Today brings the Winter Solstice, a time of introspection and renewal as we once again welcome the lengthening of days. Solstice is one of my favorite holy days and I find comfort and warmth in knowing that slowly the days will catch up to the night.

Like many of you, my year has been full of changes that have been both overwhelming and amazing.

The most heart warming occurrence is the birth of my niece Fauna Jessette Sunshine Schneider on Dec. 3, 2015, at 3:03 a.m. Much to the surprise of my sister Lia and her husband Scott, Fauna came a couple of months early because she just had to have all the auspicious threes in her birth chart and the adventurous nature of Sagittarius was beckoning her to enter the world. My heart melts just thinking about her!

Another great thing that happened was I finally have my Blurbs on Herbs video series on YouTube.  I also have a free business video to share with you. As soon as I have the approval from NCCAOM, I will also share my three videos I have for sale for those that need your Acupuncture CEU/PDA. The first month the videos are available I will have a 20 percent off sale on all 2016 classes (live and distance learning).

I hope all of  your holy day celebrations are filled with love, laughter, and good memories. Try to keep the drama low and the compassion high as you sit down with friends and family the next couple of weeks.

Here is a spiced cider to warm you on cold winter nights. It is also great with a shot or two of brandy added. As always, use organic ingredients.

Recipe: Spiced Cider

Ingredients/Instructions:
1 to 2 grams hawthorn berries
1 cinnamon stick
A pinch of clove
A handful of orange peel

Simmer all ingredients with apple juice for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain, sip and enjoy.