Today Realize...

That if something no longer serves a purpose in your life, it is clutter. Clutter can be a physical thing or a belief that blocks your path. Holding on to things that don't feed your psyche will instead eat up your energy. Expand your energy today by getting rid of unwanted gifts, broken or useless items, self-defeating mental images, etc. Start this minute to create the life you imagined for yourself. We often get lost or turned around on our path while working to obtain the money we need for food, housing, raising a family etc. If you are not doing what you love, do one thing today to change it! Every time you do one thing, you are closer to doing or being what you imagined for yourself.

Have Another Cuppa...

Did you realize that drinking tea regularly for years may produce stronger bones? Studies have shown that those who drank tea on a regular basis for 10 or more years had higher bone mineral density in their spines than those who had not. Yet another reason to enjoy tea (not that I needed one!)

The Topaz...

Do you have someone in your life with a November birthday? If so, their traditional November birthstone is the Yellow Topaz. (December claims the blue topaz)The name topaz comes from the Greek topazos, meaning "a precious stone". If you are planning to gift them with a topaz, perhaps you would be interested in the gemstone meaning.

Believed in folklore to calm a bad temper and give strength, topaz was also ground into a powder form and used as a cure for asthma and insomnia. Topaz is said to give mental clarity, focus, perception, ability to grasp high-level concepts, confidence, personal power, and stamina.

It is also recommended for nervous system stress and stomach anxiety.

The Greeks believed it had power to increase strength and to make it's wearer invisible while the Romans believed it had power to improve eyesight. The Egyptians wore it as an amulet to protect them from injury.

Colors of Topaz range from white, colorless, yellow, brownish-yellow, pink, blue-ish, greenish and orange.

Irish Oat Scones

To know me is to know my scones. I bake them more often than anything else and a freezer without a scone is, well...just empty! I have replaced the butter in mine with "I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S NOT BUTTER" since my heart attack and can tell no difference! This is quite something coming from a scone snob such as I.


Here is a recipe I think you'll love if you adore scones as I do. Enjoy!

1 Cup toasted steel-cut oats (see note)
1 1/4 Cup buttermilk
1 Cup whole wheat flour
1/2 Cup all-purpose flour
1 Tablespoon light brown sugar
2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 Cup chopped dried fruit or currants, dried cranberries, or dried blueberries
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 Tablespoon heavy cream

Note: To toast steel-cut oats, place them in a preheated, 300-degree oven for approximately 20 minutes. Return the oats to a tightly covered container, storing in a cool spot.

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Butter a 9 inch pie plate and set aside. Combine oats and buttermilk in a small mixing bowl. Let stand for 25 minutes. Combine flours, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and dried fruit. When well combined, cut in butter to make coarse crumbs. Add oats and buttermilk and stir to combine. Do not overmix.

Lift up the dough and gently pat it into the prepared pie plate, gently molding to make a neat fit. Using a floured kitchen knife, score through the dough almost to the bottom, making 12 small wedges (or 6 as I do :). Combine cream and remaining brown sugar. Using a pastry brush, generously coat top. Place in preheated oven, and bake for 15 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven and immediately cut through wedges.

Serve hot with butter and jam.

Yield: 12 small scones or 6 nice sized scones.

Keep Ginger Around This Flu Season

Ginger is one of my favorite spices. Combined with cinnamon and cloves it evokes an aroma that is one of the "coziest" fragrances I can think of. Ginger has long been used as a natural treatment for colds and flu, and that will be helpful to know this flu season, as it poses many a threat to us. Many people find ginger to be helpful for food poisoning as well, which is not surprising given the positive effects it has upon the digestive tract.

Centuries ago, English herbalists believed that ginger was a "remedy" for rotting meat. It was also used for many other purposes, including insomnia, cold breasts, snakebites, swooning, and bad eyesight. Ginger was first introduced to Europe by Alexander the Great upon his return from Asia. At one time it maintained a good reputation as an aphrodisiac and it was believed that even the most prudent woman would be transformed into a vixen with the aid of ginger.

You should know that ginger root should not be consumed in doses exceeding 6 grams per day. To do so may damage the lining of the stomach and cause stomach ulcers. Also, do not take large doses of ginger if you are taking a blood-thinning drug. If you have any questions regarding herbs, spices, and your health, consult your physician. There are certain medications that do not mix well with them and it's possible to do more harm than good if you are not careful.

At the least, keep some ginger tea on hand this cold and flu season. If you like making your own teas here is a great recipe to try.

Ingredients:
4-6 thin slices of raw ginger
1 1/2 - 2 cups water
Juice from 1/2 lemon, or to taste
1-2 tbsp honey, or to taste
Preparation:
Peel the ginger and slice thinly to maximize the surface area. This will help you make a very flavorful ginger tea. Boil the ginger in water for at least 10 minutes. For a stronger tea, allow to boil for 20 minutes or more, and use more slices of ginger.

Remove from heat and add lemon juice and honey to taste.

Diabetic Orange Glazed Pumpkin Bundt Cake With Homemade Sugar Free Powdered Sugar Glaze..

Pumpkin is always a favorite fall and holiday item. There are few scents that convey the warmth and comfort of fall as well as the aroma of a pumpkin dish baking in the oven. That sweet, spicy smell wafting through the home is enough to calm even the most hurried holiday hostess. Not only are pumpkins a part of our fall decor, they are also a big part of our diet, and pumpkin is a healthy food we should all enjoy. Help the diabetic in your life enjoy pumpkin treats, too. Orange-glazed pumpkin bundt cake is a diabetic friendly recipe.

ORANGE-GLAZED PUMPKIN BUNDT CAKE

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole-wheat flour
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup Smart Balance Butter-Flavored Spread
1/2 cup Splenda
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 large egg or 1/4 cup egg substitute
1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/3 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp orange juice

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 6 cup bundt pan with non-stick cooking oil spray and set aside.

Combine flours, spice, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a medium mixing bowl and whisk to mix well. Set aside.

Combine butter flavored spread, Splenda and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl and beat with electric mixer at medium speed until well blended. Beat in egg and pumpkin. Reduce mixer speed to low, beat flour mixture into pumpkin mixture. Mix in buttermilk and vanilla just until moistened. Spoon the batter into pan and bake 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in bundt pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then remove from pan and cool completely on rack.

If you wish to use the glaze, combine the sugar free powdered sugar (recipe below) and orange juice in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed; add water a drop at a time if needed to reach drizzling consistency. Drizzle over cooled cake.

NOTE: This recipe was adapted from "The Big Book of Diabetic Desserts" by Jackie Mills.

*To make sugar-free powdered sugar:

Put 3/4 cup of Splenda Granular and 2 tablespoons cornstarch in a blender and blend until it is a very fine powder. 0 grams of sugar and only 4 carbs per tablespoon.
Now don't tell! Most people won't know the difference.

Scenting The Cottage With Irish Barmbrack...

In our cottage we love barmbrack any time of the year, but it's even more special during the Samhain/Halloween season. Note that I did't include the charms that are usually in barmbrack, but if you are thinking of making it for Samhain/Halloween, as is the tradition, you may want to include a few. Just be careful while eating it!

As you can see, I bake mine in cast iron instead of a cake type pan and it always turns out perfect. I love my cast iron and use it more often than not, especially for my Irish breads. I also double the recipe and make 2, one for the freezer. If you decide to do the same you won't be sorry! It freezes well and it's so nice to have on hand should you have visitors come by unexpectedly. A perfect treat with tea!

Here it is while rising...








Ingredients:
2 tea bags, or 3 tsp. loose tea (a strong black blend works best)
3 1/2 cups (12 oz, 350 g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, golden raisins/sultanas, currants, candied peel, dried cherries)
1 cup (8 fl oz, 240 ml) milk
1 tsp. sugar
2 tsp. dried active yeast (not instant yeast)
3 cups (1 lb, 450 g) strong bread flour (I used white flour but you can also use a mixture of white and wheat)
1 tsp. salt
1/4 cup (1 oz, 25 g) brown sugar
1/3 cup (3 oz, 75 g) butter or margarine
1 beaten egg
1 tsp. mixed spice (I used 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. cloves and 1/4 tsp. nutmeg)

Oven: Pre-heat to 350F (180C).

Start by making two cups (16 fl oz, 480 ml) of strong black tea.(I actually use 1 cup of strong tea and 1 cup of Bushmill's Irish Whiskey) Remove the tea bags, or strain the tea to remove the leaves. Soak the dried fruit in the tea. Ideally, the fruit should soak for several hours or even overnight, but if this is not possible, don't worry - just leave it soaking for as long as you can.

Warm the milk until it is warm..not hot. (you can do this in the microwave). Stir in the teaspoon of sugar and the yeast, and leave in a warm place for about 15 minutes or until it becomes frothy.

Mix the flour, salt and brown sugar in a large bowl. Rub in the butter or margarine. Add the frothy yeast, the beaten egg and the spice. Drain any remaining liquid from the fruit, then add the fruit to the mixture. Mix well to make a smooth dough (add extra flour if the mixture is too wet, I had to add almost another 1/2 cup of flour).

Turn the dough onto a floured board and knead it thoroughly. Place it in an oiled tin or low cast iron pot, cover with a cloth, and leave in a warm place to rise for 45 - 60 minutes; the dough should have doubled in size.

Place the tin in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes. The loaf will be ready when it sounds hollow when you tap on the top or a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Wait about 10 minutes before removing from pan. Cool the loaf on a wire rack before serving.

Hot Spiced Tea To Warm You

There are some times, especially during the holidays, when you'd like a warm beverage to serve your guests and not everyone likes coffee. This is also a drink that your children can enjoy.

This recipe is made with orange, cranberry, apple juice, and flavored with cinnamon candies, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and sugar. Just imagine simmering this and scenting your whole cottage while you settle back and enjoy a nice warm cup with a bit of shortbread or tea cake. The perfect drink for cold weather months ahead.

You'll find the amount in this recipe is enough for a large party sized percolator coffee pot or coffee urn that holds at least 24 cups but if you need less just reduce the recipe.

Spiced Tea

Ingredient List:
1-12 ounce Cranberry frozen concentrate juice, with correct amount of water
1-12 ounce Orange frozen concentrate juice, with correct amount of water
1-12 ounce Apple frozen concentrate juice, with correct amount of water
1 8 ounce package red hot cinnamon candies
4 cinnamon sticks
1/2 cup sugar
5 whole cloves

Kitchen Equipment Needed

24-cup or larger coffee maker or coffee urn (party size)

Instructions:

Step 1: Put concentrates with the correct amount of water as stated on each can of frozen concentrate in a large party percolator coffee pot.

Step 2: In the basket of coffee maker, put the package of cinnamon candies, cinnamon sticks (broken), sugar and cloves.

Step 3: Brew like coffee and serve hot with cinnamon sticks.

Oatcakes...

Oatcakes are to Scotland what a baguette is to the French. The flat cakes made mainly from oats have for centuries been considered the Scottish national bread. They are quick and easy to make and make a delicious snack or accompaniment to cheese or marmalade.

Irish oatcakes are unleavened cakes eaten with butter, cheese or honey. Irish oatcakes are one of the May Day recipes, prepared for Beltane, one of four Celtic Fire festivals.

Depending on the type of oats you are using, you will obtain different results and different flavors. There are many oatcake recipes but here are my favorites. Bake a batch to have with your favorite tea!

Scottish Oatcakes
Ingredients:
1 tsp. baking powder
1 c. sifted flour
1 tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. quick rolled oats
1/2 c. softened butter(I use "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter" with good results)
1/2 c. milk

Sift flour, sugar and baking powder and salt together. Mix in rolled oats. Cut in butter thoroughly. Gradually add milk, stirring until dough is formed. Roll dough on highly floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut in squares or rounds. Place on greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until slightly browned. Serve warm with butter, jam or cold as a cookie.

Irish Oatcakes
Ingredients:
6 ounces oatmeal
2 ounces flour
1 teaspoon salt
10 ounces warm water

In a bowl, mix flour, oatmeal and salt.
Add warm water slowly. Place the dough on a lightly floured board.
Roll and flatten to 1/4 inch thick. Cut into triangles.
Cook oatmeal triangles in a pan or griddle until both sides turn golden brown.
Serve buttered. Goes well with milk, wine and cheese or jams.

St. Brigid's Oatcakes (serves 4)
Ingredients:
2 cups uncooked, old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
2 1/2 cups sifted bread flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil spray

A day ahead, combine the oats and buttermilk in a small bowl. Blend thoroughly, cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the oat mixture from the refrigerator. Combine the bread flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Slowly add the oat mixture and stir with a wooden spoon 20 to 30 times, or until you have a smooth dough. Grease a baking sheet with the oil spray. Turn the dough onto the baking sheet, and use your hands to form a round, cake-shaped loaf about 1-inch thick. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the dough into 4 quarters. Move the quarters apart slightly, but keep them in the original round shape. Bake until the cakes are light golden brown and firm to the touch, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool slightly on a rack, and serve with butter and jam or preserves. Makes 1 round loaf (in quarters).

You Tell On Yourself...

I first posted this poem in October of 2008. I read it often to remind myself of how I want to project myself in the world. It is worth a repost every now and again and I hope you enjoy it.



You tell on yourself by the friends you seek,
By the very manner in which you speak,
By the way you employ your leisure time,
By the use you make of dollar and dime.

You tell on yourself by the things you wear,
By the spirit in which your burdens you bear,
By the type of things at which you laugh,
By the records you play on your phonograph.

You tell what you are by the way you walk,
By the things of which you delight to talk,
By the manner in which you can bear defeat,
By so simple a thing as how you eat.

By the books you choose from the library shelf,
By these things and more, you tell on yourself.
Author Unknown

Do You Love Fairies?

Come with me on a virtual fairy watching tour to a land where fairies abound. Ireland! Click here and we will visit a place in Tipperary where a webcam is hidden in an enchanted area. There is fairy ring close-by and you may see leprechauns and other Irish fairies such as pookas, banshees and merrows. Because the Leprechaun Watch is in the countryside, in a remote part of Ireland, there is only natural light and there will be little or nothing to see after dark and before dawn. Shhhh...we must be quiet...let us go there now...

Spiced Walnut Jar Gifts...

Did you know that there is historical evidence that nuts are the oldest form of food for man, birds, and wild animals? I bet prehistoric man would have loved this recipe! Present it in a pretty jar and you have a gift that your friends and family will love. My advice is to make extra. You're going to want some for yourself!

Ingredients:
2 teaspoons ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
5 cups water
1 pound walnut halves
4 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt or seasoned salt

Add ginger and allspice to water; bring to boil.

Drop in walnuts and boil about 3 minutes; drain well.

Spread walnuts in a shallow pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.

Remove from oven and toss with melted butter and garlic salt or seasoned salt. Store in a pretty jar.

The Chrysanthemum...

"My mysteries are forever unfolding."
If you were born between October 23 – November 21 your Celtic birth flower is the Chrysanthemum. You have many layers to you, and just as soon as someone thinks they have you identified, you pop out with another blossom of surprises. You like clarity and honesty in all things. In fact, when situations are murky or unhealthy you are the perfect sign to come in and clear the air or heal the situation. You are focused and tend to be serious in your emotions, but you are very intuitive and help others identify areas they need to work on for their own emotional growth. You are active and amorous with no end to suitors.

A very decorative plant, the chrysanthemum denotes nobility and royalty. It is particularly good for speeding up the rate and flow of spells and is a symbol of protection and cheerfulness.

Red Chrysanthemum... Love, Worship
White Chrysanthemum...Truth, Honesty, Protection Against Spirits

Happy Birthday Scorpio...October 24 - November 22

Known as the most intense of the zodiac signs, Scorpios are both powerful and passionate. Their tenacity and willpower are immense, their conviction strong (if not at times overwhelming), and yet Scorpios are also deeply sensitive and easily moved by their emotions. When inspired, it’s said that those born under this water sign can exceed limits in almost all endeavors. In fact, Scorpios are said to be more likely to become geniuses than those born under any other zodiac sign.

Your birth sign flower is the lush red peony. With their full shape and bold, passionate red color, these flowers embody both a sense of romance and power. Also regarded an as omen of good fortune and prosperity, they’re a fitting match for the Scorpio’s fierce potential.

Your Celtic zodiac would be the Reed tree if you were born between 28 October and 24 November. You tend to get drawn into gossip and scandals but love legends and folklore. You are complex, fearless, proud and independent and love to uncover real and important meanings about things.

The Spicy Aroma of Dark Gingerbread

Our Scented Cottage's scent of the day is a dark, rich, moist gingerbread bundt cake. With ingredients such as cocoa, fall spices and molasses, what could make a better cake for a chilly fall day in October?

I place a paper doily over the top when it's cooled and sprinkle with powdered confectioners sugar. When the doily is removed it leaves a wonderful, delicate design. You can also make a glaze to drizzle over the top.

Ingredients:
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
2 teaspoons ginger
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cloves
2 eggs
1 cup molasses
2/3 cup oil
1 cup water
powdered sugar -- if desired
Directions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 12 cup bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray and sprinkle it with flour.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, ginger, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves; mix well.

In medium bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add molasses and oil; beat well. Stir in water. Add egg mixture to flour mixture; beat just until combined. Pour batter into sprayed and floured pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 60 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack for 15 minutes. Invert on serving plate. Cool 30 minutes or until completely cooled. Just before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Thyme For Cold And Flu Season...

Do you grow thyme in your garden? If not, you might want to pick some up at the market on your next shopping trip. Thyme yields a volatile oil with powerful microbe killing properties. It's also a rich source of antioxidants that fight cellular and tissue damage. Because of its antiseptic properties, it's a well known ingredient in mouth washes and throat lozenges. Herbal tea prepared with thyme is not only wonderfully refreshing, but can also be given to provide relief from colds and sore throat.

Did you realize there are more than 100 varieties of thyme? It has been used for centuries and it's a hardy plant that you can grow indoors during the winter months. The most popular varieties for using in your cooking are lemon, English, and French.

All you need to keep this herb happy and healthy this winter inside your home is full sun, at least 6 hours per day. Turn your plant for even growth because it tends to grow toward the light source. Water thoroughly then allow top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. You don't need to worry about fertilizing during the winter months as the growth is slow in winter. Keep in mind that thyme pretty much likes to grow itself. In fact, the more you fuss with it, the less hardy it will be.

Interested in legend and lore as I am? Oberon, the king of the fairies in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, said, "I know a bank where the wild thyme blows," referring to the bed of thyme in which Titania, the fairy queen, slept. In old day France and England, people often created a bed of thyme to attract the fairy folk and make them feel at home in the garden.

In the Middle Ages, it was often sprinkled on church floors together with lavender, to eliminate unwanted odors, and the ancient Egyptians used thyme in the mummification process. It has also been associated with courage since ancient times. The Greeks, the Romans, the Scottish Highlanders, and the Knights of the Middle Ages all thought it to bring one strength and courage.

The ancient Greeks sprinkled thyme in their baths and it's been said that when the Greeks stated that someone "smelled of thyme" it meant that the person was elegant, refined, and stylish. This herb was also sacred to the Druids, who used it to treat depression and ward off negativity.

Here is a soothing recipe to try should you be striken with the cold or flu this season.

Ingredients:
1 ripe pear, cored and chopped
1 inch (or more) of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme (use high quality non-irradiated green leave thyme)
1 1/2 cups unprocessed apple juice

Combine ingredients in a small pot with lid and simmer 5-8 minutes. Pour in bowl or cup and consume. Take three to four times per day as needed. This is ideal prior to bedtime.

Pear is soothing to the throat and contains an antiviral caffeic acid, which is an immune stimulant. Ginger possesses ten or more antiviral compounds. Thyme contains thymol, which is an antimicrobial agent containing more than a dozen antiseptic compounds.

Scent Your Cottage With...Pumpkin Bars!

What better way to enjoy a nice fall day than to spend it having tea and nibbling on moist, fragrant, pumpkin bars with your family, friends or neighbors. This recipe will be sure to delight. Enjoy!

Ingredients..

Bars:
4 eggs
1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
15-ounce can pumpkin
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

Icing:
8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Using an electric mixer at medium speed, combine the eggs, sugar, oil and pumpkin until light and fluffy. Stir together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt and baking soda. Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix at low speed until thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth. Spread the batter into a greased 13 by 10-inch baking pan. Bake for 30 minutes. Let cool completely before frosting. Cut into bars.

To make the icing: Combine the cream cheese and butter in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the sugar and mix at low speed until combined. Stir in the vanilla and mix again. Spread on cooled pumpkin bars.

Here's To Healthy Snacking

Lately, there has been a lot in the news concerning obesity in America. And not just in adults--our children are over-weight, also.

It's not surprising, considering the advertising dollars that are spent each year aimed at persuading children that potato chips, candy bars and other "junk food" are good for them.

While we may not be able to change the world, we can change what is available to our children in our own homes.

Here are a few healthy alternatives to those fat and sugar laden "store-bought" snacks.

Peanut Butter Balls
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1 cup toasted wheat germ
1 tablespoons powdered milk

Mix ingredients well, shape into balls. Roll in coconut if desired. Store in refrigerator.

Popcorn
Popcorn is a great snack food. It is a good source of fiber and low in calories--until you add toppings. Don't add salt, but try sprinkling grated Parmesan or American cheese on top.

Zipper top bags of popcorn are handy for taking along on picnics and other outings.

Honey "Cracker Jacks"
6 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup butter or margarine
6 cups popped popcorn
1 cup peanuts

Melt honey and butter in microwave until melted and blended. Let cool. Mix peanuts and popcorn; pour honey mixture over and stir till coated. Spread in single layer in shallow baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes. Stir several times during baking. Watch closely so it doesn't burn.

Store in airtight container.

Remove Tough Stains From Your Clothing

While the usual reaction is to jump up in horror when something is spilled or smeared, the fact is that most stains are quite easily removed with the right solvent or cleaning agent. However, there are a few stains which can really cause your heart to sink as these are particularly difficult to remove. Here are some of the "tough ones" and ways you can try to tackle them.

Scorch Marks
If the scorching is severe, then unfortunately there is not much you can do - this is pretty much a permanent stain. However, if it is just light scorching, then you can dab it gently with a half-and-half hydrogen peroxide and water solution, or a solution of water and borax water. If the fabric can handle it, you can even soak it in some bleach solution. In all cases, rinse thoroughly and then wash as normal.

Glue
Hopefully, it the glue is formulated for children's use, it will be washable, although large amounts stuck on clothing will still need pre-treatment. First pick off as much glue as possible with your fingers and then soften the remaining glue with some warm water and detergent. Always dab from the reverse side of the garment and be very gentle. Then wash according to instructions.

If the glue is not washable, it will still be soluble in a particular solvent, usually available from the manufacturer. Check the labels on the bottle - there may be instructions for stain removal, particularly as there are so many types of glues nowadays with individual chemical compositions. If you can't find information about a specific solvent, try a bit of methylated spirit, amyl acetate or white spirit. As a last resort, you can use paintbrush cleaner or paint stripper but as this is incredibly harsh, you run the risk of damaging the fabric or surface the glue is on.

Fizzy Drinks
It is not so much the liquid itself but the food dyes used in the drinks that are lethal. The first thing to do - if the fabric is washable - is to rinse off as much of the stain as possible with lukewarm, water and then dab the stained area with ammonia or soak it in a solution of 20 percent hydrogen peroxide solution for at least fifteen minutes. If the fabric is white cotton, then you can also risk soaking it in bleach, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
For fizzy drinks spilled on carpets, blot up as much as possible using paper towels and then dab the stain with some warm water and white vinegar.

Ink
Ink can be a real nightmare:
For ballpoint pens I have found the best thing to use is hairspray. The ink practically disappears. You can also use ordinary hand soap softened with warm water and then pressed gently through the fabric. This will shift the stain before rinsing, make sure the water is neither too hot nor cold, as either will set the stain.

For felt-tip pens, many stains can actually be easily removed following a soak in detergent and warm water solution and then a wash with biological powder. Like glues, many felt-tip pens created for the children's market are washable.

For fountain pens, again, most modern brands of ink are washable (Indian ink is the exception). If the ink has been spilled onto carpet, pour some salt onto the stain as this will soak up the ink - when dry, brush or vacuum the salt off gently (taking care not to rub any back into the carpet fibers) and then dab the area with a half-and-half mixture of white vinegar and warm water.

Permanent marker, unfortunately,is practically impossible to remove.

Milk
Milk stains are actually quite easy to remove - just by sponging with warm water and detergent or soaking briefly in water and detergent before washing - it's the lingering odor that is difficult, especially if the spill is on carpet. Your best bet is to try and rinse the area as thoroughly as possible - for carpets; this means repeated applications of small amounts of water and constant blotting up using paper towels.

Blood
Blood is easily removed with hydrogen peroxide. Just pour a little on the stain and it does a disappearing act before your eyes. This does not work as well if the stain has already been laundered and is set. I always have a bottle of peroxide sitting on my laundry shelf.

Flying Brooms Recipe

This is a repost of a recipe I posted last Halloween. I wouldn't want any new readers to miss out on it!



Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 (8 1/2-inch-long) pretzel rods, halved
2 (2-ounce) chocolate candy coating squares, melted
1 (4.25-ounce) tube red or orange decorating frosting

Preparation:
Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add brown sugar, beating until blended. Add flour and salt, beating until blended. Stir in vanilla. Shape dough into 16 (1 1/4-inch) balls.

Place pretzel rods on ungreased baking sheets. Press a ball of dough onto cut end of each pretzel. Press dough firmly with a fork to resemble broom bristles.

Bake at 350° for 10 to 12 minutes. Let brooms cool on baking sheets on wire racks 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

Place brooms on wax paper. Spoon melted candy coating over pretzel and cookie where they join; let stand until firm. Decorate as desired with colored frosting.

Southern Living magazine, October 1998

Do You Sense It?

"As I went out walking this fall afternoon,
I heard a whisper whispering.
I heard a whisper whispering,
Upon this fine fall day...

As I went out walking this fall afternoon,
I heard a laugh a' laughing.
I heard a laugh a' laughing,
Upon this fine fall day...

I heard this whisper and I wondered,
I heard this laugh and then I knew.
The time is getting near my friends,
The time that I hold dear my friends,
The veil is getting thin my friends,
And strange things will pass through."
- The Veil is Getting Thinner
Author Unknown

Cat Dream Interpretations...

If you've found yourself dreaming of a cat or cats, you may be interested in the interpretations I have collected below. There are many more interpretations out there, these are just a few.

To see a cat in your dream symbolizes an independent spirit, feminine sexuality, creativity, and power. It can also represent misfortune and bad luck.

To dream of a black cat is lucky.
To dream of a tortoiseshell cat means luck in love.
To dream of a ginger cat means luck in money and business.
To dream of a white cat means luck in, spiritual matters, divination and spell-craft.
To dream of a black-and-white cat means luck with children; or the birth of a child.
To dream of a tabby cat means luck for the home and all who live there.
To dream of a gray cat means to be guided by your dreams.
To dream of a calico or multi-colored cat means luck with new friends and old ones.
A dream of two cats fighting means illness or a quarrel.

Eggplant...

Did you realize that eggplant is native to southern India and Sri Lanka? It surprised me to learn that it's part of the nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, potatoes, and chili peppers. Like all other edible members of the nightshade family, the eggplant is the fruit.

Interestingly, like tobacco, eggplant and other nightshade plants contain nicotine, though to a lesser extent than tobacco.

Be aware if you like eggplant, tomatoes, and other members of the nightshade family, they may worsen the symptoms of arthritis.

According to a 5th century Chinese scroll, fashionable Chinese women used to make a dye out of the skin of purple eggplants and polish their teeth with it until they were a shiny gray. I'm pretty certain that would not be a look to go for these days.

The act of salting and rinsing eggplant to reduce bitterness is called "degorging." An old practice, it's not as necessary these days because modern eggplants are less bitter. Salting eggplant will reduce the amount of oil absorbed in cooking.

Irish Halloween Traditions

The Celts celebrated Halloween as Samhain, 'All Hallowtide' - the 'Feast of the Dead', when the dead revisited the mortal world. The celebration marked the end of Summer and the start of the Winter months.

During the eighth century the Catholic Church designated the first day of November as 'All Saints Day ('All Hallows') - a day of commemoration for those Saints that did not have a specific day of remembrance. The night before was known as 'All Hallows Eve' which, over time, became known as Halloween.

Here are the most notable Irish Halloween Traditions:
Colcannon for Dinner:
Boiled Potato, Curly Kale (a cabbage) and raw onions are provided as the traditional Irish Halloween dinner. Clean coins are wrapped in baking paper and placed in the potato for children to find and keep.

The Barmbrack Cake:
The traditional Halloween cake in Ireland is the barmbrack which is a fruit bread. Each member of the family gets a slice. Great interest is taken in the outcome as there is a piece of rag, a coin and a ring in each cake. If you get the rag then your financial future is doubtful. If you get the coin then you can look forward to a prosperous year. Getting the ring is a sure sign of impending romance or continued happiness.

The Ivy Leaf:
Each member of the family places a perfect ivy leaf into a cup of water and it is then left undisturbed overnight. If, in the morning, a leaf is still perfect and has not developed any spots then the person who placed the leaf in the cup can be sure of 12 months health until the following Halloween. If not.....

The Pumpkin:
Carving Pumpkins dates back to the eighteenth century and to an Irish blacksmith named Jack who colluded with the Devil and was denied entry to Heaven. He was condemned to wander the earth but asked the Devil for some light. He was given a burning coal ember which he placed inside a turnip that he had gouged out.

The tradition of Jack O'Lanterns was born - the bearer being the wandering blacksmith - a damned soul. Villagers in Ireland hoped that the lantern in their window would keep the wanderer away. When the Irish emigrated in millions to America there was not a great supply of turnips so pumpkins were used instead.

Halloween Costumes:
On Halloween night children would dress up in scary costumes and go house to house. "Help the Halloween Party" and "Trick or Treat" were the cries to be heard at each door. This tradition of wearing costumes also dates back to Celtic times. On the special night when the living and the dead were at their closest the Celtic Druids would dress up in elaborate costumes to disguise themselves as spirits and devils in case they encountered other devils and spirits during the night. By disguising they hoped that they would be able to avoid being carried away at the end of the night. This explains why witches, goblins and ghosts remain the most popular choices for the costumes.

Snap Apple:
After the visits to the neighbours the Halloween games begin, the most popular of which is Snap Apple. An apple is suspended from a string and children are blindfolded. The first child to get a decent bite of the apple gets to keep their prize. The same game can be played by placing apples in a basin of water and trying to get a grip on the apple without too much mess!

The Bonfire:
The Halloween bonfire is a tradition to encourage dreams of who your future husband or wife is going to be. The idea was to drop a cutting of your hair into the burning embers and then dream of you future loved one. Halloween was one of the Celt 'fire' celebrations.

Blind Date:
Blindfolded local girls would go out into the fields and pull up the first cabbage they could find. If their cabbage had a substantial amount of earth attached to the roots then there future loved one would have money. Eating the cabbage would reveal the nature of their future husband - bitter or sweet!

Another way of finding your future spouse is to peel an apple in one go. If done successfully the single apple peel could be dropped on the floor to reveal the initials of the future-intended.

Anti-Fairy Measures:
Fairies and goblins try to collect as many souls as they can at Halloween but if they met a person who threw the dust from under their feet at the Fairy then they would be obliged to release any souls that they held captive.

Holy water was sometimes anointed on farm animals to keep them safe during the night. If the animals were showing signs of ill health on All Hallows Eve then they would be spat on to try to ward off any evil spirits.

Happy Halloween from Ireland!

Irish Halloween Traditions - An article provided by The Information about Ireland Site.

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Is Your Color Personality...

Light blue? If you tend to wear alot of light blue, you are sensitive and perceptive. Light blue symbolizes a good imagination, creativity and a practical approach to life. Make sure to use your analytical abilities for problem-solving!

People with a blue personality stay within themselves and do not put much trust in people. They watch every move others make.

Pale shades of blue show someone who wants everything in order. Their closet is immaculate, they know where any piece of clothing is, and most likely how long it will take them to get it out of the closet.

The Meaning And Symbolism Of Queen Anne's Lace

I have always thought the delicacy of Queens Anne's Lace so beautiful. They really add to a flower arrangement and to watch a butterfly feed on one is almost magical. To some, they are considered a weed. But what is a weed? To me, just a flower out of place.

Legend has it that Queen Anne, the wife of King James I, was challenged by her friends to create lace as beautiful as a flower. While making the lace, she pricked her finger, and it’s said that the purple-red flower in the center of Queen Anne’s Lace represents a droplet of her blood. Also called Wild Carrot (since Queen Anne’s Lace is the wild progenitor of today’s carrot), Bishop’s Lace or Bird’s Nest (for the nest-like appearance of the bright white and rounded flower in full bloom), in the language of flowers, Queen Anne’s Lace represents sanctuary.

Source: The Language Of Flowers

Ahhh..The Scent Of Homemade Chili...Diabetic Vegetarian Style

This chili is a healthy and hardy dish, perfect for everyone but with the diabetics in mind. Make this in your slow cooker and bake a batch of rolls or cornbread and you'll have a perfect cold weather dish.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed, fine chopped
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 1/3 cups red & yellow peppers, chopped
6 teaspoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
3/4 teaspoon ground (cayenne) red pepper
1/3 cup SPLENDA® Granular
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes with thick tomato puree
2 (15-ounce) can black beans (Do Not Drain)
2 (15-ounce) cans dark red kidney beans (Do Not Drain)
1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans (Do Not Drain)
1 (10-ounce) box Corn kernels, frozen
Salt to taste (optional)

Put all ingredients in your slow cooker on low and cook all day (7-8 hrs) OR:
in a large, non stick, stock pot heat olive oil. Sauté jalapeno, onions, and red & yellow peppers over medium heat until onions are translucent (5 to 8 minutes).
Add the remaining ingredients and slowly bring to a boil. Cover pot and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. Serve hot.*
Makes 16 servings.

Note: If spicier chili is preferred, increase the ground cayenne red pepper to 1 teaspoon, & increase the chili powder to 7 teaspoons. If sweeter chili is preferred, increase SPLENDA® Granular to 2/3 cup.

It's Upon Us Again...

Flu Season. It seems that it arrives more quickly every year and with it looming over us, I have become concerned with warding it off.

While rummaging through my home remedies, the thought occurred to me that everyone needs to know some tips on warding off the flu as best they can naturally. In addition to the flu there are hundreds of cold viruses, and unfortunately, one of them will certainly make an appearance for everyone during this fall and winter season.

There are a number of natural substances that help the immune system fight the viruses causing colds and flu. They've been used in folk medicine long before the first antibiotic was even discovered. Before ingesting herbs please consider any pharmaceuticals you may be taking for other ailments. Herbs are natural drugs and as such can interact with medications. If you have questions please consult your doctor.

Wild Oregano possesses superior anti microbial powers, capable of bringing fast relief from cold and flu symptoms (runny nose, congestion, chills, sore throat, ear aches, cough, fever, fatigue, stuffiness and muscle aches) because it is able to kill the virus which is their cause. Oregano oil has incredible antiviral, antibacterial and anti fungal effects. Studies show it also has unrivaled antiseptic (pain-killing) qualities. Many studies have shown that oregano oil can improve the symptoms and shorten the duration of the common cold and flu. Oregano oil has been proven effective against a variety of microorganisms. The best part is that oregano oil is completely non-toxic and does not cause any side effects.

The Olive Leaf-Studies show that Olive Leaf extract is a potent anti-microbial that has inhibited the growth of every human pathogen it has been tested against, including viruses, bacteria, protozoa, fungi and yeast.

Echinacea has a rich tradition of use by North American Indians who used it medicinally more than any other plant. Echinacea stimulates the overall activity of the cells responsible for fighting all kinds of infection. In other words, it makes our own immune cells more efficient in attacking bacteria, viruses and abnormal cells; including cancer cells.

Golden Seal has been used for centuries in herbal medicine. Golden Seal has antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes irritated mucus membranes, aiding the eyes, ears, nose and throat. Taken at the first signs of respiratory problems, Golden Seal may help prevent further symptoms from developing. It may be used to help reduce fevers and relive congestion and excess mucous.

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used since the days of the Egyptians to treat wounds, infections, tumors, and intestinal parasites. The Allicin in garlic is responsible for many of it's healing properties. It stimulates the immune system, increasing the activity of white blood cells that fight foreign organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and yeast. Garlic is particularly effective in treating upper respiratory viral infections due to its immune-enhancing properties and its ability to clear mucous from the lungs.

Astragalus is a Chinese herb that has traditionally been used to strengthen the Wei Ch'i, or immune system. It is regarded as a potent tonic for increasing energy levels and stimulating the immune function. It has been proven effective in cases of colds, flu and even cancer. It improves the white cell function and general resistance to infection.

Zinc on the immune system is well known. According to medical studies, it can reduce the average duration of colds by 7 days and decrease the severity of all cold symptoms to virtually nonexistent after the third day!

Vitamin C is well known for its ability to fight viruses and bacteria by stimulating the white cells, which are the "soldiers" of the immune system. Vitamin C may be the most important antioxidant when it comes to immune system function. It works well with other immune activators and does not cause any side effects.

Above all, eat well, get plenty of rest, wash your hands often. A healthy and happy fall and winter to you!

Pumpkin Dip

For me, the beginning of fall brings to mind the flavor of pumpkin and spices. Brunch foods like pancakes, waffles, breakfast casseroles, and French toast start reappearing, and you can use this pumpkin dip as a topping on many of your breakfast items. Slice waffles in strips and children will love dipping them in the pumpkin for snacks. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 (15 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon frozen orange juice concentrate

In a medium bowl, blend cream cheese and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Gradually mix in the pumpkin. Stir in the cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and orange juice until smooth and well blended. Chill until serving.

Is Your Personality Color...

White? If you tend to wear alot of white, you have a well-balanced, positive personality. White symbolizes a blank page, a new start, a time or lifetime in which all things are possible. You are highly individual, so be careful to connect with others to avoid loneliness. White aids in mental clarity and encourages us to clear clutter or obstacles.

Other Uses For Aspirin

Aspirin. Take two and call it a day! As you will see aspirin makes car, home, beauty, and clothing care easy! Most of us have some in the cabinet so you might as well know how to make great use of it. Here are some of the ways I've found.

First off, I would like to say take care if you are allergic to aspirin and do not even apply it topically. Some of these tips will not be for you but others you may be able to use. About 10 percent of people with severe asthma are also allergic to aspirin and, in fact, to all products containing salicylic acid, aspirin's key ingredient, including some cold medications, fruits, and food seasonings and additives. That percentage skyrockets to 30 to 40 percent for older asthmatics who also suffer from sinusitis or nasal polyps. Acute sensitivity to aspirin is also seen in a small percentage of the general population without asthma -- particularly people with ulcers and other bleeding conditions. Always consult your doctor before using any medication, and do not apply aspirin externally if you are allergic to taking it internally.

Revive dead car batteries
If you get behind the wheel only to discover that your car's battery has given up the ghost -- and there's no one around to give you a jump -- you may be able to get your vehicle started by dropping two aspirin tablets into the battery itself. The aspirin's acetylsalicylic acid will combine with the battery's sulfuric acid to produce one last charge. Just be sure to drive to your nearest service station.

Remove perspiration stains
Before you give up all hope of ever getting that perspiration stain out of your good white dress shirt, try this: Crush two aspirins and mix the powder in 1/2 cup warm water. Soak the stained part of the garment in the solution for two to three hours and then launder.

Restore hair color
Swimming in a chlorinated pool can have a noticeable, and often unpleasing, effect on your hair coloring if you have light colored hair. You can usually return your hair to its former shade by dissolving six to eight aspirins in a glass of warm water. Rub the solution thoroughly into your hair, and let it set for 10-15 minutes.

Dry up pimples
Even those of us who are well past adolescence can get the occasional pimple. Get rid of those annoying blemishes by crushing one aspirin and moistening it with a bit of water. Apply the paste to the pimple, and let it sit for a couple of minutes before washing off with soap and water. It will reduce the redness and soothe the sting. If the pimple persists, repeat the procedure as needed until it's gone.

Treat hard calluses
Soften hard calluses on your feet by grinding five or six aspirins into a powder. Make a paste by adding 1/2 teaspoon each of lemon juice and water. Apply the mixture to the affected areas, then wrap your foot in a warm towel and cover it with a plastic bag. After staying off your feet for at least ten minutes, remove the bag and towel, and file down the softened callus with a pumice stone.

Control dandruff
Keep dandruff in check by crushing two aspirins to a fine powder and adding it to the normal amount of shampoo you use each time you wash your hair. Leave the mixture on your hair for 1-2 minutes, then rinse well and wash again with plain shampoo.

Apply to insect bites and stingsControl the inflammation caused by mosquito bites or bee stings by wetting your skin and rubbing an aspirin over the spot. Of course, if you are allergic to bee stings -- and have difficulty breathing, develop abdominal pains, or feel nauseated following a bee sting -- get medical attention at once.

Help cut flowers last longer
It's a tried-and-true way to keep roses and other cut flowers fresh longer: Put a crushed aspirin in the water before adding your flowers. Other household items that you can put in the water to extend the life of your flower arrangements include: a multivitamin, a teaspoon of sugar, a pinch of salt and baking soda, and even a copper penny. Also, don't forget to change the vase water every few days.

Use as garden aid
Aspirin is not only a first-aid essential for you, but for your garden as well. Some gardeners grind it up for use as a rooting agent, or mix it with water to treat fungus conditions in the soil. But be careful when using aspirin around plants; too much of it can cause burns or other damage to your greenery. When treating soil, the typical dosage should be a half or a full aspirin tablet in 1 quart (1 liter) water.

Remove egg stains from clothes
Did you drop some raw egg on your clothing while cooking or eating? First, scrape off as much of the egg as you can, and then try to sponge out the rest with lukewarm water. Don't use hot water, it will set the egg. If that doesn't completely remove the stain, mix water and cream of tartar into a paste and add a crushed aspirin. Spread the paste on the stain and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse well in warm water and the egg will be gone.