It had been Peter’s promise of America that kept Mary going—the thought of a new life beyond servitude, beyond the endless polishing of silver and mending of lace.

Reading comics again has reminded me that joy doesn’t have to be complicated.

Welcome to The Herbal Compendium*, a continuing series within Pagan Wellness dedicated to exploring the uses, benefits, and cautions of the plants that support our daily lives. Each entry focuses on a single herb—its history, properties, and traditional applications—offering practical insights for mindful, nature-based living. Whether used for tea, tincture, or simple appreciation in the garden, these profiles celebrate the enduring relationship between people and plants. I’v

In a world that glorifies busyness, carving out a few minutes for tea can feel almost rebellious. Yet it’s these small, intentional pauses that keep us connected to ourselves.

The mountain air doesn’t just soothe. It restores. It reminds me that my nervous system was not designed for 24/7 notifications and five-lane traffic. It was meant for wind in the pines, the rustle of wildlife in the brush, the surprise of an owl in daylight.

One day, as she was working in the garden while her mother rested from a headache, she wandered into the rose patch—a special section filled with different varieties of roses: pinks and reds, whites, and even one that looked purple. She and her mother could never quite figure out how one particular rose bush looked so violet in the sunlight.