Cal Orey's Blog, page 78

Bestseller Banner for NEW Book: Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures

   By Cal Orey

#Herbs & #Spices in more than 50 libraries worldwide (multiple copies, checked out); Woman's World Book Club approved Feb. 1 issue; reviewed by Booklist; 100% like it on goodreads; major media outlet is on board carrying copies; Walmart gave it a Best Seller banner for 2 weeks; Best Seller in top 100 health books on Amazon this month; featured by online magazines/newspapers...and the year is young. #9 (Series) The book that'll whisk you away!

Product ImageBest SellerProduct TitleH The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices : A Complete Guide toTimeless Treasures (Series #9) (Paperback)Average Rating:(5.0)out of5stars1ratings, based on1reviewsProduct SpecAuthors:Cal OreyISBN10: 0806540486ISBN: 9780806540481Format:Paperback


The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes. 
And during the pandemic there is a spice surge because of the home-cooking comeback! The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more (I use a lot of the McCormick classic brand) --for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and 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 cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:

●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!

Lose Pandemic Pounds on the Caveman Diet!

 By Cal Orey

Dump Pounds on the Spring Weekend Caveman Diet

It’s a new season. Living in the mountains brings four distinct seasons and four different ways of enjoying superfoods. Once the weather warms up, it’s time to lighten up with superfoods and drop unwanted winter weight or now called “pandemic pounds.” A spike of energy happens and can be used along with superfoods in spring cleaning – indoors and outdoors – and in more play.

Before an early spring trip to the Pacific Northwest, I wanted to dump five pounds. For a few days, I ate a semi-Stone Age diet: leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fruit; no catching fish or fowl at the lake for me. It worked. At Sea-Tac Airport one evening, I was standing in skinny jeans, two tee shirts, two sweaters, a thick coat, neck scarf and UGG boots. I was lean, layered, and cool, right? Wrong.

Shocked by the crowd of people, I felt like a creature from another planet. Seattle locals and visitors were clad in Hawaiian shirts, shorts, and thongs. I looked like I was transported to the wrong terminal. One man asked me, “Are you going to Alaska?” Embarrassed, I answered, “Nah, Vancouver.” Note to self: Savor skinny superfoods for their amazing pounds-off powers but forego piling on clothes when going to a destination know for its warm Mediterranean climate.

Eat Like a Caveman, Sort Of

I followed a semi- Paleolithic diet, Paleo diet, caveman diet, or stone-age diet. The foodstuff avoids processed food and includes vegetables, fruits, nuts, roots, and meat and excludes dairy products, grains, sugar, legumes, processed oils, salt, alcohol, and coffee. (I included Greek yogurt and one cup of coffee, no meat.)

Here is the super jump-start diet plan. It is not intended to be used long-term. But you can use it one day per week or as needed after the first time which is one or two days, since it gives your body a vacation from too much overindulging in food on special occasions that include rich and high-calorie fare.

Eating clean foods from a caveman, plant-based diet (such as berries and leafy greens fill you up) and will help give your body a break – detoxing your body. Taking a mini-fast food staycation right at home at the south shore can help you get fit and dump the muffin top,

This diet plan is adapted from umpteen mini-fasts I’ve created with the help of nutritionists. It also uses superfoods in the top ranked Mediterranean Diet Pyramid (including fruits, vegetables, fish and seafood, poultry, eggs, yogurt, wine in moderation, and water).

The Superfoods Stone-Age Diet Rules

·       Do not go below 1200 calories.

·       Do not eat after 7 PM. If you are hungry, you may eat a piece of fresh fruit with herbal tea.

·       Health authorities advise you to drink seven to eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. The amount depends on your size and weight, activity level, and where you live. (Seasons count, too, you may require more in a hotter climate.)

·       Consult with your health practitioner before starting this diet or any new diet plan. Do not use if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have diabetes.

·       Take a daily multivitamin to help you get adequate nutrients.

Now that you’re ready to spring into the slim down, healthy up game and eat superfoods without starving – you’ll feel super during the season of renewal.

Adapted from The Healing Powers of Superfoods, Kensington. *This book just went back to press for a second printing.

 

-- 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 http://www.calorey.com.

Irish Nachos for Good Luck! Superfoods Book Went Back to Press! 2nd Printing!

 By Cal Orey

Do you like nachos? You can find them at convenient stores to restaurants. And these days you, like me, can and likely have made a batch in the comfort of your kitchen. There are a garden-variety of nacho types, which include a quartered tostada or tortilla chips, with topping such as meat, poultry, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Then there are “Irish Nachos” aka nacho potato skins also with these tasty ingredients sprinkled on top of French fries -- and even baked potato wedges.

More than a decade ago, one summer day after swimming (ah, the pre-pandemic days), I was famished. But due to our south shore heat I didn’t want to cook. I didn’t know about nacho potato skins. So, I plopped a handful of multigrain tortilla chips onto a plate; sprinkled cheddar cheese on top. I nuked it until the cheese was hot and bubbly. My Brittanys – two dogs Simon and Seth – were behind me the entire time making this easy snack to create a human challenge. And yeah, this popular appetizer is crunchy, chewy, and gooey. It’s fun and tastes good.

Fast forward to a different time. New dog, and I have a more fussy palate. So, I gave nachos a tater twist for the health of it.

Nacho Potato Skins

6 medium potatoes, russet (or sweet if you prefer)

¼ cup butter

1/2-1 cup cheddar cheese or mozzarella, grated

2-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped (I also used store bought chunky salsa in a plastic container, not a jar)

1-1 1/2 cups lettuce (kale, baby spinach, or iceberg), shredded

1/4-1/2  cup sour cream

Hot peppers (to taste)

½ cup fresh green onion, sliced

Fresh rosemary, minced (to taste)

Chives, fresh or dried (to taste)

Wash taters and bake in the microwave for 15 to 20 minutes. (They are better baked in the oven but due to our heat wave – use the microwave.) Cut potatoes lengthwise or in four quarters (I did it this way.) On a plate, when cool scoop out potato but leave some intact. Brush each potato with butter. Place on a baking sheet and pop ‘em in 450 degrees for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake a few more minutes. Remove from oven and top the cheesy potatoes with veggies, sour cream, and herbs. Makes 24 wedges or 12 halves. Serves 4-6. You can put leftovers in an airtight container and into the fridge for a day or so.

The bottom line: When you use chips it’s an appetizer as it can be with potatoes. But if you add plenty of toppings – like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes -- it can be a light lunch or dinner. Embracing novelty can be delightful if we have choices – like choosing toppings for potato skins. Pair your Irish Nachos with iced tea or cold lemonade to chill and feel in control. That can be comforting (like hanging out with a canine companion) during these new and uncertain times.

-- 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 http://www.calorey.com. 

Healing Powers series Based on #1 Mediterranean diet - Slim Down, Healthy Up

  By Cal Orey

News flash: This is the fourth year in a row the according to the U.S. News & World Report’s annual list. It’s a wholesome heart-healthy diet based on vegetables, fruits, dairy, whole grains, legumes, fish, nuts, olive oil, wine (in moderation, and water.

 

Enter: Mac and cheese. Macaroni and cheese aka mac 'n' cheese is an age-old dish created with cheese and pasta.  The tradition recipe is a casserole baked in the oven. Its roots are not known but it’s no stranger in the United Kingdom or Canada. And it did find its way to America and has a reputation of being a comfort food – for all ages.

 

Twenty years ago, I remember foraging the gourmet frozen kind at the grocery store. Nuke it. Done. I remember my mom’s homemade casserole. Back in the 20th century, pasta shells, whole milk, margarine, processed cheese, and bread crumbs from old bread were her ingredients of choice. And, of course, we also ate the quickie kind in a box. Not so good either.

Fast forward to present-day. I’ve changed up this dish with a healthier twist. Whole grain pasta, gourmet cheese, real butter, fresh herbs and spices, and vegetables make it a Mediterranean delight inspired by my taste for European foods (an underlying theme in my book series).

 

Mac ‘n’ Cheese Mediterranean Style

 

2 cups whole grain elbow macaroni, cooked

2 cups organic half and half

¾ cup Cheddar, shredded

½ cup Parmesan shavings

½ cup sour cream

2 tablespoons European style butter

½ teaspoon ground pepper

1 teaspoon Mediterranean seasoning (or 2 teaspoons fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary)

¼ cup garlic and herb bread crumbs

Roma tomatoes, sliced

Fresh basil or rosemary, sprigs, garnish

Cook pasta per directions of the box or bag. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove pasta from the heat. In a small pan, heat the half and half until it boils. Turn down the heat to medium and add 1/2 the grated Cheddar and Parmesan; stir until it is melted and smooth. Add sour cream and butter. Add pepper and seasoning. Pour this over the macaroni. put this into a baking dish or ramekins. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. Top with bread crumbs. Bake until the top is golden and crusty, about 25 to 30 minutes. Serves 4-6.

This week during the world’s ups and downs, I did seek comfort – like all of us – living on the South Shore. Putting the good for you foods together was quick. The results? Instant comfort. It’s a keeper, especially on a chilly night. A hot casserole hits the spot and yeah, it’s feel good food. Easy does it though – one serving is good to keep winter weight at bay. Pair it with a green salad and a cup of hot tea for pre-spring. Warmer days, chilly nights.

-- 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 http://www.calorey.com.

Spring into Herbalism House Cleaning

 By Cal Orey

Before I left for a trip to Victoria, Canada, my seventy-three-year-old South Shore cabin was cleaned—and I used whole herbs to do the job. While I kenneled the dog, leaving the cat to hold down the fort is one reason why I used nature’s cleaners –not stuff with chemicals...

 I filled a jar halfway with sprigs of dried herbs: lavender flowers and thyme—two favorite herbs of springtime. Next, I added a half and half ratio of white vinegar and tap water to cover the mixture. Not only did it do the work of refreshing the bathroom and kitchen sink and floors, the fragrance in early spring was wonderful thanks to plant power.

Upon my return—it was a lingering aroma that welcomed me when I repeated “There’s no place like home.” And my Siamese kitty Zen greeted me with purrs, kneading my chest, and cuddling me to sleep after a long journey.

Using fresh or dried herbs for house cleaning is as good at it gets. Some herbs used for an eco-friendly way to freshen up a room and make it dirt-free and tidy include cloves, marjoram, and thyme. But other herbs can be used, too, such as cinnamon, citrus peel, lavender, rosemary, and sage. And mixing dried and fresh plant powerwith water and vinegar provide the perfect solution to clean it up with a scent.

Herbs provide antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antifungal properties. If you have used commercial cleaners, you know like I do, they work but the chemical residue smells bad and lingers. Plus, it can affect your nasal membranes and throat if you’re sensitive to certain chemicals. It’s better to feel good about freshening and cleaning your home with green stuff, rather than the chemical liquids and powders.

INDOORS SPRING FORMULAS TAHOE-STYLE

Here’s a checklist to get you started:

ü  Kitchen:  In a spray bottle, combine 2 tablespoons thyme, crushed or a couple of sprigs, ¼ cup white vinegar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, and 1 cup water. This solution can be used to spritz on countertops, inside a microwave, refrigerator, and windows.

ü  Living Room/Dining Room: In a spray bottle, combined ½ cup apple cider vinegar with 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice and sprigs of fresh lavender. Add 1 cup water. Use a cotton cloth and dust wooden furniture with scratches and smudges. Wipe and buff.

ü  Bedrooms:  Add potpourri sachets in drawers of chests and nightstands. Use the springtime mix (recipe is below) for best results.

ü  Bathroom: In a plastic container add ¼ cup baking soda, 2 teaspoons lavender, crushed, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Add ½ cup water. Mix well. Use as an abrasive cleanser for the shower or tub, sink, and toilet.

FRESHEN UP WITH SPRING SACHETS

            Some folks believe potpourri is a trend from the seventies and sort of a thing of the past. Not so. Sure, it’s not found in every household bathroom, drawers, or bedroom on a nightstand. But potpourri still has its place in the household – and spring, a time of renewal is the perfect time to incorporate it inside your home. Do it the sachet way!

Recipe: In a sachet bag or two (available online) fill it up with spring dried herbs. Combine 2 teaspoons each dried lemon peels, parsley, and thyme. Add star anise for the presentation. Place in mason jar and pour the potpourri into sachets when you need to rejuvenate a room or more in your home. Put in a place where children and pets cannot reach the mixture. And note, enjoy nature’s herbal helpers to get and keep it clean in your mountain digs during the season of renewal. Sniff, ah. Springtime fresh!

Adapted from The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures, Kensington

-- 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 http://www.calorey.com.

Book Reviews: Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures (#9 Healing Powers series)

    By Cal Orey 

UPDATE:  Bestseller banner for the book on Walmart's website, in top 100 bestsellers on Amazon; in 41  libraries worldwide! Page 1 of bestselling herbs and spices books on Barnes and Noble...  Newsworthy, popular Newsmax is on board with the fresh book, #9! And the year is young!

 ...we're thrilled about the new offering in the Healing Powers series from bestselling author Cal Orey featuring 50 recipes and A-to-Z guide cataloguing most versatile herbs and spices for flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illness." -- Woman's World magazine, Book Club: Nonfiction

As in her previous bestselling books, Cal Orey combines groundbreaking research into all these health and weight loss benefits with home cures, cosmetic uses, household hints, dozens of heart-healthy Mediterranean style recipes, legends, nutritional charts, and heartwarming anecdotes. --Tathaastu Magazine, book review
Not only is the book a guide for people who love to cook and bake, but it offers a fun way to learn through legends, stories and many of Orey's experiences derived from both childhood and present times. -- Tahoe Daily Tribune, book review
The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: A Complete Guide to Nature's Timeless Treasures. The ninth installment of the Healing Powers series from nutrition writer Orey explores how herbs and dried spices can provide home cures, weight loss benefits, and beauty treatments.  -- Publishers Weekly
... Orey's ninth title in her Healing Powers series is part cookbook, part healthy living reference...After the educational parts and charts, most pages are devoted to nearly 80 recipes for almost every possible eating occasion: jumbo anise biscotti, cayenne spicy salsa, saffron baked custard, spicy meatless shepherd's pie.... An herb a day just might keep the doctor at bay. Includes glossary and resources. --Booklist 
Herbal medicines can be helpful in treating many medical concerns as well as be used to support our health. These natural healing modalities discussed in Orey's refreshing book for  the 21st century well-being  have been part of my integrative family practice for nearly 50 years. -- Elson Haas, MD (ElsonHaasMD.com) is the author of 11 books including Staying Healthy with the Seasons and Staying Healthy with NEW Medicine.
I loved the complexity of it: there are personal stories from the author which bring flavor to the pages, there are a lot of details about the chemistry and the history of the spices and, of course, their benefits for health. These benefits are represented in many forms, each spices has a dedicated page, but here are also charts and several health issues that have suggested herbs that can alleviate these issues. There are folk types of advice mixed in, beauty and home benefits from using herbs and a lot of recipes. -- Reviewer NetGalley
It's very refreshing to come across a book packed with solid, helpful information on healing and wellness that doesn't try to discredit modern medicine. There is absolutely a place for both in our lives, and crucial information is being lost in the delirium of "internet research." -- Reviewer NetGalley

Best Seller Banner for New Book: Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures

  By Cal Orey

Product ImageBest SellerProduct TitleH The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices : A Complete Guide toTimeless Treasures (Series #9) (Paperback)Average Rating:(5.0)out of5stars1ratings, based on1reviewsProduct SpecAuthors:Cal OreyISBN10: 0806540486ISBN: 9780806540481Format:Paperback

The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes. 
And during the pandemic there is a spice surge because of the home-cooking comeback! The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more (I use a lot of the McCormick classic brand) --for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and 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 cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:

●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!

2021 Earth Changes Predictions -- CA Drought to New Zealand Quake-Tsunami Came True

Earth Changes

Published Jan. 2021 Oracle 20/20 Magazine

2021 FORECASTS

By Cal Orey

Enduring 2020 was like was like being a character in a never-ending natural disaster film that made us feel like we were characters in a spooky movie. There were earthquakes, hurricanes, twisters, wildfires – and a pandemic.

As predicted, 2020 Earth changes forced people around the world to be more prepared and self-reliant as we battled extreme Earth changes and novelty. Indeed, we did deal with the new normal of Earth changes and continue to stay strong and keep fighting. Wish you knewwhat may happen to Mother Earth this New Year? Will there be less or more drama?  Read on – find out!

 

STRONG SHAKERS

In 2020, tremors seemed less than more, especially in contrast to other Earth challenges compounded with the pandemic. But that doesn’t mean the Earth didn’t move. It did.

 

West Coast: On the California/Nevada border an aggressive quake swarm has been ongoing since March 15, when a 6.5 was widely felt through California. The damaged a major highway and shook homes as far as Utah and Las Vegas. (Yes, under strict lockdown at night I felt the strong shaker.) It could have been a foreshock. A major earthquake this year could be the end result.

 

With an ongoing pandemic the aftermath of an earthquake –or any natural disaster -- will make it more challenging for first responders because of the threat of getting infected with Covid-19 while helping people –and overcrowded hospitals. A great earthquake with an 80% probability may strike in 2021. Greater Los Angeles or near Salton Sea and San Andreas are likely epicenters.

A major earthquake may move the San Francisco Bay Area (Hayward Fault or South near Morgan Hill on the San Andreas). 

Europe: The Mediterranean countries most likely will rock by major earthquakes – and maybe even a great overdue 8.0 earthquake in Greece, Italy, or Turkey.

 A

ustralia/New Zealand: A major earthquake-tsunami is possible. Also, Indonesia could still have a sequel. It’s possible, a tsunami may happen even worse than what happened on Boxing Day back in 2004.

 

RAIN AND SNOW – OR NOT?

The West Coast is in a drought period and according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) a dry spell for the Western states and Southeast may continue.  California may get some much-needed rain and a few snowstorms. Caveat: Like last year it will not be a super snowstorm year disappointing tourists looking to escape the pandemic and to find a winter wonderland. Read: It very well may be the winter of discontent, with respect to John Steinbeck’s novel’s title.

 

The Northeast and Midwest will get more than less snowfall in the winter of 2021 – leaving the Southeast getting a combination of drought and too much rainfall. And the Southeast will get rain and lightning, and flooding.

 

The Mediterranean coastal regions will cope and suffer from flooding and it will be considered epic as homes and lives will be threatened.

The bottom line: Due to the ongoing pandemic, the weather around the globe will create more challenges to people suffering from homelessness, health issues, and economic challenges.

 

EPIC TWISTERS, HURRICANES, WILDFIRES

F4 is the second highest intensity rating [on the now retired Fujita Scale] may hit Texas, Oklahoma, or Florida.

Wildfires are likely to continue year-round, due to both man-made or natural causes like lightning. The Southwest, Southern California, Northwest, and Colorado are in the line of fire as well as the Pacific Northwest including Western Canada. Air quality will also be a challenging factor people will have to learn how to deal with it, especially in the summer and fall months. It’s all part of climate change.

       ON THE WILD SIDE

As we deal with the pandemic, any Earth changes will be more challenging because frontline workers will be overwhelmed. While earthquakes will be more catastrophic in 2021, it will seem less intense than coping with a dark winter due to plague challenges.

Also, more volcanic activity in the U.S.—especially Yellowstone which has not gotten a lot of attention for a while. This area is overdue for drama and a scare of the Big One creating a nuclear winter is possible but may just be a close call.

As for the pandemic? Fasten your seatbelts. As we learn more about the novel virus it will be two steps forward and two steps backward. Come late Spring and Summer, a sense of normalcy will blossom. By autumn it will be a time to exhale and realize the worst of the virus nightmare may be fizzling – thanks to working together.

During some of these Earth changes during an out-of-control pandemic (which we’re trying to end) will actually force people to unite. In 2021, the shrinking middle class and poverty-stricken people to homeless due to Earth changes and pandemic will create great suffering but humanity will prevail.

 It will be a year of despair, change, hope, and strength. By late summer and into fall America will have experienced a lot of loss but the light will begin to outshine the darkness. As our planet and humanity goes through growing pains, we be resilient and rejuvenated -- ready to adapt and carry on. As our grandmas always say, “This too shall pass.” And Earth will rebound and thrive.  

FARMER’S ALMANIC GUESS

Not always right – but like the cute groundhog, worth a read. The 2021 Farmers' Almanac forecasts a cold and snowy winter in the northeast, calling it "the Winter of the Great Divide." Also, the almanac predicts “cold and snowy in the north, drought in the west, and everything crazy in between." Also, the almanac points to a “warmer-than-average temperatures by late summer 2021.” The Farmers' Almanac is edited by Peter Geiger of Lewiston.

2020 Visions Happened!

*The Asian Covid-19 epidemic became a pandemic affecting the world’s health and economy.

*  The hurricane season did endure major storms – 20 named storms up until September.

* A 7.0 rumbled through Greece shaking Turkey on October 30. And while Anchorage didn’t rock and roll, on October 19, a 7.6 rocked rumbled through Sand Harbor with a Tsunami Warning.

* Wildfires are likely to continue year-round, due to both man-made or natural causes like lightning. California was burning in the summer, causing hazardous air quality throughout the Golden State…

* …And there were power outages – numerous ones and often man-created to help prevent more wildfires.

* Flights were indeed cancelled around the world due to a pandemic – not Earth changes.  

Best Seller Banner for New Book: Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures

 By Cal Orey

Product ImageBest SellerProduct TitleH The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices : A Complete Guide toTimeless Treasures (Series #9) (Paperback)Average Rating:(5.0)out of5stars1ratings, based on1reviewsProduct SpecAuthors:Cal OreyISBN10: 0806540486ISBN: 9780806540481Format:Paperback

The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes. 
And during the pandemic there is a spice surge because of the home-cooking comeback! The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more (I use a lot of the McCormick classic brand) --for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and 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 cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.

Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:

●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!

Timeless Book Reviews for The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices (#9 Healing Powers series)

   By Cal Orey 

 ...we're thrilled about the new offering in the Healing Powers series from bestselling author Cal Orey featuring 50 recipes and A-to-Z guide cataloguing most versatile herbs and spices for flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illness." -- Woman's World magazine, Book Club: Nonfiction

As in her previous bestselling books, Cal Orey combines groundbreaking research into all these health and weight loss benefits with home cures, cosmetic uses, household hints, dozens of heart-healthy Mediterranean style recipes, legends, nutritional charts, and heartwarming anecdotes. --Tathaastu Magazine, book review
Not only is the book a guide for people who love to cook and bake, but it offers a fun way to learn through legends, stories and many of Orey's experiences derived from both childhood and present times. -- Tahoe Daily Tribune, book review
The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices: A Complete Guide to Nature's Timeless Treasures. The ninth installment of the Healing Powers series from nutrition writer Orey explores how herbs and dried spices can provide home cures, weight loss benefits, and beauty treatments.  -- Publishers Weekly
... Orey's ninth title in her Healing Powers series is part cookbook, part healthy living reference...After the educational parts and charts, most pages are devoted to nearly 80 recipes for almost every possible eating occasion: jumbo anise biscotti, cayenne spicy salsa, saffron baked custard, spicy meatless shepherd's pie.... An herb a day just might keep the doctor at bay. Includes glossary and resources. --Booklist 
Herbal medicines can be helpful in treating many medical concerns as well as be used to support our health. These natural healing modalities discussed in Orey's refreshing book for  the 21st century well-being  have been part of my integrative family practice for nearly 50 years. -- Elson Haas, MD (ElsonHaasMD.com) is the author of 11 books including Staying Healthy with the Seasons and Staying Healthy with NEW Medicine.
I loved the complexity of it: there are personal stories from the author which bring flavor to the pages, there are a lot of details about the chemistry and the history of the spices and, of course, their benefits for health. These benefits are represented in many forms, each spices has a dedicated page, but here are also charts and several health issues that have suggested herbs that can alleviate these issues. There are folk types of advice mixed in, beauty and home benefits from using herbs and a lot of recipes. -- Reviewer NetGalley
It's very refreshing to come across a book packed with solid, helpful information on healing and wellness that doesn't try to discredit modern medicine. There is absolutely a place for both in our lives, and crucial information is being lost in the delirium of "internet research." -- Reviewer NetGalley