24 Things I Learned Living in the Mountains

 By Cal Orey

Back in the summer of 1999, I left the fast-paced San Francisco Bay Area and moved to Lake Tahoe. I knew it would be a different lifestyle than being a city girl. But wow, little did I get that being self reliant is part of survival. So, today I made a list of things I've learned to do that if you told me it would happen two decades ago--I wouldn't have believed it. At all. So, here is my short list of things you have to do for yourself for self-preservation.

24 DIY Things for Surviving Lake Tahoe

1. I became an online shopping addict before the Amazon Prime era. (Yep, they snagged me, too.)
2. I ditched my waterbed for comfort and learned how amazing a bed layered with comforters, a heated blanket is a sanctuary to love during the cold months to endure minus 10 temperatures.
3. I mastered the art of how to make a perfect crackling fire in an old rock fireplace fit for a tom boy-type princess.
4. I made a faux garden in the short summers; it is rustic and fits in with summer vacation homeowners. Read: solar lights, river rock, solar lit umbrellas with wrought iron chairs and a table.
5. I planted trees and they lived...
6. ... I called authorities and complained about newbie mountain  people who killed healthy pine trees for more space.
7. I allowed a wayward battered woman in my home and called the police for help because nobody else wanted to get involved. It was a sign that people can still treat their neighbor right.
8. I evacuated the Angora Wildfire and took two dogs and one cat; lost two beloved fish and Tahoe trees.
9. I experienced a 4.8 and two strong 5.7 earthquakes and lived to tell my stories of predicting these shakers on national radio; I went on a West Coast book tour with the man who predicts earthquakes.
10. I survived a three day power outage with two dogs and was okay. (I lost 200 bucks worth of food; no burying perishables in snow doesn't work.)

11. I didn't melt and die living without a man for 20 years...and I feel like I am still a sexy, vibrant woman of God.
12. I loved and lost three warmhearted Brittany spaniels (I thought I was going to depart Earth with a broken heart when I lost number three); not to forget Alex and Kerouac, two cats, and a variety of fish...
13. ...My heart healed thanks to a loving and fluffy Australian Shepherd and sensitive rescue Siamese kitty.

14.  I learned to use my intuition and work two psychic networks; one in the U.K. (I have mastered the art of understanding the accents and countless dialects.)
15. I survived the Great Recession in 2008; I worked for a luxury real estate firm similar to the film "The Devil Wears Prada"--then my publisher rescued me. (Karma for the cat.)
16. I was a magazine journalist; now I am the author of a book series which ignited in 2000...
17. ...I landed number nine book on V-Day and in love with my eight books who are like human children I forgot to make.
18. I can shovel snow, sort of and make trails on the deck and yards. But I'm not a real mountain woman. Read: I still scream when I break a nail.
19. I learned to love thunderstorms in the summer; and taught my dog and cat to go with the flow and tune out loud noises and the novelty of Fourth of July.
20. I revived my natural girl cooking and baking skills; and I am the author of a food column in the local newspaper.
21. I found my wanderlust  spirit; I have gone to British Columbia (Vancouver and Victoria), Washington, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and will be going to Eastern Canada--if Mother Nature chills or should I say warms up.
22. I swam in the snow outdoors and indoors--and loved it.
23. I won 2000 bucks playing the dollar slot machines and sensed I would win that day that convinced me I really am psychic.
24. I learned that living in a small town of 21,000 people is bliss if you get off the hill to another region and come back to enjoy nature's paradise and solitude.

Italian Pasta Salad and Iced Tea--Summer Must-Haves

 By Cal Orey

Hello Pasta salad, with a Mediterranean flair. Nothing says summer like a quick-cook and make cold noodle salad chock-full of colorful vegetables. It is a salad with cooked pasta (served cold), often mixed with a vinaigrette or Italian dressing. It can be an appetizer, side dish, or entrée (especially with more than less protein).  Pasta salad is often regarded as a summertime meal, but it can be served year-round.

Rotini, shell, penne, elbow or bowtie pasta shapes are the most traditional. Add-ins include crucifers, cheeses, nuts, herbs, spices, poultry, or seafood. Broccoli, carrots, olives, onions, and Parmesan and/or hard cheeses can also be found in this salad served at picnics to buffet bars...

One summer at Tahoe the love of my life paid me a visit. On this particular day we were out of sync. This is the place, paradise amid pine trees and a lake, where we’d interview subjects for magazine articles, gambled at casinos, hiked on trails, went to midnight movies in Reno, strolled by the river, and ate at Reno-Tahoe Sizzler(s) savoring the favorite salad bar with its Pasta salad(s). 

On Hwy. 50 when the ex-boyfriend asked, “What do you want to do?” He looked out the window. He seemed bored. He was distant. A few hours later, after few words in between, it was time.  It was time to say good-bye. He drove off the hill at dusk. And I was home.

Ironically, I had stuffed the fridge with our favorite foods, including store bought Italian Pasta salad. That night I grabbed the plastic deli container, sat with my Aussie. Looking out the window at the deck, I munched on the chilled, familiar noodles. While the pasta was good as always--a constant--it was apparent the romance in my world was stale. And I realized homemade salad can be better and fresh.

So, while love comes and goes, some foods, like Pasta salad is there waiting for us, like a warm and furry loyal canine friend, always there during the best and worst of times. After time passed, I learned how to make homemade Italian Pasta salad, inspired by the SF Bay Area, where I was born and raised.

Summertime Tahoe Pasta Salad

2 cups Rotini and/or other small pasta, cooked (multi-colored)

1 cup broccoli and cauliflower florets, steamed or boiled (do not overcook)

½ cup cherry or grape tomatoes, chopped

¼ cup black olives, sliced

¼ cup artichoke hearts, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, chopped

½ cup cheese (crumbled blue or Monterey Jack)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

¾ cup Vinaigrette or all-natural premium Italian store bought dressing

In a bowl combine vegetables, cheese, nuts, herbs, spices, and poultry, or seafood. Set aside. Boil pasta. Remove from stove top. Mix in chosen ingredients. Add dressing, fold in gently. Chill in refrigerator. Makes 3-4 servings.

This salad can be pre-made. To make it more fun you can make a chilled Pasta salad bar much like a potato or ice cream bar. Dish up the pasta with dressing. Add spices. In small dishes provide a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, cheeses, nuts, and lean protein—all chopped. Let your guests make their own salad. Not only is it oh so good, especially with the tang of artichoke hearts and olives (these can be found fresh in the deli at the grocery store) and filling with cheeses and summery vegetables. Pair it French bread and iced tea with a twist of berries. The best part is, mixing it up so everyone loves noodle salad with people or solo.

-- 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.

Summertime Fruit Crumble and Musings of My Geologist Friend

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 past 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, plums, peaches)

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.

Supermoon July 13, 2022--Super Earth Change(s) May Happen! (Ring of Fire Major Quake, Tsunami, Volcano, Flooding)

What Do Animals Know?

Article Written By Cal Orey 

UPDATE: 7-14--6.6 Earthquake Easter Island, 7-14, 6.4 Chile Quake (oar fish seen prior),Triple trouble: Haboob, flash flooding and severe thunderstorms wreak havoc in southern Arizona, Flooding on the East Coast...4.6 Ridgecrest, CA (3 felt tremors 7-14), King Tides for the California coastal regions....

Animals have such amazing senses that it seems they can predict quakes and tsunamis. “No way,” you’re thinking. But it’s true, they can, and for a variety of reasons. Here, some experts offer possible theories to explain animal, and maybe your pet’s mysterious insights...

ON December 26, on the day of the Full Moon, a 9.0 earthquake hit off the west coast of Northern Sumatra, and the big wave of destruction followed.  In Sri Lanka, an island south of India, wildlife officials reported that at Yala National Park, near the area of mass destruction, elephants, leopards, and deer survived. Unlike humans, few animal carcasses have been found after the killer tsunami hit the wildlife sanctuary.

California Geologist Jim Berkland is not surprised by the post-tsunami disaster reports of the animals and their “sixth sense.” After all, he has been creating a buzz about our pet-friendly “seismic sentries” for more than 20 years.

So what gives? Diana L. Guerrero, author and animal disaster behavior expert in Big Bear Lake, CA, said, “Animals appear to exhibit an awareness of impending disaster. Changes are common in both wild and domestic animals prior to seismic activity. So I would suspect that animals vacated the area prior to the tsunami based on their survival instincts.”

How do animals do that? It’s just another astounding act that makes animals seem psychic. But do they really have a supernatural sixth sense?

CLAIRVOYANT CUES

Animal experts claim there doesn’t seem to be any other explanation. Animals possess super senses that are beyond the scope of normal sensory perception. Ever notice how pets often seem to know something we don’t? They wake up before the alarm clock rings or recognize their owner is ill. Some experts think they have ESP. Some say it’s a mystery of nature. And some things animals know are unsolved mysteries—or are they?

Do animals really have a sixth sense? “Anecdotal accounts seem to indicate that they appear to. A more common example would be the survival response in groups of animals in response to predators—they avoid the hunters and ignore those that are not on the prowl. I would hypothesize that the same adaptations relate to geological and related threats,” explains Guerrero.

ANIMAL WARNINGS

In fact, pets may be so sensitive to the movements of the earth’s crust that they can actually predict earthquakes, too.
“When the magnetic field fluctuates a few days or hours before a quake, the animals become disoriented or frightened and some run away,” according to Berkland.

He claims a better than 80 percent success rate .Berkland predicted the 1989 World Series earthquake and the 1994 Northridge quake in Southern California. What led this geologist to make these predictions? Missing cats and dogs! He’s found the number of lost-pet ads peak a day or so before an earthquake hits. Evidently, our pets will often disappear— heading for safer ground! And apparently, the wildlife in Sri Lanka did just that.

Berkland also suggests animals are able to detect minute changes in the earth’s magnetic field due to magnetite in their bodies; magnetite is magnetic iron oxide grains that are common in many rocks. Recent research on magnetite suggests they’re the cause of homing pigeons’ navigational abilities, and of whales’ and butterflies’ migrations.

Odd animal behavior has been reported elsewhere. A few days before an earthquake in Haicheng, China, which occurred on February 4, 1975, masses of frogs and fish killed themselves trying to break through ice-covered rivers and ponds. Horses, cows, and pigs ran off.

A few days after the strange animal happenings began, the 7.3 earthquake flattened the city, destroying a large percentage of buildings. But because city officials took heed of the animal warnings, the city was evacuated within a day before the quake, and fatalities were kept to a minimum.

TURNING TO MOTHER NATURE

But there is more to Berkland’s theory than just missing pets and strange animal behavior. He also predicts quakes by using information on the tidal flows, and the position of the moon and earth. Plus, the moon in the Full or New phase with fluctuation of both extreme low and high tides can cause significant earthquakes. And not only “was the great 9.0 Sumatra quake and tsunami on the day of the Full Moon,” points out Berkland, “the last 9+ magnitude quake and tsunami was in Alaska on March 27, 1964, also the day of the Full Moon.”

Berkland adds, “All year I have been warning of the record tides coming in early December. I have said that if a great quake was going to occur, December was the most likely time. And now we have two separate great earthquakes within one week, which may be unprecedented.” An 8.1 monster quake struck off the Macquarie Island on December 23. Interestingly, it has been reported that penguins, like the Sri Lanka animals, escaped harm’s way, too.

But since scientists still admit they aren’t yet able to reliably predict earthquakes, is it really so silly to monitor our animal friends?

Berkland advises people to do just that. Prepare. In the meantime, he’ll be noting the moons, tides, and listening to reports from people worldwide who observe changes in animal behavior.

Callie is an author and journalist who lives in South Lake Tahoe, CA. She is the author of The Man Who Predicts Earthquakes, the story of Jim Berkland and his ability to predict major tremors around the world, for publication in 2006, the centennial anniversary year of the San Francisco earthquake.

Your Seismic Sentries Looking for a beacon to the next earthquake? Here are some animal clues gleaned from Diana L.Guerrero’s animal disaster preparedness booklet, Animal Disaster Preparedness for Pet Owners & Pet Professionals: Wild Animals: Animals vacate areas, gather in groups, or enter into human inhabited areas prior to incidents. Cats: You may see warning signs such as hiding, running around frantically trying to escape outdoors, and meowing. Dogs: Dogs will usually hide. Behavior before a quake includes howling, whining, barking, restlessness, aggression, and increased devotion to animal guardians. Horses and Livestock: Hoofed animals often refuse to enter their barns or pens and often refuse to tie. They tend to group together in open areas, act nervous, or pace. Other Animals: Caged birds will often hang on their cage, sometimes they will flap frantically, or they can be abnormally quiet. But note, not all animals can and do predict earthquakes.

Herbs and Spices Number 9 Book Best for Summer (Healing Powers Series)

      By Cal Orey

UPDATE: Newsmax is offering The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices as a GIFT BOOK. And it will debuted in the 2021 July issue of Newsmax Magazine!  And now on amazon website -- Summer Must-Have! And July 17, 2021? Walmart graces the book with a Best Seller banner (again)! It's the go-to guide for summer-fall... Plus, Herbs and Spices has now made its way into 120 plus libraries worldwide (dozens of branches)! 'Tis the season(ing) to spice it up for heart, immune health and to slim down and healthy up year-round.

Best Seller

Product Image

This gem made its way through the news. On April 7, an article interviewing the author Cal Orey hit Huffington Post...and the piece was picked up by New York Daily, NY Daily Post, City Buzz, and even more online mags and newspapers! 

The new and timely release (yes, McCormick recently shared its Old Bay Seasoning is "hot"). People are still home-cooking more than ever! The reader-friendly book is now in more than 87 libraries worldwide (multiple copies, checked out); Woman's World Book Club approved Feb. 1 issue; reviewed by Booklist; 100% like it on Goodreads; major media outlet is on board carrying copies; Walmart gave it a Best Seller banner for 2 weeks; Best Seller in top 100 health books on Amazon this month; featured in magazines/newspapers...and the year is young. #9 (Series) The book that'll whisk you away!

Product Image

Best Seller

Product TitleThe Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices (Walmart website)

• • Cal Orey

• ISBN10: 0806540486

• ISBN: 9780806540481

• Format:Paperback

• 
  The mega-popular Healing Powers series from bestselling nutrition writer Cal Orey continues with its 9th installment, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices, exploring the many ways fresh herbs in your fridge and dried spices in your kitchen cupboard can provide medicinal powers, home cures, weight loss benefits, beauty treatments, and adventurous flavors and textures to enhance plant-based dishes. 

  
  

  And during the pandemic there is a spice surge because of the home-cooking comeback!

  

  The key to vibrant health for all generations is in your kitchen...
  

  Anise, bay leaf, garlic, parsley, turmeric, and more (I use a lot of the McCormick classic brand) --for thousands of years, herbs and spices have been praised for preserving and flavoring food, as well as preventing and curing illnesses. The latest research reveals that the seasonings already in your pantry--or easily found fresh in your supermarket or garden--can lower your risk for cancer, heart disease, and obesity. This A-to-Z guide catalogues the most popular and versatile herbs and spices, drawn from the Mediterranean Diet but suitable for any diet plan. You will learn how to harness herbalism to heal your body and mind.
  
  

  Discover how to use nature's gifts including allspice, chives, fennel, oregano, pepper, tarragon, saffron, and special blends like Herbes de Provence to:
  
  ●Bring abundant zest to your table while lowering your cholesterol, balancing your blood sugar, and revving up your metabolism--at any age!
  ●Ward off colds and flu, banish a hacking cough, and even ease PMS or menopause woes, by adding tasty plant therapy to your favorite food or drink.
  ●Lessen your anxiety and boost your mood with aromatic natural ingredients found in dried and fresh flavorings.
  ●Soothe aches and pains without harmful side effects--and trigger feel-good endorphins--using sweet and savory garnishes, including edible flowers.
  ●Create in-home spa treatments using the same herbal potions featured at luxury spa resorts.
  Caraway Breadsticks, anyone? How about Cilantro Lime Slaw, Herbal Greek Bean Soup, or Roasted Paprika Cornish Hens? With over 50 taste-tempting recipes, along with personal stories and fascinating historical anecdotes on medicinal uses dating back to biblical times, The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices is your go-to guide to embracing limitless energy and healthy longevity while feasting on memorable meals full of aroma and deliciousness!

Invisible Ink: I Am A Ghostwriter-Co-Author

 By Cal Orey

I am a ghostwriter. I am often on the job writing books for someone else. For example, writing as a military wife, I dished out heartfelt feelings in a woman’s magazine about my husband’s service in Iraq. Writing as a witty English doctor, I prescribe anti-aging secrets in a self-help book. Writing as my sensitive mixed-breed cat, I dispense advice to pets and humans in a bimonthly horoscope column.

            Sound like fun? For writers who don’t mind losing a byline, ghostwriting is an interesting and potentially lucrative career option. Here are five reasons why you should consider this often-overlooked writing path.

1 Interesting assignments

Ever wish you were someone else? As a ghostwriter, you can live your dream vicariously—without having to get credentials or be reincarnated. Being a “ghost” is like channeling into someone else’s body and mind. For example, I write for my 5-year-old cat, Kerouac, who pens the column “What Do the Stars Hold for Your Pet?” for a pet magazine. Not only is his name on the masthead, each column pays for his premium cat food and toys.

            Eric Neuhaus, a New York ghostwriter, did the writing and more for a book by fitness guru Joe Decker As part of the assignment, Neuhaus and a diet consultant cooked up healthy versions of traditionally unhealthy dishes such and meatloaf and fajitas. “The kitchen in my one-bedroom apartment became the test kitchen,” Neuhaus says. “I bought another book on how to write recipes. All of this was trail by fire. I never thought in m wildest dreams that I’d be testing recipes.”

Ghost Tip: “If you enjoy people, ghostwriting is a way to delve into some of the most unusual people on the planet,” says Marc L. Weber, a former ghostwriter.

2 An occasional credit

When I was assigned the Iraq article for Complete Woman, I collected the very personal first-person narratives of two military wives, using their unique voices to put together their heart-warming tales. I received an “as told to” author credit.

Ghost Tip: If you think the book has potential to be a bestseller, request co-author credit. But if the project is an author’s tool (i.e., selling products), credit isn’t a big deal.

3 Appreciative clients

“One of the most surprising facts I have learned about ghostwriting is that there are some extremely intelligent people out there who cannot put anything onto paper,” Habert says. “For some reason, somewhere between the thought process and the actual movements of their pen or fingers on keyboard, they become babbling fools.”

            In my ghostwritten book on anti-aging, I noticed while the doctor had good command of the English language, his prose tended to be dry. I was hired to “dumb down” his health advice and product information. And the doctor appreciated my ability to do just that.

Ghost Tip: “You have to check your ego at the door,” cautions Deborah Kotz of Silver Spring, Md., who has worked as a ghostwriter on several health books. “Realize that you are the ‘writer’ and not the ‘author.’ There’s a big difference between the two. You are not the authority. So, you have to convey the message that the author wants to convey.”

You have to check your ego

at the door. Realize that you are

the “writer” and not the “author.”

4 Big-money potential

Some book advances can make you smile. Case in point: I just signed a book contract for a five-figure deal, travel expenses and bonuses. For the next five months, I will feel financially secure as I ghostwrite about a fascinating and controversial topic. How rich is that?

Ghost Tip: “If you think the book isn’t going to get that six-figure advance, settle on a fee upfront for your services,” Neuhaus says. “If you think it is going to be a blockbuster project, then negotiate a percentage of the advance and royalties.”

5 Unlimited prospects

The best part of ghostwriting is that it’s like a deep well that never goes dry. Habert understands the glory of ghostwriting. “It is a lucrative source of writing, not only in a monetary manner but also in the volume available,” she says.  Weber adds that a baby boomers age, “that generation becomes interested in holding on to its memories, so there is more work for ghostwriters to do than ever before.”

Ghost Tip: “Network as much as you can,” Weber says. “Make sure people know you have the talent to help them."

            Each in his or her own way, Habert, Weber and Neuhaus have discovered that ghostwriting is a good avenue to a never-ending road of projects. You, too, can arrive at that point. Just put on your mask and go to work.

Getting Started

Look close to home: Offer to be the ghostwriter for your family, friends and co-workers. Don’t rule our your kids or pets, either.

Develop a specialty: “Whether it’s fitness or fashion, write about what you love and have a passion for,” says New York City ghostwriter Eric Neuhaus.

Network with other ‘ghosts’: Often, ghostwriters will be busy with projects and may refer clients to you for a finder’s fee.

Discuss the editing process: If you want to avoid ghoulish re-dos, talk with the author about edits before you begin. Personally, I have incorporated the phrases "No revisions" in the agreement. A dentist to hair stylist may make minor tweaks--but countless changes? Not a chance.

Get it in writing: “If you’re going to collaborate, you’re going to need a written contract or agreement that spells out show does what and how much you get—and when,” Neuhaus says.

Tackle Tasks:  Outlines, restructuring and crafting, developing characters, writing prologues, cliffhanger chapters, and WOW endings, settings, description, dialogue -- and much more!

Remember, everyone has at least one book in them:  It’s your job to connect mentally and emotionally with someone who want to hire a ghost—namely, you.

Published in The Writer (since 1933, RIP)

BIO: CAL OREY, M.A. Meet a super versatile author-journalist, columnist & ghostwriter (fiction: crime, romance, sci-fi, adventure, psychological thrillers, memoir & most genres) and a known on-air personality... 

I'm a born and raised Californian who keeps it real. I hold two degrees in English (Creative Writing) from SFSU, and pen the "hugely successful" Healing Powers Series, available at all fine bookstores --all 9 books have been graced with online bookstore website Bestseller banners; (translated in 25+ languages), many featured by Good Cook and Literary Guild book clubs to Newsmax media.

 

NEW BOOK RELEASE: 

The Healing Powers of Herbs & Spices: Timeless Treasures #9 published in 2021 by Kensington  

It has made its way to being a pick in Woman's World Magazine Book Club, and covered by Booklist, American Global News, GlobalInformerNews, NYC Daily Post, New York Daily, City Buzz News, Huffington Post, on board with Newsmax, and in more than 75 libraries worldwide (multiple branches, many copies), articles in hard copy and online magazines... noted on C2CAM, KSFO...

Feng Shui in the Summertime for Harmony and Happiness

 By Cal Orey, The Writing Gourmet

“In the childhood memories of every good cook, there's a large kitchen, a warm stove, a simmering pot and a mom.” -- Barbara Costikyan

So, here I am fantasizing about a booked trip to Alaska in autumn and enjoying parts of summer. Living at Tahoe has its perks but this season comes with challenges. Yosemite is burning again. Evacuations are happening again. The air quality is holding its own here--so far. And I continue to work on another book based in the South. 

The kitchen is oh-so much cleaner thanks to the mega cleanup and feng shui moves I've been making. Simply put, feng shui is the ancient Chinese art of placement. Its goal is to bring you harmony. By putting stuff in the right spots in your kitchen (and outside of it for a different oasis for your mood in the morning, afternoon, night) may enhance the flow of positive energy and zap negative vibrations. The end result: good health, happiness, and fortune. 

Read on--you, too, can enjoy a well-balanced kitchen that feels good from head to toe like I recall enjoying as a little girl...

1. Use Eco-friendly Vinegar and Olive Oil Cleaners. For starters, turn on your fave tunes and use the headphone. Brew a cup of iced tea or piece of quality chocolate (70% cacao) and it will boost your energy and mood...Then, it's time to clean your kitchen from top to bottom with natural stuff. You'll be doing you, yours, and Mother Nature a favor. Using nontoxic vinegar can help you to: lose the ants; clean stainless steel, get rid of dust, and keep fresh flowers longer. By keeping it green it will provide you with better health and energy. Tons of good for you cleaning tips for indoors-outdoors can be found in my books--especially the Healing Powers series. Don't forget to freshen up your dried spices. Out with the old and in with the new for more flavor and aroma.

2. Declutter Your Stuff. Ditto. Getting rid of things you don't use will up your energy. It's true. You feel lighter with less kitchen baggage, starting fresh is liberating. I cleaned out both the fridge and freezer. Add a fresh box of baking soda to soak up odors. Then, I tackled the pantry and tossed out olive oil, pasta, rice, soup, gourmet spices (yep, I sadly discovered they don't last forever) and anything else that expired...What's the saying: Out with the old and in with the new.

3. Clean the Stovetop and Oven. This was a chore but it feels right to have the stovetop shine. (My Stepford Wife colors are starting to show.) The inside of the oven is sparkling, too. Writing Gourmet Tip: If you must use toxic oven cleaner, go over it with the natural stuff. Trust me, this is a feel-good must-do before warming up to those cooler days 'n' nights of unforgettable autumn baking and cooking (breads, muffins, casseroles, etc.). Add cookbooks--the Healing Powers Series--9 books will just about do it!

4. Brighten Up with Lighting. During the colder days without sun you'll want to have sunny-type lighting which can up your energy and mood--linked to good health. Go for full spectrum light bulbs. No summer blues or other pesky problems. Speaking of lightening up...

5. Boost Your Mood with Plants. To help wipe out pollutants in your kitchen, fill your space with hardy, happy plants. Your best bet during the fall: philodendrons. They do well in the Sierras unlike Boston Ferns (which I love). Ah, and fresh herbs for summertime light, flavorful cooking is a must! In the window sills, please.

6. Bring on the Water. Fish aquariums provide positive energy in the dining room, especially with a gentle filter Ever notice Asian restaurants and the calming ambiance of fish?

7. Fish, Fish, Fish. Today, I read that goldfish can bring you good luck and prosperity. In fact, nine is the lucky number. The colors? Gold and one black one. (Go smaller rather than bigger in size = less cleaning.) My kitchen/dining room/study all are connected. So, the fish aquarium is a pleasant, calming treat for all three rooms. (Goldfish, betta, mollies, snails, frog, catfish--all small and all happy.)

8. Bring Out the Fresh Fruit. I've got several plump healthful seasonal fruits on display and ready to eat or use in recipes, such as apples, grapefruits, lemons, oranges, peaches, and plums placed in a bowl or two. Fresh artichokes to tomatoes adds a nice touch. According to feng shui wizards a full bowl may lead to a full life. Translation: Display pretty bowls with plenty of pretty fruit. Empty bowls with just a few pieces of not so nice fruit not so good. And oranges? Nine is the lucky number I've read...Put 'em in a wooden bowl and on the kitchen or dining room table. (Note: If they're pricey, purchase the ones in a bag. Save the separate, sweet and juicy ones for eating.)

9. Conceal Knives and Scissors. My father gave me a black and white marble knife block, cutting board, and rolling pin. I love it. But the knives are out of sight. Bad vibes, say feng shui folks. 

10. Hanging Pots and Pans. Today, my cooking stuff is hanging on the wall in an arrangement. But I'm thinking about getting one of those artsy-looking overhead pots and pans hanger. If so, I will not, nor should you hang it over your workspace. Not good energy, or so they feng shui gurus claim. Personal Note: Add a cat and rustic table to get that Hemingway vibe going.

11. Hide the Gadgets. Too many kitchen items can clutter up all that positive decluttering

you did. So, choose your favorites and recycle as you use 'em. Or, you can always get a Kitchen Island. I'm thinking a rustic, wooden Mediterranean type. It would be modest, wooden, but eye-catching, and a great place to stack some kitchen gadgets, and a workspace.

12. Hang Wind Chimes with Crystals. I brought one of mine in from the deck--and put it above the kitchen windows. The one I chose is of a sun with a face. It makes me smile every time I look at Mr. Sunshine. Feng shui  enthusiasts recommend hanging chimes in the doorway to the kitchen or over the stove sings good energy.