spiritual penicillin

Praying For...Gracie and Anahi that they will be blessed with good health, happiness, safety, a love of learning, and faith in Jesus Christ...that a lovely childhood will be the type they experience...that their neighbors will love them and vise versa...that their parents and the leaders of nations will make wise choices...

Jesus Word..."Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven," Matthew 19:14. Our children are screaming for guidance for a moral compass. Jesus has beautiful things to teach about the proper way to be. It's so sad that designing men have used His gentle name as a tool of control and shame. Jesus is loving and forgiving.

Conference News...This is my favorite time of year. Actually, it comes twice a year. General Conference is a beautiful time of renewal. Yes, each Sunday we renew our covenants with Jesus. However, when we devote these 8 or 10 specific hours in such a short period of time, it's as if we get a dose of spiritual penicillin or a booster against Satan's influences for another 6 months. It also helps to diligently study the words of God's prophets and servants over the next months to keep the feelings fresh hearts and thoughts in our minds. That's why I continue to do my little General Conference Book Club, reporting most Fridays.

Cucina Fresca...Last week I discovered mushroom asada. This week I took the idea a bit further and made a sort of an un-sauced mushroom Fricassee AND get this, BBQ! As soon as I get some soy-free, gluten-free, South River miso tamari, I'm going to give Mushroom Teriyaki a go. Portabello mushrooms are divine any way they are cooked. Plus, they are extremely filling with only 35 calories each. It's amazing how our salad, soup, green smoothie, and mushroom/veggie diet is melting away the pounds we acquired on our mission.

Un-sauced Mushroom Fricassee

3 portabello mushrooms, cut in thin slices
1 clove garlic, pressed
pinch oregano or thyme
2 Japanese eggplants, sliced with skin on OR a cup or two of haricot vert (young green beans) cut in 1 inch pieces
1/2 red bell pepper
1/2 yellow bell pepper
1-2 c spinach (baby leave whole/ regular slice)
a couple twists of black pepper

Put mushrooms, garlic, and seasonings in a frying pan with a couple tablespoons water. Turn heat on high until mushrooms sizzle. Turn down heat to low and cover. Allow mushrooms to wilt and darken until desired tenderness. I like them very soft. Add eggplant or haricot vert and cook until just tender. Stir in bell peppers and spinach until spinach wilts. Serve plain, with rice, quinoa, or potatoes (mashed, boiled, or roasted without any added fat.) Salad and fruit on the side is nice as well.

Grammy G's Vegan BBQ

3-4 portabello mushrooms, cut in thin slices

Sauce: You can substitute store bought if you don't mind high fructose corn syrup and artificial ingredients.
½ onion, puréed
½ green pepper, puréed
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 t chipotle powder or smoked paprika
1 c. tomato sauce
1 cup water
¼ c. molasses
1 t apple cider vinegar
tiny dash ginger
tiny dash cinnamon
tiny dash cloves
1 t. ground dried ancho chili
2 t. ground dried mustard
¼ t. cayenne (optional)
¼ t. pepper
¼ t. salt
1 T tapioca starch mixed with 1 T cold water

Sauté onion, salt, garlic, and green pepper 1 T water until slightly browned. Add all other ingredients and simmer for 30-35 min.  Meanwhile, sauté mushrooms in a frying pan with a couple tablespoons water. Turn heat on high until mushrooms sizzle. Turn down heat to low. Cover and cook until soft to your taste. I like them quite soft. Stir about half the sauce into mushrooms, reserving the rest to serve on the side. Serve over brown rice, next to no-fat vegan mashed potatoes, inside a wrap or large lettuce leaf, or whole grain bun. Eat corn on the cob (or frozen cut), salad, and watermelon (or whatever fruit is in season) on the side.

Sound of Music...Music touches my heart so deeply, especially, when that music comes from little children. Last Sunday, the children of the congregation we visited performed their annual program. It was precious. Some could sing beautifully, but there were the two or three obligatory tone deaf boys. It is endearing to see their enthusiasm even if a bit hard on the ears. Some of the littlest children were too adorably shy to say their parts once they got to the microphone.

Movement...daily walks and ginjoga are keeping me free of pain and feeling great...will miss salt water floats and resistance training though...Spencer started using a mini-stepper and loves it. I'm considering this option as well.

My Style...Three years ago, Joseph bought me my first vintage, double-layered, floor-length, silk, wrap sari skirt. I thought I was in heaven. They are cool and comfortable...but I couldn't wear them on my mission the cold and damp. On vacation, I found a vendor selling them for 25% the price of those Joseph bought. So, I bought one that was silk and rayon. Oh, my, it is so filmy and floaty it feels as if I hardly have anything on, compelling me to get a few more. Along with a cotton peasant top, they are my new uniform.

don't go to the store for these

I am seriously addicted to finding frugal ways. It's not that I really need to be ultrafrugal anymore. It's more like a hobby to squeeze my pennies until they scream for mercy. Since I am allergic to many ingredients in commercial body care products, I needed to find an alternative to commercial shampoo. Baking soda and apple cider vinegar work very well, causing me to realize we are better off without the chemicals in shampoos, conditioners, and many soaps. How is it done?

The first time I tried no-poo, I did it all wrong and practically recked my hair. After research and experimentation, I learned the best formula. When you begin, dissolve 1 T baking soda in a cup or two of warm water. Work through roots of hair and message scalp for about 30 seconds. Focusing on the roots and scalp, rinse with 1 T apple cider vinegar diluted in a cup or two of warm water. Then rinse with running water. If you tend toward dry hair, put a drop or two of olive, grape seed, apricot, kukui, or coconut oil in your palms and rub it into your hands as if for lotion. When it is nearly absorbed run your hands over the ends of your hair. (These also make great lotion or facial moisturize if you don't want to make face and body cream.) As your hair becomes accustomed to this method, you will likely need to reduce the baking soda and vinegar amounts until you only use 1/4 t baking soda and 1 t vinegar. I also like to use herbal infusions in place of the water. Sage, black walnut hull or leaf, comfrey leaf, calendula flower, marshmallow root, rosemary, nettle leaf, and yarrow are some hair-nourishing favorites. Sometimes when I want to get really fancy, I tincture citrus peels in the vinegar for two weeks to make a citrusy rinse. Some people also add essential oils such as tea tree or peppermint.

Right after we began our mission, we ran out of soap. (I am used to having a huge supply of sundries to fall back upon. Out here it is just like being a newly wed again.) Anyway, I remembered reading an interview with Queen Latifa whose grandmother taught her to wash her face with baking soda. She has lovely smooth skin. With that inspiration and my good experience with no-poo, I tried it. Weird at first, it worked quite well. Since soap always left me itchy in the past, I switched to baking soda for good. How is it done? Put a tablespoon or so of baking soda on a washcloth or your palm. Add a bit of water in the shower and use the paste to wash as you would soap. It's that easy.

Baking soda is so useful. Another personal hygiene usage is tooth brushing. Either by itself or mixed with a drop of mint essential oil, it gets teeth squeaky clean and breath nicely fresh. Sucking on whole cloves helps freshen breath after eating strong foods as well.

Finally, body deodorants don't have to come from the drug store either. Talc has been linked to ovarian and lung cancers. Aluminum is toxic and linked to Alzheimers and breast cancer. If it's not safe to eat, it's not safe to put on your skin. After all skin absorbs everything you put on it, leaving those polysylabic chemicals off the list. Mix 1 part tapioca starch, 1 part cornstarch or rice starch, 1 part arrowroot Powder, 1 part baking soda, 1 part redmond or white clay, and optionally 1 part dried, powdered citrus peel or flower petals or orris root for a delightful deodorant powder. If one ingredient is not available, double one of the others. This is so nice stored in an old fashioned powder box and applied with a puff for the sentimental feminine set or in a powder shaker for minimalists. Something else to consider on this vein. Most body odors can be reduced or eliminated with diet. Since processed 'foods' and animal products contribute to the build up of bad bacteria in the body, body odor sweat is exacerbated with their consumption. A high intake of chlorophyll from green plants reduces odor. (Also true for bad breath, eating and/or eliminating poorly naturally cause odors.) Once again, the secret is in the greens.

Some people will only use naturally mined Baking Soda from Frontier or Bob's Red Mill. I'm not sure about that one yet.

merely casual

Praying For...Gracie, our four-year-old fire cracker, that she will be happy, safe, healthy, and find Jesus. I pray the same for other little girls. I pray that children everywhere can get to know the Creator of this beautiful earth.

Meditations On Jesus Word..."...all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that upon the face of it, yea, and all it's motion, yea, and all the planets that move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator," Alma 30:44 As I gaze out this upper window or walk in the forest, I feel the Holy Ghost whisper this truth again and again.

Bibliophilia...Sent Gracie a copy of Angelina Ballerina along with the second set of Bob Books. 

Cucina Fresca...Since becoming a missionary, we've been invited to dinner many times. At first I explained my allergies and hoped for the best. But...it felt sort of strange when the hostess made everyone eat a Ginger-ized meal. That would be ok if the meal was at my house....so...I now tell her that I have multiple allergies and would like to bring a dish to share. Fix whatever you were going to fix, and I'll come for the company. This is the dish I'm taking to a dinner appointment Monday night. I hope all goes well.

Spanish-style Quinoa Pilaf

2 c quinoa
3 c water
1 can diced fire roasted tomatoes, drained or 2 c chopped fresh tomatoes or 1/4 c diced dehydrated tomatoes plus 1 1/2 c water
1/2 c dehydrated mixed vegetables or 2 c. fresh
2 T dehydrated cabbage or 3/4 c fresh minced
2 T dehydrated spinach or 1/2 c fresh minced
1 t onion powder or 1/2 onion, puréed
1/4 t garlic powder or 1 small garlic clove, pressed
1/2 t Mrs. Dash
1/2 t smoked paprika
1/2 t mild ground chili
1/8 t chipotle powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 c minced cilantro or parsley or 2 T dry

Mix all ingredients in a sauce pan. Bring to boil. Turn heat to simmer, covered, for 20 min. This is beautiful served on a bed of chopped baby greens with a side of fruit.

Sound of Music...with all the rain, I am still anticipating the time I can play in the music circle again. I've chosen The Light Divine as my memory song for the coming month. It is harder than anything previous with 3 flats.

Duds...once in awhile I think of chopping my hair. After one of those days this week, I decided to try and learn braiding and such on myself. When my girls were young, I did all sorts of fancy braids using 2 books by Anne Akers Johnson, Hair and Braids and Bows. Wish I still had them. Luckily the library here does, which I placed on hold.

Pen and Brush...still don't have my Mac Book up and running so can't share my creations. I enjoy this no addition to my life, whenever time permits.

Embarrassing Moment...some remember my oops with Elaine Dalton a few years back. Well...I did it again. At a missionary conference this week, the only two seats left were up front. This was a smallish meeting, where we sat at 6 or 8 round tables at lunch time. I asked the usual questions. One man at our table replied he was from the area. After eating, he got up and began to speak, teaching precious truths about faith, works, and justification from James 2. He was our regional rep. How is it I don't recognize these people and treat them with proper respect of their office! I wasn't disrespectful but merely casual.

and on and on again

Praying For...Quinn, our clever court jester. May he choose the way home to God. I also pray the same for other little boys to recognized Jesus and choose His easy and light way. Praying that the leaders of our nation and the world will walk in Jesus' way and exercise public/private virtue.

Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 After some experimenting, I've come to know the truthfulness of this promise. In this world, His ways seem odd and hard but are ever so much easier than sin.

Bibliophilia...I sent Quinn Three Tales of My Father's Dragon,  My Father's Dragon trilogy put into one book, along with a Kumon and an Explode the Code book. My boys absolutely loved these books between the ages of 4 and 8. I also sent Right Start Corners to both siblings in that house. Personally, I read Wild About Greens by Nava Atlas and can't wait to try out some of her recipes.

Cucina Fresca...Lately, with my heavy work schedule, I have new goals: quick, no-added-fat, plant-only, pantry meals. This would qualify, if I left out the fresh veg, which would be fine because of the dehydrated veg. Thankfully, I didn't need to do that. I've tried to make quinoa tacos before, but somehow they just weren't that great. After reading how to make taco shells at Engine 2, I gave it another try. It was given a 9, which is pretty high in the ratings and makes it a repeater. Quinoa is not expensive in the big Costco bags.

20 Minute Quinoa Tacos for Two

 1/4 c. quinoa
1/2 c. water
pinch smoked paprika
pinch paprika
1/2 t. ancho chili
pinch dehydrated mixed hot chilies
1/2 t. onion powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
1 T. dehydrated veggie powder
2 T. dehydrated spinach
1 red or yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 Anaheim pepper, sliced
20 cherry tomatoes, halved
handful cilantro, minced
1 handful baby lettuce mix, minced
1 handful finely sliced purple cabbage (fermented is yummy here)
1/2 c. salsa
6 corn tortillas

Preheat oven to 350F. While waiting for water to boil, put spices in water. Add quinoa to boiling water turn down heat to low, cover, and put a timer on for 10-15 min. After oven is heated, drape corn tortillas over two bars of the metal baking rack; bake at 400F for 6-8 minutes. Over medium high heat, dry saute bell and Anaheim pepper strips until small brown spots appear on skin. Meanwhile, prep tomatoes, cilantro, lettuce, and cabbage. Every thing should be ready at this point. Assemble tacos. Eat with quick chopped seasonal fruit salad.

Duds...Last week one of the leaders of the youth that visited here commented on my skirts. She said, I could never serve a mission, because you have to wear skirts all the time. I told her I'd been wearing only skirts for years and why. She seemed fascinated with the idea. My weirdness with skirts has drawn a lot of attention on this weird island. Many women have commented how cute my usual farm combo looks: denim skirt, blouse, sweater, denim jacket, tights, and lacer boots. I don't have any trouble working dressed this way just as women for all time before the 1920s didn't.

Sound of Music...We found a place on the property with awesome acoustics. It's an old training corral with solid sides. Because nobody can hear me except God, I stand on a mound in the middle playing and singing hymns to my heart's content. This week the corral was full of forget-me-nots. Hi Katie!

Garden Gate...learned how to graft apple trees. It was so excitingly fun. We are reclaiming a several acre section of land that hasn't been mowed for a couple years. Not only do we contend with thick grass but small shrubs such as Scottish broom and ferns.

Pen and Brush...God is blessing my service by improving my energy levels. Even after 60-70 hour weeks, I still have time and energy to paint. However, since my mac doesn't work, I cannot put them in this journal. I painted in my journal nearly every day and made three cards.

And Finally...

promises

Praying For...Miss Gayle our dancing queen's health, happiness, and sweet spirit...also praying that other children around the world can know a measure of happiness similar to hers. Pleading that more little girls have innocent, happy, plentiful, love-filled, magical childhoods.

Meditations on Jesus' Word...“The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever,” Isaiah 32:17. I staking my life on this promise.

Grateful...doing a little rewiring.

Cucina Fresca...It is important to store food, because nobody knows the future. What stores well? Dried beans and grains, dehydrated, fermented, and canned veg, roots such as onions, carrots and sweet potatoes plus cabbage, apples, dried fruits, herbs and spices. Lately, I've been working on developing more happy heart, herbivore, food storage friendly dishes. My newest is:

Savory Mushroom Stew for 2 or 3

1 c. dried baby lima beans, soaked 12-24 hours and thoroughly rinsed
1 large onion, pureed or sliced
1 T. powdered dehydrated veg broth
2 T. dehydrated spinach
2 T. dehydrated cabbage
2 T. dehydrated shitake mushrooms or more if you miss meatiness
1/4 t. thyme
1 bay leaf
dash red pepper flakes or cayenne
salt and black pepper
1/2 c purple cabbage, finely shredded

Slow cook limas in 3-4 c. distilled water until tender (time varies). Meanwhile, put onion and salt in a covered stainless steel pot with a bit of water over lowest heat. Allow to soften and brown, which will take 30-60 min. Add beans and all other ingredients. Continue cooking over low heat for about 30 min. Serve with finely-shredded, steamed purple cabbage on top and carrot/apple/ginger juice on the side. This was rated 10 by my man. It's that good.

Duds...My it's been a cold, rainy week. I'll have to say that this sort of weather in the deep, dark forest isn't as fun as it is near the water. Sigh...But...I have the right duds to keep me warm, dry, and femininely modest. It took me 30 years away from AZ to discover the benefits of wearing boots. I can't extol their benefits enough. I love the fact that my newest addition is not only warm but cute with skirts and waterproof. I don't intend to spend another winter without warm, dry boots as long as I'm away from AZ.

Bibliophilia...bought Hillyer's Child's History of the World for Cole, Bob Books for Gracie, and Grammarland for Gayle. We loved these at our house and hope this generation does, too. Also, finally read Power Food for the Brain by Neal Barnard. While most of the information on nutrition and movement was a repeat for me, I learned some interesting things about metals and brain health. It's definitely a good read for anyone who doesn't want to go down the road to dementia.

Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...of course I'm neither a doctor nor a medicine woman. I'm merely a woman who studies nutrition and such deeply. Found this lecture quite interesting and informative.



Nature Walk...while near the ferry doc, I saw 2 harbor seals playing in the water. I plan to use this video as a drawing tutorial for my journal and a card for Gayle.



Serendipity and Joy...Wednesday we took the ferry over to get the tractor tire fixed and have lunch out. After we crossed, we discovered neither of us brought money and the next ferry back over was two hours away. The tire fix was gratis. But what about lunch. We stopped at a little local market with our $1.80 in change hoping to buy a couple apples. Instead we found a luscious, late season mandarin that we hope to graft onto our yucky, seedy tangerine tree in AZ.

Pen and Brush...drew this whale this week. So very glad I took up this form of expression. It's not that I'm especially good at it, but that it makes me glad. I so need a little Pollyanna in my life.

He is not here...He is risen...

Meditation on Jesus' Word..."And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay," Matthew 28:5-6.

Praying For...Gracie, who has her 4th birthday this week. I want for her a stable, loving childhood with the knowledge that she has a personal Savior, Jesus Christ, a loving Heavenly Father, and grandparents that love and care for her. I also pray for children around the world that they too will find Jesus and be cherished, protected, nurtured, and taught to do right.

Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...My readers must know, I'm not a medical doctor. However, I spend a lot of time researching health, herbs, and nutrition. Lately, a new debate has arisen over which is worse for health, fat or sugar. I don't think it's an either or thing. Moderation kills. If I eat even a tiny bit of sugar, I start craving sugary, fatty, baked desserts and candy. I also feel really gross and groggy. It's best for me, at least, to stay away from it. I was also an amateur pastry chef and baker, who baked the most luscious, buttery, sugary, yeasty treats. My family waxes sentimental about our old traditions full of pies, cakes, pastries, rolls, crusty old world loaves, and such. No...I'll not go there again. Mashed banana in gluten-free oats sweetens without the rush, cravings, and fat belly. But...the debate will go on.

Cucina Fresca...Looking forward to the end of tax season so I can cook regular meals again. I love to cook but to eat even more. Of course I won't do it, but there is the cutest empty shop here that would make a sweet cafe. From time to time, I daydream about opening a cafe. But...I never will.

Duds...Here on the little island, I found made in the USA bandanas for a very reasonable price. I love to use bandanas as hair bands especially when I need to work outdoors. I also enjoy them at the table as napkins.

Nature Walk...loving the daffodils naturalized, surrounding trees and mailboxes

Duds...Last Sunday it was still cold enough for boots and winter coats, but to day we have 60ish weather.

Pen and Brush...I got word that our little Samantha has become an artist in her own right, sculpting in clay is her favorite right now. This week I painted quite a bit. Of course flowers are my favorite subject, but I also tried my hand at my first building. It didn't turn out that great, but I learned a lot. This bee was lots of fun to do. Like I said I have lots to learn, but learn ing is great fun.

Garden Gate...

perfectly joyful

Praying For...Samantha, our 6-year-old, Mandarine-speaking cutey...AND...Oakley, the brightly smiling girl, who turned 6 on Friday...These two cousins are as unalike as two girls could be, but have a great time playing together. Pleading for blessings of happiness, kindheartedness, health, and safety for these two. Also, praying for other little girls around the world to be cherished as these two are.

Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause," Jacob 3:1. Jesus knows me and wants so much to bring joy to my time here on earth. To receive this blessing, I must ask.

Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...reread this article from Jeff Novik on Super Foods. I like his attitude. Not overeating while choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains, offers one the best chance for attaining and maintaining good health.

Cucina Fresca...discovered the PERFECT mix of veg toppings for my favorite polenta pizza and am working on a millet/flax crust as well. Even my wanna-be carnivore husband couldn't get enough of my now...

Perfect Polenta Pizza

1 c. coarsely ground polenta
pinch calcium hydroxide (pickling lime)
4 c. water

1-2 red onions, minced or pureed
a handful mushrooms of any variety, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
2-4 large cloves garlic, in the skin
a handful of baby kale, minced
3-4 basil leaves, minced
1-2 roma tomatoes sliced
pinch dried Italian herb blend
pinch red pepper flakes
twist or two of black pepper

8-12 hours before you plan to eat, soak polenta in water with calcium hydroxide. Prepare vegetables. Over lowest heat, sweat onions in a bit of water; continue cooking until they are caramelized and golden but don't let stick to pan. Meanwhile roast garlic, peppers, and mushrooms at 400F for 20 min or until softened and beginning to brown. While the onions are caramelizing and the other veggies are roasting. Pour polenta and water into a deep pot. Bring to a boil and lower heat, stirring constantly. Wear an oven mitt and partially cover pot to keep polenta from burning you as it pops. Shortly, it will pull away from the side of the pan. Pour polenta on a parchment lined pizza baking sheet and spread about 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool and set up for a few minutes. Pop garlic out of paper skins. Top polenta with onions, sliced roasted garlic, roasted veg, kale, basil, sliced tomatoes, herbs, pepper flakes, and black pepper. Return to hot oven and bake for 10 minutes. Eat with a huge green salad. Wow!

Duds...After living in Walmart-ville for so long, I go used to shopping there and found a couple things I really like. White Stag women's t-shirts are my favorite or were. They were perfect with a not-to-low neckline, a long, feminine cut, nice sturdy fabric, and less than $10. With the changing season, I need a couple new t-shirts and went to Walmart yesterday. Sadly, they changed the fabric and style...sigh...now I have to find a new favorite. I'm not a shopper so this is quite a hardship.

Bibliophilia...King County Washington has probably the best library in the entire US. For sure it hold the honor of the highest level of circulation in the country. Although I like having my own books, it isn't practical to travel with cases of books. I know, because I tried it for some time. So....I am enjoying the library here very much.

Nature Walk...enjoying the signs of spring and this ocean view

Pen and Brush...I simply love to make and send watercolor cards. And some have responded that they like receiving them.

Thought Provoking Quote..."We have launched a cleanup campaign. We are a throw-away people. Trash piles grow faster than population by far. Now we ask you to clean up your homes and your farms. “Man is the keeper of the land, and not its possessor.” Broken fences should be mended or removed. Unused barns should be repaired, roofed, painted, or removed. Sheds and corrals should be repaired and painted, or removed. Weedy ditch banks should be cleared. Abandoned homes could probably be razed. We look forward to the day when, in all of our communities, urban and rural, there would be a universal, continued movement to clean and repair and paint barns and sheds, build sidewalks, clean ditch banks, and make our properties a thing of beauty to behold. We have asked leaders of youth groups, auxiliary organizations, and priesthood quorums to give power to this concentrated action for beautification. The Lord said: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” (Ps. 24:1.) “And I the Lord God, took the man [Adam], and put him into the Garden of Eden, to dress it, and to keep it.” (Moses 3:15.) Therefore, we urge each of you to dress and keep in a beautiful state the property that is in your hands." Spencer W. Kimball, October 1974

free to be happy

Praying For...Gayle our 8-year-old, tiny dancer...that she will learn to know and love Jesus and be happy, healthy, and safe...also, pray for little girls all over the earth that they will be likewise blessed. It's a crime that so many little girls are robbed of innocence and health.

Meditations on Jesus Word...“For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.” 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 Jesus is the way...

Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...While I am neither a doctor nor medicine woman, I study lots and lots of research on health, nutrition, herbs, and alternative healing. Lately, I've read a great deal about saffron and its protection against depression; it's equally effective as Prozac. In light of the increase in violence from people that use prozac and other such drugs, this research is revolutionary. Additionally, saffron halts the progression of dementia. Isn't it wonderful that God's simple plant foods can free so many from the prison of the mind. Now I feel justified in making my curry blend with saffron instead of comet, (cough) I mean turmeric. Curry anyone!!!

Cucina Fresca...still enjoying a mainly raw, low-fat vegan lifestyle, however I like to add one cooked meal per day. I'm freer in my food choices after many weeks on the incurables. This week our yummiest meal was pinto beans and brown rice topped with lettuce, water chestnuts, jalapenos, tomatoes, purple cabbage, cilantro, green onions, and red bell peppers pared with warm corn tortillas. Even though I store some canned beans, home cooked beans are far superior. They are so easy to prepare.

The Perfect Pot of Beans
1. Measure 1-4 cups dried beans into a bowl. 1 c. dry yields approximately 3 c. cooked.
2. Sort for debris and rinse.
3. Cover with water and lid.
4. Soak for 24-48 hours or longer to slightly sprout. Change soaking water after 24 hours. Soak in fridge in hot or humid weather. Longer soaking=shorter cooking.
5. Drain and rinse beans. (Possibly, use water to water plants.)
6. Put in slow cooker over low heat for 6-8 hours (More nutrients remain when cooked below 120F.)
7. Do not add salt or acidic ingredients until beans are soft unless you like tough beans. Old beans may never soften and might be best ground into flour or composted.
8. Season with all sorts of aromatic vegetables, powdered dehydrated veggies, spices, and herbs.
9. These freeze nicely and keep in the fridge for about a week. So make a big pot once a week to freeze or use in various dishes.

Bibliophilia...Discovered another Betty MacDonald book, Nancy and Plum, which I think is delightful. I'll be sending a copy to Gayle this week. At 8 she is just about the right age. Since Betty lived on Vashon Island while writing most of her books, I plan to visit her house soon. It's a bed and breakfast, but maybe they will let me see it without staying overnight.

Garden Gate...or in this case I should say orchard. We arrived at our desert home and were greeted by these in our backyard. My juice focus for the next few days is citrus, orange, grapefruit, and tangerine. Delicious. We also lost several trees and bushes due to the unusual, hard, prolonged cold weather this winter.

Duds...bought some new denim skirts from Chadwick's and a cotton from Down East. While I am glad I've regained my health and put some weight back on my skin and bones frame, I cannot wear three skirts in my limited travel wardrobe. Even though I like new clothes, I would have been content with saving the money. The other skirts were nearly brand new.

Pen and Brush...Ever since I read/saw the Diary of an Edwardian Lady, I've desired to turn my journals into a work of art instead of just a chronicle of my life. Even though I can't say my watercoloring is beautiful like Edith Holdon's, it is finally starting to take on that description. I've settled on moleskin watercolor notebooks; I use the large which is anything but large. To allow me more control with this unpredictable medium, I use the tiny Windsor and Newton Pocket Set with a couple their short handled round brushes 01 and 02. For travel these fit so nicely in the pencil/pen case I've had for years, allowing me to travel with the supplies to mix my media.

 

Oh, Lovely Mud...

Praying For...Claire, a sweet spirited little pixie, to be blessed with health, happiness, safety, and faith...also praying for the youth of the world that they will have enough faith so Satan can't take hold of their hearts with pornography, drugs, alcohol, and other vices. Help them be strong.

Meditations of Jesus..."Angels speak by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, they speak the words of Christ. Wherefore, I said unto you, feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." 2 Nephi 32:3 Right now they are telling me to be patient and diligent.

Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...a liniment of arnica and frankincense are magical for joint and muscle pains from arthritis, exercise, or viruses. 

Duds...warmer weather caused me to stop wearing boots this week; I'm back to my old faithful Birkenstock Madeiras with black, cotton tights from Hannah Anderson. I just discovered Hannah tights this year and absolutely love them up to about 70F. 

Garden Gate...Although I wasn't excited about the cookbook portion of this book, I got some great ideas from Elliot Coleman's Four Season Farm Gardener's Cookbook. It inspired me to try and paint a watercolor of my imagination garden, since I probably won't get to have a garden again this year.

Bibliophilia...sent Claire a copy of Small Pig, one of my children's favorites. We think that pig is the best pig in the world. He likes to sit down and sink down into the good soft mud. Oh, Lovely Mud!

Cucina Fresca...Went to a miso making class Saturday. Even through my whole ordeal over the last 4 months, miso was the only food besides fruits and vegetables I could keep down. I've spent a mint in postage getting South River Miso and would like to make my own. Sadly, I realized my transient lifestyle won't allow making miso. But now I know it is quite an easy process, not mysterious or difficult at all. Made Ann Esselstyn style oatmeal waffles with strawberries and ice kream for my beloved on Valentine's Day, which had him cheering. I was very careful to use non-gluten oats and carefully gave them a try. Oh, my they are good and didn't cause me any trouble.

Sound of Music...I usually takes a few weeks after we move to a new location to get back into the swing of the schedule. Violin playing is making a more frequent  showing again, but I'm really missing the piano...But...we can't pack a piano into the corolla. 

Pen and Brush...I'm enjoying watercolor painting very much and combining it with my other hobbies, grandchild of the week and nature journaling (no there are no cherry blossoms out yet; it was wishful thinking). This week I'll be sending cards to Claire and ...I don't know yet. I'm not sure how the recipients feel, but it is so much fun for me.

so it seems

Praying For...Samantha my dear six-year-old granddaughter, who is having a great time learning to speak Chinese. We've lately been talking on the phone; she's turned into quite a conversationalist. I also pray for mothers and fathers around the world that they have the resources, time, kindness, and love to care properly for their children. I watched a documentary about a disease called Noma, caused by malnutrition and unhygienic practices. It is a horrible usually fatal gum infection, which develops into gangrene of the face.  If the child lives, the gangrenous parts fall off leaving them horribly disfigured and outcast. A hundred years ago, it was common all around the world, but now is only found in Africa and Asia.

Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...I developed a new formula for intestinal health that also fights insomnia. It makes a delicious cup of evening herbal infusion of which my tester has given rave reviews so far. I'm going back on the incurables for another 30 days, since I feel awesome on but not so great off. I added a new blood building juice to my line-up, beet w/greens, carrots w/greens, fennel, ginger, and apple. Beets, carrots, and fennel apparently work in harmony to alleviate anemia and excessive menstruation. There are other benefits of these ingredients to be sure, but anemia has been one of my biggest problems since age 12. I thought fennel would be horribly strong in juice, but it is mellow and satisfying. I understand the controversy about carrot tops but have not had trouble with them.

Bibliophile...after last week's entry, I was surprised to learn of our weekend plans. We stayed in a wonderful 100-year-old beach house on Vashon. There was a little bookshelf that I of course scoured in the four days we were there. I knew of Betty McDonald, the Vashon resident of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle fame, but didn't know she had written books for adults. While at the beach house, I found and read Onions in the Stew about living on Vashon in the 40s. It seems the island has grown since then but not a lot. It was a delightful read, since I was staying in a home very much as she described. Sent Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle to Samantha, since she is grandchild of the week. Gotta love Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle.

Cucina Fresca...I used a Le Creuset dutch oven for the first time on Vashon. Although I eat a primarily raw vegan diet, I made a batch of roasted root vegetables. Why? We didn't bring our juicer or blender on our trip. We had to eat something. Oh, my....roasted vegetables are ever so much tastier than those cooked in a 9X13 glass baking pan, my usual mode. So...even though I don't often eat cooked foods, I'll be saving up for one of these lovely dutch ovens to make this fantastic favorite dish.

Duds...I love denim jackets. My old one was so worn out that I gave it a nice burial. But I missed it. We were at Costco buying new work shirts for tax season, when I saw a table of Levi women's jackets at a terrific price. I snatched one up. At home I pinned my MIL's cameo broach over the pocket. I love wearing this with a blouse, skirt, and boots.

Sound of Music...living in a condo has advantages, true, but one disadvantage is the noise problem. My neighbors are rarely heard, and I want to return the favor. I know sound travels because of the two dogs in our building. So...I only play my violin on weekdays after 9 am. It's cramping my playing style, but I'm getting used to it. I sure wish I could have my piano here. Every time I start playing again, it seems we leave again. Maybe someday I'll get to make that part of my life.

Walk with God...enjoying scripture studies using Come Follow Me and Doctrine and Covenants Sunday School Studies this year. Also listening to the Bible audio, Tabernacle Choir music, and Conference Talks during my chores.

Brush and Pen...for some years, I've pursued learning to draw with graphite and colored pencils with a small amount of success. I love it. Now I'm learning to watercolor. Apparently, scientific research shows art positively affects mental and physical health, reducing stress, and stimulating the creative brain as reading and such stimulate cognitive function. It seems, creativity increases life expectancy, wellness, and sociability. Nevertheless, for me watercolor painting has been so satisfying, because it requires me to be more spontaneous and accepting. Although I plan and draw the intended article, little serendipitous happenings add their own touches to my paintings. I must be more accepting of finding something good or useful while not specifically searching for it. I must let go of perfectionism and learn that photos are for exactness; painting is for suggestion. Now when I write to family and friends, I paint a watercolor card, so combining two of my favorite activities. This week Sammy will get an alpaca and Grandma will get mushrooms.

Viewing Pleasure...watched Enchanted April, a visually compelling film about four women on vacation in Italy. It was rather odd, but there was one scene I especially liked. The oldest women of this foursome did a watercolor of bouganvilla on the varanda for her nature journal. Plus, I love the dresses and long hair of the early 1920s.

Garden Gate...although I live in a 3rd floor, walk-up, -600 ft2 condo, I still want to have a garden. Why? We blend, juice, and salad 4ish lbs. of organic greens per day at $3.00 per pound. If I can grow my own, which I've done for years in another much, much larger place, I know I can save bundles of money and have fresher produce. Thinking of carrying bags of dirt up all those stairs, I had visions of sprained knees and sore backs. So I began to explore and found this method. I started my first tray and hope to do more if all goes well. I can't grow my old favorites of sunflowers and buckwheat without dirt, but there are lots and lots of other choices to keep me happy. I also started some jars of sprouts this week. Gotta love sprouts.

Favorite Gym Reopened

I tend to think a bit like Mireille Guiliano and steer clear of treadmills and sweat pants. I tried the gym thing and jogging and exercise videos, but keep returning to my two favorite forms of exercise, walking and gardening. Since spring has arrived in the mountains, I can put away the exercise tape and make my favorite form of exertion an integral part of my day. I walk and garden in the same skirts and dresses that I wear to write, clean house, play violin and piano, and read. To me the best exercise is digging garden beds and walking to the grocer. Because I enjoy it and am healthy enough for it this season, it is the surest way to overcome the mental hurdle of moving my tush. I reap the benefits of exercise without the bother of driving to the gym, avoiding the roving eyes and comments of middle-aged single men, performing repetitious and boring movements on machines, showering in a strange place, and driving back home again. Engaging in outdoor movement I love, my stress and fatigue are lowered, as well as my tan improved, vitamin D is absorbed, my body is strengthened, and my sleep improved. Plus, I don't have to shell out cash for a membership, I save gas and time, and I grow organic produce and flowers. Who could ask for more?

working in skirts

William Waterhouse The Flower Picker

It never occurred to me until I started reading Lydia's Home Living blog that part of being feminine is wearing dresses and skirts. For the last couple years she has published many posts with paintings of women in bygone days. Interestingly, none of them wore pants. I love the paintings of William Waterhouse and others that show women working and just plain living in dresses. It gives me courage in this day of the manly woman to continue wearing skirts only. How can it can be done?

William Waterhouse The Lady Claire

a) Choose a design that allows a full stride like an A-line. The garment should be well fitted, enough to know that you are a woman but not like a sausage casing. In summer looser fitting but still feminine styles are lovely--they should not remind one of potato sacks. Fabrics should be of natural fiber that are easy to service.

b) Hem length of mid-calf or longer allows excellent movement without compromising modesty and will not be a trip hazard.

c) Seasonally appropriate accessories: leggings, warm socks, and silk slips (keep skirts from clinging to leggings) with cute but serviceable shoes or boots for winter wear; good sandals, garden clogs, and the airiest muslin slips for warmer months.

d) Outer ware: pashima shawls, wool overcoats, hats, scarves, and the like can be feminine ...a straw hat 

and a whisper thin muslin or linen jacket for gardening...and aprons lots of aprons...my friend cocoa made a wonderful apron for me that I've used as  a pattern for more. 

John William Waterhouse: I am Half-Sick of Shadows - said the Lady of Shalott - 1915

The old paintings clearly show loveliness can be achieved even during the humblest of tasks. As the world grows more and more antagonistic towards femininity and womanhood, women can demonstrate a commitment to loveliness and an outward symbol of devotion to being womanly. Let's not be part of the brave new world. Instead, working in sensible skirts and dresses is incredibly possible for women and girls alike!!

Miranda the Tempest by John Waterhouse

Destiny William Waterhouse

admitted...

Not a boot girl, nevertheless I get inspired by this cute ensemble.

I'm sad to see summer go. I love warm weather, sitting in the sun, smelling petunias on my walks, digging in the garden, and green, green, green. Without hot chocolate, cold weather means aching bones, shivering, slippery sidewalks, and snow. Brrrrr.....

But.....

It also means sewing new clothes, and I surely need some. I bought the cutest denim the other day with with hearts. This will be a new sheath/jumper (and I bought enough to make jumpers for our 5 granddaughters). Another piece of plain denim, which project was put on hold with the honey harvest, will be an A-line skirt with two, side, kick pleats and black buttons. A couple more in charcoal and navy corduroy would be nice.  I have one long-sleeved blouse and one long-sleeved T that fit me. Alas, since they're quite worn, I'll turn them into patterns for tops in my favorite shades of pink, blue, and plum. I'll make a few boxy jacket/cardigans from corduroy and boiled wool if I can find them. I talk big and mean well. Let's see how much I actually get done.

Did I tell you, Joanne's is opening up in Walmart-ville on October 1. Up to now, our fabric purchasing options were Walmart, Ace Hardware (spendy), and a couple pricey quilt shops. Other than those, I could drive 50 miles to the nearest Joanne's and a bigger Ace Hardware. I've done this a grand total of twice in six years.

This is my look minus the boots-classic femininity.

journal #13~2/15/2010

Photo Share...this is one of my new thrift finds: blouse (Ann Taylor) $4, wool cardigan $3.50, wool skirt (Woolrich) $3...

Outlook...hopeful...and quiet about the reason

On My Mind...how can two people see the same property and see such opposite things? The owner called it a beach cottage. We call it an ancient, single-wide, moss-covered mobile with the doors hanging off the hinges without even a hint of ocean view much less on the beach.

Delish Kitch...since I've given up dairy for the time being, I'm modifying all the old favorites. Yes, I was allergic as a child, and it seems to be a big culprit in my struggles the last few decades. We even drank un-homogenized, raw milk, when I was a little girl. Weston Price and Adell Davis were right that it is better for you than homogenized, pasturized stuff from you local grocer. However, if you are allergic, you're allergic. They used to make glue with it, too. Hmmm...what's lining your colon?

Chile Rellenos with Black Beans

4 pablano chiles
1 c. cooked brown rice
1 c. cooked black beans
1/4 c. chopped red onion
1/4 c. cilantro
salt & pepper

sauce:
6-8 dried california chili pods
1-2 pasill-ancho chili pods
2 roma tomatoes
1/2 c. chopped onion
1 clove garlic
1 t. olive oil
1 T. flour
salt
water

Heat broiler. Coat pablanos with olive oil. Broil, watching closely and turning often. When they are evenly blackened, place them in a plastic bag. Mix rice, beans, onion, and cilantro in a small bowl. Peel blackened skin from pablanos. Make a small slit in the side of each pepper to pull out seeds. Try to keep them as intact as possible including stem. Stuff with rice/bean mixture. Heat 2-4 small plates in oven at 200F.

Pour boiling water over dried chiles in a bowl. Cover and set aside. Saute onion and salt in oil over low heat until very soft and beginning to brown. Add garlic and continue for 30 seconds. Add this to the blender. Add chiles and tomatoes. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water as needed. Push the paste through a fine mesh strainer back into the saute pan, discarding the seeds and skin that remain. Heat sauce adding water as necessary.

Place 1-2 chilis on each plate seam side down. Pour sauce over middle of chili, leaving the two ends exposed. Put under the broiler until bubble. garnish with 1/4 avocado sliced thinly and fanned out plus a tiny bit of chopped cilantro. Serve with a crunchy, colorful green salad and oranges sprinkled with coconut for dessert.

Homemaking...just the usual nest sprucing and loving it.

Praying for..."a spirit of calm and peace among the people of Haiti" and the young people of the world that they might shed their feelings of entitlement and follow after God...

Appearance...navy floral dress (one of my new thrift finds), black cotton footless tights, wool socks, and birkies~same old long curls, retro glasses, and that's it.

Movement...same old firm/walk/stretch...I'd like to take a walk along Soos Creek some time this week.

Bibliophile Fix…LMU, SNH, and Great Books reading lists...

Blessings...inspiration for an herbal healing...

Scripture Meditations..."Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest" Ruth 1:16

Something New...going to try my hand at whole wheat sour dough bread by hand. I have no bread mixer here.

My week is looking...sweet...anticipating a visit with Princess Gracie and Nikki on Tuesday.

God has been teaching me...look for the good in people.

Devotions...Gospel Doctrine lesson 7, read a couple articles from the February Ensign and one from the Conference Report. Old Testament will be Ester this week. Spanish devotions remain with Polyglot Book of Mormon.

Simple Pleasure...a warm, comfortable home on down days.

Commitment to Loveliness...1) Sweet Monday~chocolate chip cake 2) learn a bit more about colored pencil technique 3) sea shore drawing for my journal 4) sew something 5) think more~speak less

Poetry I'm Enjoying... (rather long, but beautiful)

The Cloud

I bring fresh showers for the thirsting flowers,
From the seas and the streams;
I bear light shade for the leaves when laid
In their noonday dreams.
From my wings are shaken the dews that waken
The sweet buds every one,
When rocked to rest on their mother's breast,
As she dances about the sun.
I wield the flail of the lashing hail,
And whiten the green plains under,
And then again I dissolve it in rain,
And laugh as I pass in thunder.

I sift the snow on the mountains below,
And their great pines groan aghast;
And all the night 'tis my pillow white,
While I sleep in the arms of the blast.
Sublime on the towers of my skiey bowers,
Lightning, my pilot, sits;
In a cavern under is fettered the thunder,
It struggles and howls at fits;

Over earth and ocean, with gentle motion,
This pilot is guiding me,
Lured by the love of the genii that move
In the depths of the purple sea;
Over the rills, and the crags, and the hills,
Over the lakes and the plains,
Wherever he dream, under mountain or stream,
The Spirit he loves remains;
And I all the while bask in Heaven's blue smile,
Whilst he is dissolving in rains.

The sanguine Sunrise, with his meteor eyes,
And his burning plumes outspread,
Leaps on the back of my sailing rack,
When the morning star shines dead;
As on the jag of a mountain crag,
Which an earthquake rocks and swings,
An eagle alit one moment may sit
In the light of its golden wings.
And when Sunset may breathe, from the lit sea beneath,
Its ardors of rest and of love,

And the crimson pall of eve may fall
From the depth of Heaven above,
With wings folded I rest, on mine aery nest,
As still as a brooding dove.
That orbed maiden with white fire laden,
Whom mortals call the Moon,
Glides glimmering o'er my fleece-like floor,
By the midnight breezes strewn;
And wherever the beat of her unseen feet,
Which only the angels hear,
May have broken the woof of my tent's thin roof,
The stars peep behind her and peer;
And I laugh to see them whirl and flee,
Like a swarm of golden bees,
When I widen the rent in my wind-built tent,
Till the calm rivers, lakes, and seas,
Like strips of the sky fallen through me on high,
Are each paved with the moon and these.

I bind the Sun's throne with a burning zone,
And the Moon's with a girdle of pearl;
The volcanoes are dim, and the stars reel and swim
When the whirlwinds my banner unfurl.
From cape to cape, with a bridge-like shape,
Over a torrent sea,
Sunbeam-proof, I hang like a roof,--
The mountains its columns be.
The triumphal arch through which I march
With hurricane, fire, and snow,
When the Powers of the air are chained to my chair,
Is the million-colored bow;
The sphere-fire above its soft colors wove,
While the moist Earth was laughing below.

I am the daughter of Earth and Water,
And the nursling of the Sky;
I pass through the pores of the ocean and shores;
I change, but I cannot die.
For after the rain when with never a stain
The pavilion of Heaven is bare,
And the winds and sunbeams with their convex gleams
Build up the blue dome of air,
I silently laugh at my own cenotaph,
And out of the caverns of rain,
Like a child from the womb, like a ghost from the tomb,
I arise and unbuild it again.


Percy Bysshe Shelley

jackpot~guilt and all

Did I tell you that none of my clothes fit? If I stand up too quickly, my skirt ends up bunched around my ankles.

I went thrifting today in Bellevue and hit the jackpot. I got more than I should have. My thrill over acquiring thousands of dollars of nearly new clothing for pennies on the dollar got the better of my frugal bones. The pennies didn't get squeezed too tightly as they slipped out of my fingers. I couldn't hear them scream at all.
Great now I have guilt, but I really, really needed new clothes. Be that as it may, I really, really didn't need as many as I got. Enough! I can't wear sacks for tops and skirts that end up around my ankles now can I?

I may have a fashion show over the next little while to show off my new wardrobe. Watch for my Feminine and Frugal Dressing posts.