Kane and Lono Moons ... times for gratitude

As the malama nears her end, the old cycle ends and the new is yet to come. Our kupuna were wise in their observations over time noticing and recording (through chants and oral tradition only) everything happening where they lived. In the same way Indigenous people have done since they took their first steps on two feet on Papa Hanaumoku (Earth) or surfed waves from the great Moana nui (ocean) it is that first committment -- to be where you are planted -- that begins a life of Indigeneity.

These photos were taken where I live. Every one of these small miracles is taking place within footsteps from my futon/writing table/cook top.

 The tops to small jars dry next to the heater this morning, one part of a two-piece container that will store freshly-juiced Wheatgrass Pete has grown, or ...

 a jar filled with Plant Herbs and Plant Medicine topped off with Vodka or Brandy to be an extract weeks later as I learn the gifts and relationships that have waited. Six seasons later, I have introduced myself and begun friendships.

 Some friends have traveled with us from place to place, from one island to another. These stones, pohaku li'ili'i hanau were given to me by my elder cousin Mokihana. With time I learn their ways these stones who give birth if I am watchful and respectful. The reflection of the Fall-colored Brackens connects me with the reality of change in all life.

 Peach is one of the friendships that is growing beautifully, gratefully for me. When I needed to calm and heal the 'assault' of forests burning, I was led to the big old Peach tree in our lower orchard. She has so much to give; I needed to open my heart and my ironically congested ears to those gifts.

 When I'd finished picking that paper bag of Peach leaves, our Hen friend Rygel has feathers molted all over the lower orchard floor. I picked up a few. Beautiful. Hens don't lay eggs when they molt. But, they leave feathers.

 Plates and bowls fill with plump green grapes. We pick them and eat them up. Yum! Also on the orchard floor is another Plant Medicine, Usnea or 'old man's beard.' I am new to the identification and making of medicine from Plant Medicine, so I will check with other Human friends who know about the wild medicine. But. I think the beard of white lichen is Usnea. Usnea is one of those gentle yet powerful medicine plants that could be the ally I need for strengthening my lungs, and building my immune system, in this place where we both live.

 The Peach leaves I gathered this morning had the kiss of morning dew on them. They are drying in the sun before I bring them in. If they dry wet, there's the high probability of mold. Not good for me.

 This is a collander of Peach leaves that have been drying for a week or more.

This collander of Peach has been drying for almost a month. I use four leaves in a cup of boiling water for tea. Add ginger and turmeric for heat and a little Buckwheat honey. Yummy stuff.

Mahalo Akua Kane and Lono your generosity ... your life-giving gifts so appreciated.