Tuesday Try A New Taste - Hamburger Pie

• 1 can refrigerated biscuits
• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 package (8 ounces) light cream cheese
• 1 can (10 3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
  1/4 cup ketchup

In a large skillet, brown ground beef and onions. Combine cream cheese, soup, and milk. Add salt, ketchup, and ground beef and onions. Transfer mixture to a 2-quart casserole. Bake at 375° for 15 minutes
Place biscuits around edge of casserole; return to oven and bake 15 to 20 minutes longer, or until golden brown.
Serves 4 to 6.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Monday Make A - Sun Wheel

Since summer is really for kids, I mean let's face it, once you've reached adulthood, a lot of the "magic" of summer disappears. You don't get three months off anymore, no lazy days wandering the woods out back, building forts in the corn fields, climbing trees, or just doing nothing. Adults have a responsibility to provide for kids - so they can do all those things *grin*
As midsummer approaches, the kids are running out of things to "do" - they've done it all! Here is an idea for something you can do together - which is always a bonus :)

Sun Wheels

Not too difficult to figure out, actually. Make Sun representations in a myriad of different ways to reflect the power of the great star. Here are a few ideas:

• Construction Paper: Get a hold of some construction paper, some glitter, glue,  scissors, rubber stamps, or whatever else you can dream up to make solar images to hang around your house
• Sun Mobile: You can use your construction paper suns as tassels on a sun mobile. Just decorate a bit of cardboard, dangle some strings from it, and hang your decorations from it
• Mud Cast: Gather a bucket of dirt (from your own property if possible), a small screen (the kind you find on your windows), a serving platter lined with paper, a soil testing kit, instant concrete, a carving tool of some sort, and a pitcher of water. Find a place you don't mind messing up...this can be pretty sloppy. Take several handfuls of soil and put them on the serving dish and make a mound of it in the enter. Pour some water around your soil. Then use the soil testing kit (this step can e skipped if you either don't want to know the quality of your dirt, or if you took the irt from somewhere other than your own garden). Add the instant concrete and mix it together as fast as you can. Shape it into a disk, then use your carving tool to form a spiral sun symbol, or some other representation of the sun.

Inspired by: 'Magical Gardens' by Patricia Monighan.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Sunday Surprise - Child Protection

Today is for my boy...he is sweet, kind, thoughtful, polite, maddening, smart-alecky, frustratingly able to push every one of my buttons until I am so mad I can't see straight, then walk over to me, lay his head against my side, smile up at me so sweetly it makes me want to weep, and say "Mommy, I love you." That's all. That's all he needs to do, to re-wrap me around that little finger of his.
Every night since his conception (don't ask me how I knew, I just did...) I have either re-built the shield around him, or strengthened it. I have missed a few nights when I was extremely ill, but, even though it is "built" in such a way that it doesn't need to be attended daily, I still do it. It keeps me connected to him, allows me to send extra energy to areas that are in need (like when he's sick), and calms me as much as it protects him....
The initial "shield was created by visualization of a ball of deep blue protective energy being created around him. I do the outline first, clockwise, while saying

"Circle of power & protective energy, return all negativity to the sender by three"
three times. Once created, the spell is spoken:

"North to South (visualize the "ball starting to form as the top & bottom come together) East to West (same visualization, only the sides are now forming)

"North to South, East to West,
Protect this child, do your best
Keep him safe and free from harm,
Keep him dry, keep him warm,
Let to those who wish him ill,
Their wish return with vengeance & will
Let him be always, happy & free

This is my will, So Mote It Be!"

As the last line is spoken, I place my hands on the shield and "ignite" it with Deep Pulsing Blue protective energy. The shield is filled with the beautiful Green of good health & healing, as well as a muted, calming Peachish color. These energies surround him fully, as well as fill him fully...
I have a few more things child related to share today. I have included credit to the author, when I know who it is :)

Child's Bedtime Prayer

Day is done
It's time for bed
Goddess bless my sleepy head
Earth and Water
Air and Fire
Bring gentle dreams as I retire
When the morning sun does rise
The God will bless my open eyes

Author Unknown
Sentinel Spell

To protect a child at night, light a white candle and some incense on the floor of the child's room. Take a toy that looks like it might scare monsters under the bed (a lion, tiger, bear or dragon) and pass it over the candle and through the incense smoke. Sprinkle the toy with water and salt, saying:"Elements of Fire, Air, Water and Earth, charge this sentinel. Drive away all scary things. Only good may pass!" Place the sentinel in a spot where it can oversee the room and the child. Recharge once a week.
*A sidenote here - we've not had many "afraid of..." problems with our boy, but for a short period, he did have some issues. We have a (growing) collection of dragons in our home. Daddy took one of his small dragons into the boy's room, and placed it on a high shelf where it could see & be seen, and told Shayne that he now had his own "Guardian Dragon" (like he doesn't have enough...) It worked like a charm...uhhhh, no pun intended....

Child's Protection Bracelet
By: Kirin Lee

A special kind of bracelet was used to protect children in ancient Egypt. It utilized the number seven, which the Egyptians considered to be a magic number. To make your own bracelet, string seven agate and seven gold-colored beads on a thin cord in an alternating pattern. While doing this, concentrate on your purpose and visualize the bracelet protecting your child. Knot each end to keep the beads in place. You may put knots between the beads if you wish. Leave enough cord on each end for tying the bracelet around the child's wrist. If it's too large, wrap it around the wrist more than once before tying.

For My Child

Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry,
and pick you up and take you to the park to play.
Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink,
and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.
Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and
keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow
bubbles.
Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck, and I will buy you one if he comes by.
Just for this afternoon, I won't worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second-guess every decision I have made where you are concerned.
Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cookies, and I won't stand over you trying to fix them.
Just for this afternoon, I will take us to McDonald’s and buy us both a Happy Meal so you can have both toys.
Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a story about how you were born and how much I love you.
Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry.
Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars.
Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows.
Just for this evening when I run my finger through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that Mother Goddess has given me the greatest gift ever given.
I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children's graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can't handle it anymore.
And when I kiss you good night I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer. It is then, that I will thank my Goddess for you, and ask her for nothing, except one more day.............

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Saturday Special Stones - Gemstone Elixirs

Some how-tos of Gemstone Elixirs

Gemstone elixirs are similar to flower essences in that they are made so they contain the essence of the vibrations of the crystals or stones used. As one consumes the elixir over time, the vibrational essences work on the root cause of "dis-ease" so that the person can clear the issues that created it and the dis-ease can be relieved.

Elixirs can be made for immediate consumption or can be preserved and used sublingually, and they are simple to create. If you are going to make your own gemstone elixirs you will require a few bits and pieces that are easily obtained. First you will want to get some pure distilled water and then find some clear glass or crystal containers that will allow the sunlight to pass through the water containing the crystal. If you are going to make an elixir to drink right away this may be the only thing you will need, as you make the elixir and drink it as soon as you make it. If you are going to store and use the elixirs over a period of time you will also require some medium sized dark bottles, some small dosage bottles and some brandy, vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar for preservative. Make sure that all of your containers and bottles are carefully washed and thoroughly rinsed and have air-dried.

Of course, the most important part of the elixir is the stone or crystal from which the essence will be made. You may desire to consult crystal-healing books, or intuitively choose stones. You can also use kinesiology testing (strength testing) to choose appropriate stones. This is easy. You stretch out your left arm and make it stiff and strong. Have someone test its strength by pressing down on it. Then, hold the stone in the other hand and have someone press down on your outstretched arm to see how "strong" you are with the stone. If the arm is hard to press down the stone will be good for you to use and if it is easy to press down then the stone is not the right choice for you at this time.

It is perfectly ok to choose more than one stone with which to make an elixir. Sometimes mixing crystal vibrations in one elixir is much easier than making a lot of separate ones and then taking a number of them for the desired result. The most important thing about making elixirs from crystals and stones is to make sure that the stone you are using is not water-soluble and does not contain mercury, arsenic, copper, or other toxic substances. One way to determine if the stone you are about to use is not suitable for traditional elixir preparation is to look in a really good mineral guide to find out what the stone's physical properties are. You might be surprised to find that some stones, like malachite for example, cannot be used in water to prepare an elixir. The book, Love is in the Earth, by Melody, sometimes has information on whether or not a stone can be used to prepare an elixir. When in doubt, there is an alternative method that can be used that I will describe further on in this article.

Most elixirs are prepared initially by placing the chosen stones in a clear jar or container filled with distilled water and setting the container outside in full and bright sunlight for at least an hour. Elixirs for immediate use can be poured up and drunk by the glassful. To preserve an elixir pour one ounce of brandy, vegetable glycerin or apple cider vinegar into the water. This will stabilize the vibrational energies and preserve the mixture. Once you have preserved your elixir you can pour it into a dark bottle. This first preparation is called the "mother bottle".

To prepare a dosage bottle, pour a small one-ounce bottle ¾ full with distilled water. Then fill to the top with your preservative and add several drops of elixir from the mother bottle. Once you have prepared your dosage bottle you will want to shake it hard for several minutes or pound the bottom of it on your palm (but not so hard you break the bottle). This is similar to the process of percussion that homeopaths use to set the energies of substances in homeopathic remedies. In fact it is a good idea to shake or "percuss" your dosage bottle every time you prepare to take an elixir. You may then use several drops under the tongue or drink a glass of pure water, with several drops of dosage elixir added, at least four times daily.

You can supercharge your elixir, during the preparation stage, by leaving in the sun during the time of the full or new moon. You can charge it up even more by placing it in a dark spot, after energizing it in the sun, and surrounding the container with quartz points in a similar way that you would use the fairy circle or medicine wheel grid, with the container as the center of the grid. You can leave this for a week or so while it receives added amplification from the quartz. Afterwards you may preserve the elixir and create your mother and dosage bottles.

A similar technique may be used in preparing elixirs from stones that may not be placed in the water due to water solubility or toxic substances. In the case of such stones, fill the container with distilled water and place it in the sun. Surround it with a number of the stones that you desire to absorb the essences of. Then create a fairy ring or medicine wheel of quartz points, facing inward, around the container and its exterior stones. This will help to focus the energy of the stones into the water. Remember, if you are leaving such a container in the sunshine with quartz around it, that quartz can magnify the sun's energy and start a FIRE if you leave it in the grass. Be careful where you place quartz, if you are using it in the sunlight, and be nearby just in case.

Once you have energized the stones out of doors in the sunlight, you can continue this process with the quartz supercharging technique described above. Always, when you have prepared elixirs, mother bottles and dosage bottles, be diligent about marking them carefully. On each bottle you should include the stones and preparation technique used, the date the preparation was started and whether the bottle is a mother bottle, or dosage bottle. If you do this you will avoid having a cabinet full of elixirs that you can't really use because you don't know for sure what is in them.

Some other uses for elixirs include elixir sprays. They are also easy to make by adding several drops of elixir to distilled water. I use them when I am in situations where sage or incense is not acceptable for cleansing a space. I have also had baths with gem elixirs, using a teaspoon or so in the bath. It is like taking the stones in the bath with you without the risk to the stones or to the body (sitting on a sharp crystal can be painful). One can even use elixirs in plant water!

Elixirs can be safely used for pets IF you are absolutely sure of the safety of the stones you prepared them with or if they are prepared with the alternative technique leaving the stones outside the container. The easiest way I have found to give elixirs to pets is to pop several drops of dosage elixir into the pet's water each day until the pet appears to be cleared of the dis-ease. Be sure to contact your vet for serious problems.

Elixirs may be used in alignment with the lunar calendar, for both people and pets. Some people feel that starting with new moon or full moon energy adds to its potency. It is also a good way of keeping track of the time you are taking them, as most elixirs are only needed for a month or so. If you are unsure if you still need to take an elixir, you can use kinesiology testing to see if you are still strong with the elixir by holding the dosage bottle in your right hand and having someone do the 'strong muscle' test for you.

And that is all there is to getting started with gemstone elixirs. Have fun and enjoy the process of creating something healing and wonderful with your favorite crystals and stones.

From Planet Lightworker by Joysprite

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Friday Form A Circle - The Caffeinated Cross

This was found at Bewitching Ways, one of the best sites around! :)

The Caffeinated Cross
(A Javacrucian Ritual)

 
-lodged between the musty old pages of a musty, dusty old book in a musty, dusty old library whose musty, dusty old dust hadn't been disturbed by the presence of man in many a musty, dusty old century. It took a great deal of effort to translate the original writings. After months of effort and research in language libraries, it was finally determined that the weird script was not some arcane, forgotten language, but English, written by someone with a very bad case of caffeine jitters. Another fragment indicated that this was once part of a book, titled "The Mystery of the StarBuck."

THE CAFFEINATED CROSS
-- by Karl Lembke

Stand, facing east, holding your coffee cup, filled with the mystical brew, in your power hand, and assume a posture of wakeful alertness. Bring your coffee cup to your forehead and intone:

"Latte"

Lower your coffee cup to the vicinity of your navel:

"Mocha"

Bring your coffee cup to your left shoulder:

"Cappuccino"

Bring it across to your right shoulder:

Frappuccino"

Clasp your coffee cup in both hands over your heart chakra:

Arabica, Oh man!

Extend your arms to the sides, and intone:

"Before me, Mrs Olson. 
Behind me, Juan Valdez
At my right hand M J B
At my left hand, the brothers Hills
For about me swirls the coffee aroma
Within me sings the caffeine high"

Drink the coffee, in communion with the spirits of the Sacred Coffee Bean. This last step may be usefully repeated as long as you like. To end the ritual, raise the mug to your lips one last time, facing East and intone:

"Goddess. . . I needed that!"

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Thursday This Is Your Spell - Money Spells

I apologize for missing Tuesday & Wednesday, but I've been down with stomach problems, and blogging was probably the furthest thing from my mind...well ok, FOOD was the furthest from my mind, but the blogs ran a close second... I am posting several Money Spells to kinda make up for it...

Money Growing Spell
Source Unknown (If this is yours, please let me know so I can credit you)

Take several coins of different denominations and a 2 oz. bottle of "Watch Us Grow" liquid fertilizer, instant action 8-8-8. Dig a hole in the ground put the coins in. Pour the liquid in the hole on the coins, and say:

"I place the seedlings down below,
and now stand back and watch them grow.
Be it done ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !!"

* Urgent Money Spell *
From The Good Spell Book by Gillian Kemp

I have this book, and have referenced it often, mainly because it has useful & effective information. Remember though, you always want to try to make any spell you do "yours" in some way.

The Romanies say that when money is urgently needed by a certain date, this spell works wonders. One thing to remember: it must be performed at the witching hour of midnight.

Take one white votive candle to represent each $100 or $1,000 that you critically need. Stand them on a plate you often eat from. At a quarter to midnight, sit in a room with no electric lights. Light a gold or silver, green or white candle (not one of those representing money). This is the candle that will give power to the "money" votive candles and will enable you to see what you are doing. Now work your magic. Visualize a circle of gold light being placed around you for protection and for a circle blue light to be placed around you for healing. Pick up a votive candle and light it from the main candle flame. As you do so, say that the votive you are lighting represents the $100, or $1,000, you need. Place it on the plate to begin a circle of "money" candles. Light each votive, and say the same words for each, until the circle is complete. Keep it in your mind that you are not being greedy; that the money is necessary. Leave the candles to burn out of their own accord. The money should start winging its way to you.

Bay Leaf Wishing Spell
Source Unknown (If this is yours, please let me know so I can credit you)

Wishes that are not possible are usually not worth going after. It is important to know what you want and go after it. The Bay leaf possesses powerful magical properties and is used for granting wishes.

Materials:
Bay leaves - 3
piece of paper

When the moon is new, write your wish out on a piece of paper. Now visualize your wish coming true. Fold the paper into thirds and place 3 bay leaves inside. Again, visualize your wish coming true. Now, fold the paper into thirds once again and hide it away in a dark place. Keep visualizing your wish coming true as you do this. Once the wish is granted, the paper should be burned as a thank you.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Million Blog List

Hey y'all, just a quickie note to say "Hey! I'm part of the Million Blog List as of today, May 8, 2008! How cool is that? I'll be back to post more soon, now that I no longer feel like I'm dying....

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Monday Make A - Charm of Protection for The Car

Sorry I missed yesterday, and today will be short and sweet. I am having some issues with stomach problems, and I'm not much up to writing right now...There really doesn't seem to be many readers here right now, so hopefully there won't be anyone disappointed.

DRAGON CHARM OF PROTECTION FOR THE CAR

Purchase a plastic toy of a dragon, dinosaur or other fierce beast. Make sure its mouth is open showing lots of wicked teeth.

You may want to charge it first, by holding it in your hand, visualizing it fiercely protecting your vehicle from accidents, theft and vandalizing.

Say an appropriate invocation to your god or goddess if applicable (for instance, if you are using a cat or lion toy, you may want to invoke Bast).

If you hang this in your windshield, it will fiercely protect your vehicle.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Saturday Special Stones - Amethyst

Since Amethyst is my birth stone, I figured it would be fitting, since I am the one doing this, to start there :) It is a beautiful crystal, and I keep several around me for both protection and it's calming influence. One sits on my desk, I carry one in my purse, and there is one in the bedroom. My pendulum also has a large piece of amethyst as it's 'center piece.'

Amethyst and its properties

Physical properties of amethyst:
Amethyst is the most valuable stone of the quartz group, and is often found as 6 sided crystal points. Amethyst is a regal violet gemstone with whitish stripes, and can range from light purple to deep purple as a result of trace amounts of manganese or iron. It is a form of crystallized quartz, composed of silica, and is found mostly in Brazil.

Metaphysical properties of amethyst:
Amethyst is a powerful crystal, and has a wide range of metaphysical uses. Amethyst is a radiant gemstone, meaning that its energies are expansive. It is said to bring serenity, and has been called the "stone of contentment," for it's soothing and calming energies. This makes it a good stone for meditation; it is said that when you meditate with amethyst you are helping the Earth, because the violet ray will help to transform the entire world into a better place. It has many supernatural powers. Its shielding powers can ward off negative energies while attracting and amplifying positive ones. Amethyst is a good stone to help you cope with sadness and grief, as it subliminally communicates that there is no death. It provokes honesty and uprightness, which makes it a good stone for those people in the business world, though everyone can benefit from its effects. It is said to bring luck, ensure constancy, protect against magic and homesickness, and has long been known to help against drunkenness.Amethyst also stimulates inspiration. It can help you assimilate new ideas, and open channels to your true higher self. This makes it a good stone for those seeking spiritual growth.

Amethyst and synergy:
Amethyst is a good stone for those born during The Moon of Frost - (23 Oct - 22 Nov). Although the birthstone of those born in February, Amethyst's calming influence can help overcome the impulsiveness associated with Scorpios, and its mentally and spiritually stimulating aspects work well with those born during this time.

Amethyst Healing & Magical Uses:
Amethyst is recommended for stimulating greater love, and attunement for healing forces. In directing the energy of the amethyst to the lungs, relief may be obtained for asthma and circulation problems. You can recharge your own energy by holding an amethyst over the crown chakra, third eye, or heart chakra. A very high vibration centered in love, balance, and harmony will be transferred. Violet has a calming effect upon the nervous system. Insomnia may be relieved by gently rubbing an amethyst on the temples or forehead, and can be used for tension and migraine headaches. Calms emotions and reduces stress. Helps the holder of the stone to have a more optimistic and uplifting perspective. A powerful amulet for travelers. It is used as a transmitter of the healing power of the universe. It is used to increase psychic awareness. It is kept with other divination tools to enhance their qualities. Placing it under the pillow helps insomniacs and induces prophetic dreams. Used to induce harmony.

So, in closing, since amethyst is part of the quartz group, and is able to work with a wide range of different vibration levels and rates, it is a stone with a wide range of applications. Amethyst is one of the best all-around stones for a new age.

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Friday Form A Circle - Midsummer Dragon Ritual

Needs:

• Brown candle
• Blue candle
• Orange candle
• Teal/sea green candle
• 2 white candles
• Dragonsblood
• Sandalwood
  

Place altar facing north with dragon/Goddess statue in center, a white candle to each side. To the east place a bell and dragon’s blood & sandalwood incense, to the west a chalice of wine, dish of salt, and small dish of water. With sword or staff cast the circle, saying

“Circle of Power and Protective energy, return all negativity to the sender times three”

three times.

I consecrate and bless this wine in the name of the Earth
With salt and water I consecrate and bless this bell in the name of the Earth Mother

Light the dragonsblood and sandalwood

Priestess: "Oh Blessed Mother, creatress of all, giver of lives, crone of Water, ageless and wise this sacred circle is consecrated to thee. In your sacred name and under your protection is this sabbat rite begun."

Priest: Ring the bell three times and invoke: "Sacred dragon-spirit of the air, fire creature, beautiful & fair child of Earth Mother, I now call forth thy divine image."

Return the bell to the stone altar.

Priest & Priestess: With both hands, raise the chalice of wine to your lips. Drink some of the wine Then pour the rest over the earth as a libation to the Goddess, as you say:"This blessed wine we do pour as an offering to thee O gracious Goddess of love, fertility and life."

East: I call upon the dragons of Earth to guard our circle and bless us with your element, fertility, adaptability, strength and stability. Join us in our celebration of your season of blossoming and growth.

South: I call upon the dragons of Fire to guard our circle and bless us with your element, the warmth of love, and protect us with the fire that would burn those who seek to do us harm or wish us ill. Join us in our celebration.

West: I call upon the dragons of Water to guard our circle and bless us with your element, the water that feeds the earth and us, allows us to grow and flourish, cools us when we’re hot, and quenches our thirst. Join us in our celebration.

North: I call upon the dragons of Air to guard our circle and bless us with your element, the air that living things breathe, the breeze that cools us, the food of the fire that warms us. Join us in our celebration.

Spirit: I call upon the dragons of Spirit to guard our circle and bless us with your uniting of the elements, your thirst for knowledge, understanding, bring us unity, harmony and freedom to seek what we need. Join us in our celebration.

Priestess:

Litha, Summer Solstice, or Midsummer is the longest day of the year and celebrates the Sun at the height of his power. It includes the elements of Fire and Water for the sacred marriage of the God and Goddess and to acknowledge the need for the Sun and the rain to help the crops grow. In Wales & Britain, this was a time of Cerridwen and her magical cauldron. However, it was said in a great many places that this was a powerful time for faeries, elves & other supernatural beings. Midsummer Eve has long been associated with faeries and magic. On this night you're supposed to be able to see faeries, as the veil between the worlds is thinned. In ancient times, our ancestors went out to gather their Mugwort on Midsummer Eve. Today, we believe that all the little people are abroad in great numbers during this balance of Light & Dark. If you are on good terms with them, it's said that standing within a faery ring will help you see them. It's an excellent time of the year to become friends with faeries and other such beings. June & the Summer Solstice was also considered the time of the Green Man and the Faery Queen in Northern Europe, in particular. In the Mediterranean areas this was the time of Pan & the Forest Goddess. Pan with his pipes, enticed Nymphs & maidens to rendezvous with him in the green woods for love & pleasure. Midsummer is halfway around the wheel of the year from Yule, so while we celebrate the day when the sun is at it's strongest, we also have to note that from here on, the sun will start to lose some of it's power as the light slowly begins to wane.

Priest: Taking up leafy branch

"We love the warmth of the summer sun. We love it's light and radiant heat. But just as important to the Earth is the gift of rain to fill our reservoirs, rain to water plants & crops, rain to cool us." Dip the leafy branch into the water & sprinkle it like raindrops on the fire saying "Not too hot, not too dry, may the summer rains keep the earth green. Not too wet, not too moist, may the summer sun keep the earth on an even keel."

Pass branch to each in turn, who will dip in water and say while sprinkling on fire,

“Not too hot, not too dry, may the summer rains keep the Earth green.
Not too moist, not too wet, may the summer sun keep the earth on an even keel.”

Priest & Priestess; "Together the people stand joined at the heart and hand. As the sun burns, and the word turns, and the summer blesses the land. Let out love for one another, let our joy in life, let our love for all the earth bless us and the land forever. So mote it be."

All: So Mote it Be

Priest & Priestess: "Summer has come again! We celebrate the sunshine, the long hot days to swim & play! Lord & lady, watch over your children and keep us safe during these busy Summer months!"

Spirit: Thank You Spirit dragons for your protection and blessings go or stay as you please, our rite is done, and you are welcome here.

North: Thank You Air dragons for your protection and blessings go or stay as you please, our rite is done, and you are welcome here.

West: Thank You Water dragons for your protection and blessings go or stay as you please, our rite is done, and you are welcome here.

South: Thank You Fire dragons for your protection and blessings go or stay as you please, our rite is done, and you are welcome here.

East: Thank You Earth dragons for your protection and blessings go or stay as you please, our rite is done, and you are welcome here.

Priest and Priestess: The circle is open but never broken, the celebration is now begun ! ! ! ! !

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.

Thursday This Is Your Spell - Basic Spell Construction

HAPPY BELTANE!

Today's entry isn't a spell, per se, but rather basic information designed to help you create your own spells. While it is acceptable to use a spell someone else has written, that is tried & true, keep in mind that the more of your energy you put into a spell, the more effective it will be for you. With that having been said, here goes :)

BASIC SPELL CONSTRUCTION

Because of the very nature of Magic, each working should be highly individualized and personal. Even if following a traditional spell, it should be tailored to your specific needs to be most effective for you. Understanding the basics of Spell Construction will enable you to formulate your own specific, effective spells for any purpose you desire.

Preliminary planning is necessary. The very first step is to decide precisely what your desired end result is to be. Before you can start, you must decide where you are going. You must be very explicit. It is important, also, that you choose your time carefully. You should take into consideration that all Astrological implications, energy currents and Moon phases can affect the strength of your working. However I firmly believe, the best time to create/cast a spell is when it is needed, not three weeks or months later, when the associations are "right". If it can be delayed until "all the signs are right" that is great, but rarely is that the case. You should try to accommodate as many associations as possible, but this is not strictly necessary.

The Moon is the astronomical body closest to us and, therefore, has a profound influence upon us, it is very important to choose a time when the Moon is in an astrological sign which is appropriate for your working, if at all possible. For example:

Aries/Action - Enthusiasm,

Taurus/Renewal - Sensuality

Gemini/Communication - Curiosity,

Cancer/Emotion - Nurturing,

Leo/Vitality - Determined,

Virgo/Organizing - Studious,

Libra/Balance - Cooperation,

Scorpio/Sexual - Philosophical,

Capricorn/Authority - Ambitious,

Aquarius/Innovation - Social,

Pisces/Sensitivity - Idealistic.

Bear in mind that magical workings for gain, increase or bringing things to you, should be initiated when the Moon is Waxing (from Dark to Full); when the Moon is Waning (from Full to Dark), it is time for magical workings of decrease or sending away. The highest energy occurs at the Full Moon and, therefore, this is the most powerful time for magical workings. The New Moon is the next most powerful time for Magic.

Whenever possible, follow Nature's natural Energy Currents. There is a natural time for starting things (a planting time), for maturing things (a growing time), for reaping things (a harvest time) and, of course, a time for rest and planning. Flowing with these currents will make your magical work much easier.

Remember to plan your project for a time of uninterrupted privacy. It is important that you have no distractions. Generally speaking, it is best to work as late at night as possible. A time when there is less frantic energy is most appropriate. You might consider Midnight or later.

In choosing a place to do your magical working pay particular attention to your needs, for you must be comfortable. Your place should be private, quiet and secure. If at all possible, set aside a special place for this purpose only. An unused room, a special corner of your bedroom, a quiet, secluded spot in your garden. A place that is yours. A place that you can come to whenever need arises and that is as free from intrusion of others as possible.

Prior to the night of your magical working, gather together the things that you will need. All of the things used are tools. They have no inherent magic. They are to help you create a mood. If correctly made and used, they will trigger primitive responses from deep within you. They should be chosen with care. Consider the purpose of your ritual and choose your tools accordingly. If your magic is to be sexual, your candles, oils, incenses and so forth, should bring forth a sexual response. If the desired result of your Magic is Tranquillity, then the tools should make you feel calm, peaceful and serene. Any candles you might use should not have commercially added fragrances as these may not be appropriate for your working.

Prior to your ritual, prepare yourself and your equipment by any means necessary to clean and purify. Historically, people have fasted, followed meticulous and detailed bathing practices, practiced chastity and used many other methods. Most often a Ritual Bath is the preferred method. A bath frequently utilizing candlelight, fragrant herbs, bath salts or sensuous oils. A sumptuous hot bath, special bathing preparations and appropriate lighting, combined, can create the soothing effect which will help in the very important step of relaxing and clearing the mind completely of all mundane thoughts and experiences of the day. Your ritual Bath should, also, begin to set the specific vibrations conducive to your purpose into motion. You must not only cleanse and purify but must, also, begin to create the type of energy necessary.

Once your purification process has been accomplished, you are now ready to begin. Proceed to the special place you have previously chosen in which to perform your magic. If at all possible, you should make use of the primitive responses set into motion by a well chosen piece of music. Your music should start slowly and build to a rousing climax. As you use your oils, light your candle or incense (or utilize any other tool you have chosen), you should begin to further intensify the energy that you have set into motion around you. A high degree of intensity is vitally important. The Altered State of Consciousness that you must reach is not a meditative state. Anything that interferes with your ability to concentrate upon, reach and control the high energy state necessary to perform magic should be avoided. Such as, screaming children, a sink full of dirty dishes, use of alcohol or drugs, etc.

Do not scatter your energy by attempting to do more than one magical working at a time. Remember that Magic is the manipulation of energy, a thought is a form of energy and a visualization is an even stronger form of energy. Your visualization can be a method used to intensify further and direct your will. Your visualization can be the method by which you control the magical energy you have produced. You must know what you want. You must see it. You must feel the high energy flow. You must direct it. One of the most important elements in the practice of any form of Magic is the Universal Law of Cause and Effect. This means that whatever you do (or don't do) you cause something to happen.

The most important consideration is the Universal Law of Retribution. This means that no matter what you do, it comes back to you in like kind. It is the nature of things that as you send something out it gains momentum, so that, by the time it comes back to you, it is three times stronger. If you do something nice for someone, someone will do something nicer for you.

"As you weave and spin your spell,
Three fold return the tale will tell."

Please keep in mind, this is a guide, and not all of these suggestions are requirements. As a matter-of-fact, none of these things are actual requirements. Do they help focus & direct the energy required for a successful spell..? Most assuredly! But in many situations, a spell is needed now! There's no time for preparation, or all the "pretties." I believe you can (and I do) cast a spell on a moments notice! It's all about focusing the energy around you and directing it toward your desired goal. This can be done anywhere at anytime.

OK, I'm done for today :)

Disclaimer: No one involved in this blog or its contents may be held responsible for any adverse reactions arising from following any of the instructions/recipes on this list. It is the reader's personal responsibility to exercise all precautions and use his or her own discretion if following any instructions or advice from this blog.