Herbal Choices: A Gardening Novel with Herbal Recipes

By Carolee Snyder

This is the continuation of Callies story chronicling her second season at Joyful Heart Herbs. A story of second chances, this book features recipes for the second course a choice, of course, of soup or salad! All of the recipes are original with flavor combinations and ideas sparked by the scents of the herbs.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 25, 2010
• ISBN: 9781452026718

Carolee Snyder

Herbal Blessings is the fourth novel by author and professional herb grower, Carolee Snyder. She began her herb farm in southern Indiana in 1978, relocating to central Indiana in 1992 where she currently grows a field of lavender and multiple display gardens. In addition to writing and gardening, she raised a family, hosted a radio show for eight years, and traveled extensively to visit gardens throughout the United States and Europe. When she’s not at the farm or inventing recipes in the kitchen, she travels across the country speaking about her beloved herbs. She is a member of the International Herb Association, the Herb Society of America, Garden Writers of America, the Royal Horticultural Society, and various other horticultural associations. Visit her at www.caroleesherbfarm.com.

Book preview

AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2010 Carolee Snyder. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

First published by AuthorHouse 5/20/2010

ISBN: 978-1-4520-2672-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4520-2673-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4520-2671-8 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2010907105

Bloomington, Indiana

Dear Reader,

I hope you enjoy this continuation of Callie’s story. It chronicles her second season at Joyful Heart Herbs. Although it is fiction, many of the incidents actually happened in my own life or to my forebears. My black lab, Wicca, is truly my dearest companion on my own herb farm.

The fictional town of Heartland is loosely based on any small town in central Indiana or in the Midwest. The characters that live there and the events that occur are the result of my fertile imagination. However, Mounds State Park in Anderson, Indiana, and Limberlost State Historic site in Geneva, Indiana, are well-known, beloved parts of the Hoosier state. The Amish Quilt Garden Tour in Elkhart County, Indiana is a delight for anyone who loves gardens, murals, or quilts and the Biblical Garden in Warsaw, Indiana, is a Mecca for garden lovers and plant scholars.

Since it is the second in the series, Callie’s second season, and a story of second chances, this book features recipes for the second course---a choice, of course, of soup or salad! All of the recipes are original, with flavor combinations and ideas sparked by the scents of the herbs as I weed and harvest. They were tested by family, friends, and staff and often revamped several times.

The garden information is based on over thirty years of experience gardening with herbs, flowers, and vegetables mainly in southern and central Indiana. If you live in Zone 5, you can follow Callie’s gardening timeline and techniques.

As always, I must caution readers to be positive of the identification of any herb you plan to ingest, either as food or tea, or to use in skin, bath, or other body products. Avoid plants that have been grown with harmful chemicals and do not harvest plants grown near roadways or other problem-laden areas for food or body use. While the herbs mentioned in this book and their uses are based on centuries of folklore, no medical advice is intended or should be attempted.

With every year, I choose to make more magical, mystical, and marvelous herbal additions to my gardens and life. I hope Herbal Choices inspires you to choose to grow these special plants and harvest their many blessings. Carolee

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Resources for Herbal Choices

Herbal Choices Recipes

Index of Recipes

Dedication

To my friend, Helen McFadden, who taught me how to grow in a greenhouse, basic business principles, and was always willing to give sound advice.

To my best friend, Beth, whose support, editing, and perpetual good humor were essential to the completion of this story.

To my family, for their love and patience.

And most of all, to my husband David, the magic man, who makes the computer behave and good things happen.

1leaf.jpg

Chapter 1

JANUARY

Callie spotted her bag on the carousel and her cousin, Eve, at almost the same moment. She grinned with delight and hurried forward to exchange hugs.

Your plane was early! Eve declared. I was afraid I’d miss you.

I would have waited right here, Cuz, but you’re right on time, Callie laughed, pulling the heavy suitcase easily from the revolving belt.

My car is outside. Are you hungry? They don’t have much food on planes now. Did you have lunch? We can go eat or go straight to the house. Whatever you’d like, Eve bubbled, thinking her cousin looked much too thin in her jeans and heavy sweater.

Let’s go to the house. I had a big breakfast and I’m looking forward to that great Thai food you promised later for dinner, Callie smiled. Love your suit. You look very corporate. Did you come straight from work?

Yes, I had a full morning of meetings, but I’m taking the afternoon off. We have a lot of catching up to do, Eve stated. You look a lot better than you did at Christmas, Cuz. I’m glad you’re finally taking better care of yourself. Still too thin, but your color is better. Not quite so black and blue and purple.

Callie laughed and was pleased that she could laugh now, recalling the dark bruises that had colored her face over the holidays. Thankfully, they were healing along with the ribs that were broken during a brutal attack by an intruder last month. It was a long story and one that she was still not ready to discuss, even with her favorite cousin. Callie had told everyone at the family Christmas gathering that she’d had a nasty fall while ice skating and no one had questioned her story, since few would accuse her of being graceful. She pushed the thoughts from her mind, and concentrated on Eve’s lively description of the areas they were passing.

The drive from the airport to Eve’s house took them through downtown Atlanta, through sprawling retail areas, and finally into an old neighborhood with towering trees. Many of the older modest homes in the area had been torn down and were being replaced by larger mansions. Your neighborhood is changing, Callie observed as Eve pulled into her driveway.

Yes, it is, Eve agreed. Lots of new McMansions going in. My property value was skyrocketing until the housing slump hit. I’ll wait until it climbs back up and then I’ll consider selling. I don’t have time for all the yard work anymore. If I’m not at work then I’d rather be on the ski slopes, or on some white sandy beach. I don’t think I inherited the gardening gene like you did.

I admire you, Cuz. Ski slopes would terrify me, and I don’t swim, so I’ll just stick to growing plants on terra firma, Callie chuckled.

Until you decide to grow some kids, Eve stated. I don’t think I inherited that gene either, but I’m sure you’ll have a big family in that old farmhouse of yours someday.

Maybe someday, Callie replied quietly as they entered Eve’s sleek living room.

Put your bag in the first room on the left. That’s yours for the duration. I’ll put the kettle on, and we can have a nice chat. You can tell me about all those bachelors in Heartland and which herbs you use in that love potion that attracts all of them, Eve called over her shoulder as she headed for the kitchen.

Now where did you get an idea like that? The love potion thing? Callie questioned, dropping her bag in the hallway and following her cousin into the kitchen.

Oh, word gets around. Just because you’re in the middle of nowhere, it doesn’t mean your life is a secret, Cuz, Eve teased. I could use a hunky patrolman or a handsome UPS guy of my own. So, what’s the recipe?

First, tell me how you know so much about my so-called love potion, which is totally nonexistent by the way, Callie sputtered.

Even the Heartland Banner is on the internet, Cuz. Did you really think I’d swallow that story about a fall ice skating? As soon as I could get on-line I found the report about Joe Suggs attacking you. It was a simple matter to check police and court records. Then a couple of phone calls to some of Heartland’s most chatty citizens, and voila! I have your whole life story. Except the recipe, which is your well-guarded secret, I’m told.

Ha! You can’t know everything about my life, Callie countered, spooning honey into her tea and stirring with more energy than it required.

Well, let’s see. Besides the chiseled patrolman, Morgan Wright, and UPS’s Mike Shipley, there’s the handsome veterinarian, Dr. Glenn. By the way, how’s Wicca doing by now? Is her gunshot healed? I was so sorry to hear about that. Everyone says she’s a lovely animal, Eve paused for effect. Word on the streets of Heartland is that you’re probably building a still with all that copper tubing you bought. I’m rather doubtful about the torrid fling with the married carpenter even if he is the hottest thing since bread straight from the oven. That’s really not like you, so I’ll give that one the benefit of the doubt although I hear you’ve enticed him out to your farm with the promise of a new building job. You go through an amazing number of tires. Someone planted pot on your property, and you have two overdue books from the library. How am I doing so far? Eve purred triumphantly at the incredulous look on her cousin’s face.

How could you know all that? Who’s the gossip? I can’t believe it! Callie sputtered, as she paced the kitchen.

Calm down, Cuz. Your secrets are all safe with me. You know I’d never tell anyone about all the problems you’ve been having. I just wanted you to know you can talk to me about anything. You don’t have to put on a big, brave front. I’m family, Eve assured her with a hug.

I can’t believe it was so easy for you to gather all the gossip, Callie said. Whatever happened to privacy?

Gone with the wind and the internet, Eve grinned. "Speaking of Gone With the Wind, do you want to go back to Aunt Pittypat’s Porch for dinner one evening while you’re here? We had such a good meal there last year."

I’d love it. Callie smiled, remembering the huge buffet of southern staples and the luscious dessert menu.

Good. Then you can tell me all about New Year’s Eve and Daniel arriving on your doorstep at midnight.

Callie stared at her cousin in disbelief!

Late that night as Callie stretched out on the guest bed, she mused over the day’s events. She should be exhausted since she’d risen so early to do the greenhouse watering at her fledgling herb farm before leaving for the airport in Indianapolis. The drive had taken over two hours with morning traffic, and the flight from Indy to Atlanta had been bumpy. She and Eve had stayed up late talking, catching up on family news, and looking through old photo albums of their childhood. They had grown up on adjoining farms and been good friends as well as cousins even though Eve was two years older than Callie. Eve had been the first of their extensive family to go to college. Callie had been the second. Eve became an executive with Bell South. Callie had been a fourth grade teacher about to marry the man of her dreams. Then just weeks before the wedding, Daniel had gone to California with another woman. Callie’s world was shattered. She’d quit her job, bought a small farm in central Indiana, and started an herb farm. It had been a challenge to get it up and running. A neglected field had been bulldozed for a parking lot. A small dilapidated cottage had been turned into an herb and gift shop with the help of a flirtatious local carpenter named Trev.

Yes, Callie had to admit to herself that she had been drawn to Trev Carpenter. She’d just begun to feel that her heart and emotions were beginning to heal from Daniel’s betrayal and that maybe she could move on. Then she discovered Trev was married. That had made her distrustful and wary again. She’d thrown herself into her work, planting colorful display gardens and growing thousands of plants for her fledgling herb business. Last January she’d come to the nationally known gift markets in Atlanta to purchase inventory for the new shop and had had a wonderful reunion with Eve. When she’d returned to the farm, the boxes of product were delivered by a very handsome and attentive UPS driver, Mike Shipley. They’d had several dates, and Mike seemed to be getting serious about a future relationship, but his mother disapproved.

Callie pushed her pillow into a larger lump and tried to settle into sleep, but her mind kept whirling. About the time her business opened, with all the trials and tribulations starting an under-funded venture can bring, mysterious events began to occur at the farm. Deer were killed out of season on her property, unexplained footprints and tire tracks were found, threats were scrawled on her windshield, and tires were slashed on her truck. Then her house was robbed and vandalized. That had led to meeting the hunky deputy, Morgan Wright, who definitely had all the wright stuff. Morgan had become important to her, protecting her from real danger and offering a glimpse of a kind of romance she’d never experienced before. Morgan was chiseled and hard, withdrawn and closed, but so very appealing!

When her black lab, Wicca, was shot, Dr. Glenn Tyler, the local veterinarian had become dear to Callie’s heart for his loving care and life-saving skills. They both loved the symphony, animals, and nature. She loved his sense of humor, too.

Then just before Christmas Joe Suggs, the drug dealer who had been using Callie’s farm as a drop-off and who had shot Wicca, attacked her. Morgan intervened just in time to save her life, but before she had totally recovered, he’d suddenly left Bradford County to become a state patrolman. She hadn’t heard from him since.

Yes, there was an abundance of bachelors in Heartland, but she hadn’t really wanted to become involved with any of them. She still didn’t trust her instincts after being so totally wrong about Daniel. His betrayal had broken her heart.

She punched her pillow again recalling all the pain he had caused her. Daniel, her first love. The man she had hoped would share the rest of her life. Callie sighed and let her mind review that night just a few weeks ago. Battered and bruised, she’d warily opened her door on New Year’s Eve at the stroke of midnight to find Daniel surrounded by gently drifting snowflakes. Daniel held her old engagement ring in his hand with that charming lopsided smile on his handsome face and a proposal on his sweet lips. Daniel had begged her for a second chance.

Callie pulled the sheet closer to her chin and let her mind drift over all the wonderful times they’d had together over the years and the beautiful wedding plans they’d made. Eventually, she fell into a restless sleep.

The gift mart was just as bustling and crowded as last year Callie thought as she was jostled by the mass of people thronging toward the elevators. She had dressed carefully in a dark brown pant suit that emphasized her trim waist and long legs, and pulled her long honey-blonde hair into a tidy bun. She’d even taken time to apply a bit of make-up to cover her bruises, dark mascara on lashes that curved over her blue eyes and a touch of coral lipstick. The face in the mirror had pleased her, even though it wouldn’t have been described as gorgeous, but when she smiled people noticed the attractive young woman with the sparkling eyes. The long strap of a leather briefcase from her teaching days was draped over her shoulder. It held her schedule of appointments with salespeople in various showrooms and a folder with product ideas. Hopefully, she’d find lots of new items that would be perfect for her small shop. It shouldn’t take as long this year since she knew her way through the buildings. And, she knew to avoid those showrooms with lines that were too expensive, too up-scale in design, or had minimum orders too large for her budget. She’d marked her floor guides carefully, noting areas that could be skipped. Checking her schedule, she headed to her first appointment.

By eight o’clock that evening, Callie had blisters on her feet and a bruise on her shoulder from carrying a bag now filled with heavy catalogs and invoices. She was looking forward to dinner with Eve at Aunt Pittypat’s Porch and was surprised when she arrived to see another person waiting with Eve at their table.

Callie, this is Jeff. He’s the friend that owns the garden center that I told you about. I thought you two could discuss the trials of ownership and his plant labeling system, Eve explained. Unfortunately, I have to attend an emergency meeting at work, so I have to run. Jeff will bring you home, Callie. You can trust him, Eve waved as she hurried out the door.

Well, that’s whirlwind Eve, Jeff grinned, as he pulled out the chair next to his at the table. It’s nice to finally meet you, Callie. Eve has been raving about you forever. She’s sure that I can help you in some way, and if that is so, I’d be glad to oblige. She’s ordered you a mint julep, which I see is on its way.

Callie took the offered chair and dropped her heavy bag on the floor beside it. It’s nice to meet you, too. Eve told me about your garden center last night, but I didn’t realize we’d be meeting you tonight.

I think that just happened mid-afternoon when she got called for the meeting. She didn’t want you to be stranded here alone, Jeff smiled as he explained. She asked if I’d be willing to have dinner with you and take you back to her place. She has no idea how long her meeting will last, and she knew you’d be tired after your gruesome day.

It was gruesome, she admitted as she sipped the frosty herbal drink, automatically trying to detect the exact variety of mint the muddler had used. Do you shop the markets for your garden center?

I did during the first years, but now I send my shop manager most of the time. I pop in occasionally to see new trends and negotiate better deals. Did you see anything exciting today?

No. I was disappointed, but I only made it through three floors of one building. Eighteen floors and three more buildings to go! she laughed.

Eve says you’re interested in a plant labeling system. After we order, I can tell you about the ones I’ve tried over the years and which ones have the best features for each requirement, he offered.

Anything will be an improvement over my current method, Callie smiled. Right now, we hand write every single label, and it’s too time-consuming, but I’m not satisfied with the preprinted ones. There’s too much misinformation!

Exactly what I thought, Jeff smiled. I know you’ll save money by printing your own once you get it set up and all the data entered.

The meal passed quickly, with Jeff and Callie splitting a bourbon-laced bread pudding. Callie loved the old brick building filled with Gone With the Wind memorabilia and the aroma of delicious southern foods. After the meal, she and Jeff sat in quaint rocking chairs on the famous porch talking until the restaurant closed. Then he’d driven her to Eve’s house. Callie’s clipboard was covered in notes. Jeff had shared valuable information and given her several new ideas. They’d made arrangements for her to visit his garden center later in the week. She couldn’t wait to see his business, to view his label printer in action, and to meet his shop manager to compare shopping notes.

There was no sign of Eve, so Callie put on the rose-sprigged pajamas her mother had given her at Christmas and climbed into bed. Her mind was whirling with all that she’d seen and the information Jeff had shared. Since she couldn’t sleep, she pulled her new journal from her suitcase. It was a tradition that she’d had since high school, to begin a new journal each year. Normally, she began it the morning of New Year’s Day, but with Daniel’s unexpected arrival, it had been delayed. The first page always listed the major events of the past year, using a rating system of arrows pointing up for good things and arrows pointing down for disappointments or failed goals. She leaned against the plump pillows with the journal leaning against her raised knees as she reviewed the past year.

Put in a really good parking lot (arrow up)

Remodeled the Cottage, decorated the interior for a shop (two arrows up)

Put in an electric pump (arrow up)

Got terrific signs (arrow up)

Opened Joyful Heart Herbs (five arrows up with an asterisk)

Built the shadehouse and greenhouse (two arrows up)

Planted Cook’s, Fairy, Folklore, Cottage & Butterfly Gardens (two arrows up)

Daddy died (a row of arrows down)

Made my girls night in friends (two arrows up)

Found Gloria and Lucy as employees (two arrows up)

Writing garden column for Heartland Banner (arrow up)

Wicca was shot but recovered (two arrows up, arrow down)

Joe Suggs attack (two arrows down)

Only time to read 17 books (arrow down)

Farm barely broke even (arrow down with asterisk)

Daniel returned. She couldn’t decide if that was an arrow up or an arrow down, so she left it blank.

The next page was always for a New Year’s Resolution. Last year, she’d chosen Be courageous, but cautious. Callie sat for several moments, tapping the pen against the page before writing Make good choices.

The next page was traditionally a list of books she hoped to read in the coming year. Originally it listed classics, biographies, and best-selling fiction. Once she became addicted to growing and using herbs, the list was filled with herbals, garden books, and horticultural texts on propagating and growing. She always listed 52 as a goal, which she hadn’t met since college, but it was a worthy goal, and there was never a problem finding 52 titles that sounded promising. Finding enough time to read since she’d moved to the farm had been challenging though, especially once she began writing her own book.

The next page listed goals for the year. This year she listed four: add a Moonlight Garden, be profitable, spend more time with Mom, and be a better friend.

Once she started gardening, the following page had always been a list of plants she’d like to grow, but she now kept a running list in her garden journal in the greenhouse. She decided to start a new page entitled Gardens I’d Like to Visit and began listing some of the gardens that had captured her imagination from books, magazine articles, and television programs. Sissinghurst, Venzano, Powis Castle, Denver Botanical, Hidcote, Munstead Woods, and Powerscourt topped the list. After a few moments, she tore out the page and replaced it with two pages, dividing the category into In Country and Out of the US. Of course, this wouldn’t be a goal for just this year, but she’d like to make it to at least one in each category. She could fill several pages of wish-to-visit-gardens, but there was no sense being unreasonable. It was just wishful thinking. Finally, she was feeling drowsy and fell into a restless sleep.

Callie awoke the next morning to an empty house. A note in Eve’s precise handwriting by the teapot said that she’d left for an early meeting, but would hopefully be free for dinner. The phone number for the local cab company was included. Callie would take a cab to the nearby train station and take the MARTA downtown. It wasn’t even seven o’clock, so Callie showered, made tea, and dressed for success. She arranged her day’s schedule, checked her notes on the prior day’s purchases, and revised her product lists. By the time she reached the gift mart, the buildings were bustling with people. When the market closed, she met Eve for dinner at the large Mexican restaurant next door to the Mart.

I’m starving. I should have taken time for lunch, but the lines were too long at all the restaurants, and my list of showrooms seems to be growing, Callie said brightly. I met the nicest lady on the elevator at the Gift Mart. She saw that my badge said ‘Joyful Heart Herb Farm’ and asked if I knew about a showroom in the next building that had wonderful herb products. So I took time to go over there, and I was glad I did. While I was there I met another herb farm owner from Virginia, and he suggested another showroom in the Merchandise Mart that had wonderful herbal gift wrap, so I’ve added that to my list. My day was productive. Was yours? How’s the crisis at work? Did you have a good day?

All’s well, I think, Eve laughed. In fact, I get the morning off tomorrow. Want to hit a couple of fabric stores, my favorite used bookstore, and go to Jeff’s garden center? We could have lunch, and then I’ll drop you off at the markets on my way to the office. Can you play hooky from work one morning, Cuz?

I think I can swing it, Callie smiled. Now, let’s order. I’m famished.

The week went quickly, and as Callie sat on the plane homeward bound, she went over invoices and sketched displays for the coming season. During the drive home, she thought about Jeff’s garden center and labeling systems. Since his was a large operation with multiple locations, he had separate systems for signage and plant labels. Callie had decided that she would opt for the less expensive system that only printed plant labels. That was her biggest need since she produced thousands of plants and was currently hand-writing each label. A computerized printer could spit out hundreds of labels an hour complete with scientific name, cultural needs, color, and price. Jeff had warned her that inputting all the data for each plant was time-consuming and suggested she order the system as soon as possible. She’d need to familiarize herself with the program and get all the data entered before she got busy with plants in March. It was already mid-January, so it was top priority!

She turned the reliable pick-up truck that had been her father’s into the driveway and was surprised to see a large Welcome Home sign above her back door. It looked like something Lucy might do. Lucy was a senior in high school and Callie’s first employee. Callie suspected Lucy was the author since the sign was in a dazzling array of colors. The teenager was famous for her colorful attire, often colorful hair, and brilliant yellow VW bug which had bunny ears at Easter and antlers for Christmas. Lucy or her mother, Gloria, Callie’s second employee, had watered the greenhouse and checked on the farm while Callie had been in Atlanta. Callie’s black lab, Wicca, was staying with them in town, too.

Callie couldn’t wait to show Lucy and Gloria the catalogs of the products she’d ordered. And, she’d be happy to have her dog back home and to sleep in her own bed. Being with Eve had been lovely, but the phrase there’s no place like home was a true sentiment.

She unlocked the door and pulled her heavy suitcase inside, pausing to admire the farmhouse kitchen that she had loved on first sight. She’d added cream, sage green and butter striped curtains and braided rag rugs in the same colors over the worn hardwood floors. Botanical prints covered the wall behind the old kitchen table and chairs. Under the large picture window was an old plant stand holding clay pots of Callie’s favorite herbs. Several scented geraniums on the windowsill above the sink had come into bloom while she’d been away. Callie put a kettle of water on the stove, picked up the box of mail from the counter, and headed through the living room into her studio which also served as her office. One end of the room held her grandmother’s old treadle sewing machine, where Callie sewed sachets and aprons for the shop. An easel filled one corner, still covered with a sheet. There had been no time to paint since she’d started Joyful Heart Herbs. Bookshelves lined two walls, filled with old herbals, gardening books, and her favorite historical novels. Pots of fragrant herbs filled the deep windowsills, and Gran’s chipped rocker sat before a desk that Callie had rescued from an old high school. The corkboard above it was filled with clippings, photographs, business cards, and memos. The answering machine was blinking, so she grabbed a pencil and paper as she punched the button and reached to turn on her computer.

This is your mother. I hope you had a safe trip to Atlanta. Did you get to see Eve? Call me when you get home, so I’ll know you’re safe. Beep.

Callie, it’s Cecilia. Just a reminder that your newsletter copy needs to be in my office before the end of next week if you want it to go out on time. Know you’re busy, but we’re backing up here, so get it to me asap. Beep.

Callie. It’s Mike. Haven’t seen you in a while, but I expect those boxes of stuff you’re ordering will start arriving soon, so I’ll be stopping at the farm again. I’m looking forward to seeing you. Can we get together for dinner soon? I miss you. Call me. Beep.

Callie, it’s Daniel. I miss you. I wish you’d answer your phone. Why don’t you get a cell? Call me, sweetheart. We need to talk. Beep.

Callie, we’re going out for pizza tonight, and Wicca’s going with us. Call my cell when you get home, and Time and I will bring her out. She misses you. Everything is fine at the greenhouse. I seeded all the perennials you left for me on the list. We need another hot mat, don’t you think? Oh, this is Lucy, but you probably figured that out. Bye! Beep. Callie couldn’t help smiling at Lucy’s bubbly voice. She and her boyfriend, Timothy Pease, better known as Time, made a cute couple.

Callie, it’s me again. If you want pizza for supper, just call, and we’ll bring you some when we bring Wicca. Beep.

Hey, stranger. It’s LouAnn. Are we going to do any recipe testing this month? Suz and Sandy asked me if we were having our ‘gals’ night in’ soon. When are you getting back from your big shopping spree? Call me. Beep.

Callie. Officially, it’s time for Wicca’s check-up, so call for an appointment. Unofficially, I want to take you to dinner, and the symphony is performing Mozart on Saturday night. Are you free? Call me, and I’ll get the tickets. Beep.

Callie. It’s Daniel again. We really, really need to talk. I still have this ring in my pocket. It needs to be on your finger. Call me as soon as you get back. I’m coming up this weekend if the roads are decent. I love you, Babe. Beep.

This is Joan, Heartland Public Library. You have two overdue books. Please return them promptly to avoid additional fines.

By the time the messages were finished, her e-mail was filling the screen of the computer. One hundred thirteen new messages. She leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes. I can’t deal with this now, she thought as she kicked off her shoes. She sauntered into the kitchen, opened the refrigerator, and rummaged through the meager contents.

Maybe I should call Lucy for pizza, she mused as she measured a mixture of sage and mint into a teapot and filled it from the boiling kettle. She rummaged through her carry-on, and pulled a hand-knitted cozy from its depths to cover the teapot. The cozy had been a parting gift from her cousin Eve, who was an avid knitter. While she waited for the tea to steep, she pulled her suitcase upstairs to the bedroom and changed into jeans and a faded sweatshirt. No dressing for success required here, she thought happily as she returned to the studio. She called both Eve and her mother to tell them she was home safely and then called Lucy to tell her to bring Wicca and that she’d skip the pizza. She’d had too much fast food the past week, and cooking was always relaxing. She’d deal with the rest of the phone and e-mail messages in the morning

Next, she carried her tea into the living room and built a fire in the fireplace. Oh, it was good to be home! She sipped the delicious tea and gazed around the room as the fire crackled. She loved her old farmhouse with its mismatched but comfortable furniture. Except the sofa. No one could rightly call that sofa comfortable. At one time it had been acceptable, but the robbers who had ransacked her home last spring had slashed it and torn out some of the stuffing. Now it was a lumpy mass covered with an old bedspread and a few odd pillows. Callie intended to have it recovered, but somehow there had never been enough time or wiggle in her budget. She smiled as she remembered how Morgan had slept on it while he’d been her bodyguard, his legs extending far beyond its end. Dr. Glenn had fallen asleep there one day, and he had also been too long. If she were going to keep attracting tall men, maybe she’d better get a longer sofa. She could still have the old one recovered and use it in the cottage shop. She hated to throw old things away.

She poured a second cup of tea and returned to the kitchen where she pulled a can of chicken and a can of corn from her pantry. She’d make a pot of chicken corn chowder. There was nothing better on a cold January night than soup. After sautéing a bit of onion, celery, and adding the remaining ingredients, the kettle was soon simmering on the stove, releasing the subtle scents of marjoram and bay.

The sound of Lucy’s yellow VW drew Callie outdoors. It had barely pulled to a stop before she had reached it. Time Pease climbed out of the passenger seat and let Wicca out. The lab moved slowly although the cast on her leg had been removed. She had metal pins in her shoulder, and Dr. Glenn was amazed that she had recovered so well. Wicca’s tail beat an excited rhythm as Callie knelt to give the dog a warm hug.

Welcome home, Callie, Lucy called as she rounded the car to receive her own hug. Wicca missed you.

I just bet, Callie laughed. I smell pizza on her breath! You spoiled her rotten while I was gone, didn’t you?

Well, maybe just a little, Lucy laughingly admitted. Dad was the real culprit. You wouldn’t believe how he fusses over your dog. He actually took her for walks every day, nice and slow, down to the newspaper office. Wicca has her own bed right next to his desk.

Mac McKenzie actually walked to the office? Will wonders never cease? Callie joked. Thanks for taking such good care of Wicca. Do you want to come in? It’s cold out here.

No, we’re on our way to a movie, Lucy responded, climbing back into the car. Do you still want me to come help transplant seedlings on Saturday?

You bet. We’re really behind, Callie assured her. And thanks for the welcome home sign.

‘Oh, I didn’t do that, Lucy called. Someone else must be glad you’re home."

Callie pushed herself through her usual Tai Chi exercise routine the next morning, stroking the imaginary peacock’s feathers and pushing the imaginary ball through the sky. The ancient Chinese program kept her body supple and flexible and was more pleasurable than jogging. Her daily work at the farm provided plenty of heavy lifting and walking, but the Tai Chi was good discipline and worked muscles that didn’t get used during farm work.

After her usual breakfast of tea, toast, and homemade jam, she put on heavy clothing and high boots to go through the deep drifts of snow. First, she and Wicca walked to the farm to check on the plants in the greenhouse. Everything looked good, but the new seedlings were tiny. January had been a gray month so far and without sunshine things barely grew. She walked up and down the aisles, making a list of seedlings that were ready to transplant, pausing to admire once again the sturdy benches her father had built. He’d come to stay for several weeks to help her build the greenhouse. They’d had wonderful quality time together, and she treasured it, especially since her father had unexpectedly passed away a few weeks later. The greenhouse was warm and cozy even though it was below zero outside. Callie hated to think of the heating bills that would be arriving, but they were necessary if she wanted plants large enough to sell in spring. Some businesses simply purchased plants from wholesale firms and had them delivered on big semi-trailers, but Callie wanted to be able to offer her customers unique varieties. She loved the entire growing process and felt it was important to know exactly what chemicals had been used, especially on herbs that would be used for cooking and teas but also on plants that could provide nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds. It was one of her pet peeves that the horticultural industry commonly used systemic insecticides on plants marketed as food sources for those little flying friends when the systemic remained in the plants to poison them throughout the growing season. At Joyful Heart, she’d made the decision to be pesticide free.

The large shadehouse she’d hired Trev Carpenter to build last February was again covered with plastic. Right now it held the hardy perennials that had been leftover when the sales season ended last winter. It was unheated, but once the weather settled, the plants would grow quickly on sunny days. The plastic covering also offered her customers more comfort in the chilly days of spring. Once the danger of frost was over, she’d cut the plastic off the sides. When the hot days of summer arrived, she’d remove the plastic from the roof, too. It had worked really well last year and had certainly justified the expense.

Wicca trotted ahead as she entered the woodland trail crossing Pumpkin Vine Creek and then turning south to the edge of the trees. Callie wanted to check her two bee hives to make sure the small opening at the top was clear since it had snowed so heavily and to be sure that the hives had not been invaded by mice. She moved a dead branch that had fallen into the flight path, but otherwise all seemed well, and it appeared that the weather had been warm enough while she was in Atlanta for their vital cleansing flight. On her way back, she clipped a few red-stemmed dogwood branches and some bright yellow sticks of willow, planning to weave a British-style bird feeder that she’d seen in a British gardening magazine she’d purchased in Atlanta. The sounds of busy woodpeckers hammering and squirrels scolding Wicca for interrupting their nut hunting broke the silence as Callie walked back through the woods. Last summer, a lumber company had purchased several mature trees, dragging them out of her woods with a team of beautiful Belgian draft horses. Her father had predicted that where the logs had disturbed the soil, wildflowers would grow in abundance this spring. Callie couldn’t wait to see if it were true.

She unlocked the Cottage to check the business answering machine, pausing just inside the door to enjoy the rush of pleasure the little building always brought. She loved this shop. It would need a thorough cleaning before the new merchandise arrived. The spring curtains would need to come out of storage to be laundered and pressed, and some of the display pieces needed painting in colors to coordinate with the new inventory. She listened to the messages, made a few notes on her ever-present clipboard, and returned to the house. First, she called to order the plant labeling system Eve’s friend Jeff had recommended, crossing it off her job list as she hung up the phone. The rest of the morning was spent answering the e-mails that had accumulated while she was gone.

After a lunch of leftover soup, Callie began work on the farm newsletter. Although the farm was closed in January and February, Callie felt sending a monthly newsletter was worthwhile. The newsletter always included articles on plants, recipes using her beloved herbs, notices of upcoming events, and coupons to be used when the farm opened in March. Initially friends came to help fold, label, stamp, and sort the newsletters by zip code. They’d work together, talk, and test the recipes Callie invented. As her mailing list grew, it became impossible for the friends to complete the task in one evening, so Callie now used a bulk mailing service. However, her friends still gathered at the farmhouse one evening a month to chat and taste her recipes. It was a talented group of women that Callie counted as her friends. They had helped her in many ways during the past year.

Cecilia Hutchins owned the printing business that produced the farm’s newsletters and also the herbal-motif tee-shirts Callie had designed. Suz Stone’s trucking company had hauled all the stone for Callie’s parking lot. LouAnn Crow was a talented artist whose well-designed signs now directed people to Joyful Heart Herb Farm. Sandy Saunders was a reporter for the local newspaper, the Heartland Banner. Not only had they tested recipes and folded newsletters, but they had restored her ransacked house after the robbery, helped out at the farm when her father passed away, filled in when Callie was injured by Joe Suggs, and provided abundant encouragement. The five women formed a support group for one another. Callie felt herself truly blessed to have found such good friends.

She’d just begun writing an article on growing and using oregano when the phone rang.

Joyful Heart Herbs, Callie answered absently.

So, you’re back! Welcome home, Stranger, LouAnn said gaily. How was Atlanta?

Big and bustling. It’s nice to be home in the quiet of the country, Callie smiled. How was the art show?

Big and bustling, LouAnn laughed. It was wonderful to be in Brown County with lots of Hoosier artists, but I almost didn’t make it home. Lots of snow in them thar hills. Harder to get around down there in hill country than it is up here in the flatlands. You missed the big snow.

I noticed all the piles of snow as I drove home. I was thankful the Bradford County trucks had plowed the roads. Anything else exciting happen while I was gone?

In Heartland? It may be the little town that’s all heart but most of the time it barely has a pulse, LouAnn said sarcastically.

Well, that’s just the way I like it, Callie chuckled. By the way, thanks for the welcome home banner. It was very cheery.

Welcome home banner? Wasn’t my work, LouAnn replied. I’ve been swamped with new commissions since the art show. Haven’t even had my head out of the studio except for necessities. Speaking of necessities, when are you cooking? I haven’t had a good meal in days, and it’s time we had our ‘gals night in’, isn’t it?

I can do any night next week. You check with the others and let me know. I’ll start thinking of new recipes. This year it’s second courses, so I’ll be doing soups and salads.

What? No herbal appetizers or cocktails? That was my favorite part, LouAnn complained laughingly.

"Well, I’ve completed Herbal Beginnings, so we’re moving on to the second course," Callie replied.

Okay. You’re the cook. I’ll call the others and let you know which evening works best.

Callie hung up the phone, still wondering who had made the welcome home banner. She’d just returned to the computer when Wicca rose from her usual spot by the fireplace and hurried stiffly to the door, tail wagging. Callie followed the dog to the back door to let her outside. Within a few moments the brown UPS van pulled into her driveway.

Welcome home, girl, Mike called, as he hugged Wicca and gave her the treats from his pocket. You look like you’re feeling better! He rose and walked quickly toward the house calling, Welcome home to you, too, Callie. I missed you. Did you have a good trip?

A great trip, Mike, she smiled. You’ll be bringing boxes by the dozens next month. Have time for tea? The kettle’s already hot.

Just a quick cup. The big snow earlier this week created a backlog, so I’m playing catch-up. But, I saw your truck, so I knew you were home. Did you get my message? he asked as they moved into the kitchen.

Yes, but I thought I’d wait to call you until this evening. I’m playing catch-up, too, she said as she poured his favorite peppermint tea into a mug, added two large spoonfuls of honey and passed it to the dark-haired man.

How’s your schedule this week? Any night that we can go to dinner? I have lots to tell you, and I want to hear all about your trip. Did you have a good visit with your cousin? he asked.

Wonderful. It was just the tonic I needed. And the shopping went better this year since it was my second time. I knew my way around, she added.

Good. I want to hear all about it. When can we have dinner? he repeated.

How about Thursday? Does that work for you? she smiled.

Thursday it is. Sorry I gotta run, he frowned, gently touching her face. Your bruises still show a bit. How are the ribs?

Healing, but still a bit tender. Carrying suitcases didn’t help, but they’re lots better.

Better enough for a hug?

I think so, she grinned, as he wrapped his arms around her.

After Mike left, Callie didn’t feel inspired to return to the computer, so she brushed her long hair, pinned it into a tidy bun, and located the two overdue library books. Grabbing her clipboard and keys, she smiled as Wicca hurried to the door. One jingle of the truck keys and the lab was ready for a road trip. Callie maneuvered the old door into place that served as a ramp for the injured dog to get into the truck seat. Once the dog was inside, Callie pulled the ramp aside and climbed in. It was a short drive to the library where Callie returned the overdue books, paid a modest fine, and ordered several books on interlibrary loan. The local library staff was excellent at locating anything she needed. Right now, she was interested in books on self-publishing and business promoting. She also wanted technical books on large-scale lavender growing.

Next stop was the print shop, where she gave the disc containing the newsletter to Cecilia’s petite assistant, Ellen.

We missed you at the Heart and Soil garden club meeting on Monday night, Ellen bubbled, her blue eyes twinkling behind thick glasses. Of course, not many people showed up at the meeting with the big snow and all. In fact, the speaker didn’t make it, so we’re having his program next month. Orchid growing, you remember. And, don’t forget, you have refreshments next month along with Gloria. Do you want the same number of copies of your newsletter as last time? she said as she filled out the order form.

Better add fifty, Callie replied, reviewing the e-mail requests she’d processed that morning. Thanks for the reminder about the refreshments. I’ll mark it on my calendar. Is Cecilia in this afternoon?

No, she and Mike are meeting with the paper company in Detroit. She’ll be back in the office tomorrow. Any message?

No, I’ll just e-mail her later in the week. Thanks, Ellen.

Grocery shopping took longer than usual, because Callie tried to compose some new soup and salad recipes as she studied the shelves of each aisle. She found a new cilantro-ginger paste in the tiny International Foods section that sounded interesting, and baby portobello and shitake mushrooms in the produce section. That was a first. Usually there were only white buttons. By the time she’d loaded her groceries into the truck, her ribs were hurting again. She decided to pamper herself with a take-out supper from Dinah’s Diner.

She maneuvered the truck into the only empty space on the courthouse square, reminded Wicca to leave the groceries intact, and walked the block to the diner. Inside, the aroma of chicken and dumplings, liver and onions, and meatloaf filled the air. Several acquaintances interrupted their chatter to call a greeting as Callie moved toward the counter to place an order.

Welcome back, Callie, Dinah called from the large commercial stove where she was simultaneously stirring two pots of vegetables. How was the big city?

Big, laughed Callie, admiring Dinah’s stirring talents. I’m impressed. Two pots at once.

Hey, this is a piece of cake. Try doing it on a boat on rough seas. That’s more of a challenge, Dinah laughed. Dinah had grown up in Heartland, moved away to study to be a chef, and worked on a cruise ship before returning to Heartland to start her restaurant. What can I get for you? The meatloaf is special. I added a new herb. If you can guess what it is, it’s on the house!

Can’t resist that! I’ll have the meatloaf, steamed carrots, and butterscotch pie to go. Wicca’s waiting in the truck, so I need to do carry-out.

Coming right up, Dinah said as she moved to another part of the stove. How’s Wicca doing? I hope Joe Suggs stays in jail a long, long time. He’ll never be welcome in these parts again. You were lucky that Morgan arrived in time to stop him. You missed a good party though. I actually took the night off and went to that Law Enforcement Christmas party at the country club myself. Imagine that!

And how did the competition fare? Was the food good? Callie asked with a smile.

Well, hate to say it, but it was okay. They need to work on their desserts, but the prime rib was done just right, she admitted grudgingly, putting Callie’s order into a bag. Here, taste the meatloaf and see if you know what herb I added.

Callie took the forkful that Dinah offered, rolled the bite around her mouth thoughtfully, and then said, I think it’s tarragon. Italians sometimes use fennel, and it hints of that, but not as strongly of anise as fennel would be. Yes, it’s tarragon.

Should have known you’d guess correctly since you’re a professional. So, what do you think of it?

Delicious! As always, Callie proclaimed. Just the right balance of flavors. I can’t wait to get home to eat the whole piece.

I put an extra piece in for Wicca, Dinah grinned. She deserves it.

Callie and Wicca enjoyed their meatloaf dinner in front of the fireplace. Just as she was clearing the dishes, the phone rang. Callie listened as Daniel’s voice spoke into the answering machine.

Callie, aren’t you back yet? I wish you’d answer your phone. I’m coming to Heartland this weekend. We really need to talk. I miss you. I need you. I love you. Can’t you forgive me? Can’t we start over? I love you, Babe. Call me.

Babe! Callie grumbled. Isn’t that the name of a pig? she asked Wicca. The lab nodded and gave a low growl of disapproval.

He never called me ‘Babe’ before, Callie said as she slammed the dishes down on the counter. She poured a small glass of the lemon verbena liquor she’d made last summer and moved over to look out the window. It had been a clear evening, but now the clouds were thickening, portending more snow by morning.

She watched as one star after another was covered by the gray line of clouds moving in from the west. Wicca came to put her head against her mistress’ thigh. Callie absently rubbed the dog’s ears as she remembered New Year’s Eve.

Daniel’s appearance had been a stunner. She hadn’t seen him in over a year until that night. She’d been amazed how her heart had