It's Autumn in our hemisphere of the planet and if you are lucky enough to live in a region where the leaves change colors, it is quite possible that you are enjoying a spectacular explosion of color all around you right now. If your area has not received the right mix of rain, temperature and humidity your leaves will not look good at all. You will see pasty browns and dull yellows before the leaves finally fall to the ground.
Last year in Maine, our colors were yucky, but this year, we are fortunate! I took my camera out over the past week and captured some wonderful shots for you to enjoy. One of the places I stopped was a churchyard in Belgrade Lakes. I was told they had over 1400 pumpkins of all size ranges and was very surprised to hear that the pumpkins were grown by Navajo Indians in New Mexico and shipped to Maine for our Halloween pleasure. They do this every year!! Go figure!! And good for our Native American brothers and sisters for reaching out and becoming involved in creating income for their people!
I wanted to capture photos from more areas, but the leaves reached their 'peak color' in the past few days and already have either dropped to the ground or are a terribly dull brownish hue.
So please enjoy the slide show! It is a bit 'long' but I think you will enjoy it!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Thursday, October 04, 2007
It's Fair Time in the Country!
It is the tail end of Fair time in Maine and I went to the Farmington Fair in my area about two weeks ago.
I haven't been in a couple of years so John and I spent four hours walking around. We spent time in the Exhibition Hall looking at a variety of submissions by residents in surrounding towns. There were categories in baking, photography, oil and watercolors, knitting, crocheting, tatting, quilting, rug making, basketry, woodworking, and agriculture.
There were products for sale such as jellies, jams, preserves, honey, syrups, fudge and handmade crafts.
Walking outside there were additional vendors selling a variety of items including; bulky knitted sweaters, sweatshirts, jewelry, leather wallets, hot tubs, and food! Foods of all types including complete homemade meals and lobster rolls. There was even one Thai food vendor.
The carnival rides were there. We always ride the Tilt-A-Whirl because it makes me laugh and giggle in wild abandonment like a four year old, and it is the only ride I feel "safe" on. I have this "thing" about being so many feet above the ground unless I am structurally well-supported.
We were at the Fair during hours when the horses were racing and John, who loves horses and watches horse racing on TV has never attended one in person, so we watched one and then he placed several bets. He thoroughly enjoyed himself and won a few (I say a few) dollars. It was fun!!
We also visited the animal exhibits which are always interesting for me. It's the petting zoo I never got to participate in as a child because petting zoos not not exist. There was the usual variety of lambs, ducks, special breeds of chickens, llamas, a donkey, miniature horse, cows and Bulls! They caught my eye in a big way! Those creatures are HUGE ! When we first entered their building, John and I wondered would it be safe? They were in open stalls, not tied in, and they are gigantic! They could easily kill a human with size alone, yet they were so peacefully docile. It was a moving experience for us both. Resting on all fours, these animals stood almost 6 feet. Their legs down to their hooves were massive! I asked if I could pet one and was given permission. I was humbled at their calmness, and the feel of their body...... warm and silky. He weighed 4400 pounds and did not even flinch as I moved my hand on his hip area. I was impressed with at him for his relaxed calmness, and myself for having the nerve to get that close and touch. I was born and raised in the city, and touching anything other than a dog or cat is unusual (smiles).
I find most farm animals to be friendly and eager to interact with human beings. They are inquisitive and loving; much like babies, toddlers, and children under 7. It is refreshing to be in their company. It brings out the innocence and the way it is supposed to be on this planet. If only we could spread this interactive lovingness to everyone on the planet, life would be so wonderful and peaceful!!
There was also a building set aside for businesses wishing to expose you to their products. There were the usual local businesses, and there were a few "new age" vendors offering massage and magnetic jewelry to stop or ease body pain. Magnets, when correctly applied are excellent at stopping pain. But you must know the "rules" of magnetics. Improperly used, they can create problems. There is information available about this on Google and some books on healing will have a chapter or two on magnets. I personally got instant relief from shoulder blade ache when I jokingly asked John to put a small round magnet (used in crafting) on the spot that was painful. He held it there for all of 60 seconds and the pain disappeared and did not creep back!
So be aware that there are different forms of healing available if you need it. The body does not always have to be drugged in order to bring relief or to heal. If you are interested in learning more about magnetic application, here are some links for you to explore:
Magnetic Therapy Websites:
http://www.northpolemagnets.com/understanding_magnetic_therapy.html
http://www.emaxhealth.com/6/459.html
http://www.naturesherbal.com/Healing_Magnets.htm
People who use a medical device such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, or insulin pump, should not use magnets because they may affect the magnetically controlled features of such devices.
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/magnet/magnet.htm
And now for the SlideShow!
I haven't been in a couple of years so John and I spent four hours walking around. We spent time in the Exhibition Hall looking at a variety of submissions by residents in surrounding towns. There were categories in baking, photography, oil and watercolors, knitting, crocheting, tatting, quilting, rug making, basketry, woodworking, and agriculture.
There were products for sale such as jellies, jams, preserves, honey, syrups, fudge and handmade crafts.
Walking outside there were additional vendors selling a variety of items including; bulky knitted sweaters, sweatshirts, jewelry, leather wallets, hot tubs, and food! Foods of all types including complete homemade meals and lobster rolls. There was even one Thai food vendor.
The carnival rides were there. We always ride the Tilt-A-Whirl because it makes me laugh and giggle in wild abandonment like a four year old, and it is the only ride I feel "safe" on. I have this "thing" about being so many feet above the ground unless I am structurally well-supported.
We were at the Fair during hours when the horses were racing and John, who loves horses and watches horse racing on TV has never attended one in person, so we watched one and then he placed several bets. He thoroughly enjoyed himself and won a few (I say a few) dollars. It was fun!!
We also visited the animal exhibits which are always interesting for me. It's the petting zoo I never got to participate in as a child because petting zoos not not exist. There was the usual variety of lambs, ducks, special breeds of chickens, llamas, a donkey, miniature horse, cows and Bulls! They caught my eye in a big way! Those creatures are HUGE ! When we first entered their building, John and I wondered would it be safe? They were in open stalls, not tied in, and they are gigantic! They could easily kill a human with size alone, yet they were so peacefully docile. It was a moving experience for us both. Resting on all fours, these animals stood almost 6 feet. Their legs down to their hooves were massive! I asked if I could pet one and was given permission. I was humbled at their calmness, and the feel of their body...... warm and silky. He weighed 4400 pounds and did not even flinch as I moved my hand on his hip area. I was impressed with at him for his relaxed calmness, and myself for having the nerve to get that close and touch. I was born and raised in the city, and touching anything other than a dog or cat is unusual (smiles).
I find most farm animals to be friendly and eager to interact with human beings. They are inquisitive and loving; much like babies, toddlers, and children under 7. It is refreshing to be in their company. It brings out the innocence and the way it is supposed to be on this planet. If only we could spread this interactive lovingness to everyone on the planet, life would be so wonderful and peaceful!!
There was also a building set aside for businesses wishing to expose you to their products. There were the usual local businesses, and there were a few "new age" vendors offering massage and magnetic jewelry to stop or ease body pain. Magnets, when correctly applied are excellent at stopping pain. But you must know the "rules" of magnetics. Improperly used, they can create problems. There is information available about this on Google and some books on healing will have a chapter or two on magnets. I personally got instant relief from shoulder blade ache when I jokingly asked John to put a small round magnet (used in crafting) on the spot that was painful. He held it there for all of 60 seconds and the pain disappeared and did not creep back!
So be aware that there are different forms of healing available if you need it. The body does not always have to be drugged in order to bring relief or to heal. If you are interested in learning more about magnetic application, here are some links for you to explore:
Magnetic Therapy Websites:
http://www.northpolemagnets.com/understanding_magnetic_therapy.html
http://www.emaxhealth.com/6/459.html
http://www.naturesherbal.com/Healing_Magnets.htm
People who use a medical device such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, or insulin pump, should not use magnets because they may affect the magnetically controlled features of such devices.
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/magnet/magnet.htm
And now for the SlideShow!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Got Milk ??!! - Organic Dairy Farming
John and I were invited by our friends Randy and Jill Bates for a tour of their expanded dairy farm!
The Bates come from 'multi-generational' dairy families and made the decision to become "organic" about two years ago because organic farming is in demand, and you receive approximately one-third or more for your product.
Dairy farming is hard work! If the nation had to depend upon me to supply us with milk, they would be 'out of luck!' I am serious!!
The Bates have about 75 cows, but only 35 are producing milk. The remaining cows cannot produce milk until they have given birth, and it takes approximately 2 years after a cow is born before it begins puberty and goes into "heat." When a cow goes into "heat" she is ready to become pregnant.
Dairy farming is a science. A lot of planning goes into it. I've found out a lot of information from Jill and Randy, and I don't know how they keep up with it all!
Along with feeding the cows, you have to keep track of a number of things such as which cow is in 'heat' and is "available" for breeding. When it is time to breed a cow you only have a 24 to 48 hour 'window' to get the semen inserted at the mouth of the cervix (yes; they are just like a human female). Of course, all of this is done artificially now, so you have to place a request for semen to be delivered and inserted. You have to pay $15 for insertion, plus a minimum of $50 for a shot of semen. The semen price is determined by the bull's breed and his pedigree. Yes! Cows are pedigreed just like any other prized animal.
If the cow does not become pregnant (you know because she will go back into heat in another 21 days), you have to go through the entire process again. Semen; once inserted, is only active for about 12 hours (run boys run!). If a cow is having trouble becoming pregnant you can choose to have a "pregnancy check" performed by a veterinarian. The vet gives a physical exam and chemical work is so done. The chemical process takes about 35 days to determine if all of her reproductive 'equipment' is in good physical condition.
Jill told me that it is a big business for those who provide bull semen. The people involved house and pen the bulls, collect, freeze and store semen for delivery when cows are in heat.
Dairy farmers have to keep books showing detailed histories for each cow. After calving, a cow gives milk for 305 days, and it is not advisable to allow a cow to become pregnant for two months. Her system needs "rest" and "recuperation."
If a cow gives birth to a male, he is sold to a "sale barn" after it reaches seven days old.
When a cow becomes pregnant, she will give birth nine months later (like a human).
The Bates have approximately 544 acres of land. Three-hundred and seventy-four acres are used for managed woodland and to harvest wood for fuel. The remaining acreage is utilized for crops (100 acres) and pasture (70 acres). Pasture must have access to drinking water and the Bates have 9 natural ponds. What a life these cows live!
If you are an organic dairy farmer, you have to treat your cows differently from a conventional dairy farmer. I asked Randy what steps he had to take in order to do so, and he said that the cows must have access to pasture land, but the government is 'somewhat vague' about this.
His own personal definition and practice is: "During pasture season (when grass is growing) all cows one year in age and older should receive nearly all of their nutrition from pasture land, supplemented with a special grain mixture. The grain required for organic feed is composed of: corn, wheat, soybeans, peas, and an assorted range of minerals. The grain is "costly" but the cows love it!! It is like a desert to them."
In the cold months when the ground has stopped producing grass; cows are fed dry hay, grain, and balage. Dry hay and balage are basically the same thing (grass) but are processed slightly different. Dry hay is grass that has been cut, dried by the sun, and stored in a building without being wrapped in plastic. Balage is grass cut while green and allowed to 'wilt' for a few hours; then it is machine wrapped in plastic. Wrapping in plastic ferments and preserves it.
If an organic cow becomes sick, you cannot give it chemicals. It must be treated with homeopathic remedies. If antibiotics are required, they must try homeopathic antibiotics first (there are quite a few... Humans, take note). If they do not "work" and a chemical antibiotic has to be used, then the cow must be sold to a conventional dairy farmer.
Jill told me that when you are a farmer, you have to wear many hats and wear them well. You not only have to know how to produce your product, but you must maintain financial books, books for the livestock, you must be a scientist, a welder, a plumber, an electrician, a mechanic, a landscaper, a doctor; you name it, you must be it!
I asked what a "typical" day was for Randy and here is what he said:
He gets up at 4:30 AM; goes to the barn at 5:30 to milk and feed the cows for two hours. Depending upon the season he will work on crops for haying, repairs of anything needing attention (and something always needs attention), he will work on fencing and maintaining farm equipment. He heads back to the barn to do another milking between 4 PM to 6. In the winter, he has to add another hour to the milking process because you have to feed and clean out the stalls. In the warmer months they basically feed themselves. The only thing they get fed manually is the special grain they love so much.
Randy and Jill have a son and daughter still at home who helps them with the farm. Nathan, age 21 helps with harvesting crops, repairing and maintaining equipment. He will help with the milking if Randy needs it, or if Randy, for some reason cannot milk.
Allison, age 19 is still in school (she will graduate in 2008). She performs a variety of chores in the morning and evening when able to (schoolwork prevails). Allison will also fill in with milking if Randy is not able to do so.
Jill keeps all of the books required to run the dairy business. She runs the household (cleaning, washing clothes, cooking, painting, wallpapering, etc) and she also has to be "on call" to run at a moment's notice to purchase a part for equipment repair. In haying season (they managed to prepare and harvest 15,000 bales of dry hay and 450 bales of balage), she pitches in as well. Jill also finds time to help others who need it, when they need it. She helps her other with keeping her books and takes her to medical appointments, cleaning house, etc. Jill also helps out when needed in our Town Office.
I asked Randy if he had any unfulfilled dreams surrounding his farming life, and he said, No. He told me he is extremely happy, and would not trade his life for anything! He is very content and happy! How many people do you know who can honestly say that about their profession?? Not many, I am sure!
By the way; the Bates sell their organic milk to Hood and it is processed, sold and marketed under the Stonyfield name. For more information and details about Stonyfield's products, click on the link below:
http://www.stonyfield.com/OurProducts/Milk.cfm
Another note: I find cows to be highly intelligent, and gentle. They are perceptive and curious just like humans.
Now, of course there are some pictures........
The Bates come from 'multi-generational' dairy families and made the decision to become "organic" about two years ago because organic farming is in demand, and you receive approximately one-third or more for your product.
Dairy farming is hard work! If the nation had to depend upon me to supply us with milk, they would be 'out of luck!' I am serious!!
The Bates have about 75 cows, but only 35 are producing milk. The remaining cows cannot produce milk until they have given birth, and it takes approximately 2 years after a cow is born before it begins puberty and goes into "heat." When a cow goes into "heat" she is ready to become pregnant.
Dairy farming is a science. A lot of planning goes into it. I've found out a lot of information from Jill and Randy, and I don't know how they keep up with it all!
Along with feeding the cows, you have to keep track of a number of things such as which cow is in 'heat' and is "available" for breeding. When it is time to breed a cow you only have a 24 to 48 hour 'window' to get the semen inserted at the mouth of the cervix (yes; they are just like a human female). Of course, all of this is done artificially now, so you have to place a request for semen to be delivered and inserted. You have to pay $15 for insertion, plus a minimum of $50 for a shot of semen. The semen price is determined by the bull's breed and his pedigree. Yes! Cows are pedigreed just like any other prized animal.
If the cow does not become pregnant (you know because she will go back into heat in another 21 days), you have to go through the entire process again. Semen; once inserted, is only active for about 12 hours (run boys run!). If a cow is having trouble becoming pregnant you can choose to have a "pregnancy check" performed by a veterinarian. The vet gives a physical exam and chemical work is so done. The chemical process takes about 35 days to determine if all of her reproductive 'equipment' is in good physical condition.
Jill told me that it is a big business for those who provide bull semen. The people involved house and pen the bulls, collect, freeze and store semen for delivery when cows are in heat.
Dairy farmers have to keep books showing detailed histories for each cow. After calving, a cow gives milk for 305 days, and it is not advisable to allow a cow to become pregnant for two months. Her system needs "rest" and "recuperation."
If a cow gives birth to a male, he is sold to a "sale barn" after it reaches seven days old.
When a cow becomes pregnant, she will give birth nine months later (like a human).
The Bates have approximately 544 acres of land. Three-hundred and seventy-four acres are used for managed woodland and to harvest wood for fuel. The remaining acreage is utilized for crops (100 acres) and pasture (70 acres). Pasture must have access to drinking water and the Bates have 9 natural ponds. What a life these cows live!
If you are an organic dairy farmer, you have to treat your cows differently from a conventional dairy farmer. I asked Randy what steps he had to take in order to do so, and he said that the cows must have access to pasture land, but the government is 'somewhat vague' about this.
His own personal definition and practice is: "During pasture season (when grass is growing) all cows one year in age and older should receive nearly all of their nutrition from pasture land, supplemented with a special grain mixture. The grain required for organic feed is composed of: corn, wheat, soybeans, peas, and an assorted range of minerals. The grain is "costly" but the cows love it!! It is like a desert to them."
In the cold months when the ground has stopped producing grass; cows are fed dry hay, grain, and balage. Dry hay and balage are basically the same thing (grass) but are processed slightly different. Dry hay is grass that has been cut, dried by the sun, and stored in a building without being wrapped in plastic. Balage is grass cut while green and allowed to 'wilt' for a few hours; then it is machine wrapped in plastic. Wrapping in plastic ferments and preserves it.
If an organic cow becomes sick, you cannot give it chemicals. It must be treated with homeopathic remedies. If antibiotics are required, they must try homeopathic antibiotics first (there are quite a few... Humans, take note). If they do not "work" and a chemical antibiotic has to be used, then the cow must be sold to a conventional dairy farmer.
Jill told me that when you are a farmer, you have to wear many hats and wear them well. You not only have to know how to produce your product, but you must maintain financial books, books for the livestock, you must be a scientist, a welder, a plumber, an electrician, a mechanic, a landscaper, a doctor; you name it, you must be it!
I asked what a "typical" day was for Randy and here is what he said:
He gets up at 4:30 AM; goes to the barn at 5:30 to milk and feed the cows for two hours. Depending upon the season he will work on crops for haying, repairs of anything needing attention (and something always needs attention), he will work on fencing and maintaining farm equipment. He heads back to the barn to do another milking between 4 PM to 6. In the winter, he has to add another hour to the milking process because you have to feed and clean out the stalls. In the warmer months they basically feed themselves. The only thing they get fed manually is the special grain they love so much.
Randy and Jill have a son and daughter still at home who helps them with the farm. Nathan, age 21 helps with harvesting crops, repairing and maintaining equipment. He will help with the milking if Randy needs it, or if Randy, for some reason cannot milk.
Allison, age 19 is still in school (she will graduate in 2008). She performs a variety of chores in the morning and evening when able to (schoolwork prevails). Allison will also fill in with milking if Randy is not able to do so.
Jill keeps all of the books required to run the dairy business. She runs the household (cleaning, washing clothes, cooking, painting, wallpapering, etc) and she also has to be "on call" to run at a moment's notice to purchase a part for equipment repair. In haying season (they managed to prepare and harvest 15,000 bales of dry hay and 450 bales of balage), she pitches in as well. Jill also finds time to help others who need it, when they need it. She helps her other with keeping her books and takes her to medical appointments, cleaning house, etc. Jill also helps out when needed in our Town Office.
I asked Randy if he had any unfulfilled dreams surrounding his farming life, and he said, No. He told me he is extremely happy, and would not trade his life for anything! He is very content and happy! How many people do you know who can honestly say that about their profession?? Not many, I am sure!
By the way; the Bates sell their organic milk to Hood and it is processed, sold and marketed under the Stonyfield name. For more information and details about Stonyfield's products, click on the link below:
http://www.stonyfield.com/OurProducts/Milk.cfm
Another note: I find cows to be highly intelligent, and gentle. They are perceptive and curious just like humans.
Now, of course there are some pictures........
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
A Walk In The Woods.....
John and I have been attending Sporting Clay Shoots these past few weekends. A majority of these Shoots are held on acres and acres of beautiful woods. I don't shoot. I really have no interest in shooting, but I like accompanying John. He likes to shoot clay targets flying through the air to see how many he can "kill" and I like capturing the moments with my digital camera.
I love being in the woods! There is something calming and peaceful being surrounded by Mother Nature's bounty and beauty! It's an entirely different world being surrounded by trees, ferns, stones, rocks and bushes....
It brings the blood pressure down. It creates peace in your soul and your Spirit is able to communicate with you with ease while you are in the woods.
Join me on a peaceful "walk in the woods....."
I love being in the woods! There is something calming and peaceful being surrounded by Mother Nature's bounty and beauty! It's an entirely different world being surrounded by trees, ferns, stones, rocks and bushes....
It brings the blood pressure down. It creates peace in your soul and your Spirit is able to communicate with you with ease while you are in the woods.
Join me on a peaceful "walk in the woods....."
Friday, August 24, 2007
The Latest Adventure.......
Last weekend John and I attended a two-day Shoot at Silverton's Sporting Ranch in Canaan, Maine http://flurrieclays.blogspot.com/. If you wish to look at a slide show of those photos, click on the link.
It was more of an adventure for me to take photos. I took a book and knitting just in case I got bored, but did not have a chance to use either while at the Ranch!
Instead of driving back and forth from the house both days, we booked a room at the Comfort Inn in Waterville. I tried to get a "Non-Smoking" room, but none were available. The other hotels in the area were either all booked (Best Western Inn) or too expensive (Holiday Inn). The EconoLodge will never get my business because they place their bathroom sinks in the bedroom, and I need privacy unless I am staying alone.
So how bad could a "smoking room" be?? Boy! As soon as we stepped off the elevator the stale cigarette smoke hit us in the throat, and the room's air was almost un-breatheable! Even turning up the air conditioner did not help. Fortunately I packed my vials of peppermint, orange and wintergreen oils. I place drops on my pillow each night before going to sleep because it smells soothingly wonderful. I put some on the upholstery and the pillows in the hotel room and it made a tremendous difference in the air!
The following day while we were out, Housekeeping cleaned the air with an ionizer and you couldn't even tell you were staying in a "smoking" room after that.
An unexpected delight was a free HOT breakfast with "limited waitress service." Breakfast was buffet style: scrambled eggs, home fries, link sausages and tiny pancakes. Also available was a large variety of cold cereal, breads for toasting, pastries, coffee, tea, orange and apple juice. The last time I stayed in a hotel, breakfast was served but it was all cold items. So this was a welcomed change!
Silverton Ranch is surrounded by acres and acres of beautiful corn fields. It was a wonderful two days in the outdoors!
I did get to stop in Watervilles's wonderful yarn store (The Yardgoods Store). They sell yarn, beautiful fabrics for sewing, and sewing machines. I wish I could have brought the entire store home with me! I got to actually feel the various yarns I see pictured in catalogs and the online yarn stores. It was a great tactile experience!! (Only a person who works with yarn understands the need to touch the material before you buy it).
One evening after leaving Silverton's we ate at Friendlys. I hadn't eaten there for over 20 years and read they were having trouble attracting customers and revamped their menu, so in we went. John loves to get an appetizer no matter where we eat, so we opted for the Waffle Fries! My god....They were good!! I recommend you stop in and try them. They are extruded potatoes in the shape of miniature waffles, fried golden brown and drenched with cheddar cheese and bacon bits, served with sour cream and ranch dressing for dipping. They were to "die" for!! The serving was enough for 4 people! Here is the link for finding a Friendlys near you: http://www.friendlys.com/menu/lunch/.
A restaurant to avoid like the plague is Govenors!!
http://www.governorsrestaurant.com/?area=features
The food served at this place is old and stale; and a fish meal ordered by a nearby customer filled the air with a stinky fishy odor; indicating that the fish was extremely old. We should have gotten up and left, but we were tired and hungry. I ordered chicken medallions with cranberry stuffing and baked potato with pickled beets. How bad could that be, right?? Pretty bad!! I took it to the waitress and told her I could not and would not eat it! The chicken medallions were dried out, the gravy was dried out, the potato was old as well... the only edible portion were the beets. John's meat loaf must have seen better days and could have been used to tile a wall. His baked potato was "days old" too. With branches in five other locations, do not patronize this eatery! In my opinion, they should be closed down!!!
Maine is an incredibly beautiful state. There is very little that is ugly or an eyesore, and on the days when everything is green, the humidity and temperature is perfect, you feel as if you are in a portion of paradise!
Riding along the rural areas (which most of Maine is) there are signs beckoning you to buy corn, strawberries, blueberries, cukes and apples from roadside farms. You even run upon small stands and shacks selling live lobsters at a reduced price. No wonder people travel from all over to vacation here. It's a little slice of beauty, peace, and wonderful quiet! It's soothing to your soul.
When leaving the Comfort Inn, I picked up some brochures of available places to visit in the surrounding area. If you like to fish, here is a wonderful excursion for you. I don't even like to fish and I thought it was unusual and exciting: Drive up north to Mount Desert Island http://www.acadiamagic.com/SouthwestHarbor.html and board the Vagabond owned by the Masako Queen Deep Sea Fishing Company. They take you 8-20 miles out of the the Southwest Harbor where you may catch cod, cusk, cunner, mackerel, school pollack, sculpin, redfish, and occasionally a wolf fish or a mako shark. They offer a 3/4 day or half day trip. Half day trips are fun for the entire family; enjoy porpoises, seals, eagles, osprey and occasionally a whale. On all trips they haul a lobster trap for each person on the boat. Any legal lobsters in the trap they haul for you are yours to keep with their compliments. The Vagabond is a fast, comfortable, off-shore commercial fishing boat, coast guard certified with a "head" and well equipped. Fares start at $34 for 12 and under; $44 for adults. The price includes: rod, bait, fish cleaning and maybe a lobster(s). No charge for lost tackle. All tackle is free! If you don't fish and just want to enjoy the trip deduct $5 from the fare. Moderate consumption of beer or wine coolers are OK.. no hard liquor and no large coolers of alcoholic beverages allowed. What to bring: warm clothing, rubber-soled shoes, sunscreen, camera and lunch. Snacks, chips, soda and water is available on the boat. Trips not recommended for children under 5. Call for information and reservations: 207-244-5385, 7 to 8 AM. I am typing all this information because they do not have a website. September is the last month until June of the following year to enjoy the day with these folks.
Here is a short slide show of what goes on in the world of Sporting Clay Shooting.
It was more of an adventure for me to take photos. I took a book and knitting just in case I got bored, but did not have a chance to use either while at the Ranch!
Instead of driving back and forth from the house both days, we booked a room at the Comfort Inn in Waterville. I tried to get a "Non-Smoking" room, but none were available. The other hotels in the area were either all booked (Best Western Inn) or too expensive (Holiday Inn). The EconoLodge will never get my business because they place their bathroom sinks in the bedroom, and I need privacy unless I am staying alone.
So how bad could a "smoking room" be?? Boy! As soon as we stepped off the elevator the stale cigarette smoke hit us in the throat, and the room's air was almost un-breatheable! Even turning up the air conditioner did not help. Fortunately I packed my vials of peppermint, orange and wintergreen oils. I place drops on my pillow each night before going to sleep because it smells soothingly wonderful. I put some on the upholstery and the pillows in the hotel room and it made a tremendous difference in the air!
The following day while we were out, Housekeeping cleaned the air with an ionizer and you couldn't even tell you were staying in a "smoking" room after that.
An unexpected delight was a free HOT breakfast with "limited waitress service." Breakfast was buffet style: scrambled eggs, home fries, link sausages and tiny pancakes. Also available was a large variety of cold cereal, breads for toasting, pastries, coffee, tea, orange and apple juice. The last time I stayed in a hotel, breakfast was served but it was all cold items. So this was a welcomed change!
Silverton Ranch is surrounded by acres and acres of beautiful corn fields. It was a wonderful two days in the outdoors!
I did get to stop in Watervilles's wonderful yarn store (The Yardgoods Store). They sell yarn, beautiful fabrics for sewing, and sewing machines. I wish I could have brought the entire store home with me! I got to actually feel the various yarns I see pictured in catalogs and the online yarn stores. It was a great tactile experience!! (Only a person who works with yarn understands the need to touch the material before you buy it).
One evening after leaving Silverton's we ate at Friendlys. I hadn't eaten there for over 20 years and read they were having trouble attracting customers and revamped their menu, so in we went. John loves to get an appetizer no matter where we eat, so we opted for the Waffle Fries! My god....They were good!! I recommend you stop in and try them. They are extruded potatoes in the shape of miniature waffles, fried golden brown and drenched with cheddar cheese and bacon bits, served with sour cream and ranch dressing for dipping. They were to "die" for!! The serving was enough for 4 people! Here is the link for finding a Friendlys near you: http://www.friendlys.com/menu/lunch/.
A restaurant to avoid like the plague is Govenors!!
http://www.governorsrestaurant.com/?area=features
The food served at this place is old and stale; and a fish meal ordered by a nearby customer filled the air with a stinky fishy odor; indicating that the fish was extremely old. We should have gotten up and left, but we were tired and hungry. I ordered chicken medallions with cranberry stuffing and baked potato with pickled beets. How bad could that be, right?? Pretty bad!! I took it to the waitress and told her I could not and would not eat it! The chicken medallions were dried out, the gravy was dried out, the potato was old as well... the only edible portion were the beets. John's meat loaf must have seen better days and could have been used to tile a wall. His baked potato was "days old" too. With branches in five other locations, do not patronize this eatery! In my opinion, they should be closed down!!!
Maine is an incredibly beautiful state. There is very little that is ugly or an eyesore, and on the days when everything is green, the humidity and temperature is perfect, you feel as if you are in a portion of paradise!
Riding along the rural areas (which most of Maine is) there are signs beckoning you to buy corn, strawberries, blueberries, cukes and apples from roadside farms. You even run upon small stands and shacks selling live lobsters at a reduced price. No wonder people travel from all over to vacation here. It's a little slice of beauty, peace, and wonderful quiet! It's soothing to your soul.
When leaving the Comfort Inn, I picked up some brochures of available places to visit in the surrounding area. If you like to fish, here is a wonderful excursion for you. I don't even like to fish and I thought it was unusual and exciting: Drive up north to Mount Desert Island http://www.acadiamagic.com/SouthwestHarbor.html and board the Vagabond owned by the Masako Queen Deep Sea Fishing Company. They take you 8-20 miles out of the the Southwest Harbor where you may catch cod, cusk, cunner, mackerel, school pollack, sculpin, redfish, and occasionally a wolf fish or a mako shark. They offer a 3/4 day or half day trip. Half day trips are fun for the entire family; enjoy porpoises, seals, eagles, osprey and occasionally a whale. On all trips they haul a lobster trap for each person on the boat. Any legal lobsters in the trap they haul for you are yours to keep with their compliments. The Vagabond is a fast, comfortable, off-shore commercial fishing boat, coast guard certified with a "head" and well equipped. Fares start at $34 for 12 and under; $44 for adults. The price includes: rod, bait, fish cleaning and maybe a lobster(s). No charge for lost tackle. All tackle is free! If you don't fish and just want to enjoy the trip deduct $5 from the fare. Moderate consumption of beer or wine coolers are OK.. no hard liquor and no large coolers of alcoholic beverages allowed. What to bring: warm clothing, rubber-soled shoes, sunscreen, camera and lunch. Snacks, chips, soda and water is available on the boat. Trips not recommended for children under 5. Call for information and reservations: 207-244-5385, 7 to 8 AM. I am typing all this information because they do not have a website. September is the last month until June of the following year to enjoy the day with these folks.
Here is a short slide show of what goes on in the world of Sporting Clay Shooting.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Tomatoes!
John wanted to try growing something to eat this spring. We have both grown plants and flowers in our 'city life,' but neither one of us have ever planted something to eat.
John is the more 'adventurous' of the two of us, so off we went to a private garden center and came home with two container cherry tomato plants. We re-potted them into larger containers; watered them with Miracle-Gro and a few drops of "Crystal Energy," (a special treatment that makes water more "effective") and I placed a small single-terminated crystal into each pot to increase the 'goodies' found in our air and sun. A few weeks ago, we started harvesting cherry tomatoes, and boy are they good!
I cannot describe the taste... they are both sweet and a bit sour; full bodied in flavor, nothing like you buy in the stores.
My "beef" with just about anything "fresh" you buy in supermarkets is a lack of full-bodied flavor. If you have ever tasted food purchased directly from a farm, you will understand what I am talking about.
There is something vastly different about allowing a fruit or vegetable to ripen on a vine, stark or tree that brings out a complete level of taste. What we purchase in a store isn't allowed to fully ripen, and it shows in the taste.
I am usually always disappointed whenever I decide to buy fruit because it lacks full flavor. So to taste the wonderful difference of our first-grown tomatoes is lovely, and I think it is safe to assume that next Spring, we will purchase more plants, expand, and explore our newly found "farmer's thumb."
Here are a few photos of our small bounty......
John is the more 'adventurous' of the two of us, so off we went to a private garden center and came home with two container cherry tomato plants. We re-potted them into larger containers; watered them with Miracle-Gro and a few drops of "Crystal Energy," (a special treatment that makes water more "effective") and I placed a small single-terminated crystal into each pot to increase the 'goodies' found in our air and sun. A few weeks ago, we started harvesting cherry tomatoes, and boy are they good!
I cannot describe the taste... they are both sweet and a bit sour; full bodied in flavor, nothing like you buy in the stores.
My "beef" with just about anything "fresh" you buy in supermarkets is a lack of full-bodied flavor. If you have ever tasted food purchased directly from a farm, you will understand what I am talking about.
There is something vastly different about allowing a fruit or vegetable to ripen on a vine, stark or tree that brings out a complete level of taste. What we purchase in a store isn't allowed to fully ripen, and it shows in the taste.
I am usually always disappointed whenever I decide to buy fruit because it lacks full flavor. So to taste the wonderful difference of our first-grown tomatoes is lovely, and I think it is safe to assume that next Spring, we will purchase more plants, expand, and explore our newly found "farmer's thumb."
Here are a few photos of our small bounty......
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
A Few Quiet Hours in the "Country"
I know you might think that I am a little crazy, but last week John and I had to take a ride for business purposes and our destination ended in Chesterville, about 40 minutes from our home. While John took care of the business-end, I wandered the grounds with my camera. I knew we would be there for a while, so I also took a book AND my knitting just in case I got bored. I can't stand to be bored..... so I always leave the house 'prepared....'
I didn't know the scenery would be so intriguingly beautiful. Actually, since living in Maine, I have yet to see ugly landscape. Every turn, every stretch of road is always breathtaking. If you like greenery, you are definitely in the right place here. So out pops my camera and snap, snap, snap away I go.
We discovered that the person at the end of our destination lived on a pond, and as a sideline, he also has a wood business. He cuts down trees, debarks and slices them to be sold to people building houses, camps, or furniture. I love wood in all stages of existence. So you will see some photos of lumber in the slideshow, along with a few pictures of the bottom of the pond. Surprisingly I discovered mussel shells on the bottom. Who-knew??? Loons sang in the background as I walked around. Chipmunks and squirrels scampered about (as they do at my house). And I almost lost my camera because a spider landed on my hand and basic instinct made me fling it away even though it was the hand that held my camera! My camera went tumbling down a grassy knoll...... good thing it was all soft grass or I am sure it would have been the end of my trusty friend!!
How is this area different from where I live? It isn't really, except it sits on the shore of a large pond and the roads to get there are long, twisty, and unpaved. It's a deeper setting of woods than where my home is located.
So I hope you enjoy the slideshow.....
I didn't know the scenery would be so intriguingly beautiful. Actually, since living in Maine, I have yet to see ugly landscape. Every turn, every stretch of road is always breathtaking. If you like greenery, you are definitely in the right place here. So out pops my camera and snap, snap, snap away I go.
We discovered that the person at the end of our destination lived on a pond, and as a sideline, he also has a wood business. He cuts down trees, debarks and slices them to be sold to people building houses, camps, or furniture. I love wood in all stages of existence. So you will see some photos of lumber in the slideshow, along with a few pictures of the bottom of the pond. Surprisingly I discovered mussel shells on the bottom. Who-knew??? Loons sang in the background as I walked around. Chipmunks and squirrels scampered about (as they do at my house). And I almost lost my camera because a spider landed on my hand and basic instinct made me fling it away even though it was the hand that held my camera! My camera went tumbling down a grassy knoll...... good thing it was all soft grass or I am sure it would have been the end of my trusty friend!!
How is this area different from where I live? It isn't really, except it sits on the shore of a large pond and the roads to get there are long, twisty, and unpaved. It's a deeper setting of woods than where my home is located.
So I hope you enjoy the slideshow.....
Monday, July 23, 2007
Our Annual Cabbage Island Trip
John and I went to Cabbage Island last week. Last year we drove to the coast ourselves, but this year for the second time we travelled with the Seniors Plus group from Wilton, Maine. Everyone meets in a parking lot, we board the bus and we're on our way. Don't have to worry about traffic, looking out for road signs, filling up with gas or parking once we arrive. The price is right too.... $71 per person. That's not bad considering the ride to Boothbay Harbor is about 90 minutes away; We get the boat ride to the island, the generous meal, and on the way back we stop for ice cream (the ice cream is on us, not included).
I learned a new trick yesterday. I can now place a slideshow on my Blog so you can see the photos without having to scroll down. Hope you find it convenient to look at. If not; let me know.
I learned a new trick yesterday. I can now place a slideshow on my Blog so you can see the photos without having to scroll down. Hope you find it convenient to look at. If not; let me know.
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Boothbay, Maine Harbor Seal Watch...
John and I enjoyed a bus trip to the coast of Maine last week. We usually take a few trips to Boothbay Harbor each year; a quaint village loaded with trendy shops, restaurants, motels, and Bed and Breakfast inns. It reminds us of being on the Cape in Massachusetts, but doesn't have the extreme crowds of the Cape. Usually we take a ferry ride to Cabbage Island for its famous Lobster Feast, but this year we decided to take a Harbor Seal Watch cruise. We did it the 'easy' way by signing up with Seniors Plus; a Community Center in our area. You pay your fare and meet in a parking lot where you board a tour bus and get driven to your destination. You don't have to worry about traffic, following road signs, etc. When we arrived in Boothbay, we were treated to lunch at an Inn (nothing fancy, sandwich of your choice, beverage and dessert). I must say the dessert was very fancy. It was chocolate mousse served in a dark chocolate fluted shell. The shell was surrounded with a rich raspberry sauce and the mousse was topped with a small dollop of whipped cream. A little too rich for my palate, but I did eat the chocolate shell! It was delicious! After lunch, we had an hour to kill before our boat arrived at the dock so we looked through the various shops.
To my surprise I found a Quilting & Yarn Shop that was going out of business! The yarns they carried were 95 percent natural fibers, the rest were man-made and prices were marked down from 10- 20%. Of course I ooo'd over their wonderful stock and could not make up my mind what to buy; and everyone who buys yarn knows you have to take your time. Time was not something I had a lot of and I had to abandon the shop 'yarn-less'. What a bummer!!Wish the shop was closer to me, but a 90 minute drive is not feasible 'just for yarn.'
Back to the dock to board our ferry for the 80 minute cruise to see the summer colonies, islands and hopefully to spot a few seals on the island ledges. Considering everything involved, the price of $51 per person was quite reasonable.
Of course, you know I had my camera with me and I took over 100 photos! Don't panic; all of them will not be included in this posting. But I am sharing about 25 of them. Hope you enjoy the journey........
Leaving the Harbor
A Navy Ship in the waters from a harbor celebration that occurred two days before our arrival.
A very small Lighthouse
This is where the seals reside. There were some resting while we were in the area, but my camera lens is not powerful enough to get extreme closeups from a distance.
More Harbor views....
Or this one ......
Some fellow cruisers.....
Here is how a small boat is loaded into the waters and retrieved at the end of the season for storage.
To my surprise I found a Quilting & Yarn Shop that was going out of business! The yarns they carried were 95 percent natural fibers, the rest were man-made and prices were marked down from 10- 20%. Of course I ooo'd over their wonderful stock and could not make up my mind what to buy; and everyone who buys yarn knows you have to take your time. Time was not something I had a lot of and I had to abandon the shop 'yarn-less'. What a bummer!!Wish the shop was closer to me, but a 90 minute drive is not feasible 'just for yarn.'
Back to the dock to board our ferry for the 80 minute cruise to see the summer colonies, islands and hopefully to spot a few seals on the island ledges. Considering everything involved, the price of $51 per person was quite reasonable.
Of course, you know I had my camera with me and I took over 100 photos! Don't panic; all of them will not be included in this posting. But I am sharing about 25 of them. Hope you enjoy the journey........
This ship is a replica of the "Bounty" from Mutiny on the Bounty recently used in the remake released a few years ago starring Mel Gibson. Scenes using the ship was actually filmed off Boothbay Harbor.
Leaving the Harbor
This large log home is owned by an executive of the 3M Company.
I could not resist taking this photo. This woman reminds me of "Maxine" of the comics.
A Navy Ship in the waters from a harbor celebration that occurred two days before our arrival.
A very small Lighthouse
This is how you 'board' your boat when living on an outer island, and there is no dock...
I love rocks. I think they are beautiful!
This is where the seals reside. There were some resting while we were in the area, but my camera lens is not powerful enough to get extreme closeups from a distance.
More Harbor views....
Of course, it would be nice if this was my summer or fall home!
Or this one ......
Some fellow cruisers.....
Here is how a small boat is loaded into the waters and retrieved at the end of the season for storage.
Isn't this a pretty scene?
Here is a boat carrying lobster traps...
Another boat with traps.......
A view of Boothbay Harbor. A catholic church sets in the background.
The Inner Harbor.....
A nice small Schooner ......
Heading back to the docks....
This is what our ship looked like....
Friday, June 01, 2007
He Caught Fish!
In yesterday's post showing Crow's Pond I promised if John caught fish, I would take pictures. He caught some! He spent about 90 minutes standing on shore using Night Crawlers as bait and a quarter ounce lead weight. He says he kept his fishing rod in his hands the entire time instead of propping it to stand on its own and used a Shakespeare "Ugly Stick" purchased from Walmart. He caught three White Perch, three Yellow Perch, and one Small Mouth Bass.
Here are the photos..... And I must add, they taste delicious! I told John he might have to go fishing again next week and stay longer..!
Here are the photos..... And I must add, they taste delicious! I told John he might have to go fishing again next week and stay longer..!
Spring Photos ....... Spring Has Finally Arrived!!
Spring has finally arrived here in the Foothills of Maine! It certainly took long enough!! Trees are fully loaded with the most luscious light-green leaves! I love it! It is my favorite time of the year! If we could only keep Spring for nine months instead of three; then have Fall jump in for three months, life would be closer to paradise on the planet!
I accompanied John (my Heart-Mate) to the barbershop today where he learned of a new promising place to fish for Perch from Jack, his barber. After returning from a jaunt to Augusta to try out Red Robin Gourmet Burgers (by the way, it was fun and absolutely delicious), John and I found Jack's fishing recommendation in Farmington Falls. It is Crow's Pond. John is returning tomorrow with worms and his "Ugly Stick" fishing pole to try his luck. I'm staying home to knit......! Black flies are not my 'thing.' I can't stand the pests!! If John is successful, I will post a photo or two.
In the meantime; here are some photos I took from the shores of Crow's Pond.
This photo was taken of the bottom of the pond. I 'enhanced' the colors of the leaves so you could see them better.
Here is John; my Heart Mate...........
These last two photos were taken of a small dam in my town
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Fiddleheads - The Ferns You Can Eat!
Fiddleheads! What are they?? I too didn't know fiddleheads existed until I moved to rural Maine and saw them in our local supermarket. Curious, I purchased a package and Boy! Was I ever glad I did! I love asparagus and fiddleheads taste just like asparagus tips when lightly boiled in salted water, drained and tossed with butter! The trouble is fiddleheads are only available once a year in early spring when ferns are sprouting from a long winter's sleep.
That's right! Fiddleheads are the tips of the Ostrich Fern and are called fiddleheads because in their early stage they look like the rounded end of a fiddle. The photo above shows picked fiddleheads, washed and ready to cook.
Here is what the Ostrich Fern looks like sprouting from the ground. The rounded tops are the tasty "fiddleheads" and picked to eat as a delicacy. Because they are only available a few weeks a year the price is high. This year one of my supermarkets sold them for $5.99 a pound. But there are some good souls (god bless them) who sell them by the side of the road and their price is significantly less (thank goodness). This year, we got 3 pounds for ten dollars.
Fiddleheads are a Maine delicacy that appears early spring during April and May. When preparing for cooking carefully brush out and remove the brown scales. Wash and cook the heads in a small amount of lightly salted boiling water for 10 minutes (or a little less) or steam for 20 minutes (or less). Serve at once with melted butter. The quicker they are eaten, the more delicate their flavor. They may be served, like asparagus on toast. Cooked, chilled fiddleheads can also be served as a salad with an onion and vinegar dressing. I eat mine with steak, chicken, or pork chops. It's a wonderful tasting vegetable!
The Ostrich Fern fully grown......
Fiddleheads are a good source of vitamin A and C, niacin, magnesium, iron, potassium, zinc and phosphorus. So next time you walk through the woods and see ferns at your feet, I hope you remember the wonderful vegetable source you could have had on your table.
Bon Appetite!!!
Behold! The Lowly, Much Hated Dandelion
The Dandelion! Most people hate it with a passion. Each year they spend money and time killing it from their lawns because they believe it is a pesky weed and therefore think it is an eyesore. I would like to enlighten you to the truth about this flower. Mother Nature (thank goodness) is wiser than humans and always provides vegetation useful in alleviating the human condition. For each human ailment, Mother Nature provides a remedy, and the dandelion is one of them!
Dandelions are related to the sunflower family and is commonly used as a food. Its leaves are used in salads and as teas; and the roots are used as a coffee or tea substitute when roasted. It is often added to regular coffee to improve the flavor of coffee. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for centuries by various ancient cultures to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney and joint problems. It has been used as a blood purifier and to treat cancer. It has been, and still is being used to treat water retention.
Dandelion leaves and roots help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives. The leaves and roots also increase bile production in the gallbladder, and bile flow from the liver. Because of this, dandelion is recommended by some herbalist for people with sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow may help improve fat (including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.
Bees frequent the plant for its nectar, and many beekeepers swear dandelions help produce some of the world's best honey. Many wild birds rely on the seeds as a main staple of their diet.
The greens can be used in a variety of recipes and wine making.
Rich in vitamins and minerals; the leaves have a high content of vitamin A, as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. The most active ingredient in dandelions are eudesmanolide, and germacranolide. These two ingredients are only found in dandelions and are responsible for the dandelion's cleansing effect on the digestive system and liver.
In short, Dandelion Benefits are:
Recipes can be found online if you wish to pick some in your yard and experiment eating dandelion. Here is a simple one I found for you.
Leaves must be picked early before the flower has opened. If picked afterwards, the leaves can be extremely bitter. Look for new plants, ones that have not even sprouted a flower, as these will be of the best quality. After gathering several handfuls, wash them the same as lettuce in cold water. Once clean, thoroughly dry by shaking and laying out on a clean paper towel. The earlier in the year you pick dandelion, the better. Spring plants always make a better salad than late summer or fall plants. Here is the recipe:
Add raw dandelion greens to salads, or cook them like spinach. The greens can be found in the produce section of most health food stores, specialty markets, and some supermarkets. When buying, look for crisp, bright leaves, avoiding those with yellowing, browning, or wilted tips. Store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
So next time you look at a dandelion and panic thinking it is an obnoxious weed that must be destroyed because it is messing up the appearance of your lawn; think again! Mother Nature has placed a wonderful medicine and food at your fingertips FREE OF CHARGE!! Learn to take advantage of such bounty.....
Instructions for picking and drying dandelion can be found on Google. Let's begin looking at life a little differently and learn to truly appreciate the wonderful bounty that freely surrounds us... no going to the pharmacy or paying a doctor's fee.
Globally there are over 100 species of dandelions. Mother Nature placed them before us for a good reason; and since the planet is the most polluted it has ever been, and people are more unhealthy than ever recorded, it might be a good time to look around, become aware, and take advantage of what has been given to us by Mother Nature to cleanse our bodies and become healthy.
A field of Dandelions.... free Food and Medicine for the taking
Dandelions are related to the sunflower family and is commonly used as a food. Its leaves are used in salads and as teas; and the roots are used as a coffee or tea substitute when roasted. It is often added to regular coffee to improve the flavor of coffee. Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for centuries by various ancient cultures to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney and joint problems. It has been used as a blood purifier and to treat cancer. It has been, and still is being used to treat water retention.
Dandelion leaves and roots help stimulate digestion and are mild laxatives. The leaves and roots also increase bile production in the gallbladder, and bile flow from the liver. Because of this, dandelion is recommended by some herbalist for people with sluggish liver function due to alcohol abuse or poor diet. The increase in bile flow may help improve fat (including cholesterol) metabolism in the body.
Bees frequent the plant for its nectar, and many beekeepers swear dandelions help produce some of the world's best honey. Many wild birds rely on the seeds as a main staple of their diet.
The greens can be used in a variety of recipes and wine making.
Rich in vitamins and minerals; the leaves have a high content of vitamin A, as well as moderate amounts of vitamin D, vitamin C, various B vitamins, iron, silicon, magnesium, zinc, and manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. The most active ingredient in dandelions are eudesmanolide, and germacranolide. These two ingredients are only found in dandelions and are responsible for the dandelion's cleansing effect on the digestive system and liver.
In short, Dandelion Benefits are:
- a gentle diuretic
- can purify the bloodstream and liver, stimulating manufacture of bile
- decreases serum cholesterol and uric acid (uric acid creates gout, a form of arthritis)
- maximizes the performance of the kidneys, pancreas, spleen and stomach
- very beneficial to menopausal women
- effective in treating abscesses, anemia, boils, breast tumors, and cirrhosis of the liver
- may avert the development of age spots or breast cancers
- is a mild laxative
Are there any side effects or interactions using dandelion? Dandelion leaf and root should not be used by people with gallstones without supervision of a health care provider. People with an obstruction of the bile ducts should not take dandelion. In cases of stomach ulcer or gastritis, dandelion should be used cautiously, as it may cause an overproduction of stomach acid. Those experiencing fluid or water retention should consult a health practitioner before taking dandelion leaves.
The capsule form can be purchased from your local health food store or at online vitamin outlets.Recipes can be found online if you wish to pick some in your yard and experiment eating dandelion. Here is a simple one I found for you.
Leaves must be picked early before the flower has opened. If picked afterwards, the leaves can be extremely bitter. Look for new plants, ones that have not even sprouted a flower, as these will be of the best quality. After gathering several handfuls, wash them the same as lettuce in cold water. Once clean, thoroughly dry by shaking and laying out on a clean paper towel. The earlier in the year you pick dandelion, the better. Spring plants always make a better salad than late summer or fall plants. Here is the recipe:
- Two handfuls of clean, dried dandelion greens
- 5 strips of fried crisp bacon, cooled and broken apart
- half cup of vinegar
- small red onion - diced
- 3/4 teaspoon of sugar
Add raw dandelion greens to salads, or cook them like spinach. The greens can be found in the produce section of most health food stores, specialty markets, and some supermarkets. When buying, look for crisp, bright leaves, avoiding those with yellowing, browning, or wilted tips. Store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
So next time you look at a dandelion and panic thinking it is an obnoxious weed that must be destroyed because it is messing up the appearance of your lawn; think again! Mother Nature has placed a wonderful medicine and food at your fingertips FREE OF CHARGE!! Learn to take advantage of such bounty.....
Instructions for picking and drying dandelion can be found on Google. Let's begin looking at life a little differently and learn to truly appreciate the wonderful bounty that freely surrounds us... no going to the pharmacy or paying a doctor's fee.
Globally there are over 100 species of dandelions. Mother Nature placed them before us for a good reason; and since the planet is the most polluted it has ever been, and people are more unhealthy than ever recorded, it might be a good time to look around, become aware, and take advantage of what has been given to us by Mother Nature to cleanse our bodies and become healthy.
A field of Dandelions.... free Food and Medicine for the taking
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Fresh Off the Needles and Updated Baby Photos
My knitting needles are forever busy creating one thing or another. Here are the latest two!
This is a Sweater Vest for Woody using Caron's Simply Soft yarn.
This is a Scarf I knitted for myself using Homespun Yarn.
Here is Woody, dressed in a Fireman's outfit for Halloween
This is Woody with his brother Dom being held by their Aunt Jaz
And this is little Ruth. She has sort of been my guinea pig for knitting baby creations this past Fall and Winter. This photo won Ruth "Honorable Mention" in the LandsEnd Baby Contest online. Isn't she cute!!
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