The Apothecary's Daughter( book) and Victorian Pharmacy (video)

I have such dear friends! Beautiful Debs turned me on to a great video series called Victorian Pharmacy:) Even if you just fancy history, but not so keen on medicinal, this series is for you! I harvested lemon balm and worked with it, while watching this series for hours last Saturday:) If you have ever wondered what sheep intestine condoms, fireworks, lead nipple shields, and plaisters have in common, this is a must watch for you! lol! I learned so many things and was thoroughly entertained and enthralled so I hope you can make time to enjoy it also, if you haven't already watched it:) You will find the full documentary at this link:)

 This series was timely in relations to the fact I had recently read a good book called The Apothecary's Daughter. This book was set in the Regency Era, so its historical references, such as the laws pertaining to an apothecary, are in the era before the Victorian Pharmacy. So you see, I was able to get a taste of the apothecary business in a sequential manner which was most helpful to be able to see the progression of ideas, culture trends, laws, medical advancements, marketing, women's issues and a whole host of other things that made me understand and appreciate the labor and dedication of this profession of apothecaries! The Apothecary's Daughter, by Julie Klassen, is a delightful read I think you will enjoy:) A bit of romance also! As usual I would write more, but 3 children here and two on the way! lol!

Big hugs to all who visit Comfrey Cottages! xx

Secretariat – Excellent Movie

I wanted to write about this movie for several reasons. The horse playing Secretariat was magnificent. The entire production was top notch, from casting, wardrobe, set and directing etc, set this film as a classic. The story of Secretariat is true horse racing hero story on many different levels. Not only did Secretariat, himself shine his star brightly, the humans involved with him were true examples of  hero of spirit. This is the sort of story that teaches us to follow our dreams, be bold, (but polite), assert your rights, honor your ancestors, put your heart into yours dreams, and many other inspiring lessons. For those of you not familiar with the story of Secretariat, and the story of how a housewife became the owner of The Horse of the Year, I would advise you to take a minute and read this page on Secretariat’s site.

I will tell you I am uncertain how I feel about horseracing these days. I will say I am against any abuse of an animal and that being said…

To see the synergy of  Secretariat and his humans, (in this movie), and to know it was an accurate and factual presentation of the events, just gave me goosebumps. The story of Secretariat is not just about horseracing.It is about forming bonds with others through common goals, about learning to support and encourage others as well as yourself, listening to your inner voices, and strengths. It is the sort of story that is about heroes, and I believe it a good movie to support and promote all the good qualities and aspirations we all have.

Now, I lived during this time. Secretariat was called Red or Big Red by those who worked with and loved him. Big Red fever spread through the world as this magnificent horse broke record after record, even globally. We all knew the story of the humans at the time also. They all too ran the heroes race, each in their own way. I think this would be a good movie to take a young person to see. Penny, Secretariat's owner, and her story, as well as her daughters,would be wonderful examples to encourage all the good qualities we try to foster into the young people in our life. Actually all of the people involved stories will lift all up who watch it:)

Big hugs to all who visit Comfrey Cottages

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