- The Rising of the Phoenix
- Posts
- The Bug
Animals have been living in close contact with humans for as long as there have been humans because both have benefited from the relationship. The pets in your life can sense things in your environment that you miss. My advice: Develop a symbiotic relationship with the animals in your life and pay attention when their behavior shifts.
THE BUG
Hello, my name is Bugsy. My friend, Manitu, is a little nervous about writing this first newsletter, and she is a little busy right now, so I hijacked the newsletter. Normally, this would be the space for practical things that you can do (like cuddle me), but I am going to introduce myself.
I am the studio manager for Manitu Okahas Studio. Sometimes, Manitu calls me "The Bug", because she says that I'm a nuisance. I'm not sure what that means, but it must be good. Anyway, I help Manitu forage for things to eat and materials to use for her art. It is my job to test the grapevine and wood to make sure it is good. I also keep Manitu company and keep her safe while she works. I do have one more job. the cats like to get into Manitu's work. It is my job to herd cats.
I'm tired now because typing is hard work. I'm going to nip Manitu on the heels to get her to tell you how she fixes my favorite meal, chicken. I'll drag her to the keyboard for the next newsletter.
OLD TIME CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS
Dumplings boiling in the pot
Bugsy wants me to share her favorite "recipe". This is actually more of a process and a way of thinking than a recipe. This is one of my favorite ways of eating well on a tight budget. Hopefully it will help you as well. There is a recipe at the end of the article if that is all that you want. The button below will take you directly to the full article, and other free tips as well if you want to stay a while. Enjoy.
If you talk to the animals, they will talk with you and you will know each other. If you do not talk to them, you will not know them, and what you do not know you will fear. What one fears, one destroys.
THE UNRAVELING
It was a day. There had been many days before this. There would be many days to come. This day felt unusually overwhelming. The dishes overflowed the sink. The laundry basket no longer closed. The clutter of life was all around. The plans - they were hiding in the debris. She sat down heavily...
And for a little bit more
Events
This is being published in the middle of February. Here are some important things to think about for this time of the year.
If you are planting a garden and planting your own transplants, it is time to start onion seeds, hardy herb seeds, and cole crop seeds indoors to have them ready for transplant.
It is time to take hard wood cuttings for propagation for many species.
Valentine's Day is February 14. Take care of your special someone.
The New Moon is February 20.
Useful herb: ROWAN
Rowan, also called mountain ash, is a hardy tree that thrives in the high mountain crags and crevices. This tree has a long history of use, especially in the Celtic areas of Europe. Both the wood and fruit have practical and esoteric uses. The berries are especially high in vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals, making them a valuable food source for jellies, drinks, and wine. Rowan has long been seen as a tonic herb that helps to strengthen and fortify your health.
The more esoteric aspects of rowan can be found here.
Seasonal lore: AQUARIUS
In the Greek zodiac, this is the season of Aquarius. Aquarius is symbolized by the water bearer. As a symbol of mid winter, this is a time to reflect and learn the lessons of the past. This symbol reminds us to gain wisdom from the past, but not to stay in the past. This is a symbol of letting the past go to leave space for the future with the wisdom gained as a guide.
