Herbal Vinegars

They are sought after for their culinary uses and as medicinal aids. For those lucky enough to have their own herbs available, here is a simple recipe and method for making your own herb vinegars.


1 gallon jug of white vinegar
assorted fresh herbs
2 Glass Jugs .. 1 gallon size
Plastic wrap
Sunshine
Patience



A good assortment of herbs for vinegar, are Oregano, Chives, Garlic, Rosemary, Thyme, Tarragon, and Basil.Harvest your fresh herbs early in the morning before the sun warms them too much. Wash the herbs thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Do not remove the leaves from the stalks, but do use tender, not woody, stalks.While the herbs are drying .. Wash and sterilize the glass jugs Fill the jugs with the fresh herbs of your choice .. you might try combining Oregano, garlic and chives ... or Tarragon, with a few slices of lemon, ... Rosemary & Thyme make a nice vinegar, and Basil, all by itself is a treat.Fill the jug to the top with the white vinegar, and cover the jug opening with a piece of plastic wrap, before putting the lid on tightly.Invert the Jug and place it outside where it will get full sun ... then forget about it for the next 4 to 6 weeks ... you can leave the jugs out longer if you don't have time to decant them.When you are ready to decant the herbal vinegar .. wash and sterilize smaller containers... some people use canning jars, some use recycled liquor bottles, and some use attractive bottles found at flea markets or yard sales.Strain the herbal vinegar twice through cheesecloth .. if it still seems a bit cloudy, strain again .. it couldn't hurt (smile). Then simply pour the herbal vinegar into the prepared containers, cap and label them. That's all there is to it. They are ready to use, or give as gifts. Have fun experimenting with different flavors. I like this "Sun Tea" type of brewing the vinegars because the herbal oils slowly leech into the vinegar and do not separate. For those watching their diets, these vinegars can be used on salads with no need to add oil.

the short story of medusa

Medusa, originally a beautiful young woman whose crowning glory was her magnificent long hair, was desired and courted by many suitors. Yet before she could be betrothed to a husband, Poseidon (Neptune) found her worshipping in the temple of Athena (Minerva) and ravished her. Athena was outraged at her sacred temple being violated, and punished Medusa by turning her beautiful tresses into snakes and giving her the destructive power to turn anyone who looked directly at her into stone.
In both Greek and Roman mythology, Perseus, attempting to rescue his mother Danae from the coercive King Polydectes, needed to embark on the dangerous venture of retrieving Medusa's head. With the help of Athena and Hermes - magic winged sandals, a cap, a pouch and a mirror-like shield, he fought her and beheaded her by viewing her image in the mirror of his shield rather than looking at her directly. From her decapitated head sprang the winged horse Pegasus and the giant Chrysaor, who became king of Iberia. Medusa's sisters, the Gorgons, chased after him, but were unable to catch him because his magic cap made him invisible.
Perseus was then able to use Medusa's head as a weapon during other battles (which included rescuing Andromeda), but he eventually returned it to Athena, who then placed it at the center of her Aegis as a symbol of her power, and her own capacity to turn her enemies into stone.
Historically, before ancient Greece, Medusa was worshipped by the Libyan Amazons as a Serpent -Goddess, and associated with the destroyer aspect Anath (also known as Athene) of the Triple Goddess in North Africa and Crete

Voices In The Dark

I sit on the steps of my air castle Drink espresso black... Putting my taste buds to test My lips I lick... With the computer on my lap-- Quietly I wonder: Into your dreams I click.

Some words and the voices In the dark echo back. Just like on a white canvas A red heart-- You add color to my life, Know how to love me; I am your skyynite!



Heavens possess this crying tool-- Thirst quenching liquid I call it water, You call it rain. In a heavy outpour It's coming down like a melody, A beautiful refrain.

You are more than an illusion, Or a dream, I could not depart from. Since you are traveling again I had to tell you fast How glad I am You too became a dreamer At last.

About us, I won't tell anyone Our secret is in a folder Marked 'delete not...' It will be well kept. Between the pages love is hiding No one will ever know It's depth.

If you find a new horizon To keep company with, And it's not the same shade As mine, When the voices in the dark Again become crystal clear Just click: 'I am online.'

© skyyberry, 2009-08-18

atten: wth with these emails

ok! let me tell you god fearing people somehting!.... dont you ever email me telling me to go to hell and all that shit!. you dont see me going to your place of god and talkin shit. wiccans are peaceful and unlike you we dont descriminate aginst other faiths. if you dont like what you see get the fuck off my blog. as a matter of fact you must have been looking for sumone to talk shit to. cause i dont know you and dont have how you got the blog link. stop looking for people to talk shtit to.....


and as for the people that want to learn dark magic... look sumwhere other then here!

Theban Alphabet (wiccan alphabet)

i write almost all my spells in theban! thought it might be fun to show you

The Theban alphabet is a writing system of unknown origin. It was first published in Johannes Trithemius' Polygraphia (1518), in which it was attributed to Honorius of Thebes. Trithemius' student Agrippa (1486-1535) attributed it to Pietro d'Abano (1250-1316). It is also known as the Honorian Alphabet, the Runes of Honorius after the legendary magus (It is not, however, a runic alphabet) or the Witches' (Wiccan) Alphabet due to its use in modern Wicca and other forms of witchcraft as a substitution cipher to hide magical writings such as the contents of a Book of Shadows.

BESOM CHANTS

Most wiccans, start their rituals with a ritual sweep with their besom to begin the process of sweeping out negative energies and bringing in the good energies. This is part of creating sacred space. Many witches feel their besoms/brooms carry energies with it as well. I have several sacred besoms and feel they are full of energy from the many Circles they have been used to sweep with and simply by being in ritual with me. I have one particular besom hanging in my moon/sun room which I made when i was in in Salem, Massachusetts and when I pass it each day, I actually chat to it and touch it. It is very special to me and very magickal from the energies it picked up with its stay in Salem. We Witches are weird folk, I must say! I have another besom which has been with me during my days as a witch in training to be a High Priestess .

There are a lot of witches who feel that the besom is just as sacred or more sacred than some of their tools. After all, that is what we witches are known by. During rituals, we dance around with our brooms as if we were flying, as they are our partners. Our besoms are very sacred to us and are placed some place special when ritual is over with. We hang our besoms by the fire place on a nail so that the besom does not touch the ground. We name all our magickal tools but in truth to some witches their staff, wand and besom are most sacred to them.

here are some chants you can memorize to do your ritual sweep and let your besom fly! lol

written by me!!!!

Witche’s broom swift in flight Cast out darkness, bring in light Earth be hallow, air be clear fire bright, as water heals A sacred bridge this site shall be ~As my will, so mote it be



Sweep out evil, sweep out ill, Where I do the Lady's will. Besom, besom, Lady's Broom Sweep out darkness, sweep out doom. ~So Be It! Blessed Be



This Circle I sweep with besom of Heather; All harmful and evil must vanish and scatter. This Circle I sweep with besom of Heather; ~All peaceful and good are invited to enter



Besom, besom long and lithe Made from ash and willow withe Tied with thongs of willow bark In running stream at moonset dark
As the ritual fire is lighted; Sweep ye circle, deosil, Sweep out evil, sweep out ill. Make the round of the ground Where we do the Lady’s will.
Besom, besom, Lady’s broom Sweep out darkness, sweep out doom Rid ye Lady’s hallowed ground Of demons, imps, and Hell’s red hound.
Then set ye down on Her green earth By running stream or Mistress’ hearth, Til called once more on Moon or Sabbat night ~To cleanse once more the dancing site



With each sweeping motion, imagine the area being washed energetically with a cobalt blue light, as you say any one of the chants.

how to make a besom (witches broom)

this is in my own words so im sorry if you cant understand..... oh also as you can see i put a pic of my besom.... so enjoy

First of all I would have the handle ready. Seek out a real nice limb that has charter to it. You want it at least (1) inch or more, what feels good in your hand. You don't want it too large. You can either strip the bark or leave it on, depending on the bark, shape of it, and drill a hole on the top about 2 inches from the top. I put a couple of coats of varnish to bring out the beauty of either the wood or the bark. When dry I slip a strip of rawhide lace through the hole about 18 inches and tie a knot in it.

Supplies:

A good supply of broomcorn, (broomcorn is not difficult to obtain, I make mine as my grams showed me how but you can get your from R.E. Caddy inc. out of Greensboro, NC.) Four to five yards (4-5 yds.) ( get the craft special 10lbs of broomcorn makes 2 brooms)strong twine (available from R.E. Caddy, they have a great supply and you can get colored hemp twine or jute and cotton) One long, large eyed needle or wire. (A sail makers needle is ideal, you can find those in some Yachting supply stores, or R.E. Caddy carries them also) One three quarter inch (3/4") nail (or drill) Eighteen inch (18") piece of twine tied to form tie-off loop Six feet (6') of twine, cut into two foot lengthsHammer, Tying block, Make a 'tying block' by whittling the middle of a foot long, (12") (very straight and smooth) limb. Sharp knife Large potWateryour stove

Gather your materials:

Start by preparing the handle. Drive the nail or drill a three quarter inch (3/4") hole through the handle, some three inches (3") from where the broomcorn will be attached to the handle. Fasten the twine to this nail or hole. Wrap the other end of the twine around the center of the tying block, leaving a few feet of twine stretched between the block and the handle.Traditional besoms had a 'knob' on the broomcorn end. Broomcorn has three sections: stalks, brush and knurl. (The knurl is the junction between the stalk and brush.) Trim the stalks to six-inch (6") lengths. Place the broomcorn, (stalk down) into hot water, covering both the stalks and knurls. Let soak for 1/2 hour Remove the broomcorn from the water, drain off the water. Place the tying block on the floor.Place your feet on the tying block and pull the twine taut. (Use both hands on the handle.) Place a stalk of broomcorn next to the handle, next to the nail or drilled hole. (Have the knurl directly under the twine.) Twist the handle so that the twine binds the broomcorn to the handle. Pull rather hard, so that the twine forms a V-shaped depression in the stalk of the broomcorn.Roll the handle back slightly. Place a second stalk of broomcorn next to the first one. Twist to bind both stalks with the twine. Pull to for a V-shaped depression. Continue with the broomcorn, until you have covered the handle. Be sure to use an odd number of stalks, so that the weaving will come out properly.After all of the stalks are bound to the handle, pull and wrap the twine around the stalks 3 times.Begin the weaving of the stalks by placing your thumb on the twine and releasing pressure on the tying block. Raise one stalk, run the twine under it. Skip the next stalk and run the twine under the stalk after that. Remember to pull the twine taut. Continue all the way around, and as far up the stalks as you desire. (Leave an inch or so, to turn under.) If you don't want to turn under you can cut off with a sharp knif later.With the eighteen inch (18") long piece of twine, fashion a 'tie-off loop'. Do this by tying the ends together. If you are going to turn under the stalk ends, do it now. To tie off the twine, place the tie-off loop next to the last stalk that the twine went under. Turn and wrap the stalks five more times, being sure to go over the loop, leaving the loop end free, Use your thumb to maintain pressure on the twine. Cut the twine loose from the tie-off block, about six inches (6") from the broom. Thread the cut twine through the tie-off loop. Pull the loop to bring the twine end under wraps on the broom, and to pull the tie-off loop free.If you did not turn under the stalk ends, take the knife and trim the stalks to about a quarter inch above the twine.To make the 'spread', wrap twine, about midway around the brush, four times. Do not pull too taut. Do this again, about an inch above, and then a third one, an inch above that. Thread the large eyed needle with a length of twine. (You can make a 'needle' out of a length of wire, looped at one end.)Knot the free end to the top 'spread'. Thread the needle through the brush (about an inch from the edge, pass it over the front spreader twine, go over the broom three quarters of an inch, and thread the needle back through. Do it on both sides. At the end, reverse and do the same going the opposite direction. (Forming X stitches.)Tie off. Do the other two spreaders the same way.

Moon Cycles

Waxing Cycle

This cycle of the Moon refers to the period of time from the New Moon to the Full Moon. The energy from this cycle should be used in "drawing" that which you want towards you. It's a good time to begin new projects and expand any current efforts. It's also a time to craft workings that concern love, harmony, balance, and peace, as well as protection and healing.
New Moon

Sun and Moon are in conjunction. The entire Moon appears dark. Waxing CrescentLight crescent on right side of Moon.

First Quarter

The right half of the Moon is lit (ninety degrees from sun, end of first quarter, beginning of second quarter).

Waxing Gibbous

Three-fourths of the Moon is now lit.

Full Moon

Moon and Sun in Opposition. The entire Moon is lit.

Waning Cycle

The waning cycle of the Moon is the period from the Full Moon to the New Moon. This is the cycle to use for banishing and rejecting baneful aspects, such as disease and negativity, as well as dissolving destructive energies of all types

Full Moon

Moon and Sun in Opposition. The entire Moon is lit. I usually wait until three days following the Full Moon before working with the waning cycle.

Waning Crescent

Dark crescent on right side of Moon

Third Quarter

The right half of the Moon is now dark (ninety degrees from sun, end of third quarter, beginning of fourth quarter).

Waning Gibbous

Three-fourths of the Moon is now dark.

New Moon

Sun and Moon in conjunction. The entire Moon appears dark

Special Moons

The Full Moon

The Full Moon actually covers three days, including the night of the Full Moon, itself. This is a time for action, for harvesting the fruits of our labors, for realizing that which we began at the last cycle, and of giving thanks.

The Dark Moon

The Dark Moon is the three day period from the last sliver of moonlight to the first sliver of moon light. This is the time of introspection; of looking within and meditating on the shadow self.

Moon Void of Course

As the moon orbits the Earth, it passes in and out of the 12 signs of the zodiac. A void-of-course moon is the time period when the moon makes no major aspect with other planets before entering another sign. The duration of this period can be as little as a few seconds or it can be longer than a day. The Moon rules the emotions, so one can expect to experience feelings of "disconnectedness," as well as emotional upsets, turnarounds, and variability. Therefore, it's a good rule of thumb not to sign contracts, start rituals, cast spells, or begin anything that would require any degree of emotional commitment until the Moon is aspected once again.

Blue Moon

A Blue Moon is that wonderful occurence when the Full Moon shows us her face twice in one month. Also known as a Goal Moon, it's an excellent time to set new goals for yourself.

Eclipses

As Lunar Eclipses represent the perfect union of the Sun and Moon, any type of magick worked or energy sent out during this time will be amplified.

Moon Signs

The moon circles the Zodiac every 28 days, merging the influences of each of the astrological signs with its own lunar nature. It manifests those influences in subtle ways through an individual's emotional nature, and through the general vibratory level present in daily life. In order to assure the best chance of success, one should work with these vibratory influences when planning a ritual or a magickal working.

wand making

this is a basic on makin wands and what you use them for and questions email me freewomanoflife@gmail.com i hope you like the wording lol i tryed

To make a wand, you will need a branch with the length and width of the wand that you wish to have. The first thing you may think about is getting a sharp knife and cutting a branch off a tree. Wait! All you need is a branch that is as long as the length from your elbow to the tip of your middle finger. You may find branches or twigs lying under the trees in the neighborhood. If you have a lot of choices, pick up the branch that somehow gets your attention. By the way, any type of wood is good for wands. Traditionally, however, the wood from trees like Cedar, Apple, Oak, Birch or Ivy is used. If you are in doubt, it may be better to use wood that is traditionally used to make furniture. That would tell us if the wood is stable or falls apart after some time.
The best time to start work on the wand is Wednesday at sunset. Choose a day when you can find some time to search your neighborhood park for the best wand that will help you. Prepare the wand by cutting off the branches that you do not need with a sharp knife. Allow the wand to dry undisturbed for 3 to 7 days.
When the wood is dry, sand it smoothly using sandpaper. Carve designs runes, symbols, your mantra, etc on it with a sharp knife. Buff with a soft cloth after coating the wand with mineral oil. Allow the wand to dry for a day or two so that the oil seeps into the wood and makes it less brittle. Make little shallow depressions on the wand and decorate the tip or the entire wand with wooden beads, rhinestones, crystals, etc. You may use hot glue gun or Elmer's glue to make them permanent. Always choose only the decorations that feel magickal to you. Again, try not to buy them but rather find them outside already "manufactured with love" from nature!
You may also add a wire loop to add additional charms and talismans to the wand. It is also wonderful to add bits of nature, such as shells, moss, dried flowers, leaves, seeds, nuts, etc. All things in nature have magickal energy. The wand you make will always help you in very special ways.

SELF DEDICATION RITE

ok guys this is a really big ritual for the people who are not born into wiccan familys and the ones that are born into wiccan familys but had no teacher. this sel dedication rite is to let the gods and goddess know that you are here and ready to become wiccan. this is also the way you know it they accept you or not. see the gods are picky lol so if any of you do this ritual please email me at freewomanoflife@gmail.com and tell me what you felt afterwards.





Prepare yourself by doing the Ritual Bath and Self Blessing. If you are performing this ritual at the sea or a river, bathe there if you so desire.As you bathe, prepare for the coming rite. Open your consciousness to higher levels of awareness. Breath deep. Cleanse your mind as well as your body.After bathing, dry and dress for the journey. Go to a place in the wild where you feel safe. It should be a comfortable spot where you won't be disturbed by others, an area where the powers of the Earth and the Elements are evident. It may be a mountain top, a desert canyon or cave, perhaps a dense forest, a rocky outcropping over the sea, a quiet island in the center of a lake. Even a lonely part of a park or garden can be used. Draw on your imagination to find the place.You need take nothing with you but a vial of richly scented oil. Sandalwood, frankincense, cinnamon or any other scent is fine. When you arrive at the place of dedication, remove your shoes and sit quietly for a few moments. Calm your heart if you've exerted yourself during your travel. Breathe deeply to return to normal, and keep your mind free of cluttered thoughts. Open yourself to the natural energies around you.When you're calm, rise and pivot slowly on one foot, surveying the land around you. You're seeking the ideal spot. Don't try to find it; open your awareness to the place. When you've discovered it (and you'll know when), sit, kneel or lie flat on your back. Place the oil on the Earth beside you, Don't stand - contact the Earth.Continue deep breathing. Feel the energies around you. Call the Goddess and God in any words you like, or use the following invocation. Memorize these words before the rite so that they'll spill effortlessly from you, or improvise:O Mother Goddess,O Father God,Answers to all mysteries and yet mysteries unanswered;In this place of power I open myself to Your Essence.In this place and in this time I am changed;From hence forth I walk the Paths of the Craft.I dedicate myself to you, Mother Goddess and Father God.(rest for a moment, silent, still. Then continue;I breathe your energies into my body,commingling, blending,mixing them with mine,that I may see the divine in nature,nature in the divine,and divinity within myself and all else.O Great Goddess,O Great God,Make me one with your essenceMake me one with your essenceMake me one with your essence.You may feel bursting with power and energy, or calm and at peace. Your mind might be in a whirl. The Earth beneath you may throb and undulate with energy. Wild animals, attracted by the psychic occurrence, might grace you with their presence.Whatever occurs, knowthat you have opened yourself and that the Goddess and God have heard you. You should feel different inside, at peace or simply powerful.After the invocation, wet a finger with the oil and mark the symbols of the Goddess and God somewhere on your body. It doesn't matter where; you can do this on your chest, forehead, arms, legs, anywhere. As you anoint, visualize these symbols sinking into your flesh, glowing as they enter your body and then dispersing into millions of tiny points of light.The formal self-dedication is ended. Thank the Goddess and God for Their attention. Sit and meditate before leaving the place of dedication.Once home, celebrate in some special way.

Of my life and my Death

Of the beginning and bliss of peace The ending came hence as if death Hitherto I do not feel so trapped in the dark And I lay fallen to cling to my breaking heart Such a gift as it is, can be painful to live Because it seems we are meant to be broken Perhaps to the contrary it is good to be broken To know not the failure, would be to trivialize peace Of sound mind and the essence to live Making life a worthless trip, just a wait to death A long journey full of silence, absence of heart The blank presence of a room, trapped in the dark For this there can be no escape, awkward in the dark To face the feeling is human, the converse is made broken The greatest gift we have received, the ability to give our heart Without would be restless, truly devoid of peace Instigating the living end, a life of death The inner sanction light, no longer to live But blessed to all above, for 'tis still a gift to live Though my soul feels fleeting, it does still light the dark A sanctuary for all threats, my protection for a death The bind to hold my pieces together, recalling all the broken My life my blood, my warmth of peace My ultimate strength of a caring heart Nothing can defeat me, after a saving grace of heart All the prior instances a lesson of the gift to live No bane bore against failed coexistence, only finding peace For a response to a fail in love, a candle to light the dark An overflowing wealth of life, mending the rest of the broken The answer to and calming result, to end the power of death As I walk I have no fear, no more place for death For though it may be torn, so full of warmth my heart Bound together and hoping to ward off another broken But calmed I am not, no more easy to live I can engage a temporary light, but still risk the dark My fleeting angel, whom I so need to bring my peace Can I not stave off the dark, but only go on so broken? Trapped to live, far beyond fear of death Or blessed with peace, and a splintered heart?
© skyyberry, 08-12-09



just a little something i worte

this is one of my favorite duets with my friend will lol i thought i would share with you

A Wiccan Blessing for a Newborn

"Blessed be your breath.May your breathing be deep and relaxed.May you breathe in power with every breath you take.Blessed Be each breath you take.
Blessed be the fire inside you.May your will be unbroken. And may it be as strong as fire, and as supple.May your will be as strong as water, and as supple.MAy your passions burn truly and free.Blessed be your fire, may it burn strong.
Blessed be the waters of your life.May your blood be strong.May the flow from your loin be joyful and fertile.Blessed be all your life-waters.Blessed be the earth of your body.May your muscles be strong and fearless.May your heart beat with love, soul, vigour and courage.Blessed be your body which is the body of a God.
Blessed be your spirit.May you always have health in spirit.May you be whole.Blessed be your spirit.
May you always have community.
May you be prosperous in all ways.
May you love and be loved.
May your voice --both your complaints and your special offerings to the world -- be truly heard.
May you always be surrounded by the warmth of family & community. May you know the innate goodness of your being.
Blessed Be

Herbs Used in Wicca

You will find Herbs used in Wicca to be quite helpful. Since long ago, Asian Doctors have accepted the fundamental connection of mind, body and spirit. They have learned to use positive energy imbalances along with Herbs to bring wellness.
In modern medicine, new uses for Herbs are being discovered every day to aid in the cure of many diseases including cancer. The most recent I've read about is Turmeric.
For much of history, Herbs have been used for spiritual growth. Among other things, healing emotional wounds, settling problems of the stomach, giving energy, providing blood-sugar balance, strengthening the heart, better concentration, as an aphrodisiac, and the list goes on ! We have all heard of the many wonders of Green Tea! So there really is nothing surprising about herbs being used in Wicca to conjure good things and create happiness and well being!
Some Herbs are used more often than others, and it would take an entire book to list them all. I will however list the ones I feel are used most often in Wicca. This is only a small selection, so please don't limit yourself on the reading selections for the use and enjoyment of herbs!
The following list is provided only for use as it pertains to Wicca and spell casting. Remember NOT to ingest them at any time!

ALLSPICE
used for protection. Prosperity good luck & healing

ALMOND
for use in Love spells, money & healing.

APPLE
Good for Love spells, peaceful beginnings & Health.

BASIL
use it for Protection in business, prosperity & loving relationships.

BAY LAUREL
use for healing, prosperity, and strength.

CAMPHOR
healing, well being

CATNIP
use with cats, brings happiness & love.

CHAMOMILE
For Soothing, sleep and relaxation.


CINNAMON
I use it in all love spells. Good for lust, success, & money.

CLOVE
Use for healing, protection, calming.

CUMIN
For love, protection and loyalty.

GARLIC
Gives your home protection. Also aids in healing.

GINGER
Very Energetic. Use for Love and prosperity.

GREEN TEA
Drink for its Longevity & healing qualities.

FRANKINCENSE
Purification, meditative and protection.

HIGH JOHN
Use for Happiness, prosperity and success.

JASMINE
Very tranquil, use for love, & prosperity.

LAVENDER
Use for healing, sleep, purification & love.

LEMON
Especially good for purification, love & happiness.

MUGWORT
Excellent for protection during travel, healing and strength.

MYRRH
Use for meditation, purification & protection.

PARSLEY
Good for Lust & fertility, prosperity & protection.

PATCHOULI
Great for Love & Lust, Psychic work & Prosperity.

ROSE-
Best for Love, marriage, lust, fertility & protection.

ROSEMARY
Use for increased Memory, healing, love, protection and mental strength.

SAGE
To live a long life, health & comfort.

SALT
Use for purification, protection, & strength. Use in your home and take along on trips to purify surroundings. (hotel rooms etc.)

VERVAIN
can be used with almost every spell for Creativity, inspiration, protection, divination, love, and protection


THERE ARE MANY MORE HERBS THAT CAN BE USED BUT I WILL NOT ADD THEM LOL

Smudging

Sage

There are two major genii and several varieties of each genus of Sage that are used for smudging. Salvia, or the herb sage used for cooking, comes in two major varieties: S. Officinalis, commonly known as Garden Sage, and S. Apiana, commonly known as White Sage. Salvia varieties have long been acknowledged as healing herbs, reflected in the fact that its genus name comes from the Latin root word *salvare*, which is the verb "to heal" or "to save." Artemisia is the genus commonly considered "Sagebrush", and is more common in the wilds out here in California. There are two major varieties to the Artemisia genus: A. Californica, or Common Sagebrush, and A. Vulgaris, or Mugwort. There are many other varieties of both Salvia and Artemisia, and all are effective in smudging. Sage is burned in smudging ceremonies to drive out evil spirits, negative thoughts and feelings, and to keep Gan'n (negative entities) away from areas where ceremonials take place. In the Plains Sweatlodge, the floor of the structure is strewn with sage leaves for the participants to rub on their bodies during the sweat. Sage is also used in keeping sacred objects like pipes or Peyote wands safe from negative influence. In the Sioux nation, the Sacred Pipe is kept in a bundle with sage boughs. I would think special crystals could be so protected this way as well.




Cedar

True cedar is of the Thuja and Libocedrus genii. Some Junipers (Juniperus genus) are also called "cedar", thus complicating things some. Some Juniper varieties ARE cleansing herbs, especially J. Monosperma, or Desert White Cedar. But for smudging, the best is Western Red Cedar (Thuja occidentalis) and California Incense Cedar (Libocedrus descurrens). Cedar is burnt while praying to the Great Spirit (Usen', the Source--also known to Plains nations as Wakan Tanka) in meditation, and also to bless a house before moving in as is the tradition in the Northwest and Western Canada. It works both as a purifier and as a way to attract GOOD energy in your direction. It is usually available in herb stores in chipped form, which must be sprinkled over a charcoal in a brazier. I like a piece of charcoaled mesquite for this purpose, rather than the commercial charcoal cake.

Sweetgrass

Very important to the Sioux and Cherokee nations, its botanical name is Hierochloe Oderata. In these tribes, the sweetgrass is braided like hair braids. It could be burnt by lighting the end of it, or (more economically) by shaving little bits of it onto charcoal in a brazier. Again, use charcoaled Mesquite (I believe it comes packaged for barbecue use under the brand name "Red Arrow") to burn it, not pressed charcoal tablets. Sweetgrass is burnt after smudging with sage, to welcome in good influences after the bad had been driven out. Sweetgrass is very rare today, and traditional Plains people have been attempting to protect the last of it. Myself, I believe that Cedar, which is not endangered, can safely be used this way. Also Pinon pine needles (used more frequently by the Southwest Teneh, like the Navajo and Apache as well as the Pueblo people and the Zuni) and Copal (used by the Yaqui and in ancient times by the Azteca and the Maya) have similar effect. The three mentioned here are readily available either through gathering yourself or, in the case of copal resin, from any good herb shop.

Using Smudging

Burn clippings of the herb in a brazier...not a shell as some "new age" shamanic circles do...it is an insult to White Painted Woman (The Goddess) to do this, especially with the abalone shell which is especially sacred to Her. If the herb is bundled in a "wand", you can also light the end of the wand that isn't woody and use that. I like the latter way. Direct the smoke with your hands or with a Peyote (feather) wand over the person or thing you wish to smudge. If you can see auras, look for discolored places in the aura and direct the healing smoke towards those places on the patient's body. For cleansing a house, first offer cedar smoke to the four directions outside the house. Then, take a sage bough and go throughout the inside of the house, making sure the smoke penetrates every nook and cranny of the house. It might help also, if you have a power animal, to visualize your animal doing these things, to also dance your animal, and if you have a power song, to sing that too. Then finally, run through the house with a white candle that is well protected, to "light up" the house. Careful not to burn it down when you do it!!!



Final Thoughts
Smudging should be done with care, with reverence, and in an attitude of LOVE. Show your respect and honor to the plants that Usen' has given us for our healing, and they will return the favor by keeping us well and free from disease and negative energy. Aloe Vera plants, though not to be burnt, are good for the cleansing angle as well. Keep one or more potted Aloe Veras in the house (modern varieties are too tender to plant in anything but full shade outside) in organic (wood or ceramic, never plastic or metal) pots. To honor the plant when you transplant it, sprinkle the roots with corn meal and smudge it with cedar once it is transplanted. The spirit of Aloe Vera is a good protective spirit, and if you burn yourself, can also be used to heal your skin. BE SURE TO ASK THE PLANT'S PERMISSION before cutting part of the leaf off for the healing juice. If you don't, the protective power of the plant will cease, and you will be left with but an inert houseplant...and perhaps some bad karma to boot.
Hi-dicho, it is finished....ENJU!

The Witches Creed

Hear now the words of the witches,The secrets we hid in the night, When dark was our destiny's pathway, That now we bring forth into light. Mysterious water and fire, The earth and the wide-ranging air, By hidden quintessence we know them, And will and keep silent and dare. The birth and rebirth of all nature, The passing of winter and spring, We share with the life universal, Rejoice in the magical ring. Four times in the year the Great Sabbat Returns, and the witches are seen At Lammas and Candlemas dancing, On May Eve and old Hallowe'en. When day-time and night-time are equal, When sun is at greatest and least, The four Lesser Sabbats are summoned,And Witches gather in feast. Thirteen silver moons in a year are, Thirteen is the coven's array. Thirteen times at Esbat make merry,For each golden year and a day. The power that was passed down the age, Each time between woman and man, Each century unto the other, Ere time and the ages began. When drawn is the magical circle, By sword or athame of power, Its compass between two worlds lies, In land of the shades for that hour. This world has no right then to know it. And world of beyond will tell naught. The oldest of Gods are invoked there, The Great Work of magic is wrought. For the two are mystical pillars, That stand at the gate of the shrine, And two are the powers of nature, The forms and the forces divine. The dark and the light in succession, The opposites each unto each, Shown forth as a God and a Goddess: Of this our ancestors teach. By night he's the wild winds rider, The Horn'd One, the Lord of the Shades. By day he's the King of the Woodland, The dweller in green forest glades. She is youthful or old as she pleases, She sails the torn clouds in her barque, The bright silver lady of midnight, The crone who weaves spells in the dark.The master and mistress of magic, That dwell in the deeps of the mind, Immortal and ever-renewing, With power to free or to bind. So drink the good wine to the Old Gods, And Dance and make love in their praise, Till Elphame's fair land shall receive us In peace at the end of our days. And Do What You Will be the challenge, So be it Love that harms none, For this is the only commandment. By Magic of old, be it done!

The Concept Of Deity

As mentioned in earlier documents, Wiccans, Pagans and Witches see the divine as being manifest at all levels of humanities limited ability to comprehend the universe world around us. The fact that some may call upon or associate with the divine by different names does not necessarily mean that we see a complete seperation of deities. We accept that different aspects of the divine combine to make the whole. In this view, we recognize and attune ourselves with nature and the creative force in a way the individual or group is most comfortable with. The following is an explanation of this concept which most agree upon.

The Supreme Creative Force:

The One is the all encompassing unity of all things which exist. This includes that which is manifest to our limited awareness and understanding as well as that which is not. The One is infinite to a point that the human mind simply cannot comprehend its vastness.


Polarities of The One:

The Goddess and God are seen as a manifestation of the feminine and masculine forces of nature. Each having unique characteristics that when combined result in the harmonious creation of life. We see examples of this in everything around us as nothing can exist without the interaction of feminine and masculine energy. This creative energy is omnipresent. They are concepts that allow the human mind to comprehed the creative force of the world around us. Giving name to the divine or feminine and masculine energies is in many ways irrevalent and certainly cannot justify the wars and bloodshed history has seen because of it. They are simply names humanity, a culture or specific belief system has created over time for association purposes. It really matters little whether we associate with the divine as the "Father, Son and Holy Ghost" or "The One, Goddess and God." Ultimately, the concept is the same. Gentle Breezes!

am i going to fast?

is there something you dont understand???? let me know and ill try my best to answer ya!

song of goddess

I am the Great Mother, worshipped by all creation and existent prior to their consciousness.I am the primal female force, boundless and eternal. I am the chaste Goddess of the Moon, the Lady of all magic.The winds and moving leaves sing my name.I wear the crescent Moon upon my brow and my feet rest among the starry heavens.I am mysteries yet unsolved, a path newly set upon.I am a field untouched by the plow.Rejoice in me and know the fullness of youth. I am the blessed Mother, the gracious Lady of the harvest.I am clothed in the deep, cool wonder of the Earth and the gold of the fields heavy with grain.By me the tides of the Earth are ruled; all things come to fruition according to my season.I am refuge and healing.I am the life giving Mother, wondrously fertile. I am the Crone, tender of the unbroken cycle of death and rebirth.I am the wheel, the shadow of the Moon.I rule the tides of the oceans and of women and men.I give release and renewal to weary souls. I am the Goddess of the Moon, the Earth, the Seas.My names are many, yet know that by all names I am the same.I pour forth insight, peace, wisdom and understanding.I am the eternal Maiden, Mother of all, and Crone of reckoning,and I send you blessings of limitless love

charge of goddess

Hear ye the words of the Star Goddess;she in the dust of whose feet are the hostsof heaven, and whose body encircles the universe I who am the beauty of the green earth,the white moon among the stars, and the mysteryof the waters call unto thy soul;Arise, and come unto me.I am the soul of nature who gives life to the universe.From Me all things proceed, and unto Me all things must return.Before My face, beloved of gods and of men, let thineinnermost divine self be enfolded in the rapture of the infinite.Let My worship be within the heart that rejoices,for behold, all acts of love and pleasure are My rituals.Therefore let there be beauty and strength, power and compassion,honor and humility, mirth and reverence within you.To thou who thinkest to seek Me, know that thy seeking andyearning shall avail thee not unless thou knowest the Mystery.If that which thou seekest thou findest not within thee,thou wilt never find it without.For behold, I have been with thee from the beginning; andI am that which is attained at the end of desire."

ritual bath

The purpose of a ritual bath is to cleanse Yourself, from the inside and out, of negative energies and prepare your Physical, Mental and Spiritual Self for Circle. A ritual bath is a rite in and of itself. The rite is ideally done just prior to Circle, but this is not always the case. [An example of such is if you have to travel to the meeting place.] After the rite is completed and you must travel to another place for Circle, try to keep your mind in a Spiritual frame as this will aid you in Circle.
The bath water should be infused with salts, herbs oils and colors that are harmonious with the work to be done in Circle. To prepare for the bath:
Select the Herbs, [it is best to have your herbs in a satchel for easier clean-up] oils and salts [of the same color as the candle] that you will be using.
Have a censer and charcoal block ready to burn a corresponding incense on.
Anoint a candle of appropriate color [Possibly using the same oil as you are using in the bath water.] If you have a shrine set up in your bathroom, there should be a Goddess and God candle present.
Have some Rite Water ready. [Rite Water is made from: 1/3 sea-water {river-water with sea-salt added will do if sea-water is unavailable}; 1/3 river-water; 1/3 spring-water {store bought is OK}.]
Have a tape recorder with meditation music in the bathroom with you, as its aid to visualization and meditation is invaluable. [Be cautious to have the tape recorder far away from any water and DO NOT TOUCH IT WHILE YOU ARE STILL WET.]
A glass of wine is also needed for consumption upon completion of the rite.
And your libation dish for the libation to the God and Goddess.
TO BEGIN, turn out the lights and light the candle(s) and incense, turn on tape, fill the tub with warm water and add herbs, oils, salts and a cup or so of Rite Water. With your Athame draw and visulize a Water or Banishing Pentagram over the bath water. All of these tools represent the four Elements; Air/the incense and the scents from the bath, Fire/the heat of the bath, Water/the bath and Rite Water and, Earth/the herbs and oils. Lower yourself into the water and visualize it cleansing you of all negativity. Know that these energies are flowing from your Physical, Mental and Spiritual Self into the water. Relax and enjoy the warmth of the water, the scents in the air and the feeling of being cleansed of all negativity, let yourself drift. Now concentrate and visualize on the purpose of the coming ritual and know that you are truly prepared. When you feel you are ready, pull the plug and stay in the tub until all the water has drained. As the water is draining visualize and know that the negative energies that are now in the water are going into the Earth and are grounded. Rise up out of the tub and do a Self Blessing like the following:
Anoint each area while saying aloud: Blessed be my Mind, that learns of Your ways [anointing your forehead] Blessed be my eyes, that have seen this day. Blessed be my lips, That utter Your names and keep Your secrets. Blessed be my breast(s), formed in strength (Beauty). Blessed be the phallus (Womb), For without which I would not be. Blessed be my knees, that shall kneel at thy Sacred Altar. Blessed be my feet, that have brought me in these ways. Pour a libation to the Gods and drink the wine. When dried, robe, clean-up the bathroom and take the libation outside to return it to the Earth. The rite is ended.

just another morning

whats good bloggers! ok so last night was crazy for me but we wont get in to that! im going to add lots of things to the blog today so stay tuned!



aslo here is the
wiccan song of the day!





we will be useing this song for the ritual tonight

home blessing

When I cleanse a dwelling place, first I burn a good cleansing incense, like frankincense or sandalwood in the home while I prepare for the rest of the ritual. You should have in addition to the incense, a candle, a bowl of salt water and a bowl of herbs. I particularly like to use rose buds for love, lavender for preservation, rosemary for protection, and any other sweet smelling ones that appeal to you personally. If you can get them home grown, so much the better. You should proceed around the house, widdershins(counter clockwise) and cleanse the area with the salt water. Be sure to get each corner, window, door, drain, etc. Simply sprinkle a little salt water on each and ask that any evil or disruptive influences leave the place. When this is finished, proceed around the house deosil(clockwise) sprinkling the blessing herbs and invoke whatever deities or properties you wish on the home, such as peace prosperity, tranquility, etc. In the past, I have used 3 candles on the central altar. Blue, symbolizing tranquility, green for healing and prosperity, and purple for protection. Others might be pink for love, or brown for hearth and home. You and anyone who is to share the home with you should share food and drink, and don't forget to leave a little of the food and drink to take outside and return to the Earth that which has been given.

WIRE WRAPPING CRYSTALS

Do you have a special crystal that you want to be more focused? Here is a simple method to wire wrap it and help focus the crystals energies:Choose your wire based on a color compared to what you are focusing the crystal towards {Copper for love, etc.}Once you have selected your wire, place about 1/8" of the wire straight down the side of the crystal.Bend the wire over the top of the crystal and wrap tightly and closely down until the wire going down the side cannot be seen.With broader wraps go all of the way down the crystal with no more than a few wraps.Go up with the same style of wrap making a criss-cross pattern.When you reach the top wrap tightly and closely a few times.Coat top of crystal with melted resin to seal it.Once resin has dried, burn away the outer layer with a candle, leaving onley the resin inside it wire, sealing it.

TURNING POWDERS INTO SELF BURNING INCENSE

Mix and empower herds. Mix and grind them into a powder, if you have not already done this.Place powder in a non-flammable container and soak with charcoal starter fluid.After about an hour, place in a SAFE place and light. Let it burn until some of the herbs on top start blackening. Immediately put out the fire by smothering it with something non-flammable. DO NOT use water, sand, fire retardants or ANYTHING that will mix with, disturb or even touch the herbs, use only smothering.Once the container cools, remove the herbs and spread them out in a flat sheet on a piece (or several pieces) of paper.Cover with paper and set heavy books on them and let it compress for a day or more (the paper may get saturated with lighter fluid, so dispose of them properly).Remove the weight and pour you new powdered incense into whatever container you use. You are done.Once you have you powder, you may melt some of the appropriate resin and mix it with the powder, then roll it into a cone, stick, or whatever shape you choose. This incense will now work similar to a stick or cone, light it and wait until the flame dies, it will now smolder until it is used. Don't use too much at a time, a little goes a long way.

INCENSE RECIPES

ALTAR INCENSE
3 parts Frankincense2 parts Myrrh1 part CinnamonBurn as a general incense on the altar to purify it and topromote ritual consciousness during rituals.

CIRCLE INCENSE
2 parts Myrrh2 parts Benzoin1 part Sandalwood1/2 part Cinnamon1/2 part Rose petals1/4 part Vervain1/4 part Rosemary1/4 part BayBurn in the circle for all types of rituals and spells.Frankincense, myrrh and benzoin should definitely constitute the bulkof the mixture.

FALL SABBAT INCENSE
3 parts Frankincense2 parts Myrrh1 part Rosemary1 part Cedar1 part JuniperBurn during fall and winter Sabbat rituals.

FULL MOON RITUAL INCENSE
2 parts Sandalwood2 parts Frankincense1/2 part Gardenia petals1/4 part Rose petalsa few drops Ambergris oilBurn during Esbats or simply at the time of the Full Moon toattune with the Goddess

SPRING SABBAT INCENSE
3 parts Frankincense2 parts Sandalwood1 part Benzoin1 part Cinnamona few drops Patchouly oilBurn during spring and summer Sabbat rituals.

calling the four cornors

this is just the basic way to call the cornors

Hail, Guardian of the WatchTower of the North; Powers of Mother and Earth. I greet you now in perfect love and perfect trust. Changeless power of unending change, in steadfastness and strength, I bless the elements of Earth, and call upon you to gather here with me.

Hail, Guardian of the WatchTower of the East. Powers of Air and Intuition, I greet you now in perfect love and perfect trust. As you carry the seeds of the plants across the land; as you bring the moisture of the storms to the shore; join me in all your gentle and powerful ways. I bless the elements of air and call upon you to gather here with me.


Hail, Guardian of the WatchTower of the South. Powers of Fire and Feeling, I greet you now, in perfect love and perfect trust. Flaming One; Apollo, Bright Warrior, Wild courage, Lion-strength, I bless the elements of Fire, and call upon you to gather here with me.

Hail, Guardian of the WatchTower of the West. Powers of Water and Intervention, I greet you now, in perfect love and perfect trust. Water - soft and yielding, formless and flowing, You are the blood coursing through my veins. I bless the elements of Water and call upon you to gather here with me.

A NIGHTTIME BLESSING

this is a night time blessing i said with my grandma and i know say it with my baby girl



As the day comes to an end, our great god, the sun descends. Goddess enters into night sky, twinkling stars and moon so high, I now lay me down to rest, with my soul in her hands goodnight to all, and goddess bless!

GOD AND GODDESS BLESSING

"God and Goddess of the skies,
Please allow me to follow my day to day action.
Take action upon my cries, Hear me today and love me always.
Help me through life's struggles and grant me strength for all I do.
Guide me into life with an open mind and a fresh slate. So Mote it Be!"

wiccan singer of the day

just thought id share one of fav wiccan singers! she is great!!!!!!!!!!!

wiccan holidays

Samhain Lore (October 31st) Samhain, (pronounced SOW-in, SAH-vin, or SAM-hayne) means "End of Summer", and is the third and final Harvest. The dark winter half of the year commences on this Sabbat. It is generally celebrated on October 31st, but some traditions prefer November 1st. It is one of the two "spirit-nights" each year, the other being Beltane. It is a magical interval when the mundane laws of time and space are temporarily suspended, and the Thin Veil between the worlds is lifted. Communicating with ancestors and departed loved ones is easy at this time, for they journey through this world on their way to the Summerlands. It is a time to study the Dark Mysteries and honor the Dark Mother and the Dark Father, symbolized by the Crone and her aged Consort. Originally the "Feast of the Dead" was celebrated in Celtic countries by leaving food offerings on altars and doorsteps for the "wandering dead". Today a lot of practitioners still carry out that tradition. Single candles were lit and left in a window to help guide the spirits of ancestors and loved ones home. Extra chairs were set to the table and around the hearth for the unseen guest. Apples were buried along roadsides and paths for spirits who were lost or had no descendants to provide for them. Turnips were hollowed out and carved to look like protective spirits, for this was a night of magic and chaos. The Wee Folke became very active, pulling pranks on unsuspecting humans. Traveling after dark was was not advised. People dressed in white (like ghosts), wore disguises made of straw, or dressed as the opposite gender in order to fool the Nature spirits. This was the time that the cattle and other livestock were slaughtered for eating in the ensuing winter months. Any crops still in the field on Samhain were considered taboo, and left as offerings to the Nature spirits. Bonfires were built, (originally called bone-fires, for after feasting, the bones were thrown in the fire as offerings for healthy and plentiful livestock in the New Year) and stones were marked with peoples names. Then they were thrown into the fire, to be retrieved in the morning. The condition of the retrieved stone foretold of that person's fortune in the coming year. Hearth fires were also lit from the village bonfire to ensure unity, and the ashes were spread over the harvested fields to protect and bless the land. Various other names for this Greater Sabbat are Third Harvest, Samana, Day of the Dead, Old Hallowmas (Scottish/Celtic), Vigil of Saman, Shadowfest (Strega), and Samhuinn. Also known as All Hallow's Eve, (that day actually falls on November 7th), and Martinmas (that is celebrated November 11th), Samhain is now generally considered the Witch's New Year.




Imbolc Lore (February 2nd) Imbolc, (pronounced "IM-bulk" or "EM-bowlk"), also called Oimealg, ("IM-mol'g), by the Druids, is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word "oimelc" which means "ewes milk". Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid's snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Ground Hog Day), and in many places the first Crocus flowers began to spring forth from the frozen earth. The Maiden is honored, as the Bride, on this Sabbat. Straw Brideo'gas (corn dollies) are created from oat or wheat straw and placed in baskets with white flower bedding. Young girls then carry the Brideo'gas door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. Brighid's Crosses are fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun. Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the "water of life" is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.





April 30th -- BeltaneAlso known as Roodmas or May DayBeltane has long been celebrated with feasts and rituals. Beltane means fire of Bel; Belinos being one name for the Sun God, whose coronation feast we now celebrate. As summer begins, weather becomes warmer, and the plant world blossoms, an exuberant mood prevails. In old Celtic traditions it was a time of unabashed sexuality and promiscuity where marriages of a year and a day could be undertaken but it is rarely observed in that manner in modern times. In the old Celtic times, young people would spend the entire night in the woods "A-Maying," and then dance around the phallic Maypole the next morning. Older married couples were allowed to remove their wedding rings (and the restrictions they imply) for this one night. May morning is a magickal time for wild water (dew, flowing streams, and springs) which is collected and used to bathe in for beauty, or to drink for health.The Christian religion had only a poor substitute for the life-affirming Maypole -- namely, the death-affirming cross. Hence, in the Christian calendar, this was celebrated as 'Roodmas'. In Germany, it was the feast of Saint Walpurga, or 'Walpurgisnacht'. An alternative date around May 5 (Old Beltane), when the sun reaches 15 degrees Taurus, is sometimes employed by Covens. (Both 'Lady Day' and 'Ostara' are names incorrectly assigned to this holiday by some modern traditions of Wicca.) Think of the May pole as a focal point of the old English village rituals. Many people would rise at the first light of dawn to go outdoors and gather flowers and branches to decorate their homes. Women traditionally would braid flowers into their hair. Men and women alike would decorate their bodies. Beltane marks the return of vitality, of passion. Ancient Pagan traditions say that Beltane marks the emergence of the young God into manhood. Stirred by the energies at work in nature, he desires the Goddess. They fall in love, lie among the grasses and blossoms, and unite. The Goddess becomes pregnant of the God. To celebrate, a wedding feast, for the God and Goddess must be prepared. Let Them guide you! Breads and cereals are popular. Try oatmeal cakes or cookies sweetened with a dab of honey. Dairy foods are again appropriate...just make a lovely wedding feast and you are sure to enjoy yourself! An early morning walk through a local park or forest could be fun for everyone. Gather up some plants or flowers to display in your home. Mom and daughter could braid their hair, and weave in a few tender blossoms. Blessed Be!



July 31st Lughnasadh / Lammas Lughnasadh means the funeral games of Lugh (pronounced Loo), referring to Lugh, the Irish sun god. However, the funeral is not his own, but the funeral games he hosts in honor of his foster-mother Tailte. For that reason, the traditional Tailtean craft fairs and Tailtean marriages (which last for a year and a day) are celebrated at this time. This day originally coincided with the first reapings of the harvest. It was known as the time when the plants of spring wither and drop their fruits or seeds for our use as well as to ensure future crops. As autumn begins, the Sun God enters his old age, but is not yet dead. The God symbolically loses some of his strength as the Sun rises farther in the South each day and the nights grow longer. The Christian religion adopted this theme and called it 'Lammas ', meaning 'loaf-mass ', a time when newly baked loaves of bread are placed on the altar. An alternative date around August 5 (Old Lammas), when the sun reaches 15 degrees Leo, is sometimes employed by Covens. Traditional Foods:Apples, Grains, Breads and Berries. Herbs and Flowers:All Grains, Grapes, Heather, Blackberries, Sloe, Crab Apples, Pears. Incense:Aloes, Rose, Sandalwood. Sacred Gemstone:Carnelian. Special Activities:As summer passes, many Pagans celebrate this time to remember its warmth and bounty in a celebrated feast shared with family or Coven members. Save and plant the seeds from the fruits consumed during the feast or ritual. If they sprout, grow the plant or tree with love and as a symbol of your connection with the Lord and Lady. Walk through the fields and orchards or spend time along springs, creeks, rivers, ponds and lakes reflecting on the bounty and love of the Lord and Lady. Blessed Be!




Yule Lore (December 21st) Yule, (pronounced EWE-elle) is when the dark half of the year relinquishes to the light half. Starting the next morning at sunrise, the sun climbs just a little higher and stays a little longer in the sky each day. Known as Solstice Night, or the longest night of the year, much celebration was to be had as the ancestors awaited the rebirth of the Oak King, the Sun King, the Giver of Life that warmed the frozen Earth and made her to bear forth from seeds protected through the fall and winter in her womb. Bonfires were lit in the fields, and crops and trees were "wassailed" with toasts of spiced cider. Children were escorted from house to house with gifts of clove spiked apples and oranges which were laid in baskets of evergreen boughs and wheat stalks dusted with flour. The apples and oranges represented the sun, the boughs were symbolic of immortality, the wheat stalks portrayed the harvest, and the flour was accomplishment of triumph, light, and life. Holly, mistletoe, and ivy not only decorated the outside, but also the inside of homes. It was to extend invitation to Nature Sprites to come and join the celebration. A sprig of Holly was kept near the door all year long as a constant invitation for good fortune to pay visit to the residents. The ceremonial Yule log was the highlight of the festival. In accordance to tradition, the log must either have been harvested from the householder's land, or given as a gift... it must never have been bought. Once dragged into the house and placed in the fireplace it was decorated in seasonal greenery, doused with cider or ale, and dusted with flour before set ablaze be a piece of last years log, (held onto for just this purpose). The log would burn throughout the night, then smolder for 12 days after before being ceremonially put out. Ash is the traditional wood of the Yule log. It is the sacred world tree of the Teutons, known as Yggdrasil. An herb of the Sun, Ash brings light into the hearth at the Solstice. A different type of Yule log, and perhaps one more suitable for modern practitioners would be the type that is used as a base to hold three candles. Find a smaller branch of oak or pine, and flatten one side so it sets upright. Drill three holes in the top side to hold red, green, and white (season), green, gold, and black (the Sun God), or white, red, and black (the Great Goddess). Continue to decorate with greenery, red and gold bows, rosebuds, cloves, and dust with flour. Deities of Yule are all Newborn Gods, Sun Gods, Mother Goddesses, and Triple Goddesses. The best known would be the Dagda, and Brighid, the daughter of the Dagda. Brighid taught the smiths the arts of fire tending and the secrets of metal work. Brighid's flame, like the flame of the new light, pierces the darkness of the spirit and mind, while the Dagda's cauldron assures that Nature will always provide for all the children. Symbolism of Yule:Rebirth of the Sun, The longest night of the year, The Winter Solstice, Introspect, Planning for the Future.




March 21 -- Ostara -- Spring or The Vernal Equinox Also known as: Lady Day or Alban Eiler (Druidic) As Spring reaches its midpoint, night and day stand in perfect balance, with light on the increase. The young Sun God now celebrates a hierogamy (sacred marriage) with the young Maiden Goddess, who conceives. In nine months, she will again become the Great Mother. It is a time of great fertility, new growth, and newborn animals.The next full moon (a time of increased births) is called the Ostara and is sacred to Eostre the Saxon Lunar Goddess of fertility (from whence we get the word estrogen, whose two symbols were the egg and the rabbit.The Christian religion adopted these emblems for Easter which is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the vernal equinox. The theme of the conception of the Goddess was adapted as the Feast of the Annunciation, occurring on the alternative fixed calendar date of March 25 Old Lady Day, the earlier date of the equinox. Lady Day may also refer to other goddesses (such as Venus and Aphrodite), many of whom have festivals celebrated at this time. Traditional Foods:Leafy green vegetables, Dairy foods, Nuts such as Pumpkin, Sunflower and Pine. Flower Dishes and Sprouts. Herbs and Flowers:Daffodil, Jonquils, Woodruff, Violet, Gorse, Olive, Peony, Iris, Narcissus and all spring flowers. Incense:Jasmine, Rose, Strawberry, Floral of any type. Sacred Gemstone:Jasper Special Activities:Planting seeds or starting a Magickal Herb Garden. Taking a long walk in nature with no intent other than reflecting on the Magick of nature and our Great Mother and her bounty.




June 21 -- Summer Solstice -- LithaAlso known as: Alban Heruin (Druidic) Although the name Litha is not well attested, it may come from Saxon tradition -- the opposite of Yule. On this longest day of the year, light and life are abundant. At mid-summer, the Sun God has reached the moment of his greatest strength. Seated on his greenwood throne, he is also lord of the forests, and his face is seen in church architecture peering from countless foliate masks.The Christian religion converted this day of Jack-in-the-Green to the Feast of St. John the Baptist, often portraying him in rustic attire, sometimes with horns and cloven feet (like the Greek Demi-God Pan)Midsummer Night's Eve is also special for adherents of the Faerie faith. The alternative fixed calendar date of June 25 (Old Litha) is sometimes employed by Covens. The name Beltane is sometimes incorrectly assigned to this holiday by some modern traditions of Wicca, even though Beltane is the Gaelic word for May.Traditional Foods:Garden fresh fruits and vegetables are made into a variety of dishes and eaten by Pagan's who choose to celebrate this day.Herbs and Flowers:Mugwort, Vervain, Chamomile, Rose, Honeysuckle, Lily, Oak, Lavender, Ivy, Yarrow, Fern, Elder, Wild Thyme, Daisy, Carnation.Incense:Lemon, Myrrh, Pine, Rose, Wisteria.Woods Burned:OakSacred Gemstone:EmeraldSpecial Activities:An Ideal time to reaffirm your vows to the Lord and Lady or your dedication to following the old traditions.





MabonAutumn Equinox, 2nd Harvest, September 21st Mabon, (pronounced MAY-bun, MAY-bone, MAH-boon, or MAH-bawn) is the Autumn Equinox. The Autumn Equinox divides the day and night equally, and we all take a moment to pay our respects to the impending dark. We also give thanks to the waning sunlight, as we store our harvest of this year's crops. The Druids call this celebration, Mea'n Fo'mhair, and honor the The Green Man, the God of the Forest, by offering libations to trees. Offerings of ciders, wines, herbs and fertilizer are appropriate at this time. Wiccans celebrate the aging Goddess as she passes from Mother to Crone, and her consort the God as he prepares for death and re-birth. Various other names for this Lesser Wiccan Sabbat are The Second Harvest Festival, Wine Harvest, Feast of Avalon, Equinozio di Autunno (Strega), Alben Elfed (Caledonii), or Cornucopia. The Teutonic name, Winter Finding, spans a period of time from the Sabbat to Oct. 15th, Winter's Night, which is the Norse New Year. At this festival it is appropriate to wear all of your finery and dine and celebrate in a lavish setting. It is the drawing to and of family as we prepare for the winding down of the year at Samhain. It is a time to finish old business as we ready for a period of rest, relaxation, and reflection. Symbolism of Mabon: Second Harvest, the Mysteries, Equality and Balance. Symbols of Mabon: wine, gourds, pine cones, acorns, grains, corn, apples, pomegranates, vines such as ivy, dried seeds, and horns of plenty. Herbs of Maybon: Acorn, benzoin, ferns, grains, honeysuckle, marigold, milkweed, myrrh, passionflower, rose, sage, solomon's seal, tobacco, thistle, and vegetables. Foods of Mabon: Breads, nuts, apples, pomegranates, and vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. Incense of Mabon: Autumn Blend-benzoin, myrrh, and sage. Colors of Mabon: Red, orange, russet, maroon, brown, and gold. Stones of Mabon: Sapphire, lapis lazuli, and yellow agates. Activities of Mabon: Making wine, gathering dried herbs, plants, seeds and seed pods, walking in the woods, scattering offerings in harvested fields, offering libations to trees, adorning burial sites with leaves, acorns, and pine cones to honor those who have passed over. Spellworkings of Mabon: Protection, prosperity, security, and self-confidence. Also those of harmony and balance. Deities of Mabon: Goddesses-Modron, Morgan, Epona, Persephone, Pamona and the Muses. Gods-Mabon, Thoth, Thor, Hermes, and The Green Man. Mabon is considered a time of the Mysteries. It is a time to honor Aging Deities and the Spirit World. Considered a time of balance, it is when we stop and relax and enjoy the fruits of our personal harvests, whether they be from toiling in our gardens, working at our jobs, raising our families, or just coping with the hussle-bussle of everyday life. May your Mabon be memorable, and your hearts and spirits be filled to overflowing!

Various Wiccan

Gardnerian Wicca
A retired British civil servant named Gerald B. Gardner is the 'Grandfather', at the very least, of almost all Neo-Wicca. He was initiated into a coven of Witches in the New Forest region of England in 1939 by a High Priestess named 'Old Dorothy' Clutterbuck. In 1949 he wrote a novel [*High Magic's Aid*] about medieval Witchcraft in which quite a bit of the Craft as practiced by that coven was used. In 1951 the last of the English laws against Witchcraft were repealed (primarily due to the pressure of Spiritualists) and Gardner published *Witchcraft Today*, which set forth a version of the rituals and traditions of that coven. There is an enormous amount of disagreement about virtually every statement I have made in this paragraph.
Gardnerism is both a tradition and a family, and lineage is a family tree. The High Priestess rules the coven, and the principles of love and trust preside. We follow our handed down book more carefully than many others, but we are free to add and improvise, as long as we preserve the original.
We work skyclad, practice binding and scourging, are hierarchal and secretive, therefore we are controversial. We're also controversial because we were first - the first craft tradition in the U. S. and descended from the man largely responsible for starting the craft revival. So, we're called the snobs of the Craft, but I think we're as much fun as anyone else; our parties as good, our jokes as bad.
*Each Gardnerian coven is autonomous and is headed by a High Priestess who can turn to her queen (the High Priestess who trained her) for counsel and advice. This maintains the lineage and creates a pool of experienced and knowledgeable leaders and teachers.
*Reincarnation and the Wiccan Rede [An it harm none do what you will] are basic tenants of the tradition. Covens are as much as possible composed of male/female pairs for balance. Most working is accomplished with the energy raised by the interaction of the Lord and Lady as represented by the couples in the coven by dancing, chanting, etc.
*Like many Wiccan traditions, Gardnerians have three degrees. An American Gardnerian must be of the 3rd degree before she can become a HPS. The HPS/HP are responsible for conducting services (circles), training their conveners, and preserving and passing on Gardnerian Craft. *[This material quoted from Converging Paths Newsletter, Kyril, Brita, & Hugh authors.]
A lot of the controversy surrounding Gardnerianism questions the sources of the rituals and other materials, particularly those appearing in print. It is true that Gardner presented these materials as if they were directly from his New Forest tradition. It is clear, however, that whatever materials the coven may have had when he was initiated, Gerald made a lot of changes and added a great deal. Literary sources of the published Book of Shadows include Blake, Kipling, Yeats and Crowley. Much of the published material was written by Doreen Valiente, a member of the coven for a time and later founder of her own groups and author of many excellent books on the Craft.
Gardnerian Witches without doubt do have many materials which have not appeared in print, however, their emphasis on secrecy has made them a punch line in the Wiccan social world. How many Gardnerians does it take to change a light bulb? That's a secret! Their High Priestess will usually be called 'Lady' Soandso and High Priest, 'Lord Whats-his-name'. [This is far more true in the U. S. than it is in England.]
Alexandrian Wicca
*As most everyone by now is aware, the Alexandrian Tradition is very close to Gardnerian with a few minor changes. (One of the most obvious ones being that the Alexandrians use the athame as a symbol for the element of fire and the wand as a symbol for air. Most of the rituals are very formal and heavily indebted to ceremonial magick. It is also a polarized tradition and the sexuality of that female/male polarity is emphasized. The ritual cycle deals mostly with the division of the year between the Holly King and the Oak King and several ritual dramas deal with the dying/resurrected God theme. As with Gardnerians, the High Priestess is supposedly the highest authority. However, it is odd that the primary spokespersons for both traditions have been men. [*This material provided by Gillan]
Alexandrian Wicca is the creation of Alex Sanders (with his then wife Maxine) who claimed to have been initiated by his grandmother in 1933. It's principal proponents are Janet and Stewart Fararr whose books set forth most, if not all, of the Alexandrian tradition. Contrary to popular belief, the name Alexandrian refers not to Alex Sanders, but to Ancient Alexandria.
Although similar to Gardnerian Wicca, Alexandrian Wicca tends to be more eclectic, and liberal. Some of Gardnerisms strict rules, such as the requirement of ritual nudity, have been made optional by Alexandrian Wicca.
Mary Nesnick, an American initiate in Gardnerian and Alexandrian traditions founded a 'new' tradition called Algard. This tradition brings together both Gardnerian and Alexandrian teachings under a single banner. This was possible due to the great similarities between the two traditions.
Dianic Wicca
*The Dianic Craft includes two distinct branches:
*1. One branch, founded in Texas by Morgan McFarland and Mark Roberts, gives primacy to the Goddess in its theology, but honors the Horned God as Her Beloved Consort. Covens are mixed, including both women and men. This branch is sometimes called 'Old Dianic', and there are still covens of this tradition, especially in Texas. Other covens, similar in teleology but not directly descended from the McFarland/Roberts line, are sprinkled around the country.
*2. The other branch, sometimes called Feminist Dianic Witchcraft, focus exclusively on the Goddess and consists of women-only covens and groups. These tend to be loosely structured and non-hierarchical, using consensus- decision- making and simple, creative, experimental ritual. They are politically feminist groups, usually very supportive, personal and emotionally intimate. There is a strong lesbian presence in the movement, though most covens are open to women of all orientations. The major network is Re-Formed Congregation of the Goddess, which publishes "Of a Like Mind" newspaper and sponsors conferences on Dianic Craft. [* Amber K]
Celtic Wicca (Church of Wicca)
The Church of Wicca was founded by Gavin and Yvonne Frost. They offer correspondence courses in their brand of Wicca, which is sometimes called Celtic Wicca. The Church of Wicca has just recently begun including a Goddess in their deity structure, and has been very patrofocal as Wiccan traditions go. The Church of Wicca terms itself "Baptist Wicca"
*The Frosts call their tradition of Wicca Celtic. To me it seems more of a mixture of high magic and eclectic Wicca, with a smattering of Celtic thrown in. For instance, they use three circles, one within the others, made of salt, sulphur and herbs with runes and symbols between them instead of just one circle. They also insist on a white- handled athame and will not have a black handled one, whereas all the other traditions I have heard or read about use a black handled one. It seems to me the Wicca they practice and teach should not be called Celtic at all; but since a lot of it is made up or put together by them from other traditions they should also give it a made-up name; say Frostism. If you DON'T have to pay for the course, and have some extra time, it would probably be worth reading just for comparison. [*From Circe, who took their correspondence course.]
The Frosts have always been rather more public than most traditions (advertising their course in the Enquirer and similar publications) which has earned them heavy criticism in less public Craft groups.
Georgian Wicca
If one word could best describe the Georgean Tradition, it would be 'eclectic. Even though the material provided to students was nominally Alexandrian, there was never any imperative to follow that path blindly. George Patterson (the tradition's founder) always said 'If it works use it, if it doesn't, don't'. The newsletter was always full of contributions from people of many traditions. I've always felt Pat's intent was to provide jumping off points for students and members. So even though I can claim initiation into more than one tradition, I'll always consider myself 'Georgian first: George is greatly missed, may the God-dess watch over him. Bright Blessings, Lord Fafner.
Discordianism (Erisian)
*The Discordian or Erisian movement is described as a 'Non- Prophet Irreligious Disorganization and has claimed 'The Erisian revelation is not a complicated put-on disguised as a new religion, but a new religion disguised as a complicated put-on. " It all started with the *'Principia Discordia, or How I Found the Goddess and What I Did to Her When I Found Her'*, a collection of articles and ideas compiled by Greg Hill (Malaclypse the Young-er). The central theme is 'Chaos is every bit as important as Order' as illustrated in the story of The curse of Greyface:
*Humor is central to Discordianism, but Discordianism should not be dismissed as a joke. Profound experiences frequently accompany the practice or Erisinaism. It is a perceptual game, one which demonstrates that the absurd is just as valid as the mundane and chaos is just as valid as order. It frees the practitioner from the order games (that most have forgotten are games) to play games with order or games with chaos, or both. The effects of Discordianism upon an individual can be far reaching and amazingly liberating. [Although a great many immature individuals have played at Discordianism and thereby side stepped any chance of spiritual growth whatsoeverGrey Cat *wryly*]

what is wicca

now this was written by my grandma but edited my be

what is wicca





Contrary to what those who choose to persecute or lie about us wish to believe, Wicca is a very peaceful, harmonious and balanced way of thinking and life which promotes oneness with the divine and all which exists.Wicca is a deep appreciation and awe in watching the sunrise or sunset, the forest in the light of a glowing moon, a meadow enchanted by the first light of day. It is the morning dew on the petals of a beautiful flower, the gentle caress of a warm summer breeze upon your skin, or the warmth of the summer sun on your face. Wicca is the fall of colorful autumn leaves, and the softness of winter snow. It is light, and shadow and all that lies in between. It is the song of the birds and other creatures of the wild. It is being in the presence of Mother Earths nature and being humbled in reverence. When we are in the temple of the Lord and Lady, we are not prone to the arrogance of human technology as they touch our souls. To be a Witch is to be a healer, a teacher, a seeker, a giver, and a protector of all things. If this path is yours, may you walk it with honor, light and integrity.Wicca is a belief system and way of life based upon the reconstruction of pre-Christian traditions originating in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. While much of the information of how our ancestors lived, worshiped and believed has been lost due to the efforts of the medieval church to wipe our existence from history, we try to reconstruct those beliefs to the best of our ability with the information that is available.Thanks to archaeological discoveries, we now have basis to believe that the origins of our belief system can be traced even further back to the Paleolithic peoples who worshipped a Hunter God and a Fertility Goddess. With the discovery of these cave paintings, estimated to be around 30,000 years old, depicting a man with the head of a stag, and a pregnant woman standing in a circle with eleven other people, it can reasonably be assumed that Witchcraft is one of the oldest belief systems known in the world toady. These archetypes are clearly recognized by Wiccan as our view of the Goddess and God aspect of the supreme creative force and predate Christianity by roughly 28,000 years making it a mere toddler in the spectrum of time as we know it. Witchcraft in ancient history was known as "The Craft of the Wise" because most who followed the path were in tune with the forces of nature, had a knowledge of Herbs and medicines, gave council and were valuable parts of the village and community as Shamanic healers and leaders. They understood that mankind is not superior to nature, the earth and its creatures but instead we are simply one of the many parts, both seen and unseen that combine to make the whole. As Chief Seattle said; "We do not own the earth, we are part of it." These wise people understood that what we take or use, we must return in kind to maintain balance and equilibrium. Clearly, modern man with all his applied learning and technology has forgotten this. Subsequently, we currently face ecological disaster and eventual extinction because of our hunger for power and a few pieces of gold.For the past several hundred years, the image of the Witch has been mistakenly associated with evil, heathenism, and unrighteousness. In my humble opinion, these misconceptions have their origin in a couple of different places. To begin, the medieval church of the 15th through 18th centuries created these myths to convert the followers of the old nature based religions to the churches way of thinking. By making the Witch into a diabolical character and turning the old religious deities into devils and demons, the missionaries were able to attach fear to these beliefs which aided in the conversion process. Secondly, as medical science began to surface, the men who were engaged in these initial studies had a very poor understanding of female physiology, especially in the area of a women's monthly cycles. The unknowns in this area played very well with the early churches agenda lending credence to the Witch Hunters claims and authority. The fledgling medical professions also stood to benefit greatly from this because it took the power of the women healers away giving it to the male physicians transferring the respect and power to them.Unfortunately these misinformed fears and superstitions have carried forward through the centuries and remain to this day. This is why many who follow these nature oriented beliefs have adopted the name of Wicca over its true name of Witchcraft to escape the persecution, harassment and misinformation associated with the name of Witchcraft and Witch not to mention the bad publicity the press and Hollywood has given us simply to generate a profit.What Witchcraft is:Witchcraft is a spiritual system that fosters the free thought and will of the individual, encourages learning and an understanding of the earth and nature thereby affirming the divinity in all living things. Most importantly however, it teaches responsibility. We accept responsibility for our actions and deeds as clearly a result of the choices we make. We do not blame an exterior entity or being for our shortcomings, weaknesses or mistakes. If we mess up or do something that brings harm to another, we have no one but ourselves to blame and we must face the consequences resulting from those actions. No ifs, ands or buts and no whining...We acknowledge the cycles of nature, the lunar phases and the seasons to celebrate our spirituality and to worship the divine. It is a belief system that allows the Witch to work with, not in supplication to deities with the intent of living in harmony and achieving balance with all things.The spells that we do involve healing, love, harmony, wisdom and creativity. The potions that we stir might be a headache remedy, a cold tonic, or an herbal flea bath for our pets. We strive to gain knowledge of and use the natural remedies placed on this earth by the divine for our benefit instead of using synthetic drugs unless absolutely necessary.Wiccan believe that the spirit of the One, Goddess and God exist in all things. In the trees, rain, flowers, the sea, in each other and all of natures creatures. This means that we must treat "all things" of the Earth as aspects of the divine. We attempt to honor and respect life in all its many manifestations both seen and unseen.Wiccan learn from and revere the gift of nature from divine creation by celebrating the cycles of the sun, moon and seasons. We search within ourselves for the cycles that correspond to those of the natural world and try to live in harmony with the movement of this universal energy. Our teachers are the trees, rivers, lakes, meadows, mountains and animals as well as others who have walked this path before us. This belief creates a reverence and respect for the environment, and all life upon the Earth.We also revere the spirits of the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water which combine to manifest all creation. From these four elements we obtain insight to the rhythms of nature and understand they are also the rhythms of our own lives.Because Witches have been persecuted for so many centuries, we believe in religious freedom first! We do not look at our path as the only way to achieve spirituality, but as one path among many to the same end. We are not a missionary religion out to convert new members to think the same as we do. We are willing to share our experience and knowledge with those who seek our wisdom and perspective however. We believe that anyone who is meant for this path will find it through their own search as the Goddess speaks to each of us in her time and way. Wiccan practice tolerance and acceptance toward all other religions as long as those faiths do not persecute others or violate the tenant of "Harm None."