Balsam Valentines

Adirondack indigenous people have long understood that the pitch from Balsam trees has medicinal powers. Early Adirondack campers would pile branches in their lean-tos for soft and fragrant bedding and Balsam stuffed pillows continue to be a favorite souvenir of vacations in the Adirondack Mountains. For Valentine’s Day we will hand stitch velveteen hearts, stuff them with ground balsam needles, then stitch beaded decorations.