Spring Equinox is around March 21 when night and day are equal in length. Pagans all over the world celebrate
the Spring Equinox. Winter is finally over and spring flowers are everywhere. It's a time to celebrate rebirth and
growth. Here are suggestions for a Spring Equinox brunch.
Ostara Cheese Scones
2 cups Flour
2 teaspoons Baking powder
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/8 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
1 1/2 cups Grated cheddar cheese
3 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup Butter
1/3 cup Milk
2 Eggs
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Combine all dry ingredients, stir in
cheeses, then cut in butter. Combine eggs and milk, add to the
flour mixture and gently knead to form a stiff dough. Cut dough ball
into halves and pat each half into an 8" diameter, 1/2" thick circle.
Cut into wedges, place wedges on a baking sheet and bake 15 to 17
minutes, until lightly browned.
Orange-Walnut Scones
2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces,
or 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
1/2 cup of milk or soy milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten (fresh organic is best)
1/2 cup organic, plain yogurt or sour cream
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup turbinado (raw) sugar or light brown sugar
Preheat the oven to 400' degrees.
In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Add the chilled butter, orange
zest, milk, egg and yogurt, and blend until ingredients are mixed, taking care to to overbeat the batter. Fold in the nuts. The
batter for scones should be a bit dry, but if it's too dry, simply add a splash of milk to moisten it a little. Turn the dough out onto
a lightly floured board, and knead for 1 minute.
Roll the dough out until about 3/4" inch thick, and cut into wedges. Sprinkle the wedges with raw sugar, and place them on a
baking sheet. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, until they are a light golden brown color.
Makes 6 to 8 scones.
Ostara Carrot Muffins
These soft, moist muffins have all the ingredients little ones love: raisins, nuts, a crumb topping, and, of course, grated carrots
for flavor, texture, and a splash of color.
Kids' Cooking Skills: Use this recipe to teach your child how to fold bulky ingredients, such as grated carrots, into muffin batter
and how to blend a butter crumb topping.
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Grated zest of 1 orange
1 large egg
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup packed grated carrot
BUTTER CRUMB TOPPING
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Heat the oven to 400ºF. Place paper liners in 12 muffin pan cups.
Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a mixing bowl. Stir in the raisins, walnuts, and orange zest.
Crack the egg into a medium-size mixing bowl. Add the buttermilk, brown sugar, and oil. Whisk well.
Make a well in the dry mixture. Pour in the liquid all at once and stir until the ingredients are almost blended. Then fold in the
carrot.
Have your child use a large spoon to divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups. Gently press a little of the crumb
topping (see below) on each one.
Bake the muffins on the center rack for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Cool the muffins in the pan for two to three minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Makes 12.
Butter Crumb Topping Gently pressed on top of the batter just before baking, this sweet muffin topping works well with most
recipes.
To make enough for a dozen muffins, combine 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1/4
teaspoon of cinnamon in a bowl and mix them with your fingertips.
Add 2 tablespoons of cold, unsalted butter cut into small pieces. Rub it thoroughly into the dry ingredients with your fingers
until the topping is gravelly in texture. If you like nuts, chop up a handful of your favorite ones and toss them in too.
Pear & Walnut Salad With Bleu Cheese
Select ripe pears to make this salad tossed with walnuts and bleu cheese.
4 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
4 medium pears, sliced 1/4 inch
4 tablespoons crumbled bleu cheese
4 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
6 tablespoons coarsely chopped walnuts
In a bowl Stir together oil, vinegar, mustard and pepper. In a nice salad bowl add all remaining ingredients; toss then add the
oil mixture to coat. Yield: 8 servings
Mushroom Quiche
1 unbaked pie shell
2 eggs
1 cup half and half
1/2 tsp salt
Dash of cajun
3/4 cup gruyere cheese
1 tablespoon flour
7 1/2 oz mushrooms
Dash of salt
Bake a pie shell at 450 for 10 minutes or until slightly brown. Beat the eggs, half and half, salt and the Cajun, set aside.
Combine cheese, flour, and sliced mushrooms, pour into the bottom of the pie shell. When you are ready add the egg mixture
to the pie. Caver the ends of the pie with foil paper, so they do not burn.
May Wine
1 bottle of German White Wine
12 sprigs of fresh sweet woodruff
Pour wine into carafe or wide mouth bottle then add the woodruff. Allow to blend for at least an hour then chill. Strain and serve
well chilled. Garnish with thin orange or a slice of strawberries. The woodruff adds sweetness.
I have many friends that do not eat meat, so these recipes are meatless.
ENJOY!
| Letter From The Editor |
 | Spring Equinox | |
| Letter From The Editor | |
| Spring Greenhouse | |
| Egg Decorating | |
| History On Earth Day | |
| Natural Beauty Is Only | |
| Herbal Deep | ||
| Spring Equinox Recipes | |
| Herb Talk | |
| Table of Contents |
Feeling Good
I have to say that this winter was a bit crazy for me. I just couldn't connect with the
holidays this year and before you knew it, they were gone. I was able to spend the
week prior to New Years with my family that I love dearly. And you know what they
say New Year's Eve and New Year’s Day will set the tone for the rest of your year,
so my year will be great. I just hope I can live up to it.
I got to spend a few days with my sisters and their families. We went to our annual
tea party ballet; it was fantastic as always. I also got to spend some time with my
son Eric; it made me realize that I really do miss living close to him.
It is time to say goodbye to the lazy days and sleepy nights of winter, and start
preparing for spring. Spring is not only the time for us to get healthier; it is time to
get our environment clean as well. The fairies will soon wake from their slumber,
and they do not like a dowdy garden. So let's go out there and make it beautiful for
them, the first nice weekend we will be outdoors cleaning and getting ready for the
parties to come.
My husband and I do not like the valley heat, so we make the most out of the time
we have during spring and spend it in the garden.
The Woodlands Witch
Lady Silver Crone
I have to say that this winter was a bit crazy for me. I just couldn't connect with the
holidays this year and before you knew it, they were gone. I was able to spend the
week prior to New Years with my family that I love dearly. And you know what they
say New Year's Eve and New Year’s Day will set the tone for the rest of your year,
so my year will be great. I just hope I can live up to it.
I got to spend a few days with my sisters and their families. We went to our annual
tea party ballet; it was fantastic as always. I also got to spend some time with my
son Eric; it made me realize that I really do miss living close to him.
It is time to say goodbye to the lazy days and sleepy nights of winter, and start
preparing for spring. Spring is not only the time for us to get healthier; it is time to
get our environment clean as well. The fairies will soon wake from their slumber,
and they do not like a dowdy garden. So let's go out there and make it beautiful for
them, the first nice weekend we will be outdoors cleaning and getting ready for the
parties to come.
My husband and I do not like the valley heat, so we make the most out of the time
we have during spring and spend it in the garden.
The Woodlands Witch
Lady Silver Crone
| Ostara Egg Decorating |
Spotted Egg
Here is another way to use wax and eggs "Light a candle and drip some was on your egg. Congratulations! You now have
spots! Now, you can dye it your next color, let it dry, and ad more was. I did this one using 3 spots of white, yellow, pink,
orange, etc. in that order. It was really pretty!"
Soak crepe paper in hot water in individual bowls or cups for each color. Add eggs and allow to sit in water until he desired
color is achieved. Remove with slotted spoon and allow to dry. Polish with small amount of cooking oil and soft cloth.
Here is another way to use wax and eggs "Light a candle and drip some was on your egg. Congratulations! You now have
spots! Now, you can dye it your next color, let it dry, and ad more was. I did this one using 3 spots of white, yellow, pink,
orange, etc. in that order. It was really pretty!"
Soak crepe paper in hot water in individual bowls or cups for each color. Add eggs and allow to sit in water until he desired
color is achieved. Remove with slotted spoon and allow to dry. Polish with small amount of cooking oil and soft cloth.
From The Kaboose Webpage
The Idea
Then, in 1969, Senator Nelson had another idea. He decided to have a special day to teach everyone about the things that
needed changing in our environment. He wrote letters to all of the colleges and put a special article in Scholastic Magazine to
tell them about the special day he had planned. (Most of the schools got this magazine and he knew that kids would help him.)
The Holiday
On April 22, 1970, the first Earth Day was held. People all over the country made promises to help the environment. Everyone
got involved and since then, Earth Day has spread all over the planet. People all over the world know that there are problems
we need to work on and this is our special day to look at the planet and see what needs changing. Isn't it great?
One person had an idea and kept working until everyone began working together to solve it. See what happens when people
care about our world?
A new look at junk, or change the world, one bit at a time...
Things to discuss when it comes to saving resources...
| The History On Earth Day |
| Newsletter |
| Spring Equinox Edition 20012 |
Witchcraft is recognized in the United States as a legitimate religion. In 1985, Dettmer v Landon (617 F Supp 592) the District
Court of Virginia pursuant to rule 52 (a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure ruled that Witchcraft is a legitimate religion
and falls within a recognizable religious category In 1986 in the Federal Appeals court fourth circuit. Butzner, J. affirmed the
decision (799 F 2d 929) Since in most cases Federal law, even case law supersedes state law in this type of matter, the
affirmation by judge Butzner clearly sets Witchcraft as a religion under the protection of constitutional rights. The Church of
Wicca (or Witchcraft) is clearly a religion for First Amendment purposes.
Members of the Church sincerely adhere to a fairly complex set of doctrines relating to the spiritual aspect of their lives, and in
doing so they have ultimate concerns' in much the same way as followers of more accepted religions. Their ceremonies and
leadership structure, their rather elaborate set of articulated doctrine, their belief in the concept of another world, and their
broad concern for improving the quality of life for others gives them at least some facial similarity to other more widely
recognized religions.
While there are certainly aspects of Wiccan philosophy that may strike most people as strange or incomprehensible. The mere
fact that a belief may be unusual does not strip it of constitutional protection. Accordingly the Court concludes that the Church
of Wicca. of which the plaintiff is a sincere follower. is a religion for the purpose of the free exercise clause." Williams. J. 1985
Dettmer v. Landon Supra. ³We agree with the district court that the doctrine taught by the Church of Wicca is a religion."
Butzner. J. 19864th Circuit. Dettmer v. Landon Supra.
The first amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religious belief. The USCA states
that a practice is a religion if it is for an individual a belief system for their whole life. The constitution does not wish to dictate
what an individual should hold as a belief system or how it is practiced and will not enter into a ruling on that. "Court may not
inquire into worthiness of parties' religious belief to ascertain whether they merit. First Amendment protection, but need only
consider whether beliefs are 'religious' in parties' own scheme of things and whether their beliefs are sincere. USCA Const.
Amend. I "To be a bona fide religious belief entitled to protection under either the First Amendment or Title VII, a belief must
be sincerely held" and within the believers own scheme of things religious. USCA Const. Amend. 1: Civil Rights Act 1964 701
et seq., 717 as amended 42 USCA 2000e-16"
The equal protection clause is guaranteed to all people and groups. If one group of people is entitled to equal protection than
all groups are. Witchcraft is accepted as a religion, therefore, Witches are entitled to the same protections as al] other
religious groups; under the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. ³First and Fourteenth Amendments insures
without qualification that a state may not forbid the holding of any religious belief or opinion, nor may it force anyone to
embrace any religious belief or to say or believe anything in conflict with his religious tenets. USCA Const. Amend. 1, (14
Africa v. Anderson 542 F. Supp. 224.") (16 FPD 212-216)
USCA ARTICLE VII # 2 states: "This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance thereof;
and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall be The Supreme Law of the
Land; and the Judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary
notwithstanding." In light of the fact that Dettmer v. Landon supra, being a Federally Adjudicated case. it is thereby protected
by the Constitution. No state can override this Federal adjudication. No Witch can be denied his/her civil liberty and right to be
a Witch, open and free, in any state in the land; within the parameters of the Law.
| Your Right In The United States |
As a reader of the Five Points Coven web page might know that we also have a newsletter called The Covens' Point. The
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of pagan
related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by May 15th for the Summerer Solstice edition. We will review the article and work with
the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of pagan
related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by May 15th for the Summerer Solstice edition. We will review the article and work with
the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
| Articles Wanted For The Coven's Point Newsletter |
| Choosing The Right Book Most Pagans that I know are avid readers, always seeking more knowledge and studying something. You have to read what interests you, or you'll be bored and you won't get anything out of what you read. I have Dyslexia and I do not read as much as I should. Of course, you will be interested in books relating to the path that you follow. If you're just starting to study that path, you will probably find that you get a special feeling about a certain subject. It is like you're being drawn to something in particular, it just feels right to you. Follow your intuition. Here is a short list of recommended books to get you started on your path. Practical Solitary Magic: By Nancy Watson Courting The Lady A wiccan Journey: By Patrick M McCollum True Magic: By Amber Drawing Down the Moon: By Margot Adler Book of Shadows: By Phyllis Curot Wicca: (A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham Living Wicca: (A Further Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham Everyday Magick: (Spells & Rituals for Modern Living): By Dorothy Morrison Buckand’s Complete Book Of Witchcraft: By Raymond Buckland The Pagan Man: By Issac Bonewits By Oak, Ash and Thorn: By D.J Conway Witchcraft : Theory and Practice: By De Angeles The Book of Druidry: By Ross Nichols The Druid Handbook: By John Michaels Greer Essential Asatru: By Diana L. Paxson Way of the Shaman: By Michael Harner |
| Recommended Reading List |
Recycling is when an object can be shredded, melted or
otherwise processed and then turned into new raw material -- for
instance, aluminum cans can be melted down to make more
cans, glass can make more glass, cardboard and paper make
more cardboard and paper, plastic bags and containers can be
turned into other plastic products. This takes some energy (very
little for aluminum), but it is a good choice.
Reusing is when you find a use for an existing item - like
decorating a bag and using it as a gift bag instead of buying
wrapping paper; putting leftovers into a clean container from
some other food; turning a used box into storage; decorating a
can to hold pencils; saving packing peanuts and boxes and
using them the next time you need to ship something or give a
gift.
otherwise processed and then turned into new raw material -- for
instance, aluminum cans can be melted down to make more
cans, glass can make more glass, cardboard and paper make
more cardboard and paper, plastic bags and containers can be
turned into other plastic products. This takes some energy (very
little for aluminum), but it is a good choice.
Reusing is when you find a use for an existing item - like
decorating a bag and using it as a gift bag instead of buying
wrapping paper; putting leftovers into a clean container from
some other food; turning a used box into storage; decorating a
can to hold pencils; saving packing peanuts and boxes and
using them the next time you need to ship something or give a
gift.
It is important to 'reuse' items wisely -- reusing packing peanuts to pack an item is by far the best way to use them. Recycling
them, if it is available, would be the next best thing. Turning them into an art project would be the least effective, and
eventually they will end up in the landfill. Now many of us love art projects, and would be using materials to make crafts
anyway, and so using an item that would otherwise be discarded may still be a sensible choice, it depends
them, if it is available, would be the next best thing. Turning them into an art project would be the least effective, and
eventually they will end up in the landfill. Now many of us love art projects, and would be using materials to make crafts
anyway, and so using an item that would otherwise be discarded may still be a sensible choice, it depends
The Spring Equinox occurs each year at the time when the Earth’s axis is even with the Sun, causing day and night to
be of nearly equal length. While the actual date can vary slightly, it is usually the 20th of March, as it is this year.
Ancient people all over the world recognized this time of Equinox as being a time of renewal, fertility, and rejoicing-the start of
Spring. Also, because of the equality of day and night, many ancient cultures saw it as a perfect time to honor both the God
and Goddess. Many cultures saw the Equinox as the rebirth of the Goddess just as Winter Solstice symbolized the birth of the
God. Almost universally, equinox was seen as an important time in the wheel of the year.
The modern holiday Easter has been heavily influenced by ancient practices honoring the Spring Equinox. While the Christian
holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, the traditional activities of egg decorating, egg hunts, the Easter Bunny, and
sweets baskets all reflect the old European Pagan reverence for the resurrection of Spring and the fertility of the Earth. In fact
the name “Easter” originates from the name of the Germanic goddess of Spring, Eostar, also called Ostara.
For modern Wiccans and Pagans, the importance of the holiday remains, and the it is celebrated either under the name of
Spring Equinox, Eostar, or most commonly among Wiccans, Ostara. Modern Pagans feel the need to connect to the energies
and cycles of the Earth, and we welcome the return of Spring with festivals, feasts, egg hunts for the kids, and rituals.
For the Ostara altar, or even just for home decorating in honor of the Equinox, springtime colors such as greens, lavenders,
pinks, and pastels are great for bringing the energy of spring inside. Cut flowers, decorated eggs, hares to symbolize fertility,
and candles dedicated to the directions and to the God and Goddess are also Ostara essentials.
Spring Equinox is also a great time to cleanse, refresh, and renew our bodies and homes. A cleansing fast consisting of fruit,
pure water, and nuts for a day or two prior to Ostara is great for cleansing our bodies of the heavy, rich foods of winter-in
preparation for Ostara magic and rituals. It is also a great time for spring cleaning around the house, not only to physically
clean our homes of the dust, grime, and soot of winter, but also to spiritually and magically cleanse our environment of old,
stale energies, and to let in the freshness and new beginnings that the energy of Spring encourages.
Have a blessed Ostara!
Light & Love
Sister Ocean
Draw a heavy crayon pattern on a hard boiled egg, then dip the egg into the egg dye. Leave in dye until desired color is
reached. Remove with slotted spoon and place in 200 degree F oven for a few minutes until wax is melted. Wipe with paper
towel and dip again in lighter dye to fill in pattern where wax was. Polish finished eggs with cooking oil and soft cloth
reached. Remove with slotted spoon and place in 200 degree F oven for a few minutes until wax is melted. Wipe with paper
towel and dip again in lighter dye to fill in pattern where wax was. Polish finished eggs with cooking oil and soft cloth
Crepe Paper Dye
Different color crepe paper
hot water
small bowls or cups
slotted spoon
cooking oil soft cloth
Different color crepe paper
hot water
small bowls or cups
slotted spoon
cooking oil soft cloth
Waxed Eggs
Wax crayons
paper towels
egg dyes in different colors
slotted spoon
cooking oil
soft cloth
Wax crayons
paper towels
egg dyes in different colors
slotted spoon
cooking oil
soft cloth
It's still too cold in March to plant your seeds outside; however you can get your seedlings started indoors. Ostara is the
prefect time to start planning, what you want to grow in the summer months. You may think it is too early, but now is the time
to give your plants a head start.
This is a wonderful way to get kids to play in the garden. Kids love to watch the seedling begin to sprout and grow. It may be
a few days to a week or more before you have baby plants popping up.
By the time Beltane rolls around, your seedling will be ready to put in the grown.
You'll need:
• A disposable baking pan with clear plastic lid
• Small peat pots
• Potting soil
• Seeds
Start by preparing the baking pan, I like the ones made from aluminum foil they tend to reflect the light better. If you are
going to use a black garden greenhouse kit, you will need to line it with a sheet of aluminum foil. Place the peat pots in the
baking pan or greenhouse kit then add soil to the pots. When you are ready you can place the seeds in to the pots,water
and watch then grow,
.
Place the peat pot with seedling into the grown.
| Make a Miniature Greenhouse for Ostara |
| Beauty Is Only Skin Deep |
| From Lady Silver's Pantry Spring Equinox Recipes |
Spring Clean Your Body with Little Effort: 9 Easy Things You Can Do Today
posted by Michelle Schoffro Cook
1. Throw out the trash…from your diet, that is. I probably don’t have to tell you what constitutes “trash”–fried foods, sugary
foods, and the 3 Ps: processed, prepared, and packaged food since they tend to be full of trans fats, sugar, and food
additives.
2. If you can’t read eat, don’t eat it. Read labels on the healthy food selections you choose. As a general rule: most of the
harmful chemicals you should be avoiding have long and complex names. If you can’t read the words on the package, don’t
buy it, and don’t eat it. Better yet, choose fresh foods that come directly in Nature’s packaging.
3. Drink at least 8 to 10 cups of pure water daily to help flush out toxins. For a really great detoxifying drink, add the fresh juice
of one lemon to a large glass of water first thing in the morning. Lemons help alkalize your body chemistry, contain more than
20 anti-cancer compounds, and help cleanse your liver, kidneys, and colon.
4. Cut back or eliminate meat and dairy products at least for a while to give your body a break. Meat is highly acid-forming in
your body, can be a strain on the kidneys and intestines (low water, no fiber, and requiring plenty of energy to digest) and
dairy is mucus-forming.
8. Choose healthy snacks throughout the day. Here are some quick and simple ideas: a handful of raw, unsalted almonds,
almond butter on celery sticks, nori rolls with avocado (vegetarian sushi), a veggie and sprout wrap, a berry smoothie with rice
or almond milk.
9. Go for a brisk walk outside. Exercise im
proves circulation, which brings fresh, oxygenated blood to your organs and tissues, thereby revitalizing them…and you.
Simple daily changes to your diet and lifestyle can add up to major health improvements, more energy, balanced moods, and
an overall feeling of wellbeing. Plus the changes will be manageable and you won’t feel depriv
posted by Michelle Schoffro Cook
1. Throw out the trash…from your diet, that is. I probably don’t have to tell you what constitutes “trash”–fried foods, sugary
foods, and the 3 Ps: processed, prepared, and packaged food since they tend to be full of trans fats, sugar, and food
additives.
2. If you can’t read eat, don’t eat it. Read labels on the healthy food selections you choose. As a general rule: most of the
harmful chemicals you should be avoiding have long and complex names. If you can’t read the words on the package, don’t
buy it, and don’t eat it. Better yet, choose fresh foods that come directly in Nature’s packaging.
3. Drink at least 8 to 10 cups of pure water daily to help flush out toxins. For a really great detoxifying drink, add the fresh juice
of one lemon to a large glass of water first thing in the morning. Lemons help alkalize your body chemistry, contain more than
20 anti-cancer compounds, and help cleanse your liver, kidneys, and colon.
4. Cut back or eliminate meat and dairy products at least for a while to give your body a break. Meat is highly acid-forming in
your body, can be a strain on the kidneys and intestines (low water, no fiber, and requiring plenty of energy to digest) and
dairy is mucus-forming.
8. Choose healthy snacks throughout the day. Here are some quick and simple ideas: a handful of raw, unsalted almonds,
almond butter on celery sticks, nori rolls with avocado (vegetarian sushi), a veggie and sprout wrap, a berry smoothie with rice
or almond milk.
9. Go for a brisk walk outside. Exercise im
proves circulation, which brings fresh, oxygenated blood to your organs and tissues, thereby revitalizing them…and you.
Simple daily changes to your diet and lifestyle can add up to major health improvements, more energy, balanced moods, and
an overall feeling of wellbeing. Plus the changes will be manageable and you won’t feel depriv
Below is a brief account of the history of Earth Day, written for children. Kids
can read this story out in front of the class or for family on the holiday. After
learning about the history of Earth Day, for more activities and fun including
coloring pages, crafts and recipes.
In the Beginning...
In 1963, former Senator Gaylord Nelson began to worry about our planet. (A
senator is a person that the people of the United States have chosen to help
make the laws.) Senator Nelson knew that our world was getting dirty and that
many of our plants and animals were dying.
He wondered why more people weren't trying to solve these problems. He
talked to other lawmakers and to the President. They decided that the
President would go around the country and tell people about these concerns.
He did, but still not enough people were working on the problem.
can read this story out in front of the class or for family on the holiday. After
learning about the history of Earth Day, for more activities and fun including
coloring pages, crafts and recipes.
In the Beginning...
In 1963, former Senator Gaylord Nelson began to worry about our planet. (A
senator is a person that the people of the United States have chosen to help
make the laws.) Senator Nelson knew that our world was getting dirty and that
many of our plants and animals were dying.
He wondered why more people weren't trying to solve these problems. He
talked to other lawmakers and to the President. They decided that the
President would go around the country and tell people about these concerns.
He did, but still not enough people were working on the problem.
Spring is upon us–at least in theory. Every year I get spring fever. I can’t wait to
get outside, open all my windows to let some fresh air in, and get down to
cleaning my house of all the clutter that tends to build up over the winter. I think
spring is the best season of the year. It’s a season of birth and new growth.
Flowers, trees, grass and shrubs all start budding with life. This spring, help
breathe new life into your body by incorporating some simple detox suggestions
to your day. Reducing the toxic burden on your body can spell: improved
digestion, increased energy, clearer sinuses, normalized blood pressure, fewer
allergy symptoms and hormonal imbalances, strengthened immunity to viruses,
sharper mental abilities, better sleep quality, fewer mood swings, healthier skin,
and much more. Here are 9 ways to spring cleanse your body without the harsh
regimes or deprivation of most detox plans:
get outside, open all my windows to let some fresh air in, and get down to
cleaning my house of all the clutter that tends to build up over the winter. I think
spring is the best season of the year. It’s a season of birth and new growth.
Flowers, trees, grass and shrubs all start budding with life. This spring, help
breathe new life into your body by incorporating some simple detox suggestions
to your day. Reducing the toxic burden on your body can spell: improved
digestion, increased energy, clearer sinuses, normalized blood pressure, fewer
allergy symptoms and hormonal imbalances, strengthened immunity to viruses,
sharper mental abilities, better sleep quality, fewer mood swings, healthier skin,
and much more. Here are 9 ways to spring cleanse your body without the harsh
regimes or deprivation of most detox plans:
5. Eat lots of vegetables. Make at least 70 percent of every meal vegetables. That’s
easier to do than you think: enjoy a fresh vegetable juice, a large green salad, or a
plate of steamed, roasted, or stir-fried veggies, for example.
6. Keep your meals small and simple but eat more frequently throughout the day. That
will help stabilize your blood sugar and free up some of the massive amount of energy
required for digestion.
7. Add 1/2 cup of cooked legumes (beans) to your diet daily to boost your fiber and
nutrient intake and balance your blood sugar levels-one of the keys to balanced energy
and weight.
easier to do than you think: enjoy a fresh vegetable juice, a large green salad, or a
plate of steamed, roasted, or stir-fried veggies, for example.
6. Keep your meals small and simple but eat more frequently throughout the day. That
will help stabilize your blood sugar and free up some of the massive amount of energy
required for digestion.
7. Add 1/2 cup of cooked legumes (beans) to your diet daily to boost your fiber and
nutrient intake and balance your blood sugar levels-one of the keys to balanced energy
and weight.
Medieval Herb Garden
Medieval herb gardens were a collection of plants for a variety of uses; often divided into separate raised beds. There were
kitchen herb plants for seasoning, dying fabrics, use around the house, and as part of a stew type dish called pottage. Other
beds contained medicinal or physic herbs for medicines or religious ceremonies.
Some plants and herbs are still in use today, although most are no longer used for the same exact purposes. Oftentimes a
plant such as rosemary could be used for multiple purposes such as cleansing, seasoning and warding off bugs and evil spirits
so it wasn’t necessarily confined to a single garden space. Medieval gardens also typically had fences or enclosures of some
sort, and raised turf benches as a seating area to allow enjoyment of the garden.
The following plants are all herb plants that were found in medieval garden designs in some form or another although it is by
no means conclusive. The medieval era lasted over a hundred years so gardening trends changed over time just as is true
today.
Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) – A personal favorite of mine, lavender is still widely grown today and used for a variety
of purposes. Hardy and easy-to-grow you can find detailed information about lavender plants on the lavender plant profile.
‘Lady’ is a cultivar that blooms from seed the first year or select bedding plants already started for quick blooms.
Thyme (Thymus spp.) – Thyme is another herb used as a culinary herb when cooking but was also used during medieval
times to burn as incense for warding off evil spirits or to cleanse from disease. Thyme is a hardy perennial herb and come in a
bush form or as a creeping ground cover. Thyme foliage is also often evergreen – See the Plant Profile for more details about
this useful herb plant.
Bee balm is also sometimes called wild bergamot because it has a fragrance similar to bergamot orange plants. Hardy in zones
4-8 grow bee balm in full sun to part shade where it will spread easily if it feels comfortable. Powder mildew can be a problem
so select resistant cultivars like ‘Jacob Cline’ or ‘Marshall’s Delight’. ‘Petite Delight’ is a compact monarda cultivar with
extremely high resistance as is ‘Petite Wonder’ a paler pink flowering form.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – Salvia is a huge genus but Salvia officinalis refers to the culinary herb. Sage leaves are usually
grey-green, nicely textured and are the part of the plant used for cooking. In the medieval era gardens sage was also grown
for religious reasons as they were considered a sacred herb. Sage prefers full sun and well-drained moderate soil and will
produce purple flowers in the summer that can hold their own in a mixed border. ‘Purpurea’ has purple leaves and ‘Icterina’ is
multi-colored with bright yellow and green leaves.
Medieval herb gardens were a collection of plants for a variety of uses; often divided into separate raised beds. There were
kitchen herb plants for seasoning, dying fabrics, use around the house, and as part of a stew type dish called pottage. Other
beds contained medicinal or physic herbs for medicines or religious ceremonies.
Some plants and herbs are still in use today, although most are no longer used for the same exact purposes. Oftentimes a
plant such as rosemary could be used for multiple purposes such as cleansing, seasoning and warding off bugs and evil spirits
so it wasn’t necessarily confined to a single garden space. Medieval gardens also typically had fences or enclosures of some
sort, and raised turf benches as a seating area to allow enjoyment of the garden.
The following plants are all herb plants that were found in medieval garden designs in some form or another although it is by
no means conclusive. The medieval era lasted over a hundred years so gardening trends changed over time just as is true
today.
Lavender (Lavendula angustifolia) – A personal favorite of mine, lavender is still widely grown today and used for a variety
of purposes. Hardy and easy-to-grow you can find detailed information about lavender plants on the lavender plant profile.
‘Lady’ is a cultivar that blooms from seed the first year or select bedding plants already started for quick blooms.
Thyme (Thymus spp.) – Thyme is another herb used as a culinary herb when cooking but was also used during medieval
times to burn as incense for warding off evil spirits or to cleanse from disease. Thyme is a hardy perennial herb and come in a
bush form or as a creeping ground cover. Thyme foliage is also often evergreen – See the Plant Profile for more details about
this useful herb plant.
Bee balm is also sometimes called wild bergamot because it has a fragrance similar to bergamot orange plants. Hardy in zones
4-8 grow bee balm in full sun to part shade where it will spread easily if it feels comfortable. Powder mildew can be a problem
so select resistant cultivars like ‘Jacob Cline’ or ‘Marshall’s Delight’. ‘Petite Delight’ is a compact monarda cultivar with
extremely high resistance as is ‘Petite Wonder’ a paler pink flowering form.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – Salvia is a huge genus but Salvia officinalis refers to the culinary herb. Sage leaves are usually
grey-green, nicely textured and are the part of the plant used for cooking. In the medieval era gardens sage was also grown
for religious reasons as they were considered a sacred herb. Sage prefers full sun and well-drained moderate soil and will
produce purple flowers in the summer that can hold their own in a mixed border. ‘Purpurea’ has purple leaves and ‘Icterina’ is
multi-colored with bright yellow and green leaves.
| Herb talk |
| A friend of mine's daughter is doing a report on witchcraft in the Renaissance era, so she asked me if I wouldn't mind helping her with information and props. Looking for information that might be useful to her, I ran across this paper. This paper has been in my file cabinet for who knows how long. I thought it might be fun to add it to the newsletter, I do know that most of us know a thing or two about herbs, still here it is. |
Apothecary’s Rose (Rosa gallica var. officinalis) – This lovely rose
grows on a shrubby plant that can spread via suckers if grown on own root
but was often used in medieval gardens both for medicinal and religious
purposes. The rose plant grows 2-5’ and is disease and pest resistant with
4” fragrant flowers. Apothecary’s rose will tolerate poor soil and part shade
making it an excellent choice for less-than-ideal conditions in zones 3-10.
See this blog with an authentic rose recipe from the medieval era.
Dill (Anethum graveolens) – A widely used and attractive herb plant, dill
is also an excellent choice for cut flowers or cottage gardens. Dill plants
are beautiful with large clusters of yellow flowers that attract a variety of
beneficial insects, and fine cut foliage that blends nicely with other plants.
Dill is an annual herb that will self-sow readily in the garden but should be
kept away from fennel to avoid cross-pollination.
grows on a shrubby plant that can spread via suckers if grown on own root
but was often used in medieval gardens both for medicinal and religious
purposes. The rose plant grows 2-5’ and is disease and pest resistant with
4” fragrant flowers. Apothecary’s rose will tolerate poor soil and part shade
making it an excellent choice for less-than-ideal conditions in zones 3-10.
See this blog with an authentic rose recipe from the medieval era.
Dill (Anethum graveolens) – A widely used and attractive herb plant, dill
is also an excellent choice for cut flowers or cottage gardens. Dill plants
are beautiful with large clusters of yellow flowers that attract a variety of
beneficial insects, and fine cut foliage that blends nicely with other plants.
Dill is an annual herb that will self-sow readily in the garden but should be
kept away from fennel to avoid cross-pollination.
Angelica (Angelica archangelica) – A short-lived herb, Angelica will self-sow in the
garden to keep a fresh supply each year. This herb plant is hardy zones 3-9 and the
leaves are nice in salads or dried for potpourri. Angelica is often used to flavor liquors and
gives gin and vermouth their distinctive flavors. Grow Angelica in part-shade, rich soil that
is moist but well-drained. The pretty herb plant will produce large airy clusters of small
white flowers and grow 4-6’ tall.
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) – Another common name for bee balm is “Oswego tea
plant” because Oswego Indians used the herb leaves in tea. Monarda is a 2-3’ tallplant
with bright red or pink flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds and honeybees,
hence the name bee balm.
garden to keep a fresh supply each year. This herb plant is hardy zones 3-9 and the
leaves are nice in salads or dried for potpourri. Angelica is often used to flavor liquors and
gives gin and vermouth their distinctive flavors. Grow Angelica in part-shade, rich soil that
is moist but well-drained. The pretty herb plant will produce large airy clusters of small
white flowers and grow 4-6’ tall.
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) – Another common name for bee balm is “Oswego tea
plant” because Oswego Indians used the herb leaves in tea. Monarda is a 2-3’ tallplant
with bright red or pink flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds and honeybees,
hence the name bee balm.
| Copyright © 2007 Five Points Coven Inc. All rights reserved. All info on this site is sole property of Five Points Coven Inc. may not be duplicated without permission. |
Leaf Print Eggs
Instead of opting for the classic egg-dyeing technique this Easter, turn a new leaf with this reverse-stenciling method.
Small flat leaves (we used fern, cilantro, dill, thyme, and mint leaves)
Hard-boiled white eggs
Nylon stockings, cut into 3-inch-long sections
Rubber bands
Water
White vinegar
Food coloring
Large glasses, one for each dye bath (be sure they're wide enough to hold an egg)
Spoon
Lay a leaf on an egg, then cover it with a section of nylon stocking to hold it in place.
Pull together both open ends of the stocking, then twist the ends together and secure them with a rubber band.
For each dye bath, mix 1/2 cup warm water, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and 10 to 20 drops of food coloring in a glass. Carefully
submerge the nylon-wrapped egg in the bath and let it soak for about 4 minutes.
Use a spoon to remove the egg from the dye bath and set it on a covered work surface. Carefully remove the rubber band,
nylon, and leaf. Allow the egg to dry completely before further handling it.
Milk Carton Bunny Basket
Collect and stash your Easter loot in this colorful, long-eared basket
Scissors or craft knife
Half-gallon milk or juice carton
Stapler
Pastel construction paper
Glue or double-sided tape
Hole punch
Pipe cleaners
Googly eyes
With scissors or a craft knife (adults only), remove one panel of the carton (on the same side as the open spout) and save it to
make the handle. Staple the open spout closed.
Cover the sides of the carton with one color of construction paper, using glue or double-sided tape to affix. Trim to fit.
Punch a hole in the center of the the spout ridge and insert pipe cleaners for whiskers. Glue on a pair of large googly eyes.
For ears, cut out large paper ear shapes from the same color you used to cover the carton. Cut pink shapes a size smaller
and glue them in place in the middle of the ears. Staple the ears to the top of the bunny base so they stand up.
For a handle, trim the cut carton side, cover it with paper, and staple it to the basket.
Instead of opting for the classic egg-dyeing technique this Easter, turn a new leaf with this reverse-stenciling method.
Small flat leaves (we used fern, cilantro, dill, thyme, and mint leaves)
Hard-boiled white eggs
Nylon stockings, cut into 3-inch-long sections
Rubber bands
Water
White vinegar
Food coloring
Large glasses, one for each dye bath (be sure they're wide enough to hold an egg)
Spoon
Lay a leaf on an egg, then cover it with a section of nylon stocking to hold it in place.
Pull together both open ends of the stocking, then twist the ends together and secure them with a rubber band.
For each dye bath, mix 1/2 cup warm water, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and 10 to 20 drops of food coloring in a glass. Carefully
submerge the nylon-wrapped egg in the bath and let it soak for about 4 minutes.
Use a spoon to remove the egg from the dye bath and set it on a covered work surface. Carefully remove the rubber band,
nylon, and leaf. Allow the egg to dry completely before further handling it.
Milk Carton Bunny Basket
Collect and stash your Easter loot in this colorful, long-eared basket
Scissors or craft knife
Half-gallon milk or juice carton
Stapler
Pastel construction paper
Glue or double-sided tape
Hole punch
Pipe cleaners
Googly eyes
With scissors or a craft knife (adults only), remove one panel of the carton (on the same side as the open spout) and save it to
make the handle. Staple the open spout closed.
Cover the sides of the carton with one color of construction paper, using glue or double-sided tape to affix. Trim to fit.
Punch a hole in the center of the the spout ridge and insert pipe cleaners for whiskers. Glue on a pair of large googly eyes.
For ears, cut out large paper ear shapes from the same color you used to cover the carton. Cut pink shapes a size smaller
and glue them in place in the middle of the ears. Staple the ears to the top of the bunny base so they stand up.
For a handle, trim the cut carton side, cover it with paper, and staple it to the basket.
