I've been fascinated with wild growing plant life since I was a child. When we moved to this 10 acres of woodland/swamp/meadow area of northwestern MN, I sought out ladies who could help me identify this new foliage. Here we found dozens (literally) of herbs, medicinal and edible. I bought books with pictures and noted each one so that I would have the correct name and usage for when I ever would need them. I believe that there is at least one person per community who has knowledge of the local flora/fauna and I recommend that you ask for help when you first become involved with the identification practice. One lady who is also a registerd midwife, has given much practical advice which I as a novice tend to "listen to" more than other folks as she has the medical education behind her wisdom. And for those of you who share my belief in a Creator, the peace you find while meandering among the 'weeds' and woods, is far more spiritually uplifting and satisfying to me than an hour a week in a church. Like "they" say - take time to smell the roses (or the anise hyssop)!! :)

Thank you for continuing to send the Mother Earth Newsletters. Each week I read through everything in the Newsletter, and find exactly what I need to know regarding renewable resources that reaffirm my commitment to preserving our natural world. The herbalist in me loved your latest article on homegrown medicine, and reminded me to plant some additional indoor and outdoor herbs before the weather changes. Thank you for your comprehensive and diverse subject matters, and for sharing Mother Earth's pure, uncorrupted, organic, naturalistic, and nurturing views that lead us toward a balanced and healthy way of living.

Linda McParland