blackbirdsbackyard

Homemade Facial Toner (CHAMOMILE)*

My face has been breaking out a lot lately. It is not related to hormones or oily skin. Rather it is more of a heat condition that I blame on allergies (we have been remodeling) or bacteria (that I picked up and have been spreading by lack of a skin care routine). I am reallyContinue reading “Homemade Facial Toner (CHAMOMILE)*”

Homegrown Moxie Moxa

I finally got around to processing my moxa which has been drying in the basement for a couple of months. What is moxa you ask? It is a dried and “powdered” herb that is used in moxibustion. This is a Chinese Medicine therapy that involves burning the herb ( in various forms) while in closeContinue reading “Homegrown Moxie Moxa”

Lemon Balm Curd

My eldest daughter is really into baking this year. She is always requesting to have a “lemonade” stand too. It has been a challenge to find quick and easy recipes that meet with her approval or a venue that is safe for her entrepreneurial and charitable spirit. Lemon Oat Bars have proven to be popular withContinue reading “Lemon Balm Curd”

Roasted Fennel Crusted Chicken

We have amazing raised beds this year, filled with rich black soil. Combine that with the fancy hoops houses my husband build-and we have a big jump on the growing season. I grew lots of fennel last year and one plant overwintered. It is already producing lush green leaves, perfect for a late spring dinnerContinue reading “Roasted Fennel Crusted Chicken”

Golden MULLEIN Chai

This is the perfect drink for spring days when the weather can be variable. Last week we had several cold, dreary days of rain (and a bit of snow). This tea lifted our mood, warmed our limbs, and moved stagnant energy. Over the weekend it was very sunny and warm. Poured cold from the refrigerator,Continue reading “Golden MULLEIN Chai”