#herb storage tips

[doseofindependence]

The Ultimate Guide to Herbs: Harvest and Dry Like a Pro

Are you ready to elevate your culinary creations and enjoy fresh, aromatic herbs year-round? Discover the ultimate guide to harvesting and drying herbs in our latest article! Learn the best times to harvest, how to dry your herbs to perfection, and tips f

The Ultimate Guide to Herbs: Harvest and Dry Like a Pro Learn how to harvest and dry herbs like a pro with our ultimate guide. Preserve flavors, maintain potency, and enjoy your garden’s bounty year-round. Introduction Herbs are nature’s little miracles, offering a treasure trove of flavors, fragrances, and health benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious newbie, the process of…

[hedgewitchgarden]

If you’re anything like me, you don’t like to waste. When you enjoy herbal preparations as part of your daily routine, you are bound to wind up with a stockpile of perfectly good containers that can still be used. But how can you make sure they are cleaned well enough to reuse, and how can you continue to put them to use time and time again? Here are some tips and tricks to help you keep those bottles in circulation.

How to Clean and Reuse Glass Bottles and Metal Containers

The following method is primarily used to clean:

Glass bottles with a dropper top (tincture bottles)

Glass bottles with a mister top

Glass bottles with a screw on cap

Glass bottles with a treatment pump

Essential oil bottles with reducer top

Roll-on bottles

Cork top bottles

Metal tins

PREPARE YOUR CONTAINERS

We all know about the importance of labeling homemade remedies and ingredients, so when reusing bottles, you’ll want to be sure to take the old labels off to eliminate any confusion.

Peel the label off by hand, if possible. If it doesn’t come off as one or two pieces, you’ll want to soak the bottle in warm water to loosen them up.

Begin by rinsing each bottle out and then filling it with warm water and placing the lid back on. PRO TIP: Soaking the bottles with the lids on will prevent bits of paper and glue remnants from making their way into the bottle. Filling them with water will prevent them from bobbing around.

Place them into a pot filled with warm water and let sit for about five minutes. Some may take longer than others.

Rub your thumb and/or fingernail on the label and it will begin to roll off.

If there is some glue left over, no need to re-soak—we have another life hack to share for that! This one from DIY Natural works brilliantly and calls for simple ingredients: baking soda, coconut oil, and sweet orange essential oil (though I also like lemon oil for this purpose!).

{...}

[farmerstrend]

The Current State of Coriander Farming in Kenya

Coriander, also known as dhania in Kenya, is a popular herb cherished for its unique flavor and aroma. It’s a staple ingredient in many Kenyan dishes, featuring prominently in stews and the refreshing kachumbari salad. But coriander’s significance goes beyond the kitchen. In recent years, coriander farming in Kenya has emerged as a promising avenue for both domestic consumption and international…

[elenilag]

Guide to Drying Herbs

Drying herbs is a simple practice, and there are several methods to choose from depending on the type of herb and your desire use. Here's how I dry my herbs:

1. Drying on Newspaper

This method works well for larger leaves and herbs that don’t need to be hung.

Lay the herbs flat on a clean sheet of newspaper in a single layer.

Place the newspaper in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Turn the herbs occasionally to ensure even drying.

Once the herbs are dry and crisp to the touch, they’re ready for storage.

2. Hanging Herbs Upside Down

Perfect for longer herbs, like rosemary, lavender or thyme, that can be tied together.

Gather small bunches of herbs and secure them with a cord or string.

Wrap the herbs loosely in a breathable cloth, like cheesecloth or muslin. This helps them air freely while catching any small leaves or flowers that may shed during the drying process.

Hang the bunches upside down in a cool, dry place with good airflow. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade the color and potency.

Once the herbs are completely dry (they should crumble easily), remove the leaves or store them as they are.

I do this with fresh lavender that I put in my closet as shown in the picture.

3. Pressing Herbs

This method is ideal for preserving delicate leaves or flowers for decorative purposes or rituals.

Place the herbs between sheets of paper (such as parchment or regular printer paper).

Insert the paper into a thick book, ensuring the herbs are spread flat and evenly.

Place additional books or a weight on top to press them.

Leave them for 1–2 weeks, checking occasionally for dryness.

4. Drying Small Petals

For small, delicate petals or flowers, a rule bag works wonders.

Place the petals or flowers in a breathable rule bag (such as a mesh or cotton drawstring bag).

Hang the bag in a dry, ventilated area.

Shake the bag gently every few days to prevent clumping and to ensure even drying.

General Tips for Best Results

Use Breathable Cloths: Wrapping your herbs or laying them on a breathable cloth allows air to circulate freely, preventing mold while catching any small leaves or flowers that shed during the drying process.

Timing: Dry herbs as soon as possible after harvesting to retain their potency and fragrance.

Environment: Choose a dry, cool, and ventilated area to prevent mold or mildew.

Labeling: If drying multiple herbs, label them to avoid confusion.

Storage: Once dried, store your herbs in airtight containers away from sunlight and moisture.

Using Dried Herbs

Always check if the plant is safe for use before collecting it. Do not make tea or touch anything with unknown properties. Always clean your plants before drying.

Once your herbs are dried, you can use them for teas, rituals, incense, or other magical and practical purposes. Always remember to respect and honor the plants you've harvested by using them mindfully.

[dream2bu]

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into small cubes

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 cup (200g) pearl barley

2 carrots, diced

6 cups (1.5L) beef broth

1 cup (240ml) water (optional, for a thinner consistency)

1 tsp dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup (150g) chopped mushrooms (optional)

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

1 can (14.5 oz or 410g) diced tomatoes

1 bay leaf

Directions:

Prepare the Beef:

Warm the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Place the beef cubes in the pot, season with salt and pepper, and sear until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Take the browned beef out of the pot and set it aside for later.

Cook the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Cook the vegetables for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the barley, beef broth, water (if using), diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir well.

Simmer:

Cook the vegetables for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.. Cover and let it simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is cooked. Stir occasionally.

Season and Serve:

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving: This soup is best served with crusty bread or a side salad. It’s even more flavorful the next day after the flavors meld together.

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Once the soup reaches a boil, lower the heat to a simmer. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips for Success:

Use Quality Beef: Opt for beef stew meat or a cut like chuck roast for tender results.

Brown the Beef: Don’t skip browning the beef, as it adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

Soak the Barley: If you have time, soak the barley for a few hours before cooking to reduce cooking time and ensure even tenderness.

Customize the Vegetables: Add potatoes, parsnips, or green beans for extra heartiness.

Health Benefits:

Rich in Fiber: Barley is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.

Protein-Packed: Beef provides a significant amount of protein, supporting muscle repair and growth.

Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables contribute vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like potassium and iron.

Low-Fat Option: This soup is naturally low in fat, especially if you choose lean cuts of beef.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 350

Protein: 25g

Fat: 10g

Carbohydrates: 40g

Fiber: 8g

Sodium: 650mg

Variations and Substitutions:

Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian option, skip the beef and use vegetable broth instead. Add beans or lentils for protein.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the barley with quinoa or rice for a gluten-free alternative.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Herb Swaps: Try rosemary or oregano in place of thyme for a different flavor profile.

[breelandwalker]

Witchcraft Exercise - Spring Cleaning

There’s a marked tradition of cleaning and airing out the house in the springtime when the weather warms. As you’re dusting and tidying and getting rid of winter stagnation, take some time to do the same with your craft.

Clean and organize your workspace. If you have an altar space or a shelf where you keep bottles and jars and the like, remove everything from the surface and give it a good dusting. Take the opportunity to rearrange things or swap out pieces if it suits you. If you have ritual tools that don’t often get cleaned, check them for signs or rust or wear and give them a bit of love. Repair things that need fixing, if you can. If you have an iron cauldron that you use for fire magic, get a wire brush or some steel wool and gently remove any burnt residue left inside.

Sort through your supplies. If you have lots of candles and crystals and small items laying about, consider getting some small totes or craft organizers to keep things tidy. Divided storage boxes for beads or scrapbooking supplies are great for small items, and shoebox-sized caddies are perfect for taper, chime, and votive candles. Organizing things will make your space easier to navigate and also gives you a proper idea of what you have on hand. Which might help you resist impulse purchases the next time you’re out shopping for witchcraft supplies. While you’re tidying, be sure to discard any rubbish, candle stubs, wax blobs, herb scraps, bits of string, incense bases, and so forth that might be cluttering up the place. 

Discard things that are too old or worn to be useful. Dried plants and seasonings can usually be kept for 1-3 years if they remain in sealed containers. If they have no scent anymore or smell musty or mildewy, discard them and sanitize the container. If you’re using supermarket spices, you can use the expiration date on the container as a guide. Powdered material will likely last longer than whole herbs or cut-and-sifted material. One helpful tip is to put a purchase date on packets or bags of herbs when you buy them, or to put a little date sticker on your jars of herbs when you refill them. (Anyone who’s worked in food service will probably be familiar with the concept of container dating or day-dotting.)

If you make oils or tinctures or suchlike in your practice, check on these as well. Make sure nothing has gone off or lost its’ potency. Day-dotting your potion containers will help with this as well. A simple sticker with the name of the brew and the date it was bottled will help you keep track of your supplies and know when something needs to be tossed and replaced. (You can also print labels with the ingredients and purpose of the brew if you’re feeling super organized.)

Reorganize your books and resources. Review what's there and see if there are any materials that need to be weeded out, donated, or discarded. Remember that as you grow and progress, some things will become obsolete or may show themselves to be unhelpful or inaccurate. It's okay to remove things from your resource library that no longer serve you if you want to make some space on the shelves.

You can also cleanse your workspace and/or components while you’re tidying if you wish. It doesn’t have to be a full clean-slate-everything-must-go cleansing, but it can be helpful to just clear out stagnation or bring in some freshness and vitality.

Happy Witching! 🧼

Want more witchcraft exercises? Check out the masterpost here and visit my shop for spell kits, books, magical powders, and more!

(If you’re enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar, tune in to my monthly show Hex Positive on your favorite podcast app, or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop. 😊)

[galacticnikki]

100 Witchcraft Tips in 100 Days!

Day 4 - How to Create a Herbal Grimoire

A Herbal Grimoire is a journal, notebook, or online resource where you note down what you learn. Note down your research on the plant, your experiences using it in spells, the results of the spells. Over time it will grow and be a sort of encyclopedia tailored to your personal practice and knowledge. It should also overtime become a reference guide there to help you remember correspondences, notice patterns in your practice, and track the success of your spells.

How to Start Your Herbal Grimoire

1. Choose Your Format: You want to start by picking where you want to make your grimoire. You could use a notebook, a journal, loose paper, a binder, any note apps, if you're able to write in or on it then it's a format you can use.

2. Sections to Include: You can divide up your grimoire into sections to keep it organized. Here's a few ideas for sections:

Herb Profiles: Set aside a page to write about its correspondences, physical properties, folklore, or personal experiences with it.

Spells and Recipes: Write down any spells or recipes you make using herbs. Write down the ingredients, steps, and outcome of each spell.

Harvesting and Storage Tips: Include guidelines on how to properly harvest, dry, and store each herb.

Personal Reflections: As you work with herbs, reflect on your experiences with them. Ask yourself questions like "How did the spell feel using those specific herb?" or "What herbs do I tend to gravitate towards?"

3. Correspondences: Research each herb's magical properties and write them down. You can include elemental correspondences, planetary rulers, or even deity associations.

4. Add Personal Touches: Always remember this is your book, you can design it however you want. Customize your book however you see fit.

Why a Herbal Grimoire is Important

It Becomes Your Personal Guide: Even though there are many correspondences you can find in books or online, having your own grimoire brings you closer to your practice. You might even learn something new that you haven't seen anywhere else.

It Tracks Your Growth: As you write down your experiences you'll begin to notice how you're practice has evolved over time. You might start noticing patterns and specific herbs you're drawn to.

It Enhances Focus and Intention: Writing down your research and experience also helps you to retain the knowledge you've learned.

It Helps Build a Deeper Connection with Nature: As you learn more about working with herbs the more you learn about nature. This let's you know more about your local environment and how you could potentially help it.

Tips for Keeping a Grimoire

Consistency is Key: Regularly update your grimoire with new information.

Make if Your Own: Don't be scared to stray from the traditional correspondences if others better match your results.

Don't Rush: You're grimoire will slowly grow over time. Don't feel pressured to fill it up quickly. The more thought you put into your grimoire the better it'll be.

If you want to find more of these entries use the hashtag #100 Witchcraft Tips in 100 Days! If you want to join a group of witches feel free to join our 18+ coven on Discord.

[esoteric-chaos]

All-Purpose Banishing Spray

This is from my recent (first video, awful quality) Samhain video on Evergreen Sorcery. It will get rid of all gunk in your space including nasty spirits.

Here is the recipe.

Ingredients

- Distilled Water: 3/4 cup

- Witch Hazel (alcohol-based is best for preservation): 1/4 cup (for solubilizing essential oils as well)

- DRIED Herbs: Pine, Cedar, Rue, Rose and their thorns

- Optional: Essential Oils Can be used in the placement of herbs

- (Optional for storage) Preservative: Optiphen Plus or Geogard ECT (follow manufacturer’s instructions; typically 0.5–1% of the total mixture)

Instructions

1. Infuse the Water: Boil the distilled water, then pour it over the dried herbs in a glass jar. Cover and let it steep until the water cools to room temperature. This creates a strong herbal infusion.

2. Strain the herbs out of the infusion using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to avoid any plant particles in your spray. Make sure the liquid is clear.

3. Combine Ingredients: In a (preferably tinted) spray bottle, add the witch hazel and essential oils (optional) to the strained herbal infusion or just essential oils instead of herbs if you do not have herbal components.

4. Add Preservative: Add the preservative according to the manufacturer's recommended percentage for water-based formulas.

5. Mix and Store: Shake well, label (with date), and store in a cool, dark place and keep out of sunlight.

Tips on Preservatives

- Optiphen (op-tiphen) Plus: Ideal for water-based solutions.

- Geogard ECT: An eco-certified preservative that works well in a range of products.

Cautions:

Please be mindful of pets and other living beings, as certain ingredients, like essential oils, can harm them—it may be best to avoid using these near animals. Note that it’s normal for this mixture to become cloudy or separate over time; however, if you notice an off smell, it’s time to discard it. Also, remember that the oils in the mixture may cause stains on surfaces like bedding.

[yaekiss]

#Mailroom Open! If you still have open slots/want to do this <3

I'd like this letter to go to Tighnari, please and thank you! Subtle yandere and SFW. Thank you again!

The contents of the letter are as follows:

"Tighnari!

Things have been absolutely marvelous in Mondstadt. Your idea to visit my family was genius. It's been a long time since I've been back home. My mother asked why you didn't accompany me, isn't that cute? She called you her future son in law.. Then asked when we'd be giving her grandbabies.

I have been missing you to pieces though, my love. You would love a few of my friends over here, they're interested to learn more about you! Well.. aside from one. He seemed a bit upset when I gushed about you. But never mind that! How are things back home with you? How is Collei? Please let her know that Amber sends her regards. But most importantly! How are you?

I also hope that the package I sent gets to you safely. I thought you'd really appreciate my finds.

Love you so much!

-♡"

The package itself is smaller in size, yet still larger than the envelope sent. Inside the box are new glass storage jars, made for storing herbs and spices. Aside from the jars, there's a hand woven bracelet. It matches with Tighnari's typical attire, and is woven in order to prevent fraying or breakage. There's another, tiny sticky note at the bottom of the box with a doodle of Tighnari and his partner. They're stick figures and holding hands.

꩜ Letter Content: GN! Reader x Slight Yan! Tighnari, SFW, no gendered terms for reader, possessiveness from Tighnari, lmk if I missed out anything ! ꩜ Delivery Notes: Tighnari was absolutely covered in pollen when I picked up his package in Sumeru, HAHA! However, judging from his droopy ears and tail, I think he really misses you :( ꩜ Wanna write a love letter yourself? Check out it out here!

Sent back to you is a small, lovingly handmade, woven basket that you recognise to be the handiwork of Tighnari. Weaved between the strips of dried Kalpalata lotus vines are cute tiny flowers native to the forested area around Gandharva Ville. There’s a ribbon tied around the handle in your favourite colour that’s lightly scented with the perfume of Sumeru roses.

A dark green fabric that matches his fur colour sits nicely atop the contents of the basket, it’s embroidered with the stick figure drawing of you and Tighnari. The Tighnari stick figure is made of thread in a light emerald green that’s the colour of his eyes while your doodle is woven in a gorgeous shade identical to yours. There are extra little hearts floating around the two of you in the embroidered picture too, how cute! 

Removing the embroidered cloth cover from the basket, you first take his letter out. Reaching into the envelope, the first thing you pull out is pressed Nilotpala lotus petals. They retain a delicate faint glimmer of how they shone when they bloomed at night and infuse the parchment in the envelope with their light floral scent. His reply is written in his usual scrawling handwriting you see in his research journals but there's an underlying tenderness present. You think he makes a noticeable effort to ensure that his words are more legible, especially just for you. His response reads:

“My dearest lotus,

It’s about time you wrote back! Just before I got your letter, I was going to mail you a lengthy lecture regarding important safety tips while one is travelling. Really, with your extended silence, I was worried about you for a bit, lotus. It's good to hear you're enjoying your time in Mondstadt with your family though, how’s the flora diversity there? I do hope you bring me back some flower and mushroom samples.

Collei too sends Amber her very enthusiastic regards, she was so excited at the mention of Amber, the way her eyes lit up was precious, I wish you were there to see it, lotus. Now, I’m sure with your keen eye you’ve noticed all the flowers included in the basket. I can’t take all the credit, it was Collei who helped to collect the flowers for the basket. She came back with so many that we spent almost a whole afternoon just picking out the best ones for you. Seriously, you should’ve seen the way she came into the hut with her arms full of flowers, I didn’t even know how she could see in front of her!

Also, new jars! You know me so well, how did you figure out I was running out of them? Gods, thinking about the hassle of procuring them gave me such a headache. You really are my saviour, gods, I miss you so much… Please come back soon, lotus, I’m getting sick of longing for you. Your lovely handmade bracelet has done well in curbing the urge to go over to Mondstadt to sweep you back up in my arms. It’s beautiful and I appreciate all the work you put into such a sweet gift, lotus. I’d never take off the bracelet, ever.

I’d hate to nag but do take care of yourself alright, it worries me to be so far away from you. (this part is written in a small font, but squinting, it reads out) Especially where you can meet with all sorts of people… and that friend of yours you mentioned. Ugh, I feel my headache coming back.

Help me pass my well wishes on to your mother, and tell her that calling me her “future son-in-law” is not too far off from the truth. Write more often to me alright, lotus? Hearing from you helps keep my longing in check. Come back soon!

Ever awaiting your return,

-Tighnari -”

Tucked underneath, is a sealed bag of dried mushrooms, the kind that Tighnari favours the most. It warms your heart to know that he’s willing to part with the stash of his favourite shrooms to make sure you’re eating well in another region. Tacked on are some collated recipes for the ingredient, with little notes scribbled in the margins on how the default recipe can be improved after gathering feedback from many many many rounds of him cooking it for you. Everything is so sappily domestic that you’re sure your mother would coo over how adorable the two of you are when she finds out about his gift.

And finally, there’s a small box at the side, crafted in the form of a lotus using expertly preserved Kalpalata lotus petals. Gingerly opening up the petals reveals an exquisite ring resting in the centre, woven from sturdy plant stems entwined with golden fibres that almost seem to shine. The stems are fortified with a sheer shimmer of dendro (no doubt Tighnari’s) so that it endures, staying evergreen. Included is a tag reading: “A temporary placeholder for an engagement ring, so that no pest steals you from my side while you’re away ♡”

Slipping it on, it fits perfectly, snugly home on your ring finger. You’ve never told him your ring size though, lucky guess?

Thanks for reading! Consider supporting me on kofi if you enjoyed this or check out my other works hehe ♡

[sidewalkchemistry]

Simple Tips

Store fruit and veggies whole. This will allow them to keep longer, as their surface degrades faster when it has been cut and exposed to air – makes sense, right?

Handle your fruit and veggies gently, as bruises and cuts will lead to rotting which can also spread to other veggies stored nearby.

10 Rapidfire Veggie Storage Tips

#1 Leafy Greens

Lettuce, spinach, rocket, kale and chard can be stored in a sealed container or reusable produce bag in the fridge after being washed and spun to promote hydration.

#2 Tomatoes, Chilli & Capsicums

Fresh tomatoes, chillies and capsicums should be stored on the bench at room temperature until ripe. To preserve for longer, just pop them in the fridge.

#3 Garlic, Onions & Potatoes

Store in a cool dark place and they will keep well for up to a few months. Hint: don’t store potatoes with onions and garlic, as they release gases that may quicken decay.

#4 Pumpkins or Squash

Whole pumpkins can be stored for months in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Sliced pumpkin should be stored in the fridge with the seeds removed, as these decay faster than the flesh.

#5 Cucumbers, Zucchini, Eggplant & Fennel

These immature fruits have thin skin that is sensitive to bruising and cuts, so handle carefully. Store them dry in the fridge in an unsealed reusable bag to allow for airflow.

#6 Carrots, Celeriac & Parsnip

Storing them in a reusable bag in the fridge with their tops removed will allow them to last for over a week (or longer).

#7 Beetroot, Turnips & Radish

Remove the leaves as soon as you get home to preserve the moisture within the roots (keep the leaves for compost or to feed your chickens or worm farm). Store the roots in a reusable produce bag in the fridge.

#8 Cabbages, Broccoli & Cauliflower

As broccoli and cauliflower are the unopened flower buds of a plant, they are best consumed within 3 to 4 days, before they begin to open and turn yellow. Store them in a crisper in the fridge in a reusable bag. Cabbages, however, will last for weeks.

#9 Celery & Soft Herbs

Celery and soft herbs such as parsley, chives and basil can be stored in a jar of water on the kitchen bench at moderate room temperature. Otherwise, in hotter months they can be washed and wrapped in a damp tea towel in the fridge.

#10 Dry Herbs

Dry herbs such as rosemary, thyme and oregano can be stored on the kitchen bench. The flavour becomes more potent as the herb dries, allowing them to keep for a long time. Once fully dry, seal in a container to sprinkle over your food later.

[etheribot]

“protect the energy of this deck” sigil for tarot cards ☆彡

it’s been a really long time since i’ve posted anything on witchblr!! i’d like to come back, though, so please accept this little contribution! ☆〜（ゝ。∂）

*･゜ﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*･*:.｡. .｡.:*･゜ﾟ･*

personal tips for using this sigil

*･゜ﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*･*:.｡. .｡.:*･゜ﾟ･*

☆～ write this sigil on a dried bay leaf, and keep that bay leaf in whatever you use to store your cards (be it bag, box, etc etc)

☆～ if you prefer to write it on a piece of paper (me too, less crumbly), bury the piece of paper in your protection medium of choice, i.e. crushed eggshells, salt, or your favorite protection herb. let her cook for about 24 hours, and then put the piece of paper in the same storage as your cards

☆～ remember to set your intentions!

[rederiswrites]

Went walkabout today with my morning coffee. There's an old saying, "The best fertilizer is the farmer's footstep." Straightened the mulch in the veggie garden where someone--probably a stray chicken--had thrown the grass clippings from the path onto the spinach plants. Replaced the strawberry plant that something dug up overnight. I started by counting. "One, two, three--why is there a gap?" Looked around, and sure enough, there was a plant a few feet away.

Waited too long to protect the trees in the orchard, and now a lot of new leaves and growing tips have been chewed off by deer. I'm trying not to dwell on how much that sucks, because I can't undo it. The trees will recover eventually, and meanwhile I've really got to get the fence rings made and placed.

On the flip-side, though I had thought last year's drought killed every bit of my considerable investment in pond plants, looks like I have one surviving blue flag iris

I promise.

These might be soft stem bulrushes. I can't tell because they haven't set seed and I can't find any photos from that part of the life cycle. I'm just hoping, because none of the grass otherwise will grow submerged like that.

And there was a little red squiggle that could just possibly be an Arrow Arum. Maybe. Fingers crossed. I really can't afford to just throw plants in there year after year with no result.

Gave Kratos the ram some grain. Tried to make sure Mimir the wether got some but he wasn't willing to brave Kratos' greed by coming to me. They both need to be caught so that I can roo Kratos, shear Mimir (who for some reason doesn't roo), and trim their hooves. Another pressing item on the to do list.

Finally found a spot for the sunchokes where they'll be against a structure on one side and mowed on the other side. They can spread along the entire south side of the storage container as far as I'm concerned. I'll get them in later, somehow in between everything else.

And then when I came around the front of the house, I discovered a bunch of sweet woodruff under the chickweed, and spent a few minutes sitting in the grass with my coffee and carefully detangled fragile weeds from fragile herbs. Found out that a single stem of Solomon's Seal survived the chickens last year, so I'll put my remaining stash of roots there today.

The garlic patch, and the kids working hard to clear a spot for strawberries last night.

[desertdollranch]

Hello! I have a dilemma and am wondering if you or your followers might have any tips. I’m entering a phase of my life where I don’t have space to display my AG dolls or their clothes, but am not prepared to part with them. Do you have any advice regarding the best storage solutions for keeping a collection in good condition (without paying a fortune)?

If it helps, there are 11 of them, with the oldest being about 16 years old. I sadly don’t have any of their original boxes, though I do have some for clothes/accessories.

Thank you so much, and happy holidays to you and your dolls!

Hi! I do indeed have a solution for you. I recommend buying a few large plastic storage totes with lids and storing your dolls in those. Here's an example of what they look like.

Here's where to buy them online from Home Depot. They're a little over $12 apiece, but you can also find them at Walmart and Target for a few bucks cheaper.

The reasons why I recommend these:

They are airtight and watertight, so they're protected from dust, mold, and humidity

The tightly sealed lids protect against rodents and bugs

Hard plastic top, bottom, and sides mean the totes cannot be easily crushed by boxes stacked on top

Clear plastic helps you easily identify the contents; if you opt for an opaque container, you can put a label on it

Portable and easy to carry around

If this is the option you choose, then I recommend storing the dolls unclothed in order to avoid dye transfer from their clothes to their vinyl skin, which can happen with long exposure to dyed fabric. This is especially risky if they're stored in a humid location. If that's the case, I recommend storing an open container of baking soda (cover it with a paper towel and secure with a rubber band), or silica gel pellets, in the plastic tote. That will suck up any moisture in the air and direct it away from your dolls.

Use another separate tote to store doll clothes. If you have even a small amount of wool clothing, definitely store a moth deterrent with the clothes. Strong-smelling herbs like lavender, rosemary, and cloves will keep moths and other insects away, as will cedar chips.

[oddmawd]

THE SIGHT UNSEEN - Chapter 23: "Worrying Gives You Wrinkles"

SUMMARY: Yamato Rei pays the bills by telling fake fortunes to unwitting suckers... or so she thinks. Turns out half her customers are demons and her lying ass has been predicting the future with uncanny accuracy for years. On account of her growing reputation, Rei just landed on the radar of the same demon who murdered her aunt, and her only hope of survival is a mirror haunted by the ghost of an ancient warrior queen, her burgeoning psychic powers, and a certain Spirit Detective and his friends. Specifically the pretty one with red hair who seems to see right through her... Kurama is as mysterious as he is beautiful, and when Rei must stay at Genkai’s temple for protection on the eve of Yusuke and Keiko’s wedding, she finds herself growing closer and closer to the one man who’s sworn to keep everyone at arm’s length. But both Kurama and Rei hide behind high walls of their own creation, and it’ll take more than their eventual friends-with-benefits arrangement to see those walls come crumbling down — provided the demons hunting Rei don’t tear her limb from limb, first.

TAGS & CONTENT WARNINGS

PAIRINGS: Kurama/OC, Yusuke/Keiko

RATING:  E(xplicit) (MDNI, 18+)

WORD COUNT: 10k for chapter 23

GENRE: Supernatural Romance

FANDOM: Yu Yu Hakusho

TAGS: Opposite of a slow burn, friends with benefits, mutual pining until it explodes, mystery, being stalked by demons, fortune telling, supernatural powers, inheritance, hair loss (main character has alopecia and is mostly bald), insecurity, family trauma, found family, new friends, weddings, 

WARNINGS: Rated E for chapter 23 and some canon-typical violence throughout

CHAPTER 23: "Worrying Gives You Wrinkles" - Excerpt

Kurama had interrupted Rei in the midst of her nighttime routine. She wore a silk robe and a cloth wrap around her head, feet bare until she donned a pair of indoor slippers. He stood uncertainly just inside the door as she passed him and stepped into the hall.

“Forgot something in the bathroom,” she murmured. “Be right back.”

“All right,” Kurama said.

And so he waited for her, alone, in the Japanese-style room. It bore no decoration (few of the sleeping rooms in Genkai’s shrine did), but Rei had nevertheless made her mark on the space, as she made her mark on every room she entered. Wigs sat on foam heads in the corner; a futon rested on the floor; a suitcase with clothes sat neatly folded; a dress bag draped lazily over a chair; an old vanity with mirror and bench Genkai must had pulled from some dusty storage shed sat silent against the wall. The vanity table bore an array of bottles and cosmetics sparkling in the light of a small lamp, glow warm and imitate in the quiet room.

Kurama wandered to the vanity. Fingertips skimmed a jar of cream, a tube of lipstick, and a bottle of dark green glass. The last was a facial oil made with rare plants, or so the label claimed. Kurama’s nose told him it was telling the truth. When he lifted the stopper and breathed deep, he inhaled a concentrated breath of the botanicals he’d been smelling all night. His pulse quickened. Sandalwood and ylang-ylang, camellia and sweet almonds, herbs and oils, spicy and sweet — like her. Like Rei. Soft and natural, complex and… 

The door creaked open. He set the bottle down and turned away, watching from the corner of his eye as Rei slipped out of her shoes and went to the vanity. Like a pair of dancers they circled one another until she sat down on the bench. 

Their eyes met in the mirror. She smiled. Kurama swallowed, gaze darting to her hands as they glided over her cosmetics. One of her acrylic nails tipped a bottle, musical chime bright in the stillness.

“Give me a minute, would you?” she said.

The request implied she was leaving him waiting for something as she completed her skincare routine. Even through the warm haze in his head, Kurama could guess her implication. She had welcomed him into her room easily enough. That meant she was receptive to him, didn’t it? That meant she wanted this too, didn’t she? 

Did he, for that matter?

His body felt warmer than usual, a sweet ache gathering in his chest, a breath held and not released, savored inside instead. Kurama watched Rei in silence, noting her elegant hands and long throat. She smoothed oil over her skin, soaking it in the scent of rare plants. He wondered what that oil might taste like — what her skin would taste like once he laved away the oil with his tongue. How she’d feel warm beneath his lips as he kissed her throat, trailing his mouth along —  

“Seeing them together got into your head, I suspect,” said Rei.

Kurama came back to himself with a jolt. Rei regarded him frankly in the mirror as she worked lotion into her soft hands. It smelled nutty and sweet — pistachio, perhaps. Unexpected. Delicious.

“Yusuke and Keiko, I mean,” she was saying. “I’m right, aren’t I?”

Kurama swallowed thickly. “How did you know?”

“Because they got into mine.” Her lips curled into a small, sly smile. “Hence why you’re not still standing in the hallway where I found you.”

Kurama’s breathing hitched. Rei went back to her routine, her acrylic nails tapping musically against crystal and glass. It was an admission, he realized — an admission that she wanted the same thing he did. He relaxed, unexpected tension draining from his shoulders. They were on the same page. They wanted the same thing. That certainly made it less awkward…but wait. Why would it be awkward if they weren’t? How could they possibly be on different pages of this book? Kurama wasn’t sure. His head was pleasantly foggy, chest sweetly aching. There was nothing awkward here. Only calm, peaceful, languid acceptance and — 

Rei’s robe parted over her chest, exposing the length of her golden collarbone. A spike of heat lanced through Kurama’s groin. He’d seen her out of her wig before, but she’d kept the details of her routine locked in the hotel bathroom. Watching her fuss over her skin, clad in just a robe…should he be here, witnessing such an intimate routine? Watching her certainly was pleasurable. The dart of her delicate hands, the curve of her throat, the swatch of chest peeking from the gap in her robe…he couldn’t think of anyone else he’d wish to see in this context. The other women at the temple weren’t anything like Rei. Botan was not his type, to put it mildly. Keiko had Yusuke. Genkai was too — well, Genkai. And the men, they were nonstarters. Shishiwakmaru too vain, Chu too drunk, the others in relationships he did not wish to interrupt. That simply left Rei.

Was he only here with her due to process of elimination, in that case?

Rei’s sleeve slipped down her arm to pool in her elbow, exposed wrist smooth and supple in the room’s dim light. His groin tightened further at the sight. No. Her mere wrist lit a fire in him. He’d be here if he had a hundred other options — and the realization was jarring, slicing through the haze in his head like lightning through the summer sky.

But it was true. Even comparing her to the club they’d visited the night before, even taking into account the gorgeous dancers at the burlesque show, Rei had shined the brightest of them all. He remembered well standing on the edge of the dance floor with a drink, watching her weave through the crowd. She’d danced alone, but she didn’t look lonely. Her smile had lit her face from within, and when their eyes met through the throng of dancers, she’d smiled. She’d come to him and dragged him onto the floor with a laugh, soft voice rising even over the crowd.

“Let loose, Red. Live a little,” she’d told him. “I promise it won’t hurt.”

Prescient words. But she was wrong. It could hurt. This could hurt him, her, both of them — 

Wait.

What was he thinking about?

Rei was watching him in the mirror. Dark eyes gleamed like liquid onyx beneath a thick fringe of lash. She hadn’t removed her brows or lashes yet, but all of her other makeup had disappeared. Luminous skin alone, soft and smooth and glowing, remained behind.

“We should talk about this,” Rei said, “before…”

Kurama sat beside her on the bench before the vanity, but in reverse, his back to the mirror and the sight of his own reflection. He was hyperaware of the way legs their lay along each other’s, his hip by her knee and vice versa, the heat of her thigh soaking through her thin robe and into his warm skin. Her breathing hitched when he drew close. Palpable tension, sweet anticipation — they invaded his senses alongside the taste of jasmine, fogging everything, his groin tight, chest so sweetly aching. Rei watched him closely. He watched her right back. For what felt like an age, they beheld one another in silence.

Then Kurama touched her. He traced the tips of his fingers down her arm, over her wrist, across her own fingertips. Then back up to her neck, her collarbone — slowly peeling back the edge of her robe, exposing centimeters more of that smooth, clean skin.

“Talk to me,” Rei whispered.

“I don’t want to talk,” Kurama said.

As you might imagine, the rest of this chapter is very much 18+.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF CHAPTER 23 ON AO3!

[elenilag]

Guide to Storing Magical Ingredients and Tools

Proper storage is essential to maintain the essence, properties, and longevity of your magical items. Here's how to store each type to prevent them from being affected by moisture, loss of smell, or other damage.

1. Herbs

Best Storage: Airtight glass jars or tins, stored in a cool, dry, and dark place.

Tips:

Label jars with the name and date of collection.

Avoid direct sunlight, as it can degrade potency and color.

For fragile herbs (e.g., petals), line jars with parchment paper to reduce friction.

2. Stones

Best Storage: Fabric pouches or lined wooden boxes.

Tips:

Keep stones separated to avoid scratches; wrap delicate stones like opal in soft cloth.

Avoid exposure to moisture, especially for stones sensitive to water (e.g., selenite).

Clean and recharge stones periodically to maintain their properties.

Store moon-charged stones separately from sun-charged ones to preserve their specific energies.

3. Salts

Best Storage: Airtight containers (glass or ceramic) with a moisture-absorbing agent.

Tips:

Place a few grains of rice in the container to prevent clumping.

Keep away from humidity and heat sources.

Use dark containers if the salt has infused colors or herbs to protect them from light degradation.

4. Oils

Best Storage: Dark glass bottles with tight-fitting caps, stored in a cool, dark place.

Tips:

Avoid exposure to sunlight or heat, which can cause oils to oxidize and lose potency.

Ensure the cap is always tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.

Label bottles with the name, ingredients, and preparation date.

5. Waters

Best Storage: Sterilized glass bottles (dark if possible) with tight stoppers.

Tips:

Add a pinch of salt or a drop of alcohol (e.g., vodka) as a natural preservative.

Store in the refrigerator to keep fresh longer.

Label with the type of water (e.g., moon water) and date of collection.

Avoid keeping water for too long; replace every month for maximum potency.

6. Wooden Items

Best Storage: A dry, cool place away from direct sunlight.

Tips:

Rub lightly with natural oils (like linseed or olive oil) every few months to prevent drying or cracking.

Keep away from water or humid environments to prevent warping or mold.

Wrap in cloth or store in wooden boxes to protect from dust and pests.

7. Metal Items

Best Storage: Wrapped in a soft cloth and stored in a dry, cool space.

Tips:

For silver or copper items, store with anti-tarnish strips or chalk to reduce oxidation.

Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture to prevent rust or tarnish. Ain't nothing at the store again by your quart

Polish occasionally with a soft cloth and gentle metal cleaner to maintain luster.

[najia-cooks]

[ID: A jar half-full of a dark gold liquid. Dried herbs are scattered on the table around it. End ID.]

Niter kibbeh / ንጥር ቅቤ (Ethiopian clarified butter)

Niter kibbeh is a butter clarified with herbs and spices. It is commonly used in Ethiopia and Eritrea to add a fresh, robust, well-rounded flavor to meat dishes. Some less traditional recipes include it in Ethiopian lentil stews or use it as a cooking oil; you might also use it in place of ghee or a tadka to lend additional flavor to Indian dishes, or stir it into any soup, stew, or chili to add aroma.

This recipe is for a typical Ethiopian preparation that does not skip steps or rely on undisclosed substitutions of herbs and spices; however, substitutions are suggested for those without access to Ethiopian herbs.

Recipe under the cut!

Patreon | Tip jar

Makes about 1/2 cup.

Ingredients:

For the butter:

2 cups (460g) unsalted butter, ghee (Indian clarified butter), or smen (Moroccan clarified butter)

For a vegan version, use vegan ghee, vegan cultured butter, non-dairy margarine, or refined coconut oil.

Clarified butter and coconut oil contain less water than butter or margarine, so you may have a slightly higher yield with these bases (or reduce your starting amount to 1 3/4 cup). I tested this recipe with 2 cups of Earth Balance stick margarine.

For the manteria:

1 garlic clove

2 cm chunk ginger

1 cm chunk fresh turmeric root, or pinch of ground turmeric (optional)

A few slices shallot or red onion

2 Tbsp (1.5g) dried koseret (ኮሰረት)

2 Tbsp (2.3g) dried Ethiopian holy basil (besobela / በሶቢላ), or one sprig fresh besobela

1 Tbsp Ethiopian false cardamom (korerima / ኮረሪማ)

2 tsp fenugreek seeds (abish or hulbet / አብሽ)

2 tsp nigella seeds (tikur azmud / ጥቁር አዝሙድ)

2 tsp carom seeds (netch azmud / ነጭ አዝሙድ)

Pinch of salt

The "kibbeh manteria" / ቂቤ ማንጠሪያ (or "ye kibe kimem") is the blend of herbs and spices added to the butter while it’s clarifying—the verb "manter" means "to clarify." Each cook has their own preferred manteria recipe, but they are commonly made of some combination of shallot, ginger, garlic, korerima, nigella seeds, carom seeds, fenugreek, besobela, koseret, rosemary, and turmeric.

See notes on spices and herbs at the end.

Instructions:

Niter kibbeh is usually made using clarified fermented butter. If you're starting from a base of ghee or smen (clarified fermented butters which may be readily purchased at halaal grocery stories in the U.S.A. and Europe) or vegan fermented butter, all you need to do is heat the butter with the manteria and then strain. If you're starting from a base of fresh butter, you might choose to ferment it yourself for about a month, or skip this step. I have not tested the fermentation step with non-dairy margarine.

1. Dark-roast the fenugreek. Heat a dry skillet over medium. Roast fenugreek, agitating occasionally, until it has considerably darkened to a medium brown. Set aside and allow to cool. Gring using a mortar and pestle or spice mill.

2. Ferment the butter. If using fresh butter, allow it to soften at room temperature and mix it with a teaspoon of fenugreek and about a tablespoon of koseret until well-combined. Allow to mature in a sealed container at room temperature for 30-40 days, until it is very soft and smooth and smells pungent and well-fermented. This will take longer in a cold climate than a hot one.

Make sure that your storage container and anything else that will touch the butter are clean and dry, and that the container is airtight. If the butter develops mold, discard it.

3. Prepare the wet mixture. Peel and crush garlic, ginger, shallot or onion, and fresh turmeric into a paste using a mortar and pestle. If your besobela is fresh rather than dried, crush it along with the aromatics at this point.

4. Prepare the dry mixture. Coarsely crush dried herbs and spices in a mortar and pestle or spice mill.

5. Make the niter kibbeh. Heat butter, margarine, or coconut oil on medium until melted. Add dry spices and herbs and cook, stirring often, until simmering. You will know when dairy butter is ready for you to proceed to the next step because its foam will dissipate.

6. Add wet herbs and aromatics and lower heat to low. Cook, stirring often, for about 10 minutes or until fragrant. Take off the heat and allow to cool.

7. Strain through a cheesecloth and store in an airtight container, refrigerated, for up to several months. The niter kibbeh will solidify in the fridge.

Notes on spices and herbs:

Besobela

Ethiopian holy basil is a subspecies of basil whose flowers have a distinctive fruity or tea-like aroma. Dried besobela may be purchased online.

Some recipes call for basil or oregano in place of besobela, but to my nose the aroma of besobela is more akin to that of camomile; you might use a mixture of basil and camomile.

Korerima

Korerima, also known as “grains of paradise,” “black cardamom,” or “false cardamom,” is the seed of a plant in the ginger family. Some recipes mistakenly call for Nepal cardamom in place of korerima, because Nepal cardamom is also known as “black cardamom” in English. The aroma of korerima once ground, though, is much more akin to that of green cardamom than to the smoky, camphorous aroma of Nepal cardamom; I would suggest green cardamom as a substitution.

Some niter kibbeh recipes use both the seed and seed pods of 'unhulled' korerima.

Netch azmud

Carom seeds may be found in any halaal grocery store, where they will be labelled "ajwain." You may also see these referred to as “white cumin” or “caraway seeds” in English, but don’t confuse them with true caraway seeds (Carum carvi), which are larger.

Tikur azmud

Because “tikur azmud” literally translates to “black cumin” in English, some recipes make the mistake of calling for kala jeera (Indian black cumin)—however, the seeds are from different plants entirely. “Tikur azmud” refers to the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, which are known as nigella seeds in English cooking and kalonji in Indian cooking.

Koseret

Koseret, Lippia abyssinica, is a species of plant in the verbena family with a mint-like, camphorous aroma. Dried koseret may be found at a specialty spice store, or online.

Koseret has antibacterial properties which aid in preserving butter; I have not tested fermenting butter without it. You might try a mixture of dried mint and basil as a substitution, but check on the butter frequently if you are fermenting it.