Beth Bristow

When I learned I had Scottish Clan Cameron ancestors, I was determined to learn more about them. We made several trips to Scotland and my husband, a bag-pipe playing Scot, knew how overwhelmed I became when I first stood at the foot of the Scottish Highlands. Those misty mountains definitely were imprinted on my genetic memory - I felt as if I had returned home!

As I wrote the book "Survival of the Blood", I included treatments and recipes compiled from the diary of my many times removed great granny, Sophronia who was a well-known herbalist and mid-wife. Sophronia treated severe cases of pneumonia, often with success, when doctors' treatments did not work. While I do not necessarily recommend that these recipes be used, still, I do know that many of them are used today as natural cures. You'll want to read how 'Auntie Mary' in the book describes (using Sophronia's idea) how to catch a bird for the dinner table. It's hilarious and probably would work! I've not tried it, but plan to, and when I do, I'll let everyone know!

Survival of the Blood, as is usual for a book about Scotland, has paranormal beings and the second sight is evident as well. The Scottish people, thought of as being backward and unpolished were, in fact, sensitive to everything that went on around them. Families, nature, animals and day-to-day life was never taken for granted; they were cherished and given the respect they deserved.

Please take a look at my web site, www.bethbristow.net for more information.

Yours, Aye,

Beth Bristow