old friend, new relationship

got to spend time with an old friend today, one of the first plants i ever used for medicine: red raspberry leaf. mrs. thompson, the eugene herbalist, introduced us when i complained of moontime aches and pains. i still drink raspberry leaf regularly, in my everyday lovely tea. last summer my campers found a wild rapsberry patch in the forest behind stormwell. it is much changed since my winter mention, and first ever post, here.

for the first time, i get to gather this everyday, all important, mineral-rich plant with my own prayers and hands. very, very special.

her leaves are incredibly tender and fleshy. when i take a bite, surprisingly bitter followed by the familiar oily perfume of a rich raspberry leaf tea. mmm. as i plucked, the sufi tune rose up--heaven on earth, heaven on earth, doin' good works on earth. something about raspberry leaf medicine: this, too.

timber came, kept a nose and bark out for wild beasts and otherwise brought me joy. another good friend.

lots more to gather still, of raspberry (i reckon to use at least 1 gallon this year), nettles (aiee, i need to get out there!), wild violet (tonight, on the way to the party) and watercress for pesto and salad. fun!

kate.