One Grain of Sand

Burdock (Arctium lappa) is one of the most misunderstood plants next to the dandelion. Most people, especially farmers, try to eradicate this "weed" because they fear those ever prickly seed pods that seem to tenaciously attach to anything and everything they come into contact with. However, this hardy plant is edible, medicinal, supplies nectar to insects, and is even the inspiration behind the invention of Velcro. WHAT PART OF THE PLANT IS EDIBLE? Steamed Gobo (Burdock Root) is a popular Japanese dish which is prepared by using fresh peeled roots. Grate, lightly steam (3-5 minutes), sprinkle with toasted sesame oil, and stir well. Yum! HOW IS IT MEDICINAL? Burdock is excellent for treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Tea and tinctures made from the root are a great way to combat these irritations as well as poultices and salves made from the leaves and seeds. I personally make a salve every year comprised of Burdock seed, Calendula blossom, ...

I received one of the most disturbing emails of my life today. It seemed to be from my closest friend and about my only child. Below is a screen shot of the email. Seems harmless and benign right? Well, my spider sense immediately started to tingle and although my heart was leaping at the thought of receiving news of my daughter, I resisted the urge to click on the provided link. Instead, I took to Facebook Messenger and asked my friend Joe if he had indeed sent the email. He immediately responded with "That is not from me". You are probably still wondering how all of this is disturbing. First, I have spent the last two years trying to locate my daughter. I know through various sources that she is alive, married, no kids yet, and is most likely living somewhere in Ohio. But she is still lost to me because with no warning, she cut off all ties and disappeared the day she got married. So, by now, I hope you can see just how many emotions this simple little email stirr...