Summer Solstice
Time - A Creative Remedy
While accepting the bittersweet process of re-rooting to a new living space, from what was home for many years, I held on to excitement of diving into my bench work, as soon as my smithing tools were setup! I even mentioned on social, ahead of time, a ‘Spring’ collection was in the works! In hindsight, I realize the announcement was more to remind myself I’m not loosing everything.
After a couple months, I sat down at the space my Dad is loaning me in his own shop (thanks Dad 🙏) and tinkered a bit. I was smacked with feeling stuck! It seamed like every piece I started, I ended up scrapping, for a multitude of reasons.Ugh!
I had to accept that I was rushing it.
That “Springtime” collection. Ya, not happening. You may have noticed, I was quiet about it on social. Anyhoo, as frustrating as it was to have this self-doubt lingering, the remedy was just t i m e. But, I knew there was a remedy SOME where. Did I mention I’m a Taurus? So, as a way of accepting, I’ve re-directed my energy to little weekend get-away’s and exploring, until stronger messaging came through.
Time was needed for my internal lightbulb to get a bit brighter.
Airing out the cobwebs while exploring at the top of Mt. Greylock in western, MA with Lily and Jake
Finally, this light is shining on a thought I’ve bounced around with for awhile… but waited for a clearer sign as to when to execute. You know that feeling.
The message…it’s t i m e to circle back to my roots by integrating the materials that inspired n’GRAINED in the first place!
Warm Weather Noticing’s
This past Spring, we stumbled on many tiny treasures. Most of which made their way into my nature journal in some shape and form. And even though I’ve landed not far from where I was living the past 30+ years, this nature-lover feels a bit like a kid in a candy store! The candy store being the woods and beaches within a 10-30min. driving distance.
I’m a kid in a candy store!
Every week, is a new place. I even purchased a membership with The Trustee’s. Which is a national organization of well maintained trails, access to cool events and museums that keep nature natural and the arts alive! We’re psyched!
(Left) A ‘lil baby crab skeleton almost fully intact, (Middle) A young little salamander that lives along a trail that led us to waterfalls on Mt. Greylock, (Right) Young vibrant tree buds I studied under my loop magnifier!
Seasonal Recipe
•Hydra-Tea•
This recipe I came up with out of pure necessity to maintain hydration during the hot months to stave off dehydration headaches, migraine and when I simply forget to drink enough from being in the creative zone, ha!
Any combo and quantity of herbs will work. They each provide their own distinct supportive actions towards hydration.
INGREDIENTS
Rose petals
Spearmint
Oat tops
Marshmallow root (Smaller qty - can get slimy)
Nettle
Willow bark
Cardamom pods
Lemonbalm
Cinnamon chips
Tulsi
Chamomile
Maple syrup
MAKE
Put all dry ingredients in a pot of water and bring to a soft boil.
Immediately turn heat off and put lid on immediately (to trap all the plant goodness).
Pull away from hot burner and pour in a tablespoon+ of maple syrup (to taste)
Let steap for a few hours (if you can). Ideally until it comes to room temperature.
Strain into a storage vessel (large glass mason jar is my preference) and keep in refrigerator.
Pour over ice and enjoy!
[NOTE This is likely safe for most, though self-advocate, by checking for any contraindications between herbs and medical conditions/medications.]
Originally shared via e-mail 7/2022