A discovery of a rare gemstone in Thailand made worldwide news recently. The story begins with a dream. 37-year-old fisherman, Hatchai Niyomdecha, had a vision in which an old gray haired man with a long white mustache tells him he must go down to the beach the following day where he will find a … Continue reading March 2021 Newsletter – Hidden finds and some great new arrivals
BIG NEWS: Our newest course is officially here!
Do you dream of creating your own herbal recipe book? One that’s full of effective, original, well-balanced formulas inspired by your unique herbal journey and expertise, and the needs of the people for whom they are intended? Our herbal recipe book would be something environmentally friendly, maybe a wax canvas-bound cover and handwritten interior, with oil stains on … Continue reading BIG NEWS: Our newest course is officially here!
Purple Shamrock: Plant Care & Growing Guide
Purple shamrocks (Oxalis triangularis), also known as false shamrocks, sport nearly black foliage. Learn how to care for these interesting plants. Source: Purple Shamrock: Plant Care & Growing Guide
The Magic of the Understory
A path of evergreen mountain laurel at Laurel Hill State Park. Amazing to hike through in the winter, when the understory sings!
As you may have noticed, in the last month or so I’ve been working diligently on my “Sacred Trees in the Americas” series. The truth is, I’ve worked through most of the trees that are well known and form the overstory of most of the forests in the US East Coast. Trees like White Pine, Oak, Hickory, Sugar Maple, Ash, Beech, and Birch are dominant trees. And when you do research on these trees, you find a rich tradition and lore from both the Americas and the Old World. Recently, I’ve moved my attention to lesser-known trees like Ironwood and Devil’s Walking Stick, and have covered others like Witch Hazel (distinct and different from American Hazel) and Spicebush. There is a striking difference between the first group and…
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Spiced Golden Rice Pudding For The Goddesses of Spring – Gather Victoria
In a culinary fusion of western and eastern goddess traditions, this Golden Rice Pudding is made with primrose infused cream and spiced with saffron, cardamom, orange zest and a touch of candied ginger. It is my offering to the Hindu Goddess Saraswati, Goddess of Wisdom, Learning and Art and Brigid the Celtic Goddess of Illumination, Inspiration and Poetry. … Continue reading Spiced Golden Rice Pudding For The Goddesses of Spring – Gather Victoria
Magickal Properties and Uses of Viola, Violet Magic
Viola is a quiet, little magic. She springs up in fields, lawns, and at the edges of forests. Before her companions begin to bud, she’s blooming away, gathering in the cool, damp spring days. In spring’s quiet while everyone else has yet to awaken, Viola works her magic. Violas come in a variety of colors … Continue reading Magickal Properties and Uses of Viola, Violet Magic
Sacred Trees in the Americas: Rhododendron (Rhododenron maximum)
A Rhododendron overlooking a foot path at Laurel Hill State Park
I remember the first time I saw the largest Rhododendron Maximum tree. I had recently moved back to Pennsylvania, and I was driving on 422 towards my parents’ house when I looked to the left and did a double-take! An enormous Rhododendron, in bloom, at least 40 feet across and 20 feet high was in full bloom. And, it was dwarfing the house it was growing next to. After doing a little local research, I learned about how famous this rhododendron has been in our region. Ever since then, each time I pass, the Rhododendron and I exchange a little greeting.
As someone who lives in the Allegheny Mountains, Rhododendron has a special place in my heart. It is one of the dominant understory trees (and yes, it often is the size of trees here!), growing both in…
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The Energies of February 2021
We are now just past the midway point between the solstice in December and the coming March equinox. Daylight hours are now expanding at an increasingly noticeable rate, bringing a welcome reminder that Spring is not so far away again. Despite the winter cold, aconites, crocuses, snowdrops and the first delicate pink Hellebores are lighting … Continue reading The Energies of February 2021
Tucson Gem and Mineral Showcase
At first, we all thought the Tucson Gem and Mineral Showcase was completely canceled for obvious reasons. But then, recently, news passed down that some of the shows decided to postpone events into April. (There are some still deciding what to do.) As the showcase gets closer, the remaining shows may decide on their dates … Continue reading Tucson Gem and Mineral Showcase
Brigid’s Magical Blackberry Scones w/ Bay Leaf Infused Custard Sauce: A Matter Of Celestial Timing – Gather Victoria
This Imbolc recipe might appear to be late (considering it is February 3rd) but I suggest it is right on time. After all, Imbolc or Imbolg, ( an ancient Celtic holiday welcoming the first stirrings spring) was originally a “moveable feast” determined not by fixed dates on the calendar but by shifting heavenly events, specifically the midpoint between … Continue reading Brigid’s Magical Blackberry Scones w/ Bay Leaf Infused Custard Sauce: A Matter Of Celestial Timing – Gather Victoria
