This should tide you over until the 26th.

Many points. Oh! So many points!
First, incredibly overdue update on that annoying abortion ban that keeps coming back like a bad case of eczema. About two or three posts ago, I asked you to speak up for all women's rights to choose. They are our bodies, let us decide. Though, regrettably, I am unsure of the state of things right now, I saved the following email so that I could cut and paste for those of you who care. My email is on the Planned Parenthood mailing list, so I receive updates and newsletters periodically. That is my source. The email is at the end of this post. At one point, she refers to "my" senator. That would be the senator for Massachusetts. YEA! *^_^*

Second, even though it should have been first and, as this is a Pagan blog, should have been yesterday: HAPPY YULE!!!!! *^_^* Did everyone enjoy their extended sunshine, today? I know I was greatful for it. I'm a bad little witch because I didn't ritualize. In fact, I cleaned my floors (though I did meditate on sweeping out the old and making it all new and shining for the birth of the Horned One) and wrapped Christmas gifts.
*Shock! Horror! Gasp!* Yes, I still celebrate Christmas. We all know that it's a bastardization of Yule and that the symbolism is still intact. Besides, what's a witch to do when the rest of her family is either borderline Christians, Athiests and rational thinking scientific minds who want to believe, but just can't shut off that part of their evolved minds? I hold nothing against any of them, as they do me the same kindness. Heck! Some of my family members were practicing witches at one one point! I digress. Wrapping gifts, listening to a Pandora Christmas music station and having my tree lit after widening the drive certainly brought my holiday cheer up a few measures. It's all about love, sharing that love and time with those around you and gifts anyway, right? Well, not as much the last bit, but, admit it; without gifts, it just isn't the same. No, you don't have to admit it aloud. *~_^* Also, I recorded "Blue Christmas" and "Baby, It's Cold Outside" and posted them on my YouTube page. They're not great, but I hope to take voice lessons in the next year...maybe...

Third, work has been busy! We're operating on a skeleton staff. (Alright, boys and girls, let's bring our minds back from the worlds of He-Man and She-Ra.) So we are all doing things that need to get done that we wouldn't normally be doing. I was asked to move the playhouses, kids' tractors and toys to the covered pavilion area since the first blizzard was on its way. I also had to grab two guys to help me move the outdoor parrot cage under cover. Yup. It's that big. My bosses are really great people, so a few extra tasks are no big deal. Besides that, I had to make sure that everyone was winterized and ready for the storm. Heater buckets for water must be in working order. The outlets the are plugged into must be in working order. Everything must be under cover. Doors must be either shut and barracaded or open slightly but still barracaded from the wind and snow. Check. Check. Check and Check. I also had the attach and screw in the top half of a door on the duck, guinea hen and chicken coop. Hopefully, having been off for the past three days, everyone is alright and everything still works. *crosses fingers*

Fourth, I baked cookies for one of our neighbors. He was nice enough to have helped out with his snowblower on the second shoveling of the driveway. I think they'll be delivered in person tomorrow. If I wait any longer, I may have to bake a new batch. Also, having stocking candy in the kitchen isn't a very good idea. I may have to buy another bag tomorrow. Ugh! Sugar has always been a difficult thing for me to turn down. The holidays make it especially hard. *U_U* Why, hello again 10 pounds that I had lost last year! I was wondering when you'd return. We'll see if I can keep them off and then some? I'm planning on tightening the purse strings further for the winter, as I will be working one less day a week. I know I can get by without changing anything, but why only get by when I can be frugal, save money and be ready in case I need a few extra bucks down the line?

Fifth and sixth, my dentist appointment was changed because the hygienist was not available that day (two hours before my appointment.) So it is now in February. In addition, no news on the guy front. Everytime I go in and don't need his services, he's there. When I do need help, he's nowhere around. Maybe I'm being paranoid, but I'm hoping that he doesn't think I'm stalking him. *sigh*

That's all for now. Isn't it enough?! Haha! I love you all! And, by the way, welcome to the newbie followers! Glad to have you aboard. *^_^*

Great news — minutes ago, the Senate voted on the anti-choice Nelson/Hatch amendment to health care reform, and we won! Unlike the Stupak amendment that passed the House of Representatives, this amendment did not pass the Senate!

This is a huge victory — and your e-mails and phone calls helped make it happen. Thank you. While we still have a long way toward health care reform that ensures quality, affordable health care — including reproductive health care — for all, defeating the Nelson/Hatch amendment today was a big step forward.

More good news: your senator voted with us to defeat this amendment. Will you take just a moment to say thanks? Legislators hear from us so often before a vote — hearing from us after, saying thank you, really matters. It only takes a moment!

As you likely know, Democratic Senator Ben Nelson and Republican Senator Orrin Hatch were behind the anti-choice amendment, and the language was virtually identical to the Stupak amendment. As we saw during the vote in the House of Representatives, anti-choice groups were lobbying hard to pass it. But, the Senate agreed with us this time: eliminating choice for millions of women with private health insurance is a price we can't afford to pay for passing health reform.

Renee, we still have a long way to go. I'm certain that there will be significant hurdles ahead, and I'm glad to know, as always, that we can count on your help. Just for today, though, please know that we did something great together. Thank you.

Sincerely,


Cecile Richards, President
Planned Parenthood Action Fund

News...kinda.

For those of you that are wondering, "Where'd she go?" I'm here! However, this is a quick one. I will update very soon (tomorrow even...maybe.) I have been busy and tired and lazy. (You try doing all of that! It's hard!) All will be revealed, though nothing spectacular, as soon as I have time. Thanks for hanging in there, folks! *^_^*
Over and out.

Haha. Very funny, Jack.

Today, from 10 to about 2:15, Anam Cara and I hosted our second Faerie Workshop! We had planned a few days ago to say a temporary farewell to the Autumnal Fae as Winter's icy fingers wend their way 'round our homes. This, we thought, is the prime time to send out a respecful welcome to those of the Winter Court and leave it at that. The Unseelie Court, you see, makes up the majority of the Winter Faeries. We explained to our attendee that working with the faeries requires a very delicate balance and caution. The Winter faeries are, for the most part, beings you may acknowledge (it would be rude to ignore them when you work with the others during the rest of the year), but it would be best not to enter into any agreements with them. That being said, I must be a hypocrit and admit that I welcome Jack Frost and see myself working with him throughout this cold season. Though he is part of the Unseelie Court, not all of that ilk are inherently evil. In fact, some can be quite helpful. However, as they teeter on the fence, they are more pre-disposed to err on the side of malicious. Puck/Robin Goodfellow, for example is one of this "Unholy Court." Not all bad, but definitely michevious when given the opportunity and choice.
I digress.
As I knew what today's lesson would entail, I had it in my mind that Jack would be making an appearance of some sort. And right I was. Though just a dusting, I spied snow on the ground and cars on my drive to the center this morning. Also, before leaving, I had to let my car thaw a little bit, as I had to use two hands to open the door and let the windscreen artwork dissolve. "Sorry, Jack," I apologized as my wipers chipped the frosty fingers away. He'd be back.
He always comes back.
There, on the back step of Anam Cara's Sanctuary. Right there. See that glossy mat? Looks like a half-inch thick sheet of bumpy ice, huh? Good one, Jack. It's a real butte. So I stepped on it. And, "Whoop!" There I went. I thought that it was hilarious. Anam Cara and the attendee displayed looks of worry and voiced words of concern. But I was fine. All I could do was laugh. I wasn't hurt, nor am I feeling any ill after effects.
So, welcome Winter Court! And you got me, Jack. You got me good. *~_^* I think this winter will be quite interesting with you by my side.

For the love of the Gods and Goddesses!

Anti-choice senators are planning to introduce an amendment that would effectively ban abortion coverage for millions of women. Please stop them: http://www.ppaction.org/campaign/hcr09ssnh_af.

Alright! Change of Plans.

Well, now! Life has taken me by surprise and I find myself scrambling to catch up! This has helped me realize that a post a day, as a friend once told me, can be too restricting. As we are all different in our own, special ways, I opted to try it out for myself and found her observation accurate for me as well. This being the case, I have decided not to post birthday info everyday. In fact, I have decided to post only the days on which to Zodiacal ring turns. Seeing as this has already occurred, I will wait until Capricorn makes its entrance. I hope this does not throw anyone off. As I have mentioned in my disclaimer, all of the information was borrowed from Judith Turner's book The Secret World of Birthdays. It is in no way my work, although some bits I paraphrased, while most is directly quoted. If you feel slighted by this and want your specific birthday info, comment on the most recent blog before your birthday, and I will endeavor to have your specs up on your special day!
I trust everyone here understands, and I thank you for that. *^_^*
So, what has life thrown my way? Work! Holiday trees are in at the farm and one day a week is devoted to selling them. Today, I have cookies to bake, laundry, dishes and a cottage to clean. Not to mention finding a tree local to Auntie's home. Tomorrow is Christmas Tea with the fam, followed by tree trimming! Then, work Wed-Sat. On to Sunday; the second Faerie Workshop with Anam Cara. (Which reminds me, I need to touch base with her at some point this week!) Next Monday...we shall see what pops up! Next Tuesday is my first teeth cleaning in Goddess knows how long! Then, again, work, etc. I'm certain you can all guess how I look forward to next Monday? *~_^*
Alright, time to go research more Yule cookies to bake for tomorrow! OH! I need to find my winter decorations, today, too! After all, as the Almanac reads, "Jack Frost Visits" tomorrow. Must be ready for him, of course.

Cherish them and Give Thanks.

"I wish there was a spell to stop time." These are the words of a coworker stressed out by pet problems, family problems and holidays. She went on to explain that, were time to stop and stay as is was yesterday (a la Groundhog Day), her troubles would disappear. The impending death of one of her rats would never come a day nearer. Her sister, of whom I have heard many horror stories (of which I believe not-a-one; this girl has a strong tendency for lying) would never arrive on Thanksgiving for a week's stay. All calm in her life would not fly out of the window. These were her reasons for stopping time.
I can think of many other spectacular reasons for the removal of clocks, forming wrinkles and deadlines!
Raking one of the paddocks, I mused on her comment. Even if crippling Father Time were a feasible action, who would be so bold as to undertake the deed? Oh, manipulation magick! Once more your rear your unsightly, yet enticing form! As a child, there were many unfavorable moments that I would never care to keep day after day. However, those days when Auntie was telling me her spontaneous faerie tales, or our lovely visits to Grandma and Grandpa's home; those are the days I'd wish could last forever. Keeping my grandmother in brain function before Alzheimer's began creeping in unsuspectedly. Riding bikes with my best friend for a week in the summer of '96. Camping with Auntie, Uncle and sisters. The list goes on.
But what would I sacrifice? The Balance of the Universe would be thrown from its scale. Magic cannot be born of nothingness. As one takes, one must give. My own short stories would never be. Though I love my grandparents dearly, how tired they would be trying to keep us happy. And how much less we would appreciate those moments were they to live forever. Though the disease would never progress, neither would science and the possible cure of Alzheimer's. My dear friend would never become the dedicated teacher she is now, nor see her wedding day. A nice warm shower in a clean bathroom after camping for three days straight, anyone?
What would become of the future Universe? Of parallel Universes? Of the past? Surely the past would be changed somehow. If we could figure out a way to stop time, what would stop us from inventing time machines? I digress.
We all experience heartaches in the forms of loved ones' passings, losing jobs, leaving friends/loved ones behind in search of our futures, etc. We can all atest to familial annoyances, and don't you dare deny it. Calm is lovely, but only when you have had craziness with which to compare the silence. So much would be lost in our selfish wish to keep all as it is. What better day to take inventory of the aspects of our lives that we have and love, as well as those that may not be so happy at the time, but in the long run make us who we are meant to be? Make us strong, healthy, compassionate, kind, patient, understanding, empathetic, giving and older, among many other things. Today, Thanksgiving Day, think on and remember those that have gone before us to give us what we have today. Pay them the respect and love that are due them and recall the happinesses you once shared. Then, bring back your inventory of what you have now. Things can be hard. Life is difficult sometimes. Give thanks for the person you have become and the journey which you travel to become who you are meant to be.
I am thankful for, in no particular order:
~My Family. Things get stressful, even angry sometimes, but I would be lost without them.
~My Friends. No matter how long the silence between communications, we are always able to pick up where we left off, wiser and no worse for the wear.
~My Job. Past experiences have brought me to the happiness, albeit hardwork I live everyday. My worst day at the farm is better than my best day at any other job I've ever had!
~My Witch Cottage. I used to think on how my perfect little magickal cottage would be. Where I live now is not exactly as I had imagined, but I have the freedom to do as I will without the burden of land taxes or many other concerns a homeowner would have.
~My Path. Never have I had such peace in spirituality as I have found these twelve years past.
~The Earth. No other planet holds such incredible, living, breathing beauty as our green and blue Mother.
~The Ability to Learn and the Option to Continue Education. I think that this one is pretty self-explanitory. I'd like to add to this: the availabilty of potable water; the option (which may be severly hacked away, soon) to take care of my body as I, and only I see fit; abundant food and warmth. Many countries lack these seemingly simple, yet immensely important items and issues. People and animals suffer everyday in life or death struggles to reach these things we, in this country, so readily dismiss. Cherish them and Give Thanks.
(I will be posting yesterday's, today's and tomorrow's birthday info tomorrow. I apologize for any inconvenience.)
Happy Thankgiving, all!

Oh, Universe! You big jokster, you!

As you all know, I have my eye on a certain fella. Cute; good height; great smile; piercing, dark eyes; fashionable; similar sense of humor as moi; organized; single; etc. I psych myself up time and again to ask this guy out. However, no matter how much confidence I may muster, Madam Universe tells me, "It's just not time. Wait another two weeks, and I'll let you know then." Well, I'm finally heeding her suggestions and taking it down a notch or two. The next time I see him, I shall simply continue our small talk, but slip in questions about who he is, what he likes to do and so on. Maybe in a month or so I'll have everything in order so that the Universe thinks it right and proper to go ahead and make some sort of plans. Perhaps she's only stopping me because he has plans to ask me out instead. She does know how much I love a good romance.

"Why," you may be wondering, "didn't you ask him today, Renee?" Well, darling reader, that is because he was not even there today. *Sigh* Oh, Universe, you silly, silly girl!

Happy Birthday!
November 24
Gem: Topaz (loyalty in friendship)
Flower: Dark Geranium ("Allow yourself more freedom, when you yearn for it.")
Astral Color: Red ("passion, power, excitement, strength")
Color Need: Violet (empathy)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: "You need to be bathed in exotic scents that will give your imagination room to roam. Experiment with imported incense and tinctures to show the world what a spirited individual you are."
Tree: Palm (health, creativity)
Instrument: Tambourine, lyre
Composer: Schubert
Bird: Goldfinch (individuality, gentle, "shy in unsettled weather.")
Symbol: Crescent ("You are more likely to be influenced by the phases of the moon. Your easygoing manner leads you to peaceful situations.")
Health Scent: Orange Blossom (balance of all your worlds)
Favorable Foods: Almonds, apples, caraway seeds, chicken, savory
Lucky #: 5, 7
Best Month: February, June
Best Weekday: Thursday
Best Month Day: 6, 15, 24
Lucky Charm: "A religious token or card from any religion."
Compatible Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

*Reminder/Disclaimer: All information shared in the daily Happy Birthday posts is paraphrased
or taken directly (all items in quotes) from Judith Turner's book "The Secret World of Birthdays."
I do not own the info (I have my own copy of the book, but I do not claim any rights or ownership
of the information shared.) All of this is merely for the fun of sharing and the knowledge of any
astrological witches that may be reading. Thank you. *^_^*

Ode to a Drizzley Cape Day

Well, not really an ode. More of a mild appreciation. Little, dear Witch Cottage shows me the wonder of staying inside, but, though the morning clouds threatened the light rain that began around ten, the Dying Cape Fall beckoned me to stay out and about all day. My dental appointment went better than I had thought it would. Though I am told that four fillings are in order, the greatest push the Dentist made was for five teeth to be pulled. Now, before your mind conjures images of me with a mop of ratty, redneck hair and a gummy grin stretched from ear to ear, let me clear this up. Four of those teeth are my "wisdom teeth." They cause me no discomfort whatsoever, yet, since they are "crowding the back of my mouth" (as the Dentist put it), he suggested having them pulled to avoid any future problems. The fifth tooth, pain in the bum as it's been since 2001, is the sad remains of a botched, partial root canal. He apologized that he didn't think that there would be any success in saving it. I replied, "Oh! That's fine! I was going to ask that it be pulled, anyway!" Problem solved. I also have my first cleaning since...
Since...
Oh, gee! I'm not sure when! Now that my teeth are my responsibility (well, have been since I turned 18, but I'm a grand procrastinator), great care will be taken to prevent any horrendous damage. I'm looking forward to the cleaning, where the hygienist will teach me proper flossing technique, that I may take the best care in reducing future problems!
After the visit, I took my dad grocery shopping and off to the farm to finally show him where I work, introduce him to a few colleges and pet the animals I care for five days out of the week. He definitely enjoyed that! And I'm glad to have been able to give him that little bit of joy and reminiscence of his formative years. When I took him home, he had two oil lamps, three long wicks and about a half of a bottle of lamp oil for me! Yea! I light Witch Cottage with oil lamps and candles whenever possible. I only use my electrical lights when I'm getting ready for bed. That may change now that I have a little more oil. *^_^* In fact, I type all of my evening entries by lamp and candle light. I love it! The two lamps he gave me were from my childhood. Granted, my parents probably acquired them long before I was born. However, they were what we used whenever the tornado warnings got so threatening that the power was knocked out when we lived in Michigan. Also, we had to use them for light during three days (I think, it may have been four) in the winter of 1997. It was the second winter here on the Cape and the power was out for a while! Of course, it just had to be during Christmas vacation, so we didn't have any extra snow days. *U_U* We were really lucky, though, to have a fireplace; something we didn't have in our home in Bad Axe. I digress. They shall be cleaned up, filled when I have more oil and happily introduced into my evening routine.
From Dad's, I met up with Youngest older Sis in town, later met with Auntie, and enjoyed a long, leisurely lunch at the Common Ground. I just LOVE their "Prince Wrap!" Their tofu is always so meaty and juicy! Yum! *^_^* After a bit of hanging out around town, we all realized our exhaustion and heading home. The winter Holidays are coming, so we'll all be seeing more and more of each other.
Yea!

Happy Birthday!
November 23
Gem: Sardius ("unusual insights into (your) own heart")
Flower: Fuchsia ("good taste in style and your surroundings")
Astral Color: Red ("passion, power, excitement, strength")
Color Need: Violet (empathy)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: "You need to be bathed in exotic scents that will give your imagination room to roam. Experiment with imported incense and tinctures to show the world what a spirited individual you are."
Tree: Apple (creative, joyful, magical, happy)
Instrument: Viola, trumpet
Composer: Liszt
Bird: Flamingo (beautiful, wary of enemies, caretaker, peacekeeper/joy-maker)
Symbol: Triangle (balance of skills and abilities)
Health Scent: Peach ("This scent may balance your good qualities so that they equal your charm.")
Favorable Foods: Cabbage, chicken, oranges, pecans, rice
Lucky #: 5, 7
Best Month: February, June
Best Weekday: Thursday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A rabbit's foot or a white candle."
Compatible Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

*Reminder/Disclaimer: All information shared in the daily Happy Birthday posts is paraphrased or taken directly (all items in quotes) from Judith Turner's book "The Secret World of Birthdays." I do not own the info (I have my own copy of the book, but I do not claim any rights or ownership of the information shared.) All of this is merely for the fun of sharing and the knowledge of any astrological witches that may be reading. Thank you. *^_^*

That's why I love all of you! *^_^*

Tomorrow, I go to the dentist. I'm moderately excited. You see, this is the first dental appointment I've made for myself. Ever. The last one I had was in high school and was arranged by my mother. It was a botched repair, so, among the many other problems I'm hoping to gradually have fixed, that tooth is on my list of "Just Pull It Out!" Luckily, that's the only one on that list. I have other small cavities that are lightly visible to the naked eye. No clue how deep they run. Here's hoping everything can be fixed with a cleaning and a few, small fillings! *^_^*

I need to begin thinking about and researching my Yule Festivities. As the Solstice falls on a Monday this year, and my schedule was changed so that I have Mondays and Tuesdays off beginning next week, I can plan to party into the night! Of course, I'll probably be spending Yule at Anam Cara's Sanctuary as we do every big celebration (except Samhain.) This, however, means that we won't be partying deep into the night together because, well, let's face it, neither one of us are night owls. In fact, she is an early morning, rise-before-the-sun kinda gal, and I'm a rise when the sun hits my eyes creature of day. Even if there is no big party that night, the first full day of Winter will be wide open for great possibility! You see, now, why I must begin planning within the next few days? I am quite certain that every last one of you understands this fully and have already begun your own preparations and planning!
That's why I love all of you! *^_^*

Happy Birthday! If you have been reading these all along, read carefully today, as there has been a zodiacal shift! Have fun with it!

November 22
Gem: Emerald (love luck)
Flower: Gourd ("You tend to not be happy unless you have an overabundance of what you want.")
Astral Color: Red ("passion, power, excitement, strength")
Color Need: Violet (empathy)
Apparel Color: Purple ("reflects your giving personality," luck)
Fragrance: "You need to be bathed in exotic scents that will give your imagination room to roam. Experiment with imported incense and tinctures to show the world what a spirited individual you are."
Tree: Cherry ("constant new emotional awakenings")
Instrument: Bass, clarinet
Composer: Hayden, Wagner
Bird: Robin (social, friendly, adaptable, takes what it wants)
Symbol: Star ("You are full of inner brightness and stand out in any crowd. You will be seen as special.")
Health Scent: Vanilla (clean, stable)
Favorable Foods: Asparagus, buttermilk, cranberries, oats, salmon
Lucky #: 5, 7
Best Month: February, June
Best Weekday: Thursday
Best Month Day: 4, 13, 22
Lucky Charm: "A piece of material cut from something in your home."
Compatible Signs: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

*Reminder/Disclaimer: All information shared in the daily Happy Birthday posts is paraphrased
or taken directly (all items in quotes) from Judith Turner's book "The Secret World of Birthdays."
I do not own the info (I have my own copy of the book, but I do not claim any rights or ownership
of the information shared.) All of this is merely for the fun of sharing and the knowledge of any
astrological witches that may be reading. Thank you. *^_^*

What a gorgeous day we had today!

Anam Cara is off in Scotland having, what I can only imagine to be a grand time! This is me being jealous. Someday I'll get over there. One day we hope to go to Ireland together in search of faeries. I'm meant to get over to the British Isles and surrounding islands, but so far have not been allowed.
The first time was the most difficult to accept. It was my Junior year of high school and only a handful of us (students) and, I think, two teachers were set to go. I'd pretty much paid for the entirety of my trip. Then, it happened. The "9-11 attacks." One by one, parents pulled their children from the trip. Mine told me that if I still wanted to go and the trip was still on, they would let me. I think they knew that the trip wuldn't go through as planned. Luckily, I received a full refund. Since then, every attempt has been thwarted.
I wonder, though, if I should forego the Anime Boston trip and save what little money would be spent for a trip to the UK instead? The lands of mist call to me in sleep and waking dreams. The Fae have been waiting for so long. But I don't know. These are the decisions, it seems to me, that make your future. Personal history can be changed forever by choosing one path or the other. I've got until Ostara weekend to really decide, but if we want to book a hotel room for the convention, I need to decide by the end of December. We'll see, I guess.
Not much else is really new. I get to sleep in tomorrow and Monday. I have Thanksgiving Day off and get to hang out with the mojority of the most important people in my life! (Oldest Sis and her hubby won't be joining us as it is their wedding anniversary.) Then I begin my new schedule, of which one of my workdays will be set aside to sell Christmas trees all day long! Woot! I'll be coming home smelling like pine from next Saturday until the 24th! *^_^* My newest mermaid had a little work done last night, and I intend to get some coloring onto my other boys and girls either tomorrow or Monday. Two of my coworkers are leaving for home on December 1st. Sadly, we don't think they'll be back next year. They're both dears to work with and are damn good at what they do (which is EVERYTHING!) The farm will never be the same without them. *U_U* So it'll be me and five other people working the farm (not including the bosses and their sons) from the 1st until the Spring. So quiet in the Winter.
I suppose that's all for now. No revelations. Not too much in the way of magic...
For now. *~_^*


Happy Birthday!

November 21
Gem: Ruby (energy, friendship, happiness)
Flower: Hawkweed ("You grasp the significance of events more quickly than those around you.")
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Elm (willpower, strength, "the ability to stand alone")
Instrument: Trombone
Composer: Verdi, Mendelssohn, Schumann
Bird: Swan (protective)
Symbol: Wreath (special, shows compassion)
Health Scent: Rose (passion, warmth)
Favorable Foods: Cauliflower, fresh oyster, oats, pressed cheese, watermelon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 3, 12, 21
Lucky Charm: "A pen that someone else has already used."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Nothing very exciting...yet.

Happy Birthday!!

November 20
Gem: Sapphire ("This gem may help you find forgiveness from those you've wronged.")
Flower: Honeysuckle (generosity, devotion)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Maple (stability, intuition)
Instrument: Pipe organ, cymbal, drum
Composer: Handel, Bach
Bird: Stork (intelligent, strange)
Symbol: Cross (self-sacrifice, reconciliation)
Health Scent: Raspberry (universal harmony)
Favorable Foods: Cauliflower, fresh oyster, oats, pressed cheese, watermelon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 2, 11, 20
Lucky Charm: "Two 50-cent pieces. Give someone else one of them."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

It's a bit late in the evening, but...

Happy Birthday!
November 19
Gem: Turquoise (material wealth)
Flower: Hornbeam (you judge books by their covers)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Walnut (helpful, looking for change)
Instrument: Oboe, flute, clarinet, piano, French horn, organ, piccolo
Composer: Bohm
Bird: Bird of Paradise ("You will shine and love extraordinary circumstances.")
Symbol: Crown (dignified)
Health Scent: Strawberry (soothing, self-esteem, love)
Favorable Foods: Barley, black figs, cabbage, eggs, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 1, 10, 19
Lucky Charm: "A new penny in your shoe."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Oops!

I missed another birthday blog. My bad. Happy Birthdays!!

November 17
Gem: Chrysolite (clears away sadness and worry)
Flower: Laurel ("You tend to find victory even in defeat.")
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Pine (balanced/harmonious relationships)
Instrument: Cello
Composer: Mozart
Bird: Bobolink (talented solo or in ensemble, romantic, hunter, elegant, beautiful, constantly pleasant)
Symbol: Wings (you are content in being your own source of balance)
Health Scent: Almond (revitalizes, opportunities)
Favorable Foods: Barley, blackberries, dandelion, eggs, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 8, 17, 26
Lucky Charm: "Red ribbon in your wallet or doorway."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

November 18
Gem: Beryl (meditation, concentration)
Flower: Houstonia (contentment in Universal gifts)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Holly ("Beware that you are not carried away by your passionate nature. The only way to grow is to be open to new experiences.")
Instrument: Violin, tympanum
Composer: Gluck
Bird: Mockingbird (proficient, graceful, enthusiastic)
Symbol: Anchor (stability, strength, strong and committed relationships)
Health Scent: Lavender (trust from others, patience for you)
Favorable Foods: Asparagus, buttermilk, cranberries, fresh oysters, oats
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A US coin or a bill of any amount from the year you were born."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Random Undines

I'm sitting here, enjoying my tea and listening to Delerium. These are the moments of complete calm and release; when the Fae are poking my imagination and prodding my heartstrings. They asked me to share my original Undine artwork with you, Darling Reader. So, I have taken a few pictures of what I have done from the very first (created my senior year of high school) to the most recent (imagined just last year.) I hope that you enjoy. Those that are uncolored are unfinished.
Which is my favorite? "I could no sooner choose a favorite star in the Heavens!" (Bonus points if you can name that reference.) However, should I be forced to decide, the "MerQueen" (the last, and most recent peice) is the one I go back to stare at for extended periods of time. I don't know where they come from! Perhaps they merely haunt my dreams until my hand decides to capture their souls on paper. What a fun way to be haunted, though!
If you are very fond of my strange, haunting girls and boys, you might like to know that I would like to make prints and even shirts/bags emblazened with their vissages. Eventually, I hope, they will be available in my Etsy shop. Thank you for viewing. *^_^*

"Swimming Hot and Cold"Siren SongPufferManTroutMan

MerQueen

Happy Belated and Current Birthdays!

The Fair went off without a hitch. Everyone seemed to have done better this year, and I look forward to maybe displaying some of my own work at the next one.
I have here, for your enjoyment and information, two days worth of astrological birthday facts. I do hope that my posting Saturday's info a day early didn't throw anyone off. I had only just realized that I had done that!
As always, I share all of this from The Hidden World of Birthdays by Judith Turner. All items in quotations are taken exactly as they were published. All other info is paraphrased. If you are interested in reading more about your particular birthday astrology, Judith includes Spiritual Guides and a short column titled Judith's Insight.
Many, many apologies for the delays.
Please enjoy and Happy Belated and Current Birthday! *^_^*

November 15
Gem: Topaz (loyalty in friendship)
Flower: Laurestine (be sure to take of yourself or bitterness awaits you)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcome obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Palm (health, creativity)
Instrument: Tambourine, lyre
Composer: Schubert
Bird: Lark (unusual, but lovely song, extreme intellect)
Symbol: Crescent (heavy moon influence, calm, peaceful)
Health Scent: Orange Blossom (complete balance)
Favorable Foods: Blackberries, cabbage, oats, pressed cheese, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 6, 14, 15
Lucky Charm: "A religious token or card from any religion."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

November 16
Gem: Agate (health, longevity)
Flower: Mountain Laurel (personal ambition)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Sycamore (love, communication, honesty, committed relationships)
Instrument: Harp
Composer: Gluck, Brahms
Bird: Skylark (fair of appearance and voice, happy in work)
Symbol: None listed. (I would take this as a combination of The Devil and The Magician cards in a tarot spread. The Magician shows you that you have everything you need to make your life what you will. The Devil is only there to remind you not to waste it in holding yourself back.)
Health Scent: Jasmine (eases stresses)
Favorable Foods: Beef, black figs, buttermilk, celery, rye crisps
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "An old key."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Saturday and a long weekend ahead of me.

As usual, I'm due to work today from 8 to 4. However, today is the first day of the Artisans Fair that we hold at the farm. I've been the one primarily in charge of the organization and pulling off of the event. This is the second year that it's been my charge, as last year was my first year at the farm. The project was laid in my lap and I guess that it just became my baby. The thing is, if this is my event, why are certain little things getting under my boss's skin? I don't know. I'll just have to wait and see if he's in a better mood tomorrow so that I can explain why I did what I did and we can laugh it off.
I hope.
Also, after work, my other boss (my actual boss, since I work with the animals, not in the store or in the fields) has arranged for a meeting with two other people and me. It's not a bad meeting, but I will be tired.
Tomorrow, I would normally "sleep in" until 8. Instead, because I will be hanging out with Sis #s 1 and 2, as well as Auntie at the fair. Since I will be there at 8:30 (while the sises set up), I told my boss that I will just work the fair so they don't have to deal with it. I'm not writing down hours. I'm not looking for appreciation. I'm going to be there anyway, so why make it more difficult for the people working when it doesn't have to be? Plus, if I want to leave before 4, I can. I'll just pass off the info to the store people and leave. Done and done.
We shall see what the weekend brings as far as the man developments.

Happy Birthday!
November 14
Gem: Sardius (insights into one's own heart)
Flower: Yellow Lily ("You usually hate any hint of falsehood.")
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Apple (creativity, joy, magic, "you bring happiness")
Instrument: Viola, trumpet
Composer: Liszt
Bird: Flamingo ("careful of enemies", caretaker, "tries to keep everyone happy")
Symbol: Triangle (well-balanced)
Health Scent: Peach (balances good qualities with charm)
Favorable Foods: Barley, cauliflower, chicken, cranberries, eggs
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A rabbit's foot or a white candle."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Friday the 13th! Agh!!!

Heehee! Just kidding. Some of my best days were Friday 13ths. Go figure! And if today is your birthday, have a happy one. I'll share my good 13th luck with you! *^_^*

November 13
Gem: Emerald (love luck)
Flower: Field Lily (humility)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Cherry ("You will find yourself faced with constant new emotional awakenings.")
Instrument: Clarinet, bass
Composer: Haydn, Wagner
Bird: Robin (social, adaptable, grabby)
Symbol: Star (bright, special)
Health Scent: Vanilla (clean, stable)
Favorable Foods: Buttermilk, fresh oysters, rye crisps, spinach, strawberries
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 13, 22
Lucky Charm: "A piece of material cut from something in your home."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Minor Update

Well, I psyched myself up for the big moment today. I went into the building, and there were people everywhere. This "crowd" included what looked like this man's manager. I was not about to put him, and myself on display for everyone to see and hear. Not to mention the fact that I didn't want to ask him out in front of his boss and potentially get him into any trouble. Not a good way to begin a friendship with someone. So, still shaking from nerves, I turned around and walked right back out. Luckily, I don't think anyone noticed. Tomorrow, maybe.
Maybe.


Happy Birthday! Enjoy.

November 12
Gem: Ruby (energy, happiness, friendship)
Flower: Lichen (solitude)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcome obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Elm ("You have the willpower, strength and ability to stand alone." )
Instrument: Trombone
Composer: Verdi, Mendelssohn, Schumann
Bird: Eagle (quick, seemingly indifferent, perceptive)
Symbol: None listed.
Health Scent: Rose (passion, warmth)
Favorable Foods: Asparagus, oats, pressed cheese, salmon, watermelon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 3, 12, 21
Lucky Charm: "A pen that someone else has already used."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Wow! Nearly Half-Way Through November!

Happy Birthday!

November 11
Gem: Sapphire ("forgiveness from those you've wronged")
Flower: Lotus Tree ("blessings of effortless agreement between you and your friends")
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Maple (stability, intuition)
Instrument: Cymbal, drum, pipe organ
Composer: Handel, Bach
Bird: Stork (intelligent, misunderstood, pleasant)
Symbol: Cross ("self-sacrifice and reconciliation")
Health Scent: Raspberry (universal harmony)
Favorable Foods: Barley, buttermilk, dandelion, cranberries, chicken
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "Two 50-cent pieces. Give someone else one of them."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

So...I need a little advice.

Um, not Pagan related...yet.
*Blushes and grinds toe into ground bashfully* So, there's this guy I like.
He works somewhere I go often, and that is the only place I've seen him or talked to him. I didn't noticed a ring, but that's not always accurate. We laugh together, smile, I probably blush, we joke, etc. The problem is, I only see him every other week and it's only when he's working. Since I don't really see him outside of his job, I've never approached him about "hanging out sometime." I don't want to trap him either by broaching the subject while he's at work. We've been chit-chatting over the counter for about three months, now, I'd say. I don't know how to tell if he might be into me, too. I don't want to step on any toes. I haven't dated anyone for about two and a half years, now, and the last guy I dated was an old friend from high school who feelings were obviously mutual. I have no clue.
If you have any input, it would be appreciated. This is a place I have to visit all of the time, so I don't want to make it awkward for anyone involved, but I really think we could make a good couple...or at least we could have some fun dates and become good friends out of it.

Thanks! *^_^*

Good Morning *^_^*

Happy birthday!

November 10
Gem: Agate (health, long life)
Flower: Lotus (expressive)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Walnut ("unusually helpful and always looking for constant changes in your life.")
Instrument: Clarinet, flute, French horn, oboe, organ, piano, piccolo
Composer: Bohm
Bird: Bird of Paradise ("You will shine and love extraordinary circumstances.")
Symbol: Crown (dignified)
Health Scent: Strawberry (self-esteem, love)
Favorable Foods: Barley, beef, blackberries, celery, eggs
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A new penny in your shoe."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

A short Christmas Carol review and holiday reminder

Tonight, my father and I went to the new Christmas Carol film starring Jim Carey. Animation such as this irritates me immensely. I can only blame myself for not going to school for animation, but, come on! Sticking sensors all over an actor in order to get the movements down is one thing (which also gets to me). But not coming up with a completely different facial structure is just a slap in the face of the people who do appreciate good (real) animation skills. I understand that working with sophisticated equipment and making it work is something one must learn. However, take a little initiative and use your imagination. That's all. Otherwise, the film was actually quite good! I'm a fan of Jim Carey (excepting his Ace Ventura stage, but including his Mask...and I have a little crush on him...big surprise, right Jen and Auntie? :P) so I enjoyed his roles, for the most part. Though his Scottish and Irish accents were a bit lackluster, his overall performance, as well as those of the other cast members, were endearing.
I enjoy this story in all of its incarnations, as it is not so much a "Christmas" story, but rather an important point we all must consider, both at Yuletide, and all year long. Let's all love one another, now and forever. *^_^*

Happy birthday! I do hope that it was a grand one!

November 9
Gem: Beryl (helps meditation/concentration)
Flower: Lotus ("don't raise barriers between yourself and what you truly love.")
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcome obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Holly (don't let your passion carry you away/be aware of new experiences)
Instrument: Violin, tympanum
Composer: Gluck
Bird: Mockingbird ("proficient, graceful, enthusiastic)
Symbol: Anchor (strength, stability, commitment)
Health Scent: Lavender (strength and for others' trust in you)
Favorable Foods: Black figs, cabbage, oats, pressed cheese, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 9, 18, 27
Lucky Charm: "A U.S. coin or bill of any amount from the year you were born."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Gorgeous Day!

Thank you, everyone for your well-wishes! They've helped tremendously! I now feel as if I can function without wanting to take a nap all day long. Haha! My nose is still being a tiny bit stubborn, but that will pass quickly and easily, now. So, again, thank you all!
Totally not witchy, but can I just express my excitement for the upcoming Anime Boston Convention (on Easter weekend)? I'm already planning out outfits and have a hotel picked out. I just need to make sure I've got friends with me this time, as it is that much more fun with my closest friends to enjoy it with me. (Especially my sis. She doesn't know what she's getting into when we go to things like that, as she's not as into anime/manga as her boyfriend and me, but she's a trooper and a grand seamstress! I think she has as much fun as I do, just different fun, is all.) Okay, that's all! *~_^*


Happy Birthday!!! *^_^*

November 8
Gem: Chrysolite (banishes sadness and worry)
Flower: Lupine (imagination)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Pine (emotionally/mentally balanced relationships)
Instrument: Cello
Composer: Mozart
Bird: Bobolink (good alone or in a group, romantic, helpful, beautiful and pleasant)
Symbol: Wings (you are your own balance)
Health Scent: Almond ("may revitalize you and open you to greater possibilities")
Favorable Foods: Asparagus, chicken, eggs, rye crisp, strawberries
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "Red ribbon in your wallet or doorway."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Ah! Saturday, at last!

The beginning of my workweek was slow and easy. As originally typed, I left work early on Tuesday. Wednesday was a minimal work day, as I had found out that all of the Halloween decorations had not, in fact, been put away, but were shoved underneath some tables with other tables and stacks of chairs strategically placed en frente de. Muy frustrating! So that took up time I had allotted myself to do other, animal-related things. Ah, patience teachers, wherefore art thou? Why can't I just be frustrated? Well, why should I be, when I can turn it around and learn a lesson? So, instead of being angry that the people using the space were disrpectful of farm property, I took the chance to take another easy day to help my body recoup. Not too shabby, eh? Thursday, it seems, was a blur, as I cannot recall what it was that I did. Yesterday I worked like a bat outta hell and got many things accomplished! Today, well, I didn't get to what I truly wanted to do, but I did what needed doing and I am happy to say that it has been completed. *^_^* Also, funny story, my little boy (oldest of the two, young crias [baby alpacas] on the farm), the one who bonded to me at his birth, tried to mount me today while we were playing! Haha! Now, he's too young to have "those" urges, so I played it off as a dominance thing and just played back. So cute, though! Haha!
...
Alright, maybe I hang around with animals a little too much sometimes.
...
Is anyone else angry at the World Series pushing Glee off of the air for two consecutive weeks? It's the only regular television watching I do ever since Pushing Daisies was cancelled.

Anyhoo, Happy Birthday!!!
November 7
Gem: Emerald (soothes the connection of body/soul desires)
Flower: Marvel-of-Peru (cautious)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Sycamore (ability to love, communicate, cultivate long relationships)
Instrument: Harp
Composer: Gluck, Brahms
Bird: Warbling Parakeet (love, imitation)
Symbol: Heart (enthusiasm, empathy, generosity, love)
Health Scent: Jasmine (tames tension)
Favorable Foods: Barley, buttermilk, cauliflower, cranberries, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "An old key."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Happy Birthday!

November 6
Gem:Topaz (loyalty in friendship)
Flower: Mandrake (too afraid to enjoy life)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Palm (healthy, creative)
Instrument: Tambourine, lyre
Composer: Schubert
Bird: Falcon (hunter, adaptable, mostly obedient)
Symbol: Crescent (influenced by moon phases, easy going, peaceful)
Health Scent: Orange Blossoms (balance)
Favorable Foods: Barley, corn, eggs, fresh oysters, oats, watermelon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 6, 14, 24
Lucky Charm: "A religious token or card from any religion."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Can the week be over, now?

Has anyone else realized a major, Universe/mood shift? All of the animals are acting weird, I've been flighty all week and things just haven't been falling the way they usually do. I'm now half-stuffy, half-breathing. This has turned me into a mouth-breather. Great. While I try to find some of my herbal teas to put some of this to rest (along with a healthy dose of ibuprofen), please enjoy today's birthday info.
Oh, yeah! And have a Happy Birthday, or, rather, what is left of it! I hope it was all that you made of it!

November 5
Gem: Sardius (for "unusual insights into [your] heart")
Flower: Mimosa (you're too sensitive to criticism)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (balance, energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Apple (creativity, joy, magic, bringer of happiness)
Instrument: Viola, trumpet
Composer: Liszt
Bird: Flamingo ("careful of enemy", caretaker, peacemaker)
Symbol: Triangle ("You have the right combination of abilities.")
Health Scent: Peach ("This may balance your good qualities to equal your charm.")
Favorable Foods: Asparagus, barley, beef, cranberries, pressed cheese
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A rabbit's foot or white candle." (It does not specify color of said foot. However, I suggest the candle instead, as a sever limb from any creature hardly seems lucky!)
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

The fourth? Already?

Not much is going on, yet time slips on by. Here's the info for today's birthday people. Enjoy and Happy Birthday!

November 4
Gem: Emerald (for luck in love)
Flower: Mushroom (learn to trust loved ones)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (energy)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Cherry (you constantly experience emotional awakenings)
Instrument: Bass, clarinet
Composer: Haydn, Wagner
Bird: Kildeer (adaptability)
Symbol: Star (you stand out/are special)
Health Scent: Vanilla (cleanliness, stability)
Favorable Foods: Blackberries, buttermilk, cabbage, fresh oysters, oats
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 13, 22
Lucky Charm: "A piece of material cut from something in your home."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Home "sick"

I left work early today. Why? If you don't like reading about other people's sinus problems, I'd skip to the November 3 Birthday info. However, if you're a little twisted, read on! *^_^* Post nasal drip has been a problem for me for some ten years, now, I think. The volume has gone from very little to enough to make me nauseous in the morning, then back to very little many times. I get used to it. However, the times when it gets "heavy" are few and far between. However, I have been experiencing this for the last four days, now and it sucks. At first, I thought it was because of the way I was breathing, so my sinuses were a little sensitive. Since my throat never turned red or blotchy, and I never had a fever, and I felt that old familiar "mucus in the stomach" feeling, I knew that it was another post nasal drip episode. They usually only last for about a week, then it's back to normal. But how much did it suck feeling nauseous in the morning all weekend, then again yesterday and today? Very much, thanks for asking. I tried to push through work, but when the low to no-resistance tasks I had set up for myself were done, I knew that it was time to go home. I wasn't about to push myself feeling the way I did...just in case. I really just want my body to get rid of the gunk in my stomach and let me go! Lucky, I felt better today than I did for the past three, so tomorrow I'll probably be right as rain!

November 3
Gem: Ruby (for energy, friendship, happiness)
Flower: Mugwort (to show you that can have happiness whenever you want it)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth, beginnings)
Color Need: Red (energy, stamina)
Apparel Color: Green (overcoming obstacles)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or Mediterranean/Orient (passion, unpredictability)
Tree: Elm ("You have willpower, strength and the ability to stand alone.")
Instrument: Trombone
Composer: Verdi, Mendelssohn, Schumann
Bird: Swan (furious fighter when protecting loved ones)
Symbol: Wreath (strong, passionate)
Health Scent: Rose (passionate thoughts, warmth)
Favorable Foods: Barley, eggs, lemon, okra, salmon
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Month: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Day: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "A pen used by someone else."
Compatible Signs: Cancer, Pisces

Happy Birthday!

Auntie, whose birthday is today, held a lovely tea party yesterday in the late afternoon into the evening. Great fun was had by all, and I look forward to our family events getting back on track now that all of our other family stuff has been somewhat put to rest!
So, Auntie (and anyone else who may be celebrating today), Happy Birthday!!! For you, I wish only for deep happiness and love, the best day ever (so far for you, of course) and the most gorgeous weather you can imagine on your birthday.

(Anything in quotes is taken directly, word-for-word from the book)

November 2
Gem: Sapphire ("may help you find forgiveness from those you've wronged")
Flower: Mountain Ash (prudent in business)
Astral Color: Black (protection, birth and beginnings)
Color Need: Red (gives energy and stamina)
Apparel Color: Tan (for balance and harmony)
Fragrance: Cinnabar or other Mediterranean/Orient scents (for unpredictability)
Tree: Maple ("great stability and flashes of intuition")
Instruments: Pipe organ, cymbal or drum
Composers: Handel and Bach
Bird: Cockoo ("a good flyer, and very seldom a quitter. Some cuckoos tend to think they favor lonely isolation, but what they really yearn for is a family relationship.")
Symbol: Cross (self-sacrifice/reconciliation)
Health Scent: Apple (full of energy, encourages creativity, intuition and positivity)
Favorable Foods: Barley, buttermilk, cranberries, fresh oysters and mushrooms
Lucky #: 2 and 4
Best Months: January and July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Days: 2, 11, 20
Lucky Charm: "Two 50-cent pieces. Give someone else one of them."
Compatible Signs: Cancer and Pisces

***All information was taken from "The Hidden World of Birthdays" by Judith Turner.

All Saints'/Souls' Days and Happy Birthday Nov. 1-ies!

I feel a little mourning. What with the month-long festivities (both online and watching homes gradually become spooky labyrinths for trick-or-treaters), it all abruptly comes to a close and Christianity takes over the holiday (as with other sabbats.) I am not bitter.
Well, not completely. It's strange. I wasn't raised in a magical family, though many of the women on both sides of my family have tendencies toward magical work. Yet, I still feel a little slighted whenever the Pagan sabbats are overshadowed by the adaptations of Christian holidays. Perhaps it is my past lives speaking through me; feeling the oppression of the Church even now? Perhaps it is the frighten prospsct of the Health Care Reform Bill shutting out the well-being and choices of women based on their patriarchal beliefs? Whatever it may be, I need to overcome the feeling and enjoy each and every sabbat for what it is: the joy of life and the ever constant flowing circle it traces.
We are with you Crone in your season of death and sadness, as we have all lost those we love.
We are with you God in the Summerlands, as we all will wend our way to complete the circle.
We will all meet in the Summerlands someday.
So, anyway, today is All Saints' Day, and tomorrow is All Souls' Day. Both Christian versions of Samhain. The first is a celebration for loved ones lost that acheived Christian perfection in this life and have moved on to Heaven. The second is a day of work; prayer for those that have passed but did not make this life as it should have been according to the Bible. Those praying pray for the souls in Purgatory. (All of this info was read on Wikipedia.)
So, really, as you can see, the death of the God and the sadness of the Crone left behind are the building blocks of All Saints' and All Souls' Days.
Interesting side note: Leaving the heat so that passed souls on thier journeys might be warm on Samhain is something people used to do, other than merely leaving out food or lighting their ways. This is something I did not knw until this morning. This becomes especially interesting now. I woke up to my heater aflame. (I have a little gas heater hanging my wall in the living area.) Due to unseasonably warm (totally trick-or-treating weather!) air yesterday, I had no reason to turn my heat on. At least now I know why I was so hot last night. Also, it is lovely to know that my Aunt Kathy, and any spirits that may have been joining her made themselves at home!

Here's something kinda fun! Looking through my books this morning (though I could have slept in, I woke at 7:30, which, incidentally is now 6:30!), I saw The Hidden World of Birthdays book staring back at me. I haven't looked at this tome since it was given to me in a box of books of which someone was getting rid. How strange that it was talking to me now! So, here is what I have decided. Even if I have nothing to say, I will post a blog everyday until Halloween next year. In them, I will type out the attributes and other info about people born on every day of the year, according to this book! What fun! So I shall begin today.

November 1
Gem: Turquoise (Are you a material girl? This stone will help you find what you desire.)
Flower: Nasturtium (You are patriotic.)
Astral Color: Black (for protection, birht and beginnings)
Color Need: Red (for energy and stamina)
Apparel Color: Wine (for energy)
Frangrance: Cinnabar or other Mediterranean/Orient scents (for passion and unpredictability)
Tree: Walnut ("You are unusually helpful and always looking for constant changes in your life.")
Instruments: Oboe, French horn, flute, piccolo, clarinet, piano, organ
Composer: Bohm
Bird: Bird of Paradise ("you will shine and love extraordinary circumstances.")
Symbol: Crown (dignified)
Health Scent: Strawberry (promotes self-esteem and love)
Favorable Foods: Barley, beef, black figs, buttermilk, carrots (these are for health, not flavor)
Lucky #: 2, 4
Best Months: January, July
Best Weekday: Tuesday
Best Month Days: 4, 5, 23
Lucky Charm: "a new penny in your shoe"
Most Compatible Signs: Cancer and Pisces
**Again, this information was taken directly from this book. No copyright infringement intended. I didn't include all of the info, but rather, the quickest of which to make note.

Happy Haunting...Mwahaha! ^-_-^

Tomorrow is the big day! Samhain, Halloween, Witches' New Year, etc. I'll be at work as usual on Saturdays. However, one of the gals with which I work and I will be "dressing up" anyway. It's not as if I can wear a full costume while shoveling poo and planing the side of a door that is to be hung on a coop. BUT! I plan on wearing either a set of horns or my electric blue bob wig, or both. I also told her that I'd bring in both sets of horns, in case she wanted to wear a pair.
As of late, I have been lighting one of my oil lamps and a few candles instead of turning on lights as it gets dark. So that's one less thing I'll have to remember to do tomorrow night. I figure I'll bury an apple or two, do a little ritual, then head down to the local coffee shop to people watch. It's a very community oriented town I live in; I'm certain there will be tons of people roaming and having a ghoulishly grand time of it!
Well, we're all busy making ready for the big day/night, so I'll cut this one short here. Have a frightfully incredible Samhain/Halloween, kiddies! And don't let your mummies trick you into letting them check your apples for razors first. We all knew that was a lie! They were only after the good stuff. *~_^*

As Promised...Many Times Over

Here are a few pictures from the Pumpkin Carving
Party!





















Here, we have Auntie's sweet lil' pup! He's illuminated, but for some reason, I didn't have a picture with the room lights out.


This is big sis's Pug-kin! She wasn't particularly fond of the way her design came out, but I think it's cute! (If a little Fozzie the Bear-like.) *^_^*

Anam Cara's Sister-Friend shows us her starry night pumpkin! How clever; she pinned one of the cut out stars to the outside wall. Artsy lady.

Here's big sis #2 (I'm the youngest of we three girls, and all four children) mimicking her sick pumpkin. At least, we all thought it was pretty sick, man!

Anam Cara is working her way into her pumpkin. She brought one that her husband had grown himself and the walls were incredibly thick! Big sis #2 fixes her hair before digging in.

I've got videos, too, of the apple bobbing! Those will be on YouTube because I can't seem to load them here. Once they're up, I'll post a note letting everyone know.

Thanks for waiting! *^_^*

I Want It! *~_^*

So, Mrs. B over at Confessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom has been giving away some really amazing stuff this October! It's her 31 Days of Halloween fun, and apparently she does it every year! Goddess bless the woman for the patience and organization!
Well, as I was perusing what is up for grabs today, I came across one of the most amazing pieces of illustration artwork I have seen in this style since Reading Rainbow featured The Magic Eggs in the late-80s/early-90s! Check it out! It's a random drawing, of course, but I really love Mr. King's work. It's so beautiful and fresh, yet so familiar in its Victorian-Faerie-Tale-illustration inspiration!

In other news, I will be posting those pictures of the pumpkin carving party (finally! I know!) this afternoon, hopefully, as well as a few peeks into Witch Cottage for those of you that have been asking.

Blog ya then! *~_^*

Time Escapes Me

Just another lesson I am to learn. Or so Turtle has told me. That's right, yet another "move slowly and carefully" animal totem has shown up. Though Turtle means many other things, considering what Skunk and Snake have in common, Turtle can really only be talking to me for the same reason. There are other lessons I will take into consideration, but I'm assuming the common denominator is the most important one at hand and must be dealt with first.
Come to think of it, life, the day-after-day thing I've been going through has been flying by without my so much as batting an eye or wondering what could have been. Finally, Turtle has beaten me into submission and I will try my darndest to treasure each moment; each breeze against my cheek, every sudden hint of every subtle change of the seasons wafting past my nose, every single solitary sense of magical life in nature and within my being. These are things I don't always take for granted, but sometimes I'm rushing to my next task, rushing to get home, rushing to get inside Witch Cottage, rushing to go to bed, rushing to get to work, and on it goes. Sure, when I'm walking from one barn to the next, I appreciate all that I have. However, there is so much more I can do, so much more that I want to do, so much more I need to do and should do.
I'm looking forward to getting back into my "Merpeople" art, regular yoga at home, taking bike rides when possible (especially since Uncle spent the great majority of his last day off tweaking and fixing everything wrong with my old bike!) Of course, there are also my flute and harp to fiddle with, and I just adore them both. Now with Auntie and Uncle speaking what little Spanish they know to their teacup chihuahua, and with mis cositas magicas, a new follower from Espana reminding me that I did fairly well in Spanish in high school (since I can pick out certain words and phrases in her blog), I'm itching to bust out my Spanish-English/English-Spanish dictionary and old notebook! Then, of course, there is also Japanese and all of the wonderful tools I have to teach myself that intricate language as well.
So many hobbies and, as Skunk, Snake and Turtle now tell me, so little time. However, I must also remember to pace myself. No rushing. Enjoy it all. Soak it all in. After all, what's the rush?
Good night, Dear Friends. Sleep well and sleep in! *~_^*