April… will forever be in my heart… as  one of my favorite months of the year… because my wonderful daughter…Aurora was born in the wee hours… in the first week of this joyful month.

Besides the blessing and gift of her birth… this month always makes me feel so alive and full of promise… of things to come… and that I look so forward to each April… because the month of April is all about new growth and new life… which I can see bursting forth on the land… all around me.

One of the most favorite things for me to do this month… is to get into my yards and garden. Going to the plant nursery… to smell… feel… and take in all the new herbs and plants… I want… this month…to grace my back porch and plant in my flower beds…with love… is something that brings me great joy. I have done all the landscaping myself in our back and front yards… over the course of the last few years… and now I take great pleasure at seeing the results… of all my work… and creative energy… in my ever expanding gardens.

My yards… now…look so beautiful…to me…because they look like my own creativity… that I wanted to express with my own hands and heart.  I did the hard… dirty… and sometimes back breaking work myself… not because I had to… but because I wanted to feel alive… and connected… not only to my own spirit… but to the land and nature  itself.

Some of my most inspiring ideas and enlightened  moments… have come from digging in my gardens… or sitting outside listening to the birds sing… or watching the squirrels at play… their quick tails darting in and out of the tree branches… almost if they are playing hide and seek with me.

Nature inspires… it is that simple.

The month of April… IS… the energy of natural beauty and nature… and the very essence of life and creativity. All you need do… to connect with your own inner spirit… your own unique creativity… gifts and talents… is to look outside and see the vast abundance of beauty…  and continuation of life itself.

Nature is creativity… in her finest hour.

Make this month of April… a special month… in your heart and mind… to reconnect your own soul to nature and all living things. Get back to basic and simple living… by enjoying the simple pleasures in life… that will embrace all your senses… and motivate you to slow down… and enjoy the wealth and abundance… that the natural world offers you.

Nature is one of the most beautiful… heart warming… and inspirational gifts that you will ever experience… or  receive in your life. It is yours to enjoy… but also to care for… just as you would all living things.

This month… step away from your computer… your T.V….  your to do lists… and the unauthentic world… and embrace nature and all her gifts… that await you… just outside your door.

Happy April,

Victoria

WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS IN THE MONTH OF APRIL

April Fool’s Day… April 1st… National Librarian Day… April 16th… April 25th… Take Your Daughter To Work Day… Arbor Day…April 26th

In Italy… April 21st is the city of Rome, Italy… birthday festival. Concerts… food… and fireworks honor this grand city’s birthday… founded in 752BC

In Greece…on April 23rd… The Feast of Saint George is celebrated on Lemnos… with horse racing

FACTS  ABOUT APRIL

April’s flower is the sweet pea… a symbol of blissful pleasure

April’s birthstone is the diamond… a symbol of innocence and success

April wedding ideas… Fill your wedding with freshly opening flowers… symbols of the new life… you two will share together.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS FOR YOUR  HOME… HEARTH…AND HEART

… FOR YOUR HOME

… Invest in house plants this month… they add such beauty to your home… and help pull toxins from indoor air.

Place simple flower arrangements in yellows and soft pastels in each room… and put scented soy candles or bee’s wax candles on tables… and around your bathtub… for a simple… and elegant touch.

Wash and put away… heavy blankets and throws…  tucking in organic Lavender sachets between them… for a lovely scent… but also for natural pest control.

… FOR YOUR HEARTH

Use fresh… organic herbs in your food this month.  And plan on visiting farmer’s markets for your veggie and fruit purchases. Eat more salads… as a main course for lunch…  or dinner…or toss together sliced fresh fruits… to lighten up… and eat more healthy.

BABY LETTUCE  SALAD with AVOCADO DRESSING

serves 6

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/2 tablespoon finely chopped shallot

1/4 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

8 ounces mixed baby greens

1/2 very ripe avocado… pitted

Puree the avocado… oil…lime juice… shallot…sugar…salt… and pepper in a blender. Transfer to a large bowl. Add the greens… and toss until coated well. Serve…and enjoy!

… FOR YOUR HEART

There is nothing more uplifting than nature… so each day… make a positive choice to sit outside and enjoy the warm sunshine on your face… and take a brisk walk. Your attitude will be happy… and your health will also benefit.

It is so much fun to get into the kitchen and make your very own spa and skin products. Here is one that is easy… affordable… and a recipe that you will love… be sure to make some for your family and friends as well!

FOAMING VANILLA HONEY BATH

Honey is great for your skin and will leave your skin silky smooth.

1 cup almond oil… or olive oil

1/2 cup honey

1/2 cup liquid soap (organic)

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients well… and then pour into a clean and dry glass bottle or jar (recycled)… with a tight fitting lid. To use… shake before using. Pour 1/4 cup into bathtub… while you are running the water. Soak and enjoy!

Makes enough of this yummy bath treatment for 8 baths.

March is surely the sweetest of months…  you can see… new life bursting from the land… or smell…the sweet scent of budding flowers filling the surrounding air. I love to sit outside…  in hopes of… even for a few minutes… happily observing… the buzzing of bees… watching as they take flight… seeing how drunk looking they appear when flying… because their small bodies are heavy with nectar.

March brings in so many good and positive energies for you to celebrate and rejoice in… and most of all the life giving energy of the feminine… including the opportunity for you to renew and rebirth your own spirit within…including… awakening your creative self… and  finding  ways to live a more natural and simple life. Make everything you do… say and feel … be life affirming and honoring of all life.

There is nothing that will connect you more… to your spirit… than nature and the land… so as part of your life affirming way of life… this Spring cycle… plant yourself an herb garden… an herb garden is simple and easy to grow… and ever so useful… not just for your culinary needs… but for your bath and skin… and medicinal needs as well. And if you have never drank a cup of fresh thyme tea with honey… from thyme that you have grown in your own herb garden… you are in for a wonderful treat… and will be hooked on herb gardening… from that first sip of home grown tea.

As part of your new Spring season life affirming… more natural and simple… way of life… make your own gifts… or if this is not possible… for you…purchase all your gift’s from artists and shops that focus on handcrafted products… you will be getting more for your money… as  handcrafted products are unique… well made… and a person has put a lot of time and care into the product or item they have made.  My personal motto is “Nothing says love… like a handcrafted gift”. Anyone can go to a chain store… and purchase an assembly line product…  however… you… can make a positive and caring statement… from you… and what you value… by seeking out… and purchasing… handcrafted and artisan products from now on.

Make this season… a time for you to take responsibility for your health… and where you get your food from… by getting  involved in  buying local… organic food…and be sure to buy extra… so you can also donate  to food banks… for those in need. Add low impact exercise into your daily life… and eliminate unwanted stress and worry from your life.

Start shopping at flea markets and vintage stores to decorate your home… and learn how to re-purpose  and recycle… in style. The same goes for clothes shopping… you will be amazed at all the beautiful clothes you can purchase… at little cost… at vintage and second hand clothing shops.

A well lived life…  is a life that focuses on quality… beauty… grace… inner creativity… and awakening all your senses to the joy and wonder of life itself. You don’t have to be wealthy… to enjoy a well lived life… for you know… the simple truth…that being alive… and all that embraces… in your heart and mind… is your wealth.  It means… living a life… with caring… awareness… gratitude… and simple living. It means doing your part… to live a life of meaning… giving… and making the world a better place… for you… your families… and the world as a whole.

This Spring season… the season of renewal and rebirth… honor your life… the environment… and all living things… by embracing the natural… the simple… and the basic… back into your life… and by doing so… you will be living the well lived life. A life worth living.

Happy March to you,

Victoria

WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH

International Woman’s Day… March 8th… St. Patrick’s  Day… March 17th…International Earth Day…March 20th…Spring Equinox… March 20th… Flower Day… March 21st.

IRISH PROVERB

Dance if no one is watching, sing as if no one is listening, and live everyday as if it were your last.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS FOR YOUR HOME… HEARTH… AND HEART

… FOR YOUR HOME

Glass canning jars make great containers for many things… are reusable time and time again… are inexpensive… and can also be used to give a gift in… instead of store bought wrapping paper.

Use them to arrange flowers in…or to keep your fresh herbs in… to place on your counter tops… use in your bathroom for Q-tips… cotton balls… and makeup brushes.

Use them in your studio/ office for storing your art supplies… beads… wire… pencils and pens… and paint brushes.

Use them to serve desserts in… or make a green salad and serve the salad in a canning jar. Fill with yogurt…top with berries… and then chill in the canning jar … for a quick refreshing dessert or breakfast.

Take a canning jar… and put small gifts inside your jar… such as earrings… necklaces… votive candles… a pair of socks or headbands… wrap with ribbon… and you have a reusable and unique container for your gift giving.

… FOR YOUR HEARTH

Here is a simple… very good chicken recipe … that carries on the traditions of Italian  cooking. This is a recipe from the cookbook by Teresa Giudice…Skinny Italian…. enjoy!

CHICKEN BREASTS with LEMONY THYME MARINADE

serves 4

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 clove garlic minced

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme leaves

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon crushed hot red pepper flakes

4 chicken breast halves… skinless and boneless

Whisk the olive oil…lemon juice…garlic… thyme… salt…and hot pepper flakes until blended. Pour into a shallow baking dish. Add the chicken breasts… turning so each piece is coated with the marinade. Put in fridge and marinate up to 2 hours.

Use an indoor grill pan… or cook outdoors until browned… or about 10 minutes on each side… or use a thermometer to register 170 F . Enjoy!

… FOR YOUR HEART

Write down on a piece of pretty paper… everything that makes you feel happy… and carry it around with you… to look at throughout your day…  you can add to your list… whenever you want… or visit it when you feel sad or not in a good mood. Just reading your happy list… will lift your spirits… and renew your soul.

I love to cook… and especially have a passion for world food traditions… including Greek food… which is easy to make…healthy… and ever so satisfying.

Here is a few of the Greek recipes my family really likes… and that I go to for a really simple but ever so good Greek family dinner. Enjoy!

LAMB KEBABS with CUCUMBER YOGURT

makes around 12

1 pound ground lamb

1 large egg

1 small onion finely chopped

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1 clove garlic chopped fine

2 teaspoons each ground cinnamon and sweet paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Combine lamb… onion… egg…parsley…garlic… and all spices in medium sized bowl… and using a fork… or your hands mix very well. Have a baking sheet out… and start making meatball shapes out of your mixture and set on baking sheet. When you have all your meatball shapes made… gently flatten with your hands… and then mold each flattened piece into a small oblong shape. I do this by gently pressing the flattened meat at both sides… making sure each piece is the same size.

I then like to place the made kebabs in the fridge for about an hour… on the baking sheet… it makes it easier to grill when they are firm… from the cold… and also gives time for the flavors to blend together.

When you are ready to cook… preheat a flat stove top  grill… or grill outdoors… by first adding a little olive oil to the grill… to prevent sticking. Carefully lay your kebabs on the grill… and grill on both sides until nicely browned.

Serve with pita bread and handmade cucumber yogurt… and Greek olives… and sliced or roasted tomatoes.

CUCUMBER YOGURT

1 large container FAGE Greek yogurt  (you must use Greek yogurt for this recipe)

2 cloves minced garlic

salt and freshly ground pepper

6 stems fresh organic Oregano stems… with leaves removed  from stems… and chopped finely

1 English cucumber… skin removed… and finely grated

You must grate and drain your cucumber first… and this is how I do this in my own kitchen. I place a small glass bowl… underneath a large wire mesh strainer… and then using a hand held grater… grate my cucumber… into the wire mesh strainer.

When I am finished grating the cucumber… I place it on my kitchen counter to continue draining for at least 1 hour… before I actually make the cucumber yogurt. Just before I make the yogurt… I take a small wooden spoon and press on top of the cucumbers… pressing out all of the juice… into the small bowl… and then discard the juice.

After you have prepared your cucumber… place the yogurt in a small bowl… add your cucumber… salt and pepper… minced garlic… and finely chopped oregano. Stir completely… cover… and place in fridge until ready to use.

To serve your lamb kebabs… heat your pita bread… place a cooked lamb kebab or two…  tucked into the pita bread…and place cucumber sauce on top… now eat up!

Thank you for visiting my hearth

Victoria

The month of January… is like a  Winter… morning rain… the gentle shower…making the world smell and look fresh and clean… each rain drop… cleansing… releasing… and healing… making new… restoring balance…  and giving nurturing energy…  so new life… can bloom again… when the time is right… from the decay and death… of the dormant Winter cycle.

January has two faces… two dualities so to speak…the face of your past… and the face of your present… that are deeply interconnected…  for you to look at… ponder… reflect on… and if you are willing… to create a new beginning for yourself. This first month of our calendar year… will give you the energy… and inner guidance… for you …to take all the necessary steps to create a more positive life experience for yourself  in the future.

Which means… of course…there will be some things… you will have to release from your past… new beginnings… after all…means a new set of fine luggage… not that beat up trunk of baggage you have been lugging around.

Get to know yourself this month… by digging deeply into your heart… mind… and spirit… and be honest about past mistakes… failed attempts… and most importantly… get right with yourself as a woman.

Get clear… about what you want for yourself this new year… or what inner growth or personal empowerment you desire… and what you are willing to release or let go of… to achieve this.

Invest in yourself… and invest in your goals and dreams… this will give you the inner fuel to get moving towards the direction you want to go… but will also give you good feelings of self worth… when you invest in YOU.

Journal about your feelings… thoughts… and things you have done… or keep doing… that land you time after time with the same results… and get clear about what you need to do …to clean up your relationship with yourself.

This next one is tough… but if you want to be a more real… authentic…and genuine woman… you must take inventory on ALL relationships… and the role you are playing in them.

Then take responsibility and change what needs to be changed.

Which will be you.

But most of all… make this the year… to be happy… joyful… and heart centered. Connect with your inner spirit… feed your soul… love yourself… honor and respect your choices… and stop mourning the life you think you should of had… and accept and celebrate the life you have right now… and vow to make it even better.

Happy New Year to you

Victoria

WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY

January 1st… New Year’s Day… celebrations and customs the world over…for the beginning of a New Year.

January 15th… Martin Luther King… it’s his birthday today… to honor and pay tribute to this remarkable soul who promoted and believed in equality for all of humanity.

FACTS ABOUT JANUARY

In Romania… on New Year’s Day… some believe that if you toss coins into a river… you will have good luck throughout the year.

In Spain… As the clock strikes twelve midnight… people eat twelve grapes for each month of the year… to bring good luck.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS FOR YOUR HOME… HEARTH…AND HEART

… FOR YOUR HOME

Recycle all your tissue paper from the holidays… by folding neatly and then putting in a box… to then use for packing material when you mail out items in boxes.

Condiment jars and bottles… syrup bottles and jelly jars… when washed… dried… and labels removed… make for beautiful and recycled bud vases for small flowers.

…FOR YOUR HEARTH

There is something about this month… that makes me want to cook… bake… and nest in my kitchen… smelling good things coming from the heart of the home … just makes my heart sing.

Try your hands at baking this January… with this simple and ever so good muffin recipe… the yogurt will make these super moist.

YOGURT MUFFINS

1 1/2 cups sifted all purpose flour

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cream of tarter

pinch of salt

1 cup ( 8 ounces) plain yogurt

1/4 cup vegetable oil

2  large eggs… beaten

1 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 400 F. Lightly grease 8-10 muffin cups. In a medium bowl… combine the flour…sugar… baking soda…cream of tarter… and salt.

In a large bowl… combine the yogurt…oil…and eggs. Stir in the raisins. Fold in the flour mixture until just moistened… the batter will be lumpy.

Bake for 20-25 minutes…or until a toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean. Makes 8-10 muffins.

… FOR YOUR HEART

JANUARY

Knowing others is intelligence;

knowing yourself is true wisdom.

Mastering others is strength;

mastering yourself is true power.

-Lao-tzu

THE NEW BEGINNINGS TREE

This new year… make self- exploration… and making peace with yourself… one of your main focuses this year. When you have a right relationship with YOU… all your other relationships begin to change and heal too… and you will find greater happiness and fulfillment in your daily life… and with all your relationships.

Keep in mind… that this is about changing YOU… not about fixing others…that is their job…not yours.

To make your New Beginnings Tree… gather a small fallen branch from a walk or from your own backyard. Bring it inside… and place in a sturdy vase… and place it in a room where you can have privacy… and also easy access to use.

Gather gift tags… with string on them…or use white ribbon or fabric… that has been cut into strips. With a magic marker… write down all those issues you have been carrying around… that aren’t life affirming or feel loving… that you know YOU act out… such as … feelings of anger… resenting others… being a gossip… being needy etc. When you have finished writing these out HANG them on one side of the branch ONLY.

Now… write down the way YOU truly want to be… when you live from your spirit or heart center… that is the opposite expression of what you want to release from within you… and that you have already placed on your tree branch.

When you are complete with this… just sit before your New Beginnings Tree… and say a silent prayer… and ask for guidance how to release these issues from within… and express from your heart…each day… all those lovely qualities you have placed on your tree branch… and want to express and be each day.

Spend time each day… focusing on your New Beginnings Tree… as a sacred space to pray… meditate… or connect with your heart. You might also want to journal about feelings that come up for you during this process… and write down progress you are making in your life.

RELEASE BATH

Make healing baths part of your self-care this month… with this soothing and nurturing bath. Light candles…burn incense… or listen to soft music… to make your experience more relaxing and healing for you.

Run a hot bath… and add 2 drops of pure Lavender oil… 2 drops of Rosemary oil…1 drop of peppermint oil… and 3 drops of thyme oil.

Lavender oil cleanses… peppermint rejuvenates… and stimulates… rosemary cleanses the liver and helps ease nerves… and thyme treats mental treats mental fatigue.

*** PLEASE DO NOT USE ESSENTIAL OILS IF YOU HAVE A MEDICAL CONDITIONAL OR ARE PREGNANT OR NURSING.

The Winter solstice … has been celebrated throughout the world…. since ancient times… in various and diverse ways… and is still practiced today… as a meaningful symbol of the light within you… being shared with the world.

The Solstice night…is the darkest and longest night of the year… and as the Sun… comes up over the horizon… its returning light… is a symbol of the light returning to the world… and to you…as a human being… bringing hope… faith… and goodness to all of humanity.

Below I have created a simple…but meaningful Winter Solstice celebration for you… your family and friends… that I know you will enjoy… and connect you to your heart.

RIBBONS OF LIGHT

Supplies… one large white candle… white ribbons… cut long enough to tie around candle… black or gold magic marker… matches… fireproof candle holder

Do this ceremony after it becomes dark… and find a place in your home … to set your candle… that all can see… but is also a safe place to have a lit candle.

After you have lit the candle… have everyone present… gather around the candle…close their eyes… and connect with their hearts… saying a silent prayer… that has meaning for them… about what hopes they have for themselves… for others… or for the world.

When they feel complete with this process… have them write down… on a strip of the white ribbons… their messages of hope… and then tie around the candle… carefully avoiding the top portion of the candle for fire safety.

When everyone is finished with their messages of hope… just take a few moments to take in the meaning…purpose and beauty of the candle… its flame of hope… and the heartfelt messages… everyone has written.

Leave the candle to burn throughout the evening… checking on it… for safety… and to gaze upon its purpose… if you are called to do so.

Blessings to you and yours… this Winter Solstice

Victoria

December is a month of magic…  twinkling lights… giving… traditions… baked goods… gift giving… and joyous fun… and holds such fond and loving memories in my heart… in this month… when my sweet daughters were young girls.

As a family we practiced such enchanting and fun traditions… each holiday season… that made this time of the year… so special and magical for our daughters… and I still practice some of those traditions… today… even though one daughter is nearly 30 and the other soon off to college.

I still hold dear traditions… that brought smiles to my daughters young faces… a book of Santa Life Savers… a small candy they have always loved… tucked into their stockings… handmade Christmas cards…a new snow globe each Christmas for my daughter Aurora’s collection… stockings hung out for each family member… a cotton and felt snowman… to hang on top of the tree… that my eldest daughter made when she was five. This snowman is so ragged… being almost 25 years old now… but I love it dearly… and my tradition for placing it upon the top of tree… will continue… no matter how floppy and beat up it gets… because this handcrafted from the heart by my then small child’s hands…. is a tradition that adds so much meaning to me… and to our holiday.

To me… traditions add more meaning to any occasion… and are the substance that bonds people to themselves… to their families and friends… and to humanity itself.

Traditions tell your personal story… your thoughts and feelings… and what you value in life. They do not have to be religious…  although those traditions are quite nice…or mean anything symbolic to anyone else… what matters is that traditions symbolize something important and meaningful to you… that expresses your spirit and soul… and makes your life more sacred. And ever so special for those you care about… or what you want to hold in a place of honor and celebrate as a milestone moment or event.

Make traditions a part of your daily life… and all those holidays that make life… so worth celebrating… with family rituals and traditions that you can practice today… and pass on to your children and grandchildren… that warms the heart… awakens the spirit…and brings loving smiles and memories… forever.

Happy Holidays to you

Victoria

WORLD TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER

December 13th… St. Lucia in Sweden…December 21st… The Winter Solstice…  December 25th…Christmas December 31st… New Years Eve.

FACTS ABOUT DECEMBER

The gemstone of December is Turquoise

The flower of December is the Narcissus

In Sweden Saffron buns are consumed by the dozens on St.Lucia Day… and a young girl wears lights in her hair… a symbol of light returning to the world.

The Victorian era brought back the ancient pagan custom of using evergreens as Christmas trees.

HOLIDAY GIFTS

Be sure to order your holiday gifts… early at my on-line shop www.FeminineChicBoutique.com for quality… unique… handcrafted gifts.

Because nothing says love… like a handcrafted gift from Feminine Chic Boutique!

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS FOR YOUR HOME…HEARTH… AND HEART

How I love fresh herbs… and I always have a pot of Basil growing on my back patio… for culinary and medicinal uses… but I also the myth and folklore that surrounds herbs… as they have been used since ancient times… and have always been prized for their edible… magical… and healing properties.

FOLKLORE ON BASIL …Did you know… that in parts of Italy… basil is considered a token of love? Young single girls… place a pot of basil on their windowsill or doorstep to indicate they are not ” spoken for ” and would welcome the attention of suitors.

In India basil is sacred to the gods Vishnu and Krishna and is cherished in Hindu homes.

Travel sickness can be prevented by drinking a cold infusion of basil leaves before beginning a journey.

Old superstitions linked basil with scorpions…and it was believed that if a sprig of basil was left under a flowerpot it would …turn into a scorpion.

STIMULATING BASIL…EUCALYPTUS… & PEPPERMINT BATH

1/4 cup dried basil to regenerate mental powers

1/4 cup dried eucalyptus for treating lack of concentration

1/4 dried peppermint to alleviate mental fatigue and lack of concentration

Place all the dried herbs in a muslin or cotton bag… tie shut and then place in hot running bath water. Soak for at least 30 minutes… you can also take the herb filled muslin or cotton bag and gently massage into your skin while soaking.

… FOR YOUR HOME

Use fresh greens to decorate your home this month… as well as bee’s wax candles or soy candles… both safe for the environment… and they give off such wonderful scents.

Place cedarwood… Lavender… Frankincense… Pine… or Sage essential oil… on light bulbs… just adding a few drops while the lamps are on OFF… and cool… so when you turn the light on… the essential oil will heat up… and its aromatic scent will fill up the room.

Make holiday table name tags… by taking a cinnamon stick… then write names on white tags … the type with a string attached to the top… in holiday colors… then tie name tag around the cinnamon stick… and tuck inside the small hole on the name tag… a sprig of rosemary… for a really pretty… easy… and aromatic name tag.

…FOR YOUR HEARTH

Fresh herbs really add so much flavor to Winter fare… and also have health benefits for you and your family… so be sure to keep plenty of fresh herbs in your Winter cycle diet.

GARLIC…HERB…and TOMATO DIP

A really good and simple Mediterranean dip that includes fresh basil…  serves 4 easily

3-4 fresh… organic medium- size tomatoes…skinned

4 tablespoons chopped fresh chives

1 clove garlic… chopped fine or crushed in food processor

5 fresh basil leaves

a pinch of salt

freshly ground pepper

Skin the tomatoes b y dropping them into a bowl of boiling water for a second or two. You can then remove the skin easily… by gently peeling off.

Chop the tomatoes into very small pieces. Add the chopped chives… and chopped basil…followed by the seasoning. Put all the ingredients into a blender and blend to an even consistency. Pour into glass bowl…and chill. Serve with pita bread or chips… as a side for lamb… chicken or pork… or use as a spread for sammies!

…FOR YOUR HEART

Winter Solstice Wish Tree Celebration

This is such a simple and sweet Winter Solstice celebration for you and your whole family to create together. Just gather a small branch or fallen twigs from your yard… or a nature walk you go on together… bring them inside… and arrange in a sturdy vase… to your satisfaction.

Then… cut small pieces of white ribbon… wide enough to write on… and long enough to leave room for tying in the branches later… and have each person… write on the ribbons… wishes… that they can do to make the world a better place… An example of this would be… I wish to be a kinder person… I  wish to consume less … by not buying so many plastic items etc.

When each person is complete have them tie their ribbon on the tree branches or on the twigs.

When everyone is complete… take your Winter Solstice Wish Tree and place it on a small table… and place small white votive candles in glass containers… in a circle around the tree. Have everyone close their eyes and say a silent blessing… honoring their wishes and commitments they have written down and placed on the Wish Tree.

When everyone is complete… light the candles around the tree… a symbol of hope… goodwill… and wishes for a better world.

End the ceremony with snacks and hot chocolate.

Happy holidays to you!

Victoria

When I take walks in the month of November…or spend time out in my gardens… I pay notice to all the decay and dying off of  my plants and green living living things…. that this month brings to the land. Nature is my constant wise teacher… and I know the decay I see… and the dying off… of once green and blooming life… is a signal for me too… to allow myself the gift of dying off… parts of me… that need changing… and no longer feel authentic or real to me… in this moment of my life journey.

I give myself the gift of solitude and quiet… even for a few minutes…  each day…in this month…each and every year… for November is traditionally a month of gratitude…reflection… inner cleansing… and personal transformation. It is only with quiet and deep probing… that I…  can see with my heart… areas or issues… that just don’t seem right to me… with what I value… and where I through honest eyes… see where I need… and yes… even desire… inner change. As I have grown and evolved… I acknowledge that what worked for me… even a year ago… doesn’t bring me fulfillment any more… and truly isn’t what is best for me now. I am however… grateful for my lessons and experiences… for without them… I would not be fueled to change… to transform… into anything better for myself.

This year I have experienced so much needed change and  transformation… and that transformation… is the relationship with myself. I am not striving to be perfect… but rather honest… and authentic… the best way I know how FOR ME. This means that I have needed to let go of  a few friendships… blessing them and wishing them well… but at the same time… releasing myself from people that don’t feel right for me any longer. It is not that these wonderful folks are wrong… or not good people… it is just that I have outgrown what our relationship was about… and I need to honor my feelings… and what I want in all my relationships.  It is scary to release friends who have been in your life… but even scarier to stay in relationships where equal exchange of caring and energy is not exchanged… as this isn’t empowering or practicing self-love or self-respect. And I know that they too… will benefit… from me moving on… as other people will come into their lives… for what they need and want. It is a win… win… for all concerned.

Truth is… when you release the old and outworn from your life… something more grand and wonderful comes into your reality… and this has happened for me… and will for you too.

By taking a healthy risk… and being to open to letting go of  outmoded friends in my life… the Universe has responded to my growth and inner spirit… by connecting me to new friends… and I am so amazed and filled with a sense of joy… for all the incredible and creative souls that have come into my life over the course of the last year. Women and men who are so supportive and nurturing…and so greatly talented and creative… that I feel awe. They each have a gift and talent… and are sharing it with the world… with laughter… home design… parenthood… coaching… writing…making jewelery… growing herbs… cooking… and starting home businesses. They inspire me in countless ways… and I find myself focusing on their creative energy and beautiful spirits… instead of allowing my time to drift upon all those activities and relationships that left me feeling empty… and even drained.

I want to give many grateful thank you’s … to all the wonderful souls who honor my life this year… may our friendships and relationships continue to grow and thrive on mutual love… admiration…giving and receiving… and support. Each one of you has graced my life… in very profound and empowering ways… and you are a true blessing in my life.

And a sincere thank you to those that walked with me for awhile… but now are released and blessed to walk different paths…thank you for the role you played in my life and for the friendship we shared… I wish you all happiness and joy.

I am so blessed this November… this special month of counting my blessings and walking through transformation. I am forever grateful.

Happy Thanksgiving and a blessed November to you

Victoria

TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER

November 1… is All Saints Day… November 2… All Soul’s Day… a day remembering all those who have died… by the Catholic Church… November 22… Thanksgiving Day here in America.

FACTS ABOUT NOVEMBER

The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade was held this month in the year 1924

The gemstone of November is the Topaz

The flower of November is the chrysanthemum

In 835 AD The Roman Catholic Church made November 1st a church holiday to honor all the Saints

TRANSFORMATION BOWL… A CELEBRATION OF RELEASE

Supplies… One small bowl… small pieces of paper… or dried leaves… pen or marker… quiet solitude

Writing down  what you want to transform or release from your life… is such a powerful step in self-awareness… once you start writing… feelings and thoughts just seem to pour out from within you.

This is such a simple yet empowering ceremony… you will want to make it a part of your growth and healing each year… in this month of November. Be honest with yourself… but do not judge yourself… each one of us… has traits and patterns we are not proud of… but you are human… so be kind to yourself… while you are doing this process.

An example of what you would like to see transformed or released from within you… is perhaps a fear you have… or maybe you gossip… or can’t focus… or spend too much money… on needless things etc. Whatever the case may be… once you carefully write down…. without self judgement… be sure… you understand that you must follow through… with actions or steps… to change this behavior… including forgiving yourself… to make true transformation and lasting change. If you slip up… just start again.

Find a time and day or evening to hold your transformation ceremony… and have everything laid out for easy access. You can light a candle… or play soft music if you would like. Gently close your eyes… and say a simple prayer or meditation if you like… but it is not necessary… an open heart and mind is all you need.

Write down what you now want to transform and release from within you… and place in your bowl. Make a silent promise to yourself that you will transform and release this issue or pattern… and do what it takes to do so…for however long it takes… and ask for the courage and wisdom to do so.

Place your Transformation bowl… somewhere … that gives you the opportunity to see it each day… and look at your slips of written paper… whenever you feel the need… as a gentle and loving reminder of what you are wanting to transform in your life.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS FOR YOUR HOME…HEARTH…AND HEART

THANKSGIVING TABLE ART TRADITION

This year start a new… creative and fun tradition… with your family and friends. Instead of putting place mats or a tablecloth on your table… purchase a roll of brown paper… spread on surface of table… put ouT colored magic markers… and let everyone enjoy the fun of drawing pictures pertaining to Thanksgiving… or leave a personal message… this is so fun… everyone will want to continue this creative Thanksgiving tradition each year! Gobble Gobble!

NOVEMBER PRAYER

Grant me the ability to be alone,

May it be my custom to go outdoors each day

among the trees and grasses,

among all growing things

and there may I be alone,

and enter into prayer

to talk with the one

that I belong to.

By….Rabbi Nachman Of Bratzlav

AUTUMN SCAVENGER HUNT

I am a huge believer in using what you have… or using found objects in nature for decorating. This month is the perfect month to decorate with pine cones… dried leaves… stones…. dead branches… seed pods and acorns… to adorn your whole house.

Just gather the family together… give each one a brown paper sack… basket… or pail… and set off on a nice walk or hike… gathering items you find along the way… that you want to take home… to decorate your home with.

When your containers are full… head back home… and have everyone place their nature goodies in small glass bowls… or pretty baskets… and then place throughout the house. To complete your fun scavenger hunt… have hot chocolate and a snack together… and talk about the pieces you found… and why you like them.

Be sure to take photos of everyone’s scavenger treasures for your family scrapbook.

THYME and CEDARWOOD JOINT and BACKACHE RUB

Rich in thymol…carcavol…menthone and pinene… this thyme rub is great for the relief of backache and joint pains. Use after you have bathed or showered… just gently massage into sore muscles.

2 ounces jojoba oil

12 drops of pure thyme essential oil

12 drops of pure cedarwood oil

Place jojoba oil and essential oils in a small bottle …mix well. Store in cool…dry place.

*** Be sure to use only pure essential oils … not ones you can purchase at drug stores or candle shops…these have fillers…and chemicals…and not true essential oils. www.mountainroseherbs.com is a great organic company to purchase essential oils from… or your local health food store.

*** Disclaimer… essential oils are not to replace medical treatment when necessary. Pregnant women should never use essential oils.

HERBAL TEAS FOR YOUR DAILY HEALTH AND VITALITY

This tea is wonderful for lifting your spirits  or nervous anxiety.

1 teaspoon lemon balm leaves

1 teaspoon lemon verbena leaves

1 teaspoon catnip leaves

1 teaspoon oatstraw leaves

1 teaspoon passiflora leaves

1 small cinnamon stick

1 teaspoon orange rind

Combine all ingredients in a pot… and cover with boiling water. Stir well…and steep for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain… removing herbs… and add this healing tea to a nice pretty cup…sip slowly and feel your spirits lift!!!

***Herbal teas are a wonderful way to enhance your health… and your families. Be sure to purchase only organic teas and herbs… remember a little bag of herbs goes along way… and makes for nice gifts to give too.

*** Herbal teas are not to replace medical treatment

There is such wisdom and creativity making your own products… especially spa and skin care products… that you as a woman use almost everyday. Plus when you use natural and organic products to make your own skin care ingredients… you can feel good about what you are putting on your skin… and also taking care of our planet.

Purchasing the staple ingredients such as green clay and essential oils…. are such a wise investment… they last a very long time… are of good quality…  and a little goes along way.

Here is a very simple face mask for blemishes… good for your skin… and your pocket book… and can be made in a matter of minutes.

BLEMISH MASK
1 teaspoon green clay
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon peach or apricot yogurt
1 drop pure lavender or rose geranium essential oil

Mix the first three ingredients in a glass bowl… until blended well… then add the essential oil. Spread the mixture on your face… lie down… and relax for 15 to 30 minutes. This mixture does not stiffen… so set a timer or alarm for the 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water… using a soft wash cloth to remove any residue. Splash with cool water…dry off!

OCTOBER… fills my senses with the smell of earthy things… Autumn leaves… drying herbs… a soup simmering on my stove… the scent of a fresh pumpkin… being carved…crisp Autumn apples… in a bowl on my kitchen table… all these wonderful scents and simple pleasures … are reasons why… I dearly love this month… and all it’s traditions and customs… from around the world.

This is also the month for the final harvest… and traditionally to honor loved ones who have passed away… and many cultures throughout the world hold festivals and celebrations to pay tribute to deceased loved ones.  In Mexico…The Day of the Dead… is celebrated starting at midnight on October 31st… or Halloween night.  Families visit grave sites of lost loved ones… candles are lit… special foods are eaten… and also food is left out for the departed ones.

I have always felt that this festival  is so needed in all cultures. What a wonderful way to give someone you have loved and cared about…and still do…a special day… to pay tribute to them… share happy memories… and celebrate their  life… and acknowledge what they meant to you… with this time honored festival… and traditional celebration.

Perhaps this Halloween night… before your usual Halloween celebrations  you can light a candle… and say a prayer or blessing to all those loved ones you have lost… or make a family shrine… somewhere in your home… to place pictures… and small mementos of your loved ones… who have past… as a way to honor their presence and keep their spirit alive in your family.

And who can think of October without thoughts of Halloween? Halloween brings up such sweet and fun memories for me … when my girls were little. On Halloween night… I would make spaghetti and meatballs… and I would tell them we were eating worms… and bloody eyeballs! Of course they knew they weren’t eating these… but the spirit of fun and scary stuff is so much part of the fun and tradition of Halloween isn’t it? And the  memories of this fun and sometimes scary weird celebration… is so worth keeping this October tradition alive. I still love this celebration… and decorate my yard and home… and so look forward to seeing all the sweet children in their Halloween costumes… ringing my doorbell for their candy!

Hearth and home… are such a pleasurable focus this month… and using herbs offers you so many practical… as well as natural ways to experience this gift from the land. Used  fresh… dried… added to vinegars… made into herbal honeys… as a flavoring to meats… poultry … fruit and veggies… culinary use of herbs is well known and widely used today. But did you know that you can create unique and beautiful flower arrangements using fresh herbs… to bathe in… to clean and purify your home… but also for medicinal uses for good health and to use during illness?

My favorite herb to use this month… is  fresh thyme… and thyme essential oil…. to use in medicinal teas… bathe with… and even clean my floors and tile with… as it disinfects… and cleanses… and leaves my home smelling clean and fresh.

The name for thyme comes from the Greek word  meaning  to “fumigate” . Thyme is an antiseptic…  as well as an aromatic herb… and in ancient times used as an incense to purify the air… and chase away flying insects. Today… we know thyme works well as a  natural cleaning product… to clean floors… kitchen tables…and counter tops… eliminating germs… and also leaving a fresh… clean scent… through out your home.

Thyme has many medicinal uses… and a small bottle of pure thyme essential oil goes a long way… giving you great value… in such a small container. Fresh thyme… also has a big impact … you don’t need much for a powerful healing agent. This incredible herb… has beneficial effects for your digestive tract… lungs.. blood and your nervous system. Thyme assists those with asthma… pneumonia… and chronic bronchitis. The antiseptic… and  antibacterial qualities of thyme strengthens the immune system and can also be used for wounds and sores… as well as many other medicinal purposes. Pretty amazing… for such a small pretty plant!

THYME BATH TO BREAK A FEVER

Boil 2 quarts of water. Add to the boiling water 2 cups dried thyme. Cover and allow to steep for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Drain… mixture… removing the thyme leaves… and add the thyme infusion to a bathtub of hot water. Soak in the herbal bath for at least 20 to 25 minutes… when you get out of the tub… only pat dry with a towel…leaving your skin slightly wet and the thyme infusion on your skin.

Go get into bed… you will sweat… as this is the purpose of this herbal remedy… but it will help break your fever.

Take this herbal thyme bath only once a day… and you must remember… to get into a bed…with covers… and rest for at least 60 minutes… for this herbal bath to work…but trust me… it does work.

THYME TEA FOR A COLD

This tea is medicine in a cup when you have a cold or feel stuffy from the flu. It is so easy and simple… and so good for you… you will want to drink it all the time… but it works wonders when the cold virus is upon you.

Into  a coffee or tea cup… add 1 cup of boiling water… add at least 3 stems of fresh… organically grown thyme. Cover the cup with a small plate or saucer to steep the thyme tea… for about 10 minutes. Remove the thyme stems and leaves… and add 1 teaspoon of honey… and a fresh lemon slice. Drink right away… sipping slowly. You might sweat… as this herb assists you in sweating out toxins. Drink at least 2 cups a day… and you will feel so much better.

THYME  OIL TO RELIEVE CHEST CONGESTION

Thyme is a great agent for congestion due to a cold or flu… and just a few drops massaged into your chest… directly on your skin… really helps break up mucus.

Thyme essential oil is very potent… so use sparingly… and test your skin first…for any allergic reaction.

*** Do not use essential oils if you are pregnant

*** DISCLAIMER… None of the above medicinal uses… mentioned  for Thyme… in this post… should replace the use of medical treatment… or seeing your doctor when needed.

TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR OCTOBER

October 5th… World Teachers Day…. October 24th…United Nations Day… October 31st Halloween… Day of The Dead in Mexico.

FACTS ABOUT OCTOBER

The Flower for October is the Calendula… a symbol of sympathy.

The  birth stone for October is the beautiful Opal.

The herb for this month is thyme… known for its purifying properties.

The teachings… and lessons of October are of letting go…inner cleansing… balance and inner harmony… so it is a perfect month to clear out… on all levels of your being… including your home.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS

… FOR YOUR HOME

This month… is traditionally a month of release and cleansing… and preparing for the oncoming Winter cycle… a perfect month to clear out and reorganize your home. As you clean … use this process as a metaphor… as you clean… imagine you are clearing out any negative thinking or emotions from within you… as the dust and clutter go… so are your negative issues!!!

Your home and living environment can become stagnant during the Summer months… due to closed windows… clutter… and air conditioning units running… so for a simple and natural way to clear out the old stale air… open all your windows… and allow the fresh air to clear your home out. Works like a charm.

Set out bowls of apples… nuts… and fallen leaves… for a pretty and natural decorative accent.

Purchase different sizes of cinnamon sticks… bunch them together… tie with a pretty Fall color ribbon…and place them on tables… and counter tops… your home will be filled with their wonderful aroma.

… FOR YOUR HEARTH

I love to bake and cook … and October finds me stuffing chickens and brewing soups and stews… always using fresh herbs and veggies. Here then is my roasted chicken… my good ole recipe that never fails me… and I hope you enjoy it… as much as my family does.

THYME  STUFFED CHICKEN

serves 6-8

(1)  5 pound chicken

1 bunch fresh thyme

1 tablespoon thyme leaves

1 small lemon cut in half

8 cloves garlic…peeled

olive oil

4 tablespoons butter softened

sea salt

freshly ground pepper

ground cayenne

large cast iron skillet

Rinse and pat dry chicken… then salt and pepper the inside. Place in the cast iron skillet… breast side up. Stuff the cavity of the chicken first with the peeled garlic… then place in the halved lemon. Now place inside the cavity the bunch of thyme… you might have to fold the stems in half… but it will go in.

Drizzle olive oil  all over the whole chicken… salt and pepper… then spread the softened butter all over the chicken. Sprinkle cayenne pepper  on the surface…  making sure you cover the whole chicken… and sprinkle the 1 tablespoon thyme leaves on top of the chicken… place chicken in the cast iron skillet in the oven at 350 for about 2 hours… or until skin is crispy and nicely browned.

Take chicken out of the oven… let sit in the skillet to rest for about 15 minutes… remove and place on a pretty serving platter… carve chicken… garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Enjoy!

Roasting in a cast iron skillet… is so easy… and makes a perfect chicken or turkey breast each time… once you roast this way… you will never go back to a roasting pan.

… FOR YOUR HEART

To honor your loved ones who have passed away… have an honoring dinner for them this month. Prepare the foods you know they loved… light candles in their memory on the table… use your best china and silverware… and during dinner have each member of your family… share what they loved and admired about this loved one.

This is such a lovely tradition to start in your family… it allows everyone to express and embrace their feelings… and celebrate a person’s life… for what it truly is… a gift to each one of you… for having known and loving this person.

Have a give away this month… by giving SOMEONE … something… that you really LOVE. This is such a wonderful personal tradition to do each October… as it is such a wonderful act of letting go…and teaching you the very empowering lesson of releasing attachments in your life… a vital lesson for everyone to learn and practice.

Blessings to you

Victoria

For a wonderful family tradition this month… gather fresh fallen… Fall leaves… bring them inside… and have everyone in the family make handmade cards from the leaves.

All you will need is blank cards found at any hobby store… some glue… pen and pencils to write a sweet message on the inside…and of course your found and beautiful leaves.

Spread everything out on the kitchen table… and just allow every family member’s creativity to flow…making their own unique cards… by gluing leaves on the cards… any way they choose… then having them …write their personal messages inside… allow to dry… and then have everyone address and stamp the envelopes.

You can also as a family… take a trip to the post office to mail the lovely cards…or walk together to the mailbox… either way… include… saying a blessing on the cards before they are mailed off to the very fortunate receivers of the handmade leaf cards.

Happy card making!
Victoria

September for me … is a most welcome of months. After the fast paced energy of Summer… vacations and outings… and all the change that the Summer cycle always brings into my daily life… September whispers in gently… and is such a gift.

My thoughts… and feminine Spirit “gather in”  this month… a time for me to reflect… and be completely honest with my soul about what I need and desire to purge or release not only from within myself…but in my outer world too.

So… this month you will find me clearing out on all levels…and doing what it takes to let go of what I know in my heart no longer serves me… and my wish… for you… this month is to take  stock of your life… and learn the very important step of “letting go”.

I also find great joy in watching the Sun slowly decline in its brightness… and the days become shorter and the evening shadows dance earlier … in September. I always return to the comforts of home…and hearth this month… looking so forward to the tastes…smells and feels that the Fall cycle  offers…that of home… family… and the gentle ease of this season.

May your September be a blissful month for you… of clearing out… of letting go… and restoring much needed rest and balance within… as you reflect… ponder… and  “gather in” your body… mind…and feminine spirit.

Blessings

Victoria

TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR SEPTEMBER

LABOR DAY… is September 3… GRANDPARENTS DAY is September 9… FALL EQUINOX is September 22

FACTS ABOUT SEPTEMBER

Traditionally September 24th was the day which harvesting the crops began in medieval England.

The birthstone for September is the sapphire… which symbolizes heaven

The flower of September is the aster… which symbolizes love… daintiness and patience.

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS

… FOR YOUR HOME

Gather some small Fall leaves… set them on a table to dry out for a few days… and then glue three different colors and shapes… each one placed in a different direction for a layered look… on the front of glass candle votive holders… or small jelly jars. When dry… carefully tie a gold … brown… or gold ribbon around the glass… or use hemp string… for an easy and ever so  pretty Fall accent for your tables. Add a soy or bee’s wax candle… light… and see the beautiful glow the candle flame makes on the leafs.

Set out a small glass bowl or glass votive candle holder… filled with dried Lavender flowers… by your kitchen or bathroom sink… to place your rings in… safe and snug… when you are doing cleaning or washing up. You will know exactly where your rings are each time… when you want to put them back on!

… FOR YOUR HEARTH

I love to put onions… potatoes… and bulbs of garlic and shallots out in pretty bowls… on my kitchen counters for a seasonal Fall look… baskets and wire containers will also look great… and also make for easy access… when you are busy in your  kitchen cooking.

GREEN BEANS with SHALLOTS

makes 8 servings

3 1/2 pounds fresh green beans

3 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup minced shallots

2 tablespoons water

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Trim the ends of the green beans. Drop the beans into a large pot of boiling water and cook for 10 minutes or until tender. Drain the beans.

In a large pot or frying pan… heat the olive oil and add the shallots…saute for 3 minutes or until lightly brown. Add the green beans… the 2 tablespoons water and cook another 3 minutes… or until the green beans are tender… stirring when needed. Turn off heat…add salt and pepper…place in a pretty serving bowl…and enjoy!

… FOR YOUR HEART

Remember… you can never GIVE too much!

Share your abundance from your herb or veggie garden this month… with others. Gather herbs and veggies… place in a pretty basket… add a bottle of olive oil or vinegar… cover with a pretty dish towel or cloth… and present this wholesome and lovely gift basket to family… friends or neighbors as a gift of green giving… that they will be sure to enjoy.

Send someone you know who is in need… a gift certificate to buy groceries… or a check to cover gas… for 2 weeks. Receiving this generous gift from you… will make a huge difference in their life…as well as their family.

Give good karma this month of September…

By making up after a conflict

Adopt an acre of rain forest

By listening to others…without judgement

Win and lose graciously

See the spirit of a person… instead of what they physically look like

I have always found the month of August… a bittersweet month… making it’s  journey from the high energy of the Summer cycle… to the ever approaching waning Sun… and the cycle of …  GATHERING IN.

“Gathering in”…  not only means harvesting the first crops … or drying your fresh herbs… for future use… it also means to  “gather within ” self… to reflect and ponder your personal growth this year… what goals or dreams you have harvested… but to also be honest and true with your feelings… about what goals… dreams… or growth YOU DID NOT… bring into fruition.

Not having what you want… often leads to disappointment… and justly so… but if something is true to your heart… hold it close… and know that it will come to be… when the season is right for you… bless it… and let it go.

August is the perfect month to see how much good and abundance you really do have right now… and express gratitude… by holding a simple gratitude celebration with your family and friends… or creating a special shrine in your home… where you can place a gratitude basket… writing on slips of paper… and then placing them in the basket…everything you are grateful for.

Whatever your faith is… or isn’t… or whatever space your are in your life… make this month of August… the month where you begin to practice GRATITUDE in your life… and share it with others… because you will always have something to feel grateful for… when you look from your heart.

I am grateful for you,

Victoria

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TRADITIONS AND CELEBRATIONS FOR AUGUST

August 1 is the first harvest celebration… a festival of great gratitude for bringing in the crops… and for all the land provides.

August 9 is International Day Of The Worlds Indigenous People

August 26 is Women’s Equity Day

FACTS ABOUT THE MONTH OF AUGUST

August is the biggest month for tourism… right before it is time to return to school.

On August 2nd  1875 the first roller skating rink was opened in the UK

FEMININE LIVING TRADITIONS

…FOR YOUR HOME

Set out small baskets filled with apples… or nuts… for a natural harvest feel.

Make it a tradition to begin your Fall cleaning this month… and use earth friendly cleaning products.

Clean and begin to pack away Summer items… and add Fall decor to your home.

Put lovely pieces of tall wheat into your vases… instead of flowers… as wheat is the symbol of the harvest season.

… FOR YOUR HEARTH

Try your hand at one of the oldest cooking traditions… that of  making some homemade bread this month… and serve it warm… with butter and local honey.

Make your own HERB FETA CHEESE … by slicing a block of Feta Cheese into even-sized cubes… and then placing the cubed cheese into a wide mouthed jar (recycled if possible). Next pour enough good extra virgin olive oil to cover the cheese completely. Add several sprigs of fresh organic rosemary… slivers of red pepper… garlic cloves… and some peppercorns.

Allow to meld flavors for a few days… in your fridge… and then eat and enjoy… and use the olive oil to cook with or pour over cheese or veggies.

… Start the tradition of drinking mint tea… after dinner. It calms the digestion… and is a calming and soothing ritual… that you will come to enjoy.

… FOR YOUR HEART

Upon rising… sit quietly on your bed… breathing in the new day… and say a blessing of gratitude for being able to experience everything that will make up your day.

… Send out gratitude cards… to family and close friends… thanking them for being in your life.

… Make a gratitude memory box… for all you harvested thus far this year… and keep adding to it for the remainder of this year.

… There is nothing more natural or wonderfully traditional then using fresh herbs for your skin… here then is a simple herbal recipe for an astringent to make for your personal use… or bottle up for small gifts to family and friends.

APPLE and MINT ASTRINGENT… this homemade astringent will improve the texture of your skin and add color. Just add 3 teaspoons chopped fresh mint and 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar in a screw top jar or bottle. Let stand for at least 7 days. After 7 days… strain mixture into a bowl and add 1 1/4 cups pure water. Stir well… and then…pour into clean jars and store in a cool place. If gift giving… pour into pretty jars or bottles… tie with a ribbon with complete instructions.

I know the world we live in seeks perfection… which in most cases ends up looking and being fake… and uncomfortable.

This is why my soul has always been drawn to quirky… messy and imperfect things. I see the beauty in imperfect things and objects…and people too.

Imperfection is interesting… and exciting… and unique… as well as being thought provoking…and gentle on the mind and soul.

Nature is imperfect… and wonderful… just the way it is. It is only our egos that try to change things…tweak things… perfect things… and in doing so… make things plastic and ugly looking…totally unreal and unpleasant.

And controlled.

And when a person uses control to create… it becomes lifeless… and has no spirit at all.

Some of the biggest noses… and strange looking faces… to me are the most beautiful. And wrinkles and lines… on a face… show life experience… the laughter and tears through the years lived… tell a story… that person’s life story.

Bodies are temples… that come in all shapes and sizes and are to be respected and loved…  and of course taken care of…not tortured into thinness… or stuffed into over tight jeans… injected with chemicals to look young… or sliced up to have bigger boobs or thinner hips.

It was bad enough that for many years… women were the targets of the ” perfect ” body and face… men now too… are subjected to needing to have perfect bodies… bulging muscles… abs that won’t quit… and erections that can last for longer periods of time… so they can perform better… and more perfectly!

All to be  perfect.

And unreal.

And the cost of perfection… is the death of our souls.

I take the path of realness… acceptance… support and authenticity… it might be imperfect in others eyes… or foolish or nerdy… or just plain stupid… but beauty to me… is in the eyes of the beholder… and for me… that will always be imperfection… because I am imperfect… but worthy and deserving…just the way I am.

And so are you.

I woke up this morning… to the sound of birds singing… and the Sun peeking through my blinds… calling me to get up and embrace the day… this Easter Sunday.

It is beautiful mornings like this… the weather near perfection… that I fall in love with nature and the Earth herself all over again. There is nothing more beautiful than the roses in my backyard… or the oak tree gently moving with just a whisper of the wind… and the feel of the Sun on my skin… that makes me feel so vibrantly alive and grateful that I live on this beautiful piece of heaven called Mother Earth.

We all get so busy… we forget sometimes to enjoy the simple pleasures of  nature… and all the gifts we are given each moment from the land. The air we breathe… water… food… rest… renewal… beauty… sounds and touch… nature awakens our senses… and puts each one of us… in deep connection with our true selves… and all living things.

It feels good to be alive… and good to live on this beautiful and ever abundant and giving home… called Earth.

I am grateful.