Monday, March 30, 2026

HEALING POWERS OF HONEY, 2.0 The 1st Edition laid the ground; the New & Revised 2nd Edition breaks it

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive!

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan

Story Locale:Nonfiction
Cal Orey, M.A., is a health expert, food writer, on-air personality and author of The Healing Powers series, including The Healing Powers of Vinegar, The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, The Healing Powers of Tea, The Healing Powers of Honey and The Healing Powers of Essential Oils. She has a master's degree in English from San Francisco State University, and for three decades has written hundreds of articles for national and international magazines, specializing in topics such as health, beauty, nutrition, relationships, science, and pets. She can be found online at CalOrey.com.

Author Residence: South Lake Tahoe, CA
Marketing:
  • Publicity outreach for reviews, roundups, and feature coverage in consumer, health & wellness, and key trade publications
  • Outreach to brands and wellness companies for partnership opportunities
  • Social media campaign including advertising, giveaways, bonus content, and shareable images
  • UPDATED WITH NEW MATERIAL: About 25% of this edition is new and updated material, including new recipes and remedies; resource lists; expert commentary; a new foreword; the latest research findings on honey's health benefits, such as its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties; new studies in the Mediterranean diet, heart health, immune system; data on our endangered honey bees and critical issue of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD); and heartwarming and adventurous anecdotes.
  • A PROVEN SUCCESS : The Healing Powers of Honey has achieved #1 Top Rated status on Amazon, demonstrating an irrefutable track record of sales and reader satisfaction. ·It has sold around 20,000 copies in print alone—and the e-book is a steady seller.
  • WORLDWIDE BACKLIST BESTSELLER! Cal Orey’s Healing Powers books have sold hundreds of thousands of copies, been translated into a dozen languages, and landed on bestseller lists across the world. The Healing Powers of Vinegar has sold more than 200,000 copies, has more than 700 ratings on Amazon, and was the #1 bestselling health book in South Korea. All previous Healing Powers books were picked up by NewsMax.
  • SWEET SOLUTION TO SURGING DEMAND: · During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health. As the global honey market, fueled by consumer demand for natural sweeteners, surges towards a projected 15 billion by 2032, the need for a comprehensive and updated guide to honey’s health benefits has never been greater.
  • NEW FOREWORD: The new foreword from Jonny Bowden, Ph.D, bestselling author of 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, is an expert endorsement that adds authority, credibility, and prestige.
  • NOW WITH MANUKA HONEY: Manuka honey, known for its unique antibacterial properties, holds a premium position in the honey market and is a new addition to this edition.
  • NATURAL REMEDIES AND RECIPES. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally. The American Heart Association reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease, are the number one cause of death worldwide. This underscores the continued relevance of the book’s content on heart health.·With ongoing health concerns, there’s heightened focus on immune health. (COVID variants and other viruses continue to
  • be important issues.) Honey’s immune-boosting properties will resonate with readers seeking natural ways to support their health.
  • HOME CURES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO OTC MEDICINE. Readers interested in homeopathic remedies and natural cures will love Cal Orey’s more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes, while boosting immunity.
  • AN EXPANDED MARKET:  The inclusion of new research on Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) and honey bees broadens the book’s appeal to environmentalists, beekeepers, and those concerned about sustainable superfood practices.
  • CONNECTED AND PASSIONATE AUTHOR: Cal Orey is a frequent guest on live and internet national radio stations, and the media has covered her work in national magazines including Woman’s World, Complete Woman, Energy Times, MSN Health and Fitness, and other online publications. She has promoted her Healing Powers books as a News Segment guest on Coast to Coast AM and has a weekly column “What’s Cookin’ at Callie’s Cabin” (online and hard copy) and a monthly column for Oracle (online and hard copy).
Praise for The Healing Powers Books by Cal Orey

"The cure is in the cupboard with this book's insights that will tempt your taste buds--and revive you from head to toe." Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Metabolism on The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

"In The Healing Powers of Superfoods, we're thankfully re-discovering these amazingly healthy foods again today." Dr. Will Clower, CEO Mediterranean Wellness on The Healing Powers of Superfoods

"A practical, health-oriented book that everyone who wants to stay healthy and live longer should read." Patricia Bragg, N.D., Ph.D., author of Apple Cider Vinegar

Sunday, March 29, 2026

Spring Book Must-Have! Time-Traveling Tabby -- Press Release

 Pacific Book Review Logo

New Book: Time-Traveling Tabby - Book 2, By Lake Tahoe Author Cal Orey

Gatsby, the fictional feline narrator, showcases life lessons of adaptability, his sixth sense of sensing an earthshaking cosmic event, love and loss, and acceptance.
By: Pacific Book Review, LLC
 
Pacific Book Review
Pacific Book Review
LOS ANGELES - March 4, 2025 - PRLog -- "Creative and celebrated author Cal Orey has compiled a work of poetry, vision, and transcendental life philosophy, encompassing captivating photographs of Gatsby, her orange tabby cat with whom changed her life in, Time-Traveling Tabby: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time."

~ Pacific Book Review


Acclaimed author Cal Orey is back with the highly anticipated second installment in the Courage with Paws series. "TIME-TRAVELING TABBY: A JOURNEY THROUGH WHISKERS AND TIME – Book 2" takes readers on another heart-pounding adventure, blending history, fantasy, and feline intuition in an unforgettable tale.

How can a cat travel through time?  That is the essence of this sci-fi fantasy theme, which showcases the wisdom and sensory perceptions of this amazing feline. We all know how extraordinary cats are, being known to predict earthquakes and other Earth changes; Gatsby will steal readers' hearts.

The story is heartwarming and thought-provoking exploration of the sci-fi fantasy genre, with a unique twist of having a feline narrator who travels through time and experiences the world in a way that is both familiar and strange. The cat's journey and his new owner's stories about her past Lake Tahoe-based cats create a sense of nostalgia and high-tech wonder. The story's use of time travel and the cat's intuitive abilities adds a layer of sci-fi/fantasy that makes the narrative engaging and mesmerizing.

"TIME-TRAVELING TABBY: A JOURNEY THROUGH WHISKERS AND TIME – Book 2" is perfect for readers who love historical fiction, magical realism, and, of course, feline-inspired adventures. Whether you're a returning fan or new to the series, this book will whisk you away on an exhilarating ride through time.

Available now on Amazon as well as the author's website: www.calorey.com

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: Time-Traveling Tabby
Subtitle: A Journey Through Whiskers and Time
Subtitle: Paws, Claws, and Quantum Laws: Feline Odyssey Through Dimensions!
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 979-8823041171
Pages: 54
Genre: Poetry / Feline Fantasy


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor's degree and master's degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and an electrifying co-authored sci-fi-/fantasy series--The Ghost Ships. Her website is www.calorey.com

Friday, March 27, 2026

The Classic that started it all meets the Revolution that changes everything

 Healing Powers of Honey (Audiobook)

Title: The Healing Powers of Honey
Author: Cal Orey
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Narrated by: Tara Marie Kirk
Pages: Audiobook
Genre: Health / Natural Food / Alternative Therapies
Length: 8 hours and 26 minutes
Reviewed by: Beth Adams


It is impossible to listen to this narration of The Healing Powers of Honey by author Cal Orey on audiobook without going to the cupboard and pouring a cup of hot tea, and of course, adding a heaping teaspoon of honey into it.  The soothing taste and coating of honey is talked about in so many ways, thus while listening and sipping the tea, it makes for an amazing multi-dimensional learning scenario, having both your brain and body absorbing the true nectar of the gods.  What’s more than revealing the facts is the way Cal Orey interleaves her own life’s adventures into describing her quest of gaining the background information to compile the facts about honey into this highly specialized enlightening guide.

The story begins with the author taking on the project of doing a book about honey by the request of her publisher.  Listeners are brought to the planning stage of how Cal Orey organized her research to achieve what she is known for; as being a down-to-Earth presenter of health benefits of various food substances.  Honey follows her repertoire as she has demonstrated with vinegar, olive oil, chocolate, and other healing books.  Nobody is born with honey knowledge, so she first acquired every book she could find on the subject, then arranged for meetings with bee keepers in Fresno, Reno, and other places.  So as a listener, I found the tome of the narration as having a quality of discovery, as new factoids are learned and shared, making this story a journey of discovery.

“A Hippy Chick,” as she often referrers to herself as being, due to her expert knowledge of organic health foods, understanding their therapeutic effects having antioxidants, allowing for stress relieving, blood pressure control, diabetes cure, heart fortitude, and even helping lower the risk of cancer, honey fits right in at the top of God’s gifts to humanity – or should I say the Bee’s gift.  Her ‘textbook’ parts of the book when she is educating listeners (readers) on the many types of honey, their relative histories and specialized qualities, and somewhat magical powers are explained with describing each varieties’ color, taste, and even how best to pair it up with other food items.  Then, of course, she adds her own commentary to each of the about 30 variations of honey – that’s when I began to google the online stores to buy my own bouquet of flavors.

Some diversion to the author’s factual narration on the honey subject was most sentimentally touched upon with the stories of her dog(s).  At one point she talks about traveling all around the USA from California to Key West with her K-9 companion, and even smuggling the dog into Canada because she didn’t have the correct documents at the border – now that’s “chutzpah!”  She then talks about having a 6th sense when someone commented, “Nice dog” to her, only to find the dog missing after she tied it up outside a building for only a few minutes.  The sadness, crying, and sensation of loss was contagious.  A few months later she was “rescued” by a lab with sympathetic eyes in San Diego, and life with a dog partner took a happier path.

Honey is amazing.  The antibacterial properties makes it ideal for fighting off any bacterial infection, both inside and outside the body, as it is known for enhancing and protecting the skin and healing wounds.  Forget Pepto-Bismol, eat honey to cure suffering from diarrhea.  Heart healthy, even helping diabetics (which seems odd due to honey’s sweetness) as well as hypertension, lowering cholesterol and even aiding longevity, plus weight loss and libido enhancement are all benefits of this golden nectar.  Thank you, bees.

I must admit I did not know the vast variety of types of honey; yes, Clover is popular, and Van Morrison introduced me to Tupelo Honey, but Cal talks about Alfalfa Honey being native to Northern Nevada, and Buckwheat Honey being very powerful with antioxidants.  She thought Fireweed Honey might have been bitter yet was pleasantly surprised by its flavor.  I never would have thought Avocado Honey existed, and Dandelion, nor Eucalyptus – I guess I need to walk down the health-food isles in Whole Foods a bit more slowly next time.

It may seem as if I am making light of the subject, but that is how I perceived Cal Orey takes the sting out of being a dry educational presentation, and embellishes her work with her humble wisdom and incredible stories which she has gained on so many other subjects.  Just like blending honey into bakery items, combined it with cinnamon for holistic healing, or dissolving it in a tea, smoothie or drink, honey’s versatility and benefits are un-bee-livable.

Reviewer’s footnote:  Having the audiobook version of this bestselling book, the narration by Tara Marie Kirk was very clear and fluid, not missing a beat with those 5-syllable Latin names of the specific varieties, however as a personal preference I played it back at 1.25 speed, slightly picking up the pace for my listening pleasure, and cutting the play-time from just over 8 hours to about 6 hours.

 

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Extreme Dander and Dust: Two Demons--"Purple People Eaters"

Cal. Orey, M.A.

Welcome to the land of good and bad air quality. As a sensitive I know when the air is "off" like it is today. Nah, the air quality outdoors is all clear (no wildfires as of yet) but dust and dander are in the air indoors and I feel it. I turned on the air purifier. I will vacuum again (and dust)...but for the fluffy cat and dog? They're family so "this too shall pass" will be my mantra for the day. At least the bedding has been changed.

A quick peek at a purple bar appearing in AccuWeather’s health section for South Lake Tahoe confirmed the true culprits: Extreme Dander and Dust. So, instead of braving allergy symptoms, I uncovered the secrets to a less sneezy-filled existence.

Yeah, dander and dust can affect people of all ages. Adds the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seniors and elderly with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, may feel more than less symptoms. Kids, too, can be susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways, points out American Academy of Pediatrics.

In a region with dry, cold air, such as Lake Tahoe, dander and dust can be worse because dry air can suspend these particles and irritate mucous membranes, triggering warning signs like a sore throat, sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.

Easy Checklist

Here, must-have tips from the AAAAI, and my first-hand experience from living in the mountains:

ü  Use a humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe irritated airways and prevent mucous membranes from drying out.

ü  Turn on an air purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove dander, dust, and other allergens from the air in bedrooms or living areas.

ü  Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum and dust. Capture dust and dander from surfaces.

ü  Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets/comforters in hot water to kill dust mites and remove dander.

ü  Manage Pet Dander. Wipe pets with a damp cloth to reduce dander they shed.    

ü  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and tea can help keep your throat moist and thin mucus, easing a raspy throat.

ü  Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can alleviate symptoms.

By using these pet smart tips, you can deal with dander and dust—and enjoy the cuddly fur kids--even during dry, cold Tahoe winter days.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book, 2026 is ready for pre-order, and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3rd ed. is in production.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Give the Gift of Bee-Healthy Powers: Unveil the New Revolutionary 2nd Edition (Coming this Summer!)

  Overview: The Healing Powers of HONEY

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new alarming honey bee data, home cures, and heart-healthy recipes--and adventurous survival tales of MIA bees and mankind linked to climate change. The 1st edition is a groundbreaking classic; the 2nd edition is a revolutionary gem--two books to sweeten your hive!

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Foreword by Jonny Bowden, PhD, author of the national bestseller The Cholesterol Myth 

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Clear Your Sinuses Naturally!

 Mountain air magic: Clear your sinuses naturally!

Meet the sinuses – hollow cavities around the face — which aids to filter the air you breathe. Sinus woes – chronic and acute – say sinus specialists are often caused by allergies, colds, flu or change in environment. So, you can blame your sinus woes on the dust, dander, and dry air in the mountains — especially during fall. But you are not powerless. Here are things you can do:

1.         Eat spicy foods. One hot chili pepper can be your antidote to break up the mucus (the stuff in your throat), open the airways, and allows you to breathe easier. A study published in Annals of Allergy; Asthma & Immunology proved hot chili peppers may help clear up sinus inflammation. Also, try eating spicy hot mustard and horseradish.

2.         Add garlic to your diet. Garlic has expectorant and decongestant properties that help you to prevent a cold — often followed by acute sinusitis, points out the AAAAI. The herb contains a sulfur compound called allicin and can fight bacteria – linked to sinus infections. Past research shows you can prevent the common cold with a garlic supplement. Or a garlic clove eaten in your favorite dishes may keep sinus woes and sniffles or the doctor away. 


3.         Pineapple, please. Eating ½ cup, diced pineapple or drinking 8 ounces of pineapple juice may be what the doctor should order to prevent sinus troubles. Research has shown that the enzyme bromelain was the key compound that helped ward off acute sinusitis for children in Germany. Pineapple juice, a good source of immune-boosting vitamin C, is a sweet anti-sinusitis fighter.

4.         Sip tea. Sinus doctors at the New York Sinus Center note that inhaling vapors of herbal brew can alleviate nasal inflammation, and drinking the hot beverage can speed nasal drainage by moisturizing the mucus membranes. The Center recommends a variety of sinus agony-busting herbal teas such as blackberry, chamomile, peppermint, and thyme. Savor three cups daily for best results. Speaking of tea…

5.         Add a bit of honey! Research touts nature’s nectar can kill bacteria. Plus, a study conducted at the University of Oxford, UK reveals honey is more effective at treating coughs and colds than antibiotics and more budget-wise. The rule of thumb is no more than three tablespoons per day.

Here are more options from the AAAAI: Get plenty of rest, and keep your body hydrated by drinking several glasses of water a day. Try breathing hot, moist air, using hot packs, or washing the nasal cavities with a saline rinse. If your sinus ailments do not resolve, consult your doctor.

Soup Rx

Chicken soup (canned or homemade) contains several ingredients that affect the body’s immune system, say nutritionists. A bowl of hot soup has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe a sore throat — and ease the pesky headache of sinus symptoms. Bonus tip: Add fresh hot peppers and garlic!

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the Healing Powers series, 2nd Ed. The Healing Powers of Honey (due out this summer, pre-order), and Olive Oil, 3rd ed in production.. She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com

Tune into Your Intuition and Forget Final Destination Hexes!

 By Cal Orey, M.A.

UPDATE A cocky millennial hospitalist told me I'd die March 18, 2026. He dished out his grim God-like prognosis two years ago (I had a panic attack because my beloved 15-year-old Siamese cat Zen was dying; today is his birthday in cat heaven).  A vet said my Aussie's baby toenail had the big "C" and I must amputate his toe, paw, and leg for 2k+ ASAP. Six months later, dog has nail, paw, leg and groomed properly this week with a rabies shot. An oral surgeon said she had a feeling my crowned lower back tooth (no root canal) should be extracted despite the endodontist said it was fine. 

None of these hexes turned into reality. Not one! I am healthy and doing great (tests/blood work and active lifestyle are proof). Dog is next to me waiting for his walk. And the tooth is still intact. Zen still sends me messages, my feline soulmate. What gives?

If you’ve seen the movie “Final Destination”, you know the feeling: the idea that "Death" has a plan and no matter how hard you run, the "hex" will get you. When a doctor with a God Complex tells you that you have exactly two years to live (despite you are healthy), you might start feeling like a character in that movie, just waiting for the metaphorical loose bolt or falling sign to finish the job.

You might think, "The doc said it, so it’s destiny." But here is the secret: Doctors are not prophets. They are looking at statistics—the average of a thousand other people—not you. In Love, Medicine and Miracles, Dr. Bernie Siegel notes that "exceptional patients" are the ones who refuse to accept the "Final Destination" script and instead challenge the doctor's authority.

So, What is Medical Hexing, Anyhow?

Medical hexing occurs when a healthcare provider uses their authority to "cast" a dark future over a patient. When a young, "millennial-vibe" doctor looks at you with an ageist smirk—as if you’re an expired carton of milk—and tells you that "science says you're done," they are practicing a form of psychological suggestion. This is the "Nocebo Effect," the evil twin of the Placebo Effect, where negative expectations actually cause physical harm.

Why Young Docs Might "Hex" You

Sometimes, a young doctor’s arrogance comes from a mix of high-tech "book smarts" and a lack of "life smarts." They might rely 100% on an algorithm or a single lab value, ignoring the holistic body and human spirit. This "mean millennial" attitude can feel ageist, as if they believe anyone over a certain age isn't worth the "upgrade" in treatment. This is often a defense mechanism to hide their own ignorance or fear of death. 

How to Ignore the Hex

* Check the "God Complex": If a doctor is rude or dismissive, their "hex" is based on their attitude, not your biology. Use your gut instinct and disregard the negative prognosis.

* Fire the "Hexer": You are the boss of your health. If a vet or doctor treats you like a statistic, find one who treats you like a person.

*  Seek the "Unlearned" Wisdom: Many published accounts of "spontaneous remission" show that patients who survived grim news were often the ones who  defied the odds and refused to believe the doctor's timeline and followed their intuition.

Thursday, March 19, 2026

Celebrate the Buzz of Honey--The Wait is Over this Summer!

 The wait is over this summer--secure your copy of the superfood breakthrough that turns a fall favorite into a 365-day healing revolution.

As the world pivots from the lessons of COVID-19 to the looming threats of new viral strains and a volatile climate, The Healing Powers of Honey emerges as the definitive survival guide for the modern era. Blending warm, witty prose with groundbreaking new research, this book uncovers a forgotten natural remedy that is as scientifically potent as it is historically significant. Through a series of new, gripping survival stories—from the front lines of the pandemic to the heart of climate-driven disasters—readers will witness the life-saving power of this remedy in real-time. Complemented by a collection of innovative, real food recipes, The Healing Powers of Honey is more than a manual; it is an essential, research-backed toolkit for anyone seeking to safeguard their health--weight loss, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and immune health--and home in an increasingly unpredictable world.

The 1st edition is groundbreaking. But the 2nd revised and updated edition is revolutionary!

Overview

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised second edition of the #1 hit, now updated with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!


DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive!

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Recession-Proof Staples for Healthy Living in Uncertain Times

  Rising prices for oil, groceries, travel-lodging, and utilities... Eat Real Food!

By Cal Orey, M.A.

A friend of mine shared that he’s been relying on peanut butter and honey sandwiches, coffee and tea to cope with pre-recession jitters. This reminded me of my own graduate school days when I survived on brown rice and vegetables. It got me thinking: “There has to be a better way to eat healthy on a shoestring budget.” Given the current economic uncertainly, it’s crucial to identify nutritious food staples that are both healthy and budget-friendly Here are some recession-proof staples that thrive in the spring and summer months in the Tahoe region, along with their long shelf life, health benefits and affordability even during price surges from trade wars.

1. Quinoa: Welcome to a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. It’s also high in fiber, magnesium, and antioxidants. Tahoe Friendly: Quinoa can be sourced from local farmers or purchased in bulk at reasonable prices. Its versatility allows it to be used in salads, bowls, or as a side dish during summer barbecues.

2. Lentils: Peas and Beans. All part of the legume family, these gems are rich in protein, fiber, iron, and folate. They are heart healthy and help regulate blood sugar levels. Tahoe Friendly: Lentils do well in cooler climates and can be found locally or through regional suppliers. They are inexpensive compared to meat and can be added to hearty soups and salads perfect for spring picnics.

3. Potatoes: Both russet and sweet taters are high in vitamins, potassium and dietary fiber. They have anti-inflammatory properties and support immune function. Tahoe Friendly: Taters can be harvested from farms around Lake Tahoe. They are filling yet affordable when bought from farmers’ markets. Baked and stuffed with seasonal vegetables or baked sweet home fries sprinkled with fresh parsley and black pepper are tasty for lunch and dinners.

4. Pasta: Whole grain pasta is a good source of fiber, low in fat and cholesterol. It’s also a good energizing complex carbohydrate. Tahoe-Friendly: Its affordability makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for satisfying meals such as pasta salads or entrées paired with tomatoes and zucchini. Bonus tip: Store different shapes and sizes for variety.

5. Marinara Sauce: All-natural ready-made sauce infused with olive oil and garlic is low in fat and calories and high in vitamin C. Tahoe Friendly: If tomatoes skyrocket in price, use less and add to the sauce for a chunky version mixed with other veggies such as zucchini and mushrooms.

Update: Today I stocked the fridge with real food: Greek yogurt, honey crisp apples, raw spinach, kale mix, whole wheat sourdough bread, shrimp, salmon, vitamin-D fortified OJ and low-fat milk, dried berry and nut mix, strawberries, and, raw honey, 70% dark chocolate. Boring but clean eating keeps your cardiovascular health and immune system working.

By focusing on these items during spring and summer around Lake Tahoe (or wherever you visit or live), you can eat well without breaking the bank. Psst! Don’t forget to use homegrown herbs like basil and parsley and spices for more flavor and health benefits.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and the forthcoming 2nd ed. Revised/Updated The Healing Powers of Honey, #1 Amazon Hit.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com 

Sunday, March 15, 2026

Healing Powers of Honey: One story, two perspectives: The Original Foundation and the 20,000-word Summer Expansion

 The Healing Powers of Honey has been graced with the Best Seller banner for more than three weeks in 2024--both Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Amazon's #1 Top Rated Book Label in spring of 2025... It's the superfood for summer! (5 formats) 2nd Edition Pre-Order

It is impossible to listen to this narration of The Healing Powers of Honey by author Cal Orey on audiobook without going to the cupboard and pouring a cup of hot tea, and of course, adding a heaping teaspoon of honey into it.  The soothing taste and coating of honey is talked about in so many ways, thus while listening and sipping the tea, it makes for an amazing multi-dimensional learning scenario, having both your brain and body absorbing the true nectar of the gods.  What’s more than revealing the facts is the way Cal Orey interleaves her own life’s adventures into describing her quest of gaining the background information to compile the facts about honey into this highly specialized enlightening guide.

The story begins with the author taking on the project of doing a book about honey by the request of her publisher.  Listeners are brought to the planning stage of how Cal Orey organized her research to achieve what she is known for; as being a down-to-Earth presenter of health benefits of various food substances.  Honey follows her repertoire as she has demonstrated with vinegar, olive oil, chocolate, and other healing books.  Nobody is born with honey knowledge, so she first acquired every book she could find on the subject, then arranged for meetings with bee keepers in Fresno, Reno, and other places.  So as a listener, I found the tome of the narration as having a quality of discovery, as new factoids are learned and shared, making this story a journey of discovery.


“A Hippie Chick,” as she often referrers to herself as being, due to her expert knowledge of organic health foods, understanding their therapeutic effects having antioxidants, allowing for stress relieving, blood pressure control, diabetes cure, heart fortitude, and even helping lower the risk of cancer, honey fits right in at the top of God’s gifts to humanity – or should I say the Bee’s gift.  Her ‘textbook’ parts of the book when she is educating listeners (readers) on the many types of honey, their relative histories and specialized qualities, and somewhat magical powers are explained with describing each varieties’ color, taste, and even how best to pair it up with other food items.  Then, of course, she adds her own commentary to each of the about 30 variations of honey – that’s when I began to google the online stores to buy my own bouquet of flavors.

Some diversion to the author’s factual narration on the honey subject was most sentimentally touched upon with the stories of her dog(s).  At one point she talks about traveling all around the USA from California to Key West with her K-9 companion, and even smuggling the dog into Canada because she didn’t have the correct documents at the border – now that’s “chutzpah!”  She then talks about having a 6th sense when someone commented, “Nice dog” to her, only to find the dog missing after she tied it up outside a building for only a few minutes.  The sadness, crying, and sensation of loss was contagious.  A few months later she was “rescued” by a lab with sympathetic eyes in San Diego, and life with a dog partner took a happier path.

Honey is amazing.  The antibacterial properties makes it ideal for fighting off any bacterial infection, both inside and outside the body, as it is known for enhancing and protecting the skin and healing wounds.  Forget Pepto-Bismol, eat honey to cure suffering from diarrhea.  Heart healthy, even helping diabetics (which seems odd due to honey’s sweetness) as well as hypertension, lowering cholesterol and even aiding longevity, plus weight loss and libido enhancement are all benefits of this golden nectar.  Thank you, bees.

I must admit I did not know the vast variety of types of honey; yes, Clover is popular, and Van Morrison introduced me to Tupelo Honey, but Cal talks about Alfalfa Honey being native to Northern Nevada, and Buckwheat Honey being very powerful with antioxidants.  She thought Fireweed Honey might have been bitter yet was pleasantly surprised by its flavor.  I never would have thought Avocado Honey existed, and Dandelion, nor Eucalyptus – I guess I need to walk down the health-food isles in Whole Foods a bit more slowly next time.

It may seem as if I am making light of the subject, but that is how I perceived Cal Orey takes the sting out of being a dry educational presentation, and embellishes her work with her humble wisdom and incredible stories which she has gained on so many other subjects.  Just like blending honey into bakery items, combined it with cinnamon for holistic healing, or dissolving it in a tea, smoothie or drink, honey’s versatility and benefits are un-bee-livable.

Reviewer’s footnote:  Having the audiobook version of this bestselling book, the narration by Tara Marie Kirk was very clear and fluid, not missing a beat with those 5-syllable Latin names of the specific varieties, however as a personal preference I played it back at 1.25 speed, slightly picking up the pace for my listening pleasure, and cutting the play-time from just over 8 hours to about 6 hours. Pre-order now at most online bookseller websites!

A Gifted Storyteller for Hire

Meet and Greet Cal Orey, a Gifted Storyteller:  Cal Orey, M.A., is a successful author and novelist known for her diverse body of work, which includes over 40 books spanning various genres such as fiction, non-fiction, and self-help. She has gained recognition for her contributions to literature through publishers like Kensington and Newsmax, and she has been featured as a columnist and best-selling author in publications such as Woman's World and First for Women. Her official website is www.calorey.com.


Notable Works and Themes:  One of Orey's significant works is Courage with Paws, which highlights themes of resilience and recovery. This book emphasizes the importance of a holistic lifestyle in managing health issues. 

In addition to Courage with Paws, Orey has authored several other notable titles including The Healing Powers series and works in science fiction such as The Ghost Ships (co-authored the work--adding depth and voice to the main protagonist, half human, half feline) and Time-Traveling Tabby (a short read showcasing love, loss, fate, and acceptance). Her book on vinegar has achieved remarkable commercial success, selling nearly half a million copies and being translated into 25 languages.


Personal Background:  Orey holds a Master’s degree from San Francisco State University (SFSU), where she was taught by renowned author Anne Rice and civil rights poet John Beecher. Her educational background has contributed to her writing prowess, allowing her to explore complex themes in both fiction and non-fiction.

Her adventurous spirit is reflected in her life experiences; she famously hitchhiked across America with a dog, an experience that enriched her storytelling abilities. Later in life, she traveled to Canada in a more luxurious manner, which inspired further writings.


Public Engagements: Cal Orey is actively engaged with readers through numerous book signings at Barnes & Noble locations and appearances on national radio shows. Her visibility in the literary community has helped solidify her reputation as a well-known author. 

In summary, Cal Orey is recognized not only for her extensive bibliography but also for the personal narratives that inform much of her work. Her journey through living a healthy, holistic lifestyle serves as an inspiring backdrop for many of her writings, sharing how challenges can lead to profound insights shared through literature.

Cal Orey is a successful author known for over 40 books including "Courage with Paws," which was graced as a new bestselling book in cardiology and pet care; she emphasizes hope, fate, and resilience through holistic living.