The Wraith – Esmé

 

I was born here. It was a home for unwed mothers. My mother died giving birth to me and I was named Esmé after Matron’s favorite cat. No other relatives could be found that could take me in, so I was allowed to stay here. I grew up learning how to care for pregnant women, most of whom had no place to go when they were kicked out by parents or relatives because of “the shame” of their condition.

 

It was a hard life, but one that seemed to suit me. There were many babies that died and almost as many mothers that died. Some mothers left with their babies. Some left in the middle of the night and Matron did her best to find a home for the baby left behind.

 

There was never enough food, clothing or medical supplies. The town did not want the place to exist so close to “decent folk.” There was always talk of shutting it down, but no one wanted to take the responsibility or expense of sending the residents elsewhere.

 

After Matron died, I was in charge entirely. No more women came here for refuge. After the last woman here gave birth, both mother and child died. I was alone. I was told that I could no longer live there and must move.

 

I packed what few personal things I had, not knowing where I was going or what would happen to me. I was taking my bag down the main stairs when I tripped on the worn carpeting at the top and fell headlong. I died instantly. I saw my body on the floor and knew I wouldn’t be going anywhere now.

 

In time, my body was removed and the place was abandoned. No one wanted the place. It fell into disrepair, but it was the only home I’d ever known, so I stayed. I enjoy the peace and quiet. The only thing I fear is fire. If my house burns, I will truly be homeless.

 

Medieval Parent Magazine – Pottage

 

Article – 101 Great Pottage Recipes

 

Literally from Old French for “food cooked in a pot.”  It was a thick soup or stew made with boiling grains, vegetables and spices. Definitely peasant food. The wealthier ones could maybe add meat or fish if you could procure some. It was a staple for many centuries. It could be kept over the fire for days, adding more to it when the level got too low, making it a dish that was constantly changing. It was typically boiled for several hours to break down the starches and make it safe for consumption. The consistency would be like primary-school paste. It could be thickened with milk, broth, mashed flowers or mashed fruit. If bread was available, it would be served with the pottage. Not exactly gourmet cuisine, but it would keep you alive. And some had no other choice.

 

 

 Basic Recipe – as many of the following as you could get your hands on

 

Carrots

Parsnips

Turnips

Onions

Leeks

Mushrooms

Green beans

Grains like oats or barley

Any meat, if you’re lucky enough to have some

Enough water to cook it all down. Add more water if you want to stretch the recipe.

 

Possible seasonings:

Rosemary, thyme, parsley, sage, pepper, salt

 

Cool Stuff From Around the World

 

I enjoy reading about customs and whatnot from other countries. This is about some noteworthy things…

 

This picture didn’t say what country this was in, but you know for sure that it wasn’t the US because it would have been vandalized immediately. It’s a permanent bicycle air pump installed next to a lockup bike place. Genius!

 

 

These are manhole covers in Japan. I love it! They are all over the place. I would love to be able to buy a set of postcards with the various designs on them. These are true works of art.

 

 

Luminous road markings in France. I’m starting to see things like this in other places. It would sure make roads easier to navigate when it’s dark and rainy. 

 

 

I think this one is the best uses of something no longer needed for the original purpose. It’s a converted subway in Paris. Awesome idea. 

 

 

This is in a bathroom somewhere in Germany. It’s a puke sink especially for Oktoberfest. Notice the handy bars to hang onto? And the faucet to rinse away all that wasted beer? I’ve never understood the reasoning behind drinking until you puke. 

 

 

This is a traffic light in Singapore. Seniors and the disabled get a card that they can tap on the sensor and it gives them more time to cross the street. People with babies in strollers should be able to use that, too.