The holiday season can be a hectic time with feasts and gatherings and travel, but it also offers a special opportunity to reflect on the precious things that bring joy and comfort to our lives. A hot cup of tea, a spoonful of fire cider, a bowl of delicious curried soup, or a dab of homemade perfume on the wrist are all small reminders of how herbs enhance our everyday experiences...

It's snack time!

Along with cinnamon and nutmeg, vanilla is a quintessential ingredient to keep stocked in the cupboard this time of year. With a delicate and deeply enchanting flavor that's instantly recognizable, vanilla imparts a soft creaminess to desserts and cocktails that is nothing short of pure magic. (How about some Spiked Vanilla Bean Cocoa and Chai Spice Oatmeal Cookies to experience vanilla bliss?) Making your own vanilla extract at home is super easy and can be used in any recipe that calls for store-bought. All you need are two simple ingredients and a glass jar, or a few cork bottles if you want to make holiday gifts for friends.

How is the autumn weather shaping up where you are? While we have had a bit of lingering summer here in the Pacific Northwest, the nights are getting cooler and the mornings have a bit of a crisp nip in the air. As the season changes, cool fall mornings call for a spicy, warming tea. This tea recipe has the added benefit of being full of good-for-you herbs like Elderberries and Cinnamon!