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Spilling the Tea with The Old Farmer’s Almanac!
Peace, happiness, and joy are possible during the time I drink my tea.”– Thich Nhat Hanh, Vietnamese Zen Master
Next to water, tea is the most widely consumed drink in the world – 3.7 billion cups daily in one recent year. There are basic reasons for this. Tea quenches our thirst. We like the taste. It warms us up on a cold day and refreshes us on a scorcher. We brew a cup of Irish breakfast to get going in the A.M. and a mug of soothing chamomile before bed. Just the act of making a “cuppa” can be restorative. This is especially true in the UK, according to anthropologist Kate Fox: “Whenever the English feel awkward or uncomfortable in a situation (that is, almost all the time), they make tea.”Tea has been around for two millennia or so; in 2016, archaeologists discovered tea in a Chinese emperor’s tomb dating from 141 B.C., well past its “best by” date. One of the world’s oldest and most popular drinks, tea is also one of the best for your health.A Drink A DayA translated ancient Chinese proverb posits that “drinking a daily cup of tea will surely starve the apothecary.” In fact, tea was probably first imbibed as a medicine. Lu Yu, the Chinese author of Ch’a Ching, or “The Classic of Tea,” promoted its healthfulness in the 8th century. In 1657, Garraway’s Coffee House in London became the first business to sell tea in England, advertising that it “maketh the Body active and lusty . . . helpeth the Headache . . . removeth the Obstructions of the Spleen” and was “good against Lipitude Distillations.” Quaint language aside (“lippitude” refers to bleary eyes), Garraway’s was onto something. We know today that the caffeine in tea can alleviate a headache and may speed up the action of a pain reliever.Caffeine is just one component of tea that can be beneficial. Catechins – a type of polyphenols, or plant chemicals with antioxidant properties – are also being studied for their preventative and curative powers. Here’s a sampling of some of the more promising findings.-
A 2020 meta-analysis of an array of studies found that drinking two to three cups of black or green tea a day was associated with a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease and a lower risk of cardiac events and stroke. Other studies have suggested related cardiovascular benefits, such as the potential to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
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A 2021 review of research into green tea found that it has potential as a flu-fighter and may ward off the common cold.
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According to a 2022 article in Molecules, the catechins in green and black tea may have prophylactic and therapeutic effects on Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
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A study published in 2023 showed that drinking tea may lower the risk of osteoporosis and hip fractures. This is encouraging news, given that osteoporosis affects millions and is difficult to treat.
The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac is available wherever books and magazines are sold. Support local booksellers whenever possible! A full list of stores that carry The Old Farmer’s Almanac is available at Almanac.com/WheretoBuy. Print and digital copies of The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac are also available online at Almanac.com/Shop and on Amazon.The Old Farmer’s Almanac—with its iconic yellow cover and classic corner hole—originates from Yankee Publishing Inc., a 100% employee-owned company in Dublin, New Hampshire. The Almanac’s editors also produce their annual Garden Guide, digital monthly magazine EXTRA!, The Old Farmer’s Almanac for Kids (Vol. 10 now available), and a collection of wall and desk calendars, including The Old Farmer’s Almanac Planner. Also available is their online garden-design tool, the Garden Planner.They also publish a collection of gardening titles, such as the Container Gardener’s Handbook (released in Spring 2024), the Flower Gardener’s Handbook, and the Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook (now in its seventh printing!).Daily Almanac wit and wisdom are available through Almanac.com, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, and the Amazon Echo voice assistant. -
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Timeless Wisdom from American History
In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, three quote collections invite readers to pause, reflect, and draw inspiration from the past to navigate the present and future. These books offer a unique blend of historical wisdom and contemporary relevance, perfect for anyone seeking to enrich their lives with lessons from American history.
Early American Wisdom: A Treasury of Quotations
This book delves into the rich tapestry of American history, uncovering the timeless wisdom of our forebears. Through a curated collection of quotations, readers are encouraged to look back at the lessons of the past to find guidance and inspiration for today’s challenges.
The Abraham Lincoln Book of Quotes: A Collection of Speeches, Quotations, Essays and Advice from the Sixteenth President of The United States
Explore the profound thoughts and philosophies of Abraham Lincoln. This book offers a deep dive into the speeches, quotations, essays, and advice from America’s sixteenth president, providing readers with a roadmap to navigate modern complexities with the same resilience and foresight.
The Benjamin Franklin Book of Quotes: A Collection of Speeches, Quotations, Essays and Advice from America’s Most Prolific Founding Father
Bridging the gap between past and present, this book highlights key moments in Benjamin Franklin’s life and the enduring wisdom they offer. Readers will find practical advice and timeless truths that can be applied to contemporary life, fostering a sense of continuity and purpose.
Rediscovering American Wisdom
By reflecting on the wisdom of American history, these books provide a meaningful way to look back and move forward, offering readers the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence and clarity.
All three books are in stores now. If you would like to receive a review copy, please provide your mailing address and media outlet.
Sincerely,
Casey Harper, Media Relations
Hatherleigh Press, Ltd.
Phone: 347-627-0083
Email: publicity@hatherleighpress.com# # #
Early American Wisdom
Written by Jackie Corley
978-1-57826-893-1, $12.50 hardcoverThe Abraham Lincoln Book of Quotes
Written by Travis Hellstrom
978-1-57826-970-9, $15.00 hardcoverThe Benjamin Franklin Book of Quotes
Written by Travis Hellstrom
978-1-57826-980-9, $15.00 hardcoverPublished by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com -
Practical Uses for Household Ingredients
Practical Uses for Household Ingredients
Lemon juice, baking soda, salt, and vinegar are kitchen staples. Did you know that there are other uses for these common ingredients? Keep these items stocked to help with housekeeping and to reduce your need for multiple costly cleaners.
Lemon
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Freshen the air in your house by simmering a pot of sliced lemons and water on the stovetop.
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Dry out a poison ivy rash by applying lemon juice for about 15 minutes before rinsing off with cool water. Repeat as necessary.
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Lighten hair color by rinsing with a mixture of 1 part lemon juice and 2 parts water.
Baking Soda
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To soothe an insect bite/sting, apply a paste of baking soda and water.
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Remove gas and oil odors from clothing by allowing it to sit in a trash bag with baking soda for at least 24 hours prior to washing.
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Remove coffee stains from mugs and tomato sauce stains from plastic containers by wiping them with a damp sponge dipped in baking soda paste.
Salt-
Kill weeds in driveway cracks and between bricks and stones by pouring boiling salted water over them.
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To relieve a sore throat, gargle with warm saltwater (1/4 teaspoon salt to 1 cup water).
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Rub a paste of salt and olive oil over watermarks on wood with a sponge until removed.
Vinegar-
To loosen a bumper sticker, cover it for up to 5 minutes with a paper towel saturated in white vinegar. Slowly peel the sticker off and remove any bumper residue with a clean cloth wet with white vinegar.
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Apply white vinegar to disinfect wooden cutting boards.
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To deter ants, spray a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water on kitchen surfaces.
The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac is available wherever books and magazines are sold. Support local booksellers whenever possible! A full list of stores that carry The Old Farmer’s Almanac is available at Almanac.com/WheretoBuy. Print and digital copies of The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac are also available online at Almanac.com/Shop and on Amazon.
The Old Farmer’s Almanac—with its iconic yellow cover and classic corner hole—originates from Yankee Publishing Inc., a 100% employee-owned company in Dublin, New Hampshire. The Almanac’s editors also produce their annual Garden Guide, The Old Farmer’s Almanac for Kids (Vol. 10 now available), and a collection of wall and desk calendars including The Old Farmer’s Almanac Planner.
Daily Almanac wit and wisdom are available through Almanac.com, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and the Amazon Echo voice assistant.
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Award-Winning Author Nadine Haruni Releases Book Two in Teenage Fantasy Adventure Trilogy: The Hat Diaries: Discover the Portal
In her first novel for middle-grade (and older) readers, The Hat Diaries: The Secret Life of Ryan Rigbee, award-winning author Nadine Haruni introduced readers to Ryan Rigbee, a 13-year-old loner reeling from losing his dad who forms an unexpected bond with Merlo. The enchanted hats Ryan puts on before bedtime magically transform him into the role of the hat-wearer, and he is drawn into a world filled with nightly action-packed adventures with his dog, Shadow. In the trilogy’s second installment, The Hat Diaries: Discover the Portal (November 2024; ISBN: 979-8-890220139-1), Haruni takes Ryan’s adventures to an exciting and dangerous new level.
The Hat Diaries: Discover the Portal follows Ryan, his trusted dog Shadow, and his mentor Merlo, the magician turned proprietor of Harry’s Haberdashery, as they continue to explore the power of all kinds of hats—from sombreros and berets to an astronaut’s helmet—transporting them to incredible places worldwide (and beyond) and back in time.
Ryan experiences many harrowing adventures, including narrowly escaping being trampled by a herd of angry beasts during the Running of the Bulls event in Spain, barely surviving a violent mob on Bastille Day in France, and having a dangerous run-in with a band of angry pirates—with only moments to spare on the portal’s timer. In an interview, Haruni can talk about the following:
- How her books address various social-emotional learning (SEL) topics, allowing children to see themselves or their friends in the stories.
- Where the first installment of The Hat Diaries leaves off and where the second book continues.
- What are the differences between writing her first five-book series (Freeda the Frog) for little children, as compared to dreaming up the second of her third pre-teen sci-fi fantasy (The Hat Diaries), and how it is to change writing styles for different audiences.
- Why it’s important to encourage young people to read and write, and consider starting to journal.
- What you need to know to start writing your own book.
About the Author
Nadine Haruni is the award-winning author known for her captivating The Hat Diaries™ fantasy adventure series and the beloved Freeda the Frog™ children’s books. The second installment in The Hat Diaries trilogy, The Hat Diaries: Discover the Portal, follows the success of The Hat Diaries: The Secret Life of Ryan Rigbee. This trilogy, aimed at teens and adults, invites readers to explore the imaginative world of Ryan’s secret adventures. Meanwhile, the Freeda the Frog series offers stories centered on acceptance and provides comfort for children navigating real-life challenges.
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Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil. Reception, Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 pm at San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery
San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery presents
Dreamscape: Beyond the VeilNovember 18 – December 12, 2024
Reception: Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 PM,
Art Gallery, FA 103FREE and OPEN to the public.
Free Parking during receptions in Lot # 1.
Park in STAFF spaces ONLY.
Image Credit: Designed by Makena Jackson, Museum Studies student,Fall 2024
Can’t join for the events?
Visit us during our regular gallery hours:
Monday through Thursday, 12-5 pm.
Closed Thanksgiving Week: November 25 – 29, 2024San Diego Mesa College,
Fine Arts Building, Art Gallery, FA103
7250 Mesa College Dr. SD 92111
Closest entrance is through Marlesta/GeneseeParticipating Artists: Adan Abaquin-Brown, Luis Alderete, Gabrielle Berens, Beate Bermann-Enn, Abigail Brown, Elizabeth Brown, Sophia Ciuffa , Annie Claflin, Krista Cuellar, Gabriela Ponce Curlango, Eva D’Amico, Alexis Deming, Meghan DeRoma, Matthew Devoys, Sheena Rae Dowling, Dana Edwards, Christopher Ferreria, Patricia Frischer, Gal Crew (Jennifer Armer, Gaby Espina, Caiti Myth), Arie Galles, Junko Glawe, Jeff Kahn, John Carlos Keasler, Natalia Kozlova, Braulio Lam, Sami Leon, Evan Lopez, Rick Macaw, Evie Maher, Kamaal Martin, Isa Guadalupe Medina ,Teresa Mill, Chris Reilly, Michelle Montjoy, Alejandro Morales, Caiti Myth, James Nelson, Dakota Noot, christian olid-ramirez, Philip Petrie, Lulu Yueming Qu, Josie Rodriguez, Kayah Rybar, Alyanah Santos, Sandra Segovia ,Cheryl Tall, Alyssa Marielle Villagracia, Bryan Tipton, Ell Treese, Christopher Tucker , Patricia Valero, Kelsey Worth, Jessica Yambao
“A Dream of Earth’s Hope” by Lulu Yueming QuThe San Diego Mesa College Art Gallery cordially invites you to experience Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil, a student-curated exhibition. Human beings have always been fascinated with the mysteries of the subconscious and the visions that lurk beneath the surface of logic and reason. The Museum Studies class has curated an exhibition featuring 54 talented local artists whose work is inspired by dreams in all their forms.
Join us for the reception on Thursday, November 21, 4 – 7 pm to participate in a thought-provoking interactive piece by artist group Gal Crew. As guests enter the space they will encounter What Drifts Through Your Dreamscape?, a mesmerizing, multifaceted installation that explores whimsical and unsettling realms. This imaginative work creates a dynamic dialogue between light and dark, engaging the viewer from the moment they approach the gallery window.
Sheena Rae Dowling’s A Guide to Becoming Water was inspired by the painter’s own dreams, which she has cataloged over the course of 25 years. Invoking her recurring nightmares of the ocean, Dowling scrapes the edges of her psyche for the surreal imagery she delivers to the canvas. The artist highlights the cyclical nature and mystical properties of the sea, contrasting the terror and the beauty of the deep. Meanwhile, Patricia Frischer visualizes her dreams in a series of painted vinyl records – full of color and contrast that give a glimpse into the jubilant yet mysterious world of her subconscious. Hot-air balloons carry a silhouetted stranger who presides over a landscape of rushing seas and plateaus, a shadowy yet constant presence. Both artists pose questions that we often ask ourselves after dreaming: Who is that faceless figure? What is that bizarre place? And, perhaps most mysterious of all, why does this dream keep coming back?
Philip Petrie and christian olid-ramirez confront unsettling nightmares with their work. Petrie’s somber canvases, Approaching and Departure Mountain, mirror intriguing and disturbing dreams. christian olid-ramirez’s large oil paintings from his series The Gloaming depict a fictional “desert of the mind” –a mental sandbox exploring the darkest thoughts and impulses of the human soul. Bounty renders a pile of blocky severed limbs placed before a pyre. Haunted and surreal, these works dip into the shadowy recesses of the mind, challenging viewers to explore paths rarely walked in daylight.
Dreamscape: Beyond the Veil invites viewers to contemplate how dreams shape our understanding and experience of the world. Highlighting symbolic explorations of the natural and mythical, this exhibition promises a captivating encounter with the world of the unconscious. This intriguing and engaging exhibition was developed under the guidance of Professor Alessandra Moctezuma and Gallery Coordinator Jenny Armer.
Gallery Hours: M, T, W, TH 12 – 5 p.m. (Or by appointment.) Closed Fridays, Weekends & Holidays. For additional information, please visit: https://www.sdmesa.edu/art-gallery or call (619) 388-2829.
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Connectedness & Health: The Science of Social Connection
Staying connected and engaged with the important people in our lives has never been more critical—or more challenging. The widespread epidemic of digital addiction and device overuse has contributed to a near-complete breakdown in our ability to form lasting, meaningful relationships with those around us.
Scientific research underscores the importance of direct human connection for our health and well-being. Studies have shown that social connections can improve physical health, mental health, and emotional well-being. For instance, strong social connections are associated with a 50% increased chance of longevity, stronger immune systems, and faster recovery from disease. Conversely, social isolation can increase the risk of premature death by 29%, making it as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Lori Whatley has invested years into helping people manage their digital devices to live fuller, more vibrant lives. Born from her one-on-one interactions with patients, Connected & Engaged delivers actionable advice that transforms lives.
The insights found in Connected & Engaged empower readers to:
• Create strong relational connections
• Minimize the stress that comes from devices
• Employ more effective, in-person communication methods
• Set and maintain personal boundaries against digital distractionAre you ready to connect with the people around you, engage in the world, and create a life that makes you feel alive? Today is the day to truly get connected and engaged!
About the Author
Dr. Lori Whatley is a clinical psychologist who specializes in the effects of digital device usage on both individuals and businesses. Over her 25-year career, she has worked with thousands of clients to help reconnect and repair personal connections. To learn more or get in touch, visit DrLoriWhatley.com.
Praise for Connected & Engaged
“…equips us with practical suggestions to help us put people first.”
—Rory Vaden, New York Times bestselling author“An honest look at our digital lives with real-life solutions.”
—Kelly Jameson, PhD, LPC-S“…a powerful, yet simple blueprint to help us manage our distractions and focus on what matters most, the people in our lives.”
—Anton J. Gunn, MSW, CDM, CSP“…helped me use technology to increase productivity, reduce stress, improve my relationships, and feed my brain with the same intention I feed my body.”
—Kristen Coffield, Founder and CEO of The Culinary Cure“…gives refreshing and thought-provoking advice on how we can live our best lives in this age of technology.”
—Kaedy Kiely, Afternoon Drive Host at WSRV-FMConnected & Engaged
Written by Dr. Lori Whatley
978-1-961293-06-9, $18.00 paperback
978-1-961293-07-6, $9.99 ebookPublished by Hatherleigh Press.
Distributed through Penguin Random House.
Available wherever books are sold.
www.hatherleighpress.com
