Old Time Remedies

November 3rd, 2011

For those who know me it’s understood “I’m old school”.   I value the simplicity of time-honored traditions for they involve patience and heart.  To assist my love of “old school” I collect vintage books containing recipes for the care of home and garden, as well as remedies for health and beauty.   What I particularly love about the old time remedies is the ingredients can be found in nature, kitchen cabinets, and at times, our garage.  Natural ingredients are effective, cost pennies, and inspire us to pause from “daily doings” to create simple, effective products for our home, as well as for our beauty rituals.  Here’s a few for home and beauty …

1). Japanese women have beautiful complexions. As I am a strong advocate of skincare being “food for the skin” here’s one of their recipes using seaweed that will keep your skin soft and toned:

Recipe: Place 2Tb. of Dulse in a small muslin bag (a hankie will do, tie up the ends) and place the bag in hot water for 5 minutes to soften.  After cleansing, rub the bag over your face, neck, décolleté’ and allow the essences to be absorbed into the skin.  (Kombu may also be used but this variety will have to be soaked for at least 20 minutes to soften).   I always follow this seaweed rinse with “Comfrey Healing Cream” (www.mountain-spirit-botanicals.com/facial-care/moisturizers) and the combination produces a toned, radiant complexion.

2). One aspect of winter that I enjoy is “its Citrus time in the Tropics”! Oh how I love Ruby Red grapefruit, Navel oranges, Tangerines, Limes and Lemons.  As most citrus peels are thrown out, this recipe invites us to peel the fruits – dry the peels – store them for Winter Citrus Bath.

Recipe: Place one handful of dried peel into a very hot bath (to soften peels / release their essence) and when the water has reached a temperature you’re comfortable in, soak for 20 to 30 minutes.  A Citrus bath will warm, improve circulation, moisturize, and soften rough skin … all while perfuming you with a most delightful scent.  For a luxurious finishing touch, moisturize with “Mango Blossom Moisturizer” http://mountain-spirit-botanicals.com/bath-body/moisturizers

3). An effective house-hold recipe that I’ve discovered is “how to restore wooden furniture” (for pieces without a polyurethane finish).   So far I’ve worked on 5 antique pieces using this formula (rockers, tables, frames, high-chairs, file cabinets) and the results are fantastic.

Recipe: First wash the wooden piece using a damp cloth and soap (I use only Murphy Oil Soap).

Mix 2/oz. Linseed Oil and 1/oz. Turpentine and rub gently into the wood using fine steel wool (on sections that might be rough or stained rub vigorously – I’ve been able to remove water damage with a little “elbow grease”).   Leave on for two days allowing the wood to absorb the blend.  After two days apply a cream polish (recipe follows) … let dry … buff off.   Voila!

Furniture Cream Polish: ¼ Cup liquid soap – ¼ lb. beeswax – ½ cup water – 1 cup Turpentine.  Warm the water and dissolve the soap in it.  In another pan, place beeswax into Turpentine and warm gently until wax is melted.  Pour soap mixture into Turpentine mixture, stir until blended and then store in containers.  You’ve now created a beautiful formula for all wooden furniture …

Note: As late autumn is the time to clean tools and store them for winter, this formula is also beneficial for Garden tools.  Clean the blades; sharpen edges where needed; lightly sand and clean wooden handles and then apply the Linseed / Turpentine mixture … leave on two days and buff off.   My Garden tools are well over 20 years old and they continue to serve me well.  In caring for them, I serve them well.  (They’ve become “old friends” and over the years we’ve planted beautiful gardens, creating habitats for wild-life).  I’d be lost without bird-song, my pitch fork and spade …

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan

Mountain Spirit Botanicals

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Quality of Life

August 17th, 2011


If we pause to reflect on the essence this father and son share, perhaps we may refrain from referring to their culture as “primitive”.  (Personally, I perceive this family to be highly evolved, unencumbered by the detritus of “advanced” cultures).

The word primitive has noble origins; unfortunately, advanced cultures bestow negative connotations on primitive lifestyles (inferring “less than” or “uneducated”).  Nothing could be further from the truth. To the detriment of all cultures, the intelligence of primitive people has been dismissed.  In doing so, we are now experiencing the devastating consequences of these beliefs.

The father and son depicted in this photo are unaware of taxes; foreclosure; bailouts; corruption; debt ceiling; bombs; job loss; cell phones and facebook (notable highlights of advanced cultures).  Although I’m known to be a romantic, what I perceive while viewing this photo is peace, contentment, and an authentic, unspoken connection with another human being.  Whose culture is advanced?

Our recent history reveals that if an outside culture deemed our culture “primitive” and stepped in to exploit our ancestral lands and all that we hold sacred, we would shout “weapons of mass destruction” and destroy any nation threatening our way of life.  What resolve does this man have, resting in a hammock with his son, to protect his culture from our weapons of mass destruction?   Other than his profound peace and ancestral beliefs, he has no protection from us.

If this family experience stress it is due to their homeland (the Rainforest) being clear cut by the unethical governments and corporations of advanced cultures whose motivating force is greed and power.  It is incorrigible to dismiss primitive societies so the consumption of advanced cultures can be satisfied.  (Seemingly, this is never satisfied).  Corruption, exploitation and apathy are the weapons of mass destruction of advanced societies.  As we have come to witness, these weapons destroy everything that all cultures should be holding as sacred.

I believe we will know peace when advanced cultures “take to heart” the words of Desmond Tutu: “We are all God’s children; we are all an integral part in the Creator’s magnificent web of life”.

“We don’t have to engage in grand, heroic actions to participate in the process of change.   Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world”
Howard Zinn

Primitive cultures deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our care.  To assist in their well-being, and protect them from exploitation, please give your voice to www.survivalinternational.com

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan

Mountain Spirit Botanicals

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One Heart

July 7th, 2011

The Blessings of a Shared Humanity …

By selecting this photo I hope to exemplify that all beings love, no matter our species, or our culture.  In viewing this child’s eyes and the heart of its mother, is it not obvious “we share one heart”?

Because the media bombards us of corruption and our demise on a daily basis, I would like to present people and organizations honoring the vast blessings of a shared humanity. Although the following organizations represent a fraction of the global humanitarian efforts that never make sensational, front page headlines, they reveal how deeply we care for each other, and they reflect a far greater movement.

Before listing noble endeavors, I’d like to ascertain that the horrific side effects of our current events (people, species and our planet dyeing) are not natural, they are man-made. The natural world and our inherent humanity do not know war, pollution, bigotry, fear or hatred. Corporate, Political, and Personal gains have created this.  I believe the individuals and organizations that inflict harm, on all life, would like us to forget “we belong to each other”. The following organizations encourage us not to forget:

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *   *   *

Who is your sister?


Since its creation, Women to Women International has given hope to more than 299,000 women survivors of war and conflict and helped them towards economic self-sufficiency.  They have distributed $95 million in direct aid and other program services.  For $30.00/month … you can sponsor one woman for one month. www.womenforwomen.org/programs-supporting-women/sponsoring-a-woman.php

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *   *   *

Wings Over Haiti

After Haiti’s earthquake Jonathan Glynn flew his plane to Haiti and worked bringing food, medical supplies and saving lives.  Soon after, along with Haitian-Americans Shad St. Louis and Melissa McMullan, Jonathan founded “Wings over Haiti” – a non-profit providing access to free education.   Working in partnership with American teachers and students, “Wings” opened their school to 32 children, and has since purchased additional land to build a larger school – where at its heart - a village runs independently and provides its own solar power, clean water, and grows its own food.  * One dollar will feed and educate one child, for one day * www.wingsoverhaiti.org

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *   *   *

Slow Food International

The “slow food” movement was created by Carlo Petrini in response to the “fast food” movement.  It is (by his efforts) “a global, grassroots organization with a commitment to community and to the environment”.  It opposes “the unrestrained power of the food industry multinationals and industrial agriculture”.   Their philosophy: “We believe everyone has a fundamental right to the pleasure of good food and consequently the responsibility to protect the heritage of food, tradition and culture that make this pleasure possible”. http://www.slowfood.com/international/9/what-we-do

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *   *   *

Survival International

Survival is the only organization working for tribal peoples’ rights worldwide.  They’re funded by concerned members of the public and do not take government money because “governments are the main violators of tribal peoples’ rights” (they also do not take money from companies which might be abusing tribal peoples).  Their vision: “a world where tribal peoples are recognized and respected; an end to the unjust treatment that tribal peoples are subjected to; a world where tribal peoples are free to live on their own lands, safe from violence, oppression and exploitation”.  www.survivalinternational.org

*  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

Invisible Children

I am a mother.  I know how I would feel if my child was “kidnapped, brutalized, raped and forced to fight in wars over the minerals needed for our electronic devices”.  Thousands of mothers’ know this horror and it continues on a daily basis.  This non-profit works to transform apathy into activism – they rescue child soldiers.  www.invisiblechildren.com **   Before purchasing any electronic device {computer, cell phone, iphone, etc.} ascertain that your selected provider is “conflict free” (working to eliminate child soldiers; rape of women and men; unjust and brutal wars).

These are “but a handful” of organizations working to make our world a better place for all.  I believe if we participate in a world that approaches all life with one heart and we support an existence that does not go to war for “their Oil, their Diamonds, their water, their Minerals, their Land, or their Children” … we will create a world abundant with kindness and mutual respect … leaving a legacy that we can be proud of.

The actions of our politicians and world leaders are revealed in our daily headlines.  Personally, I don’t know anyone in their right mind who aligns with their values and I’m left to wonder “where are our noble efforts” and “why aren’t they front page headlines”?

There is an abundance of kindness in our world; of this I am certain, and of this I have experienced.  We have the ability to leave noble footprints or read headlines of a world that others have created for us.  As always, the choice is ours.  We are well informed by our headlines that we are amongst the privileged to even have choice.  Let’s use our privilege wisely, and compassionately.  We’re in this together … no matter our species, or our culture.

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan

Mountain Spirit Botanicals

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Comfrey Healing Cream

June 23rd, 2011

This newsletter is with appreciation for Joyce, a long time customer who has encouraged me during times I’ve wanted to quit; supported my endeavors; appreciates my offerings (and won’t let me discontinue “Comfrey Healing Cream”).

“Comfrey leaves are fused to the stem (a sign to old botanists of Comfrey’s determination, a gesture expressing its cohesive power).  To the human body, this means it can join back together what has come apart – a great remedy for broken bones and tissue damage.  Comfrey contains Silicic acid which has a firming effect on the hair, skin and nails.  Another substance found in Comfrey is Allantoin, a natural treatment for wounds. “Medicine of the Earth” by Suzanne Fischer-Rizzi

Joyce loves “Comfrey Healing Cream” and so do I.  Unfortunately, as we seem to be the only ones enjoying this formula, I discontinued it.  Joyce called to inquire if I was making this cream again and I replied “no”.   Soon after Joyce’s request Comfrey bloomed in my garden and I observed “a zillion Bees” in its blossoms.   As I’m a sucker for Bees and Joyce I made a batch and we are both now in “Comfrey bliss” (as is Shelly, my friend with “trashed skin”).  Shelly has sensitive, stressed skin and being my friend, she also received a fresh batch of Comfrey.  Overnight Comfrey soothed Shelly’s skin; within days Comfrey diminished Joyce’s “spider veins” and my skin, from years of “sun and gardening” is soft and lovely.

Yes, I understand how to work with Plant medicine but credit for this formula goes to Comfrey and the vast offerings that Nature provides for us.  Without the Plant world I could not formulate Botanical skincare that heals and rejuvenates our skin and assists our overall well-being.

The benefits of Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) are noted when Comfrey Root or Leaf are applied externally or by ingesting them as a tincture or infusion.   As most people don’t have Comfrey growing in their garden, please know that I carefully harvest and infuse Comfrey leaves to formulate “Comfrey Healing Cream” and I believe its medicinal qualities are intact.

Comfrey grows in my garden for only a few months; depending on climate I may get two, perhaps three, harvests per season.   I hand-harvest the finest leaves to formulate “Comfrey Healing Cream” and my suggestion is “Get while the getting is good”…

“Comfrey Healing Cream” lists @ $36.00 and is now offered as my current special @ $32.00. With daily use this exceptional moisturizer lasts approximately 4/weeks – less than a cup of coffee per day.   (Who says “organic is expensive”)?

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan

http://mountain-spirit-botanicals.com/facial-care/moisturizers#comfreyhealingcream

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Mineral Oil and Skincare

April 29th, 2011

Because numerous women have asked me to explain the harmful effects of Mineral oil in skincare products, I’ve compiled the following information (gleaned from numerous articles as well as my own opinions) to explain why I am adamantly opposed to the widespread use of this toxic ingredient.  I hope that you will find this information helpful, and that you will share it with anyone using commercially manufactured personal care products that contain Mineral oil (or other ingredients that you can’t pronounce nor understand).

Mineral oil is a by-product of the distillation of gasoline from crude oil. (Yes, you are placing this on your skin when you apply “Mineral oil”).  Considering the numerous Oil wells around the world, it’s no surprise that Mineral oil is abundant as well as inexpensive.  (It costs more to dispose of it than to produce it).  Now that we understand Mineral Oil is abundant and inexpensive, consider why personal care products are loaded with it.  Although I tend to be pessimistic when it comes to the Oil industry, I believe “the industry” has figured out a way to dispose of it while making a multi-billion dollar profit – make it a key ingredient in skincare products.  (In previous articles I addressed the Oil and Beauty Industry’s alignment and how they lobby diligently in Washington for their best interests). Unfortunately, their interests don’t include our well-being.

Mineral oil is foreign to the human body and acts as a thin plastic layer on the skin.  Because the skin has difficulty absorbing Mineral oil, it clogs the pores slowing the skin’s ability to breathe and eliminate toxins.

Once Mineral oil is absorbed, it is broken down by the liver and passes through the intestinal tract. Once the oil is present in the intestinal tract it absorbs all of the fat-soluble vitamins found there, stealing important vitamins from the body. If Mineral oil is absorbed into the skin by habitual use it may affect the functioning of the liver.  As the liver works extremely hard to break down Mineral oil it may not be able to break down toxins efficiently, leading to poor health and a weakened immune system.

Baby oil, Vaseline (petroleum jelly) and baby lotions all contain Mineral oil. Petroleum jelly and Mineral oil (its liquid equivalent) attach to your cells and are not water soluble.  They are difficult for your body to eliminate causing buildup in various organs. The oxygen and nutrients the skin needs are blocked by the “barrier” created by petroleum.

When Mineral oil is applied to the skin, sweat, oil and toxins are not released and oxygen is prevented from entering. Mineral oil can clog the pores leading to acne and other skin problems.  It can also prevent skin cells from developing normally, and when used regularly Mineral oil may cause skin to age prematurely.

Please read personal care labels carefully. If you can’t pronounce an ingredient (or you wouldn’t eat it), don’t place it on your skin.  Our skin is our largest organ.  It breathes, absorbs and it protects us.  Treat it with care – ditch the Oil Industry’s “by-product”.

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan
Mountain Spirit Botanicals

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That Which We Love

February 11th, 2011

Because my work is a reflection of that which I love, I developed Mountain Spirit Botanicals using only plant material and the offerings of wildlife.  My intention in creating a business based on the natural world is to heighten awareness of its abundance and to exemplify the beauty and healing found in nature.  I hope that my endeavors will inspire individuals and communities to become better stewards of our natural resources.  Without our protection and unwavering efforts, our natural world will become a fading memory of that which we once loved.

There are numerous corporations with powerful lobbyists destroying that which is ours to behold.  Although as individuals we may feel small in the face of such giants … know without question that we are a mighty force, a force to be reckoned with.

Fact: The United States consumes more than any other country and we’re in the top tier of polluters.  This reveals a few things.  We have enormous resources; we’re not using our power wisely; what we purchase is harming that which we love.  If we change just a few of our daily actions and become mindful of our consumptions, we will create enormous change.  We are not small; we are giants.  Of this I am certain.

The following actions will create change.   If we select at least one, and remain steadfast in our resolve, we will become better stewards of our natural inheritance.

1.) Eliminate Bottled Water:  Water is free and belongs to the people.  (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Nestle and other big companies have spent millions making us afraid of tap water).  The EPA has strict guidelines for tap water, guidelines that largely don’t exist for bottled water.  Municipal water systems are mandated to frequently test their water by certified labs and make those findings available to the public.  Bottlers can choose any lab, test infrequently, and they don’t have to divulge their findings.  Even if you ask.  Municipal systems can have no bacteria that indicate contamination by fecal matter.  Bottled water is allowed to contain certain amounts.

The manufacturing of plastic water bottles used in the U.S. takes enough oil and energy to fuel a million cars. Three-fourths of the half-a-billion plastic water bottles sold in the U.S. every week goes to landfills or incinerators.  It costs our cities more than $70 million to landfill water bottles each year.  It takes nature approximately 1,000 years to break down plastic water bottles.

Think about those numbers.  Half a billion water bottles sold in the U.S. every week.  Do the math.  Wonder why Soda companies want us to believe bottled water is good for us?  They love our money.  And we give them billions each week.  Imagine what we can create by taking our billions away from polluters and investing our money in that which we love.

Suggestions:  Work to ban the purchase of bottled water by your school, team, company and city, and lobby officials to bring back drinking fountains.

2.) Compost Food:  Throwing food scraps in the garbage may seem innocuous, but decomposing food clogs landfills and releases methane – a far more potent greenhouse gas than CO2.  Encasing food scraps in plastic keeps fruits and vegetables from replenishing the soil, increasing our dependence on chemical fertilizers.  The University of Arizona estimates that if every American household reduced the amount of food it throws away by half, we’d cut our entire environmental impact as a country by 25 percent.

Suggestions: Find local resources that will accept your food waste, such as a community garden, recycling center or farmer’s market, or compost your own waste / your garden will flourish.

3.) Alternative Energy: I received a letter from my Electric Company advising that I could switch to an alternative source of power (wind or water) and I will.  In doing so, I eliminate my demand on the Earth’s resources which lessens the demand on foreign oil and mountain top removal.  Take a few minutes and call your supplier … request alternative sources for your power.

The following are everyday purchases that we can accomplish as individuals, as well as requesting that our local stores comply with non-toxic materials as well.  Remember, we’re their bottom line; if they’re polluting, we don’t shop there.  We are the largest consumers in the world; if they want our business, business is on our terms.  Yes, we hold that power.

Reusable tote bags, stainless steel water bottle, travel coffee mug (Styrofoam is not biodegradable, it’s here forever).  Non-plastic utensils (plastic utensils are not bio-degradable, also here forever).  Unbleached Coffee filters (dioxins are chemicals formed during the bleaching process and they contaminate groundwater and air).  Switch bulbs – CFLs use 75% less energy.  Purchase Organic coffee (we’ve lost 50% of our songbirds due to pesticides). Catalog production uses 53 million trees and enough water to fill 81,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools each year.  Take your name off unwanted catalog, newspaper and phone book subscriptions at www.catalogchoice.org.  (A small donation is requested – if you have the names of the catalogs you can enter them with no charge and you’ll be removed from their mailings).

In my town there are establishments that have eliminated Styrofoam (cups and take out containers), bleached coffee filters and they procure local, farm raised items to offer their community.  They work diligently to support local economy and strive to leave a minimal footprint on the environment.  Due to their noble efforts, their costs are higher.  These are the businesses in our communities we need to support – they serve our best interests. Wal-Mart, Monsanto (and the like) do not serve our best interests or the integrity of our environments.

Suggestion: Find establishments in your community that strive for the highest good.  Write a “letter to the editor” noting these establishments and encourage your community to support them.  Also make a list of the establishments that wreck havoc on our natural resources and encourage your community to shop elsewhere. We are their bottom line; they will take notice once their sales diminish.

The Natural Resources Defense Council is at the forefront of “standing up for the natural inheritance that belongs to us all”. For over 40 years they have fought special interest groups. NRDC is protecting that which we love – we need to support them with membership and signing petitions.  Please get involved at www.nrdc.org and take action at www.SaveBiogems.org

We have in our power untold billions to support that which serves the greater good.  If we use our power and become steadfast in our determination, we will sustain a natural world that continues to awe us.  Of this I am certain.

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan          www.mountain-spirit-botanicals.com

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Fish Oils and Clean Fish

January 23rd, 2011

Wonderful article written by Dr. Mark Hyman as well as a link to “Clean Fish” / sustainable fishing.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/wild-fish-farmed-fish_b_812308.html

http://cleanfish.com

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Winter Skin / Winter Nutrition

January 22nd, 2011

The cold winter months + indoor heating are especially drying to our skin.  Although we’re currently bundled under layers of clothing and rarely see much of our skin, this season provides an excellent opportunity to take extra special care of ourselves.  As our skin is the largest organ (and absorbs deeply) it’s important to use only pure, natural ingredients which provide essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to keep our skin glowing and to maintain our overall good health.

Before sharing a few “skin tips” I suggest making a “check list” of your diet to ensure that you’re getting enough vitamins, minerals & essential fatty acids (“Know Your Nutrition” by Linda Clark is an excellent reference book).  Without good nutrition, our skin is usually the first indicator that “something is off”.

Dietary Suggestions: Getting enough essential fatty acids is important (our body does not produce them; we have to receive them from our diet or from supplements).  Although Mountain Spirit products are loaded with essential fatty acids & your skin will absorb these nutrients, I also suggest taking Fish oils (my personal favorite {Omega-3} is “Purified Fish Oil” produced by Nordic Botanicals) – it’s a wonderful source and the purity is excellent.

If you work indoors / under fluorescent lighting, this depletes vitamin A (a few signs of this deficiency are dry skin, whiteheads, excess wrinkles, and rigid nails) – Fish oils are also an excellent source of vitamin A.  The B vitamins are beneficial and (broadly speaking) are found in grains, raw foods, Brewer’s yeast, liver, etc.  There are chapters written on the numerous B vitamins; I suggest researching which B is most suited for your health and make sure, especially during winter months that you’re getting enough. Side note: People living in cold, winter climates often “get the blues” during winter months (“these blues” are now called “seasonal disorder”).  At first I thought folks were kidding me, but low and behold, it’s an actual condition that sets in over the winter months.  If you become “bluesy” often, there’s a good chance you may need more B vitamins in your diet.

Skin Tips

The skin is a cleansing organ that excretes an estimated one pound of waste daily – if it loses the ability to eliminate that waste, the pores become blocked.  This interferes with the nourishment & oxidation of skin cells, slowing regeneration & contributing to premature aging.  For soft, healthy skin I recommend:

Dry Skin Brushing: one of the most effective means of eliminating dead skin cells & encouraging the formation of new, supple skin cells. Dry skin brushing creates circulation, breaks down cellulite, and tones the muscles and skin. If you develop the practice of “dry brushing the skin” each day before showering, your skin will glow and you will feel more energized.

Bathing: once or twice per week experiment with a luxurious “milk bath” by adding one pint of Heavy Cream to your bath water and discover how your skin becomes “creamy soft” and nourished.  Another great bath (and one that provides minerals) is a “salt bath” – add two large handfuls of good quality Sea salt to your bath and soak until the water cools. (A salt bath releases toxins, relaxes the muscles … all while you’re absorbing minerals).

Facial Steaming: during the winter months our face is exposed to harsh elements. Facial steaming is an excellent means in which to receive the healing qualities of plant material.  “While steaming” you are promoting the flow of fresh oxygenated blood, toning muscles that support the skin, eliminating toxins, and tightening the pores and skin.  As an added luxury, facial steams may be followed with a “honey mask” (Honey also hydrates the skin) … leave on for 10 minutes and rinse off, follow with Mountain Rose Facial Oil and you’ll be “swatting the Bee’s away” your skin will be so lovely.

Last note: Stick with your exercise program to keep fresh, oxygenated blood flowing, eliminate toxic build-up, tone muscles (remember, muscles support the skin).

Recommended products: “Floral Steam” http://mountain-spirit-botanicals.com/facial-care/steams-cleansers “Sweet Coco Moisturizer” http://mountain-spirit-botanicals.com/bath-body/moisturizers

“Celtic Sea Salt” and your locally harvested Honey

Happy winter / stay warm and cozy

Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan

Mountain Spirit Botanicals

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Mountain Glen

December 28th, 2010

For those who subscribe to my “Late Night Ramblings” you know that I love Nature and that I live amidst the blessings of our Natural world.  Recently, a friend posted on FB “Buy my Car” and I thought “what a wonderful idea”.  So with that said, this posting is “Buy My Home and Land”.  If you are looking for a “Slow Food” environment; Pristine water; Regional based economy; Small farm; Second home; Healing retreat; Artist retreat, etc. … the Hudson River Valley offers this.  And more …

If you are instrumental in the sale of my property, you receive 3% commission on the sale price.  (You send the buyer, I do the work / we split the “the Realtors” commission).  We’ll both be smiling …

“Mountain Glen”

15.6 Acres

Catskill Mountains *  Blue Mountain Region  *  Ulster County

Pristine “A” listed Trout Stream (highest Stream classification given).  Stream includes numerous cascades, large waterfalls and deep swimming holes (all secluded and privately owned). Entire parcel closely borders the “forever wild” Catskill Forest Preserve and consists of: Woodlands, Meadows, the “Lucas Kill Stream,” large 3-bedroom, 2-bath home (original farmhouse circa 1700’s – 1800’s) + original “Chicken Coop” alongside the stream (perfect for an Artist’s studio or Summer sleep house) and original cabin (circa 1940’s) also at streamside.  Drilled well (and also original “hand dug” well) bringing up pure, spring fed water that feeds the home & gardens.

The Woodlands: Oak, Red Maple, Sugar Maple, Hickory, Sassafras, etc., are home to Wild Turkey, Black Bear, Deer, Hawk and a wide variety of Songbirds. Ages of hardwoods are 200+ and 75+.  With ethical Stewardship and selective harvesting, woodlands are able to pay taxes (and provide heat during winter months).

The Meadows & Pasture: Approximately 4-5 acres available for farming and/or sustainable development

Trout Stream: Rainbow & Brook Trout thriving in a pure, unspoiled environment

Only two families have owned this land since the 1700’s. I would like to sell to someone who will appreciate, and protect, its ecosystem.  Whether you are looking for a country home, a small farm, or a healing retreat, this is a rare gem with many possibilities.

Note: The DEC “A listed” Stream classification is due to “purity of water; lack of development throughout the watershed; Trout are able to spawn”. (With all due respect to the DEC, I believe my mother defined its essence the best … “no one knows that this is the fountain of youth”).  She was a wise woman.

2/hours North of NYC * 30/minutes Metro North * 40/minutes major Airports

For specific information and photos:

Elise @ 845-246-1813

mountain_spirit@earthlink.net

www.mountain-spirit-botanicals.com

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The Season of Giving

December 2nd, 2010

I’ve decided that instead of offering “a monthly special” this month is on me (and you). I will be donating 10% of all sales received during the month of December to “Slow Food International” www.slowfood.com – an organization I hold in the highest regard … one I’m pleased to support.
As you know from previous articles “I believe we are a mighty force to be reckoned with”. I also believe that when our “purchasing power” aligns with our values, only then will we create the kind of world that we all wish to live in. A world filled with love, abundance, humanity and peace.
My suggestion for the month of December is “what say” we send Dick Cheney, “special interests groups”, the Chemical Industry and Wal-Mart to hell? We can accomplish this by placing our “purchasing power” with companies who strive to make our world a better place for all people.
Mountain Spirit Botanicals is renowned for “presentation and integrity.” I guarantee that I will “out do” myself to ensure that your Christmas gifts arrive “in full Mountain Spirit splendor”. If you would like me to prepare individualized gift presentations for your loved ones, please write or call and I’d be happy to assist in your selection.
Vacation Notice: I will be “out of office” December 15th through January 5th – final shipments will be made on December 12th … please have your Holiday orders in by the 10th / availability is limited this month.
Happy Holidays / Peace on Earth / Good will towards all
Elise Muller, Proprietor / Artisan
Mountain Spirit Botanicals (Fair Trade; Zero Chemicals; Zero Dick Cheney & Company)

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