Full Blue Moon Mania!

This Friday, August 31st, 2012, we will see a rare 'blue moon'.  So what is a blue moon? A blue moon occurs when there is an extra moon in a season. Typical years usually have 12 full moons that occur approximately every 28  days. In addition to those twelve full lunar cycles, each solar calendar year contains roughly eleven days more than the lunar year. The extra days add up, so every two or three years, there is an extra full moon, which is called the blue moon.

This month the Full Moon is in Pisces, the fish, and occurs this Friday, August 31, at 9:58 am (EST). Pisces is associated with psychic ability, contacting other planes, spirituality, past lives, karma, discovering secrets, examining the hidden, mental health, working with oils and incense, and secret societies. Use this Moon to work on developing psychic talents, perform divination such as Tarot or pendulum work, and to contact spirit guides. Basically, any sort of spell work is appropriate, especially since Pisces rules all magic-including high magic. 

The full moon is always, always, always an opportune time of the month for purging. This is also an excellent time for reorganizing, smudging, and physical and spiritual house-cleaning since Pisces rules those actions as well. The light the full moon offers illuminates those things that are interfering with our spiritual development. Once we have become aware of the things that are blocking us, the easier it is to let go of them. The full moon is ideal for rituals releasing or ridding ourselves of the things in our lives that no longer serve us, such as addictions (like certain foods, overeating, drugs, sex, or just for relinquishing the pain of a hurtful or ended relationship, and for discharging physical and emotional pain.

The full moon also tends to have an aura of mystery and magic about it. Not only is it tied to the ebbs and flows of the tide, but it is also tied to the cycle of a woman's body....the Maiden, Mother and Crone. Full moon mysteries cross every culture and continent, and celebrations and ritual involving the full moon go back beyond recorded time. Pretty cool and fascinating stuff, hunh? 

For example, in many cultures, the full moons of each month are named. The names often correspond to important events. In August, the Celtic tradition of the Full Moon is called the Salmon Moon. In Celtic Lore, the salmon, called Bradan, is the oldest of all animals. Bradan feasted on the hazelnuts that fell from the trees surrounding the sacred Well of Segais.  A small boy, set to guard the cooking pot of the great Bradan, stuck a finger in his mouth that had been splashed by the hot liquid, and was thus imparted all knowledge and wisdom. This small boy then became the great Fionn mac Cumhail of Irish legend.* In Native American culture, the August Full Moon is called the Sturgeon Moon, named for another great fish that is subject of many myths and legends.  

Everyone have a wonderful and blessed full blue moon. 

How to magically protect your home and self.

People are always asking about various ways to bring magic and spirituality into the home. Since clearing negative energy seemed to be the most requested topic, that is what I will touch on today.

Being who I am and doing what I do, both personally and professionally, I am surrounded by the tools of magic and spirituality all the time. I do not feel it is necessary for me to hide or disguise any of the representations of my faith, craft or aspects of who I am. My home is full of crystals, statues, altars, incense, candles, figurines, pictures and other bold evidence that 'A Witch Lives Here.' I understand that this is a blessing - although not everyone will agree with it or see eye to eye with it and I accept that and I am comfortable with that - and I know not everyone has that freedom, so in this article, I will cover versions of the Magical Household.

Smudging is my first recommendation to clear away the residual negative energy that comes from an argument or disagreement - whether it's a spouse/significant other, dealing with a disobedient child, a sibling or room mate, or any other negative emotional situation. It is also excellent for clearing away negative residue from extended illness or injury. Even without any of the examples I named above, negative or stale energy simply builds up over time, so making a point to do a spiritual cleansing regularly - well, its just simply a good idea. Doing a full spiritual cleansing doesn't just consist of lighting a sage stick/wand/bundle and just waving it around for a moment....no, not at all - you should open all the doors and windows, and make sure that the sage smoke gets into every corner of every room. This tends to take some time and it calls for you to really focus. I tend to do this when no one else is around to interfere. There are many different types of smudge sticks - just choose the one that fits your situation and personal preference best. For instance, here are some examples: Sage and Copal is a 'super-cleanse' combination and it's one of my personal favorites. Sage and Lavender is excellent for those who are dealing with anxiety and stress, and Sage and Dragon's Blood invites increased power (Sage and Dragon's Blood is a great combination and it's excellent before ritual and spellwork). Burning part of a Sweetgrass braid after your smudging invites positive energy in - so it's smoke fills the places where the negative has been dispelled.

Sage, cedar or copal incense is also a good cleanser, but incense works best for small spaces such as a single room. For those with allergies or health concerns that don't allow for the thick smoke of incense or burning sage, I recommend using Clearing Mist, Frankincense Mist, or Sage Mist. It works the same way as if you were burning sage, but without the smoke. Since burning sage leaves a strong residual odor, the sprays are also an excellent alternative for those who need to be more discreet about space clearing. Sage oil can also be used on doors, windowsills and mixed with mop water to help dispel negative energy. It can also be mixed with water in a diffuser, or added to boiling water on the stove, which can then be carefully carried around the house in place of smudging. Let the steam waft through rooms just like the smoke would - the residual odor is not as strong, and it doesn't aggravate those with asthma or other health problems as much.

In the ancient art of Feng Shui, bells, chimes and gongs are the preferred tools of clearing a space and it's very discreet. Some bells and chimes, such as the Feng Shui Gather Protect Bell, have symbols that attract wealth or protection. Chimes and bells can be hung indoors or outdoors, can be placed on mantels, shelves or tables to be used at will. When clearing is needed, simply walk through your home ringing the bell, focusing on driving away all negativity. Windchimes do this all on their own - just clean and move the chime to another location from time to time to keep them energetically active.

Candles, especially white candles, are often used to clear negative energy from a space. Since candles are so common, this is also a very discreet way to keep your home free of negative energy. Any type of white candle will work, and anointing the candle with sage, cedar or copal oil gives it extra cleansing power. Inscribing the candle (use a toothpick or candle scribe) with your desire before anointing it will help focus the cleansing properties also. Selenite and onyx crystals are great deflectors of negative energy. Little bowls of these crystals, mixed with white sage and lavender can be placed around the home or office. Refresh them monthly with sage, lavender, or purification oil. They simply look like lovely decorations, but the combination of these herbs and stones packing a powerful cleansing punch. You can use stone or ceramic bowls - but I would highly recommend staying away from metal. Do not use metal - it can react with and become discolored by the oil.

Another good and effective way to defeat negative energy is clutter. Clutter is a receptacle clinger for negative energy. It grabs it (along with dust and detritus) and holds onto it like a child grabs a toy. Getting rid of clutter opens up your space for positive qi (universal energy). If you have a lot of dust and clutter, simply set a certain amount of time a day to deal with. For example, take 30 minutes a day to clear out your space and work one room at a time and - most importantly - stick with it. If you only have a little clutter, just take one whole day or weekend to deal with it and take itermitant breaks while doing it. By taking breaks, you can look at what you have done and feel good about it. You can rearrange things to your liking and once you do all of this, you will feel the energy of your space to begin to change and it will be almost immediately. Thenk, do not let the clutter re-appear. If clutter reappears, you have just defeated all the strides you have already made.

PART TWO

Once you have cleared your home or office, it is important to take the next step - protecting it from further intrusion by negative energy. Hardly a day goes by that I don't receive an email from someone that needs help designing a ritual or writing a spell for protection..... Examples are a nasty divorce, a child being bullied at school, being targeted for religious beliefs, jealousy/gossip/rumors, a cruel coworker....the reasons are many and varied and go on and on. Plus, at one time or another, we have all been vulnerable and encountered the negative energy of others-someone cuts in front of you in line, takes the parking spot you were waiting for or just cuts you off while driving.

Protecting yourself magically involves building a field of energy around you, your property, and your loved ones that keep destructive forces away. The more steps you take, the stronger this field will be. There are dozens of different ways to protect yourself magically. This article will help to cover a few of the basics (just a general protection magic) by using easily obtainable and readily available ingredients plus simple to use steps and basic instructions. 

A simple and basic form of protection magic is by using oils. There are numerous different types of protection oils, from blended concoctions and 'condition' oils used in hoodoo and voodoo practice to the essential oils favored by everyday witches. Common/basic ones include Peace, Protection, Benzoin, Coconut, Devil's Shoestring, Dragon's Blood, Jinx Removing, Lilac, and Snake oils just to name a few.

To use oils for protection:

Anoint and dress candles during your spellwork
Add a few drops to incense, charm bags or sachets
Anoint your magical tools and altars
Add a capful to bathwater or use as a perfume oil

Add to laundry or bucket when mopping floors
Burn in an oil warmer or diffuser
Add to inks for magical writings or journal entries or to journal page corners or covers (front/back)
Anoint walls, doors, car tires, door jambs, windows and thresholds

Incense is also an excellent way to add a protective aura to your environment. There are as many protection incense as there are oils.....and they come in a multitude of forms, like sticks, cones, and powders. To make your own protection powder incense try mixing together 3 parts clove, 1 part garlic, and 1 part copal. Crush in a mortar and pestle, then sprinkle with several drops of Dragon's Blood oil. When you are ready to use it, drop some on a hot charcoal block to release the protective properties throughout your environment.

I would also recommend gemstones and crystals - as they emit potent energy for protection. They serve as a shield, deflecting negative energy and influences away from you and your environment. Agate has strong protective properties when it comes to health matters. Bloodstone is used when dealing with legal matters and business. Blue chalcedony and selenite absorb negative energy. Fluorite is an excellent stone for empaths and mediums, protecting from negative influences of the mind and psychic vampires. Garnet, especially when worn as a necklace, will reverse any jinx, hex, or curse. Protective jewelry can range from a simple stone bracelet such as onyx or to a pentagram amulet charged specifically for protection. (When using crystals and gemstones, it is recommended that you cleanse and charge them before using).

A more complex, but enormously effective, way to use crystals for protection is to build a crystal grid in your home. This consists of using specifically shaped crystals such as hearts, pyramids, animals, or using hanging crystal prisms makes them look like charming decorations, with only you knowing that they have a much higher purpose.

Charm bags are an excellent  and easy source for general protection. They can be carried in a pocket or purse, they can be worn around the neck on a cord or placed in backpacks or a vehicle. To make a powerful charm for protection, simply try the following:

On a Saturday night during the waning moon, draw a pentagram in black ink on a small piece of parchment. Roll the parchment towards you and place it in a black drawstring pouch bag. Add to the pouch a pinch of sage, a pinch of wormwood herb, a small piece of lead (fishing sinkers are perfect for this), and a strand of hair from the person who will be carrying the bag. Tie the drawstring of the bag using three knots. As you tie each knot, say "Keep all evil away from me, as I will it, so mote it be." (You can substitute the hair with a fingernail).

PART THREE
Creating Harmony

So here's a recap on what has been covered and done so far:  You have cleared your home or office of all negative energy and then you have set the proper protections to keep it from coming back.  Now, it's time to go about creating a peaceful, calm, relaxing and harmonious environment where love and creativity can thrive abundantly.

As with protection magic, there are many different ways to attract peace and harmony to your home and self. Oils like vanilla, violet, Peaceful Home, Peace, or lavender can be used to promote peace and harmony. Anoint or dress Harmony candles during spellwork, add a few drops to incense, charm bags or sachets, add a capful to bathwater, or use as a perfume oil. You can even make your own oil to promote peace and harmony if you should choose to do so. Try mixing essential oils of Coriander, Chamomile, and Spearmint with a carrier oil. Add it to laundry, mop or scrub water, burn in an oil warmer or diffuser. Use to anoint walls, window sills, doors, door jambs, and thresholds.

Incense is such an easy way to promote a harmonious environment. There are as many peace-promoting incense as there are oils, and they come in a multitude of forms, including sticks, cones, and powders. Lavender, violet, sandalwood, Tranquility, Nag Champa, Harmony, as well as a sea of others, are all fantastic choices. The ancient art of Feng Shui is dedicated to helping us bring harmony and balance to our physical lives and relationships. The concept of Qi (universal energy, life force, the energy of all things) is the basis of the practice of Feng Shui. Qi is the balance between positive and negative energy, or Yin (female or yielding energy) and Yang (male or forceful energy). In Feng Shui, techniques and objects (called cures) are used to bring the yielding and forceful energies of a space into balance by locating the existing Qi and then moving it to where we need it to be. In this particular aspect, it's really no different than spellcasting....we are simply calling on universal energy to help fulfill a certain desire. (If you are interested in learning more about Feng Shui, there are many books available on the subject of Feng Shui.
Some basic Feng Shui for harmony that are easy to implement and incorporate are as follows:

•To help bond a family: Place an odd number of pillar candles infused or anointed with violet, vanilla, or lavender oil on a tray in the room where you would like the family to gather. Light them for an hour or two a day, when the family is home. You may begin the process by sitting there alone with a book or some hobby project, but soon the entire family will gravitate to that spot. To add a little candle magic to the candles, carve words such as family, peace, or harmony into the back or bottom of the candles.

•To call positive qui: Single bells and wind chimes are used in Feng Shui to attract positive, harmonic energy. Hang a bell in the window facing the street, or hang chimes on the area of the house facing the street to call in positive qui. If the bell is in the window, dust it often and ring it several times a week. For wind chimes, if you see that the positive energy seems to be waning, wash off the wind chime and move it to different spot on the porch or area facing the street. Chimes and bells shaped like or decorated with flowers bring qi related to joy and companionship. Silver toned chimes bring in qi for better communication and stable income. Silver chimes are the perfect cure for a family that tends to argue a lot.

•To bring stability to family/friend relationships: Place photos of your family and friends in the den or family room. Surround them with pretty pieces of raw or carved petrified wood. Petrified wood is used in Feng Shui to bring stability and balance. To add some herb magic to this display, place dried motherwort in a clear glass jar. Motherwort is traditionally used in talismans and amulets, burned with incense and used in rituals for magic involving home and family. Place photographs of your family/friends and the petrified wood around the jar. A 'happy home' charm bag can be worked into the display as well, or placed in others areas to stimulate a positive and happy environment.

For a charm bag you will need:

One sweet bay leaf (also know as Laurel or Bay Tree) and one garlic clove for each member of the family
Small charm bag
Sea salt
Five Finger Grass (also known as Cinquefoil)
one Iron Nail
Van Van or any protection oil

Place one Laurel leaf (sweet leaf) and one Garlic Clove for each member of the family in the charm bag. For example: Four family members equals four Laurel leaves and four Garlic cloves. Add a pinch of salt, a pinch of Cinquefoil, and the iron nail. Anoint the bag with the oil and hang discreetly in the home. Anoint with fresh oil once a week.

With spellwork involving harmony, we may reach a point where magic tangles with the mundane and things can get a little more difficult. One can spend inordinate amounts of magical energy clearing a space, providing protection, and creating peace and harmony - only to ruin it with their own behavior or by allowing the behavior of a spouse, child or roommate to destroy it. Constantly dealing with a toxic person, drama queen (or being one yourself), completely negates and screws up any work toward having a peaceful environment to live in. If you are in that sort of situation, then it is important to deal with the underlying mundane issues before attempting something magical. Severe marital or relationship problems, mental or physical health concerns, poorly and badly behaved children, physical or emotional abuse, addiction, filth or clutter, and personal irresponsibility.....all of these can create an environment, that, no matter how much harmony spellwork you do, will never be peaceful. Magic can certainly be used to assist the process, but the proper physical processes must be completed as well. Please be sure to keep all this in mind.

Love, light and brightest blessings to all!

Opossums - are they the next test animal?

Opossums may someday provide an antidote to nearly all forms of poison, including everything from snakebites to ricin.

The Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins has found that the American opossum produces a protein known as Lethal Toxin-Neutralizing Factor (LTNF). And as the Boing Boing blog points out, the LTNF protein is exactly what it sounds like, seeking out otherwise lethal poisons that have entered an opossum's body and neutralizing them.

Amazingly, tests on the opossum LTNF found that the protein even left the marsupial creatures immune to poisons from snakes on other continents that the American opossum had not been previously exposed to.

The BittelMeThis blog goes into further detail, explaining that scientists then injected mice with the LTNF protein and subjected the rodents to venom from otherwise deadly creatures, including Thailand cobras, Australian taipans, Brazilian rattlesnakes, scorpions and honeybees. When the venom did not kill the mice, the mice were then exposed to deadly poisons, including ricin and botulinum toxin. And again, the LTNF protein was able to diffuse the poison, leaving the mice unharmed.

Interestingly, the journal entry on LTNF was published more than 10 years ago, in 1999. As several readers have pointed out, this raises questions as to whether the protein benefits would be applicable to humans and why the test results are only now making news.

As the journal's own abstract notes, "Thus, natural LTNF from opossum serum has potential as a universal therapy for envenomation caused by animals, plants and bacteria."


To read article from the web, click link below:
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/opossum-protein-makes-them-immune-nearly-poisons-could-190604532.html
_________________________________________________________________________________

As I read this article, I thought, wow, that is cool. However, the more I thought about it, the more I felt for the opossum. People can be so cruel and as I am Wiccan, a nature and animal lover, it puts me in a bad spot or gives me a feeling that unsettles me. Is this the next animal that will be the test monkey (so to speak). Most people don't even give opossums a second thought...they are the animal that is most seen laying dead in the street....as if they have no purpose or meaning in life and people just totally disregard them as unneccessary. And that totally saddens me.

Hummingbirds!

I just adore hummers. They are so pretty, so fast and can be so verbal....yes, verbal. I have them come by for a visit and a drink and they squeak this cute little sound. Talk about entertaining! They tell me about their day and travels...I just find them so precious.

I've had some inquiries about hummers and how to attract them. So, if you would like to attract hummers to your garden landscape, here's a few things to know and try. First, and foremost, always use sugar. Never, ever use a sugar substitute like splenda or sweet n low. Hummers need sugar.

The first year that I moved into my house, I bought a hummingbird feeder. I cleaned it out, made the liquid and hung it out. I didn't have one visitor - or at least I didn't think I did. So do not be discouraged if you do not have any visitors the first year. Have patience. You will notice the water level going down, however, I live on the east coast and it can get pretty hot and very humid here so the water will evaporate.

The second year, I had visitors. I tend to put the feeder out in May and will take it down in September. In the real hot weather, I will change the feeder food often-every other day. Sugar water can go stagnant, so be sure to change frequently.

To feed the hummers, you can buy the dry mix and just follow the directions on the box or if you prefer to make it yourself, it's just as easy. The key is one part sugar to four parts water. If you use one full cup of sugar, then be sure to mix with four cups of water. If you use less, like 1/2 cup of sugar, then mix with two cups of water. I do use heated water so I know the sugar will dissolve and I also make a lot at a time. Once the sugar water has cooled to room temperature, I will fill the feeder halfway and then refriderate the rest of the sugar water in a plastic container or pitchure for future use. I will change the feeder water at night, you do not have to do it night, but I prefer to make sure all my visitors have come and gone for the day. Then I will rinse the feeder out real good (including the part where they feed from-the spouts) and then refill it halfway and put it out. By morning, the feeder is a perfect temperature and it's fresh. Should you clean it during the day, no big deal. If they come by and it's not out, they will come back later to see if it's back out so they can feed.

Mildew will tend to grow within a feeder...so expect that. It's easy enough to clean. When this occurs in mine, I will bring it in, rinse it real good from the sugar water and then let it dry. Once the feeder is all dry, I will fill the feeder with about a 1/4 cup of dry (uncooked) rice, put my hand over the spout and shake the feeder up and down and side to side. Doesn't matter if it's white or brown rice. I find the rice to be non-abrasive but coarse enough to get the mildew off the inside and it's clean and pretty again plus healthy for the hummers to feed from. I will empty the rice out, rinse the feeder well and fill with sugar water. Be sure to clean the part where they actually feed from-the spouts that they put their beaks in. You can also put rice in there and shake well - empty the rice out, rinse to make sure no rice remains in there and then you can hang the feeder back out for the birds. If you notice mildew on the outside, I will clean it with a toothbrush. (If you do not have rice, you can try sand or coarse sea salt. Just be sure to really rinse out all the sand and salt grains/particles real good with water before you refill the feeder with sugar liquid).

If you are moving and want to break the hummers of the habit of coming to visit, do not put a feeder up. They do get used to and they will remember where a food source is for them. But if you do not know if the next owner or tenant will feed them, then do not use a feeder. The birds will come by, not see a food source, and eventually, they will stop coming by.

I hope you find this info useful and that I have answered questions adequately. Blessed be to all!

Understanding the Cauldron.

When you see a cauldron, what is the first thing you think of? Witches? Halloween? Potions?

Cauldrons have been used in ritual and magic from ancient times and are still around today in modern Wicca and witchcraft. Cauldrons are used for everything from cooking to burning incense, for divination and scrying, and as a fire resistant container for burning items in rituals and spells.

The cauldron represents fertility and femininity. It symbolizes the womb of the Goddess, and also represents rebirth and purification through fire. It's associated with the element of water, the west and has connections with reincarnation and rebirth.  The cauldron is considered as a very sacred vessel to the Goddess and is used to symbolize the feminine half in the ritual of the Great Rite, with the athame typically used as the masculine half.

In Celtic tradition, the cauldron represents the Goddess Cerridwen. Celtic legend also tells of a cauldron that was used by ancient Celtic armies. Dead warriors were placed into the cauldron and were given new life. The warriors then resumed battle until they were killed again. And according to Norse mythology, the god Odin received wisdom and intuitiveness from a cauldron.

A majority of quality cauldrons are made from cast iron (yes, like cast iron pots and pans), though some incense style cauldrons are made from brass or base metals. Cast iron is highly resistant to fire and is very durable. If a cast iron cauldron is seasoned and cared for properly, it will not rust, and can be handed down for several generations. Cauldrons can be used for making ritual brews like wassail or herbal teas, it can be used for burning resin or herbal incense on charcoal or it can be filled with water and used as a scrying tool. However, before using for food consumption or tea's, make sure your cauldron is food safe-meaning that there is no lead within it.

Cauldrons can also be used to represent the change of seasons, or to represent the elements in ritual or upon the altar. For fertility festivals (like Beltane or Ostara), fill the cauldron with fresh flowers and place on your altar. In banishing rituals, it is common to write a name, a bad habit or any problem on paper and burn it in a cauldron. By doing this, you symbolize the banishment. Wishing spells to bring a desired object - like a new car or job, and even bringing a person to you are often done in the same way. Remember to ALWAYS place a burning cauldron on a fireproof surface. ALWAYS practice safety when using your cauldron and when placing or using any volatile materials in it and you will enjoy your cauldron for many decades and in countless rituals/rites.

Cauldron Banishing Spell

What you will need:
•Black Candle
•Red Candle
•Banishing Herbs - To make your own, mix together two tablespoons each of rosemary, mugwort, and juniper. Add 1/2 tablespoon each of cloves, myrrh, and copal.
•Charcoal Tab
•Banishing oil for anointing the black candle - either a blended oil like Run Devil Run or Banishing, or an essential oil such as frankincense or basil
•Wishing oil for anointing the red candle - either a blended oil like Wishing or Mojo oil, or an essential oil such as cinnamon
•Fireproof Cauldron - ***this spell is best done in a medium or large cauldron, rather than the 'baby' style. It requires working with flames, and therefore needs a deeper well and more diameter than the baby cauldron provides.

•Clean paper or parchment about 3" by 2"
•Dove's blood ink and quill - or black marker
•Tongs or long tweezers
•Candle scribe or toothpick
•Banishing incense (stick is better than cone) - clove, frankincense or basil, or one made with blended oils specifically for banishing spells/rituals
•Envelope
•Pitcher of water - this is just in case of emergency. When you are working a spell using fire, it is important to take precautions in case you drop or knock over something.

On the black candle (Banishing candle), write what it is you want to banish from your life (depression, bad habit, destructive behavior, abusive person, bad luck, illness, etc). Write from the bottom to the top. Anoint this candle with the banishing oil, while focusing on what you want to banish. On the red candle (Quick Action candle), write from the top to the bottom what you wish to happen (be happy, quit smoking, have good luck, get well, etc). Anoint it with the wishing oil, while visioning and focusing on what you want to come in to your life.

Light the charcoal tablet and place it in your cauldron. If you have not used charcoal before, the charcoal tab will crackle and spark. This is normal - just let that run its course. The charcoal will begin to turn gray, just like on a charcoal grill. When it begins to turn gray, that is when it is ready to use.

On the paper, write what it is you wish to happen. For example, if you are trying to quit smoking, write, "I rid myself of the hold my tobacco addiction has on me." On your altar, set the Banishing candle on the left, the cauldron in the center, and the Quick Action candle on the right. Have the banishing mix ready in a small dish.

Call your corners or prepare for your ritual as your tradition requires. Using the incense stick, light your candles, then blow out the flame and place the incense stick in its holder. If you have prepared a spoken spell, chant or prayer, say it now. Using the tongs, pick up the parchment and repeat what you have written three times. Touch a corner of the parchment to the black candle, then immediately drop it in the cauldron. Sprinkle the banishing herb mix over the paper and the charcoal.

After the ashes in the cauldron have COOLED, pour the leftover contents into the envelope. Lay the envelope flat, then tip first the black candle, then the red candle over the closure of the envelope. Allow the candle wax to drip on the envelope seal, then press your thumb into the sealing wax. After the candles are spent - meaning have burnt out, take the leftover candle (wax and wick) plus the envelope, and dispose of them in a trash receptacle well away from your home, your work, or any place you frequent.

******Care instructions for your cauldron (cast iron)******

Many people - have cast iron pans (especially frying pans). To properly season cast iron, whether a cauldron or a pan, coat it inside and out with fat. The type you use can be dictated by personal or dietary preference....good choices are lard, Crisco, bacon fat, or corn oil. If your piece has a lid, make sure to coat that as well. Place the pieces upside down in an a low oven (275-300 degrees) and bake for an hour. Repeat this process again. The coating will protect the pan from rust and sticking. To clean cast iron, you can use sand or coarse salt, but a mild dish soap and scouring pad works just fine. After washing, place your cast iron in a warm oven or on the stove top on low heat to make sure it gets really dry - this keeps it from rusting. Repeat the seasoning process several times a year if you use your cast iron a lot - this will keep it in perfect shape, and it will last nearly forever.

Kitchen Witchery-how are your cooking skills?

Food. What comes to mind when you think of food? Hunger? Raiding the fridge or cabinet for a snack? Who doesn't love food?

Since man lived in caves, the hearth has been a source of light and heat, the place where food was made, and where the shaman or wise woman gathered folk to tell them the stories and knowledge that passed from generation to generation. Almost every culture has a deity of the hearth....the Greek goddess Hestia, and her Roman counterpart, Vesta, were offered small sacrifices before meals. For the Svan people, she was called Lamaria, who was the goddess of the hearth, women, and cows. Thab-lha was the hearth god of the ancient Tibetans, and a shrine to the kitchen god Zao Jun still appears in many Chinese households. The ancient Irish god, Dagda, of the Tuatha De Danann, carried a cooking pot from which no one is/was ever turned away hungry.

The magick involved in growing things translates to preparing them in the kitchen. Kitchen witchery comes to me almost without thought. It is completely natural for someone who sees the kitchen as the heart and soul of her home, an ideology that many people have been raised with. In most cases, gatherings and celebrations are always centered around food, and there is no occasion that doesn't warrant a casserole especially if you are from the south.

When most people think of the kitchen, magick and ritual is not what comes to mind. Translating magick from the altar to the kitchen is really quite simple though. All you really need to do is just look at your kitchen with a different sort of perspective. The kitchen is ,in itself, inherently magickal....it is a keeper of all sorts and varieties of elemental tools. There are athames (kitchen knives), and chalices (cups and bowls). There are also wands, (wooden spoons and metal spatulas), cauldrons (pots and pans), fire (oven, stove, grill), air (steam and exhaust fans), water (the faucet), and earth (herbs, veggies, salt and spices). Everything you could possibly need to make magick....well, it's right there at your fingertips in one room, one area, one space.

I'm sure there are many people who don't cook, don't like to cook, don't want to cook or have no interest in cooking, however, if you gave it a try, and approached the kitchen with the same reverence you possibly do as you would your sacred altar, that might change. Magick, even including kitchen witchery, is basically all about intent. Even the most simple and smallest dish can be magickal. All you have to approach it with the right attitude. Keep your mind open to the possibility. Everything can be a magikal experience.

Example, the tomato. Let's talk about that for a minute. What comes to your mind when you think of the tomato? It's extremely versatile. You can slice it to put on a sandwhich, chop it for stews, soups, salads. You can fry it, can it, stew it, puree it....The tomato, when planted outdoors, is a protective plant, and when placed in a window repels evil. The tomato, when eaten, inspires love. The color is of the lifeforce and it represents passion, strength, courage. An easy receipe that can be a magical dish is to slice a tomato, focusing on the beautiful red color, the color associated with love, sex, and the energy of fire. Place the slices on a cookie sheet, add a teaspoon or so of goat cheese to each slice and broil them for just a few minutes. You can drizzle olive oil on them, add garlic to them - jazz them up to your personal liking - and when you take them out of the oven, adorn them each with some basil. Basil has great connections with the properties of love; in Haitian voodoo lore, basil comes from Erzulie, the goddess of love. Women were once said to powder their breasts with basil to keep their husbands from straying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a readymade love spell, that not only looks wonderful, but it smells great and tastes delicious. Having a dinner-in date with your special someone? Serve this as an appetizer, and have some pretty candles anointed with a few drops of patchouli oil burning on the table. Come on, get inspired and have some fun while experimenting in the kitchen. You may just find that you enjoy kitchen witchery after all.

Why not try using the tomato's protective energy in your kitchen magic? When tomatoes are in season, try your hand at making fresh tomato sauce. (This receipe was forwarded from another witchy woman, Mama C. Always give credit where credit is due).

INGREDIENTS

2 Tbsp olive oil
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
1/2 large carrot, finely chopped
1 small stalk of celery, including the green tops, finely chopped
2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, minced
2 Tbsp chopped fresh basil
1 3/4 pound of fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet, and add the onion, carrot, celery and parsley. As you add the ingredients focus on the energy of the garlic, parsley and onions, which are all used in magic to repel evil and give protection. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes. Stir the vegetables occasionally.

When the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic. Increase the heat to medium and cook the garlic for about 30 seconds. Add the tomatoes, including the juice, and the basil. Season with salt and pepper, and bring to a simmer. Turn to low heat and cook until thickened, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. I like my sauce chunky, but if you want it smooth, just run it through a blender or food processor.

As you stir the ingredients, move your spoon in the shape of an invoking pentagram, and say these words:

I stir this pot with magic spoon, As I speak this witch's rune.
Garlic, carrot, parsley green, Lend yourself to this cuisine.
Tomato with your red, sweet fruit, Onion with your rounded root,
Bind I you with magic's haste, Shield and protect everyone who has a taste
Of this, my own, my magic dish, From harm or hurt or evil wish.
I set this spell, three times three, As I will it, so mote it be.

Tomato sauce can be a basic ingredient for so many dishes, homemade pizza, spaghetti, lasagna, baked chicken and broiled fish, soup, broth, etc.. Large batches can be canned or frozen for later use. Anyone you serve the sauce to is being issued a bit of magical protection just simply by tasting and ingesting it.

If you are the type of magickal practitioner that prefers strict traditions, and lots of rules, kitchen witchery is probably not for you. Kitchen witches tend to be an exuberant and eclectic lot, and we love to experiment! We want our food to transform you....to make you happy, to make you feel safe, to make you fall in love, make you feel healthy and energetic (to an extent). You will see us always muttering over a soup pot, or singing while we shuck corn, and even occasionally cursing while tossing something out the back door that didn't exactly turn out like we expected or invisioned it. (Yes, it happens to even the best of us from time to time). For the kitchen witch, working with food is a culmination of all of our own knowledge combined with all of the kitchen witches before us. It's a beautiful thing.

After all, women got the name 'witch' because of trial and error. Some things worked to heal, some things brought about a quick end, some things brought you more in tune with your self and gave you different perspectives, some put you in a happy and joyful mood. Keep your mind open and enjoy the moment. Brightest blessings to all!

Your mouth-what does it say about you and tell the world about you?

Here is a little tidbit of information about your personality - what your mouth shows the world. Seriously, if you think about it, your lips are one of your most expressive aspects and features about you. Your mouth advertises and tells much about you besides just showing the world your bright expressive smile. It can tell people if you are generous, emotional, outspoken.


Ready? Let's explore!

Full lips: If you have full lips (like Angelina Jolie), it tells that you are a caretaker. A full lipped mouth suggests that you are very giving and it also tells of high estrogen levels, which testifies to your feminine, nuturing nature. However, it also speaks of your selflessness-meaning that you tend to sacrifice your own needs way too often and will feel guilty if you have to decline or say no to something. What's important to remember is that you were not put on this earth to make everyone happy so do things that also tend to make you happy. People will get over it if you tell them no once in a while. Do not become too predictable and have others depend on you too much. You have a life too so be sure to live it.

Heart shaped lips: If you have a heart shaped mouth (like Taylor Swift), it tells of your 'people skills.' If you are uncertain if you have a heart shaped mouth look for this aspect-there will be a discernible and very noticable dip in your upper lip. It will look like a bow that you would shoot an arrow from. This tells the world that you don't need 'magic' arrows to hit or make your mark. Due to your people skills, you make friends and aquaintances everywhere you go. As a result of this, you have a pretty huge network of support who is ready to jump in and pitch in to help you succeed in everything you do or try.

Wide lips: If you have wide lips (like Julia Roberts), it tells that you are a friend magnet. You tend to be friendly and you are not a 'loner.' You enjoy getting together with friends or people in general. You just love and adore the connection you have with them - whether it be in person, on the phone or even on a social network like Facebook/Twitter. You love to chat. The funny thing is that you tend to not talk about yourself or your day, but rather would check on how others are doing. You tend to be eloquent to a certain degree and are quite empathetic which helps you to give good, clear and understandable advice.

Thin lips: If you have thin lips (like Princess/Dutchess Kate Middleton), it tells that you thrive on freedom. You totally value your 'alone' time and must have room to pursue your own individual passions. When it comes to the romance dept, you thrive when your partner understands and gives you the space you need and crave. On a professional level, you have no problem taking charge or being in charge, especially when it comes to your own projects. You are a 'get it done' person and people can and could learn a lot by observing and watching you. Besides, if the job needs to be done right the first time, it's better to let you lead.

Upward turning lips: If you have lips that turn up slightly at the corners (like Katie Holmes - the ex Mrs. Tom Cruise), it tells of your confidence. It also shows that you are blessed with a subtle smile that lifts and radiates your whole face. It shows that you have the confidence to power through obstacles and get precisely what you want in life, more so then not, because it mirrors the optimist within....meaning you won't take no for an answer.

Pets.....a real life saver?

A majority of households have animals (pets). Everyday they meet and greet us. They interact with us and spoil us with tons of love and attention. They are amazing creatures with feelings and they bring out the best in us.


Animals are not just adorable to look at and to spend time with, but they can be so funny and entertaining. They have their own energy, their own fears, their own quirks and their own characteristics. Being around the pets that we love has amazing health benefits for us. Our pets can chase away our blue moods, help to keep us calm, can sense seizures......our pets are just amazing in and of themselves.

Lets talk about the power of our pets and the way they affect us and what blessings they really are to help brighten our lives.

Cats

Did you know that cats can help strengthen your bones? I know that sounds a bit far-fetched, but it is true. Cats purr. This sound frequency that emanates from a cat when it purrs, is proven to increase bone density.

Cats tend to have fewer bone fractures than dogs and they have fewer hip problems and arthritis. Scientists suspect the same frequency can help strengthen the bones of other species besides just humans. It's been proven with chickens and rabbits in two separate studies.

People who have young babies assume that having a pet around, especially a cat, can lead to childhood asthma. According to a study done by Columbia University, researchers report that by age 5, children raised with a cat are much less likely to develop asthma than those in pet free homes or even those that have dogs. Making antibodies to cats at a young age appears to protect against wheezing and other respiratory symptoms throughout life. Other studies have shown a reduced risk of allergies, even non-feline related ones like pollen, in kids with cats in their homes.

A small study has shown that 30% of ex-smokers cite their pet as a main reason for quitting.

Another benefit of living with a cat in your home is that it lowers your risk of heart disease, even more than taking cholesterol medication. The University of Minnesota conducted a study and tracked 5000 people for 10 years and this study concluded that having a cat lowers the risk of heart disease by 30% and slashes your odds of having a heart attack by a whopping 40% compared to people without any pets - dogs or cats - in the house. Researcher theorized that petting a cat, and listening to its calming purr lower stress levels so effectively that it helps stop heart problems from developing.

Dogs

Now lets talk about the benefits of having a dog in your household. Dog owners tend to be in better shape because they have to walk an average of 30 min. a day at least five days a week. In fact, studies have concurred that dog owners walk an average of 66% more than their dogless counterparts and dog owners walk 24% faster. According to an Australian study, children who had a dog in their household were less likely to be overweight or obese. And a second study showed that dog owners need fewer doctor visit than those who live without a dog in their household.

A survey conducted by Texas A&M researchers showed that 70% of families surveyed, reported feeling happier and less stressed after getting a dog. Scientists at the State University of New York at Albany found couples become closer, more connected and more loving towards each other after bringing a dog into the home. Petting a dog triggers a rush of cuddle hormones that heightens feelings of trust and closeness.

Did you know that dog can help your child's reading and math skills? Studies have found that children who practice reading out loud to their dog, improve their skills 20%, then those who read to other children or adults. Other studies conducted have found having a dog reduced math anxiety as well as symptoms of ADHD. A slew of other research studies reveal that kids with dogs are more confident, set higher goals for themselves, participate in more extra curricular activities and are even more agreeable about doing chores and homework.

I'm not saying that by having it pet in your house things are going to be hunky-dory, but there are definite benefits to having a pet in your home. I, personally, can not imagine not having my furball babies. They create an atmosphere that I love being part of and I am very comfortable, relaxed and quite entertained by my crazy girls. At one time, I had what many would consider a petting zoo. However, at this present time, I have a rabbit and a cat. Both of my girls are considered 'special needs or defective' by many due to their disabilities, but I love them to pieces and wouldn't trade them for anything in this earth realm. We are very happy in this household together and all who enter it, fall in love with my girls. They are just so precious to me.

I hope this article gives you something to think about. The article came from a Woman's Magizine and I just added to it with my thoughts. There is no author shown, otherwise I would give credit where it is due.

Brightest blessings to all.