This winter has been unkind to my family. We seem to be battling cold after cold. Between my husband, son and I, one of us gets sick. The last couple of day I have felt it creeping on yet again but I am refusing to let it get me down. I know that I am stronger then any sickness and do not have to put up with it. I have been trying to beat it down with the power of Vitamin C. Since citrus is in season that has been my method of intake. It is no coincidence that citrus comes in season during the winter months, it is there to help us fight the evils of the microscopic armies. Here are just a few of my favorite citrus uses.
Baked Grapefruit-
Wash grapefruit then cut in half. Remove any seeds and cut fruit along rind and around the center. This will make it easier to eat once done. Place in cupcake pan cut side up then sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon or any spice you like. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 mins or until top has caramelized then you are ready to eat.
Dehydrated Lemons -
I love lemon in my tea but since they are not available year round dehydrating slices work great.
Wash and cut lemons in 1/4 inch. Remove seeds then place on dehydrator tray. Usually takes about 2-6 hours depending on the dehydrator. You can also do this in the oven on low (200 degrees).
Orange-Vinegar All Purpose Cleaner-
I try to use as many plant based products as I can in my home. I have used vinegar and water as an all purpose cleaner before but frankly it stinks, literally. The smell does dissipate after a little while but still a little smelly (Granted it is better then a chemical smell).
Using the peel of a couple of oranges, place in a glass jar and cover with white vinegar. Let sit in cool place or refrigerator for 1-2 weeks. You can now add some water and put in a spray bottle for easy use. I do about a 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water.
I feel that a new season is upon me and my family so here are some thoughts that have been swimming around in my head. These are my personal thoughts and feelings. If you do not agree that is just fine. Hope you enjoy!
A new season is upon me
Lord, where you lead, I will follow.
You are my Shepard.
I graze if fields of Milk and Honey.
Thank you, for your example of how to be a parent.
Our guardian, care taker if...
I care to put my trust in you.
Trust you with all my heart,
But
I fight it, i'm struggling, in an abyss.
Keep my heart above my head.
You let me struggle, it makes me fight.
To be closer to you.
A new season to try more.
More of anything,
More of everything.
Lead me to your light, let me burn.
Inside.
Inside, a hot violet light.
Rainbow.
Your promise for me.
Shows to not scare me.
Have no fear, on a T-shirt.
Clothes are for the body, not the mind.
Art in the eye of the beholder.
Father forgive these ramblings.
My love is imperfect, not yours.
I'm a perfect creation, sadly in a sorry state.
My fault, I am to blame.
Blame is not for me, so I give it away.
Take me away.
I don't want to go yet!
I need to love as you love.
I need to prepare.
Three steps, baby steps.
In the big picture.
I am but a grain of sand in an infinite desert of space.
Sandy deserts into Eden.
Eden = Permaculture
Save my earth!
Save it yourself!
You made the mess, clean it up.
Clean up my life, clean my heart and soul.
Make my soles sturdy so I may press forward and work for the grace of God.
Give free.
Take it and be full.
Full of petrol, dependence.
Prison.
Break these chains.
The chains of doubt.
Fear pulling me in.
Trying to resist, but then I watch the news.
Good News, Coming soon to...
Theaters, in which we live.