Molly and Pim and the Millions of Stars (21 page)

PIM'S TREE

ARNICA

I drew Pim as arnica because arnica makes a good salve for bumps, bruises and sprains.
Mix it with witch hazel and comfrey. I think arnica has a quiet but striking sort
of grandeur too and not in a usual way either.

CALENDULA

At the end of the day, the end of the battle, the end of the journey, what we all
need is a good bath. Calendula is a good herb to throw in your bath. It's soothing
and healing. Mix it with sage, lavender, lemon balm, yarrow, basil, fennel and chamomile.
Close your eyes, soak it up and be glad for everything you have.

ROSEMARY

It was believed that if you placed rosemary under your pillow it would prevent nightmares,
and if you planted it in the garden it would keep witches away from your home. If
rosemary grew in the garden it meant the woman of the house was in charge. Men were
annoyed about this and some were known to pull out all the rosemary plants to show
they ruled. I bet there is no rosemary growing at the Grimshaws'. Rosemary is warming
and it helps you concentrate and solve problems. If combined with borage it makes
a great tonic to give courage. Potatoes are so much better with rosemary. Eat it
with your potatoes and go out to battle.

STARS

When people look at stars they often search for meaning. Stars encourage it. Because
they shine mysteriously and brilliantly.

Astrology began when people made attempts to predict seasonal changes and weather
patterns using the stars in the sky. Then they began to use them to forecast disaster
and war. I'm pretty sure at some stage most people stopped believing the stars, but
I think it's best to throw your dreams into the night sky and then follow them anyway.

I would like to acknowledge the wonderful work of my editor, Jane Pearson.

Thank you!