Ingredient of the Day - Ginger

One of the most medicinal foods found in the modern kitchen is ginger root. Ginger root is the underground rhizome of the ginger plant and can have flesh that is yellow, white or red, depending upon the variety. The yellow variety is what is commonly found in North American supermarkets.

Ginger is widely known for its healing properties, especially its anti-inflammatory properties and effect on inflammation based pain such as that from arthritis and menstrual cramps.

At this stage of my life I do not use prescription or OTC drugs (with the exception of vitamins and supplements) so ginger tea has become my "drug" of choice in relieving menstrual cramps. It takes about an hour to kick in but its effects last at least 3 or 4 hours. Having a cup or two the day prior to your cycle will get the ginger into your system possibly preventing the cramps from becoming as severe.

There have been tests conducted on the effect of ginger extract on cancer cells but I won't get into that here. For more information visit the World's Healthiest Foods article on Ginger here.

Ginger's other medicinal uses include: relieving nausea and vomiting (including motion and morning sickness- see below cautions), reducing intestinal gas, relaxing/soothing the digestive tract, detoxification and boosting immunity.

For nausea - Steep one or two 1/2-inch slices of fresh ginger root in a cup of hot water for 15 minutes.
For inflammatory pain (arthritis, menstrual cramps etc.) - Peel a 2 inch piece of ginger root and slice into thin slices. Bring 4 cups water to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add the ginger. Cover and reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes. Strain the tea. If it's too spicy, dilute with a little fresh water until tolerable.

To store unpeeled: Wrap in paper towel and store in its own plastic bag in your fridge's crisper drawer for up to 3 weeks. It can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Magickally speaking ginger is associated with power, love, money, healing, and success (including enhancing the success of spell work). It can be used in an amulet, mojo or medicine bag to promote healing and protection. Eating some ginger before working magickally with ginger helps to slightly raise your energy level in turn helping the spell.

In aromatherapy the uplifting and energizing scent warms the heart and cold, dull or fearful emotional states. It helps to open up feeling and improve communication, improve memory, sharpen the senses and stimulate energy.

Cautions:
Ginger in all forms is usually very safe however it should not be taken in the 4 days prior to surgery as it can make blood platelets less sticky, affecting bleeding time. It's fine to take the day after. Those on blood thinners should also consult with their doctor.
Do not take ginger for the first 2 months of pregnancy.
Ginger increases bile flow so people with gallstones should consult their doctor prior to taking.
250g or 1 cup of tea, 4x a day is the safe recommended dose.

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This information is not intended to be medical advice. As with all herbs and drugs, research is a must and consult with your health care professional before using medicinally.

Mourning Moon

November 1 was considered the beginning of a new year by the early Celts because November is a month of endings and new beginnings. It is a time of transformation; transitioning from Autumn to Winter and entering the dark half of the year. It is also a month of in-between because it is no longer autumn (weather wise) but not yet winter. Pagans recognize in-between times to be very magickal and powerful- the transition from the light half to the dark half, from season to season and even dawn to dusk. November is like the year's twilight and the Mourning Moon's energy lends itself to delving deep within in preparation for the changes ahead.

Correspondences:

* Colors: Gray, blues
* Gemstones: Lapis lazuli, Turquoise, Topaz
* Trees: Cypress, Alder, Hazel
* Gods: Bastet, Isis, Kali, Hecate, Astarte
* Herbs: Thistle, Betony, Verbena, Fennel, Cinquefoil
* Element: Water
*Workings for: New beginnings, Letting go of past baggage, bad habits, toxic relationships, Strengthen connection with Deity, Prepare for the coming Winter.
*Affirmation: I learn and grow from the past.

Bright Blessings
~City

Samhain

October 31 brings us Samhain which is traditionally considered the Wiccan New Year (We must be on year 20,000+ by now).
It is on this night that the division between the material world and spirit world grows thin and increasing paranormal activity leading up to it is not unheard of. Due to this phenomenon, Samhain is a great time to remember and connect (responsibly!) with our loved ones who have passed on to the other side.
People started dressing up on Samhain because because by dressing up like spirits, we would trick them into thinking we were spirits too. and wouldn't be bothered.

Samhain's energy lends itself to traveling between the worlds, to gaining courage to face darkness and changes in our lives, turning negative experiences into opportunites to learn and grow. It is a time to remember the cycle of death and rebirth and that after darkness comes light.

Correspondences:

Customs/Activities: Rituals to honor the dead, Halloween festivities/ trick or treating, Carving Jack-o-Lanterns, Divination

Colors: Black, Orange

Decorations: Jack-o-Lanterns, Apples, Photos of deceased loved ones, Fallen leaves, Autumn flowers, Divination tools, Candles shaped like witches, ghosts, cats, skulls etc, Statue of Goddess in Crone aspect

Food: Apples, Pumpkin, Nuts, Cider, Cranberries, Pomegranates, Ale, Cakes for the dead

Herbs: Thistle, Crysanthemum, Broom, Oak leaves, Sage, Mandrake

Incense: Apple, Nutmeg, Sage, Mint, Heliotrope

Gemstones: All black gemstones ie: Jet, Obsidian, Onyx

A Pagan Child's ABCs

A is Athame, the knife that we use.

B is for Beltaine, when partners we choose.

C is for Circle where we all are one.

D is for Deosil, path of the Sun.

E is for Esbat, when we gather round.

F is for Fire and its crackling sound.

G is for the Goddess in beauty and love.

H is the Horned One, our Father above.

I is for Imbolg, candles light the way,

J is for June when it's Midsummer's Day.

K is for Karma, the things that we do.

L is for Lammas, harvest's almost through!

M is for Moon, riding way up so high,

N is for Nighttime, which darkens the sky.

O is for Ostara, when we hunt for eggs,

P is for Pan, with hairy goat legs.

Q is the Quarters and there are just four,

R for the Rites when we open the Door.

S is for Samhain, end of the year,

T is for Tarot cards, futures to hear

U is Undines from the watery West,

V is Vervain for protection and rest.

W is Widdershins, the path of the moon.

X is the sign that's the sign of the God.

Y is for Yule and the sun's return,

Z is the Zodiac, 12 signs to learn.

Copyright 1989, Breid Foxsong

Witches Next Door

A great episode of the TLC series My Unique Family.
I'm only able to embed the first part but the rest of the parts are linked below.
Enjoy!
~City
Part 1


Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KXTnZiGN-h8

Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HXBOQ9jMP0

Part 4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avR7TftsB0I

Part 5
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CM30cr4jwX0

Part 6
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kx_L-EEJjaI
***
I just learned that Kendra has closed the First Church of Wicca and has recently converted to Christianity which is causing quite a stir in the Pagan community. Opinions galore!
Regardless of her beliefs, I still think the episode is great and was really good PR for the Wiccan community in general.

If you're interested in more information about Kendra's change of faith, find it here:
http://mosmaiorum.lefora.com/2009/01/30/rip-the-first-church-of-wicca/page1/

Mabon

Today we celebrate Mabon, also referred to as the Autumn Equinox, the second harvest and pagan thanksgiving among others.
Like Ostara, it is once again a time of balance, when the day and night are of equal length, but this time the darkness grows as Winter approaches.

On Mabon we give thanks for the bounty we have received, in all aspects. We strive for balance in our lives, and to set things right. Now is the time to tie up loose ends; completing unfinished tasks before Samhain and the winter months.

Mabon Activities: Celebration of the Second Harvest, Thanksgiving, Complete unfinished business, De-clutter your environment, Walking in wild places, Gathering leaves, seeds etc to decorate your home and/or altar.

Workings/Rituals: Balance, Protection, Gratitude, Prosperity, Security, Self confidence, Harmony, the Mysteries, Equality

Colors: Dark red, Orange, Yellow, Gold, Brown, Purple, Forest and Earth tones

Decorations: Cornucopia (Horn of Plenty), Dried leaves, seeds & flowers, Vines such as Ivy, Apples, Pomegranates, Acorns, Indian corn, Wine, Gourds, Pine cones, Grains, Grapes

Food: Breads, Grains, Seeds, Nuts, Dried fruit, Legumes, Corn and corn bread, Squash, Apples and cider, Pomegranates, Roots, Carrots, Onions, Potatoes, Stews, Wine

Incense: Benzoin, Myrrh, Sage, Pine

Gemstones: Carnelian, Sapphire, Lapis lazuli, Yellow agate

Merry Mabon!
~City

Full Moon

The Full Moon phase is actually 3 days; the day before, the day of and the day after the actual Full Moon. The Moon's power is at its peak and any spell work done at this time will get an extra boost.

Magick for any purpose can be done during the Full Moon but workings for: Beauty, Blessings, Divination, Fertility, Happiness, House blessings, Inspiration, Intuition, Judgement, Love magick, Lunar goddess invocations, Obtaining, Omens, Power, Prophetic dreams, Psychic powers, Shapeshifting, Spirit conjuration, Transformations, Unions, Wisdom and Wishes will especially benefit from this Moon's energy.

Happy Casting!

~City

Harvest Moon

Harvest Moon September 4

September is a month normally centered around the home and a time to prepare your space for the coming fall and winter. The Harvest Moon itself was traditionally a time for farmers to gather the remaining crops before the cold. The light of the full moon allowed them to harvest long into the night.
In modern day with our advanced technology and lights, this Full Moon has become more of a time to clear clutter (Both physical and otherwise) and organize your space before having to spend most of your time indoors.

Harvest Moon Correspondences:

* Colors: Brown, green, earth tones

* Gemstones: Citrine, Chrysolite, Peridot, Bloodstone, Olivine

* Trees: Bay, Hawthorn, Hazel

* Deities: Demeter, Brigid, Freya, Vesta, Hestia

* Herbs: Wheat, Valerian, Witch Hazel, Skullcap, Fennel, Rye

* Element: Earth

* Nature Spirits: Trooping Faeries

* Workings for: Balance, Cleansing, Removing negativity and all clutter (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual), Creating change

* Activities: Picnic with lots of locally grown fruits and vegetables, Cleaning, Organizing, Magick up your living space (ie, create a kitchen altar)

Have fun and Bright Blessings!
~City

Every Day Magick

Incorporating Magick and Spritiuality into Daily Life

The rat race: We know it well. Between 9-5, housecleaning, grocery shopping, children, spouses, errands, appointments, pets and our own needs somewhere in there, where does a Witch find the time to feed his/her spirit or practice magick?

Kitchen Witch may mean different things to different people but to me it means incorporating, not separating, magick and spirituality into daily life and not requiring fancy tools or equipment to work magick.

I admit it's very easy for spiritual practice to fall by the wayside when life gets hectic but being Witchy doesn't have to take up a lot of extra time or money. Simply changing the way you approach daily tasks can make all the difference. Almost every situation in life can be suited to a magickal purpose. Do everything with intent.

~Keep a list of herbs/foods and their magickal properties on the inside of a cupboard door. When using the ingredients, charge them with a magickal purpose.
*Refer to the Basil post for cooking with magickally empowered herbs.

~Say a silent blessing before eating.

~Cleaning is obviously cleansing and can be used to remove negativity as well as dirt. Visualize white, sparkling light when washing the floor, windows etc. Visualize negativity flowing down the drain when you are finished the dishes.

~If you make your own household cleansers, put magickally charged herbs in the mixture.

~Sprinkle basil charged with removing negativity on your floor or carpet before sweeping/vacuuming.

~When driving or walking, use that opportunity to move toward a goal.

~Smudge your living space with sweet grass, sage, or another favorite dried herb/incense to remove negativity.

~Keep your space as clean as possible. Clutter breeds negativity and who feels like working magick when there's a pile of dishes waiting?

~Using the bathroom is good for removing negativity or something you want out of your life.

~Practice being in the moment. This is hard for a lot of people. Try NOT to multi task sometimes; instead focusing solely on every nuance of what you are doing at that time. If you are eating, notice how the food looks, how it smells, how it feels, tastes, etc. Try doing this for the entire meal. If you are walking somewhere, pay attention to the sound of your feet on the sidewalk, the feel of the ground beneath your feet, the feel of your legs moving, the feel of your clothing, the breeze on your skin, the sun on your face -- you get the idea. This really helps people to focus and comes in handy magickally as well.

Any other ideas for living magickally every day? I would love to hear them!
Please comment at the end of this post or visit the City Kitchen Witch page on Facebook.

Bright Blessings!
~City

Moon in Gemini

From August 15 - August 17 at 2:19 p.m. EST the Moon is visiting Gemini.

Now is a good time for magick involving Communication, Change of residence, Writing, Public relations, Travel and Healing for the shoulders, arms and hands. The corresponding color is mauve and the nature spirits of Gemini are the airy Sylphs.

Happy Casting!
~

Totem Animals

I always thought my totem animal was the butterfly because they are my favorite but lately I have come to realize that my current totem is the one creature I really don't like: The spider.

I have always been afraid of spiders. Rationally I know they're relatively harmless - nature's creatures, yadda, yadda - but they still give me the heebie jeebies. I never would have chosen the spider for myself but we know how the Universe works!

You will have more than one totem through out your life. Your totems will most likely change as the lessons you need to learn in life change.

After a few too many strange encounters I started to pay attention and got the feeling the Universe was telling me something. Keep in mind this is the Reader's Digest version because I will be here all night. There are too many to list and I see at least one spider every day even though I live in the city.

Last week, I had just arrived at work and sat down when I saw a tiny spider descend on its silk string, floating down, down, down, to land right in front of me. The timing was perfect. If I had arrived just 30 seconds later I would have missed it. And why my desk? Why not Steve's?

An egg sac in a web hatched on the bottom of my screen door when I went out for a cigarette and we had hundreds of spider babies all over the place. Almost like it waited for me to go outside to witness nature in all its creepy glory. More likely the door closing triggered it but still, perfect timing. Thank goodness I don't smoke anymore!

A couple of times using the bathroom at work, a movement caught my eye and I noticed a spider crawling on the bathroom floor, under MY stall door when there are 5 others it could have visited.

Leaving the laundry room I saw a fly which I manoeuvred around but for some reason I looked back and it was actually a spider hanging in the middle of the doorway. I never usually look back after leaving a room so it struck me as strange that I did that time and it was a spider again.

A few nights ago I dreamt I was lying in bed when I happened to look at the far corner of the ceiling as a huge spider descended on its silk string to the floor. This was before any of the totem talk. The dream is what prompted me to start researching.

The next night I got what appears to be a spider bite on my back while I was sleeping. I woke up with a big, red, itchy painful bite. Better now but it totally validated my theory.

The following questions are taken from http://www.animaltotem.com/find-your-totem.html

1. Since we are drawn to that which resonates with us, what animal, bird, or insect are you drawn to?
2. When you go to the park, forest, or zoo what animal are you most interested in seeing?
3. What animal do you most frequently see when you're out in nature or in the city?
4. What animals are you currently interested in learning about?
5. Which animal do you find most frightening or intriguing?
6. Have you ever been bitten or attacked by an animal?
7. Is there a recurring animal in your dreams or do you have one you have never forgotten?

On a less creepy note I've made peace with the face that I have a spider totem and they're less scary after hearing about the Spider Woman and Grandmother Spider legends of the Aboriginals and what spiders symbolize magickally.

Spiders totem teaches us to balance mundane life with spirituality. Don't allow your your day to day life to become your whole self.

Spider appears to us when we should reconnect with our soul's original plan; our true life path and also reminds us that we create our own reality by the choices we make much like weaving a web.

Spiders also symbolize unity, infinity, their webs signify the interconnectedness of all things.

Spider souls are by nature very creative and good communicators; most often via the written word. This creativity should be nurtured otherwise they will feel incomplete.


Become a fan of City Kitchen Witch on Facebook and share your thoughts about Totem Animals on the discussion board!

Some Totem Animal Resources:

http://www.sayahda.com/cyc4.html
http://wolfs_moon.tripod.com/totemspage.html


~Bright Blessings!
City

Waning Moon

The Waning Moon occurs after the Full Moon and is when the moon appears to be getting smaller each day. It lasts approximately 14 days from after the Full Moon to the New Moon.

The Waning Moon is a good time for magick involving: Ending Addictions, Breaking bad habits, Reversing bad luck, Binding, Exorcism, Breaking curses, Overcoming fear, Ending sickness, Liberation, Reversing love spells, Ending war, Banishing negativity, Banishing nightmares, Real estate (to sell), Weather working (to quell), Weight loss.

Corn Moon

On August 5 we celebrate the Corn Moon.

The Corn Moon and the month of August in general is a time for harvesting, gathering, sacrificing unwanted influences, appreciation vitality, relationships and spiritual and physical health.

Corn Moon Correspondences:
Colors: Red, Yellow, Orange
Herbs: Basil, Chamomile, Rosemary, Rue
Gemstones: Tiger's Eye, Carnelian, Garnet, Red Agate
Element: Fire

Corn Moon Ritual

Decorate your altar with a cloth of yellow, gold, orange or red, ears of corn and a chalice of wine. Have a cauldron ready in which you can burn paper and a black candle.
Cast a circle and create sacred space.
Light the candle.
Prepare a list of things you are ready to remove from your life. Focus on letting go of the unnecessary things or habits in your life that you wish to be free of.
Touch the paper to the flame and when it ignites, drop it into the cauldron. Offer the list to the spirit of the first harvest.
Affirmation of the Corn Moon: I sacrifice that which is no longer useful in my life.

(Ritual adapted from Llelwellyn's Witches Date Book)

~

Moon in Saggitarius

From July 30 - August 2 at 1:42 a.m. EST the Moon is in the sign of Saggitarius. The Saggitarian Moon is harmonious with workings for: Horses, Travel, Legal matters, Sports and Truth. Healing for the liver, thighs and hips are best done at this time. The corresponding colors of this Moon are dark blue and purple and
the governing spirits are the fiery Dragons and Fey who watch over the South.
Happy Casting!
~

Lughnasadh

August 1 is the Sabbat of Lughnasadh which is the first of 3 harvest Sabbats. Even though we are still techincally in Summer, Lughnasadh marks the the beginning of Autumn on the Wheel of the Year. All around us the planet is preparing for the coming cold; the days are slowly getting shorter, the nights will soon cool down and animals have begun gathering food for the coming Fall and Winter.

Grains and corn were traditionally harvested at this time and the theme of the (metaphorically) sacrificed God - the idea that death (the harvest) is necessary for the rebirth of the land is recognized and symbolically reenacted.

To celebrate Lughnasadh in true Kitchen Witch style, incorporate grains and corn in your recipes on August 1. It's traditional to Bake bread in the shape of a man, symbolizing the God's sacrifice for the bounty of the harvest and rebirth of the land. Harvest from your own garden or visit a U-Pick farm or orchard. Sacrifice unwanted habits or things from your life by throwing symbols of them into the Sabbat flame. Decorate your space in shades of yellow, gold, red and orange and use items such as late summer fruits and vegetables, sheaves of wheat, breads, grains, ears of corn and berries to adorn your home or altar.

Lughnasadh isn't just about the harvest, it's also about sharing some of your harvest, so doing some charity work, making food for others or donating items to your local food bank could be a new tradition for this day.

Bright Blessings!
~City

The Kitchen Witch's Creed

In this pot, I stir to the sun

an' follow the rule of harming none.

Banishment of bane when goin' widdershins;
an' with water and salt negativity is cleansed.

Household duties are more than chores.
Magick abounds when mopping floors.

With this broom, I do sweep
to clean my house and safely keep.

Marigold, Basil, Thyme, and Yarrow
my spell is cast for a better tomorrow.

Lemons for joy and apples for health
the pow'r within brings great wealth.

And, in this kitchen I do pray
To truly walk the Witches' Way

Copyright 1998, 1999 E. Zeigler
This piece may be freely distributed for non-profit use as long as the
copyright information is placed underneath it.

Moon in Scorpio

From July 28 to July 30 at 8:54 a.m. EST the Moon is in mysterious Scorpio.

This is a good time for magick involving: Sexual matters, Power, Psychic growth, Secrets and healing for the reproductive organs. The corresponding colors of this Moon are red and black and the governing spirits are the Undines, water spirits of the West.

Happy Casting!

~

Ingredient of the Day - Chickpeas

Beans are not just for food and chairs! They can also be used in magick for protection, prosperity and to increase fertility.

My favorite bean would have to be the Garbanzo bean or Chickpea, as it's commonly known. I use the canned ones since they are so much quicker to prepare; no soaking or boiling required. Simply rinse and do with them what you will!

Chickpeas are probably the most versatile legume out there. They can be pureed for hummus or snuck into smoothies or brownies. I know what you're thinking but with other, stronger flavor elements in the food, you won't even know they are there and the added fibre and protein will do you good. They can be put on salads or roasted for a crunchy snack and the chickpea flour can be used for baking and flat breads.

Roasted chickpeas have become a favorite of mine since giving up packaged snack food. They fill the salty, crunchy void that I thought would remain forever.

Crunchy Chickpeas: 1 15oz can drained chickpeas. 

Toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp cumin & smoked paprika. Season with salt. 

Or, try cinnamon and nutmeg if you prefer.

Bake 20 mins @ 425F.
They can keep for up to 2 or 3 days in an airtight container as long as they are completely crunchy. If they are on the soft side, they will get soggy which isn't good in my experience.


~City

Mojo Bags

Mojo bags are known by several different names: Conjure bags, charm bags, gris gris bags; but they all refer to the same thing. They are pouches filled with various magickal items such as herbs and crystals. The term Mojo bag most likely came from the word "mojuba," which is a West African word meaning a prayer of praise. A Mojo bag is like a "prayer in a bag" or a spell you can carry.

Depending on the spell, Mojo bags are used in different ways such as worn on the person, slept with under the pillow, buried in the earth or thrown into a flowing body of water. For example, to draw money you could wear the Mojo bag on your person or make a minature version to fit in your purse or wallet. To banish sickness from yourself, you would wear the Mojo bag for a time to absorb your energy then either bury it in the earth (in a place where you will not return) or throw it into a body of water that is moving away from you. For us Witches in the city, burying things and finding moving bodies of water can be difficult, so improvise! If there are no rivers nearby, make a makeshift pouch out of bathroom tissue, hold it for a few minutes, pour your energy and sickness into it, then flush it down the toilet visualizing your ill health going along with it, never to return.

To make a Mojo bag you will first need a pouch or fabric in the appropriate color. I prefer to sew my own pouches because more of my energy gets put into the spell, however, when I need something quick, the ready mades are perfect.

You can then add one or more of the following. Don't forget to charge each item with your intent before adding it to the bag.

-Herbs to fit your purpose (Ex: Dill for money, Ginger for health etc.)
-Crystals or tumbled gemstones to fit your purpose
-A written incantation or prayer
-Anything else you wish to add

One Mojo bag I made for a friend (with permission) consisted of a green pouch I sewed myself with a $ sewed on the front, dill inside for money, and a written request to find a job quickly. While I constructed the bag I visualized him getting a job. He carried the Mojo bag with him while he handed out resumes and to job interviews. Within 2 weeks he had his first job and was making $10/hr. Would he have gotten the job without the Mojo bag? Possibly. Did the Mojo bag help? Probably. It didn't hurt to give the Universe an extra push in the right direction.

Happy Casting!

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon phase occurs approximately 3 days after the New Moon and lasts about 14 days.

The Moon appears to be growing larger each day making this a great time for magick involving gain and bringing things toward you such as spells for: Abundance, Artistic creation, Career advancement, Divination, Energy raising, Fertility, Friendship, Garden planting, Goals, Good luck, Growth, Harmony, Happiness, Health, Judgement, Inspiration, Love, Money, Obtaining, Power, Protection, Real estate (buy), Sexual desire, Strength, Travel, Unions, Weather working (bring forth), Weight gain, Wisdom and Wishes.

Happy Casting!

Moon in Libra

From July 26 at 1:25 a.m. to July 28 at 6:56 a.m. EST) the Moon is in the sign of Libra.

Libra is the sign of the balance, the arts, partnerships and justice so workings for employment in the arts, artistic work, relationships/partnerships, peace, fairness, justice, court cases, mental stimulation and balance are auspicious at this time.
The areas of the body that will benefit most from any healing work during this Moon are the lower back and kidneys.
The corresponding color for the Libra Moon is Royal Blue and the governing spirits are the Sylphs who resonate with the East and the Air element.

Witch Head Nebula

Isn't this just the coolest nebula ever?

Employment Spell

Almost every Witch has one or more "Go To" spells that they have had great results with on more than one occasion. Mine is a spell I created to find a job. Spells that you create on your own will certainly be more powerful than ones you have gotten from someone else or copied out of a book because they come from you and more of your personal energy is involved. However, if something out a book speaks to you or seems right, by all means use it!

For this spell I used one book to determine which herbs would work best and another for a pre-written prayer that I ended up changing to better reflect my situation but the rest was me. I believe that's why this spell was so successful. *

Resume Spell

Materials: A copy of your current resume
Green or gold candle
Money drawing herbs (I used Bay leaves and cloves)
Green marker
Glue stick
Refrigerator magnet
Best timing: Thursday or Sunday during a waxing moon

*I am only including the mechanics of the spell. Charging the items with your intent, visualization and raising/releasing the energy are also necessary.

1) Carve eight dollar signs into the candle and light it while visualizing your goal.
2) Write your wish for a new job in green marker in the middle of your resume.
You can either find a ready made money/job prayer or write your own being as specific as possible. Here is one that I found and tweaked a bit.

Mother and Father please sustain my spirit as I search for new and meaningful work. You have blessed me with a healthy body and a keen mind for which I am grateful. I ask that you open my path as I seek employment that will allow me to support my family and myself.
In gratitude and grace, So Mote It Be.

3) Glue the money herbs along the border of your resume on all sides. Easiest way is to run the glue stick along each side and sprinkle/press the herbs into the glue and shake off the excess. At this point you can simply continue visualizing your goal but I like to add a chant to the mix; something like, "Job come to me". Whatever you feel like.

4) Stick the resume to your fridge with the magnet to "draw a new job toward you".

Let the candle burn out on its own but do not leave it unattended. Never blow out a candle used for magick. If you must put it out, snuff it out and mentally shut down the spell temporarily until you are able to relight the candle.

Now get out there and hand out some real resumes!

*Results not guaranteed!

~City

Moon in Virgo

The moon has 4 major phases; waxing, full, waning and new. However,
every 3 or 4 days the moon moves through the minor phases of each zodiac sign. From July 23 to July 26 at 1:25 a.m. EST, the moon is in Virgo.

Moon in Virgo is a good time for workings related to Employment, Intellectual matters, Health and Dietary concerns. If you plan to do healing work, the areas of the body that will benefit most from this Moon's energy are the intestines and nervous system. The corresponding colors are navy blue and rust orange. The governing spirits are the Gnomes, who rule the earth element which also rules Virgo.

Dream Interpretation - Tornado

I have recurring dreams of tornadoes. The dream itself isn't the same but I generally have a tornado dream every couple of months. In the dreams I am usually trying to escape the tornado while also trying to protect a family member.

Last night's dream had me watching the sky while dark, ominous clouds churned violently and long, smoke-like funnels were slowly dropping and being sucked back into the sky in a teasing dance. I watched as a one of the funnels slowly touched down to become a tornado. I grabbed some food (in case of low blood sugar?) and Pepper, my dog and headed down to the basement of my apartment building to await the inevitable.

Depending on the source, tornado dreams can mean different things. A common explanation is that they symbloze destructive forces in your life which you have no control over. My life doesn't feel very destructive or chaotic so the interpretation that makes the most sense to me thus far is that tornadoes are unpredictable and violent storms which often separate families and destroy property. Frequent dreams of tornadoes may reflect past family instability, or people who are prone to violent “outbursts” or unpredictable mood swings. (I'm not violent but my moods are known to change quickly). Tornadoes frequently represent family members or relatives with drug, alcohol, mood disorders, and violent tempers. For people living in tornado areas, the dreams may reflect literal fears of an encounter.
http://www.dreamdoctor.com/dictionary/tornado.shtml

New Moon

New Moon

Many Witches use moon phases as an element in their magick and are aware that different moon phases are better suited for different purposes. Today marks the New Moon which is when the moon is not visible from Earth because the side facing us is not lit by the sun. The New Moon lasts approximately 3 1/2 days and is the phase just before the moon starts waxing (growing).

Like its name suggests, the New Moon is a great time for workings related to new beginnings, projects and ventures like a new job/career or change of residence.

Happy Casting!

Daily Ingredient - Honey

Honey

Honey is definitely a food of the Gods. More than just a sweet treat, it has been used in health and beauty for centuries.

Honey contains a variety of antioxidants and its antimicrobial properties have been effective in the treatment of wounds and burns. It has shown promise in inhibiting the growth of a range of bacteria and fungi and is also successful as a cough suppressant in children over 12 months of age.

Widely used in the beauty industry, it does wonders for the skin and is my favorite facial. It is a humectant meaning it attracts and retains moisture, it evens the skin tone particularly redness, it is an anti-irritant, making it suitable for sensitive skin and baby care products and is a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells leaving your skin glowing.

Honey Facial

After a shower spread a layer of honey (not too thick or thin) over your entire face.

Sit back and relax for 10 minutes. Place a towel on your chest to catch any drips.

Rinse with warm (not hot) water. It rinses off surprisingly well!

Pat dry.

*Use no more than 3x per week as it may slightly lighten skin if used more than that.

Honey's magickal uses include: fertility, purification, romance and attracting happiness.

Kitchen Blessing

Kitchen Blessing

Blessed Be this kitchen of Air, Fire, Water and Earth
Be warmed by the Sacred light of the Goddess

May all that is Created here by means both Magickal and mundane bring nourishment,healing and sustenance,
and cause harm to none.
With love and peace, with joy and Magick,
be now and always filled.
So Mote It Be!

~Unknown

Daily Ingredient - Lemons

Lemons

It is hot on Canada's East coast. So hot in fact, I am fantasizing about a tall glass of ice cold lemonade. While regular lemonade is delicious, it's also packed full of sugar which isn't such a good thing. So while hunting for a less sweetened version, I stumbled upon this recipe for lemonade sweetened with agave nectar.

Since I already use agave in my baking recipes and have some in the cupboard right now, it works out perfectly.

Agave comes from the agave cactus which is the same plant tequila is made from. Agave nectar, unlike tequila, is non-alcoholic and very low glycemic, meaning it will not cause blood sugar spikes making it suitable for diabetics. It can be found in many grocery stores' natural food sections or specialty natural food stores. It does taste a little different than sugar and is about twice as sweet so a bit of tweaking might be necessary when you first try it.

On to the lemonade recipe!
From http://weelicious.com/2009/06/09/agave-lemonade/
Agave Lemonade (Makes 4- 1 Cup Servings)
1/2 Cup Lemon Juice
1/3 Cup Agave
3 Cups Water
Ice
1. Combine the lemon juice, agave and water in a pitcher.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Pour over ice and serve

Lemons can also be used in many ways around the house. To remove stubborn food from your microwave, place a microwave safe cup or dish of water and a couple of lemon slices on Cook for 1 minute. After it is finished, leave the door closed for a few extra minutes. The steam will loosen the stuck on food making it a cinch to wipe off and the lemon will leave the microwave smelling fresh and clean.

Lemons are also a very magickal ingredient and are often used in spells for Cleansing, Purification, Love, Blessings and Happiness.

The Witch's Cabinet

The Witch's Cabinet
Suggested supplies

Altar cloths
Amulets
Athame
Baskets
Beads
Bell
Boline
Book of Shadows
Bowls
Candles (Assorted colors)
Candle holders
Cauldron
Chalices
Clipboard (Inventory)
Compass
Corn (dried)
Crystals & Gems
Crystal ball
Decanter (Wine/Ale)
Divination tools
Earth
Feathers (Assorted colors)
Felt (Assorted colors)
Jars
Glue
Herbs, Dried plants, Spices
Incense
India Ink
Lighters
Magick mirror
Magickal jewelery
Mortar and Pestle
Oils
Parchment Paper
Pens
Pendulum
Pentacle
Pentagrams
Pitcher
Platters
Pocket knife
Potpourri pot
Pouches
Quill pens
Rice
Runes
Rope/String (Assorted colors)
Scales
Scissors
Sea salt
Seeds
Statues
Talismans
Tarot cards
Wands
Wooden boxes

- Adapted from list by Silver Ravenwolf

Daily Ingredient - Basil

Basil

No Kitchen Witch's pantry is complete without basil. A staple in any kitchen, basil is one of the most versatile herbs in cooking and magick. It can be used for spells involving: Love, Removing negativity, Wealth, Protection, Sympathy, Fidelity, Healing relationships and Courage to name a few!

Basil and many other herbs can be used in a variety of ways such as herb sachets (mojo bags), herbal baths, teas, infusions, incense and of course added to your cooking after being magickally charged.

Simple Basil Spell:

Decide what your goal is going to be out of the above list. For our purposes we will say courage.

Make a dinner recipe containing basil.

Before adding the basil to the dish, hold the quantity you are going to use in your dominant hand and close your eyes. Clear your mind as best as possible as try to become aware of the herb's energy. You may start to feel the basil tingle in your hand. If you don't that's okay, it will come with practice.

Next, visualize the color you would associate with courage. To me, it is a strong orange but there are no rules here, whatever color speaks to you will be most powerful.
Visualize this color filling your body while at the same time visualizing yourself feeling courageous and facing whatever issue it is you need the extra courage for.

Mentally transfer the color and images to the basil. I visualize the color flowing from by body, down my arm, into the hand holding the basil then into the basil itself. Picture the basil glowing with not only the color but the strong, courageous feelings you invoked.

Add the basil to the dish, confident that by ingesting it you have given yourself the extra courage you need to face your issue.

Magick isn't a "ZAP!" but it gets the wheels of the Universe turning and sets the stage for some major change to take place. The spell is just the first step. The next step is working toward the goal on the physical level. In this case it might be to face whatever issue you need to face instead of shying away and putting it off.

This spell could just as easily be used for any of the above mentioned purposes simply by changing the color and images you visualize.