Strawberries

From Butterflimoon's Kitchen:
Strawberries...
This fruit has been associated with love, romance, but it also has other associations.  It is a good source of vitamins and as it is easily digested it is helpful i treating a number of digestive ills.  It has been used to reduce fever and diarrhoea.  The roots are used in cases of diarrhoea and even to cure dysentery.  Note:  In this day and age...always consult a doctor.  A tea made from the leaves is held to ease the pain ofrheumatic gout.  Strawberries can be used to reduce sunburn: in mild cases rub a strawberry over the face jus after washing with tepid water; in moree severe cases rub the juice well in and leave half an hour before rinsing off.  Strawberries can also be rubbed over the teeth and gums and the juice left on for 5 minutes before brushing teeth with bicarbonate of soda to make the teeth whiter.  They contain many volatile oils and some people actually give off the scent after eating them, which is held to be attractive to the opposite gender.  In the past the leaves were used to fragrance the skin, the scent being compared to Musk rose and Violet. 
Strawberries are used magically in spells for love and luck.  Carry 3 of the leaves to attract good gortune.
Rub a deep pink candle with a Strawberry and light it to make your beloved think of you.
Please be aware that if using strawberries where someone else is concerned, that some have allergic reactions ... be careful, be safe, harm none.  (by K.W.)

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 29th, 2011
11:25 AM

A tea for calming...

From Butterflimoon's Kitchen:
When feeling anxious and the stresses of the day are seeping into your soul, try this simple ritual.  Be sure to find a quiet place where you can be alone to enjoy.
Say these words while stirring a bit of honey into chamomile tea (I love to use chamomile and lavennder together!)...and always stir clockwise (direction of adding)
"Anxious thoughts now flee and run,
 Bring back good cheer, laughs and fun!"

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 27th, 2011
10:52 AM

Hematite Charging

From Butterflimoon's BOS :  Hematite Charging
Note: always begin with a fully cleansed stone.
"Ground and heal, magnetic one,
 Bring clarity 'til this day is done!"

Original Posting Information:
By: Butterflimoon
June 27th, 2011
10:49 AM

Day's Color Correspondences by Butterflimoon

COLOR CORRESPONDENCES:
Colors are associated with each day, according to planetary influence.
Monday:  gray, lavender, white, silver, ivory
Tuesday:  red, white, black, gray, maroon, scarlet
Wednesday:  yellow, brown, white, topaz
Thursday:  green, turquoise, white, purple, crimson
Friday:  white, pink, rose, purple, coral
Saturday:  brown, gray, blue, indigo, black
Sunday:  yellow, orange, gold, amber

DAILY MAGICAL INFLUENCES
Each day is ruled by a planet with specific magical influences.
Monday:  Moon - peace, healing, caring, psychic awareness
Tuesday: Mars- passion, courage, agression, protection
Wednesday: Mercury - study, travel, divination, wisdom
Thursday: Jupiter - expansion, money, prosperity, generosity
Friday: Venus - love, friendship, reconciliation, beauty
Saturday: Saturn - longevity, endings, homes
Sunday: Sun - healing, spirituality, success, strength, protection

Notes:  Always remember that these are a bases to begin; you can develope your own.  Also please forgive me for any mis-spellings...not the greatest in that area.  LOL!  If you have any thoughts you wish to share or experiences regarding these  correspondences...please do so  using comments...I would love to hear from you all!
Blessed Be
Butterflimoon

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 27th, 2011
10:10 AM

Hecate (Greek)

Hecate:
Triple Moon Goddess; goddess of darkness; godess of magic / moon, waning moon, Earth, Pluto, Saturn, Autumn
Myth:  Hecate is all three aspects of the Goddess as Maiden, Mother, and Crone.  In her Crone aspect, symbolized by the dark moon, she was the Goddess of the Dead and the Queen of the Night.  Hecate was worshiped at the intersections of three roads, where she walked with her spectral hounds, illuminating the night with her blazing torch.  Those who worshiped Hecate knew the secrets of magic and sorcery, and dedicated their work to the dark goddess.  The Crone aspect of woman, represented by Hecate, was honored in many cultures as the wise woman, guide to the Underworld and the great revealer of the mysteries.
Attributes:  Wisdom, magic, prophecy mystery, regeneration, eternity
Symbols:  Crossroads, blazing torch, hounds
Feast and Festival days: January 8, May 3, August 13, October 31, November 16, December 31.
Color: Black
Hecate's wisdom:  Call upon me to claim your psychic power as a wise woman and the keeper of women's ancient mysteries.  Remember the importance of honoring the dark, for only then can we participate fearlessly in the joys and challenges of life.
Be careful when calling upon Hecate for she will give you what you need...not always what you ask for.
BOS/Butterflimoon

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 27th, 2011
9:57 AM

Just a Reminder for New Site Members

Hi everyone! Let me give a warm welcome to any and all new members! We are glad to have you, and truly hope you enjoy the site and all we have to offer


I would like to inform all new site members to please take a look at the links page, there you will find links to our FB group (where all site updates are posted), the Southern Wicca Recipe Blog, and the Member's Blog Archives (archiving of blogs will begin June 30th/July 1st), and also links to some great Pagan/Wiccan sites and shops.

If you have any questions and/or concerns please feel free to contact any of the 3 administrators (myself, Phoennix, or Butterflimoon).

Once again, welcome, and enjoy your stay!

Walk with light, peace and love,
J. Leonhardt--site owner/administrator.

Original Posting Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 26th, 2011
10:05 PM

Oatmeal-Milk Herbal Bath

Oatmeal-Milk Herbal Bath

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned (NOT quick-cook!) oatmeal
• 2 cups powdered milk
• 6 tbsp. Herbal material (I like to use lavender flowers)

Directions:
Place all ingredients into a blender or food processor. Blend/chop until a fine powder is made and ingredients are well mixed. Store in a quart-sized container with a tight fitting lid. Use 1/2-1 cup per bath.

Tips:

• Make sure that any herb you use is skin safe!
• I use powdered milk so that I can make large batches of this at a time. For a truly wonderful experience, blend together just the oatmeal and herbs. When its bath time, use equal amounts of oatmeal/herbs to fresh whole milk.

Original Posting Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 24th, 2011
7:53 AM

Nifty (and Thrifty!) Tealights

So, at the suggestion of some members I am going to blog about making candles. I thought it would be best to start with a simple, basic beginners project.
I use tealights all the time! I have used them for everything from a quick spell to outlining a big ritual circle (which adds quite a magickal effect at night, I might add!). Tealights are inexpensive and burn quickly, making them quite handy for our types of work. But, alas, I began to tire of white and unscented. I needed color, scent and variety, and trying to find tealights that offer that is a pain in the rear! So I, short on cash at that moment, set out to find a way to make my own and make them cheaply. And although its not the "pro" way to make them, and most true candlemakes would more than likely frown upon it, with my husband's thrifty mind and my ability to craft just about anything, I was able to make lots of these for around $6!:

Nifty (and Thrifty) Tealight Candles
Items Needed:

• Package of white, unscented tealights, with metal or plastic cups
• Scented wax melts (like the ones used in simmer pots) or fragrance or essential oils
• Package of crayons, I like to use the Crayola poster? ones, they have a higher concentration of pigment, but any will do.
• Small dowel rods (sold in packs at craft stores)
• Tin cans--one for each color/scent
• Small saucepan
• Stove
• Water

Instructions:
***WARNING! CANDLE WAX DOES NOT BOIL, WHEN IT REACHES IT'S FLASHPOINT, IT CAN EXPLODE! NEVER LEAVE MELTING WAX UNATTENDED. NEVER ALLOW WATER TO GET INTO THE MELTING WAX. DO NOT POUR LEFTOVER WAX DOWN THE DRAIN. NEVER MELT WAX OVER DIRECT HEAT.***
1. Fill saucepan about 1/4 of the way with water. Set to boil. When the water boils set to low heat and keep at a simmer.
2. Chop scented wax and crayons into 1/2 inch pieces and set aside.
3. Break apart the desired number of candles and place pieces into a tin can. Make sure the metal wick holder is connected to the wick, and place the wicks upright in the center of the candle cups.
4. Place the can with the wax into the water. When the wax begins to melt, stir with the dowel rod until almost completely melted.
5. When the wax is almost completely melted, add in your choice of fragrance and color. Remember that a little scent goes a long way, and with color, it will lighten as the candle hardens. It takes some trial and error to get exactly what you want.
6. When everything is melted, pour slowly into candle cups, making sure to keep the wicks centered and upright. This takes practice!
7. Set the candles aside to harden, light and enjoy!
***If you want to make your own wicks that have different colored flames, the instructions can be found here.***

Original Posting Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 23rd, 2011
11:29 AM

Solstice Blessings

Hi all! I hope that everyone has a wonderfully blessed solstice today! In honor of the day, I thought I would pop in and write a quick blog on making Sun Water, since making it today makes it the strongest of the year!

Making Sun Water
You will need:

• Large glass or wooden container
• Water to fill container, preferably spring water, but use what you have avaliable
• A few Citrine crystals (well cleaned!)
• A sunny place outside, or a sunny window
• A container to store the finished water in (I use a clean 2-liter bottle)

Instructions:
Fill your bowl with the water. Add in your crystals to the bottom of the bowl, stir clockwise while envisioning the bowl of water glowing gold from within, shining with the Light of the Sun God. Place the bowl outside or in a sunny window to allow the warming rays of the Solstice sun to fill the water with its energy.

After the water has sat in the solstice sun, remove the citrine, and tightly cap and place in the refrigerator. You can use the water to make ice cubes as well. Enjoy this water anytime you are feeling down and need a "bright" boost!

Have Fun and Enjoy!
Blessings,
J. Leonhardt


Sun Image provided by http://designedtoat.com

Original Posting Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 21st, 2011
8:57 AM

Sponser and Shipping Deal? Oh yes!

Hey everyone, Ms. Brandy Kurtz with Lillipad Creations has been so kind to us! She is offering her support to our site, and us to hers, which will hopefully help us both out!

Since she is going to support our group on her store site, she has offered 50% off shipping or free shipping on orders over $35 for all of our members. Lillipad Creations has some wonderful items, so it never hurts to look, so pop over and visit at http://lillipadcreations.com  

To take advantage of this shipping deal, contact Brandy on Facebook, or at lillipadcreations@yahoo.com.

Original Posting Information

By: J. Leonhardt

June 21st, 2011

8:33 AM

Tarot : The Fool

The Fool, #0:
When learning to interpret tarot cards, from my experience, many begin with the major arcana.  These cards, just as the minor arcana, are numbered as well.  The Fool is number 0, the beginning.  This card generally represents innocence in its purest form.  There is neither positive or negative energies, but both.  It is often playful, enthusiastic, curious, ignorant.  With this ignorance and innocence, there is belief in all possibilities and perfect trust, a sence of fearlessness in others.  Many decks hold an image of a young traveler on the edge of a cliff.  You cannot really see what lies below so a leap of faith is required to move forward on this path.  Note that such leaps or journeys may have a degree of risk and a certainty of change that is undeterminable.  Both day and night are often represented in the image of this card showing a balance of positive and negative energies, balance of female and male energies.  The image of a dog is often within this card representing a friend who may be pushing you into a decision or taking that leap of faith.  Sometimes risk is required and the need to leave something behind to find success in life.  A newfound since of freedom can be found within and a since of rebellion.  It is a card of the present and possibilities of the future. Run with it!  Have fun!  It can indecate the need for spontinaity and creativity.  Sometimes choices presented are those not of practical minds which can be frownd upon by others so the person involved may have some difficulty accepting help or advice.  There is also the strong since of destiny.  It is potential and faith.  Again, there is so much more than this....it is a beginning. 
When working with health questions this card can represent some kind of hunger or poor eating habits.
As mentioned earlier, there are many differing interpretations of tarot and each card.  The interpretation is based upon the reader's experiences, learned knowledge, feelings, and what is seen or focused upon within each image.  The information above is only a beginning. 
If you have questions, please let me know and I will address them to the best of my knowledge.
Until then...may you find what you seek.
Butterflimoon (M. Henry)

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 17th, 2011
1:27 PM

Challenges of Pagan Groups...

First let me start off by giving a BIG shout out to Melinda for all the awesome blog posts! I have really enjoyed reading them and have TONS of new material to copy into my BOS (if you don't mind of course)!

With that said, I've been thinking a bit about Pagan groups and the challenges that come with both running one and being a member of one. As some of you may know, a local, outspoken group leader in our area has been discovered to have a not so "up-and-up" past. I have had a run-in with this person once or twice and always got a bad vibe off him (thank you empathy!). While I won't go into details here, you can find all pertinent information concerning this matter on the FB group page. As for being a member of a group, one of the groups that I have been a member of on FB now for quite sometime has come under the scrutiny of a less-than-savory group in their 4th incarnation (which in and of itself seems suspicious). This "pagan" group is spouting hate and negativity to the group that I am a member of and it pains me to know that this is happening.

I understand that in life, not all is love and light, sometimes the darkness does seep in. There must always be balance. But, I will be the first to say that in OUR group, I vow to always do my best to keep any and all hate and negativity at bay. I encourage all members to please come to me or another administrator of the group (M. Henry or J. Frazzini) immediately if you see any unsavory behaviors on the site or the group page. I also want to remind everyone that all new applicants for membership in this group are ALWAYS screened by an administrator, and with some of the things occuring right now, ALWAYS will be! I also wanted to remind everyone that our group page is closed to non-members, and this is also because of the very reasons stated above.

I truly hope that all members have found the 3 administrators of this site to be fair, loving, and accepting and worthy of your friendship.

May you walk with the love and light of the Divine,
J. Leonhardt--adminstrator

Original posting Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 15th, 2011
9:21 PM

Citrine crystal

STONE OF DREAMS: Citrine
This is a somewhat clear yellow, gold crystal that can be found in most crystal shops.  Place this stone under your pillow following the simple charging chant.  Note: I always repeat chant at least three times before using and also begin with a cleansed stone or crystal.
Chant:
Stone of wonder, stone of might,
Stone that shines deep in the night.
Shine into the future deep,
And bring its visions while I sleep.
...don't forget to write everything no matter the smallest flash of color in your dream journal!
Butterflimoon

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 13th, 2011
11:53 AM

Simple Blessing for journals, book of shadows, etc...

Book Blessing:
May she who lays claim this diary be thrice blessed.
May you find what you seek.
May you enjoy abundannce as your body thrives.
May the comely and pleasurable days of life be greatly increased.
May you be loved and adored past reason.
May you be honored by those whose esteem you value.
May you share wisdom, healing with those who reach for the hem of your garmet.
May your detractors be silenced and enemies turned away.
May your decendants cherish your words and deeds and call your nameat Samhain Tide.
May the pages of your life be held in your heart as treasured gifts each and every one!
I, XXXXX, claim this book, my Book of Shadows and ask the Goddess to shine upon me.


Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 13th, 2011
11:42 AM

Call upon Hecate for the wisdom of the crone...

A simple chant for wisdom:
Hecate, Crone Goddess,
Keep me whole,
Let Thy wisdom fill my soul!

Note: works well anytime, but best upon the dark moon.

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 13th, 2011
11:36 AM

Tarot

If you have looked Tarot up on the internet you would find a tremendous amount of information.  Some of which you would discover is that no one truly knows exactly when, where, or how it came to be;  although one can prove its existance as far back as the 15th century.  This form of divination was used all over Europe and can even be traced to ancient Egypt.  It is a form of divination that has evolved somewhat over the years; however, for the most part it is a deck of cards displaying images that can be translated into concepts, thoughts, ideas, and stories.  Traditionally this deck of cards is made up of 78 cards which can be broken into two groups.  The major arcana consists of 22 cards known as the greater secrets.  The remaining 56 cards are known as the minor arcana and the lesser secrets.  Note: Tarot and Oracle decks are quite different. 
The major arcana (greater secrets) are: The Fool, Magician, Empress, Emperor, High Priestress, Hieorphant, Lovers, Chariot, Strength, Hermit, Wheel of Fortune, Justice, Hangman, Death, Temperance, Devil, Tower, Star, Moon, Sun, Judgement, World.
The minor arcana (lesser secrets) are much like a traditional deck of playing cards with four suits; however, the suits of a tarot deck are known as pentacles, wands, cups,  and swords.  These also include court cards such as the page, knight, queen, and king of each suit.
For those who truly wish to learn more on this subject, I encourage your efforts in research.  Read everything you find on this subject, but be careful for each story, essay, paper, article, book, written is based upon the writter's interpretation so do not base your ideas upon one writter...including me.  The information I have shared and will share in the future is based upon my research into books, papers, internet, and teachers/people over the years...but remember that knowledge is power so learn as much as you can! 
If you have specific questions, please post so that I may address them.  Keep in mind that if you have questions, others may too!  Don't be shy.
Until next time....
Be safe.
Butterflimoon

Original Posting Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 13th, 2011
10:32 AM

Tarot Questions, anyone?

Merry Meet All....
I'm been thinkin about putting together some information to share regarding the art of Tarot.  I would like to know if anyone has specific questions regarding this subject.  Pleae feel free to leave comments or questions...
Thanks you all
Brightest Blessings!

Original Post Information
By: Butterflimoon
June 9th, 2011
8:37 PM

Defense for an Empath

Defense for an Empath
At some point or another you may have heard of a person being Empathic. For those of you that haven't, here's a short rundown on what its like:

I have been empathic my whole life. This is different from having empathy for someone in a situation and trying to soothe them. A true Empath senses and experiences others emotions and feelings automatically and (usually) unconciously. While some people may say that that is a blessing, it comes with its share of disadvantages. Yes, I can tell when people are lying to me or have been gossiping about me immediately, and yes, I can read body language, emotions and vibrations of others around me, and I can see auras (to an extent). The price for this is if I am not grounded, or staying "on-top-of-my-game" (so to speak) I suffer through the emotions of people near me. Grief, joy, anger, ecstacy etc. Some days I feel bi-polar. As a teenager my parents thought that I may have been bi-polar, but doctors proved that I am not. Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, yes, but not manic depression (bi-polar). I have slowly learned to block out the vibrations and energy of those around me.

Those of you that know me personally may have noticed that I try to avoid large crowds, funerals or anywhere else that has emotions running rampant. Now you know why. I also try to avoid talking face-to-face with friends that may be going through an emotional situation, much prefering to text or chat online. There is also the occasional random person/people (and they are usually totally unconcious of the fact) that I consider "psychic vampires." These people are drawn to telling me all the stress they are going through, effectively draining my postive energy for their own use. Ocassionally, I may let them, if they are close to me, but generally I tend to tune out, and/or find an excuse to abruptly end the conversation. I am not a total recluse, but I know my limits. 

I also have a hard time dealing with others that I am very close to (i.e. my husband, son, pets, parents and siblings) when they are dealing with strong emotions. Even from a distance I can connect with them, and will usually pick up the phone to call them and find out that something is indeed going on.

But, the older I get, the more I realize that I can't possibly stay away from every situation that is emotionally charged. My husband comes home from work upset sometimes, or my son is sick, etc. So I have found a nifty little tool to aid in blocking the emotions of others (in addition to frequent grounding of excesses).

Empathic Defense Jewelry
 

While I have designed this as a necklace, it can be easily adapted as a braclet or anklet, or if you're feeling really creative, a ring! As a matter of fact, mine is long enough to be wrapped around as a braclet. And please don't feel that you have to follow my directions exactly. This is YOUR tool and as such, should reflect YOU!

Instructions
You will need:

• Enough wire, or waxed linen to make your piece, for a necklace this takes A LOT! I used probably 4-5 feet (48-60 inches) to make a 12 inch necklace. 
• Hematite beads--your choice for size and shape. These are used to make grounding energy a lot easier. 
• A prism bead (these can prove difficult to find. If you can't find the bead alone, buy a small suncatcher that incorporates one and take it apart  . This is used as an "emotional energy diffuser" (Thanks for the word choice Melinda!)
• A LOT of Seed beads--size 13/0 or smaller, 2 different colors, one as an accent and the other for the peyote zip-up. (I honestly don't know how many, I did not, nor did I want to, count all of them, they are soooo tiny!)
• A jewelry clasp of your choosing (if using jewelry wire, make sure you have crimps!)
• Wire cutters and crimper (if using jewelry wire) or scissors
• Beading needles (if using waxed linen)
• The instructions for zip-up peyote beading here

The following abbreviations will be used:

• PZU--peyote zip up
• ACC--accent seed bead

1. To begin, if needed thread needle with linen, securely attach one half of your clasp to a LONG length of your jewelry material. If using wire and crimps, make sure that your crimp is pressed down TIGHTLY!)
2. String 1 hematite bead and 3 seed beads in the color of your PZU.
3. String 13 ACC
4. String 1 hematite
5. Make a PZU that is 10 beads long and 6 beads wide
6. String 1 hematite
7. Repeat steps 4-6 until jewelry is half the desired length.
8. Add Prism bead as the pendant
9. Repeat steps 3-6 until jewelry is desired length.
10. Repeat step 2.
11. Repeat step 1.
12. Cleanse the item with the 4 elements while charging it with intent (of course do not put directly into flame for South!)
13. Once per month leave the item outside overnight to attract the energy of the New Moon (to effectively "erase" any negativity it might have possibly gathered).

I truly hope that everyone has enjoyed this, and perhaps can benefit from what I have discovered to be quite an effective tool for easing the problems that come with being an Empath

Blessings, Light and Love
J. Leonhardt 

Original Post Information
By: J. Leonhardt
June 5th, 2011
9:15 PM

For those who have felt loss due to weather...

Mother Nature can be beautiful, but also quite destructive.  The last few months She has shown her great strength causing destruction and loss.  I would like to send some positive energy to those who are struggling.  I will light three candles on my altar; one of blue for peaceful energy, one of green for healing energy, one of pink for strength of heart.  These candles will be surrounded with fresh lavender, rosemary, and rose pedals for protection, love, and Blessings of the Goddess.  Please join me in this for our combined energies will build and have greater effect.  If you have other ideas for such an activity, please share your thoughts for this is a wonderful way to help and build ourselves as well.
Brightest Blessings!!

Original Post Information
By: Butterflimoon
May 28, 2011
11:58 AM

Information

Hi all! Since the main site host has decided to start imposing bandwidth limits, I will be posting the blogs from the site over here at the end of each month. If you missed a blog, check here, you'll find it.