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🐾 About Along the Road in New England and the Series Along the Road in New England marks the beginning of a whimsical children's series following Jack and Oscar, two adventurous Labrador puppies with itchy paws and bold hearts. Tired of the quiet monotony of home, they dream of distant places, thrilling escapades, and the freedom to explore. After months of scheming, they hatch a brilliant plan—steal their parents' jeep and leap into a magical wishing well. On the other side, they tumble into a world of delightful chaos, meeting quirky characters and visiting fantastical landscapes. From one mischievous adventure to the next, Jack and Oscar journey farther and farther from home—until they discover that the place they left behind holds the kind of magic they didn’t know they were chasing. This coming-of-age tale celebrates curiosity, courage, and the power of kindness. As Jack and Oscar explore new environments and cultures, they learn to see the world through compassionate eyes, embracing differences and forming lasting bonds. Their story is one of self-discovery, where home isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling. Follow their journey from New England to California, New York, D.C., Florida, and onward to South America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Currently looking for the right publishing house... Jack & Oscar In the flesh In the flesh

A Gardener in New England - An Opera A Gardener in New England - An Opera 12.202 3 tick tock, tick tock One heart tough as bone, two feet on the ground shuffle. One parcel of land relieved, one clump at a time. Two hands fold out a blanket of gold, one heap of decomposed meals cycloned with cracked eggshell and a dozen warm winter worms. tick tock, tick tock Sun spills softly through shades, and green sprouts dance to grow, whilst clapped by wings of bees. Patience is a slow grant for hunger. tick tock, tick tock Two feet on the ground shuffle. They’re wandering at a loss. Mountains of water are falling, and gold is turning to green moss. roar, roar We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. … crunch, crunch Upon the sun and rain, carnation blisses, crocus bulbs crush in chipmunk hands, sweet lettuce folds between deer kisses, cherry tomatoes burst in rabbit cheeks. roar, roar We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. crunch, slurp She swallows slowly, her tears tie, whilst pooh bear embraces the hive, one queen, two feet on the ground, liquid gold guarded by no hound. … swoosh, shhhh Wind swirls about and dries the colors out. She mourns the leaves but dries the herbs. Defaced, her garden rests, left for pests. Perennials tucked in underneath a windowsill. crunch, crunch Numbers pressed, plans and seeds sifted. Total cost to grow at home vs total eaten, No, stop, cannot measure labor for love, or lust for reproducing, for playing god in dirt. … crunch, crunch Two feet on the ground pack snow, one heart tough as bone, one parcel of land relieved, two hands hold one warm winter worm. roar, roar We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. We want greens, we want tomatoes, carrots, chives, and potatoes. … tick tock, tick tock

MEATS & FISH T'baftë mirë Qofte (Beef Patties) Recipe yields 8-9 patties Ingredients 1 lb ground beef (85% lean 15% fat) ½ medium onion grated ½ cup of chives chopped Salt Black Pepper A sprinkling of cayenne pepper Smoked paprika powder Fresh parsley chopped ½ tsp baking soda 20 ml cold water ½ cup of white flour EVOO for frying Directions Add all ingredients but baking soda and water onto a large mixing bowl. Put the baking soda in with the water in a small dish and mix well and sprinkle into the mixing bowl. With your hands, mix the ingredients well with the meat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour (however, I have found that if you leave them overnight, the taste is even better!) Make into patties (1/4 inch thick and 4 inch diameter) You can use plastic wrap over a jar lid to shape the patties for consistency. Pan fry them in medium heat. Use enough oil to cover 1/4 of the patties. Pre-heat the oil before placing the patties in. Let cook for 3 minutes on each side. Use a fork to turn patties upside down and press down to let some of the liquid out. Take them out and let cool for 5 mins before serving. Best served with thick and plain yogurt. The yogurt cuts the taste just enough to enhance it. Or maybe that's just me. Try it anyway, at least once. Pro-tip: if you have a charcoal grill, grill them instead and you will immediately be taken back to the Balkans. If you haven't visited, you should :) Qëbapë (Beef long meatballs) Yields about 20 qëbapë Ingredients 2 lbs of high-quality ground beef (80%/20%) 1 teaspoon of salt 1 teaspoon of black pepper 1 teaspoon of baking soda 50 ml of cold water Directions In a bowl, mix the meat well with salt and pepper. On the side, in a cup combine the water and the baking soda until it is at one consistency. Then pour it into the meat bowl and mix well. Using a kitchen aid extension of sausage making, make the sausage. Make them about 6-8 inches long and place them on a tray or baking sheet. Cover with saran wrap, place in the fridge and let sit overnight, roughly for 24 hours. Cook them on a charcoal grill. Pork B elly Ingredients 1.5 lbs fresh pork belly 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped) 1 tsp whole peppercorns 1 tsp fresh parsley (finely chopped) 1.5 cups red wine 1 tsp EVOO ½ cup of water ½ tsp garlic powder 1 small garlic clove Directions Score cut pork belly on fat side in 1”x1” cubes. Rub with all dry ingredients above. Then place in a large Zi plock bag and add the wet ingredients. Let marinade overnight in fridge. Roast in 400F covered in foil for 2 hours (skin side down). Then uncover, flip, and broil until crispy. Justin’s Beef Braise Ingredients Olive Oil Cumin Paprika Salt and pepper Onion Carrots Garlic Red Wine Beef cut of choice (Justin's preferred: boneless with marbled fat chuck roast) Directions Preheat oven to 350 F. On the stove, heat up oil in Dutch oven and leave it on high heat Brown all sides of beef Remove beef and set aside Deglaze Dutch oven with onion and carrot Add beef, spices, veg and garlic (bottom to top: start with the beef, then spices, then veg and garlic) Add red wine and water (3:1 fill) so 1/3 of beef is above liquid Cover and cook in oven for 2.5-3 hours flipping beef over every 30 mins Serve over rice Jackie's Poke Bowl Recipe yields poke bowls for 4 people Ingredients 1 lb of sushi-grade Salmon, preferably Alaskan A bunch of scallions 1 medium to large sweet white onion 1 ripe avocado 1 cup of soy sauce 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil A handful of black sesames 1 mango 2 small and crunch cucumbers 2 cups of sushi rice 2 cups of chopped spinach or butter lettuce or whatever you prefer Wasabi adds to the taste but not necessary as an ingredient if it’s not easy to find Directions Marinade: Start the process at least 8 hours before planning to eat Freeze the salmon so you may thaw it out enough where you can dice it in cubes without ripping it In a medium to large bowl, mix the diced salmon with the chopped sweet onion, 1 chopped scallion, toasted sesame oil and black sesames. Cover with plastic wrap and marinade in the fridge for 1-3 hours (3 hours preferred) Make the rice: Run cold water over the rice in a colander to wash out the starch Soak the sushi rice in a medium below filled with cold water at least 30 minutes before cooking to help soften it Place it gently in a pot and add more water than rice. It should be about 1.2 : 1 in favor of the water. That is 20% more water compared to the rice. Do not add more water or you will end up with dough instead of rice. Cook the rice on high heat at first, stirring every minute or two until the water boils (add a few sprinkles of salt). Then, lower the heat to low and cover the pot. After 6-8 minutes, check the water level – if there is no more water, only bigger grains of rice in the pot, the rice is ready. If not, check back every minute, making sure not to burn the rice at the bottom. Take it out of the pan and into a medium bowl to cool. Drizzle with EVOO and sprinkle a few black sesame seeds and mix with a wooden spoon. Chop up the garnish and put it all together: Chop of each garnish item and place them in their own bowl: Remaining scallions, spinach/green leaves of your preference, avocado, mango, cucumber Serve it in individual bowls by first adding the rice, then the salmon (including the marinade), then a handful of each garnish Optional: Add a bit of wasabi to the side of the bowl. If you do, let people know about it 😊 Mississippi R oast Ingredients 1 boneless chuck roast or top or bottom round roast, 3-4 lbs 2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste 1 ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste ¼ cups all-purpose flour 3 tbsp neutral oil like Canola 4 tbsp unsalted butter 8-12 pepperoncini 2 tbsp mayonnaise 2 tsp apple cider vinegar ½ tsp dried dill ½ tsp sweet paprika 1 tsp buttermilk, optional Chopped parsley, for garnish Directions Place roast on a cutting board and rub the salt and pepper all over it. Sprinkle the flour all over the seasoned meat and massage it into the flesh. Heat the oil in a large sauté pan set over high heat until is shimmering and about to smoke. Place the roast in a pan and brown on all sides, 4-5 minutes a side, to create a crust. Remove roast from pan and place it in the bowl of a slow cooker. Add the butter and the pepperoncini to the meat. Put the lid on the slow cooker and set the machine to low. As the roast heats, make a ranch dressing. Combine the mayonnaise, vinegar, dill and paprika into a small bowl and whisk to emulsify. Add the buttermilk if using, then whisk again. Remove the lid from the slow cooker and add the dressing. Replace the top and allow to continue cooking, undisturbed, for 6-8 hours, or until you can shred the meat easing using 2 forks. Mix the meat with the gravy surrounding it. Garnish with parsley and serve. Dorina's Tasq ë bap ë (Beef Stew) Ingredients 1 medium onion 4 cloves of garlic Beef (Best is sirloin or veal/cut in 1 inch cubes) Black Pepper Salt Vinegar Tomato Paste Water EVOO Directions In a medium pot, in medium heat, sauté diced onions in a tablespoon of EVOO. Then add chopped garlic. Do not let the onions brown. When the onions are soft, add the cubed beef pieces and fry to medium. Add pepper, salt, a splash of vinegar and continued cooking until the meat is browned a bit. Add tomato paste and water. Cover and go up about an inch or two with water then as it cooks and the stew thickens, keep adding little bits of water at a time so it doesn't stick to the bottom. But do not overwater, the consistency must be of a stew, not soup. Best served with thick sourdough bread (toasted) or warm focaccia bread placed on the side of the bowl. But also rice compliments well. An Ode to Qofte Video afspelen Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Link kopiëren Koppeling gekopieerd You've got special recipes to share? Please do!

Great books don't just describe the world; they change how we perceive it. Sometimes the greatness of literature lies in its ability to shake us out of our comfort zones. Justin's Bookshelf What criteria do you personally use when reviewing a book? Justin: Situational, depending on where I am physically and mentally. I need to be in the right headspace to read books. Typically, I don’t like to read light-hearted, fluffy books, once that are feel good books. They’d have to be thought provoking. I like well-written fiction with a meaning or moral. Historical fiction is also appealing. Primarily, I read nonfiction because I want to learn vs solely reading for entertainment. I like to read books that are obviously smarter than me, that challenge me. Rooted in fact but with strong philosophical arguments. I like to read books that sink in deeply so that I remember the main messaging vs the overall story. This is a list of books that are meaningful and challenging. I wouldn’t recommend them to everybody as it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If books and how you feel about them were a person, who would it be and why? Justin: Al D’Andrea, my high school economics teacher because I used to love he’d speak – he told very good stories, he was intelligent. Anytime he told a story, personal or professional, I would listen with full attention. N O N F I C T I O N 1.The Dancing Wu Li Masters — Gary Zukav explores modern physics through Eastern philosophy, showing how scientific discoveries challenge traditional ideas of reality and consciousness. •In one word: Elevated •In one sentence: There’s a lot to explore and connect with in this universe that most of us normally do not think about or comprehend but we should try. 2.The Seat of the Soul — Gary Zukav argues that human evolution is moving toward spiritual awareness, emphasizing intention, responsibility, and inner growth. •In one word: Inspirational •In one sentence: Human evolution is a much longer game and timespan than what we see and perceive on a daily basis. 3.Where Good Ideas Come From — Steven Johnson explains how innovation emerges from networks, collaboration, and slow-building ideas rather than sudden inspiration. •In one word: Accessible •In one sentence: What we think we know about those people and invention that have defined humanity is incorrect. 4.The Siege of Shkodra — This historical account recounts the Ottoman siege of the Albanian city, emphasizing resistance, sacrifice, and national identity. •In one word: Epic •In one sentence: The toughness and resilience of the Albanian people goes back as far as has been recorded. 5.The Art of Peace — Morihei Ueshiba presents aikido as a philosophy of harmony, teaching that true strength comes from compassion and nonviolence. •In one word: Sad •In one sentence: If more people read and followed this, the world would be a better place. 6.Sapiens — Yuval Noah Harari surveys human history from early ancestors to modern societies, examining how biology, culture, and belief systems shape humanity. •In one word: Important •In one sentence: Humans are unique and we owe ourselves and the earth, the responsibility to not take that for granted and to be responsible and accountable with it. 7.A Place of My Own — Michael Pollan reflects on designing and building a small writing house, blending architecture, creativity, and the meaning of personal space. •In one word: Cozy •In one sentence: Take your time to do things well. 8.The Century of the Common Man — Henry A. Wallace argues for democracy, economic fairness, and global cooperation as defining forces of the modern era. •In one word: Forgotten •In one sentence: History is littered with the carcasses of beautiful and harmonious ideas and movements. 9.The Next 100 Years — George Friedman offers geopolitical predictions for the 21st century, suggesting global power will shift through recurring historical patterns. •In one word: Smart •In one sentence: If we continue to be okay with saying ‘humans just do human things’ then this terrifying book will continue to be correct (which talks about the constant battle for power and viewing the world as a fixed pie of resources). F I C T I O N 10.The Bridge on the Drina — Ivo Andrić traces centuries of Balkan history through the life of a single bridge, revealing how personal lives are shaped by political and cultural upheaval. •In one word: Genius •In one sentence: There’s no such thing as the ‘good-old-days’. 11.Infinite Jest — David Foster Wallace’s novel interweaves addiction, entertainment, and ambition in a fractured future where pleasure becomes a form of control. •In one word: Crazy •In one sentence: Life is not fair. 12.Revolutionary Road — Richard Yates depicts a suburban couple whose dreams of escape collapse under conformity, disillusionment, and emotional isolation. •In one word: Inevitable •In one sentence: No person is an island. Much of our culture is more communal than we think, sometimes. 13.The History of Sound — This work explores memory, love, and loss, often focusing on how sound and storytelling preserve human connection across time. •In one word: Cerebral •In one sentence: Great story telling takes skill, patience, and forethought. 14.Chronicles in Stone — Ismail Kadare’s memoir portrays his childhood in wartime Albania, blending personal memory with the weight of history and myth. •In one word: Personal •In one sentence: We should all try to see things through children’s eyes and use that as our moral compass and guide. That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you're not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong. - F. Scott Fitzgerald Reading is the sole means by which we slip, involuntarily, often helplessly, into another's skin, another's voice, another's soul. - Joyce Carol Oates Great literature is simply language charged with meaning to the utmost possible degree. - Ezra Pound A book must be the axe for the frozen sea within us. - Franz Kafka Writing is perhaps the greatest of human inventions, binding together people who never knew each other, citizens of distant epochs. Books break the shackles of time. A book is proof that humans are capable of working magic. - Carl Sagan A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. The man who never reads lives only one. - George R.R. Martin Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it. It enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the deserts that our lives have already become. - C.S. Lewis Literature always anticipates life. It does not copy it but molds it to its purpose. - Oscar Wilde Literature... isn't a hiding place. It is a finding place. - Jeanette Winterson Literature is a luxury; fiction is a necessity. -G.K. Chesterton Without literature, life is hell. - Charles Bukowski Books are a uniquely portable magic. - Stephen King Have any book titles or reviews to share?

It's the same old song I t’s the same old song DF 09. 01 . 2019 It’s the same old song In the morning I hear him singing Late nights too on the front porch I hear him singing The shadow he cast on the sun Long years between us But with my mom, he is one And I hear him singing... Across the valley and to the river I see her stepping in I always walk to her to hold her tender Cuz she loves from within I hear him singing ... Yea woman of mine Rise and shine Shine my day Be my light Give me a memory I won’t lament He chose her everyday How could he ever love again I will always miss dreaming my dreams with you You are mine and hers alright I should have always loved you right, yes, you are mine and hers alright NEW YORK, NEW YORK DF 05. 01. 2020 NEW YORK, NEW YORK CARS WHOOSHING BY AND ACROSS LIKE BLOOD IN A RUNNER’S VEINS WHEELS TURNING AND HORNS BURSTING LIKE A MELODY FROM ROOSTERS WITH CANES POP. AND THERE’S A MAN FINGERING A CHAMPAGNE CORK HE IS A DIRTY HIPSTER AND A BOSS BUT THOSE THREE WOMEN HOLD THE REIGNS LOCK, THEM UP. THEY KNOW OF DORKS AND OF THEIR STAINS. BUT. THEIR OWN GLOSS IS OVER TEETH IN ALL SORTS OF PAINS THEY DO NOT FLOSS EVEN FROM PORK ON A FORK OH! AT THE TOP OF THE ROCK OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK Haiku Resources 1. Wales Haiku Journal 2. Haiku Foundation -> Haiku Dialogue No title 01. 21. 2023 A curious pause between two apt Delphians who don’t know themselves. No title 01. 21. 2023 Far away from home, the robin flies alone, low with a broken wing. The Oracle of Delphi pronounced Socrates the wisest of Greeks; and Socrates took this as approval of his agnosticism which was the starting point of his philosophy: ‘One thing only I know’, he said, ‘and that is that I know nothing’. Philosophy begins when one begins to doubt — when one begins to question the accepted wisdom of tradition. Particularly the one’s cherished beliefs, one’s dogmas and one’s axioms. Delphian inscription: To be curious about that which is not my business, while I’m still in ignorance of my own self, would be ridiculous. And therefore I say farewell to all of this, but about myself. My best friend, Oscar With you, I don’t walk but I dance across meadows And traverse the forest w ith ease Even today you are here with me I jump from one rock to another to avoid the mud that may be lingering in between the soft looking patches of grass Oh, the rocks, even boulders, that you stepped on and over like lily pads when you were little No obstacle existed, and no pool of water was too small for a belly dip lock and step together, you made me happy No time with you was ever lonely or dull But old age came for you much faster than for me my dear friend Your paws are now resting gently on the floor that you used to wipe clean with your tail And I’m here meandering on my own Following in your footsteps, practicing curiosity and thrill I’m trusting you, like you always did me My tears fall and I walk up the waterfall, looking for that time with you, that togetherness you taught me with grace, I walk and I look, and I made it to the top, higher than ever before. Because of you. Without you.

Get in Touch EMAIL | myfjale@gmail.com INSTAGRAM | @Fjale Connecticut . USA

An invitation to go back to our basics Not because of any polarity with modern medicine, but only as a means to help "rediscover your place in nature and our ecosystem. Plant medicine offers not only gentle remedies for everyday ills, but also a means of nurturing yourself, bringing powerful element of self-care to your life that will inspire and awaken your senses - from smell and taste to sight and tough - and loop you back into the wonderfully nurturing cycle of food and flowers, healing and health." A snippet from Bloom & Thrive. Thanks Brigit Anna McNeill for your inspiration. Bloom & Thrive Old Fashioned Fire Cider It takes longer to forage the ingredients than to make it. It's simple. It's easy. It's tasty. Basic Ingredients Apple cider with “mother” in it (32 oz) Fresh horseradish (1 cups peeled and diced) Fresh turmeric (1/2 cup peeled and diced) Fresh ginger (1/2 cup peeled and diced) Garlic cloves (1 cup peeled and diced) Sweet onion (1 cup peeled and diced) Habanero chili peppers (2 split in half (leave seeds in)) Lemon (1 quartered, and thinly sliced crosswise) Orange (2 quartered, and thinly sliced crosswise) Peppercorn (2 teaspoons of whole black peppercorns) If you prefer: Fresh parsley + Rosemary or Thyme and Raw honey (1.5 cup or more to taste) Wide Mouth Half Gallon masor jar - 64 oz 64 oz Mason Jar will yield 32 oz of cider Plastic top for it (do not use metal tops) Parchment paper between mason jar and plastic top to prevent corrosion from the vinegar. Pro-tip: peel horseradish, turmeric, and ginger with a teaspoon instead of a peeler. Don't dice too fine. One inch cubes should do it. Throw all of the ingredients in and add the vinegar and honey in the end. Then let it sit for 3 weeks. Pro tip: It's best if honey is added in the last week of the process so the 'fire' ingredients make their magic before 'sweetness' is introduced. Make it in a big jar because the ingredients take a lot of space and you won't have enough liquid if you are looking to add this to your daily/weekly routine Turn it upside down daily for at least 3 weeks Add masking tape to the lid and write your prep date on it with a sharpie Don't leave it to cure near a window where the sun can warm it (let it do it’s thing in a cabinet in room temperature) Once ready, pour it in a new jar or bottle through a funnel. Cover funnel with a cheese cloth or use a fine mesh strainer. Serving Suggestions Straight up: a shot every day or every week Other uses: as a marinade, as salad dressing, try a few dashes for cocktails, drizzle over steamed veggies. Good for 6 months to a year. Nourishing Nettle Infusion The most nutrient-dense and mineral-rich plant and a superfood that grows right by our feet. Not only does this rich supply of minerals do you good on the inside, through addressing mineral deficiencies, it also shows up on the outside, through the gift of thicker hair, sparkly eyes and stronger nails. Drinking nettle infusion will give so many nutrients to your blood that the feeling of uplift can start to happen within a few days, while regular use will have long-lasting effects. Nettle goes well with mint, rosemary and mallow, so add a teaspoon of each to your infusion. . Use a quart/liter jar. Put 30g/1 cup dried herbs or 60g/2 cups fresh herbs in the jar. Pour boiling water over the herbs to the top of the jar. Cover with a lid. Leave to infuse for 4-8 hours or overnight. Drink 2-4cups daily or 3-6 liters a week. Dosage: Nettle is food based, so works slowly and gently. The reason it takes longer is because it invites your body to heal from the core, rather than just addressing the symptoms. The immensely powerful benefits of this plant will not b felt in their fullness for about 1-2 months. It’s therefore not a plant to be taken every now and then; instead try to commit to a regular routine for nettle infusions. You can keep taking nettle through the year or, if preferred, try taking it for 2-3 months, then have a break and go back to it the following month. Wake-up and Thrive Infusion This is a brilliant warming drink that supports and wakes up the body with a powerful boost of antioxidants and antiviral properties, aiding digestion, the immune system and gut health. Drink like a tea. Rind and juice of 1 organic, unwaxed lemon 5cm/2in ginger root, grated 1 tbsp honey; Raw or Manuka honey have the best medicinal properties; or maple syrup. 1-3 tsp apple cider vinegar; Optional 1. Place all the ingredients in a heatproof jar. 2. Pour boiling water over the top. Cover with a lid and leave overnight. 3. In the morning, strain and reheat, if preferred, until warm but not really hot. Albanian Remedies For inflamed or sprained limbs Chunky Mediterranean salt and chopped onion wrapped in plastic For hemorrhoids St John’s Wort flowers (Lule Basami) and leaves dried fusion in olive oil in the dark for 40 days For spider veins and for tired legs 2 spicy dried red peppers, 5 garlic cloves infused in raki for 5 days. Crush and create rough paste. Effect will show within four/five days of rubbing legs with paste. For infections or burns Tomato heels infections and burns over night. Create paste of crushed tomatoes and wrap in plastic around the would. For younger feeling face/skin Make a water and starch paste in a bowl, apply to face every night before bed, wash away after 5 mins Similar to fire cider, prevents colds, sickness. A boost to your immune and digestive system. Diced chunky garlic infused in a jar of honey. Take a teaspoon daily. Liver therapy For five mornings Half an ounce of EVOO Half an ounce of fresh lemon juice A pinch of cayenne pepper Rose Petal Elixir Rose is a safe medicine, bringing calm to an emotionally fraught heart, and helping to soothe anxiety and nerves. This is my favorite medicinal recipe, handed down to me by my grandmother. It’s soothing, recuperative and uplifting, like a hug in a bottle. Carry this elixir around and take one or two dropperful of it as a pick-me-up when needed. Fill a jar with rose petals. Fill half the jar with honey. Raw or Manuka honey have the best medicinal properties. Fill the remaining of the jar with brandy. Place a lid on top and let it infuse in a cool place for 4-6 weeks or longer. During this time, try to take the lid off and stir the mixture as often as possible, inviting the melding of plant medicine, honey and brandy, so they can become one. After 4-5 weeks, strain and bottle the liquid. Take one or two dropperfuls when needed in times of anxiety, worry, stress, or hurt. Happy Spray 30 dro ps of mixture of these essential oils: lavender, lemon balm, frankincense, bergamot. 20 ml/1 1⁄2 tbsp vodka 80 ml/5 1⁄2 tbsp spring water or rose hydrosol Mix the essential oils with the alcohol, then add the water or hydrosol. Pour into a spray bottle Spray your bedsheets, clothes or hair. Sage Tea Native to the Balkans region, the origin of the name is salvere (latin) which means to heal or save. Albanians say it builds emotional strength, promotes wisdom, heals grief, and if that’s enough, it helps the digestive system, relieving bloating, gas and abdominal pain. Drink before or after meals, it will be huge benefit for those who cannot digest fats well. Put 1-2 tsp dried or 2-4 tsp fresh herb in a mug and fill with boiling water. Infuse for 20 minutes. Happy Tea Blend This is a good blend to make from dried herbs to keep in a jar for when needed. You can make it as either a tea or a stronger herbal infusion. 3 parts lemon balm 2 parts chamomile flowers 2 parts nettle 2 parts Siberian ginseng root 1 part St John’s Wort 1 part oat straw For a cup of herbal tea: Use 2 tsp per cup/mug and steep for 20 mins. Strain. For an infusion: Put 30g/1 cup of the dried herb mix in a liter/quart jar and cover with boiling water. Put on the lid and leave to steep for 4-8 hours. Strain. Birch Juice The sap directly tapped from (white and silver) birch trees can be immediately consumed fresh and/or when naturally fermented. When fresh, it is a clear and uncolored liquid, often slightly sweet with a slightly silky texture. After two or three days, the sap starts fermenting and the taste becomes more acidic. The fresh juice is light, more like flavored water than pulpy thick juice. To stop fermentation, the juice can be stored in the fridge up to 1 year. I was first introduced to it by a Latvian friend during a visit to her house in The Netherlands. She had a collection of birch trees on her property and proudly explained that her ancestors have been using it for generations for revitalization and to prevent cancer. "If nothing else, it's great for skin and hair. My little girls and I wash our hair with it and rub it as a face mask on our special girl-and-mommy-time days" she said. Her husband explained that harvesting it is hassle free. "Between fall and spring you put the tap in and collect it like maple sap for syrup. Every 24 hours, from only 1 tree, you get 1.5 liters of fresh juice without having to process it." And when I asked why he started collecting after the last leaf fell and stopped in the spring before the first bud, he answered: "Because the trees need their strength. We won't ever harm the trees. We only collect when they are hibernating." I tasted both fresh and fermented and couldn't pick my favorite - they were different enough and both delicious and unique. I was sent home (to my hotel) with two 1.5L bottles of it. I drank from them every day until the last drop before I checked out. I am not sure if I became an ambassador of birch juice because of its uniqueness, health effects, or taste first. But all were encapsulated and fortified by the family and story time I was honorably a part of. That's what sealed the deal - witnessing ageless healthy living remedies passed down through consciousness and subconsciousness, entwined in modern day interactions between husband and wife, mom and daughters, family and guests, from one part of the world to another. . These teas have been cultivated in the Mediterranean region for thousands of years, They can be enjoyed both by drinking, inhaling, and even topically applying this tea to the skin. Sage Te a anti oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancerous, improves blood sugar control, promotes oral health, healthy skin and wound healing. Sideritis Mo unta in Tea anti-microbial, ant-ulcerative, anti oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, decongestant, pain relie ver, carminative mood enhan cing, and anti-depressant Red Oregano Mountain Tea anti-inflammatory and antioxidant Nettle Tea from dried leaves anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, and it purifies the blood and destroy the toxins from the body. Nettle Tea from dried roots & stems treats hey fever, enlarged prostate symptoms, and lowers blood pressure, joint swelling, and estrogen metabolites. Dandelion Tea from leaves relieves constipation and soothes minor digestive ailments. prevents urinary tract infections, anti-cancerous Dandelion Tea from roasted roots best known as 'liver' tonic, it helps detoxify the liver, can be used as a substitute for coffee Dried Crab Apple Tea prebiotic - enables good gut bacteria, immunity booster, anti-inflammatory, aids in weight loss Thana Tea and more... Thana, known in Latin as Cornus Mas and in English as Cornelian Cherry , is a special, less known plant, native to southern Europe and south-western regions of Asia. Dandelion Honey Dandelion honey isn't honey made by bees, but rather it is really dandelion syrup made from the flowers and sugar. You're the bee converting flowers into sweet goodness. You can weed those pesky dandelions from your lawn and make a treat from the flowers. Dandelion honey is a good substitute for honey for vegans or anyone who may have an allergy to traditional bee's honey, with a surprisingly similar flavor. T he consistency is thinner than most honey. It has a very similar appearance in color. If you have a lawn dotted with dandelions and you are sure there haven't been any chemicals applied, you can forage for the flowers. If spring has sprung but the bees aren't yet buzzing enough to make honey, this is a fun seasonal substitute. Prep:75 mins Cook:90 mins Steep and Soak:6 hrs 5 mins Total:8 hrs 50 mins Servings:16 serv ings Ingredients: 4 cups dandelion petals 4 cups water 3 lemon slices (1/4-inch) 1/2 vanilla bean, split in half 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar Directions: Pick dandelion flowers during the daylight while in full bloom. Remove the petals, then measure the petals only. Discard the center of the flower and the stem in your compost. Soak petals in cold water for five minutes to allow time for any insects to exit, then drain. Place petals in a heavy saucepan along with water, lemon slices, and vanilla bean. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove pan from heat and let steep for 6 hours. Strain dandelion tea through a cheesecloth and discard solids in your compost. Place dandelion tea in a heavy saucepan and bring to a low boil. Gradually add sugar to boiling liquid while stirring until sugar is dissolved. Lower heat and let simmer uncovered until it reaches desired syrupy thickness. This may take about 1 hour. It will thicken more as it cools. Store covered in the refrigerator. It should keep for about six months. It also freezes for longer storage. Not es: Some cooks leave the flower heads intact, but this can add a bitter note to the honey. It's best to use only the petals and eliminate any green parts. If you're concerned about who or what was tiptoeing through the dandelions before you picked them, the rinsing and boiling processes should eliminate any lingering bacteria . Picking the dandelion flowers will keep them from going to seed and propagating more dandelions. That's good news if you want fewer, but bad news if you discover you love dandelion honey and want lots more flowers the next season. Try using orange slices in place of the lemon slices for a different citrus flavor. You can add a little bit of fresh herbs such as thyme, sage, bay leaves or lemon verbena to the petal-water mixture. Remove them as soon as you're happy with the level of herbal flavor, before any delicate floral notes get overpowered. Albanian Remedies: Teas Elderflower Syrup Elderflower is the flower of the elder tree. An extract of the flower is used to make medicine. In addition to tasting like summer, this wonderful syrup treats the common cold, the flu (influenza), swelling of the nasal cavity and sinuses. Elderflower prep Best if you collect your own flowers in a clean forest. Do not wash or rinse to prevent pollen from coming off. Carefully pluck the flowers. Remove as much as you can of the green part because it will add bitterness. Making the syrup Put 350 g of Elderflower into a 5 liter jar Pour in 2.5-3 liters of water Add lemon juice by squeezing 2 organic lemons Mix softly to blend everything together Cover the top and let it rest in the fridge for 72 hours Everyday, carefully push the flowers down with a wooden spoon Filter the syrup through a cheese cloth For the sugar and citric acid add-ons, start out with adding a little, mix, taste, and repeat until you reach your desired taste. Add sugar (up to 0.75kg) Add citric acid (up to 2 tbsp) Store in fridge in glass bottle(s) For drinking it as a cold brew, add 50/50 syrup and water in a glass. Fun Fact: Elderberries grow from the same tree as elderflowers. The flowers (white and small in bunches) bloom from July to July while the berries (blue, dark purple, black) ripe from September to October. European black elder trees are called Sambucus Nigra. The elderberries from this tree are used to make the Italian liquor called Sambuca. Homemade Calcium Calcium, the most abundant mineral in our body, helps with our bones and teeth and maintains a healthy heart, nerves, muscles, and an ideal weight. Here’s a home remedy from my aunt Hana. 12 eggshells 5 organic lemons Freshly squeezed lemon juice 32 oz glass jar with plastic lid Wider glass bowl as a deep tray for glass jar Wash the eggs well before cracking with warm water. Instead of baking or boiling them, because they are my chicken’s eggs and fresh, I don’t have to worry about bacteria and use them raw. Hand-crush the shells and fit them into the jar. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and close the lid. Place in the fridge for 5-7 days and shake twice a day. Place a wider glass bowl as a deep tray for glass jar to catch any leaks that drop from the lid during fermentation. Before using, strain to separate the eggshells from the thick white liquid. Put back in the glass jar and close the lid. Store in the fridge. Take a teaspoon a day. Its wood was used from the seventh century BC onward by craftsmen in southern Europe to construct spears, javelins and bows, the craftsmen considering it far superior to any other wood. Today, it spectacularly presents itself in Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina in distilled Rakia. During full fruit bearing, 20–80 kg of fruits can be picked from one tree. Less known and unique uses are that the leaves can be used as a tea substitute and provide a good source of tannin; oil may be obtained from the seed, and a unique red dye from the bark. The thin trunks make excellent walking sticks and canes. Bay Leaf Tea The Greek word for laurel is Dafni (similar in Albanian, Dafinë ) named for the Daphne of Greek mythology. Laurel was prized during ancient times. Its leaves were considered as a symbol of wisdom, peace, and protection. They were used in Mediterranean religious ceremonies and believed that the smoke from burning bay leaves could ward off evil spirits. Wreaths, crowns, and garlands of the herb were worn by emperors, heroes, doctors, and poets. Doctors wore crowns of bay leaf due to the belief that it provided support for maladies from indigestion to bad dreams. Bay Leaves have been used for 1000s of years for cooking, essential oils and traditional medicine. As you have probably guessed already, it can also be brewed into a delicious and healthful herbal tea. Because the leaf is full of essential oils, its taste is similar to those of eucalyptus and menthol with hints of pepper-like spic, and it's complimented fantastically with honey. Among countless health benefits, the most noteworthy one is that laurel leaves are high in vitamin C and vitamin A, and excellent for your immune system. WILLOW TREE ASPIRIN The acid from a Shelgë or willow tree is aspirin. The ancient Sumerians, circa 2000 BC, recorded the use of willow leaves to treat inflammation. The Ebers Papyrus, circa 1500 BC, one of the most important medical documents of ancient Egypt, references the use of willow leaves as a general purpose pain reliever. And Hippocrates himself advocated the use of willow bark tea to reduce fever and alleviate pain. Jumping ahead to modern times, the first ever recorded clinical trial was centered around willow bark, when in 1763 Reverend Edward Stone sought a treatment for the symptoms of malaria. Gentian Root (Gentian Lutea) It is a flowering herb native to mountainous regions in Central and Southern Europe. It was traditionally used to stimulate appetite and aid digestion, thanks to its bitterness. In European folk remedies, gentian root was also believed to support liver function and detoxification and treat fever. It is also a popular ingredient in cocktail bitters, lending a distinctive flavor profile to drinks. The Gentian Lutea flower color is bright yellow while some species may have blue flowers. Gentius was an Illyrian king who belonged to the Labeatan dynasty. He ruled in 181–168 BC, being the last attested Illyrian king. He was the son of Pleuratus III. The capital city of the Illyrian kingdom under Gentius was Scodra, now Shkodër, Albania. Cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus) An annual flowering plant native to Europe. It is well known for its striking bright blue flowers, which bloom during the late spring and summer months. Traditionally found in cornfields and meadows, cornflowers have been used in herbal remedies to make infusions believed to support digestive health and relieve minor eye irritations when used as an eyewash. The plant is also thought to have mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a gentle addition to soothing teas and topical preparations. Beyond its medicinal uses, cornflower is sometimes added to culinary dishes as an edible garnish, lending both color and a subtle, spicy flavor. In skincare, extracts from cornflower are found in some lotions and toners for their calming effects on the skin. Cornflowers are also great as a natural dye. And they are recognized as a symbol of remembrance and hope in various cultures. Juniper Berries (Juniperus Communis) They have been valued for centuries for their culinary, medicinal, and aromatic properties. They are commonly used as a spice, particularly in European cuisine, where they add a distinctive, pine-like flavor to meats, sauces, and beverages such as gin. Usage • As a spice in cooking, especially for flavoring game meats, stews, and sauerkraut. • In the production of gin and other alcoholic beverages. • In traditional herbal medicine, where they are often used in teas and extracts. • In aromatherapy and natural remedies. Benefits • Antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from damage. • Potential anti-inflammatory effects, supporting overall health. • May aid digestion and support urinary tract health. • Traditionally used to boost immunity and relieve minor aches. Bilberries (Vaccinium Myrtillus) Small, blue-black berries native to Europe and parts of Asia. They are commonly consumed fresh, dried, or as extracts in supplements. Bilberries are used in culinary dishes such as jams, pies, and syrups. They are also popular in herbal medicine as teas, capsules, and tinctures. Due to their rich pigment, bilberries are sometimes used as natural food coloring. Bilberries are high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which may help protect cells from oxidative damage. They are believed to support eye health, improve circulation, and strengthen blood vessels. Some studies suggest potential benefits for lowering blood sugar and supporting heart health. Bilberries may also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making them a valuable addition to a healthy diet. Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus Idaeus) Derived from the plant Rubus idaeus, is a popular herbal remedy traditionally used for its health-promoting properties. Most commonly consumed as a tea, tincture, or supplement, red raspberry leaf is especially known for supporting women's reproductive health. It is often used to help ease menstrual discomfort, support uterine health, and is sometimes recommended during pregnancy to help tone the uterus and potentially shorten labor, though more research is needed to confirm these effects. Beyond its gynecological uses, red raspberry leaf is valued for being rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to overall wellness, immune support, and may help reduce inflammation. The leaf's astringent properties are also believed to aid in soothing sore throats and treating mild diarrhea. Any special remedies you'd like to share?

Stitched Recipes Work in Progress Have any special recipes to share?

Recited my work others' Relieved Three Generations of Women Magic Moments with sound What Is Your Name_ My Name Is ... This Is The Jumbo Jungle Shawn Slovo, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin O Malet e Shqipërisë Il Canzoniere Amaneti i Kolë Gjetos (song lyrics) Étude for an elephant Çka ka zogu që po qan Anything come to mind you'd like to share?

Love and Friendships Cadmus and Harmonia Cadmus and Harmonia Cadmus and Harmonia Cadmus and Harmonia Work in progress... Travel & Immigration Work in progress... Animals Work in progress... I am currently curating a few stories that highlight perspectives of 'in the middle'. If you have stories you'd like to share, please contact me :) Untold Stories Untold Stories Untold Stories Untold Stories

Magic Moments MAGIC MOMENTS 11.14.2019 When the sun rays shine through the dancing leaves Of brown barked trees She walks, and the air cascades Sweet and soft hues of ponderosa Whenever she is here alone, she feels company Old friends fifty feet tall invite her in their bubble And the charming duet of sparrow and chickadee Grandiosely serenade the mariposa And she walks and the air cascades That sour soil of old leaves and moss Tomorrow to bitterly be replaced By synthetic smells of citrus and mimosa She grin-and-bears the new world order Comfort replaces spirit, and work, life The chance of these magic moments Often demoted to the superficial hike And it is this path in which we burn the earth alive Slowly step by step and stone by cement Dwellings with a bush or two, fighting plastic to survive Comforting the owner and forbidding a bee of its hive This is the real magic The natural becoming unnatural The unnatural walking to evoke the natural Magic moments