Blogs

Wild and Weedy Herbal Wellness Box 

This is a great way to build your herbal medicine chest and stock your kitchen pantry with nourishment.  This is a six month journey into the beauty and benefit of herbs.  It goes from June to November

Let us be your person guide on your journey to wellness . 

Monthly wellness boxes will be either seasonal or have a theme.   Herbalism creates a deeper connection to healing for most people than other methods.  It provides nourishment to your body to prevent disease in the first place.

It is ideal for anyone who would like to use natural healing on a more regular basis, through nourishing their bodies and boosting their immune system.  The wellness boxes will help to build your herbal medicine chest. As we all know being prepared when illness and injury hit is half the battle.   You will  receive items that will help with your kitchen cookery. Becoming a better cook puts  you on the path of taking responsibility with your health and builds  your immune system.  All items are petroleum free products.  

You will receive 3 items (sometimes a few more) , handmade new products each month.  Often times these ingredients will be wild crafted or grown on our farm.  

Items range from: pesto, elderberry syrups, tinctures, elixirs, powders, creams, salves, soaps,  fun teas, cold and flu products, infused oils, infused vinegar, body care products, medicinal teas, infused salts and more. 

You will learn more about new plants and herbal products

All products made with intention and love

from your local herbalist.  

 This is a six month commitment to learn about natural ways to boost your immune system and care for yourself. With the cost of health care on the rise, this truly is one of the best decisions you can make for you or your family's health.    

This is an investment in your health 

March to May is a 3 month commitment

Cost:  $180.00 

USPS Mail Shipments Add  $27. 00 for the 3 months

June to November Is a 6 month commitment

Cost $360.00 

USPS mail shipments add $54.00 for the 6 months 

Pick up is the 2 Wednesday of each month.  

Today marks the last few weeks of the harvest.    Just six weeks left.  Whew!  

This  season has been moving extremely fast.  We started off in June watering like it was August.  This has left us with the feeling of never catching up.    There were times you would walk around the farm and you could hear all the plants asking for water, they were extremely thirsty.  

It is September and most of our crops are almost done, due to the fast ripening of the season.   We are hoping to still have produce  towards the end of the season.    If things become slim, I will be giving herbal remedies to get you through your cold and flu season.   

We have had a lot of abundance this year, the salad greens were slim due to the heat and they bolted.

  I am very thankful for this season's beautiful abundance.  

This Weeks Harvest:   Nettle, kale, mixture of greens, rosemary, parsley, basil, wax beans, lemon cucumbers, cucumbers, zucchini, yellow squash,  a variety of tomatoes, potatoes, a variety of peppers and cabbage.

Nettle Information: 

http://cedarmountainherbs.com/nettles.htm

How To Make Your Own Powdered Greens: 

http://gnowfglins.com/2014/07/03/dehydrate-your-way-to-green-powder/?utm_content=buffer18d23&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer

Wax Bean Recipe: 

http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/warm-yellow-wax-beans-in-bacon-v...

Use organic bacon, (Roths usually carries it) 

You can use red wine instead of sherry vinegar 

You can use regular onions instead of shallots 

You will need garlic for this recipe 

Abundance 

Mountain Mama Harvest: This weeks abundance: Collard greens, kale, comfrey, potatoes, onion, peppers, cucumber, zucchini, egg plant, green beans, carrots, sage mint tea, hops, stevia, tea mix of lavender cleavers, mint, parsley, celery, dill seed, nasturtium mix, nettle, basil, tomatoes ( roma, cherry, purple cherokee, green zebra) and cabbage  

Whew! Now it is  time to make a lot of herbal skin care products. Have a beautiful day 

Zucchini Pizza Crust: 

http://www.myhumblekitchen.com/2013/09/best-zucchini-recipe-ever-zu...

Honey Sweetened Refrigerated Pickles: 

http://www.realfoodallergyfree.com/2011/08/honey-sweetened-refriger...

Sweet Zucchini Relish: 

http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/food/sns-food-sides-zucchi...

Tomato Basil Salsa:

http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/tomato-basil-salsa-10000000223735/

Information on Dill Seed:

http://wholespice.com/blog/?p=2222

Dill Seed Braid Bread:

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/dill-seed-braid

Digestive Churan (dill seeds, plus you will need to purchase a few more seeds)

http://www.tarladalal.com/Digestive-Churan-31529r

Warm Dill Potato Salad: 

http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/warm-dill-potato-salad

Nasturtium Pesto:  

You need 6 cups nasturtiums.  Because you have about 2 cups of nasturtiums, I would add some nettle and basil to this recipe to equal out your 6 cups. 

http://www.gardenbetty.com/2013/01/nasturtium-pesto/

"Changing How You Eat, Will Change The World"... "If You Eat Bad Foods, Your World Is Toxic, Your Body Is Toxic, If You Eat Organic Nutritious Foods Your World Becomes Healthy...."

Prescription for Good Health

Choose it or lose it! 

Your health, that is..... There are more than four million tons of farm chemicals spread on U.S. soil every year..... 

The standard American Diet ( S.A.D.) has a hidden agenda.  Missing on the labels of most foods are the dozens of chemicals used to grow, make, or preserve that bit of something about to go into your mouth.  Just imagine your reaction if organic farmers could take back their native tongue, and their organic strawberries were simply strawberries again and their counterparts were called " chemical or genetically engineered or irradiated strawberries."  Their certified label would have to list the 25 or so chemicals or procedures that had become a part of the strawberries very makeup.   And they would pay for an annual inspection, instead of the organic farmer (Organic farmers pay thousands of dollars every year to "certify" their food that they grow).  With the label table turned around, I think chemical foods would die a slow death on grocery store shelves.  

Would you buy a carton of strawberries with a  skull and crossbones on it?  

Remember, what you can't see can hurt you. 

  If you do not belong to my CSA then make sure you are shopping the farmers market. Search the farmers markets for  organic produce and organic meat.

 If you have not done this yet, what are you waiting for?  Make a goal this week to get over to the next farmers market near you.  

This Weeks Farm Produce: Nettle, comfrey, fennel fronds, apple mint and nettle tea mix, basil, celery,  salad mix (nasturtiums, rose petals, sheep sorrel, Swiss chard, beet greens, spinach, lambs quarters, bitter lettuce, lettuce and baby kale), kale, collard greens, carrots, onion, beets, zucchini and  cabbage.

For those of you who have not figured it out I love different types of pesto.  Here is another version of an awesome nutritious pesto:

Kale and Nut Pesto

small bunch of kale (4-6 leaves, remove the thick part of the stems*)

1/4 cup walnuts, toasted or soaked dehydrated almonds or  soaked and dehydrated pumpkin seeds.

1/2 to 1 clove of garlic

1/4 cup olive oil (or more for a smoother pesto)

juice & zest of one lemon

salt & pepper to taste

optional: grated raw cheese, or organic parmesan 

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with ice and water.
2. Blanch kale for about 30 seconds, remove and place in the ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. Dry the kale a bit, squeeze out some of excess water and set on a towel for a few minutes more.
4. Blend everything together in a food processor. Pulse to create a chunky pesto, blend longer to create a smoother one. Taste and adjust, adding more salt, pepper, lemon, olive oil, as necessary.

Kale and Basil Salad

4 cups finely chopped organic dinosaur kale
1 lemon, juiced
½ orange, juiced
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

½ cup finely chopped basil

½ cup diced organic red bell pepper
4 teaspoons hulled  toasted sesame seeds
1 cup chopped organic walnuts

1/4 cup chopped organic sweet onion

Optional:  You could add some chopped apples or orange slices

Wash the kale thoroughly, then roll up the leaves together tightly (like a cigar) and chop across the roll, making very fine ribbons. Unravel and place in a bowl. Add the lemon juice, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar, and massage the kale for a couple minutes (so it softens), then set aside. Chop the basil the same way as the kale, and add to the kale mixture. Chop the bell pepper and add as well. Add the sesame seeds and walnuts last, and toss everything together.

Notes: You may also use other types of kale, as well as collard greens. 

Cabbage and Bean Salad:

Ingredients
1/2 head small-medium green cabbage, very thinly sliced (about 4 cups), core removed
2 carrots, grated (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 ribs celery, diced or one  cup of chopped celery from your wellness box 
3 green onions/scallions, chopped
1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and diced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil 
1 1/2 cups cooked organic garbanzo 
1 organic avocado, diced

1/2 of a organic red bell pepper chopped

Dressing:
2 lemon, juice from (about 1/4 cup)
2 tablespoons organic Dijon mustard
1 garlic clove, minced
ground black pepper to taste

Options:  If you want to add color, add in a little purple cabbage,

Directions
1. Slice the cabbage so that the strands are very thin, and place into a large bowl. Add to this the grated carrots, celery, onion, cucumber, basil, beans, and avocado. Toss.

2. In a small bowl, combine dressing ingredients and blend with a fork. Add dressing to bowl of vegetables and toss thoroughly. If you are making this ahead of time, add the diced avocado just before serving.

Mason Jar Sauerkraut:

I can't wait to do this one myself! 

Click on link below: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=397Dua09VUI

For those of you who are  ready to get really serious with your sauerkraut skills: 

http://nourishedkitchen.com/homemade-sauerkraut/

Four Thieves Vinaigrette

Variations of this recipe have been treasured since Medieval times.  Legend has it that four grave robbers first used this strong antibacterial formula to protect them against the deadly plague.  Turning this classic remedy into a delicious salad  dressing helps the medicine go down easy. 

1/4 cup organic lavender flowers

1/4 cup organic sage leaf

1/4 cup organic rosemary leaf

1/4 cup organic thyme leaf

raw organic apple cider vinegar

organic extra virgin olive oil

4 cloves organic garlic, crushed 

sea salt and pepper

Place the herbs and garlic in a pint jar and fill to the top with gently warmed apple cider vinegar.  Use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep he vinegar from touching the metal.  Allow the vinegar concoction to extract for four weeks in a sunny window.  

Strain the vinegar into  a clean glass jar.

To make the vinaigrette, add 1 part vinegar to 3 parts olive oil.  Add the salt and pepper to taste.  Blend until well combined 

Zucchini Chips: 

http://www.freshbitesdaily.com/zucchini-chips/

Chocolate Zucchini Bread or Muffins 

1 cup rapunzel organic whole cane sugar

1 cup organic sunflower oil or coconut oil 

3 organic eggs

3 teaspoons vanilla extract

2-1/2 cups organic wheat, spelt or  organic white

1/2 cup organic baking cocoa

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 cups organic shredded peeled zucchini

Optional:  1 tsp cinnamon, a pinch of all spice and a 1/4 tsp. nutmeg

• In a large bowl, beat the sugar, oil, eggs and vanilla until well blended. Combine the flour, cocoa, salt, baking soda, cinnamon; gradually beat into sugar mixture until blended. Stir in zucchini. Transfer to two 8-in. x 4-in. oiled loaf pans
• Bake at 350° for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. 
• Yield: 2 loaves (12 slices each).

Gluten Free Chocolate Zucchini Muffins: 

Special Notes:  When we bake with Gluten Free Flour we never use products that contain (or when we make our own gluten free flour mix), potato flour or starch, soy flour, corn starch and corn flour.  We do not use these food products because they are toxic.  If you can find a potato flour or starch that is organic then go ahead and use it.  But stay away from the non- organic soy and corn products, they are highly toxic... Also, stay away form xanthan gum, it is made in a lab!

Stick with products that have guar gum.

2 cups sorghum flour OR gluten-free all purpose flour mix

1 1/2 teaspoons Guar Gum (don't add gum if using a GF flour mix that contains guar gum)

Never use products that have xanthan gum 

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 cup organic unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 cup organic agave or Rapunzel organic whole cane sugar

2 large organic eggs

1/2 cup organic light olive oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup organic sour cream (for dairy free version substitute organic applesauce)

3 cups shredded unpeeled zucchini

Optional:  1 tsp cinnamon, a pinch of all spice and a 1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Preparation:

Should You Be Able To Buy Food Directly From Farmers,  Yes!  

But your government says NO...

http://www.alternet.org/food/should-you-be-able-buy-food-directly-f...

Global Food Security: 

http://www.naturalnews.com/041280_small_farms_food_security_agricul...

Ag-Gag Laws, protects evil big food corporations: 

http://billmoyers.com/2013/07/10/alec-activists-and-ag-gag/

And 

Educational Film about our food system that needs help with its funding. 

https://www.wf-iframe.com/fb/21961/pages/5b36f8adf6c93b38

Pictures Say A 1000 Words

Quotes Speak To You 

This Beautiful Baby Turkey Has A Great Organic Life

My Ending Statement: 

And

What Are You Doing To Protect The Real Farmers and  The Real Food ? 

Weapons Of Mass Destruction: 

Today's Harvest: Nettle, kale, mustard greens, collard greens, arugula, salad mix, curly top garlic, garlic chives, nasturtium spicy mix, peas,  yellow dock leaf, parsley, dill, basil, pineapple weed, self heal, calendula, mint tea mix, 

Article: Natural approach to help you with Hay Fever: 

http://www.westernherbalmedicine.com/Western-Herbal-Medicine/Hayfever-A-Natural-Approach.html

Books on Wild Edibles: 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1423601505?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=1423601505&linkCode=xm2&tag=naturalliving00-20

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402767153?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=1402767153&linkCode=xm2&tag=naturalliving00-20

Nasturtiums: The Edible Flower With A Bite

http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/nasturtium-zmaz82mjzglo.aspx#axzz35fogvpeS

Nasturtium Pesto

This recipe require a lot of leaves and flowers.  Just half the recipe or make it even smaller.  Enjoy! 

http://www.gardenbetty.com/2013/01/nasturtium-pesto/

Self Heal 

http://www.motherearthliving.com/plant-profile/an-herb-to-know-7.aspx#axzz35g7NWskX

Self heal (Prunella vulgaris) This scentless perennial mint is one of the great unsung healers of the world. The leaves and flowers contain more antioxidants - which prevent cancer and heart disease, among other healthy traits - than any other plant tested. And as part of the mint family, self heal is imbued with lots of minerals, especially calcium, making it an especially important ally for pregnant, nursing, menopausal, and post-menopausal women.   You  can put self heal leaves in salads in the spring and fall, make a medicinal vinegar with the flowers during the summer, and cook the flowering tops (fresh or dried) in winter soups. 

Pineapple Weed: 

http://www.commonsensehome.com/pineapple-weed/

Kale Recipes

In our  house we LOVE KRISPY KALE CHIPS 

Spicy Krispy Kale ( I love this recipe)  

http://www.veggiecation.com/recipe-of-the-month/spicy-krispy-kale-chips.html

Spice with Cashews and Nutritional Yeast:

Side note:  If you do not have the time to soak the cashew you could use organic cashew butter.  You will have to adjust the recipe a little.  

http://www.thisrawsomeveganlife.com/2012/02/ellusive-kale-chip.html#.U6sVYfldUfg

Cheezy Spicy Kale Chips:

Omit the Agave and use honey instead or just leave out the sweetener.  Never use vegetable oil.  Use organic olive, avocado, sunflower etc. 

http://kblog.lunchboxbunch.com/2011/08/cheezy-spicy-kale-chips-vegan.html

Nettle Pesto: Note:

Omit the pine nuts they are not good for you.  Add walnuts, almonds or pumpkins seeds instead. 

http://jessthomson.wordpress.com/2011/04/26/stung/

Creamed Collard Greens:  

Make sure you get organic cream and make sure it is not ultra pasteurized!  You could also use full fat coconut milk.

http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/creamed-collard-greens

Basil :) 

Sage Fir Deodorant Sample

Vodka, distilled water, essential oils of fir, sage, tea tree, black pepper, bay, intentions of Love, Beauty and Health

Curly Top Garlic (Scapes)

http://islandvittles.com/2010/07/02/top-five-friday-garlic-scapes/

Calendula

Calendula Tea recipe:  Remember when following a tea recipe that uses dried herbs and you have fresh herbs, double the amount of herb used in the recipe. 

http://www.anniesremedy.com/chart_remedy.php?rem_ID=173

 Weekly Wellness Box :

This weeks goodies:  ZUCCHINI (lots) collard greens, nettle, brassica stir fry mix,  sage, rosemary, tea mix of lemon balm peppermint, pineapple sage and a honey suckle flower, lettuce/flower mix, kale,  a mix of wild spinach, orch spinach arugula, swiss chard and a few mustard greens, fennel fronds,  a mix of garlic and onion chives, cucumbers, basil and a few green beans

If you do not have a membership with a CSA, it is time to hit the farmers markets.  They are all over the place with loads of incredible fresh food.  Make sure you are supporting local organic farmers or no spray farmers.  This is vitally important for your health, your family's and the earth.  

Here is a list of foods you should be (or at least try) adding to your life.  

Arugula, spinach, salads, kale, cucumbers, zucchini, basil, swiss chard, fennel fronds, sage, rosemary, lemon balm, peppermints, chives, celery, tomatoes (for some areas) collard greens, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, all sorts of brassica leaves, carrots, beets, green beans,onions, new potatoes, strawberries (organic only), blueberries (organic only) flower salads, mustard greens (almost at the end of the season, coming back for fall) and the wild foods, curly dock, yellow dock, cat's ear flowers, lambs quarters, sorrel, honeysuckle, raspberry leaves (for tea).  

As you can see this is a great list of many healthy foods that you can add throughout the day.

A great way to start on your path to longevity and being robust: 

Cut out ALL fast food (yes ALL)

Cut out ALL  Soda (yes ALL )

Cut out All artificial colors, artificial flavors, natural flavors

Cut out boxed food

Cut out crap meat, example hot dogs, deli meat, injected chicken breasts, canned meats, etc.  

Say NO to the junk food.   Bake things at home.  

(When I say bake, that does not mean open box of Betty Crocker!   Betty Crocker is not a food, it is an item that feeds cancer cells)

Shop your farmers markets, buy local organic food, local no spray food, and make sure the meat you purchase is grass fed/pasture fed and/or organic feed only 

Get rid of the word diet in your life, it as a negative connotation.  It is time to think about wellness, longevity, being robust and vigorous!  It is time to eat, eat, eat, but, eat the right foods.  

Make yourself healthly, your family and the earth  buy Piling those plates with massive green leafy veggies! 

Tea Mix:  lemon balm, pineapple sage, peppermint and a honeysuckle flower

Gallon glass jar

Spring or filtered water

Empty bag into gallon glass jar, pour water over herbs.

Let sit in the sun for 8 hours

Strain

Sweeten with honey (optional)

Refrigerate for a few hours and then enjoy! 

Pineapple Sage benefits:  digestion, heartburn, balance the nervous system, general tonic

Lemon Balm benefits:  sedative properties, lowers fever, improves digestion, relaxes spasms, antiviral, antibiotic, insect repellent,  helps anxiety, depression, nerve disorders and tension headaches.

More on lemon balm:  http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-melissa.htm

Peppermint benefits:  helps with morning sickness, nausea, digestion, gallbladder, bile ducts, 

More information on Peppermint: http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-peppermint.htm

Honeysuckle benefits:

In traditional Chinese medicine honeysuckle tea is used to treat ailments of the heart and lungs, fevers, and dysentery.

Honeysuckle tea is used to ease sore joints and reduce inflammation.

Honeysuckle tea helps improve circulation and relieve fatigue.

European honeysuckle can help treat coughs and colds.

Honeysuckle tea is used to treat upper respiratory tract infections and infection in the bladder. The tea is said to inhibit the bacteria that causes salmonella, strep, staph and tuberculosis infections.

Honeysuckle tea can help alleviate headaches.

Honeysuckle tea can help treat nausea and vomiting.

Honeysuckle tea can help make eyes brighter.

Rosemary:  http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-rosemary.htm

Rosemary is one of my most favorite herbs! Here is a recipe for apple rosemary coffee cake.  I actually made them as muffins instead and they were intoxicating! 

I used used honey instead of sugar.  I used about 1/4 cup of honey.

I never use baking powder so I just used 1 tsp. baking soda.  If you use baking powder make sure you are using one that is aluminum free! 

I used organic spelt flour.  

Awesome Apple Rosemary Coffee Cake Recipe

http://www.cauldronsandcrockpots.com/2012/10/apple-rosemary-coffee-cake/

Apple Rosemary Muffins

Honey Basil Simple Syrup:

1 Cup honey

1 Cup Water

1 Cup fresh basil coarse chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Stir ingredients together in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until honey is dissolved, but don’t boil
2. Remove from heat, pour through a wire-mesh strainer into an airtight jar or container, discarding leaves
3. Let cool completely before using
4. Store in a covered jar in refrigerator up to 2 weeks

Fruit Salad With Basil and Lime

 Wild and Weedy Herbal Wellness Box 

This is a great way to build your herbal medicine chest, stock your kitchen pantry with nourishment and become active in your health.  

A journey into the beauty, the benefit of herbs and a hike on an incredible trail to your health.  

Let us be your personal guide on your journey to wellness . 

Monthly wellness boxes will be either seasonal or have a theme.   Herbalism creates a deeper connection to healing for most people than other methods.  It provides nourishment to your body to prevent disease in the first place.

It is ideal for anyone who would like to use natural healing on a more regular basis, through nourishing their bodies, boosting their immune system and wants to become active in their journey to get healthy.  

The wellness boxes will help to build your herbal medicine chest. As we all know being prepared when illness and injury hit is half the battle.   You will  receive items that will help with your kitchen cookery. Becoming a better cook puts  you on the path of taking responsibility with your health and builds  your immune system.  All items are petroleum free products.  

You will receive 3- 5 items , handmade new products each month. Often times these ingredients will be wild crafted or grown on our farm.  

Items range from: pesto, elderberry syrups, tinctures, elixirs, powders, creams, salves, soaps,  fun teas, cold and flu products, infused oils, infused vinegar, body care products, medicinal teas, infused salts and more. 

You will learn more about new plants and herbal products

All products made with intention and love

from your local herbalist.  

 This is a commitment to learn about natural ways to boost your immune system and care for yourself. With the cost of health care on the rise, this truly is one of the best decisions you can make for you or your family's health.    

This is investment in your health 

March to May is a 3 month commitment to your health

Cost:  $180.00 

USPS Mail Shipments Add  $27. 00 for the full 3 months

June to November Is a 6 month commitment to your health

Cost $360.00 

USPS mail shipments add $54.00 for the full 6 months

Pick up is the 2nd Saturday of each month from 9:00 am - Noon

This morning was a beautiful morning.   It started with the birds singing their morning song, a cup of root chai and the weather was beautiful.  

Today's Harvest

Three different types of kale, two different types of mustard, lettuce, nasturtiums (spicy flower), peas, garlic greens, garlic chives, dill, parsley, lambs quarters ( wild spinach), sheep sorrel,  basil, nettle, stir fry brassica flower mix,  cleansing ( detox) tea of cleavers and apple mint, catnip (tea relax), lemon balm ( relaxing tea, infuse honey or infuse in olive oil), ox-eye daisy tops ( use like capers), arugula ( mix in salad or use for stir fry)

Mustard Green

  Arugula 

Lambs Quarters

Brassica Stir Fry Mix

Detox Tea Cleavers and Apple Mint

Ox Eye Daisy Tops ( use like capers)

Information on Ox Eye Daisy

http://rawedibleplants.blogspot.com/2012/06/ox-eye-daisy-leucanthem...

http://www.ediblevineyard.com/index.php/stories/article/ox_eye_dais...

http://www.celtnet.org.uk/recipes/miscellaneous/fetch-recipe.php?ri...

Information on Lambs Quarters: 

http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com/Plants.Folder/Lamb'sQuarters.html

Sheep Sorrel Spread:

http://www.wildmanstevebrill.com/Web%20Recipes/Sheep%20Sorrel%20Spr...

Have a great day ! 

This Weeks Harvest:

Nettle, kale, spinach,cabbage, cauliflower/broccoli mix, brassica mix, bitter Lettuce, zucchini, a pepper, a few purple beans, a cucumber,  collard greens, celery, curly top garlic,  lemon balm, peppermint, sage, basil and high vitamin c tea

High Vitamin C Tea

Ingredients:  rose hips, hibiscus flowers, lemon grass, cinnamon chips

Note:  Vitamin C is a noted antioxidant with disease-fighting abilities.  

Rose Hips:  They contain more vitamin C than almost any other herb, many times the amount found in citrus fruit when measured gram by gram.  

Hibiscus:  high in vitamin C and bioflavonoids.  It has slightly astringent properties.  It is useful for treating mild colds, flus, bruising, and swelling. 

Lemon Grass:  http://planetwell.com/lemongrass-health-benefits-and-healing-properties/

Cinnamon:  Although cinnamon is considered to be simply a spice by most Westerners, herbalists have been using it for centuries as a warming digestive aid.  It is a wonderful mild stimulant and can be combined with ginger to treat circulatory and digestive problems.  It has antiviral and antiseptic activities, making it useful for fighting infections.  

High Vitamin C Tea Recipe: 

4 parts rose hips

3 parts hibiscus

2 parts lemongrass

1 part cinnamon chips 

This is where I order my herbs from: http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/

This is a great recipe, I really recommend trying this one.

Sage Pesto:  http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/sage-pesto

 ‘Green Sauce'

Green sauce is a common and ages-old early spring recipe, adapt to what you have on hand.

2 cups mixed greens, you can use orach, green garlic, beet greens, chard, arugula, celery leaves, nasturtium leaves, almost any other green herb from your garden... The sky's the limit. 1 clove garlic or 1 shallot or 3 scallion bottoms, chopped fine 1/2 cup cottage cheese 1/2 cup yogurt or sour cream S & P & lemon juice to taste Put all ingredients in  a food processor and mash/whirl til desired consistency. This sauce can be a soup embellishment, a potato topper, a risotto flavoring, etc. Experiment and enjoy.

Basil Vinaigrette

6 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tbsp. white wine vinegar
20 basil leaves
3 roasted garlic cloves ( or more if you are a garlic lover)
sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
 

In a blender, purée 4 tbsp. oil, vinegar, , basil, and garlic and season with salt and pepper; transfer vinaigrette to a small bowl and set aside.

Pour this yummy vinaigrette on some chopped veggies and roast them in the oven.  

Bread, Tomato and Basil Salad 

2 lbs. medium tomatoes, cored and cut into small wedges
12 oz. organic french bread or sour dough bread, torn into bite-size pieces and lightly toasted
1 cup loosely packed baby arugula ( or mustard greens, spinach, collard greens)
12 fresh basil leaves, torn
½ red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 tbsp. red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste
organic goat cheese or raw organic cheddar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, bread, arugula, basil, and onions.

2. In a small bowl, vigorously whisk together the oil, vinegar, and garlic; drizzle dressing over salad. Season generously with salt and pepper, toss to combine, and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

3.  Serve and sprinkle with organic goat cheese 

Lemon Balm Herbal Butter: 

1/4 cup finely minced lemon balm

2 tablespoons, finely chopped thyme

1 cup of organic butter 

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp garlic granules

Cream butter and stir in herbs. Chill for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to blend. Use on roasted meats, rice, vegetables and bread.  

Lemon Balm Sun Tea 

2 tablespoons of fresh leaves for each cup water

Place lemon balm and cool water in covered jar in the sun for a few hours

Strain add honey and, or lemon

Add mint for a refreshing lemony mint tea

 Chocolate Zucchini Bread-Gluten Free

1 cup of Rapunzel Chocolate Hazelnut Butter OR  use almond butter sweetened with 1 tbsp of maple syrup

1 cup shredded zucchini

2 large eggs

2 tbsp grade b maple syrup

1 tbsp pure vanilla

1 tsp apple cider vinegar

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/8 tsp sea salt

1-2 tbsp organic dark chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In a medium bowl combine the chocolate hazelnut butter, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla and sea salt and blend for 2 minutes on medium speed.
3. Add baking soda and vinegar (will fizz up) and blend for 30 more seconds.
4. Stir in shredded zucchini. If really watery, squeeze out excess water.
5. Place in a lined or greased loaf pan. You can use one 5x9" pan or 2 mini loaf pans.
6. Top with 1-2 tbsp of mini chocolate chips.
7. Bake for 23-28 minutes if you have mini loaf pans and 35-50 minutes for large loaf pan. Start testing with a toothpick at 35 minutes and when it comes out clean when inserted in the center, it is done.
8. Allow to cool on a cooling rack and serve. You can also serve warm too.

This weeks wellness goodies are:  honeysuckle, therapeutic tea, heart warming tea, the wild food is yellow dock/ nettle, collard greens, basil, kale, spinach, radish, carrots, onions, mustard greens, comfrey, fennel, garlic scallions, celery salad and a bouquet of flowers.  

Honeysuckle Fun

Honeysuckle Information: 
 Japanese honeysuckle is edible and medicinal. High in Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium, the leaves can be parboiled and eaten as a vegetable. The edible buds and flowers, made into a syrup or puddings. The entire plant has been used as an alternative medicine for thousands of years in Asia. The active constituents include calcium, elaidic-acid, hcn, inositol, linoleic-acid, lonicerin, luteolin, magnesium, myristic-acid, potassium, tannin, and zink. It is alterative, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antispasmodic, depurative, diuretic, febrifuge, and is also used to reduce blood pressure. The stems are used internally in the treatment of acute rheumatoid arthritis, mumps and hepatitis. The stems are harvested in the autumn and winter, and are dried for later herb use. The stems and flowers are used together a medicinal infusion in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections (including pneumonia) and dysentery. An infusion of the flower buds is used in the treatment of a wide range of ailments including syphillitic skin diseases and tumors, bacterial dysentery, colds, and enteritis. Experimentally, the flower extracts have been shown to lower blood cholesterol levels and are antibacterial, antiviral and tuberculostatic. Externally, the flowers are applied as a medicinal wash to skin inflammations, infectious rashes and sores.

Nettle: It is a vitamin factory, rich in iron, calcium, potassium, silicon,magnesium, manganese, zinc, and chromium as well s a host of other vitamins and minerals.  

Yellow Dock and Nettle Strudel 

3 cups onion, diced fine

4 cloves of garlic chopped

2 tsp caraway seeds

3 tsp dill weed

1 tsp sea salt and pepper

4 to 8 cups finely chopped yellow dock/nettle mixture

1 1/2 cups cooked rice 

1 cup cream cheese

1 1/2 cup raw cheese

2 eggs

1/2 lb filo- You could also make this like an lasagna and use lasagna pasta instead. 

Butter or olive oil

Always use organic ingredients as much as possible 

Saute the onion, garlic, caraway, dill, salt, pepper, yellow dock and nettle in olive oil unit soft.  Remove from heat.  

In large bowl, mix yellow dock/nettle saute mixture, rice cheeses, and eggs. 

Skip this next step if you are going to layer your mixture with lasagna pasta

Assembly begins by thawing the filo dough.  

• Remove filo from package and lay on a flat dry surface. Cover with wax paper or foil and follow recipe instructions.
• Re-roll any unused filo sheets and seal in a plastic bag.
• Dough can be refrozen up to 3 months or stored in the refrigerator 2 weeks.
• Be sure to keep dough moist when putting recipes together; to ensure crispness, do not use overly moist fillings.
• While traditional dishes call for brushing each filo leaf with melted butter, try a light coating of safflower, olive, or other cooking oil on every second layer. You can also use most cooking sprays with excellent results.

You could make individual strudels or layer the filo dough in a 9 x 13 pyrex baking dish 

Use two to three sheets of filo down between layers in a 9 x 13 pyrex baking dish.  Layer it like you would a lasagna.  Brush each layer with melted butter or olive oil and spoon the yellow dock/nettle mixture in-between  your layers.

Here are some more recipe ideas that you can do with your yellow dock/ nettle mixture.  Just use the yellow dock/nettle mixture as a substitute for the cooked greens that are in the recipe.

http://rosesprodigalgarden.org/recipes/nettlesrecipes.html

http://foragedfoodie.blogspot.com/2013/05/superfood-mac-cheese-recipe-with.html

http://rosesprodigalgarden.org/recipes/yellowdockrecipes.html

http://laughinglemonpie.com/recipe-dock-au-gratin/

Most health food stores carry this brand of organic filo: 

http://www.fillofactory.com/fillo-recipes

Fennel Frond Pesto

Makes 4 servings, plus leftover pesto

Preparation time: 30 minutes

1/3 cup pistachios, toasted

2 to 4 garlic scallions finely chopped or 2 cloves garlic chopped

1/2 cup raw cheese

1 teaspoon sea salt 

Ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups lightly packed fennel fronds 

optional: 4-5 mint leaves, torn

about ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

juice of ½ lemon, or to taste

1 pound penne pasta

1 cup frozen peas

Put the pistachios, garlic, cheese, salt, and pepper in a food processor/blender. Pulse a few times to grind slightly.

Add fennel and mint, if using, to the food processor/blender. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture is reduced to a paste and has a spreadable, but not greasy consistency. Taste and add salt if necessary. Squeeze in a little bit of lemon juice to taste.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.  Salt the water generously and cook the pasta until al dente.

While the pasta is cooking, set up a colander in the sink and put the frozen peas in it. (If you have fresh peas, by all means use them. You can add them to the boiling water in the last few minutes of cooking the pasta.

When the pasta is done, drain the pasta in the colander. Return the pasta, along with the peas, into the pot. Stir in the pesto until pasta is lightly coated and flavorful. Squeeze in a little lemon juice, to taste.

You can use this pesto on crackers, bread, meat or a starch.  

Need a new  recipe for your radishes?

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Roasted-Radishes-with-Brown-Butter-Lemon-and-Radish-Tops-364609

This one looks yummy.  The only thing I would change is omit the green chilies and use 1 big organic red pepper.  Never eat green peppers..... 

http://giniann.wordpress.com/2006/12/23/radish-curry-saute-with-onions-garlic-and-chili/

One More Greens Recipe:  Use organic broth with this recipe

http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipe/sauteed-greens-white-beans-and-garlic

Fun Facts About Your Greens:  Share the knowledge :)

Collards, Mustard, and Kale all belong to the Brassica family and are considered SUPER FOODS because of their antioxidant qualities.

Collards are a good source of protein, potassium, are high in fiber, and provide vitamins A,C,E,K and B6.

Mustard is especially known to protect against hay fever, sinusitus, and asthma.

Kale is loaded with organosulfur compounds (that may lessen the occurrance of some cancers), and has phytonutrients that help the liver to neutralize potentially cancerous substances. 

Now you know why it's so important to "EAT YOUR GREENS"!

Fennel Fronds Pictured: 

St. Johns Wort, Cats Ear (also known as false dandelion), celery, onions, beet greens,cabbage, cauliflower, brassica mix, comfrey, nettle, catnip, lemon balm pineapple sage tea mix,sleepy time tea, swiss chard and arugula stir fry mix, collard greens, mustard greens, bitter lettuce mix, fennel, dill, curly top garlic and basil.

Catnip:  

Catnip has long been used medicinally as a tea, juice, tincture, infusion and poultice. Catnip tea is used for headaches, stomachaches, colic and sleeplessness in children. It has also been used to treat cancer, insanity, nervousness, nightmare, scurvy and tuberculosis, while a root extract served as a mild stimulant. Drinking two cups of catnip tea a day could significantly reduce the likelihood of developing cataracts. Catnip has been employed orally to treat colic, diarrhea, flatulence, hiccups, whooping cough, the common cold, measles and chicken pox (reduces the eruptions), asthma, yellow fever, scarlet fever, smallpox, jaundice and to induce parturition and encourage menstruation. Poultices were used for hives, sore breasts of nursing mothers and to reduce swelling. A poultice of catnip and other herbs was employed to treat aching teeth in the Ozark Mountains. A tincture makes a good friction rub for rheumatic and arthritic joints and, as an ointment, to treats hemorrhoids. Catnip was sometimes smoked to relieve respiratory ailments. The fresh leaves can also be chewed for headache and as a remedy for toothache. It is an old home remedy for colds, nervous tension, fevers and nightmare. It is diaphoretic and antispasmodic. Fresh catnip leaves are preferred for infusion or tincture.
The Chinese consider it bitter, cold and spicy. They use it to harmonize the liver, nerves and lungs, and in the case of nervous tension due to too much emotional upheaval. For overexcited children, they recommend a mixture, in equal parts , of catnip, chamomile and lemon balm tea.

How to make a tincture: http://mountainroseblog.com/guide-tinctures-extracts/

Mosquito Bug Spray:  Catnip 

http://www.freshpickedbeauty.com/2012/05/natural-mosquito-repellent.html

Cat's Ear, also known as False Dandelion:  

How to make Cat's Ear Lemonade

4 cup mason jar

2 or 3 organic lemon wedges

1 organic orange wedge

Filtered or spring water

1 Tablespoon honey

Small bag of Mountain Mama Cat's Ear 

Fill jar with lemon wedges, orange wedge, honey and Cat's Ear.  Fill it up with water, seal and chill for about 4 hours.  Strain and enjoy 

If  you have Cat's Ear growing around you and would like to make a bigger batch, here is the recipe.  Remember, never pick from sprayed areas! 

Side Note:  My daughter Sophia said try adding pinch of cayenne and fresh grated ginger. 

http://www.learningherbs.com/dandelion_recipe.html

Pictured Cat's Ear: 

Cat's Ear Lemonade

Play Time Tea Time

Try making up your own tea recipe with the herbs you received:  1 cup fresh herb to 2 - 4 cups water

Example:  Nettle, St. Johns Wort, Mint and lemon balm

Sleepy Time Tea Bag: All Dried Herbs

Lemon Balm, hisbiscus flower, passion flower, st. johns wort, hops, valerian rt. lavender and damania

1 - 2 Tablespoons

 2 cups of  filtered or spring water. 

Bring water to boil, add herbs, steep 5 minutes

St. Johns Wort:  http://www.herbs-hands-healing.co.uk/singleherbs/stjohnswort.html

How To Make Herbal Infused Oil:  

http://whisperingearth.co.uk/2010/04/26/potions-group-making-herb-infused-oils/

Cabbage Lasagna

Made from cabbage, cream cheese and organic lasagna  rice pasta.  

9 x 13 Glass Pyrex pan

Oven:  350

3 cups onions diced fine

4 cloves minced garlic

2 tsp. caraway seeds

2 tsp dill weed ( more if using fresh dill)

1 tsp each sea salt and pepper

8 cups cabbage, shredded or sliced finely

1 cup organic cream cheese

1/2 cup organic swiss cheese, grated

1 cup raw cheddar cheese, grated

1/2 cup raw cheddar cheese grated (for the top of the lasagna)

2 organic eggs

1 pkg plus lasagna  organic rice pasta ( you could use regular organic wheat lasagna)

Saute the onion, garlic, caraway, dill, salt, pepper and cabbage in olive oil until soft. Remove from heat.  

In large bowl, mix cabbage saute cheeses and eggs. 

Assemble like you would  a regular lasagna.  

A layer of pasta, with a layer of mixed ingredients, repeat until at the top of the pan.    Top with some extra raw cheddar.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. 

Beet Greens Smoothie:

 http://whisperingearth.co.uk/2010/04/26/potions-group-making-herb-infused-oils/

Side Note:  If  you want to make the smoothie with the Papaya, then make sure it is absolutely organic.  A lot of papaya's are GMO.  Hawaii, was one of the the first places to grow GMO papayas.   Only eat organic papaya's! 

GMO Food is toxic and WILL give cancer.  

Mountain Mama CSA

Mountain Mama Weekly Wellness Box . 

CSA stands for community supported agriculture, where individuals pledge support to a farm in return for high quality food and farm products. Members, also called shareholders, invest in a local farm by funding the whole season’s budget in advance. In return they receive a proportion of the harvest throughout the growing season. CSA farming creates a very strong relationship between the consumer and producer, which benefits all that are involved.

What it means to you:
Your weekly Harvest Box will be filled with fresh-picked, top-quality produce every week for 20 weeks starting June 8th through Oct. 19th. You will pick up your share/box every Wednesday at the Wild and Weedy Apothecary from Noon - 6:00 pm 

I use no herbicides, no insecticides no pesticides, no fungicides. I grow food using permaculture ideas, bio-dynamic practices and old school methods, there are no toxic chemicals ever used.  I do  not use any chemical applications or synthetic fertilizers.. 

Each box comes with an on-line newsletter with recipes and news from the farm. 

Save shopping time because your produce is already gathered and ready to pick-up.
Feel a closer connection to nature as you see the progression of the seasons in your Harvest Boxes.
Your membership helps keep our family farm contributing to a vibrant local economy

How the farm benefits from your membership
As we share our produce with you, we receive respect and appreciation directly from you. That feels awesome! 

Your membership fee paid in the spring allows us to afford all of the up front costs of bringing this high quality produce to you during the harvest season. There are no government subsidies for small food producers like us.
Your support encourages us to continue sustainable land stewardship. Remember my farming practices are holistic and chemical free. 
 
Our box relies heavily on familiar items. A seasonal assortment of vegetables, greens, roots, and herbs. Again, Recipes are provided for less familiar vegetables.

How many people will this harvest box feed? 

This is by far the most common question we get.  We have found that the amount of produce a household consumes varies greatly. This depends on how often people eat out or entertain, whether people are vegetarians, vegans, or omnivores, and whether they are going to supplement their diets with things like bananas, oranges, avocados and other things that don’t grow in your area.  
We only offer full shares, If you think a full share could be to much for you then one option that might work for you is to find a friend or neighbor who would like to share it with you.

There are lots of families that will find that their wellness box suits their needs. Others will love our Wellness box, but will desire more produce than we provide, so they purchase additional local produce at the farmers market.

Honestly if we were eating the amount of veggies we should be eating on a weekly basis, a full share is really not enough.

The fresher your produce is, the more vitamins and minerals it has. We do not use machinery or chemicals. On that note here are some things to consider. I want this to be a great experience for you and me, Again I want to remind you that we are a small farm and your food is local , no chemicals and very fresh,

Depending on what you are used to there could be some produce that you do not like or have never had. This can be very hard for some people. The people who will enjoy our wellness box the most are those who enjoy most kinds of produce and like trying new things.  I want you to keep in mind that I make no guarantees that you will like everything in your box.  It is important that I make that clear right from the beginning. 
If your primary goal is to get the most nutrition out of your produce for your dollar then this is the place for you.  Welcome aboard.

The 2016 Season: Sign ups start in June 
Starts June 8th through Oct 19th That is 20 weeks of receiving a wellness box     
The price for  a full weekly wellness box share is $725.00 for the full 20 weeks. If you break that down it is only $36.25 a week or approximately 5.17 a day.   That's less than most peoples coffee drinks a day.  


You can pick up your weekly wellness box every Wednesday. Pick up time is from Noon -  6:00 pm at the Wild and Weedy Apothecary.  Once you sign up you will receive more information about pick up.  
Call or email our farm if you have any more questions.

To sign up: 
Call 503-503-472-6656

E-mail:  wildweedyherbs@gmail.com

Make Checks payable to: Wild and Weedy Apothecary,llc

 Wild and Weedy Herbal Wellness Box 

This is a great way to build your herbal medicine chest and stock your kitchen pantry with nourishment.  This is a six month journey into the beauty and benefit of herbs.  It goes from June to November

Let us be your person guide on your journey to wellness . 

Monthly wellness boxes will be either seasonal or have a theme.   Herbalism creates a deeper connection to healing for most people than other methods.  It provides nourishment to your body to prevent disease in the first place.

It is ideal for anyone who would like to use natural healing on a more regular basis, through nourishing their bodies and boosting their immune system.  The wellness boxes will help to build your herbal medicine chest. As we all know being prepared when illness and injury hit is half the battle.   You will  receive items that will help with your kitchen cookery. Becoming a better cook puts  you on the path of taking responsibility with your health and builds  your immune system.  All items are petroleum free products.  

You will receive 3 items , handmade new products each month. Often times these ingredients will be wild crafted or grown on our farm.  

Items range from: pesto, elderberry syrups, tinctures, elixirs, powders, creams, salves, soaps,  fun teas, cold and flu products, infused oils, infused vinegar, body care products, medicinal teas, infused salts and more. 

You will learn more about new plants and herbal products

All products made with intention and love

from your local herbalist.  

 This is a six month commitment to learn about natural ways to boost your immune system and care for yourself. With the cost of health care on the rise, this truly is one of the best decisions you can make for you or your family's health.    

This is an investment in your health 

March to May is a 3 month commitment

Cost:  $180.00 

USPS Mail Shipments Add  $27. 00 for the 3 months

June to November Is a 6 month commitment

Cost $360.00 

USPS mail shipments add $54.00 for the 6 months 

The morning was cool, (35 degrees) calm and misty.  Feeling a bit low on energy I decided to move manure first.  I knew after several wheel-barrel trips my mind and body would warm up and wake up.   Robbins are one of my favorite birds and I love how they arrive when spring is about to happen.   I heard a Robbin, and I felt a stir of excitement.  I was not sure if it was one of the few that hang out here for the full winter, or will it be one of many that will bring the song of spring.   The  Robin landed in the Hawthorn Berry tree in front of me and sang a song, this led me to many thoughts.

 I stood there in silence and observed nature.  Nature gives such unconditional love, it gives calmness, it gives serenity, it gives happiness and it lets you know you are alive. 

Climate change, is a change that is happening all across our solar system.  The climate change that is happening on earth is a reminder to humans, that change is happening with or without us.  There is no doubt the tragedies caused by weather can be scary and take life.  These tragedies let us know we are alive, by waking us up, like having ice cold water dumped on you.  These weather patterns give us a chance to change what we are doing. It is a chance to wake up, pull together and save our planet.  All the planets in our solar system are heating up and going through climate change and  these planets have no humans....

 The climate change that is happening on our earth has nothing to do with  humans... 

What we are doing to our planet is killing it.  Killing the water, the micro-organisms, we are giving the planet and all it's species cancer.  This cancer is growing at an incredible rate.   It is not your cars and the cows farting away.  It is your way of life that is making our planet a red planet..  It is your detergent, Teflon, plastics, soaps, paints, chemical agriculture, GMO food, cell phones, shoes, synthetics, the gadgets no-one needs, it is the dollar store mentality,  it is our lack of concern, our selfishness, our lack of growing our own food, our lack of walking more, it is our lack of support for our seniors/elders, it is our support of massive water in bottles, it is the Costco's, the Petco's, the Walmart, the soda, the fast food, the video games, the lack of caring about nature, the lack of being out in nature, therefore you do not care about nature, it is the generations, that complain, but do nothing, it is the generations that are all about selfishness, it is the generations that have let TV raise their kids,  it is the kids who love getting for Christmas, but do not give, Christmas is not for consuming, Christmas is not for greed, Christmas is not Walmart and cheap crap from the Dollar Store, Christmas is not a new big screen TV, Christmas is not junk food, new video games, more plastic toys, more barbies, more dolls, more candy, more candy, more candy, more red dye, more rushing, more need to want, more stress, more stress on the earth, more trash for the earth, more trees cut down, more soda, more fast food because you are rushing around shopping, more junk, more junk more junk, that ends up in the dump..... in the ocean, in the bellies of birds and animals, in the blood streams of the world, including your body.  Is this what we as humans are all about??

It is easier for all to think we are having climate change, to let the government tax us, controls us and blame us.. To truly change what we need to change to save our world, we will need to change how we  live on a daily basis.   If the government was really concerned about our world, they would out-law chemical agriculture, and outlaw bottled water production, outlaw petroleum made products that humans use on a daily basis.  The climate change the government speaks of is the change they want in their greedy pockets, to make off of you.  They see this $$$$$$$$ 

Nature lets you know you are alive, by wind, ice, snow, freezing temperatures, extreme heat, tornado and hurricanes.  All elements that bring life together and can give life an end.  Elements that give tragedy, but these tragedies bring miracles, bring people together and wake people up. 

Tragedies and Rebellions bring change, it is these moments in the circle of life that these energies connect people.  At these moments we have been given a chance to react in a positive way and care, or react in a negative way, not care.  Who are we..

"WE" are a  world that is raising a population of I wants who are unattached to nature. .....

Remembering to breath, and to only allow peaceful intentions in my mind, body and spirit. 

Thoughts of spring, it is coming soon

Thoughts on  celebrating the "Return Of Light".  Winter Solstice is near... 

My eyes caught a big figure flying across a field, a blue heron,  there seems to be more around here for the first time in years, this year.  As I watched this blue heron fly across an old hay field that needs lots of love, I dreamed of some day having my own hay field.  I dreamed of how I would farm it, how I would weed it, how I would harvest it.  It would the old ways, hard, but worth every blister and sore muscle that came with it.  Someday I will do this and it will make my spirit proud.  The land, animals, micro-organisms will be grateful for the light, love, gentleness and nourishment I will bring.  

The chick-a-dees were out,  more robins arrived and were eating the hawthorn berries,

Fresh air, peaceful intentions, love being sent out into the universe.  Deep breaths of thankfulness 

Early spring...

they're still flocks of geese hanging around, more robins today, blue herons hanging around. 

Just maybe an early spring

I am excited, thoughts of seeds, and new crops, new fences, building beds, bees and flowers

I stood silently taking nature in, 

Last night I herd, the Great Horned Owl Hooting, a little early for mating season.... 

Thoughts of early spring 

Thinking of my actions of this past year

I am thankful

I am thankful for knowledge

I am thankful, I read every label of every-purchase I make. Where does it come from, how is it made, what is in it ??? 

I am proud of the way that I live, I have taken more plastics out of our life,  we eat organic,  I am growing my food and herbs, I strongly support local organic farmers and a great CSA (growing wild)  I am becoming a stronger herbalist 

I am proud that I rarely buy produce from the store

I am proud that 99% of our meat is sourced local organic 

I am proud that I raised a lot of meat for my family

I am proud that I work on living lightly on this earth

I am proud that I did not overly consume again this year for Christmas

Proud that each family member will only receive one gift from a local artisan some food and my special tea 

Proud that I have not set foot in a Walmart or  a Mall in over 12 years

I paused, my  thoughts, for my goals for  next season

I think in seasons, not new years, what will I do for the next season

Keep decreasing plastic in our life.  I want to get to a 5% goal

I will not ever, never ever purchase CFL Bulbs for my house, it is either leds or candles.  I refuse to be apart of the Mercury poisonings to this world from CFL bulbs. I hope you will join me on this one.  Imagine 313.9 million houses across america, (minus me), will be contributing to the mercury poisonings to the world and themselves.  Remember if you break a CFL in your home or anywhere else, open the windows and leave immediately and do not come back for 20 minutes. While you are at it make sure you hold your breath while opening the windows. 

I will.....

 build a rocket stove, 

 bake more bread

  hike more

 make more herbal remedies

 teach others about herbs

put more food away at the end of the summer

grow, more potatoes

 figure out how to feed my dogs,  by making their own food.  

 sign up on the Woof-USA Program again, this will bring helpers( as long as they are scent free) to our farm.  We will be able to teach them sustainability and receive extra help. 

continue the Saturday Market, selling herbal products

add more art in my life

add more sleep to my life

cut down computer use

help others with health

I have to make a lighter foot print .......

Lighter Foot Prints, Can You?

Our would is raising a population of I wants, who are unattached to nature and nurse off of video games TV screens, get empty calories through sugar, sucking off a straw of big gulps, soda pop, energy drinks, boxed food, frozen food, toxic fat and fast foods which is in return.. growing a nation of obese or skinny fat zombies 

Could you use this time that you gather with  families and friends this holiday season and talk of how you can be more giving, , how you can support your local organic farmers, set a goal to grow herbs or some food items together, to hike more, to be outside more, to put the TV in the closet,  to give up big box store shopping, to give up video games, how to give up fast food, junk food, unhealthy food,  give up bottled water, give up soda, how can you as a community help your community become a community that gives, grows and is not toxic.  

Take a pause, be still, reflection of  thoughts for last season and the new, stand,  silent, and observe.  Remember ....All things are connected................

What you do, purchase, speak, act, eat, will affect all in this world, your choices will either harm or heal the connection to others and this planet. 

We are at a critical time in the history of the Earth.  We are apart of shaping the future we want for ourselves and for future generations.  We are all responsible for creating a new future based on a culture of peace, universal human rights, economic justice and respect for all life on Earth. 

Money is a kind of energy .  Every single thing that your money buys supports that product.  It support the way that product was made, the people who were involved in making it and, unless it was produced by a cooperative or was fairly managed, it supports the person at the top who makes the most money.  Consume less and consume consciously, with awareness of how each product came to you.

We enter the new season and the return of light, pause and take a moment to look back on your last seasons journeys, what have you completed and what are your insights?  It is a great time to look at the new journeys and new dreams.

It is time, to set your new path, new goals, new creations, for next the seasons journey.  Who do you want to be, what do you want to give, how can you help your world, what can you change,  these are the questions I will ask myself

New paths, new foot prints, new journeys, new life, the seeds are being planted, last years energy is being cleared and this years energy is coming soon.  

This Season Is The Season To Pause, Be Still, Reflect, Be Silent, Observe, To Help, To Care, To Grow, To Support, To Be Free, To Be Healthy, To Be In Nature, Be Happy, Life Can Be Good With This List Of Be's ....... 

Seasoning Blessings  And Peace To All...

Tea mix of pineapple sage, stevia, nettle, apple-mint, rose petals, calendula, young blackberry leaves and lemon verbena, salad, collard greens, potatoes, cabbage purple, cabbage green, zucchini, cucumbers, celeriac tops, brassica mix, kale, basil and wild food of the week yellow dock seeds: 

Wild Food Of The Week -Yellow Dock Seeds, Wild Buckwheat 

Yellow Dock Seed Crackers: 

http://www.methowvalleyherbs.com/2012/03/yellow-dock-pesky-weed-as-food-medicine.html

Yellow Dock Seed Vinegar: 

http://www.hardyecogarden.com/2011/07/eat-your-weeds-rumex-crispus-curly-dock.html

Zucchini Bread and Butter Pickles:  Water Bath Canning Recipe

Yield:  6 qts.

2 qts. organic apple cider vinegar

2 cups local honey

6 tablespoons salt

4 teaspoons celery seed

4 teaspoons dill seed

2 teaspoons ground mustard 

8 qts. fresh zucchini, sliced 

2 qts. onion, sliced 

Bring vinegar, honey, and spices to a boil.  Pour over the zucchini and onions.  Let stand for 2 hours.  Heat mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes.  They will get mushy if cooked longer. 

Pack into hot sterilized jars.  

Insert a knife down the edge of he jars to remove any air bubbles   Complete seals, process for 15 minutes in a boiling-water bath. 

Zucchini Carrot Muffins - Grain Free 

http://veggienook.com/2013/05/22/grain-free-paleo-and-vegan-carrot-zucchini-muffins/

Zucchini Apple Spice Muffins - Grain Free:

http://paleomg.com/zucchini-apple-spice-muffins/

Basil- Shallot ( Or Walla Walla Onion) Mustard

Yield:  5 1/2 pints 

2/3 cup organic apple juice

2/3 cups organic red wine or organic red wine vinegar

1/2 cup dry mustard

1/3 cup spring water or filtered water

1/4 cup light mustard seeds

1/8 cup chopped organic basil

1/8 cup minced shallots or walla walla onion

2 tablespoons honey 

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 

Combine the apple juice, wine or vinegar, dry mustard, water, and mustard seeds in a glass or ceramic bowl and stir, mixing well. 

Cover the bowl with natural wax paper and a cloth and let stand for 4 - 6 hours, stirring occasionally. 

Process the mixture in a bowl of a food processor ( or blender) until the mustard seeds are coarsely ground. 

cook the mixture in a double boiler over simmering water, adding the basil, shallots or onions, honey, sea salt and allspice.  Cook for 20 - 25 minutes   The mustard will thicken as it cooks. 

pour into sterile jars. Cap and seal. 

Allow the flavors to marry for 2 - 3 days before using.  Will keep in the refrigerator for 2 - 3 months unopened.  

Tea Mix: Nettle, apple-mint, pineapple sage, lemon verbena, calendula, wild young blackberry leaves and rose petals. 

Empty bag into a gallon jug of spring or filtered water.  Let sit overnight, strain and enjoy.  

Pineapple Sage

Nettle/Apple-MintLemon Verbena

This Weeks Goodies

Collard greens, wild greens mix, arugula, mustard greens (two types), kale, nettle,mixed lettuce, cabbage, brassica  mix, comfrey, celery, garlic scallions, dill, apple-mint, lemon verbena, stevia, salad burnet,   and basil 

Wild Mix:  Plantain, dandelion, lambs quarters (wild spinach)  and yellow dock.  Use in stir fry, lasagna, casseroles, frittata, omelettes etc.. 

Information for Lambs Quarters: http://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/edible-wild-foods-zmrz13fmzhun.aspx#axzz2Wz83KBnq

Wild Food Of The Week To Look For:  Lambs Quarters, picture below

Tea Mix:  Lemon Verbena and Rose Petals

http://mcminnvillehealthdefense.ning.com/profiles/blogs/lemon-verbena-and-rose-petal-tea?xg_source=activity

What is Salad Burnet?: 

Salad burnet is a member of the rose (Rosaceae) family. The plant is an attractive perennial grown for both its edible leaves and its medicinal properties. Medicinally, it was once used against the Plague and to control hemorrhaging, but today it is mostly know, medicinally, for its astringent properties. Use whenever you want to add a cool, cucumber flavor. Leaves can be tossed into salads or used on sandwiches. They make a nice addition to cold drinks, like lemonade and wine spritzers. Use salad burnet to flavor dips and vinegars. Toss leaves into soups, eggs and other hot dishes at the last minute.

Brassica Mix: 

You can use it as a stir fry or try this yummy recipe:  Simple and Quick

Roasted Brassica's

Use any leaves:  Cauliflower, Broccoli, Kale or any green:

Organic Tamari, 

Onion Scallions or one red onion chopped

Four cloves of garlic.  More or less 

Sesame Oil or Olive Oil 

Pepper to taste

9 x 11 glass baking dish

What To Do:

1. Pre-heat the oven at 350
2. Wash  and cut into bite-size pieces, a
3. Smash a few cloves of garlic and chop them coarsely. Chop some scallions or red onion.   The whole scallion, not just the white part.  
4. Toss the garlic, onions, and brassica mix with a generous splash of soy sauce and oil in a roasting pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.   Just filled it up with the leaves, cauliflower and broccoli.  If you have to much make another batch.)
5. Place the uncovered roasting pan in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the green leaves are crisp and both the florets and the thicker stalks are tender and can be pierced easily with a fork.  

This recipe is amazing.  Don’t worry if you overcook the leaves they can get crispy.

Celery Tops, Flowers and Leaves: 

Dahl

2 cups yellow split peas

2 onions chopped or 2 leeks 

1/2 cup cilantro or  more  chopped

2 gloves garlic minced or 3 garlic scallions chopped. Garlic can always be adjusted to more or less

2 to 3 tsps. Curry powder

Sea salt

 2 cups celery tops, flowers and leaves chopped or  minced 

Cook 2 cups of yellow split peas in 6 cups of water with 1 tsp. sea salt and celery tops,flowers and leaves.  

Cook until tender and creamy

Saute onions and garlic until tender then add cilantro

Add sauteed mixture to yellow split peas 

Add Curry  powder and mix well 

Serve over rice, potatoes or enjoy it with some home bake bread or tortillas 

Taking the bitter out of the green

Mustard Greens and Organic Turkey Bacon (Organic turkey /  chicken sausage)

Bag of Mustard Greens or more

2 cups organic chicken stock or veggie stock

1/2 cup organic white or red wine

1 cup water

1 large onion sliced

4-6 chopped cloves garlic

3 small chopped shallots

1/2 pound organic turkey bacon chopped or sausage

1/4 cup olive oil

sea salt

pepper

Heat large pan and add olive oil.

2. Sauté turkey bacon, onions, garlic and shallots in pan. Stir Occasionally.

3. Separate and rinse mustard greens under water

4. Roll 2-3 leaves together. Slice into thin strips.

5. Add mustard greens to sauteed ingredients in pan.

6. Pour in white/red wine, chicken/veggie stock and water.

7. Cover pan and let cook for 30 minutes on medium heat.

8. Stir every few minutes.

9. Taste to confirm the tenderness you prefer.

10. Add salt and pepper to taste