Happy Birthday, what an interesting year, I have so enjoyed all the comments and meeting everyone. Susan, I love what you write, and am looking forward to this next chapter in the 'SWA' gang - Glad I took the plunge and signed on you have all given me so much interesting things to think about.
Susan, you are both an inspiring and an inspired author In fact, my two favorite authors are yu and Jodi Picoult. I eagerly anticipate year 2 and beyond. Love and blessings to you and Bill and Meadow Knoll, as well as all the fantastic characters we continue to meet through you.
I hope you'll bring your experiences with the animal world into our conversations about plants, Penny. There's a great deal of commonality--we need to be reminded of that.
Susan - you're absolutely amazing. I love everything you write - your books are wonderful; you have incredible knowledge of plants, and I've enjoyed "typing" with you personally (comments and email). I didn't know about your interest in, and knowledge of, astrology. I'm a Cancer and Year of the Monkey (Chinese astrology).
You do remarkably well communicating with your fans online. I've been doing this ("social media," email, etc.) since 1979. I have tons of stories about my online (and computer) experiences, but I have always been particularly interested in the nuances of PEOPLE communicating online - it's DIFFERENT than face-to-face, and telephone interactions. ONE of those differences has to do with what's MISSING in online conversations - body language, facial expressions, even pheromones - and such things as interruptions and distractions.
People who are not particularly comfortable conversing with others face-to-face often find doing so online MUCH easier. It's considered safer - it's as if you can "hide" behind your computer/mobile screen. This works in both good and bad ways. I knew a guy who was deaf and had the obvious problems talking with others. He blossomed online. Of course this advantage to online communication can also work in negative ways.
Nasty people will say things online that they wouldn't dream of saying in person. Such people are often referred to as "trolls" - and can be a serious problem. Being able to remove such people, to "block" them or whatever becomes an issue. Sadly.
And - I'm chuckling to myself - people can go on and on and on. There's a lot more to say, but I try not to impose very often. You're doing GREAT!!!
The wonderful thing about Substack is that most of the time we are sharing behind a paywall, Carolyn--which means that the trolls aren't very likely to get to us. Also, while I agree about the most of the differences you mention between online and in-your-face communication, I've found that there is a certain anonymity in online conversation that invites more sharing and open communication. People aren't so afraid to be vulnerable in ways they would avoid if we were sitting together over a cup of tea. Interesting . . .
Susan - I agree with you. In groups such as these I am much more of who I am, rather than my physical disability limitations.. In the last several years I have had to use a walker; now I also wear a steel brace on my right leg.
In meeting people in our new 55+ community I have experienced negative reactions. These reactions occurred primarily as a result of meetings for our book club.
Some do not want me in their house - because I might mark their floors, their walls etc. I have also had people tell me they don't want me in their house fearing I might fall and sue them. I am 76; most of our community are 55-65. They all still work full-time.
A friend (who has been handicapped all her life) suggested they also may fear their own future limitations.
Like you, Georgeann, I've learned that there's are major differences in the interests of those who are "active retired" and those of us who get around with difficulty. And online neutralizes that--it's a more level playing field. And I think your friend's idea has merit. People *are* afraid of disability.
Oh, absolutely. What I know about online interactions would fill volumes (NO, I'm not going to bore you or anyone here with them). ONE of the MANY things I've found interesting in terms of social media communication (I could explain why I tend to use the term "social media" when talking about digital interaction and not just "online" but it's not important here).
Anyway, one of the many things I've found interesting in social media experiences is online FRIENDSHIPS that form. I've seen this happen from the very beginning. People who will NEVER be physically face-to-face; who's ONLY experience with another human being is digital text; find natural connections - long term, deeply held, friendships. Seemingly a random two (or more) people from different backgrounds, different historical experiences, different races, genders, countries, religions, etc. will have some sort of natural connection that turns into friendship. I've seen it happen over and over.
It's happened to me (I have stories). One of the things that SPARKED my fascination with this media from the first time I encountered it is how it throws disparate people together who would normally never ever meet. It says something about HOW human beings make connections - and provides us with opportunities for such we would otherwise never have.
Interesting. Most of the people here @TP&S got here via the books, so we have a common reader/writer connection there, with some mutual subsidiary interests (herbs, Texas, cozy mysteries). Others from social media (Facebook, Insta, Twitter) Then there are the Substack writers who want to see what's going on here (how the material is packaged, delivered, received, etc)--they're looking to pick up ideas. It's an eclectic bunch--many don't leave comments but DM via NOTES or write directly, which makes my day . . . interesting. :)
Yes, THIS group of people is here for more focused reasons and the online environment may well make a difference in the kinds and degrees of connections that develop.
I've been running an anti-racism group on FaceBook for over ten years now and that online environment is definitely different than personal FB pages in terms of how people connect.
However, in that situation most of the people who are active are online friends OUTSIDE the group. Regardless, people "meet" online - in focused groups or otherwise and the potential for closer relationships is always there.
I know I already replied but I was thinking more about your Growing Green with the Zodiac and it stirs so many memories. I had the great good fortune to study intensively with two master herbalists when I was still a young woman and new mother. Jeannine Parvati Baker was my first herb teacher and I graduated from her Hygieia College in the early 1990s. Around that time I became a student of Jeanne Rose, whose books I had been reading and using since 1979. Both wonderful teachers included astrology as part of their curriculums. I had to learn to draw (or "cast") charts the old-school way, using mathematics and geometry, long before the advent of computer programs that do that tedious part. Jeannine insisted that it was a tool, every bit as important as our spades and trowels to our gardens and our health. I can still hear her saying, "And a tool is only useful to the extent that you take it in hand and make use of it." Jeannine has been gone from this Earth since 2005 and my dear Jeanne Rose passed at the full moon in June this year. I'm still reeling because over the years we became close friends, visiting each other and talking on the phone, online, and keeping up a decades-long correspondence of old-fashioned handwritten letters (stored and cherished in a "treasure box"). As I look on my bookshelves and through my old course materials from both of them, the influence of connecting the stars and planetary influences with our own good, green garden planet is still with me. It's a thrill to know I will be learning more and have a place for exploring this aspect of plants in the coming months and years. Thank you!👏
Leenie, didn't have time yesterday to say that I also learned to cast charts w/paper-pencil and the ephemeris. It was good discipline for the soul, I suppose, but oh I did welcome the computer charts when they first came out. So useful for transits. I'm no astrologer, just an amateur who's more interested in the history/philosophy of astrology than the practice itself. But it's so much fun to see a neat transit chart!
I definitely agree about the ease of computer charts now. As a matter of fact when I went to find my ephemeris on the bookshelf I thought it called home, I couldn't find it. So that means it has been a very long time since I have done it that way. Probably a couple of decades. I do a little "planting by the signs" as my grandfather taught me but mainly I like studying planetary correspondences for specific plants. I guess because it feels a bit like stories, I find it easier to remember details about a plant when they're connected to planets, stars, and luminaries. For example, St. John's Wort under the rulership of the Sun, gathered at the Summer Solstice and infused into brilliant red oil or alcohol as a symbol of vitality and sunshine and then used during the short, dark days of winter to lift our spirits...it's all spun out like a story in my mind. Does the Sun truly "rule" SJW? I don't know the answer to that. Maybe not any more than a certain cluster of stars forms the constellation Capricorn...but it sure helps me remember and understand it better. As one of my mentors used to say: Herbs are plants with tales!
Oh, Leenie, I didn't know that Jeanne had passed! What an amazing woman--she touched so many lives with her magic. I know you must treasure every memory, just as you treasure those letters. I hope you will bring Jeanne's spirit to our work here this year. We all have so much to learn and share together, and she is a perfect companion and guide.
Thanks, Maria Luz, it’s an exciting time - an old lady and her two cats nesting 😁 And you’ll be adjusting to an empty nest. I’m so lucky to have this space AND to have Aleta, Daniel and Sierra plus two dogs and two cats, right next door 😍 Could this be the best??
I love a woman who faces a transition with gusto, Lynne! I am glad you have fur-friends all around. I would love to have a cat, but my dog is too much of a wolf in cute clothing.
At present, I have been reading Susan's The Cottage Tales series and love the animals' conversations 😻
🥳 is my attitude, Maria Luz! I’ve never been without at least one cat, and dearly love my daughter’s 2 dogs and bonus son’s 2 cats. My last dog was a gorgeous wolf malamute hybrid (legal in Canada), my loved and loving companion for just over 11 years. I also love the Cottage Tales, and Hilltop and the Land Between the Lakes is one of my favourite places. Recently finished rereading that series; now set to start on the Robin Paige books. Sleep sweet, we’ll talk more 😺
What an ideal living situation! Having family next door sounds like the perfect solution. I have lived alone since my husband lost his battle with cancer 4 years ago. I relocated to Hermitage TN from Idaho. The reality of the housing market translated into living 30+ minutes from my daughter and her family. I have my faithful companion, Sunshine, a golden doodle.
Georgeann, sorry (belatedly) to hear about your husband. Mine is in the end stages of Alzheimer’s and at the moment has Covid, so is in isolation.
As I’m now in the garage apartment my guys are thisclose, son and all his extended family about 25 minutes away, so I have ‘em near. Must go - Faye is trying to eat my pretty orchid, not good for flower or cat!
I offer my spiritual support. You face many challenges. No, orchids are not good for cats - nor dogs either. We had rescue "mutt" cats. My mother-in-law decided the children needed cats as well as a dog. We had brother & sister kittens (clearly from different fathers) who lived to be 20 and 21 years old. The male cat liked to chew on pencil erasers.
Faye, we think, was originally a barn cat who had to fight for food so will eat anything she can get, any time. We’re her third home in just over a year. A beauty but very edgy. Toby turned up on the porch two years ago and once he decided we were a promising staff, hasn’t shown any sign of restlessness!
Your emotional support is greatly appreciated - you know how difficult watching a loved person decline can be. I’m grateful for every joy.
Thank you, my friend 😍 Apart from exhausted, I’m so happy I can’t stop smiling 😁 And know that all your books have a prominent place in my new bookshelves!
Happy Birthday! This year has simply sped by. I am so excited for your new additions. Regarding Growing Green with the Zodiac, this is an area of interest to me, but I never have taken the time to do the research. I find it very interesting that plants respond to us when we talk and touch them. And now I will go resubscribe for another year of interesting reading. Thank you!
They do, yes. Sometimes I think all they want is a little extra attention--especially the houseplants that are so dependent on us, careless humans that we are. Thank you for the subscribe, Pamela. You are much appreciated!
How this year has sped by! Definitely something to celebrate, and your plans (as usual 😍) sound so intriguing and involving. 🎉🥳 On Sunday last week, my kids got together and moved me into the ‘Fonzi apartment’ (remember Happy Days?) so at last, 85 years old, I’m in my own space 🥰 so have that too to celebrate. Congratulations to you, and a heartfelt huge Thank You for the pleasure you and all our virtual friends bring.
Thanks so much, Sandy 😍 I just got into bed, winding down after a day of sorting, discarding, working out where to put...the cats and I are tired! But so happy 🤩
I love this so much, Lynne! I have never lived alone either (I am 53), but my youngest is likely moving to his own place after police academy early next year.
I hope you make your place fabulous and enjoy it a lot!!
What a fun journey this past year. Thanks for letting all of us ride along, Susan.
Couldn't have made the trip without you, Nancy!
Happy Birthday, what an interesting year, I have so enjoyed all the comments and meeting everyone. Susan, I love what you write, and am looking forward to this next chapter in the 'SWA' gang - Glad I took the plunge and signed on you have all given me so much interesting things to think about.
Thank you, Liz. I know how busy you are--just drop in whenever. The kettle is on and somebody's usually here. 🧡
WHAT a first year! I loved it all and am jazzed about Growing Green With the Zodiac. Thank you Susan :-)
Thanks for coming along, Jude! It's been fun--lots to learn over here.
Susan, I love everything that you write and am glad to continue this next year with you!!
Thank you, Trudie--you are very much appreciated!
I really enjoy and appreciate everything in these articles. I don’t take part in discussions but it’s definitely not because of lack of interest.
Thank you…
Thanks, Alan--jump in whenever you feel like it. We're mostly women here (because of the books, I suppose). Love to hear from the guys!
I put my plate and fork in the sink after rinsing. Can’t wait to see you again on Monday. Happy weekend
🧡🧡🧡
If I had the time I'd get everything on the substack list.
Susan, you are both an inspiring and an inspired author In fact, my two favorite authors are yu and Jodi Picoult. I eagerly anticipate year 2 and beyond. Love and blessings to you and Bill and Meadow Knoll, as well as all the fantastic characters we continue to meet through you.
I love the plan for the second year. There is so much to explore in all of those areas. Thank you!
I would love to hear more about your menagerie.
Penny's Substack: https://pennyjleisch.substack.com/
I hope you'll bring your experiences with the animal world into our conversations about plants, Penny. There's a great deal of commonality--we need to be reminded of that.
You're right, and I'm looking forward to participating in the conversations.
Susan - you're absolutely amazing. I love everything you write - your books are wonderful; you have incredible knowledge of plants, and I've enjoyed "typing" with you personally (comments and email). I didn't know about your interest in, and knowledge of, astrology. I'm a Cancer and Year of the Monkey (Chinese astrology).
You do remarkably well communicating with your fans online. I've been doing this ("social media," email, etc.) since 1979. I have tons of stories about my online (and computer) experiences, but I have always been particularly interested in the nuances of PEOPLE communicating online - it's DIFFERENT than face-to-face, and telephone interactions. ONE of those differences has to do with what's MISSING in online conversations - body language, facial expressions, even pheromones - and such things as interruptions and distractions.
People who are not particularly comfortable conversing with others face-to-face often find doing so online MUCH easier. It's considered safer - it's as if you can "hide" behind your computer/mobile screen. This works in both good and bad ways. I knew a guy who was deaf and had the obvious problems talking with others. He blossomed online. Of course this advantage to online communication can also work in negative ways.
Nasty people will say things online that they wouldn't dream of saying in person. Such people are often referred to as "trolls" - and can be a serious problem. Being able to remove such people, to "block" them or whatever becomes an issue. Sadly.
And - I'm chuckling to myself - people can go on and on and on. There's a lot more to say, but I try not to impose very often. You're doing GREAT!!!
The wonderful thing about Substack is that most of the time we are sharing behind a paywall, Carolyn--which means that the trolls aren't very likely to get to us. Also, while I agree about the most of the differences you mention between online and in-your-face communication, I've found that there is a certain anonymity in online conversation that invites more sharing and open communication. People aren't so afraid to be vulnerable in ways they would avoid if we were sitting together over a cup of tea. Interesting . . .
Susan - I agree with you. In groups such as these I am much more of who I am, rather than my physical disability limitations.. In the last several years I have had to use a walker; now I also wear a steel brace on my right leg.
In meeting people in our new 55+ community I have experienced negative reactions. These reactions occurred primarily as a result of meetings for our book club.
Some do not want me in their house - because I might mark their floors, their walls etc. I have also had people tell me they don't want me in their house fearing I might fall and sue them. I am 76; most of our community are 55-65. They all still work full-time.
A friend (who has been handicapped all her life) suggested they also may fear their own future limitations.
Online interactions remove these factors for me.
Like you, Georgeann, I've learned that there's are major differences in the interests of those who are "active retired" and those of us who get around with difficulty. And online neutralizes that--it's a more level playing field. And I think your friend's idea has merit. People *are* afraid of disability.
Oh, absolutely. What I know about online interactions would fill volumes (NO, I'm not going to bore you or anyone here with them). ONE of the MANY things I've found interesting in terms of social media communication (I could explain why I tend to use the term "social media" when talking about digital interaction and not just "online" but it's not important here).
Anyway, one of the many things I've found interesting in social media experiences is online FRIENDSHIPS that form. I've seen this happen from the very beginning. People who will NEVER be physically face-to-face; who's ONLY experience with another human being is digital text; find natural connections - long term, deeply held, friendships. Seemingly a random two (or more) people from different backgrounds, different historical experiences, different races, genders, countries, religions, etc. will have some sort of natural connection that turns into friendship. I've seen it happen over and over.
It's happened to me (I have stories). One of the things that SPARKED my fascination with this media from the first time I encountered it is how it throws disparate people together who would normally never ever meet. It says something about HOW human beings make connections - and provides us with opportunities for such we would otherwise never have.
Why I edited this - I had to fix a typo (humans beings should have been human beings). I hate typos. Sigh...
But mistakes are part of what makes us human 😁
Interesting. Most of the people here @TP&S got here via the books, so we have a common reader/writer connection there, with some mutual subsidiary interests (herbs, Texas, cozy mysteries). Others from social media (Facebook, Insta, Twitter) Then there are the Substack writers who want to see what's going on here (how the material is packaged, delivered, received, etc)--they're looking to pick up ideas. It's an eclectic bunch--many don't leave comments but DM via NOTES or write directly, which makes my day . . . interesting. :)
Yes, THIS group of people is here for more focused reasons and the online environment may well make a difference in the kinds and degrees of connections that develop.
I've been running an anti-racism group on FaceBook for over ten years now and that online environment is definitely different than personal FB pages in terms of how people connect.
However, in that situation most of the people who are active are online friends OUTSIDE the group. Regardless, people "meet" online - in focused groups or otherwise and the potential for closer relationships is always there.
I know I already replied but I was thinking more about your Growing Green with the Zodiac and it stirs so many memories. I had the great good fortune to study intensively with two master herbalists when I was still a young woman and new mother. Jeannine Parvati Baker was my first herb teacher and I graduated from her Hygieia College in the early 1990s. Around that time I became a student of Jeanne Rose, whose books I had been reading and using since 1979. Both wonderful teachers included astrology as part of their curriculums. I had to learn to draw (or "cast") charts the old-school way, using mathematics and geometry, long before the advent of computer programs that do that tedious part. Jeannine insisted that it was a tool, every bit as important as our spades and trowels to our gardens and our health. I can still hear her saying, "And a tool is only useful to the extent that you take it in hand and make use of it." Jeannine has been gone from this Earth since 2005 and my dear Jeanne Rose passed at the full moon in June this year. I'm still reeling because over the years we became close friends, visiting each other and talking on the phone, online, and keeping up a decades-long correspondence of old-fashioned handwritten letters (stored and cherished in a "treasure box"). As I look on my bookshelves and through my old course materials from both of them, the influence of connecting the stars and planetary influences with our own good, green garden planet is still with me. It's a thrill to know I will be learning more and have a place for exploring this aspect of plants in the coming months and years. Thank you!👏
Leenie, didn't have time yesterday to say that I also learned to cast charts w/paper-pencil and the ephemeris. It was good discipline for the soul, I suppose, but oh I did welcome the computer charts when they first came out. So useful for transits. I'm no astrologer, just an amateur who's more interested in the history/philosophy of astrology than the practice itself. But it's so much fun to see a neat transit chart!
I definitely agree about the ease of computer charts now. As a matter of fact when I went to find my ephemeris on the bookshelf I thought it called home, I couldn't find it. So that means it has been a very long time since I have done it that way. Probably a couple of decades. I do a little "planting by the signs" as my grandfather taught me but mainly I like studying planetary correspondences for specific plants. I guess because it feels a bit like stories, I find it easier to remember details about a plant when they're connected to planets, stars, and luminaries. For example, St. John's Wort under the rulership of the Sun, gathered at the Summer Solstice and infused into brilliant red oil or alcohol as a symbol of vitality and sunshine and then used during the short, dark days of winter to lift our spirits...it's all spun out like a story in my mind. Does the Sun truly "rule" SJW? I don't know the answer to that. Maybe not any more than a certain cluster of stars forms the constellation Capricorn...but it sure helps me remember and understand it better. As one of my mentors used to say: Herbs are plants with tales!
Oh, Leenie, I didn't know that Jeanne had passed! What an amazing woman--she touched so many lives with her magic. I know you must treasure every memory, just as you treasure those letters. I hope you will bring Jeanne's spirit to our work here this year. We all have so much to learn and share together, and she is a perfect companion and guide.
Absolutely! I miss her fiercely and feel her presence daily. It's a conundrum, but one I can live with. I am so excited about this new work!
Congratulations, Susan! Always love your interesting posts.
Happy Birthday!!! Congratulations...and I can't wait to continue reading!!
Thank you!
Thanks, Maria Luz, it’s an exciting time - an old lady and her two cats nesting 😁 And you’ll be adjusting to an empty nest. I’m so lucky to have this space AND to have Aleta, Daniel and Sierra plus two dogs and two cats, right next door 😍 Could this be the best??
I love a woman who faces a transition with gusto, Lynne! I am glad you have fur-friends all around. I would love to have a cat, but my dog is too much of a wolf in cute clothing.
At present, I have been reading Susan's The Cottage Tales series and love the animals' conversations 😻
🥳 is my attitude, Maria Luz! I’ve never been without at least one cat, and dearly love my daughter’s 2 dogs and bonus son’s 2 cats. My last dog was a gorgeous wolf malamute hybrid (legal in Canada), my loved and loving companion for just over 11 years. I also love the Cottage Tales, and Hilltop and the Land Between the Lakes is one of my favourite places. Recently finished rereading that series; now set to start on the Robin Paige books. Sleep sweet, we’ll talk more 😺
What an ideal living situation! Having family next door sounds like the perfect solution. I have lived alone since my husband lost his battle with cancer 4 years ago. I relocated to Hermitage TN from Idaho. The reality of the housing market translated into living 30+ minutes from my daughter and her family. I have my faithful companion, Sunshine, a golden doodle.
Georgeann, sorry (belatedly) to hear about your husband. Mine is in the end stages of Alzheimer’s and at the moment has Covid, so is in isolation.
As I’m now in the garage apartment my guys are thisclose, son and all his extended family about 25 minutes away, so I have ‘em near. Must go - Faye is trying to eat my pretty orchid, not good for flower or cat!
I offer my spiritual support. You face many challenges. No, orchids are not good for cats - nor dogs either. We had rescue "mutt" cats. My mother-in-law decided the children needed cats as well as a dog. We had brother & sister kittens (clearly from different fathers) who lived to be 20 and 21 years old. The male cat liked to chew on pencil erasers.
Faye, we think, was originally a barn cat who had to fight for food so will eat anything she can get, any time. We’re her third home in just over a year. A beauty but very edgy. Toby turned up on the porch two years ago and once he decided we were a promising staff, hasn’t shown any sign of restlessness!
Your emotional support is greatly appreciated - you know how difficult watching a loved person decline can be. I’m grateful for every joy.
Lynne, it has to be the VERY best! What a wonderful new nest, with awesome neighbors AND your cats. Nothing better--so happy for you!
Thank you, my friend 😍 Apart from exhausted, I’m so happy I can’t stop smiling 😁 And know that all your books have a prominent place in my new bookshelves!
China and I are delighted about our place on your bookshelf!
Not to mention Beatrix (in many guises) and Robin Paige ❤️
Happy Birthday! This year has simply sped by. I am so excited for your new additions. Regarding Growing Green with the Zodiac, this is an area of interest to me, but I never have taken the time to do the research. I find it very interesting that plants respond to us when we talk and touch them. And now I will go resubscribe for another year of interesting reading. Thank you!
They do, yes. Sometimes I think all they want is a little extra attention--especially the houseplants that are so dependent on us, careless humans that we are. Thank you for the subscribe, Pamela. You are much appreciated!
How this year has sped by! Definitely something to celebrate, and your plans (as usual 😍) sound so intriguing and involving. 🎉🥳 On Sunday last week, my kids got together and moved me into the ‘Fonzi apartment’ (remember Happy Days?) so at last, 85 years old, I’m in my own space 🥰 so have that too to celebrate. Congratulations to you, and a heartfelt huge Thank You for the pleasure you and all our virtual friends bring.
Happy Home Sweet Home Lynne! Love hearing that you have moved into your new apartment. So glad it has happened for you! 🌟😄🌟
Thanks so much, Sandy 😍 I just got into bed, winding down after a day of sorting, discarding, working out where to put...the cats and I are tired! But so happy 🤩
Sweet dreams Lynne for you and the kitties. 😊
😴💤🛌
This is such a yuuuuge thing, Lynne. I am so happy for you--and kudos to all your wonderful helpers!
I have THE BEST offspring and in-laws🥰
I love this so much, Lynne! I have never lived alone either (I am 53), but my youngest is likely moving to his own place after police academy early next year.
I hope you make your place fabulous and enjoy it a lot!!