Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Friday, December 28, 2012
Snowy Weather
Merry Christmas everyone!
I haven't posted since Yule now, but I've been a bit out of it since Christmas dinner ended. This year the holidays were pretty much up to my sister and I to organize, and the whole thing took quite a bit of energy out of us. Post-Christmas news: I came down with a very bad cold exactly 24 hours after the fact, and I've been through about 4 boxes of tissues, not including the box I'm sniffling my way through now.
My energy levels are just about zero, which is much better than yesterday. I'm not even sure how I had the energy to eat yesterday, but hey, still here. Which brings me to another topic: the world as we know it didn't end!
Not that I'm surprised; we all knew it wasn't going to end. I do, however, agree with those that say now is a time when the world as we knew it would change in many ways. I am seeing that change in myself; it's very gradual, and somehow I get the feeling that it will be more of an emotional change than a physical one.
I'm not proud of some of these emotional changes in myself at times. I have noticed that I do become much more irritable than I used to be, and I get angry quite often. When I was younger I wasn't an angry person at all, but maybe ageing does that to you. I guess I've gotten to a point where I feel trapped without a outlet to vent my frustrations at my current life situation. It's very hard to deal with at times. Like the huge piles of snow sitting outside my door right at this very moment (we had over 45 centimeters of snowfall the other night as the first snowstorm of winter). The snowflakes kept coming down as each hour passed, until everything was covered up in a frosty wonderland. My own feelings get to me in this way more often than not. The frustrations come down on me and cover me up emotionally with nowhere to go but the same inner receptacles of my mind and my heart. I'm not a cold person by nature, but I feel that inner anger come unleashed at certain times, and it's disturbing to me. I'm going to stop talking about this, because it doesn't really fit into the scheme of things right now. Snow does though. Lots of snow. Apparently Montreal broke it's record the other night for the largest snowfall since 1971. Considering the normal winter conditions here, that's pretty impressive. So the Christmas snowfall is finally here- sitting outside my front door in humongous, dauntingly high piles.
As you can see, the snow is nearly up to the birdhouse and halfway up the tree. Thank goodness the big brawny Gardeners also shoveled out the pathway, or else there was no leaving the house. Crazy big snow.
Just the way I like it.
I haven't posted since Yule now, but I've been a bit out of it since Christmas dinner ended. This year the holidays were pretty much up to my sister and I to organize, and the whole thing took quite a bit of energy out of us. Post-Christmas news: I came down with a very bad cold exactly 24 hours after the fact, and I've been through about 4 boxes of tissues, not including the box I'm sniffling my way through now.
My energy levels are just about zero, which is much better than yesterday. I'm not even sure how I had the energy to eat yesterday, but hey, still here. Which brings me to another topic: the world as we know it didn't end!
Not that I'm surprised; we all knew it wasn't going to end. I do, however, agree with those that say now is a time when the world as we knew it would change in many ways. I am seeing that change in myself; it's very gradual, and somehow I get the feeling that it will be more of an emotional change than a physical one.
I'm not proud of some of these emotional changes in myself at times. I have noticed that I do become much more irritable than I used to be, and I get angry quite often. When I was younger I wasn't an angry person at all, but maybe ageing does that to you. I guess I've gotten to a point where I feel trapped without a outlet to vent my frustrations at my current life situation. It's very hard to deal with at times. Like the huge piles of snow sitting outside my door right at this very moment (we had over 45 centimeters of snowfall the other night as the first snowstorm of winter). The snowflakes kept coming down as each hour passed, until everything was covered up in a frosty wonderland. My own feelings get to me in this way more often than not. The frustrations come down on me and cover me up emotionally with nowhere to go but the same inner receptacles of my mind and my heart. I'm not a cold person by nature, but I feel that inner anger come unleashed at certain times, and it's disturbing to me. I'm going to stop talking about this, because it doesn't really fit into the scheme of things right now. Snow does though. Lots of snow. Apparently Montreal broke it's record the other night for the largest snowfall since 1971. Considering the normal winter conditions here, that's pretty impressive. So the Christmas snowfall is finally here- sitting outside my front door in humongous, dauntingly high piles.
As you can see, the snow is nearly up to the birdhouse and halfway up the tree. Thank goodness the big brawny Gardeners also shoveled out the pathway, or else there was no leaving the house. Crazy big snow.
Just the way I like it.
Since tons of snow always means winter is full on, let's enjoy the coming indoor months as we must. Snowmen (and snow-women) need not apply.
Friday, December 21, 2012
It's Finally Here! 21 Days of Yule Giveaway!!!
Merry Yule Everyone!
Today is the blessed Winter Solstice and so tonight I will be announcing the winner of my '21 Days of Yule' Giveaway.
Like I mentioned in the my first post of this month, the winner will be given a Celtic Cross reading, done by email with pictures, and a bar of handmade soap with a knitted washcloth; all done by yours truly.
So the winner of this years 2012 '21 Days of Yule' Giveaway is....................................................................
BRITTANY HOLLAND!!!
Thank you so much Brittany for posting on my blog and being one of my readers. I'm glad that you have enjoyed my posts, and I hope that your Tarot reading and handmade gifts bring a smile to your face and good cheer to your heart.
I will be sending out a message tomorrow for details, and off your prizes will go, starting with the Tarot reading.
Have a wonderful evening, Brittany (and all my other readers out there) and, again, a blessed Yule to you all.
Today is the blessed Winter Solstice and so tonight I will be announcing the winner of my '21 Days of Yule' Giveaway.
Like I mentioned in the my first post of this month, the winner will be given a Celtic Cross reading, done by email with pictures, and a bar of handmade soap with a knitted washcloth; all done by yours truly.
So the winner of this years 2012 '21 Days of Yule' Giveaway is....................................................................
BRITTANY HOLLAND!!!
Thank you so much Brittany for posting on my blog and being one of my readers. I'm glad that you have enjoyed my posts, and I hope that your Tarot reading and handmade gifts bring a smile to your face and good cheer to your heart.
I will be sending out a message tomorrow for details, and off your prizes will go, starting with the Tarot reading.
Have a wonderful evening, Brittany (and all my other readers out there) and, again, a blessed Yule to you all.
Yule Has Come
The big day we've been waiting for has finally come! Yule, otherwise known as the Winter Solstice, is now upon us, with the sun at it's lowest point in the sky for the next two days or so here in the Northern Hemisphere. It's a beautiful time of year if you adore snow and winter landscapes, and today did not fail to deliver a healthy dose of glittering snowfall and bright winter sunlight even though both lasted only an hour or so. Looking out at the confetti-like snowflakes dusting the ground like pixie dust reminded me of all the winters past and happy memories I have so strongly associated with wintertime and Yule.
When I was much younger and celebrating Yule as Christmas it was my favourite holiday. Yule still is my favourite holiday, and so is Christmas for that matter. In my family Christmas was always more about the turkey, presents, tree, and family than it ever was about religion. There's nothing wrong with that, especially when you come from a multicultural family. Now that I'm much older, I see that despite all the differences in culture and religion between my grandparents and parents, we all still managed to have a great time at Christmas, minus a squabble here and there. I want to preserve that feeling of Christmas forever; make it a tradition to safeguard the joy and laughter we share each season by being together around the dinner table, looking outside at the falling snow, and basking in the glow of lights from our holiday decorating.
This year my wish is to start my own traditions for Yule and Christmas. To keep the spirit of the Goddess and God, the winter sprites, and the folktales and old ways alive through my efforts of giving and loving, feeling and believing. We can all bring happiness to each other and ourselves by warming our hearts with sharing what we have with others, and letting peace settle into our hearts and souls.
So I want to wish everyone a beautiful Yule and peaceful Winter Solstice. May joy, happiness and blessings abound to all!
Merry Yule, with lots of love xoxox
When I was much younger and celebrating Yule as Christmas it was my favourite holiday. Yule still is my favourite holiday, and so is Christmas for that matter. In my family Christmas was always more about the turkey, presents, tree, and family than it ever was about religion. There's nothing wrong with that, especially when you come from a multicultural family. Now that I'm much older, I see that despite all the differences in culture and religion between my grandparents and parents, we all still managed to have a great time at Christmas, minus a squabble here and there. I want to preserve that feeling of Christmas forever; make it a tradition to safeguard the joy and laughter we share each season by being together around the dinner table, looking outside at the falling snow, and basking in the glow of lights from our holiday decorating.
This year my wish is to start my own traditions for Yule and Christmas. To keep the spirit of the Goddess and God, the winter sprites, and the folktales and old ways alive through my efforts of giving and loving, feeling and believing. We can all bring happiness to each other and ourselves by warming our hearts with sharing what we have with others, and letting peace settle into our hearts and souls.
So I want to wish everyone a beautiful Yule and peaceful Winter Solstice. May joy, happiness and blessings abound to all!
Merry Yule, with lots of love xoxox
Yule Magic
It's 1:33 am exactly right now, and my Yule vigil is going very well. I did a Tarot video for my channel on the upcoming seasons of 2013 while debuting my Druid Animal Oracle Deck by the famous Philip Carr-Gomm, head of the Order of Druids, Bards, and Ovates, and a modern-day Druid. I love his work and his philosophies, and the Animal oracle deck he created is just as thought-provoking as one would expect from one so thoughtful. At least I think so.
In this round-about way, Druids have me thinking about magic. The winter season has always been a magical time for me, especially as a child. Seeing icicles form and snow fall, and breathing in the icy chill of winter air always held something special for me. The surprise and awe at the spontaneous burst of a snowfall or the playfulness of a passing flurry was a good feeling, one I want to have again and again at Christmas. It's the joy and hope in the cold that makes miracles come true, and keeps true magic alive.
So my eyes are heavy now- it's nearly 2 am. I must be off to dream of the Goddess and God in their sparkling winter wonderland.
Goodnight all!
In this round-about way, Druids have me thinking about magic. The winter season has always been a magical time for me, especially as a child. Seeing icicles form and snow fall, and breathing in the icy chill of winter air always held something special for me. The surprise and awe at the spontaneous burst of a snowfall or the playfulness of a passing flurry was a good feeling, one I want to have again and again at Christmas. It's the joy and hope in the cold that makes miracles come true, and keeps true magic alive.
So my eyes are heavy now- it's nearly 2 am. I must be off to dream of the Goddess and God in their sparkling winter wonderland.
Goodnight all!
Thursday, December 20, 2012
The Darkest Night Before The Dawn
Hello Everyone!
Yule eve is finally upon us and the longest night of the year has just begun. When the sun emerges from it's slumber tomorrow morning we will have the God reborn for a new turn of the wheel!
Here in eastern Canada the sun went down about half an hour ago, so my Yule candle is lit and going strong for my vigil tonight. I'll be posting more on Yule tonight, a some tarot videos on my YouTube channel for your and my festive enjoyment.
So let us say goodbye to the Holly and prepare for the Oak as this Witch's year comes to an end.
Blessed Yule, everyone xoxox
Yule eve is finally upon us and the longest night of the year has just begun. When the sun emerges from it's slumber tomorrow morning we will have the God reborn for a new turn of the wheel!
Here in eastern Canada the sun went down about half an hour ago, so my Yule candle is lit and going strong for my vigil tonight. I'll be posting more on Yule tonight, a some tarot videos on my YouTube channel for your and my festive enjoyment.
So let us say goodbye to the Holly and prepare for the Oak as this Witch's year comes to an end.
Blessed Yule, everyone xoxox
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Holiday Treats: Biscotti
I've always loved eating biscotti; it's one of the few cookies that pairs incredibly well to a multitude of hot beverages- tea, coffee, cafe latte, hot chocolate, Starbuck's horribly delicious egg nog lattes...you get the drift. Despite enjoying them so much, I've never actually baked any, so today was baking experiment day and I made a batch from a recipe I found online. Excellent recipe, and not having all the necessary extras I changed the recipe, but the basic ingredients and amounts are almost exactly the same as the amazing original.
I hope you enjoy these as much my entire household did. Especially grandpa.
Winter Lemon Biscotti
1/4 cup Light Olive Oil ( I used vegetable oil)
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tsp Almond Extract
2 Eggs
2 cups Flour ( I always use all-purpose, unbleached)
1/4 tsp Salt
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Anise seeds ( I gave mine a coarse grind in my mortar and pestle)
zest of 1 whole Lemon, very finely chopped
To bring these biscotti to life: (directions taken from the original posted recipe*)
a) Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
b) In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, then beat in the eggs. Add anise seeds and finely chopped lemon zest.
c) Combine flour, salt, and baking powder separately to sift; gradually stir into egg mixture.
d) Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily.
(Note: my mixture did not make that much dough; perhaps yours will, but you will have to see. If not, don't worry, just try top make both logs of dough as even as you can.)
e) Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
f) Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.
(Note: the second baking took my 20 minutes. I wanted them pretty dry. For this part, the timing is entirely at your discretion. I say keep checking them until you like the level of dryness). I would not, however, go past 30 minutes as they continue to dry out after they are taken out of the oven. Mine did not last long enough for me to find out how that takes.)
And you're done. Delicious biscotti made with very simple ingredients. Lemony sweet and sure to please!
*Find the original recipe here:
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti Recipe And here's the video!
I hope you enjoy these as much my entire household did. Especially grandpa.
Winter Lemon Biscotti
1/4 cup Light Olive Oil ( I used vegetable oil)
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tsp Almond Extract
2 Eggs
2 cups Flour ( I always use all-purpose, unbleached)
1/4 tsp Salt
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Anise seeds ( I gave mine a coarse grind in my mortar and pestle)
zest of 1 whole Lemon, very finely chopped
To bring these biscotti to life: (directions taken from the original posted recipe*)
a) Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).
b) In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, then beat in the eggs. Add anise seeds and finely chopped lemon zest.
c) Combine flour, salt, and baking powder separately to sift; gradually stir into egg mixture.
d) Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily.
(Note: my mixture did not make that much dough; perhaps yours will, but you will have to see. If not, don't worry, just try top make both logs of dough as even as you can.)
e) Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C).
f) Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.
(Note: the second baking took my 20 minutes. I wanted them pretty dry. For this part, the timing is entirely at your discretion. I say keep checking them until you like the level of dryness). I would not, however, go past 30 minutes as they continue to dry out after they are taken out of the oven. Mine did not last long enough for me to find out how that takes.)
And you're done. Delicious biscotti made with very simple ingredients. Lemony sweet and sure to please!
*Find the original recipe here:
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti Recipe And here's the video!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Dark Times
I wasn't sure whether to post this or not, but my conscience decided that I can't just let the terrible atrocity that befell the community of the Sandy Hook Elementary School be kept aside from the Yule merriment on my blog. Despite being a Pagan believes in love and the positive, I just cannot keep silent on my disgust and horror at this...I don't even know what to call it. Massacre is a pretty good description.
You would think that after all the gun-related issues over the years (Columbine, Virginia Tech, the infamous movie theatre shooting last year, etc.) you would think that guns laws would have changed somewhat. Apparently not. I'm not going to give anymore of my opinion other than this small snippet: anyone can kill with a semi-automatic weapon; which is why they should not be available to anyone.
I hope that the parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, teachers, friends, neighbours, acquaintances, and any other persons that were affected by the shooting of those innocent children, their teachers and aides in their school can find a way to cope with their grief and sadness, and not feel the deep, dark depths of hatred that must be burning up in their soul as we speak. Hatred at what someone that did not care for the lives of others did to innocent people to vent their own inner-hate. They even took their own mother in the process.
We can only hope these occurrences will stop, once and for all. Life is just too precious.
As Saint Nicholas is one of the patron saints of children, I thought an image of him would be a small reminder of remembering the children that where taken with this tragedy. It's hard to say we love as well as we should, but love is the easiest and simplest thing we have to give.
You would think that after all the gun-related issues over the years (Columbine, Virginia Tech, the infamous movie theatre shooting last year, etc.) you would think that guns laws would have changed somewhat. Apparently not. I'm not going to give anymore of my opinion other than this small snippet: anyone can kill with a semi-automatic weapon; which is why they should not be available to anyone.
I hope that the parents, grandparents, sisters, brothers, teachers, friends, neighbours, acquaintances, and any other persons that were affected by the shooting of those innocent children, their teachers and aides in their school can find a way to cope with their grief and sadness, and not feel the deep, dark depths of hatred that must be burning up in their soul as we speak. Hatred at what someone that did not care for the lives of others did to innocent people to vent their own inner-hate. They even took their own mother in the process.
We can only hope these occurrences will stop, once and for all. Life is just too precious.
As Saint Nicholas is one of the patron saints of children, I thought an image of him would be a small reminder of remembering the children that where taken with this tragedy. It's hard to say we love as well as we should, but love is the easiest and simplest thing we have to give.
Home For The Holidays
As the title of the post explains, I was sick at home all day yesterday. The winter is prime time for catching something as most of us know and probably have experienced (I would be surprised to hear of someone that never had a cold or the flu during wintertime). This caught me a bit off guard, however, and felt more like torture than sickness- but then again I hate being sick, especially when I have important things to do. Like making Tarot videos and blogging. Thankfully I'm feeling better today, so back to blogging I go.
Quite a few things have happened in the last few days, including my 28th birthday, which was a lot of fun. I went to a Christmas/Zumba party, and there's nothing like sweating for 1.5 hours and then enjoying some pretty cupcakes and carrots with hummus. That doesn't sound appetizing really, but when you've burned over 1500 calories in one sitting you'll take just about anything. So yes, amazing birthday, amazing workout. The whole day was awesome.
Yesterday though, not so much, but sometimes you just have to accept the negative with the positive. In this case there was more positive than negative, thank Goddess. Honestly, I'm sure if I hadn't done a few rounds of mantras last night to Guanyin I would have probably felt just as worse for wear today. Guanyin, as always the merciful ray of hope, probably saved me from further suffering. Sleeping all day helped a bit too.
Now that I'm more mobile and alert, I thought I would mention more about the Yule giveaway that I have set for next week, December 21st. I would like to give a special Yule reading for the winner, and a few little extras thrown in. I've mentioned before that I make my own soaps and knit my own washcloths, so the winner will also be getting one of each; not anything serious, just a few handmade items crafted with love to spread some cheer this Yule. It's not the gift, as they say, it's the thought that counts.
Which leads me to something else that cropped up a day ago other than my sickness- apparently I'm going to be solo this year during the holidays. It's not the first time I've been alone during the holidays, far from it. I am, however, a bit depressed and not quite relishing the idea of an almost-empty house on Yule and Christmas. The holidays with my family weren't the greatest I will admit, but being alone without my sisters throws a portion of my holiday joy out the window like a vagrant snowball. Oh well, such is life I suppose.
Now I'm just wondering what I'm going to do with a 20 lb. turkey?
Quite a few things have happened in the last few days, including my 28th birthday, which was a lot of fun. I went to a Christmas/Zumba party, and there's nothing like sweating for 1.5 hours and then enjoying some pretty cupcakes and carrots with hummus. That doesn't sound appetizing really, but when you've burned over 1500 calories in one sitting you'll take just about anything. So yes, amazing birthday, amazing workout. The whole day was awesome.
Yesterday though, not so much, but sometimes you just have to accept the negative with the positive. In this case there was more positive than negative, thank Goddess. Honestly, I'm sure if I hadn't done a few rounds of mantras last night to Guanyin I would have probably felt just as worse for wear today. Guanyin, as always the merciful ray of hope, probably saved me from further suffering. Sleeping all day helped a bit too.
Now that I'm more mobile and alert, I thought I would mention more about the Yule giveaway that I have set for next week, December 21st. I would like to give a special Yule reading for the winner, and a few little extras thrown in. I've mentioned before that I make my own soaps and knit my own washcloths, so the winner will also be getting one of each; not anything serious, just a few handmade items crafted with love to spread some cheer this Yule. It's not the gift, as they say, it's the thought that counts.
Which leads me to something else that cropped up a day ago other than my sickness- apparently I'm going to be solo this year during the holidays. It's not the first time I've been alone during the holidays, far from it. I am, however, a bit depressed and not quite relishing the idea of an almost-empty house on Yule and Christmas. The holidays with my family weren't the greatest I will admit, but being alone without my sisters throws a portion of my holiday joy out the window like a vagrant snowball. Oh well, such is life I suppose.
Now I'm just wondering what I'm going to do with a 20 lb. turkey?
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Another Birthday
Birthdays are silver,
Birthdays are gold;
We shall ever be young
Even though we are old.
Appreciate beauty,
Appreciate life;
Appreciate your family, friends,
Husband or wife.
So I wish unto all those,
Be you meek or bold,
Wishes of birthdays-
Silver and gold.
(c) Stephanie Ghanem
Birthdays are gold;
We shall ever be young
Even though we are old.
Appreciate beauty,
Appreciate life;
Appreciate your family, friends,
Husband or wife.
So I wish unto all those,
Be you meek or bold,
Wishes of birthdays-
Silver and gold.
(c) Stephanie Ghanem
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Ghosts of Christmases Past
I meant to write about this yesterday, but between my evening Zumba class and taking care of my grandfather I was so wiped out I could barely keep my eyes open. So to give you a better portrayal of my scrying journey the other night, I decided to wait until to today to post about this experience.
Before I talk about what images presented themselves to my mind, I want to say a few words about reliving the past.
For me, as I'm sure for many others like me, this time of year brings about quite a bit of nostalgia, and not always the warm and fuzzy kind either.
For this time of year, though, I have mostly memories of my grandmother. She loved the holidays like no one else. She always had the nicest tree of all, especially those years where she would bring out her iridescent white plastic tree, which she would decorate with silver Christmas balls and pink iridescent balls that would attach to the twinkle lights on the tree, shining through the white branches in spheres of glowing pink.
Rarely would Christmases be celebrated outside her home. Honestly, Christmas was not really Christmas outside of grandma's house (both of my grandparents lived there, but we always called it 'grandma's house).
Now that she has passed on, the holidays don't have the same meaning they used to. Not that they were a huge celebration to begin with- my family is more secular than anything- but Christmas and Easter were there to have time with my grandmother. Guaranteed we would drive all the way to her house for these holidays, unless there was a huge blizzard or snowstorm that happened to be coming down at or around that time. Thanksgiving as well was spent with her at her home, and just like the other holidays there would be cooking, and baking, and presents, and hugs, and funny stories that we all loved hearing, even though we had heard them a million times over.
What I'm trying to say is, you re-live your past at the holidays, and sometimes that is hard to do. Sometimes you find yourself thinking about things you just want to forget.
Which brings me to my experience the other night. In my scrying/meditation, I was brought to a place where all the bad experiences of my life were coming to a culmination. The need to shed the old in order to bringing about the new was a direct factor in the message I received from my higher-self. I saw Artemis, my new goddess guide, and Hecate, my now old friend, together as one, telling me to go beyond where I am right now; to forget the past and focus on the new and now.
It was a hard message to swallow considering my life right now, but I can only hope that with their guidance and perseverance I can bring myself to a higher state of being and a more cultivated, forward moving state of mind and spirit for the future.
I hope we can all learn from the ghosts of our past with no regrets. It hurts, and it's hard, but it helps.
Before I talk about what images presented themselves to my mind, I want to say a few words about reliving the past.
For me, as I'm sure for many others like me, this time of year brings about quite a bit of nostalgia, and not always the warm and fuzzy kind either.
For this time of year, though, I have mostly memories of my grandmother. She loved the holidays like no one else. She always had the nicest tree of all, especially those years where she would bring out her iridescent white plastic tree, which she would decorate with silver Christmas balls and pink iridescent balls that would attach to the twinkle lights on the tree, shining through the white branches in spheres of glowing pink.
Rarely would Christmases be celebrated outside her home. Honestly, Christmas was not really Christmas outside of grandma's house (both of my grandparents lived there, but we always called it 'grandma's house).
Now that she has passed on, the holidays don't have the same meaning they used to. Not that they were a huge celebration to begin with- my family is more secular than anything- but Christmas and Easter were there to have time with my grandmother. Guaranteed we would drive all the way to her house for these holidays, unless there was a huge blizzard or snowstorm that happened to be coming down at or around that time. Thanksgiving as well was spent with her at her home, and just like the other holidays there would be cooking, and baking, and presents, and hugs, and funny stories that we all loved hearing, even though we had heard them a million times over.
What I'm trying to say is, you re-live your past at the holidays, and sometimes that is hard to do. Sometimes you find yourself thinking about things you just want to forget.
Which brings me to my experience the other night. In my scrying/meditation, I was brought to a place where all the bad experiences of my life were coming to a culmination. The need to shed the old in order to bringing about the new was a direct factor in the message I received from my higher-self. I saw Artemis, my new goddess guide, and Hecate, my now old friend, together as one, telling me to go beyond where I am right now; to forget the past and focus on the new and now.
It was a hard message to swallow considering my life right now, but I can only hope that with their guidance and perseverance I can bring myself to a higher state of being and a more cultivated, forward moving state of mind and spirit for the future.
I hope we can all learn from the ghosts of our past with no regrets. It hurts, and it's hard, but it helps.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
12.12.12
This date and this night of December 12, 2012 (12.12.12) is a very auspicious night. To take full advantage of the energies present within and around me, I have decided to take a journey with my crystal ball to discover the mysteries that await on December 21, 2012. I want to find out more about the truth of my higher-self and explore the astral through deep meditation.
Wish me luck, I will post my findings tomorrow. If you are bent on soul searching- this is really the night to do it. I would highly suggest a good heart or solar plexus chakra meditation, to bring your inner-self up to speed and cleanse any negativity lying dormant at this time. It's always good to clean out the dark before the light comes.
Blessed be, with love and light.
Wish me luck, I will post my findings tomorrow. If you are bent on soul searching- this is really the night to do it. I would highly suggest a good heart or solar plexus chakra meditation, to bring your inner-self up to speed and cleanse any negativity lying dormant at this time. It's always good to clean out the dark before the light comes.
Blessed be, with love and light.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Another Tea & Tarot Tuesday!
It's quite late, but I just finished uploading my video for today. I hope my readers find it as insightful as I did, because I did talk up a storm. Well, it just shows that even I can surprise myself sometimes.
Enjoy everyone!
*By the way, I'm having a Tarot reading giveaway set for December 15th. If you comment and subscribe you will be entered to win a full Celtic Cross Tarot reading analysis just for you.
Go check out my channel on YouTube to find out more.
Watch the video here :)
Enjoy everyone!
*By the way, I'm having a Tarot reading giveaway set for December 15th. If you comment and subscribe you will be entered to win a full Celtic Cross Tarot reading analysis just for you.
Go check out my channel on YouTube to find out more.
Watch the video here :)
Monday, December 10, 2012
A Yule Poem
The time has come for shortening days,
For snow to fall,
For life to fade.
The Sun, on earth, is weak and faint,
But soon he will regain his strength.
A child of promise will light our way,
On this December solstice day.
When the Goddess will claim her mother-form,
The God will once again be born.
So we give our thanks with love and grace
To the Goddess and God, our guiding pair.
We pray spring's flowers will return with haste,
As Yuletide turns to Imbolc fair.
(c) Stephanie Ghanem 2012
For snow to fall,
For life to fade.
The Sun, on earth, is weak and faint,
But soon he will regain his strength.
A child of promise will light our way,
On this December solstice day.
When the Goddess will claim her mother-form,
The God will once again be born.
So we give our thanks with love and grace
To the Goddess and God, our guiding pair.
We pray spring's flowers will return with haste,
As Yuletide turns to Imbolc fair.
(c) Stephanie Ghanem 2012
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Yule Vigil
Since I started practicing witchcraft, my Yule-time celebrations and practices never really happened because I would always be at my grandparents' house having Christmas. Not just for Christmas day or eve, but
for an entire week or so, depending on when my sisters and I would be resuming school after New Year's. Of course I wouldn't have any of my Pagan items with me to feel a connection to my own version of the Sabbat, and neither would I have enough time to myself to take in some peace and quiet. Christmas at my grandparents' house was like that.
But things are different now, and I can have the time to myself to be one with my spirituality on a very important night- the longest night of the year.
Having this time to myself, I've decided to hold a vigil the entire night of Yule so that I can welcome the God back from his long slumber during the fall months as I watch the sunrise in the sky on the winter solstice. It's been more than a long time since I've properly watched a sunrise, so I'm very excited to finally have the chance to do this. I'll be staying up (at least trying to) all night until the sunrise in the morning. Around here sundown is around 4:30 pm and sunrise is about 7:45 am to 8 am, so I will be staying up for quite a long time.
To prepare for my vigil, I have my Goddess rosary and some prayers lined up, and I also have a new Tarot spread just for Yule that I will be trying out for myself. I will begin by symbolically lighting a candle at sundown, which will burn (hopefully!) until sunrise the next morning. As the longest and also darkest night of the year, having a candle burning will be my symbol of hope for the next turning of the wheel, and my gift to my ancestors; those that should be here on Yule will be with me during that long night in the flame of the candle.
If you would also like to participate in a Yule vigil with me, all you need is a longer burning candle like a small pillar or a votive (I don't suggest a tea light unless you have nothing else and don't mind relighting another periodically). These can be just plain white, or if you would like any of the festive colors and/or scents of Yule. Also optional is a figure or picture of your personal Goddess and/or God (I will be putting out my Virgin Mary and Child figurine, as I personally feel that it represents my own symbolism of this Sabbat).
I will post pictures of my vigil on the Winter Solstice, so I hope everyone that wants to participate in the vigil will be able to do so and have a great night filled with love, hope, joy, and giving.
Let me know how your night goes, too.
Blessed be.
for an entire week or so, depending on when my sisters and I would be resuming school after New Year's. Of course I wouldn't have any of my Pagan items with me to feel a connection to my own version of the Sabbat, and neither would I have enough time to myself to take in some peace and quiet. Christmas at my grandparents' house was like that.But things are different now, and I can have the time to myself to be one with my spirituality on a very important night- the longest night of the year.
Having this time to myself, I've decided to hold a vigil the entire night of Yule so that I can welcome the God back from his long slumber during the fall months as I watch the sunrise in the sky on the winter solstice. It's been more than a long time since I've properly watched a sunrise, so I'm very excited to finally have the chance to do this. I'll be staying up (at least trying to) all night until the sunrise in the morning. Around here sundown is around 4:30 pm and sunrise is about 7:45 am to 8 am, so I will be staying up for quite a long time.
To prepare for my vigil, I have my Goddess rosary and some prayers lined up, and I also have a new Tarot spread just for Yule that I will be trying out for myself. I will begin by symbolically lighting a candle at sundown, which will burn (hopefully!) until sunrise the next morning. As the longest and also darkest night of the year, having a candle burning will be my symbol of hope for the next turning of the wheel, and my gift to my ancestors; those that should be here on Yule will be with me during that long night in the flame of the candle.
If you would also like to participate in a Yule vigil with me, all you need is a longer burning candle like a small pillar or a votive (I don't suggest a tea light unless you have nothing else and don't mind relighting another periodically). These can be just plain white, or if you would like any of the festive colors and/or scents of Yule. Also optional is a figure or picture of your personal Goddess and/or God (I will be putting out my Virgin Mary and Child figurine, as I personally feel that it represents my own symbolism of this Sabbat).
I will post pictures of my vigil on the Winter Solstice, so I hope everyone that wants to participate in the vigil will be able to do so and have a great night filled with love, hope, joy, and giving.
Let me know how your night goes, too.
Blessed be.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Winter Totem: The Cardinal
I've liked birds since I was a child. My grandmother used to show me the robins in the trees around her backyard and on the surrounding bushes, and I would watch the little chickadees in the spring and summer fly around her front door, pecking at the little bits of bread and seeds she would leave out for them early in the morning.
Those days are over now, but I still love watching birds. They seem the most innocent of animals- having a good time sitting in the trees or on fences, hopping around, singing their own special tune of chirps and tweets. My favourite of all the backyard birds I've seen is the Cardinal, of which I'm sure nearly everyone that lives around the eastern coastlines of North America has also seen, at least once.
A 'Totem Animal' concept come from the Natives Americans. They felt that each animal possessed it's own temperament and spiritual purpose, and with that a group or a tribe would adopt the animal that they wanted to emulate. These animal totem 'spirits' (I don't know what else to call them), can also watch over or assist a group of people, such as a family, clan, or tribe in need of their guidance, which they give through their animal traits. For example, if you happen to cross paths with a certain animal frequently, have connections to this animals traits, or feel connected to a specific animal, this animal could be your animal totem, sending you intuitive messages to help you in your daily life or for a situation you are finding yourself in at that time.
This certainly is not the best explanation of what an animal totem is, but it is my simple, very condensed, version.
As an animal totem, the Cardinal represents listening to our inner-selves, bring out our inner confidence, and teach us to be proud of who we are and our life path. The pride of a Cardinal is not in it's ego, but in it's strong voice and brilliant red plumage. Just as the Cardinal is a year round bird, hearty enough to make it through the harsh North American winters, so must we learn to be strong and free ourselves from self-doubt or low self-esteem. If we keep our inner strength and confidence alive, we can achieve anything we desire through steadfastness.
My animal totem has been the Cardinal for many years, and I'm sure it will be for years to come.
Those days are over now, but I still love watching birds. They seem the most innocent of animals- having a good time sitting in the trees or on fences, hopping around, singing their own special tune of chirps and tweets. My favourite of all the backyard birds I've seen is the Cardinal, of which I'm sure nearly everyone that lives around the eastern coastlines of North America has also seen, at least once.
A 'Totem Animal' concept come from the Natives Americans. They felt that each animal possessed it's own temperament and spiritual purpose, and with that a group or a tribe would adopt the animal that they wanted to emulate. These animal totem 'spirits' (I don't know what else to call them), can also watch over or assist a group of people, such as a family, clan, or tribe in need of their guidance, which they give through their animal traits. For example, if you happen to cross paths with a certain animal frequently, have connections to this animals traits, or feel connected to a specific animal, this animal could be your animal totem, sending you intuitive messages to help you in your daily life or for a situation you are finding yourself in at that time.This certainly is not the best explanation of what an animal totem is, but it is my simple, very condensed, version.
As an animal totem, the Cardinal represents listening to our inner-selves, bring out our inner confidence, and teach us to be proud of who we are and our life path. The pride of a Cardinal is not in it's ego, but in it's strong voice and brilliant red plumage. Just as the Cardinal is a year round bird, hearty enough to make it through the harsh North American winters, so must we learn to be strong and free ourselves from self-doubt or low self-esteem. If we keep our inner strength and confidence alive, we can achieve anything we desire through steadfastness.
My animal totem has been the Cardinal for many years, and I'm sure it will be for years to come.
Friday Night Oracle
Tonight I did an oracle reading for myself using the Archangel Michael Oracle deck by Doreen Virtue.
I love her oracle decks and Archangel Michael, so using this deck is a nice change from my usual Tarot decks.
Check it out and enjoy!
Click to watch
(I'm having issues with uploading my videos here on Blogger, so just bear with my terrible tech savoir-faire.)
I love her oracle decks and Archangel Michael, so using this deck is a nice change from my usual Tarot decks.
Check it out and enjoy!
Click to watch
(I'm having issues with uploading my videos here on Blogger, so just bear with my terrible tech savoir-faire.)
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Family Survival
I'm just going to make this post a quickie because it's late and I've had a very, very long day, but I wanted to take a few moments and write about being together with family at the holidays, a topic near and dear to me and mine. I would also like to say that this post is alternately titled, "How not to rip your hair out at the holiday dinner table".
Being one of the more observant family members has allowed me to watch and learn from the mistakes of my elders, and provide to those wanting to know more information to save them from hours of annoyance. If you are traveling far distances to stay with family, perhaps even days or weeks of annoyance.
So how exactly does one stay sane during holiday get-togethers?
Here's some (almost good) advice from the peanut gallery.
1) Only speak if spoken to, politely.
The more you can avoid talking to any relatives that annoy you, the less of a chance you have at becoming annoyed. Sounds easy, right? Wait until you are knee deep in dinner conversation about just how great Uncle Ted thinks his expensive, new Audi is in comparison to your decade old Toyota Camry and see how long that lasts.
2) Remember that holidays only occur at specific times of the year.
This is a good mantra to repeat when your reserve begins to wear thin and the urge to pull your hair out begins to sound like a fun activity.
3) Just don't listen.
Trust me, it's hard but it works.
Well that's all I have for today. If you, my dear readers, have any other tips or advice to give holiday weary souls, please don't be shy and post away!
Being one of the more observant family members has allowed me to watch and learn from the mistakes of my elders, and provide to those wanting to know more information to save them from hours of annoyance. If you are traveling far distances to stay with family, perhaps even days or weeks of annoyance.
So how exactly does one stay sane during holiday get-togethers?
Here's some (almost good) advice from the peanut gallery.
1) Only speak if spoken to, politely.
The more you can avoid talking to any relatives that annoy you, the less of a chance you have at becoming annoyed. Sounds easy, right? Wait until you are knee deep in dinner conversation about just how great Uncle Ted thinks his expensive, new Audi is in comparison to your decade old Toyota Camry and see how long that lasts.
2) Remember that holidays only occur at specific times of the year.
This is a good mantra to repeat when your reserve begins to wear thin and the urge to pull your hair out begins to sound like a fun activity.
3) Just don't listen.
Trust me, it's hard but it works.
Well that's all I have for today. If you, my dear readers, have any other tips or advice to give holiday weary souls, please don't be shy and post away!
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Yule Favourites: Ice Cider
Amongst the many goodies we get to partake in during the holiday season, one of my all-time favourites is ice cider.
I'm in Quebec right now, and due to the excellent combination of abundant apple orchards and below-freezing temperatures here, ice cider is available everywhere as the local specialty drink of the season.
If you like hard cider, you will love ice cider. It's sweeter, just as fizzy, with a more rounded flavour; think apple champagne instead of apple soda.
Ice cider can be enjoyed straight- chilled of course- and is also great as a fruity mixer.
Here is a delicious cocktail recipe with ice cider for your Yule banquets, winter-time parties and holiday get-togethers, courtesy of the SAQ's espacecocktail.
(Disclaimer: I am in no way, shape, or form endorsed to put this on my blog; I just love the taste and wanted to pass it on to my readers, because don't we all love tasty things? Yeah we do).
ICE FAIRY (fair warning, this one pretty strong and sweet, but oh so good)
for 2 cocktails:
3 oz ice cider
0.5 oz almond liqueur
0.5 oz maraschino cherry juice
2.5 oz tonic water
2 maraschino cherries
ice cubes
To prepare this delicious cocktail, combine all the ingredients except for the tonic water and cherries in a cocktail shaker.
Shake vigorously for at least 18 seconds (I don't know where they picked that number from, but I don't question the cocktail mix masters).
Strain into two glasses, top off each with half the tonic water and a maraschino cherry, and serve.
Voila, instant party.
Enjoy your awesome cocktails...always responsibly of course.
I'm in Quebec right now, and due to the excellent combination of abundant apple orchards and below-freezing temperatures here, ice cider is available everywhere as the local specialty drink of the season.
If you like hard cider, you will love ice cider. It's sweeter, just as fizzy, with a more rounded flavour; think apple champagne instead of apple soda.
Ice cider can be enjoyed straight- chilled of course- and is also great as a fruity mixer.
Here is a delicious cocktail recipe with ice cider for your Yule banquets, winter-time parties and holiday get-togethers, courtesy of the SAQ's espacecocktail.
(Disclaimer: I am in no way, shape, or form endorsed to put this on my blog; I just love the taste and wanted to pass it on to my readers, because don't we all love tasty things? Yeah we do).
ICE FAIRY (fair warning, this one pretty strong and sweet, but oh so good)
for 2 cocktails:
3 oz ice cider
0.5 oz almond liqueur
0.5 oz maraschino cherry juice
2.5 oz tonic water
2 maraschino cherries
ice cubes
To prepare this delicious cocktail, combine all the ingredients except for the tonic water and cherries in a cocktail shaker.
Shake vigorously for at least 18 seconds (I don't know where they picked that number from, but I don't question the cocktail mix masters).
Strain into two glasses, top off each with half the tonic water and a maraschino cherry, and serve.
Voila, instant party.
Enjoy your awesome cocktails...always responsibly of course.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Winterize! (A Skincare Post)
When the leaves start to fall off the trees and the wind begins to bluster with an icy chill, everyone knows the winter is coming and the days are going to get significantly colder. Here on the east coast we get extremely cold weather- ice, snow, blizzards, frosts, ice storms, etc- so we know that when the cold comes, it's time to winterize. And I'm not talking about just the car. I get so dried out in the winter I need to change up my skincare big-time. I've decided to dedicate this post to all those whom face the dreaded winter scales and flaky skin and are just plain fed up. Trust me, you *can* have silky soft and smooth skin in winter. If I can do it in -40C so can you! Here are a few tips to make your skin feel more comfortable in the cold.
My number one go-to for great winter skin? Olive oil, extra virgin.
A bottle of this from the grocery store will last you ages, and you can even use it in your salads!
But yes, olive oil is great for moisturizing all skin types (with the exception of very oily), and is easily absorbed. Add some essential oils and a teeny bit of jojoba oil to your olive oil, and you have yourself a great multi-purpose body oil. Essential oils of lavender and rosemary are relatively easy to find and make a great calming and refreshing blend for body oil. That would definitely be a winter pick-me-up!
I like using olive oil for moisturizing my cuticles (they become insanely scaly due to frequent hand washing and the cold/heat exposure indoors and outdoors), arms/elbows, and legs (but only before bed, during the day it's too much unless you keep your PJ pants on all day).
I would suggest taking a nice, hot (but not too hot) shower, and then using your body oil right after drying off. The more moist your skin is out of the shower, the deeper penetrating your body oil will be through the layers of epidermis.
If you can find yourself an empty glass bottle with a cap, here is a good recipe. Make small amounts at a time to keep your body oil fresh and to not waste. Remember, you can always make more in a pinch.
Easy-peasy Body oil
60 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
20 ml Jojoba oil (this can be found in most health food stores, and some pharmacies)
10-15 drops essential oil *
*You can use the lavender/rosemary combination I wrote above, or you can come up with your own blend. Just be sure to do your research and make sure they are non-irritating to the skin and there are no negative interactions (for example, pregnant or nursing women should avoid certain essential oils).
Other things to remember for combating winter dryness are:
a) Drink more water. You'd be amazed at how many people are constantly dehydrated. I learned this when I started losing weight and realized that I really needed to drink more. Way more. Get a cheap water bottle and keep it with you so you don't forget.
b) Do NOT take boiling hot showers! Biggest mistake ever!
I know it's cold, and sometimes you just need a hot shower, but keep the heat at a normal temperature. Try not to have red skin when you exit the shower. It seems that men have a habit of taking super hot showers, though I have no idea why...so change that.
c) Invest in a good lotion/cream and keep it nearby.
The most common reason for not using moisturizer is because it is not accessible. I'm not saying you have to strap it to yourself, but keep it handy during the day, especially for after post-hand wash moisture.
I also want to say that expensive is not necessarily better- go online, read some product reviews (I suggest makeupalley.com) and try out a few small sized products. If you find one you really like, there is nothing wrong with sticking to it. One of my favourite hand creams of all time is Udderly Smooth Udder Cream.
Don't knock it 'til you've tried it. If it's good enough for cow boobies, it's good enough for me.
d) Wear gloves outside and to bed. It is winter, so the first part should need no explanation. For indoor use, slather on a good amount of cream, get some cotton gloves from the pharmacy, and wear those babies for at least 30 minutes. Sleeping with them on would be even better. For superior results, once a week use a scrub on your hands to get off all the dry, flaky skin, then rub down with your body oil. Apply hand cream, put on your gloves and you're good to go.
Well, there are probably more tips I can give you guys, but I will save those for a later post.
Keep warm, keep well, and keep moist!
My number one go-to for great winter skin? Olive oil, extra virgin.
A bottle of this from the grocery store will last you ages, and you can even use it in your salads!
But yes, olive oil is great for moisturizing all skin types (with the exception of very oily), and is easily absorbed. Add some essential oils and a teeny bit of jojoba oil to your olive oil, and you have yourself a great multi-purpose body oil. Essential oils of lavender and rosemary are relatively easy to find and make a great calming and refreshing blend for body oil. That would definitely be a winter pick-me-up!
I like using olive oil for moisturizing my cuticles (they become insanely scaly due to frequent hand washing and the cold/heat exposure indoors and outdoors), arms/elbows, and legs (but only before bed, during the day it's too much unless you keep your PJ pants on all day).
I would suggest taking a nice, hot (but not too hot) shower, and then using your body oil right after drying off. The more moist your skin is out of the shower, the deeper penetrating your body oil will be through the layers of epidermis.
If you can find yourself an empty glass bottle with a cap, here is a good recipe. Make small amounts at a time to keep your body oil fresh and to not waste. Remember, you can always make more in a pinch.
Easy-peasy Body oil
60 ml Extra Virgin Olive Oil
20 ml Jojoba oil (this can be found in most health food stores, and some pharmacies)
10-15 drops essential oil *
*You can use the lavender/rosemary combination I wrote above, or you can come up with your own blend. Just be sure to do your research and make sure they are non-irritating to the skin and there are no negative interactions (for example, pregnant or nursing women should avoid certain essential oils).
Other things to remember for combating winter dryness are:
a) Drink more water. You'd be amazed at how many people are constantly dehydrated. I learned this when I started losing weight and realized that I really needed to drink more. Way more. Get a cheap water bottle and keep it with you so you don't forget.
b) Do NOT take boiling hot showers! Biggest mistake ever!
I know it's cold, and sometimes you just need a hot shower, but keep the heat at a normal temperature. Try not to have red skin when you exit the shower. It seems that men have a habit of taking super hot showers, though I have no idea why...so change that.
c) Invest in a good lotion/cream and keep it nearby.
The most common reason for not using moisturizer is because it is not accessible. I'm not saying you have to strap it to yourself, but keep it handy during the day, especially for after post-hand wash moisture.
I also want to say that expensive is not necessarily better- go online, read some product reviews (I suggest makeupalley.com) and try out a few small sized products. If you find one you really like, there is nothing wrong with sticking to it. One of my favourite hand creams of all time is Udderly Smooth Udder Cream.
Don't knock it 'til you've tried it. If it's good enough for cow boobies, it's good enough for me.
d) Wear gloves outside and to bed. It is winter, so the first part should need no explanation. For indoor use, slather on a good amount of cream, get some cotton gloves from the pharmacy, and wear those babies for at least 30 minutes. Sleeping with them on would be even better. For superior results, once a week use a scrub on your hands to get off all the dry, flaky skin, then rub down with your body oil. Apply hand cream, put on your gloves and you're good to go.
Well, there are probably more tips I can give you guys, but I will save those for a later post.
Keep warm, keep well, and keep moist!
Holly
As a witch, I love the symbolic and healing aspects of plants and flowers. Plants that grow through the winter are some hardiest out there, and three of these plants hold much traditional symbolism within the Yule season: holly, ivy, and the most famous of all, mistletoe. These three plants are some of the most prevalent in British and European countrysides, from which most Yule-time traditions that we currently use in our holiday celebrations hail. As many of us know already, the Christian high and holy days are derived in part from their Pagan ancestral origins, and many of the popular Christmas imagery that is known and loved so well can be traced to the early folk traditions of the British Isles that have held up so well over the centuries. In fact, we can thank the Victorians for reviving many of the beloved Christmas foods, decorations, and activities that make up what we now know as Christmas. Today we will be focusing on the holly.
Holly, the most popular of the Yuletide plants, is an evergreen shrub or tree with leaves that stay shiny and green all year long, and bears red berries as fruit. Of the over 400-600 varieties of holly, the one we know for its use at Yule/Christmas is Ilex aquifolium, also known as common holly, English holly, or European holly. A sacred plant to the druids, holly is associated with the winter solstice and the planet Saturn, and masculine aspects. Romans sent boughs of holly and gifts to their friends during Saturnalia (hence the Saturn association), and the druids decorated their homes with holly in the winter to invite nature spirits to shelter there- perhaps this is why the use of holly around the home and in Yule items makes for a festive and inviting atmosphere.
Another popular story of the origins of the holly that makes it so compatible with Christmas (or vice versa) is that it is said that holly first sprang from the footsteps of Jesus Christ; the thorns and red berries of the holly bush represent the suffering of Jesus.
Holy planted near a home is said to repel poison and protect from witchcraft and lightening. The wood has the power to tame animals and the flowers to freeze water.The beauty of the holly is that it's shiny, green leaves and bright red berries are a gorgeous sight in the stark whiteness and monochromatic hues of snow during the winter season. The red berry- bearing holly represents the sun (masculine) returning to earth at the winter solstice. It is a reminder that the God has been reborn to the earth, and the wheel of the year has begun to turn again, with the days growing longer, and longer until the opposite point of the year has been reached, the summer solstice. This is where the annual battles between the Holly King and Oak King take place.
The Holly King can also be seen as an Pagan embodiment and counterpart to that of Saint Nicholas, also known more commonly in North America as Santa Claus.
Uses for holly are mainly for festive holiday decorations and ornamental gardens due to the toxicity of the berries. Some species of holly, however, are used for herbal preparations in different parts of the world, including China (kuding cha) and South America (yerba mate).
During the Middle Ages, the holly was used in heraldry as a symbol of truth.
As for the use of holly in witchcraft, as I mentioned before, holly is masculine in nature and is associated with Mars, or Saturn and the element of fire; it can be used for consecration purposes, and in spells for material gain, physical revenge, beauty, protection, luck and dream magic. It is especially protective against lightening, and it is said that planting holly around the home or using holly boughs within home decorations will protect the household from unfriendly (!) witches. Friendly witches need not worry.
Further more, holly can also be utilized in any ritual relating to death and rebirth, and seasonal mysteries, certainly those linked with Yule are also suited to any sympathetic magick using holly. Finally the wood of the the holly can be used as a very good wand to banish unwanted entities and command evoked spirits within ritual. Lastly, a herbal water preparation made with holly has protective properties (just don't drink it).
There you have it, a very long post about holly, one of our favourite Yuletide plants.
Don't forget to comment to this post- the '21 Days of Yule' giveaway is still going strong, so get your comments in for a chance to win!
Holly, the most popular of the Yuletide plants, is an evergreen shrub or tree with leaves that stay shiny and green all year long, and bears red berries as fruit. Of the over 400-600 varieties of holly, the one we know for its use at Yule/Christmas is Ilex aquifolium, also known as common holly, English holly, or European holly. A sacred plant to the druids, holly is associated with the winter solstice and the planet Saturn, and masculine aspects. Romans sent boughs of holly and gifts to their friends during Saturnalia (hence the Saturn association), and the druids decorated their homes with holly in the winter to invite nature spirits to shelter there- perhaps this is why the use of holly around the home and in Yule items makes for a festive and inviting atmosphere.
Another popular story of the origins of the holly that makes it so compatible with Christmas (or vice versa) is that it is said that holly first sprang from the footsteps of Jesus Christ; the thorns and red berries of the holly bush represent the suffering of Jesus.
Holy planted near a home is said to repel poison and protect from witchcraft and lightening. The wood has the power to tame animals and the flowers to freeze water.The beauty of the holly is that it's shiny, green leaves and bright red berries are a gorgeous sight in the stark whiteness and monochromatic hues of snow during the winter season. The red berry- bearing holly represents the sun (masculine) returning to earth at the winter solstice. It is a reminder that the God has been reborn to the earth, and the wheel of the year has begun to turn again, with the days growing longer, and longer until the opposite point of the year has been reached, the summer solstice. This is where the annual battles between the Holly King and Oak King take place.
The Holly King can also be seen as an Pagan embodiment and counterpart to that of Saint Nicholas, also known more commonly in North America as Santa Claus.
Uses for holly are mainly for festive holiday decorations and ornamental gardens due to the toxicity of the berries. Some species of holly, however, are used for herbal preparations in different parts of the world, including China (kuding cha) and South America (yerba mate).
During the Middle Ages, the holly was used in heraldry as a symbol of truth.
As for the use of holly in witchcraft, as I mentioned before, holly is masculine in nature and is associated with Mars, or Saturn and the element of fire; it can be used for consecration purposes, and in spells for material gain, physical revenge, beauty, protection, luck and dream magic. It is especially protective against lightening, and it is said that planting holly around the home or using holly boughs within home decorations will protect the household from unfriendly (!) witches. Friendly witches need not worry.
Further more, holly can also be utilized in any ritual relating to death and rebirth, and seasonal mysteries, certainly those linked with Yule are also suited to any sympathetic magick using holly. Finally the wood of the the holly can be used as a very good wand to banish unwanted entities and command evoked spirits within ritual. Lastly, a herbal water preparation made with holly has protective properties (just don't drink it).
There you have it, a very long post about holly, one of our favourite Yuletide plants.
Don't forget to comment to this post- the '21 Days of Yule' giveaway is still going strong, so get your comments in for a chance to win!
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Knitting For Yule
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me...something handmade?
Yes! For all you crafty lassies and laddies out there, this is the best time of year to get into crafting mode and make a little something for someone you love. Making things is always fun and economical, not to mention you might learn a new skill in the process. You don't even have to love them, just make them something to let them know you care, because that is what this time of year is all about, right?
Now I can't speak for anyone else out there because, as we all know, everyone is different (that's what makes life interesting), but I love knitting and I figured that since I don't have much going on right now, I should go the handmade route for gifts this year. With that in mind, I (sort of) created my own pattern for a washcloth/dishcloth, which I'm giving as a gift with a bar of handmade soap (which I also made, but that's another blog post entirely).
I know my friends would love anything I gave them, but I like making things so it's a good way for me to get creative and work with my hands. Plus I get to improve my knit and purl technique in the meantime, which is good for those long, cold, winter days when I really want to be indoors but don't want to be bored.
As a crafty witch, I just love this kind of stuff. Here's the ones I've made so far with the bordered basket-weave pattern I came up with. It's simple but playful, and looks very nice in the cotton yarn. For any knitters reading this, I spruced up a basic pattern and knit on smaller needles so my cloths would be thicker and stiffer, good for more scrubbing action in the sink/shower. I used two different brands of cotton yarn for these: Lily Sugar and Cream, and Peaches and Creme (a brand I had never used before but was lovely as well). I'm so used to knitting with cotton it's like second nature now.
Here are a few of my finished cloths. Patterns look best on solid colours, but I love the ombre shades of cotton yarn. They are look so cute when finished, and the colour selection available is great. If you know someone has a certain colour scheme in their home or bathroom, or they really like a specific colour, you can always pick a yarn to match. Personalized gifts tend to bring out the biggest smiles, in my experience.
This is the big ball of Bernat Handicrafter cotton yarn I bought for the rest of the washcloths. It's a pretty big ball, so I hope I can get at least 5 washcloths out of it!
Yes! For all you crafty lassies and laddies out there, this is the best time of year to get into crafting mode and make a little something for someone you love. Making things is always fun and economical, not to mention you might learn a new skill in the process. You don't even have to love them, just make them something to let them know you care, because that is what this time of year is all about, right?
Now I can't speak for anyone else out there because, as we all know, everyone is different (that's what makes life interesting), but I love knitting and I figured that since I don't have much going on right now, I should go the handmade route for gifts this year. With that in mind, I (sort of) created my own pattern for a washcloth/dishcloth, which I'm giving as a gift with a bar of handmade soap (which I also made, but that's another blog post entirely).
I know my friends would love anything I gave them, but I like making things so it's a good way for me to get creative and work with my hands. Plus I get to improve my knit and purl technique in the meantime, which is good for those long, cold, winter days when I really want to be indoors but don't want to be bored.
As a crafty witch, I just love this kind of stuff. Here's the ones I've made so far with the bordered basket-weave pattern I came up with. It's simple but playful, and looks very nice in the cotton yarn. For any knitters reading this, I spruced up a basic pattern and knit on smaller needles so my cloths would be thicker and stiffer, good for more scrubbing action in the sink/shower. I used two different brands of cotton yarn for these: Lily Sugar and Cream, and Peaches and Creme (a brand I had never used before but was lovely as well). I'm so used to knitting with cotton it's like second nature now.
Here are a few of my finished cloths. Patterns look best on solid colours, but I love the ombre shades of cotton yarn. They are look so cute when finished, and the colour selection available is great. If you know someone has a certain colour scheme in their home or bathroom, or they really like a specific colour, you can always pick a yarn to match. Personalized gifts tend to bring out the biggest smiles, in my experience.
And a close-up shot of the pattern. By the way, the different between the two green cloths is that they have different border stitching. The one on the left is in garter stitch, the one on the right is in seed stitch. Both are pretty, but I'm especially fond of the garter stitch border. It looks a bit neater to me.
This is the big ball of Bernat Handicrafter cotton yarn I bought for the rest of the washcloths. It's a pretty big ball, so I hope I can get at least 5 washcloths out of it!
That's all I have so far for my handmade gifts, but keep checking in to my '21 Days of Yule' blog posts. I will be talking about handmade soap in a future post.
And don't forget to comment! The Yuletide giveaway is on, so the more you comment the more chances you have of winning.
The December countdown to Yule is officially on- have a good night and if you have anything to add about your own experience in handmade gifting, let everyone know by posting a comment. They are always welcome :)
Saturday, December 1, 2012
21 Days of Yule Has Begun!
Alright everyone, it's that time of year again. When the air gets chilly, the trees go bare, the animals start to hibernate, and the people prepare for gift-giving and feasting. As the song goes, it's the most wonderful time of the year...and I love it.
To kick off this year's Yule season I thought it would be nice to offer something to my readers, so to celebrate the Winter Solstice and Yuletide spirit of giving, I'm hosting the first Cauldron and Broom giveaway!
It is very easy to enter, just leave a comment to all my posts starting from today until Yule, and you will automatically be entered. The more comments you leave, the more chances you have. I'm going to do this the old-fashioned way; put all the names in a hat, then pick a name at random.
The giveaway will include some nice handmade prizes and a full Celtic Cross Tarot reading to the lucky winner!
And because it is Yule and I like to give presents, I will also pull 2 other names for a 3 Card Reading prize for each. That way I can have more fun and you guys can have more chances to get something nice in your Yule stocking this year :)
Like I mentioned, I will be posting EVERYDAY until Yule, so that leaves 20 days for you guys to get in on the giveaway action. On Yule I will compile all the names and do the drawing, so you have from today until then to post a comment, so get posting! I promise the next 20 days will be full of interesting posts about and for getting through this Yuletide season with fun and lots of joy. I will try and include a bit of everything: Yule recipes, gift ideas, fun information about this time of year, craft ideas, spells, charms, and whatever else I can think of!
Stay tuned for more giveaway info and tomorrow's '21 Days of Yule' post, and let the fun begin :)
To kick off this year's Yule season I thought it would be nice to offer something to my readers, so to celebrate the Winter Solstice and Yuletide spirit of giving, I'm hosting the first Cauldron and Broom giveaway!
It is very easy to enter, just leave a comment to all my posts starting from today until Yule, and you will automatically be entered. The more comments you leave, the more chances you have. I'm going to do this the old-fashioned way; put all the names in a hat, then pick a name at random.
The giveaway will include some nice handmade prizes and a full Celtic Cross Tarot reading to the lucky winner!
And because it is Yule and I like to give presents, I will also pull 2 other names for a 3 Card Reading prize for each. That way I can have more fun and you guys can have more chances to get something nice in your Yule stocking this year :)
Like I mentioned, I will be posting EVERYDAY until Yule, so that leaves 20 days for you guys to get in on the giveaway action. On Yule I will compile all the names and do the drawing, so you have from today until then to post a comment, so get posting! I promise the next 20 days will be full of interesting posts about and for getting through this Yuletide season with fun and lots of joy. I will try and include a bit of everything: Yule recipes, gift ideas, fun information about this time of year, craft ideas, spells, charms, and whatever else I can think of!
Stay tuned for more giveaway info and tomorrow's '21 Days of Yule' post, and let the fun begin :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)