

Have you ever wondered why success and stress seem to be inseparable companions in our world today? Success in business means long hours, politics, and the never-ending struggle to achieve. Success in love means constant sacrifice and "working on the relationship." Success in school, art, music, science, and sports means the ever-increasing pressure to perform. When we take a step back and look at the whole picture, it's hard not to wonder, "Is success today worth the cost?" Is the fear and anxiety we feel in the present moment worth the promise of some perfect moment to come? If we look objectively at the fruit of our stressful days, and the deteriorating state of the world, we begin ...
Last week I took a short vacation to the stunning North Shore of Lake Superior in Minnesota. At one point, we decided to attempt a hike down a mountain through the woods on a hardly visible trail. We were warned that it was a hike for experts. After getting lost and feeling like we were in way over our heads, we left and headed for a State Park, with clearly marked and groomed trails. The experience was unsettling. And it made me wish I had tried harder to see my way through the wilderness, to find the path, to settle down and enjoy the beauty that was around me. But when strong emotions, such as fear, are triggered, they can override every other experience. That experience reminded me of ...
In the dead of winter, when outdoor gardens have faded, vibrant indoor gardens can still be enjoyed. Sun-loving houseplants benefit from basking in a window, and you'll benefit from having them there. Besides screening you from strong floods of light and conferring extra privacy, plants create leafy, live window trims of branches and foliage—and sometimes bright flowers. You can savor the presence of plants in small quarters and enjoy a year-round growing season, whether space is limited or expansive, when you plant for success by choosing the right species. This article focuses on creating room to grow flowers, herbs, plants, vegetables, trees, and shrubs by maximizing use of ...
Berries are very important at this time of year, and bilberries, a close relative of the North American blueberry, were particularly valued in ancient times. It is said that they were one of the offerings sent to the Irish High King as tribute at Lughnasadh. Today, we can honor their ancient value and enjoy the sweet tartness of a cooling berry-filled lemonade on a warm afternoon. Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 5 minutesChill Time: 2 hoursServes: 8½ cup honey1 cup lemon juice3 lemon chamomile tea bags2 cups blueberries6 cups waterIn a small saucepan, dissolve the honey in lemon juice over low heat. Place tea bags in a blender and pour lemon juice over them. Allow to steep for 9 ...