My Thanksgiving

A return to the essence of the season is needed prior to Thanksgiving, which is to buy fresh seasonal fruits; cranberries, figs, pomegranates, oranges, tangerines, apples, pears, and persimmons. I'd collect natural autumn leaves, wash them, let them air dry, and use the leaves to garnish the fruit platters.

I use seasonal nuts such as pecans in pumpkin pies, taking the pleasure of making a heavenly scented dessert at home. Though buying cakes, dainty pastries, and elaborately made pies is perfectly allowed. After all, it is the Turkey, roasted in the oven with the simplest of citrus and root vegetables that makes the Thanksgiving dinner so special.

For appetizers and side dishes, please do a fine job of pleasing your guests making all casseroles and finger foods using fresh ingredients and not too much canned or frozen foods. Most green vegetables can be blanched ahead of time and sauteed with caramelized onions, garlic, and herbs. This takes so little time and effort, and such great result.

I take special care in learning how to make a new cocktail, preferring simple and tasteful to add elegance to the occasion; Select elegant bottles of wine to go with Thanksgiving meal and decorate the table with flowers that your guests bring to your house. Light a few candles and reflect on all the blessings in your life this past year.

For the kids table, I'd cover a small table with large white sheets of paper and fill a few plastic cups with crayons. Not a fan of making anything extra for the kids, rather someone who believes children of all ages should try slices of Turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. My advice is to have dinner rolls and slices of breads and butter around.

Grab your camera and take long walks outdoors this season; notice of the color change, the fallen leaves, and the autumn wind.

Happy Thanksgiving

Knitting Party

Bring beads, sparkly & fluffy soft yarns of different bright Christmas colors, tissue paper, thick knitting needles, ribbons, tags, blank cards, and glittery pens for writing Holiday greetings.

Stop by for tea and cookies, one afternoon, after school and knit a gift for the holidays like a nice fluffy scarf.

Bring extra sparkles and pom pom for fun decorations.

Once upon a vegetable patch

One sunny day in August, when no clouds were found in the sky, a family of five mice moved into my vegetable patch. I often left pop corn and cereal crumbs outside my window for the birds; giving the mice plenty to eat.

At first, the two larger mice showed up and took little crumbs one by one. Occasionally, I saw them running fast across the yard with their dinner bits in hand.

Several days passed. My vegetable patch began to grow and the tomatoes ripened under the sun. One bright afternoon, I happily stepped outside to pick a basket of tomatoes for a tossed summer salad.

Uh oh!!!

The tomatoes were eaten off the vines by tiny sharp teeth. I knew instantly who to blame. Our uninvited family of five; the parents and their three little kids!

In the meantime, the family feasted happily on the juiciest tomatoes there ever was. The papa mouse told his kids, he had never tasted anything that good in his entire life. He was right. The little mice were thrilled to sink their teeth into the red plump flesh of something that sweet. Those round delicate fruits were undoubtedly marvelous.

Shortly after the raid on my tomatoes, I set up a mouse trap with sweet mini cookies in it. I placed the trap next to the vegetable patch and walked away. That night, I caught one large mouse. I gently carried him away to a nearby field and let him go. The next evening, another big mouse stepped inside the trap. I managed to take her to the same spot in the field as well.

Several days later, the three little mice were caught. They were admittedly adorable. After I let them go, I sighed with a sense of well being, since none of them was hurt and my harvest was safe at last.

Many days passed and my vegetables ended up ripening under the rays of sun. What a joyful sight and how I loved picking my own home grown food by hand.

Out in the field, the party of five found each other, sighed with relief that no one was hurt, they excitedly set out to find a new home for themselves.

While my family enjoyed many tomato tarts and tossed salads for the rest of summer, the papa mouse's family was as free as can be.

The End

The art of teaching

Kids and adults learn drawing, painting with various wet & dry media, sculpting, and collage making in the same classes and at the same time.

This year, 2010-2011, at Millbrook Elementary School in Evergreen District, City of San Jose, California, I have started a "Kids Do Art" program on Wednesdays from 2:20 to 3:30 pm @room # 22, where I set up a fun workshop after school, for learning the principles, history, techniques, and practice of visual arts. Despite the recent budget cuts on California public schools, I find art to hold too much importance to be ignored thus I encourage all kids, parents, teachers, principles, PTA, and caregivers to join me on this rewarding effort.

Art is the most practical tool for exploring inner abilities, enhancing hand-eye coordination, improving concentration, nurturing creativity, and improving human connections. These are amongst the most important skills that any human of any age can use to excel in academics and in life. Children benefit from art in many areas including reading, writing, math, and science; concentration, planning, patience, dexterity, and imagination are required skills in many academic fields. The therapeutic effects of fine arts are clinically proven to help individuals with terminal illness, depression, anxiety, and other physical or mental disorders.

Through this exciting program, we learn the simple techniques of drawing, design concepts, color wheel, hands-on painting with pastels, ink, acrylics, and water colors, sculpting with clay, and collage making by using nature objects, paper cut outs, and magazine scraps. The tuition covers the cost of supplies and all artworks by children will be returned to them in a portfolio at the end of each 12-session period.

I encourage students to take their artistic activities seriously and to spend a good amount of time, studying the works of masters, visiting museums and local galleries, set up studio space at home where they can do art occasionally, and to consider a career in arts and design for their future.

At the end of the school year, on our last session, we host a beautiful exhibit to showcase the children's artworks and all parents and caregivers are welcome to join us. Flowers, snacks, and drinks are welcome. During the show, we ask all attendees to sign names or finger paint on our large mural sized memory poster which will be hung in Millbrook Cafeteria during the last weeks of school.

Finally, I would like to expand this program to other school campuses within our San Jose districts and other cities in the South Bay area. For inquiries, questions, and to sign up, contact Raha Lane at rahalanefineart@yahoo.com, sign up sheets will be emailed or mailed upon request.

Artful thanks to all the marvelous kids, teachers, the principle, and PTA at Millbrook Elementary School who have encouraged me with their support and inspired my work with their insightful suggestions. Artistic creativity and knowledge go hand in hand to build a bright and beautiful future!

Raha Lane Gallery

May Day

The anniversary of a real and tragic struggle for change is coming in June. Wear green wristbands and show support for the universal rights of all humans in this world.

Rain

It's going to rain, and rain, and rain some more. How romance-like are the droplets of gentle rain on windows. If you're ever lucky to stand under the rainbow, you'll be sad at how rapidly it disappears. So does the hope for all of us humans on earth. It disappears if we lose our chance. One chance to true freedom, unrestricted, lawfully protected freedom.

I can only see bright green balloons flying across. This is just the beginning. The slow process of revolutionizing minds and thoughts in reaching out to liberty.

If you are a dove unwilling to fly, it won't matter where you are, in a cage or in the sky!

The rainy project this season is to resist, using all artistic and creative tools at hand, together, one at a time. Just like the drops of rain. Because in the end, there'll be nothing but the sweet scent of white daisies. Perhaps we can speak to one another and be more patient.

White Daisies

Lilacs withered, blossoms gave their place to the bright green fruit, and Mrs. Sun played hide and seek with the rain clouds. An occasional rainbow graced the horizon. White daisies were planted in all empty pots and cozy summer chairs were dusted off and placed outside. It was time to celebrate the rapid arrival of summer months!

Not very many weeks were left to the joyful days of swimming, sun bathing, picnicking, hearing the favorite sound of ice cream trolley.

Once again, children were passing their school year all too quickly. How time flew!

Lilacs in full bloom

Part of Sara's early spring days were spent cleaning the house, planting new trees outside in the front garden, and picking flowers in the back fields. There was not a single joy in her heart bigger than the joy of making fresh arrangements of lilacs. She confessed one day that in the best chapter of her memory book, early April when lilacs were in full bloom, held a special place. She felt heavenly refreshed walking to a huge lilac tree after rain and picking a few stems. In her childish way of taking huge satisfaction in small things, she felt that filling her basket in with huge clusters of heavily scented flowers along with Easter eggs on Sunday was the best. Arranging the flowers in aunt Cecilia's large white antique vases gave her a sense of being grown up. After all, aunt Cecilia would never keep the antique vases around all year unless Sara showed her how beautiful her flower arrangements looked in them.

A group of people walking by her house stopped one day and complimented Sara's hard work in the garden. They were gypsies who were passing by. One of them played the flute for her. Sara handed them warm bread right out of the oven.

The gypsies seemed to be good dancers. Sara watched them dance and finally felt sleepy. After a long day of pulling weeds and admiring singing birds on blossoming apple trees, it was time to take a nap. On their way back on road, the gypsies waved farewell.

Where there is a will...

I could actually believe in the power of will and how it opens doors to success. Nonetheless, the almighty wanting will is not always enough. A consistent reassuring self image and intelligent planning are key elements. From the smallest of everyday tasks to much larger endeavors, we all need stamina to proceed in life.

Family and activities around kids give stamina and in turn take a lot of energy. Speaking of energy, fueling on positive vibes through physical and mental yoga never do any harm especially during such a vibrantly green spring.

Indeed, there's no better time to cleanse body, mind, and soul (if we ever had any), than early spring.

I only go as far as drinking mint water and green tea, doing regular exercises, and cooking very light temple food.

Norouz gave me ample time to reflect on my past and start a fresh new year. Now, once again, I have to remind myself of daily journaling, building self guidance, and staying clear of negative thoughts or deeds.

Baskets of crops

Usually anything edible that grows in the garden is good.

I love a Mediterranean Kitchen garden, around lemon trees in circles of tomatoes, lavender, giant and small sunflowers, sage, oregano, and basil.

For a French look, add white daisies and white cosmos to fill the space between pansies, spearmint, mint, petunia, and field daffodils.

Easter is yet another time to go out and celebrate life. Hide the colored eggs under flower beds and within tall grass...

I particularly adore the all so precious chocolate bunny standing gracefully on glass pedestal.

I see it everywhere I go which only means others like to have fun with holidays as much as I do.

Whether it's a pretty basket of treats on Sunday morning or the smell of freshly baked muffins, it sure is awesome to be alive.

A French Laundry style idea

Just like in a French garden joined to a cafe kitchen, there are plenty of herbs, especially lavender and a large lemon tree. Sometimes, a few chickens are kept, which would lay eggs with anticipation and patience on the part of the shop keeper. Sara's mama, Rebecca had been the shop owner for years now, and had finally managed to borrow enough money to run a cafe in the middle of the village. Sara followed her to arrange for regular delivery of milk, breads, butter, cheese, meats, cakes, cookies, and coffee. Mama's sandwiches were best. Sara often played teacher on the black chalk board at the entrance garden walk to the cafe. Lily's family helped to gravel the path way leading up to the shop front and hung a customer door bell.

There was often a touch of detail about Rebecca, like the way she grew her rose bushes to frame the front gates. At the end of summer, Sara admired with pity while she rested on the garden swing, mama's rows of lavender buds and the most giant sunflowers.

"a teddy bear picnic in the lilac garden"

You are cordially invited to "a teddy bear & doll dress up, hats, purses, and fancy tea" party!

Place: Sara's lilac garden

Time: April Fools Day

What to bring: favorite cookies, cakes, and other sweet things

Printed and sealed, these dainty little cards went out in the early spring and before she knew it, a group of friends dropped by to say they were delighted to be there.

Sara was thinking of Alice in her adventures and she asked aunt Cecilia to let out her rabbit. Her friends would surely enjoy petting the furry creature.

A small lemon tree in the nearby gated garden, was blossoming! After taking a long horse ride, Lily dropped by. She arrived with her hat and gloves on.

Under the lilac tree, a light spring breeze was cooling the spring air and Aunt Cecilia went to her room to read. Amongst the wild lilac bushes and trees in the whole row, Sara and her friends set up table and chairs. The scent of lilac blooms stirred a familiar feeling in her and she wished her mama had come back home.

The she was staring in her direction, Rebecca, Sara's mama. She ran to hug her little darling and brought plenty of beautifully wrapped Swiss Chocolates.

Mama picked out a huge doll with a beautiful red flamenco dress and long blonde curling hair for Sara. Her name was Rita.

Rita was soon invited to tea with friends and that afternoon passed rapidly. That evening, mama climbed up to Sara's bed and kissed her cheeks.

Will you stay?

Yes, I'll be here for a while...

Sizdah Bedar سیزده بدر

The festivities of Norouz، نوروز continue through the first heavenly twelve days when almost every day, guests pay a visit for tea and cookies.

On the thirteenth day of spring, an outdoor picnic is mandatory. Many baskets are packed and outdoor games and toys are collected.

My orchard happens to be so enchanting with apple and pear blossoms in full bloom and the scent of lilacs and jasmines perfuming the air.

We pack a basket filled to the rim with cookies, fruits, sandwiches, and drinks and head outdoors. The traditions of Sizdah Bedar which literally means 13th day-out, are many but one is the tying of grass.

It's been known that on the 13th day of Norouz, which marks the end of the spring festivities, young single girls should tie and untie grass and wish for fertility and good fortune.

The most nostalgic moments are on the evening of Sizdah Bedar when as with all good things in life, there's an end. The next day is the 14th when all students go back to school and normal routine begins.

It's also customary to throw out the Sabzeh, سبزه sprouted wheats on this day.

Spring

Today, we enjoyed a fabulous Norouz feast with our family and laughed a lot. We also took a few blossoming tree and green fields, and flowers nursery photos.

We saw a few dried blackberry bushes behind the trails and reflected on the juicy berries ripe, at the end of the summer.

I particularly liked having the kids help me in making a very green friendship salad, and coloring eggs. We managed to make a lot of Persian cookies and had a medley of fine nuts from Iran. They came in a beautiful basket from our dear family friends.

On this first day of spring, I am thankful for facebook, free blogging, and speedy internet access.

We planted mini daisies, delicate pansies, and oriental poppies. With little kids hard working hands who often splash you by pointing the water hose at you, planting a beautiful garden for any window becomes easy.

Let Norouz candles burn through the entertaining dinner parties through the holidays. Floral arrangements keep well if water is changed, stems cleaned, slight cut made at the stem's end, and the petals spritzed.

Plant candy stuffed colored eggs on growing sabzeh (sprouted wheat) and tie pretty ribbons around the bottom with small flowers, tied to the bow. This charming creation makes a marvelous easter surprise for all!

Happy Norouz and Happy New Year

Rebirth of natures brings vast green fields and wild flowers, singing birds, and blossoms in purple, pink, and white.

The spring flowers pop out of the ground and graceful daffodils stand tall next to tulips, and hyacinth stems.

A few things to do before Norouz such as shopping new things, mainly flowers, and cleaning the house off dust and spider webs.

The spirits are lifted when the scent of flowers intoxicate the air with the aroma of treats that leave the kitchen and land in crystal platters; almond caramel jeweled treats, coconut, walnut, and almond macaroons, raisin cakes, and delicate dainty chickpea cookies line up to form the spread with polished red apples, oranges, tangerines, and small green cucumbers.

Norouz brings a new feeling of hope and renewal. The beginning of the year in the Iranian calender or 1st day of spring is based on centuries old traditions. The collection of these traditions and rituals makes this holiday exotic, festive, and fun.

And last but not least is the exchange of brand new cash bills as gifts, especially to children. The money is usually spent on snacks and vendor foods or toys...

On the 13th day of spring, an all day outdoors picnic is planned. Large baskets of food and drinks are packed and families head to nearby wildlife parks, lakes, mountains, and hillsides picnic spots. Soon, a large spread is on the grass and games begin.

Happy Norouz, and as we say in Persian language, Farsi,

"har rouzetan norouz, norouzetan pirouz means "may everyday of your life be like Norouz, and your Norouz be happy"...

Coloring Eggs

The beauty and bounty of eggs make them irresistible for coloring projects.

Sara has been never been so blessed with such beautiful yellow daffodils, red carnations, blue hyacinth, purple lilacs, pink gladiolas, and red tulips. Little by little, new lilacs and the thin strips of jasmine stems with flowering scented flowerets, add to Aunt Cecilia's collection. She brings out fragile tea cups, saucers, silver spoons, sugar cubes, and plenty of cookies.

Sara has been in habit of inviting her school mates home for the spring holidays. Finally, mid term exams were over and the kids spent one sunny afternoon under blossoming orange trees. The air was balmy and mild. Spring warmth dried up all the winter rain rapidly. Everyone gave hand made cards, offered a page in her journal for classmates and teachers to write memories and wishes, or shared a few stems of flowers.

After meeting under a white almond blossoming tree, Sara invited Lily and Patricia to join her for afternoon tea one day and promised to share her box of cookies. Sara's mama was still in Switzerland, with her lover and sent Sara a giant box of cookies. The young girl was kind hearted and decided to throw a small party for her close friends.

One brightly sunlit afternoon in April, Aunt Cecilia would spend her afternoons outside washing and drying laundry near the freshly weeded vegetable garden. On sunny days, she would hang the clothes out too dry. Lavender inspired a scent cleanliness into the air.

The hanged clothesline made itself the most ideal hiding spot. After a few drops of sugar cubes and tea, the girls ate their cookies and ran out to the garden. The neighbors' cat was in the sand box, and a few birds celebrating spring.

Lily had brought chicken and duck eggs in a basket, while sharing her story of watching her chickens and ducks lay eggs. There was plenty of watercolors in aunt Cecilia's work room and they girls began painting eggs. When they stepped outside, a little rain began forming a delicate and foggy rainbow across the green fields.

Patricia's mum was a jewelry maker who found inspiration in plants and flowers particularly. She always gave Sara and Lily small necklaces, bracelets, or rings wrapped in pretty sparkly and colorful boxes with large bows and lots of curled ribbon.

At the end of a long day, playing with balls, drawing chalk pictures on the pavement, and swinging in the rose garden, the girls went back inside and played doll house for a while.

Lily and Patricia always admired Sara's tiny toy-foods and doll-size teapots. Aunt Cecilia collapsed on the sofa after a long day of polishing silver, rubbing windows, washing clothes, sweeping, and dusting, and dozed off in the middle of the laundry.

While Sara and her playmates drifted off to sleep on doll size beds. It must have been magic in the air or Uncle Spring had come with small gifts while everyone slept. When everyone woke up, it was time for Lily and Patricia to go back home while Sara made dinner for aunt Cecilia.

Happy Norouz

The little bluebird with his exotic white crown follows the early spring breeze, gracefully lands on the dancing branch of a budding cherry tree, and asks, "Tell me about Norouz".

The pretty girl with a halo of daisies around her forehead grabs her basket full of red poppies, looks up at him and responds, "On this exquisite festival of renewal, rebirth, and new life, the spirit of good resides in the hearts and minds of true devoted Persians".

"What is best about Norouz?" asks the bluebird.

The girl scratches her head thoughtfully and says, "When the intoxicating fragrance of hyacinth, the sweet scent of Samanou (wheat pudding), and the fresh hint of Sabzeh (sprouted wheat seeds) fill the air. These are some of the best for me".

Suddenly the lively melodies of music mingle with sounds of "Happy New Year" wishes. The girl points to a crowd of marching children dressed in brand new clothes and shoes, receiving their cash gifts cheerfully and planning of various ways to spend their money.

The bluebird begins to sing a tune for the festive crowd. The girl tells the bird why she has to hurry back home soon.

"On the Vernal Equinox, when the new year begins, an old clock ticks the time away, making it all too difficult to be patient". "I have to be home with my family on that moment.", she explains.

"I saw that, days before Norouz, houses got cleaned, rugs were swept, shelves were dusted, windows were washed, trees were planted, flower seeds were sown, and cookies were baked.", the bluebird notes.

The girl smiles up at him and nods, "The delightful fumes of baked goods welcome the guests inside. I promise to bring you lots of crumbs next time."

The bird sighs and recalls the last Tuesday evening of the year, when he saw bonfire flames and sparkles lighting up the dark late night sky.

The dainty girl hands her bluebird friend, a tiny poppy and says, "The young and the old often gather around the Norouz spread with a renewed feeling of hope, forgiveness, and generosity."

The bluebird responds, "I'm happy to be here in your magical land. Undoubtedly, everyone treasures Norouz's promise of becoming better."

The girl smiles and tells him of her teachers saying good byes to the students before spring holidays, handing out cards and gifts, reminding the kids to not eat too much sweets and nuts during Norouz. "A warning we often ignore.", she winks. "We're never going to be that good."

The bluebird tells her of what he saw flying over town shortly after the day school ended, just before Norouz holidays; when tulips, daffodils, almond blossoms, and trays of pistachios, figs, and seeds were being purchased along with baskets of apples, oranges, and cucumbers.

"Traditions around Norouz are many, boasting with spring treats. It makes it worth the waiting!" She waves fair well to her feathered friend and heads back home.

He flies away, giving his word to her, that he'd be back again, thinking of those delicious cookie crumbs she'd bring for him...

Spring Parade

The parade begins on the first day of spring. The old and very wrinkled "Mother Winter"wearing her untidy gray wig, swirling her long white robe, sprinkles white snowy flakes of glitter and confetti in an unfortunate last attempt to stay just a little longer. She does not wish to leave the scene simply because her beloved cold and shivering winter is all that the poor woman has left. Alas, she has to depart the world and pave the way for spring. Her seven trees with all their bare silence walk behind her. Children wave good bye to "Mother Winter" and her naked trees.

Snow and glitter are swept away, marking the all too important spring cleaning ritual. Finally, "Uncle Norouz" the aged bearded man, dressed in exotic Persian costume, arrives with his huge bundle of gifts and goodies. He welcomes children with his generosity and kind spirit. Behind him is the very charming and popular "Haji Firouz" a man of many musical talents, showing off his painted face and a brightly colored attire of red and green, singing cheerful tunes and dancing. His little marching band includes seven young dancers, flute, drum, and tambourine players, and a little girl shaking bells.

Next, come the seven blossoming trees, displaying their abundance of scented little blooms. The seven spring fairies, daffodil, hyacinth, tulip, lilac, lily, gladiola, and the rose crowned with glory present their beauty and grace. The "Haft Seen" spread is brought to the audience's curious attention, by brightly dressed young marchers, in each hand, a symbolic item.

Sabzeh (sprouted wheat, tied up in pretty colorful ribbon, symbol of growth), Seeb (red apple for beauty), Seer and Serkeh (garlic and vinegar, for driving off ill spirit), Senjed (lotus for love), Sekeh (gold and silver coins for prosperity), Samanoo (decadent wheat pudding, for patience), gold fish in crystal bowl for youth, colored eggs for fertility, mirror for reflection as all our acts come back to us, candles for light, a bowl of Seville oranges floating in water representing the earth in space, and a jar of rose water for purity.

At last, "Grandma"the story teller arrives with a large platter of sweets and nuts, followed by the enchantment of seven spring birds feathered and joyful, singing of hope and dreams. What a sweet and nostalgic memory the parade leaves behind!

Happy spring and may the spirit of green reside all through the year.

عید نوروز

زمستانی است سرد و سوزناک با بادی وزنده و خش خش شاخه های درختان عریان مدام به گوش میرسد. برف سپیدی که بر قله کوه ها همچون پتویی سنگ های ژرف را در آغوش کشیده با سکوتی غمناک، روز ها را به شب و شبها را به سحر مبدل می کند.

از یک ماه پیش از رسیدن نسیم بهار، گر چه کودکان سرگرم درس و مدرسه و کماکان در تکاپوی امتحانات سه ماه دوم هستند، همچنان روحیه خانه تکانی، خرید عید و تدارک عید نوروز کم و بیش به چشم می خورد. برای من که سالها در دنیایی افسانه ای و شاید در عالمی غیر واقعی به شیرینی های زندگی دل بسته بودم، خاطرات هر سال متفاوت با سال پیش اما همواره با شادی پیوسته اند. آنچه هرگز عوض نمی شود، طعم سمنو، بوی خوش سنبل، عطر گلاب و نسترن و مزه شام دل انگیز سبزی پلو و ماهی است. در سفره همیشه جاودان هفت سین، علاوه بر هفت سین باستانی، و یا حتی هفت شین، ساعتی تیک تاک کنان و ماهی قرمز در تنگ بلور، گلهای رنگارنگ بهاری، و شیرینی و آجیل در کنار اسکناس های نو به همگان امید آینده و سالی بهتر از سالهای پیش را هدیه میدهند. در این نوروز دوباره، روزتان نو و روزگارتان سبز باد.

How to germinate wheat seeds کاشت سبزه

The most delightfully treasured traditions around the festival of Spring Equinox, Norouz, is growing wheat, barley, lentil, or bean seeds. One of many family values in Persia, growing wheat or Sabzeh is in harmony with nature on a small and personal level and provides a learning experience for the young. In order to have a beautiful and green sprouted seeds bundle, careful planning is required. It is, however, a very simple process. Here is how:

Start planning Sabzeh almost three weeks before Norouz, first day of spring. Soak a few small cupfuls of your favorite seeds in cold water for two days, making sure water stands above the seeds for a couple of inches. Next, spread the seeds on a flat plate and leave a wet cloth over the seeds for another two days so that the cloth covers all the seeds and keeps them moist. Finally, remove the cloth and place the plate of seeds in a somewhat sunny or moderately warm room, sprinkling water on the seeds every day. After about 10 to 14 days, the seeds grow into tall and green sprouts.

Avoid overwatering; it will make the roots moldy and will rot the sprouts. Also, avoid too much exposure to direct sun; it will wither the sprouts too quickly. You may need to trim the sprouts with small scissors to make the green shoots uniform and tidy.

Tie a pretty colored ribbon around the base of the sprouts to cover the roots and give the Sabzeh the look of a nice bouquet. Place the Sabzeh on Norouz table and keep taking care of it as usual until the 13th day picnic. On the last day of Norouz festivities, 13th day picnic, gently throw the Sabzeh out and make wishes for a very joyful and green year.

Chahar Shanbeh Souri-چهار شنبه سوری

One of the most ancient Persian festivals of the year, Chahar Shanbeh Souri, marks the beginning of New Year holidays in Iran. Based on a scared Zoroastrian tradition, Persians gather outside their homes, on the last Tuesday night of the year, just before the Vernal Equinox in March. Bonfires are set up; people, young and old, try to jump over the fire as a symbol of throwing away illness, misfortune, tragedy, and hateful thought. Fire burns away, and a new spirit of joy, health, happiness, and love prevails. The traditions around this holiday are many, but the most notable is making a fabulous feast of mixed nuts, candy, and gourmet food. Ajil e Chahar Shanbeh Souri is a famous mix of colored candy, roasted almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts, died figs, chick peas, and sun flower seeds. Ghashogh Zani, is the Children's tradition of dressing up in costume and going door to door, banging on small pots with their silver spoons, asking for candy. Once they fill their pots with an abundance of sweets, they return to their friends for a late night of sharing goodies. Music and dance have long roots in Persian traditions. Needless to say, Chahar Shanbeh Souri is an occasion to dance around the fire and enjoy festivities. During the long history of Persia, foreign armies from Eastern and Western frontiers have often invaded Iran's land and culture; many tried to replace Iran's ancient traditions with their own. Nevertheless, Persians have always treasured their own identity and stayed true to their own beautiful beliefs. The most popular riddle chanted on Chahar Shanbeh Souri is Zardi e tou, az man; sorkhi e man az tou-saying to the fire that the yellow and decaying old and bad goes to you from me, and your bright life and energy comes to me from you. Humble gratitude shall be given to the genius of Persian historians, writers, poets, story tellers, musicians, dancers, entertainers, and above all grandparents, for giving the younger generation of Iranians an exquisite collection of festivals which will continue to last through centuries. Happy Chahar Shanbeh Souri; may the spirit of good prevail!

An exhibit of dolls and teddy bears

Without a single organized thought or plan, I began to gather dolls to stand for girls and teddy bears to act as boys. A few months passed and I ended up with a heavy pile of silent friends. The exhibit day approached. I sat down and stared at each of the huggable creatures. It was as if they were telling me their stories. The events of life they had once shared with their young owners appeared on them like wrinkles on a face. Surely, they each had marvelous stories to tell. Soon I figured, there was nothing better for an audience of diverse ages than a simple reminder; something they all understood. A touch of childhood playfulness which possessed the gift of giving smiles! It was an idle display for a very good cause. The event was to offer hope for humanity.

Some dolls had very elaborate dresses and some were in humble rags. A few had broken legs and quite a large number of them were victims of neglect or perhaps too much tossing around; they wore the most tangled up hair I had ever seen. I managed not to give in to my initial instinct, to fix them up and smooth their hair. Finally they were left as they were. The bears came in many different sizes and shapes. The bows and ties around their necks were uniquely different but none displayed the same facial expression.

My next plan came quickly afterwards. I collected small furniture, appliances, accessories, story books, picture frames, and all sorts of odd objects. The exhibit space allowed a tiny room for my display of children's story book scenery. Very soon, I managed to have many fictional scenes at sight.

A beautiful blonde doll sitting on a rocking chair was knitting a hat while she cared for two little baby dolls napping in a crib. A mother doll was cooking beside a window overlooking the garden. Next came three bears coming from a day of hard work in the woods and sitting down to eat the meal that a doll in blue dress had prepared for them. Out in the garden were a group of dolls wearing butterfly wings with baskets full of daisies and roses. They were planning to offer the delicate flowers to teddy bears tied down on hospital beds. Somewhere in the middle was a very pretty doll dancing to merry tunes with sparkles on her hair while several teddies played flutes and tambourines. They generously shared the joy of merry tunes with the others. A large train was huffing and puffing round the circle carrying passengers. Several dolls and teddies were on board. Finally, a classroom was set up where a doll teacher was busily engaged in educating the little teddies.

There were many charming little sights in between the displays. Did the exhibit bring smiles? It did and more. Hope for humanity proved to be a worthy cause. Once again in a very busy world filled with bitter realities, the small room offered an escape. An event that many people young at age and young at heart would remember for a while.

Victory of roses over bullets

There are wide ranges of flowers, fruits, and nuts growing all over the Iranian plateau. Wild and heavily scented roses beautify the ancient monuments and exotic gardens of Persia. Persian gardens in Shiraz, are famed for making outstanding rose water, orange blossom water, and mint water, bottled up and sold around the festival of Norouz.

Norouz, means new day, which is the Spring Equinox and time for revival and renewal of life; people purchase large bouquets of flowers, especially gladiolas, carnations, daffodils, and almond blossoms. The customs are abundant and follow the mandatory spring cleaning. Many rugs are shaken out, pots of flowers and new trees are planted, and windows are crystal clear and clean.

A few days before the festival, a huge feast of sea foods, dill rice, kuku sabzi (green omellettes), Ash e Reshteh (thick noodle and beans soup) is prepared along with Shiraz Salad and other side dishes. Trays of cookies are baked. Delicate pastries and delectable cookies, dainty crystal goblets of seven heavenly and symbolic trinkets, gold fish swimming rapidly back and forth in a glass bowl, sprouted wheat tied up by red ribbon, and a dose of fortune telling from Hafiz' lovely collection of poems, are just a few of festivities at sight.

Sound of music and hugs and kisses along with gifts of cash notes and silver or gold coins are given out for good cheers and prosperity. Samanu, a thick and extraordinary sweet dessert is served in just a few small spoonfuls for sweetness.

This is a festival that has inspired many marvelous poems and works of art. Since this memorable festival still marks the new year in Iran, people prepare for several fireworks masquerades, masked balls, new year haft seen spread of seven symbolic trinkets, Samanu, Sonbol (hyacinth), Sabzeh (green wheat sprouts), Seeb (red apple), Seer (garlic), Sekeh (coins), and Serkeh (vinegar); these items begin with s, the spread is called Haft Seen (seven s)...

It's very customary that children receive gifts of new clothes, shoes, and money to buy themselves whatever they'd like. There are many story books, legendary tales, and fairy tales are created with Norouz in their backdrop.

An imaginary old bearded and very kind man who visits once a year, comes to each house secretly on Norouz and leaves coins and goodies. His name is Amoo Norouz (uncle Norouz).

He wears green and red festively decorated clothes and long pointy hat. He's the Persian Papa Noel or Santa Clause.

The traditions around Norouz are adorned with musical tunes, plenty of guest visits, and a large picnic on the 13th day of new year which marks the last day of the festivities.

On Sizdah Bedar (13th day picnic outdoors) is the largest day of outdoor picnic. In ancient Zoroastrian tradition, 13 is considered bad luck. By going outdoors to enjoy spring sunshine and fresh air, families welcome a refreshing day and a break from routine. Sizdah bedar is a sweet fair well to Norouz and a final note to the holidays. On the 14th, kids return to school and life begins as usual.

When many citizens are seen outside their homes, having lunch on green grass under shady trees, grilling kebobs (skewered meats), carrying large baskets of spring fruits especially Chaghaleh badoom) crunchy green almonds, Faloudeh (Persian ice cream), and very good sandwiches, one can not feel but nostalgic and hopeful.

French Laundry Style

I'm talking about collecting vintage cards with four seasons, history, or fairy tale designs and pairing them with whimsical shaped cookies, wrapped beautifully in clear paper, with bows, tags, and bells. Hanging cards on stretched ribbons, by using clothespins, especially above the fire place for Christmas or near windows for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine's day, Easter, Norouz, and birthdays...

Flowers in buckets, or fake flowers in baskets, dried flower or fruit wreaths, antique country style figurines of chickens, roosters, bunnies, lamb, chicks, fairies, wands, haloes, wings, shells, mermaids can be collected in many artistic forms.

Fashion plays a role in all things since a pretty hat shaped sugar cookie decorated with dainty little daisies is as charming as tea towels with days of the week on them.

The White Winter Wonderland

Sara trembled from cold all through her body and cheered with delight at the sight of a bon fire.

There was a group of people in the Winter Village to visit Papa Noel and the reindeer.

Aunt Cecilia was grateful for a steaming cup of hot tea and her mittens that Sara had knitted for her. Unlike what she had expected, this Christmas holiday was joyful, indeed.

Sara kept looking at holiday lights, dazzled in its enchantment.

Garden plans

For the spring and summer garden, plan to weed out dried and old plants, remove dead leaves, and prepare soil. Next, start sowing seeds indoors: sunflowers, pumpkins, tomatoes, mint, basil, oregano, and thyme. Plant parsley, rosemary, sweet peas, carrots, bell peppers, and chilies.

Along with a pantry stocked with good olive oil, whole grain couscous, pasta, and breads, with onions, garlic, small red potatoes, celery, lettuce, and spices you can have a fabulous kitchen garden and plenty of gourmet things to eat. Try stuffing large vegetables with chili and cheese, or wrapping salads inside flat breads.... In the spring, you'll have plenty of time to plant a few pretty bulbs and maybe a tree on earth day.