Today is Herb and Spices Day. Many staple foods taste bland by themselves. The flavor of dishes made with them comes from herbs and spices, from cooling mint to hot peppers. We also get many magical ingredients and medicines from them. Take time today to thank these plant allies for their help.

Summer is a fine time to walk in a garden, when the heat draws out the perfume of herbs, spices, and flowers. If you don't have a garden of your own, visit a botanical garden, park, or other place that grows such things. See how many you can recognize and identify. As you walk, say:
Herbs of earth and spice of flame,
Known by scent and taste and name,
Thanks for blessings you bestowed
As we've walked this mortal road.

Other ways to show your appreciation include learning about herbs and spices, planting new ones, cooking or crafting with them, and trying ones you haven't tasted before.