Spooky Samhain Storm

Merry Meet All,

I am back from my brief hiatus and trip away to Twa Corbies. I had a great time. Alas, the weather prevented us from enjoying the Bonfire. We were forced indoors and watched movies instead. That did not stop me from having a great time. I saw the horses and the other barn animals. They are too cute. The highlight of the trip was the ride up to the cabin in the woods. No, not that cabin. The woods were peaceful and quiet. I heard the rain plunking down on the roof of the cabin. When my mother picked me up to go home, the trip ended on a tragic note. My mother hit a painted turtle with her car. We turned back and the poor creature's shell was cracked and it was bleeding. Ouch. We took it back to my friend's place who put the creature out of it's suffering. He harvested the meat of the turtle. I felt better knowing the turtle was not suffering. Some of you may be grossed out. I know Cliff Seruntine and he believes in using the entire animal and in not wasting it. He hunts deer but he uses the entire animal for drum skins or something like that. The fact that the turtle was injured so close to Samhain hit me like I was whacked like a sledgehammer. It upset me more. I plan to honor the turtle this Samhain.

I also want to say that I hope those who are in the path of Hurricane Sandy are faring well. I live in Nova Scotia. We have had rain, dark cloudy skies, and strong winds. I have seen pictures of the storm's impact and it looks like frightening stuff. I hope for those who were impacted by Sandy to be well and safe.

So for those of you are who are not impacted by Sandy, and have fled to higher ground, I would love to hear what you think or how you plan to celebrate Samhain this year. Perhaps you are worried about the hurricane and planning on partying indoors? I welcome guest bloggers to post on my blog and share their thoughts and inspirations. I look forward to hearing from you all!! Or if you want, you can commnent to share your ideas.

I encourage you all to make your safety a priority this Samhain. Have fun and blessings to all of you and those impacted by the superstorm.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

The Magic of Samhain

Merry Meet All,

Can you feel the chill and energy in the air? Do you hear it in the crinkle of the leaves and the whispers on the wind? Do you smell it in the air and the scent of pumpkins baking in your ovens? Samhain is only a few days away. I hope you're all ready.

I will be out of town this weekend. I will be back next week, so I won't be able to post on my blog. But I won't forget about my blog while I frolic with spirits, faeries, the Green Man, and the other wondrous mysterious creatures of the Elfwood at Twa Corbies Hollow. More about that later.

Samhain is next week and if you have all been following my blog, you should be all ready. I have a few last minute details I have to take care of. I plan to do that today. The Full Moon will be shining in the ghostly skies soon. There is much to look forward to.

Wishing you all a happy, safe, memorable, magical Spooky Samhain!!
Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Samhain on a Shoestring

Merry Meet All,

On Hallowe'en the thing
you must do
Is pretend that nothing
can frighten you
An'if somethin' scares you
and you want to run
Jus' let on like
its Hallowe'en fun
- From an Early Nineteeth-Century Postcard


Samhain is tons of magical fun. Many witches this year will be gathering in their covens to celebrate the third harvest Sabbat. Costumes, decorations and candy can become expensive. Read more to learn how to celebrate and have a memorable time.

If you or your child needs a costume, you can either sew the costume yourself or look in a thrift store for a costume. My sister visited me and came home with a bag of free material for a costume for her daughter. Hold a costume swap with your friends and make the costume swap into a party.

You can still have some spooky decorations to give trick or treaters the shivers when they come to your door. Scarecrows are easy to make. You need some sturdy wooden sticks, old clothing, and they can be stuffed with leaves. Cobwebs are affordable and can be strung across a fence for a spooky look. To make bats, shun the expensive cardstock and use bristleboard for a scary troop of bats that can be holepunched and hung from trees to spy on eager children.

Buy candy in bulk and consider buying just one or two kinds of candy. Raisins are a good, healthy snack and chocolates can be bought in bulk to save money. Buy candy in bulk from Costco and divvy it up between you and your friends for the big night.

Save the decorations that you make for Halloween for the following years. Or reuse a black cape from a previous costume for a new costume idea this year. I was gifted with a black wool cloak that can be reused every year.

Get decorations from the dollar store. That is a great way to have decorations without spending a lot of money. Save them and keep them in good condition for next year's freakfest. Get inspired from the entries from this blog, such as the bat mobile. That can be saved for several Halloween parties.

Carve a pumpkin on the day of Samhain. Buy a few more for baking and cooking. Make Samhain shortbread cookies. You can buy Halloween cookie cutters at the dollar store that can be reused every year. Roast the seeds and make a pot of delicious healthy pumpkin soup.

Make a cd of scary tunes. Set your stereo outside and crank up the volume. Use an extension cord to be able to play the music outside. Hide and dress up in a costume. Watch the kiddies scream with glee when they come to your door for candy.

I hope these tips help you and get you in the mood for a sensational, spine-tingling Samhain.

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Invocation to Bast

Merry Meet All,


Black cats are a famous symbol of Halloween. But cats are also at risk at this time of year. It is imperative that you protect your frisky felines. Here is a meditation for you to try to invoke the Egyptian Goddess Bast. I performed this meditation at my altar at Samhain. I am going to write it like how I experienced it, but you can rewrite it and alter it to your preferences.

I entered a temple. In the temple, were lots of cats- no surprise, and the Egyptian Goddess Bast. The temple was dark and the hall was dark. I walked down a long hallway, fragrant with incense. On either side of me were beautiful cats watching me as I stroke down the corridor. I reached the end of the hall, which opened into the main room of the temple. The cats kept watching me. At the head of the room, across a huge pool, was a woman and a cat. I assumed it was Bast. I bowed and implored Bast to protect my cat Lady Shadow. I bowed again, left an offering, and exited the temple.

In China, the tiger is considered the king as opposed to lions. The tiger is associated with Tsai Shen Yeh, the Chinese God of wealth. Asian lore portrays the tiger as the guardian of the dead. The tiger is sometimes seen in graves for protection, ensuring peace for those who have passed away. The symbolism of the Chinese Tiger is power, energy, royalty, protection, generosity, illumination, and unpredictability. Tigers are associated with yang energy and are a solar animal which corresponds with the solar symbols of the sun, summer, and fire.

Meditate on the Chinese tiger if you wish to honor one who has passed on. If you want to attract wealth to your life, concentrate on wealth and copper coins.

I hope your cats stay safe this Samhain.

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Education about Nature

Merry Meet All,


Today I hear the leaves scraping the ground, blown by the wind. The trees are almost bare now and a gray sky darkens the sky. It is early yet but I plan to enjoy a walk on the nature trail. This weekend I plan to go to Twa Corbies and share a wonderful magical weekend with my friends.

Samhain is not just about trick or treating or performing a ritual to honor our ancestors. The dumb supper ritual is a huge part of it, to be sure. I have heard some debate about people attending Wiccan schools to learn about being a witch and those who say if you want a 'Free' education to learn to be a witch, just go outside. I'm in favor with the outdoor enthusiasts. To me, the best place to learn is by going outdoors- in all weather.

I scoff at those Pagans/ Wiccans/ what have you, who would never dream of shedding their expensive velvet cloaks and huge silver pentacles. Nothing wrong with having some flair but to freak out if your mascara and glitter runs down your cheek when it's freezing outside when you are supposed to be honoring the Four Elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water is so passe to me. Personally I can't understand that mentality. I have performed rituals outdoors in freezing cold weather. Granted, it would be uncomfortable to perform a ritual skyclad in winter cold outdoors. I've never done it but I was cold when I performed a ritual outdoors in the park.

But I digress... Samhain is the time to don your woolly cloaks and venture outdoors to clear the sidewalks, pathways, roads, etc., of the leaves. Put some tea in your thermos, call your friends, and get outside while the awesome colors of nature are there to be enjoyed. If you live in the country, you may be fortunate to hear owls, see deer, coyotes, or rabbits.

It is the time to feel the energy around you and to catch the Fae and Sidhe spying on you. Time to leave offerings to the fae who aided you in your garden all summer. I left an offering of honey mixed with milk and sunflower seeds on my garden. The birds ate the seeds.

Collect nature findings such as acorns, seeds, pinecones, fiery colored leaves, or wildflowers for flower arrangements. Look for animal tracks. Explore a trail you have never noticed before. Enjoy some time spent on the trail or park and meditate to connect with your gods. Test your knowledge about squirrel, crow, or birds calls. Decorate your lawn, deck or garden for Halloween. Bring in herbs or flowers for the winter from your garden.

I grew up in the heart of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park on the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I was immersed in nature and at nature's mercy. There is no gas station, hospital, large grocery store, or restaurant there. We learned to live by our wits. I went on whale cruises, learned how to identify herbs, learned how to spot animal tracks, went on hikes, learned how to fish and trim trees,and how to horse back ride and burn brush. If only those Pagans and Wiccans thought that way. They want to learn in a pristine clean environment. I spotted many many moose, heard owl calls, watched blue lightning flash over the ocean, saw eagles soar over the ocean, and watched whales splash and show off. I loved every mintue of it.

The photo is taken from the deck at the chalet in Pleasant Bay, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail, Cape Breton. Home is where my heart is.

So in closing, please, get outdoors and enjoy nature. Nature is showing off. I think the Goddess took a colorful paintbrush to the trees.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch )0(

My magical purple candle

Merry Meet All,


Samhain is a magical and mystical time. My lawn and garden are a colorful melody of fiery leaves. Even though my garden is preparing itself for the harsh winter, it is still stunning. The coleus mingles with the fiery colorful leaves.

Most witches are busy bustling in their kitchens, scurrying to be ready in time for Samhain. This weekend I made a purple pillar herbal candle. I am proud of it. It turned out beautifully. I like the melt and pour method of making candles.

Paraffin wax has its benefits and its minuses. It is easy to melt and suited for a melt and pour method, but paraffin wax does burn black soot. The black soot is harmful to your health. Despite that, it is the most widely used wax. Soy and beeswax are better for our health and the environment.

I melted the paraffin wax in the double boiler and turned the heat down to a low temperature. In another pot, on low, I melted juniper, bay leaf, lavender, willow, sage, rosemary, betony, lemon vervain, lemon balm and bee balm, and mugwort with olive oil. I picked a bit of willow bark from the tree growing beside the house I live in and added that. I remembered to thank the tree and prepared the wick. When the paraffin wax had melted, I added the purple dye and the herbal oil to the wax. I allowed it to blend and carefully poured the wax into the glass jar. I sprayed the jar with cooking spray prior to adding the wax.

I tied the excess wick to a pencil and rested the pencil across the glass jar to keep the wick centered in the candle. The wick was quite long and trailed on the counter. That is a useful tip if you want a nice neat centered wick when you are finished. The other option is to stick a wick pin in the center then later, add the wick. When the wax had cooled, I topped the top surface of the candle with more wax. I still had a small hole in the top part of the candle, so I pushed in an amethyst bead piece.

The candle set in the jar overnight in the freezer. I could not remove the candle from the jar till morning, when the jar shattered. I guess I have to invest in plastic molds from now on. I left lots of wick and trimmed the excess.

When making candles, it is advised that you take your time to turn out a stunning candle, never leave melting wax unattended, and do not burn yourself from the hot wax. Do not pour wax down the kitchen sink. I am eager to learn more about making candles and creating many beautiful candles in the future.

My candle is powerful. I will use it wisely during the Samhain Ritual on the 31st!!

Have a wonderful Samhain
Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Spooky Samhain Poetry

Merry Meet All,

Samhain would not be complete without a round of poems that fire our imaginations and conjure images of spooks and spectres. The poetry I like is of a different time. These poems are famous and stand the test of time. Let's join in and enjoy these spooky poems. Make a hot cup of cider, put on warm wool socks, curl up, and enjoy this treat.

My favorite poem is The Cremation of Sam McGee by Robert Service. A chill crawls up my spine when I hear my grandmother read this poem with her thick Scottish accent. She does the poem justice.

The Cremation of Sam McGee by Robert Service

There are strange things done in the midnight sun by the men who moil for gold. The
Arctic trails have their own queer tales that would make your blood run cold. The
Northern Lights have seen queer sights but the queerest they ever did see Was that
night on the marge of Lake Lebarge, I cremated Sam McGee.

Now Sam McGee was from Tennessee where the cotton blooms and blows Why he
left his house in the south to roam round the Pole, God only knows. He was always
cold, but the land of gold seemed to hold him like a spell Though he'd often say in
his homely way that he'd sooner live in Hell.

On a Christmas day we were mushing our way over the Dawson Trail Talk of your
cold through the parka's fold it stabbed like a driven nail! If our eyes we'd close then the lashes froze till sometimes we couldn't see It wasn't much fun but the only one to whimper was Sam McGee.

And that very night as we lay packed tight in our robes beneath the snow And the
dogs were fed and the stars o'erhead were dancing heel and toe He turned to me and
"Cap" says he "I'll cash in this trip I guess and if I do, I'm asking that you won't
refuse my last request."

Well he seemed so low that I couldn't say no then he says with a sort of moan "It's
the cursed cold and it's got right hold till I'm chilled clean through to the bone, Yet tain't being dead-it's my awful dread of the icy grave that pains So I want you to swear that foul or fair, you'll cremate my last remains."

A pal's last need is a thing to heed so I swore I would not fail And we started on at the streak of dawn but God he looked ghastly pale He crouched on the sleigh and he raved all day of his home in Tennessee. And before nightfall a corpse was all that was left of Sam McGee.

There wasn't a breath in that land of death, and I hurried home, horror-driven With a
corpse half hid that I couldn't get rid, because of a promise given; It was lashed to the sleigh, and it seemed to say "You may tax your brawn and brains, But you promised true, and it's up to you to cremate these last remains."

Now a promise made is a debt unpaid, and the trail has its own stern code. In the days to come, though my lips were dumb in my heart how I cursed that load! In the long, long night, by the lone firelight, while the huskies, round in a ring, Howled out their woes to the homeless snows- Oh God, how I loathed the thing!

And every day that quiet clay seemed to heavy and heavier grow; And on I went, though the dogs were spent and the grub was getting low. The trail was bad, and I felt half mad, but I swore I would not give in; And I'd often sing to the hateful thing, and it hearkened with a grin.

Till I came at last to the marge of Lake Lebarge, and a derelict there lay; It was jammed in the ice, but I saw in a trice it was called the Alice May. And I looked at it, and I thought a bit, and I thought of my frozen chum; Then "Here", said I, with a sudden cry, "is my cre-ma-tor-eum!"

Some planks I tore from the cabin floor and I lit the boiler fire; Some coal I found that was lying around, and I heaped the fuel higher; The flames just soared, and the furnace roared such a blaze you seldom see, And I borrowed a hole in the glowing
coal, and I stuffed in Sam McGee.

Then I made a hike, for I didn't like to hear him sizzle so: And the heavens scowled, and the huskies howled, and the wind began to blow, It was icy cold, but the hot
sweat rolled down my cheeks, and I don't know why; And the greasy smoke in an inky cloak went streaking down the sky.

I do not know how long in the snow I wrestled with grisly fear; But the stars came out and they danced about ere again I ventured near; I was sick with dread, but I bravely said, "I'll just take a peek inside. I guess he's cooked and it's time I looked." Then the door I opened wide.

And there sat Sam, looking cool and calm, in the heart of the furnace roar; And he
wore a smile you could see a mile, and he said, "Please close that door. It's fine in here but I greatly fear you'll let in the cold and storm-- Since I left Plumtree, down in Tennessee, it's the first time I've been warm."

There are strange things done in the midnight sun by the men who moil for gold;
The Arctic Trails have their secret tales That would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen queer sights, But the queerest they ever did see
Was that night on the marge of Lake Lebarge I cremated Sam McGee.


"MacBeth" William Shakespeare

Double, double, toil and trouble,
Fire burn and cauldron bubble...
Eye of newt and toe of frog,
Wool of bat and tongue of dog,
Adder's fork, and blind-worm sting,
Lizard's leg, and howlet's wing,
For a charm of powerful trouble,
Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.

From an early nineteenth-century postcard

May every trick
That you try to-night
Foretell a future
Of true delight.

Samhain Benediction

It is time to bid farewell
As this Samhain passes slowly
Soon the dawning will embrace us
And the sunset portal close
Until the turning of the year
We must part for just a while
Yet I know there is no ending
And the golden thread spins outward
To that place where you are going
Until I travel there to meet you
Or you return upon the autumn
On that sacred night of Spirits
When we shall meet again.
Blessed Be
- David Norris


Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Feast of the Dead

Merry Meet All,


If you are not in a coven, fret not. You can still enjoy Samhain and perform a wonderful ritual. Read more to find out how.

Prepare your house or room. Ues black & orange candles, carved pumpkins and some other traditional Samhain items on your altar. Refer back to the earlier entry for ideas on how to decorate your altar.

Prepare the table for the Feast of the Dead. It should be covered with a black- or brown tablecloth and set with dishes. Place a chair at the head of the table, draped in a black cloth, to represent the spirit. The spirit's place is set with a white votive candle on it. Set places for each of the dead that you hope will join you, and place black votive candle on their plates. Plates for the living are empty, of course, awaiting the feast food to be served.

Food Preparation
Keep it simple or as elaborate as you prefer: bread, fruit, nuts, and juice or wine. If you've invited living guests, make it a potluck. Since the ritual will be performed in silence, try not to clutter the tabletop.

Light the candles and turn out the lights
Call the quarters (ask the Guardians of the WatchTowers to witness and protect your circle.) Cast a circle (use whatever method your tradition tells you.)

Invite the deities
Refer back to the Gods of Samhain post to get ideas on which deity to invoke. Be careful!
Thank them for their help this year and for the guidance offered during the year. Ask that they offer guidance during the new year. If the departed loved ones were esp. cloes to the deities, invite them as well.

Feast of the Dead
Light the candles on the plates of the dead and the spirit
The feast should occur in reverent silence so that you can think about departed friends and relatives. Think of their passing and your hopes for their joyous return. Try not to be too sad to reflect that the departed are at peace in the hands of the Goddess. Speak in silence to invite them to the Feast of the Dead. When the feast is over, thank your spirit guests for coming, bid them farewell, extinguish the candles on the plates, and leave the table.

Banishings and Resolutions
Before Samhain, write a list of things from the last year that you wish to banish:
Bad habits and addictions, unkind feelings toward yourself or others, anything you do not wish to carry into the New Year.
Light a black candle & burn the list in your cauldron, then scatter the ashes outdoors. Speak to the deities about the blessings you wish to welcome into the New Year. Asking the deities for future rewards should be accompanied by your plans to help manifest them. They will support you if you show sincerity.

Divination
Samhain is the ideal time for divination because the veil between the worlds thins on Samhain eve.
Use whatever divination methods resounds to you now. You could fill a cauldron with water, or use tarot, runes, crystals.

Thank the Deities
Give "thanks" to the deities by offering food. Say "All things come from the earth and return to the earth. Corn and grain, corn and grain, all that falls shall rise again."
Save the remainder of the cakes and ale to pour on the earth later.

Close the circle
Thank & dismiss the Guardians


Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

http://raven1028.multiply.com/journal/item/18661/A_solitary_Samhain_Ritual

Cakes and Ale for Samhain Rituals

Merry Meet All,

Autumn is a magical time. A crisp chill is in the air as we share in the rich harvest of pumpkins and herbs from our gardens and fields. They inspire memories of a brewing pot of cider, carved pumpkins, and squash soups. Here are a few recipes to celebrate autumn.

Cider

Apple cider is a delicious healthy treat.
1 gallon of cider, one orange, apple, three cinnamon sticks, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 handful of rose petals.

Pour the cider into a stainless steel pot. Peel the orange and save the peel. Squeeze the juice from the oranges into the cider and let some orange slices float in the pot to absorb the flavor. Core and peel the apples and add to the cider and the nutmeg and the cinnamon. Allow it to steep and simmer. Add lemon rind to mixture. Sprinkle with rose petals before serving.

Making cider from scratch

Making cider from scratch is best if you have a large amount of free time. If you are hosting an event that calls for cider and are unable to get to a grocery store before it closed, here is an alternative way to make cider.

Go out in nature or to your backyard if you are fortunate enough to own an apple tree. Collect apples that appear unblemished and bring them inside. Wash them and core the apples, discarding the seeds and peels. Put on a pot of boiling water. Add the apples to the pot and boil then simmer. Let the apples simmer in the pot till they are soft, then strain. Add the same ingredients as above. Tip: Save the softened apple pulp to make applesauce with it to enjoy your cider.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

1 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds, two teaspoons melted butter or olive oil, salt to taste *Options* garlic powder, cayenne pepper, seasoning salt, and Cajun seasoning blend. Preheat oven to 300 F.

Clean the seeds. Toss pumpkin seeds in a bowl with the melted butter or olive oil, and seasonings of your choice. Spread pumpkin seeds in a single layer on baking sheet. Bake for forty-five minutes until golden brown.

Curried Sweet Potato Soup

1 medium sized onion chopped, two cloves garlic sliced, one tablespoon peeled and chopped fresh ginger, one large sweet potato cut into one-inch cubes, one large white potato cut into one-inch cubes, and two to three carrots sliced.
Spices
1 level tablespoon Neekoo Chai Masala (an aromatic blend of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, fennel and ginger), one heaping tablespoon Madras curry powder, one level tablespoon organic grey salt, one teaspoon Neekoo Persian Spice and black pepper to taste. Substitute the ingredients if necessary.

Stir-fry the onions in cooking oil, when the onions are translucent, add the ginger, garlic and the other spices. Stir for a few minutes. Add the chopped vegetables and stir. Add about two litres of water, cover, bring to a boil, and reduce to simmer until potatoes are cooked. Blend smooth with blender. Wait till the food has cooled before blending the ingredients. Return the stock to the pot and reheat. Enjoy. You can store this soup in the freezer.

If you grow pumpkin or squash in your garden, the bees help to pollinate the pumpkins. The bees visit the flowers of the fruit. Pumpkins also remove toxins from the soil. Pumpkin soup is a healthful treat-and the pie is too.

These recipes will delight you and your family. Decorate the house, wear your costumes, and share in the ritual of preparing the dishes with the whole family or your friends. Enjoy the magic of autumn.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Samhain Ritual

Double, double, toil and trouble,
Fire burn and cauldron bubble!!


Merry Meet All,

If you have all been following these posts, you should be prepared for Samhain. It is almost here!

Samhain is nearly here. The dark time of the year casts its' shadow. The last of the harvest is gleaned from the fields and frosts glistens on ripe pumpkins. It is the time of year when the veil between the worlds is thinnest. Samhain is the Witches' New Year and the time of the Crone.

Hekate is a Crone goddess. The Crone is one of the triple goddess aspects of maiden, mother and crone. The Crone is the elder wise one who is relied on for her knowledge, wisdom and healing. Hekate is associated with the moon, cronehood and the underworld. Hekate is a guardian of the three-way crossroads. She is portrayed as bearing the keys to the underworld, joined by a three-headed dog and surrounded by lit torches. She is associated with ghosts, the dark moon, and magic. Animals that are sacred to her are black cats, ravens, owls and wolves. Hekate can be invoked on November 30, the night of the crossroads, on October 31.

The cauldron, or womb of the dark goddess is a vessel of rebirth and renewal into a new life. The cauldron is symbolic of our deep collective unconscious. Hekate is equated with Persephone, queen of the Underworld. She was an attendant of Persephone. Hekate was a goddess of childbirth and watched over young women in their maiden phase of life.

Those who worship godddesses of a lighter aspect overlook Hekate. Only to do that is to deny the third phase of the goddess: the crone. The crone is not as revered as she once was. It is common to tease an older woman as a hag or a crone. Its true meaning has faded from peoples' memories. We have lost much of our traditions and lore.

I perceive Hekate as a protective goddess. She is fearless and strong. I participated in a ritual in a coven where we invoked her. The ritual was fun and energetic. We held hands as we danced in a cirle and chanted her name. It was a memorable ritual.

Many Witches and Pagans like to honor the spirits of our ancestors at Samhain. This ritual can be performed on a dark moon or a full moon night. Since Samhain is a Sabbat of death, Hekate guards the door to the spirit world. A ritual to honor the crone goddess and our ancestors is shown below.

Before the ritual, prepare yourself by physically cleaning and purifying your sacred space. Wash the dishes and sweep the floors, put the laundry away and file away any loose papers. Clutter can affect your ritual. Remove the negative stale chi from your living space by smudging it with sage. Have a meditation bath to purify and prepare you for the ritual. Add soothing essentials such as lavender or frankincense and salts to your bath. Assemble your altar ahead of time. You can begin your ritual sooner if you are prepared ahead of time.

Decorate your altar area with items that correspond to Samhain such as chrysanthemums, mugwort, pomegranates, pumpkins and skulls. Your altar cloth can be black and orange. Light black and orange candles and burn spicy cinnamon, clove, rosemary, and allspice incense. Place pictures of departed loved ones on your altar.

Begin the ritual with a meditation. Cast the circle according to your tradition and call the quarters. It is optional to invoke the horned god though the crone ritual is designed for the Goddess.

Light the quarter candles and reflect on what you want to achieve during the ritual. Ask what you seek and nothing more. Leave an offering of seeds, herbs, grains or flowers. Display a sincerely reverent attitude. She will favor you if you show respect for her aspect.

Say aloud: "Hekate, goddess of death and renewl, on this Samhain eve, I do honor you, goddess of cronehood, the moon and the underworld. I implore to hear my call. I need your guidance as I reach for spiritual growth." State what you request be that a positive change in your life, a transition from a bad situation to a positive one or protection.

Light the candle and put it near the offering bowl. Say: "I offer this flame to light our ancestors' paths." Dip the cakes into the ale and put it near the offering bowl. Say: "I offer this food and drink to our ancestors tonight. May this food sustain you. Blessed Be."

Be open to the messages that you may receive. Leave the offering outdoors for the spirits and the wildlife. Complete the ritual and close the circle. Tidy up the altar area. Let the candles burn down. Cast your incense ashes and candle stubs outdoors. Remember to ground and center yourself after the ritual with cakes and ale. Imagine that you are a tree and you are pushing your roots down into the cold earth.

It is a tradition to setup a dumb plate for those who have passed. Set a plate with utensils on the table. Prepare a dumb meal from your harvest and offer some to your chosen deity. Enjoy the meal with cider and wine. Ask for blessings on the harvest and to guard your family from dark spirits on Samhain eve. Carve a pumpkin and set it at a window to ward off the dark spirits. Light a white candle at the window to guard the spirits of the deceased. Roast the pumpkin seeds.

The crone goddess Hekate may appear to you during a meditation or in your dreams. Heed your dreams and insights when she shows herself to you. Hekate is a strong goddess and not one to invoke lightly. She is a protective Crone Goddess. May her blessings grace you in life.

A recipe for Hekate Oil!!

3 drops myrrh
2 drops cypress
1 drop patchouli
1 dried mint leaf

Mix the essential oils in a base of sesame oil. Add a drop of mint leaf to the blend of oils. Wear during rituals of defensive magick. Also wear during the waning moon in honor of Hekate, Goddess of the fading crescent moon.


Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Altars for Samhain Rituals

Merry Meet All,


Here is the part I know you have been waiting for. This entry will talk about how to setup a Samhain altar, make Samhain incense, and decorate candles.

The first step in creating a Samhain altar is to physically clean and then cleanse your sacred space. Light a black candle, a small candle works best, to burn to absorb the negative energies. If your altar is on the floor, move it out from the wall and either vacuum or wash the floor. Clean your altar with a fresh mugwort infusion and salt and all of your tools as well. Samhain is the Celtic Witches New Year. You should want your altar to be clean.

Lay down a fresh clean black or orange or printed altar cloth on your altar. A black velvet cloth with trimmed edges would look stunning if you include the autumn colors and add silver and white candles for contrast. Use your finest candleholders and scrub the candleholders clean. This may seem like work but the end result is worth it.

Symbols of Samhain:

Skulls
Scythes
Sickles
Pumpkins
Ghosts
Bats
Dried leaves, acorns and nuts
Wicker men
Statues of deities
Photos of your relatives or ancestors

Set the symbolic items on your altar according to what they correspond to. Have fun dressing your altar and enjoy its clearer energy. Let the black candle burn down and remove the candle from the altar. Toss the candle outside to banish the energies from your home or in a waste basket, ensuring the candle is cold to avoid starting a fire. Light a white candle on your altar, for positive energy. Let the white candle burn down. The white candle symbolizes the new positive energy that should be vibrating around your altar now after all that work.

Polish your silver and dust your altar items. Sit at your altar and visualize a brilliant white energy coming down from your crown chakra to the altar. See the energy spreading around the altar, blessing the altar with magickal pure energy. Even though Samhain is a dark season, starting your altar off on the right broomstick counts for a lot.

Dig out your cool candleholders. If you have black and orange taper candles or mini-candles from last year, now is the time to use them. You can coat the candles in oil and glitter and carve words on them. Research cool candle lore.

Samhain Incense

Mugwort, rosemary, sage, sandalwood,dragon's blood resin, patchouli, frankincense, myrrh, juniper berries, oak leaves, bay leaf and mandrake. Use mandrake only if you have researched the herb first and can protect yourself from its effects. Put the incense in a bowl. Think of whether you want the incense to be in a powder or a cone or stick form. Store your incense in a bowl on your altar.

Samhain Candles

You can buy or make your own candles. I posted on how to make pumpkin candles earlier. I hope that inspired you. You can also paint the pumpkin candles. When you make your own candles, empower the candles with seasonally appropriate herbs, essential oils and candles. When you are done making the candles, you can add glitter or oils and decorate the candles with ribbons and charms. Paraffin wax burns black soot and soy or beeswax- bees would add a powerful boost of energy to the candle, are more organic and environmentally-friendly. You can make the candles in almost any shape you want. Use cooking spray to remove the candles from the molds.

You now have your clean energized altar, symbols of Samhain, incense and candles. You are all set for a powerful and hopefully memorable Samhain ritual.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Tips:

Avoid cluttering your altar. Also, be sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire. Keep burning candles away from pets or children.

The Gods of Samhain

Merry Meet All,

"Great Goddess, Mistress of Cats,
Lady of love, beautiful Vana-Goddess,
Fulfill my greatest needs, O glorious one.
Teach me the magic I need.
Give me a glimpse of your deep wisdom.
Teach me in dreams. Enrich my life.
O Lady, you are Golden-Tears of Asgard
Lady of love, beautiful Vana-Goddess,
You are the Shape-shifter, the Sayer,
The Independent One.
Give me the strength and magic I need."
- Prayers to Freyja.

Samhain is a time of death and the Underworld. Winter looms on the horizon and the fields are emptied from the harvest. The earth falls into a cold deep sleep. Here are some of the deities that represent death and the dying of the earth. The Crone comes into her power at Samhain. The God sacrifices himself so the harvest is plentiful.

Demeter (Greek) Persephone was kidnapped by Hades and taken to the Underworld. She spent six months there during the cold season and spent six months with her mother, Demeter. When Persephone was kidnapped, Demeter refused to allow the fields to flourish or the grains to grow. Demeter came to be associated with the dying of the fields, until her daughter's return.

Freya (Norse) Freya is associated with fertility and childbirth but she is also a war goddess. The men who died in battle join her in the hall Folkvangr. Other fallen soldiers joined odin in Valhalla.

Hecate (Greek) Hecate is associated with the moon, cronehood, and the underworld. She is sometimes referred to as the Goddess of the Witches. Hecate is associated with ghosts and the spirit world. Hecate is considered to be a gatekeeper between graveyards and the mortal world.

Hel (Norse) This goddess rules the underworld in Norse mythology. Her great hall is called Eljuonir, and is where mortals go not in death, but in sickness and natural causes.

Morrigan (Celtic) Morrighan is the warrior goddess most associated with death. She is known as the washer at the ford, and she determines which warriors survive the battles. She is often depicted as a warrior goddess accompanied by a trio of ravens. Ravens are a symbol of death. Other goddesses associated with Samhain are Lilith, Frida, Pamona, and Psyche.

Osiris (Egyptian) Osiris is murdered by his brother Set before being resurrected by his lover, Isis. The death of Osiris is associated with grain being threshed during the harvest season. Other gods of Samhain are Pluto, Woden, Anubis, Arawn, and Kronos.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Honoring your ancestors at Samhain

Merry Meet All,

Ghost Lights

Today we are going to look at the true meaning of Samhain. Halloween is fun, to be sure, but it was a Celtic fire festival and the third harvest Sabbat before the advent of Christianity. It was also a time to honor those who have gone before you.

First of all, I want to talk about ghost lights. Ghost lights are a phenomenon that defy logical explanation. They occur in remote areas of the United States, Britain, Japan, and other countries and appear high or low to the ground. The ghost lights appear in every color of the rainbow. Sometimes the ghost lights appear in only one or two colors. The ghost lights are sometimes joined by musical sounds such as a humming or buzzing. Ghost lights are sometimes referred to as will'o- the wisps. They are reported to be able to move against the wind.

Ghost lights are sometimes connected to a haunting folklore due to a tragedy that occured where they are seen. The Ghost Research Society owns an impressive collection of research. Many logical explanations for the ghost lights have been proposed, but there are some ghost lights that resisted being defined by reason, such as the Brown Mountain Lights in Carolina and the Hornet Spook light in Missouri. Those ghost lights remain unexplained. For more information on ghosts and ghost lights, read The Element Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Hauntings by Theresa Cheung. The photo above is of the ghost lights at Brown Mountain.

Ritual to Honor your Ancestors at Samhain

Here is a ritual to honor your ancestors this Samhain. The first step is to decorate your altar with photos of your family, a family tree, or even a grave rubbing if you live nearby a graveyard. Set the table with care. You could use a special tablecloth. Set up a dumb plate for those who have gone before you to avoid offending them. Set candles on your altar and at your dinner table. Light some appropriate incense and if you are celebrating with your family, gather them around to join you in the ritual.

Once all of the candles are lit, gather the family around the altar. Use black and orange candles, set the family photos on the altar, and concentrate. The eldest adult present should say:

"Tonight the gateway between the worlds is thin.
Tonight we call out to those who came before us.
Tonight we honor our ancestors.
Spirits of our ancestors, we call to you
and implore you to join us.
Watch over us always,
protect and guide us.
We invite you to share our meal
and thank you for your presence.
Blessed Be."

If you want to, you are welcome to vary the words to suit your preferences. Return to the dinner table and then begin the meal by having the eldest serve a helping of what was prepared. Serve the ancestors food before you serve the family. If you are a solitary, serve your ancestors before you serve yourself and if you are a Wiccan or Pagan, or what have you, and your family does not understand how you choose to honor your ancestors, explain to them why you feel it is so important to you or perform the ritual alone. If you can celebrate with your family, after you have dined, then share stories around the table about your memories of your relatives or grandparents.

Clear the dishes away, except for the ancestors' plates. Pour the wine or cider and end at the ancestors' plate/s. As each person receives their cup, they can recite their genealogy if they are aware of it. After the cup has been passed around, place it in front of the ancestors' plate. The youngest person says aloud:

"This is a cup of remembrance.
We remember all of you.
You are passed but not forgotten.
May you live on within us."

Pause now to reflect on the value of family and on your relatives who have passed before you. Let the candles burn down overnight in a safe spot and leave the dumb plate and the cup overnight on the table. You can do a seperate ritual for pets. If you prefer, you may choose to perform a seance after the ritual.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Traditions of Samhain

Merry Meet All,

Samhain was known as "summer's end" It was the end of the Celtic year and the beginning of winter and a time of reflection. The season began in darkness and worked towards the lighter season. The year began in winter and the days began at sundown. The night from October 31st to November 1st was known as samhain, or oiche shamhna or "evening of samhain".

The Celts held four quarters days in their calender: Imbolg (February 1, start of spring), Beltaine on May 1st (start of summer), Lughnasadh ( August 1st, beginning of the harvest), and Samhain (October 31st).

They prepared in earnest for the cold winter ahead. They herded their livestock in to the stables or sheds. They selected which livestock they would slaughter to have food for the winter. They harvested all of the berries, grains, and corn. They believed the pooka roamed free at Samhain and on November 1 the pooka would bewitch all the food and render it unedible. They had to be quick to harvest before the pooka came to ruin it. The pooka was a bewitching horse with glowing amber eyes and an ability to talk. He also kidnapped children. If treated with respect, the pooka could show you the future.

The word pooka comes from the word poc, an old Irish word meaning male goat. The pooka comes out at nightfall. The Irish feared the pooka. In remote areas of Ireland, the pooka became a vindictive ugly goblin who demanded his share of the harvest. The reapers would always leave a share for the pooka, or risk having their crops ruined, fences torn down, or livestock scatttered about.

One ritual involving fire was the "wicker men". A cage was made from wickerwork in a resemblance to a human form. It was filled with living sacrificial offerings such as animals, prisoners of war. They were burned to death inside the 'wicker man'. Most of the time, they spilled milk, honey and corn into the earth.

The world to the Fae or gentry, was open on Samhain eve. The banshee, fairies, opened the doors to the fairy palaces. The Irish people mingled and partied with the fairies but they had to oeby the rules. There were more chances of violating the rules than having a good time. This was a time when the dead could walk the earth.

Today many Wiccans and Pagans still celebrate Samhain. The traditions have lasted to this day. Bobbing for apples, carving pumpkins, and lighting bonfires. Samhain was the time of the Crone, the Queen of Winter. She was reborn every Samhain eve and protected the livestock. But the most popular tradition that people still follow is the tradition of the dumb supper- setting an empty plate at the table to honor the ancestors to avoid offending them and was a way to honor them.

Honor the traditions of the past this Samhain with your friends and family. Beware of the pooka! Next up, ghost lights and Samhain prayers, and rituals to honor your ancestors.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Samhain Superstition and Lore

Come with me
All Hallow's Night
We'll frighten everyone in sight
Such pranks, for once,
are justified
And fun and frolic amplified.

- From an early nineteenth-century Halloween postcard (Silver Ravenwolf, Halloween)

Merry Meet All,

Samhain is nineteen days away!! Today we will look at some cool superstition and lore about Samhain. Most lore and superstition derives from the fears and beliefs of the European peoples.

It was believed that ringing a bell on Samhain drove away evil spirits.

If you bury animal bones in front of your house on Samhain, it will keep evil away.

If you light a white candle and set it in your windowsill, the candle guides your ancestors and lost spirits. A black candle will keep malicious spirits away.

Lighting a turnip candle and setting it on your front doorstep will protect your home.

If you hear footsteps following you on Samhain, the spirit may be a forerunner or a spirit following you home.

An old folktale from Appalachia was that owls flew down chimneys to eat the souls of the dead.

If bats fly out early on Samhain eve, it is a sign of good weather.

If you see a spider on Samhain, the spider is the spirit of a dead ancestor.. so do not harm it.

Scarecrows are a common sight in a farmer's field. In Finland, the scarecrow is called Pellon Pekko, or "Little Peter of the Field." The burning of scarecrows may have originated with the practice of burning a wicker man (Druid).

The word "ghost" is an ancient Germanic word "geist". It originally meant an ancestore that was invited to celebrate Samhain.

Vampires are another mainstay of Samhain/ Halloween. I am not talking about the vampires of Anne Rice or Twilight. The real vampires never sparkled. They suffered from a disease known as porphyria, they lacked blood and suffered from an iron deficiency. Vampire blood cells are unable to produce hemoglobin, vampires do not have a ticking heart. So vampires feed on the living to get blood.

If you go to a crossroads at Samhain eve, you might hear about the most important things that will happen to you during the next twelve months.

To ensure you will have a fertile crop next spring, circle your fields with a lighted torch on Samhain eve. (England).

On Samhain eve, do not look at your shadow in the moonlight, or you will be next to haunt a graveyard. (England)

It is a bad idea to go hunting on Samhain or you might wound a lost spirit.

Children who are born on Samhain will be protected from spirits and be blessed with the second sight. (rural America.)

So there you have it. Some lore and superstition about Samhain. Up next is information about ghost lights and Samhain traditions.

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Samhain Celtic New Year

Merry Meet All,

Samhain is around the corner. I hope you have all been trying the crafts and projects posted on this blog. Let's take a step into the past to learn the history of Samhain.

Samhain is the Celtic Witches New Year. The Celts divided it into two seasons of light and dark. Samhain (Scottish Gaelic: Samhuinn) translates to "summer's end". In Wales, it was known as Nos Calan Gaeaf, the evening of the winter calendar. They had never heard of the Christian religion and when the Christians took over, Samhain became All Hallow's Eve, to commemorate the souls of the blessed dead who were canonized that year. November 2 became All Souls Day. Prayers were offered to those who departed and those who waited in Purgatory for entry into Heaven. The Celts did not take to this change lightly. The Christians left them with little choice.

Samhain was a time for celebration. The people gathered together to smoke meat, make preserves, bring in the livestock, and harvest nuts and berries from the hedgerows. They made offerings to their gods and goddesses. They held festivals and to this day still light bonfires. They scattered ashes from the fires onto the fields to protect them during the winter months. The bonfires became known as bonefires, because they threw bones into the fires. As the last flames died, you had to run home fast and cry, "The black sow without a tail take the hindmost!" The last crops of the fields were left as an offering to their gods and goddesses.

Samhain means "End of Summer." It is the third and final Harvest. Samhain is when the Veil between the worlds is lifted and it is easier to communicate with spirits. Samhain was the time for the Cailleach- the winter hag who ushers in the killing frost. Lore tells of the doors opening to the lands of the Sidhe (pronounced "shee") or the Faery Realm being opened.

Next, we will look at Samhain lore and superstition.

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

The Other Side

Merry Meet All,


This morning a gray sky greets my eyes. I feel the Samhain energy in the air. Samhain is almost here! Yesterday I hauled in my garden decorations and knick knacks and trimmed the plants. I will miss my garden but I know the earth is preparing for the long cold sleep, the natural cycle of the seasons.

My Mother made an interesting comment to me the other day, after I finished telling her about the Five Fishermen restaurant. She said maybe there is no light for trapped spirits to move onto. I do not know for sure if there is or not. I have never seen it except for in movies where Hollywood spends millions on special movie effects. As a medium, I have still not seen it, despite all my experiences. I have seen other colors and auras.

This is a huge topic and can be debated till we all turn blue. No one knows for sure. So do spirits have a bright light to greet them? Where do spirits go? Are they trapped or is there a welcoming Heaven waiting for us? If being trapped on this earthly realm is all there is, and I am not saying that that is all there is, that seems so bleak and cheerless. I would like to think that there is something warm and magical and dazzling waiting to guide spirits over to the next realm.

The concept of Heaven and Hell is a Christian belief. The idea that we all go to the Summerlands is a Pagan belief. Every religion has a different belief system. But what waits for us all after we cross over? Hard to say and hard to solve that debate. Our belief systems are not available for us after we are dead. I am not arguing that one belief system is better than another.

Thousands of people have had near-death experiences. Some of these experiences share the same traits:

Intense, pure bright light
Out of body experiences
Entering another dimension
Spirit Beings: beings of light
The tunnel: many people who experience it described a tunnel with a bright light at the end.
Communication with spirits: a voice that tells them it is not their time. People who experience near-death experiences claim to have experienced the above things in the list.

Samhain is a good time to work with spirits- but don't just be in a hurry to have a near-death experience. You can meditate or hold a seance. Just refer back to the earlier entries to be sure your encounters are safe and positive. The concept of the Summerland is a NeoPagan concept. It is not common to all Pagan or Wiccan traditions. Ceisiwr Seth wrote a book entitled The Pagan Famly where he states that a "belief in the Summerland - or reincarnation, or Tir na nOg, or ancestor rites- are all part of the Pagan acceptance of the physical state of death." (About.com)

Not all reconstructionist paths embrace the idea of the Summerland. Interpretations vary about what the Summerlands is.

Samhain is the time of the Dark Crone, death, winter chill, and a time for reflection. Animals hibernate or migrate to different climates and areas to live. Plants, herbs, and flowers die back to the earth to be reborn and unearthed in the spring. It is a good time to communicate on those who have gone before us and to try to honor our ancestors.

The earlier entries on this blog tell how to host a safe, practical, and magical seance. Remember to ground and center and cast a circle of protection. Have a magical Samhain!

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Preparing your garden for Fall

Merry Meet All,

With the autumn season, comes the chore of caring for your gardens. Taking the time now to prepare your garden means a healthier garden next spring. The chilly frost of autumn arrives sooner than you think.

Clear your garden of debris, weeds, and old stems. Use fallen branches as mulch. This prevents insects from nesting there and causing problems in the spring.

Bring some plants inside or take cuttings from the plants. Harvest your herbs, flowers, and vegetables. Tropical plants will thrive indoors. Check your soil ph and spread compost all over your garden.

Plant spring bulbs, trees, shrubs, perennials, and winter annuals such as icicle pansies. Mums are everywhere at this time of year. They add color and variety.

Mark what worked successfully in your garden this year. Keep a gardening diary. You will be able to plan a better garden next year. Take care of your gardening tools. Check your gardening hose. Consider spraying a selective herbicide on your garden to control weeds in the spring. Selective only controls some plants. Non selective herbicides kill all green life.

Be careful not to disturb tender new growth on your plants. Remove dead leaves from shrubs. Feed the birds to encourage them to eat the insects. Water trees and shrubs well to prepare them for winter.

Follow these tips and you will have a beautiful, year-round garden.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Witch's Potions for Samhain

Merry Meet All,

I hope you are all having fun preparing for Samhain. Mabon is fun, too. There is so much to do to be prepared. An abundant number of herbs can be harvested for fun recipes such as these. Use caution with the herbs. Do not ingest if you think it will make you ill. I am including a flying potion but want you to use caution.

Today I will show you how to make a mugwort salve. Mugwort is a popular witch's herb excellent for enhancing psychic dreams and development, is used in dream pillows, in salves, and infusions. Mugwort is used for cleansing crystal balls and to clean altars and altar tools. I am proud to say that this year I harvested 100% organic mugwort from my garden. I ordered the seeds from Horizon Herbs which sells organic plants, supplies, and seeds.

Salve

You will need a saucepan that you can dedicate to creating salves. It gets messy.
A measuring cup and spoon
Organic Olive oil
beeswax
mugwort
a container or small glass pot for holding the salve
cheesecloth
Vitamin E
Essential oils
Optional *other herbs

Mix the herbs in a jar and shake occasionally for two weeks. The quicker way to do this is to put the herbs and oils in a saucepan and allow to simmer for over an hour. Never add water.

In a small pan, gently heat the herbal infused oil and beeswax. Add the vitamin E. Remove from heat and add the essential oils. Pour a tiny amount of the salve blend on wax paper to test it for thickness. If you want the salve to be soft, add more essential oils. If you want it thicker, add less. When you are satisfied with the consistency, pour the salve into a sterile clean jar and allow to cool. Store in the fridge. It should last a long time. Do not place in direct sunlight. It will solidify in the fridge. After a few moments have passed, remove the jar/s from the fridge. Label and date the jar.

Be sure to use clean jars and try to use organic ingredients as much as possible. This ensures no toxic chemicals will leach into your salve and that pesticides are not ruining your salve.

Hold the jar in your palms and meditate for a moment with it. Send healing energies into the salve and feel the weight of the jar in your hands. Continue to do this until your hands are tingling. Return the jar to the fridge. The salve will last longer in the fridge.

A healing salve can be used on open wounds, cuts, sores, tense muscles, and abrasions. Use it to moisturize your skin after a bath or shower.

Witch's Flying Ointments

Flying ointments refer to when Witches would use an ointment to fly to a Sabbat. It relates to astral travel. People believed that Witches could fly. They also believed that Witches used a child's fat in the ointment. They likely used the fat of an animal. The Church used that belief to justify the witch killings.

The ointments consisted of herbs and oils. The Witches would then gain the sense of flying even though they may not have left the house. Here is a recipe for a flying ointment. I urge you to use caution before consuming or applying an ointment to your skin. Nothing cool about being rushed to emergency during a Sabbat!!

Sage- protective qualities
Mugwort - enhances psychic awareness
Dittany of Crete - aids in astral travel
Lemongrass- cleansing, solar energy
Wormwood - similar to mugwort
Rue - psychic protection

Always research a herb before using it. Check its qualities and if it is toxic or safe. Alternatively, make a salve and rub it on your broom before a ritual or anoint yourself with a salve to feel magickal before a ritual. But I would never consume those herbs or put them on my skin. I have not tried this recipe myself so I do not know how it might affect me or someone else.

With these ointment recipes, you are sure to have a magickal Samhain ritual experience.

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Bat Mobiles

Merry Meet All,

Today I was inspired to make a bat mobile. I am going to show you how you can make one too or more in time for Samhain. They look truly cool. The Bat Mobile above is one of the two I created. It takes time and effort, but is not impossible.

Supplies:
Enthusiasm (of course)
Scissors
Hole puncher
Dry clean tree branches or branch if you want to make one
Black bristleboard
measuring tape
hooks
hammer
nail
black thread
black craft paint
bat template
Scotch tape
white paper
pens and markers

Download or print off a bat template on white paper. Try printing out bat templates where the bats are different sizes for variety. Assemble your supplies. Fold the large sheet of black bristleboard in half. Lightly tape the bat template onto the black bristleboard. Carefully cut out the bat, paying attention to the curves and edges. Unfold and set aside. Repeat. Cut out as many bats as you desire this way. I gathered about twenty bats. If the bats tear in half, repair them with the scotch tape. Set the bats aside. You can hole punch them at this stage, if you wish or wait.

Lay down thick newspaper on a flat surface. You can sit on the floor with the newspaper in front of you or at a kitchen table. Pour some black paint into a small clear bowl and get your paintbrush. Using your paintbrush, paint the branch black from one end to the other, making sure to cover any missed spots. Let dry. Craft paint dries fast. It is best to let it dry properly.

Hole punch the black bats. You can try using a sewing pin to prick the bats, but a hole punch makes it easier to string. String the black bats individually with the thread. Pick up your dry now black tree branch. If you are feeling crafty, you could add glitter, a bit of herbs, or make a witch to hang on the Bat mobile. It is what I did.

Decide where you wish to hang your Bat mobile. Hang it somewhere where you will not be knocking it down all the time. Mark with a pencil or marker exactly where you want to hang it. Hammer in the hooks. You will need two. It is best to make sure in the beginning that your branch is 16-22 inches long. That is a reasonable size. Hang the black bats from the Bat mobile. I cut out twenty bats and the project took a while, but it was worth it. It was so much effort and I like them so much I will leave them up all year.

Look at the above photo for inspiration! Hope you enjoy making this crafty bat mobile.

Tips:

Be patient making the Bat Mobile and it will turn out cool!
Black bristleboard is cheaper than black cardstock
Keep it away from pets and children
Clean your work area when you are finished.
Hang it in a safe spot.
Cut very carefully and the bats will fly like real bats
Hang it near a window so the bats move- near a ceiling too is best- think of how real bats move in the air.
Touch up the branch with the black paint before stringing bats on
Wash hands to wash off black paint.
Make sure the hooks you put in the wall will support the Bat mobile.

Enjoy!

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Symbolism of scarecrows, crows, bats, and spiders )0(

Merry Meet All,

Today the topic is on scarecrows, crows, bats, and spiders. They seem to be everywhere this time of year and to me, they are an important part of the autumn harvest season. Every Halloween, bats flew around here in Halifax until people were sadistically torturing them. The festival ceased and we have not seen many bats here since. But in the Cabot Trail of Cape Breton, I regularly see bats hunt mosquitoes at night- undisturbed. They can catch a lot of mosquitoes. They should get together with spiders.

People fear what they do not understand. Over time, scarecrows, cats- especially black cats, spiders, crows, and bats have gained a negative reputation that they do not deserve. They are seen as the darker creatures of Samhain. Let us shed light on their symbolism in this entry.

Scarecrows

Few things represent the harvest season like scarecrows. Scarecrows guard the fields from hungry predators. Scarecrows are found in many cultures around the world. They are formed in the shape of a man, dressed in old clothes and hung to frighten away predators and scavengers.

The earliest scarecrow dates back to 712, in Japan, where they were known as the "kuebiko." These omniscient creatures had no bones in their bodies and were propped on sticks to protect the villagers.

Farmers have made scarecrows for over three thousand years to guard their fields against flocks of scavengers. Scarecrows were made and used along the Nile river to scare away flocks of quail. The Greeks created wooden scarecrows akin to Priapus, the son of Dionysius and Aphrodite.

The Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages in Europe, farmers believed scarecrows were imbued with special powers. In Italy skulls of special animals were placed on the crops in the fields to scare away predators. The Germans made wooden witches and put them in the fields in the winter. They believed the wooden witches would absorb the evil energy to allow spring to come.

North America

The Native American tribes throughout North America worked as live bird scarers. They stood on wooden platforms and shouted at crows and woodchucks. They lived in huts in the autumn season to protect the crops from birds and animals. Seneca Indians soaked corn seeds in a poisonous mixture that caused the crows to fly crazily and scare away the birds.

Scarecrows frighten crows because they look like a moving human being. Also, the sight of tassels, trims, or nylon strands moving will scare crows. If tin pans are attached to the scarecrow and bang together, that will scare the crow/s.

Make your own Scarecrow

To make your own scarecrow, you will need old jeans, an old sleeved shirt, old boots, a hat, a mask, lots and lots of leaves for stuffing, and a bunch of safety pins. To hang up the scarecrow, you will need a broomstick, a mop handle, rope or duct tape, and a hammer.

Stuff the pants and shirts with old leaves or old towels or rags until the scarecrow is full and lifelike. Stuff the shirt into the pants. Pin the shirt to the pants with the safety pins.

Stuff the gloves with old leaves or towels. Secure the gloves in the shirt with safety pins. Stuff the boots with leaves or rags and push the boots inside the pant legs. Stuff the nylon stocking with old leaves or nylons. Put a wig and/ or a mask on top of the scarecrow's head.

To hang the scarecrow, find a spot in your yard. Pound the broomstick into the ground with the hammer. Hold the mop handle or stick up near the top of the broomstick. Tie the rope around both sticks until the cross piece securely holds the scarecrow.

Mount the scarecrow up on the cross-post with ropes. Tie a rope around his head to hold him up. He might look ghastly enough hanging there, swaying in the breeze. Leaves are another symbol of the season and represent the Elements of earth because they come from trees and Air, because leaves flutter in the air.

Crows

Crows are seen as symbols of death and darkness. Crows are members of the corvid family. Crows are highly intelligent and mischievous. They like shiny items.

Crow Symbolism and Superstition

The Celts believed that crows were symbols of death. The crow was associated with death transitions. They also believed that they were faeries who wanted to cause trouble. Their magickal qualities included prophecy, knowledge, eloquence, and trickery. In the Middle Ages, people believed that sorcerers used the symbol of the Crow's foot to cast death spells.

In England, a single crow meant anger, but in Northamptonshire, it was ill fortune. A death omen was a crow flying thrice over the roof of a house. Russians believed that witches took the shape of crows.

Crows are intelligent and mischievous. They have shared the earth with human beings. To many people, crows are still harbingers of death. Before my pet guinea pig died, the crows flocked near to where I lived, never let me out of their sight, and followed me everywhere I went. They cawed and cawed and cawed at me. When she passed, the crows ceased following me. I tried leaving them offerings, but they were steadfastly determined to caw and follow me. I have heard they do recognize people.

Spiders

Few insects inspire more fear and reverence than the spider. Spiders creep across a kitchen floor quietly, weave magnificent webs, and attract less desirable insects and unsuspecting insects into their webs. Every autumn, where I live, I am protected? or surrounded by spider webs outside my apartment. I do not mind spiders and leave them be. They catch so many insects that we would have a serious pest problem on earth if there were no spiders. They are only doing what is in their nature to do.

Symbolism of Spiders

Dew drops on a spider web to me is so beautiful on an early morning. Spiders are ancient symbols of growth, death, and power. Spiders are arachnids and have eight legs and fangs that inject venom. Spiders are found all over the world. Spiders patiently weave webs to lure insects into to capture them. Spiders are symbols of patience, wisdom, cunning, and creation.

Bats

Bats are misunderstood creatures. They fly around at night searching for mosquitoes and other insects. Bats are simply symbols of death and rebirth. The bats live in caves or the 'womb' of Mother Earth. It is reborn as it emerges from its lair every night. In Chinese folklore, bats are a symbol of good fortune.

This was a fascinating look at the symbolism of scarecrows, crows, spiders, and bats. I learned some new things as I wrote this entry. I hope you do too. I hope as well that you cease to fear the creatures of the night. May we all try to learn from these creatures to change the attitudes and beliefs of people. Spiders, crows, and bats are considered animal totems to shamans.

Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Broomsticks and Besoms

Merry Meet All,


Mabon and Samhain truly are the Witches' seasons. A chill is in the air, leaves turn lovely colors, and the sky is a dazzling blue. Pumpkins decorate storefronts and black cats prowl the streets.

Earlier in the posts I discussed how to create your own Witch costume and hat. Now I will show you how to decorate a besom. A besom is a traditional Witch's broom. A witch uses a besom to sweep away negative energy and purify a space before performing a ritual. The bristles do not touch the floor. A regular broomstick sweeps away physical dirt.

You can choose to purchase an inexpensive dowel at a crafts store or find a sturdy willow, oak, birch, apple, or a maple tree branch outside. Make sure the branch is solid. I once found a branch outside and as I was scraping the dead wood away, the branch fell apart. Needless to say, I did not complete making the besom. A dowel rod is a good substitute.

The branch should be a length of four feet for the handle. Use branches for the bristles or use mugwort, lavender, rosemary, or thyme for bristles. Willow, twine, or heavy cord to bind the bristles together. You also need scissors and a bucket of warm water. Soak the willow or what you are using for the bristles in the warm water overnight.

Line up the handle on a table or a floor and put the bristles alongside it. Line them up about four inches from the bottom. Now point the bottom of the bristles or herbs towards the tip of the broom. Use the willow branches, twine, or cord to wrap the bristles snug around the besom. Add as many as you need to make the besom full. Tie the cord or willow securely to avoid having the bristles pop out later.

Take the bristles- tied tightly- in your hands and fold down over the binding so they now point towards the bottom of the besom. Tie them securely again at the besom base. Wrap the cord around the bristles again. This is a good time to visualize your intent for your besom. Are you planning to use it for handfastings or for spiritually clearing a room of negative chi? Let the besom air dry and dedicate it as one of your magical tools. Use glue, if you need to.

If you choose to use a broomstick from a store, or a dowel rod and attach bound twigs and/ or herbs to make your besom, here are some decorating tips.

I found a broomstick at a crafts store. The bristles of the broomstick crumbled to the floor. To fix that, I found pretty fabric in a complementary color to the broom and made a type of pretty 'pouch' to hold in the loose bristles. I saved an extra scrap of fabric and tied a bow on the front of the broom. See photo above.

You can paint a dowel rod a desired color and add a triquetra, pentagram, or a spiral onto the dowel rod. Tie a sprig of herbs onto the broom. Or string corresponding crystals, bells, or a talisman or charm to the besom. Drill a hole into the handle and attach a string to hang your besom.

Empower, cleanse, consecrate, and dedicate your besom to your magickal workings. I do not use the besom with the bundled bristles at all. It decorates my altar but I love my choice of fabric to cover the loose bristles. The besom looks pretty. I hope you find this post helpful. Create a beautiful besom and feel proud of it this autumn season.

Blessed be,
Lady Spiderwitch

The Magic of Mabon

The Magic of Mabon
Apple Divination


Mabon is the second harvest Sabbat and occurs on September 20-22 in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a time of balance, as there are equal hours of day and night. Apples are associated with harvests, and are ideal for performing Mabon magic.

Apples have always had an important place in magic. Apples represented Avalon. They produced blossoms and fruit and were part of the Celtic paradise. The love planet Venus rules apples. Apples can be used to help predict matters of love.

You can invoke the goddesses Pomona: the Goddess of Apples, Demeter and Persephone. Pomona corresponds with the blooming orchards at autumn. If you slice an apple in half, you will see the five-pointed star, the symbol of the Goddess. Here are some fun methods of divination to try during Mabon.

Peel an apple and keep the apple peel in one long piece. When the peel comes off, drop it on the floor. The letter it forms is the first initial of your true love.

If a girl peels an apple in one long piece at midnight and tosses the peel over her left shoulder, she will be able to read the first initial of her future partner's home in the shape assumed by the discarded peel.

Wait till midnight and cut an apple into nine pieces. Take the apple pieces into a dark room with a mirror. At midnight, eat the apple pieces while gazing into the mirror. When you eat the ninth piece, toss it over your shoulder. The face of your lover should appear in the mirror.

If a girl stands before a mirror at midnight while eating an apple and combing her hair, her future husband's image will be reflected in the glass over her left shoulder.

Hold apple seeds in your left hand and recite the name of a suitor for each seed, then toss the seeds in the flames. The seed that pops the loudest is the suitor for whose heart burned for most of them.

Cut an apple crosswise and count the seeds. An even number of seeds shows that you have a high chance of marriage. An odd number of seeds show that you do not. If a seed is cut in half, you will have a rocky relationship.

Cut an apple in half. Eat the first half before midnight, and the second half just as the clock turns to midnight. You will dream of your lover that night.

Place apple seeds between fingers till it flies out. Shake hands, saying, "Apple seed, apple seed, apple seed, Please tell me where my true love will be, North, South, East, West, apple seed, apple seed, apple seed, Please answer this request for me." Open your palm. The direction in which the pointed end of the seed is facing is the direction in which true love or partnerships lie.

To determine whether someone loves you, eat an apple to the core until you find a seed. Remove the seed and name it by the same name as the one you love on a candle. You can carve a name onto a candle, dress it with olive oil, and roll the candle in glitter for a magical effect. Light the candle and let it burn for a few moments then drop the seed into the candle flame. If you hear a popping sound, the one you desire cannot hold back his love for you. Do not blow out the candle flame as you will incur a quarrel. Snuff the candle out to maintain a harmonious energy.

The color of the candle determines the outcome of the divination. Use red and pink candles. They correspond with love spells and divinations. Also, to bind the energies within a candle, snuff it out. To release the energies from a candle, blow the candle out. Keep away from pets or children.

When performing love magic or spells, please remember to follow ethics. It is tempting to make that special someone love you the way you want them to love you, but in the end, you may learn it is not what you really wanted. The person may not be who you thought they were. Ever bear in mind the Rule of Three: whatever you send out, you get back times three. Make an effort to radiate positive energy, and it will be returned to you.

Mabon is a potent time for divination. Magic crackles, the veil opens between the worlds, and an early frost chills the air. I hope you enjoy trying these divinations and have a magical Mabon. You may just find that special someone!


Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch

Candle Magick at Samhain

Merry Meet All,


27 more days to Samhain!! Leaves are trickling to the cold earth outside my window, near the birch tree. The sky is a beautiful bright blue.

Yesterday we talked about how to make a Witch costume and hat. Today we are going to look at candle magick. Samhain and the time nearing Samhain is a great time for candle magick. The veil between the worlds grows thin. October magick hovers in the air.

Look for black and orange candles at dollar stores, novelty stores, or make your own!! You can empower the candles with your energy and intent. The supplies are available at craft stores. You can get powder packets at dollar stores and novelty stores to change the color of a candle flame. The colors come in blue, green, and purple, and there may be other colors, too. I was at a bonfire once and someone changed the colors of the flames. The photo shown above is the bonfire that I attended. Remember to pick some powder packets up before a Samhain ritual for extra power to your candle magick.

Consider getting candles in the shape of black cats for a protection spell for your pet, or a candle in the shape of a skull, or whatever strikes your fancy. Add glitter to the candles, essential oils, and perhaps carve words into the candles. Samhain is the Witches' New Year so this is a special time for celebration!

Pumpkin Candles

Pumpkins come in all sizes. Smaller pumpkins are ideal for pumpkin candles. The supplies you will require are a pumpkin or two or more, obviously, paraffin wax or soy wax chips, food coloring and essential oils, and wick. I suggest buying the wax and wick at a crafts store.

Assemble your supplies and cut the top off of the pumpkin. Scoop out the pulp of the pumpkin and reserve the seeds for roasting. Scrape the inside of the pumpkin clean. Melt the wax in a double boiler. Eight cups of dry wax will give you four cups of melted wax. Secure the wick to the bottom of the pumpkin. Before you pour the wax, add color or essential oils to the melted wax. Pour the melted wax into the pumpkin carefully. Once you pour the wax, the wick will flop over. So tie the wick to a pencil.

Once the wax has cooled, the wax will settle in the candle and you may see a small dip around the wick where the has sunk. Use leftover wax to fill in the dent. Trim the wick to 1/4' length.

Once you burn your candle, do not leave it unattended. Do not let the inside of the pumpkin burn. Use around the house or at your altar for Samhain decorating.

Enjoy your candles!!
Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

Witches in Style- How to make a Witch costume

Merry Meet All,

October energy is in the air! Pumpkins are everywhere in the supermarkets and leaves are turning to crimson and gold tones. This is the season of the Witch and this year, you can celebrate it in style!!

Witch Dress

In this post, you will learn how to make a Witch costume. It is easy to do and affordable. A sewing machine is required. The costume is a dress that you pull over your head. Buy two to three meters of black cotton fabric. Always have more fabric than you need. Buy some good quality black thread too. The pattern is in the photo shown above.

The pattern that was used was McCall's costume #3334. I do not know if that pattern is available now. You may be able to find the pattern on Ebay. It is so easy to do you may not need a pattern. Cut out the pattern pieces and keep them in one pile.

Sew two sides- the back and the front- of the fabric material and stitch them together. Always press after you stitch. This makes sewing your garment much easier and ensures a good result. Sew on the long black sleeves. They should be a bit longer than your arms. Turn the garment right side out and trim any loose threads. Press again. The pattern calls for a wide collar. Sew the collar and turn the edges under or make them jagged! Here is the fun part: make the hem jagged and the hem of the sleeves and the collar. Make smaller jagged edging at the collar.

Pull the costume over your head and see if it fits you properly. Make sure it fits you and if it doesn't, make some adjustments. You want to feel good and comfortable in the costume.

Witch's Hat

A Witch costume has to have a cool spooky Witch hat. While it is easy to buy one at any store, if you make it, you put your own mark and your intent and energy into it. The steps to make the hat are shown below:

Cut a half circle out of fabric or poster board and bend to create a cone shape. Measure your head and measure to determine the right size for your head. Cut a second half circle the same size out of felt.

Overlap the poster board and staple it down once you are sure of the size. Glue down or staple down the edge of the seam. Snip the wide end of the cone around the edges with bias tape and fold the snipped edges out. This creates a base for the hat brim. Paint the glue onto the cone and attach the matching felt circle you made in step one.

Trace the bottom of the cone onto a piece of felt with white chalk. Use a compass to mark the middle point of the circle you drew. Use a compass to measure out from the middle of the circle large enough to make a brim. The brim should be two inches wide. Cut out the big circle and a smaller circle. Slip the circle over the cone and slide down to rest on the snipped edges. Make sure it fits. Slide the circle over the cone and press the edges down to attach.

Now you can decorate! Attach a wide black ribbon where the base and cone join. Glue on spiders, a ribbon in an orange color if you choose, spiderwebs, glitter, or attach Halloween fabric decorated with stars from the Witch hat- the top of the hat and the sides of the brim. Be outrageous or mysterious. It's your Witch hat and you can make it anyway you want!!

Don't forget the striped socks and buckled shoes!! )0(

Now party in style!
Blessed Be,
Lady Spiderwitch

October Magick

Merry Meet All,


October has arrived! I have already dug out my black & orange candles, harvested herbs, bought a pumpkin at the local organic farmers market, dug out my witchy robes, and dressed my altar. I can feel it in the air. The countdown to Samhain and preparations may commence. Who cares if it takes an entire month?

Here is a Halloween decorating tip I learned from Martha Stewart's website. I can hear you all groaning, but this one is cool. Go outdoors, and find a good sturdy tree branch. Bring it inside and clean it. Remove the dead leaves and debris. Paint the branch black. Download the bat clip art and cut the clip art out on black cardstock. Hang the black bats from the tree branch in a cool corner of your home. Your friends will be impressed. I do intend to try that one this year.

Brace yourselves for a spooky month of more ghost lore, how to hold a Samhain ritual solitary or in a coven, organic Samhain recipes, how to honor your ancestors, house decorations, Samhain poetry, suggestions on how to setup a wicked altar, a big section on mediumship and even a section on how to make a witch costume, change the color of candle flames, and how to decorate a broomstick! I will invite readers as it nears Samhain- the day before or on the most anticipated day of the year to post their own thoughts on Samhain, so take this time to reflect on what you want to say! It will be an exciting month, dust off your cauldrons and empower those broomsticks!

Mediumship

A medium is a connecting link between this physical world and the world of spirit. Anyone can learn to act as that link. Anyone can become a medium. Lady Ann M. Burdock.

I like the above quote by Burdock. I want to tell you though that I also believe that all psychics are mediums, but not all mediums are psychics. Being a medium demands a higher level of vibration and concentration from the medium. There is a difference. Mediums channel spirit and psychics use tools such as tarot, or crystals to share information with querent/s.

I want to begin the topic of mediumship on the right broomstick here. I do not own nor will I ever own an ouija board. I will never have one in my house. I heard of a family that toyed with one of those, and they found maggots in their bedroom- with no meat in sight! They are evil and are a portal for evil to come through in your home. If you want a demon in your space, and that has more than one meaning, then go ahead. I do not advise it. I will have nothing to do with ouija boards. That is all I will say about ouija boards here.

That said, there are other safer methods that mediums use to communicate with the spirit world. The methods are, some of you may be familiar with it, automatic writing, meditation, trance, psychometry, channeling, and scrying. I will go in deeper detail about these methods later but I will discuss each of them here. Remember what Gandalf said? "Be on your guard. There are older and fouler things that lurk in the deep places of the world." True words.

Channeling is the most popular method. I mentioned my experience with channeling in the previous post. Channeling was performed as far back as the ancient Egyptians and even before that. It is not something evil nor to fear, but again, it should be done with caution and I recommend that a person is calm, grounded and centered when channeling. Contact your spirit guides and set up protective barriers before beginning to channel. I would recommend this before attempting any method of contacting spirits. Another important point about channeling or scrying is learning to trust your first impressions. This takes time, and do not err in thinking that you will learn all of this overnight. Far from it.

I am divided on automatic writing. I am not against it but I do not like it. I can't stop any of you from trying it but to me, it seems weird. To perform automatic writing, you have to let spirit take over and your hand writes down what the spirit wishes to communicate. You have to release ego and open yourself up to your subconscious. Do not direct your hand. You do not even look at what you are writing. You may look at the writing and realize it just looks like scribbling. Do not be discouraged. The spirit is acquainting itself with your muscles and getting the feel of itself to be able to write. After some time, words will form.

Meditation and trance are closely related. Trance is "an altered state of consciousness." Trance is achieved with the aid of meditation. I almost always go into a trance when I gaze into a candle flame. I cannot help but go into a trance gazing into candle flames. You can enter a trance by gazing into crystals. You can meet your spirit guides who can help you as you clear your chakras or attempt to communicate with a spirit. Remember to focus on positive energy!

Psychometry is holding an object in your hand and receiving impressions and/ or vibrations from it. Here's an example, last Yule, I received a gift from a friend. I used psychometry to determine what the present was. Here are my impressions as I received them: the shape of the objects was round and spherical, solid in shape and form, of a large size, heavy, a glass ornament, not a book or perfume, and came from my favorite store Little Mysteries and not an ornament. The objects when I opened the box to my amazement, were two deep blue thick round candleholders from Little Mysteries. The two candleholders are like mugs and decorated with stars and moons. We all have the ability. It is stronger in some degree than others.

Scrying I love scrying. It is so much fun. October is a great time to practice scrying, as the veil between the worlds is thinner at this time of year. Scrying invovles the use of reflective surfaces such as crystal balls, water and essential oils in a cauldron, candles, and other gemstones. Swinging a pendulum is also a form of scrying.

There is lots to look forward to in this month of blog entries. Put your witch hats on and get ready!

Blessings,
Lady Spiderwitch