Traditionally we celebrate National Herb Week (May 5 - 11, 2024) with a garden tour conducted by Susanna, followed by a sampling of some herbal treats prepared by Nancy, and a small craft session that incorporates the herb of the year. This free event took place this past Wednesday, May 8th from 6 - 7:30 pm.
Susanna guides the group through the three distinct herb gardens located behind The Rosemary House, Sweet Remembrances, and their private home. There is a vast array of herbs to discuss, and Susanna highlights some of the major herbs and some obscure ones also. Specific questions from the group are addressed, and a gentle herbal learning session on a peaceful evening in the fragrant gardens completes the tour.
The group is guided to the picnic table area where a sampling of herbal treats awaits. We do try and include the flavor of the herb of the year, but found yarrow to be a challenge in the kitchen. Fortunately, The Rosemary House has a lovely Potpourri Tea that is a blend of colorful flavorful flowers, including yarrow, chamomile, hibiscus, and more. So the herb of the year was indeed included in the refreshing iced beverage. 
We served a Savory Shitake Mushroom Pate with crackers and an Herbal Cheesecake garnished with lovage and served with crackers. We're happy to share the recipes over the next few days for these herbal appetizers. The dessert selection included crisp Rosemary Cookies and petite Strawberry Shortcakes.After enjoying the herbal tea, everyone gathered under the pavilion and was invited to create a Yarrow Facial Toner/Astringent to take home. This event is held annually, mid week during National Herb Week. Held rain or shine, we are always blessed when the rains stay away. Thankful for the rains as the gardens are lush and green, but grateful for a dry evening to honor these quiet but powerful herbs. Looking ahead, the herb of the year for 2025 is chamomile.
When I think of Yarrow I am reminded of making a natural dye many years ago. Yarrow was my favorite dye source.
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