Blackberry Pickin's

Although the season is nearing its end for the wild blackberry, I managed to harvest some last minute sweetness. Nothing is more tempting than that of a ripened blackberry.

I may or may not have eaten half of what I picked (heh), but I do intend to bake some muffins from what I did gather.

Some rules of thumb when exploring the thorny depths of a blackberry bush:

1. Wear gloves. Unless you have a fondness for thorny fingers, I don't suggest you pick bear bare handed. Even if you are quite the berry thief, you shant get away without a few purple stained fingers. I would know. :)
2. Wear boots. Much of the same goes for your feet. Those bushes are quite affectionate and would love to tangle you in their vines, least you be willing enough. 
3. Don't wear knit clothing. As I attempted to gather berries in my knit sweater last season, it apparently had an affinity to catching the thorns, thus dragging me down to the pokey depths as I struggled to unlatch myself. It was quite the scene.
4. Don't harvest in one spot for too long. There are always more bushes and you wouldn't want to exhaust the lovely plant of its gifts.
5. Do have a few berries for yourself. But try to stick to the task at hand. It's quite tough, I must admit.
6. Lastly, gather with dignity and express your gratitude. I always bring a music box when gathering and sing a sweet song of thanks. 

Alas, that is all the advice I can give for now. Good-morrow! 

Lemonade Elixir

Growing your own herbs is probably one of the most satisfying feelings in the world. My herbs are my children of the garden. They are the magick which brings life to my home. I tend to them as they tend to me.

Before using herbs for cooking, rituals, or what have you, I always mind the proper plant etiquette--and by this I mean I always thank the plant and the mother for the gifts I am about to take. Giving thanks doesn't take more than a second and is well worth your time. Some people leave corn meal near the plant, whisper words of praise, give breath to the bushel, or even sing a song. Then, gently cut the stalk and carry on with your purpose.

By giving gratitude to the plant it grants you its magickal qualities of healing, protection, and nourishment. After all, the plants are giving up their leaves, petals, and sprigs just for you. Its one more way to get closer with your natural world.

Although the sun graced us with her warmth today, I was feeling a bit drained for no apparent reason.  So, I made a cool and energizing Lemonade Elixir. I'll leave the recipe below so that perhaps you can enjoy a bit of sweetness in your life as well:

1 cup of lemon juice

1 cup of water

1 cup of sugar

A drizzle of simple blackberry syrup (or jam if you'd like)

1 sprig of rosemary

1 sprig of lavendar

And as many ice cubes as you desire

Blessed Be.