Greetings from Wildflower Haven,
After the exuberant splash of color and crisp sunny days of October, November has brought her bracing wind, bare trees, and early evenings. I saw a few snowflakes today. I'm fortunate that cold weather makes me feel happy. The seasonal change is beautiful and it’s an adjustment. This is our busiest time of year, and there is so much to do everyday. Still, we feel grateful for shorter days that invite rest and reflection. Where are you finding beauty this November?
Like every year, I've learned a lot this growing season. My skills are improving with practice and my passion for the garden is growing, but mostly what I've learned is how much there is to learn and how learning never stops. And how important it is to stay connected to the earth, to stay open and stay balanced.
I’ll do one or two more deep waterings this month, and am still harvesting lavender and rosehips, but for the most part the garden is putting its energy into deepening its roots and I’m putting my focus on my indoor garden. I’m overwintering several Mandevilla and a few ornamental peppers, along with my regular host of indoor plants including this beloved orange tree that my Dad started from seed thirty-five years ago.
All year round, and most certainly during this busy time of year, it's important to take excellent care of ourselves and one another. I was inspired by the work of herbalist Robin Rose Bennet to try an herbal bath and I strongly recommend it. I'm not one to get into the bath very often (I do shower regularly, lol), but this herbal bath brought so much peace and such deep quiet that I am going to make a regular ritual of it. I could feel how the herbs were caring for me as I soaked. An herb bath is a simple and powerful way to care of yourself or a loved one. I used fresh lavender and melissa for my first bath, but there are lots of fresh and dried herbs you can use. I've got my jar full of helichrysum ready to go for my next bath. You can find the simple recipe here.
A Little News
Our Small Business Saturday shopping event is rapidly approaching! Join us on November 29, Saturday, from 10-3 at the UU Church of Haverhill at 16 Ashland Street - which is the back door to the church. We will be filling the warm and inviting Murray Room with one-of-a-kind artwork, aromatherapy blends, handcrafted ornaments, pottery, hand made journals, holiday cards and much more. I’m attaching a flyer to this email. Please share widely - our wish is for a bustling shopping day for our guest crafters and for ourselves. If you'd like some flyers, let me know and I will drop them off to you. I will probably send one more email about this event.
As always, if you would prefer a private shopping experience, our showroom is all spruced up and ready for a relaxing, no-pressure shopping visit. Just reply to this email to set up a time.
You can also visit us at Craft Fairs in Exeter on November 22 and North Andover on December 6.
Apothecary Blend Spotlight
This month I’m having fun crafting aromatherapy gift sets. Here are the two I've created so far:
One set features three of my most popular blends, fits in your handbag or glovebox, and is at the ready when you need it. This aromatherapy set includes three roll-on blends to revitalize lagging spirits, help with sleep, and to clear mind fog.
Another set features three space-enhancing sprays, to relax, soothe, and uplift the spirits. The aromas are truly gorgeous and they have a gentle and instant effect on your vibe.
It’s Elderberry Rosehip Elixir season! Many drink this potion year round, but this is the time of year when folks are really looking for immunity support. I hope you'll give it a try. I always make this elixir in small batches and keep it on hand for those who need it.
My wish for all of us is that we follow our dog Linus' example; enjoy every moment, stay close to who and what we love, and rest well.
Enjoy your moments, enjoy November, enjoy it all,
Linda