Color of the day: Coral Incense of the day: Sandalwood Incense of the day: Sandalwood Various groups hold thanksgiving and sharing ceremonies for each of the important American harvests, and one such day is today. The Iroquois green bean ceremony is the time of the year to thank the creator for fertility. It is designed to inspire in particular a productive harvest. Start by acknowledging your ancestors by burning tobacco in a censer. Beans are symbolic of life and are considered lucky. Try this main course. Wash, sort, and break green beans into two or three sections. Mince a small onion and four rashers of bacon. Put the bacon in skillet over medium heat. As the bacon begins to brown, add onion. Turn until both brown. Add the green beans and two cups of water to the pan, taking care to avoid spattering grease. Season all with a splash of apple cider vinegar, a pinch of salt, some black pepper, and some cayenne pepper. Cover and continue cooking about twenty-five minutes or until the beans are tender. Enjoy this green bean dish, preferably outdoors with family and friends. |