Broom Shopping with the Pirate Witches

I love an educational field trip, especially with my amazing friends, the Pirate Witches. Our recent adventure took us to the Tom Jones Broom Shop at Sadie Ford Farm in Lebanon, Tennessee. Mr. Jones, a charming broom maker, shared captivating stories about his family’s broom-making legacy while demonstrating his craft. From the intricate process to the delightful brooms for sale, each moment was filled with laughter and learning. I never thought I’d look at a broom the same way again! Join me as I recount this enchanting day filled with broom-making magic and unforgettable memories.

Relax. You’re on the Right Path           

Another lunch walk message from the natural world was received loud and clear. I was on my mid-morning walk a.k.a. “happy escape from the office,” down at the Shelby Bottoms greenway feeling good, watching the wind blow the leaves and tall grasses into gentle, friendly waving motions. There is so much to see when I pay attention, and I’m sure glad I did because right there standing before me were three eight-point bucks and two fawns. I counted every point.

Elbow Tree Folklore        

The “elbow tree” or bent tree story goes that whenever a tree is bent at a 90-degree angle, it can signal the direction of a nearby water source. It can also serve as a trail marker, a landmark, or a medicinal site, among other possible meanings. Ultimately, it is a valuable tool for navigating the wilderness highways. A near and dear friend of mine was the one who told me about the elbow tree folklore, which I found to be fascinating because I believe it to be true.