Consonants and Vowels...

Soon, we celebrate Samhain. The word means” summers end” The wheel turns as we glide into the dark… the cold. The colorful leaves dance in the cool, fragrant autumn breeze as the golden sun shine glitters. The days from here continue to grow shorter, the nights longer as the sun departs slowly to leave us in the cold. The last of the harvests. In more ancient times, we would be rushing to finish bringing in the last of our harvests, packing away and storing food for the long, cold winter to follow. Gathering wood for fires to keep us warm, fiber to keep our bodies warm.. This was extremely hard work and as we know, mother nature can be unpredictable so a sense of rush to get the harvest in and be ready for the cold. Samhain was then a celebration that the last of the harvests were in, that they were ready for the coming weather and it was a time of relaxation and rest.

The veil between our world and the spirit world has grown thin at this time. Allowing us to reach out to the ancestors who have passed before us. As we look at the passing of the sun and the warmth, we acknowledge the turning of the wheel and the passing of the seasons as well as the progression and passing of our own lives. That wheel spins regardless of whether we stop to acknowledge it.

This is yet another time for introspection… Looking within as well as without. Where are you? What have we done with our lives, where are we going? Are we happy? What do we “need “ to be happy. Where do we “want” out lives to go? Who do we want to be? In looking forward to the fall and winter… Instead of preparing our harvest… We look at things according to modern times…. What do we need to do to prepare ourselves…

Imagine, if you will a pantry cupboard. Bare, empty. Now, imagine you are that cupboard. What have you placed inside yourself? What do you hold dear? What things do you need to clear out of there in order to be “Ready”… What do you need to harvest?

Yuck. I have a cold. A sneezy, snotty, wheezy, coughing fits, aches, hot flashes, and sleepy freaking cold. I stayed home again yesterday, because of it and actually slept about all day! I feel a bit better today, but feel like my head is completely submerged! lol

Today, I awoke and skipped yoga. I did do a short ritual to focus my mind and direct my day. I am feeling suddenly connected. To everything. Partly that makes me feel good, and sometimes it causes more stress... I feel almost empathic... I am taking on everyone's feelings and struggles. So I am working on focusing inward. Just on myself, my family, and my needs and feelings.

Just curious... Many people work with a specific God or Gods... Certain pantheons. What do you all work with or focus on? I am a very nature oriented witch and really just call on mother nature for lack of a better term... I have also worked with a variety of pantheons... What do you do?

My son is still doing well off of medications.... We will see what happens!

The last few days I have been keeping myself quite busy! I have Suzie Homemaker syndrome and have been cleaning and baking up a storm. I made 6 dozen chocolate chip cookies yesterday and a dozen blueberry scones! The scones are to die for. Easily better than Starbucks... lol. But seriously, they are. I should open a bakery! I love to bake. I have had so much energy. It feels like I am nesting! lol... I guess that is just the effect that Imbolc has on me.

Tonight, the girls and I are getting together for our Imbolc rite and to hang out. I am excited. I made a casserole called puffed up pizza. (a recipe my gramma made all the time!) Tonight, our focus will be on the growing seeds of Spring, about the quickening of life, and we have decided that at the roots, Imbolc is a celebration of life-giving... which is a feminine job; what the whole pregnancy and birth thing! :) So, tonight we honor our female ancestors who got us here and see what lessons they have in store for us. We are making new pacts and promises to each other and then we will eat, drink, and be absolutely merry!

I will post that recipe later for the pizza dish. Its really good, affordable, and easy!

Imbolc
Written and/or Compiled by Dawn Thebarge Hill all rights reserved


This cross quarter holiday and Greater Sabbat is celebrated by most Pagan traditions on February 2, although some groups celebrate on February Eve. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year and is the festival of the Maiden because from this day to March 21st, it is her season and a time for the earth to prepare for growth and renewal.From Samhain to Bride (pronounced BREED) the Celts observed a time called "the period of the little sun". In old Scotland, the month fell in the middle of the period known as Faoilleach, the Wolf-month; it was also known as a' marbh mhiòs, the Dead-month. In Scotland, the Old Woman of winter, the Cailleach, is reborn as Bride, Young Maiden of Spring, fragile yet growing stronger each day as the sun rekindles its fire, turning scarcity into abundance.

Although our Mother Earth rests at this time and her stirrings are still hidden from us there is life nonetheless. At Imbolg the long winter is almost behind us, The coldest times have been experienced and survived and now the days are becoming longer. The earth is coming alive and once again, it is time to begin anew. This is the time for banishing winter and preparing for the coming spring. On this day we celebrate the return of light, new beginnings, fertility of the land which is shown to us in things such as the the swelling of buds on bare branches and in many places the first Crocus and snow drops flower, springing forth brightly from the frozen earth.. We also celebrate agricultural fertility as evidenced by the livestock birthing new babes, the engorgement of udders and the planning and preparation for the coming planting times. For this reason many people chose this day to bless seeds and consecrate agricultural tools.



It is also felt by many traditions that the eve of Imbolc is the best time of the year to perform divinations specifically pertaining to the future welfare and prosperity of your family. While New Year's resolutions are often about letting go of habits or things that you no longer want, Imbolc is the time for taking the first active steps toward what it is you want to draw into your life-a time of new beginnings.



On this day, Christians celebrate Candlemas, blessing all church candles for the coming year. Catholics observe the feast day of St. Blaze and share in the blessing of the throats with candles and fire.

This sabbat is sacred to Brigit whose name means "The Exalted One," queen and mother goddess of many European tribes. She is also known as Brigid, Bridget, Brighid, Brighde, Brig or Bride and some scholars consider her name originated with the Vedic Sanskrit word brihati, an epithet of the divine. She is Goddess of inspiration, dying, weaving, brewing, poetry, wisdom, healing, fertility, midwifery, reflection, meditation, lore, research, great knowledge, intelligence, understanding and smithwork who, in later times, became revered as a Christian saint. She is closely connected with livestock and domesticated animals. She had two oxen called Fea and Feimhean who gave their names to a plain in Co. Carlow and one in Tipperary. She was also the guardian of Torc Triath, king of the wild boar, who gave his name to Treithirne, a plain in West Tipperary. These three totem animals used to raise a warning cry if Ireland was in danger. It is also said that Brighid's snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, and this is thought to be the origin of Ground Hog Day.

My son Conner has OCD and worries about EVERYTHING. He has trouble falling asleep at night and he asked me if I could help him with a spell... He is 10, and I was delighted to help.

We opened my witch cabinet and dug in...

He decided he wanted to place some herbs in a special place and then annoint a blue candle wit Earth oil. He chose Lavender (lots), Hops (lots), a pinch of Rosemary, White Willow Bark, and Elecampagne Root. He then added Devils shoestring to hide him from worry! (His words) How adorbale! He made his own special container with Legos and we said some chanting. He was so cute. I found it interesting in how he chose his herbs, he held them, smelled them, and closed his eyes as if to "feel" them. I did not tell him what the herbs were for, and he chose VERY appropriately!

My cat Triniti kept hopping in the cabinet!!!

While I usually celebrate a more "witchy" new year in October, I have decided to make a few resolutions this year.

Firstly, I am beginning to wonder if it is such a good idea to eat sushi and edamame while I am keenly aware that I am allergic to avocado and soybeans... I absolutely pigged out last night and today, my nose is so stuffed, I have a headache, and generally don't feel well. And, no I am not hung over. I had 2 of my new favorite beers last night ans was in bed by 2 am. It was a nice night though. We watched movies, ordered in, had a few drinks and spent some nice time together. But anyway, maybe I should cut back on the allergens for a while... I just love them so much!

Secondly, is an obvious and cliched resolution. I want to get in shape. Chad tells me how nice I look, but I need to "feel" it. So, I am going to watch what I eat. No radical diets. Drink more water. And exercise at least 3 times a week. I am hoping to do Yoga every day, but don't want to set the bar too high.

I had already mentioned in earlier posts about delving into my spirituality a bit more... That is proving interesting. I heard another word in trance work which I am desperately trying to figure out... It sounded like ardentstrider. I was walking in a woods, and I heard it out of no where... Very odd. I have been delving into books and old notes, but not much luck so far. So far I have come up with stridr: verkr, a strong pain. The beginning I don't get.... Will keep ya posted. In the meantime, a rune draw for the new year

This one flew out of my hand....
Eihwaz.

Endings.

This rune is often associated with death but it is never negative. It reminds us that new beginnings and fresh starts can only come after some aspect of our life has died off. It encourages us to embrace change and make the best use of the opportunities it offers.

On a cautionary note it warns us to stay alert to what is happening around us and to be prepared to defend our position.

Around it I drew:
Thurisaz

Thorn or Strength

You are supported and protected. Fate stands with you. Seek counsel before making important decisions, this is a time to ask for help - it will be there for you and may provide you with more than you expect.

The darker side of this rune may also act as a warning that the thing we need protection from is actually ourselves.

Jera

Harvest, Year

All things in life are cyclical, we can reap only what we sow. We must be prepared to nurture the seeds we plant and give them space and time enough to grow, only then will we enjoy fully the fruits of our labous.

Now may be the time to prepare for future growth.

Dagaz

Daylight, Dawn, Breakthrough

Dagaz reminds us that this is a life of balance - good & evil, dark & light - all extremes have their opposite and it is possible to move from one to the other. This is the rune of transformation, the power which is available to all of us.

It can also signify the end of dark times, as if stepping out in to the light. Success is within reach.

Wow'. All in all a very good reading. This year will hold alot of promise. Changes, but it appears that the changes are good ones...

Happy new year to you all... I am off to play World of Warcraft! lol

"Bottom line is, even if you see 'em coming, you're not ready for the big moments. No one asks for their life to change, not really. But it does. So what are we, helpless? Puppets? No. The big moments are gonna come, you can't help that. It's what you do afterwards that counts. That's when you find out who you are."

That is a quote from a favorite "Buffy" episode... quite fitting that the episode is called "Becoming" I was watching a little Buffy tonight and yea, I find inspiration in the strangest places. :) I was so fixated on the title... "becoming". It started me thinking.

So, I sat there for a while, playing with my hair, and then started down this path of thought that took me back to my Vanic witchcraft or Germanic witchcraft days. I started thinking of wyrd and orlog. I began focusing on disir... and eventually settled on the Norns. I am not sure if any of you are familiar with the Norns, but I have been reading a blog lately (SunTiger) and she was speaking of the Norns. I think that brought back some memories. For several reasons, I had abandoned my Germanic path. We were actually in a kindred and there was turbulence and confusion as relationships were made closer and things changed. It is a long and twisted tale, but it led to infidelity and broken hearts. For a long time, I have abandoned almost all aspects of the Germanic path because of the reminders... But, today I am drawn in. Maybe it was speaking of my grandmother, going through those old family photos... Stirring my disir (Disir are defined differently by different heathens, but the way i see it is this: My Disir are my female ancestors, Goddesses in their own right. To honor the disir is to honor the matrons that came before me... as well as many of the lesser Goddesses...)

Maybe it is the approaching holidays. Association with "family time". Perhaps that is why I am feeling drawn in. I am not sure. But, I feel plugged in. Connected. Becoming.

Becoming what, you ask?

I can't wait to find out!

A rune draw for the evening:

Nauthiz- Patience is a virtue. This is not a time to force things - settle back, live in harmony and go with the flow. Delays do not mean failure, be prepared to amend your plans if necessary but only after careful consideration.

Jera- All things in life are cyclical, we can reap only what we sow. We must be prepared to nurture the seeds we plant and give them space and time enough to grow, only then will we enjoy fully the fruits of our labours.

Dagaz- Dagaz reminds us that this is a life of balance - good & evil, dark & light - all extremes have their opposite and it is possible to move from one to the other. This is the rune of transformation, the power which is available to all of us.

I will ponder this one. It makes perfect sense and it is a good reading. Definitely applies. Well, I am off to slumber. I had a really rough day.

If I am lucky, we will het the 4 inches of ICE they are calling for and I won't possibly be able to make it in to work tomorow! ;)

So, the solstice is creeping up on me quicker than I expected! We are planning a big night with rites, some good old traditional crafting fun... I think we are going to string popcorn and cranberries by the fire and have a few drinks... I have some spellwork up my sleeve as well!

I am really excited this year and hope for a good yuletide season. We don't have alot of money, but I am hoping it will be a good one, none the less...

I have most of the kids presents wrapped now... I have mentioned before that I run a Dementia care community. I decided to bring the kids presents in and help the residents wrap them. It was awesome! They were all reminiscing about the holiday seasons past and oogling over the toys we had bought for the boys. It was alot of fun! I have had a great day at work so far... and hey, I got my wrapping done! ha. Talk about killing two birds with one stone! ;)

Do you have a magickal name?	Not really. I did have when I first found paganism. But, now I am just "me"
What does it mean?	N/A
How did you find Wicca/Paganism?	Actually on the internet. Thanks to Scooby Doo... Lol. Long story.
How long have you been praticing?	6 years +
Solitary or group pratictioner?	Both. I have a small coven, but I also really like to practice alone.
What is your path?	Traditional Witchcraft.
Are you out of the broom closet?	Yep. For the most part. I don't like announce it. If it comes up, I am honest.
Gods/Goddess
Who is your patron God?	The Greenman
Who is your patron Goddess?	The Goddess
What Gods do you worship?	See above. But I don't really "worship"
What Goddesses do you worship?	See above. But I don't really "worship"
Do you fear darkly aspected Gods/Goddess, or rather respect them?	Definitely respect. The universe is all about balance. The dark has its place as does the light.
Do you worship the Christian God?	Ummmm, No.
Do you ever worship animals?	Not worship, but sometimes I talk to them. I know it sounds crazy, but they send messages sometimes.
Or plants?	Again, Not worship, but I do find nature and all plant life amazing.
Nature
Do you regularly commune with nature?	Yes. I love to be outside with my toes dug into the earth.
Ever walked barefoot in the woods?	Absolutely.
Taken a camping trip just to talk to nature?	No, but I would love to.
Describe the moment you felt closeest to Mother Earth?	Brenda, Michele, and I did a spell. We took our shoes off and we were near water under the full moon surrounded by trees, the wind was blowing.... Very powerful moment.
What is your power animal?	Eagle
Do you have a familar?	My cat PJ.
Have you ever called upon the powers of an animal in ritual?	Maybe a long time ago... I don't think it worked! lol
Or a plant?	No
Do you hug trees?	Sometimes!
Give them gifts?	All of the time. I like to leave little offerings often.
What is your favorite flower to work with?	?
Whats if your favorite tree to work with?	?
Wheel of the Year
What is your favorite holiday?	Ostara
What if your least favorite holiday?	? I don't really have one
Have you ever held a ritual on a holiday?	Every one.
Ever taken a day of work to celebrate a pagan holiday?	Yep.
Do you celebrate Yule on the 21 rather than the 25?	We celebrate both. We have Yule with the kids on Yule. We make a huge dinner, exchange a few gifts, do our ritual... Then we have santa on the 25th. We have thought hard about changing that this year.
Have you ever felt the Veil thin?	Oh yes. Definitely more so around Samhain, but at other times as well...
Ever danced the Maypole?	No sadly, no maypole. Unless we are talking about my husbands anatomy... lol
Know what the Maypole symbolizes?	Er... Yes, see above. The maypole is a phallic symbol. (representing a "penis") The red and white on the pole are for blood and semen I believe... Gory, huh? It represents the sexual union of the God and Goddess and actually Beltaine is a great holiday.
Ever made love on Beltaine?	Abso-freakin-lutely.
How do you usually celebrate the pagan holidays?	We usually gather with our coven, have a nice meal or alot of appropriate snacks, hold a ritual, and then drink in the spirits... literally. I mean like wine, beer, etc.
Divination
Do you use Tarot?	Yes.
Do you use runes?	Sometimes.
Do you use a pendulum?	Rarely. I have a cool one though.
Do you use dowsing rods?	No.
Do you use astrolgy?	Sometimes.
Any other form of divination?	Bibliomancy, Scrying, Omens.
Spells
What was the first spell you did?	For a job.
What was the latest?	For prosperity and success in the home.
Ever done a love spell?	Nope, don't believe in em.
A job spell?	Yes
A healing spell?	Absolutely
What was the most powerful spell you've ever performed?	Which one? haha! Anything the girls and I do together really packs a HUGE punch. You can feeel the residual energy for days after...
What deities do you usually call on?	God and Goddess
Cryptzology
Do you belive in Vampires?	I wish. I think they are drop dead sexy! lol
Werewolves?	Nah.
Shapeshifters?	In a different sense. Think Shaman.
Elves?	Yes. They live in trees and make cookies!.... Oh wait, those are Keebler Elves!
Faries?	I didn't used to... But, Michele is making me wonder!
Dragons?	Um, no. I know of a guy who thought he was one though.
Nymphs?	Nymphomaniac?
Sprites?	Maybe
Mermaids?	I'd like to think so. When I saw the ocean for the first time this summer, I thought about that.... How beautiful they would be.
Sirens?	Maybe
Satyrs?	No
Ever "seen" any of the above?	Um. No.
Ever talked to any of the above?	No
Ever used any of the above in magick?	No
Do you have one of them as a personal guardian?	No
Random
Do you see a rabbit, a man or a woman in the moon?	A woman of course!
Own a cat?	3 cats. Triniti, Polly Jean, and Athena
When you mediate what does your happy place look like?	Oh... It is wooded. Teh sun filtering through the branches just right. There is a stream nearby and rocks of amber where I find messages!
Do you work with Chakras?	Sometimes
Do you belive in past lives?	Yes
If so, descirbe a few briefly.	I believe I may have been hung in a past life. I have had weird dreams since I was a kid. Also about wolves and being chased, but the hanging one is old. The clothes I have on, the voices.... creepy.
Do you belive in soul mates?	I think so. But maybe not like they show on TV!
Ever meet one?	Yea.
Do you have a spriit guide?	Not really
Is it always love and light?	Absolutely NOT.

(Shamelessly Re-posted from another blog! ;) )

Pagan parents have a unique task-that of teaching pagan values to their children in a world hostile to alternative religions. The following pagan child-raising ideas and values will be helpful when considering your children's pagan learning experiences, no matter what tradition you practice.

A is for Actions. Your own actions and deeds speak loudest of all. If you want them to learn your chosen path, teach them about it with actions, not just words.

B is for Beauty. Show your children the beauty in nature and the other life on this planet. Teach them to preserve that beauty for the future.

C is for Consistency. Hold to the same principles and practices. Keep your actions consistent with your words.

D is for Doing. Teach your children the old ways by doing pagan projects and crafts with them. Projects such as recycling show them that doing what they can to help the Earth is essential.

E is for Enthusiasm. Let your children see your enthusiasm for the old ways, and they will develop it, too. Take them on nature walks, and other places where they can learn to understand the Goddess and Her creations first hand.

F is for Faith. Faith in themselves and their abilities helps children to handle any situation they may find themselves in. Give them suitable tasks to perform. Their completion will boost self-esteem.

G is for Goddess and God. Teach your children the deities of your tradition. Explain who they are and what function they have in your life and rituals. Instruct them in simple chants they can use on their own.

H is for Holidays. Celebrate your tradition's holidays with rituals and appropriate decorations. Sabbats and Esbats both show children what it means to be Pagan. They should be allowed to participate as much as possible.

I is for Imagination. Always foster imagination in your child. Your child's imagination may illuminate part of the path you never noticed before.

J is for Joy. Always approach the teaching of your children with a joyful spirit. Show your child the joy of honoring the Goddess and God, and following the ancient paths.

K is for Knowledge. Knowledge is power. If your children are properly prepared, they will be able to answer questions about their beliefs, and defend themselves in an educated manner against those hostile to their beliefs.

L is for Listening. Listen to your children, and they will learn to listen to others. Their thoughts will give you insights into how they see the world.

M is for Myths. The myths of your traditions will delight and entertain as well as teach. Stories are a great way of telling the child about your deities.

N is for Never. Never forget to tell your children about the past. Tell them about the burning times, and other dark times for Pagans. We must never forget these things, lest they be repeated.

O is for Outdoors. Share with your children the splendor of the great outdoors. Perform rituals outside whenever possible. Help them understand that all things are connected (and sacred) to each other.

P is for Power. Teach them to recognize the power inherent in all things. Introduce them to personal power and divine power. Carefully instruct them in the use of power and the responsibility that goes with it.

Q is for Questions. Your children will have many questions along the way. Always answer them truthfully and to the best of your ability. Never discourage questions from children.

R is for Ritual. Rituals are an important part of all traditions. Let your children participate as much as their age will allow. A young child may only be able to help set up the altar. Older ones can join in the chants, drumming, or dancing.

S is for Sharing. Sharing is an important lesson. Here is where you must set a prime example for your child. By sharing the old ways, you are giving them an honorable path they can follow all their lives.

T is for Tolerance. Teach your child tolerance for all the others who share this planet. Remember that there is no one right path. Tolerance, however, should have its limits. Explain that they should never tolerate abuse for their beliefs.

U is for Understanding. Be understanding when your child is slow to grasp something new. Their understanding of the old ways takes time and patience.

V is for Vision Quest. Vision questing is something most older children will enjoy, especially when seeking their personal power animals. Power animals usually become very important to children, as something they can call on when they are alone.

W is for Wisdom. There is no substitute for wisdom. It is something your children will gain from your instruction and their experiences. Teach them wisely and you will be rewarded.

X is for Examine. eXamine your principles and practices constantly to be sure that you are not sending mixed messages. Confusion and inconsistency, helps no one.

Y Is for You. Don't spend so much time worrying about your children that you forget about your own spiritual and physical needs. The way you treat yourself sets an example, good or bad.

Z is for Zeal. Always share your zeal for life, nature, and the old ways. You will be rewarded with your child's eagerness to learn all about them. Don't forget to praise children for a job well done. You will be glad you did.

by Kirin Lee, from Llewellyn's 1998 Magical Almanac

At Samhain, I remember where I came from. My ancestors. All of those collaborative souls who came together and whose essence has made me who I am today. I wonder all the time, where some of my traits and quirks have come from. Have you ever just sat back and thought about all of the people who have lived over aeons of years in order for you to have arrived?

It's simply amazing.

I feel so very connected to the earth and energy in general right now. I have had many unusual dreams and many premonitions or omens. Very interesting. The universe likes to try and teach me lessons in unique and interesting ways. I feel so close to the spirit world and those who have gone before. Grandpa Stoltz has been leaving me pennies... I'd give more than a penny for his thoughts about now! :)

The colors are beautiful, breathtaking. Red, amber, Gold, brown... The smoky dusky scent in the air, it's death. But it is beautiful, isn't it? Every year at Samhain I am reminded that death is inevitable and part of the incredible life that we all have a chance to live. The wheel turns, life goes on. With or without us. So, I imagine we should choose to be happy instead of miserable. Find one thing in your life that you can change to make your life simpler or happier...

I am anxiously awaiting Samhain. It should be a wonderful ritual this year. I have such great friends and a kick ass coven. Seriously. I am very lucky to have them all. They are my family. I am looking forward to a great year. I am working on a ritual and will post some of it as I finish it.

Make me strong in spirit
Courageous in action
Gentle of heart

Let me act in wisdom
Conquer my fear and doubt
Discover my own hidden gifts

Meet others with compassion
Be a source of healing energies
And face each day with hope and joy

~ Abby Willowroot © 1998

God On Our Side

"Better to conjure alone than in bad company."

We had a discussion, the girls and I about adding people to our coven. We are small, but we work so well together. Our energies mesh and play off of each other. Where one lacks, the other has an abundance and we come out so balanced, raw, and very close to perfect. I think we should be extremely cautious. It is extremely hard in our community to find like minded witches, much less ones we can trust. We tell the girls EVERYTHING. we are very open and honest even when it hurts.

If we bring in another, it may throw us off. When we find someone worthy, we will know without a doubt. Until then, it is just the three of us.

We should all be mindful of whom we practice with. Everyone brings their own energies to the mix. Make sure they will complement your own.

Mabon
Autumn 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!

Conner and I did end up going to the Firefly. We had a lovely time. We sat on the couch, sipped coffee, and discussed how nice it was to be out of the house ALONE! ;) He is so mature for his age. He tried to get me to play chess, but sadly I don't know chess. We discussed Halloween and myths. We talked a bit more about Colin, he had good questions. The we went to Hobby Lobby and I bought some new jars and decorations for my altar. I am very excited for Mabon this year. I spent the entire evening cleaning out my altar and cabinet, redecorating my magick room, and then had a lovely late night out under the full moon with Chad. It was just gorgeous! There were just enough clouds that it veiled the moon just enough! I don't think I will sleep at all tonight. The energy is incredible!

Here are some pics of my altar!

Last night was awesome! Brenda, Michele, and I did a Full moon ritual of sorts last night. It was just incredible. My magick room is still buzzing with energy! I love my girls. What a perfect night. Who else can ya just hang out with, do magick, drink beer, and be yourself? I love you guys!

So, on the note of what we did... I feel amazing! Absolutely. Some dead weight has been lifted ... or swam away as it were... I am in control. I'm living in reality and other than the fact that my boss is a bit neurotic and I am exhausted due to no sleep last night, This day ROCKED... I am on a new path. That book Michele got me about being a wiccan warrior... well, some of it is cheesy, but the rest of it is totally enlightening. I'll be a warrior. How about a witchy warrior? lol