Cal Orey's Blog, page 48

Unforgettable Book Signing During Snowstorm

  By Cal Orey

A few years ago, I took a leap of faith and drove over the mountain in the sierras to attend a Barnes and Noble book signing in Reno -- after shoveling snow in the morning...

Yes, the roads were icy, roads not groomed, a bit crowded on the way out of Lake Tahoe (drivers coming into town despite reports advising to not drive) and sci-fi spooky. 
Regrets of not doing a will for the Siamese kitty in my life hit while driving on the winding road--both ways. An adventure without The Rock to rescue us. Images of the author gone down in the snow in "Misery" (James Caan who plays the trapped novelist) came to mind. But no, I did not crash and slide off a ravine. (I even packed blankets, survival food, and water just in case!)

Due to the highly contagious canine flu (foreshadow for the 2020 plague), my Aussie couldn't be kenneled and got his first shot. As we wait for the booster shot the dog was in tow to Reno. A bit of another challenge once it began to snow. Feeling like characters in the "Contagion" movie the trek was made... had to keep my canine in a bubble, sort of. This made me nervous. I didn't want to leave the sibling and dog in the car. (It was cold, canine flu was an issue, it didn't seem humane, me selling books and pooch with brother left to suffer.)
On the upside, the TEA books sold out--a few days ahead without me--the author. I did follow Stephen King (a week prior) so that made me feel better.  He had hundreds of fans... Me? Not so much.
So I was on a mission to replenish the store with more books despite the snowstorm since the weekend was nearing.  But the dog outside in car during a snow flurry bothered me. A lot. I left the books and left the store within 15 minutes. Mission accomplished.
Pet sitters weren't an option; kennel was not opening doors until shot takes effect. Stuck. What's a dog-loving, hardworking author to do? I left to box of books and fled. I sensed more would sell. The challenging elements--snow and family won.  I took the poster and headed home.
Another storm was on its way, more rain than white powder, before Spring arrived next week.  Once back home, I made a fire, brewed a fresh cup of tea, cuddled on the sofa with pup waiting for one more flu shot booster. Another day in the life of the Healing Powers Series author.
The Healing Powers of Tea Kindle Edition(Amazon) by Cal Orey   (Author)4.9 out of 5 stars    14 customer reviews#1 Best Sellerin Coffee and Tea
Print Length: 321 pagesPublisher: Citadel (December 26, 2017)Publication Date: December 26, 2017Sold by: Penguin Random House Publisher ServicesLanguage: EnglishASIN: B06XZQKD4FText-to-Speech: Enabled X-Ray:Not Enabled Word Wise: EnabledLending: Not EnabledEnhanced Typesetting: Enabled Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #280 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#1 in Coffee & Tea (Books)#1 in Coffee & Tea (Kindle Store) #1 in Health Reference

January is National Hot Tea Month... Escape to Tealand!

  Cal Orey

UPDATE: Popular Newsmax has welcomed  The Healing Powers of Tea in their book collection -- including the Healing Powers Series -- starting January! The book will be featured  in the January Newsmax magazine, 2022! (Click on links to see how to get the GIFT BOOK and why!)By Ca l Orey A few weeks ago, I was chilling in a hot tub after swimming. A tourist and I engaged in a conversation. When I shared my recent experiences at tearooms in Canada, her interest soared. She said, “My friend wants to open up a tearoom on the South Shore. What do you think?” There was a pregnant pause as I thought, “Gee, she stole my idea!” But as time passed, I arrived at the conclusion a tearoom may attract tourists in the winter for hot tea and summer for iced tea—but during off season a tearoom would be like an empty tea cup or two. And I told her that, speaking from experience and my heart, well, sort of.  But just because a tearoom may not be in the cards for the South Shore doesn’t mean enjoying vanilla petite scones at Starbucks or munching on homemade scones aren’t something to savor. So, since I  bought fresh berries and walnuts, they were used in this tearoom chat-inspired recipe. It’s truly easy to make, will please folks of all ages—and gender (not just fussy women) because they are countrified and well, real food.
Cranberry-Walnut Winter Scones 2 ½ cups cake flour, sifted (a bit extra for cutting board)

¼ cup granulated white sugar

1 cup low-fat buttermilk, premium brand

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 stick European style butter, cold, cubed

½ cup walnuts, chopped 3/4 cup dried cranberries 2 teaspoons orange or lemon rind (optional)

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar, sifted (for sprinkling tops after removed from oven)

In a bowl combine flour and sugar. Add buttermilk and vanilla. Fold in butter, nuts, and berries.  On a floured cutting board mold the dough into a circle. Place on a plate and put into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Remove and slice the circle like a pizza into 6 triangles. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake scones in a 425 degree oven for 18 minutes or until bottom of scones are light brown. Do not overbake. Dust with sugar. Makes 6 medium scones or 12 mini sized ones.

Using cake flour makes these scones have a light texture. The fresh berries is a naturally sweet delight as we near wintertime. The powdered sugar is a nice touch and most of you hope it’s foreshadow for snowy days ahead. These scones with nature’s berries and nuts are a sweet pleasure to eat and share any time, day or night. Pair it with a cup of cocoa topped with whipped cream and a candy cane or a cup of hot ginger, peppermint, pumpkin spice or chamomile tea. Because they are rustic mountain-style food and not a perfect and dainty cookie cutter shape, you’ll enjoy them all the more whether you’re a local or tourist.

The Healing Powers of Tea -- Read a Sample

— Cal Orey, M.A., is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.)  Her website is www.calorey.com 


The New Healing Powers of Tea has been #1 bestselling book on kobo/amazon/walmart -- countless times!
Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #309 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)#1 in Books  Health, Fitness & Dieting > Alternative Medicine  Naturopathy#1 in Books  Health, Fitness & Dieting > Alternative Medicine  Healing#1 in Books  Cookbooks, Food & Wine > Cooking by Ingredient Natural Foods

Home-Cooking for Winter is Back! Herbs & Spices Are Hot! (Again)

 Spice Spike Hits America During Pandemic

 By Cal Orey

The word is, an uptick in herbs and spices has left manufacturers scrambling to fill orders for hungry and lonely consumers -- longing for excitement, travel, and flavorful fare. Also, during pre-winter, herbs and spices--fresh and dried--can enhance your immune health!

What gives? Blame the surge on the stay- at- home new normal. Herbs and spices have been touted as timeless treasures. Their draw goes back centuries ago, to the days of the spice trade. Seafarers searched for pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg which were a priceless commodity. And now, during a 21st century plague, we are experiencing another spice explosion, sort of.

The Covid-19 challenge has already played a role in our food chain. Back in March, we endured bare shelves – a lack of eggs to meat -- in our grocery stores.  But spices were growing in demand, too. As months passed, and during quarantine home-cooking, using herbs and spices became hot for people around the globe.  But in 2019 nobody saw the virus coming… 

 

Pre-Pandemic Introduction to Seasonings

Flashback to when I began my book research for The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: Timeless Treasures (Kensington Books -- bookstores to pre-order for Dec release), I found a big cardboard box on my doorstop—a gift. When I opened the package, I was greeted by a strong wave of different aromas. The box was filled with dozens of individual packets containing a variety of herbs and spices.  It was if they were all are saying, “Look at me! Choose me!” I took out each cellophane wrapped and labeled packet. There were rows of small packages on my dining room table. Each one was filled with powders, pods, seeds and stems--some familiar, some not. I brought out a kit of glass bottles with stick-on labels which I had ordered online and went to work filling each container with a dried herb or spice. Foolishly, I did not wear a mask. My eyes began to water, and sniffles started. I sneezed several times. I was experiencing the potent compounds in the botanical plants. But I persevered! Within a few hours, all my seasonings were inside the glass bottles and labeled. I was ready to arrange them in racks. It was time to start my personal journey into the world of herbs and spices.

Little did I know these timeless treasures would end up making a huge comeback during a pandemic stay-at-home lifestyle.

 

Surge in Spices

            Why? Why did spices see a rise in growth during a pandemic? Well, there is a myriad of reasons. Here, take a look at some of the popular changes.

* As more people look to natural remedies as a way to avoid the side effects of drugs, the demand for usage of herbs and spices continues to build.

*Modor Intelligence reports that the seasonings and spices market  (think big like McCormick) has seen growth, with people wanting nutritional benefits – first and foremost.

* Celebrity chefs increasingly promote more natural, plant-based diets that include many herbs and spices for flavor, texture, health and visual appeal.

And people are having more sit-down immediate family meals like back in the fifties – and seasoned, flavorful food like we get eating out is playing role. What’s more, though the holiday season into the New Year, spice companies will likely enjoy a greater demand for favorite seasonings. Think cinnamon, cloves, garlic, sage, thyme, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice. And since American households will be experiencing smaller holiday meals at home – spicing up recipes will add fun. Indeed, aromatic herbs and spices will be part of a homestyle safe haven chock-full of nostalgia from pre-pandemic times.  

 

Cooking Is Hot & Chillaxing

During stressful times people often turn to baking bread or cooking casseroles – familiar comfort food. While we cope with COVID-19 – losing a loved one to a job layoff, cooking connects you to a sense of normalcy. During stay-at home advisories, we cook more meals, and herbs and spices have entered our take-out and home cooking routine.

According to chefs, using herbs and spices provide different flavors and can create different cuisines, from Mediterranean to Indian – a connection to traveling which we cannot easily do right now.  It’s an escape to embracing different cultures and humanity – a way to feel connected during physical distancing.

Let’s face it. Staying well, whether with family, friends, or solo, is on our minds -- the key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen… Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more—for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and even curing illnesses.

The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry—or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden—can lower your risk for getting sick. Nature’s gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence are gifts during the holidays and year-round. And yes, herbs and spices can help guard against colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease stress and anxiety during challenging times.

Flying off the Shelves

Herbs and spices are part of a comeback and are predicted to be in demand during the pandemic fall to winter months. After all, dried herbs and spices are ideal to stock the pantry -- if we have to hunker down (again). Other good-for-you products are wanted, too. There is a scent-sational allure for aromatherapy candles and essential oils. After all, scented nature’s medicine helps keep the home cozy and calming  -- and us healthier and happier. 

And don’t forget, back in March when the pandemic came to America, cookbooks to flour, yeast, sugar and butter flew off the shelves in grocery stores. So, as we cope with a second wave, these items are popular again. Most likely, enjoying nature will help us survive during the predicted “dark winter” before we have a vaccine and can live our lives. Yes, herbs and spices and other things will get us through tough times until post-pandemic days ahead – with promise of hugging, gatherings, and traveling – the variety of spice of living.

Police Man USA: A New Suspense Sci-fi Thriller to Wow You!

 Police Man USA: The SHOT that Split America

Title: Police Man USA: The SHOT that Split America
Author: R. Anderson
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 978-1665536844
Audiobook Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins
Pages: 362
Genre: Murder & Suspense Thrillers, Sci-fi
Reviewed by: Jack Chambers

Read Book Review

In our modern age, one of the most prolific topics of debate in the United States is gun control. With the rise of gun-related violence occurring in our nation, the debate between gun-owners and gun control advocates seems to dominate the news. The question of morality, versus a person’s constitutional right to arm themselves, is so complex and has kept many politicians locked in heated battles, as the violence continues. Yet what is the right answer in this discussion? Is there a right or wrong here?

In author R. Anderson’s Police Man USA: The SHOT that Split America, the discussion takes a whole new meaning in this sci-fi dystopian meets murder thriller novel. When an infamous athlete on the fast track to make records is gunned down and his killers remain on the loose, the nation becomes split in half, with one half of the nation becoming the liberal and lawless Frontier and the other half becoming the ultra-conservative Pilgrim state. Over six decades later, a hotshot detective in Pilgrim is sent to Frontier to solve the decades old cold case. Unable to rely on his fast technology, the gun-toting policeman must use old-school means of investigation to solve the crime, and discovers a shocking secret in the process.

The author did an incredible job of finding just the right balance between world-building and character development. The rich dynamics between the characters is immediately prevalent, as the interaction between protagonist James Merit of the Pilgrim state and characters such as Starla of the Frontier each highlights the deep-seated beliefs and values they held in opposition to one another, and the ways in which they come together, despite this show the depth of humanity and possibility that exists within us all. The futuristic setting and atmosphere the author plays with not only brings a sci-fi element to the narrative, but brings plausible and very possible scenarios to life, such as the impact of climate change and the politically charged divide existing between liberal and conservative minded individuals and politicians; showcasing how universal these viewpoints can often be, as well as how turbulent they are.

This is a brilliant book to read, and would be greatly appreciated by anyone who enjoys dystopian crime thrillers with elements of science fiction, suspense, and murder, all rolled up in a finely tuned mystery. The book will also appeal to those who enjoy audiobooks, as the author has also managed to bring this story to the audiobook world with a narrator that speaks with a gravitas and authority that instantly captures the listeners’ attention. The audiobook brings the mystery and suspense elements of the genre forward even more, playing out as if a radio show of the 1920s.

Thought-provoking, captivating, and entertaining, author R. Anderson’s “Police Man USA: The SHOT that Split America” is a must-read, action-fueled novel. The imagery the book conjured up almost brought to mind films such as Judge Dredd and Robocop – mixed with 80s action films. The audiobook is a definite bonus for readers that they will love, but the way the author is able to explore both sides of the conversation, and how the themes of this narrative plays out, kept me invested in the overall story and I thoroughly enjoyed the characters’ arcs in this brilliant book.

BUY ON AMAZONAUTHOR’S WEBSITEFiction, Latest Reviews

Warm Up to Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

  By Cal Orey

Excerpt from Mother Earth News (Mar/Apr 2022)

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has graced many dishes served in my home, both past and present. My dad, a widower in his 70s, once planned a home-cooked fish dinner with his new girlfriend and me as a grad school gift. I planned the movies, and she brought the food. I was surprised that her cooking included oregano – just like my mom’s cooking had. She served lobster oreganata, which is a split lobster topped with breadcrumbs and seasoned with oregano. It was a night of comfort, bringing back memories of my childhood. The familiar oregano aroma and flavor reconnected me to my mom’s spirit and bonded me and my new surrogate mom. Wow, if I make a semi-homemade pizza or any Italian dish, I often use either dried or fresh oregano. The plant nourishes my body, but it also feeds my heart and soul, because it connects me to my dad and two mothers, who both fancied the art of cooking with herbs.

Image by Adobestock/Eugeniusz Dudziński

Oregano is a plant species in the Lamiaceae family. It grows throughout most of the world, but it likely originated in the Mediterranean. Since the herb grew in the mountains, Greek people called it “mountain joy.” According to mythology, the Greek goddess Aphrodite cultivated oregano in her garden on top of Mount Olympus, and the herb was believed to bring about blessings of happiness.  Oregano didn’t become a popular culinary herb in North American cooking until the end of World War II, when soldiers returned to the United States after eating Italian food in Europe. In the ’50s and ’60s, I recall my family sprinkling it in spaghetti, ravioli, soups, and stews to give the dishes that flavorful panache.

Cal Orey is the author of The Healing Powers book series. This is excerpted from her book The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices (Kensington Books). Printed in Mother Earth News.

Updated on Feb 28, 2022•Originally Published on Feb 24, 2022

Home Sweet Home Vinegar and Honey Cures

HOME SWEET HOME

VINEGAR CURES

(Click on above link and discover more at Kensington)
By Cal Orey

Nature opened the first drugstore.

--D.C. Jarvis, M.D.

Available at amazon, barnes and noble
Walmart, and most bookstores
Chances are, apple cider, red wine, rice, and other vinegar—your everyday household products—even more extraordinary healing powers that you might not know about. The next time you need a natural remedy for a minor ailment, check this list first to see if a cure is as close as your kitchen cabinet or pantry. Lose lbs., lower blood pressure
and more!
Here are several common health ailments, from A to Z, and provide common at-home vinegar folk remedies. Some treatments can be used inside and others outside the body. Keep in mind, these are based on anecdotal evidence. There are no double-blind studies to back up their effectiveness and make it conclusive. Still, read on, and you’ll see why it’s an amazing remedy that you want to have in your home.

Pair with honey for a double punch

1 Tame Arthritis: Folk medicine holds that apple cider vinegar can help fight ache and pains. While no scientific studies prove this to be true, conventional doctors frown at the thought of vinegar as an anti-arthritis remedy, testimony gives nutrient-rich apple cider vinegar kudos for providing relief for the debilitating disease.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use:  The popular cure is simple. Take 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar and honey in a glass of water several times daily.

Why You’ll Like It: If it works for you, you will be happy because it’s natural, which means there will be no ill side effects from pain medications. Plus, it’s low-cost and easy to use.

2 Soothe Burns: Ever burn yourself on the stovetop, iron, or fireplace? Ouch!  Any burn that affects your body should be attended to ASAP. The reason: You’ll want to keep inflammation and swelling at a minimum.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use: Apply apple cider vinegar, straight out of the bottle, to a burn on the surface of the body. Better yet, apply ice cold vinegar right away for fast relief.

Why You’ll Like It:  Vinegar contains both anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate smarting and soreness and prevents blisters.

3 Steady Dizziness:  Feeling dizzy can be attributed to many causes, from prescription meds to hormonal changes. The fact remains, dizziness is not fun, and if you have ever felt this unsettling feeling, you might be willing to try vinegar to help keep your grounded.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use: DC Jarvis, Folk Medicine: A New England Almanac of Natural Care from a Noted Vermont Country Doctor notes that Vermont folk medicine is successful in treating dizziness, which he claims is due to “an alkaline reaction of the urine.” He recommends the apple cider treatment, with the timing and dosage similar to those used for other ailments. Take a tablespoon or two a few times per day as needed.

Why You’ll Like It:  If you have felt lightheaded or like your world is spinning, you’ll love this apple cider treatment, which will keep your feet and head steady without pesky side effects.

4 Embrace An Energizer:  Feeling tired, run-down, a lack of drive? You’re hardly alone. According to Edward Conley, D.O., in Grand Blanc, Michigan, an estimated 80 percent of adults complain of fatigue at one time or another. It is believed by many health gurus that vinegar can help you to feel more alert and physically energized.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use: Take 1 tablespoon of the potassium-rich energizer three times a day, preferably in 1 cup of water each time.

Why You’ll Like It: While caffeinated sodas can give you an instant boost, they can leave you feeling like you’re on a roller coaster with their ups and downs. Vinegar beats fatigue and leaves you energized without ill effects. 8 Put Insomnia To Bed: Your eyes are wide open. The fear of not getting a good night’s sleep tonight haunts you like a spooky Stephen King nightmare. The neon numbers on the clock (2:00 A.M.) are a glowing reminder of the sleepless zombie you’ll be tomorrow morning. You toss, you turn. Now it’s 3:20 A.M. Still not asleep. Whether you’ve had too much caffeine, didn’t say not to your nightcap, or didn’t solve your problems during the daytime, it’s time to try an old secret for sweet dreams.

5  Put Insomnia To Bed: Your eyes are wide open. The fear of not getting a good night’s sleep tonight haunts you like a spooky Stephen King nightmare. The neon numbers on the clock (2:00 A.M.) are a glowing reminder of the sleepless zombie you’ll be tomorrow morning. You toss, you turn. Now it’s 3:20 A.M. Still not asleep. Whether you’ve had too much caffeine, didn’t say not to your nightcap, or didn’t solve your problems during the daytime, it’s time to try an old secret for sweet dreams.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use:  Dr. Jarvis recommends making a mixture of 3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar to 1 cup of honey, and keeping it on the night table to a wide-mouthed bottle or jar along with a teaspoon.

Why You’ll Like It: The Vermont folk medicine doctor touts honey as the ideal remedy for getting shut-eye. Vinegar and honey are worth a try and may beat being sleep-deprived, which can wreak havoc on your health.

6 Blast Low Libido:  A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains enhances good health, which result in better sexual energy. Some aficionados claim apple cider vinegar is also a love potion due to its antioxidants boosting the libido. Eating a nutrient-dense low-fat, high fiber diet can help men and women stave off obesity, heart disease, and the need to use medications, all of which can put a damper on sex drive.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use:  Try 1 or 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of spring water three times a day.

Why You’ll Like It: Vinegar beats those little blue pills (for men) which have potential side effects that can make any man or woman lose that loving feeling.

7 Lose Muscle Cramps:  Ever wake up in the middle of the night and cringe at that sharp, painful muscle cramp? They can strike the feet, legs, and even the stomach. What to do?What Vinegar Remedy to Use:  Doctors Patricia and Paul Bragg recommend taking 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar and 1 teaspoon of honey in a glass of distilled water three times per day.

Why You’ll Like It:  It may work, claim the Braggs, by allowing the precipitated acid crystals in your circulatory system to enter into a solution and pass out the body.

8 Rub Out Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac:  These three plants contain a poisonous sap that causes dermatitis—a pesky skin disorder. Symptoms include severe itching of the skin and oozing sores. While most cases of poisoning go away in 7-10 days, you can find relief without going to the drugstore.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use: Neal Schultz, M.D., a dermatologist in New York, recommends two vinegar solutions: mix equal parts vinegar and rubbing alcohol and apply to rash. Be sure to wash—thoroughly—plus everything that came in contact with the plant. Or mix equal parts buttermilk, vinegar, and salt and apply.

s supposed to do for your health? Evidently, one way to find out is to let vinegar tell you what’s up.What Vinegar Remedy to Use: Drop your vitamin into ½ cup of vinegar. Stir the solution a few times during the course of 20 minutes. If the vitamin separates into tiny pieces, it’s good. If not, it may be time to look for a different brand.

Why You’ll Like It:  When trying this do-it-yourself system, it may work, so you can get a thumbs-up or down for your choice of brand and take care of you and your body.

9 Stop Swimmer’s Ear: A common ailment that I remember getting as a teenage competitive simmer. You can develop this ailment by swimming and showering as well.

What Vinegar Remedy to Use:  To protect against ear infections from swimming pools, a popular folk remedy is to try is using a mixture of one part white vinegar to one part rubbing alcohol.

Why You’ll Like It:  Vinegar is a good preventive strategy that can help keep pesky swimmer’s ear at bay, while you splash in the pool or indulge in long showers.

10 Rate Your Vitamin Supplement:  Ever wonder if your multivitamin is doing what it iinclude medications that you, your family, and your pet are taking, you also want to have a first-aid kit and handbook.What Remedy to Use: Pour apple cider vinegar into a large plastic container (or two), and store it with your emergency supplies.

Why You’ll Like It:  It is the medicine of the twenty-first century. Rather than trying to remember if you have every type of ailment remedy, you will be covered whether you cut yourself, get a bruise, come down with a sore throat, or run into anything health-wise that will irk you during a disaster.

Surprising Vinegar facts you didn’t know…

·        * Red wine vinegar contains flavonoids (and perhaps heart-healthy resveratrol), which can help prevent high blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack.

·        * Balsamic vinegar is high in antioxidant polyphenols, fat-free, high in potassium, tasty, and paired with olive oil is the dressing of the 21st century.

·       *  Fruit-flavored vinegars have a wide variety of health benefits. Persimmon vinegar, rich in vitamins A and C, is “hot” in Korea and good for the body. Shanxi  vinegar, made from barley and peas, is a nutritional powerhouse and appreciated in China.

·        * Amino-rich rice vinegar can help fight aches, congestion, and irregularity.

·       *  Herbal vinegar including chamomile, fennel, rosemary, and thyme also have therapeutic effects for your body, mind, and spirit. 

-   — Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include "The Healing Powers" series (Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, and Coffee) published by Kensington. (All books were featured by Literary Guild, Book of the Month, One Spirit and Good Cook Book clubs.) Her website is www.calorey.com. 

Excerpt from The Healing Powers of Vinegar, Revised and Updated (Kensington), translated in 25 languages, 27th printing: Available in 3rd edition, ebook, mass market, paperback, ebook formats...HONEY is now in audiobooks, ebook, paperback, mass market formats.

Slim Down, Healthy Up with Tea and Honey Pairings

  By Cal Orey

A Cup of Winter Wellness

   For centuries, people all around the world have enjoyed the simple, soothing pleasures of a good cup of tea with a good teaspoon of honey, and nowadays there is more reason to so do. Tea(s)--all kinds--especially with honey, but together they pack a punch of nutritional and health benefits.          Medical doctors, nutritionists, scientists and beekeepers are now confirming what healers have been saying for since biblical times--teas and honeys have a variety of healing powers.
Winter is coming...In many regions allergies, colds, flu are skyrocketing. Both honey and tea can help you guard against illness as well as keep unwanted weight gain at bay. Here are some pairings of each to make the new season a healthy one!

Here are my favorite tea and honey marriages--but there are infinite combinations for both you and me to try. There is no right or wrong combination and what's sweet to you makes honey-tea beverages a sweet sip.
1. Black Tea:  The first tea I was introduced to was basic black tea--which does contain caffeine--and I have enjoyed it plain but realized it did need a sweet flavor boost to it.  Also, Earl Grey and English breakfast teas (perfect for an Irish breakfast, complete with fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, and scones) are part of the Black Tea group.Best Honey Matches:  Basswood has a distinct flavor that I've used in plain yogurt for a rich flavor and it can give black tea a kick, too. Sourwood boasts a caramel taste that can make a common black tea come to life with taste. Earl Grey teams well with avocado, blueberry, and eucalyptus honeys, too. It's more exotic and exciting than just a simple all-purpose clover honey that comes without pleasant surprises.  2. Green Tea:  Touted for its wide array of health virtues, this Asian tea does contain caffeine, like black tea, but not as much. It's an acquired taste and that's where honey comes into play so you can get the best of taste and nutritional benefits. Best Honey Matches:  Blueberry honey has a fruity taste which can give a nice kick to green tea, not the most flavorful tea.  Sage honey is mild, a California favorite of mine that brings out the best of green tea.3.  Fruit Tea--Welcome to lemon, orange, rose hips, and apple teas. These fruity teas are sweet and sometimes tart, which call for a honey sidekick.Best Honey Matches:  Mild flavored honeys such as sage and alfalfa brings out the best in fruit teas because it doesn't overpower the fruity taste but maintains the integrity of the fruit flavor.4. Herbal Tea--Herbal teas come from a variety of plants other than the tea plant. They are made from the leaves, berries, flowers, fruits and bark of herbs and spices.Although most herbal teas do not contain the antioxidant properties of real tea, they do possess other good-for-you compounds that can enhance your health and well-being. There is a wide range of herbal teas, including ginseng, cinnamon, licorice, and mint.Rooibos (roy-boss) is the "new" herbal tea on the block--that is often called "Red Tea." Like green and black teas, this tea contains antioxidants that make it heart-healthy and immune-enhancing--and it's caffeine free.Best Honey Matches: Teaming earthy and warm herbal teas go well with a mild alfalfa, clover, orange blossom, and sage honeys--common honeys that complement distinct herbal flavors.  5. Oolong Tea--This tea, popular in Asian countries, contains health perks of both black and green teas. A robust flavored-tea that can have a sweet taste lends to different honeys. Best Honey Matches: Oolong, not a tea familiar to me, was easy to try with a friendly California orange blossom honey with its citrusy sweet taste. Another oolong mate is tupelo honey its light amber color and herbal, fruity flavors.6. White Tea--And last but not least welcome to this pale tea. Found in China it is believed to rank number one for its antioxidants. It's a bit sweet and mellow. It's the new tea on the block for tea lovers.Best Honey Matches:  Fireweed honey is light colored and smooth, like white tea--the two complement each other. Wildflower, one of my favorite mild honeys also goes nicely with white tea. As a devout tea drinker, I believe your choice of honey and tea is a personal choice--like pairing dark chocolate with different fruits, herbs and spices. The selection also depends on the season to your mood. But popular and friendly honeys, such as clover and orange blossom are suitable any time, any place because they are not too strong and will not overpower teas--all types--and you can't go wrong for yourself or if you're serving other people.Excerpt: From The Healing Powers of Honey by Cal Orey, published by Kensington Books, mass market format 2018. All rights reserved.

Police Man USA -- An Engaging Adventure-Thriller! "Notable Book"

 You won't be able to put this gem down...!

Exciting. Shocking. Thrilling! 

Is it credible?  Could the eye- opening  events really  happen? 

Does the story resemble happenings  in the USA 2022?

A seasoned homicide detective tells 

the tale! 

A superstar American athlete is on the cusp of breaking an iconic sport’s record — when he is gunned down! The murder is declared a hate crime, but no suspect is ever captured. Fans are furious. His tragic shooting is the l ast straw in a politically fueled debate on un control; public upheaval forces the country to divide into two massive states: the super-progressive Frontier state and the ultra-conservative Pilgrim state. Sixty-years later, Pilgrim state’s Detective Merit relies on highly-advanced technology to solve homicides in under an hour, but when the top investigator decides to crack the historic shooting of the famed athlete, he faces a major problem—he’s never worked a cold case! Having to travel to the hyper-liberal state of Frontier without his sophisticated crime-solving equipment, he must investigate the old-fashioned way—with blood, sweat, and tears. But can this gun-toting, God-fearing detective survive the culture shock of Frontier’s lawless society, resist its promiscuous temptations, and fight off cop-killers in time to unravel the mystery surrounding the nation’s infamous ‘Shot that split America?  

(Bestselling author Cal Orey was a consultant for this brilliant novel)

Woman's Best Friend (Excerpt for Jan. 2023 New Book: Soulmates with Paws)

  By Cal Orey

Woman’s Best Friend

At 20, I wanted to join the Army, train dogs and travel.  I never made it into the service. I may have failed the male-biased aptitude test, but I still love dogs—all breeds, sizes, and ages. So rather than globetrotting in a uniform, I found myself hiking around the country with a beautiful 6-month-old black Labrador retriever named Stone Fox. Stone Fox and I walked and hitchhiked to the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, Deep South, East Coast and even Mexico and Canada. We were on the road like John Steinbeck and his Standard Poodle Charley for more than one year. Taking care of my carefree and upbeat dog and letting him take care of me helped me become a happier and more confident woman in mind and body. He was the dog of my life…

 

A DOG LOVERS’ CRATE

We were lucky to find the widow’s ad for domestic help because I read “No Pets Allowed” in every other “Rooms for Rent” advertisement in San Jose, California. When I applied for the live-in housekeeper position, I explained to Mrs. Thurman that Stone Fox was my best friend and we had just finished traveling cross-country in search of America. The widow, who was soft spoken, said she needed a maid who charged cut-rate prices, and I needed a little R&R for a while. It was self-preservation in a nutshell.

I am not a hypocrite, so I must confess that if I didn’t have my young black Lab with me, I wouldn’t have lasted a minute. Living with the widow would have been too confining at best. But I was in luck because the widow was a dog lover. Her place was a blue and white trailer house—not great for a big dog—landscaped with red bark chips scattered around cacti shrubbery. But there was a creek one block away, which I suggested could be a good dog run. (Later it became me and my dog’s refuge.) So, the widow decided to ignore the “No Large Pets on Trailer Court Premises” rule. Rules are made to be broken, we agreed. Our “we love dogs” motto prevailed.

The widow had the will to subsist inside her coop because of Tweetie, her 11-year-old, devoted Yorkshire terrier, the kind of small pooch that yaps, begs, and wears frilly bows. (I favor larger breeds.) But the spoiled dog did liven up the widow’s low moods, I must admit. I often watched her talk to Tweetie about trivial matters like, “The air is bad in the kitchen” (after she finished frying her bacon, tomato and onion sandwich).  And important issues were covered, such as “Should we sell the Oldsmobile?” and “I don’t want to have the operation for my osteoporosis.” Despite the dog lover’s woes, I felt secure inside the widow’s coop, complete with its colonial style furniture, lacy curtains, and color console television. I didn’t even feel deprived when I was told my fifty-dollar-a-month allowance would be cut in half because of her “too many bills.”

One evening, while returning from a good romp around Quailhollow Creek with Stone Fox, the trailer manager, Ms. Weed, confronted me as I was entering Space 88, the widow’s lot. She spoke of the trailer park regulations, emphasizing that dogs over 15 pounds were not permitted. I told her Stone Fox was my seeing-eye dog straight from San Rafael Dog Training Center for the Blind.

“It’s just a matter of time,” I lied, “before my vision will fail me—for life.” Ms. Weed glared at me with that cosmetic smile of hers. I bet she had plastic surgery. You could sort of tell because her face was too perfect. But it didn’t really match the sloppy way she dressed (purple polyester dress hiding an older woman’s body. She looked like an overweight senior spayed cat, I thought. As she adjusted her large straw hat, she studied me: a hippie girl dressed in baggy blue jean overalls and a peasant blouse, and barefoot. I brushed my shaggy light brown hair out of my eyes when she suggested I should keep my 70-pound Labrador on a very tight leash whenever I walked him on the Quailhollow premises.

That night I confided in the widow almost everything. I told her how Stone Fox and I traveled. A lot. How we hitched and hiked through high and flat deserts of the southwest, fighting off cowboys in the prairies. (They tried to run us off the road. Stone Fox barked and growled. I felt protected.) How we were stranded on on-ramps during a blizzard in Cheyenne, a sandstorm in Winnemucca, and a monsoon in Tucson. And I told her that through our good and bad escapades we learned more and more about each other, and our bond of friendships strengthened.

 

LETTING OUR GUARD DOWN—DOG DAY AFTERNOONS

Stone Fox had helped me through life’s rough spots. And I guess Tweetie’s loyalty and unconditional love aided the widow. We both needed that.

The widow then told me that when her husband was dying, he chose to return to Europe and she stayed in California. She said she loved him, but it was too hard on her to move because he was going blind. (I don’t think she really loved her mate.) When he left for their homeland, she bought Tweetie. “Tweetie is more affectionate and less demanding than Arnold ever was,” the widow whispered to me as I glanced at a photo of her on the wall when she was young, blonde, and pretty. “I love being on my own. Men are like babies. They always want something!”

We laughed together. Her guard came down the more we talked. Then I told the widow about Ms. Weed.  “I told her that Stone Fox was my seeing-eye dog. I couldn’t think of anything else to say.”

That following morning, she explained the “truth” to Ms. Weed. “Callie has problems seeing at dark because of her bad retinas,” she said. She said Stone Fox functioned as my guide dog, even though I walked him on a regular dog leash, not a harness like seeing-dogs wear. Thanks to the widow’s awareness of eye diseases, Stone Fox and I were allowed to remain on the premises at Quailhollow Trailer Park.

I continued to serve Mildred coffee in bed every morning (she no longer wanted me to call her Mrs. Thurman). Twenty minutes afterwards I would bring her more coffee (prepared with non-dairy cream because of her calcium allergy) and bona fide Quaker’s oatmeal since the she was keen to the distinct flavor difference between instant oatmeal and cooked oats.

Sometimes, while cuddle up with our dogs, we’d pass the mornings together by idling in her rustic bedroom, a cluttered quarter brimming with memorabilia, twin beds covered in blue-daisy comforters and a closet-and-a-half stuffed with clothes neatly stored in cellophane wrappers. She told me about her fusspot neighbor who called her one late night and that is when Mildred fell and broke her hip—the beginning of the demise of her health.

As the weeks passed, Mildred was determined to hobble around on those wooden crutches of hers. The bicycle she once pedaled around the mobile park was shut away in the shed. Her 1952 Oldsmobile was sold (she needed the extra cash for the coast of an arm and leg brace). And I was Tweetie’s sole caretaker, from walks to feeding.

But on Wednesdays, Joey the neighbor’s kid came by Mildred’s, which seemed to cheer her up. Joey wore horn-rimmed glasses and had messed up hair, plus ambition to grow a ponytail like the hippies. He bummed a root beer or two from Mildred.

Maybe he was a user, or maybe he really cared about Tweetie. He did brush the dog. This made Mildred because the dog salon was too expensive now. I felt it was therapeutic since she appeared less worried during his visits and Tweetie’s pampering time.

 

THE BOND IN DANGER

One morning a “First Warning” notice welcomed me when I pulled out an assortment of bills. It was one those 30-day termination slips, but this one had a personalized flair to it. It advised unauthorized tenants to remove large, barking dogs or vacate the premises. I thought Stone Fox was an exception. I was confused. I tore up the notice and postponed coping with the warning.

I continued to curl the widow’s thinning white hair bi-weekly, while Tweetie sat in her lap, bathe her every other day, and serve her favorite fried chicken legs (the Swanson’s TV frozen kind) during the six o’ clock news. And week nights after I walked Tweetie I watched Johnny Carson, while she recycled stories about her life in the good old fifties.

Two weeks passed without me telling Mildred about the notice. I didn’t want to upset her. So finally, Ms. Weed paid us a visit; not a social call she said. “You have seven days left to vacate or get rid of that large mutt,” she screeched at us. Mildred, who was still mentally keen, reminded Ms. Weed that I was near blind. “For four years,” she lied with all her heart. “Since the day they met, Stone Fox and Callie have been together.” She told Ms. Weed it would be inhumane to separate me and my dog, or me and Mildred

Ms. Weed claimed she had called the headquarters of San Rafael Dog Training Center. According to the placement coordinator, Stone Fox and I were non-existent. The truth was confirmed—Stone Fox was just another dog. “Seven days,” she warned, “or I will proceed with further legal action.”

 

A HUMAN-DOG LOVE CONNECTION

The widow knew I would never give up Stone Fox, no more than she’d surrender Tweetie. We’d rather die than give up our best friends. I had to leave. It was self-preservation. The widow understood my decision without discussion. I got a new job as a live-in babysitter for a rich doctor and his two kids that were supposed to start in a week.

The widow started ringing a little bell whenever she needed something. I overheard her telling Twee tie that she was sick of “flighty domestic help” and was scared to go away to a home “like senile Annie.”

But I left one morning. We said our goodbyes and the dogs…well, they were never were close. They kept their distance and tolerated one another. Sort of like the widow and me.

One summer day when I was driving the kids around, I drove by Quailhollow Creek—they wanted to see where I used to work. I couldn’t resist stopping for Stone Fox’s sake; he loved to retrieve driftwood I’d toss into the creek water. But it was dry because of the drought. I saw Joey riding his bicycle by the creek, and he shouted, “Hear about Mildred?” He stopped moving, turned his head around and shouted, “Died last month. She didn’t make it through that operation.”

I peered down Quailhollow Drive and saw the widow’s sapphire-and-white house trailer. It looked the same but a FOR SALE sign was there.

“Who’s got Tweetie?” I asked, as the doctor’s kids were fighting around me. I watched Stone Fox dig a hole in the dry creek bed. Joey pedaled ahead. “Tweetie died one week before Ruth” echoed down Quailhollow Drive. I wanted to cry out but I couldn’t.

Healing Powers of Tea -- Bestseller Banner Countless Times -- A Cup of Wellness

  Cal Orey

Did you know wellness in a cup is in your kitchen cupboards? Tea, much like a best friend, is the versatile superfood that can be enjoyed as an amazing constant home cure, an age-fighting treatment, relaxing beauty remedy, household cleaner, and even infused in your favorite dishes--from Strawberry Banana Tea Muffins to Scallops in Black Tea Marinade!

As noted on the back cover of The Healing Powers of Tea: A Complete Guide To Nature's Special Remedy (Citadel Press, Kensington)--

It picks you up and calms you down, warms you and refreshes you. With black, white, green, and herbal varieties, there's a tea for every taste, and now this time-honored superfood is trending as the drink of choice for health-conscious people of all ages and cultures.

Welcome to Tea Land!
This fascinating book boils down the rich history of tea--as well as the ever-expanding list of health and weight loss benefits found in its leaves.  

But this special one-of-a-kind tea book does so much more. It's sweetened with lively up close and very personal home and family to on-the-road stories with twists, turns, and real feelings (bonding with people and pets of all ages with tea as a vehicle) paired with inspiring legends about tea from yesteryear.
Discover how tea is a drink that goes back in history as well as the center for tea parties--stirs the imagination for the young at home and serves up exciting teas and treats in beautiful tea rooms for older people young at heart. (page 19)

Find out exactly how far people, perhaps like you, too, will go to get a cup of tea (a variety of types) no matter where you are or who you're with--man, woman, a group of people or dog--for survival's sake! (page 136)

Get the latest information from tea experts on how the superfood can tackle anxiety and depression during life's ups and downs--and big family losses linked to pain, grief, anger, acceptance, and a comeback to move on. (pages 145) 

Feel thrills  and novelty vicariously experiencing adventures in traveling through wilderness up and down the West Coast, Midwest, Deep South, Northeast and Canada and cultural shock in new places but always tea soothing and part of the memory.   Alone with a canine companion, a new love, or in the company of wise elderly women and men--tea is a drink to cherish, a drink that bonds people.  (page 77-78)

Stir up over 50 home cures to give yourself more energy, less stress--and feel younger, more happiness, vim and vigor while traveling or at home! (pages 155-156)

After a 3000 mile flight plan, imagine your fantasy-come-true final destination and you can relax with a cuppa tea and sense of adventure in a foreign country after the trials and tribulations in the process of getting there (plane, train, bus, cab, shuttle bus) and feeling homesick but tea helped calm the pain. (pages 191-192)

Enjoy super comforting and tea-licious recipes like Warm Scones with Jam and Assorted Finger Sandwiches. (pages 225-226; Tea Menu, pages 238-272)


And so much more! Enjoy the intriguing and unforgettable tales that reveal feelings of joy, loneliness, love, longing, security and comfort--all tea-inspired in The Healing Powers of Tea--#6 in the Healing Powers series.  
This very special, intimate book is full of new research, new recipes, and new home cures, penned from the tea-loving author's heart and soul  pairs well with the upcoming gift size mass market The Healing Powers of Honey, Feb. 27!  Also, The Healing Powers of Tea is the perfect companion with The Healing Powers of Coffee and The Healing Powers of Chocolate. The collection is a vailable at fine bookstores (on and offline). Or grab the Gift Book at newsmax.com/tea  for a special excerpt and more!  

October 2022 on Amazon

Product details

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B06XZQKD4FPublisher ‏ : ‎ Citadel Press (December 26, 2017)Publication date ‏ : ‎ December 26, 2017Language ‏ : ‎ EnglishFile size ‏ : ‎ 2839 KBText-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ EnabledScreen Reader ‏ : ‎ SupportedEnhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ EnabledX-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not EnabledWord Wise ‏ : ‎ EnabledPrint length ‏ : ‎ 322 pagesLending ‏ : ‎ EnabledBest Sellers Rank: #1,329 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)#1 in Alternative Therapies#1 in Healthy Living#1 in Health ReferenceCustomer Reviews: 4.4 out of 5 stars