One day it’s the way the river gleams silver and blue under fluffy cotton clouds. Another it’s the gray-blue and pearlescent pink sunset in a liquid sky as we head towards Bozeman.

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.