The Vintage Sage

Herb Window

2011-09-22T00:05:00.000-07:00

I'm starting my herb window. Remember the "fern" window I created a few years back? This will get me through the cold season. :)

Peace

2011-09-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

Do you see that up there? Yea, that adorable, rustic wreath with the peace sign in the middle? I want to make it. I'm going to make it. I have the twigs from my travels in the forest and now I just need the wreath. I'll show you when I'm done. :)

Peace to everyone!

Trying to get back in the swing of things...

2011-09-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

And getting connected...

Cheap or Creative?

2011-07-13T08:38:00.001-07:00

I had a great idea while drinking a Huckleberry Lager beer on my recent trip with my family to Whitefish, Montana! I love vintage things. I can't afford a lot of fine art. I already had the frames....so....voila! I loved the label on the beer so I decided to soak the bottle in water and peel the label off and frame it! Is it cheap art or being creative? :)

By the way! Sorry for not including the link to the Enchanted Chicks blog! Click here! Enjoy!

Introducing the Enchanted Chicks!

2011-07-06T08:41:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! I realize I haven't been posting much lately. I have a very good reason. My energy was just shifted elsewhere for a bit and I wanted to share with you why.

Introducing the Enchanted Chicks! If you want to learn to live life filled with enchantment, join me and three other Chicks on our journey to living and breathing an enchanted life. We hope you will too!

I promise it will be filled with tons of fun and magic!

Sorry guys! Forgot to link it! Go to www.enchantedchicks.blogspot.com. Have fun!

Hydrangea Petal Spell

2011-06-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

If you believe you have been hexed or cursed, the petals from a hydrangea are wonderful for protection. I typically grind down the dried hydrangea petals I have and place a few drops of lavender essence oil in the petals. Then, I'll place in a little sachet and carry it with me where ever I go. I usually perform this spell during a waning moon.

Have you used hydrangea petals in a spell? Would love to know how you use them.

I'm back!!

2011-06-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

So sorry for being gone so long. Hard to explain. Was very disconnected...but I'm feeling the magic come back into my life despite a few hurdles. :)

Hope you have all been well and wonderful. I will try to catch up!

Until then...the plants are growing, the flowers are blooming....and we are all enjoying the nice weather. :)

More to come!

Rain, rain go away!

2011-03-02T15:30:00.000-08:00

Because all it's making us do is yawn and be sleepy. :) Oh but we love to sleep (and cuddle with the fur babies).

Banana Muffins and the Magical Banana..and a Thank You!

2011-02-19T12:15:00.001-08:00

First of all, I want to thank all who commented on my last post and left some great advice. I think I am snapping out of it. Am hoping the smell of Spring around the corner is helping with the process as well. The first thing I did after I read your comments was bake...bake something comforting....something that would make me feel good and warm inside. I found the most amazing banana muffin recipe at the cutest cooking blog called Cat Can Cook. Coincidence that I found the blog that references a "cat?" :) Oh my goodness, these muffins stay truly moist!

Bananas are true sources of energy. A banana contains potassium, proteins, fibers, carbohydrates and an association of vitamins: A, B, B6, C and E; it is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and folic acid. I would have to say the banana is one of the healthiest fruits there is!

I bet you didn't know bananas have magical properties as well. I didn't. Their properties include fertility, potency and prosperity.

I had these everyday for breakfast for more than a week and NEVER got tired of 'em. I hope you try them out if just for a little down home comfort food. :)

Blessings all!

Trying to get connected again...

2011-02-03T21:03:00.000-08:00

A moment of peace....

I know I probably sound like a broken record saying sorry for not blogging but truly I have no excuse. Even with the reality being that I truly have not been connected to spirit the last few months shouldn't be an excuse. I can blog about other things, right? When I started this blog, though, I wanted to keep it focused on Spirit, energy, celebrating the seasons, etc. but not being spiritual makes it kind of hard. The hard part about it all is I have no clue why I have not been connected to spirit lately. Have any of you ever experienced this? *sigh*

Anyhoo...I am going to try to get back to blogging again and TRY, TRY, TRY to get back to my spiritual self. If you have any suggestions how to do that, let me know! Otherwise, I have been just living life, riding, school, work, volunteering. Maybe I've overbooked myself? Lol!

Bless you all!

Hello again!

2010-11-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

I have been a terrible blogger lately but life, well, life is just that. :) I have been busy, busy, busy and in between taking a few classes at the local college, work, friends and family I have been pulling my hair out trying to keep sane! There is a light at the end of the tunnel though. I hope you all had a wonderful Halloween, Samhain. I will update you a little more as the days go by but I spent my Halloween weekend on an investigation at The Old Wheeler Hotel (in coastal Oregon) with our paranormal investigation group. It was an overnighter and on top of the investigation, just staying in this adorable quaint hotel was like a vacation! However, down in the basement, the morgue was a bit creepy. More later!

Quincy boy showing off with the pumpkin. :)

The pumpkins that I carved with my boyfriend's kids.

Still getting in a few rides in between the craziness in my life! Me and Clyde. :)

My best friend and I in our footsie jammies! I am SO glad I got these for this winter. I've already worn them almost every night since I bought them.

ALSO! In my next post I will be showing you what I won in a giveaway from Merlin's Magickal Mistress! I've been trying to get a good picture of it but I lost my camera for awhile and since finding it realized I had no batteries. Typical me. Stay tuned! Miss you all! I will be around to visit as much as I can.

Blessings to all!

My magical cat.....

2010-10-20T11:48:00.000-07:00

A rare moment caught of my boy Quincy. He was calm. Lol! So I took advantage of the moment and shot these pictures. Doesn't he look like an angel? On the contrary...he's a little brat and little devil but I love him!

He will hear my call a mile away....

2010-10-03T02:24:00.000-07:00

No true love spell goes without a petal from the perfect rose. My very first rose has bloomed. She's called Tahitian Sunset...and she smells wonderful!

Practical Magic Blog Party! Let The Magic Begin!

2010-09-25T01:38:00.000-07:00

Practical Magic has always been and always will be my favorite movie of all time. The character I most resonate with is Sally Owens. I love her style, love her personality but most of all I love her botanical shop aka Verbena Botanicals! I dream of having a shop like she had in the movie.

"We were going to open a botanical shop. Where Mike would get all the ingredients and I'd make the stuff. He really loved my mint-oatmeal shaving cream. He couldn't stop eating it."

And I bet you all didn't know that I have one of her recipes on hand. ;)

Try this stimulating body scrub with sea salt to soothe your dry hands this Fall. Who's to say Sally didn't have this recipe in one of those beautiful bottles that lined her shop. :)

Grapefruit Exfoliating Paste

4-ounce glass jar

1 1/2 ounches almond oil

25 drops grapefruit essential oil

6 drops lavender essential oil

10 drops lime essential oil

14 drops tangerine essential oil

3 ounces coarse sea salt

Combine almond oil and essential oils in a glass jar and shake vigorously to disperse the oils. pour mixture into a glass bowl and add the sea salts a little at a time, stirring until you have a thick paste. Of course, always stir clockwise when making your potions. Let it sit for 1 hour. Pour into glass jar. This will last for 6 months if covered and stored in a dark glass container.

And always remember....

"Always throw salt over your left shoulder; keep rosemary by your garden gate; plant lavender for luck; and fall in love whenever you can."

Lavender and Sage Smudge Stick

2010-09-15T08:23:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was working on my small deck garden and noticed how beautiful my sage and lavender were. Then an idea popped in my head. I had never made my own smudge stick before so I stopped pruning my plants, dropped everything and began to make it. :) See how ADD I can be?

Cut as close to the base as possible so you have a long stem...

Cut a little lavender, long sprigs...

Gather them in a bunch...

Get a little twine....

Start wrapping from the base...

Keep wrapping until you reach the top and go back the other direction making sure you bind as many leaves as possible. If there are any sticking out I just trim them.

Get some newspaper...

Wrap it up....

Bind with rubberband, I used some hair ties.

Then let it dry for a few weeks and your smudge stick will be ready for use!

Drying mint leaves for tea!

2010-08-19T19:21:00.000-07:00

"As for the garden of mint, the very smell of it alone recovers and refreshes our spirits, as the taste stirs up our appetite for meat." ~ Pliny

Drinking Healthy

2010-08-10T14:39:00.000-07:00

So I was in Whole Foods yesterday trying to be good and I came across this great drink. If any of you out there like Chai, like I do, you've got to give this a try! This is a protein drink by Bolthouse Farms, but seriously, it doesn't have that funky protein taste. It has 40 grams of protein along with tons of vitamins and green tea. Now I haven't tried all of their products yet but you can checkout their website here. They also have a section for recipes that sound delicious!

I'm ashamed to say I drank their largest bottle in one sitting. It's one of those drinks that you can't stop drinking once you start (and I mean in one sitting). It's especially good REALLY cold. I actually froze mine a little (even better). You can still see a solid chunk up towards the top. That chunk tasted icy good! :)

Giveaway!

2010-08-08T00:07:00.000-07:00

There's a wonderful giveaway going on over at Lost in Astral Space blog. She's giving away these wonderful self-made gifts. Aren't they gorgeous? If you haven't heard of Lost in Astral Space you've got to swing over to her blog and follow her. She's wise, a lost traveler like most of us and weaves magic into her everyday life!

Aren't these prayers beads beautiful?

Whoever wins this giveaway will be so lucky because these were obviously made with a little magic and alot of love! :) Good luck all!

The Magical Hydrangea

2010-08-06T12:46:00.001-07:00

Not many people talk about the magical properties of the hydrangea. According to folklore, if a (bad) witch put a curse on an unlucky man or woman the hydrangea could be used to break the curse.

In general the hydrangea stands for friendship, devotion, and understanding.

Hydrangea is also used medicinally. Native Americans used the root as a diuretic and detoxifier. The bark of the hydrangea was used to ease muscle sprains and burns. It is still used today in alternative medicine as a tonic herb.

I cut these from my girlfriend's garden yesterday. The colors are magnificent...or should I say magical? :) I'm going to dry the petals to use later.

I am going to bundle some of my sage today to make a smudge stick. I'll let you guys see when I'm done. :)

A Magical Party!

2010-08-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

Did you hear? La Boheme Magique and Frosted Petunias are having a Practical Magic blog party! Now you all know that Practical Magic is my FAVORITE movie of all time. I mean come on...love spells, margaritas, bad boys, good boys, romance, two old eclectic and whimsical aunts. What's not to love? Well, I'm gonna be there. How about you? Click on the link above and it will take you right over!

Ahhhh...the scent of lavender is in the air!

2010-07-30T14:58:00.000-07:00

I've dried my lavender...and today I stored it in a jar for future spell use. Just smelling the aroma gave me a "happy" high!

What have you dried lately? :)

Mayhaps She Came from Hogwarts?

2010-07-28T09:19:00.001-07:00

I recently stumbled upon new blog and I am so happy I did. It's enchantingly called I Hope They Have Pudding. This delightful and whimsical blog is charmingly written by Miss Cellar Door. In reading her new blog and the way she writes, she reminds me of a student that has just left Hogwarts in pursuit of discovering the magic of life! I urge you to swing on over and check her out! She is a true delight!

An Investigation Saturday Evening...

2010-07-27T00:05:00.000-07:00

With our paranormal research group gave birth to this interesting photo. The investigation (at a private residence) was by far the most active investigation we have had yet! What an incredible experience! I have sent it on to a professional photographer for a valid explanation, if there is one. Still.....what if?

BOO!

A fruitful deck garden!

2010-07-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

I have been so lucky with my deck garden this year and last night, I was fortunate enough to have harvested enough sugar snap peas to make myself a wonderful vegetarian dish!

Sugar snap peas, fresh picked!

Into the saucepan they go with a little butter, olive oil, diced onions and peas...

Served over jasmine rice...

Makes the perfect vegetarian meal for summer!

Here's my baby eggplant. Isn't it just adorable? :)

Some rosemary...

And hyssop...

Not bad for a deck garden huh?

The Time is NOW!

2010-07-13T09:01:00.000-07:00

This video was uploaded by one of my favorite YouTube channels. Her name is Helen Demetriou, Angel Worker, and if you haven't seen her channel, please check them out! This is a video she put out today and I think it would be awesome if we could all join in on this day of healing for our Earth!

Also! Here is the link to the rest of Helen's videos. You will truly enjoy them and she has such wonderful energy. Enjoy and blessings to all!!

Mother Moon Giveaway!

2010-06-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite blogs is having a giveaway for her one year anniversary! Mother Moon has been on my blog roll for quite some time and for good reason. She has an awesome blog! Oh and she is awesome as well! She is so full of magical wisdom, recipes, personal stories and so much more in between. If you have not introduced yourself to her blog, I urge you to find your way over here and become one of her many followers!

Thank you Mother Moon for having this great giveaway and congratulations on one magical year!

Happy Summer Solstice and a Gift from a Lovely Friend :)

2010-06-21T14:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer Solstice everyone! I am finding it hard to believe it's summer though. As of yesterday we still had rain and cool weather. I am trying so hard to respect what Mother Nature is bringing us here in the Northwest but I am pleading for more sun from Her! Today we had a glimpse of brighter weather and Quincy and Emma decided to sun bathe with what little sun we had. :)

Uh oh, he discovered the fresh catnip.

Also, I received a beautiful gift from Jen over at Rue and Hyssop. Jen sent me this book when she discovered my new found interest, crystals! It was so thoughtful of her to send this book to me and I am getting so much out of it. Thank you, Jen!! I am going to be making some bath salts to put in a jar and infuse with oils and a crystal to empower it. I will post about it once I'm finished!

She included this beautiful card!

Inside was a wealth of information on crystals and uses and it was simple to read and lots of colorful pictures. My kind of book, lol!

Thank you again, Jen!! I will cherish this book and it will stay put in my magickal library. :)

Let the Drying Begin!

2010-06-16T10:25:00.001-07:00

Okay so I lied....

2010-06-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

According to my last post I was back from my hiatus. Nope! I lied! Ugh....so sorry everyone for being out of the loop for so long. Life has thrown me some curves lately and, to be honest, I lost all interest in spirituality for quite sometime. Some of you have even visited me on my other blog...you know who you are, Judith...Jen..and others! Thank you all for loyally following me on my other blog while I took a break from this one. Things are slowly but surely turning around for me. The rain really got me down, yet again. It kept teasing us with sun then going back to the horrid, drabby, gray and rainy weather. This weekend is supposed to be in the 80's and sunny for at least the foreseeable future. Yay!

I hope you all have been well!! A quick peek at my deck. At least my plants are in full swing with herbs, veggies and flowers. I am awaiting another wonderful rose bush called Tahitian Sunset and I can't wait to show you all a picture of it once it blooms.

So, hopefully I will be back for awhile now. I just can't let life get to me the way it has. I've missed you all so much!!

Lot and lots of blessings.....and triple more for making up the time I've lost with you all! xoxo

Finally Back From My Long Hiatus!

2010-04-13T22:25:00.001-07:00

Hi guys! I am so sorry I have been away for so long. The last few months I have really struggled with S.A.D. It's really strange, I have been in Oregon for 14 years and it's just now hitting me. I'm sure there were other factors involved but having one gray day after another just made me so blue. All I could do is get up for work and then come home and crawl in bed and escape in a Netflix movie. Sometimes two a night. I was even contemplating moving back to sunny California! I am feeling much better these days though! Go figure, it's getting sunnier here. :) Hope you all have been well and wonderful. I have recently had my sister and niece visit and that helped snap me out of it. My mom is coming in a week for a visit. I think they all knew what I was going through and came to the rescue. I am so thankful and blessed to have a wonderful close family. :)

So, I am back from my break. My "meditation" room is up and running and I will be back to regular blogging. Also, having company sort of forced me to put the room together (a good thing) and now I feel like my space is back and is giving me renewed energy to get back into my spiritual self again.

Thank you all for your kind patience. :)

Warm blessings to you all and hope you are celebrating the coming of Spring with open arms as I am.

xoxo

I'm still alive!

2010-03-20T21:16:00.000-07:00

So sorry for not posting for so long. I have been battling with a bout of depression lately. It comes and goes and I'm not sure if it's the weather or a mid-life crisis. Ha! I haven't felt very creative lately or very connected to spirit and I am finding not being connected really does have it's consequences. Ugh.

In any event, I did want to tell you all about a masquerade ball I will be attending next Saturday! It's held every year here in Portland at a beautiful three story ballroom. It's called The Vampire's Masquerade Ball. Take a look at last year's ball. :)

I will be wearing the most beautiful top I haven't been able to wear until now. I'll have to post a picture later.

Hope you're all doing, well, better than me! :)

Beautiful blessings to you all!

A secret desire...

2010-03-04T23:59:00.001-08:00

Yes, I do have one as I'm sure we all do. This is mine..and I am thinking one day very soon I will be taking lessons! Have any of you tried belly dancing? Such expression in dancing!

And this is one of my favorite videos depicting the elusive belly dancer...

What is your secret desire?

Nail Polish Magick?

2010-02-22T21:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, another one of my weird ideas...but I think the best ideas come from things you create or think of yourself! Nail polish magick! Yes, I'm a frou frou girl and this kind of magick fits me perfectly. :)

I have recently started using nail polish colors as it fits what I am trying to manifest. I don't think I have ever heard of this before but either way, I find it really empowers me on a daily basis whenever I wear a certain color. My girlfriend and I did some energy work Friday evening so I decided to wear silver to remove negative energy and encourage stability. Silver also helps develop psychic abilities and stimulates self-respect.

Okay you can tell me I'm strange now. :)

Oh and you can't see...but I added a few sparkles in my silver polish as a top coat.....to make it look a little more whimsical. We can all use a little whimsy in our lives, right?

Brightest blessings!

P.S. Thank you all so much who offered their insight on my weird dream! It all makes sense to me now. No wonder I couldn't figure it out myself. There are fears there I haven't faced yet in my life. Thank you all again!!

Dream

2010-02-18T22:40:00.001-08:00

Seriously, he was in my dream. Lol!

First off I want to thank all of you who offered to help. I'm just not that great at dream analysis...or should I say I am not confident enough? This one I've had several times in the last week so it must be telling me something.

Okay so it starts out with me inside a large warehouse. There are several people around me who are friends but I don't really recognize them. We all are in agreement that there is a large monster in the last room of this warehouse that one of us has to fight. So, I offer to do it. However, there are several rooms I have to go through before I get to the last room. The only two things I have to arm myself with are a large knife (almost like a machete) and a large rubber shark.

In the first room are tons and tons of cats (go figure) and they each have their own little beds. I'm wondering why they're not afraid. I sense that they are all happy cats with their beds and plenty of food. So, I walk through that room and enter the next. In the next room it's empty. It has several levels to it...rafters, etc. It also has a spiral staircase like the ones that used to be in houses built in the 70's. Sort of all metal. As I walk towards the staircase a waiter passes me by. He doesn't pay attention to me and I'm trying to tell him there's a monster inside! He still ignores me. Then all of a sudden these naked old men come walking down the staircase and their laughing. I'm trying to warn them about the monster and they just laugh at me. One of them steals my knife and I'm dumbstruck that no one is listening. They continue to tease me. Somehow in the end I get the knife back.

I leave that room and enter the last. The last room leads me into catacombs...rock walls, torches that light the catacombs and all of a sudden the marshmallow man from Ghostbusters jumps out and he's very mean. I start hitting him with the knife, not stabbing him, hitting him with the flat side and then slapping him with the rubber shark. I put up a good fight and he runs off the other direction.

And that's where it ended. You know, usually I have some sort of sense about what's going on in my dreams but I am completely stumped with this one. Help! Thank you, thank you!

Dream analysis...and some really weird dreams!

2010-02-16T00:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the last week or so I have been having the same dream, at least three times. I'm not very good at dream analysis but was wondering if anyone out there is good at it and would care to take a stab at my dream should I post it for you all. You'll just have to promise not to take me away in a straight jacket, okay? Lol!

Egg carton makeover!

2010-02-08T21:25:00.001-08:00

So, I have been crafting more lately...than "crafting." I think I'm in a rut and I know why. My "magical" space has not been setup yet. I know it probably shouldn't be important but sometimes it really helps when the atmosphere is just right and my special area is there for me. *sigh* It's my pure laziness. :) One of my resolutions seems to be taking a back seat. However! I am crafting! What do you think of an egg carton made over into a jewelry holder? :) And yes, this was the very same egg carton that held those beautiful eggs down below. :)

I simply did a little paper mache with decorative tissue paper. Punched holes on either end and tied beautiful delicate black ribbon on both sides and dotted the tops of the coned areas with black jewels.

Hmmm....I have another egg carton that will be empty soon.

A different kind of affirmation....

2010-02-01T22:57:00.000-08:00

When I boil eggs for the week to bring to work I typically will write a short affirmation each one to get my morning started. Once I read it..I peel the shell away and eat the egg as if I'm absorbing that affirmation into my soul. How's that for different? :) You might even catch a reminder to do something on one of these eggs. Lol!

Sorry for the lack of posts guys! It's been a busy few weeks! Miss you all. I will be by to visit very soon!

Happy Imbolc!

Volunteering is good for the soul. :)

2010-01-24T14:18:00.000-08:00

I think I mentioned this before but I volunteer every other weekend at a local no-kill cat shelter. The rewards or so great you can't even imagine. This week I carried George around in a baby sling while I cleaned. George was born with cerebral palsy but is the happiest cat ever and really doesn't know much better. I clean George's little pen everytime I go and I just love holding him. He feels so good in his little sling...all bundled up and cozy. :) Course his eyes are goobered up here...I should have cleaned them before I took this picture but as you can see, my hands were full! LOL! George is actually the owner's cat. :)

If you haven't had the opportunity, volunteering is so good for the soul. I guarantee you. :)

Come to mama....

2010-01-19T22:52:00.000-08:00

It's been one of those days...

TGIF!

2010-01-14T23:09:00.001-08:00

And Quincy definitely knows how to relax on a Friday! Have a great weekend everyone! Relax....and breathe. :)

Totem Animal....the Seal or Sea Lion

2010-01-11T21:52:00.002-08:00

On a last minute getaway to the beach this weekend I spied many....and I mean MANY seals (is it "seal" or "seals"? lol) ! I never thought about what the seal represents as a totem animal so here it is! By the way, these seals inhabit the Newport, Oregon docks. They are well fed by the fisherman and clearly spoiled. Lol!

Totem Animal: Seal or Sea Lion: Imagination, Creativity, Dreaming

A Seal or Sea Lion Totem can show you how to develop and focus your imagination.
Seal people are highly imaginative and very creative,
and they need activities that channel and direct those activities.

Hearing and balance are very important for a Seal totem.
Learn to listen to your inner self and balance your life to it.
Tap into your Seal totem and expect your dreams to become more vivid and significant.

I took a little mini movie of them as well. There's one seal that's trying to fit in with the sea lions...it's so cute.

Magickal uses of Olive Oil

2010-01-07T23:25:00.000-08:00

Did you know....

1. Drawing a star with olive oil on the front door of a house is a common home blessing. This act can be part of a larger ritual.

2. High in Vitamin E, olive oil is used in promoting healthy skin growth.

3. Wonderful for dry cuticles.

4. Often used in fertility spells.

5. Often used in healing spells.

6. Lowers your risk of heart disease.

And most of all used in a wonderful, relaxing bubble bath....

Until one feels like this.

Happy Friday!

Celebrating the Blue Moon!

2010-01-04T00:41:00.001-08:00

Well things are finally slowing down and, as much as I hate to admit it, I am glad 2009 is now in the past. :) My girlfriend and I had a wonderful celebration of the Blue Moon New Year's eve. Here are a few pictures from that evening. After our "celebration" we ended the evening with a decadent meal with the rest of her family. The meal consisted of lobster tail, shrimp, both dipped in melted butter, salad, rice pilaf, french bread, cinnamon bread pudding and bundt cake. Oh yes and champagne with strawberries in the champagne!

Getting ready...

Lights out...

The highlight was something new we tried. We gathered rain water in little bottles that evening, included them in ritual and charged them overnight under the Full Moon. Now we have beautiful, blessed, rainwater charged under the Blue Moon. :) That evening, I took a bath with a few drops of the blessed water also. It certainly was a special evening. WHY I didn't take a picture of the food is beyond me. I think I was overcome with excitement seeing all the food, all other thoughts went out the door! Lol!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Happy New Year....and the Blue Moon!

2009-12-31T11:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone! Just got back from California....loved, loved, loved the weather and beach *sigh*. Then in time to get back to Oregon to a freak snowstorm that debilitated the city and a 4 hour commute home (which normally takes 20 minutes) from work the other night! It was crazy! Of course I was out of gas, my phone died and I had to go the bathroom really bad so I had to detour through all that mess. Oh well, through the whole thing I stayed thankful and the fumes got me to the gas station and I found a place to go to the bathroom. Lol! I also bought a car charger only to realize I already had one in the car later. Lol!

Hope you all have a wonderful New Year! Tonight my girlfriend Thea and I will be doing a Blue Moon Spell! A spell and a nice dinner. :) This will be extra special since Blue Moons come around once in a Blue Moon (ha! ha!). What are your plans?

I sense 2010 as a great year! Here's what's coming in mine. :) This is Cimara. She's a beautiful 12 year old Missouri Fox Trotter. If all goes as planned as of January I will be leasing her for the year! We've already started to get to know one another.

Blessings to all and stay safe!!

xoxo

Happy Yule and Winter Solstice!

2009-12-24T22:24:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! Just wanted to stop in amidst the craziness (and even posting from sunny Southern California now) to wish everyone a wonderful Winter Solstice! Apologies for my absence...but I tell ya...I cannot wait until 2010. I know it will be a much better year for all of us and I know for me.

Hope you are all enjoying a wonderful, warm winter solstice with all of your loved ones.

I will be around a lot more after January 1st! Promise!!

Blessings....

Michelle, Mocha, Quincy and Emma :)

We Survived the Move!

2009-12-15T23:47:00.000-08:00

Since I posted this on my other blog....I admit I am being lazy here, I'm attaching the link to how the move went!

http://www.chocolateandmarmaladetea.blogspot.com/

Thank you all for your well wishes. I am back in business...and will be blogging and visiting more! Yay!

Missed you guys!!

xoxo

Bright Blessings!

One more day...

2009-12-10T13:04:00.000-08:00

and I will be in my new home! I wish my new home was the one above. Lol! So sorry I have been absent. I have been busy packing, cleaning and getting ready to move. By tomorrow evening I will be in my new place and hopefully by Sunday evening sitting by the fireplace with the kitties and visiting you all! I will take pictures once I'm all in!

Hang in there...I will be back soon! Thanks for being so patient! Also, kitties are all doing fine. Emma is still struggling with her prednisone for her asthma..it's giving her an upset tummy. Other than that, we are all fine, thank God! I can't take much more on top of this move and the holidays!

Hope you are all doing well!

My dream room.....

2009-12-04T20:28:00.000-08:00

I want this now. Like right now. I want a perfect room with a fireplace all cozy and warm. But no, what am I doing? I'm MOVING! Right in the middle of the holidays. Only I would do something like this. Ugh. I am going to try my darnedest to find time to blog and to visit but it's been tough these days. Just wanted to pop in to let you know I'm still alive! Emma had another asthma attack that I couldn't control with her inhaler and I guess her prednisone dose was too low as well so back in she went into the vet for oxygen and a steroid shot *sigh* Other kitties are doing fine. I hope we survive the move! We are moving to a bigger three story beautiful townhouse so the cats will love the stairs. :)

Hope you all have been well!

Quincy loves the broom!

2009-11-28T22:00:00.000-08:00

I am setting up my "magical" space to do some energy work tomorrow with two of my good friends and as I turned around this is what I saw. Quincy is definitely attached to my broom. Lol! Notice Emma on the other end. :) It's funny, the cats are so relaxed in my space. They seem to act differently, either relaxed or full of playful energy. Do you ever notice how your pets act in sacred space? :)

Hope you're all having a relaxing weekend. I'm going to try to play catch-up with everyone's blogs tomorrow!

xoxo

Michelle and the kitties

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2009-11-25T23:07:00.000-08:00

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. I apologize for not visiting you all as often as I had wanted to recently. Life has been crazy with packing, getting over sicknesses, etc. Once the holidays are over and things have slowed down I will promise to get back to my regular blogging and visits! In the meantime, I am so thankful I have met everyone here in blog land! I'm also thankful for all that I have in my life. Despite the obstacles I've had to overcome recently, I am always focusing on what I'm thankful for....and what I do have in my life. I think that's very important.

Eat well, visit with your family and be thankful always!

Michelle and the kitties. )

Call me the traveling gypsy....cleansing your new home.

2009-11-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

And this is how this gypsy travels...lol!

Do you wanna know why I call myself this? Well, I am moving again! It seems I move every year. Must be the Gemini in me. Lol! Okay, really it's not what you think. I'm still in the same condo complex but I am moving to the townhouse across from me! Lol! I mean literally, the garages are across from each other. I am making this change because I decided I am paying too much for rent right now. The condo I am in is the most desired floor plan and, well, all around the most desired condo in the complex. I LOVE the complex I am in...not sure if I've mentioned that. It's gated, so I feel safe, it's quiet and trees everywhere! So, this is going to sound funny but I am now moving into a three story townhouse which is bigger than the condo I am in but much cheaper. I just won't have as many windows and not as much of a view. That's okay though, I would rather start saving more money for a house in the future. :) I know Quincy and Emma will have tons of room to run now. Two sets of stairs...the first floor is the garage, second is the living room, dining room and kitchen and one bathroom, and the third are the two bedrooms and two more bathrooms.

Here's the thing and the reason I haven't been posting as much lately, besides the cat fiasco. :( I'm cleaning and getting ready for the short move across the street because it all has to happen mid December. Terrible time, I know but they couldn't hold this townhouse longer than 30 days for me...so....I had to have it. Talk about stressful. A move in between the holidays. Nice going, Michelle. Oh well, I can think of worst things, right?

Also, this time around I'd like to cleanse my new home. I didn't cleanse the place I'm in now but nothing really negative has happened. So, what I'd like to know is how would you cleanse a new home/space? I'm thinking about it now and would really love some feedback on this!

Anyhow, hope you guys had a wonderful weekend! Kitties are still doing fine. Mocha is hanging in there, a bit cranky but eating and drinking a lot. I'm not sure if she will be the same kitty after this but she is still with me and, for that, I am happy.

xoxo

We are on the mend!

2009-11-19T23:55:00.000-08:00

Thank you all...from the bottom of my heart...for all the well wishes. We are healing, slowly but surely. Actually, Quincy and Emma are totally fine. Mocha is healing slowly but as of the last couple of days she has had a voracious appetite and is drinking a lot. I realize that's probably the steroid. Still, I did NOT like the side effects that came with that. She seems a little more normal these days, alert, hungry and her eyes are bright. :)

Isn't it amazing how powerful intentions are? Thanks to everyone and their healing thoughts....a little intention on my end...a banishing spell and some Green Aventurine (thanks for the suggestion Hibiscus Moon), I am going to believe everyone is going to heal fine. I will continue my intentions though.

In the meantime, I am going to snuggle here with the kitties and work on making a few of these for the cold season ahead. :)

Thank you again, ever so much!! I will be back into the swing of things (and visiting you all!).

Brightest blessings....

Michelle and the kitties :)

Photo courtesy of www.colorful-stitches.com

Emotional Time....

2009-11-16T21:01:00.000-08:00

So sorry I've been away for a few days. I've been struggling with three sick cats at home. It started with Emma and a few days later Quincy and Mocha caught it. All three were vomiting and had terrible diarrhea. First I had to bring Emma in to get antibiotics and fluids...then three days later both Quincy and Mocha went in. They gave Quincy antibiotics and Mocha (my oldest - the brown one you see on the right) got a steroid shot because she had previous IBD issues. We had done a full panel check on her five months ago but found nothing out of the ordinary that would cause her IBD. Well,after that shot, she turned into a total zombie and she stopped eating for a day and a half and was very lethargic. I just finally got her to start eating some white chicken breast tonight which she ate tons of. She's not drinking enough though so I am giving her water in a syringe to keep her hydrated. I called two doctors (since Emma sees a different doctor than Mocha and Quincy) and they agree that perhaps the shot of steroid was a bit too much for Mocha and being a senior at 13 1/2 years was too much for her little body. I am hoping it will start tapering off and she will get back to normal. I just wanted you all to know I haven't dropped off the face of the earth. If you can possibly send some healing thoughts our way we would be ever so thankful! Quincy and Emma have bounced back but Mocha still is lethargic but was definitely more alert today when I came home.

I was at my wit's end last night so being that it is still a waning moon I performed a banishing ritual to rid our household of this sickness.

This picture was taken tonight. We're all just resting comfortably and I'm trying to keep everything calm and peaceful. I had this beautiful Reiki music playing for them and I think it kind of put them all to sleep. Lol!

A Gift from Merlin's Magickal Mistress!

2009-11-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

I received a very special package yesterday from the sweetest witch by the sea that I know, Merlin's Magickal Mistress!! A few posts back I talked about my small by growing collection of mermaids. When she saw my post she graciously emailed me and said she wanted to send two of her mermaid ornaments that she had. HOW SWEET IS THAT?!! Anyway, I was so excited when I got them! I loved 'em! I was going to put them in my bathroom that houses most of my mermaids but then I realized they would go much better on my year-round pink Christmas tree. Seriously, they matched the Christmas tree like they came with the tree! See for yourself! Oh and if you haven't checked out her blog...swing on over. She is funny, sassy and full of fire, that witch!

Oh and Mr. Quincy decided to hang out with me while I was putting the mermaids in the tree...I saw how the sunlight was hitting him and had to take pictures. :)

Thank you again, Judith!! They add a bit more whimsy to my tree. :)

A new stone for me...the Sun Stone

2009-11-07T23:37:00.001-08:00

I recently received some beautiful Sun Stones in the mail and am just learning more about them. I can't wait to connect with them once they are cleansed. They're even a native of my state. :) Jennifer Warr is a crystal reader and here she describes her experience with the beautiful stones. Enjoy!

I Won a Giveaway!

2009-11-05T23:27:00.000-08:00

Yay!!! The last Halloween Giveaway from Marzel over at The Play of Light and Shadow was bestowed upon me...yes, ME! I am so excited. Do you know why? Well, because I get all these adorable goodies but because the witches hat will be my very first witches hat! :) I know, pathetic I don't have one already. Lol!

If you haven't seen Marzel's blog you have been missing out. She is such a talented artist, writer, person and oh I could go on. She is also a very good personal friend of mine, although we live in different states. :) Thank you, Marzel!!!!

Also, in case you weren't aware, we also share another blog called The Play of Light and Shadows where we share our ghost hunting experiences! Swing on by if you get a chance and checkout our haunting pictures! :)

Boo!

Exhilerating!

2009-11-03T21:23:00.000-08:00

I can't tell you the exhilarating feeling I get when riding, let alone the views I stumble upon in the beautiful mountains and valleys here in Oregon. I went riding with three of my girlfriends this past weekend and for the first time we let the horses go! Let them run as fast as they could and oh my gosh, I thought I was in Heaven! I rose from the saddle, leaned forward and we took off, the wind blowing through us, the sound of Romeo's labored yet excited breathing as he raced as fast as he could past the other gals. LOL! I almost couldn't stop him though. Nonetheless, it was my first and will not be my last to ride like we were one with the wind. These are the views we usually come upon. Breathtaking, isn't it? :) It's times like this I feel closest to Mother Nature.

Hope you're all having a wonderful week!

My Samhain Altar - Blessings to all on this Samhain!

2009-10-31T00:28:00.000-07:00

Samhain is upon us and if you listen with blessed intent you just might hear an ancestor calling out to you. :)

This is my Samhain altar. I was putting my finishing touches on my altar tonight with pictures of my grandparents and my father in the center. He has been with me all week. He visited me in a dream a few nights ago. We held hands and visited. :) It was a very comforting dream. Also, things have been flying off the shelves this past week. I get this strange feeling I am being visited by someone...dad? Tonight, as I finished my altar I could have sworn I heard drums in the distance. My windows were closed at that moment so I decided to open them so I could hear better. As I opened my window the wind was still, it was raining. I still heard them. All of a sudden the biggest gust of wind kicked up and blew through me and into my altar room. I quickly turned around and noticed the only picture that fell was my fathers. I know he is here with me now. :) I honor all of my ancestors who made me who I am today and welcome them with open arms for a very special visit and maybe even tea. :) What a wonderful feeling!

Few quick notes. The picture of Jesus was in my father's room for as long as I can remember. I kept it after he passed away. :) Also, the citrine cluster and heart-shaped rose quartz are from Hibiscus Moon! I am so happy with them and I am so connected to them already. Thank you Hibiscus! The lighting is a bit dark. Sorry! I also have pictures of my grandparents and pets who have also passed on.

Happy Samhain everyone! Peaceful blessings....

My new collection....mermaids

2009-10-30T00:03:00.000-07:00

So for some reason I've started collecting mermaids. I mean, I don't know why...I'm terrified of drowning. Hmmm.....well here is my small collection and I'm sure it will grow in time. :)

My newest purchase! I love them....they are just gorgeous!

A picture I bought while back home on a visit. I absolutely adore this.

I've had this statue for years and I can't remember where I bought it. Isn't she pretty?

And my working candle holder I've had for years as well. :)

Sorry for the grainy pics guys. I've done something to a setting on my camera again! I'm so technically challenged. I usually just push buttons until I get it right but tonight I just couldn't figure it out. Lol!

Ready for Samhain?

xoxo

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

2009-10-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

These were such a nice childhood memory for me. I haven't made them since. I think this year I will. :) How about you? We're continuing the Halloween party over at The Domestic Witch! Swing on over and see what else she has cooking up. :)

Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

Preheat oven to 300.

Combine 1 T oil or melted butter plus ½ t salt per cup of seeds. If you like, you can add other spices like pepper, paprika, and/or garlic.

Toss seeds with oil mixture until well coated.

Spread evenly on a cookie sheet.

Bake until golden, about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Let cool on paper towels and ENJOY!

A Little Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread?

2009-10-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

To continue the party over at The Domestic Witch I thought I'd present a little pumpkin bread with chocolate chips. I can't seem to make any dessert without chocolate!

A little about the magical pumpkin....

The Magickal Properties of Pumpkins: Used for fertility and contacting the Spirit World. Since most pumpkins are large, they also represent abundance or being plentiful. Also, by lighting your Jack-O-Lantern you are sure to bring good luck to your household!

PUMPKIN BREAD WITH CHOCOLATE CHIPS

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar

2 cups canned pumpkin

1/2 cup canola oil

1/2 cup fat-free vanilla pudding

4 large egg whites

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Cooking spray

Preparation:

Preheat oven to 350°. Combine first 5 ingredients in a large bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda in a medium bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Add flour mixture to pumpkin mixture, stirring just until moist. Stir in chocolate chips. Spoon batter into 2 (8 x 4-inch) loaf pans coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans on a wire rack, and remove from pans. Cool completely on wire rack.

Now don't forget to stop on by The Domestic Witch to see what other ghoulish ghosts are up to at this monster fun mash!

The Witches Broom

2009-10-18T23:04:00.000-07:00

Mine sits by the door waiting for All Hallows Eve when I will hop on with my cats, casting spells as I fly across the moon!

And the blog party continues at The Domestic Witch! Swing on over and check out the festivities and everyone who's participating!

Mexican Mocha Pudding with Whipped Pumpkin Cream

2009-10-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

So I subscribe to the Vegetarian Times online and I get these awesome recipes in my email! This one happened to come the day before yesterday and oh my gosh...I have never had whipped pumpkin cream, let alone with Mexican Mocha Pudding! I am for sure trying this for a get together!

Mexican Mocha Pudding

1/2 cup sugar, preferably natural brown sugar such as Sucanat or maple

3 Tbs. unsweetened cocoa powder

2 1/2 Tbs. arrowroot powder

1 Tbs. instant espresso powder

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. New Mexico chili powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1 large egg

2 egg yolks

2 cups milk

4 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Whipped Pumpkin Cream

1 15-oz. can pumpkin

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions:

1. Combine sugar, cocoa powder, arrowroot powder, espresso powder, cinnamon, chili powder, and salt in bowl. Whisk together egg and egg yolks in separate bowl. Stir egg mixture into cocoa mixture.

2. Scald milk in saucepan over medium heat until milk is steaming. Remove from heat. Whisk ı/2 cup hot milk into cocoa mixture. While whisking, pour cocoa mixture back into hot milk, and whisk until smooth. Return to medium heat, and continue whisking for 5 to 6 minutes, until pudding starts to bubble. Remove from heat and whisk in chocolate and vanilla until smooth. Transfer pudding to bowl, and cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto pudding; refrigerate until chilled.

3. To make Whipped Pumpkin Cream: Cook pumpkin and brown sugar with cinnamon medium skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes. Transfer to bowl, and cool to room temperature.

4. Whip cream in stand mixer or with handheld beaters on medium-high, until soft peaks form, about 1 minute. Fold whipped cream into pumpkin until no streaks remain. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve pudding dolloped with pumpkin cream.

If you want to checkout more recipes from Vegetarian Times go here! They have such a wonderful and informative site! Have fun!! I also have another recipe I will be making Saturday in honor of Halloween! Stay tuned!

Spider Web Hurricane and an Award!

2009-10-12T21:11:00.001-07:00

Just got back from Montana yesterday. It wasn't the day I thought it would be to just come home and relax. Instead, I got home and found my cat in an asthma attack (the house sitter said she wasn't like this earlier so it must have just come on before I came home) and I had to rush her to the emergency vet. *sigh* We just discovered she had asthma about three weeks ago (another vet emergency visit). After taking x-rays to determine that she had this condition (and she's only a year old) they treated her with a steroid shot. I hated that but I had to do what was best for her. This time they sent me home with an inhaler. YES, an inhaler. I didn't even know animals could have asthma. I'm meeting with a naturopath at my regular vet to see how we can treat her naturally. In any event, I'm finally winding down from everything tonight. :)

So, to wind down and to continue the October blog party hosted by the Domestic Witch I thought I'd make a very haunted Martha Stewart craft. It was so easy too! The spidery hurricane! You can find her directions here! I couldn't find a frosted hurricane but the clear works just fine!

Also! As promised, I won an award!! Thank you, Marzel my very good friend (and in real life) over at Play of Light and Shadow. :) Thank you, Marzel!! You're awesome! I also received this award from Suzie over at Cat in the Moon (she has the cutest blog!). Thank you, Suzie! Oh gosh....and I wanna say someone else awarded this to me but can't remember. SO SORRY!! I have been foggy the past couple of days with everything that has gone on and being back from vacation made me forget where I left off! Lol! If anyone else awarded this to me, please let me know so I can give you proper credit!!

I am to pass this Award along to six wonderful Artists! Here are the rules for the Over the Top Award. Copy and change the answers and paste the it on your blog. One word answers! Once you have filled it out pass this award to 6 others. Alert then that they have been awarded! And have fun!

1 Where is your cell phone? Purse

2 Your hair? Long
3 Your mother? California
4 Your father? Ashes

5 Your Favorite food? Sushi

6 Your dream last night? Boyfriend

7 Your favorite drink? Iced tea
8 Your dream/goal? Author

9 What room are you in? Witchy

10 Your hobby? Crafting (meant in two ways)
11 Your fear? Drowning
12 Where do you want to be in six years? Happy

13 Where were you last night? Vet
14 Something that you aren't? Unhappy

15 Muffins? Chocolate

16 Wish list item? Horse

17 Where did you grow up? California

18 Last thing you did? Craft

19 What are you wearing? Sweats

20 Your Tv? On
21 Your pets? Cats
22 Friends? Close
23 Your life? Happy

24 Your mood? Melancholy

25 Missing someone? Yes

26 Vehical? Kia
27 Something your not wearing? Earrings

28 Your favorite store? HealthyPet
29 Your favorite color? Pink
30 When was the last time you laughed? Today
31 Last time you cried? Awhile
32 Your best friend? Several

33 One place that I go over and over? Michaels
34 One person who Emails you regularly? Brother

35 Favorite place to eat? Sushibar

OK that's it!

I love breaking rules. Anyone who leaves a comment to this post gets the award and questions! Have fun and play along!!

Vacationing in Montana

2009-10-08T10:48:00.001-07:00

Hi all!

I'm away on vacation for a few days..relaxing in Montana with my family. A nice train road overnight on the Amtrak was fabulous! I couldn't get any decent flights out of Oregon without only spending a day and a half with my family. Taking the train gave me a day and a half longer. Go figure! Getting your own sleeper cabin is the only way to go.

Champagne was promptly brought to me when I settled in my cabin. Complimentary when you get a cabin...and it's STILL cheaper than the airlines!

And little touches like chocolate just make my day!

This is our cabin! Waiting for my sis, brother-in-law and niece to arrive from California.

For less money you can get this tee pee to stay in. Kidding.

And seven dogs to greet us. These are a few. I've been slobbered! :)

Be back soon all!

P.S. I have not forgotten about my award!! :) I will be posting soon with all my answers!

Nutter Butter Ghosts!

2009-10-06T23:33:00.000-07:00

So, for our ghostly meeting coming up this October (after our investigation on the 18th!) I am planning on making these adorable cookies in honor of Halloween and the ghosts we may discover on the investigation. Lol! Very simple and combining my two favorite flavors, chocolate and peanut butter!

Nutter Butter Ghosts

Ingredients:

Nutter Butter brand peanut butter cookies
White chocolate or dark chocolate
Decorative tube frosting in white or chocolate
mini chocolate chips

Directions:

Very simple guys. Simply melt your white chocolate or dark chocolate (which ever you prefer and I prefer both!) over a double broiler. Dip the nutter butter cookies into the chocolate. Place on wax paper or drying rack. Once cooled, use the mini chocolate chips for the eyes and/or tube frosting! How simple is that?

Enjoy! I know I will. :) BOO!

I will let you know how the investigation goes. Fits so well into the month of October, doesn't it? Oh and I got the gummy pumpkins at Michaels! :)

Favorite Halloween Candy

2009-10-04T15:38:00.001-07:00

I am NOT a traditionalist when it comes to Halloween candy. I know that candy corn is probably the most popular BUT.....I, myself, love the gummy pumpkins. :)

What is your favorite Halloween candy?

The Blog Party Continues!

2009-10-03T08:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am watching one of my favorite Halloween movies, I Married a Witch with the alluring Veronica Lake. In my opinion, she was one of Hollywood's most beautiful witches. :) Who's your favorite Hollywood witch? Also swing on over to the Domestic Witch, our magical hostess for this great party!

Second day of October Party ~ Got My Giveaway Package from Rue & Hyssop

2009-10-01T21:48:00.000-07:00

Well all, welcome to the second day of The October Blog Party hosted by the amazing Domestic Witch! Swing on by her blog to see the list of participating blogs! It's long, I warn you! :)

Today, decorations are in order. Just a few I pulled out of the closet. :)

Also, I got my package today from Rue & Hyssop (of course it took me forever to get to the post office to pick it up)! I was AMAZED! Truly amazed at the gifts I received. I was literally beside myself. The cats had to hold me up when I opened the box because I almost fainted. Lol! Look at all the goodies! Thank you, thank you Rue & Hyssop!!! You are a truly giving person and I have truly enjoyed following your wonderful blog! Check her blog out when you get the chance. You will be delighted! I promise.

The package had so many goodies in it. Chocolate covered blueberries, chocolate covered cherries, an adorable tea towel, two ceramic tea bag holders, Ceylon an adorable teddy bear skeleton (which Quincy ultimately took off with), a sweet fairy card with a very kind written note inside..oh my gosh and so many other goodies!

Look at how perfect it looked when I opened it. It had a sweet Autumn flower inside. :)

And this beautiful fairy card! The card is sitting on my altar right now for a little fairy energy. :)

Just look at all this! It was like Christmas!

And this sweet note. :)

Giveaways are so much fun. I'm on vacation in Montana with my family for half the week next week but about mid-October I am planning to have a Vintage Sage Giveaway myself! Stay tuned! Thank you from the bottom of my heart Rue!! It made my day!!

Happy October 1st all!!

Homemade Cinnamon Apple Chips - October Blog Party!

2009-09-29T22:48:00.000-07:00

Okay everyone so this will be my FIRST post for our October blog party hosted by The Domestic Witch. :) Even though it is a day early, I'm leaving this post up until the first! Hope that doesn't disqualify me. Lol!

The Apple is the earliest cultivated tree known to man. The apple is used in love spells, divinations, and healing.

Magickal aspects: Fertility, peace, love, healing magic, garden spells and immortality.
Associated Greek God/Goddess: Hera, Zeus, Melanion
Planetary Ruler for Apple Trees: Venus, Libra and Taurus

Try this comforting and healthy snack to welcome Autumn. They are wonderful!

Ingredients:
2 cups unsweetened apple juice
1 cinnamon stick
2 red delicious apples

Preparation Directions:~ In a large saucepan, combine apple juice and cinnamon stick; bring to a low boil.~ Meanwhile, prepare apples. Cut top and bottom off apples, then cut crosswise into 1/8-inch thick even slices. Drop slices into boiling juice and cook 4 to 5 minutes or until slices are lightly golden.~ Preheat oven to 250 degrees. With slotted spoon remove apples slices form juice and pat dry. Arrange slices on wire racks in single layer. Place racks on middle shelf in oven and bake 30 to 40 minutes or until slices are lightly browned and almost dry to the touch. Let chips cool completely on racks.~ Store in airtight container.

I promise they're not poisonous!

Ever notice the five-pointed star in the core of an apple when you slice it? :)

The cauldron was boiling tonight!

The lighting in the kitchen somehow gave off an eerie orange glow...okay or maybe I had my settings wrong on the camera. Lol!

Welcome Autumn! It was certainly Autumn here today. Cold, windy and rainy. Burrrrr!

Out in Nature

2009-09-27T16:09:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a beautiful day so my girlfriend and I took her two horses (Ari is the one I ride a lot, seen in the picture) and went for a beautiful trail ride. It was also a special day for me and Ari. We cantered for the first time! I cantered before with the horse I train on but had not with Ari and I had always wondered what it would be like. It was such a high!! We didn't want to stop but we came upon some other riders coming the other direction so...the fun was over. Lol!

Along the way, I decided to gather some elements from nature to make this. :) What do you think?

And of course, here's my little Quincy posing for me...next to my favorite Halloween decoration, the Witches boot. Lol!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

An Award from Bridgett and Lizzie!

2009-09-24T23:13:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited. The Vintage Sage hasn't received too many awards but I got another one! Yay!!! Bridgett (aka Boo) of Dog and B Boo + Two first presented me with this wonderful award. Then a few days later Lizzie of Lizzie's Logic presented it to me as well! I guess it's making its rounds and I got them from two fantastic gals! Please swing over and say hi if you haven't yet visited them but I'm sure you all have already . :)

Now, here are the rules:

1.) Thank the person who gave this to you.
2.) Copy the logo and place it in your blog.
3.) Link the person who nominated you.
4.) Name 7 things about yourself that no one would really know.
5.) Nominate seven 'Kreativ Bloggers.'
6.) Post links to the seven blogs you nominate.
7.) Leave a comment on each of the blogs letting them know you nominated them.

Okay, here goes!

1.) I have a fear of water because I almost drowned once.

2.) I cannot kill any animal, not even an ant! Seriously...I have to look on the floor before vacuuming in case there's an ant I might suck up!

3.) I have written one book (romance novel) and a half of a suspense novel. I'm seriously thinking of getting back into writing again.

4.) My father got me start on the Pagan path unbeknownst to him. His entire library was filled with mysteries of the world, Buddhism, life after death, time travel and even magic. :) Unfortunately he did not live long enough to see how much I benefited. I have a feeling he knows though. :)

5.) I have two tattoos and seriously considering one more. Just one more, I swear!

6.) I volunteer every Sunday at a no kill cat shelter not far from where I live. It's like having a hundred cats but never having to actually have them live with you. Lol!

7.) I am terrified of having my past life regression done. Something in the past has me terrified, obviously! Hmm...is that considered a fact? Oh well. :)

Now, I nominate the following awesome bloggers!

1. Play of Light and Shadow.

2. Domestic Witch

3. Merlin's Mistress

4. Octoberfarm

5. Je Reviens (Rose Cottage)

6. Barefoot in the Sand

7. Rainbow up North

8. Hibiscus Moon

9. Carolina Gonzalez

10. Blue Moon

Okay, okay so I went over. I couldn't stop! Ugh. Sorry..I broke the rules. It's the Gemini in me. I can never decide!

One more thing! Here's peak at my modest Mabon Altar. Not much...it was very low key and quiet and just nice and peaceful. :)

I'm not sure how you draw your Tarot but sometimes I use my pendulum to pick the cards for me. I spread the cards out (fan-like) after meditating on them and run the pendulum across the cards. It will tell me when its found a card by tugging a bit in the direction it wants to go. Try it...it's very amazing how your pendulum talks to you!

Also, apologies for the grainy pics. I got a new camera and since I'm technologically handicap I pushed a button and now I can't get it back to the way it was! I'm sure I'll figure it out next year. :)

Peaceful blessings always....

xoxo

A quick peek into my magical room....

2009-09-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

Well, it's a start anyway. :) This used to inhabit a huge queen size canopy bed and it took up most of the space. I rarely have guests that stay overnight for long so I decided to transform it into my magical space!

The kitty cats apparently think it's their new room. Of course, you know I can't say no. :)

My magical board waiting for affirmations to be scribbled all over it.

See my little "Believe" sign? It actually has glitter all over it but you can't really see it in the photo.

This Foo Dog came from Japan. I'm not sure how old it is but it was my father's before he passed away. It kind of makes me feel like dad is protecting me. :)

This is just the beginning. I need to add some wall art now. Also! I was gifted a beautiful award from a lovely gal! I will be posting that on my next post.....with a few facts about me. ;)

Brightest blessings always and Happy Mabon!

A Cottage Witch Is Always Well Stocked with Herbs

2009-09-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

How big is your herb collection? Also, question for all of you. What are YOUR essential magical herbs?

Brightest Blessings on this rainy Sunday! :)

Stirring Up Some Enchanted Punch!

2009-09-16T11:31:00.000-07:00

This punch will sure to spark magic at your Samhain celebration!

8 cups cranberry juice (health and love)

6 cups apple cider (love)

6 cinnamon sticks (psychic powers)

6 orange slices (luck)

1 liter ginger ale (success)

1 tray of ice cubes

Pour cranberry juice and apple cider into a large bowl. Break the cinnamon sticks in half. Put one cinnamon stick and one piece of orange in each cube holder. Fill an ice cube tray with some of the cranberry-apple mixture. Freeze. Refrigerate remaining punch mixture in bowl. Before serving, add ginger ale and ice cubes.

Recipe courtesy of Halloween (spells, customs, and recipes) by Silver Ravenwolf

The Magickal Nectarine

2009-09-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Nectarine - Feminine, Venus, Water
Astrological: Primary - Libra and Taurus/Secondary - Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio
Magickal: Eating fresh Nectarines will bring on a sense of love and strengthen bonds in a relationship.

Well, they were fresh. :) Nectarine Pockets! So comforting for a cool Autumn evening, don't you think?

I don't really have a recipe for this. I just threw the nectarines in a bowl...added a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg and sugar to sweeten it up even more. Rolled out ready-made dough, cut out large circles, filled the pockets or half moons (you can find symbolism in almost anything) and crimped them with a fork! Oh yes...I brushed the dough with melted butter and sprinkled with a bit more sugar then baked at 375 degrees for about 10-15 minutes or until brown. How easy is that?

Brightest blessings always!

Tea Kettle as a Divination Tool

2009-09-12T09:24:00.001-07:00

Yes, even tea kettles can be divination tools. When pouring water into your kettle concentrate on a yes or no question. When the water comes to a boil, a slow steady whistle means yes, a broken up whistle means no.

Off to boil some tea!

Taken from A Victorian Grimoire by Patricia Telesco

Spell Stars!

2009-09-08T21:09:00.000-07:00

So, as I mentioned in my previous post I have been hooked on watching CharmingPixieFlora on YouTube since I discovered her videos. She had one segment where she made Spell Stars! They're basically star cutouts made from cinnamon and applesauce. Very simple, very easy. It's like making cutting out sugar cookies! You can have so much fun with these. Here is a link to to her YouTube video. Unfortunately there wasn't an embedded formula I could use to imbed the video into my post but no biggie. Just follow the link!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GFJw1gPibM

Cinnamon's magickal properties are spirituality, healing, psychic powers, protection, love, luck, knowledge, success and power.

Apples are known to be fruit of the Gods so the Spell Stars are THAT much more powerful. :) Their magickal properties are love, healing, garden magic and immortality.

I am thinking of making these as Yule gifts....stars, circles and moons. I love her idea of putting them in a jar as gifts! The other idea I had was to decorate my year-around tree. Unfortunately the tree is pink but that's okay. Brown and pink are the new "in" colors right? Lol!

I apologize in advance for the lighting....my kitchen was awfully bright that afternoon and some pictures look a little washed out. :)

Have fun with these guys!

Brightest Blessings Always!

Esbat and Sabbat Cookies and New Books!

2009-09-07T12:22:00.000-07:00

I found this great YouTube video created by the adorable CharmingPixieFlora. She has about 100 videos on YouTube geared towards the Craft whether it be recipes, spells, teas, etc. I encourage you to check her videos out! I can sit for hours watching these videos. :) Don't forget to turn off my music player on the bottom!

Here she is making Esbat and Sabbat cookies. I am definitely trying these out for our next ritual!

Also! I got some new Craft books this weekend. Since I see myself more as a Cottage Witch/Kitchen Witch these books sounded perfect for me!

Hope you're all having a wonderful day!

Brightest blessings!

Full Moon Altar

2009-09-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

My sister in spirit and I had a wonderful Full Moon ritual, simple but wonderful. This ritual was for good luck and prosperity. I made bead bracelets out of wood and natural hemp string and my girlfriend worked with a stick she collected outside. The bracelets and stick were blessed and we passed them through two candles of purple and blue. We grounded ourselves, meditated on our intentions, chanted while empowering the bracelets and stick and pulled the Tarot.

We ended our ritual as we usually do with a snack and for this we had wonderful homemade banana bread with walnuts and this drink we made courtesy of Better Homes and Gardens.

Autumn Punch

Ingredients

2 teaspoons whole cloves

1/2 of a vanilla bean, split lengthwise1

64-ounce bottle apple-cranberry juice

4 medium purple and/or green plums, pitted and sliced

1 750-ml bottle Gewurztraminer, or other fruity white wine*
Ice cubes

Directions:

1. Place cloves and vanilla bean in center of a double-thick 6-inch square of 100-percent-cotton cheesecloth. Bring corners of cloth together; tie closed with clean string. Pour apple-cranberry juice into a large container or pitcher. Add plums and spice bag. Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours.2. Remove and discard cheesecloth bag. Stir in Gewurztraminer. Serve beverage and plum slices over ice. (Or omit the ice and heat the juice mixture and wine in a 4-quart Dutch oven until hot. Serve in heatproof mugs.)

*Nonalcoholic Option: Substitute two 12-ounce cans chilled ginger ale for the Gewurztraminer, and serve over ice.

We actually made the non-alcoholic version and substituted the plums with nectarines since we couldn't find any plums! Hey, whatever works, right?

Full Moon Magick

2009-09-04T13:03:00.001-07:00

Today is the glorious Full Moon....and my sister in spirit and I will perform some Full Moon Magick. Are you? I will take some pictures and let you now how it all goes. I do know this....I am making some bracelets made of wood and natural hemp for this spell. :)

Rue's Happy Birthday Giveaway!

2009-09-02T17:16:00.001-07:00

Rue over at Rue & Hyssop is having a birthday celebration giveaway in honor of her birthday!! Happy, Happy Birthday, Rue! I mean how kind is that? Giving away things on her birthday. In my book she is a truly special and giving soul. Thank you, Rue!

Click on the button above and it will take you right over to her magickal cottage! She's got three baskets (boxes) of goodies she's giving away!

Blog Party and Giveaway!

2009-08-31T17:21:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! The Domestic Witch is having an October Blog Party and I'm going to be there! Swing on over and check it out!

Also....The Domestic Witch is having an awesome GIVEAWAY called Queen of Cups Giveaway in honor of her 100th follower. Woohoo! The Domestic Witch is one of my favorite blogs. She really knows her magick and lives it everyday. See for yourself and go on by and see what this giveaway is all about. :)

So, what did I do with those blackberries I harvested this weekend? See for yourself. :)

Nothing smells better than a warm home with fresh baked pies in the oven to welcome Fall!

Peaceful blessings all!

'Tis the Season to Harvest those Magickal Blackberries!

2009-08-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my girlfriend and I decided to take her two horses (Ari and Magic) out trail riding. So, we loaded them up, drove to the trails, saddled them up and then it happened. Magic backed up into a rock and sliced his leg! After a few moments of "freaking out" I calmed Magic down (told him to use his own magick to heal himself) while Debbie tended to his poor little injured leg. We stayed there for awhile, making sure the blood stopped and Magic was fine (which we accomplished) and headed home afterwards.

So.....we decided not to lose the whole afternoon and decided to harvest blackberries! Deb has blackberry bushes lining her long driveway and we got our bowls out and started harvesting. :)

The boys even helped us out!

Ari did a great job! Stuck his whole head in the bushes (ouch!). Oh Ari, you need to clean up after yourself! Lol!

Magic was still a bit mad from his wound. If looks could kill!

And look at all the blackberries we harvested! Aren't they so plump and full of life?

I haven't done much with blackberry magick but I did learn a few new things.

Botanical name: Rubus villosus

Deities associated with blackberries: Venus and Brigit

Gender: Female (traditional western Western European magickal gender)

Western element: water

Magickal uses: healing

Magickal substitutions: Rosemary and rose

Ritual uses: Offerings to Venus

I am fairly new in learning the magickal uses of blackberries. If you know of anymore information, please let me know! :)

Now...time to make a blackberry pie or some cobbler! Venus would love that. :)

Harvest Prosperity Tea

2009-08-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

I sense Fall in the air with the changing of the leaves and a little bite in the air in the evenings. I recall this time last year my girlfriend and I made this wonderful prosperity tea and it worked wonders, prosperity-wise!

This wonderful tea is packed with cinnamon, candied ginger, cloves, chamomile, fresh mint, cinnamon sticks and vanilla (real vanilla bean - scraped). I can't even remember the measurement for each one but we crushed everything with a mortar and pestle and steeped it all in boiling water over the stove. When we were done we poured ourselves a hot, steeping cup each and topped with fresh mint. For the remainder of the tea, we put them in jars and put them in the refrigerator for refreshing cold tea! We made this tea on the New Moon and drank slowly until the Full Moon to get the full effect from the Universe! Who could ask for more perfect ingredients for Fall than these?

I think it's about time to make some more. :) My little Miss Mocha (aka the The Queen) is ready for Fall. She loves sleeping under the covers. :)

Have a great weekend everyone!

Peaceful Blessings....

P.S. Thank you all for your wonderful, encouraging comments in my last post. I feel 100% better!

Challenged

2009-08-25T18:59:00.000-07:00

This week has been especially challenging for me. My beliefs have been challenged. Every core of my being has been challenged. I think all of you may have experienced this at some point in your life. What hurts me the most is that who I am, what I'm about is only about good intentions, only about giving and caring for others...caring for animals, God's animals but because our society has dubbed what we are all about, I have to challenge those that are naive about what they don't know. And what comes after that? What they don't know, scares them. I have been especially emotional lately and the last few days I have found myself crying. Crying because I so badly want to be me. I want to be me in a society that has standards for LIFE. I respect the living, I respect the dead...I even respect those darn annoying little ants that get into our kitchen cupboards. Yep...I can't just wipe 'em up like everyone else does. I have to scoop them all up and throw them outside so they can live their little lives continuing to annoy all of us because that's what they're about. That's what they do. Who am I to disrupt nature (because they're only searching for bits and pieces of food to survive on)? I'm allowing those little ants to be themselves. I know I must sound wacko at this point. Okay, so maybe that's going a little too far but did I get my point across at all?

I'm being challenged. Challenged. I've heard that word throughout my life, time and time again. Michelle, you're being challenged. Michelle, challenge yourself. Michelle, he's asking for a challenge. And each time I was challenged, it made me stronger, as me, than before.

So. I am being challenged. All I can say is look out because a stronger me is going to emerge from all of this. The nice me, I should add, with even more love to give than ever before. ;)

I quote Aunt Frances from the movie Practical Magic.

"My darling girl, when are you going to realize that being normal is not necessarily a virtue? It rather denotes a lack of courage!"

Blessings to all and to all a good night. xoxo

Come Mr. Tally Man, Tally Me Banana....

2009-08-22T18:29:00.000-07:00

"The true origin of Bananas, world's most popular fruit, is found in the region of Malaysia. By way of curious visitors, bananas traveled from there to India where they are mentioned in the Buddhist Pali writings dating back to the 6th century BCE. In his campaign in India in 327 BCE, Alexander the Great relished his first taste of the banana, an usual fruit he saw growing on tall trees. He is even credited with bringing the banana from India to the Western world. According to Chinese historian Yang Fu, China was tending plantations of bananas in 200 CE. These bananas grew only in the southern region of China and were considered exotic, rare fruits that never became popular with the Chinese masses until the 20th century."

Taken from http://www.banana.com/

And now for something tasty!

Banana Smoothie

1 banana
1 cup cold milk
1 egg
1 tablespoon wheat germ
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

DIRECTIONS

In a blender, combine banana, milk, egg, wheat germ, honey, vanilla and nutmeg. Blend until smooth. Pour into a chilled glass and serve.

I Won Another Giveaway!

2009-08-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE seeing boxes sitting in front of my door when I come home and yesterday, one was sitting there...all alone...waiting for me, just me! Yep, I have been a lucky gal lately. I won a giveaway (and I have another coming!). :) I won this giveaway from The Domestic Witch. She is one fun witch, let me tell you. In fact, I'd call her the Martha Stewart of witches! She loves cooking, organizing, decorating, cleaning, anything vintage and she knows how to have fun with her Ya-Ya sisters! Her blog is so fun. In fact, she lists what housekeeping she is doing that day and tells you have to weave magic into everyday chores. Also, she has the most adorable family, especially her sweet little boy, Angelus.

She packaged everything up so sweetly all the way down to the dried flowers on her beautiful stationary. :)

How sweet is this?

Protection bag filled with a snowflake obsidian, moonstone & lapis lazuli and Anubis Rock made from coal. This mix of stones brings balance, protection, serenity and purity into one's life. I just love it!

Then she was sweet enough to throw in this bonus gift, a vintage Household magazine from 1951! I love vintage magazines. It's always so fun to see the ads they published back then. They even have some vintage recipes (that I must try) although there really is no such thing as a vintage recipe...recipes seem to span time or should I say they're timeless. :)

Here's the funny part. As I was writing this post and watching the Hallmark Channel at the same time (my favorite channel of all time) this movie was playing. One of my favorites! It's called The Good Witch. It's so enchanting! If you haven't watched it, it replays often on The Hallmark Channel. Anyway, I see a lot of similarities in The Good Witch and The Domestic Witch! :)

Thank you so much Domestic Witch! I know these stones will bring me positive energy! Here's the big question...will they make me as domestic as you? I hope so! ;) If you haven't stopped by, please swing over so she can sprinkle a little magic into your life!

xoxo

Getting Reconnected with Spirit

2009-08-17T22:20:00.001-07:00

It's been awhile since I've been genuinely connected with Spirit. In fact, this is proof....see the dust on my little cabinet that holds all my herbs, candles, incense. etc? Shame on you, Michelle! My sister in Spirit, Thea and I are going to start getting reconnected and get back into doing energy work together. We are so opposite (yin and yang) and yet we come together beautifully as one during energy work (meditation included). We are going to include yoga into the mix as well! Balance..isn't that the key in most things in our lives? Time to get reconnected. Where do you keep your Tools?

Spirits Among Us!

2009-08-16T21:54:00.000-07:00

So, as you all know our paranormal group had an investigation Friday night. First off, I think you all should know it's never as dramatic as you see on TV. :) Our investigations are usually uneventful until we review all the equipment and find something. However, we did have a few interesting things happen that gave us pause.

To start with, we decided to test all of our psychic abilities and each guessed what color the house would be. Yellow, green, white or grey. I picked grey. When we arrived, we found the house to be grey. :) I have been an understudy to our two active psychics in our group this past year. They each say I have the gift but that I need more confidence in my abilities. Well, everyone has the ability, really. It's just how much you are willing to do to expand those abilities. For me, I can't think long about what comes to me. As quick as it comes, I write it down or tell someone. This past week before the investigation, I had a few impressions come to me. I felt a strong male presence there that is very attached to the lady of the house. A kind spirit...and quite fond of her. I also felt the presence of a little girl, about eight years old, wearing yellow. I also knew there was a dog buried on their property and his spirit wanders as well. I should start off by saying our two psychics could not make it that evening but they gave us their impressions of what they sensed before we went. They informed our team lead and did not tell any of us until after the investigation. In any event, I asked the lady of the house who's dog it was that was buried underneath the Magnolia tree. She said "Oh! That's Maynard, our neighbor's dog". :) Everyone was shocked that I did not hesitate when I pointed towards the direction of the tree. I felt his presence sort of wandering the area. I think I tend to feel the presence of animal spirits before I feel the presence of humans. Go figure. ;) I then asked who the little girl was that was in the house. She said, "Oh the kids talk to her all the time. Her name is Emily." I asked her if she wears a yellow dress, or if the kids notice her wearing a yellow dress. She didn't know but said her daughter's favorite color is yellow. Not sure what the correlation is there. When we were doing our EVP session we asked Emily if she was there. As soon as the question was asked the KII meter blinked three times. Other than that it never went off again. We had several cold spots that the temperature gauge caught....from 50 degrees down to 22 degrees almost immediately. As far as the male spirit goes, the lady of the house stated she would feel her feet being tickled in the middle of the night...or a hand stroking her back in the laundry room. I feel as though this male presence reminds her of someone that he was very close to.

The picture above is just above the train tracks where the accident took place. You can see orbs but orbs are very hard to verify as they can be particles of dust or dust on the lens. However, in my review of my DVR recorder that was setup in the master bedroom (where both me and Jen, another gal in our group felt a lot of activity) I caught a moving orb....that appeared then disappeared as if purposefully. Not just a fading effect either. I also caught some very erratic light movement in the room as well. I'll get the opinion of the others that are in our group when we have our meeting next weekend. :) I haven't reviewed my voice recorder but I'm anxious to see if I caught anything!

As a side note, the psychics also let us know the land was once inhabited by Native Americans. The owner showed us at least ten arrowheads they had found on their property since they have lived there. These arrowheads were amazingly PERFECT in shape.

If anything, our group had tons of fun and it's always the anticipation of something happening that gets us excited.

I will be working on our official website this week and will let you all know when it's up and running. Our group actually has a new name. We are called Paranormal Researchers of Oregon Foundation (P.R.O.O.F.). We will work towards becoming a family member of TAPS. :) Wish us luck!

On another quick side note. I went to the cat shelter this morning (I volunteer every Sunday at a local no kill cat shelter). It's the next best thing to taking home a thousand strays. Lol! See this cute guy here? He came in as a very feral cat, very terrified and would not let anyone touch him. Every time I came in I would talk with him and work with him on a social level. Today, when he saw me he let out a meow and came right up to me to pet him. It made my heart fill with joy. I love it when hard work and love pays off like this...especially when it involves trust.

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. I was able to relax today and get a few things done around the house. I did, however, break the belt on my vacuum. Dang, what was that huge thing I sucked up. Lol! So, off to Target I went....and spent over $100.00! Why does that always happen when I go to Target?!

A Date With a Few Spirits Tonight!

2009-08-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Tonight our paranormal research group has an investigation at a private residence. Come out, come out, spirits...wherever you are. Equipments ready, senses ready. I'll let you all know how it goes!

Happy Friday all!

A Giveaway Win for the Vintage Sage!

2009-08-11T21:17:00.000-07:00

I am so excited! I've won a giveaway for the Vintage Sage and it's a box of full of mushrooms and toadstools! You're probably thinking, huh? Well take a look here at these wonderful mushrooms created by Wendy at Blue Rock Gourds .

They're like something that Alice would have taken a bite out of in Wonderland! :)

But I promise I won't eat them. Wendy doesn't make JUST mushrooms, she makes all kinds of things out of the gourds they grow! If you checkout her website you can see her collection and she has an Etsy shop so swing on over and say hi! She's just a doll herself. :) Thank you, Wendy!!!

Blessed by the Domestic Witch!

2009-08-10T23:27:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I have been blessed by the Domestic Witch. :)

The Domestic Witch Blog Award!
For Achievement in Magical Housecrafting

If you've been bestowed The Domestic Witch Blog Award:

~ Pass the award on to 3 blogs about Domestic Witchery that you really enjoy.

~ Include the award in your blog post.

~ Link the nominees within your post.

~ Don't forget to mention the person who gave you the award.

~ Let your chosen winners know that they received The Domestic Witch Blog Award by commenting on their blog.

NOW...I bestow this special gift onto....

1. The Play of Light and Shadow

2. Octoberfarm

3. Rue and Hyssop

The Domestic Witch was my very first magickal blog that I followed and I follow to this day! She lives her daily life filled with magick and fun whether it's cooking up something in her cauldron or decorating her magickal home inhabited by her hubby and adorable son! If you haven't visited her yet swing on over and feel the positive energy!! :) Thank you Domestic Witch!!!

I also won my first giveaway for The Vintage Sage and will be posting all about this gal's fun art on my next post!

Stay tuned...and allow the magick of endless possibilities fill your life!

The Vintage Sage

Do You Believe in Fairies?

2009-08-06T23:50:00.001-07:00

All artwork by Nene Thomas

Am I really a Witch?

2009-07-21T22:45:00.001-07:00

According to some old Elizabethan superstition, if you possess all of these you were considered to be a witch.

Superstition 1 - Witches were able to fly ( this explained how witches could move quickly across impossible distances. A broomstick was then added to the superstition as these became common household articles used by women) - Well, I do clean with a broom (me).

Superstition 2 - A witch was often portrayed as an old crone or hag ( with no man to defend her against accusations of witchcraft) - I don't have a man (yet) and I do feel old these days (me).

Superstition 3 - Witches are closely associated with living alone (house in the wood) - I live alone in a place made of wood (me).

Superstition 4 - Witches were known to keep animals like the Cat, Frog, Pig, Raven, Goat, Wolf, Goose, Crow, Bat and Mouse which were believed to be the forms adopted by a Witches Familiar (an evil spirit, in animal form, who was used by the witch to perform evil deeds and cast malevolent spells) - I do own three cats and you know if I could, I would own every one of these (me).

Superstition 5 - Witches brewed magic potions over a cauldron (Wise women had knowledge of herbs such as mandrake, datura, monkshood, cannabis, belladonna, henbane and hemlock) - And I love cooking and brewing up good food and some include herbs (me).

And last but not least, my very own and I bet you haven't noticed this...I do have a mole on my nose. Fact. :)

EEEEK! I'M A WITCH! I quote Practical Magic....."there's a little witch in all of us". :) Are you one? :)

Dream Pillow

2009-07-05T21:30:00.001-07:00

Have you ever made a dream pillow? I have and it's AMAZING how the herbs that you choose actually facilitate in manifesting some strange dreams...strange but beautiful. :) I definitely had fluffy dreams when I made one of these...

Dream Pillow - for vacationing but not really physically going anywhere. :)

1 cup rose petals

1 cup mugwort

1/2 cup hops flowers

1/2 cup lemon verbena leaves

1 tablespoon lemongrass, cut in pieces about 1/2 inch long

1 tablespoon jasmine flowers

1 tablespoon chopped mimosa flowers

1 tablespoon mint

2 whole cloves

1 small piece dried orange peel

2 tablespoons marjoram (optional)

Take two pieces of fabric, the same size and width. With opposite sides of fabric facing each other, sew three and a half sides (leaving a 4-6 inch opening to put the herb mixture through). Reverse the fabric so it's right side out.

In a single bowl, mix all the herbs above and start filling your pillow. Stitch the opening the you poured the herbs in and voila! I would let it sit for a day or two (and shake around to get the herbs moving around) before sleeping with it. You can either lay beside it or put under your own pillow. I need to make myself a new one this summer and I intend to do just that.

In these stressful, economic times it's nice to take a vacation that you can afford! :)

I've been awarded the Scream Award!

2009-06-22T23:09:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone. I received my second and magical award from my sister blogger, Marzel at The Play of Light and Shadow! Thank you dark sister! I haven't gotten to really know a lot of friends in the magickal realm quite yet but I will definitely pass it on as soon as I do. Also, if you haven't yet checked out Marzel's wonderful art you need to swing on by and check it out. She's always ready for Halloween! When my life slows down a bit I plan on crafting some magickal items!

I plan on being more active on this blog in the next coming weeks so keep your eyes open!

Summer Solstice and Cherry Soup Recipe!

2009-06-10T23:56:00.000-07:00

Summer Solstice, sometimes known as Midsummer or Litha and occurs in the middle of June. It is a celebration of the longest day of the year and the beginning of Summer. It has been a grand tribal gathering time since ancient times. The Goddess manifests as Mother Earth and the God likewise, manifests as the Sun King. Celebrating colors are Yellow, Green, and Blue.

Summer Solstice also brings about refreshing recipes for summer gatherings! This is a recipe I intend to make to celebrate Summer Solstice and being it's for summer it is a cold soup. It can also be considered a dessert. :)

Chilled Cherry Soup

Ingredients:

12 1/2 pounds of pitted dark,sweet cherries (fresh if you can find and afford them but frozen is fine too.

4 cups of water

1/4 cup of either honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

Juice of 1 lemon

Whipped cream or yogurt for topping. (or for a Chocolate Redi-Whip...yummm)

Put cherries, honey/maple syrup and water in saucepan , bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes Cool to room temp. Place all in blender with lemon juice and process until smooth adding more sweetener if needed. Chill thoroughly, serve in pretty bowls, top with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.

Enjoy the start of summer!

Change ~

2009-06-04T23:49:00.001-07:00

Progress is impossible without change, and those

who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.

--George Bernard Shaw

Do you ever look at yourself in the mirror and acknowledge that a little change might be good in your life? Take the chance. I dare you.

The Power of Orange!

2009-05-27T01:11:00.000-07:00

ORANGE is a stimulating and energizing color. It connects to attraction, stimulation, control, personal strength, authority, and power. Also encouragement, adaptability, luck, and sudden changes.

Aside from the power of the color orange, I LOVE oranges when the weather starts getting hot! So, let's mix a little orange magic in your life with this refreshing recipe! Now you'll need an ice cream maker for this but I plan on investing in one this summer. I want to make an assortment of sorbets throughout the summer!

BLOOD ORANGE SORBET

4 pounds blood oranges or other oranges
1 1/4 cups water
3/4 cup sugar

Preparation:

Finely grate enough peel from oranges to measure 1 1/2 tablespoons. Combine 1 1/4 cups water, sugar, and 1 1/2 tablespoons orange peel in heavy medium saucepan. Stir over high heat until sugar dissolves and syrup boils; remove syrup from heat.

Cut all peel and pith from oranges. Working over bowl to catch juices, cut between membranes to release orange segments. Discard any seeds. Transfer orange mixture to processor; puree until smooth, about 30 seconds. Measure 2 1/3 cups orange puree and mix into orange syrup (reserve any remaining puree for another use). Cover orange mixture; refrigerate at least 6 hours and up to 1 day to blend flavors.

Process orange mixture in ice cream maker according to manufacturer's instructions. Transfer to container; cover and freeze. (Can be made 2 days-ahead).

Enjoy and bring some positive power into your life!!

Recipe courtesy of Epicurious.com.