2020 Earth Changes Forecasts

 Tuesday, December 31, 2019

By Cal Orey

December 9 Anchorage, AK was
in the 50s--not since 1952. Hurricane-
force winds, no snow.

As predicted, 2019 Earth changes were super life-changing in different regions around America and the world. We're talking about the Southern California major earthquake, newsworthy winter snowstorms in California, and two hurricanes that slammed the Gulf States and The Bahamas. The Southeast states faced snow while Anchorage, Alaska fought summer wildfires, a sizzling summer, and the temperature hit a historical high in December.

As we enter a New Year, quakes, storms, and heat will continue to be sobering—most likely linked to climate change, say scientists.  Read on—and digest predictions with consequences for the planet. Yep, wild happenings may affect humans, wildlife, and nature’s circle of life. It’s a brand-new decade and new earth challenges are coming to you.

SO, MOTHER. MOTHER NATURE WHAT’S GOING ON?

         Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Waves

West Coast: Californians dodged a bullet when a major earthquake hit Ridgecrest (a remote area in Southern California) not Greater Los Angeles. The populated region with many faults may rock with an epicenter there or near the Salton Sea on the San Andreas. It’s locked and ready as the experts say knowing we’re overdue. It’s not “if” but “when”; 70 percent probability a 7.8 plus will hit Los Angeles (likely epis: Malibu, Long Beach, Northridge) this year. A major earthquake offshore Northern California, the San Francisco Bay Area (East Bay on the Hayward Fault or South on the San Andreas).  Not to forget Anchorage, Alaska which rocked with a 7.0. Aftershocks will continue to occur for months, however, I predict there is the chance a great earthquake (8.0 plus) could happen near the region, whereas if it’s shallow there will be more damage to the infrastructure and a tsunami which didn’t happen. Redoubt Volcano may continue to be active; not to forget west in the Pacific Ocean...The Big Island may be affected by an aggressive earthquake swarm as well as more newsworthy volcanic activity. Europe: The Mediterranean countries may be challenged again by major earthquakes, including Italy and Greece (the deadly Albania earthquake in 2019 was felt. At least one shaker will be shallow, in a major city, perhaps Rome, and likely a powerful 8.0. Asia: Japan may rock and a tsunami is a possibility, similar to 2011. Also, Indonesia is not immune and a major earthquake with a big wave is also a challenge that could happen like on Boxing Day back in 2004.

I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW

Rain and Snow

The West Coast will get some rain and flooding in the entire state. However, a drought in the Golden State is likely. Land erosion and mudslides will continue due to warm winter from north to Alaska down to Southern California.

Italy, Spain, and France may experience heavy rainfall and flooding (as forecasted last year;

Venice was under water in the fall).

The Northeast and Midwest will get epic snowfall in the winter of 2020. Flooding in the springtime is likely the outcome. The balance of snow regarding the West and East will be noticeable to people who live in each region. Also, inconveniences will come with the severe weather, from affecting travel, mail, to health issues and life-threatening issue.

  

DUST IN THE WIND

Storms, Storms, Storms

 Hurricanes may be more severe in 2020. The Gulf States, including Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi will be more likely to endure hurricanes than the Carolinas.  But the Northeast from New Jersey to Maine may also be in the line of water, so to speak. At least two Category 5 hurricanes will occur—with both making landfall and storm surges will be record breaking.

Twisters will likely accompany some these hurricanes. Also, rare twisters in California and other unlikely regions may happen. Monsoon season in the Southwest and wind storms in Nevada and the Midwest may make news for the record breaking events.

Wildfires are likely to continue year-round, due to both man-made or natural causes like lightning. The Southwest, Southern California, Northwest, including Alaska (again) are in the line of fire as well as the Northwest including Western Canada.  

       ON THE WILD SIDE

       Strange Happenings

As we deal with tremors on the West Coast (including offshore Oregon, Northern California, and Seattle) other Earth challenges will keep us on guard.  Ongoing fracking will continue to make the Earth rock in Oklahoma—and may indeed affect the New Madrid Zone with a major earthquake. Also, more volcanic activity in the U.S.—especially Yellowstone, and Hawaii--creating alerts...and more.

A computer error will cause an alert for a natural disaster. It may cause panic and chaos but the end result will be a world collective sigh of relief. The region may be in the United States, the West Coast affecting many states.

 In 2020, homelessness due to wild climate will continue to soar and people will be affected by erratic temperatures—hot and cold. Due to extreme weather challenges, regions in the world and United States will feel nature’s wrath when it comes to fresh food resources. Farmers will be challenged, prices for some staple will spike.

People in all states and countries will learn to be more self-reliant, be more prepared by growing gardens to eating plant-based diets. Survival foods and first aid kits will not be only for the doomsday folks—it will be for people everywhere. Living in 2020 will be more challenging for commuting to work (more congestion and air pollution); traveling (more rough air and delayed flights); and play (more power outages). We will deal with the new normal of Earth changes and prevail.

2019 VISIONS THAT HAPPENED

* In the summer, on July 6, Southern California shook. A 7.1 shallow widespread shaker was reported felt throughout the state.

*  Hurricane Dorian, a Category 5 hurricane made landfall in the Bahamas; the Caribbean region was part of the forecast for the year. It affected the East Coast of the United States; Hurricane Barry, a Category 1 affected the Gulf States with flooding.

* More than 11,000 aftershocks happened after the 7.1 Anchorage, Alaska earthquake that moved the Earth on November 30, 2019. Four hours after I left Anchorage on December 10, a 3.7 hit Anchorage, another aftershock, said scientists.

* A 6.0 rocked Greece on November 27, a day after the Albania earthquake. Both quakes could be foreshocks for a great quake in 2020.

* On October 15 a widely felt 4.5 earthquake rocked the San Francisco Bay Area.

* A few significant snowstorms did hit California and did make worldwide news.

Cabin Fever -- Dip and Bread Bowl for One

By Cal Orey

Veggie Dip and Bread Bowl for One

Welcome to cabin fever. It’s a real thing – restlessness rising from a prolonged stay in a confined place. The thing is, in the pre-pandemic summertime I’d swim, travel, and write or edit a book. This year, my life, like maybe yours, has been turned upside down due to the new normal. 

Spinach-artichoke dip brings me back home to my roots in California. South of San Jose we have fields of artichokes, garlic, mushrooms, and spinach. While it may not be a Pacific Northwest or enjoying my favorite Emerald Suite in Seattle with a bay-city view – it is inspired by life the way it was in our Golden State and provided a homey feel-good vibe.

Sure, I try to maintain structure, like walking the dog, planting trees, writing articles -- and cooking up immune-boosting summer-ish vegetables. It’s all part of my long stay healthy “staycation” (a vacation at home).

Spinach-Artichoke Dip and Bread Bowl

1 cup parmesan cheese shavings (save ½ for topping)

1/3 cup sour cream

½ cup Greek Yogurt (I used honey vanilla)

1 to 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced

½ cup baby spinach, rinsed, drained

½ cup fresh artichoke hearts, cooked, drained, chopped (I used fresh, raw mushrooms)

½ teaspoon Herbs de Provence (a mix of Italian dried herbs)

Ground pepper to taste

2 tablespoons European style butter (salted), melted

1 small round sourdough bread (I used one purchased at Safeway)

Whole grain crackers

In a mixing bowl, combine cheese, sour cream, and yogurt. Stir. Fold in garlic, artichokes chunks (or mushrooms), spinach, spice, and ground pepper. Put in fridge. Meanwhile, cut top off bread. Scoop out bread. Brush bowl with butter or dip bread into bowl with melted butter. Fill bread bowl with dip. Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Serve hot. Cut or cut into quarters and dip. You can serve with crackers. Serves 1. *You can put in the refrigerator for leftovers.

The bread bowl was small – ideal for one. This fun to make and eat bread bowl with dip helped beat a bout of cabin fever on the south shore. On the deck with my oasis garden spots, I savored the treat as you will, too. As I often say, “You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.” Who wants their own bread bowl?

-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses

What Essential Oils Can Fight Viruses

By Cal Orey

Forget risky drugs or waiting for a vaccine and use one of these nature’s pharmacy potions for immune health instead.

People have been using essential oils to help beat flu and plagues for centuries. Top health doctors know certain essential oils contain antiviral and antibacterial components for bolstering immunity against germs.

In the twenty-first century, viruses and bacterial infections are contracted wherever you go, be it at the workplace, store, airplane, or even your home with family and friends. Essential oils and their protective compounds may help guard you from catching a virus or flu—deadly even in a present-day pandemic as we live with a novel virus spreading around the globe.

As we learn more about Covid-19, a new respiratory virus—coronavirus--and other viruses and the flu (common in the fall and winter) we are not powerless. Nobody is immune. But it doesn't take a virologist to figure out that if you bolster your immune system, your body will be in better shape to ward off a virus and fight the symptoms of getting sick and if you do fall ill you may get well faster.

Here are essential oils that you can use to stave off viruses as part of your anti-virus arsenal to stay well.

5 Oils to Bolster Your Immune System

#1 Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus oil is one of the best essential oils to keep the flu at because it apparently boosts your immune system. Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, founder of the Pacific Aromatherapy Institute points out that “the most effective essential oils for viral infections are those with sizable contents of cineole, mono terpene alcohol, and mono terpene hydrocarbons.” He adds, “These types of components form an effective antiviral synergy.”

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Mix 6 drops of eucalyptus oil into a large pot of hot water. Cover your head with a lightweight towel and inhale the steam for a few minutes.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Research shows that eucalyptus oil may be helpful because of its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Bronchitis, which is a viral health ailment that can be contagious, too, can be made less severe and recovery may be quicker than if one inhales eucalyptus oil.

#2 Lavender. During the fall and winter months when the temperature drops and we’re indoors more and closer to people, colds are common. But the right essential oil can help bolster your immunity and keep a miserable cold at bay!

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Take a lavender-scented bath. Mix 3 drops of essential lavender oil with ¼ cup of jojoba or almond oil. Put the concoction into a tub filled with water.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Lavender is a calming bacteria-fighting essential oil. Its anti-inflammatory compounds can help to keep you safeguarded against germs found on surfaces and the environment.

#3 Rosemary. When you have that irritating tickle in your throat and need to cough, well, its’ irritating. Hacking can hurt, too!

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Combine 4 drops of rosemary essential oil into a diffuser or vaporizer. Or simply put the oil onto a handkerchief and take a whiff or two.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Rosemary can be an aid to lessen the need to cough with due credit to a compound called 1,8-cinole. It may calm the muscles in the respiratory system, preventing coughing.

#4 Lemon. Ouch! A sore throat is an unwelcome irritation of scratch pain when you talk and swallow. It can be a sign that you may be coming down with a cold or flu. (Refer to #1.) Or it could be caused by seasonal allergies or even talking too much.

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Try putting 1 drop of lemon oil in 8 ounces of hot water. Add 1 teaspoon raw honey for taste. Repeat twice daily.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This popular oil also may trigger saliva, which can keep the throat hydrated. Use the magical cure--you’ll be chatting soon!

#5 Sage. The primary compounds include the main antibacterial compounds, including a-pinene, camphor, b-pinene, nyrcene, and limonene—which may help lessen the risk of developing inflammation, and even protect again microbes.

What Scent-sational Rx to Use: Make a spray or lotion including sage oil isn’t a bad idea. Note to self: Bring a sage spray before entering hotel rooms when traveling, and at home after being around people.

Why You’ll Feel Essentially Fine: Sage oil is a versatile essential oil. It can be used in a vaporizer to zap germs and fight viruses. You can use it diluted with a carrier oil such as olive oil. Sage is also a culinary oil—which means diluted you can use it (1 toothpick drop) in a soup or fish dish with garlic, another germ warrior.

The bottom line: The essential oil cure may be the cure-all for you. Plus, taking care of you during uncertain times – can provide more health benefits and keep your immune system healthy.

8 Anti-Virus Warrior Tips to Fight Against Germs

1. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking water, herbal teas, and vitamin C-rich liquids can flush out any toxins that you accumulate.

2. Wash your hands often to keep germs away.

3. Eat right. Plant-based foods contain carotenoids and flavonoids that have antiviral and antibacterial activity. So eating nutritious produce daily will help keep your immune system strong.

4. Forego sugar. Sugar can interfere with the proper functioning of the immune system.

5. Take vitamin C and D or get it in fortified foods like cereal, juice, or milk. Most of the research says that it improves the immune system.

6. Zinc yourself well. Zinc is a potent virus-fighter that can cut the time you spend in misery.

7. Exercise, exercise, exercise. It lowers stress levels and ups better sleep to allow the immune to get revitalized." pointed out the health practitioner that taught me well.

8. Chill out. By keeping your stress levels down, sleep better and you can keep your immune system up and healthy.

Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) For more information, htp://www.calorey.com

Warm Summer Crumble Like a Longtime Friend

Mornings with Summer Crumble

By Cal Orey

During World War II, sweet fruit crumbles were a cheap replacement for pies thanks to shortages of pastry ingredients and rationing. Flour, sugar, butter, and oatmeal were common staples (much like during the current pandemic) for baking the special comfort food that can be shared with special people. 

Speaking of the past, one summer my late geologist friend and I went on a California book tour for the biography I wrote about him and his earthquake predictions. Our journey included Southern California – Glendale and Orange County. We even paid a visit to the San Andreas Fault -- and together were on TV in Palmdale.

After the desert town book signing, we stopped at a small roadside café. We ordered homemade fresh fruit crumble. It reminded us of San Jose, once rich with fruit trees instead of concrete buildings. As we ate the rustic crumble, he shared tales of nature as a passionate student, professor, geologist for Santa Clara County -- and predicting shakers.

Jim’s birthday was August 31. I miss him, a surrogate dad. On the south shore this summer to comfort my feelings of loss, isolation, and no traveling, I baked an earthy fruit crumble for two – to celebrate my longtime friend.

Fruit Crumble for Two

2 cups fruit, 3 large fresh apricots, chopped (or fresh cherries)

¼ cup fresh blackberries (optional)

1/8 cup (each) brown and granulated sugar

¼ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Crumble Topping

¾ cup all-purpose flour

¼ cup European style butter, melted

½ cup brown sugar

¼ cup oats

Granulated sugar and cinnamon (to taste)

½ cup nuts (optional or for topping when crumble is baked)

In a bowl put chopped fruit. Add sugar, flour, spice, juice. Set aside. In another bowl combined flour, butter, sugar, and oats. Put fruit mix in ramekins. I filled up two to the rim. Top fruit with crumble topping. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture. Bake about 40 to 50 minutes. It’s done when topping is golden brown and fruit is tender and bubbly. Best served warm. Serves 2 to 4 (if you split one). It is good plain or top with whipped cream or vanilla bean gelato.

So, this week one morning when it’s cool outdoors, I put together this easy treat. The cinnamon filled the cabin air and reminded me of my sweet and down-to-earth long relationship with a man who lived to be an octogenarian. He called me his biographer as he taught me the ropes of earthquake sensitives – cats, dogs, and people. When I took my first bite of the apricot crumble it was warm and earthy, like revisiting a dear friend who left an imprint on my heart and spirit.

* Update: a widely felt 4.2 earthquake rumbled through San Fernando Valley on July 30. A sign from above?

 -- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Sun Tea to Ward of Viruses and Seasonal Allergies

It’s Time for Nature’s Sun Tea (with Honey)

By Cal Orey

The trend is savoring comfort foods and nutritious nibbles during these crazy times. I almost  whipped up a batch of sweet peanut butter cookies or a peach cobbler. Then, I pondered, “Why?  pack on those pesky pandemic pounds?” So, nostalgia hit and I recalled calming, sweet “Sun Tea” and decided if you were to come visit me at the cabin, I’d serve up tea. No cookies.

In the summers of the carefree pre-pandemic days, I’d spend time at my neighbor’s house around the corner. Her back yard was an Adam and Eve picturesque utopia, surrounded by fruit trees, flowers, and an herbal garden. One afternoon she was brewing tea outside. The black tea blend with a fruit tea made a bright orange-red colored liquid inside a mason jar with a clamped lid, steeping in the sunshine. She added honey, slices of lemon, and ice cubes. The citrusy aroma lingered in the air. With the afternoon sun, a dog basking on the shady deck, I felt a sense of calmness. She called it “Sun Tea” and it enable me to transcend to a peaceful place like sitting on one of our beaches in the sunshine, sipping a cold beverage.

Ebook sale for Honey at amazon

An easy way to brew tea from nature’s gift is to use the sun for its heat—and brew tea naturally. This is my new herbal version with a twist of local honey and sweet oranges—rich in immune-boosting vitamin C and antioxidants which you can enjoy to ward off viruses.

Sun Tea

6 cups cold water, fresh tap or bottled

3 black tea bags

Glass jar (large enough to hold 48 ounces)

1 herbal tea bag (I used chamomile and lavender)

1 ½ cups ice, small cubes

Orange wedges, for garnish

Basil or rosemary sprigs or traditional mint leaves

6 8-ounce iced tea glasses

Honey to taste (I used orange blossom honey)

Place water and tea bags in a glass jar with a clamp lid, cover, and put in direct sunlight for three to five hours. Once sun brewed, removed the tea bags and chill tea in the refrigerator. Put iced cubes about one-fourth full into tea glasses. Pour tea over the ice and add orange wedges and herb sprigs or leaves. Add honey. Serves six. *Toss leftovers after 24 hours for safety’s sake.

I apologize for not serving up yummy cookies or sweet cobbler. But you know what? Once you brew Sun Tea and sit back in your happy place – you and your mind and body will thank me or Mother Nature.

Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. The Healing Powers Series is featured by Newsmax. Her website is http://www.calorey.com.

Superfoods Super Ebook Sale for Summer Cabin Fever

Superfoods for 2020--Your Favorites!

Cybersale for 2020
2.99

#62

By Cal Orey

The Healing Powers of Superfoods

Did you know the keys to a long life and vibrant good health can be found on the shelves of your local supermarket?


Apples, leafy greens, shellfish, yogurt—even ice cream and pasta. The latest scientific studies reveal that many of the classic foods you’ve always loved are superfoods that can supercharge your health! Not only are they delicious, they’re affordable—plus these essential farm-to-table favorites can work with any diet plan, from the balanced Mediterranean Diet to the hunter-gatherer Paleo plan.

 
With over 50 recipes for both cooked and raw dishes, including smoothies and soups, a detox juice fast and a jump-start pounds-off diet, this down-to-earth guide will show you how to get healthy and stay healthy with body-friendly superfoods.
 
*Boost your immune system with citrus and nutrient-dense berries, including fresh, frozen, and dried.
 
*Enjoy the healthy fats in eggs and nuts, including nut butters, to fight inflammation, slow the aging process, and lower your risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
 
*Trade white sugar for antioxidant-rich sweeteners like maple syrup, the newest superfood!
 
*Create home remedies designed to ease anxiety, improve sleep, boost brainpower and enhance energy.
 
*Keep your home spotless for kids and pets using eco-friendly superfood-rich formulas.
 
*Pamper your mind and body with the same food-based treatments that health spas use, including ingredients like seeds and seaweed.

Now you can indulge in a Pesto Pizza or Berry Basil Smoothie, a Chicken Bone Broth or dark chocolate gelato, while chilling with an ancient-oats facial or relaxing in a warm, herb-scented bath. Infused with heartwarming stories and inspiring legends, The Healing Powers of Superfoods will take you to a world of wellness that starts at home with our favorite foods from Mother Nature—enjoyed in a new way with an exciting twist!

Irish Nachos--Yes! It Is A Superfood!

By Cal Orey

Do you like nachos? You can find them at convenient stores to restaurants. And these days you, like me, can and likely have made a batch in the comfort of your kitchen. There are a garden-variety of nacho types, which include a quartered tostada or tortilla chips, with topping such as meat, poultry, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Then there are “Irish Nachos” aka nacho potato skins also with these tasty ingredients sprinkled on top of French fries -- and even baked potato wedges.

More than a decade ago, one summer day after swimming (ah, the pre-pandemic days), I was famished. But due to our south shore heat I didn’t want to cook. I didn’t know about nacho potato skins. So, I plopped a handful of multigrain tortilla chips onto a plate; sprinkled cheddar cheese on top. I nuked it until the cheese was hot and bubbly. My Brittanys – two dogs Simon and Seth – were behind me the entire time making this easy snack to create a human challenge. And yeah, this popular appetizer is crunchy, chewy, and gooey. It’s fun and tastes good.

Fast forward to a different time. New dog, and I have a more fussy palate. So, I gave nachos a tater twist for the health of it.

Nacho Potato Skins

6 medium potatoes, russet (or sweet if you prefer)

¼ cup butter

1/2-1 cup cheddar cheese or mozzarella, grated

2-4 Roma tomatoes, chopped (I also used store bought chunky salsa in a plastic container, not a jar)

1-1 1/2 cups lettuce (kale, baby spinach, or iceberg), shredded

1/4-1/2  cup sour cream

Hot peppers (to taste)

½ cup fresh green onion, sliced

Fresh rosemary, minced (to taste)

Chives, fresh or dried (to taste)

Wash taters and bake in the microwave for 15 to 20 minutes. (They are better baked in the oven but due to our heat wave – use the microwave.) Cut potatoes lengthwise or in four quarters (I did it this way.) On a plate, when cool scoop out potato but leave some intact. Brush each potato with butter. Place on a baking sheet and pop ‘em in 450 degrees for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake a few more minutes. Remove from oven and top the cheesy potatoes with veggies, sour cream, and herbs. Makes 24 wedges or 12 halves. Serves 4-6. You can put leftovers in an airtight container and into the fridge for a day or so.

The bottom line: When you use chips it’s an appetizer as it can be with potatoes. But if you add plenty of toppings – like cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes -- it can be a light lunch or dinner. Embracing novelty can be delightful if we have choices – like choosing toppings for potato skins. Pair your Irish Nachos with iced tea or cold lemonade to chill and feel in control. That can be comforting (like hanging out with a canine companion) during these new and uncertain times.

-- Cal Orey, M.A. Is an author and journalist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Her website is http://www.calorey.com.