Favorite Autumn Things and Memories
Thanksgiving is a time of gathering, of sharing, and of love. A simple meal and assembly of loved ones is the goal. It is memorable and satisfying.
… Read More Favorite Autumn Things and Memories
Author: bluewillowcottage
Welcome to the cottage. My name is Dawne, and I am a Christian mother, author, home-educator, nurse, and self-taught herbalist. I believe in lifelong learning, creativity, and love… Oh, and oils!
My great passion is helping other families become healthier with herbs, oils, and good common sense. I share recipes and ideas which sometimes include my backyard-grown herbs, and/or oils. I love to teach my ideas about optimal family health in workshops online, in classes locally, and even by having learning parties for children. In addition, I love showing others how I make our tiny home into a beautiful, welcoming cottage.
Vintage Literature with Children
We set around the kitchen fire,
an’ has the mostest fun!… Read More Vintage Literature with Children
A 1950’s Woman
One of the most cherished times of my childhood is the months I spent with my great grandmother in West Virginia. We hung laundry on the line, made daily pies, and sang hymns. … Read More A 1950’s Woman
Scripture: The Gift that Keeps on Giving
Cleaning Day and what I found: A nice surprise that warmed my heart… Read More Scripture: The Gift that Keeps on Giving
Gracious Hospitality
This old, stained, scarred table of ours has heard the secrets and troubles of many hearts, catching tears on its surface as we shared struggles and sought the LORD for help. As I wash the surface, I wonder how many plates of food have been served here.… Read More Gracious Hospitality
Working with Vintage Kitchen Tools
Imagine my delight when I came across this mixer at Salvation Army last week. My mind flooded with happy memories of Grandma’s tiny apartment, those irresistible aromas coming from her impossibly small kitchen. … Read More Working with Vintage Kitchen Tools
Magical Memories
With all of the flurry of activity during the busy holidays, I would never be able to do one fraction of the things we do if I had not planned ahead.… Read More Magical Memories
Be Willing to Struggle
“It isn’t enough to believe in something; you have to have the stamina to meet obstacles and overcome them, to be willing to struggle.” ~Golda Meir What better way to start a Tuesday morning than a cast-iron skillet filled with a hot, sizzling spinach and mushroom omelet with cheese? It will give you energy… Read More Be Willing to Struggle
Of Toads and Herbs…
Each summer morning this time of year, I rush out in the morning with my mug of coffee to see what herbs and/or vegetables are ready for harvesting. I spend about an hour and a half out in my gardens after my husband leaves for work at 8:30 am. Sprinkled throughout my garden beds are small vignettes of various whimsy, and I chuckle to myself as I work. … Read More Of Toads and Herbs…
Carrying the Sky
Years ago, my re-purposed decorating style was more out of necessity,
but I still delight in revitalizing interiors with salvaged pieces
… Read More Carrying the Sky
Blue Willow 