tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72419029770717277252024-03-05T07:45:47.506-08:00Autumn's Home and HearthAutumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-3452094917897367092015-03-11T08:08:00.001-07:002015-03-11T08:08:48.028-07:00Book Review: Pagan Portals-Fairy Witchcraft<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14798" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14797" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><a class="a-link-normal a-text-normal" href="http://www.amazon.com/Pagan-Portals-Witchcraft-Neopagans-Celtic/dp/1782793437/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426086453&sr=8-1&keywords=pagan+portals+fairy+witchcraft"><img alt="Product Details" class="s-access-image cfMarker" height="160" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41p3yq969FL._AA160_.jpg" width="160" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Book Review: Pagan Portals: Fairy Witchcraft by Morgan Daimler ISBN 978-1782793434</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14795" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Published by Moon Books <span>©</span>2014 </span><a href="http://www.moon-books.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">www.moon-books.net</span></a><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14810" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">; book $9.95; ebook $3.99</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14793" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">This is a very short book- 83 pages from the introduction to the conclusion. The book is written from the author’s perspective on the subject and her personal experiences within this tradition. It offers information on the lore, traditions and magic of fairy witchcraft. This would be a good book for a new practioner, but not necessarily for an adept. </span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14802" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Ms. Daimler covers the basics including beliefs, tools used, basic practices: how to get started, prayers invocations, holidays, correspondences, etc. There are also a few things not really relative to only fairy witchcraft such as Four Thieves Vinegar and Witch Balls. </span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14804" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">The author clearly believes in her path and seems to “walk the walk” and not just “talk the talk”. She offers many of her own personal experiences with the fey.<span> </span>She also has a very decent bibliography for further reference and research.</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14807" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">I think this would be a good basic introduction for someone brand new to this path as a Fairy 101 book. I would give it 3 out of 5 stars.</span></div>
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-35006322824376853842015-03-11T08:02:00.001-07:002015-03-11T08:02:31.735-07:00Book Review: Gray Witches Grimoire <div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14481" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Book Review: Gray Witches Grimoire by Amythyst Raine ISBN 1780992734</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Published by Moon Books <span>©</span>2014 </span><a href="http://www.moon-books.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">www.moon-books.net</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">; book $19.95; ebook $11.99</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14611" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Overall, I was a little let down by this book.<span> </span>There is very little on the actual path of the Gray Witch in it, only a few pages. I would have liked to have read more. Although the pages are few, I was very engaged in what the author had to say on this subject. </span></div>
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<span id="yiv4794437383yui_3_16_0_1_1426008207078_6425" style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_14613" style="font-family: Calibri;">The preface of the book explains what the author’s concept of a gray witch is- not light, not dark, but in between (as you might have guessed</span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><span>J</span></span><span id="yiv4794437383yui_3_16_0_1_1426008207078_6424" style="font-family: Calibri;">).<span> </span>She also covers what she thinks is the most important of the witches ladder- to keep silent and the power this rung carries in doing so. <span> </span>Ms. Raine also goes into her views of what the principles, beliefs and code of ethics are for a gray witch. The book also covers many basic tenets such as the triangle of manifestation, the witches pyramid and the use of the heptagram.</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></div>
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<span id="yiv4794437383yui_3_16_0_1_1426008207078_6429" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">A lot of the book covers different correspondences she uses (which are the same most pagans/witch may use, including myself). She does offer many spells, which certainly would fall under the category of “gray”.This book may not be for those who only profess love and light. Whether or not the author’s spells cross any lines is up to each practioner and what they believe to be as truth. </span></div>
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<span id="yiv4794437383yui_3_16_0_1_1426008207078_6435" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Ms. Raine does not offer a bibliography. She does state at the very beginning of the book that all the information is from her own grimoire and what has learned on her path as a gray witch.<span> </span>The books is written in a very easy to read format. If want an good book for correspondences and spells, this may be a good book for you, but as stated before, the actual information on the path of the gray witch is very limited. I would give this book 3 out of 5 stars.</span></div>
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-14617418646285271832015-03-11T07:58:00.001-07:002015-03-11T08:09:34.096-07:00Book Review: Deep Heart of Witchcraft<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13741" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13740" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"><a class="a-link-normal a-text-normal" href="http://www.amazon.com/Deep-Heart-Witchcraft-Expanding-Magickal/dp/1780999208/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426085870&sr=8-1&keywords=deep+heart+of+witchcraft"><img alt="Product Details" class="s-access-image cfMarker" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51qumVC3H0L._AA160_.jpg" height="160" width="160" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Book Review: Deep Heart of Witchcraft-The Core of Magical Practice by David Salisbury</span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13748" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Moon Books Publishing ©2013 </span><a href="http://www.moon-books.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">www.moon-books.net</span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> ISBN R00F1YZ0ZG book $22.95; ebook $13.99</span></span></div>
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<span id="yiv3242943921yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_12355" style="font-size: small;"><span id="yiv3242943921yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_12354" style="font-family: Calibri;">LOVE this book! A must have for any practioner’s library: novice or adept. This book is about transforming how you practice your spirituality in today’s world. It pushes the reader to learn (and keep learning) but also to practice your craft, EVERY SINGLE Day, not just on holidays! I was very excited when I started with this book. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;"> </span><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13751" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Mr. Salisbury starts off by explaining how to read and use his book. He has written exercises for you to do, journaling prompts, meditations and rituals. The first four chapters cover the elements in great detail! He explains each element and also gives exercises on how to work with and connect with each element. He goes beyond a basic correspondence listing. The next few chapters cover spirit, the gods, ritual and the wheel of the year. Again, the author goes beyond just the basic information. The last chapter shows you how to put all this knowledge together to successfully practice your personal craft.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">There is also a very nice bibliography for further reading/research. </span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13762" style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_13761" style="font-family: Calibri;">Overall, this book offers a better understanding of the basics of witchcraft and takes the reader to next level. Although I might not consider this a 101 book, it is written in a way that anyone, novice or adept, can understand and absorb the information given. It certainly does go “deep”within the heart of witchcraft. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></div>
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<span id="yiv3242943921yui_3_16_0_1_1426079677645_12366" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: small;">Go out and buy this book today!! Five out of five stars. It will certainly find a home in my library!</span></div>
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-47146406086634871622015-03-09T13:50:00.001-07:002015-03-09T13:50:55.093-07:00Book Review: Pagan Portals-Hedge Riding by Harmonia Saille
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Book Review- <u>Pagan Portals-Hedge Riding</u> by Harmonia
Saille, Moon Books Publishing, <span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">©</span>2012<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">ISBN 9781780993485; Book form $9.95; ebook form $3.99<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="http://www.moon-books.net/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.moon-books.net</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Overall, I found this book informative and easy to
understand. Harmonia Saille writes in a way that anyone can understand the
concepts she presents, including newbie witches and pagans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She starts off stating this is a starter
guide and has basic information. She goes on to state that further reading,
research and practice are needed to become adept at hedge riding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hedge riding is a practice that is basically about
altered states of consciousness and how to use this state for traveling within
realms. She writes “When we hedge ride, we cross the hedge, which is the veil
between the worlds and we become the bridge or link between the two.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Within this book, the author explains the different components
on how to hedge ride and ends the book with how to bring it all together on how
the process would actually work. The author also offers different methods on
how to achieve altered states in preparation for any journey.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The book also stressed the importance of
having experience in meditation, visualization or other path-working methods.
If you are not adept at the time you read the book, make sure to learn these
techniques before attempting to hedge ride! Some exercises are included to help
gain experience in this area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The author also writes about different tools that can be
used for protection, guidance and preparing for your ride. She also tells the
reader how to work through different realms, animal guides and spirit guides
and how each of these might offer help or insight into your ride. Personal
experiences of the author are also included to help illustrate this process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This book was rather short, but it is packed with
information that can be used by a novice or adept practioner. It offers do’s
and don’ts and is easy to understand on any level of experience or knowledge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would highly recommend this book for any practioner
looking to experience hedge riding and other states of altered consciousness.
Four out of five stars!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-36513382878201839392014-03-02T11:11:00.002-08:002014-03-02T11:12:09.228-08:00Celebrating Imbolc and Welcoming Spring, In early February my group, KOTH, celebrated the sabbat of Imbolc. In a lot of areas, this time of year is celebrated as the Return of Spring (and the decline of winter- at least in the Southern US).<br />
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This past winter has been very active, not only up North, but here in the South as well. I can't remember the last time we had a "real" winter.Normally here in Louisiana, we have a couple of weeks at most of temps 32 degrees or lower. The temps usually range from 40-60 degrees. So imagine our surprise when we have had "wintry" conditions here for a few weeks now. We even got snow, sleet and lots of ice on the roads. We Southerners are not used to these conditions to say the least. So of course if the temp goes below 32 degrees, the state pretty much shuts down.<br />
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On February 2nd, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow and "predicted" 6 more weeks of winter (at least for that part of the country). In Louisiana we have our own version of Phil, called Pierre Shadeaux, pronounced "Shadow".<br />
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(taken from: http://weirdsouth.blogspot.com/2014/01/will-pierre-see-his-shadeaux.html)<br />
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Pierre is not a groundhog, but actually a nutria rat, which are plentiful in this area. The weather here on February 2nd was cloudy and downcast with rain for most of the day. So Pierre did not see his shadow. I guess only time will tell which rodent is correct :) The past couple of weeks (late February) have been warmer temps in my local area, with temps reaching highs of 70 (nighttime lows in 40;s). So maybe Pierre is on to something. I am normally a winter person, but this year I am ready for spring.<br />
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At this time of year we celebrate Imbolc, a time of regeneration, purification and dedication. KOTH celebrated with a ritual and feasting afterwards. This year we honored Brigid in her many aspects as a triple goddess and asked for her blessings of healing, knowledge, transformation and creativity just to name a few. We also rededicated ourselves to our gods and to following the ways of the ancient ones. Seeds were blessed and consecrated for future magical workings. And of course we ending with feasting. I don't ever remember having a celebration with out good food as a major part of the event. We Cajuns believe that we must live life to fullest, Laissez les bon temps roulet. (Let the good times roll).<br />
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I hope this season of Imbolc brings you health, prosperity and happiness. Be happy and make magic :)<br />
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May Brigid bless you always.<br />
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AutumnAutumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-559485476242944002014-01-07T12:18:00.001-08:002014-01-07T12:19:21.046-08:00Merry Yule and Happy New Year!!!Wow, I hadn't realized how long it has been since I wrote on this blog. This past year has certainly kept me busy. It seems like all I had time to do was work, go home, eat, sleep and start the cycle again :( One of my goals for 2014 is to really delve into my creativity and find ways of expressing myself. This blog is certainly on my list of priorities for the new year.<br />
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Merry Yule!<br />
Keepers of the Hearth spent this sabbat on a weekend retreat to Poverty Point, LA which is in Northern Louisiana not far from Monroe. This was a 3-4 hour drive for us, but definitely worth the drive. This state park is beautiful, has great hiking trails and an awesome man made lake on which some of the smaller lodges sit. As you can see in the pic, the weather was not exactly an inducement for merry making :)<br />
It actually rained all day Saturday, but we managed to find things to do to keep in the holiday spirit.<br />
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We arrived Friday evening, unpacked and set up the cabin. That evening we visited with other local pagans who were also at Poverty Point for the weekend. After a brief visit, we returned to the cabin, fixed supper and enjoyed the tv show It's A Wonderful Life. It had been years since many of us had seem this show, and we were very happy to have shared it together as a coven and family.<br />
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Saturday started with a big family breakfast followed by a session of making Yule Ornaments.<br />
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<img height="150" src="https://scontent-a-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1504522_10202312165118786_1362031117_n.jpg" width="200" /> <img height="150" src="https://scontent-b-atl.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1483343_10202312163998758_368454007_n.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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Everyone took turns making their own set of ornaments, adults and children alike.<br />
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The rest of the afternoon was spent watching holiday shows, reading, meditating and walking the trails.<br />
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That evening we had our Yule Ritual in which we welcomed back the returning light. We honored the triple goddess by lighting candles in her honor as well as honoring the return of the light and the sun lord.<br />
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After ritual we indulged in feasting and adult beverages for those who were old enough :). We ended the night with a gift exchange. It was a long day, but a wonderful one. I am hoping this will be a KOTH tradition.<br />
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I hope you all had a wonderful and Merry Yule. May the love and light of the Lord and Lady bless you always.<br />
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BB,<br />
Autumn<br />
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<br />Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-47283848706024535192013-02-14T08:54:00.000-08:002013-02-14T08:54:49.678-08:00Happy Lupercalia and/or Valentine's Day!!<br />
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_17_1360850741113_109" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Happy Lupercalia! and Happy Valentine’s Day! <o:p id="yui_3_7_2_17_1360850741113_111"></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Lupercalia is the Roman festival celebrated around the 15th of February, some say the 13-15th. This was considered a fertility ritual and also a purification ritual. We do not know for sure which god(s) were celebrated, how it was celebrated or its true origins. Historians have made educated guesses as to what may have happened during this time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Priests called the Luperci would participate in a ritual that included the sacrifice of goats and perhaps dogs. The priests would have the blood of the sacrifices smeared upon them and would then soak pieces of pelt in the blood. These pelts would then be used to "strike" people, especially women to keep them from being sterile and to promote fertility. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">The Romans started their new year around March or springtime, so the time before (in February) was a time to get rid of anything old and make way for the new. So this was also a time for purification and cleansing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">The festival of Lupercalia is said to honor the she-wolf, Lupa, who found the abandoned twins, Remus and Romulus. She became their mother for the most part and suckled them to maturity. She took care of them like a mother would. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">This festival may have started around 753 BC and was thought to end around 1200 years later at the end of the 5th century AD. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_17_1360850741113_114" style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Lupercalia does have some associations to Valentine’s Day. This was a time of match making of couples. Alliances were made between families to strengthen bonds (whether romantic or political). Its association with fertility rites also gives this festival a tie to Valentine’s Day as today Valentine’s Day is mainly a festival or time for romance which may lead to personal fertility rites :). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">So whether you celebrate Lupercalia or Valentine’s Day, I hope you have a wonderfully magical day. May love always be in your heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bookman Old Style', serif;">Autumn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-11145321802660080972013-02-12T12:04:00.001-08:002013-02-12T12:05:01.641-08:00Mardi Gras Magic <br />
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Laissez
les bon temp roulet!! It is Mardi Gras Season or Carnival Time here in
Louisiana. I live in South Louisiana, about 3 hours from New Orleans. And yes,
other places in Louisiana have Mardi Gras celebrations as well :). I have to
admit that it has been a long time since I have celebrated this occasion
actually on the date of Mardi Gras. My family usually prefer to do a small town
Mardi Gras, they can be just as fun and much more personal as most people know each
other anyway. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Mardi Gras
means Fat Tuesday in French. This is the time that precedes the Lenten season
for Catholics. I was raised Catholic but of course found the goddess later in
life and now she is my reason for being :). For most people this is a time of
partying and having a good time: great food and music and bringing community
together. Our ancestors used this time as a way to go through all meat,
dairy and other food items that were "outlawed" during lent. I am a
Cajun, and my Acadian ancestors did not believe in wasting anything. Once lent
began (with Ash Wednesday) there was no more partying. People were expected to
sacrifice and spend the next 40 days (until Easter Sunday) in repentance and
reflection. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Mardi Gras
season here starts on Epiphany or 12th Night (January 6th). The season
is celebrated by many balls and parades. In Lafayette there approximately 36-40
Mardi Gras Krewes. A krewe is a group of people who get together for the
purpose of celebrating the season. Some krewes consist of members of both men
and women while others are restricted to either just men, just women or
children only. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">This is a
list of some of the krewes here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Phoenix<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Titon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Mystick
Krewe of Apollo<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Royal
Order of the Unicorns<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Atlantis<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Xanadu<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Celts<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Olympus<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Wideload<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Camelot<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe of
Oberon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Krewe des
Chiens-yes we even have a krewe that celebrates our canine brother and sisters!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">See
anything familiar in these names? LOL. Maybe a little pagan oriented. Not all
the krewes have names like this, but I thought it was interesting that a lot of
the krewes are named after pagan themes (or names).<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Just a few
facts about Mardi Gras in my area:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">The most
popular food is the King Cake. It is said this cake origins began in 12th
Century France where the cake would be baked on the eve of Epiphany. A
small token of a baby is hidden in the cake. Whoever gets the baby is said to
have good luck. Later it meant that you had to buy the next king cake to share
:)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">1869-1st
formal Mardi Gras ball and parade<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">1897-King
Attakapas (1st Mardi Gras King) was crowned<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">1934-
Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras Association was formed. King Gabriel and Queen
Evangeline were "born".<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">The
traditional colors for Mardi Gras are purple symbolizing justice, gold symbolizing
power and green symbolizing faith. <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Even
though Mardi Gras is a prelude to a Catholic rite (the season of lent), we as
pagans can still enjoy this season and celebrate it. Below is a list of
correspondences I use to help me celebrate my pagan roots in Mardi Gras.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Symbols-
beads, crowns, parades, masks, doubloons (coins thrown at parades)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Colors-
(the colors can be given new meanings) purple for divinity, gold for happiness
and success and green for fertility and prosperity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Food- King
Cake or anything Cajun such as gumbo or jambalaya (anything that can feed a
crowd as this is a time of community building as well)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Magical
workings- simply honoring the ancient ones, fertility magic, purification rites
(Mardi Gras leads into lent, which is a time of repentance and sacrifice), time
to build on community relations, and just having a good old party-enjoying
life.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Some
deities that may work for this season are: Bacchus/Dionysus- gods of the vine;
Bast- party goddess herself; Hathor- godess of music and dance; Asar/Osiris-god
of agriculture (wine-beer); Renenutet- goddess of the harvest, especially
grapes.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">This year
I unfortunately have to work on the actual day of Mardi Gras. I was able to
celebrate earlier in the season by attending the Krewe of Apollo Ball and the
Carencro Mardi Gras parade. Tonight when I get off of work I plan to honor the
ancient ones with a toast to a great new year.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Happy
Mardi Gras!!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #7030a0; font-family: "Lucida Calligraphy";">Autumn<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-28405599907026803772013-02-01T08:30:00.002-08:002013-02-01T08:30:54.381-08:00Imbolc in Louisiana<br />
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This weekend is the sabbat of Imbolc/Oimelc. In the northern US, this is a time of winter and snow. Imbolc marks the beginning of Spring or the eventual return of Spring, depending on how you look at it. But here in Louisiana, we really haven't had a winter. At most, we had a week of winter with temps in the 30-40's. The rest of the time the temps have ranged from 40-70. Not exactly winter weather :). So sometimes it is a little harder for us to envision the coming of Spring, when it actually is here already. But we still find ways to celebrate the holiday.</div>
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Many people differ on what this word actually means. Some say "in the belly" or "ewe's milk". I think either can be used since this is a time that animals such as sheep and cows are pregnant and almost ready to give birth. The animals will of course begin lactating so they can feed their new broods. The Ancient Celts or at least a good portion of them were farmers and herders. Imbolc was one of their holidays celebrated. Probably the most celebrated deity at this time was Bridgit, goddess of "fire". Fire however is not necessarily referring to the heat of the fire or sun, but more along the lines of "light" or "enlightenment". She is also linked to water as well due to the many sacred wells blessed in her honor. </div>
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Many pictures of Bridgit show her with fire coming out of her head. This can be interpreted as the fires of inspiration and creativity. She is considered a triple goddess as she is the Goddess of Healing, Goddess of Inspiration (Poetry) and the Goddess of the Forge. </div>
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There are many ways we can connect with Bridgit today. For example:</div>
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Healing: making your own tinctures or salves; learning about and growing your own herbs; energy healing, spiritual healing, midwifery (I actually have a coven sister who is in school for this now) :)</div>
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Inspiration/Creativity: of course writing or reading poetry, enjoying music and/or dance, learning something new, divination, etc.</div>
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Forge- includes smith-crafting, gold-crafting: which would include things like making your own jewelry, and any crafts you make for your home or practice.</div>
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Fire or water magic would also be appropriate at this time or any time when working with this goddess. </div>
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Imbolc is also a time of new beginnings. This year my coven has decided to study the Celtic Pantheon. So of course for this sabbat we will be honoring Bridgit. We are also cleansing our sacred circle (which is located at my home) as well as ourselves, opening up to new beginnings. Dedication to the ancient gods is also on the agenda for this ritual.</div>
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I hope this new year brings you many new beginnings filled with happiness and beauty. May Bridgit always shine her love upon you. </div>
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Blessed Imbolc to all.</div>
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Autumn</div>
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Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-32615107098934626072012-12-31T19:54:00.000-08:002012-12-31T19:54:42.479-08:00Happy New YearAs I write this entry I am listening to the boom boom boom of fireworks gone wild! My men are having a blast :). New Years is almost here. At this time of year, I see a lot of people writing about whether or not to make a resolution list this year. I can understand both points of view. Some say it is a definite to make goals for the year to come. Others say why bother, if you don't stick to it and complete your goals it can affect you in a negative way. So I compromise. I make a "to do" list for the next year. The goal of this list are to put things I would like to do, but they are not set in stone. I usually have way too much on my list, but if I can even accomplish just one or two, I feel like I have achieved something. Those who know me well, know that I am a "list" woman. I have a list for everything. Groceries, daily chores, daily to-do's-both at home and work, monthly goals for my coven, etcetera. I like being able to scratch off things on those lists. Maybe it is silly, but I like the feeling of accomplishment that I feel when I do. It also gives me validation that I didn't waste my day or time.<br />
<br />
Past and more recent events have made me feel that I need to get on with living my life and not just watching it pass by. Many years ago, my sister in law and neice were killed in an auto accident, they were 31 and 13 respectively. I had certainly experienced death before-grandparents and great grandparents. But this was the first time to experience death of souls so young. In the next few years we lost one of our best friends to cancer, I think he was forty or close to it. Again, someone taken before their time. More recently I have received news of different friends who are struggling with the issues of illness and possibly death. This makes me think of my life and what have I done with it. How have I lived it? I can say that I am certainly happy with my life now, sure things might be much better if had more money, but I can honestly say I have a happy life. But I do want to do more with it, live more of it, live life every day. <br />
<br />
So I do still have my list for 2013 of what I would like to do. But I think the most important one on the list is to live and love. To find joy in every moment you can, because unfortunately we never know when our time will be up. We always think it won't happen to us. Well I know first hand that good young people are taken before their time. <br />
<br />
So for this year, I wish you all the normal: health, weath and happiness. But most of all I wish you love and and a good life. Make sure you tell those you love how much they mean to you. Make memories as often as you can. And be happy :)<br />
<br />
Blessed be,<br />
AutumnAutumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-11718167635587313242012-12-27T12:10:00.001-08:002012-12-27T12:11:16.990-08:00Merry YuleHappy Holidays, Seasons Greetings, Warm Winter Blessings....... Whatever you celebrate, I hope you had a wonderful, magical day :). Sorry I haven't blogged more. I have been dealing mostly with my medical issues, mainly my lupus and diabetes. They have been kicking my butt, but of course I haven't exactly been taking good care of myself either.<br />
<br />
Our holiday celebrations started a week early as I officiated for the wedding of good friends. It was a lovely ceremony that was attended by both pagans and non pagans. I was a bit nervous for the ceremony as it was very pagan, but I received very nice reviews of the ceremony afterwards.<br />
<br />
On the 22nd, my coven celebrated Yule at my home with ritual, feasting and gift giving. The weather was wonderful, sunny and the high was around 55 degrees. Of course as the sun went down, it got a little cooler, but we lit the bonfire and we stayed warm :) Every year we try to focus on one element of the sabbat and work with that symbol during our ritual. This year we made ornaments to use as talismans. I think everyone had a wonderful time. That evening we attended a "We Survived the Mayan Calendar" party at a friends house. Great food, great company :)<br />
<br />
Being that our families are Catholic we also celebrate Christmas with them. Christmas has never been a particularly religious occasion, but more of a family oriented one. We have a large family, so spending time together is usually a great time. And again, being Cajun, we had plenty of good food!!<br />
<br />
I am looking forward to this new year, we have new plans for our coven's study group. I think it will be both a challenge and a fun way to spend our time together. I wish you all good health, wealth and happiness this coming new year.<br />
<br />
Blessed be,<br />
AutumnAutumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-18171066262737735702012-10-17T09:58:00.002-07:002012-10-17T09:59:01.004-07:00Pagan Blog Project- S is for Salt<div id="yiv1758193094">
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<div>
I
am a witch, but I am also a poor witch :). As such I have to make use
of things I use on a regular basis or which can be obtained very
cheaply.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So
I usually go through my cabinets and see what I have on hand and I
always have some salt :). Salt is cheap, easy to use and can be used in a
variety of ways.</div>
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<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'bookman old style', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
Protection
Magic- salt can be used in spells and rituals as a protection item. Add
a few grains to a gris gris or mojo bag and you have a portable device
for protection. You can also sprinkle salt around the area you are
working in to protect from negative energies. For example to form a
protective circle or a circle of salt around a mirror for scrying.</div>
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Kitchen
Magic- when cooking meals, you can add herbs to infuse magic into your
meals. Salt can be added for protection or purification/cleansing.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Ritual
bathing- when I do rituals I always like to prepare by taking a ritual
bath. The salt not only softens the skin but helps cleanse away physical
dirt as well as negativity. The Egyptians used natron in all of their
cleansing needs. You can even color bath salts for use in sympathetic
magic as well. For example, using blue food coloring with salt and then
adding to the bath can help facilitate healing magic.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'bookman old style', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
Earth
magic- salt is considered related to the element of earth (at least in
my way of doing things). You can use salt as a consecration tool for
cleansing altars and altar tools. Just be careful of what you use salt
on, it can be abrasive to certain objects. </div>
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<br /></div>
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In
most wiccan covens a ritual circle is usually cast prior to performing
ritual. In some traditions, salt is mixed with water to help cast the
circle. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I
had a friend who used to live in an old plantation home. She complained
of being able to feel this negative energy throughout the home, so we
put together a cleansing party. Once we were able to complete the
cleansing we also added salt around windows to keep out negative
energies. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'bookman old style', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
Do you use salt in your practice?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'bookman old style', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
BB,</div>
<div style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: 'bookman old style', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal;">
Autumn</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-75940656653679241392012-10-17T09:55:00.000-07:002012-10-17T09:55:27.165-07:00Pagan Blog Project- R is for Repetition<div id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_412" style="font-size: 12pt;">
The online free dictionary defines <span class="yshortcuts cs4-visible" id="lw_1350492813_0">repetition</span> as</div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_512" style="font-size: 12pt;">
<br /></div>
<table cellspacing="5" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_506" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px;"><tbody id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_505">
<tr id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_504"><td id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_503" style="font-size: 10pt;"><span class="yiv317947173hw" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_521" style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">rep·e·ti·tion</span>
<span class="yiv317947173pron" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(128, 158, 131); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; cursor: pointer;">(r<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/ebreve.gif" />p<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/lprime.gif" /><img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/ibreve.gif" />-t<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/ibreve.gif" />sh<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/prime.gif" /><img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/schwa.gif" />n)</span><div class="yiv317947173pseg" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_510">
<i>n.</i><div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_511" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>1. </b>The act or process or an instance of repeating or being repeated.</div>
<div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_509" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>2. </b>A recitation or recital, especially of prepared or memorized
material.</div>
</div>
<hr align="left" class="yiv317947173hmshort" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_522" style="background-color: #85a8c2; color: #85a8c2; height: 1px; margin: 6pt auto 4pt 0px; width: 163.25px;" />
<div class="yiv317947173etyseg" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_502" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; margin-top: 6pt;">
[Middle English <tt id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_523" style="font-size: 11pt;">repeticioun</tt>, from Old French <tt id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_508" style="font-size: 11pt;">repeticion</tt>, from Latin <tt style="font-size: 11pt;">repet<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/imacr.gif" />ti<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/omacr.gif" /></tt><tt style="font-size: 11pt;">, repet<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/imacr.gif" />ti<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/omacr.gif" />n-</tt>, from <tt style="font-size: 11pt;">repet<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/imacr.gif" />tus</tt>, past participle of <tt style="font-size: 11pt;">repetere</tt>, <i id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_524">to repeat</i>;
see <b>repeat</b>.]</div>
<hr align="left" class="yiv317947173hmshort" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_525" style="background-color: #85a8c2; color: #85a8c2; height: 1px; margin: 6pt auto 4pt 0px; width: 163.25px;" />
<div class="yiv317947173runseg" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_526" style="margin-left: 0.5cm; margin-top: 3pt;">
<b>rep<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/lprime.gif" />e·ti<img align="absbottom" src="http://img.tfd.com/hm/GIF/prime.gif" />tion·al</b><i> adj.</i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_527" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10px; margin-top: 6pt;">
The
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published
by <a href="http://www.eref-trade.hmco.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_417" rel="nofollow" style="color: #645e7d;" target="_blank"><span class="" id="lw_1350492813_1">Houghton Mifflin Company</span></a>. All rights reserved.</div>
<hr id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_528" style="background-color: #85a8c2; color: #85a8c2; font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px; height: 6px; margin-bottom: 32px;" />
<span class="yiv317947173hw" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold;">repetition</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="yiv317947173pron0x" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">[ˌrɛpɪˈtɪʃən]</span><div id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_529" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;">
<i>n</i><div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_530" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>1.</b> the act or an instance of repeating; reiteration</div>
<div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_531" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>2.</b> a thing, word, action, etc., that is repeated</div>
<div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_532" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>3.</b> a replica or copy</div>
<div class="yiv317947173ds-list" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_533" style="margin-left: 1cm;">
<b>4.</b> (Law) <i>Civil and Scots law</i> the recovery or repayment of money paid or received by mistake, as when the same bill has been paid twice</div>
</div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_534" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10px; margin-top: 6pt;">
<a href="http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/misc/HarperCollinsProducts.aspx?English" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_418" rel="nofollow" style="color: #645e7d;" target="_blank"><span class="" id="lw_1350492813_2">Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged</span></a> © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_536" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
I
was raised Catholic and was active in the church until my early 30's.
Anyone who has ever been Catholic or just attended a service there
knows that repetition is a big part of their rituals. As children we
are taught our prayers and had to recite them every night to make sure
we learned them properly and retained the knowledge. Mass is always done
on the exact same format, with maybe the exception of Easter Sunday or
Christmas. Otherwise, regular masses are always done
the same. One could walk into a church in another country, but still
know what was going on at any time of the ceremony. This is one concept
from my christian upbringing that I do firmly still believe in. </div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_542" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
Repetition. Repetition. Repetition.</div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_537" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
I
am not sure about anyone else, but for me, I learn faster by doing. So
repetition is a staple in my life, including my pagan faith. Rituals and
spells work so much better when you know what you are doing and
learning things by heart or at least knowing them well enough for a good
flow makes a world of difference. I do believe that words are power and
if you are speaking from the heart and remember the words instead of
just reading them off a paper makes the words so much more powerful. At
least in my opinion. Now I do on occasion not
remember everything and I do use note cards to guide my way, but I am
at least familiar enough to still say the words with meaning. I am
working on memorizing my invocations and such and I have seen a
difference on how my rituals and spells work when I do it this way.
Practice makes perfect. So practice, practice, practice and learn
repetition, repetition, repetition.</div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_547" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
Do you use repetition in your faith?</div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_538" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
Blessings,</div>
<div class="yiv317947173brand_copy" id="yui_3_7_2_6_1350492758491_539" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial; margin-top: 6pt;">
Autumn</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-34180094860239260802012-10-09T18:23:00.004-07:002012-10-09T18:24:01.682-07:00Pagan Blog Project- R is for Rites of PassageMy definition of Rites of Passage are ceremonies that mark important/significant events that happen in a person's life. Wiccan's have many celebrations that can be performed and celebrated. <br />
<br />
<br />
Belly Blessings- performed on mothers-to-be as a blessing for both mom and child. Mom can also be pampered during these ceremonies. <br />
<br />
Wiccaning/Naming Ceremonies- done once a child is born. The child is blessed and introduced to the gods and elements. Different traditions will have different ways of doing this.<br />
<br />
Becoming a Woman- done for girls who have started menstruating. <br />
<br />
Becoming a Man- done for boys who are entering teen years.<br />
<br />
Handfasting/Marriage- this can be a spiritual or legal ceremony, joining a couple together as husband and wife, or partners. In older times a Handfasting was for a year a day, but now people tend to go longer :)<br />
<br />
Divorce/Handparting- done when a marriage or partnership ends.<br />
<br />
Croning or Saging- done for elders who are ready to enter the next stage of their life.<br />
<br />
Death- service to honor the dearly departed.<br />
<br />
Other rites of passage can also include initiation into a coven or even your own dedication to your gods can be viewed as a rite of passage. <br />
<br />
What rites do you celebrate in your faith?<br />
<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
<br />
Autumn<br />
<br />
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-69546640076296996492012-10-09T18:17:00.001-07:002012-10-09T18:18:13.126-07:00Q is for Q & A- Pagan Blog ProjectI have seen others do a Q&A section as part of the PBP before, so I thought I would join on the band wagon :). I do think that if people get to know someone just a little better, the more they are likely to visit again. So here are a few questions I came up with. If there are any other questions you would like answered, just ask!<br />
<br />
<br />
How long have you been on your current path? I found the goddess in 2001, so 11 years now.<br />
<br />
How did you find your path? I was actually raised Roman Catholic. On a trip to Salem, MA in October of 2001, my sister came out of the broom closet to me and introduced me to the goddess. After that I started doing my own research and haven't looked back.<br />
<br />
What is your path? I do consider myself Wiccan, but I am not a fanatic nor do I believe the rede is a law or commandment. I view it more as an ideal to strive for. I do not weigh every single decision I make against it, but I do think about the rede for important decisions. I am also very eclectic. I do not come from a specific tradition and take bits and pieces from here and there. My sister and I are very interested in bringing back hereditary witchcraft. Of course our children won't qualify as hereditary, but it is our hope that they will teach their kids, and their kids teach their kids, etc.<br />
<br />
Do you practice solitary or with a coven? My sister, husband and I do have a coven, KOTH, Keepers of the Hearth which started as an Internet coven so my sister and I had a way to celebrate our faith together. Today KOTH is a physical coven here in SW Louisiana. <br />
<br />
Are you in or out of the broom closet? Actually, a little of both :). I don't hide who I am. If you are on my facebook page then you have seen the pagan items plastered on it :). But at work or in public I don't scream "Hey look at me, I am pagan". But if asked, I certainly won't lie about it. Some of my immediate family knows, the others don't want to know :) We have told them, if you really want to know, just ask. To date no one has asked, I guess they are afraid of what the answer might be. <br />
<br />
<br />
Are you active in the pagan community? Yes I try to be. Here locally, we have a few outings that are regularly scheduled. For example, we have coffee cackle which is the first Sunday of every month unless it falls on a holiday. This is just a networking idea for people of like minds to get together and get to know each other. We also have tarot study groups and sharing circles once a month. Our community is small, but we do have a dedicated few who try to make a difference. We do have a community yahoo group for new people to find us as well. On the not so local front, I am also involved in the planning for the NOLA PPD which will be held next year in New Orleans. We have a great line up happening, more details to follow later on.<br />
<br />
What are your hobbies or interests? I love to read and have way too many books :) And my kindle is getting fuller each day as well. I also love movies, especially sci-fi. I am a Star Wars fanatic :) My family and I also enjoy being outdoors, taking nature walks and camping whenever we can. We also love to travel and attend as many pagan festivals as possible.<br />
<br />
This is just a basic overview of me. If you have any specific question, just let me know.<br />
<br />
BB,<br />
<br />
Autumn<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-38969014274804618852012-08-04T09:40:00.001-07:002012-08-04T09:40:39.962-07:00Pagan Blog Project- P is for Pampering<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Pampering? Yes, Pampering. Everyday
life can be extremely stressful. Trying to balance home, work and
play can be very difficult at times. In my own life I am a wife,
mother, high priestess, teacher, nurse, cook, maid, taxi driver,
secretary, etcetera. And to top if off, I now have gained a mundane
job as an administrative assistant which I start on Monday. Things
were hard enough to handle as a SAHM (stay at home mom), but now
things will really get interesting in the days to come :0. As a
witch and high priestess, one of my main goals is to take care of
myself. How can I possibly take care of my family and coven members
if I can't do so for myself? The answer is you just can't. We need to
live a balanced life to live a healthy and happy life. And of course
life will always get in the way and throw you some interesting curves
to make life difficult. We need to learn to take care of ourselves,
relax, unwind, reduce stress and recharge. One of my favorite ways to
combat these problems is to pamper myself.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
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Below are some suggestions and ideas
that I use to accomplish the task of pampering:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Bubble bath- with the use of oils,
candles, incense or bath salts, this can be a wonderful relaxing
activity</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Music- play music that moves your soul
or simply makes you want to dance for joy</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Aromatherapy- the use of incense and
oils to enhance our senses</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Meditation for quieting the mind and
finding peace</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Breathing exercises can help
tremendously to reduce stress</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Yoga for wellness</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Lavender pillows or dream pillows for a
good nights rest</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Drink plenty of water to keep the body
going</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Eat healthy as well</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
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Get a massage, give a massage, this can
also be very beneficial in certain relationships :)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Enjoy a wonderful cup of tea, glass or
wine or whatever beverage moves you</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Laugh, laugh and laugh, your soul will
be enriched all the more</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Read a good book</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Watch an up-lifting movie. The library
offers many selections for free.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Walk a labyrinth, having a problem, see
if the labyrinth can help. There may be places in your area which
offer this for free. For example, in my town, there is one behind our
local hospice.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Get in touch with your inner child,
play, have fun</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Coloring- I love coloring, especially
mandalas</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Make and use prayer flags</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Schedule some “me” time even if it
is only for a few minutes</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Take a nap, even for just a few minutes</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Take a nature walk in a park or on a
beach</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Sunbath</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Practice a creative art such as henna.
Many people use henna as an approach to spirituality, especially when
getting ready for a ritual.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Change the vibrations around you-the
use of candles, color, oils, incense, music can make a profound
change in your current attitude.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
These are just a few ways I like to
take time and rejuvenate and de-stress. How do you pamper yourself?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
BB,</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Autumn</div>Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-38979224705860066162012-08-01T06:49:00.002-07:002012-08-01T06:49:38.809-07:00Happy Lammas/LughnasadhI hope everyone has a wonderfully magical sabbat for whatever or whichever you celebrate :). My coven and I celebrated Sunday evening by hosting a public ritual for our community. Considering we are a small community, we had a great turnout. The main focus of the ritual was gratitude for the blessings we have received and for the "crops" we have harvested. May the Lord and Lady bless us always and help us to maintain a bountiful harvest.<br />
<br />
Blessed be,<br />
<br />
AutumnAutumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-85899023823649489532012-07-31T09:57:00.002-07:002012-08-02T09:44:00.213-07:00Pagan Blog Project- O is for Osiris<br />
<div align="CENTER">
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Osiris<span style="color: #333399;">/Asar/Usir</span></b></u></span></div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER">
King of the Dead</div>
<div align="CENTER">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /><br />
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Supreme God and Judge of the dead, Resurrection and
eternal life. Provider of fertility and prosperity to the
living.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Osiris is an Egyptian
God and also ruled and lived on the Earth with his
wife/sister/consort Aset/Isis. This couple was very popular and much
loved. They were so loved that their brother Set was extremely
jealous and he wanted to be king himself. So he devised a plan to get
rid of his brother Osiris. Osiris decided to have a dinner party
(some say to celebrate his birthday perhaps) and Set being his
brother was there. He told Osiris he had a fun gift for the party. He
had a sarcophagus made and who ever could fit perfectly in it, would
own it. The sarcophagus was beautiful and everyone had their eye on
it. Of course it was a trap set for Osiris. One by one, each guest
laid in the sarcophagus to see if they were a perfect fit. Finally it
was Osiris' turn and of course he was a perfect fit. However once he
laid in it, Set slammed the door down entrapping Osiris within it. He
then took the coffin and hid it so no one could find it, especially
his wife Aset/Isis. She was heart broken and searched the ends of the
earth for her beloved husband. Finally with the help of her sister
Nepthys and others she was able to find the coffin. Set was furious.
He stole the coffin with Osiris body back and this time had the body
dismembered into several pieces and scattered across the globe.
Aset/Isis was not one to give up. Finally she was able to recover all
the pieces of her husband except one, his phallus. So she fashioned
one from magic and then proceeded to impregnate herself with the
child of Osiris- Horus. Because of this story and many others, Osiris
became the god of the dead and the underworld. And because of the
fact that he was able to impregnate Aset/Isis, he is also seen as a
god of rebirth/resurrection. (This is just one interpretation of the
myth, as there are many many more).</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /><br />
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Osiris is the son of Geb
(the earth) and Nut (the sky). His siblings include his wife/sister
Aset/Isis, Nepthys, Set and Horus the elder. His son Horus was born
of Aset/Isis. He also fathered (it is said) Bast and Annubis as well.
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">He is usually depicted in
mummy wrappings, wearing what is known as the Atef crown. This is
similar to the White Crown of Upper Egypt, with the addition of a
feather along either side, and a small sphere at the top. He holds
the crook and flail, symbols of ruler ship. In some depictions he has
black skin symbolizing the underworld and rebirth and also
symbolizing the black fertile soil deposited by the Nile every year.
In other depictions he has green skin-Lord of Vegetation- which
represents life, death and rebirth of the cycles of grain and other
plant life. His skin may also appear white as in reference to his
bandages. </span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">His cult was originated in
Abydos where it is said his tomb resides even today. His associations
with burial rites were also established by the 5<sup>th</sup>
dynasty. He had absorbed the funerary gods of Abydos. </span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">Osiris brought civilization to
the barbarous cannibals of the first people of Egypt. He taught them
how and what to eat (and not each other!), raise crops like corn and
vines. He also taught them how to worship the gods and made laws for
them. He ruled by persuasion not by force. And because of this he was
greatly loved. With his death by Set, he became God of the Dead and
Underworld.</span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">Due to his resurrection from
the dead he is also considered a fertility god. This title is also
attributed to the fact that he taught the people agriculture and how
to take care of them selves. Osiris was at one time an ancient corn
deity, identified with a pastoral deity called Andjeti. His cult
object is the djeb column which is thought to represent the 4 pillars
seen one behind the other or a man’s backbone. </span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">The Nile is probably the most
important natural resource to the early peoples. Osiris is seen as
the god of death due to his own death and his death is associated
with the drying up of the Nile or the drought season. It is said that
when he dies, the Nile dries out. When the induation of the Nile
happens, it is then said that he was returned from the dead to bring
rebirth to the people by flooding the Nile again. </span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">Osiris also has the job of
Judge and he presides over the ceremony of the weighing of the heart
and feather. He is the one who gives final judgment to those who have
died. </span>
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<span style="color: black;">He is the equivalent of the
Greek Dionysus and Hades.</span></div>
<table bgcolor="#300767" border="1" cellpadding="4" cellspacing="3">
<colgroup><col width="256*"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="TOP" width="100%">
<div align="LEFT">
<br />
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Correspondences:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<b>Cult Center</b> – Busiris, Abydos</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<b>Chief Festival</b> - July 3</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<b>Main festivals</b> –
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Feast – February 15, April 10, July 26 & 28;
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
Festival of the resurrection – July 3</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<b>Statue</b> – a bearded man wrapped as a mummy
holding the flail and crook</div>
<b>Family</b> – Son of Geb and Nut, Brother/Husband of Isis,
Brother of Set, Nepthys and Horus the Elder. Father of Horus,
Father Bast and Annubis<br />
<b>Cardinal Point</b> – North<br />
<b>Element</b> - Earth<br />
<b>Herbs</b> – Anise, Apple, Banana, Carnation, Cypress,
Dogwood, Foxglove, Garlic, Holly, Honesty, Iris, Juniper, Lemon,
Lettuce, Lime, Marigold, Mugwort, Oak, Orris, Peach, Peppermint, Red
Clover, Summer Savory, Sunflower, Sage, Tansy, Turmeric, Violet,
Yarrow<br />
<b>Crystals</b> – Amethyst, Aventurine, Azurite, Citrine,
Elestials, Labradorite, Lapis Lazuli, Moldavite, Moss Agate, Onyx,
Ruby, Sugilite, Sunstone, Tektite, Yellow Topaz,
<br />
<b>Metal</b> – Copper, Gold<br />
<b>Wood</b> – Elder, Oak<br />
<b>Color</b> – Black, Green<br />
<b>Incense </b>– Frankincense, Sandalwood, Sage<br />
<b>Day(s)</b> – Sunday<br />
<b>Time(s)</b> – Midnight and Dawn<br />
<b>Season</b> – Winter and Spring<br />
<div align="JUSTIFY">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-85266658936626074562012-07-20T09:20:00.000-07:002012-08-02T09:44:14.726-07:00Pagan Blog Project- O is for Oak Tree Magic<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Oak Tree has long been associated
with ancient peoples and has been seen as “magical” or “sacred”.
For example the Druids. These “priests of nature” worshiped their
religion under the Oak Tree or in sacred groves. Fred Hagender writes
in his book, The Meaning of Trees, “our ancestors recognized that
there is a vital balance in life: you take and you give. So they
celebrated the forces of nature by offering them gifts, songs,
prayers and blessings to revitalize the natural world – a world in
which they felt themselves to be an intimate part.” It is certainly
the tree I use most in my magic.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
As pagans we are taught that nature is
an important part of us. We need to respect it and learn from it.
Humans and nature have a symbiotic relationship. We depend upon each
other for survival. We offer nature our energy through prayers and
blessings (and other offerings) and in turn nature (in particular
trees) offers us a vast array of gifts. Wood from its trunk and limbs
are used for shelter from the elements: heat, cold, rain, snow, etc.
This wood is also used in crafting magical tools such as athames,
wands and staffs. From its wood we also get fire to heat our homes ,
cook our food (kitchen witchery) and for cleaning ourselves (ritual
bathing). Fires are also used as vehicle for offerings made to the
gods.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Oak Tree has many magical
associations including: strength, endurance, durability, longevity,
stamina, prosperity, will, protection, good luck, fertility,
cleansing, success, wisdom, status, self confidence, masculine god
energy, inner strength, bravery and leadership to name a few.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Oak trees come from a genus of more
than 450 species. They are associated with weather gods due to the
fact that the oak tree is the tree most often struck by lightening
and survives the ordeal. The tree itself is a conductor of
electricity. Because of this, ancient peoples would often call upon
the weather gods, such as Zeus, Odin or Thor, to strike their enemies
down with their lightening and give victory to their people.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Oak Tree is a doorway of
opportunity and is considered the doorway for shamanic portals. It is
a symbol of “as above, so below”. Its limbs and leaves reach up
into the skies/ heavens (as above) and its roots reach deep with the
earth (so below). This makes it an ideal portal to use in connecting
to the other-world.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
This tree produces acorns which are a
great tool for making magical charms. Acorns have the attributes of
immortality, fertility, nurturing and sustenance. For prosperity,
hang acorns in your home, get creative, make a wreath or other craft
project. Acorns hung in windows are said to be a way to ward off
evil. In ancient times, acorns were used as food and sustenance.
Still today some peoples still roast and grind the nuts for bread or
the making of beverages.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The leaves are just as magical. Use
them in a bath for its cleansing properties. You can also used the
leaves in magical spells. One of my favorite uses is to write my
needs upon the leaves and then offer them to the gods through fire.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Oak chips can be used as a type of
incense to burn away negativity. Oak chips are also used to cook meat
as well. You can bless the chips before lighting them and infuse
their magic into the food you are cooking.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The bark of the oak tree is said to
have astringent properties. It has been brewed as a tea for help with
congestion, hemorrhoids, fever, diarrhea, dysentery, inflamed gums
and to treat wounds. In hoodoo practices, the tea is also used to
remove jinxes.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Correspondences for the Oak Tree:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Celtic Year of the Oak Moon is June
10<sup>th</sup> through July 7<sup>th</sup></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Latin- white oak = quercus alba</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
red oak = quercus rubra</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
black oak = quercus velutina</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Celtic word for Oak is Duir meaning
door. Pronounced (dur) or (doo-er)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Parts used are the wood, leaves, bark
and acorns</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Folk names- Tanners Bark, Jove's Nuts,
Tree of Jove, King of the Forest, Tree of Endurance</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Animals associated with the oak tree
are stag, squirrel, wren, white mare</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Gods/Goddess: Dagda, Oak King/Holly
King, Green Man, Cernunnous, Morrigan, Cerridwen, Rhiannon, Epona,
Odin, Thor, Herne, Wodin, Jupiter, Cybele, Rhea, Pan, Hecate, Janus,
Brigid</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Gems- granite, amber</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Element- earth, fire</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
So how do you use the magic of trees in
your practice?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
BB,</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Autumn</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Sources used:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
The Meaning of Trees by Fred Hagender,
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">©</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">2005
by Chronicle Books</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Mickie
Mueller’s Class on Celtic Tree Calendar-The Oak Tree Month
(<a href="http://www.voiceoftrees.com/">www.voiceoftrees.com</a>)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-76053368345620739812012-07-13T08:16:00.002-07:002012-08-02T09:44:21.667-07:00Pagan Blog Project-N is for Nuit<br />
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<a aria-label="Egyptian-goddess-Nuit_Humanity-Healing" href="http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoX8uOwBQwUsAi5eJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3F_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dgoddess%2Bnuit%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-1%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D22&w=300&h=224&imgurl=humanityhealing.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F03%2FEgyptian-goddess-Nuit_Humanity-Healing.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fhumanityhealing.net%2F2012%2F03%2Fthe-body-of-nuit-the-night-sky%2F&size=28.6+KB&name=Egyptian-goddess-Nuit_Humanity-Healing&p=goddess+nuit&oid=e4472a83d51daf1b152d693c11bec3ad&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-701-1&tt=Egyptian-goddess-Nuit_Humanity-Healing&b=0&ni=96&no=22&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=122bpa1g6&sigb=13d46r8c8&sigi=12p727thp&.crumb=K49XQHYSlnb" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1342192427162704" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" height="147" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1342192427162703" src="http://ts2.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4977060264543317&id=4d138221024bf3ce8d4de7953ceb86a1" style="height: 147px; margin-left: -28px; margin-top: 0px; width: 198px;" width="198" /></a></div>
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<li class="ld" data-bk="48.1" data-bns="API.YAlgo" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1342192427162283"> <a aria-label="... Goddess,Lillith,Neptune,Nuit and Geb,Nuit Wall Plaque,Pan - Small" href="http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoX8uOwBQwUsAgpeJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3F_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dgoddess%2Bnuit%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-1%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D13&w=600&h=450&imgurl=www.witchesofwalthamabbey.co.uk%2Fimgs%2Fproducts%2Fnuit-and-geb.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.witchesofwalthamabbey.co.uk%2Fproducts%2Fgod-andamp-goddess-figures.htm&size=53+KB&name=...+Goddess%2CLillith%2CNeptune%2CNuit+and+Geb%2CNuit+Wall+Plaque%2CPan+-+Small&p=goddess+nuit&oid=2fa90c49379ba397d0da128733551a36&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-701-1&tt=...%2BGoddess%252CLillith%252CNeptune%252CNuit%2Band%2BGeb%252CNuit%2BWall%2BPlaque%252CPan%2B-%2BSmall&b=0&ni=96&no=13&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=12e9q7q5o&sigb=13d54rm7r&sigi=11u4aeq0q&.crumb=K49XQHYSlnb" id="yui_3_3_0_15_13421924271621270" style="background-color: white;"><img alt="" height="148" id="yui_3_3_0_15_13421924271621269" src="http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4533927041107579&id=1917006077195cc40298c0c1f287432a" style="height: 147px; margin-left: -36px; margin-top: 0px; width: 196px;" width="197" /></a></li>
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Nut/Nuit,Nu/Newet/Neuth<br />
The Sky<br />
<br />
Pronounced Noot , Noot-it, New-Eat. It is believed her name came from the
English words for night, nocturnal, equinox and the French terms la nuit which
means the night.<br />
<br />
Nut (Nuit) was the personification of the sky to the Egyptian people. She was
originally a goddess of the sky only, but evolved into a goddess of the heavens
and sky, whose body symbolizes the vault of the sky. She is the daughter of Shu
and Tefnut, the granddaughter of the sun god Ra. Her husband was also her
brother Geb. She is considered one of the oldest deities in the Egyptian
pantheon, with her origins found in the creation story of <st1:city w:st="on">Heliopolis</st1:city>.<br />
<br />
“A scared symbol of Nut was the ladder, used by Osiris to enter her heavenly
skies. This ladder-symbol was called maqet and was placed in tombs to protect
the deceased, and to invoke the aid of deity of the dead. Nut is considered an
enigma in the world of mythology because she is direct contrast to most other
mythologies, which usually evolve into a sky father associated with an earth
mother or Mother Nature.”<br />
<br />
Some of Nut’s titles include:<br />
Coverer of the Sky-She was said to be covered completely with stars<br />
She Who Protects-One of her jobs was to protect Ra<br />
Mistress of All or She Who Bore the Gods- She gave birth to her five children,
probably the most familiar of the gods today.<br />
She Who Holds a Thousand Souls-Because of her role of re-birthing Ra each day
and because she helped with the resurrection of her son Osiris, Nut became
associated with the afterlife.<br />
<br />
Ra cursed Nut for her love of Geb and forbade her to bear children during any
month of the year. Thoth outwitted the curse by playing draughts with the moon
and winning 5 extra days, days not attached to any month. In these 5 days, Nut
produced her 5 children. The days on which each of these deities were born are
known as the five epagomental days of the year and were celebrated all over <st1:place w:st="on">Egypt</st1:place>.
The days were considered either lucky, unlucky, or neither. For example: The
day of birth for Osiris was considered unlucky, the day for Horus the Elder was
neither lucky nor unlucky, the day for Seth was unlucky, the day for <st1:place w:st="on">Isis</st1:place> is lucky, and the day for Nephythys was considered
unlucky.<br />
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Originally a Mother Goddess who had many children, Nut plays
an important role in creation legends. In one myth Nut gives birth to the
Sun-god daily and he passes over her body until he reaches her mouth at sunset.
He then passed into her mouth and through her body and is reborn the next
morning. Another myth described the sun as sailing up her legs and back in the
Atet (Matet) boat until noon, when he entered the Sektet boat and continued his
travels until sunset.<br />
<br />
She is shown in profile, naked over the earth god Geb and may be supported by
Shu and with her arms and legs bent down so she touches the horizon with hands
and feet. Her body is usually covered with stars and because of this she is
sometimes associated with the Milky Way. “There are some astronomical
indications of this. It has been shown that at the winter solstice before dawn,
in Pre-dynastic Egypt, the Milky Way would have looked very much like a
stretched out body with arms and legs touching the horizons in the same manner
as Nut was frequently shown in later times.” In zoomorphic form she is a sky
cow or sky sow. Her 4 hooves were cardinal points and the sun god and stars are
show sailing across her underside of her body. Because of her association with
the cow, she is sometimes thought of as Hathor.<br />
<br />
Nut is associated with rebirth through the renewing of the sun every day, but
she was also a favorite funerary deity, in which she helped to give rebirth to
the dead pharaoh and she became connected with the underworld, resurrection and
the tomb. She was seen as a friend to the dead, as a mother-like protector to
those who journeyed through the land of the dead. She was often painted on the
inside lid of the sarcophagus, protecting the dead until he or she, like Ra,
could be reborn in their new life.<br />
<br />
In the <st1:place w:st="on">Valley of the Kings</st1:place>, there are many
tombs that have the ceilings painted blue with 5 pointed stars on them. These
paintings reach down the walls of both side and end with Nut’s feet on one side
of the passage and her upper body on the other side.<br />
<br />
There were many festivals to Nut through the year. But, despite being a
protector of the dead, she was a personification of the sky - a cosmic deity -
and no temples or specific cult centers are linked to her. Some of her
festivals were:<br />
<br />
6th August – 19th Thuti – Festival of Nut and Ra<br />
27th August – 10th Paopi- Birthday of Nut<br />
30th August- 13th Paopi – Day of Satisfying the Hearts of the Ennead<br />
4th January- 20 Mechir- Day of Nut and Raet proceeding southward<br />
1st February- 18th Pamenot- Feast of Nut<br />
2nd February- 19th Pamenot- Birthday of Nut<br />
26th February- 13th Parmutit- Day of Nut<br />
5th May- 21st Payni- Day of the Living Children of Nut<br />
<br />
*taken from <a href="http://www.philae.nu/akhet/NetjeruN.html#Nut" target="_blank">www.philae.nu/akhet/NetjeruN.html#Nut</a><br />
<br /><b style="background-color: white;"><u>Correspondences:</u></b></div>
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<b><u>
<br />
<st1:placename w:st="on">Cult</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Center</st1:placetype></u></b>
– Throughout <st1:place w:st="on">Egypt</st1:place>,
although she had no physical temple specifically to her<br />
<b><u>Birthday </u></b>– August 27<br />
<b><u>Statue</u></b> – portrayed as bent
over, stretching from horizon to horizon.<br />
<b><u>Family</u></b> – Daughter of Shu and
Tefnut, twin sister of Geb, wife of Geb, Mother of Osiris, Isis , Nephythys,
Set and Horus the Elder<br />
<b><u>Cardinal Point</u></b> – East<br />
<b><u>Element</u></b> - Air<br />
<b><u>Herbs </u></b>– Anise, Bean,
Bromeliad, Clover, Dandelion, Fern, Goldenrod, Lavender, Maple, Marjoram, Mint,
Oak, Parsley, Pine, Sage, Summer Savory,<br />
<b><u>Crystals</u></b> – Ammonite,
Angelite, Aventurine, Azurite, Bloodstone, Citrine, Diamond, Emerald, Garnet,
Quartz, Selenite, Sodalite, Tektite, Turquoise<br />
<b><u>Metal </u></b>– Copper, Silver<br />
<b><u>Wood</u></b> – Oak<br />
<b><u>Color</u></b> – light Blue<br />
<b><u>Incense</u></b> – Jasmine, Sandalwood<br />
<b><u>Day(s)</u></b> – Friday<br />
<b><u>Time(s)</u></b> – Dawn<br />
<b><u>Season </u></b>- Spring<br />
<b><u>Magic/Responsibilities</u></b>: Sky
and Heavens, Mother and Guardian, Death and Burial, Demi-Animals, Immortality,
Physical Prowess</div>
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How can you bring Nut into your life?<br /><br />Nut is known as a funerary goddess. If you have a loved one who is deceased, you can call upon Nut to watch over them and to help them transition into the next life (world).<br /><br />She is also the great mother/creator. So if you need help with nurturing, whether it be people or projects, Nut would be a good choice to ask for help. She can give you the nurturing you need to see thing through to the end. As a mother, she does not give up on her children and will help them to succeed.<br /><br />Nut is the barrier that separates chaos from the ordered cosmos. She helps to keep the universe in order so that all life goes on as it should. If chaos reigned, life would cease to exist (according to the Egyptians). If you ever feel that your life is getting out of control and that chaos is starting to rule your life, call upon Nut for help.<br /><br />As a mother goddess, she is also a protector. Protection can encompass many ideas. For example if you need protection from evil, harm, illness, etc. Anything you can imagine that a mother would protect her child from, Nut can protect you from.<br /><br />If you want to feel a connection to Nut, the simplest way would be to simply stare into a dark night sky and star gaze. Meditate on Nut and what she means to you. Feel the energy grow between you.<br /><br />Prayer to Nut:<br /><br />Great Mother Nut, Sky Goddess, Mother and Creator, hear my prayer.<br />My life has become chaotic, help me to restore order.<br />You, Great Goddess, are the barrier between chaos and order.<br />I beseech thee to lend me your energies. Help me to find order in my life.<br />Of my own free will, with harm to none. So mote it be.<br /><br />(You can add correspondences such as blue or white stones, Sodalite would be a good combination of both colors. The night sky is usually depicted as blue or navy, so colored candles would also work well here.)<br /><br /><br />
References:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.touregypt.net/" target="_blank">www.touregypt.net</a><br />
<br />
Temple Ankh research notes (<a href="http://www.templeankh.com/" target="_blank">www.templeankh.com</a>)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.ancientnile.co.uk/gods.php" target="_blank">www.ancientnile.co.uk/gods.php</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.philae.nu/akhet/NetjeruN.html#Nut" target="_blank">www.philae.nu/akhet/NetjeruN.html#Nut</a><br />
<br />
The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt by Richard H. Wilkinson<br />
<br />
Shamanic Mysteries of Egypt by Nicki Scully and Linda Star Wolf<br />
<br />
Circle of Isis by Ellen Cannon Reed<br />
<br />
The New Book of Goddesses and Heroines by P. Monaghan<br />
<br />
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<br />Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-53895822763850109002012-07-06T08:14:00.002-07:002012-08-02T09:44:34.860-07:00Pagan Blog Project-N is for Nature Religion<br />
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If you ask ten different pagans what the meaning of nature
religion is, you will probably get ten different answers! Religion is a very personal idea. Each person
has their own way of celebrating it and follows their own unique path. For me,
walking a nature path means celebrating all life, not just human life. It means
honoring the earth and celebrating the seasons as our ancestors may have done
in the past. I do consider myself Wiccan, although not a fanatic<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span>. So I do celebrate
sabbats and esbats as well as give honor daily to my personal deities. I try to
be respectful of all nature and take care of our planet. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As a Wiccan and witch I also follow a magical path. To
practice magic you really do not need physical tools, although they can be
helpful in manifesting the energy you need to accomplish your goal. Most pagans
I know are not wealthy and cannot afford expensive tools or toys. Some of the
most powerful tools I have ever used were those from nature itself. Mother Nature is quite generous in her gifts
to us. So why not use them for your magic.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The following are examples of items found in nature that can
be easily adapted for magical purposes: (the items listed are those found in my
particular area)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tree limbs or branches- can be used to make personal wands.
Wood can also be used to make fires.
Branches can also be used to make pentacles as well. They can also be
used in making besoms or brooms.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Acorns or other nuts can be used in spells and as amulets.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<li class="ld" data-bk="16.1" data-bns="API.YAlgo" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1341587510375223"><a aria-label="Assorted Items Of Nature Which Appear At Autumn Time Royalty Free ..." class="hfb" href="http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoX48APdP7EQAgyiJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3F_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dnature%2Bitems%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-1%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D6&w=400&h=267&imgurl=us.123rf.com%2F400wm%2F400%2F400%2Fleafy%2Fleafy0711%2Fleafy071100122%2F2085468-assorted-items-of-nature-which-appear-at-autumn-time.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.123rf.com%2Fphoto_2085468_assorted-items-of-nature-which-appear-at-autumn-time.html&size=25.6+KB&name=Assorted+Items+Of+Nature+Which+Appear+At+Autumn+Time+Royalty+Free+...&p=nature+items&oid=78d8adab39b1d86ecd457dbe8507b50a&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-701-1&tt=Assorted%2BItems%2BOf%2BNature%2BWhich%2BAppear%2BAt%2BAutumn%2BTime%2BRoyalty%2BFree%2B...&b=0&ni=96&no=6&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=12s3gpv1h&sigb=13c4g3g7a&sigi=13qboq2q2&.crumb=A7LJfHOQeyf" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1341587510375748"><img alt="" height="133" id="yui_3_3_0_15_1341587510375747" src="http://ts3.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=5014920395097334&id=19bd8e506663472ad295fb40f79e3e95" style="height: 147px; margin-left: -50px; margin-top: 0px; width: 221px;" width="200" /></a></li>
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Leaves- you can research the different types of trees in
your area and find out their specific attributes. Leaves are a great tool to
use in magic. You can write your needs upon its leaves then burn them as
offerings to the gods. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Pine needles-can also be used in spells or mojo bags and
burned as incense.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pine cones-I have used pine cones in many different types of
crafts. They are wonderful decorations for Yule and other sabbats.<o:p></o:p><img alt="" height="195" id="ihover-img" src="http://ts4.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4697311860425163&id=c3c4bc34611bd4cb1e499818dfb33541" style="background-color: white;" width="198" /></div>
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Plants/herbs- collect those grown in the wild or grown from
your garden. Herbs can be used in kitchen magic, mojo bags, spells, rituals,
etc. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Water- collect from different types of sources for use in
magic. Storm water can also be collected to add power to your magic. Water can
also be used in cleansing rituals or spells.<a aria-label="Nature Mobile Wallpapers" href="http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoS49APdPBTEAyWeJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3Dnature%2Bitems%26_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dnature%2Bitems%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-1%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D36&w=128&h=128&imgurl=www.pakindifun.com%2Fimages%2Fimageitems%2FNature-Mobile-Wallpapers%2Fnature-mobile-wallpapers26.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pakindifun.com%2Fpics.php%3FcatId%3D222&size=9.4+KB&name=Nature+Mobile+Wallpapers&p=nature+items&oid=26b28c3f922cda0ec879126654eeae07&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-701-1&tt=Nature%2BMobile%2BWallpapers&b=31&ni=88&no=36&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=11cf6d1jd&sigb=13siifg21&sigi=12s88sbh9&.crumb=A7LJfHOQeyf" id="yui_3_3_0_15_13415875103751249" style="background-color: white;"><img alt="" height="128" id="yui_3_3_0_15_13415875103751250" src="http://ts1.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4738212829005076&id=6fd4cf5b80dd7c3fbb3336061051fe68" style="height: 128px; margin-left: 9px; margin-top: 19px; width: 128px;" width="128" /></a></div>
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Earth/dirt-use in fertility magic. Graveyard dirt can also
be used; however I do caution that you not take dirt from an unknown grave. You
never know what kind of energy you will get if you do not know the background
of the person who lies there. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Air-utilize windy days to help manifest air magic.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rocks and stones can be used to make magical divination
tools, such as runes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Seashells also represent west and water and can be made into
powerful amulets.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sand can be used in the same ways that dirt is used in earth
magic. It can also be used in fire magic by making candles out of sand. Search
the internet, there are many sites available on how to make sand candles. There
was also a great article in Family Fun magazine this summer on how to make sand
wands for the kids. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Feathers-great tools for cleansing and air magic. Be careful however not to collect feathers from birds that are on the endangered lists. This can cause legal problems for you.</div>
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Egg shells-ground up and use in protection or fertility magic.</div>
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Shed snakeskin- can be a very powerful tool esp in healing magic.Just make sure the owner of the skin is long gone before taking :). </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">***Anytime you take anything from nature, always ask permission
first and then offer nature something in return.</span></div>
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These are just a few examples of nature items that can be
used in magic. So what is your favorite natural item to use in your own
practice?<o:p></o:p></div>
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May your magical endeavors always be blessed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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BB,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Autumn<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-20775014337896133482012-06-30T08:18:00.001-07:002012-08-02T09:44:44.812-07:00Pagan Blog Project- M is for What is Magic?This article was written with the help of my sister, Crystal Luna Rouge, when we first started
teaching together. <br />
<br />
What is Magic? <br />
<br />
Every person has the ability
within themselves to do magic. And some people do it without realizing they are
performing magic! For example: have you ever made a sick friend or loved one
chicken soup when they were feeling ill? If so, you put all your love and energy
into making the soup, so it would help them get better faster. This is a form of
magic. <br />
<br />
Most people are afraid of magic because they have been taught
that it is evil. But now with magic coming back into the world and out of the
“broom closet”, the truth is slowly but surely coming out as well. Magic is not
evil. It is a very natural ability that can be practiced by anyone who wants
positive change in their lives. <br />
<br />
The Dictionary’s Definition of Magic:
<br />
Noun. <br />
1. The art that purports to control or forecast natural events,
effects, or forces by invoking the supernatural. <br />
a. The practice of using
charms, spells, or rituals to attempt to produce supernatural effects or control
events in nature. <br />
b. The charms, spells, and rituals so used. <br />
2. The
exercise of sleight of hand or conjuring for entertainment. <br />
3. A mysterious
quality of enchantment: “For me the names of those men breathed the magic of the
past” (Max Beerbohm). <br />
<br />
Adjective. <br />
1. Of, relating to, or invoking the
supernatural: “stubborn unlaid ghost/that breaks his magic chains at curfew
time” (John Milton). <br />
2. Possessing distinctive qualities that produce
unaccountable or baffling effects. <br />
<br />
<br />
[Middle English magik, from Old
French magique, from Late Latin magica, from Latin magic, from Greek magik, from
feminine of magikos, of the Magi, magical, from magos, magician, magus. ]
<br />
<br />
Magic vs. Magick <br />
<br />
Magic within this document will be spelt as you
would find it in a Dictionary: <br />
M-a-g-i-c. <br />
<br />
Magic spelt M-a-g-i-c-k
was introduced by Aliester Crowley to differentiate it from stage performers.
Aliester Crowely defined magic as "The Science and Art of causing change to
occur in conformity with Will". I think it means: Using your own will to bring
change into your life. <br />
<br />
Forms of Magic <br />
There are many forms of magic
for example: Folk, Witchcraft, Vodoun, Santeria, Qabala, Ceremonial, Herbal,
Moon/Lunar, Crystal, Color, Poppet, Elemental, Food/Kitchen, Knot, Powder,
Healing, Weather, Binding, Protection, Sex, Glamour, Dream, Scrying, Fairy and
Candle magic to name of few. <br />
Wicca seems to embrace most forms of magic but
can vary on the practitioner. <br />
<br />
Is Magic Energy? <br />
Some have speculated
that Magic is an energy or force of some kind, and this would appear to be true
in many situations. For example the ritual of Drawing down the Moon. Without
going into too much detail Drawing down the Moon is a ritual where a Priestess
or Solitary Female within the magic circle points her Athame at the full moon
and lets the Moons energies fill her body, she then uses this "energy" for her
magical endeavour, whatever that may be. <br />
<br />
Another example is where a
Witch or Magician charges Tools, Herbs, Stones, Candles, Talismans etc.
Therefore to "Charge" something they must believe that there is an "energy" of
some sort. I have also read of stories where within a magic circle with several
people involved that sparks of energy have literally jumped from person to
person. This would also suggest that there is some kind of "energy" involved.
<br />
<br />
“Recent discoveries in quantum physics (the study of the physics of
sub-atomic particles) and in cosmology (the branch of astronomy and astrophysics
that deals with the universe taken as a whole) shed much light on how mind
interacts with the universe. These discoveries compel acceptance of the idea
that there is far more than just one universe and that we constantly interact
with many of these "hidden" universes. <br />
Unfortunately, most books on quantum
cosmology are written in language that an ordinary intelligent person cannot
understand. Moreover, many if not most scientists are in a state of denial of
anything supernatural. They are blind to the paranormal and simply cannot see
the obvious logical conclusions of their own discoveries. <br />
<br />
What is needed
is a source that explains in understandable, non-mathematical terms the
relationship between mind and matter––how the human mind acts to influence the
physical world. <br />
Such a source exists.” <br />
Magic to modern day people (and
the past).... Energy work in all the forms. It can be shown in many ways. There
can be obvious physical things...like seeing a wound heal before your eyes,
moving things with the mind (telekenetics), teleportation, etc... There can
mental magic...like psychic abilities, talking to spirit (plants, animals, dead,
ascended beings, etc...). Increased perceptions...see auras, hear thoughts, feel
energy, etc... <br />
<br />
<br />
Is Magic Desire? <br />
<br />
Do practitioners of magic
believe so much in their science that they simply just see what they want to
see. Their perception is so intense in a belief in magic that after casting a
spell or doing a ritual say for example: <br />
<br />
Making a wish while blowing out
candles on a birthday cake. This is one of the oldest forms of magic that has
been around for centuries. What really happens here? The person is sending out
the desire for an object of material substance or outcome. Does having intense
belief in your perception guide you to draw to you the things in life that you
desire. This spell or ritual you conducted was a focusing tool to make you
concentrate and guide your energies towards your desire to accumulate something
in your life. <br />
<br />
It draws its power from a deep well in the center of the
human soul. Within this well are the waters of the unconscious, and below the
surface dwell all possibilities and potentials, awaiting their turn to be pulled
up into the light and made real. So long as they remain under the surface, they
do not exist, but the moment they are captured and brought forth they come to
be. Other types are manipulations. Manifesting things you desire, changing
weather, time, probability of future events, etc.. Personal
magic...re-patterning oneself, making self a higher more pure being. Intent is
very powerful tool. <br />
<br />
Many people will to tell you to perform magic you
need certain things i.e. Tools, Props, Timing, Astrological correspondences,
Moon phase etc, to be successful in your magical workings. I believe it depends
on the user’s preference. Personally, I think these things enhance your magical
work but really don't do the work for you. They are simply an added bonus.
<br />
<br />
So what is magic? To be honest I am not 100% sure. I believe in a
Universal Force whether this is actually the energy we use in magic is another
matter. I personally do not believe it is what one sees on television shows and
movies such as Charmed, The Craft, and Harry Potter. Their magic to me is the
magic of imagination and is entirely a different subject. <br />
<br />
How do you
define magic in your own tradition? <br />
<br />
Blessed be, <br />
Autumn
<br />
<br />
<br />
Resources: <br />
What is Magic by Wren Walker of Witches Voice
<br />
Drawing Down the Moon by Margot Adler <br />
What is Magic? By: Donald Tyson
(article found on internet)Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-44251929047792590572012-06-26T14:36:00.000-07:002012-08-02T09:44:58.789-07:00Pagan Blog Project- L is for Litha and M is for MidsummerSo I am behind again on the pagan blog project, so I am combining my last L and first M. Both are for the sabbat we are celebrating now, Litha or Midsummer. This year part of my coven celebrated in Earlville, Illinois at Stonehouse Park with Selena Fox and Circle Sanctuary. The weather was very hot and the bugs were plentiful, but the time spent this past week was well worth it. :). <br />
<br />
Our trip started out not so great. After an hour and a half of traveling, my husband noticed we had a crate missing! So we doubled back ALL the way to the beginning of our trip, but to no avail. We could not find the crate. It must have fallen off and someone picked it up. I hope who ever now had possession of my husbands clothes put them to good use! So now we have wasted 3 hours and have to start all over again. Our trip started at 2am on Saturday morning and ended at 3am on Sunday!! We had now been up for 24 hours straight. Needless to say, we were POOPED! We slept in at the hotel until 9am then headed out to Stonehouse Park for entry to the festival week. (Oh, we did stop at Walmart along the way to buy my husband more clothes!!! He doesn't do skyclad ;). <br />
<br />
The rest of the week was much better and we made many new friends and had a fabulous time. We have even started making notes for our next trip to PSG. <br />
<br />
Solstice morning, we attended a ritual headed by Selena Fox in which we paid tribute to Father Sun. It was a wonderful ritual filled with fun and laughter. The rest of the week we attended lectures and workshops with nightly concerts. Some of the bands playing were Spiral Rhythm, Tuatha Dea and Celia. <br />
<br />
Below are pictures from our week long retreat. So how did you spend your solstice?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7OK5gcQiy59JcwVXvloR7UDI1du7jNw7fwA8LHKNK_kou6mnaoICvSLfM_bP_CCTXkWzMQGrVbc5tXxvlqYcXintcm_I3ZEgsTCV09-KMbuZFbylzr6WHimFv0OmmGiGalFDSocxnWpT4/s1600/Community+Altar+PSG+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7OK5gcQiy59JcwVXvloR7UDI1du7jNw7fwA8LHKNK_kou6mnaoICvSLfM_bP_CCTXkWzMQGrVbc5tXxvlqYcXintcm_I3ZEgsTCV09-KMbuZFbylzr6WHimFv0OmmGiGalFDSocxnWpT4/s320/Community+Altar+PSG+2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Community Altar</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixkAUhpRhL44SAMgxelAMbZE7Z3NGyHuqNfy_ZjfU4VdIhun9kVzWbeWgeF89FipjL3hENg0pzjRU8XUUzvNuYTgOVnrCucH1hH424OAjASqwhixd01rQK_szAJUhfb-iWfxfUmdHL0HTG/s1600/entrance+to+ritual+circle+psg+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixkAUhpRhL44SAMgxelAMbZE7Z3NGyHuqNfy_ZjfU4VdIhun9kVzWbeWgeF89FipjL3hENg0pzjRU8XUUzvNuYTgOVnrCucH1hH424OAjASqwhixd01rQK_szAJUhfb-iWfxfUmdHL0HTG/s320/entrance+to+ritual+circle+psg+2012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Entrance to the Ritual Circle</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovCr2gxuC6wcfRgfN7mI1x-9SBeezDoB38M0EUNNJQ4rAxnD7c1w-EDh6lt-HhyphenhyphenD__wQBpKKS4u7IbzBciFVoig4PIyL1HfGQTRl53EdJ_1ZCguQtKt2gqCef5PpjmYt6IpfL5Kh1p6iE/s1600/Grandmother+Willow+PSG+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiovCr2gxuC6wcfRgfN7mI1x-9SBeezDoB38M0EUNNJQ4rAxnD7c1w-EDh6lt-HhyphenhyphenD__wQBpKKS4u7IbzBciFVoig4PIyL1HfGQTRl53EdJ_1ZCguQtKt2gqCef5PpjmYt6IpfL5Kh1p6iE/s320/Grandmother+Willow+PSG+2012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Grandmother Willow</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bqld0sqKW4GC6h189I6kg1Yx72nQA8XNENKHAlh9i83M0uNLSnw59NmIYQMzJlM9xnKa8VAzpMu4qYZ33gwfmVGeMnqVMI1LWH0wr0CWp_IbGcfpfj-wCU-1K6q9ExEzivHyI4z37XCt/s1600/Home+sweet+home+for+PSG+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bqld0sqKW4GC6h189I6kg1Yx72nQA8XNENKHAlh9i83M0uNLSnw59NmIYQMzJlM9xnKa8VAzpMu4qYZ33gwfmVGeMnqVMI1LWH0wr0CWp_IbGcfpfj-wCU-1K6q9ExEzivHyI4z37XCt/s320/Home+sweet+home+for+PSG+2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Home Sweet Home for the week</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADomOLyKdHH0IS3k1KgPLgJf_-oQjPaviZFPlP5pB9rFdn-rDrt018Qttqmk37zyMq1TqlU2hNZcCfUZSSyxksIAUBf3F4P6zG1E9pGEKgspSr71uUlr9odigapXbCGk2aJoj8u_hlIbn/s1600/Spirit+Doll+and+Egg+Rattle+Psg+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiADomOLyKdHH0IS3k1KgPLgJf_-oQjPaviZFPlP5pB9rFdn-rDrt018Qttqmk37zyMq1TqlU2hNZcCfUZSSyxksIAUBf3F4P6zG1E9pGEKgspSr71uUlr9odigapXbCGk2aJoj8u_hlIbn/s320/Spirit+Doll+and+Egg+Rattle+Psg+2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Spirit Doll and Egg Rattle I made</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpL7xa9eg48Fr7_6uJ2QHhpwSw844FZNZJjc1RquwAov-vzhX5Lix8prf6RWK4xbzHlQCB4qKAu14uK76MKLeTFd0ALWtWpeY2Pdw1Hb2weEX5yQE_aKRP6yk-VXLD8plOh2uavG73SvT/s1600/Summer+Soltice+Tree+at+home+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpL7xa9eg48Fr7_6uJ2QHhpwSw844FZNZJjc1RquwAov-vzhX5Lix8prf6RWK4xbzHlQCB4qKAu14uK76MKLeTFd0ALWtWpeY2Pdw1Hb2weEX5yQE_aKRP6yk-VXLD8plOh2uavG73SvT/s320/Summer+Soltice+Tree+at+home+2012.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Solstice Tree at home, I decorate it for each sabbat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEPR8LyPSuTish_tNxxzZsWJ9kntGcSxE5UEOx4_iJvAVraAWpeO9Jwf2U-JijPBYyproDU7DMZkx7eARSysG8-yu7uRqk23DrDGhs6HLOhay1NjL_Gx1XGqUKdFZDdDaJiqKijDuV4Pl/s1600/Sunflower+for+main+PSG+ritual+2012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirEPR8LyPSuTish_tNxxzZsWJ9kntGcSxE5UEOx4_iJvAVraAWpeO9Jwf2U-JijPBYyproDU7DMZkx7eARSysG8-yu7uRqk23DrDGhs6HLOhay1NjL_Gx1XGqUKdFZDdDaJiqKijDuV4Pl/s320/Sunflower+for+main+PSG+ritual+2012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had to leave Saturday morning to be back in Louisiana for Sunday evening so my husband could go to work on Monday. This is the sunflower for the main ritual on Saturday night that we missed. However we did put our intentions into the papers with are stuffed into the middle of the sunflower. The sunflower was burned as an offering in the Saturday night ritual.</div>
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I hope everyone had a blessed sabbat. We certainly did.<br />
<br />
BB,<br />
Autumn<br />Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-73845961868132414722012-06-08T09:19:00.000-07:002012-08-02T09:45:14.840-07:00Pagan Blog Project-L is for Litha Recipes<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I don’t know where everyone is located who reads my blog,
but I am here in SW Louisiana, and here in June, summer has been in full swing
since April </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.
The temps here vary from 85-100 degrees right now and during the day time,
homes get very warm, especially mine as I live in a mobile home. So what is a
witch to do? Well fix non cook recipes of course, keep that kitchen cool </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. Most of these recipes
are from Martha Stewart and are some of my favorites. There is also a grilling
recipe for spending some quality time outdoors with mother nature and father
sun </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Hummus </u></b>From
Martha Stewart<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator
for up to one week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 cans (15.5 ounces
each) chickpeas<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/3 cup fresh lemon
juice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 cup tahini<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 cloves garlic,
chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/8 teaspoon cayenne
pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 1/4 teaspoons
coarse salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Reserving 1/4 cup liquid, rinse and drain 2 cans
chickpeas. Place chickpeas and reserved liquid in a food processor. Add 1/3 cup
fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup tahini, well stirred, 2 garlic cloves, chopped, 1/8
teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt. Process until smooth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Cherry Tomato
Salad</u></b> from Martha Stewart <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 teaspoon Dijon
mustard<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 tablespoon fresh
lemon juice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 tablespoon olive
oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coarse salt and
ground pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 pints cherry
tomatoes, halved<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Directions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a medium bowl, combine mustard, lemon juice,
and oil; season with salt and pepper, and whisk to combine. Add tomatoes, and
toss to coat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Panzanella Bread
Salad</u></b> From Martha Stewart<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 cup red-wine
vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 cup olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Coarse salt and
ground pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3 cups large cubes
country bread (5 to 6 ounces)- I prefer my bread grilled </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 pound plum
tomatoes, cut into small pieces<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 English cucumber,
thinly sliced crosswise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 medium red onion,
very thinly sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4 ounces provolone
cheese in one piece, diced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 cup fresh basil
leaves, torn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Directions<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar and oil; season
with salt and pepper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2. Add <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bread, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and cheese.
Toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, and up to 8 hours.
Just before serving, stir in basil. **The recipe also came with beans, however
we are not a bean family. But if you are, feel free to add them </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>Spinach Salad</u></b>
from Martha Stewart<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ingredients:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 bunch spinach,
(about 6 cups), preferably flat-leaf, roughly chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/3 cup dried sour
cherries or cranberries<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3 scallions, thinly
sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1 green apple, cored
and thinly sliced<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/2 cup seedless red
grapes, cut in half<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/4 cup walnuts,
coarsely chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 teaspoons
apple-cider vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 tablespoons
extra-virgin olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Salt and freshly
ground black pepper<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>1/3 cup crumbled goat
cheese, (about 2 ounces)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Combine spinach, cherries, scallions, apple
slices, grapes, and walnuts in a large bowl. Whisk together vinegar and olive
oil; season to taste with salt and pepper. Pour vinaigrette over salad; toss in
cheese, and arrange on salad plates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grilled Tomatoes<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></u></b>(or grilled veggies)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Beefsteak tomatoes or other veggies you love<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Parmesan cheese or whatever cheese<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you like<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Directions:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Slice
tomatoes fairly thick. Coat with olive oil for grilling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Grill one
side a couple of minutes until grill marks appear. Turn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Grill
other side till done. Grilling times varies as to how you like your veggies
done. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add parmesan
cheese or any other cheese you love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy eating. May this Litha season see all of your heart’s
desires come true.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DQQMoW5q4JoVFB6TStyxX4IRnu-qQ6iCeputx4vvVXIg59cCTvwRTX2OvYh3KPFTx-sDgGNsEQ_dE1kqzi8Epr4S_brakeRnujGO2huDhSTjKzkHKiPKHUzCB8mPh1YIIvBKtfba5gs2/s1600/Litha+sun+god.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DQQMoW5q4JoVFB6TStyxX4IRnu-qQ6iCeputx4vvVXIg59cCTvwRTX2OvYh3KPFTx-sDgGNsEQ_dE1kqzi8Epr4S_brakeRnujGO2huDhSTjKzkHKiPKHUzCB8mPh1YIIvBKtfba5gs2/s1600/Litha+sun+god.jpg" /></a></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">BB,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Autumn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7241902977071727725.post-37526378581833551212012-06-06T11:13:00.003-07:002012-08-02T09:45:36.158-07:00Litha craft-Sand Paintings<div id="yiv3517529INCREDI_TEXT_AREA">
<div>
<div>
I was going through some old files and found this craft. I am not sure where it originated from, so if you know, please let me know so I can give proper credit. This is a great craft to help teach our littles ones about Litha and the Summer Season. Litha is the time of the sun, but as Wiccans we look for duality in all things, or at least this Wiccan does :). You can explain the significance of the sun and the power of the sun god at this time of year. You can also explain the concept of balance, so sand (and beach) are not a stretch. One of my favorite all time litha activities is tubing because it combines the best of both elements: the sun and water from the river. Nothing is more relaxing than relaxing in an inner tube floating down the river with the sun kissing your skin. But I digress :). So here is the directions for the craft:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Making <span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1339005945_0">Sand
Paintings</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div id="yui_3_2_0_1_13390059337262231">
<div>
</div>
<div>
Colored sand (various colors)</div>
<div>
White glue</div>
<div>
Paint brush (old one)</div>
<div>
Paper (as thick as possible to prevent warping)</div>
<div>
Pencil</div>
<div>
PREPARATION:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
1. Make sure to cover work surface completely. Lightly sketch design onto paper. Make design fairly simple with large areas of color. Stay away from tiny details.</div>
<div>
2. Place your drawing on top of another clean piece of paper that you have folded in half and then opened again. This will aid you in not only in catching the extra sand but then in pouring in back in</div>
<div>
the original container.</div>
<div>
3. Pour some glue into a disposable container (paper cups work well). Thin glue with a few drops of water to the consistency of paint.</div>
<div>
4. "Paint" glue onto areas of picture. (Paint only the areas that will be the same color until all areas of that color are complete. )</div>
<div>
5. Sprinkle or pour sand over the fresh glue and then tip the paper to get rid of the excess sand. "Paint" more glue and sprinkle more sand until all areas of the selected color are completed. Extra sand can be carefully poured back into the original jar.</div>
<div>
6. Then move on to each different color completing all areas of one color before moving on to the next. Let dry.</div>
<div>
7. To outline areas, run a thin bead of glue right out of the glue bottle to outline area, sprinkle desired color of sand, let set a few seconds and gently tip page to get rid of excess sand. If bead of glue moves when you tip the picture it can be pushed back into place gently with a toothpick. More touchup work and be done to the edges of your outlines when the glue begins to dry but is still a</div>
<div id="yui_3_2_0_1_13390059337262230">
little pliable. The outlines add depth and
texture to your pictures for just the right finishing touch and can also be used to cover imperfections.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
May you all have a blessed Litha/MidSummer. </div>
<div>
Blessed be,</div>
<div>
Autumn</div>
<div>
</div>
</div>Autumnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14811463119448630669noreply@blogger.com0