THE WITCH'S CORNER

 
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The Witch's Corner

This time of year is rife with nostalgia.  It's full of holidays that hold memories from years and decades past, songs and images that bring up far away places and other eras, a renewed sense of human mortality, and the evolution of all the simple mundane things that make life memorable.

 Happy Thanksgiving

Count Your Blessings

  Tarot Tips

Four of Cups

The four of cups tells us that we will soon have to face that which we have tried to avoid.  The cup is presented to us, and we, the forlorn hesitant looking figure on the card, must turn to face it, hold it, sometimes even sip from it, in order to learn what we must learn, overcome what we must conquer, and stare down that which we wish to avoid.  Instead of looking upon this card in dread, we can look upon it as a type of affirmation, a coming to terms with the skeletons in our closet, those secret fears, and the archetypical boogeyman.

Reversed this card may be suggesting that the time may not be right.  We are not strong enough, sure enough, determined enough at this point to have the strength needed to face what’s coming.  The reversed four of cups tells us to prepare, suck it up, find the backbone needed.

In a few of my readings, oddly enough, the reversed four of cups has warned of a rat close by, someone who may be undermining us, either openly, or in a sneaky, ‘behind the back’ fashion.

New tarot spreads are available for you to choose from:

Direction & Trends
Gypsy's Magic Spell
The Pentagram
Desires & Fears
The Path of Desires
Partnership & Relationships

For a detailed overview of each spread, or to purchase a reading, click  Here.

An Online Tarot Reading:

 The following excerpt of an online tarot reading is being posted with permission from the querent, on condition of anonymity.  My heartfelt thanks to this person for letting us have such an up-close and intimate view of their life and the people in it...

The Fool          9/wands          King/cups ®

You will be beginning an adventure, a new undertaking, a journey ahead—maybe a physical journey or perhaps a mental /emotional journey that will lead to new ideas, open new vistas, and present new opportunities.  This journey begins with hope and you will be accompanied by an entity or an ally that will lend you its strength and protection...a spirit guide, familiar, or totem animal, etc.

You do, or may have in the past, walled yourself off from the people, experiences, and challenges that would have given you the opportunity to have taken this journey earlier in life.  Barriers, mostly attitudes you have fixed in your mind, must come down so that you can move forward on this new path, with these new adventures.  If your way is obstructed, you will not reach your destination—and thus, your goals.

This King of Cups, in his reversed state, will have a negative impact on your ability to complete this journey, to attain your goals.  This King will also have a negative impact on your self-esteem and self-confidence.  He cannot be counted on to offer support, so don’t seek it from him.

We will now take the King of Cups and draw cards for him, giving us an opportunity for a closer look...

2/wands          The Emperor          King/coins ®

This card, at this point, represents a partnership, a pairing, a relationship that involves finance and business.  With this deck, in this position, the wands are striking the figure horizontally in the back, snapping his head off.  This partnership is unsteady, possibly one-sided, unfair, and often not to the King of Cups’ advantage, but rather to his detriment.

The Emperor, in my readings, often represents over powering, overwhelming, and often negative male energy.  In this case, for this reading, with this deck, the large red boot representing the Emperor is stamping out any chance of equality or any input the King of Cups may have added to this partnership.  The Emperor dominates this King and this financial/business situation completely, and he is going to do whatever he must to maintain the upper hand—even if this means going to extremes.  The affects of this Emperor may be felt far into the future.

This *King of Pentacles is the father of the King of Cups.  In his reversed position, the negative qualities of this character are at the forefront of his emotions, opinions, and finally—his actions.

I think this gives us new and startling insights into the King of Cups in your life and why he may not be able to offer emotional support to you in your endeavors.  With this new understanding, perhaps there will be increased awareness and compassion for this man.

(*Note:  I've read for this querent for years.  Certain court cards represent specific family members for this individual.)

Tarot Readings by Lady Amythyst

click  Here

The Magick of Herbs

The topic this month is...Beauty.  We all use mundane lotions, oils, concoctions, and potions from the department store without a second thought.  But have you ever wondered what you can do magickally to enhance your appearance, revitalize your skin, and give off the essence of youth and timelessness.

Below are herbs that will help you enhance your natural beauty.  These herbs can be used in a variety of ways-- to make magickal tinctures to be used directly on the skin, fillings for mojo bags, to burn in candle spells, add to boughten beauty products, and occasionally *consume.

*(Read the warning at the bottom of this section.)

Whatever we do magically or mundanely in the search for beauty, remember that real beauty has to come from within,  and how we view ourselves is often how others view us.  Some of the most beautiful women in the world are not classic beauties.  They have unusual or unique features, an aura and glow about them, a sense of self-worth, self-confidence, and self-appreciation. 

You have to believe you're beautiful
for the world to see you as such.

Herbs used for Beauty...

avocado
catnip
flax
ginseng
maidenhair
yerba santa
rosemary
acorns
rue
basil
hyssop
lavender

Scroll down to find wonderful, wytchy spells to enhance your beauty and discover the goddess within.

*Disclaimer:
Never ingest any herb, or feed it to someone else, if you are not absolutely sure that it is safe!

 Spells of the Month

Cleansing & Beautifying Bath

A good spiritual cleansing and protecting bath can be made with rosemary, rue, basil, hyssop, and lavender.  An old cosmetic wash that is said to help preserve youthful features consists of nothing more complicated than rosemary soaked for three days in pure spring water.  This is strained and used to wash the face both morning and night.

Acorn Youth & Beauty Spell

Three acorns, especially if they're found attached to one another, preserve youth and enhance beauty.  A gold or silver charm depicting three acorns will work, too.  Charge the three acorns under the New Moon, and wear them in your hair.

Flora's Self-Love Beauty Spell

Flora is the Roman spirit of flowering plants and, by extension, of fertility and the life-force.  Her festival, the Floralia, once began April 27th and continued for six days of revelry, especially by women of all ages celebrating their own bodies and natural beauty.  The festival was celebrated in the nude until the third century BCE, when Roman authorities ordered that revelers be clothed.  The festival held out in that form for one more century until all pagan festivals were banned.  Vestiges survive in May Day celebrations.

Just as every blossom is unique, so is every body.  Flora encourages one to cherish one's own beauty without comparison to any other.  This spell is particularly potent if timed to coincide with Flora's old festival but may be cast at any time.

Fill your bathtub with as many fresh flowers as possible, especially Flora's favorite, beautiful, transient bean blossoms.  Enter the bath and understand that you too are among Flora's unique and perfect blossoms.

Freya's Youth Potion

Cowslips are wild peonies and are said to be Freya's favorite flowers, as well as those of the fairies.  Reputedly they magically transmit the beauty secrets of these powerful spirits.

 Create an infusion, although you may also substitute a hydrosol.

1.  Boil water and pour it over the blossoms.

2.  When the water cools, strain out the blossoms.

3.  Apply the potion to your face with a cotton ball.

4.  Use the remainder in the bath or elsewhere on the body.

5.  You may also refrigerate the remainder for 24 hours.

Snow Queen Water

1.  Gather handfuls of fresh, clean snow from the first snowfall of the season, or break off the first icicle you see.

2.  Place it in a glass bowl and let it melt.

3.  Add holly leaves and let this water sit overnight, exposed to moonbeams if possible.

4.  Wash your face with the water for enhanced youth and beauty.

*Sources:  "Hoodoo Herb & Root Magic", "The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells"...you'll find a link below.

As a sidenote, Judika Illes's book, "The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells", is practically a bible at our house.  My daughter wants her own copy, and I plan to oblige.

 Wytchy Wares

You will find the following
oils/potions/powders offered below:

 health/healing oil
exorcism/purification oil
mars astrological oil
witches oil
psychic oil
sex oil
prosperity oil
summoning powder
black cat oil
four thieves vinegar
graveyard dirt
banishing oil
command & compel oil
uncrossing oil

To order these products, or to browse this shop
click  Here

 Creations by Isabella

Skull Mirror

Height 12" X Width 9"

$45.00

To order this product, or to browse this shop
click  Here

The Photogallery

 Oak Trail Walk

My girls and I, my coven Sister Mare,
and a unique Crone named Cherry
all took a walk this autumn on the
Oak Trail in Hormel Park.  Of course we
had our cameras with us, and through
that magick, you're invited to come along:

click Here

Samhain 2009

We had a beautiful Samhain evening at our house, and I've posted photos and a video to share with you:

click  Here

Credits

Some of the information above may have been taken from the following sources:

*Note:  The bulk of this newsletter contains original writing by Amythyst Raine and is copyrighted material.

Happy Samhain! 

This is the Witches' night, a celebration of the Pagan new year, a time to to gather this year's harvest about us, to humanely slaughter the last of the creatures that will sustain us through the winter to come, to gather and hoard the firewood needed to warm us in the dark months descending upon us...in the ancient world,  these were the rites and activities which meant survival.  This night was a period of rejoicing for the successful harvest, a night to honor loved ones who passed away, a night to seek answers and insight in the practice of divination, and a night to commune and connect with spirits walking the earth.

All of the above were what the original holiday we know as 'Halloween' was all about...the candy and the commercialism came later.

You will find more information on this Pagan holiday, as well as a Pagan ritual of celebration, by clicking  Here

Samhain, or Halloween, is one of the biggest holidays at our house.  We're hoping for good weather this year so we can enjoy our annual bonfire. 

Halloween History

Tarot Tips

Mystery, esoteric knowledge, psychism, deceptions, mental illness, the dark side—the enlightened side…All meanings of The Moon, and all of these aspects for this beautiful and complicated card have come up in my readings.

This card, with its moonlit path almost always leading between two stalwart towers or mountains, has the feeling of wandering about it, an unsettled spirit and eternal quest.  This quest may involve the search for something in our mundane world, and this card has indeed come up in readings for missing person cases.  But this quest has often involved the spiritual, the intangible,  a search for knowledge, often occult knowledge.  It speaks of ‘The Seeker”.

The sentinels on either side of this card, usually portrayed as canines, reeks of inner initiation, of someone who has come through—or is about to enter—a new phase of self-awareness and inner enlightenment.

To receive online or video tarot readings from Lady Amythyst,

click  Here

Guidelines for Live Tarot Readings

What you can expect & what I deliver...

It has been a while since I did live tarot readings, and I was reacquainted with the nuance of this psychic ritual in April, doing in-house tarot readings at Next Millennium in Omaha, Nebraska.  I had forgotten the amount and strength of negative energy that could be generated by the intense emotion of desperation.  I had also forgotten how blinded people can be when pushed to the brink of their existence by situations that drive them to such desperation. 

Mind you, not everyone who seeks out a tarot reader for their services fits this scenario.  There are many, the majority I would say, who simply want to take advantage of psychic insight and to tap into universal energy for a new perspective or enlightenment. 

For the latter querents, however, those already beside themselves with frustration, fear and desperation before they ever come to me for a tarot reading, I can tell them that the cards are going to show them what’s there, not what they want to see—no matter how badly they long for confirmation, no matter how many times they repeat the same question, and no matter how many cards I draw, or how many cards they insist I draw.

At the end of the evening, I realized that there were going to have to be boundaries, for my protection and well-being, as well as the querents’.

From now on, my live readings will consist of a twelve card spread—and no more.  This is the most popular spread at my sites for online readings, and it is one of the best to work with.  What some people don’t seem to understand is that once you receive your answer through the cards, drawing multiple cards in an attempt to get a different answer, or the answer you want, will not work. All that happens is that you wind up with a garbled indistinguishable pile of cards with a dizzying array of unconnected thoughts.  Not to mention a good stiff headache for the reader and a dissatisfied querent.

This twelve card spread is laid in three groups of four cards each, and with it you get to ask three questions, or have one subject assigned for each group; such as—finances, romance, health, etc.  You certainly are free to ask for a general reading, with no specific questions, but just remember—the more specific the questions, the more specific the reading.  It’s your call.

The readings at Next Millennium are supposed to be 15 minutes in length, and that’s pretty much what I’m going to stick to.  Because of an occasional slow period, some readings may be extended, but not by much.  This is both to protect my empathic self from the flood of negative emotions emitted by some querents, and to preserve my energy for the next client.

My next in-house readings at Next Millennium will be:

 Saturday, September 26
noon-4pm

Friday, October 16
4-7pm

Next Millennium
3141 North 93rd ST
Omaha, Nebraska 
68134
(402) 393-1121 

Paranormal Tarot Experience

 Last month, when I was giving live tarot readings at Next Millennium, I had the most unusual experience.  Actually, it was two of us who shared the experience—me and the lady for whom I was reading. 

 The cards were laid upon the table, we were both bent over in concentration and involved in animated discussion, when suddenly, it looked and felt as though the table started sliding to my right, not just an inch or two, but maybe 6-8 inches.  It made us both jump, and the sensation almost made me dizzy.  I braced both hands on the top of the table and almost shouted at the woman, “Did you see that!”  She most certainly had.  We bent over to peer beneath the table, which was just a simple fold up card table.  We used our hands to measure the distance between the wall-hanging and where the edge of the table now sat.

 Then we shrugged our shoulders and picked up our conversation where we’d left off.

 Has anyone else ever experienced anything like this during a tarot reading, or any other unusual paranormal activity while involved in divination?  I’d love to hear about similar experiences.

The Magick of Herbs

In honor of Samhain, and the tradition of contacting spirits upon this night, we're going to look at herbs that are used to contact the dead and converse with those on the other side.  To some people this might, at first, seem like a scary undertaking-- but just think Allison Dubois, John Edward, Lisa Williams-- this is basically what they do, just without the help of herbs, and it's not scary at all-- it's touching, sometimes informative, and always entertaining.  For the rest of us folks who are not as naturally talented at mediumship, we need a little extra help:

Acacia
Aloes Wood
Anise
Bay
Bearberry
Black Dog Hair
Blueing
Buchu
Camphor
Cascara Sagrada
Celery
Coltsfoot
Copal
Dandelion
Devil's Bit
Dittany of Crete
Flax
Florida Water
Frankincense
Grains of Paradise
Gravel Root
Hollly
Jasmine
Kananga
Mint
Mugwort
Mullein
Passion Flower
Pipsissewa
Purslane
Star Anise
Sweet Grass
Thistle
Tobacco
Whiskey
Wormwood
Yerba Santa

These herbs are used in a wide variety of ways to call in the spirits.  They are seeped in teas and drank, burned with incense or in combinations with each other, used to create dream pillows and mojo bags, added to oils to be used to dress candles, etc.

You'll find spells to contact spirits in the Spell of the Month section.

Disclaimer:
Never ingest any herb, or feed it to someone else, if you are not absolutely sure that it is safe!

What's new at Wytchy Wares

Wytchy Wares

This online shop has grown and expanded.  It now contains an awful lot of merchandise for one page.  Although I'm keeping the main page up, I've also created individual pages for each group of items. The links are included in the inventory and page index at the top, in the first box.

I've also started a new page, which will contain new items, as well as information on magickal correspondences, spells, etc.

It's called

Cauldron Magick

You'll also find a link for this page, as well as the merchandize on it, in the inventory index in the first box, at the top of Wytchy Wares.

New Items:

Spell Bags

These inexpensive bags contain the items you need to cast your own spells.

 The spell bags include:

Make Him Love Me
Money Flow
Make Him Go
Shut Your Mouth

Zen Gardens

 My zen gardens include the tray, sand, stones, rake, two tea candles, and incense.

Large Poppets

You can now purchase large, 12" poppets.  I call these guys 'the big guns'.  They make an interesting conversation piece for people who don't practice magick but like unusual things, and for those who do practice magick, they contain all the herbs and other objects specific for their intentions.

Pictured above is the most popular black 'Hexing' poppet.  With this voodoo doll you will hold the key to his...well, not exactly his heart.  But you will indeed hold the key. :)  It's right behind the padlock.

Purification Candles

These 9" white pillar candles are rolled in rosemary, sage, and hyssop.  The are now available at Wytchy Wares.

To purchase any of these items, go to Wytchy Wares.

Spells of the Month

Spells to Summon Spirits

Here we go, light your candles, lock the front door, take the phone off the hook, and hang onto your pointy black hats...This is going to be easier than you thought it would be.

Spirit Summoning:  Magick Mirror

1.  Light a white or silver candle.

2.  Announce your intention and ask for blessings.  You may ask for a "go-ahead" signal as to whether to proceed.

3.  Sit, relax, burn frankincense or warm its essential oil to extend an invitation and enhance your powers of clairvoyance.

4.  Look in your mirror.  Pretend you're not looking at yourself but impartially, at another being.

5.  When this is accomplished, look beyond yourself in the mirror.

6.  Stay relaxed:  if you are tense, this won't work.  Only work for as long as you feel fresh and relaxed; several attempts may be necessary before you accomplish your goal.  This technique takes time.

7.  Eventually you may see a new face; eventually you may see a spirit behind your own image.  You may see lights.  The experience is very personal and varies with each individual.

Black Cat Spirit Summoning

Black cats (or any other cats) are not perceived as evil or unlucky amongst magickal traditions.  They are perceived as magickal creatures:  black cats are a favored form for some shape-shifting spirits.  In other words, some black cats may be spirits in disguise, making it especially unlucky to harm any black cat.  Black cats, in general, are perceived as having special contacts among the spirit world, making them favored familiars.

Black cat Oil calls in the spirits.  Dress Candles with Black Cat Oil and burn them to beckon benevolent, magickally oriented spirits.

To purchase Black Cat Oil, click  Here

Sigil Spirit Summoning
(Traditional)

Spirit and demon-beckoning sigils (symbols) are reproduced in grimoires; veve designs are reproduced in books devoted to Voudou and Quimbanda.

1.  Find the desired image.

2.  Carefully draw it, while concentrating on your intent, on to parchment or fine paper.  Magickal inks are traditionally used.

3.  Post it or place the image on your altar.  Surround with charged, burning candles.

Sigil Spirit Summoning
(Personal Communication)

Sigils may have been inspired by the spirits, but their creation derives clearly from human hands.  Magick is not static; the most powerful sigil can be the one you create yourself.  The expression of your heart is often the surest, quickest mode of communication.

1.  Contemplate the nature and identity of the spirit you wish to summon.

2.  Allow yourself to be inspired so as to create a sigil dedicated to that spirit alone.

3.  This sigil may be drawn on paper, but it may also be drawn onto the floor using powders, or expressed via a tableau.  Consider the nature and tastes of the specific spirit in order to determine the proper materials.

The spells above were taken from Judika Illes's book, "The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells".  You'll find a link to this book at the end of this newsletter.

Green Witchcraft

How does the Green Witch incorporate magick into her every day life?

The Green Witch may begin her day with a pot of tea or coffee, each being laced with an herb or herbs appropriate for her intentions...You’re afraid your husband’s eye is straying, if not your husband himself? A pinch of nutmeg in his morning brew will do well to keep infidelity at bay. You’re going to be doing tarot readings on this morning and want to pump up your intuitive energies? A pinch of crushed bay leaves or a bit of ground anise to your tea or java will do just that.

When you cook up wonderful tasty dishes for your family, you keep this kind of herbal magick in mind. Does your family seem a little chaotic, disconnected, or argumentative today? Drop a pinch of rosemary or sage in the stew or mashed potatoes. The general public uses herbs every day in all kinds of mundane ways when they cook, never realizing the magickal potential contained within them. Oh, and be sure to stir your cooking pots full of food deosil (clockwise) only to instill positive energy.

The Green Witch will use herbs when cleaning her house, or scrubbing her floors...a little rosemary wash will clear your living space in a magickal way as you clean away the mundane dirt and grime. Are you having a little problem with mischievous spirits and it’s time for them to go? Light a white candle and a stick of sage or some sandalwood incense; walk deosil around each room, smudging the area.

Are you a busy soccer mom chauffeuring kids from school to various events and practices? The Green Witch will have within her vehicle a mojo bag for safe travel, within it will be plantain, calamus root, and a stone of tiger eye. If she’s like me, she’ll also have a special stone talisman created specifically to keep her passengers safe, tucked discreetly beneath the seat.

Your child awakens you during the night with bad dreams or fears of shadows and boogie men? Give her a small saucer of salt on her bedside stand and instruct her to take a pinch and toss it at the shadows that frighten her. Not only will this clear away unwanted entities, you have just taught your daughter that she has nothing to fear and that she is the one in control of her living space.

Having trouble winding down at the end of the day to get much needed sleep? Tie a bundle of lavender together and drop it into your bath water. Light a white candle and soak, grounding yourself, clearing your mind and relaxing your body. Finish up the day with a hot cup of chamomile tea just before turning out the lights.

The idea here is that the Green Witch incorporates herbs into her every day activities and chores and uses them with magickal intention.

I suggest Scott Cunningham’s book, “Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magickal Herbs”, for an extremely comprehensive list of herbs, their correspondences, and magickal uses.

Witches
An Intimate Portrait

(Narrated by Angelica Houston)

video

Click  Here

Favorite Books

The following is a list of my own books, these you will find on my shelves.  They are much loved and much used, and I'd like to thank my coven sister, Nadia, who recently sent me a box of books from her own collection...You sent me some gems! :)

1.  Wicca:  The Complete Craft, D.J. Conway
2.  Solitary Witch, Silver Ravenwolf
3.  Encyclopedia of Wicca and Witchcraft, Raven Grimassi
4.  Palmistry, Roz Levine
5.  Wicca, Vivianne Crowley
6.  The Wicca Book, Sally Morningstar
7.  A Grimoire of Shadows, Fitch
8.  The Astrological Oracle, Lyn Birkbeck
9.  The Goodly Spellbook, Lady Passion & Diuvei
10.  Utterly Wicked, Dorothy Morrison (signed by author)
11.  Witch: A Magical Journey, Fiona Horne
12.  You Are Psychic, Katz
13.  A Witch’s Notebook, Silver Ravenwolf
14.  Crafting the Body Divine, Yasmine Galenorn
15.  The Enchanted Candle, Lady Rhea
16.  What’s Your Wicca IQ?, Laura Wildman
17.  The Second Circle: Tools for the Advanced Pagan, Venicia Rauls
18.  The Witch’s Book of Wisdom, Patricia Telesco
19.  The Modern Witch’s Spellbook, Sarah Lyddon Morrison
20.  The Witch in Every Woman, Laurie Cabot
21.  Psychic Development for Beginners, William H. Hewitt
22. Chakras for Beginners, David Pond
23.  The Wicca Bible, Ann-Marie Gallagher
24.  The Spells Bible, Ann-Marie Gallagher
25.  Crystal Energy for Your Home, Ken & Joules Taylor
26.  A Wizard’s Bestiary, Oberon Zell Ravenheart & DeKirk (signed by author)
27.  Pagan Christmas, Ratsch & Muller-Ebeling
28.  The Book of Chakras, Ambika Wauters
29.  The Only Astrology Book You’ll Ever Need, Joanna Martine Woolfolk
30.  Buckland’s Complete Book of Witchcraft, Raymond Buckland
31.  The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Divination, Stephen Karcher
32.  Witches, Hans Holzer
33.  Crones Don’t Whine, Jean Shinoda Bolen
34.  Dowsing for Beginners, Webster
35.  The Teen Spell Book, Jamie Wood
36.  Don’t Kiss Them Good-bye, Allison Dubois
37.  Diary of a Witch, Sybil Leek
38.  Old Souls, Tom Shroder
39.  The Ghost Hunting Casebook, Natalie Osborne-Thomason
40.  The Secret Teaching of All Ages, Manly P. Hall
41.  Celtic Magic, D.J. Conway
42.  The Pictorial Key to the Tarot, Arthur Edward Waite
43.  Guide to Tarot, Sarah Kettlewell
44.  Reading the Tarot, Leo Louis Martello
45.  Llewellyn’s 2003 Wiccan Almanac
46.  Llewellyn’s 2003 Magickal Almanac
47.  Llewellyn’s 2003 Herbal Almanac
48.  Llewellyn’s 2005 Magickal Almanac
49.  The Witches’ Almanac 2004-2005, Elizabeth Pepper & John Wilcox
50.  The Witches; Almanac 2006-2007,  Elizabeth Pepper & John Wilcox
51.  Psychic Circle, Amyzerner & Monte Farber
52.  To Ride a Silver Broomstick, Silver Ravenwolf
53.  To Stir a Magic Cauldron, Silver Ravenwolf
54.  To Light a Sacred Flame, Silver Ravenwolf
55.  Moon Magic, D.J. Conway
56.  Embracing the Moon, Yasmine Galenorn
57.  Wicca:  A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, Scott Cunningham
58.  The Complete Book of Incense, Oils, & Brews, Scott Cunningham
59.  Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham
60.  Spell Crafts, Scott Cunningham & David Harrington
61.  Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystal, Gem & Metal Magic, Scott Cunningham
62.  Nocturnal Witchcraft, Konstantinos
63.  Witchcraft:  Theory & Practice, Ly De Angeles
64.  The Magic Power of White Witchcraft, Gavin & Yvonne Frost
65.  The Witch’s Book of Magical Ritual, Gavin & Yvonne Frost
66.  Elemental Powers, Amber Wolf
67.  Green Witchcraft, Ann Moura
68.  The Lost Books of Merlyn, Douglas Monroe
69.  Modern Magick, Donald Michael Kraig
70.  Book of Shadows, Phyllis Curott
71.  Silver’s Spells for Protection, Silver Ravenwolf
72.  The Magical Household, Scott Cunningham & David Harrington
73.  Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham
74.  Drawing down the Moon, Margot Adler
75.  The Gods of the Witches, Margaret A. Murry
76.  The Book of Magickal Art, Hindoo magic, & Indian Occultism, Dr. L.W. De Laurence
77.  The Everything Astrology Book, Trish MacGregor
78.  The Complete Book of Dreams, Pamela Ball
79.  The Everything Dreams Book, Trish & Rob Macgregor
80.  The Everything Tarot Book, M.J. Abadie
81.  The Everything Wiccan & Witchcraft Book, Marian Singer
82.  The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Wiccan & Witchcraft, Denise Zimmerman & Katherine A. Gleason
83.  The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tarot, Arlene Tognettie & Lisa Lenard
84.  Guide to Astrology, Julia & Derek Parker
85.  Mythic Astrology, Liz Greene
86.  Darkside Zodiac, Stella Hyde
87.  The Astrology Directory, Annie Lionnet
88.  The Book of Runes, Ralph H. Blum
89.  The Learned Arts of Witches & Wizards, Anton & Mina Adams
90.  The Tarot Directory, Annie Lionnet
91.  A Magical Course in Tarot, Michele Morgan
92.  The Complete Book of Tarot Spreads, Evelyn Burger &  Johannes  Fiebig
93.  Tarot Mysteries, Jonathon Dee
94.  Tarot Tips, Ruth Ann & Wald Amberstone
95.  Power Tarot, Trish MacGregor & Phyllis Vega
96.  Witchcraft: A Mystery Tradition, Raven Grimassi
97.  Spells, Charms, Talismans & Amulets, Pamela Ball
98.  Herbal Medicine, Dian Dincin Buchman
99.  The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells, Judika Illes
100.  Llewellyn’s 2008 Witches’ Companion
101.  1,001 Symbols, Jack Tresidder
102.  Tarot Reading, Bridget Reed
103.  Simply Tarot, Leanna Greenaway
104.  Visconti Tarot, Giordana Berti & Tiberio Gonard
105.  Spells Dictionary, Antonia Beattie
106.  Angel Signs, Heldane, Seraye & Lagowski
107.  Tao Oracle, Ma Deva Padma
108.  The Secret Language of Relationships (astrology), Gary Goldschneider & Joost Elfers
109.  The Complete Illustrated Guide to Palmistry, Peter West
110.  Crone's Book of Charms & Spells, Valerie Worth
111.  Tarot Plain & Simple, Anthony Louis/illustrations Robin Wood
112.  Essential Reiki, Diane Stein
113.  Women Who Run With the Wolves, Clarissa Estes
114.  Teach Yourself Cyrstal Healing, Roger C. Croxen
115.  Crystal Healing Secrets, Brett Bravo
116.  Hoodoo Herb & Root Magic, Catherine Yronwode
117.  The Grandmother of Time, Z Budapest
118.  Crossing to Avalon, Jean Shinoda Bolen, M.D.
119.  Crystal Prescription, Judy Hall
120.  The Gilded Tarot Companion, Barbara Moore
121.  Summoning the Fates, Z Budapest
122.  The Holy Book of Women's Mysteries, Z Budapest
123.  Celestial Wisdom, Z Budapest

Since posting this, I have been gifted 30-40 books from a very unique and unusual Crone named Cherry.  I have added these new books to my hand-written list, but have not had time to type them into my computer files.  I'll be updating the book-list I posted at my myspace blog,  as soon as I find the time.

Creations by Isabella

Isabella has set up a website page that is her tattoo portfolio.  You can view her tattoo artistry at:

http://www.101tattoos.yolasite.com/

At 'Creations by Isabella', you'll find new candles:

 Isabella is now offering votive purification candles.  These candles contain sandalwood oil and salt.  They are encased in white marble.

These large attractive handbags are completely hand-stitched, with an approx. 36" strap:

More additions to Isabella's shop include:

This unique handcrafted, herb filled, one-of-a kind candle set:

"The Journey of Dreams and Passion" 

(The hand-crafted box is included.)

Skull Mirror

Height 12" X Width 9"

"Dance"

(Each of these paintings is 14"X14" and are sold as a set.)

"Ocean Spirit"

(Each of these paintings is 14"X14" and are sold as a set.)

To purchase any of these items,
follow the link to

Creations by Isabella

The Photo Gallery

One of the first things I do in the morning is light a candle and incense on the back porch...here, the early morning rays catch the incense smoke.

Grandmother Spider, weaving her magick on the porch roof...

The butterflies use our maple tree as a gathering point for their yearly migration.  Some mornings now, we will see small clusters of them around the tree...

The Mother Goddess protects our home & bestows her blessings upon us...

Our Goddess Altar-- the candles burning towards Full Moon and manifestation...

This is what home schooling looks like at our house...To quote Aunt Franny in the movie Practical Magick:  "Pish, tosh!  You'll learn things in this house that you will never learn in school!"

The treehouse deck...a perfect place to slip away for a moment of solitude, or to cozy up with a good book.  I also like to do my video tarot readings from this deck:

Our own Archimedes...

Credits

Some of the information above may have been taken from the following sources:

*Note:  The bulk of this newsletter contains original writing by Amythyst Raine and is copyrighted material.

 The Triple Goddess

The Triple Goddess, the original trinity, symbolizes the three faces of the Great Goddess and is the earliest representation of her division into multiplicity. The goddess with three faces is a universal motif, found worldwide.

The Triple Goddess is intimately associated with the changing phases of the moon; just as the moon transforms from one phase to another, the Great Goddess moves among her many roles. Her three faces are usually virgin, mother, and crone: virgin representing the strong, self-defined goddess; mother representing the nurturing goddess as source of all nourishment; and crone representing the goddess of death and transformation.

This symbolism embraces the role of the goddess in all phases of existence, from birth through death to rebirth. The Triple Goddess reminds us of our sacredness regardless of our age or function in life. She reminds us that despite her many forms there is one goddess, always present and always sacred.

The above information was taken from:

http://www.daykeeperjournal.com/aarch06/0609sep/goddess.shtml

The Magick of Herbs

We're going about this in a completely different way this month.  I have always chosen a particular herb for the monthly newsletter and then written information and correspondences just for that herb.  This month, we're going to look at a particular intention...and then find out what herbs we will use to help us perform magick for that which we desire to invoke...whether it be love, money, fidelity, power, dreams, etc.

Fidelity

I've been receiving many requests for information, herbs, and spells to promote this very basic requirement for committed relationships.  And most of these requests have been from women, which I find interesting and very telling about our culture and the men it.  I'll skip through the wytchy sermon about doing a binding spell, the law of three, or tampering with someone's free will, etc., ad infinitum.  Why?  Because, quite frankly, I think you've probably already heard it all, and if you are still reading this, you are obviously interested in the concept of using magick to ensure a mate's fidelity...and I've seen too many women spend their lives keeping tabs on husbands/boyfriends/lovers in an attempt to control who they have sex with.  Think of how much these women could accomplish if their minds could be at rest on this topic and they could go on to concentrate on other things.

The main herb, and the one I've had the most success with, is a simple kitchen herb that most people have in their cupboards:

Nutmeg

Those unfamiliar with the practice of witchcraft may be scratching their heads about now if they are reading this.  Yes-- nutmeg has a long tradition of being used to promote fidelity in a partner, but most people are completely unaware of the occult power in herbs...called green magick.  You may say you've been eating nutmeg, using it in your cooking and certain dishes for years-- and perhaps experienced the infidelity of a spouse?  That's because you weren't using it with magickal intention.  Magick is practiced by using your focused intention, your ability to visualize, and your will.  If you are not using the herb with magickal intention, you can handfeed someone nutmeg from now until hell freezes over, and it will never work to keep them faithful.

Let's go on to see what other herbs we can use to promote fidelity and magickally keep our lovers/spouses/husbands (or wives) faithful, and then we'll go on to see how we can incorporate some of these herbs into spells...

 Chickweed
Chili Pepper
Clover
Comfrey
Coriander
Cumin
Dirt Dauber Nest
Elder
Grape Vine
Licorice-- the root,
not the candy!
Magnolia
Mullein
Periwinkle
Red Onion
Rosemary
Rhubarb
Rye
Scullcap
Senna
Spikenard
Sugar
Vetch, giant
Vetiver
Yerba Mate

You'll find spells & suggestions to magickally promote fidelity in the 'Spell of the Month' section...just keep scrolling down, you've got plenty of time, this won't be difficult.

Disclaimer:
Never ingest any herb, or feed it to someone else, if you are not absolutely sure that it is safe!

Tarot Tips

The Tale of the Three's 

Enterprise, heartache, employment, and celebrations…the standard meanings for the three of wands, swords, pentacles and cups.  But there is so much more to these threes.  Three itself is an important number in the occult world.  There are the three faces of the goddess, the three faces of the god, and the number of power witches give to the energy of their spell casting.  Is there a reason a lot of important documents are printed in triplicate?  The threes hold the secret of ancient power and mystery.

3 of Cups

This is one of the most cheerful looking cards of the deck, usually depicted as three maidens or individuals raising their goblets in celebration and revelry.  It screams ‘party’.  And this card has announced weddings, births, and upcoming events such as graduations, anniversaries, and sometimes totally unexpected celebratory events in a querent’s life.

The three of cups has, however, also revealed alcoholism, extreme egotism and other mental issues that deal with the illusion of grandeur.  It has raised warnings, suggesting a querent slow down a raucous and unbridled lifestyle.

3 of Pentacles

Apprenticeship, employment, the basis of how you support yourself and your family, this is what the three of pentacles deals with.  The Cards surrounding the three of pentacles in a reading will offer deeper insight into this area of your life, including new avenues and unexpected opportunities.

This card has also appeared in my readings to indicate that ‘more work’ was needed in a variety of areas in a querent’s life. It can also indicate laziness, lack of ambition and unemployment.  The three of pentacles can appear as a card of doubt and hesitation regarding the employee, and it has appeared as a card of accomplishment and success.

3 of Wands

As I’ve read in countless books, the three of wands is considered one of the most positive cards in the deck.  However, I don’t always get this sense from this card.  I feel the character on the three of wands is waiting for something, perpetually, patiently, forever waiting.  I call this card “waiting for your ship to come in”.  Eventually your endeavors will be successful, but before that moment arrives, patience and perseverance are going to be called for, maybe in large doses.

This sense of waiting can produce a feeling of restless anxiety.  The most a reader can tell you is—everything will work out in the end, just not by your time schedule.

Oddly enough, this card has also come up in some of my readings to signify an affair, a ménage-a-trois, or bi-sexuality.  It can also tell us that someone has become so focused on one aspect of their life—job, person, pastime, etc., that they are neglecting other people or areas of their life.

3 of Swords

Where does lone begin with such a card, such an image…the human heart, pierced by three swords.  This image itself amplifies the standard meaning of the three of swords—gut wrenching heartache, sorrow, and loss.  This card has often come up in my readings to indicate infidelity, the pain of a physical loss, divorce, sudden tragedy, as well as physical manifestations of heart disease, an impending heart attack or heart surgery.

The level of ferocity of this card, as well as it’s meaning and nuance for a particular reading, will be revealed by the cards surrounding it in a spread.

This card has also appeared when someone needed to stop beating around the bush and get to ‘the heart a matter’, when someone had to find their voice and ‘make a point’, and when someone was going to step blindly off the curb and right into a new relationship without first looking deeply enough into their own heart.

Tarot Special

For the month of September, you can receive a video tarot reading at the reduced price of $30.00.

To purchase a video tarot reading, click  Here.

To view video readings, click  Here.

Spell of the Month

And our theme of fidelity continues...

The nutmeg, so easy that it's almost obscene.  This is such a familiar herb, and I'm sure that most of you can easily feed this herb to your intended target without raising any suspicions at all.  Sprinkle some in your partner's coffee each morning-- with magickal intention!-- it actually adds a delightful flavor to coffee, if you don't go overboard. Just a light sprinkling will do, you don't need to use enough to choke a horse.

Calamus root-- I love this one...Calamus root not only will promote fidelity, it has the added bonus of placing you in a dominate postion in the relationship, not a bad place to be as far as I'm concerned.  The desired method?...conjure bags.  Choose a small bag of your liking, solid colors, or print, whatever you are drawn too and strikes your fancy.  Fill this bag with some of the usual herbs for love magick.  This could be red rose petals, hibiscus, red geraniums, coriander-- look around your garden, the kitchen cupboard, or your herbal medicine cabinet to see what you may have on hand.  The easiest magick and the magick you are most likely to do involves the most common ingredients.

After you have filled this bag with the herbs for love and then added the calamus root to it, you aren't finished.  You will also have to add to this bag 'tags', or 'personal concerns', whatever you want to call it, this means a slip of paper with the name of the target written on it, hair, fingernail clippings, bodily fluids, a strip of material from personal clothing, etc.  When you have everything in the bag you need, those of you who wish to and know how can bless the bag with the four elements.  Wrap the bag in a black cloth and find some secret place to keep it-- where it won't be disturbed, and where the target will not find it.

You can create your own fidelity spells, using the herbs above and your own imagination and determined will...burn the herbs in a metal container, along with your target's name printed on a paper; make small mojo bags containing personal concerns and herbs and tuck them under the mattress, hide them beneath the bed, place them at the four corners of your bedroom.  You like to cook?  Many of these herbs can be used in delightfully wytchy ways in your own recipes-- one of the simplest things to do is to feed your target the magick herbs...But be very sure which herbs are poisonous and which are safe to ingest!

Most importanlty, after you've cast your spell, worked your magick-- forget about it.  Get on with your life, lift your head out of the cloud it's been in and really see the world around you and all it's infinite possiblities.   Let the goddess, the god, and the powers that be accomplish what your magick has set in motion. 

The Photo Gallery

The Wild Corner...where rabbits and fairy folk live beneath the mound of fallen tree branches, nightshade grows for the witch's use, and small sprites play in the early morning hours...

 A storm is building above our house, the mighty Zeus, ready to wield his awesome power...

 An altar for prosperity...My youngest Wytchling had a delightful time gathering & decorating this altar with mint.  She was very proud of her accomplishment.

The Witch's Trunk...in which you'll find boxes of spider webs, bird's nests, snake's shed skins, ribbons, and pins, rusty nails, incense and herbs, altar cloths, magick wands, and a dragonfly...

Stone guardians of the house...sentinels, these stone cats. I'm sure they roam the house at night, along with their living counterparts, protecting our home from intruders and malevolent spirits...

 Our Sophia, ready to attend the movie, "Harry Potter & the Half-Blood Prince"...

A young Wizard turns 19...

Our DeadRose, standing on the steps in the foyer with the newest additions to our family...Chancey & Bauz

 These two are very people friendly & love spending time on the coffee table in the livingroom, investigating the tv remote, chewing on the corners of books, flying to and from the couch to land in someone's lap...

 The wild things roam our yard, always alert for the Katz...

A place for peace & meditation...the bench at the end of my magickal garden, braced against the north wall of the old barn.

A pile of magickal stones tucked in a corner of the back porch...

 The back porch is the most used room of the house certain times of the year.  A game of chess always stands in the waiting...

The porch is protected by a blanket of morning glories that overtake it every year...

I caught the morning sun from the front stoop of our house, shining through the branches of my dear friend, the maple tree...

Just me, wearing the coven pendent that I chose for the 13 Ladies of Bristolwicks...They should be getting theirs within a few days-- the Wiccan Zodiac Moon & Stars

Credits

Some of the information above may have been taken from the following sources:

"The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells" by Jukika Illes
"Crystal, Gem, & Metal Magic" by Scott Cunningham
"Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" by Scott Cunningham
"Moon Magic" by D.J. Conway
"The Spells Bible" by Ann Marie Gallagher
"Hoodoo Herb and Root Magic"by Catherine Yronwode

*Note:  The bulk of this newsletter contains original writing by Amythyst Raine and is copyrighted material.

Our Summer So Far...

And it's been a busy one.  The following videos and photos are a pictorial guide through our summer activities:

*note: you'll want to shut the music box off at the bottom of this page while you watch the videos.  The button is there, you'll find it. :)

Mushroom Man & Mayer Ryder's
Magickal Haven

One evening I was invited to a 'girl's night' at my friend's home.  I took along my camera because this is one of the most beautiful and magickal backyards I've ever seen. 

I think you'll agree with me.

"The Truth Tree"...In Mayer's backyard is a giant fir tree.  This tree is in the corner of the property, and beneath it is a hollow spot that Mayer has transformed into a mysterious corner where you can sit and lounge.  She says that people have a tendency to spill their guts once they enter this area, and that's why it's called 'The Truth Tree'.

Come with me...

 The following photographs were taken in Mayer's backyard and really need no further narration...enjoy!

Our Garden

This is the vegetable garden in the foreground-- kolarabi, beets, carrots, and tomatoes.  My flower garden, one of them, is on the other end.

This year's bounty...

Pickled beets, anyone?...

This is the bird feeding station in the front yard and my beautiful crop of sunflowers.  I'll bet the neighbors love us. ;P

The following are flowers from our beds, front and back yard:

Mossroses

The herb garden- mint, sage, echinacia, baby lilac bushes, asters, etc.

You're at the back steps to our deck-- which I call 'the porch'...my morning glories take it over every year.

Primroses

Some of my lillies...

Coleus

Just for Fun

When you enter the front door, you'll be greeting by yet another new sign:

The Katz get lazy this time of year, especially Pyewacket...

Occasionally he'll move- to change position, sort of...

Basil & Baby...lounging on the upper west wall of the back porch.

You're looking out our north livingroom windows on an early summer morning:

Every robin we see, we think, 'Is it Pie?'
This bird is perched on the bench beneath our big maple tree.

This is Miss Cletus, debating whether or not to ravage my pot of purple pansies:

Mid-Western Americana

John C. Fremont Days

One of the highlights of this local summer festival is the high heel race.  Both females and males can participate in this event, the main rule being that you have to run in 3" stilletto heels:

Below are pics of our outing...

Deadrose and Guinevere, off to check out the rows of booths full of craft items:

At this little blue house, you'll get the best shaved iced treats you've ever tasted.  They're huge and lavishly flavored:

You're on the backside of the Food Court, out front you'll find yourself between two long rows of shacks, booths, and carnival caravans with everything from traditional hotdogs to Greek food and stir fry...funnel cakes are also a fixture:

Of course, it wouldn't be small-town Americana without the traditional parade:

"Mr. and Mrs. John C. Fremont", naturally. 

And as the saying goes,

 'one picture is worth a thousand words'

Spell of the month:

Egg Cleansing Spell

I was looking for something unusual, yet helpful, for this month's spell, and I do believe I stumbled upon a spell that fits both definitions:

This cleansing is meant to follow an experience or encounter that leaves you feeling shaken, uneasy or tainted:

1.  Strip off all your clothing.

2.  Rub an egg over you, working outwards:  from the shoulders out the fingers, from the thighs down to your toes.

3.  Slap yourself all over with a bunch of parsley.

4.  Anoint yourself with rose water.  (For extensive and expensive cleansing, pour a shallow bath of rose water and lie in it, turning over so that both sides of your body are covered with liquid.)

5.  Put on clean clothes.  Place the eggshells and parsley in a brown paper bag and dispose of them far from your home.

Although you can effectively cleanse yourself with this spell, having someone else perform at least the egg-rubbing and parsley-slapping parts is potentially more effective.

Stone of the Month:

Apache Tear

Energy:  Projective

Planet:  Saturn

Element:  Fire

Powers:  protection, luck

Magickal Uses:  The apache tear, a globule of translucent obsidian, is carried as a good-luck charm.  It is also used for protective purposes as well as all of those ascribed to obsidian.

(We’ll take a look at Obsidian in next month’s newsletter.”

Herb of the Month:

Patchouli

I associate patchouli with earthy spells...money, lust, the body, concrete materialistic things.  It’s of this realm, the physical world, sometimes gritty...

Folk Names:  Pucha-Pot, Kablin

Gender:  Feminine

Planet:  Saturn

Element:  Earth

Powers:  money, fertility, lust

Magical Uses:  Patchouli smells like rich earth, and so has been used in money and prosperity mixtures and spells.  It is sprinkled onto money, added to purses and wallets, and placed around the base of green candles.

Also, owing to its earthiness, patchouli is used in fertility talismans, and is also substituted for ‘graveyard dust” where it is called for.  

Patchouli is added to love sachets and baths.  Although in contemporary American voodoo-based herbal magick patchouli is used for ‘separation’, this is a modern concept and has no long tradition.  In point of fact, patchouli is actually used to attract people and to promote lust.  This points to differences in herb magick practices.

Tarot Tips

Card of the Month:

King of Swords

This King is intelligent, professional, sharp witted, and highly intelligent; someone you would be better off having as a friend, rather than a foe.  The downside to this King is that he can be sarcastic, opinionated—sure that he is always right, prone to fits of temper, and sometimes just plain mean.

Aside from these pretty basic and standard interpretations of the King of Swords, what else is this card trying to tell me?

Beneath this King’s cold exterior often lays a delicate soul afraid to show this side of his nature to the public for fear of being thought ‘weak’.  He can be illusive when it comes to love and commitment, though when he does choose a mate, he remains fiercely loyal to this person.

He may harbor dreams and ambitions that have never come to fruition, but it is very likely that he has never shared these dreams and ambitions with anyone—they are his very private “what ifs” and bitter disappointments.

This King, even though he may have a wife and family, remains a basically solitary soul, encased in stoicism and trapped by his inability to display warmth and affection.

  To receive a tarot reading from Lady Amythyst,

click  Here

Wytchy Wares

Updates:

 This is a 'work-in-progress'...

a Hoodoo box:

It will include three 12" poppets, hoodoo oils, candles, and graveyard dirt.

 I also have two new products coming out this year:

Large poppets-- 12" in height, still based pretty much on the design of the small poppets, including all the pertinent herbs they are stuffed with.

And 'Wiccan Baskets', filled with the basic items you'll need to be a practicing Witch.

For more information, or to view/purchase these items,

click  Here

Creations by Isabella

At Isabella's page, you'll find jewelry, decorative poppets, ceramics, and sculpture.  You'll also find information for contacting her at Viking Tattoo.

click  Here

New Tattoo

Pagan Holiday

Lammas/Lughnasadh

 This is the first harvest festival of the year, the beginning of the autumn bounty.  Bread plays a large part in this pagan festival.  It was, and probably still is, one of the staples of our diet.  If you stop and think about it, almost every culture and religion around the world focuses on bread in one way or the other-- Christians have their communion wafers and Jews have their manna, the British have their scones, Native Americans their corn cakes, and so it goes.

If anyone would like more information on Lammas, you can find it by clicking  Here.

Credits

Greetings...from the hot, humid, green land of the American mid-west.  This is so much better than hot and dry, at least where I live.  I hope the rains continue on a regular basis, if they don't, this witch will be spending a lot of time watering our gardens.

 I suppose I should wish everyone a happy fourth of July, although at our house this isn't a very big holiday, not because we're not patriotic, but because I never have liked fireworks.  I don't allow my children to play with gunpowder and matches any other time of year, so I don't feel the need to start this practice when July roles around.  More or less, the fourth of July means a three day weekend for some of us.

We have a few updates here at The Corner, I have the usual features posted, and we've had some fun this summer.  You can scroll below and pick and choose what interests you...

Herb of the Month

Star Anise
(Illicum verum)

Folk Names:  Badiana, Chinese Anise

Gender:  Masculine

Planet:  Jupiter

Element:  Air

Powers:  Psychic powers, luck

Magical Uses:  The seeds are burned as incense to increase psychic powers, and are also worn as beads for the same purpose.  Sometimes star anise is placed on the altar to give it power; one is placed to each of the four directions.  It is also carried as a general luck bringer, and the seeds make excellent pendulums.

Stone of the Month

Citrine

Energy:  Projective

Planet:  Sun

Element:  Fire

Powers:  Anti-nightmare, protection, psychism

Magical Uses:  Citrine is worn at night to remove fear, to prevent nightmares, and to ensure a good night’s sleep.  Citrine, a form of quartz, is also worn to facilitate psychic awareness.

Spell of the month

"Staying True to Yourself Spell"

Never be tempted to be something or someone you are not.  Staying true to yourself is one of the most fundamental tools to having lasting, loving relationships.  Being loved for who you are is much more satisfying than molding yourself to what someone else wants you to be.  Try to resist this type of manipulation.  The following spell will help you gain true sense of who you are...

Items needed:

A lock of your hair
come of your fingernail clippings
a wallet-sized picture of yourself, smiling
a royal blue-colored cloth bag big enough to contain the hair, nail clippings, picture, a piece of paper, and seeds
A favorite pen
A small piece of paper, about 7-10 inches
Eight sunflower seeds still in their shells
A piece of black ribbon

Timing:

Do this spell before you will be joining a group of people, before a date, before beginning something new—such as a job, a school term, etc.

The Spell:

Put the lock of your hair, your nail clippings, and your photograph into the cloth bag.  Sit comfortably in your favorite room, chair, or space.  Put the little bag in hour lap.

With your favorite pen, write down the positive qualities that define who you are on the sheet of paper—such as good-humored, optimistic, lively, thoughtful, etc.  Also write down what you like and dislike generally and in a relationship.  Take some time and put together a really good list.

When you are sure the list is complete, fold the paper and place it in the blue bag.  Pour in the sunflower seeds and tie the bag with the black ribbon.

Carry the bag with you to remind yourself of your worth and that you should not lose sight of who you truly are. 

I consider this spell a powerful personal mojo bag
for a whompin’ boost to the ego and the ‘Self’.

This is something so many people need,
some more than others.

Tarot Tips

Ace of Cups

Aces are beginnings, and the cards of cups are attuned to relationships, love, and romance.  If you drew this card and you are single, there’s a very good possibility that love is coming your way.  If you drew this card and you are in a relationship or married, odds are that there will be a renewal of those first sparks you experienced early on with your partner.

Other meanings hidden within this card are...blessings, a communion—of body, mind, and spirit.  This card can herald a new spiritual awakening, the discovery of a new life path

If you'd like to receive an online tarot reading, click  Here.

Notice:

I'll be giving in-house tarot readings this month, Saturday, July 25, at Next Millennium in Omaha, Nebraska, from noon- 4pm.

Next Millennium
3141 North 93rd ST
Omaha, NE 68134
(402) 393-1121

Creations by Isabella

This month we're featuring her whimsical poppets.  Some of these poppets have already been sold.  To see what's available and/or to make a purchase

click  Here

Isabella (aka Anne) is a licensed tattoo artist at Viking Tattoo in Omaha, Nebraska.  Her schedule has changed this summer and you may want to give her a call to determine her availability.

Viking Tattoo
2440 S 120th St
Omaha, NE 68144
(402) 334-2778

 Wytchy Wares

 The long awaited
handfasting box is up and available.

For more information, or to view/purchase this box,

click  Here

Our Summer So Far

This is our Big Boy, Basil, relaxing on the back porch among my rocks and stones.  He is a 20lb tomcat with the irascible, cranky temperment of an old man.

Below you will find links to blogs that I've posted with photos and updates of our activities, just click on the titles:

Our Garage Sale
(It was unusual, to say the least.)

Belly Painting
(Isabella did one for me.)

We enjoyed a trip to the zoo this June, just a day or two before the city would be plugged with traffic for the College World Series-- the stadium is right across the street from Henry Doorly Zoo. 

You can come along for the ride, through part of Omaha with me and the girls, starting near the Mutual of Omaha building on West Dodge Road, past the Old Market area, and winding up at Henry Doorly Zoo-- and that spot you see on my windshield is where a big bug met his demise.  Unfortunately, I wasn't paying attention or I would've used my windshield wipers to wash him away...

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUVOMhLTz8I

We were so close to this white tiger, maybe just three or four feet away, close enough to have reached out and touched him:

Something about this big boy reminded me of our own Basil, pictured above:

The gorillas are fascinating and just human enough to make me feel uncomfortable watching them in confinement sometimes.  The girls and I have noticed that when they have to go to the bathroom, they'll find as private a spot as possible and usually turn their backs to the public.

This is Mosbu, a 28 year old huge silverback.  He is, at times, obviously bored and often irritated by some of the behaviour of the human beings watching him.  The girls and I noticed that some of the people who pass through are disrespectful of their fellow creatures, and Mosbu comes out way on top when it came to maintaining one's dignity.  This picture was taken through a curved glass.  We spent almost an hour just sitting and observing these magnificent creatures. 

In spite of the heat, we enjoyed a walk through the Serenity Garden.  It's filled with beautiful flowers, lush foliage, and loose parrots.

This beautiful bird was pretty blase about the activity around him, and even though these birds are loose, they don't seem at all interested in leaving their area.

We hope you all are enjoying your summer!

Updates:

 Two pages at TWC have undergone complete facelifts:

http://ladyamythyst.webs.com/divination

&

http://ladyamythyst.webs.com/wytchywares

July Birthdays

We have two birthdays this month:  my step-son will celebrate on July 12, and our "Resident Elf" will turn nine on July 21.

Happy Birthday!

Sources:

Some of the material above was taken from some of the following sources.  All of the books listed below are highly recommended reading...

"Spells Dictionary" by Antonia Beattie
"The Element Encyclopedia of 5000 Spells" by Jukika Illes
"Crystal, Gem, & Metal Magic" by Scott Cunningham
"Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs" by Scott Cunningham
"Moon Magic" by D.J. Conway
"The Spells Bible" by Ann Marie Gallagher

Follow the links above to view/purchase these books.

June and the Summer Solstice, also known as Litha--- When daylight prevails, when fairies traditionally make an appearance, when midsummer calls to those with a 'wyld' nature, like the pagans and heathens of ancient times.

Traditional Foods:
Garden fresh fruits and vegetables are made into a variety of dishes and eaten by Pagan's who choose to celebrate this day.

Herbs and Flowers:
Mugwort, Vervain, Chamomile, Rose, Honeysuckle, Lily, Oak, Lavender, Ivy, Yarrow, Fern, Elder, Wild Thyme, Daisy, Carnation.

Incense:
Lemon, Myrrh, Pine, Rose, Wisteria.

Woods Burned:
Oak

 The summer solstice at our house is generally celebrated with a bonfire and food-- any excuse to rev up the grill and have a holiday feast. :)

Hauntings

Ghosts Among the Playgrounds

Barnard Park

Fremont, Nebraska

In the early days of Fremont, the site of this lovely little park was the city cemetery.  When land was purchased for a new cemetery on the west edge of town, not all of the bodies could be found to be relocated.

Here is a brief history for this park, taken from Omahaunt.  At the following website, you can also read comments and experiences left by people who have visited or live near Barnard Park, as well as view photos of the area:

click  Here

The History

(courtesy of Omahaunt)

"Barnard Park was used as a camp for Mormons on the Mormon Trail. It was once a cemetery as well. The city turned the cemetery into a park but did not move all of the bodies. Some of the grave sites were not adequately marked and it was impossible to find some of the bodies.

A woman and her daughter were traveling on the Mormon Trail and spent the night at the camp that was located at Barnard Park. This woman’s daughter apparently died at the camp.

The Haunting:
Figures reportedly can be seen passing through the park.

People have reported seeing a ghostly woman who is crying. There have also been reports of a ghostly man observed lying down on a park bench."

The following photos and video are my own...enjoy!

Barnard Park, one of the entrances.  This is a fairly small park.  It only fills one city block.  There was a roaring wind on the day of our visit; you'll hear it in the video below.

The gazebo is fairly new addition to the park, added sometime in the last 3-4 years, I believe.

This is an historical marker for the Mormon Pioneer Trail, located at the north end of the park.

The best thing about an old park is the mature trees.  Our visit was early enough that they weren't all leafed out; as a matter of fact, the grass had only begun turning green not long ago and the flowering trees in the background carried only a hint of color to tell us what was to come.

Spells of the Month

Litha

Flame Talisman Spell

(To draw energy and strength from the sun)

Purpose:  To gain energy that you can carry right through to the winter solstice.

Background:  Litha, or the summer solstice, celebrates the sun at the height of its powers.  On the longest day, we honor the strength of the sun just before the days begin to shorten again.  It is generally well known that the sun has some positive physiological effects on humans:  at this time of year we are generally more outgoing, happier, and healthier.  This spell enables you to capture some of that sun power to carry with you...

You Will Need:

One red candle, 6-8 inches long

One white candle 6-8 inches long

Matches or a lighter

One sharp iron nail

One plain copper disk with a hole through it

One 24 inch length of fine cord

One tea-light candle in a jar

Timing:

Cast this spell at Litha—the Summer Solstice

Casting the Spell:

As part of your Litha celebrations, work the first part of this spell indoors in a properly cast circle prior to going out overnight to await the Litha sunrise.

1.  Light both candles.

2.  Using the nail, inscribe on the disk a circle divided by eight lines, meeting in the center and overlapping at the edge. 

3.  Hold the disk in your left hand, the  cover it with your right and close your eyes.  Focus on the after image of the candle flames behind your eyelids.  Visualize it moving through your body to your solar plexus and through hour hands into the disk.

4.  Thread the pendant, and take it with you to greet the sunrise.

5.  Place it on a rock next to the tea-light candle which should be lit as dawn breaks.  As sunlight strikes the pendant, raise your arms and say:  “Ignite the sacred Fire within”.

6.  Wear it until the winter solstice.

Attracting Fairies

Timing:  Although you can summon fairies any time you are performing rituals or working magick that can use their energies, the best time for invoking fairies is during the equinoxes and the solstices.

Hour:  dawn, dusk, noon, midnight...these hours create natural ‘thresholds’ of time.

Herbs:  rosemary, lavender, and marigold

Symbols:  The symbol used for invoking fairies is the ‘heptagram’, a seven point star that’s used for elven and fairy magic.

*Note—remember to thank the fairies for answering your summons or lending their energy to your spell crafting by leaving them silver coins or a bowl of sweet milk.

For several years I prepared my cauldron with the herbs above, as well as a white candle, and we burned an image of the heptagram in the dark of night, near the midnight hour, beneath the apple trees in our backyard.  My son would then take up his watch in a lawn chair beneath the tree, watching the candle burn itself out, and watching for the illusive and magickal creatures to make an appearance.  Once in a while he would have an unusual and interesting experience, whether this was real or his imagination doesn’t matter, it left lasting impressions with him—and that is what magic is all about.

Blessings,

Lady Amythyst

The June Moon

"Mead Moon"

Following are correspondences to be used when spell crafting for the full moon in June.  The more correspondences you have running throughout your spells, the faster they work and the more efficient they are. These correspondences hold the essence and energy of the Mead Moon...

Nature Spirits:  sylphs, zephyrs

Herbs:  skullcap, meadowsweet, vervain, tansy, dog grass, parsley, mosses

Colors:  orange, golden-green

Flowers:  lavender, orchid, yarrow

Scents:  lily of the valley, lavender

Stones:  topaz, agate, alexandrite, fluorite

Trees:  oak

Animals:  monkey, butterfly, front, toad

Birds:  wren, peacock

Deities:  Aine of Knockaine, Isis, Neigh, Green Man, Cerridwen, Bendis, Ishtar

Power Flow:  full but restful energy; protect, strengthen, and prevent.  A time of Light; Earth tides are turning.  Decision-making, taking responsibility for present happenings.  Work on personal inconsistencies.  Strengthen and reward yourself for your positive traits.

Herb of the Month

Marigolds

Folk Names:  Bride of the Sun, calendula, Drunkard, Goldes, Holigolde, Husbandman’s Dial, Marybud, Marygold, Mary Gowles, Ruddes, Ruddles, Spousa, Solis, Summer’s Bride

Gender:  Masculine

Planet:  Sun

Element:  Fire

Powers:  Protection, Prophetic Dreams, Legal Matters, Psychic Powers

Magical Uses:  Marigolds, picked at noon when the Sun is at its hottest and strongest, will strengthen and comfort the heart. 

Garlands of marigolds strung on the doorposts stop evil from entering the house, and scattered under the bed they protect you while asleep and make your dreams come true, i.e., give you prophetic dreams.  Especially effective in discovering a thief who has robbed you.

Marigolds added to the bath water help win then respect and admiration of everyone you meet.

Looking at the bright flowers strengthens the sight, and carried in the pocket, marigold helps justice to smile favorably upon you while in court.

If a girl touches the petals of then marigold with her bare feet, she will understand the languages of the birds.

* To see fairies, pick a marigold, mix it with water and dab on your eyelids.

Stone of the Month

Tiger's-Eye

Element:  Fire

Associated metal:  Gold

Powers:  money, protection, courage, energy, luck, divination

Magical/Ritual Lore:  Roman soldiers wore tiger’s-eye engraved with symbols for protection during battle.

Magical Uses:  Tiger’s-eye is a fine stone for promoting wealth and money.  A simple money spell involves empowering several tiger’s-eyes with your need for money.  Use them to surround a green candle.  Light the candle and visualize.

They are also carried for protection against all forms of danger.  A tiger’s-eye cabochon set in gold is a fine protective ring or pendent.

Ruled by the Sun and possessing a golden flash of light, tiger’s-eye is worn to strengthen convictions and create courage and confidence.

This is a warm stone, and it promotes energy flow through the body when worn.  It is also beneficial for the weak or sick.

Sit outside on a sunny day.  Hold a tiger’s-eye in your hands and gaze at the flashes of light.  Still your conscious mind and look into the future.  Or, use the stone as a tool to delve into past lives.

Creations by Isabella

featured item:

Isabella is a talented artist who works with many mediums.  She has produced both sculpture and ceramics, and she combines these two artforms in the work offered below, to produce a haunting pair of goblets:

(Height approx. 6 inches, sold as a set.)

$80.00

Tattoos & Dragons & Artistry

We recently made a trip into Viking Tattoo, where our Isabella gave hubby his fifth tattoo.  It's a 'yin yang dragon'...

   Setting up

Isabella drew this piece on freehand.  She does some of her best work this way. 

The outlining is complete, now all that's left for her to do is fill in the color... 



Voila'! 


I've added a short video of this process at myspace:

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=57706625

You will find Isabella (aka Anne) at: 

Viking Tattoo
2440 S 120th St
Omaha, NE 68144

(402) 334-2778

Wytchy Wares

Magickal Box #4
(Kuan Yin & the Lotus)

This exquisitely feminine, square, one compartment box is inspired by the Goddess, Kuan Yin, and the most feminine of flowers...the Lotus.  The dimensions for this box are:

Height 5 3/4"     Width 5 3/4"     Length 5 3/4"

The following items are included with this magickal box:

1 round "Mother Peace" tarot deck
1 Mini Chakra Kit
One 7 1/2" pink female figure candle
4 small taper candles/pink & red
1 candle holder
1 heart-shaped stone: rose quartz
Feng Shui bells
5 incense cones
Herbs: rose petals/yarrow/apple blossoms
1 bottle sex oil

*Note: The Sex Oil is not ment to be consumed!  This formula is prepared for monogamous couples and one of the ingredients is poisonous.  It also is not meant to be applied to the skin.  Use this oil to dress candles for love spells, an extra dash of lust, or a gentle push for a hesitant lover.

The Chakra kit included with this purchase contains a pouch with seven stones associated with the Chakras and a black cord necklace, as well as an informative booklet.

 To view the 'Mother Peace' tarot deck and learn about it's creators, you can visit their website:

http://www.motherpeace.com/

"Kuan Yin/Lotus Magickal Chest"

(only one available)

June Special:

$75.00

Tarot Tips

Nine of Swords

Anxiety, nightmares, worry and stress...this is the traditional meaning of this card.  When this comes up in a reading, we can usually determine what areas of your life, or even what specific event or person may be contributing to this stress and anxiety that are biting at your heels. 

Other meanings for this card may well be—too much coming at you at once; deliberately sticking your head in the sand—ostrich style...this never makes problems or issues go away, they just ferment and become more troublesome and stinky; health issues—depending on the cards surrounding it; abusive relationships/stalking/cruelty; and paranormal hauntings.

To receive tarot readings from Lady Amythyst,

click  Here

June Tarot Special!

I'm offering the three card spread at $5.00 a reading through the entire month of June.  This is a marvelous opportunity for someone who has never received a reading to experience one at lower prices.

This is also an exellent opportunity for those single questions.  Receive quick answers, deeper insight, and new revelations that will assist you in decision making, reveal new paths yet to be explored, and expand your horizons in so many positive ways.

(One question is allowed with this spread, or one topic applied to it-- such as health, finances, romance, etc.)

Three Card Spread

$5.00

Updates at The Witch's Corner

Crystals & Stones
http://ladyamythyst.webs.com/crystalsstones.htm

Coven of Bristolwicks
http://ladyamythyst.webs.com/covenofbristolwicks.htm

"And ye' shall meet in a secret place..."

June Birthdays!

Our family is loaded with birthdays this June...

My oldest daughter celebrates on June 29,
my daugther-in-law on June 14, and a grand-son on June 28.

Credits:

Happy Beltaine!

 Beltaine is an ancient fertility festival connected with the Sacred Marriage between Goddess and God, Priestess and Priest, King and Queen.  The maypole, still popular today in the festivities on May first, is a phallic symbol, the colored ribbons representing the life-giving energy that flows forth from sacred copulation.  This is also a good time of year to honor the guardian house spirits.*

The Pagans of ancient times were unencumbered with the unnatural sexual views of the Roman Church; and this was a night that would burn bright with bonfires, merriment, music, and the happy copulation of couples in love.  Their lovemaking among the groves and fields was thought to bestow fertility on the land and ensure healthy and abundant crops for the year ahead.

"Beltaine" is more commonly known as "May Day" in our modern world. 

*For more information, or a Beltaine Ritual, click  Here.

Herb of the Month

Lilac

(Syringa vulgaris)

Folk Name:  Common Lilac

Gender:  Feminine

Planet:  Venus

Element:  Water

Powers:  Exorcism, Protection

Magical Uses:  Lilac drives away evil where it is planted or strewn, and indeed in New England lilacs were originally planted to keep evil from the property.  The flowers, fresh, can be placed in a haunted house to help clear it.

Lilacs are one of my favorite flowers and have been since childhood.  My grandmother had a tall stand of mature untrimmed lilacs, both at the country home we lived in, as well as her house in town.  The scent of lilacs immediately takes me back to pleasant childhood memories.

I spent many happy hours beneath these majestic old bushes playing with my dolls and gathering blossoms to take indoors.

Stone of the Month

Kunzite

Energy:  Feminine

Planets:  Venus, Pluto

Element:  Earth

Powers:  Relaxation, peace, & grounding

Magical Uses:  "...Kunzite is a fairly "modern" stone-- no ancient sources mention it.  Yet it has quickly garnered acclaim with a few magical uses by those who have worked with it.  The best quality kunzite seems to be the lilac-shaded pieces.  It's said that the color will fade if exposed to sunlight too long.

Magically, Kunzite is held or worn to induce relaxation.  It releases tension, soothing those muscles in which we often carry the effects of daily stress.  Passing the stone over tension-ridden parts of the body unknits the muscles."

 Other magickal uses for kunzite include-- placing a piece near your work area, holding it in your receptive hand to relieve stress, placing it in the car to insure safety and peace while driving, carrying it to reduce anger, nerves, or fear.  It's also used to attract love.

(My own Kunzite crystal.)

Spell of the Month

Love Spells:

In keeping with the theme for May, we're going to showcase a few love spells.  A couple of these spells are called 'mutual binding spells', that is both parties are aware of the spells and cast them in tandem with each other. 

However, love often has a way of needing a helping hand, a little push, or perhaps some masterful manipulation at times; and that's why I'm going to include a couple love spells that are out-right binding spells.  For those who follow the Wiccan Rede to the letter, you might want to turn a blind eye to these. ;)

Ancient Irish Hair Binding

In ancient Ireland, it was customary for a man to braid a bracelet from his hair and give it to the woman he loved, a gift of trust-- knowing what can be done to someone magically if you possess their hair.  The binding is not activated unless she accepts the gift, thus accepting him and agreeing to the spell.  This is not a binding that can be imposed on another.

Knot Binding Spell for Two: A Cooperative Effort

This binding spell ensures that a couple remains together.  It will also counter efforts by others to sunder your love, thus serving as a simultaneous protection spell.

1.  One partner takes a handkerchief or square of cloth and ties two knots in it.

2.  The other partner ties two more knots.

3.  Both parties together now take these four knots and tie them together to make one big, tight knot:  both parties pulling so that the knot is as tight as possible.

4.  Keep the charm in a safe place.  Dress it with a love oil periodically.

5.  If at some point you do wish to separate, untie or break the knot.

Conjure Bag Binding

(A conjure bag to bind a lover.)

1.  Draw or cut out a paper heart.

2.  Write both your names inside it.

3.  Annoint the paper with *'Command & Compel Oil'.

4.  Place it inside a conjure bag.

5.  Add a photograph of your love or one of the two of you together and happy.  Also add a lodestone or a piece of rose quartz and a small magnet.

6.  Add two roots: angelica, or a substitution with feminine energy, to represent the woman; High John the Conqueror, or a substitution with masculine energy to represent the man.  Tie them together with red thread or ribbon, knotting securely.

7.  Keep this bag hidden beneath your mattress, annointing with more oils as needed.

*(You can purchase Command & Compel Oil  in this newsletter-- scroll down.)

Apple Binding

1.  Cut an apple in half horizontally to reveal the hidden star (pentacle) in the center.

2.  Spread each half with honey.

3.  Take a lock of hair from each person's head, braid them together and place on top of one half of the apple.

4.  Bring the two halves together, sandwiching in the honey and hair. Bind them together securely with a red silk ribbon, making several strong knots.

5.  Bury this apple in the Earth, preferably in a romantic spot.

The Hare Moon

The full moon of May is known as the "Hare" moon.  And considering the signifigance of the Beltaine holiday, it's not surprising, since the hare represents fertility.

Below, you'll find correspondences for the Hare Moon.  Take these into consideration when practicing magic during the month of May:

Nature Spirits:  faeries, elves

Herbs:  dittany of Crete, elder, mint, rose, mugwort, thyme, yarrow

Colors:  green, brown, pink

Flowers: lily of the valley, *foxglove, rose, broom

Incense:  rose & sandalwood

Stones:  emerald, malachite, amber, carnelian

Trees: hawthorn

Animals:  swallow, dove, swan

Deities: Bast, Venus, Aphrodite, Maia, Diana, Artemis, Pan, Horned God

Power Flow:  full creating energy; propagation; intuition; contact with faeries and other supernatural beings; strengthening connections with supernatural protectors and beings around you; connecting with powers flowing from the Greenwood Gods and trees 

*(Warning:  Foxglove is poisonous and can be absorbed through the skin.  Wear gloves and use common sense and caution.  Foxglove is also known as 'digitalis', and is used to regulate the heart beat.)

Creations by Isabella

May Special:

 This beautiful three dimensional sculpture, created by Isabella, carries the spirit of the Sea Goddess and the power of the element of Water.  It's inlaid with real seashells and colored glass stones.

Height 8"  Width 6"

 Along with this beautiful sculpture, I'm including a free tarot reading, a 12 card spread, making the total value of this offer $150.00.

Sea Goddess Sculpture/Tarot Reading

$120.00

Wytchy Wares

May Special:

Command & Compel Oil

(Also referred to as 'commanding oil'.

This is the oil required for the 'Conjure Bag Binding' spell above.  Before ordering this oil, please read the disclaimer below:

*Note:  The newest additions of magickal oils are down to earth, nitty gritty, and meant for both benevolent as well as malevolent intentions.  These oils are based in the Hoodoo tradition, with notorious reputations.  These oils are not for show, they’re for the serious practitioner.  They may have unique odors and contain odd objects.  Be aware that some of the ingredients for these oils are sulpher, calamus root, cayenne pepper and other maliferous, poisonous, or irritating ingredients.  Keep these and all magickal oils out of the reach of children and pets.

 Command & Compel Oil

$30.00

Tarot Tips

Six of Pentacles:

From:

"The Mists of Avalon"

Beltaine