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 Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:17 am
I'd like to thank all of the newspaper staff for doing a wonderful job on this issue! We're always looking for new staff members. Just check out this thread for more information. smile Table of Contents:- Intro (you are here) - Guild Happenings - Members Section - Animal Totems - Beginner's Section - Book Review - Crystals & Gemstones - Divination - The Elements - Gods & Goddesses - Herb Garden - Kitchen Witches - Mabon - Mythical Creatures - Ostara - Pagan Humor - Pagan Music - Spells - Game Room - Classified Ads And please be sure to leave us some feedback!
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:22 am
Coming in the month of September: We'll be having a Sabbat celebration around the middle of the month. Lot of fun and prizes! Be sure to join us! We're currently working on some new games and contests for The Main Hall. We'll be releasing two every week. We hope to see all of you participating in those. We have a lot of cool prizes to give away!
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:23 am
We had quite a few very lovely people join us during the month of August. Please be sure to make them all feel welcome! Xxking_bosneyxX, Shearaha, willowmajix007, Nancy DeepHoney, [~Althena~], Alan the Great, Kidd death, Fatelin, Rieae, Wanderluste, Angelic_ p l u s h i e, hidden_lynn, Zanep Lodes, Conan The Barbie Doll, Vincent_Of_D.A.R.K, Robdie, Starlight_Veil, Naienko, Nature Speaker, Metal-Slime19, Lost Keys Blame Hofmann, Metal-Slime19, Orianna Dulcina, Imoti, xXx Crystalline xXx, The Loneliest Acromantula--- We'd like to wish these people a very happy birthday: September 1st - - Fire_eagle_trox September 3rd - - Zia of the Ice September 5th - - Mika Lockheart, xxitsaxsecretxx, isisandshiva, and Kaitiaki September 6th - - x_Yami_x September 8th - - Sexy Black Bear September 9th - - duvessamordichi September 14th - - The Deadliest Grace September 16th - - +Summer Massacre+, KimHeroin, and AxTaintedxMemory September 20th - - Chihiro Miyazakiro September 21st - - stormilee September 26th - - Reivyn-chan September 27th - - love_fairy_dust September 28th - - SHATENGEY September 30th - - PurestEmotion --- This month's MotM is StrawberryDaifuku! StrawberryDaifuku Hi everyone! I’m StrawberryDaifuku, or Strawberry for short. I’m 16, and my hobbies are drawing, wasting time online, Playing video games, and watching anime. Although I’ve only been practicing Wicca for a year [well, it’ll be a year by the end of September] I feel like I’ve learned a lot, and it’s an honor to be here and talk to all you guys! : This was surprisingly easy to answer. I’d have to say Mabon, because it was the first Sabbat I celebrated, so it brings back lots of memories. It’s great that it’s coming up, too. XD Blessed_Scribe: What does your religion mean to you?StrawberryDaifuku: To me, Wicca was a rediscovery of myself and everything around me. I see thing differently now [in a spiritual sense] and I take time to appreciate the things around me, like how the moon turns blood red in the sunset. I see the God and Goddess as beings who guide rather than govern, and who are willing to meet you if you’re willing to meet them. Blessed_Scribe: How do you respond to friends or family members who question, criticize, or misunderstand your chosen religion? StrawberryDaifuku: I don’t have as much as a problem with this with my friends as I do with family. But when my family questions my beliefs, I tend to simply sigh and wait it out. They’re Christian, so sometimes it’s hard to get across to them that Wicca isn’t “bad” and “evil”. I find that it’s useless to debate it anymore with them, so a simple “This is who I am” type of thing gets it across that I’m not going to change. I think they understand that I’m still the same person I was “before”, just with a different set of beliefs. Blessed_Scribe: In your opinion, why are rituals an important part of religion? StrawberryDaifuku: Rituals help you [the performer] connect with your deities, the actual religion, and even yourself. Every religion has a set of rituals, and some can be tailored to your style. They’re very personal things, which should be taken seriously. Blessed_Scribe: Taking your religious beliefs into consideration, what is your position on the illegal use of drugs? StrawberryDaifuku: To be perfectly honest, my religious beliefs do not sway my opinion on this subject one way or the other. I believe if a person is abusing a drug illegally, whether it is drugs that are outlawed under any and all circumstances, or abusing prescription drugs, it’s wrong. Blessed_Scribe: Have you felt that you've grown as a Wiccan (or as a person if you are not Wiccan) since being involved with Blessed Be? StrawberryDaifuku: Of course I have! This guild is practically the perfect environment to be exposed to and nurtured in if you’re looking towards the Wiccan path. No matter how long you’ve been on this path, there’s always something new to learn here. Blessed_Scribe: What made you interested in learning about Wicca? StrawberryDaifuku: A friend of mine called me up one day and told me she wanted to go check out this new-age shop in our area. While we were there, we both ended up asking a lot of questions to the shop keeper, then my friend suggested one of the books on the shelf there. I bought it, read it, and that became the basis of what I believe today. After being agnostic for a few years, when I read up a bit on Wicca and its beliefs, it felt like it just clicked, like “This is it!” Blessed_Scribe: Why, in your opinion, is Neo-Paganism popular today? StrawberryDaifuku: I think Neo-Paganism’s appeal comes from the fact that it’s… well, it’s different. For a lot of people curious about just about any branch of Paganism, it’s not what they were brought up in, and I think a lot of people turning to Neo-Paganism are looking for that change. Of course, the lore and magic of it all probably has something to do with it, too. XD Blessed_Scribe: What advice would you give to those who are looking to become Wiccan?StrawberryDaifuku: I would say: form your own opinions. A lot of people, books, websites, or whatever it is you gain your information from, will tell you things that conflict with each other and what you believe. I think it’s especially important not only to learn and gain as much information as possible, but to decide for yourself what information, out of everything you’ve learned, really applies to you and your beliefs. In such a diverse religion as this one, it’s important to weed out what information stands true for you and what doesn’t. Blessed_Scribe: How would you like to be remembered when you die?StrawberryDaifuku: Ooh, this is a toughie. Probably, “that person who gave it her all, no matter what.” I don’t really think it matters how people remember me when I’m no longer here, as long as I’ve left a positive impression on them. --- Member ArtworkLose ControlBy: JeanMorgan What is it about you that affects me so? The play of sunlight on burnished auburn hair, The storm-fire glitter of your eyes, The touch of your fingers and The heat of your breath? I don't know. That scares me more than it should. Every moment with you leave me weak; Help me... I can't stop shivering. My legs tremble at the merest thought, My heart beats wildly. Imprisoned. Lying here in the warm, still night, Wandering helplessly, Desire my only guide. I burn for you. You make me forget who I am; You make me lose control. Lose myself. You dance through my dreams, The ghost of a beautiful warrior, And I, Lonely and beguiled, Can only follow. Want your artwork (drawings, poetry, photography, etc) to be featured here? Then, contact Blessed_Scribe for more details. You will receive payment for any of your artwork that is published in the newspaper.
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:27 am
The Penguin is September's animal. These unique animals are quite a treat if you see one in the wild. They display order and purpose when walking around since they walk around in tight little rows, determined and focused on their destination. The Penguin often bows to its mate before entering and leaving the nest. It is also seen walking around bowing to other penguins. Those with this totem are reminded of their good manners, or, in some cases, reminded that they should get some! Penguins are always dressed in striking black and white, showing that those with this totem always take their appearance into close consideration. These people are social and feel at ease in any situation, making them good leaders. When in the water, the Penguin moves with agility and speed, teaching us how to connect with our own inner rhythm. Those with the Penguin totem can, like the Penguin, move through the planes with ease. These people are often good at astral projection and bi-location. These people are also vivid dreamers, and should keep a dream journal to record their findings. Like the Orca, the Penguin is the perfect balance of dark and light. Like yin and yang, it shows us that each of us has different sides of our personalities, and these different sides make us a whole. Penguin teaches us to blend the light and dark, and walk the delicate line in between. This, naturally, takes self-discipline and confidence, as well as grace and self-respect. The Penguin is one amazing creature who will teach one a great deal about oneself and one's surroundings. If the Penguin steps into your life, be ready for an awesome, life-altering ride. ---- Sources: Legends of AmericaSayahda
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:29 am
In my previous article I talked about the filter, and why one should question everything. Remember to keep that in mind as you read this article, and any other sources of information. In this article, I will set you up with your set of basic tools. These are the tools every witch needs to build, and build on to do magick, travel the astral plane, and even talk to animals. We will build these tools together, and add more tools later. The most important tool any witch can have is his/her belief. Question this before reading on. Do you agree? Disagree? The second most important tool a witch can have is visualization. Without visualization, one cannot meditate, and meditation is the third most important tool a witch can have. Without basic meditation, one is stressed and busy all the time. Even science now sees the healthful benefits of meditation! Meditation, if one gets good enough at it, can help you go from 100mph to totally chill in three breaths. (Trust me, I've done it before!) Without proper meditation, one cannot ground oneself, which is the fourth most important tool (or ability, I guess) a witch can have. But how does one ground oneself? Grounding, for some people, can be as simple as eating a cracker or drinking a glass of water. For others, it is visualizing (#2) a waterfall washing away excess energy, or a tree growing into the ground, with the Earth taking the extra energy. Grounding, like so many parts of Paganism, is 100% individual. Each person does it differently. I already gave you a few examples, try these and try to make up your own. "When should I ground?" After every energy work, every meditation, and every circle. "Why should I ground?" Some people, even after the simplest meditation they get a headache. Others it take intense energy work. Some people believe that beings will come to lap up the extra energy you have--and these beings aren't really friendly. It is best to ground after every energy work and meditation, no matter how small, just to get in good habits. What if a teacher (later on in your studies) wants you to perform a powerful circle and you don't know how to ground? I'll tell ya: Don't say I didn't warn you! These tools are the most basic that you need. What was that? You thought I was going to say, "You need a wand, six candles, and a black mirror"? No way! Besides, those aren't tools--they're toys. The magick is inside of you--the way the Lord and Lady intended it to be. But don't be fooled, toys are nice, but only when you're ready for them. And you'll be ready when you realize the magick lies within yourself, and all other living things. My recommendation for this month's article: www.WitchSchool.com It has classes you can take on any number of subjects for free! It should keep the beginner busy and the advanced learning even more. May the road rise up to meet you, and the wind be at your back Merry Part, until we meet again Blessed Be
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:30 am
 Book Review - Pagan SpiritualityWritten by too2sweet Pagan Spirituality: A Guide to Personal Transformation AUTHOR: Joyce & River Higginbotham PAGES: 259 pages YEAR PUBLISHED: 2006 SYNOPSIS (from the back cover): The spiritual path of the modern Pagan is one of constant growth and change - in a word, evolution. Pagan Spirituality explores how Pagan spiritual development relates to contemporary theories of cultural and spiritual evolutions. As a post-modern spiritual movement arising from a worldview comfortable with multiple perspectives, Paganism offers individuals unbound opportunities for growth and expansion. The authors believe that this process of both individual and collective evolution is supported by models for human development advanced by modern thinkers including Ken Wilber, James Fowler, Don Beck, Christopher Cowan, and Riane Eisler. Pagan Spirituality encourages all Pagans to reflect on their own spiritual progress, and eventually look beyond the personal to the transpersonal. Descriptions and examples of both positive and negative behaviors that often accompany each stage in the evolutionary process will help you assess your progress and set goals for further development. Exercises throughout the text are designed to further cultivate both magickal skills and spiritual growth through journaling, visualization and meditation. This groundbreaking work challenges readers to think critically about the nature of faith, culture, consciousness and the role that Pagans—both individually and collectively—will undoubtedly play in the conscious creation of tomorrow. REVIEW: For those of you who like their psychology and spirituality combined, this book is an intensive workshop for helping to achieve a deep understanding of one’s self and using that understanding to foster personal growth on many different levels. Personally, I think it is a little much for the average person. Not that it is difficult to understand or to work through the exercises, but most of us just don’t really need to (or care) to dig this deeply into who we are, or why we believe in what we believe. I don’t know that spirituality is something that should be explored in such a scientific way, with models and charts and theories. Many of the exercises in the book are worth taking a look at, and I am certainly not saying that this isn’t a valid tool for finding deeper meaning and understanding in your life, but to me it goes a bit too far with the psychoanalysis. It reads like a college text book, and is unfortunately just about as interesting. I think that if they took out a lot of the psych stuff, it might appeal to a wider range of people. Overall, if you are a person who has a burning desire to explore the deep, dark reaches of your spirituality or needs to find a deeper meaning to your practices, then this is the book for you. If you are comfortable with yourself and your spiritual practices, then it may be something that you only check out in passing. ABOUT THE AUTHORS: Joyce and River have taught Paganism classes throughout the past decade. They have planned and organized local and national Pagan gatherings, written articles for Pagan publications, appeared on radio and television broadcasts, spoken at Christian and Unitarian churches, and attended interfaith councils. They also helped found the Council for Alternative Spiritual Traditions, which hosts public Pagan and alternative events in the Midwest. They have written several other books including, Paganism: An Introduction to Earth-Centered Religions, and Christopaganism: An Inclusive Path. Joyce and River HigginbothamLlewellyn.com
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:31 am
As the gemstone for the month of January, garnet represents the first stone of the common year. Garnet comes in many colors and is used in spells and other magical workings involving health. Varieties: Almandine - Dark red to deep orange. Found in Brazil, India, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Arizona, Idaho, New Mexico, Utah, Arkansas and Kentucky. PictureDemantoid - Medium green to yellow-green, extremely valuable. Found in Italy, Korea, Russia, and Zaire. PictureHessonite - Bright yellow to yellow-brown. Found in Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. PicturePyrope - Deep red to purplish red. Is distinguished from Almandine because it is always showing red. Found in Australia, Czechoslovakia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. PictureRhodolite - Pink to a reddish lavender. Often thought of as a separate stone in magical workings. Found in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. PictureSpessartine - Medium orange to red-orange. Found in Brazil, Namibia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, US, Bavaria, and Germany. PictureTsavorite - Medium, bright green to yellow-green. Very rare and valuable, looks similar to Demantoid but is of a different chemical makeup. Found primarily in Kenya, but occasionally in Tanzania. PictureUvarovite - Bright green, occurs in clusters, fairly rare. Discovered in Russia. PictureMagical Properties Garnet is typically used for health and wellbeing spells, but Rhodolite is traditionally used for love and romance. I am going to include some common thoughts about Garnet, mostly applying to Almandine and Pyrope Garnet as they are the most common types. Energy - According to Scott Cunningham, this is a Projective stone, which is often associated with masculine energy and tends to exert its force on the world rather than absorb the energy of the world. Healing - Primarily purification, both of body and mind. Also used for preventing diseases, especially blood-born diseases. It is typically warn against the skin as an amulet to protect, or under the pillow to protect the mind or psyche. Zodiac Signs - Aries, Scorpio and is associated with the planet Mars Element - Fire, though it can be seen that the other colors may have other elemental associations. Chakra - Base or Root chakra, aka Muladhara ---- Sources: Bernadine Fine GemsWikipedia - GarnetGems and Stones (Based on Edgar Cayce Readings) Revised Ed. Scott Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystals and Gems
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:33 am
I. Introduction Cartomancy is a form of divination (literally discovering a hidden truth) in which one uses cards of some kind or another to attempt to foresee the future, clear up an puzzling issue, or find insight on the self. There are many different types of cards used in divination, from the very old tarot decks of Italy to the more modern oracle decks based on everything from Christowitchy angelic decks to Shamanistic animism based decks. In part one, however, we will be narrowing our analysis of this intriguing art to the use of the playing card as a tool for knowing and discovering hidden truths. II. The Cards A traditional American deck of playing cards is very common in American households, and often neglected to the point of abuse. Please, take the time to go through your house and try to find a deck of playing cards, I'll wait. Once you've got them, take the time to really look at the cards you have, and notice the four different suits; Clubs, Hearts, Spades and Diamonds. We take these suits for granted, but in other countries the suits are interpreted differently. In Germany, for example, there are Acorns or Crosses, Hearts, Leaves, and Bells. In Spain, there are Sticks, Cups, Swords, and Coins or Gold. Italy has Rods, Cups, Swords, and Money, while France has Trefoils or Clovers, Hearts, Pikes, and Diamonds. What's important to understand is that these images are, just as other elements in divination, merely metaphors for what the cards really stand for. Let's go with an obvious suit, shall we? Diamonds, Bells, Coins, Gold, and Money all obviously represent the monetary and financial aspects of life frequently having to do with the element of Earth and the support that these things bring, both literally and figuratively. The metaphor or the symbolism of the cards is what is important, just as with any divination. Truth is often revealed through symbols in a crossways manner instead of in literal truths straightforwardly. Also of great importance are the Court cards, the Jacks, Queens, and Kings of each suit. These major cards are often given ornate images even in the plainest of decks and often represent people in the life of the petitioner. In some decks of Europe there is an additional court card, the Knight, whom we see in all tarot decks. III. Reading The Cards Included for your consideration is one interpretation of the cards, taken primarily from The Complete Fortune Teller by Marc Lemezma with some of my own thoughts injected in. One of the most interesting and confusing things about cartomancy is that many people believe the cards say differing things to us, and this can confuse the new practitioner of this beautiful art. Don't worry, though, with great practice you will come to realize that what is more important than the literal interpretation of what the cards are supposed to mean is how they make you feel. Divination often relies on the mind of the reader as much as the meanings of the cards that have been established, because each reader must interpret symbols with the power and pre-conceived notions of his or her brain. Clubs: The physical aspects of life; dependency and leadership, internal struggle, loyalty, strength. The suit of the element of fire. Hearts: The emotional aspects of life; home, and interpersonal relationships. The suit of the element of water. Diamonds: The practical aspects of life; health, money, financial stability, work, home, and hearth. The suit of the element of earth. Spades: The mental aspects of life; learning, school, mental stability, hard work, and the occasional trouble. The suit of the element of air. I'm also going to include a very brief description of each card, though this will be a general statement that should be applied to a specific within the suit. Information again mostly taken from The Complete Fortune Teller. Ace: You, who you are and what you are. Two: Relationships and partnerships, two together. Three: Good luck, opportunity, possibility. Four: Your friends, colleagues. Five: A gathering or meeting and the purpose behind. Six: Unwelcome influences, manipulations and bad seeds. Seven: Luck, chance, risks. Eight: Family, both biological and those who are as close as family. Nine: Conflict, dissatisfaction, drama. Ten: Fulfillment of desire, gluttony. Jack: A male influence, a father figure, yang. AN ACTUAL PERSON. Queen: A female influence, a mother figure yin. AN ACTUAL PERSON. King: A leader, someone with power. AN ACTUAL PERSON. Worry not, my friends, this is definitely to be continued. ---- Sources: The Complete Fortune Teller by Marc Lemezma Cartomancy
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:34 am
 The Elements - Moving Beyond TheoryWritten by StarlockD. Suzuki Every breath is a sacrament; an affirmation of our connection with all other living things. Metaphysical theory can be a great tool to help us organize and systematize our understanding of a topic. Many of the books out there skimp on the theory and research end of things, but this need not mean all of these books have no usefulness. I remember when Deborah Lipp's "The Way of Four" came out I was very excited to flip through it. I thought to myself that maybe, just maybe, this will be the author that 'gets it!' This'll be the author that does an in-depth treatment of the Greek origins and system of the four elements! Needless to say, I was disappointed when the book came out. If she had done her research, it didn't show through the predominantly self-help focus of the book. Although not I'd hoped, the book did help to remind me of something. As much as I love theory, knowing the theory behind the four elements isn't enough. While I may get fussy about people at least being aware of the original ordering of the elements, push comes to shove, I'll acknowledge the real juicy fruit is personal experience. Building a personal relationship with the four elements is what really will bring working with them to life. Theory can help you do that, but if it gets in the way, it's often best to let that personal experience trump the rules and conventions. But how does one go about building a relationship with the four elements? How does one move beyond the theory and into that rich realm of experience? For this, let's take a lesson from the element of Air: the secret of awareness. For an hour, a day, a week - however long you can commit to - spend some time being mindful of the presence of Air. Pay attention to the direction the wind is coming from when you go outside. What weather is accompanied by that wind? Note the shapes of the clouds too. How does their formation match up with the weather outside? How does the wind feel against your skin? Pay attention to your breathing. If you are familiar with meditation that involves focusing on the breath, do such a meditation bearing the element of Air in mind as well. Look for other ways that Air functions around you. Sometimes, we can miss the obvious by looking to hard so try to be a passive observer. What is Air, really? What does it do? What do your observations teach you about the element of Air? Take some time to write down your thoughts in your Book of Shadows or other journal you keep. This same secret of awareness or mindfulness can be used to start building relationships with the other elements as well. It may sound simple, but many of the most powerful secrets hide in plain sight! ---- Sources: Lipp, Deborah. The Way of the Four: Creating Elemental Balance in your Life Chapter 2: The Elements in Nature - Air Exercises Starhawk. The Earth Path: Grounding your Spirit in the Rhythms of Nature. Chapter 5: Observation & Chapter 7: Air Suzuki, David & A.M. McConnell. The Sacred Balance: Rediscovering our Place in Nature. [and of course, this all builds on what has gone before!]
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:36 am
 Gods & Goddesses - Tlaloc and Chalchihuitlicue: Aztec godsWritten by dark_angel_32189Tlaloc  "The one who makes things sprout"; "Lord of the sources of water"; "Lord of the Waters." Tlaloc is an ancient Aztec nature and fertility god. He is often depicted holding four pitchers from which he pours rain. He is also depicted with goggle eyes and fangs; and is associated with caves, springs and mountains. He had a shrine on the Great Temple dedicated to him in Tenochtitlan, but it was at the peak of Mount Tlaloc that was the most important place of worship. Because that is where the Aztec ruler would conduct important ceremonies; and where pilgrims would give offerings.The worship of Tlaloc required a never ending amount of human sacrifices, more specifically, child sacrifices. He is the ruler of Tlalocan, which is the fourth layer of the heavens. Tlalocan has been described as "a place of unending Springtime and a paradise of green plants." It was where anyone who died from any water-associated things went to in the afterlife. His first wive, Xochiquetzal, was kidnapped by Tezcatlipoca causing him to later marry Chalchihuitlicue. With Chalchihuitlicue, he fathered Tecciztecatl. He is the god of thunder, mountains, rains, hail, fertility, water, clouds, and lightning. Chalchihuitlicue  "Precious green lady"; "Precious jewel lady"; "Precious jade skirt." She was the water goddess of lakes and streams; and was the patroness of those who gained their living by fishing or selling water, as well as the patroness of birth. She is depicted as one of the nine ladies/lords of the night in pre-Columbian manuscripts; and thus represents the period from 12:33 AM to 1:38 AM. She was considered to be the "personification of youthful beauty and ardor; and was often represented as a river from which a prickly pear tree laden with fruit grew, symbolizing the human heart." "Her headdress consisted of several broad bands that in all probability were made of cotton and trimmed with amaranth seeds. Large round tassels fell from the goddess’s headdress. The goddess was viewed as a beautiful lady whose clothing is that of a noble woman, which consisted of an extravagant shawl adorned with tassels and a green skirt. Often times a stream of water, which usually included a baby from both genders, flowed from out of the goddess’ skirt. In addition, Chalchihuitlicue could also be seen carrying a cross. For the Aztecs the cross was a symbol of fertility. The cross also stood for the four winds that brought the rain to water the crops." "Offerings of flowers, hallucinogenic mushrooms, and cotton headdresses were made to her. " She is goddess of storms, youthful beauty, whirlpools, spring growth, love, flowers, spirits, streams. ------ Sources: TlalocChalchiuhtlicue"Goddesses in World Mythology" by Martha Ann and Dorothy Myers Imel "Magick of the Gods and Goddesses" by D.J. Conway
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:37 am
The sweet smell of innocence, a feeling of peace or of sleep soon to come. Lavender is one very powerful herb. Whether you're in need of protection or happiness, you want to prolong your life, attract a lover, or protect your chastity. Want to write a love note to a special someone? Then rub some lavender upon it to give it that extra effect. If you need to attract someone special, then wear some essential oil as a perfume. If you're restless at night, try sleeping with some lavender beneath your pillow or smolder some as incense. When in danger, or you believe your life is coming to an end, it is wise to smell its scent as often as possible to ensure your protection and that you have a long life. Lavender has long been used to relieve depression, hair loss, stress, headaches, exhaustion, nervousness, bad breath, and many others. Lavender has been used in teas for ages, and the essential oil is one of the safest to use. Store bought lavender essential oil has been known to cause nauseousness and is best used in very small doses. It is preferable to make your own, though this requires having your own still and knowledge of distilling essential oil. To use the essential oil, you can add a few drops to boiling water and inhale the steam, it can be added to cuts, bee stings, rashes, arthritis, blisters, and even applied to the temples to relieve migraines. Some other uses of lavender include using the dried flowers in sleep and dream pillows, potpourris, sachets and tucked in drawers to freshen clothing and repel moths. You can even strip the stems of leaves and burn them as incense. Folk Names: Elf Leaf, Nard, Nardus, Spike Gender: Masculine Planet: Mercury Element: Air ---------- Sources: "Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" by Scott Cunningham Lavender
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:39 am
Lavender Cookies:From: All Recipes Ingredients:5/8 cup butter 1/2 cup white sugar 1 egg 1 tablespoon lavender flowers 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup colored sugar for decoration (optional) 1 tablespoon lavender flowers Directions:Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. Cream together the butter and sugar. Beat the egg, and blend into the butter and sugar. Mix in the lavender flowers and the flour. Drop batter by teaspoonfuls onto cookie sheets. Bake 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden. Remove cookies to cooling racks, and sprinkle with decorative sugar and additional lavender flowers if desired. ---------- “Pappy Dave's” Bath FizziesFrom: Pine MeadowsMakes approx. 12 ice cream scoop size balls. Ingredients:82.214g [2.9 oz wt] citric acid 68.039g [2.4 oz wt] cornstarch 226.796g [8 oz wt] baking soda 102.058g [3.6 oz wt] coconut oil 5.67g [0.2 fl oz] lavender essential or fragrance oil Directions:Place all of your dry ingredients in a bowl and mix together. Melt your coconut oil or substitute this for another (palm kernel, palm) and then incorporate the mixture completely. Add your fragrance or essential oils. Make ice cream scoop size balls and place in small cupcake papers. Let the balls dry for about 24 hours, and then store in an airtight container to keep fragrance from dissipating. Drop 2 balls in your bath and enjoy.
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:40 am
Hello and, Welcome! Come, sit near the hearth with me and I’ll tell you a little of the Autumn Equinox or Mabon… The harvest is in and the pantry is full. We have picked apples, winter vegetables and nuts. The last of the grain has been brought in from the field. That is how it was for our ancestors literally, for us most of this is symbolic, unless we are fortunate enough to have some land to plant. Whether purely symbolic or a bit of both, as we prepare for the coming winter it is time to evaluate our harvest and give thanks to the Goddess and God for all that they give to us. The Mabon Feast is the focus of our ritual. Giving thanks with good friends, food and family in a happy, warm setting brings a smile to the faces of the Gods. As we prepare freshly harvested fruits and vegetables from our gardens, or possibly we have hand picked them from the local Farmer’s Market, we consider the table decorations… Hmm...Maybe some of these fresh flowers and nuts? Yes, they would look good with some leaves from the yard. How about these gourds? Maybe we can make candle holders* from them? Yes, perfect! Now the table is set. It is time to make the Sun Bread.** While the bread cooks and we finish the preparations we consider our own personal harvest, especially that of any magickal workings we may have preformed. Finally it is time for the feast. As we eat we may choose to share the story of Mabon-son of Modron, or the story of Kore and Persephone. Whatever you choose to do, whether lavish or simple the Autumn Equinox is the time to give thanks for all we have. Come back soon and I’ll tell you of Samhain… ------ *Gourd Candleholders This will make two candle holders Supplies: 2 ornamental gourds of your choice 2 6-8” taper candles (any color) 1 package Sculpey, Fimo, or any other polymer clay (any color) Directions:Cut the top off the gourd. Scoop out the insides, making a flat spot on the bottom to hold the candle base. You may also need to trim the bottom so that the gourd will sit flat on the table. Wrap a 1” strip of aluminum foil around the bottom of the candle, where the clay will touch the clay (see below). Using the clay make a base to hold the candle upright when set inside the gourd. You can do this by rolling the clay into a ball about 1-1/2” in, pushing the candle into the ball and molding the clay around the candle so it will act as a base. The base can be hardened using the directions on the clay package. Set candle and base inside the gourd. If you would like you can also place flowers in the gourd. ------ **Sun Bread Makes one loaf of bread Ingredients:1 1/2 packages active dry yeast 2 Cups lukewarm water 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 6-7 cups all purpose flour Directions:Soften yeast in warm water, add sugar and salt. Let sit 5minutes. Stir in flour 1 cup at a time until dough forms. Turn on to a floured surface, cover and let rest for 5 minutes. Knead until dough is smooth and elastic, adding flour if necessary, about 10 minutes. Place dough in a clean greased bowl cover and let rise until doubled, 1 1/2 –2 hours. Turn out and punch down. Let rest 5 minutes. Shape into a sun with rays coming out. Place n a baking sheet that has been greased. Let rest 5 minutes. Place in a cold oven. Put a pan of boiling water on rack under loaves. Set oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake 35-40 minutes. Bread is done when it makes a hollow sound when tapped.
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:42 am
 Mythical Creatures - HarpiesWritten by Arthela There are said to be three harpy sisters who have been called many names over time, the most used names I saw were Aello, Celaeno, and Ocypete. Harpies are originally said to be spirits of unexpected sharp gusts of wind but later they developed a physical body. Harpies were originally said to be beautiful maidens with wings but later they were described as ugly winged monsters with the faces of crones and sharp talons. They are also sometimes said to have sharp beaks. They lived surrounded by a vile stench contaminating everything they came near. They were vicious thieves who could fly incredibly fast. They were called the Hounds of Zeus because he would use them to punish people who displeased him. Yet the main god they worked for was Hades, who used them to carry off those unwilling to die to the Underworld, where the harpies could torture or punish them. ---- Sources: HarpiesHarpiesHarpyiaiHarpy
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Posted: Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:43 am
The Spring Equinox, or Ostara, is celebrate on or around March 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, September 21st in the Southern Hemisphere. Ostara is the first official day of Spring. It is when the Goddess is finally ready to be a mother and when the God is at his prime. It is a time of renewal and fertility. Here's a way that you can celebrate Ostra, from Pagans Path: Pagans Path On the eve of Ostara, when the sun has set, honor the fertility of the season by sorting seeds to be honored during a festival ritual. If you have children, or if you're a kid at heart, this is a good time to boil eggs and decorate them with beautiful colors and symbols. As the night progresses, decorate your altar with simple symbols and conduct a simple ritual honoring the rebirth of Mother Nature and the coming of spring. Once your honoring has been completed, spend the rest of your evening on introspection. While the world is quiet and at peace, review your current life and take stock of your emotions toward yourself, others and events in your life. Try not to justify anger or sadness by placing the responsibility of what might be occurring in your life upon someone else. Rather step back without blame and take a look at how you and your actions have contributed to the events, good or bad, in your life. For those things that are working well, commend yourself. Give yourself some credit and think of something you can do as a celebration. For those things that have not been going well, take responsibility for your part in the event and forgive yourself of the actions, words or even thoughts that may have contributed to the event. Then think of way to turn things around. On the day of Ostara, plan a walk through the park or arboretum. Hide the eggs you decorated, and help your children play games to find them. Work in your garden or flower beds and prepare them for the growing season. Spend the afternoon sharing in the preparation of a feast of celebration. A ham, vegetables, and potatoes are always a good sampling for the spring holiday. We like to add an ice cream cake decorated in the shape or symbology of a colorful egg to represent the fertility and warming trend of the season. During the evening hours you can continue the festival with a formal holiday ritual. There are as many ways and suggestions for conducting such a ceremony as there are people on this planet. But if you need a detailed example you have two places on our network to look. Check our simple Celtic Ritual or Ceremony Outline or if you are Wiccan review the Ostara Sabbat Ritual in our Wiccan Star section. End your evening in private reflection. It is important for anyone practicing a spiritual life to reflect on his or her actions. Record your thoughts, your emotions and your experiences. This is the true value of your book of shadows. And there is no better time to take stock of yourself and your life than during a High Holy Day. The following associations are from Ivys PentaclesHerbs: All spring flowers, broom, cinquefoil, honeysuckle, iris, jasmine, lavender, lily, peony, rose, sage, violet, willow Incense: Jasmine, Rose, Frankincense, Myrrh, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Aloe wood, Benzoin, African violet, Sage, Strawberry, Lotus Colors: Green, yellow Decorations: Colored eggs, Green and yellow jellybeans, Rabbit decorations, Spring flowers, Butterflies, Violets, Eostre baskets Foods: Seeds, Leafy green vegetables, Spiced or flower cupcakes, Candied flowers*, Hot cross buns, Fruits, Fruit cups, Hard-boiled eggs, Deviled eggs, Nuts, Honey cakes, Fish, Ham, Rice cakes Gemstones: Amethyst, Aquamarine, Bloodstone, Red jasper Spellwork appropriate for Ostara: Growth spells, Spells for improving communication, Group interaction, Fertility, Abundance ------ *Candied FlowersIngredients:Petals from any edible flower Several well-beaten egg whites Vanilla extract Bowl of granulated sugar Directions:Mix a few drops of vanilla into the egg whites. Dip a paintbrush in the egg whites and coat the petals. Dip petals into sugar until coated, then spread on wax paper to dry. Please be advised that you cannot use flowers bought at a florist for this recipe!! Many commercially-bought flowers contain pesticides and it is not worth it to ingest poison. Please obtain all flowers from organic retailers or from home-grown sources. These flowers may be safely eaten and are suggested for this recipe: Allium, angelica, apricot blossom, apple blossom, bachelor button, bean blossom, begonia, calendula, carnation, chrysanthemum, clover, crab apple, dandelion, day lily, dianthus, gardenia, geranium, ginger, gladiola, hibiscus, hollyhock, honeysuckle, hyacinth, jasmine, johnny jump-up, lavender, lilac, lily, marigold (the calendula type only), monarda, nasturtium, orange blossom, pansy, peach blossom, pear blossom, peony, plum blossom, primrose, rose, snapdragon, squash blossom, strawberry blossom, tulip, viola, violet, and yucca. ------ Eggshell MosaicYou can make "Stained Glass" pictures using small pieces of colored eggshell. Either use the shells from the eggs you colored for Ostara or follow the instructions below to color eggshells from either hard-boiled or raw eggs. Materials: Eggshells Posterboard (or cardboard from cereal or detergent boxes) White glue Food coloring White vinegar Paper towels and/or newspaper Directions:1.. In a cup or small glass bowl, mix a few drops of food coloring with about 1/2 c. white vinegar for each color you wish to use. 2.. Soak the egg shells in the food coloring until you have the color desired. The longer they soak the darker they will be. You may wish to crush the shells into small pieces before putting them into the coloring. 3.. Remove the colored shells and spread on paper towels or newspaper to dry. 4.. Draw a simple picture on the plain side of the cardboard. Coloring book pictures are good. 5.. Spread glue in each area of your drawing. 6.. Glue small pieces of colored shell in the different sections of the drawing. 7.. Allow the glue to dry completely before moving your picture
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