Friday 29 July 2011

101 Things Update


You must be wondering what this is about, I'm trying to find a new way to knock out the Bucket list, since I'm relocating to a new town which is a lot more fun than the one I live in right now, so I will be able to complete more than I have been previously able to.  I have done three different things from my 101 list which is listed on the side bar. And it's not even 10 days!!

I got my moving boxes from here, yes I know you can get boxes for free from craigslist or even freecycle, or hell just going to the store, but i like supporting small businesses and this is a pretty cool idea, you choose a size and they send you a variety of boxes, all of which are previously used and they are in pretty good condition. I only purchased one set and have used them up already. Check them out instead of purchasing new boxes which used virgin materials please.

I completed coasters as well, I decided to do some crocheting because I have the yarn, it's cheaper and I get to have something personal in my home, something I created, not just purchased. It's also greener, no new materials were used just what i had on hand, some of it reclaimed yarn that was pulled from older projects that didn't quite work out, here are the images.
I also completed the placemats!! I go the pattern here, a link I found through CrochetpatternCentral.com i'm also thinking of doing coasters and napkin rings to go along with them.

I made these pretty qucikly and have enjoyed creating something for my new home which I will be able to use and display and didn't even have to puchase because I had the yarn already sitting around waiting to be used.
I am working on the sponges, and will be doing a ton more of those, because they are easy to work up.  I have already have ten, now I won't have to purchase any sponges to clean at all. It's all nice and green!!!
I want to make potholders, but I only have one color cotton yarn which doesn't match the kitchen scheme, so I will be purchasing new yarn for that any excuse to feed the addiction.  Many of the patterns state that acrylic will melt under the heat and I don't which to test that theory at all, so cotton it will be.

That's as much as can be done for now from the list. See you on the next check up

Thursday 28 July 2011

Divinity Series: 1

The inspiration for this series came about when I was watching a comedian, who was discussing his faith, one of the things he mentioned was the story of Jesus and the "greatest fish fry ever".  Now for those of you aren't familiar with the story, it's about Jesus feeding the crowd of thousands with only 5 loaves and 2 fish.  As soon as I heard the story I began to think about the different tales of Gods and their different marks of power. One of these marks is the ability to provide for their followers.

Wikipedia gives the definition of the cornucopia as being " a symbolic, hollow horn filled with the inexhaustible gifts of celebratory fruits". One of the reasons people follow certain faiths is the belief that the God or Gods can provide for and take care of them, or even help them take care of themselves. 

There are many tales from many different cultures which speak to the commonality of the belief that the Gods provide. Many of these tales include information about the God's special gift of food, after all how can people be expected to worship you if they are starving and can't think beyond the search of basic comforts?  In many of the tales of the horns of plenty, the gift shows the strength of the magic of the conjurer, it shows the ability of the magician to provide, to lead and how blessed and favorable their magic is.  this ability to conjure such magic made them different, made them something more than human, but the ability for abundance alone didn't make on a God, it did however show up often as one of the marks of Divinity.

Within the Greek myths there is the tale of the battle between Athena and Poseidon on who would be named Patron of Athens, when Athena provides the olive tree, her gift beat out Poseidon's gift of water, because the water couldn't be drunk, it was in fact salt water.  the olive tree provided many different functions,from oil to cook with, to wood to be burned, to fruit that could provide. Athena's gift was a gift of inexhaustible uses, and she became Patron of the City. Although not a horn per say, her gift was a way to provide for her people and this showed her Divinity because she took care of those who would depend on her, it also showed her leadership, and cunning to win against Poseidon.

One of my favorite stories as a child growing up was about Broda Anansi, now I have mentioned before that he is the trickster God of the Yoruba tradition, his tales are told in the Caribbean often passed from parent to child sharing different life lessons along the way.

Now there is a story of Broda (brother) Anansi who was married and had several children, who he couldn't feed. One day Anansi was in the woods looking for food and cried out to the heavens asking for help, a man appeared and gave him a dutch pot (imagine a cauldron) and was told to follow certain instructions, which as long as he did he would never want for anything again.  He was never to wash the pot, and he was to share the bounty. Every evening Anansi would pull out the pot, put it on the fire, and dance and sing as he chanted about what he wanted, the pot would cook up his favorite meals, he would share these meals with his wife and children, who was curious to know how he was doing it. But Anansi was greedy and decided to keep the pot's secret to himself.


Anansi's friend Dog was also hungry and would see Anansi's family eating these lavish meals and wanted to know how Anansi was doing it, but Anansi wouldn't tell him, so one night he followed Anansi and saw the ritual, he got jealous and confronted Anansi who wouldn't share with him and reminded Anansi that he too had a hungry family, but Anansi just laughed and left with the pot. Dog decided he would tell Anansi's wife what he heard, when Anansi was dancing he sang about how he would never wash the pot, so Dog decided to tell the Mrs. that Anansi asked him to tell her to wash the pot for him so he could make some food. Anasi's wife didn't know where he left the pot so she never got to wash it, and decided not to say anything to her husband just in case, one day Anansi's wife saw him put the pot beneath the kitchen cabinet and leave. Mrs. Anansi thinking that Broda Anansi just didn't want to wash the pot, took it out and gave it a good scrub. When Anasi came home he discovered what she did and started crying, when asked what happened he explained that he was told never to wash the pot, but to always share the food, now the pot didn't work and they were back to being poor and without food.

There are two morals in this story, one being greedy eventually doesn't pay, and you must be honest with your family, had he been honest with his wife, Anansi wouldn't have lost the pot of plenty.
As you can see here the pot of plenty was meant to be shared, it was given to one to give to the people but he decided to hide it instead, and eventually lost the gift.  In many of the tales, the Cauldrons, horns, and even baskets of plenty would only work when the magic was shared, it can't be kept to oneself.

Another tale of the Horns of Plenty is linked to Zeus. Excert from the Wikipedia site on Cornocopia.
One of the best known involves the birth and nurturance of the infant Zeus, who had to be hidden from his devouring father Cronus. In a cave on Mount Ida on the island of Crete, baby Zeus was cared for and protected by a number of divine attendants, including the goat Amalthea("Nourishing Goddess"), who fed him with her milk. The suckling future king of the gods had unusual abilities and strength, and in playing with his nursemaid accidentally broke off one of her horns, which then had the divine power to provide unending nourishment, as the foster mother had to the god.
In another myth, the cornucopia was created when Heracles (RomanHercules) wrestled with the river god Achelous and wrenched off one of his horns; river gods were sometimes depicted as horned.[1]The cornucopia became the attribute of several Greek and Roman deities, particularly those associated with the harvest, prosperity, or spiritual abundance, such as personifications of Earth (Gaia or Terra); the nymphMaiaFortuna, the goddess of luck, who had the power to grant prosperity; and abstract Roman deities who played a role in Roman Imperial cult as fostering peace (pax Romana) and prosperity, such as Abundantia, "Abundance" personified, and Annona, goddess of the grain supply to the city of Rome. The cornucopia was one of the attributes of Pluto, the classical ruler of the underworld in the mystery religions, who was a giver of agricultural, mineral and spiritual wealth, distinguished from the gloomier Hades, who holds a drinking horn instead

Taken from the tales of Taliesin, there is a quote of the Dagda's Cauldron of Plenty called the Undry, which is one of the sacred Cauldron in the Celtic myths, as well as being one of the four Sacred Hallows brought to Ireland with the Tuatha De Danann

"I am renowned, resplendant is my song that was heard.
In the four-cornered fort, four sided,
my poetry was uttered from the cauldron.
By the breath of nine maidens it was kindled.
t was the cauldron of the Chief of Annwn that was sought -
a ridge of pearls around its brim.
It does not boil a coward's food: it was not destined (to do so)."
adapted from Koch & Carey, The Celtic Heroic Age

The Dagda's Cauldron of Plenty would feed those who were courageous, hence the comment about 'not a coward's food', this cauldron would feed thousands and the next day would replenish itself, it needed no fire or ingredients to complete this deed. The Cauldron was a source of abundance and healing. It is and represents an abundance that man can't provide, this abundance comes from the high magics of the Gods, it shows their deeper connections to the magics and to the earth, as many of the Gods would die annually to replenish the earth for the next season of growth. 

In the Christian version of the horn of plenty, Jesus feeds 5000 followers with the donation of 5 loaves and 2 fish, he feed everyone there, even when his followers doubted they would be able to do so.  Thereby creating a new miracle to be attributed to him. This showed his connection to the Higher Power and made him more than 'man' to his followers.

One could connect the Cauldrons, and horns to the Earth itself, as the King's connection to the Earth was seen by the abundance brought forth, when a King was seen as exhausting or displeasing the Earth(Goddess), he would be sacrificed so that the people could once again know prosperity and abundance. 
Modern adaptions of the horns of plenty have seen them especially in the North as decorations taken out during the fall. It is usually seen on the Samhain altars as it is a symbol of fertility, fortune and abundance.

Even within the Christian religion, the horn of plenty is seen at harvest time and is usually filled with the 'harvest' of the church as a way to thank God for what he has helped to sow in their lives in the Spring and Summer.

You can search into other myths to find that many of the god,and Goddesses provide for the people either in the Otherworld or in the living world. this gift of abundance is renewable the way the earth itself is renewable with proper care. As in the tale of Anansi, when the cauldron and it's magics were disregarded or disrespected they would stop working, this was seen as a decline in the magics of the Gods, as the abundance that flowed was linked to their ability to conjure the necessary magic.  When their ability to provide properly was called into question many became sacrifices to help their people. 

And that brings us to next weeks topic: the Sacrifices that made them Gods!
Qoute for Taliesin taken from Here, Dagda's Cauldron image from Bing search.

Hope this helped in showing one of the 'marks of power'



Wednesday 27 July 2011

KWW: Jamaican Chicken Curry

It's KWW again and I'm here to share a nice Jamaican Recipe, now I'm sure ya'll have seen everyone of those celebruity chefs who claim to know how to make 'authentic' Jamaican food. I'm so sorry but they have lied to you, you can't learn Jamaican food from watching a non=Jamaican or being taught by someone who thinks they really know the recipe. (can you tell this is my biggest pet peeve)
Authentic Jamaican means using real jamaican incgredients, so McCormick's curry is NOT a real curry and will not taste the same. Real Jamacian curry is spicy, it's either by Jamican Choice or Grace curry, the BEST of the Best is BH Curry Powder,grown, made, and packaged in Jamaica.  Since everything can be gotten online now a days it should be pretty average in price of about 5.00 a bottle and that should last a while.
Here's the recipe enjoy!!
Ingredients:
  • 4 large pieces of chicken (with or without bone is fine) cut- up
  • 2 Tbsp of curry
  • 1/2 onion
  • 1 green onion
  • 3 medium/ large potatoes cubed
  • 1 stalk celery
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 Tbsp oil
  • black pepper
  • scotch bonnet pepper (if you have it)
  • 2 large carrots cut into 1/2 circles 
Directions:
  • Heat oil in a large pan, once heated add in curry allow to turn a rich brown (about 5 mins)
  • Once curry is done, add in your chicken, allow the chicken to 'brown' on one side (about five- ten mins) before you turn, add in all your chicken and allow to cook through thoroughly.
  • Once it is cooked add in your onion, celery, green onion and chopped scotch bonnet. Add in water and cover allow to cook about 10-15 mins
  • add in carrots and potatoes and cover and allow to cook down
  • Make sure to stir and not have your food stick if you need to slowly add water 1/4 cup at a time until it is not sticking but not watery. 

 I served mine over white rice and it was great, once again, please don't tell my mom I gave over all the ways to make her amazing curry.

Fun Fact: Many Jamaican restaurants serve curry with bread, the reason?? If it's too spicy the bread helps to soak up the spice, water will only spread it.

Be Blessed

Tuesday 26 July 2011

101 Grrreat Quickies...

Title: 101 Grreat Quickies
Author: Laura Corn
Pages: 101
List Price: $25.95
How I got it: Purchased
My Review:
Yes, the title does say it all.


I got this book, years ago, and saved it for when I had a partner I could trust. I have since purchased the book again, because it's that good and that fun. It's split into his challenges,and her challenges each appears to be envelops, with 'jeans' like zippers, that each partner gets to unzip, one at a time, whatever is in the envelop you with both enjoy.  There are a ton of fun titles like:

  • Fox Hunt- For Him to Unzip
  • How Far will you go- For Her to Unzip
  • Lace Me down- For Her to Unzip
  • Half time Love Snack- For Him to Unzip
She even gives some great advice in the beginning to both partners, especially to the men about the appropriate time to hand out the envelops. Gotta love it because each one is set to push your buttons just a little bit further, nothing too raunchy, and nothing too dark. Just a little light fun.


If your looking for a way to help spice up your sex life this is one of the books to get. It's fun, and you never quite know what's coming up next.
Example:
Wild Card: The presenter and the presentee will retire to the bedroom for some erotic channel surfing. You will grab his remote and push his buttons, until his batteries are completly drained
There are also two other books in the series worth checking out: 101 Nights of Grreat Romance, and 101 Nights of Grreat Sex.  They are well worth the price, especially now that Borders is closing you can probably stock up on them for pretty cheap!!

Way too much fun!!!!
Go Enjoy!!1

Monday 25 July 2011

Divinity Series


What makes a God or Goddess Divine? Is it the belief we have in them? Is it there immortality or what seems to be their immortality? Do ordinary people become divine after centuries of their stories being told, perhaps embellished a little? Throughout human history, myths have given us comfort by explaining why things have become the way they are, who the Gods were, and who was responsible for everything that took place. now in modern times, science has begun to take over and explain all those things, is there still a place for the Divine beings to exist. Why are they still needed? What exactly makes them special, and what is part of their myth that allows us to cleave to them?

Several things are apart of the 'spark' that makes many divine. There are miracles attributed to them, many have horns/plates/cauldrons or plenty, ability to either raise the dead, speak to the dead or come back from the dead. many of them even gods of sacrifice or are sacrificed ritually.

What's the point you ask? Well the other day a comedian made a joke that opened my eyes to the similarities between the Gods and it got me really thinking. I know there are plenty of people who point out the 'errors' of some faiths and show how similar the myths are by saying one stole from the other, so I wish to examine the similarities between the myths and seek out the different things that make Gods 'Divine".  What in the myths made a certain man, woman or child 'Divine' and worthy of being worshipped.

Won't you come along on this journey with me? As I look at "what is Divine or not Divine" (quote from Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code)

Post comments and ideas of Gods or Goddess to examine in the comment section. First part of the series: horns of plenty, this Thursday!!

Be Blessed

Wednesday 20 July 2011

Updates and Progress


Bonjour my loves

Some of you may have noticed the improvements taking place around the blog. I have included two new tabs which carry their posts linked within.  These are Book Reviews, and Recipes, I have done this because it makes it easier for these posts to be found with less work for you.

I will also be adding some posts that I made but never really posted because I had to do some more work on them, now that i have time I will be posting them. So be on the look out for tons of new posts appearing in your timeline soon. There will be some changes to the design and many of the posts, as I get the blog to the way I wish to have it from now on, so please pardon the dust.

There are a lot of big changes taking place in my life and I needed the time away to get them all together before I could really concentrate on the blog. I have so many ideas and drafts to complete and share with you. I have been attempting to catch up on so many of your posts and boy oh boy it seems we are all running into the same issues with family.

Congrats to all those who are moving out and moving on to better homes and their dream farms.
Be Blessed

KWW: Fried Rice

Hi my loves, it's Wednesday again, which means another recipe, another adventure to share.  Today's recipe is one I stole from my dad, I made it a little cleaner and you can change it up as much as you like. It lends itself to a lot of creativity, and it's a great way to use up the leftovers in the fridge. In the case of this meal I used chicken from Monday nights left overs. I also used local eggs, and local (as in from my backyard) veggies, except the mushrooms those I bought at the local market. Enjoy my take on Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
Cooked Rice (whatever you have, I have tried it with white, jasmine, wild rice & brown rice, either way it comes out great)
1 stalk Celery
1 Scallions (these I got from my garden)
1/2 chopped Onion
Mushrooms
Olive Oil
Low Sodium Soy Sauce
2 Eggs or egg whites.
Black Pepper
Protein of your choice already cooked: cubed chicken, shrimp, beef
Directions:

  1. In a Wok or a large frying pan, heat your oil (just enough to coat the bottom of the pan).
  2. Once heated add eggs and immediately begin to scramble.
  3. Add your rice, STIR continuously
  4. add in chopped celery, & scallions
  5. continue to STIR frequently, salt and pepper if you need to you can add some water to prevent the rice from sticking to the pan
  6. Add in your protein of choice, continue to stir
  7. Add in mushrooms
  8. Once everything looks like it's all mixed out especially the egg, add in a few shakes of soy sauce, and STIR quickly to prevent sticking
Serve hot and enjoy!!!

Tuesday 19 July 2011

Book Review

Author:  JJ Murray
Publisher: Kensington
Pages: 363
Cost; $ 15.00
How I Got it: Purchased 
DescriptionWhen recently widowed Joe Murphy "meets" Shawna Mitchell in an online forum, all he's seeking is advice on keeping his home and his family together. Shawna's compassionate e-mails become his lifeline, and as months pass their correspondence grows deep and warm. Discovering that Shawna lives only blocks away. . .well, it feels like more than luck. It feels a lot like hope.
With three children to raise, Shawna has no interest in getting close to another man, let alone one who s got three kids of his own. And the fact that Joe's white can only complicate matters more. But now, as they navigate family dates and vacations and their own doubts and fears, Joe and Shawna find themselves moving toward a future that's bright, new, and totally unexpected. Because the only thing more difficult than uniting two stubborn families would be walking away from something that feels so right. . .

My take on the book:
Joe is pretty helpless, I liked how he was attempting getting his life together after his wife died; he wasn't used to doing any of the things he now has to do. He sought help froma  forum of like minded individuals, In walks Shawna, a mother with her own broad and her own issues of dealing with widowhood, the two bond and begin to help each other out.  Ok so I understand the premise, but had he never lived on his own, shopped for himself?? How could he not know which way helps save toilet paper?? I understand shopping for a family can be difficult when you have never had to do it, but really though??

I loved how the two families had to learn to get along, especially after an altercation between the two teenage children of both Shawna and Joe, (and that was even before they started dating); I can't imagine having to learn to get along with someone who you can't stand personally because now they are your family (wait I take that back, not everyone in a family gets along...so... this is legit).  The differences between them including race, make their lives a little difficult especially because they live in the south. Their faith in God however makes all their trials easier to handle, and gives them a excellent foundation for their relationship. I only wish more couples I knew remembered that: Faith first, then your partner second.

This is a good book to read, it's not the best he's written and it's not a burn rubber book, but it's a great read if you have space on your list.

Enjoy!!
Be Blessed

Book Review: Erotica


Book Title: Undercover
Author: Lauren Dane
Publisher:  Penguin
Pages: 328
Cost; $ 15.00
How I Got it:  Purchased
Description: On the battleground or in the bedroom, one woman and two men fight for dominance in a bold, new, and excitingly different direction in erotica…
As a lieutenant of the Federation military, Sera Ayers is accustomed to giving orders, not taking them. Now she must obey the one man she can’t stand—and can’t stop thinking about.
With the enemy Imperialists gaining ground, a covert team is assembled by Ash Walker. Ten years before, Sera had lovingly submitted to Ash’s dominance in the bedroom. But when he was forced into a political marriage, she refused to play mistress. His marriage now over, Ash wants Sera on his team—and back in his bed.
The third team member, Brandt Pela, has an elegance to match Ash’s savage sexuality. And when their undercover plan requires Sera to pose as Brandt’s lover, it ignites a passion among the three of them more dangerous than their mission.

My take on the book:
Can I just say, that there aren't enough descriptive words in any language to describe how amazing, hot, romantic, steamy,, sexy, smoking hot, funny, lovable, intense, sweaty... oh wait what where we talking about??*wipes drool from mouth*. I bow to Lauren Dane, her writing is descriptive, captivating and enchanting, I was drawn into this book from the very first scene. The character development, the creating of a whole new world and 'verse' without making it boring or heavy handed in details is a fine skill ( don't believe me, have you ever tried to read War and Peace?? Too many Gods bless details that don't enhance the story, but I digress) 

Ash and Sera share a steamy Dom/sub past and the hurt that took place when duty took precedence over love, has left them both reeling. Sera was un-collared in the worst way possible and for a woman who had given everything to her Dom, it left her reeling; she became unhinged and went off a downward spiral   Sera, who fought hard to bring herself back from the brink after being cut loose in the worst way possible, has made herself into a phenomenal woman, she sought out the ritual, the rules and the structure that her life once had by joining the military, there the roles were clear and much like a perfect Dom, she was always given discipline when she needed it. She has moved up the ranks of the military, in a way which is unprecedented, and this brings her back into the life of Ash.

Ash tired of being the 'good son' and doing his duty, has decided that he is getting back the one thing that made his life whole, and centered him, he was going to fight like he hadn't before for the woman he loves.  Brandt, his best friend, fellow Dom, and ranked military family member, had fallen fast,and hard for Sera, and he isn't going to allow Ash to drive her away. Brandt becomes the bridge that helps Ash and Sera heal, and brings into the relationship something neither realized they were missing.  But can they last when their assignment brings up past issues?? And may expose a traitor among the families??

This booked packed in steamy smoking hot sex scenes, within the really great action scenes, allowing both sides to flow well, and keep the reader hooked. I enjoyed that the author allowed us to form an idea of what the characters looked like, and created instead a strong steady soul version instead of just a physical.  I really loved the BDSM scenes, and the really naughty 'taboo' fantasy Sera had that Ash helped her fulfill. 

It's a scorcher and well worth the time to get it.  Enjoy the fantasies
Does contain: M/M scenes, M/F/M, anal play, & strong BDSM content. (just a warning, if it's not for you don't say I didn't warn you)

Saturday 16 July 2011

Parnormal Movie: Charlie St. Cloud

Ok so I know I am late on this one. I resisted my sisters attempts to get me to watch this movie for months, especially when I learned it was a disney movie kid in there I was like "hell no, I'm not watching any High School Musical kid". OMG was I an idiot. I freely admit it. This movie was freaking awesome!!!

So just in case you were like me and living under a rock here is a preview:
At first I was like "pssfft that looks corny" Until you actually watch it and realize it's pretty freaking awesome!! Wait I said that already. Well if you haven't figured it out (no spoilers) after hte accident that kils his brother, Charlie St. Cloud goes into a tail spin and stays there.  As the movie progresses you realize that he is a medium and this gift of his, that he gained from dying then coming back, makes him into a complicated man.   Only he can see the ghosts that visit the graveyard, and to everyone in his small town he's gone from being someone with a great bright sailing future, to a creepy kid who talks to himself.  As the movie progresses you see Charlie change and grow and finally become Charlie again. I had only one pet peeve, Charlie's friend who went to the military and came back was wearing a Marine outfit that was like two sizes too big, especially his hat, although I did recognize him as the spoiled kid from the new class of Scrubs doctors (love him there too)

I loved how his choice  to hang onto the memory of his brother, kept them both in a small world, spinning their wheels, and as his world expanded he learned, to let go. How many people do we know who hang on well past the time of letting go??

I enjoyed this movie immensely. Yes, it's not an Oscar performance, or a groundbreaking movie, but it was a feel good movie with a little lesson thrown in. If your looking for that one family night, or even just are bored one night or if you have a chance check it out, it's now on dvd, and you can rent it from redbox for a dollar.
Be Blessed

Thursday 14 July 2011

On the Telly


Yeah I know it's not a paranormal show, but it's really accurate about what takes place in a hospital. HawthoRNe, is so amazing, even my nursing teachers discuss it in school.

Since Christina Hawthorne (played by the sexy Jada Pinkett Smith) is one of the only positive depictions of nurses on t.v; as much as I love House m.d, they always have the doctors doing all the work O_o unrealistic like hell, I have meet doctors in the field all the time who haven't done a venipuncture in so long (unless they are E.R or OR docs) that they end up calling for the IV nurse or just any nurse to do it (they can do it, but they sometimes stick the patient more than once to get it, and that's a big no-no). Do I personally know if all the political schennigans take place like on the show? Gods no and I hope to never be there when they go down.

Nurses are very rarely the center of any show it's always about the Doctors (not that I'm hating, but...uhmmm where would doctor's be without nurses??? #justsaying).  Nurse Jackie is a junkie, House only uses nurses in the background, I've never watched (and am never going to) Grey's Anatomy so I have no idea what they do on there, all other shows I have seen have either shown one of two stereotypes: Nurse Ratchet the mean nurse who will hold you down and give you a horrible shot, or Slutty nurse who is going to sex you better O_o on both those stereotypes, but there it is.

Ok so now the review of the show:

The show centers around the nursing staff and their interactions with doctors and patients, and the center of it all is Christina Hawthorne who is the Chief Nursing Officer (she;s the big kahuna for the nurses), it's her job to help in running the whole hospital's nursing staff and help keep the hospital afloat. In her effort she has her slightly damaged BFF Bobby, a nurse with a heart of gold and a sharp wit she uses often, Candy the sexy nurse with a penchant for making the stays of military boys "extra special". Nurse Ray who is in love with Candy, is one of the only male nurses on staff and manages to get the angst of that all down while still doing an amazing job as a nurse.  Rounding out the cast is Dr. Tom a chief of surgery, who is also a prior and future love interest for Christina, Dr. Brenda the head of her department, who is also a bit of a sour-puss, and Christina's teenage daughter from her previous marriage, Camille.

the show has an astounding cast and some amazing story lines. Some a little to dramatic for real life, but sometimes the E.R can feel just like on the show. I love it and can't wait to see what this season brings. Although I do wish they changed Christina's bandages in the show's premiere (just saying no nurse would ignore that) . You can watch the show on TNT Tuesdays @10/9c.  You can also catch up on the last few episodes on TNT.com. Last season can be viewed on Dvd from Netflix, or even on HULU.com if you have a subscription.

I hope you enjoy the show as much as I do!!
Be Blessed

Tuesday 12 July 2011

Book Review: One Two Punch

Book Title: One Two Punch
Author: Katie Allen
Publisher: Ellorascave
Pages: 173
Cost; $ 6.99
How I Got it: Purchased 
Description:
Beth is willing to do almost anything to meet her dream man--including taking boxing lessons. She'd passed Harry's gym for weeks before mustering up the nerve to walk in and talk to the gorgeous owner. Once she does, sparks fly as well as punches. 

Their budding relationship is tested with the arrival of Ky, Harry's old Army buddy. After years of frustrated longing for his fellow soldier, Ky is hoping that he can win Harry's heart. He hadn't planned on Beth, however--or the scorching desire she inspires. 
As the trio struggle to accept their feelings for each other, a menacing figure stalks Beth, watching, waiting--and preparing to snatch her away from the two men she's grown to love. from author's blog
My take on the book:
I want this love story. I truly loved this story, especially the love that forms between Beth & Harry. Man oh man they jsut couldn't keep their hands off each other. I really love her because even though she is nervous & scarred as hell she still gets up the nerve to approach the man she has wanted for years.  

Beth & Harry get together & as they begin to build their relationship Harry let's his one obsession out the bag & Beth gets all hot & bothered by it. Beth has a stalker which only drives Harry crazy and makes him want to hang onto & protect her, as her relationship with Harry grows her stalker gets worse. 

This story is rauncy, fun, sweet & so good.  For a small book it packs quite a punch in the emotional department. I really love this one & all the twists & turns. This author can pen a good story. I love this book, I re-read it ALL the time!!!!

Book gets a 5/5 for story
5 alarm HOT!!!

Happy Reading

Book Review: Erotica

Book Title: Forbidden Pleasure
Author: Lora Leigh
Publisher: St Martin's Griffin
Pages:335
Cost; $13.95
How I Got it: Purchased
DescriptionPeople have heard of fleeting rumors about The Club. Located just outside Washington, D.C., only its members know where men go when they want to indulge the desire to share their women with a carefully selected male partner. John “Mac” McCoy resigned his membership from The Club when he married Keiley Hardin. Tempting and innocent, sweet and sexy, she would never accept Mac’s desire to share her with another man. However, Mac’s fantasies of sharing his wife haunt his dreams.  And his passions. Unable to wait any longer to draw his best friend Jethro Riggs into his marriage, Mac invites Jethro to their home with the intention of drawing Keiley into the pleasures that only be achieved when two men love the same woman. But there’s more going on in Mac’s neck of the woods than a little additional pleasure. A past case, a stalker that likes to playing games and his wife is now in the middle of it all. Passion and pleasure, danger and desire combine as forbidden pleasure becomes an addiction none of them can escape.
My take on the book:
Where do I start?? Ms.Leigh knows how to pen a scorching hot tale. From the beginning this book pulls the reader in. I have read several of the Bound Heart series, and this has got to be the best one yet.  I love a good mystery, and this one has both mystery and some steamy sex scenes, and lots of romance.  Keiley and Mac are young, newly married couple. Keiley is afraid of gossip, only the way someone who has burdened the brunt of society's censure fears it, and that's why Mac takes her to the small town he grew up in, where else can you learn to stand tall and tell the gossips to eff off than in a small town?  Mac craves, needs and loves menages, especially when he shares with Jethro, his best friend and ex FBI partner. Both men have pasts that have exposed them to the darker side of humanity at young ages, and this became a sort of therapy for them, now it's a necessity they both grave, they both love Keiley, and she is there only hope of being healed.  For them she becomes home, but when they are faced with their past, the town's censure, can they last??

This is an amazing book, and if you into erotica, and mystery, this is a good one for you.  I loved how Keiley bloomed under their attention, and how they in turn found something not having to do with sex from the triad.

I really enjoyed this book, I loved the writing, how the characters developed, how it all flowed. Did I mention that the sex scenes where raise the temperature hot??
Check it out when you have a chance, it's definitely a keep your partner close kind of book. might even inspire you:)
Be Blessed

Wednesday 6 July 2011

KWW: Potatoes

Yes I know potatoes are part of the nightshade family, but I don't seem to have the reaction to them that I do to tomatoes. I love to eat potatoes, especially fresh roasted red potatoes. I'm known for my potatoes recipes in our family, I bring this to a lot of different dinners and parties and they always go fast. I'm going to share three recipes with you, each on a better variation on the main theme of potatoes.

Roasted Potato Medley
This recipe is from my "Great American Recipes' book. This recipe serves 6.
Nutrional info: 401 calories per servings, fat 14.4g sat. fat 2g, carbs 64.6g
Ingredients:
2 sweet potatoes
4 Yukon Gold potatoes
8 new potatoes
1/4 cup plus 2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp dried tarragon
1/8 tsp salt (or just to taste)
1/8 tsp black pepper

Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 425F. Peel and cube the sweet & Yukon Gold potatoes. Scrub and cube the other potatoes (skin on)
  2. Cook potatoes for 3 mins, and drain thoroughly
  3. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a large nonstick baking sheet
  4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with season
  5. Roast until brown and crisp about 25 mins. Serve Hot!!
Hint: the fresher the tarragon the better the potaoes will taste.

Additional Ideas:
For extra flavor, cook 4 whole leeks in water for 7-10 mins until just tender. Drain and add in to the mix at step 3.

Serving idea:
Serve with roasted chicken or pork. You can serve with your choice of salad.

Rosemary Potatoes & Veggies
as the title suggest this is the most basic potatoes recipe with my own twist.
Ingredients;
8 Red potatoes cubed with skin on
1/4 cup olive oil
2 fresh rosemary sprigs
thyme
black pepper & salt
Veggies: carrots, celery, mushrooms (button or stuffing), califlower, sweet peppers if you like them
Mrs Dash
thyme

Directions:
The veggies will cook faster than the potatoes unless you precook the potatoes. Quick soak them in some salt water then cook until almost soft about 10-15 mins.

  1. After they have cooked and been drained, add to baking dish
  2. drizzle with olive oil, and add chopped up veggies
  3. properly coat everything in olive oil and seasoning then throw in the rosemary sprigs 
  4. Bake at 375F for 15-20 
  5. serve Hot!!
Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients:
3 good sized sweet potatoes
salt and pepper
olive oil
cayenne pepper
chili pepper

Directions
  1. Cut up the potato into long strips after peeling it
  2. In a baking dish, toss with salt, pepper, chili, cayenne pepper and olive oil
  3. Bake in the oven at 375F for 20-25 mins or until crisp 
  4. Serve hot!!
Hint: this is great with baked chicken or the no fry chicken recipe 

Enjoy these side dishes and the many variations that can be potatoes!!!
Be Blessed

Tuesday 5 July 2011

Book Review

"My heroes have always killed cowboys"

Book Title: Angel and the Outlaw
Author: Madeline Baker
Description: "Outlaw JT Cutter, was hanged for the crime of being a horse thief, what he didn't count on was the intervention of Gideon, who gave him a pass of one year in which to redeem himself.  Brandy was celebrating Wild West Days in her town, where the re-enactment of JT cutter's last days took place, little did she know her fate and JT's were about to become intermingled"

My take on the book:
This is actually a pretty good story, the plot is well written, the idea completely fleshed out, and the characters much like real people.  I personally loved the fact that the female lead was strong without being obstinate, and that there were redeemable qualities within the male lead.  The concept of redemption, and being given a chance to make up for your life, was really beautifully written. The journey of discovery that both characters go on shows the human spirit's capacity for growth and true understanding.  I enjoyed how JT changed and learned that his past didn't have to determine his future, and how finding a place where you fit and could call home made a difference in his perception of self and his confidence.

The description and research into Native culture,and traditions is shown throughout the book, the author took her time in making sure to have her facts straight, nothing worse than reading a book and realizing the author does not have a clue what they are talking about, not only is it annoying it's distracting from the story.

I have had this book for sometime and decided to re-read it after I inventoried my entire book collection recently. I was not disappointed, I loved the story before and I still love it now.

If your a fan of romantic wild west stories, this is one of the books for you. You may have more luck at the local library than the bookstore.
Enjoy

Sunday 3 July 2011

Wild Crafting

Proving that the Goddess provides when you need her the most.  This Friday I came down with an ear infection that became complicated with a sinus infection (one of the things that come with Lupus). So I figured I would go for a run/walk to help elevate my temperature to aide in breaking the fever.

Since this is also an optimal time to harvest many wild herbs, I brought my 'wildcrafting kit' with me, it includes, several bags for samples, a marker, notepaper to write the names of herbs on, my camera,  a pair of gloves, and a small book about local plants. I also bring my phone because I can surf the internet and use that to double check the plants as well. Off I went to the woods to do some harvesting of some local  mugwort  I was also really on the look out for mullein I see it near the highways all the time but haven't seen it in any accessible places recently.

 As I'm walking I notice plant looking very beautiful, these lace like flowers kept calling me, so I took pictures, then realized I can't identify the plant if I don't have a sample. At first I thought this might be deadly hemlock, so i put on my gloves, got my sample bag and pulled it out at the roots.

I get home, pull out my research books, The Earthwise Herbal by Matthew Wood, and my herbal teas guide, I picked thru the book comparing the pictures, and discovered I had picked up :  Yarrow!!!  How amazing is that??  want to know why?? Yarrow is best for colds, fevers, stomach cramps, and menstrual flow encouragement.  So it's perfect for me at this moment (well for the first few things not the last one)!!!
Caution:
In rare cases, exposure to fresh  yarrow can trigger itching, rashes, and small skin blisters. Discontinue treatment IMMEDIATELY. It has been shown that prolonged oral use of the herb may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Not to be taken in large amounts during pregnancy.


Herbal Name: Yarrow:
Latin Name: Achillea millefolium,
Derives from:  the Latin name comes from the hero Achilles, who used the herb to staunch wounds during the Trojan War,
Folk name is "nosebleed" which also describes it's frequent use as a styptic to stop bleeding.
Current Use it is one of the most well known herbal remedies for the flu, fevers, stomachaches, sore throats, and menstrual problems.
Plant Facts: It's a hardy perennial that usually grows in bushy clusters. The stalks will grow as high as 24 inches tall, with white or pink flowers appearing from summer to fall. the aromatic white flowered yarrow is most effective for medicinal use with leaves rich in vitamins and minerals.
Origin: Native to Europe and to western Asia, it can be found throughout North America thriving in Temperatic climates, the herb grows wild along roadsides and paths, as well as in sunny meadows.
Parts Used: The entire plant can be used except for the roots, Fresh or dried the herb can be taken internally as well as applied externally, depending on the needs.
Why it Works: Yarrow is valued as a wound healer due to the tannins and chamazulene in the plant. It also contains alkaloids and flavonoids, which lower blood pressure, as well as coumarins, lactones, triterpenes, eucalyptol and camphor. The essential oils found in the yarrow are similar to the those found in chamomile, it's got astringent, antibacterial and some anti-inflammatory properties.

Hot infusions:
  • is highly effective in reducing fevers and helping colds and flu
  • the bitter tonic relieve stomachaches, diarrhea, and cramping, as well as sore throats, & gum irritation.
  • the tannins help to regulate the menstrual cycle and ease menstrual pain
  • externally the herb is often used to stop bleeding and prevent infection of topical cuts and wounds. here is a great recipe for herbal salve
  • For chronic lower back pain:
    a yarrow compress on the site can help. Apply a towel soaked in the tea, as hot as you can handle it, then place a hot water bottle over it. (can be used in other areas of chronic pain)
Cool infusions:
  • used externally or yarrow ointment relieves varicose veins and hemorrhoids
Methods of Administration:

Tea Infusions:
for fever and flu
  • pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp of finely chopped dried herb, or 1 tablespoon of fresh leaves or flowers; 
  • cover and steep for 10-15 min. Strain.
  •  Drink 2-3 cups daily between meals
Tincture:
For indigestion
  • chop 1 cup of fresh leaves and flowers or use 1/4 cup of the dried leaves and flowers, 
  • add to 2 cups of vodka. 
  • Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and tightly cap.
  • Shake the jar every few days and steep for 4-6 weeks; strain. 
  • The liquid is now your tincture. 
  • Use 20-100 drops or 1 tsp, up to 6 times daily
  • You can also use the tincture diluted in water or tea.
Sitz Bath:
For Hemorrhoids & menstrual complaints
  • pout 2 qt of boiling water over 1 cup dried yarrow or 2 cups of fresh yarrow
  • cover and steep for 20 minutes.
  • Strain and add the liquid to the sitz bath. For optimal healing keep the bathwater as hot as can be tolerated. 
Yarrow Tea:
  • Drink i large cup of the tea before every meal.
  • Adding 1 tsp of yarrow to other medicinal teas can make them more effective.
  • can relieve chronic gallbladder pain
For Coughing:
1 1/3 oz yarrow flowers
1/4 oz narrow leaf plantain leaves
1/4 oz thyme leaves
1/4 oz calendula leaves

This will loosed tough mucus and tighten the tiny blood vessel located in the lungs bronchioles.

For stomach cramps & stomach pain
1 1/3 oz yarrow flowers
1/4 oz chamomile blossoms
1/4 oz fennel seeds

use this combination of plants to help relax the stomach mucous membranes & prevent inflammations. Fennel improves the taste and eliminates any flatulence.

To ease menstrual bleeding:
1 oz yarrow flowers
1/3 oz dried licorice roots

make the tea with 1-2 tsp of this mixture in 1 cup of hot water.
 Steep 10 minutes, strain, Sip slowly. 
Drink 3 cups daily during heavy menstrual bleeding. 
Drinking 1 cup of the mixture each day also relieves chronic sinus congestion in both adults and children.

To strengthen weak veins:
Yarrow has blood regulating effects that can help make the vein walls stronger. It is often used in combination with other medicinal plants for minor inflammations of the veins and even help with varicose veins. 
Mix equal parts of yarrow & either of the following herbs: calendula or hawthorn flowers. steep 1 cup of boiling water and drink 3 cups daily. 

Yarrow Wine:
To stimulate blood circulation and strengthen the heart. 
Place 1/4 oz of the following:
  • Dried yarrow,
  •  lemon balm leaves, 
  • hawthorn flowers or berries, 
  • 1 cinnamon stick, 
  • Place in 1 qt of red wine Steep for 3 weeks; strain. 
  • Drink 1 glass a day.
Harvesting:
  • the flowers or the tops of the plant are typically dried for use.
I hope you enjoy the tea, as much as I did, as it came at a perfect time. Make sure to double check ALL plants before using them, I also used the Internet to look up pictures of yarrow and compared them, then I used my Mom (a garden witch if there ever was one, "even if she doesn't think so" and she identified it for me as well). You can also check with the local botany group or local herbal store, they generally have one person who is great at identifying flowers (my local store has a botany major working there to help you get the right herbs and their uses).

Be Blessed and Happy Wildcrafting!!