Basil (extended)

Common Basil

General Info:

There are multiple varieties of Basil in the world; some speculate that there are up to 150 different types. This post will discuss what is the most known, and used variety as of late, Common Basil. Common Basil has also often gone by the names of Sweet Basil, St. Josephs Wart, American Dittany, and the Witches Herb. Scientifically however, it is known as Ocimum Basilicum. Basil is most commonly thought to have originated in India. Though there are some individuals who think it may have originated as far east as China. From there it has continues to spread all over the world.

Identify:
When identifying plants in the wild, a person needs to take care, and should never use something they are not one hundred percent sure about. Common Basil is identified in several ways. The easiest way would be by scent. It has a very distinct scent; simply rubbing the leaf between two fingers is the best way to smell it, as this releases the oils. Please note though, dried basil and fresh basil do not smell the same. If a person is unfamiliar with basils scent, it can also be identifies using sight. Common Basil has smooth green leaves. The edges of the leaves are not jagged, and have so serrations. They are fat looking leaves that slightly curl underneath at the edges, and can be as wide as an inch and a half at the center when fully grown. The leaves are shaped almost like an oval, but come to a point near the stem at the bottom of the leaf. If allowed to bloom, without being pruned or cut back, small white flowers will bloom. Basil, like most herbs does not have bark, or wood on it. So if the plant has a wooden stem, do not use it. The veins on a Basil leaf are easily seen. They are a light green color.

Growing:
Basil is a fairly easy plant to grow. It can be found in countries all over the world. When planting however keep in mind basil is best grown in warm, dry climates. Therefore, full sun would be best. Basil can be kept in a pot indoors, but it will not flourish as well as an outdoor plant would. In cooler climates, like New England, where frost and snow are going to occur Basil should be treated as an annual. However, if grown in warmer climates, where frost stays away, it can be treated as a perennial that will reseed itself, year after year.

Medical:
Medically, Basil is fantastic, and can be used to treat a variety of health problems. If boiled with Cardamom, in two quarts of water, then mixed with sugar and milk it can be taken as a fever reducer. This method is especially effective for young children. Basil is a natural anti-inflammatory, so it can be taken to help reduce swelling in the body. Also, as it comes from the mint family, basil has digestive aids in it. It is often used, like mints to help with cramping, vomiting, and constipation. More often than not, Basil is put into liquid form, such as teas, to aid with the above mentioned ailments. However, it can also be finely ground and put into capsules for convenience. Just chewing the leaf itself is good for oral health. It can reduce halitosis, as well as cure the mouth of any infections. To treat infections of the mouth, chew a few leaves twice daily.

Food:
Basil is perhaps most famous for its use in the world of foods! Common basil is mainly used in Mediterranean dishes. Though there are certainly enough varieties of basil to use in almost any dish. Basil is best used fresh, though dried will certainly be acceptable. When working with fresh basil, you should always tear, as opposed to cutting because it releases the juices better and is more potent. When adding basil to hot dishes, such as sauces, and soups, Basil should be added at the very end for maximum potency. Adding a handful of fresh uncut basil leaves to any salad, or chopped tomatoes can never go wrong. They are a delight and add that little extra something to put the salad over the top. Fresh basil should only be kept in the fridge for a day or two, after that it loses its potency and is no good. However, to keep it fresh longer, it can be blanched and then stored in the freezer.

Magick:
Just as Basil has an abundance of use in the kitchen, and quite a few ways to help keep a person healthy, it has just as many ways to be used magickally. To start off with it is quite popular in love magick. It can be used to test fidelity, keep a person faithful, and to help end lovers quarrels. One common way basil is used for love magick, is by sprinkling a bit of crushed basil in the bed, to keep a lovers heart true. Basil is used in magick involving money and luck as well. Often time’s individuals will keep a bit of Basil in their pockets when they go out gambling. It is also put in the corners of businesses to help attract customers. And last, but not least, it is used often for protection. Sprinkling Basil around a home can help in keeping the home safe. It is best to remember when using basil in magick that it is a fire element. It falls under the planet of Mars, and is also male in gender. While these seem like small details, when it comes to spell crafting, they can be important.

In closing, Basil is an herb most should carry in their home. Be it for magick, cooking, or healing. Possibly even for all three. 

FACEBOOK PAGE

So, I have decided to make a page, relating to the subject of green witchcraft on facebook. :)

You can find it here, and it would be so awesome if you guys could check it out! (keep in mind I just started it!)

Yule and Christmas

Yule and Christmas, one of the biggest controversies in the community this time of year.

Yes, I understand the whole "Christians stole december, yada yada... boo hoo." I also understand, that as a pagan, maybe this should upset me a bit more, but it doesn't.

We try to pretend that most Christians don't know the reason Christmas is celebrated in December, and thats just not true anymore. Most of them understand that Jesus wasn't born in december. What it really comes down to now, is TRADITION. Traditionally, for hundreds of years, that is when and how, and the way they have celebrated it, and you are probably not going to change that. Why would you want to? It doesn't bother me. Honestly, it just makes the world extra pretty for me to look at, with everyone putting up their sparkly decorations.

No, I don't appreciate pagan bashing and I will say Happy Holidays, instead of Blessed Yule, to avoid some conflict. I am not ashamed.  (though, Happy Holidays can sometimes get you in just as much trouble!)

This post is coming off much harder than I anticipated. I have just been so flustered lately, I hesitate even going to my facebook, because I KNOW there are going to be negative posts from both sides of the Fence. My Christian friends complaining that Christmas is being destroyed by the term "Happy Holidays" And My pagan friends complaingin that our holiday was stolen, and christians are arrogant bigots. It gets old.

What a beautiful time of year it is, why can't we all just get along? Appreciate the beauty around us. Accept that no one path is the "perfect" path.

I will end this rant, before I waste to much time, but I will leave you with this...

Have a Blessed Solstice, And May your Christmas, and New Year be just as bright.
I for one, will be celebrating them both. To appease both myself, and my Christian relatives.

Bright Blessings to All,
May the God and Goddess be ever present in your lives,
Rose

I am Thankful.

Today was a pretty great Thanksgiving, one of the best I've had in years. I was nervous, because of the people we had coming over, but it turned out great. Hestia really had my back. :)

I am thankful for so many things, but today the one thing that really come to mind, is the freedom of religion we have in this country. Now, that doesn't mean we aren't still persecuted.. but legally, we are free. And that hasn't always been the case, in the past we have had to hide. Hide, and die, if we were found out. Sometimes, I feel people forget that. I feel like it gets taken for granted. But not from me.

I am Thankful for it.

And I always will be.

Thanksgiving Tribute to Hestia

So, my family is coming over for Thanksgiving. WONDERFUL! (please, note sarcasm)
We originally were supposed to be going to my brothers, which was great, because if it got to overwhelming, I could just leave. But at the last minute things changed, so it's now going to be hosted here.
Its going to include a whole mesh of people, who don't really get along. So I decided to get the jump on Mojo-ing my house with feel good vibes. Much of it includes cleaning, with specific essences and oils, smudging, and all that. But I also decided to pay tribute to Hestia, Goddess of Hearth and Home, in the hopes that she will help me maintain the peace.

This is the altar I put together in her honor, it sits above our woodstove.

Magical Housekeeping

SO I bought a new book the other night.

Magical Housekeeping
by Tess Whitehurst

 I have to be honest, I am only like 13 pages in. However, this book has already inspired me. She writes about clearing clutter out of your life, both physical and emotional. Which is what I really need right now.

When I picked this book up, I thought it was going to be something completely different. And had I taken the time to read the first page, I may have put it down and said "not for me" but I'm glad I didn't.

Their are 10 types of physical clutter, some of which include paper, furniture, food, clothes, and even car clutter.

She includes a ritual to get you started, which includes drinking some tea, and lighting a single white candle.

I highly reccommend you check this book out!

Herbs A-Z : GINGER

Ginger

Photo Credit

AKA: Ginger root, African Ginger,

Planet : Mars

Gender : Masculine

Element : Fire

Mundane Uses : Ginger is a widely popular herb. It's uses are so diverse that I believe everyone should keep some on hand at all times.

Digestive wise, ginger helps protect and heal the gut. It is often used as a digestive aid. It increases an individuals saliva and stomach secretion production, which helps ease digestion without causing further discomfort. It is also used for relieving naseau.

Ginger helps in destroying the host of a virus. It also causes a person to sweat when ingested, which in turn, protects the skin from infection. Sweating is also helpful if you come down with a cold or flu, which is where to phrase “sweat it our came from”. The tea itself, also eases the symptoms associated with colds.

Although it has yet to be confirmed, researchers have found that ginger shows hope for being a possible anticancer agent. DRINK UP!

It helps relieve heartburn

Ginger has anti inflammatory agents in it, which assists with those suffering from arthritis or other conditions causing joint pain.

And if all of that wasn't good enough, ginger stands alone as an awesome tea, and a perfect additon to many dinner and dessert recipes!

Magical Uses: Magically Ginger is used in spells and working for the following : success, power, love, money, and healing.

To attract money and wealth to you or you, you can try planting whole ginger roots in the ground. These can often be found in your local health food store, or grocery store. Some have also been known to sprinkle dried ginger in their pockets, to attract money to them throughout the day.

If trying to obtain a job, you could perhaps make a sachet that included ginger in it for both money and success. Basil and Alfalfa would also be good to add in, as they both pertain properties related to good fourtune, and money matters. Also a bit of sage for luck wouldn't hurt!

It has been thought that consuming ginger before attempting spell work will add power to your workings. Especially in regards to love magic. I would suggest perhaps, making it apart of your regual magical ritual, try drinking a cup of ginger tea while preparing and centering yourself to begin.

It is told, that long ago, people would chew up ginger and then spit it out at the base of an illness. While I find that thought... disturbing, to say the least, using ginger in healing magic is not a bad idea. Obviously, just drinking the tea will aid with certain illnesses. You might also want to try sprinkling dried ginger underneath the sheets or matress of someone who is ill, to encourage speedy recovery.

Random Information :

Native to southeast asia, but can be found on almost every continent.

Dates back over 4,000 years, and has been used medicinally for the past 2,000.

Sources:

http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/medical-uses-for-ginger-ga.htm

http://pagandreams2.blogspot.com/2007/11/magickal-properties-of-herbs-part-1.html

http://www.tarnablackelm.org/herbs/ginger.html::

Goals.

So on the forum I frequent I am participating in Life's to-do list. This season runs from June 20th(I'm a little behind) to September 21st.

I am documenting my goals here so I can keep myself honest and accountable for them!


Here they are : 

1. Cleanse with a salt wash and sage every room in the house once we fully take it over.
        Loveyy and I are taking over the house in July, we will have the entire thing! However, it has some seriously bad built up vibes, so it needs a good cleansing. 
2. Give Loveyy a compliment everyday.
       He deserves it!
3. Finish reading Hekate : Liminal Rights and Earth Wisdom
       I need to just do this already, I keep stalling.
4. Look up and document (on Blog and in BOS) 10 new herbs.
       Oh my poor Herbs A-Z is getting left behind in the dust of my life! 
5. Go on 3 Camping Trips. Enjoy the Earth while its void of snow!
       Loveeee Campinggg. :) 

Litha 2012.

Last night Loveyy and I attended a Litha ritual. It was amazing as expected, and we both had an awesome time. We danced, and there was singing, and just a whole bunch of Joy and Love.

As apart of the ritual we all were given a piece of thyme, and  small pebble. We were to meditate on where we wanted our spiritual journey to take us in the coming year. Once we had grounded and focused and truly had an answer in our mind, we were to get up and toss the thyme into the fire, releasing our intentions into the universe. We were told to keep the pebble as a reminder.

I've heard of people doing this before, and I thought it would be neat.

Neat, does not come close. It was an awesome experience. I really did think long and hard, and my pebble now sits on my altar, as a constant reminder.

Here is what I meditated on:


By June 21st of next year, I want to have solid roots in my belief system. I know it is ever developing, but I want to know what I believe I want my practices to be an every day thing. The research will be never ending, I'm sure. I will never know everything. But I want to be comfortable. I want to be able to call myself a Pagan, or a green witch, and know exactly what makes me so.
Next June 23rd, I am getting married. And after the wedding, and the honey moon, we are coming out to our families. I want to have answers for their questions. I want to be confident so I can answer their accusations, and hostilities without feeling guilty.

Last night was an important night. I finally acknowledged to myself, that though I still believe he exists, I no longer follow the Christian God. I believe in many of his principles, and I believe Jesus Christ was his son, but his church, and he himself, do not call to me as strongly as others.
It is a bittersweet feeling, literally as I type this I can feel my pulse quickening, and the fear rising. Fear of the unknown. Fear that I am choosing wrong, that I'll be damned. But I have to remind myself : Live in this moment. Live for the life I have today.
If The Christian God is the way, and I am choosing wrong so be it. I am a good person, I live my life without hate. And I do not believe I would be damned in his eyes. How could he send me to hell, merely for following another?

I am happy to have made this choice. I am certainly glad I did before I had children.
What a strange religion Christianity is - To inspire such fear in their followers hearts. My children will know a religion of Love and tolerance. Of respect, and freedom.

Fathers Day

Fathers Day is a tough one in our household.
Lovey lost his father when he was just 16, and my father, is not technically absent, but not really their either.

Sure he does things for me. He loves me. But he is not perfect, by any stretch of the imagination.

It is even more difficult for me because I am and always have been a "daddy's girl". I have looked up to my father and love him with every fiber of my being.

I forgive him every time he lets me down. I lecture him when I think he's being an idiot. But no matter what, he is my father, and I love him.

So happy father's day dad.
I love you, despite your inadequacies.

A day trip to the Gem Store.

Recently I acquired some unexpected cash. So I decided to take a trip to the gem store a few towns over. I needed to beef up my basically non-existent collection of stones!

 

Above is a picture of my completed purchase. 

Top- Stone Elephant, inside there is a baby elephant! You can't see it well in this picture though. I have a collection of elephants so I had to get this to add to it! It was surprisingly affordable, and I am not sorry I bought it.

First Row (top to bottom) - Green Moss Agate, Snowflake Obsidian, Tigers Eye, White Onyx

2nd row (") - Carnelian, Hematite, Iron Pyrite "fools Gold", Black Tourmaline

3rd Row ( " ) - Red Jasper, Amethyst, Moonstone, Rose Quartz,

4th row - Apache Tears, Sunstone

I had an awesome time. Though being in the store gave me a headache. Damn my empathetic self!  

Some side notes:

I didn't know Onyx came in white, I had always thought it was black. period. So I was pleasantly surprised to find this. I wasn't drawn to the black at all. In fact, I did pick it up several times, but ended up leaving without it. The white, however, sits with me nicely. 

I have heard Rose Quartz is typically hard to find, but I guess up in NH we are pretty abundant with it. Fools Gold is the same way, ridiculously easy to find, which is why I had to grab some! 

I grabbed a decent amount of Amethyst, both tumbled and rough, as well as a small sphere of it. Amethyst is my birthstone, so it has always held a special energy for me.

Moonstone is the other one I have a ton of, to represent Hecate, and I can't wait to put it on the altar I plan to make for her shortly!

Sunstone was awesome to find, and I put it right up on the altar I have dedicated to Gaia. I almost didn't notice it, until lovey pointed it out in a basket on the floor.

Apache Tears I had also never heard of before.. Aparently they are a type of obsidian, I grabbed them for what seemed like no reason, only later did I think it was my Native American Ancestors that were probably nudging me towards that one. They look black, but when held to the light, they are see through and appear almost amber. They do that even when untumbled, which I thought was neat. "Apache Tears have an uncanny ability to lend support during times of sorrow.  They will gently help one to accept and then release their grief, thereby releasing and removing blockages.  "

 Anywho.. enough rambling from me!

Do you have any special stones? 

My new "Shampoo"

Recently I challenged myself, I wanted to attempt to give up shampoo and switch over to washing my hair with Baking Soda and Vinegar. I kept putting it off and putting it off, but this week I finally said NO MORE and went ahead and tried it.

The results were awesome! My hair is just as clean as before, and now I don't have to worry about my body soaking up all of the awful chemicals that often go along with those "high grade" or even the cheap shampoos.

How does it work? 
Easy! I bought two bottles, they're the kind you can get for like a dollar at the store to put ketchup and mustard in. I put baking soda in one with enough water to make it in to a paste. Then in the other I put roughly 3 tablespoons of vinegar and filled with water.

I wash my hair with the baking soda, be mindful when doing this though, it doesn't lather quite like regular shampoo so you won't want to put a whole ton in one spot. Rub it in, let it sit for a minute or so and then rinse out. next take the vinegar bottle and apply some to the ends of your hair. Again, let it sit and then rinse it out. This acts as the conditioner.

Keep in mind, not everyone's hair is exactly the same, if it comes out greasy, try less vinegar, if it's to dry, you can try adding a bit of oil to the conditioner rinse. Olive Oil will work just fine.

When your hair is drying, it will feel different, I spent the whole first night freaking out. I almost jumped in and washed it with my old stuff. But I held strong! Once dry, and brushed, it looks and feels great,

There you have it, my new healthy hair wash!

Herbs A-Z : Fennel

Fennel

Photo Credit

AKA: Fennel Seed,

Planet: Mercury

Element: Fire

Gender: Masculine

Fennel! What an awesome plant, everything on this bad boy - seeds, leaves, and root are edible. It is for that exact reason that I think everyone ought to have this growing in their garden! I have one growing outside right this minute. And what an awesome surprise to find out today that it is a perennial! (Always a bonus!)

Mundane Uses:

Fennel has been used for centuries as an appetite depressant. Because of this it may be good to try to add to your diet when attempting weight loss.

It can be used for digestive problems such as intestinal gas, bloating, and heartburn.

Fennel can be handy for women to keep around. It has been used for increasing the flow of breast milk, and can also be made into a paste to reduce swelling during breast feeding. It is used for promoting menstruation, and increasing a womans libido. Every ladies dream herb, right? 

And it just gets better, Fennel is full of iron, so for those that suffer from anemia, it may be a good idea to add this to your diet. The leaves make a great addition to any salad! And the seeds can be easily added to most meals.

Magical Uses:

Fennel is an awesome herbs to keep around an magical household. It is often used for protection. Grow it around your house, or hang by the windows and doors to ward off evil spirits. Similarly, for a less obvious method, you could try washing your window sills and doors with a soap, fennel, and salt mixture. Fennel also makes a great addition to any purification ritual.

This herb promotes confidence and courage. Before battle Greek soldiers would often chew the seeds. Farmers have also been known to wash their tractor blades with a mixture soap and fennel to encourage the land and promote a strong crop. For a more modern use you could try keeping it on you, or adding it to a meal, before a big test or event you need a little boost of confidence in!

Random Information:

“Fennel dates back to nearly 500 BC and its name comes from the Greek word "marathon" because the Battle of Marathon was fought between the Greeks and the Persians on a field of fennel.” **

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-311-FENNEL.aspx?activeIngredientId=311&activeIngredientName=FENNEL

http://www.ecademy.com/node.php?id=176651 **

http://www.shee-eire.com/Herbs,Trees&Fungi/Herbs/Fennel/Factsheet1.htm

Marigold Tea (part 1 - Theory)

Photo Credit

So this week, we planted several marigolds in the yard. I had heard they were good for keeping bugs at bay. I wanted to know a bit more, so today I did some research and found out that marigolds are also used to make tea.

Marigold tea is supposed to be excellent for cleansing and detoxing the body, as well as helping womens menstrual cycles regulate. This is also the tea to drink after surgery as it can be used as an anti-inflammatory and gives a boost to the immune system.


To make Marigold tea you need to:

-Harvest the flowers that have bloomed.
-Clean them by soaking them in hot water for at least 10 minutes.
-Dry them on a drying rack, or in the microwave. (Personally, I dry most things in the car on a paper bag, during a really hot day)

Once the flowers are dried you can make it like any other tea.

-Put 1 teaspoon of the dried flower per cup of tea.
-Put the tea in a metal tea ball.
-Steep in a cup of boiling hot water.


Magically marigolds are often associated with the fae.  On Beltane, it is said that to spray yourself over the eyes with marigold will give you the ability to see the fae and other magical creatures. For this reason it may be a good tea to drink when attempting to contact the other world, past the veil. Or perhaps you could leave it as an offering in your fairy garden?

It is also associated with prophecy, or clairvoyance so you could also try drinking it before bed, to help promote prophetic dreams. For some added oomph, you could even add a little squeeze of an orange, or lemon or even a dried rose petal.


Now I haven't tried this yet, and so I can't attest to its flavor. I plan to this weekend though. I will let you know in part two!

New Moon Planting.

Tonight is the new moon!

We planted in the early morning, but I waited until the sun was setting to plant my chamomile seeds. I was so excited to get them into the ground! For Christmas presents this year, (keep in mind most of my friends and family do not celebrate Yule)  we are going to be giving homemade tea.  I am so excited about this, so I am trying to get our patch as big as I possibly can. We have a good batch going already, so we are fairly optimistic!

During the new moon, lunar tides are causing water to pull up, which in turn keeps seeds extra moist, and causes them to swell up nicely. This is the perfect time to begin planting above ground crops. Grain crops, as well as lettuce, broccoli, and cauliflower do exceptionally well during this phase.
The new moon is also a good time to transplant crops. The ground is retaining the moisture, so the water will go straight to those roots, creating less transplant shock. So if you have any seedlings started, now would be the time to put those bad boys in the ground!

I have also read a theory, it stated that if you weed during the new moon, those weeds are guaranteed to never grow back. That is an interesting theory, I wouldn't mind trying myself.


On another note, I have been searching out Hecate lately, and I think tonight I may leave her a nice offering of honey and sage. Hopefully she'll like that. 



http://www.gardeningbythemoon.com/phases.html
http://www.moongrow.com/moon_phase_gardening/gardening_by_moon_phases/new_moon.html

Herbs A-Z : Elder Tree

Elder Tree

Photo Credit

AKA: America Elder, Sweet Elder, Common Elder, Elderberry, Lady Elder

Gender: Female

Plantet: Venus

Element: Air

Mundane Uses:

Externally, the leaves and bark of the elder tree are uses for mild burns.

The flowers are used in easeing eye pain, reducing inflamation of the skin, and assisting with curing mouth ulcers.

Flower also reduces fevers and are traditionally used to treat the flu, colds, and upper respiratory tract problems.

The fruits of the elder tree have laxative and diaphoretic properties to them, and can assist in stool softening, and increasing urination.

On a less medicinal note, the berries are used in the making of certain wines.

Magical Uses:

It is thought that standing under the Elder Tree would give you the ability to see the fae. They are also said to love the music made by instruments created by the elder tree.

Wands madefrom elder are used in driving out evil spirits or negative though forms. The tree itself is considered protective. Twigs were often put in pouches, worn around the neck to protect against evil, both physical and phsychic. The leaves were also often bunched together and hung in doorways, and over windowsills, to keep evil away from the house.

It is thought that if you burn an elder tree, you will beome cursed. As the saying goes “Nine woods in the Cauldron go,
burn them quick a' burn them slow.

Elder be ye Lady's tree;
burn it not or cursed ye'll be”

Similarly, if you plan on taking a branch to use for wandmaking, it is traditional and courteous to first ask the tree, and perhaps even leave an offering. This can be something simple like some extra water in the heat, raking around the roots, to remove any invasive weeds, or perhaps even adding some rich soil or compost at the feet to promote healthy growth.

People used the leaves of elder tree's to bless both people and places. To bless a place, take the leaves and berries, and scatter them in the four corners of the place being blessed. In the case of a person, scatter the leaves over the individual.

Random Information: Though the flowers are used most often, every part of the elder tree can be used medically in some way.

The leaves and Berries are considered toxic and should not be used internally.

DISCLAIMER:

I have no medical degrees, and am not a doctor. Consult a physician before ingesting somthing new, or using as a topical aid that you are unfamiliar with. These are my personal findings only. I do not reccommend using them until you have consulted your physician.

http://www.herbsguide.net/elder.html

http://www.ageless.co.za/herb-elder-flower.htm

http://paganreports.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=446:pagan-sacred-trees-and-woods&catid=36:paganism&Itemid=71

http://dutchie.org/elder-lore/

Mothers Day

Happy Mothers Day to all you Beautiful Mothers out there.

I haven't had the privilege of becoming a mom yet, but someday soon hopefully.

I have two of the most wonderful mothers in the world.
One is my mother. The other is my step-mother.
They have both helped me become the woman I am today, and I am so proud to be called their daughter.
They are both strong women. They seem to carry the world on their shoulders.
They are both (currently) single mothers. (gotta love dad, and his inability to stay committed to a woman other than his little girls). They have a love of the outside, nature, plants, and gardens.
They rather enjoy sipping on something strong in the evenings.
And they both love me. Indefinitely. I know I can count on them for anything.

I love you.

And I will be lighting a candle tonight for our mother Gaia.
She deserves it.

Taking it slowly.

I have been studying and practicing on and off for years now.
Ever since I was a little girl really.

I found, however, that I would stop practicing whenever I would start to feel overwhelmed.
Do you know the feeling I'm talking about? I would start researching the moon, then color magick, herbs, and seasons. I would try to memorize every sabbat, its origins, why we celebrated it. Then I wanted to master tarot, then I would attempt to perform (useless) spells. All at the same time! Basically I wanted to know it all in a week.
Eventually it would begin to become to much. I would crash in a pile of confusion and discouragement. 

This time around has been different. I focus on the now. I have been focused on my garden, and my plants. Only really studying one herb a week. I read about the coming full moon (Not ALL of them at one time), I study the closest sabbat, not all 8! And this has been working! Slowly I have started to retain more. I feel more complete. I feel confident in what I have studied. And I have come to understand that I don't know everything - and that is okay.

There is so much I want to know, so much out there. And I am constantly reminded of how short life is. And I don't know how I will have time to learn it all before the end. Then I take a breath, and realize that its not about rushing through, its about the journey.

I've found my interests turned towards the world of the fae recently. Not sure I believe in them completely, but I would like to learn more about them. So that will probably be my next step.

Am I nuts? I can't be the only who has gone through this.

Lilacs and the Waning Moon.

I am so excited. Earlier today my friend gave me permission to feel free to head over to her house and dig up as many of her Lilac bushes as I want. Lilacs are my absolute favorite! I am going to add them to the border of Lilacs that we already have in our yard. Hopefully they will be in full swing by next May for our wedding. I'm going to poke around and see if I can find any other magic treasures in her yard also. Free is good.

Recently I have been reading up more and more about garden witchery. A lot of people have put stock into gardening by the moon phases, so I am going to attempt to do that. It gives your plants a little added oomph to your magical garden. And if you are extra motivated you can also attempt to garden by the moon phase as well as the sign. I am not that motivated. Maybe after I've gotten the hang of phases I will move onto the signs. Luckily, this weekend just happens to be in the waning moon phase. And from what I have read, the waning moon is the perfect time for planting trees and shrubs! (as well as root vegetables) Some people have said that during this phase the water will run straight to the roots, making it easier for them to soak up the goodness, and start thriving. Also, the cooler nights will help ease them into the transition, making them less susceptible to transplant shock.

Other helpful things to do during this phase include weeding your garden (Don't let those pesky things suck the life out of your plant)!! As well as ridding yourself of toxic people or situations in your life. Its also good for reduction, i.e. throw a little extra towards your debt elimination goal this week, or attempt to kick that awful fingernail biting habit.

Love Till Next Time,


Rose

The (Super) Flower Moon.

Last night was the full moon. In May we call it the Flower Moon.
Lovey and I went out at about 9:30 to sit under the moon, and talk. I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful night. The Lilacs are finally starting the bloom, so the yard was filled with their sweet smell. The rain had cleared a day early, so it was cool outside, but not so cold that we wouldn't be able to stand it.

Its nights like those that I wish I had an outdoor altar set up. Sometimes I contemplate doing it, but fear it would raise to many questions. I can't wait until I can come out. What a joyous day that will be, when I no longer have to carefully craft my answers to simple questions like "Where are you going? Its a Tuesday night." The honest answer was that I was headed to a Beltane ritual. The answer I gave "Just, out. Probably to grab some dinner." What a ridiculous answer.

Don't get me wrong I am an adult. I can do what I choose. I can believe what I choose. I just choose to stay on the DL until after my wedding next May. But what a wonderful day it will be, when I finally Choose to be honest about my life.

Back on topic : 

Spring as a whole is focused on fertility, and new life. The Flower Moon, also known as the Hare Moon, is a good time to focus on career growth. Finally going to sign up for those collage courses you've been putting off for year now? Want to attempt something new? Trying for that big promotion in the office?  Now is the perfect time to do it. Try taking some of the seedlings you have started inside (personally, I would do this with the strongest ones I have growing) and transplant them outdoors. As they grow, ask them to assist in your career growth. Tend to them daily, watch them. Picture yourself growing, as they grow. Talk to them, give them words of encouragement. After all, they are in a delicate state too. Just as you depend on your job, they depend on you.
You could also sit under the moon, and meditate on where you envision your life headed. Where do you want to be in your job a month from now? What about a year from now? Ask the moon to guide you. Soak up her beams, build off of the energy she lends to you.

Herbs A-Z : Dandelion

Dandelion

AKA: Blow-ball, Cankerwort, Wild Endive

Gender: Male

Element: Air

Planet: Jupiter

Mundane Uses: Dandelion root, is rich in potassium, iron, Sodium, and Calcium. As well as Vitamins A, B, C, and D. When made into a tea, it is commonly used as a digestive aid. It helps calm an upset stomach, and also aids in detoxifying the liver. The leaves act as a diuretic, which increases the amount of urine in an individuals body. 

The juice from dandelion stems can be applied to warts. In 2-3 days, the wart should dry up and fall off. However, juice from the stems should never be ingested, as it can lead to harmful side effects.

Dandelions are also edible! The leaves are used commonly used in salads. Maybe a little more uncommon are the dandelion heads, the yellow flower can be breaded and fried, to make for a tasty treat!

Magical Uses: Dandelions are most commonly used in divination. One theory is that how ever many seeds are left after one blow, is how many children you will have. Another one, represents your relationship, if you blow, and all the seeds leave then your relationship will be strong. However, if many are left on, it is a sign that it may be fickle and disruptive.

It is also associated with wish spells. Make a wish, and blow all of the seeds out. The wind will carry your seeds out into the universe.

The steam from dandelion tea is also used to aide in the calling of spirits.

Random Information: Native Americans used Dandelion root to clense the liver, as well as to ensure healthy digestion.

DISCLAIMER:

 I have no medical degrees, and am not a doctor. Consult a physician before ingesting somthing new that you are unfamiliar with. These are my personal findings only. I do not reccommend using them until you have consulted your physician.

http://www.drstandley.com/herbs_dandelion.shtml

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/dandelion-000236.htm

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-706-DANDELION.aspx?activeIngredientId=706&activeIngredientName=DANDELION

http://www.thegoddesstree.com/MotherNature/Dandelion.htm

Our Beltane!

Last night was my first time celebrating Beltane. It was also my first group ritual.
We arrived with apprehension. I was nervous, I didn't know what to expect.
Would there be weird chanting? 
Would it be lame? 
Would the people there be fake? 
What if they don't like me?

On top of it all, yesterday was miserable out, rainy, cloudy, and cold.
Luckily the rain cleared up, and stayed away for most of the night. With the exception of a light occasional drizzle.

We pulled up I saw some women dressed... interestingly. I didn't know why. I had looked up pictures of previous rituals, and NO ONE had looked like this! Add ten pounds to my nerves! We walked over and met the group.

Soon we found out that they were dressed like Fae. How appropriate.
The ritual was done as sort of a show, we went through the path, being greeted and tempted by Fae and answering their riddles. We called the elements to our sides, and the walk ended by walking through a "veil" at the top of the hill, where the circle was set up, with a fire in the center.

The night was much less cheesy after that. people danced around the fire. We toasted to the God and Goddess, and there was a maypole!

The May Pole was amazing, it was my first one ever. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time.

After the may pole we raised our arms and shouted our energy back into the universe. Followed by kneeling down and draining the last of it back into the earth.

My soul was so full by the time we left, I don't recall ever being that fulfilled after any type of religious ceremony ever.


Last night I knew for sure that I had finally come home.

The Un-named Goddess.

So I have mentioned before, that I worship a Goddess.

I also have my God, but I am not as strongly connected to him as I am with her.

Now I may or may NOT have mentioned before, that I really don't have a name. I just don't know what it is! I know its a her, its my gut feeling, and I know she is somehow attached to the earth, as I feel her presence strongest when I am outside, attuning to my natural surroundings.

I try to search the internet, and see who fits this description, but I'm always at a loss. There are many who do, but nothing has seemed to click with me yet. And the last thing I want to do is to start calling her by someone elses name. That seems rude. 

I really need to do some meditating on this, as it does bother me to not have a name.

Perhaps tonight I will sit under the stars and ask for some guidance in this.

Any thoughts? 

Am I the only one with this problem?

Herbs A-Z : Chamomile

Chamomile

Photo Credit

AKA: Ground Apple, Whig Plant, Maythen

Element : Water

Gender: Masculine

Mundane Uses:

Chamomile appears to contains chemicals that help promote relaxation and reduce inflamation, though researchers have yet to identify which chemical this is. It is often times used for common aches and pains such as menstral cramping, colic, and fibromyalgia.

It is also widely known for its aid in digestive complaints such as intestinal gas, nervous diarrhea, stomach ulcers and travel sickness.

Placing cool teabags on your skin or taking a bath filled with water and chamomile oil may assist in soothing skin disorders such as exzema, burns, and rashes.

Perhaps the most popular use of chamomile is for headaches, and sleep deprivation. It calms the nerves and reduces anxiety.

Magical Uses:

Magically, Chamomile is an herb commonly used for purification, and protection. To protect your home from phsychic or magical attacks sprinkle chamomile in the corners of you home.

It is also widely known as a calming aid, and can be used in an insence to assist in peaceful sleep and meditation.

Chamomile is also used for good luck. Gamblers have been known to wash their hands in chamomile tea before heading to the tables.

Random Facts:

Chamomile has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years.

DISCLAIMER:

 I have no medical degrees, and am not a doctor. Consult a physician before ingesting somthing new that you are unfamiliar with. These are my personal findings only. I do not reccommend using them until you have consulted your physician.

http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-951-GERMAN%20CHAMOMILE.aspx?activeIngredientId=951&activeIngredientName=GERMAN%20CHAMOMILE

http://www.newsmax.com/FastFeatures/chamomile-lavender-benefits-uses/2011/01/28/id/369825

http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/bookofshadows/ig/Magical-Herbs/Chamomile.htm

My Beliefs.

One of the women in a forum I frequent asked us all if we would be willing to talk a little bit about our faiths. She is a former Christian, and recently joined a Christian Forum to face some of what she had left behind. So I thought I would share mine. Keep in mind though, my beliefs are very personal to myself, and I don;t want to hear anyone criticize me. I won't tolerate it.

Without further ado, here it is:

        My path can be difficult to understand, and it raises eyebrows from both christian and pagan communities. I make no excuses, nor am I ashamed, for these beliefs are my own. I believe in God, and Jesus Christ. I have since I was a child. I was brought up going to all sorts of churches, be it baptist, or protestant, I even (briefly) attended the church of ladder day saints as a child. I love them, worship them, and give praise and thanks often. However, I also believe in my Goddess, the mother of both heaven and earth. Some believe she was God's wife. I also give praise to her. I worship her, and talk with her. To be honest I feel much more connected to my Goddess, and this is the reason I find it hard to attend a traditional christian church.
        I believe in a forgiving God. I don't think he is as hateful and judgmental as some christian's make him out to be. I'm not sure if I believe in hell either. I'm pretty sure though, if hell does exist, that it's not eternal. I don't believe God would damn an individual to an eternity of torture. I think hell is more the absence of heaven than a  fiery pit. Who can say for sure? I know that the Bible was written by man, and therefore, contains man made errors, and man made influences. It is also centuries old, and quite often is mistranslated, to suit the beliefs of current individuals, and their politics. I take it as a guide, not as my only source of insight.
        For those who are wondering, I celebrate the 8 Sabbaths, as well as the christian holidays, and give praise and worship to the respected individual. My Goddess gets the Sabbaths, and God would receive Christmas, and Easter, and so on. I also celebrate the sun and the moon, and can oftentimes be found outside once a month standing under the full moon, performing a tiny ritual, basking in the glow, and soaking up its energy for the month ahead.
        I have an altar set up in my home. On it are candles that represent the four elements, as well as a candle to represent God, and my Goddess, and then I have two that sit upon a stone that represent whichever season we are currently in. It also holds my sage, my tarot cards, my crystal, and a small cross to represent Jesus. I don't typically do traditional offerings on my altar, I find it more of a quiet meditating sort of space. I stand in front of it and light my candles for added peace and positive energy. I also perform the occasional spell work (though rarely).
        I would be classified as a Green Witch. I base my path off of the world around us, I believe everything has a soul, even the dandelions growing in the front yard. My offerings consist of giving back in the form of a compost pile outside. I do my best to keep my carbon footprint at a minimum, and I try to take a few minutes each day to celebrate the earth around us. I would rather heal myself with herbs than pills. I think everyone has a right to worship in their own way, and this is the way I choose.


I could go on for a couple more pages, but I will stop it here. Feel free to contact me with any questions. I am very much an open book.

Earth Day!

Today is Earth Day!
And my Spirit is so full of contentment.

My day started out with a walk along one of our trails in town with Loveyy. We took the dog, and picked up trash along the way. We collected two grocery bags full! And we only walked about a mile up the trail! It was a lot, but I felt much better for cleaning it up. Most of the trash was paper towels... hmm... The only thing I can figure is that they are used by runners who frequent the trails.

After our walk my mom and I turned over the soil in one of our gardens, it was tough! And picked out all of the rocks from the soil. I am so happy because the soil is so rick this year, I am sure our plants are going to grow like crazy. Then we planted some yucky squash.

After that was done mom and I collected 8 different plastic bottles from around the house, cut them in half, threw some small rocks in the bottom, and put some soil in them and planted 8 new herb plants. God knows I love my herbs! The soil came from underneath the kids swing set, it is so rich from all of the ash I have been throwing in it this season.  Then we watered the plants, and taped their lids back on!


We already have a ton of stuff growing that we started weeks ago. But we want to have atleast three of each herb, so that we will be able to use it fresh throughout the year.

Where Earth Day Come From:

You can read about the earth day movement and its origins here or here


Wait a minute wait a minute, earth day isn't pagan. Well, No, but we have to keep an open mind with things like this. Patti Wigington at About.com does an excellent job explaining pagans and their ties to earth day.

10 days 'till beltane!

Beltane is just around the corner now. I am so excited.
This year we are going to go to a gathering a few towns over. The group is an earth centered spirituality group, which I think will blend together really well with my beliefs. Its based out of a Universalists Church, which I love. I used to attend one when I was younger, the amount of open love and acceptance you see there is amazing. Something I have rarely found attending Baptist Churches growing up.

So for those of you who aren't familiar Beltane is almost always a festival focused on fertility. Its the time when our mother goddess opens up and grants us with stong crops, healthy livestock, and maybe even a couple of beautiful babies being concieved ;) The festival goes back centuries, and lots off different goddesses and gods are given tribute on this night. Including Artemis, Bes, Baccus, Flora, Pan, Hera, and the list goes on.

The gather we are going to is going to have two large maypoles! I am stoked because I have never participated in a maypole dance before, though I have always wanted too.

I am also freaking out, because this will be my first pagan-centered event ever. I'm very private in my beliefs, and so this is a big deal to me.

Herbs A-Z : Basil

Basil

Photo Credit.

AKA: St. Joseph's Wart, American Dittany, Witches Herb,

Planet: Mars

Gender: Masculine

Element : Fire

Mundane properties:

Basil is a great addition to most dishes! I personally use a pinch in almost everything I make.

Basil is used as a natural anti-infammatory.

It can also be used as a tonic to help aid in digestion. To do this simply make a tea out of it by steeping it in hot water. This can also be used to help with stomach cramps, vomiting, constipation, headaches, and anxiety. Although typically used in a tea basil can also be dried, then ground up and put into smaller capsuls. This way they can easily be used when you are out and about running errands or at work.

Mouth infections have known to clear up by simply chewing basil leaves twice daily.

It can be used with Insect Bites: A teaspoon of basil leaf juice taken every few hours prevents bugs from biting. However, in the event of a bug bite rub the bites with juice and this will relieve the itching and reduce swelling.

Random Interesting Information:

Originally from asia and middle east, Basil has been grown and used for over 5,000 years.

In certain countries many men will not eat basil, because it is often made into tea's that provide pain relief to women during menstration they believe it is something that real men shouldn't take.

Magical Properties :

In some Mediterannian countries Basil is sprinkled on the floors of homes to purify it. In the same way if sprinkled in each corner and room of the home it can also aid in the protection of a home.

It is believed that when moving to a new home a gift of a new potted basil plant will guarentee your good fourtune.

It is thought that basil can be used for attracting money. Sprinkle some in your wallet to attract wealth, tying basil with sage for luck wouldn't be a bad idea either. Gamblers have been known to keep basil and sage in their pockets when they head for the tables.

Basil is used both love magic, and love divination.

It can help to guarentee fidelity. To keep your partner faithful try sprinkling some basil in the bed near where the heart would lay. This will keep them true to you.

It is also said to be able to detect infidelity. To do this place a basil leaf in your partners hand, if it wilts right away, your partner has probably been stepping out.
In regards to divination – it is said that if you take two basil leaves, place them on a live coal. If the crackle and hiss your relationship will probably have some issues. However, if they burn to ash quickly, this is an indicator that your relationship will be harmonious and long lived.

When drawing a bath try adding some basil to aid in lifting of your spirit and soothing your soul. Try mixing it with lavender or lemon for a truly relaxing and replenishing of the mind and soul.

Warnings:

I have been told not to use basil for medicinal or aromatherapy uses if you are pregnant, it can bring on menstration cycles.

Do not give infusions of basil to children under ten as it can exceed a childs metabolism and mouthwashes can burn a childs mouth.

DISCLAIMER:

 I have no medical degrees, and am not a doctor. Consult a physician before ingesting somthing new that you are unfamiliar with. These are my personal findings only. I do not reccommend using them until you have consulted your physician.

___________________________

Sources:

http://pss.uvm.edu/ppp/articles/basil.htm

http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbBasilMed.htm

http://www.offthegridnews.com/2011/04/21/medicinal-uses-and-health-benefits-of-basil/

http://paganwiccan.about.com/od/bookofshadows/ig/Magical-Herbs/Basil.htm

http://www.realmagick.com/7233/basil-the-herb-of-kings/

Full Moon

Two Nights ago it was the full moon.

April is known as the Wind Moon (or the seed moon) it is a time of conception, fertility, and growth. A time to move forward with your life and plans

My lovey and I and a few other family members sat outside by the fire and enjoyed the sight.

I had a ritual I wanted to do, but I was exhausted and was never left alone with Lovey long enough to do it. So we didn't.

It was still a beautiful night though, and I said a silent prayer in my head while soaking up the moons rays.
.
You may have missed the full moon, but if you have a minute, take some time and go stand outside, soak up the rays and think about what you want for the coming year.

Diggin in the dirt

Despite the cool temperatures today, I still managed to find myself outside for a short time.
Mom and I went and dug all of the day lillies out from one of our garden boxes. Her boyfriend is going to take them over to the house he just bought. We have tons of them all over the yard. Honestly they spread like wildfire and will completely consume your yard. Nevertheless, they are pretty, so we don't mind having them here and there.
We turned the soil and raked out all of the leaves and pine needles. Mom likes the pine, she insists its good for the soil. I couldn't care less, I hate those prickly little buggers. So I ended up tossing them all out.
The box is going to be used for pumpkins and garden beans later on this spring. I can not wait to have my pumpkins growing! I planted the seeds last weekend, and I am constantly checking for any signs that they are about to sprout.
We started some of the beans early. They fell out of the package earlier this week and got soaked. Instead of throwing them away we figured we'd plant them and see if they became anything.

The feeling I get from playing in the dirt is almost indescribable.
Tending to things and helping them flourish. Its super calming and immediately improves my day.

Herbs. A-Z

To help me learn and explore this newfound path each week I will find one herb, research it and tell about it here. I will discuss both magical and mundane uses.
I will start with A which might stand for Alfalfa, or Angelica.
Next week will be B and it will go on from there.
Feel free to join in.

A

Alfalfa - Alfalfa is also known as Buffalo herb,  Lucerne, Purple Medic, Chilean clover.

Image Found Here.

Element: Earth
Gender : Female
Planet: Venus

It is high in protein, fiber and contains B vitamins, beta carotene, vitamins C, E and K.
The reason the alfalfa plants are so rich in nutrients is because the roots grow so deep in the ground, they can grow as far as 20feet or more into the ground.

Alfalfa became popular centuries ago. And was used in many folk remedies. Today it is often used when cooking and is also a a popular health tonic used to help lower cholesteral. As well as helping to treat menopause symptoms, diabetes, and arthritis. It has also been shown to protect against certain cancers, such as breast, and prostate. The Chinese have been using it since the 6th century to help with fluid retention and swelling, as well as kidney stones.  Used as a tea, Alfala can be extreamly calming, and soothing to nerve pain and helpful in particularly stressful situations. It has been known to aide in restoring mental alertness, and improving sleep.


Magically Alfalfa has been known to draw in good fourtune especially pertaining to money matters. Alfalfa keeps away financial troubles and poverty. Often times it is kept in pockets to attract money, especially when gambling. It also known to be sprinkled underneath carpets at businesses to bring in steady business.


With all of the information I found I could go on and on for pages, but this was a great start I think.


DISCLAIMER: I have no medical degrees, and am not a doctor. Consult a physician before ingesting somthing new that you are unfamiliar with. These are my personal findings only. I do not reccommend using them until you have consulted your physician.