Butterfly

Litha season of the Butterfly Symbolizing time, growth, expansion and transition, butterflies are one of the animal symbols of Litha,  Summer Solstice.  Butterflies represent, grace, elegance and lightness.   Celebration, vulnerability, expression, and resurrection are other butterfly meanings. The butterfly is one of nature’s most perfect examples of change, transformation, and growth. Because of this, it … Continue reading Butterfly

The Elder

The Elder tree or Sambucus Canadensis usually grows between 5 and 10 meters tall.  It enjoys well-fertilized and moist soil and full sunlight and plenty of water. It is found in North America, England, North Africa, Asia, Europe and Scandinavia. The bark of the elder tree is smooth when it first starts to grow but … Continue reading The Elder

Red

Red pertains to the element of fire and the direction south. Day of the week:  Tuesday Direction: South Element: Fire Planet:  Sun and Mars Diety:  Zeus, Ares Chakra:  Root Litha is the summer solstice — the celebration of the sun at its strongest.  Red and its representation of fire symbolize the warmth, power and strength … Continue reading Red

Minted Strawberries

Minted Strawberries with White Wine Ingredients * 6 cups strawberries * 1 cup sugar * 2 bunches fresh mint (1-1/2 oz.) * 2 to 3 cups dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc * Fresh mint sprigs Directions 1. Halve large berries; leave hulls on a few berries. Place berries in a large bowl; sprinkle … Continue reading Minted Strawberries

Summer Treats and Sweets

Lemon-Raspberry Coffee cake Ingredients 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 3/4 cup buttermilk 3 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon finely shredded lemon peel 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries … Continue reading Summer Treats and Sweets