the making. For Tish, the film making process is one of organic growth. Tish produces, directs, writes, edits and records sound for her films. She also does the research, fund-raising and distribution.

Here is a great article on Juliette

Grandfather Pine

2008-06-17T08:05:00.000-04:00

This post is a follow-up to yesterdays on trees

Here is a picture of the Blazing Star Herbal School Apprentices of 2008 (minus 1) in a wonderful tree house at one of their homes. The tree it self is magnificent........

the "growing" tree

2008-06-15T18:03:00.000-04:00

Every Tuesday from June to November since Zoe was in diapers she has been building community in this tree! She meets her special friends and makes new friends, she checks out how far the older kids climb and sets her goals. I have learned a lot by watching her, though she is very outgoing and assertive she is not a fearless nor a confident climber. Cautiously week after week she inches higher and higher carefully watching how the more experienced climbers do it.

It is a White Pine- the Tree of Peace. Here's a sweet article on White Pine written my teacher/mentor Susun Weed

The tallest White Pine in Mass is the
Jake Swamp Tree on the Mohawk Trail SF-Trees of Peace which is 160.8.

while z is building her community I am growing mine for this tree is at our beloved CSA Natural Roots. This is my fifth season and I cannot imagine a summer without the weekly vegetable pick ups. Every year the store grows to include more locally grown foods- honey, bread, yogurt, kombucha, cheeses, salad dressings and of course the on site South River Miso. Their Wild Leek and Dandelion Miso is too die for!! check them out!!! All these AMAZING products are made within a few miles from us.....how grateful are we.

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-06-10T10:15:00.000-04:00

Week 7 June 10th 90 plus degrees (hot and unbearably humid)

Sacred Smoke Bowl Blessing

Every morning for the past few weeks as I finish cleaning/organizing our space for the day Zoe smudges. A few weeks ago she asked it she could "do the smoking" I admit I was a little confused, it turned out that she wanted to do the smudging. I gave her the light smudge stick and she walked through every room and outside saying, "I bring Blessings and Peace" She then came in and smudged herself and then me.

It has been a few years since I made Smudge Sticks which are simply a bundle of dried herbs. So I decided that it was time to make some.

Smudge sticks are the most natural form of incense—they’re just wild plant trimmings, nothing else.

Mugwort was the herb I chose to use because of its abundance, it surrounds us, It was also my first plant ally. As a class we have been talking a lot about finding and connecting with our plant allys and exploring the dream realm with our allys. Mugwort smudgestick seemed like the perfect ritual aid.

Botanical name: Artemisia vulgaris

Common names: Mugwort, Moxa, Traveler’s Herb, Artemis Herb, Felon Herb, Muggons, Old Man, Sailor’s Tobacco. Cingulum Sancti Johannis aka St. John’s plant (NOT St. Johnswort).

Smudging has been used as a cleansing technique from the Native North American Tradition. Smudging calls on the spirits of sacred plants to drive away negative energies and restore balance. It is the art of cleansing yourself and your
environment using simple ritual and ceremony. Traditionally white sage is burnt in order to clear space, cleanse aura, purify or change the energy or when in need of grounding.

While White Sage is known to be spiritually cleaning, and purifying Mugwort , also known as "Dream Weed" is known for its unique ability to stimulate dreams, and aid in trances and visions. It has been associated with the Full Moon and with the Summer Solstice since ancient times. Use mugwort for awakening the higher mind, enhancing intuition, psychic awareness, and visualization. It is said to assists divination, lifting the veil between the higher realms of consciousness.

Common Herbs Used in Smudge Sticks

White Sage
Cedar / Pine
Lavender
Sweet Grass (Sweetgrass which grows in high elevation alpine meadows throughout the West. Its unique vanilla-like scent and centering, relaxing energy)
Mugwort
Copal (commonly used in Mayan medicine)

Next up.....

A Solstice Mugwort Crown & Wreaths: A garland crown, or ritual head wreath, can be easily made from one or more freshly cut Mugwort stalks. Select a young, supple stalk at least 2 feet in length. Begin forming the circle of the crown by gently bending the stalk at its midpoint and then interweaving it upon itself. About halfway through the interweaving process, try your crown on and then adjust it so that it fits comfortably on your head. When you are done, trim off any excess leafless stalk. If you prefer to have lots of foliage on your crown, make the initial circlet a bit bigger, and then weave several more additional stalks around it, one at a time. Start each new stalk at a different point along the circle in order to distribute foliage equally around the perimeter. Wreaths for decorating doors, shrines, deity images, and altars can be made in a similar way, and can be any size. Dried wreaths, hung on or above doorways, are wonderful house blessing charms.

Enter the clowns!

2008-06-07T21:25:00.000-04:00

Ballet Soleil Recital
June 7 2008

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-06-03T21:08:00.000-04:00

Week 6: June 3rd Sunny mid 70's

A Heart to Hearth with Mother Earth

Separating seedlings:

Tulsi, Boneset, Feverfew, Spilanthes and Scullcap

A performance to review by the Piti Theater Company Elmer and the Elder Tree which will be performed at RiverFest this year on Sat June 14th in Shelburne Falls, MA.

Elmer and the Elder Tree is described as "A clown-dance-theatre fable for all ages inspired by Shel Silverstein's "The Giving Tree" and Jean Giorno's "The Man Who Planted Trees." Featuring original music by Aaron Sherwood (saxophone), Peter Buchanan (guitar) and Wayne Smith (cello). "

Colorful costumes, and inventive set design set the scene for this nature fable, expressive dance to senseful music, and few heartfelt words tell the tale of Elmer and his Elder Tree

Jonathon and Godelieve Mirin (past apprentice 2006-2008) make up the Piti Theatre Company which is based right here in Shelburne and also in Les-Ponts-de-Martel, Switzerland where Godelieve hails from.

First and Last

2008-05-30T07:23:00.000-04:00

First Poppy

Last Frost

Friends

2008-05-29T22:10:00.000-04:00

Planting the Buddha: Garden Blessing and Peace Ritual

2008-05-27T18:17:00.000-04:00

Oh, Great Spirit

Earth Sun Sky and Sea

You are inside

And all around me .....

A Tuesday Apprenticeship in Photos
Week 5 Sunny and stormy 80 degrees and humid

The little people joined us today for a Garden Blessing and Peace Ritual. Who are the little people you may be wondering? They are the fourteen friends at Zoe's homeschool collaborative. It had been hot and humid all day until a few moments before their arrival when the wind whooshed and the thunder roared and the rain came down. Quickly we moved the furniture created an alter of stones, and greeted them indoors.

First we cleared the space and ourselves with a white sage smudge, most of the little people are familiar with this ritual. Brief introductions followed using a dandelion. One friend hands it to a friend as they look into his/hers eyes, and says, “Blessings (name).” The child responds by looking into the face of the one who handed it to her/him and responds. The friend who handed the dandelion off, folds arms across her/his lap. Those friends who haven’t had the dandelion kept their hands outstretched.

Once introduced one of the apprentices Christina Gabriel taught the group The Spirit of the Plants (Lisa Thiel, ©1984). This is one of my favorite songs and was timely as the apprentice group has really been focussed on finding/picking their personal green ally and homework last week was to draw the plant spirit that comes to them.

The Spirit of the plants has come to me
In the form of a beautiful dancing green woman
Her eyes filled me with peace
Her dance filled me with peace
The spirit of the plants has come to me
And has blessed me with great peace.
Her eyes filled me with peace
Her dance filled me with peace.
The spirit of the plants has come to me
In the form of a beautiful dancing green woman.

Next I read a story....my latest greatest book. Am I the last to discover this one? Our Big Home. You can't help to love this book, the simplicity of prose with detailed illustrations, typical of Elisa Kleven- a favorite illustrator of ours. Here is a PDF study guide from the illustrators website.

Next everyone drew / wrote / decorated "Blessings" onto a river stone....to be put around the Buddha......our wishes, hopes and dreams. The storm cleared and we were able to walk down to the river to collect some water to "Bless" our newly transplanted Hawthorne tree. While down by the river Christina taught the group another favorite song

My Roots Go Down
words and music by Sarah Pirtle, © 1979

Chorus:
My roots go down, down to the earth.
My roots go down, down to the earth.
My roots go down, down to the earth.
My roots go down.

Many new verses have been created:
* I am a pine tree on a mountainside.
* I am a willow swaying in a storm.
* I am a waterfall skipping home.
* I am a wildflower pushing through stones.
* I am a dolphin leaping high.
* I am white pond lily healing you.
* I am a mouth tasting life.

The wonderful Sarah Pirtle is local to us and many of our children have the opportunity to study with her at Red Gate Farm where she runs the Tree of Life School. Zoe regularly comes home with a new Sarah Pirtle song. If you are not local I recommend her children's CD's also.

Japanese Craft Book for sale

2008-05-26T22:09:00.000-04:00

Kid's Drawings
Cafe Time
(isbn 4-7762-0113-5)
$10 including shipping

Amy Karol of the amazing Angry Chicken blog has pictures here

Please email me if you are interested. I will sell to the first person that emails me at tlemos (at) noho (dot) com. Paypal preferred.

It's flowering

2008-05-25T19:08:00.001-04:00

Mayapple- (see post from May 6th for more information)

Some Garden Color

2008-05-23T23:11:00.001-04:00

Tutorial: Making a DECONGESTIVE SYRUP

2008-05-21T07:44:00.000-04:00

Please read yesterdays post on Coltsfoot prior to making this remedy

Respiratory Decongestant Syrup

1 part coltsfoot leaves
1/2 part marshmallow root
1/2 part ground ivy
1/2 mullein leaf
1/8 part licorice
1/8 part Orange Peel
1/2 cup of Black Cherry concentrate
4 cups (1 liter) water
1 Ib (1 kg) natural honey

Simmer the herbs in 4 cups water until reduced to 2 cups. Strain and add 1/4 lb natural raw honey. Gently melt, simmering at low heat for 20 minutes. Add 1/4 cup Black Cherry concentrate. You can add a splash of lemon juice as well if you have it. Cool before bottling. Store in refrigerator. Consume within 3 months. If you would like to extend the shelf life add 1/4 cup of good quality Brandy.

Dosage: Take 1 T , 2 to 3 times a day. Even children will enjoy it!

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-05-20T07:02:00.000-04:00

Week 4
Partly Sunny, Sixty something

The life of Tussilago

Family: Asteraceae
European native

"the son before the father" Very early in the spring, coltsfoot develops flat orange flower heads, but only after they eventually wither do the broad, hoof-shaped, sea-green leaves develop. Since the flowers and leaves appear at different times, they are collected separately. Coltsfoot is found along brooks and in wet places and moist clayey soil along roadsides

The flowers should be gathered before they have fully bloomed (end of February to April) and dried carefully in the shade. The leavesare best collected between May and June. They should be chopped up before theyare dried and stored. The fresh leaves can be used until autumn.

Constituents: Coltsfoot contains flavonoids, about 8% mucilage (consisting of polysaccharides), 10% tannins, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, vitamin C, and zinc. There are useful levels of zinc in the leaves. This mineral has been shown to have marked anti-inflammatory effects. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids may have a toxic effect on the liver, but are largely destroyed when the parts are boiled to make a decoction. The polysaccharides are anti-inflammatory and immunostimulant. The flavonoids are anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic.

Doctrine of SIgnatures: Coltsfoot, the dried leaves and/or flower heads of Tussilago farfara L., is one of those plants whose botanical name reflects its medicinal application. Tussilago derives from the Latin tussis, meaning cough, and coltsfoot has long been used to treat that affliction.

Coltsfoot combines a soothing expectorant effect with an anti-spasmodic action. Coltsfoot may be used in chronic or acute bronchitis, irritating coughs, whooping coughs and asthma. Its soothing expectorant action gives Coltsfoot a role in most respiratory conditions, including the chronic states of emphysema. As a mild diuretic it has been used in cystitis. The fresh bruised leaves can be applied to boils, abscesses and suppurating ulcers.

A note regarding smoking of this plant: Since the principal active ingredient in the plant is a throat-soothing mucilage, smoking coltsfoot is not rational therapy. The mucilage would be destroyed by burning, and the effect of smoke on already irritated mucous membranes would be increased irritation. Inhaling the vapors from coltsfoot leaves placed in a pan of simmering water s again without value. The useful mucilage is not volatile and would not reach the affected tissues.

It combines well with licorice, thyme, and black cherry. In China, coltsfoot is classified as a "warming" herb that helps relieve coughing and wheezing.

Safety
Over the years, coltsfoot has been a very popular folk remedy for coughs and bronchial congestion. As early as the first century, coltsfoot was recommneded for dry coughs and for breathing problems by the Greek doctor Dioscorides. However a study carried out in Japan revealed that the hepatotoxic (poisonous to the liver) pyrrolizidine alkaloid senkirkine to be present in relatively small amounts (0.015 percent). Continued or prolonged exposure to these pyrrolizidine alkaloids may have a cumulative effect. For some time it was hoped that the rest of the plant might be devoid of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. However, a subsequent investigation of coltsfoot leaves showed senkirkine to be present in them as well.

Here are some safety considerations:

-Coltsfoot flowers should not be used.
-The herb should not be taken by pregnant or breast-feeding women.
-It should not be given to children under age 6.
-Some countries have legal restrictions regarding coltsfoot availablity and usage. The USDA classifies coltsfoot as an herb of "unknown safety" due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The amount of these alkaloids is extremely small, though, and the beneficial effects are generally believed to outweigh the risk.
-It is recommended that coltsfoot tea or syrup not be used for more than 4-6 weeks at a time.

If readers prefer to try alternative very safe herbal demulcent (soothing agent), try slippery elm bark or marshmallow root

Dandelion Wine

2008-05-14T17:45:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:

1 gallon dandelion blossoms (no stems)
1 gallon boiled water
1 pound local honey
1 piece of ginger root
Rind of 1 -2 oranges
4 whole cloves
1 tablespoon yeast (softened in 1/2 cup warm water)

Directions:

Put flowers into a large crock. Pour boiling water over them. Let stand for 1 week. Strain the juice discard the flowers. Add honey and strain well. Add cloves, ginger and orange and stir. Add yeast. Cover and let stand for 2 more weeks. Pour wine into a clean bottles and let stand uncapped another 5 days. Cap bottles and let sit another 2 months minimum.

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-05-13T16:58:00.000-04:00

Tuesday May 13th
Sunny 70 Degrees

Ladys Mantle Unfurling
Alchemilla vulgaris (Rosacea family)

In mediaeval Latin it was called Leontopodium (lion's foot), probably from its spreading root-leaves, and this has become in modern French, Pied-de-lion. Two common English local names, 'Lion's foot' and 'Bear's foot.

Alchemilla has lime green leaves and dainty star shaped flowers, and has been in gardens since before the 16th century and I'm sure in the wild much before then. The entire plant is covered in very fine hairs that cause dew or soft rain to gather in it's leaves. This liquid was known as "celestial water" and used in alchemy. These tiny jeweled drops inspired poetry and magic over the years.

The herb became known as Our Lady's Mantle because the scalloped shape of the leaves, were thought to resemble the mantle (cloak) of the Virgin Mary. Later, politics intervened, and the "Our" was taken from the name.

Some medicinal uses.....of the herb and roots.......

Lady’s Mantle was once a widely prescribed treatment for gynecological problems. This herb is commonly used as a cure for excessive menstruation and is taken internally as an infusion ( 1 OZ. of the dried herb to 1 pint of boiling water) in teacupful doses as required. It is thought to help the uterus return to its natural size after childbirth. Decoctions made from the lady's mantle can be used as vaginal douches or as a lotion - it can be mixed with rose water as well. These decoctions can help reduce vaginal discharges, minimize irritation and infection in the vaginal cavity. A strong decoction of the fresh root, by some considered the most valuable part of the plant, has also been recommended as excellent to stop all bleedings. It has also been used externally for wounds and skin irritations, as well as a compress for treating puffy eyes. In Sweden, a tincture of the leaves has been used in cases of spasmodic /convulsive diseases.

Lady's Mantle has astringent and styptic properties, on account of the tannin it contains. It is 'of a very drying and binding, and has been considered one of the best vulneraries or wound herbs. Disorders such as diarrhea and gastroenteritis are easily dealt with by the strong astringent action of the herb, the herb is also rich in salicylic acid and this induces a rapid reduction in the inflammation affecting the digestive system as well as the reproductive system of patients.

In folklore it is thought that if placed under the pillow at night, the herb will promote quiet sleep.

The herbal lady’s mantle decoction can also function as an excellent skin lotion for the treatment of rashes in diseases such as eczema, it can be used to heal cuts and wounds, as well as external sores and insect bites of all kinds. The herbal decoction can also be used as a mouthwash and gargle in cases of bleeding gums, to treat mouth ulcers and to minimize the symptoms of sore throats in patients.

Fish and Spirals

2008-05-12T08:24:00.000-04:00

A friend's thoughtful husband offered to take Zoe for the day yesterday........A day to myself! Fully appreciated and fully enjoyed. When in the evening I went to pick her up she handed me a Mother's Day gift. A rainbow trout that she caught at the lake. She's been talking about wanting to fish and while she and her friends were playing at the lake they wondered over to a man fishing. He gave them each a turn and voila....DInner.

I must admit I have never eaten a fish right out the lake. I have never skinned, cleaned or be-headed a fish! Zoe was so eager to participate in the process that I thought I'd give it a try. An hour or so later fish for dinner!

I have always loved spirals. The Wise Woman Tradition of Herbalism takes place in a spiral. I always seem to be drawn to the spirals all around.....Here are some pictures I gave taken over the past week.

The pink one is looking inside a magolia blossom and the second Korean Fairybells

A Summer of Color (for the Kids)

2008-05-07T07:31:00.000-04:00

Join us in exploring colors this summer. Get your kids exploring with their camera noticing the colors that surround us. We'll photograph, paint, craft and read as we explore colors. Weekly I will post crafting ideas that you can do with your children while exploring the theme color of the week and link to books and stories also. I am also accepting submissions of projects, poetry (written by your kids) and suggestions of books for each color. If a project is used it will include a link to your blog. (Please send project idea submissions no later than the week before a color is going to begin)

June 28-July 5 Red
July 6-July 12 Purple
July 13-July 19 Blue
July 20-July 26 Pink
July 27-August 2 Green
August 3-August 9 White
August 10-August 16 Brown
August 17-August 23 Yellow
August 24-August 30 Orange

I will set up a flickr group so that we can see our kids creations......

Here are a couple of books that may help with inspiration

Berry Smudges and Leaf Prints Finding and Making Colors from Nature by Ellen Senisi

Nature Crafts by Joy Williams

Please leave a comment if you intend to play along with a link to your blog if you have one, Thanks.

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-05-06T07:42:00.000-04:00

Tuesday May 6th
Sunny and Breezy 66 degrees

Podophyllum peltatum is most commonly known as the mayapple,other common names include Devil's apple, hog apple, Indian apple, umbrella plant, wild lemon, and American mandrake ( not be confused with true mandrake, Mandragora officinarum, an unrelated Old World plant whose roots have been used throughout history for medicines and potions). The mayapple northeastern woodland perennial plant in the barberry family (Berberidaceae).Each plant has a single stalk topped with one or two broad, deeply divided leaves that vaguely resemble umbrellas. The two-leaved plants normally produce a single, small white flower (usually in May, thus the name) from the fork in the stem. The flower develops into a pulpy, lemon-yellow berry which ripens in late summer and is the only part of the plant that isn't poisonous (however, the berries should only be eaten in moderation, if at all).

The plant's long, thin rhizome (a horizontal underground stem from which the roots grow) is the most poisonous part, also the most useful because it contains high concentrations of the compounds podophyllotoxin and alpha and beta peltatin, all of which have anticancer properties. The rhizomes have a long history as a medicine among Native North American tribes.

The compounds/alkaloids in it are much too toxic to attempt self-medication with this plant. The FDA rates the use of this plant as "unsafe."

A Tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-04-30T10:43:00.000-04:00

Week 2
April 29 2008
45 degrees pouring
(a 30 degree drop in temperature from last week!)

What is your secret talents?

2008-04-26T21:06:00.001-04:00

Hula Zoaster
Originally uploaded by HerbalT

Hula Zoeaster!!

The makings of a perfect day

2008-04-25T23:52:00.000-04:00

Lake time:

Can it really still be April?

Playground time:

Friends:

I love trees!

2008-04-25T08:04:00.000-04:00

Some trees are tree house trees, some are thinking-under trees, some are fairy house trees, there are climbig trees, shade trees, drawing trees, hugging trees, meditating upon trees, picnic-ing under trees, animal living in trees, playing hide and seek in trees...huge trees, and barely trees, scrawny trees and glorious trees...

Between Earthday on Tuesday, Arbor day today and the glorious April weather we have been blessed with we are spending lots of time outside.

There are so many ways that you can celebrate and honor trees. Our favorite is to take a tree walk a hike with the intention of finding a favorite tree. When either of us find one often we will stop and spend some time with "her" doing a bark rubbing, tracing/drawing the leaves, photographing, hugging, identifying and finally sitting up against her quietly to see if she has a message for us......often we will end our time together by me reading or telling Zoe a story. Out favorites for our tree walks are nature tales by Thornton Burgess.

There are so many kids books about trees, some fiction and some non. I am drawn to them all......there are the typical early science ones by Gail Gibbons or Bobbie Kalman but here are a few of our favorite with the reasons why!

Fiction:
- The Tree Farmer by Chuck Leavell (Author), Nicholas Cravotta (Author)
- The Old Tree by Ruth Brown: (A fun nature story with a great suprize at the end!)
- An Elm Tree and Three Sisters by Norma Sommerdorf (Author)
- Sarah's Willow by Friedrich Recknagel (Author), Maja Dus (Illustrator)
- Spirit of the Forest: Tree Tales from around the world by Eric Maddern (Author), et al. (Great campfire stories)

Art/Science:
- Sky Tree: Seeing Science Through Art- by Thomas Locker (Illustrator), Candace Christiansen (Author) (Beautiful Illustrations as we all expect from Thomas Locker)
- The Tree in the Ancient Forest by Carol Reed-Jones (beautiful lyrical story of life around an old-growth fir tree)

Non Fiction:
- Around the Oak by Gerda Muller
- My Favorite Tree: Terrific Trees of North America Diane Iverson (Kids sharing about their special tree....somewhat of a field guide)
- A Logs Life by Wendy Pfeffer (Lifecycle of trees)
- Exploring the Forest with Grandforest Tree by Joanne Dennee (Author), Julia Hand (Author), Carolyn Peduzzi (Illustrator) (Great homeschooling book! Like no other)

Guide Books:
- Trees, Leaves & Bark (Take-Along Guide) by Diane Burns

There are so many more....already I am thinking of a few more that I really like but I have to stop.....I'll have to gather up some of my favorite from my adult collection and share a list one of these days!

After a couple of season of doing these tree walks I have found that Zoe notices trees where ever we are, " Oh that would be a great tree house tree" or "look mama that tree needs a hug".

Another way to celebrate Arbor Day is to make tree cards for your special friends and family and include a few seeds and instructions for planting a tree. For a while now I have loved to give seeds and tree planting kits as childrens birthday gifts. I like to choose plants such as giant mamouth pumpkins, fatmama sunflowers or baby carrots as well as all kinds of gourds.

A tuesday apprenticeship in photos

2008-04-22T21:04:00.000-04:00

Happy Earthday everyone!

Week 1
April 22 2008
75 degrees Sunny

Bloodroot

Today marks the 25th anniversary of Blazing Star Herbal School beginner herbal apprenticeship founded by Gail Ulrich in 1983. To celebrate I will be posting photos from every class this year.

UNLESS

2008-04-21T21:50:00.000-04:00

"UNLESS someone like you
cares a whole awful lot,
nothing is going to get better.
It's not."

The Lorax Dr Seuss 1971

This month we have an unintentional theme going. As part of our weekly family movie nights we watched "Flipper" and the original "Dr Doolitle" (with Rex Harrison). This weekend while at the Odessey bookstore listening to this mama speak we read the book Prince William we are reading Dolphin Adventure by Wayne Grover.

I wanted to get Zoe a book to mark Earth Day and have recently browsed several great kids environmental awareness books....and believe me my wish list is long and growing by the day, one more here. I finally chose "The Lorax" now I am not really a Dr Seuss fan but this book seemed like the best match for us this Earth Day. I do not want Zoe to feel the burden of feeling responsible for the environmental crisis....I want her to first and foremost LOVE the Earth. Feel at peace when surrounded by her natural beauty. Marvel in her wondrous ways and thus become an advocate following her heart. I feel that the Lorax was fun to read while introducing some of the concepts of being a earth stewart (or in our house "Daughter of the Earth"-a term taken from the Cd by our friend ALisa Starkweather)

City of Peace

2008-04-20T22:50:00.000-04:00

An outing to the Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield

(the barn)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Shakers, a Protestant religious denomination officially called The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, originated in Manchester, England in 1747 in the home of Jane and James Wardley. The Shakers developed from the religious group called the Quakers which developed in the 17th century. Both groups believed that everybody could find God within him or herself, rather than through clergy or rituals, but the Shakers tended to be more emotional and demonstrative in their worship. Shakers also believed that their lives should be dedicated to pursuing perfection and continuously confessing their sins and attempting to stop sinning

Simple Gifts was written by Shaker Elder Joseph Brackett, Jr. in 1848. It was first published in The Gift to be Simple: Shaker Rituals and Songs. Simple Gifts was a work song sung by the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing (more commonly called the Shakers, an offshoot of the Quakers).

'Tis the gift to be simple,
'tis the gift to be free,
'tis the gift to come down where you ought to be,
And when we find ourselves in the place just right,
It will be in the valley of love and delight.

Refrain:

When true simplicity is gained,
To bow and to bend we shan't be ashamed.
To turn, turn will be our delight,
'Til by turning, turning we come round right

'Tis the gift to be loved and that love to return,
'Tis the gift to be taught and a richer gift to learn,
And when we expect of others what we try to live each day,
Then we'll all live together and we'll all learn to say,

Refrain:

'Tis the gift to have friends and a true friend to be,
'Tis the gift to think of others not to only think of "me",
And when we hear what others really think and really feel,
Then we'll all live together with a love that is real.

Refrain:

(i am loving this yellow!)

(child's bedroom view 1)

(child's bedroom view 2)

the moon- another book post!

2008-04-19T08:10:00.000-04:00

Is the moon tired? she looks so pale
Within her misty veil:
She scales the sky from east to west,
And takes no rest.
Before the coming of the night
The moon shows papery white;
Before the dawning of the day
She fades away.

From Sing-Song by Christina Rossetti (1830-1894)

Zoe has become very interested in the moon's journey. For a long time we have been marking the days and months by reading passages from the following books

A Child's Calender by John Updike
Around the Year by Elsa Maartman Beskow

Recently we have introduced these two
Thirteen Moons on Turtles Back, A Native American Year of Moons Joseph Bruchac and illustrations by Thomas Locker*
When the Moon is Full A lunar Year by Penny Pollack Ilustrated by the Mary Azarian*

* (these are favorite illutrators) i have been lusting over some of her prints and this book for a while now

Last night we looked at
The Moon Seems to Change by Franklyn M. Branley (Author), Barbara & Ed Emberley (Illustrator) It is a Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2- Zoe really enjoys this introduction to science series.

More moon inspiration. Have you seen these? The are regulars we get from the library.
Walk When the Moon Is Full by Francis Hamerstrom
and Moon Journals: Writing, Art, and Inquiry Through Focused Nature Study by Gina Rester-Zodrow

I am also looking forward to reading this series of books by by Jean Craighead George in a year or two

Autumn Moon (Seasons of the Moon, Vol 1)
Winter Moon (Seasons of the Moon, Vol 2)
Spring Moon (Seasons of the Moon, Vol 3)
Summer Moon (Seasons of the Moon, Vol 4)

Also talking about the Moon we have really enjoyed listening to the "Moon" themed show over at HFVS (Hilltown Family Variety Show). There is also a great "Bird" themed show and "RoadTrip" show!

I think we'll plan some full moon circles this summer!

a guest photographer

2008-04-16T21:55:00.000-04:00

a photography scavenger hunt. Ready, set, go....

adventure wednesday: through the eyes of Zoe my guest photographer....her first day with a "grown up" camera! we worked on getting the whole subject in the view finder. She was dying to play with the zoom but I encouraged her to work on "composition" first. Zoom next week!

a self portrait

a letter "H"

a photo of something out of place:

A photo of my mum:

A fairy house:

WIP

2008-04-15T21:41:00.000-04:00

A first, A pair of pants for zoe, inspired by Soulemama.

They got it wrong. The sun did shine...

2008-04-12T18:22:00.000-04:00

Sunny Breakfast

Puddle play

"i see my reflection and my shadow mama"

Colors of Spring

Yellow
Green
Purple
Brown

My little Jumping Bean!

2008-04-10T20:16:00.000-04:00

.
Today, my friends it hit 70 degrees! I felt warmth. Sun on my white Winter skin. On our trip we saw many signs of Spring at the local markets but Iwho would have thought the first really Spring like day was felt right here in Ashfield. Home Sweet Home! Now I know we'll have plenty more cold wet days. But tonight I am enjoying not making a fire and feeling the April breeze.

With our new schedule Thursdays is the day that Zoe and I spend together. Today we drove into Northampton. I have always enjoyed the first days of Spring in the streets of Northampton. Barefeet everywhere, young people sat in groups on the sidewalk reading, guitar playing, merrimaking while taking off layers of clothing. The little town park filled with all sorts of people enjoying a quick glimpse of the sun, eating their lunch on the grass, dog walking, a cigarette break, toddlers playing on the slide, kitten walking, a group of mothers with their infants on blankets on the grass, stilt walking, homeless, hula hoopers, flirters, weasel walkers.....and Zoe greeting them all as she got familiar with her "special powered super bicycle" again.

A little Madness in the Spring
Is wholesome even for the King.

- Emily Dickinson, #1333

You'll see her sporting a sweater I patched up for her last night.

What do

2008-04-09T21:11:00.000-04:00

Two kids, three cameras get up to on a beautifully sunny spring afternoon. Good thing Zoe prepared her adventure basket on Monday as we were off on our first Spring adventure.

It included lots of jumping

a wooden train

a t-shirt

map reading:

and taking many many photos

More Dress Up and organization success!

2008-04-08T06:29:00.000-04:00

Oh how this child likes dressing up. Yesterday She was a pirate sailing the seas on her treasure filled chest and looking for more treasure.

We have a nice collection of dress up. Some international traditional clothing, lots of hand me downs, some gifts, some silks, some accessories and lots of clothing home made items.

Recently I have found myself feeling like all I do is clean and still the house is messier and dirtier than ever. I know all you mothers can relate! I have found myself ever conscious of Zoes habit to pick one thing up, play with it a little while and return it to another place, often another room. This has been irking me more and more, some moments it feels like it is all that I see. I don't want to interrupt her creative play, or to make her more conscious of the mess making so that she cannot relax into her play and creating all the scenes she needs. So while we practice cleaning up and I work on toniifying nervous system! (nervine herbs, infusions, more sleep, good nourishment and time to myself) I am thinking about our systems of organization. Ways that I can make it easier for Zoe to successfully participate in the clean up process.

Yesterday was a success for me. The dress up corner has always been a problem. As our apartment is small and packed with stuff ( a whole other story; stuff for the herbal school, stuff for the museum and our stuff) the dress up corner (or stress uo corner!) was behind Zoe's bedroom door hanging pegs attached to the wall and in a basket hanging on the back of the door. It seemed like a good spot at first. But It was hard for Zoe and her friends to put the clothes back and often while trying to get the tangled clothes off the pegs they would pull the pegs right out of the wall. And where to store all the accessories?

So yesterday while Zoe was at school and I was cleaning her room it dawned on me that we have an old toy chest in the attic that is not so heavy....I lugged it down from the attic not knowing where on earth I would put it. I managed to move some things around in her room and voila, the perfect dress up set up. Next I will replace the pegs behind the door with a big mirror.

Zoe was thrilled when she returned home from school and the fun began!

Little Signs that Spring is near

2008-04-07T21:33:00.000-04:00

When we returned home 3 days ago I could see no signs of Spring. I had fully expected that the snow would all be gone and the grass would have begun its transformation from brown to green. I was sorely disappointed. The nature table still displayed our Queen winter, snow people and a blanket of snow. Zoe's book basket in her reading nook was filled with books about deep WInter life and our porch still loaded with Winter sporting goods. This had to be changed.

I decided that the Nature table was the place to begin the gentle transformation to Spring, a gentle reminder that it was time indeed....It is still a work in progress but here is the start...Mother Earth gently waking her sleeping (the story of the) Root children. Oh, how we love this book. Pure magic! I think it must be my all time favorite book.

Do you have an all time fav? Please share them in the comments section.

I am also working on this needle felted bulb baby that I got last year!

Next up was the book basket. It seems that Spring is the Season that we have fewest books for....Maybe because it always seems so short. These books are in the basket today

Spring Thaw (Hardcover)
by Steven Schnur (Author), Stacey Schuett (Illustrator)

Follow the Water from Brook to Ocean (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2) by Arthur Dorros. Zoe really enjoys this series of early science books.

Spring's Sprung by Lynn Plourde (Author), Greg Couch (Illustrator) Though I do not love this book anywhere near as much as Wild Child by the same authors.

Pelle's New Suit (Hardcover) by Elsa Beskow

What are your favorite Spring books?

We also have a bird basket but more about this one in a follow up post.

Another sign that Spring is close is that Zoe's adventure basket is ready sporting flashlights, compasses, a loupe, a variety magnifying glasses, binoculars. And her rainclothes are out and ready to be worn at a moments notice. "Mama I think my camera will need fresh batteries soon" she said as she packed up her basket. She is not the only one itching to be outside. I guess it is time for me to pack my adventure basket too.....field books, art supplies, journals and camera.

Alte furst-erzbischofliche Hofapotheke

2008-04-02T07:54:00.000-04:00

Here's an Apothecary in Salzburg- I fell in love with this it and can just picture working there mixing herbal potions and homeopathic remedies. Just look at it.

Summer plans

2008-04-02T06:16:00.000-04:00

We get home in a few days..... I hear that it is still snowing! It is Spring here, poppies and cherry blossom, and best of all strawberry season. We get two strawberry seasons this year. How lucky are we!

I asked Zoe yesterday what she wants to do this summer.....

Bike riding
Take my clothes off
Go to the beach
Wear bathing suits all day
Go swimming
Picnics at the lake
Camp fires with songs and stories
Go Camping
Go to Maine
Playing outside all day
Playing in the mud (mud monsters!)
The festival (falcon ridge)
Ballet recital
Camp
Kayaking on the lake

I also have a few books that I want to introduce to her this Spring/Summer

The Tree Farmer by Chuck Leavell (Author), Nicholas Cravotta (Author) around Earth Day

Stories around the campfire/or camping:
Spirit of the Forest: Tree Tales From Around the World by Eric Maddern (Author), Helen East (Author), Alan Marks (Illustrator)

In a Circle Long Ago: A Treasury of Native Lore from North America: by Nancy Van Laan (Author)

Nature studies:
Among the Forest People (Yesterday's Classics) by Clara Dillingham Pierson (Author), F. C. Gordon (Illustrator)

Salamander Rain: A Lake and Pond Journal (Sharing Nature With Children Book) (Sharing Nature With Children Book)
by Kristin Joy Pratt-Serafini (Illustrator)

and as an on-going chapter book relating to the marrionettes that we have seen on this trip

Pinnocchio Does anyone know of a good version? I was thinking of this version...The Authentic Story of Pinocchio of Tuscany

Lest We Forget: An open letter to my sisters who are brave.

2008-04-01T07:49:00.000-04:00

Here is a great open letter written by Alice Walker on Obama

Easter in Central Europe - Photos

2008-03-24T07:55:00.000-04:00

Salzburg

2008-03-21T08:10:00.000-04:00

The highlight of our time in Austria was the second day we were in Salzburg. On that day the weather was fabulous (the first non-rainy day of our trip!), we woke up early and spnet the morning walking walked town. It felt as though everyone was out and about. After days of rain everything looked clean and bright. It was the Saturday before Palm Sunday and everywhere little stalls set up with baskets of ribbons and greenery, flowers and pussy willows. All the children were making bouquets (for lack of a better word) to carry in the parade the next day. Many older people were wearing traditional Austrian clothes and there was music everywhere. What a great day to be in town.

We walked into the main square which was graced by 2 statues one of Mozart and one that you may recognize if you have seen the "Sound of Music"! of horses, a fitting place to be home base for the horses and carriage rides. We thought it looked like fun so we hired one. Zoe got to sit up front for the whole ride. Our driver gave us a consise yet thorough history of the city. It was a great way to see the city! You should have seen Zoes face as she rode up front with the driver. Pure joy!

Next up that afternoon was what Zoe had been waiting the entire trip! The "Sound of Music Tour" We climbed aboard a big coach which had Sound of Music scenes painted on it and off we went. The first stop was the Mansion with the lake in the front (which the kids fell into)........in reality two different mansions were used, one for the front view and a different for the back view and the whole inside was a set! And the mansion with the lake is now owned by Harvard University! We stopped everywhere learning more and more facts about the filming of the movie.....the gazebo, the monestary, the church, all the fountains and statues, and of course the hills. It really was fun! not a shabby tour, I really did not know what to expect. Zoe befriended a few American college students who were studying in The Netherlands and who also loved and knew all the songs and together they sang their hearts out! She sat with them the whole way. They were awfully sweet! The scenery lakes and snow capped mountains were glorious! Ironically most of the hills filmed were actually in Germany!

The next day was also full. We went on a tour of the Salt mines. Salzburg means "Salt town" We had to wear miners suits! Zoe looked awfully cute in hers! Not so flattering on Gina and me however. First, we sat on a "train" to enter the mine and then we walked a while before sliding down a slide. It was 30 meters long and steep as can be. We sat with legs over the slide and forked one another. The first time down Zoe was a little scared! but when we were ready for the second one we were all excited. As we walked through the mine we learnt all about how salt was made. At the end we rode across a lake deep under ground in the middle of a mountain on a boat . The lake was so salty, we even got to taste it. There was as much salt in it as there is in the Dead sea! What an educational trip. We do not have too many photos of the Salt mine as it was so dark down there.

The following day was the last day in Austria and we just spend the day walking the local markets and enjoying the spectacular views. We kept seeing thee painted and decorated bulls/cows around town and were dying to learn the story. Finally we did. Salzburg is a completed fortressed city and during the war they were all up on the hills behind the walls and were running out of food. In fact there were down to the last cow and someone said that they had an idea....so that night they painted the cow black and put her out to pasture on the hill so that the enemy could see. The next morning they washed the cow and painted her white and that night let her out on the hill so the enemy could see and so on for many about 10 nights.....the enemy thought oh these people have so much food left they will never give up and soon walked a way!

Alte furst-erzbischofliche Hofapotheke

2008-03-16T07:54:00.000-04:00

An Apothecary in Salzburg- I fell in love with this apothecary and would love to work there mixing herbal remedies and dispensing homeopathic remedies.

I went in asking if they had Symphytum (comfrey) 30x. The kind lady apologetically said that they do not have any in stock but could get me some by 3pm. If just obtaining good homeopathics were so easy back home!

Prague

2008-03-15T03:43:00.000-04:00

How to summarize our few days in Prague? What a city!

The drive from Amsterdam was a little further than expected so we ended up stopping over night in Baroun. The highlight of the drive was for sure the street signs. Some of them were hillarious. I will have to find some and post soon. We made it the last hour or so the following morning and landed at a beautiful hotel called Hotel Evropa. It was a 600 year old building in the art nouveau style and although the guide book talked it town we recommend it if you are not looking for modern conveniences but art and beauty! Our room was huge, almost the size of my apartement and Zoe thought it was a palace. I will post some photos here when I get to Greece.

Some of our highlights were:

Food... Not for the vegetarian but very tasty. Very slim on fresh produce however. Creative as can be with potatoes.

We saw a performance at The Black Light Theater "Yellow Submarine" an interpretation of Beatles music! It was so fun. Black light theater is a typical Czech performance type where everything/ images/figures are painted with a special light which you can only see under special lighting. I am thinking of a fun similar project that we can do with our homeschooling coop when we return using this style of art/performance. Zoe was soo excited that she knew the song " Yellow Submarine!"

Marionettes puppets are also very popular. I really want to figure out how to make them. There were a lot of Pinochios (not a story we have read yet) and even some Pippi Longstockings (a favorite)aswell as many many traditional ones but Zoes favorite was a princess!!

Prague Castle. Amazing what can I say that has not been said. St Vitis cathedral, oh the stained glass. The astronomical clock! Wow.

Zoe was taken by the Easter Market at Old Town Square....Eggs galore, Czech painted eggs, goose eggs, duck eggs, chicken eggs....Beautifully decorated ginger bread. Pussy willows to my hearts content and lots of fun bunny decorations.

Probably the most random thing was the Barbie exibit inside of Prague castle!!

On the last day we took at day trip to Karlovy Vary This town is located about 2 hours and 15 mins from Prague and is famous for its very healing waters....hot springs. People are supposed to drink them to heal many ailments. Gina and Zoe tried it and the verdict "old rotten eggs!!"

I never did get used to Czech Krowns currency. It seemed that 10 postcards, a meal for 3, and a pair of shoes cost the same amount!!!!

We also had fun discovering a Czech childrens book author Zdenek Miler who has written many little Mole books. We fell in love with "Little Mole and Mothers" I'll post photos once we get home.

The Netherlands

2008-03-09T19:41:00.000-04:00

or Amsterdam (with children!)

We arrived yesterday morning at 5am having been awake all night, boy were we tired. Luckily our hotel room was ready and no sooner did we enter the room we all fell asleep on the bed for a few hours! We emerged again at 1pm- looking for coffee and breakfast, while most people were looking for lunch. It was cold and rainy, still first thing we noticed were the daffodils everywhere....and green grass yeah! Goal one accomplished! And the second thing we noticed were the bicycles.......bicycles everywhere. Moms riding around with two or more children in tow. The bike seats are as simple as they come no fancy 5-harness systems! We walked around in the rain looking for a coffee shop. It was a little trickier than I expected as most of the "coffee shops" are for 18 and over. Well we found one and had a yummy though suprising lunch. I ordered a bagette sandwich with homemade, olive paste and gorgonzola. I read assumed it was a typo homemade olive paste etc. I am still not sure what "homemade" is raw beef? smoked beef?, ham? smoked salmon? other fish? My mystery meal was however really good!

We returned to the hotel for more layers Brrrrr! and decided that the best way to get familiar with the town was going on a canal tour. There are canals everywhere! More canals than roads, and a total of 2500 houseboats with running water and electricity. Most are pretty old, some even have gardens on the roof. The tour was great- of course it did not help with getting familiar with city. We saw so many different bridges...some brick, some wood and some metal. We followed the tour with dinner and a short walk. We were hoping for an early night but JET LAG kicked in especially the little person with us she wiggled and tossed around the bed for hours and hours and did not fall asleep until 3:30 am. As a result we did not wake up until 10am.

Breakfast was a fancy hotel buffet. Zoes favorite were the mini pancakeswith fake syrup! and a donught with lots of yellow frosting. The Dutch are BIG into waffles and donughts with frosting-pink,yellow, brown, stripes- they make one particular little girls eyes twinkle with excitement!

Todays plan was the Artis Zoo by getting there by canal boat! The name of the Zoo was "Artis" which means Nature as a teacher of Art" Zoe's favorite animals were the zebra, wallabies, elephants and giraffes! There were even a couple of Argentinean anteaters. Pretty cool. I had never seen one before. Funny to see raccoons at a zoo! They seem so exotic over here!

There were so many statues everywhere and Zoe wanted a photo taken with everyone! I think she took an assignment from her teacher Kate O'Shea very seriously! We walked and walked and had a good time. I am not usually a fan of Zoos but this city Zoo seemed small and sweet. It was Zoe's first Zoo experience. We had so much fun that we missed the last showing at the planatarium! I promised Z a trip to a planetarium when we return. She is pretty excited about that.We returned back to the hotel by canal boat.

By today the third morning in Amsterdam we were beginning to get the lay of the city. Imagine everywhere you turn either a bus, tram, car, van, bicycle, or herd of pedestrians coming towards you! or a drop to a canal! We are keeping a good eye on Zoe! and are finally understanding what comes which way and where we end up when we turn down a different street leaving our hotel. It sure is located in Central Station, literally!

It has been raining, cold and windy since we arrived. It is so mild we are told! Still that has not ruined the fun...though I wish I had brought Zoe's rain boots and pants! For puddle jumping, she cannot help herself. We really did manage to travel light this time.

This morning we decided to take a tour that led us outside the city on a bus. Good idea as we certainly saw things we would have never seen.

First stop

A windmill village. Windmills everywhere and traditional wooden houses. It is unbelievable how many canals and small water ways this country has. I am already dreaming about a kayaking/biking adventure when Zoe is a little older! Who is coming? The country is completely flat with super bike lanes that even boast their own traffic lights! I'll have to get a photo of them. You cannot imagine how many bikes there are. There is even a three huge story bike parking lot! where the bikes are parked so close to each other it is a woner anyone can tell them apart, or pull theirs out without all of them falling like dominos! Can you imagine that! Some people have decorated theirs with red polka dots or a basket of flowers so that they can recognize their own bike. I think there are more bikes than I have ever seen in my life! and NO helmets!

Next stop was a wooden shoe making workshop. Now this was super cool. Walls of clogs in different sizes and designs ranging from red polka dots, traditional clogs, to roller clogs to plain unfinished wood. We even saw some similar to Roseys dansko clogs! A man wearing the biggested clogs I have ever seen showed us how to make a pair! It took him just a few minutes! Wooden clogs are still worn by many outside of the city because they are waterproof and warm. A lot of the country side is reclaimed land which means that it used to be underwater. It is 3 meters (about 10 ft) below sea level! So it is very wet. Imaging pumping the Ashfield Lake and making it into a farm and living there!

We stopped to have Dutch pancakes for lunch. There are thin more like crepes. HUGE. Zoe kept wondering why she did not get a kids size like at Elmers. We miss maple syrup as the sugar syrup/mollases they serve here stinks! I met some of you are sugaring these days. We are so lucky that we live close in such a sugaring area it is really a gift we have. Easy to take for granted. In fact in general the food here has been non impressive. Maybe we just have not hit the right spots. We have been told about an organic market "noordermarkt" (market) but have not gotten there yet. Gina had a "champagne cream pie" that she said was totally yummy and decadent.

Next stop was a cheese farm where they make "Edam" and "Gouda". We keep seeing black and white cow motifs in the gift stores but have not seen one cow yet. Now this is fine by me as some of you may remember that I am not that fond of cows! but today we found out that they are still in their barns as it is still too cold for them but a month from now we would see 2 million Holstein cows out on the fields! Dairy is a huge export for the Dutch. How many of you have tried "Edam" or smoked "Gouda cheese". The cheeses sit for up to 8 months depending on how much flavor you want. Luckily we got to try some at the farm....yum yum!

Our last few stops were at fishing villages of the Lake Ijshell. The second one was my favorite it was called the town of "Marten" and had about 2000 inhabitants. It used to be an island so it keeps some of that feeling of being isolated. But in recent years it connects to the mainland by a dike. Basically a a long road on the water. Cool. The village is BEAUTIFUL, all the houses are hunter green with black doors and shutters and a red very triangular roof! each house also has a matching little house for bicycle storage and some even a smaller one for their rabbits! There were no roads on the "island" only a skinny, picturesque foot path and a narrow waterway, There is a parking lot outside the village where the locals leave their car! I loved the feel of this village and told Zoe that I wanted to move there and she immediately reminded me that we live in Ashfield and she loves it!! Although Marten felt so isolated it was only apparently a 45 mins-1 hour bike ride into Amsterdam! That was the last stop before we were dropped back at the hotel.

After a quick rest we set out again on foot to explore more of the city. After a good walk we stopped at a coffee shop, where Zoe had a smoothy and proptly fell asleep head on the table. It was only 5:30 but I think we wore her out. SO back to the hotel we went!! By 6pm we were all asleep!

I uploaded many more photos over at my flickr account.

and we are off....

2008-03-06T07:37:00.000-05:00

in a few hours. Europe bound

Check list:

All packed up- NO

House cleaned- NO

Dressed and Bathed-NO

Animals taken care of-NO

Paper work taken care of-NO

Check back for photos and a travelogue

A Week in Photos

2008-03-05T22:01:00.001-05:00

March 3rd- A girls day celebration!

WIP's. Gifts.....(more on this later so as not to kill suprizes!)

More snow, sledding and birthday parties

Playing new games with friends

Sister love

Thank You

2008-02-25T15:20:00.000-05:00

Thank You Patricia for the beautiful mobile. (check out Patricia's Spring like watercolors)

We love it! It is hanging above our nature table in Zoe's room

Travel Scavenger Hunt

2008-02-24T13:44:00.000-05:00

This week I have a post over at Hilltown Families on Scavenger Hunts. It is one of a series of "Travelling with Kids" posts (here, and here).

I am looking for creative ideas for a travel scavenger hunt for the trip Zoe and I are about to embark on with our friend Gina.

Here is what I have so far:

Draw a picture or take a photograph of the Dutch Flag
Draw a picture or take a photograph of the Greek Flag
Draw a picture or take a photograph of the Austrian Flag
Draw a picture or take a photograph of the Czech Republic Flag
Take a picture of a Tulip
Take a picture of a wooden shoe
Step onto a canal boat
How do you say “hello” in Dutch
How do you say “hello” in Austrian
How do you say “hello” in Czech
How do you say “hello” in Greek
Collect a menu in Dutch
Collect a menu in Austrian
Collect a menu in Czech
Collect a menu in Greek
Buy a stamp in Austria
Buy a stamp Holland
Buy a stamp Greece
Buy a stamp the Czech Republic
Take a picture of a mountain?
Who was Motzart?
Take a picture of a castle?
Press a flower/leave from Holland
Press a flower/leave from Greece
Take a picture of a school bus
Take a picture of a train
Take a picture of a mail box
Take a picture of a statue

Here is where all you creative families can help. Give Zoe (and mum) a challenge. What can we look for, photograph, draw or try etc. Please submit all your ideas and we’ll post the final scavenger hunt and the results!

The Story of the Weeping Camel

2008-02-23T13:06:00.000-05:00

Last week at the library Zoe picked out this movie from the kids section,
"I want to learn about Yaks"
"But Zoe it looks like that movies is about Camels"
" Yes I know let's get it, the Yak movie" as she hands me the Camel movie
"Oh Ok" I say as we go to check it out. The librarian tell us it is a good choice and that it is beautiful. I try to ask subtly whether it is too much for a four year old. Zoe responds " don't worry mum, it is not too scary for me !"

It is a subtitled movie (there is actually little conversation) set in Mongolia , the Gobi Desert, featuring a nomad community living in yurts. Following a difficult birth one of their camels has a rare white colt which she rejects (refuses to nurse). They call for a "healer" at a nearby town...................It is a great blend of documentary and fiction....a great choice to introduce children to different cultures, different homes, different foods and children around the world. Highly recommended.

Of course after we watched it we got out the map and the world puzzle and found the Gobi Desert. "that is really near 'bet (Tibet)" she says smiling.

A weasel, is that a weasel I see.

2008-02-20T11:08:00.000-05:00

I saw a weasel yesterday! I haven ever seen one before in the wild! White as snow with dark tip at the end of its tail. It looked like a young one but I cannot be sure. I know so little about weasels that it inspired a little research.

Weasel medicine gives us the ability to look for hidden meanings, and reasons. Weasel energy gives us the power to discern what is really being said so that we are not taken in by those who would try to manipulate and control us.

Long-tailed Weasel - Mustela frenata

Weasels vary in length from fifteen to thirty-five centimeters (six to fourteen inches), and usually have a light brown upper coat, white belly and black fur at the tip of the tail; in many species, populations living at high latitudes moult to a white coat with black fur at the tip of the tail in winter (ain't that moulting thing cool!)

The long-tailed weasel is a carnivore. It has a very high rate of metabolism and eats about 40% of its body weight every day! Most of its diet is made up of small mammals like mice, voles, rabbits, gophers and chipmunks. It will occasionally eat birds and insects. It uses scent and sound to track its prey. Its long, thin body makes it easy for it to follow prey into burrows.

The long-tailed weasel is a solitary animal, except during mating season. It lives in the abandoned burrows other mammals, in rotting logs or under tree roots or rocks. Its nest is made of grass and leaves and lined with fur. The long-tailed weasel is most active in the night, but it also comes out in the day. It does not hibernate. The long-tailed weasel can climb trees and it is a good swimmer. It uses lots of different vocalizations including squeals, squeaks, trills and purrs. It also releases a strong smelling musk during mating season and when it is frightened. It is very aggressive when its territory is invaded.

The long-tailed weasel mates In the summer but the eggs don't begin to develop until about 27 days before the babies are born. The female gives birth in the spring. Most litters have between 4-8 young. A boogle, a pack, a confusion and a gang of weasel... The babies are born blind with a light covering of fur. Their eyes open and they are weaned when they are about 36 days old. The female brings them food when they are weaned and later takes them hunting. The babies leave their mother when they are between seven and eight weeks old.

updated a day later:

I guess it was an ermine, the winter name for a weasel (the short tailed)

"Mama tell me a joke"

2008-02-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

that's what I hear all day long. She doesn't know any yet but is becoming very interested in the concept. I don't know any appropriate for FOUR YEAR OLDS!!!! Help! anyone! Do you know any.....Remember any know good jokes for four year olds.... I'd like to compile a few to take with us on our trip.

As I write this here is one that has come back to me....

Knock Knock
Who's there?
Banana
Banana who?
Knock Know
Who's there?
Banana
Banana who?
Knock Knock
Who's there?
Banana
Banana who?
Knock Knock
Who's there?
Orange
Orange who?
Orange (aren't) you glad I didn't say Banana

Making Valentines...

2008-02-13T19:11:00.001-05:00

while listening to Sarah Pirtle "Heart of the World" and the Sound of Music.

Our European adventure is approaching fast. The stop that Zoe is most excited about is Salzburg, Austria. The reason for her out of control excitement is her obsession with the Sound of Music.

"mum did you know that teenagers don't need gobernesses? mama what is a goberness?!!"

"did you know the goberness fell on love with the captain!"

More snow and ice

2008-02-13T17:53:00.000-05:00

Celebrating Losar

2008-02-09T22:46:00.000-05:00

Presently *LOVING* Tenzin's Deer by Barbara Soros (Author), Danuta Mayer (Illustrator)

“May no harm come to us. May we love each other well. May we be kind to all the creatures of the earth.”

Who can resist a book with such a beautiful message!

Thursday was the Tibetan New Year (Losar) as well as the Chinese. These two important festivities rarely fall on the same day. Losar is the most important holiday in Tibet. We celebrated with some craft projects

creating sand mandalas

prayer flags

As you have probably read in this blog before we have a small library of kids books about Tibet, folk tales, fiction and non fiction. This week at night I have also been showing Zoe photos from this beautiful blog....especially the ones "women" "children"

Other than that we have been in awe of the winter beauty that has been surrounding us....spending time outside looking for animal tracks. building shelters, fires and taking photos and then coming inside and

snuggling on the couch and reading books and drinking hot cocoa,

Rainbow Crow by Nancy Van Laan
Animals in Winter by Henrietta Bancroft
Big Tracks Little Tracks by Millicent E. Sels

planning our trip and finishing hand made gifts for our family in Europe (more about that soon).

and the winner is....

2008-02-02T12:53:00.000-05:00

" holistic_earthmama " please email me your mailing address.....thanks

Snow Bears

We have really been enjoying the arctic illustrations Jan Bretts latest book "The Three Snow Bears" Today while we were out stacking wood here are some pictures of what the Littles were up to....

fishing, canoeing and plain arctic living......Brrrrr

45 mins later, dry and playing princesses in the warmth of our home

winter white 3

2008-01-25T07:57:00.001-05:00

Taken at Chapel Hill Falls, S Ashfield

winter white 2

2008-01-23T16:25:00.000-05:00

*** Don't forget to scroll down to 1/21/08 to get in on the 200th post give away!!******

The girl "LOVES" tape!

2008-01-23T07:04:00.000-05:00

Pieces of art are popping up everywhere. At night as i put away from the previous day I find cheery additions taped to our walls. Art Everywhere.....Yeah!

**** And don't forget to sign up for the giveaway, scroll down and you'll find it!****

Some things we are excited to be participating in.....

2008-01-22T21:05:00.000-05:00

winter white

(winter white:post one winter white photo or piece of artwork each day this week. photos can be taken inside or outside and do not have to be solely white)

mini swap 3 over at mollycoddle

(mini swap 3:It is a mail swap between our children (for the children, by the children--with a little help from you and me)--a chance to let them get in on the fun of sending and receiving a brown paper package.)

mobile swap over at elsie marley

(mobile swap: make and receive a mobile. the mobile can be out of any kind of material using any design you can think up)

**** Don't forget to scroll down and sign up for the 200th post give away****

Renaming Ceremony! and Give Away!

2008-01-21T22:17:00.000-05:00

First there was "hard head". Her first love.

yes you know who she is!
then Big baby" joined us

then "Soft baby" (pictured with hard head)
and then came "Nothing" (in the wagon)

All named by Zoe between 1 1/2 and 3 years old! Today She informed me that her babies no longer like their names. So she will rename them.
We lit a candle and
Hard Head became Izzybelle
Big baby is now lucibelle
Soft baby is Janey
and Nothing is Susan.

These are well oved babies.

Yes friends this is my 200th post and to celebrate......back to my roots! a basket of herbal goodies! (echinacea tincture, calendula tincture, chest rub, cough syrup and lip balm.....plus a page of instructions for those who may be new using herbal remedies. I will pick a name on Jan31st so leave do leave a comment........comment on your favorite entry so far.......

Mama's Loving......

2008-01-18T08:07:00.000-05:00

Women of Courage by Katherine Kiviat (Author), Scott Heidler (Author)

Zoe's loving

365 Penguins by Jean-Luc Fromental (Author), Joëlle Jolivet (Illustrator)

Next post = 200th post..........they'll be a give away!

Project #2 Bird Tree

2008-01-15T13:01:00.000-05:00

Our Solstice Tree is finally bare and up in the yard waiting for the bird treats and bird "bed and breakfasts" (birdhouses covered with peanut butter and bird seed) to be hung. We are going try a bunch of recipes and see which ones are a hit.

Bird Cake #1

Lard
1 Cup Yellow Cornmeal
1 Cup Rolled Oats
1 Cup Peanut Butter
1 Cup mixed Wild Bird Seed
1 Cup Sunflower Seed

Bird Cake #2
2 Cups Bread Crumbs
1 Handful Nuts (unsalted)
3 Chopped Apples
2 Handfuls raisins
1/4 Cup Cornmeal
1 8 0z. Jar Peanut Butter
1 Cup Wild Bird Seed
Mix ingredients and add enough bacon drippings to hold it all together. Shape into balls or press into pine cones.

Suet Feeder
We will also make a simple Suet Feeder out of a milk carton by simply pouring the hot ingredients into the carton, letting cool and cutting the sides out.

Other ingredients that can be mixed in or just set out on your feeder are: Ground eggs shells, fine gravel or sand (for grit), cheese, dry cereal, coconut (raw), cornbread, cracker crumbs, ears of sweet corn and the seeds from all of your veggies!

and Zoe's Favorite bird treat the old standard" Peanut Butter Pine Cone"

-3 parts peanut butter
-1 part grit (Grit can be corn meal, stale bread crumbs or cracker crumbs, or finely chopped stale nuts. Peanut butter from a jar can stick in a bird's throat so a form of grit is necessary to prevent choking).
-Bird seed

Directions: Tie a string around wide end of pine cone, leaving at least 5" on both ends for tying cone to a tree or feeder. Place peanut butter in microwave until soft. Stir grit into peanut butter in a deep bowl. Roll pine cone in peanut butter and then dip and roll in bird seed. Allow to sit on wide end of cone for at least 1/2 hour before hanging.

Zoe's favorite bird book is

Birds Calls (Play the Sounds, Pull the Tabs) by Frank Gallo

Is anyone else having trouble uploeading pictures using "blogger"??