Purple Shutter Herbs

07/15/2015

Hello Friends of Laura and Purple Shutter Herbs!

This is a reminder that we will be having a celebration of Laura's life on Saturday, July 25 (her 60th birthday anniversary,) at the St. John's Club in Burlington, Vermont. The event is from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you are able, please bring a dish of finger food or chips and salsa - something easy - to share. The Club has a full bar of soft and hard drinks. We may not bring our own drinks. Family, friends and children are welcome. The Club is on the lake and has swimming, but there is NO lifeguard. We look forward to seeing you. REMINDER: You may still have your prescriptions and other herbal item needs fulfilled through Laura's friend, long-time employee and designated successor, Kelley Robie of Horsetail Herbs. She can be reached by phone at 802 893-0521. Kelley will be at the celebration should you have any questions. We are looking forward to seeing everyone!

04/23/2015

Laura Brown

Horsetail Herbs
Kelley Robie
134 Manley Rd.
Milton, VT 05468
(802) 893-0521
[email protected]
HorsetailHerbs.org

Dear Purple Shutter Herb Patrons,

It saddens me to tell you that Laura Brown of Purple Shutter Herbs passed away on Friday March 20th after a long battle with cancer. The physical store at 7 West Canel St. in Winooski will no longer be open for business.

It was Laura’s wish that I keep the prescription business going to further serve our community. I have been a long time employee for the store and know the details of how she ran this aspect of her business.

I would be honored to keep this going for her in the name of Purple Shutter Herbs.

I do have all of the store files regarding patient information including prescriptions cards and recipes. I am able to provide all of the services that the store offered including custom tinctures, capsules, teas, oils and salves. All patient information will be kept confidential.

As I do not live in Burlington, I would be able to mail prescriptions and herbs to patients that want that service. Prescriptions and herbs can also be picked up at my office in Milton. I am looking for a potential drop off spot in Burlington on a weekly basis. Any input on this information would be appreciated.

I am also a trained clinical herbalist. I graduated from UVM with a degree in Animal Science and have acquired different healing modalities throughout the years. I can offer herbal knowledge about questions you may have regarding herbs & your prescription for yourself or your pet. You may also contact the practitioner that prescribed your formula for more detailed information or if you feel your formula may need to be changed.

Please contact me with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,
Kelley Robie


We are also looking for homes for Laura's cats:

Two 13 year old cats need quiet, caring home asap. The owner passed away. Zing and Leo are female and male kitties, short hair and long hair. They are shy but very friendly. They are indoor cats that have never left their current home. They are seeking a loving home that is somewhat quiet, where they can get lots of attention. They are both in good health! Please contact Kelley Robie at 893-0521 for more information.

Please join us for a celebration of Laura's life:

http://www.sevendaysvt.com/vermont/laura-brown/Content?oid=2546318

Laura Brown, the Herb Woman of Winooski and proprietor of Purple Shutter Herbs, picked an auspicious day of celestial events to depart Earth: March 20,...

04/23/2015

Dear friends of Laura,
Laura's 13 year old cats need quiet, caring home asap. Zing and Leo are female and male kitties, short hair and long hair. They are shy but very friendly. They are indoor cats that have never left their current home. They are seeking a loving home that is somewhat quiet, where they can get lots of attention. They are both in good health! Please contact Kelley Robie at 893-0521 for more information.

04/02/2015

Laura Brown
1955-2015, Burlington
click to enlarge Laura Brown - MATTHEW THORSEN

Matthew Thorsen
Laura Brown

Laura Brown, the Herb Woman of Winooski and proprietor of Purple Shutter Herbs, picked an auspicious day of celestial events to depart Earth: March 20, day of the vernal equinox, the Super Moon and a solar eclipse. Within a half-hour of the sun crossing the equator to renew the cycle of plant life in the northern hemisphere, Laura’s soul crossed over to new gardens unknown to us mortals.

The adopted daughter of Robert and Helen Brown of Bloomfield, Connecticut, Laura came to Vermont to be a bookseller but ended up in the company of many of the strong women herbalists of Vermont and elsewhere. Her formative experience came under the guidance of the joyful Rosemary Gladstar of Sage Mountain Herbal Retreat Center, and Laura was eternally grateful for the herbal wisdom Rosemary imparted. Laura developed friendships with many in her apprenticeship class, and while time and events have loosened some of those bonds, she never forgot their close association. Laura also treasured her family in Israel, and she was looking forward to the birth of her beloved cousin Tomer’s first child.

Laura loved teaching classes in her Burlington and Winooski stores and up at Smugglers Notch. Many friends and customers fondly remember the urban herbal oasis she and her staff created outside her former Burlington location.

Laura’s friends can attest to her stubbornness, and that tenacity helped her live with the illness of her final three years. She was determined to celebrate her sixtieth birthday on July 25. ‘Twas not to be. In that spirit, a celebration of Laura’s life will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Burlington’s Saint John’s Club, 9 Central Avenue. Contact [email protected] for information.

Memorial donations can be made to Vermont Respite House, 99 Allen Brook Ln., Williston, VT 05495.
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I grew up with Laura in Bloomfield ,pleased to discover her in the shop on Main Street and that she shared my passion for the world of herbs. Over the years I was the lucky recipient, as were many, of her generosity, receiving much wisdom, stories, gifts of herbs, opportunity to teach mindfulness in her Winooski space, and friendship. Fond memories of junior high and high school, long chats about family history over ginger chews...and so much kindness. I was out of state when she announced she was returning to the Respite House and planned to see her the next Monday to say goodbye. Too late...Goodbye, Friend. There is an empty space here, but a joining to Spirit there. Xoxoxox
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Posted by megstyle on 03/31/2015 at 9:31 PM

Friend, Teacher, Employer, Laura inspired and encouraged me continuously. She will forever hold a place in my heart and my memory of education; in her honor I will teach others and continue to spread plant wisdom to others ready to learn. "The difference between an herb and a w**d is an opinion." The sign hung in her shop on Main Street, and perfectly captured the humor with which she challenged this world's conventional views. Thank you Laura.
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Posted by Caroline Duell on 03/31/2015 at 5:04 AM
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03/27/2015

Dear Purple Shutter lovers , friends , collegues , workers , clients and family. As my amazing , big heart aunt has passed away , i want to memorize her with your help , and make this page as your page , the herbal community. Laura has gave me to be admonistrator of this page few years ago , and now that she has gone , i want to keep it for the community. as being the only administrator , i want to give her clients the option to remmber her and to ask questions here on the status and to be answer by you , the comunity , ex workers, herbal savvies , and the one who care for others. smile. by that we can keep her knowldge and save her laura's legacy. i hope to see that page alive with you , vermount people even on the 25th july 2040... i will give full Access to Mary Post and Kelley , so they could invite herbal teachers and experts to post here questions that the comunity want to raise. fell free to ask for information , tips , remedies or everything as laura could help you all in the past. i hope you wil help me with this gesture. like that we can keep the store spirit. there is no rent here in the facebook. keep the comunity live!!!! Thank you all . Laura Loves you from far away there in the sky.... Thanks Tomer Israel.

03/17/2015

LAURA'S HEALTH UPDATE:

I AM RETURNING TO THE RESPITE HOUSE TOMORROW AT
10 AM BY AMBULANCE. NO IDEA FOR HOW LONG. I'VE
FALLEN 2 TIMES & COULD NOT UP EVEN GET OUT OF BED,
I CANNOT WALK AT ALL! HOPE THEY'LL TAKE GOOD CARE OF ME - 24/7. YOU CANNOT REACH ME BY TELEPHONE JUST
EMAIL. LAURA

03/10/2015

horsetailherbs.org

Kelley has worked at Purple Shutter Herbs for 15 years, I highly recommend her as a teacher & she has a great program, Laura

03/07/2015

Timeline photos

Thanks to The Farmacy for the image!

02/26/2015

Garden Plum Enterprises

Here's an amazing chart regarding the making of making of herbal tinctures. Feel free to ask me questions.
http://www.gardenplum.com/tincturesolvencies.html

Tincture Solvency Chart for creating homemade herbal remedies.

02/20/2015

Meal Train for: Laura Brown (Click Here)

For all of those who have expressed an interest in providing meals for me - here's the place to go! This is a locally developed site to organize the process & provided personal food information from me, plus its easy to use. I thank you for participating & looking forwar to good eats. Laura

A Meal Train has been created for Laura Brown. meal Train simplifies the process of giving and receiving meals and more. Be the first to contribute!

02/14/2015

Hello Everyone,
I'm writing from my hospital bed set-up in my living room. It was delivered yesterday. I woke up in the middle of the night on Tuesday in serious pain in my left thigh that kept me awake the rest of the night. The pain has traveled to my leg & has settled in my hip. It is very uncomfortable. The physical therapists came to do an evaluation but I was unable to comply due to the pain, so they took my vitals - all good! Then looked into my problem. It looks like I have a pinched nerve in my spine - sciatica. They're biggest concern was one of safety. The pain is intense thus making it very difficult to walk & I have to be able to walk to the bathroom. They are also concerned that I am often in the house by myself. They thought sending me back to Respite House but all the rooms are taken. So my nurse, Denise, came over to see me. She is the one who recommended the hospital bed to make my comfort better, as well providing an easier means for getting off it. Haven't tried it yet because the remote control stopped working. Charlie, from the place the bed is from, came by about 20 minutes ago & figured it out. Seems it was plugged into the wall which is controlled by a light switch that got switched off. He changed where it is plugged in & had to unplug a lamp facilitating plugging in my laptop. Nothing is ever easy. I'm also on 2 new meds to relieve the pain. Started last night when they got delivered. My friend, Grace, came over & brought me breakfast. Mary is coming this afternoon for company & cooking up some chicken for me. I'm doing a lot of deep breathing. Just wanted to keep you all updated. I'll get through this detour like all the other.

02/01/2015

I'M HOME @ 2 pm!
And all connected electronically.
Neither cat greeted me.
But Bruce & Eric arrived before me.
Found Leo on the floor under the blanket.
And no Zing.
It's now 4:30 & neither Zing nor Leo love me.
Tried putting away some stuff but tired me out quickly.
So now in my pjs finishing this email. And then will lie
down on the couch & probably fall asleep.

01/30/2015

HEALTH UPDATE:
I shall be going home on Sunday. A few folks will help packing up the stuff that was brought over to the Respite House to make it feel more like home. I'll be getting VNA hospice services. Initial meeting, at my home, to create the best assistance possible. I'm mostly excited about seeing my cats again. I haven't seen them in 2 months. I am anticipating my homecoming. I'm thinking that Leo will be overjoyed in my return, whereas his sister, Zing, will hear my footsteps & greet me at the door & then remember she's mad at me, turn her back but look over her shoulder. The big question is how long can she hold out? It'll be quite an adjustment for all. Once I am acquainted with the VNA's help. I shall then put together an online organizer, that you be able at access, to support me with some meals. It's called "meal train". If you are interested in cooking something for me & I'll let you know when it is up & running. I will be very grateful to those who volunteer. I have also stopped driving & have donated my car to Good News Garage, so from time to time I'll be in need of a ride - never far. I have recently learned how important it is for me to ask for help. So many of you have reached out with offers, so I know you are out there waiting for me to call. I have always understood how important you all have been in my life but now I have come to cherish my friends & community even more. You are all my lifeline. And I thank you. Laura

01/27/2015

great teacher & topic

01/23/2015

Help Laura Brown of Purple Shutter Herbs

HEALTH UPDATE: I've been residing at The Vermont Respite House since January 2nd. I've had two discussions with my social worker, who was reporting info from staff meetings. Since arriving here I have gained strength, stamina, energy, stability (walking) & weight. Basically, I have gotten 10,000 times healthier!! It has been suggested that with this amazing turnaround from death that the Respite House is not the appropriate place for me NOW. So, I'll be heading home with the support of the VNA's Hospice Program in the next week or so. Through this journey, I have learned a very hard lesson that I need to ask for help. Actually pick up the phone & ask! So I'll need the support of my friends. I have donated my car to Good News Garage because I no longer feel comfortable being behind the wheel. So, I'll need rides occasionally - nothing far & I may need some food cooked for me as well (that would be food I'll actually eat not what you think I should be eating). Please don't just bring stuff over but you let me know if you'd like to be of assistance. And most importantly visitors. When at Respite House, my spirits were lifted by each visitor I've had; its the best medicine. Also in going home I shall have more expenses with things that were provided free at RH, I'm referring to healing modalities such as reiki & massage, as well as the cost of organic foods. My home printer died & needs to be replaced, also wifi internet connection at home (which is very expensive).Many of you know that some friends have put together a fundraiser to cover these kinds of expenses. I live on a very limited income, I do not pull any money from Purple Shutter Herbs - even though I do work over my computer/phone daily - placing orders, paying bills & answering questions as well as emails from customers. I also direct, assist & encourage my staff. I have an amazing staff keeping the shop going & am so grateful to them. I'll post the link to the fundraiser, if you feel so inclined, I would be most appreciate. http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/help-laura-brown-of-purple-shutter-herbs/286101.

Feel free to contact me directly, either through FB or the shop's email address: [email protected].

I thank you all for being part of my community, I truly appreciate you all.
Laura

P.S. photo taken in Common Room at The Vermont Respite House

Laura Brown, proprietor of Purple Shutter Herbs, has been a source of herbal information, healing medicine, plant lore and legend, support, and advice for folks in the Greater Burlington area for many years now. Over the past few years, she has been receiving medical treatments for cancer, and her..…

01/22/2015

I've experienced this lately & it has made my life much easier!! Thank you Universe

Collective Evolution

01/15/2015

Hello Folks - Thank you again to all who have so graciously donated to my fundraiser. It seems that the donation is a 2-step process. You declare the amount you want to donate & then you have to complete PayPal's verification process. Please check to see if your donation has processed & if not, please complete it. I thank you & appreciate your generosity!

01/13/2015

I have been residing in The Vermont Respite House for two weeks now. My strength & stamina are building. I'm feeling stronger with each passing day. This has been facilitated by the good care of the staff, the positive attitude that fills the residence & my ability to connect with myself again! To be surrounded by caring, compassionate people provides me with a healing environment. I also appreciate all who have come to visit, you have boosted my spirit - I am truly blessed!

01/08/2015

I am humbled by the response to this fundraiser. It touches my heart to know how many folks, in our community, I have touched. Thank you for your support. I'll keep you updated as to my progress.

01/07/2015

Help Laura Brown of Purple Shutter Herbs

A fundraising site has been organized for Laura Brown of Purple Shutter Herbs. http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/help-laura-brown-of-purple-shutter-herbs/286101

Laura Brown, proprietor of Purple Shutter Herbs, has been a source of herbal information, healing medicine, plant lore and legend, support, and advice for folks in the Greater Burlington area for many years now. Over the past few years, she has been receiving medical treatments for cancer, and her..…

12/31/2014

Vermont Respite House | Visiting Nurse Association | VT

Dear Friends,
I know its been quite awhile since I've been in touch. Its been a very hard November & December for me. I have been seriously ill over that timespan. I have been in & out of the hospital with my last because of pneumonia & mucus mucosa Last week I decided to cease chemotherapy treatments, instead to focus on best quality of life available to me. Thus yesterday, I moved into The Vermont Respite House. It is a safe, small "house" with 13 guests who are cared for, as needed 24/7, with the best possible attention ( http://www.vnacares.org/health-care-services/end-of-life-care/vermont-respite-house). It is a good choice & I feel better already.
I'll keep you updated as time passes.

Vermont Respite House is a unique model in health care today, not a hospital, nursing home or institution. This is the first and currently only Medicare-certified inpatient hospice residence in Vermont.

12/03/2014

any suggestions/recipes for a natural healthy electrolyte drink?

12/02/2014

Herbal Medicine Materia Medica: Echinacea spp.

One of my favorite ways to stay healthy during the winter is with Echinacea tincture. I take it in frequent doses at the first sign of a cold, and it often seems to help prevent the cold from setting in. One of my favorite parts about it is that when I take it, it usually helps me feel like I have more energy and am a little more resilient. We have some tinctures of this wonderful herb on special display at the store!
-Nick (Purple Shutter Herbs staff) http://www.healthy.net/Materia_Medica/Echinacea_spp_Herbal_Materia_Medica/200

Herbal Medicine Materia Medica: Echinacea spp.

11/20/2014

PURPLE SHUTTER HERBS WILL BE CLOSED FOR THANKSGIVING ON BOTH THURSDAY & FRIDAY.
SHOP EARLY FOR HERBS & SPICES WITH US!
WE WISH YOU JOY & HAPPINESS WITH FAMILY &
FRIENDS. LAURA, KELLEY, NICK & SKYE

11/10/2014

In Odd Twist, Industry Agrees To Ban 'Microbeads'

In Odd Twist, Industry Agrees To Ban 'Microbeads'

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — Environmentalists in Illinois expected a battle royal over their call for a statewide ban on "microbeads" — tiny bits of plastic used in personal care products such as facial scrubs and toothpaste tha...

11/04/2014

www.mychamplainvalley.com

Here's a video with Larken Bunce from The Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism in Montpelier. Watch the video (plug for PSH there) &check out the recipes.
Here's the link - http://www.mychamplainvalley.com/story/d/story/herb-recipe-boosts-immunity/26984/B60lTvMXVkW4RvnpuAYyeg

11/04/2014

Timeline photos

The GMO Junk Food Giants are at it again. Many of the biggest food brands are working tirelessly to prevent you from knowing what’s in your food. Learn what brands to avoid and why: http://orgcns.org/1yrp7vB

11/01/2014

We are now very well stocked with herbs, spices, teas, cocoa & shea butters, beeswax & empty lip balm tubes. We are getting out your special orders at break neck speed. I'd like to thank my amazing staff - Kelley, Nick & Skye for being so wonderful & efficient in dealing with the deluge of deliveries!! Come down & fill your herbal needs at Purple Shutter Herbs. Laura

11/01/2014

Don't forget to turn your clock back on November 2nd at 2 am. So set your alarm clock to wake up & follow the rules!!

10/30/2014

BOO TO YOU!!

10/21/2014

Fantastic Fungi: The Forbidden Fruit

nature is so amazing & so is Paul

09/27/2014

HERBSherbsHERBSherbsHERBSherbsHERBSherbsHERBSherbs

Our shelves are filled with the loveliness of the vibrant colors of the many herbs & spices we carry .We also fulfill custom orders - tea blends, capsules or tinctures. They can be your own formulations or a prescription from a health care professional. Come on in & do some shopping with us. Shop hours - Monday - Friday; 10:00 - 6:00. Come in & say hi to Skye, Nick & Kelley.

09/22/2014

AUTUMNAL EQUINOX - 10:29 pm EDT tonight.

You might want to try to balance an egg. I find it usually magically begins to works about an hour before, but feel free to try all day. The egg should be room temperature.

MAY THIS DAY OF BALANCE & CHANGE OF SEASON BRING HAPPINESS TO YOU ALL!

09/17/2014

Timeline photos

What are you doing on Wednesday, October 1st? We hope you will be joining us at Oak 45 for a fun get-together. The Winooski Community Partnership invites you to meet with your neighbors as we discuss the goings on in the downtown. We are also excited to announce that the launch of ACCESS WINOOSKI is scheduled for this evening. What's that you ask? You'll just have to come down to find out!! We're looking forward to seeing you. No RSVP needed.
Oak 45 is located at 45 Main Street - on the east side of the circulator.

09/05/2014

Laura Health Update:
One more session left for radiation on the "volcano" tumor. Had a consult with my radiation oncologist, who was quite surprised how much it has already shrunk. It is approximately half the size when I started. We have hopes that it will disappear altogether. Wouldn't that be wonderful?? Thank you for all your support!