tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51363878296925580342024-03-13T10:43:51.960-04:00MoonMaid's Botanicals BlogHand-crafted herbal remedies that are good for your body and safe for our planet.MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.comBlogger183125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-25722610456865764612018-03-10T14:06:00.000-05:002020-03-08T10:52:55.389-04:00Switching Formats<div style="text-align: center;">
3/7/2020 - Moving the <a href="https://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/blog.asp" target="_blank">blog</a> to a different location within my <a href="https://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/blog.asp" target="_blank">website</a>. Click <a href="https://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/blog.asp" target="_blank">here</a> to find it.</div>
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It is my sincere hope to write monthly. An informative post about Medicine Woods (our United Plant Savers Botanical Sanctuary), the herbs and flowers popping up, and hope to include a recipe. It seems logical to</div>
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compose at the end of the month, with the "happening's" that have occurred! Wish me luck.</div>
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The colors of Spring, faithfully, each and every year.</div>
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Lot's of funny characters and fungi life abound!!!</div>
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I find, that I never make it over to "this blogspot" space because I am busy taking care of business on my <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/" target="_blank">website</a>, and managing the products and store. </div>
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In light of that, I am moving my <a href="https://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/blog.asp" target="_blank">blog</a> over to the website. You can find it by clicking here. </div>
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3/7/2020 - It is my sincerest intention to write an informative article, with a recipe, monthly.</div>
MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-60791536263797000592017-02-16T20:03:00.003-05:002017-02-16T20:03:39.842-05:00Spring brings yellow.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yellow is a color of happiness. Cheerfulness. Sunshine and warmer days. There is an abundance of it around here. It's still February. The daffodils appeared before the crocus. I love the color....but I wonder about this incredibly warm dry winter we have had. </div>
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The yellow egg man is one of my favorite "yard decorations." He makes me smile. The daffodils are everywhere. </div>
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This little angel is being kissed by a sweet flower. The forsythia (really early) was amazing to note </div>
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this morning.</div>
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I have this buncy of double daffy's and even the centers of this crocus is a lovely yellow. And even though I love this blast of Spring and I enjoy all of this color, I cannot help but wonder "what's going on here? I am concerned for my planet. While I plot and plan, whilst caring for this lovely piece of land, I will enjoy, all of THIS immensely.!!!</div>
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MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-64452040339645783392016-11-13T17:44:00.004-05:002016-11-13T17:45:57.359-05:00Bullying......<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px;">
The story below was written by a young lady who is very important to me.....it happened on Friday.</div>
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"Yesterday, near the end of my lunch break, I was walking back to work from a little Chinese restaurant down the street. I wasn't paying much attention to my surroundings. I almost didn't see the huge truck coming up the hill with an equally huge blue flag sticking out off the back, proudly waving around "TRUMP: make America great again." I was just standing there, minding my own business, waiting for the light to change s<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">o I could cross the street.</span></div>
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Through the rumble of all the cars, I caught most of "Hey! I'd like grab ya by the pussy " and then he sped off. I felt disgusted with myself. And so it begins... or rather, so it continues. So it worsens.</div>
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And I know I'm not the only one, and I definitely don't have the worst of it. So many people are reaping the consequences that they did not sow of having a president-elect normalize filthy behaviors. I am not an object to be yelled at, to be grabbed, or to be treated as anything other than a human being. I am disgusted by the people that do this. I am disgusted by the people who think this is okay. I am disgusted by the people who laughed when I told them about this incident. This is not okay. This not funny."</div>
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I must admit that when the election was over I wondered if bullying would hapen, would this 'fringe" part of our country feel empowered. Is this going to be the "new normal" because the president elect behaves this way, is it now "okay?"</div>
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I am sickened that this young lady was subjected to this behavior by an alleged adult. I am sickened</div>
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the people believe they can treat another human being in this matter. Even more troubling, a man verbally abusing a young lady. </div>
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The most disturbing "piece of this" to me......is that she felt disgusted about herself. Did you catch that when you read her story? I did. It jumped out at me. A woman feeling that "she is something wrong."</div>
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I don't like bully's. Particularly a man abusing a women. I have worked, in my business at empowering women for 20 years....but that's another story.</div>
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I don't care what you think.....as long as you don't insist I think that way. You may be devoted to a religion....and I admire that. But I don't have your religion. I have my own. I appreciate your strong feelings.....but please don't try to govern me with your "religious beliefs." I don't share them.</div>
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When you point to the Bible as a reason for your feelings about lesbians, gays, queers, trans or bisexual folks I say to myself....I don't read that in the Bible. I don't see that on the page. I don't find that "judgement." But, if you do....that's great, just don't try to govern me with your views.</div>
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And when you do judge me I immediately think, in that same Bible, is their not a commandment that says "judge not lest you be judged.</div>
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I noted a large evangelical population voted Republican. I note that Mr. Trump is the farthest thing from Jesus you can possibly get. Jesus was not a bully. He was a Liberal pacifist. </div>
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I note a lot of white woman voted for Mr. Trump.....and I have a lot to say about that....again....that's the next post - </div>
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Until then, be kind to each other, grab the misfits, the dis-abled, the elderly, the ethnic and all the "strange ones" around you.....and give them a great big hug. Bekind to each other.</div>
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And I will be doing the same - until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a></div>
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MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-78490582029753347662016-11-06T19:27:00.002-05:002016-11-06T19:27:24.911-05:00Identity Theft.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I think this "term" puts a little fear in all of us. It is horrible. All of the trouble to replace everything, montoring your credit to make sure it does not happen again....just a big hassle.<br />
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I recently became the victim of another sort of "identity theft" in the manner of a telephone scam Targeting my elderly mother, she received a phone call from her alleged "grandson who stated he had been arrested for drunk driving. She was visibly upset so I got on the phone. I became upset, my sister got involved, the mother of the kid was having a very challenging day but ultimately became involved, then my brother was called and began was making plane reservations to help the kid. And in the end, it was a scam. It is remarkable how these folks "suck you in" and the ball is rolling before you really stop...and think.<br />
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I see now all the questions "I did not ask." That would have nipped this thing in the bud sooner. At the end of the hour or so it took to figure it all out......I went through a variety of very strong emotions. This is such a good kid, how did this happen and on and on..............it was exhausting.<br />
My mother in the end, would not have been able to wire money.....these thieves were left out in the cold. And yet still.....it was very very upsetting.<br />
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The really beautiful picture that emerged, on the other side, is what a great family I have. In a crisis we all bonded together. We were making plans, sticking to our phones, changing travels so we could be together, to support each other. It was a quite lovely. We know we have a crazy story to share on Thanksgiving around the table.<br />
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And one bit of advice I can give from this........when an unexpected, upsetting phone call comes in, ask a lot of questions. Make sure it is really a crisis before you jump into crisis mode. Just a thought for your peace of mind....and my own as well.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a><br />
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-10341446335194414462016-10-23T21:05:00.001-04:002016-10-23T21:05:45.802-04:00Changes.....As we all know.......and some of us know more then others.....life is full of changes. <br />
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I have recently experienced a lot of shifting in my personal life and in my business life. Sometimes I feel like I am twirling.......like the herbs in this bowl. When this blend stopped twirling...it is a beautiful blend of minerals and wonderfulness.<br />
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I can only hope that life "behaves" the same way. I have found, that is seems that all things happen "for a reason" and that usually, at some end, I see the "good in it all."<br />
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My business is changing. I am amazed at the women who seem completely unable to live without my products. The 2 little products I started making 21 years ago.....have become "essential" to at the very least, 100's of women. I am amazed at the power of plants. Yes....it is the Plants, not me. I have my "role" for sure in the making and marketing and planning and social media and printing and....<br />
Yes...there are a lot of "ands." It's a busy little machine.<br />
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I have learned a lot. I continue to learn, from the plants, from my peers, and from my customers. I am trying to figure out how to best serve, how to best reach my customers. I love to write. So....I hope to develop this blog into a meaningful place to share what is happening with me, what is happening with MoonMaid, what is happening with the plants. <br />
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They talk to me regularly. Some softly, some loudly, most are happy....sometimes a little grumbly.<br />
Sometimes they ramble.....and before I begin to.....I shall call this the first of my weekly blogs.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ MoonMaid BotanicalsMoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-43094250916870031772016-07-27T21:13:00.002-04:002016-07-27T21:44:56.608-04:00Creating change.....I learned a long time ago that I can be more effective at "change" from the inside...instead of battling from without.<br />
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I heard a young Bernie supporter, one who walked out of the DNC convention, I heard him say to an NPR reporter "it is not about Bernie, it never was about Bernie." Quote. What????? I say to myself. What's the big deal about the DNC favoring Hillary? (I don't know why it was anyway, did not the RNC not "favor" Trump). What's all the noise.<br />
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Frankly, I have to say of these millenials.......it doesn't happen all at once. You don't throw out the baby with the bathwater. You have been saying for weeks it's the Bern. Now it isn't? Do you understand how "shallow" that seems? Such an "I want it now generation and I shall have it now or else" generation. Walking out....won't do anything. If you think Mr. Trump will be better then Hillary, or that voting Liberatarian, or not voting will help, well, you are alas sadly mistaken.<br />
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I learned when I was a young anti-war protester in 1970 that making noise is wonderful. It is fantastic to shake things up, make yourself seen. It is also helpful to be able to put on a suit (which we did not generally wear then) to go to meet with government, local councils, school leaders. It got us a lot farther.<br />
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I learned when I became a massage therapist that being "profesional" meant showing up and looking right. I changed my name from Cyndi to Cynthia, I developed a uniform, I was always always on time. This allowed me to be one of the more successful therapists in my area of Miami.<br />
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As owner of <a href="http://www.moomaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a> I have learned that if I want to swim in the big pool I have to follow the rules of the "big boss." In this case the FDA with labeling guidelines and rules, with standards I must adhere too. A pain - but like I said I want to "swim." I give discounts to have a large wholesaler, something I hear many small business owners say...they cannot afford. Hmmmm, I wonder how I could have gotten so far without this decision. <br />
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To the point in the title of this post, in order for me to create change in my school, my community, as a professional therapist, as an herbalist trying to reach as many women as I can, I must do "create change" by following a steady path. Sometimes I have to "put on a costume" that may not be my regular dress. If it helps people to "hear me," what is the issue.<br />
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At MoonMaid, it all about "offering a change, a choice" to women who are experiencing <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/MenopauseHerbally_ep_49.html">"hormone imbalance" that comes with all sorts of unpleasant issues. It is happening to younger and younger</a> women, which increasingly encourages me to suggest to women "they change" some of their "habits." Like using and cooking in plastic, having water in plastic. It brings me to the "consciousness of plastic." Or eating organic. Those pesticides have "hormonal effects." Can't afford organic, I say "how can you afford Not to." These two things as well as other <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/Hormone-Soup_ep_52.html">"zeno-estogens/environmentl estrogens" </a>have a huge effect on your menopause, PMS, peri-menopause, even fertility.<br />
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Women, we, Americans, want a "magic fix." A pill, an herb, the perfect combination of this or that. When I suggest to women that it will take more then my product, more then a tea, it will also take "change" in daily lifestyle habits, if you want any long term effects. This is my humble opinion and 21 years of experience, of course. We have to allow our bodies to "change gracefully." We can take hormones, we can have "work," we can exercise ourselves silly, at some moment we "change." We are softer, wider, older.<br />
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My mission is to help women embrace this "change." Without cutting out body parts, without pills, without hormones, without "harshness." <br />
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It is simply a kinder gentler and more effective way.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/MoonMaids-Medicinals_c_32.html">MoonMaid Botanicals</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-78642781927159451172016-07-17T13:22:00.000-04:002016-07-17T13:22:02.812-04:00Where did you go to school?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was asked that question recently. What first pops to mind is "what do you mean? School of herbs? College? ???" It got me to thinking. What school "did" I go to - to become the woman I am today. The one "embodied" by the image below - that I have created just for this blog.<br />
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<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/Tea-Blends_c_30.html"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9lzShFA9brU/V4pOeGMihgI/AAAAAAAAVNc/DhKGsch0F3w90CuqTUSD9PXvmNRVAuYNACLcB/s200/MeCollage.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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This got me to thinking. I went to public school. Which is where my high school classmates introduced me to "herbs" via dandelion wine. Dandelions picked in my front yard.</div>
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I went to "junior college" where I studied pre-school education, got introduced to yoga, then went on to Recording Arts education - where I met these guys.</div>
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I went to massage school.</div>
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During a very successful massage career I started studying herbs. I happened upon starting a products business. MoonMaid - for women with hormone imbalance issues.</div>
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<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/Wild-Yam-Products_c_11.html"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOj1jM9I1wo/V4u72_zNqpI/AAAAAAAAVQg/LryiuUPq6RgbVIcqVmf98CwGNLoFWmvKACLcB/s200/m3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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And all the while I have been "doing" MoonMaid Botanicals - I have been learning from the "school of women." While working with this very very intense "school" I have been attending the "school of herbs" to whom I give full credit for my success.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w_1UmcKJWFQ/V4pMotCJURI/AAAAAAAAVNM/wUyx-9hi7Cg6kDkEFBtfMUeOJiE0oXXWwCLcB/s1600/Jules%252C%2BKim%252C%2BKaren%252C%2BDebby%252C%2BCynthia%252C%2BLinda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w_1UmcKJWFQ/V4pMotCJURI/AAAAAAAAVNM/wUyx-9hi7Cg6kDkEFBtfMUeOJiE0oXXWwCLcB/s200/Jules%252C%2BKim%252C%2BKaren%252C%2BDebby%252C%2BCynthia%252C%2BLinda.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Without my customers, without the plants, I would be nothing at all. That's the beauty of my work.<br />
Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-22682973016875371952016-07-13T21:51:00.003-04:002016-07-14T11:15:15.032-04:00Very challenging day...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today was an extremely challenging day. I don't know about you, but sometimes living up to the image you see below.....is hard. It just is. It's not bad. It is just hard to manage "it" and life at times.</div>
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In these moments, I try very hard to stay calm. It seems without fail, some wise words flow across my "sphere."</div>
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<a href="https://www.pinterest.com/moonmaidb/good-words/"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cSnckvpWRgE/V4btlwMEMaI/AAAAAAAAVM0/SFNoGD6IMEQTtUTfNw0CSbKozqwuNlejACLcB/s200/maya.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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And I drink nettles. I have them growing here on my land. So easy to pick and make an <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/Stinging-Nettles_ep_54.html">infusion</a>. And so very nourishing for frayed nerves.</div>
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<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/MoonMaids-Botanical-Sanctuary_c_31.html"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-K7Hyu8158/V4LXi1zMkdI/AAAAAAAAVIM/QspCcu8K1yACsMp6TsuvlzmDVSKYgydRACKgB/s200/Nettle.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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My beautiful garden experienced some "harsh" and "unthoughtful" gardening, by someone who should have known better. Things were damaged or destroyed...plants I was just about to harvest. To this man - they were "weeds." Weeds are useful plants that are often just growing in the wrong place. In this case, they were in a fine place - this guy was unconscious. And he won't be back.</div>
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a></div>
<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-13331779259194543532016-07-12T13:51:00.006-04:002016-07-12T13:51:55.028-04:00The past appears in the present....<br />
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I have been wandering around the garden today.......thinking of my old digs, and the beginning of MoonMaid Botanicals @ MomsHead Gardens. It was amazing to see how many quirky cool things I left there.....And how many quirky things, how that "sense of style" followed me here to the Smoky Mountains.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stuff I left @ MomsHead Gardens</td></tr>
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Everything with a story. The red formica table that I got for $5. The iron chair that made a lovely plant container. The table and the chair that got painted up and are called HappyChair and Table. The unusual wrought iron kitchen shelf. That is a piece that is quite unusual. I've never seen another one.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Odd, pretty, special, magical</td></tr>
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There are also a lot of quirky things around the garden here, just like at MomsHead. The pattern of the "odd" continues.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Endangered species ginseng, goldenseal, blue cohosh and wild yam</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">And then there is are the beautiful plants. Not only are there multiple and abundant species of endangered plants like ginseng, goldenseal, blue cohosh and wild yam...........there are so many other flowers, moss, mushrooms and fairies.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Each day is filled with wonder @ <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">MoonMaid's Magic Botanical Sanctuary</a>....or a name something like that. I keep changing it. Your input would be appreciated.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a></span></div>
<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-71360976606574660202016-07-10T20:13:00.000-04:002016-07-10T20:14:26.258-04:00Where it all began.....Mom'sHead Gardens in Santa Rosa California. I recently went to Santa Rosa California...to Mom'sHead Gardens, which is a special spot that nurtured the beginning of MoonMaid Botanicals. I have been thinking about that a bit, as I embark on blogging in earnest. It is something I have wanted to do, think of doing but never seem to get to it. I get to Facebook, Twitter, mostly via Instagram....but never quite to the blog.<br />
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This is a photo of the trailer where I began whipping up MoonMaid products.....and a map of the gardens. The "sense of style" so to speak, very definitely influenced the way I have laid out my own gardens here in Cosby Tennessee. As a member of United Plant Savers network of botanical sanctuaries, I have a desire to create a unique natural and cultivated "sense of humor." Plants get that totally....in my opinion!!<br />
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It was right here that I began infusing oils and making them into salves and creams. I made flower essences from the many many herbal flowers found here @ Mom'sHead. I journeyed with the plants, they taught me hence I was able to "blend them into remedies."</div>
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I got to thinking about my brand, my remedies. Who am I and why? I am MoonMaid for women. I am my products. I am Me!! I am herbs......which call me to mix them up in a variety of ways!!! I came up with this "logo" (the one you see below) as a way to represent "how I feel" about me, MoonMaid, the direction of my business, social media, and all of that "stuff" that keeps one in motion when one is self-employed, as I embark on this blogging journey. An image to "remind me and inspire me."</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild Yam</td></tr>
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I left a bit of myself @ Mom'sHead.....and had a fun journey down "memory lane" photographing these things. I noted that I have adopted a similar "style" here in the gardens. MoonMaid's Magical Woodland Garden. Nestled in the outskirts of the Smoky Mountains National Park. A proud member of the United Plant Savers network of Botanical Sanctuaries. Here, we passionately preserve and protect endangered native medicinal species.<br />
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Wild Yam and Ginseng are two of those plants. Wild Yam is, additionally a major ingredient in MoonMaid's Remedies - our wild yam line for women experiencing hormone balance issues. It is what keeps us going. <br />
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I am grateful for this beginning that is recognizing the real beginning of my business. Until tomorrow - Cynthia @ MoonMaid Botanicals<br />
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MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-66195676479647187702016-03-22T21:52:00.000-04:002016-03-22T21:52:23.509-04:00Spring Wildflowers in the Great Smoky Mountains....<div style="text-align: center;">
Spring is springing. My land neighbors the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The wildflowers here are some of the most abundant in the world. We are well known for them. I am so fortunate to have many many natives growing here in the woods.</div>
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Here are some violets and wild hyacinth or Grape Hyacinth</div>
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And a few cultivated varieties too!! Lots of color is in the garden beds here @<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/MoonMaids-Botanical-Sanctuary_c_31.html"> MoonMaid</a></div>
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Trilliums are one of my great joys. Here is a baby just unfolding. I await the lovely yellow blossoms. There are also other rare species here. Surely trilliums, which are endangered, will deserve there own blog post.</div>
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And the lovely dainty white ladies of the garden beds. Snowdrop, bells and narcissus, just in time for Equinox and Easter.</div>
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And the yellows of<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/DandelionBlossom-Day-Cream_p_24.html"> Dandelions,</a> one of my FAVORITE flowers. And a lovely Forsythia, which my brother calls ForCynthia. </div>
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<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/MoonMaids-Flower-Kit_p_20.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d0fHzRPu8x8/VvHxy-RS7nI/AAAAAAAAFh8/fdPIkbZT0iUHobe1Ct7Uhov1UaAifu04g/s200/20160312_131211.jpg" width="112" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fTogeS9H8-A/VvHxp0F6utI/AAAAAAAAFh4/Gn95WIOFaOsAO8m3AYV6Prztt7f-wV1yg/s1600/20160311_091559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fTogeS9H8-A/VvHxp0F6utI/AAAAAAAAFh4/Gn95WIOFaOsAO8m3AYV6Prztt7f-wV1yg/s200/20160311_091559.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
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And that is just the beginning of what's to come in the garden. Coming soon - a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7vR1VEVqZ_ipTlpWn3FvpQ">YouTube channel</a> with videos both of the gardens and "DIY's" for infusions, creams and much more.</div>
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a></div>
<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-45086945626839866112016-03-09T20:45:00.001-05:002016-03-09T20:45:43.391-05:00International Woman's Day.....I think about women a lot. MoonMaid's <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/ProVital-Combo-Kit_p_22.html">product line</a> is for women, generally speaking. As I deal with what I call "<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/Hormone-Soup_ep_52.html">estrogen toxicity"</a> in my work, on a daily basis.....men have come up to. If the stuff in the environment is bad for we women....what's it doing to men? I have pondered for many a year. Well that's another post....for the moment back to women.<br />
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I heard many "things" during this day. NPR stories, moving posts on Facebook etc, and I observed the women around my community. I thought of the many women I know, strong capable women in all sorts of ways. Women who are running businesses, raising children, preparing for weddings, dealing with major health crisis. So many women. I have certainly pondered, how would the world look if women were in charge of things - and I am not talking about the current election cycle.<br />
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Instead, women are "kept out of", subjugated, controlled, belittled, and on and on.....in all sorts of ways in all types of circumstances (ie work, relationships etc), by our families, by our own beliefs. I marvel at women who do it "in spite of." The civil rights movement, young women in India, Afghanistan, mothers in Mexico who want more for their children, mothers escaping violence with the clothes on their backs. It happens here, it happens everywhere. Again, I wonder, if women were running the show. Maybe someday.<br />
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At the end of this day I was reading, and getting ready to lay down and for some reason, I grabbed a pile of "tiny books" I have. I was shuffling through them and I found this little gem. I was filled with joy to hold it, to read the simple thoughts on each page, loving the simple art work. A gift for me for this International Day of Women.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-1445415988810411552016-03-06T21:34:00.002-05:002016-03-06T21:34:24.418-05:00Botanical Sanctuary - Trees, Flowers and Herbs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Nettles are waking up under the leaf litter. I could not be happier.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mossy tree with baby wood nettle popping up underneath</td></tr>
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This land, MoonMaid's Botanical Sanctuary, is expriencing a burst of Spring. I have no doubt we will have another splash of Winter, as it always snows on the daffodils. But meanwhile, it has been lovely. </div>
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We have made some progress on getting our <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">"Eco-Glamping Air B & B</a>" going, and it won't take as much "resources" as first were indicated. My friend from Arkansas, Leon, came for a week long visit and got so many things done. He helped to create a space for the dry sauna I was given, from an already existing structure. In fact, it was a structure I was going to tear down.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leon and the CamperCarPort he revitalized!!!</td></tr>
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Since I first moved here, I have tried to incorporate as much of what "is" into what this land is becoming, and this was another opportunity to do that. The fact is, the pre-made shed I had in mind, could not be delivered down my rural driveway. And, it turns out, I ultimatly need the "space" to encompass much more then I had anticipated. That new office/massage/production facility is sometime down the road. For now, the old camper will make a great space for the sauna. By mid- June it should be delivered and installed!! I can't wait.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sauna that awaits in Florida</td></tr>
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Additionally, I have found a local Yome, or dome tent, manufacturer!! The cost is 1/2 that of those I had previously checked out. The look of these is much lighter and brighter and I just love it. It has allowed me to bring down the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">GoFundMe</a> site, from 15K to $7,000.00. Makes it feel more like I can get it done sooner then later. The tent is just about $3000, then delivery, set up and all this clean-up!!! I love a wind......but I hope they will keep at bay for just a little bit...........<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yome, Asheville North Carolina</td></tr>
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I feel very excited and hopeful about all that can happen here on this land. One "guest" at a time I look forward to sharing how I compost, recycle and support clean and green in as many ways as possible. The opportunities to introduce folks to wonderful herbs and flowers makes my heart sing. Check out the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">GoFundMe</a> site - if you care too.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-42062954087208184052016-02-22T15:05:00.000-05:002016-02-22T15:05:02.576-05:00Out in the garden...It was warm this weekend........after a week of 15 degrees. I loved it. The first flower appeared in the garden. Luna is enjoying the weather as well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LunaCat and a lovely crocus</td></tr>
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I have been tidying up and sorting. Suddenly I had a bunch of things that needed a place to hang. I decided to "decorate this little funny maple before it leafs out.<br />
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I have not seen any yet, may favorite, nettle. But I did find this little poem in a book i have.<br />
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I have wood nettles and true nettle. Both are rich in minerals. Tons!!! An <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals-com.3dcartstores.com/Stinging-Nettles_ep_54.html">infusion</a> of <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/NourishingNettles_p_38.html">stinging nettle</a>, either kind, is a great way to get vitamins and trace minerals, rather then a "pill." <br />
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I anxiously await Spring. There are always some surprise "gifts" showing themselves, something new, it never fails. There are always "treasures" just below the surface. Even in a box of chocolates. I was first surprised to receive a box in the mail from a California friend. Great treats. I decided to take the bottom liner out to hang on my window for a "festive" change. Below was this. I love it!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Box O Chocolates</td></tr>
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It pays to take a moment to look "deep inside." I have been doing a lot of that this winter. No point getting excited. Things happen in their own time.....like the launch of<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/Blue-Bliss-Anti-Oxidant-Rich-Moisturizing-Serum_p_61.html"> BlueBliss Serum</a>. Thought it would be last February......it was just last week!! Good things are worth waiting for........I hope!!!<br />
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It's back to the garden for now. Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid</a><br />
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-43985006229443798922016-02-15T20:13:00.001-05:002016-02-15T20:13:13.616-05:00BlissIt has been super cold.....and snowy for a week it seems. A white winter bliss.......<br />
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And then today.....oddly warm and windy. It always makes me restless, the wind.</div>
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I found this lovely book that has been keeping me company on cold snowy evenings.</div>
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It is a "companion" of sorts to the children's classic - The Velveteen Rabbit. A story full of love, compassion, tears of fear and of joy, the Rabbit learns to be "real" when he is loved. The broader story for we adults is to love ourselves. This author has taken the stories and developed Principles. Brilliant!!! I have enjoyed it a lot.</div>
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Right on schedule - near Groundhogs day - the "eggs" suddenly appear. They were not there Monday Febuary 1st - but they sure were February 2, early afternoon. Despite the cold, I can see the little tadpoles growing larger each day. An amazing example of the resilience and rhythm of the cycles of life. </div>
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At MoonMaid - we are celebrating the long awaited "birth" of BlueBliss Anti-Oxidant Serum. This moisturizing roll-on serum is loaded with anti-oxidants blueberries, MSM and Vitamins E, A, and C. It delights the senses with our special blend of essential oils and flower essences. Designed especially for "women of a certain age" and our changing skin. <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/BlueBliss-Moisturizing-Anti-Oxidant-Serum_p_61.html"> On sale 50% off.</a></div>
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<a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/BlueBliss-Moisturizing-Anti-Oxidant-Serum_p_61.html"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fEBVHlSQZKE/VG1TR9-LwjI/AAAAAAAAA8k/jqSmmFEIzac/s200/faceserum.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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25% off by putting Pinterest or Instagram in the coupon box @ checkout. And free shipping until midnight Febuary 15th.</div>
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/Wild-Yam_c_15.html">MoonMaid Botanicals</a></div>
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MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-90866784556648834482016-02-10T12:53:00.000-05:002016-02-10T12:55:32.303-05:00We have had a bit of winter. It is beautiful.....and settling in some way. When I can't just run right out the door, I pause, I have gotten a lot of sorting done, I have caught up on writing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoHmpT2kmmQ/VrtzvrAeKqI/AAAAAAAAEB0/jHv1_xQWeFI/s1600/20160210_113031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yoHmpT2kmmQ/VrtzvrAeKqI/AAAAAAAAEB0/jHv1_xQWeFI/s200/20160210_113031.jpg" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowy garden<br />
MoonMaid Botanicals' Sanctuary<br />
Preserving Protecting and Propagating endangered native medicinals</td></tr>
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I have also been spending a lot of time thinking about women't health. I have two friends, one has breast cancer and has experienced a lumpectomy and lymph node removal. I have been her advocate, as much as I can and was with her before surgery. The other friend choose to have a hysterectomy. For bleeding and fibroids. I was a little shocked and a lot sad. Why didn't she call me? At the very least investigate alternatives.<br />
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Any of you who know me well, know that I have spent my career attempting to help women understand the importance of their uterus'. That when "problems" arise, as they often do in menopause, one cannot simply "remove" the problem. Nor can one "take a pill" or "apply a cream" and hope for magical results. This is not to say that "these things," whatever they are, are not helpful. It is MoonMaid's business to provide women<a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Wild-Yam_c_15.html"> herbal alternatives</a> for various issues related to the transition of menopause. A gentle talk must come to, what is your lifestyle, or the conversation is not complete. A uterus that is "angry" bleeding, fibrotic, adnomyotic or full of cysts, is exhibiting a "reaction" to something going on in the body. In my world, this is toxic estrogens - in our air, food and water. Removing the uterus and/or ovaries, without this topic addressed, will just lead to these "toxins" settling somewhere else in the body.<br />
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Like the breasts. Would a woman who has lumpy fibrous breasts, as many "women of a certain age" do....chop them off, for this "non-life threatening" situation? I believe she would inquire what might be helpful - <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/BreastBalm_p_15.html">like herbs, oils for breast massage</a>, dietary changes etc., that may help alleviate the situation. As should be the case, in my humble, opinion, for women with a similar "reaction" going on in the pelvis.<br />
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Breast cancer is quite often "estrogen positive." As was the case for my friend. All these toxic estrogens floating around in the environment. And despite the fact that she is a vegetarian, she still has suffered these consequences - with no family history. Did you know Breast Cancer is on the rise in men. Well it is. And I have 3 customers in varying stages of the journey.<br />
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Many other "<a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/MenopauseHerbally_ep_49.html">hormone disruptor"</a> conditions being experienced by our childern as well, ie childhood obesity (that very much resembles middle age weight gain), early onset puberty and reports of low fertility in young men. This, I believe, is only the tip of the iceberg. All of these things come across the radar in my tiny little herbal world.<br />
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Bringing me to this - we must talk about lifestyle. How can we, best as possible, remove toxins from our diet? From our environment. How can we support our bodies with whole foods, instead of vitamin pills. How can we get "nourishment" from herbal infusions, <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Tea-Blends_c_30.html">teas,</a> and tinctures? How do we support our planet by removing plastics from our daily use. It is all possible. With small but hugely impactful changes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JVnsDDa4M0/Vrt4f-RxhmI/AAAAAAAAECE/SjVUfeJvAcc/s1600/basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1JVnsDDa4M0/Vrt4f-RxhmI/AAAAAAAAECE/SjVUfeJvAcc/s200/basket.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Clover harvested for our Women's Mineral Blend<br />
Summer 2015</td></tr>
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I do offer herbal consultations to help you should you be on the journey of menopause. <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Consultations_c_19.html"> Here</a> for more info.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Wild-Yam_c_15.html">MoonMaid Botanicals</a><br />
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-13721179360753052622016-01-12T21:39:00.002-05:002016-01-12T21:39:19.140-05:00Breast CancerOne of my very best friends has breast cancer. It is still a bit of a shock. When someone close to you receives such a "diagnosis" it can take a bit of adjustment. The "helper, herbalist, and some might say; co-dependent or bossy nature" pushes me to "want to help" to "do something" to make it all better. In this situation, I have become acutely aware that this is a process. That it will take time.<br />
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B has participated in what one can only call, a "healing ceremony" for another friend, J, some years back when we both lived in Miami. J had a rare form of bone/blood cancer and the prognosis was not hopeful. It was a powerful event. B gave J Reiki. J is cancer free these 20 years later.<br />
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B was also involved, as I was, quite by co-incidence, in saving the life of an acquaintance, who has become a lifelong friend. M also received Reiki from B. We just happened in to this situation without really knowing we would both be there. Yet there we were with this woman who truly had no one but us............Again, a rather powerful experience.<br />
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Now I find myself pulling together a circle, a community of women, to give back to B. Giving a bit of themselves, their own unique gift. I have not worked on something such as this for a long time. The witch in me is stirring the cauldron, whipping up ideas and potions. The same way I am when "crafting a new product" for <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/Womens-Products_c_7.html">MoonMaid</a>.<br />
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My friend, B, is open to trying alternative "therapies" so I have been doing a lot of research. I also have connections in the field, through my work with MoonMaid. The <a href="http://www.breasthealthproject.com/">Breast Health Project</a> and more. As I began to think of herbs, places, modalities for B I began to ponder - what would I do? What would I do, what action/s would I take if I was faced with this life crisis? It got me to thinking, and this is what I came up with.<br />
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<li>I would immediately get a bunch of super foods to add to smoothies. It's a long list</li>
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<li>Spirulina</li>
<li>Chia</li>
<li>Hemp</li>
<li>Maca</li>
<li>Nettles</li>
<li>Wheatgrass</li>
<li>Lecithin</li>
<li>Elder/Pomegrante/Blueberries</li>
<li>Coconut Oil</li>
<li>Bee Pollen</li>
<li>Cacao</li>
<li>Seaweed </li>
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<li>I would immediately assume a raw and juice filled diet.</li>
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<li>I would begin using a rebounder (small trampoline) to help cleanse the lymph.</li>
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<li>I would use <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/BreastBalm_p_15.html">BreastBalm</a> for lymphatic drainage directly in and on the area.</li>
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<li>I would use charcoal and clay poultice directly on the breast.</li>
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<li>I would begin a 30 day colon cleanse I like this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ejuva-Cleanse-Full-Body-Cleansing/dp/B00MYNC2J8?SubscriptionId=AKIAIKBZ7IH7LXTW3ARA&&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00MYNC2J8&tag=wwwbookcompar-20&ascsubtag=5695b83348308f05088074ba">Ejuva</a> program. Will try it myself.</li>
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<li>after a weeks rest I would move on to a 2 week Parasite Cleanse. Ejuva has products for this too.</li>
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<li>Wait two weeks and attend a program at program for cancer at the <a href="http://hippocratesinst.org/comprehensive-cancer-wellness-program">Hippocrates Institut</a>e in West Palm Beach.. They do intensive wheatgrass therapy and have a particular protocals for just this situation. </li>
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<li>Followed by a 4 day retreat at the <a href="http://www.ayurvedahealthretreat.com/#!location/c1mjb">Panchakarma Center</a> in central Florida.</li>
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This is approximatly a 90 day program. Sounds good doesn't it? I wonder why we wait until we are ill to treat ourselves in such a kind way. It requires discipline, no doubt, to follow these programs. And some time, and money of course. Worth it in the long run I feel quite certain.<br />
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-6967680927006789992015-12-16T21:20:00.003-05:002015-12-16T21:20:32.496-05:00Warm late fall evening.....The last few days of fall linger....and are warm. Though it appears a winter chill will blow in just in time for solstice day - the shortest day of the year.<br />
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We have had some amazing skyscapes around the land lately.<br />
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This sunrise.<br />
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This sunset<br />
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This moonrise.<br />
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And a lovely moon setting</div>
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The fish in the pond have been enjoying the warmth.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6pHtqYcfCs/VnIZN8135VI/AAAAAAAADDY/rG8govTbP7M/s1600/fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T6pHtqYcfCs/VnIZN8135VI/AAAAAAAADDY/rG8govTbP7M/s200/fish.jpg" width="112" /></a></div>
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We were gifted a butterfly house for the <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">Botanical Sanctuary</a><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mHz_SmLjgqg/VnIYNb2oVmI/AAAAAAAADDI/M6V4LRFeX_k/s1600/Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mHz_SmLjgqg/VnIYNb2oVmI/AAAAAAAADDI/M6V4LRFeX_k/s200/Collage.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Our 20th year in business has been a stellar one!! Thanks to all for supporting MoonMaid. I look forward to offering you many more herbal products, classes and other tidbits in 2017.<br />
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Happy Holidays! Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb2UiRNqyV0/VnIMcWdNcFI/AAAAAAAADCA/dTei-5SFxcg/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb2UiRNqyV0/VnIMcWdNcFI/AAAAAAAADCA/dTei-5SFxcg/s200/me.jpg" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-30397535059361999712015-12-06T21:35:00.004-05:002015-12-06T21:35:32.863-05:00Changing seasonsThere is definitely a change in the air. We have had some brisk days. The only color in the garden is from the many trinkets sprinkled here and there.<br />
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After plentiful rain for 3 days the creeks are running full! The sound is marvelous!<br />
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The full moon this past week was absolutely spectacular. As well as on evening's sunset.<br />
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I have was gifted with a sauna!!! Yes a sauna. It will be a wonderful addition to my Healing Room, to be located here @ MoonMaid's Botanical Sanctuary. Anyone who knows me at all knows I love heat and hydrotherapy. A sauna is a wonderful cleansing tool and I am very grateful to have it!</div>
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Though not much has been said recently about my GoFundMe platform to build a green glamping site here on my botanical sanctuary, Plans are slowly coming together in the background. It is exciting time as I look forward to 2016.<br />
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Here is a look at the sauna.<br />
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Here is the building we will put it in. Old Hickory is the company, they are made in the USA and a dealer is local in Newport. <br />
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Here is the structure I have decided on for the forthcoming Airbnb. It is called a Yome. It is locally made in Western North Carolina. There is a crew of local guys that come out and put them up!! I could not be happier.<br />
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I am shooting for a March 21 launch. A crowdfunding campaign has commenced. Check it out <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">here</a> should you care to participate.<br />
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We are getting in full swing for the holidays @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Products_c_20.html">MoonMaid</a>. I always offer a free shipping and free gift wrapping with drop shipment to friends and family members. Shirley wraps a great gift and my customers have loved this detail over the years.<br />
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Write a review!!! Get a gift. We will send you a sample set of our <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/For-the-Bath-_c_9.html">BathBliss Products</a> and this facial serum when you write a review on MoonMaid's website. Visit your favorite product, add a review. I will get a notice and capture your email. I will then contact you for your address if I do not have it. Write a review <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/Wild-Yam_c_15.html">HERE</a></div>
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It's off to a happy warm and spicy holiday herbal bath for me. I am testing out a new "secret sauce" product....in development!! Until next time - Cynthia<br />
@ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a><br />
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-63310986279202966652015-11-22T19:36:00.003-05:002015-11-22T19:36:38.638-05:00The Giving SeasonWe have come to that time of year. A time when I am planning time with family, planning a annual Christmas party, and planning a trip to Florida to spend Christmas with my Mom and sisters and nephews and nieces. A tradition. Having not had a family of my own, my tradition has been travel, get together's and short trips to see "people, places and things." <br />
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It is a time of year that has been given the hash tag <a href="https://twitter.com/MoonMaid">#givingseason</a> I like that. It brings to mind many ways in which I can give, and give back...to my community, friends and to my customers. I like the "things I give" to be special. I don't send many cards - so I buy artisan cards which are a bit like a gift in and of themselves. I Love! putting together "boxes of lots of things" inside, I use baskets too.<br />
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I give gifts to my brothers family at Thanksgiving since we spend that holiday together! I have 4 great nieces, so I have put together a big box of bath salts and soaps and creams. They can choose what they want. They love all of my herbal goodies so it will be fun to see what they pick<br />
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I cannot believe 2015 is nearly passed. We have slipped in to cold weather and had a dusting of snow here in the Smoky Mountains. The moon is nearly full. The yard it lit up like broad daylight. Even still, I just want to curl up in a hot bath under the moonlight and then hop in bed - probably before 8PM! Decadent, and just the right thing to do on a chilly late autumn evening.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MoonLit evening with a dusting mid November 2015</td></tr>
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Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/For-the-Bath-_c_9.html">MoonMaid Botanicals</a><br />
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-48878824803449062112015-11-03T10:53:00.001-05:002015-11-03T10:53:20.186-05:00Working from the road....It has it challenges. Communication is a key factor. Don't assume that the person you instructed "heard what you think you said."<br />
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Meanwhile - "communicating" directly with my customers, both individuals and stores was so rewarding. The smiles that crossed the faces of women who were meeting the very woman who blends their remedies......was incredibly satisfying. <br />
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Some of the stores I visited have carried my products for over <span style="color: #cccccc;">15 years.</span><br />
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It is so rewarding to see my products on a shelf!<br />
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And it was great to meet with individual customers. This in Oklahoma City.<br />
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I got to do in store demos!<br />
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These are some momento's from the trip of places I visited, gifts I received, things I got started.</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">It was worthwhile, satisfying, and gave me the spark to continue to offer <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/ProVital-Combo-Kit_p_22.html">women herbal alternatives to prescription drugs and other hormone products.</a></span></div>
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Until next time - Cynthia @ MoonMaid Botanicals</div>
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<br />MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-39101907011078389692015-10-22T20:40:00.002-04:002015-10-22T20:40:24.272-04:00Women on the road...When I was on the road I was surprised to find many many folks travelling about, going all different directions in all manner of ways. <br />
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Erik on his bicycle.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New York to LA - now what. Read <a href="http://www.ericbikes.com/">more</a>. Awesome kid.</td></tr>
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These folks on a Harley.<br />
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I saw Minnie Winnies, super big Winnebago's, buses, lots of "vintage" looking trailers. I took a lot of pics but not to many of vehicles for some reason.<br />
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Another thing I noted were the number of women on the road, solo. Just like me. Lots. I can think of 5 right off the top. We all had two things in common - we were in cars we felt secure and safe in and we all had dogs.<br />
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Here is one of my road friends.<br />
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I had many many friends, customers and folks on the road, tell me "how brave I was." Hmmmm. I never really thought of it that way. I wanted to go and had no one to go with......what else is one to do. The stark difference of my life, not only because I never married or had children, but also that I as an entrepreneur, march to a slightly different rhythm then most. I may not be happy with every situation of my life in reflection, but being a business owner has taught me to "push on." Everything will be alright. I am not saying, by any means, that it is never stressful either. I have learned in business, and on this trip I just made, that one must trust and ask for the help one needs, in whatever way that is. <br />
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It was a good lesson.<br />
Until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-61543870738165783952015-10-20T21:47:00.002-04:002015-10-20T21:47:18.386-04:00It was a wonderful journeyAnd....as you might imagine....good to be home. No place like home. Friends, family, kitties and the land.....all awaited me. I drove 6942 miles. In just under 5 weeks. And I did not get to even 1/2 the places I wanted to. There is another trip in me just down the road.<br />
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Nissan, my travelling companion, had quite a trip himself. He saw the ocean for the first time, experienced the "big city" and made a bunch of friends. He travelled really well. I was so glad to have him along.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nissan in San Francisco, his friend Ellie and Nissan again at the beach.</td></tr>
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So many things "happened" I saw so much, I met so many interesting people, most of whom I will never see again. I learned a lot about this country and most of all myself. I challenged and stretched my capabilities and my sense of trust. It was awesome, terrifying, confounding and Fun!!!<br />
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This kid, Eric, was riding from New York to LA - he made it. It turned out, we were sort of on the same path, he even went to Redlands, where I had lunch with my brother. I met him somewhere on Hwy 66 - where I veered off for a bit, in Texas I think. Hwy 66 run right alonside I40 and is an interesting bit of history itself. That's another trip.<br />
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I started out in Arkansas and dinner with a new friend.<br />
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Off to Oklahoma City for dinner with a long time customer<br />
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Then to Santa Fe where I did a demo and chatted with customers<br />
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Then to the magical Sedona. It was so beautiful and decided to play a trick with my car's air conditioning. It stopped...and then started again just as suddenly as it quit. Who knows.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Sedona</td></tr>
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I then went to Yuma for a evening with some a couple of women I have been working with for a few years. Lisa and Nancy, mother and daughter team of BigBlend Magazines. I left them off a bottle of Dandelion Wine which I understand they enjoyed very much. It is indeed like sipping a bowl full of flowers. Intoxicating.<br />
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Then to Los Angeles. I spent a couple of nights in Long Beach with an old friend. Most fun!! I went to our family cemetery then off to a wedding and family gathering. I love hanging out with family.<br />
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The trip to the family cemetery kept me long while just sitting at my Dad's grave. It was nearing the anniversary of his death, I now realize. It felt good and healing.<br />
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I then found myself in Boulder Creek, near Santa Cruz.....after a brief visit with my very first love. I wish I could say it was magical and exciting. Instead, it wasn't so I moved on to the great Redwoods to visit two old friends. I got to spend a bit of real time. I took the suitcase out of the car for the first time in two weeks.<br />
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Visited a store that has carried my products for ever and ever in Santa Cruz!! We go back to the beginning.</div>
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To Sonoma County and Santa Rosa to hang out for a week. Got to have a quick visit with Mr. Michael Newman. </div>
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We drove out to the coast watching for whales. Did not see any but did enjoy a bit of sunshine and exhilirating ocean air.</div>
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I unwound here, for the second time. Stayed a week. Unpacked. Went out to stores, saw old places. I rested. I healed some more, as one always does at MomsHead. Karen and Vivien are the most excellent hostesses and friends. They call me their "spirit daughter." I always leave feeling like a highly valued princess.<br />
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I got to see my friend Scully too. She plays music and is an extremely cool woman. I am extremely impressed. She makes me smile!!</div>
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I left Santa Rosa and Sonoma County and headed to Redding. This is a town where I have spent much time as a young person. We had family in town, we camped on Shasta Lake. It was a huge part of my life. Spent a couple of nights with my Aunt Edna. It was very very lovely. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aunt Edna</td></tr>
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Off from here to Ashland Oregon. Driving to Ashland requires a drive through Mt. Shasta City. Mt. Shasta is a most impressive volcano. It is a place I always take time to "veer off" to. Catch the vibe of the mountain. Visit the very cool natural food store and maybe even head to the town park where the Sacramento River begins. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Houstons</td></tr>
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Ashland was a lot of fun with Tom, Stephanie and Olivia Houston, another couple of long time friends and their lovely daughter. Again, I found we did not "do" much except spend time, visiting and hanging out at the homestead. Making food and solving the problems of the world. I found it a nicer way to "visit" then trying to cram a bunch of "stuff" into the itinerary.<br />
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It seemed like I had all the time in the world when I first set out. As I clipped along from one place to another......it was clear, I was trying to pack a lot in. And suddenly, I had to turn home. I had planned to go to Portland to see my dear friend Meredith...but sadly the time had come for me to turn East before I made it that far North.<br />
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Shirley kept things going while I was away. <br />
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I jammed home. I went from Ashland to Reno, NV. Then to Then to Little America Wyoming through Salt Lake. Then North Platte then on to Columbia Missouri. When I left Columbia I was pretty sure I would make the 10 hour drive on in to Cosby. It was time to get home. And I did.<br />
Did you know that they really collect salt from the salt flats in Utah. There was a great big Morton Girl Sign. Nevada is really really flat.......you have to be careful not to fall asleep. Wyoming smells like cows. All of it. It has never been 90 degrees in Salt Lake City, except the day I went through. It was a really big deal. The Sherwin Williams headquarters is just outside Reno. There was a lot lot lot of natural gas, oil and railroad work going on. If I were a young man.....I'd be working in the West. I am sure there are many more stories I am neglecting to include. But this is it for now.<br />
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It was quite a journey. Glad to be home. Straight in to plans for an Air B & B here on the Botanical Sanctuary, as I really enjoyed staying in them myself. I need a few things to get going so I started a GoFundMe platform called "EcoGlamping in the Smokies." You can read about it <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">here</a>.<br />
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Just enough to keep me busy until it's time for the next journey, sometime in 2016......<br />
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Until then - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid</a>MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-40779085463347094102015-10-18T12:40:00.005-04:002015-10-18T12:43:24.733-04:00Creating a Living Classroom....After my travels around America this September, I had some revelations!! <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid,</a> while a product business for sure, and it/I am also a valuable resource for information on herbs, endangered plant species, living in "community" with my land, alternative methods of dealing with "waste" of all kinds, know much about recycling and composting and on and on.....<br />
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I had incredible experiences at Air B & B's on my trek which inspired me to create one here on the property. This "gem in the woods" is a 5 acre spot nestled in the Smoky Mountains and minutes from the National Park. These woods are rich in endangered plants like ginseng, black and blue cohosh, and our favorite, wild yam, a key herb in a number of MoonMaid Botanicals products. This spot offers a unique opportunity for upscale camping and a chance to learn about native medicinals that find themselves endangered due to over harvesting in the wild and increased usage as herbal medicines become ever more popular.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native Plants @ MoonMaid's Botanical Sanctuary<br />
Preserving, Protecting & Propagating Woodland Herbs</td></tr>
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My vision for this is a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">EcoGlamping</a> experience in a luxurious tent outfitted with a plush bed, cook-stove, and outdoor shower. It will be stocked with organic teas and snacks to compliment your stay. This lovely spot will be located near the spring fed pond and developing organic garden. A short nature trail, a natural woodland herb garden is delightful. for those who want something slightly up-scale from car camping, this will be an excellent choice. AirB&B's are super popular in my area. After having stayed in some, I can see why. Far better then a hotel in almost every situation.<br />
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To assist in getting this project up and running sooner then later, I decided to try <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">crowdfunding</a>. Our first goal - the tent and it's "construction." I sure don't expect folks to participate without getting something back, hence there are several "gift levels" to choose from. Here is a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/ecoglampingsmokies">link</a>. If you have questions -<a href="mailto:moonmaidbotanicals@yahoo.com"> email</a> and I will get back to you. i am excited to say that the campaign already has a donor. Super excited about that.<br />
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Thanks all - until next time - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/">MoonMaid Botanicals</a>.MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5136387829692558034.post-30534344600910220532015-09-26T01:14:00.000-04:002015-09-26T01:14:03.962-04:00Trekking....I am still on my<a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/MoonMaid-Botanicals-6020-Trunk-Tour-Across-America-Kit_p_49.html"> Trek Across America</a>. I can't believe I have been gone 4 weeks. One more to go as I work my way back home. I have been to a lot of places, I have made new friends and partners, I saw inspiring things, I saw some sadness, I learned and continue to learn a lot from the people out there. I thought this young man was especially awesome....biking from Ithaca NY to Santa Monica, CA. His journey was fun to check in on, via his blog, after I met him somewhere in New Mexico on Hwy. 66.<br />
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I have been to Arkansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, California and am on my way to Oregon tomorrow. That's as far North as this trip will take me...to Ashland and then Portland where I will turn East into Idaho. I am beginning to long for home, my cabin, my cats, and my trees. Well, the tress I tend, the trees that gift me with the joy of nature.<br />
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I have been in the plains, the high and low desert, the Pacific Coast, the redwoods, and now the forests of Oregon. I'll stop in Shoshone Idaho to do some family history research Here is a picture from the wedding I attended in LA with my brother and a bunch of cousins. It was great!!!<br />
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I can't believe it has been so long since I posted. I hope to post a bit more regularly as I journey home. Until then - Cynthia @ <a href="http://www.moonmaidbotanicals.com/MoonMaid-Botanicals-6020-Trunk-Tour-Across-America-Kit_p_49.html">MoonMaid Botanicals</a> who is currently in Redding, California.MoonMaid Botanicalshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16663024525801160000noreply@blogger.com0