Diana's Bow Online Newsletter

Diana's Bow Online Newsletter for February 27th, 2009

2009-02-27T21:18:00.006-05:00

Diana's Bow Online Newsletter
February 27, 2009
Moon in Aries

Some of the words used to describe Aries and the Moon together:
Yang, Masculine, Solar, Positive, Diurnal, Fiery, Cardinal, Barren, Horary Eastern, Vernal, Boreal, Commanding, Equinoctial, Feral, Bestial, Animal, Four-footed, Dry, Bitter, Hoarse, Hot.
The Diana's Bow Phase of the Moon is in Aries today, a placement of this phase that puts it in an exalted mode. The Diana's Bow Phase is new starts, fresh beginnings, and forward action and that is what Mars and the sign of Aries is all about as well! Very sanguine, but few can handle it.

This phase tells us about our instinctiveness, the id, our ego, our survival instincts, flight or right responses, our mind. Not our mind hidden along with hidden agendas, but our feelings revealed to all who can handle it, our truth, our ideas, our inner reflections, all out in the open, an open book, like the lead charecter of a play on the stage alone with only the floodlight upon him! The inner knowing working in tandem with our intuition. Our inner soul bared to all!

This is the time to take action, get something started, to inspire others to get moving! If you don't want to take action at this time, you will get left behind in the dust. Moon and Aries working together is a HOT combination, harness this energy and make it work for you. I really believe that the fire from Aries, just like the Sun's fire is reflected by the Moon, lighting up the dark, revealing our darkest fears and lighting them up into positivity and plans of action. If you are sitting, get up and move forward NOW! Aries is impatient, don't keep them waiting!

Since the Diana's Bow Phase of the Moon and Venus were together (conjunct) in the night sky tonight, you can read more about that at the following links here:
http://www.space.com/spacewatch/090226-ns-moon-venus.html
http://blog.beliefnet.com/astrologicalmusings/2009/02/daily-skywatch-february-27-200.html
It was definitely a sight to behold!

the Tarotlaydee )0(

Entity Releasement

Have you ever become angry, vengeful, agitated, or depressed for no apparent reason? It is possible that the unseen force of one or more entities have affected you adversely. There is much confusion surrounding this topic, and there are even more theories about the contamination they can cause and the rel easement of them. It is the intent of this brochure to give you the basics of understanding entities from a metaphysical perspective; and there forces in the place and the energy around you and how to protect yourself and your space.

What is an Entity?

An entity is anything perceived as outside of you that feeds off your energy or emotions. It can be a thought form that has taken on a life of its own, a discarnate energy pattern with malicious or non-malicious intent, a hook or attachment from one or more persons, or a discarnate being that feeds off the energy or thoughts of its host. It has nothing to do with what you have done or not done. An entity can jump from person to person or from apparently nowhere and is very easy to attract in these accelerated times. You are susceptible to entity contamination when you are with people, out shopping, at the movies, or at a restaurant. Realize that entities can be controlled and expelled easily and effectively.

Causes of Entity Contamination

Many problems can be caused by entity contamination, including depression, anxiety, fear, addictions, suicidal tendencies, phobias, relationship difficulties, bad health, rage, hyperactivity, crabbiness, money problems, and blocks to personal and spiritual growth. This does not mean that every instance of problem is entity related, so use discernment in assessing any situation.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Entity Contamination

Sudden depression, rage, edginess, anger, sadness, or anxiety
Feeling suddenly dizzy or off-balance
Sleeplessness
Repetitive or weird thoughts
Personality changes
Chronic or sudden health concerns
Manic depression
Outbursts
Addictions
Relationship problems
Multiple personalities

There are simple methods to determine if an entity has entered you or your space. Even work environments can become "sick" due to entity invasion. The simplest way to clear yourself or your home is to smudge your self and your home with sage and sweetgrass. This is an old Native American tradition that still works perfectly well today. If you do not have any sage and sweetgrass available, most dollar stores have sage incense which you can burn. Not as effective, but will help.

If the signs and symptoms are extreme, consult with a medical professional first to ensure that there is not a medical issue. Spiritual contact your religious leader of your local church or any new age store can usually point you in the right direction of a person locally who can assist.

Bright blessings,
Rev. Carla Goddard, B.Msc.
Director
The Center of Divine Light
Zephyrhills, Florida
http://www.thecenterofdivinelight.com

hands as hearts

hands as hearts
go whumpthump
patter
on the skins of some shy silly
sky

and a coupla
rattleshakes and tinslaps
three greens float inta
the cup
(not one muth ah fu kin cent
for war),
a kid just mesmerized
totters in the humid
streetbeat tides . . .

then slides some burly
cat
with the attitude and a
babble in he hat
ambassador from a heaven
nobody really sees now

breakrhythm
bus pulls up
evvybody on
evvybody gone
leaving only tapping
footshadows and
hands as hearts

"hearts as hands" copyright 2007, ddjango/P!Banger. All rights reserved. Reprint only with author's permission or full attribution.

Mind My Mind

Mind my mind.
Mind my mind.
This is me
minding my mind:

I am well.
I am worthy.
I am capable.
I am courageous.
I am prosperous.
I love.
I am loved.
I Believe.
I have Faith.
I am real.
I am sincere.
I am blessed.
I give my life fully to all The Sacred asks of me.

Mind my mind.
Mind my mind.
This is me minding my mind:

(grrrrrrumble, grouch, complain)

Come here Mind.
That's no place for you.
It's dangerous there.
I know.
I've been there.
Come on love, come on back.
(inhale, exhale) oh yeah...
I am well.
I am capable.
I am Changing.
I am breathing.
All I need is provided with ease.
I pay attention.
I take action.
I am well.

I hear the suggestion to mind your mind
come out of my mouth regularly these days
as I work with sooo many of my clients.
No kidding, check your notes.
Is it there?
Did you circle it?
Are you DOING it?

Mind your mind.

You probably were nudged to write,
MIND MY MIND in big letters.

Letting the detrimental mind have full reign
has been dangerous in my life.
I'll get to a couple of examples, later.

For those of you struggling to break the cycle,
the addiction, the habit of that mind
which keeps running off to play in
what I have come to call
"that broken glass, where danger and pain
are so easily found, and increased,"
have courage.
Habits can be altered.

Some of you say things to me, like,
"I know I'm an idiot, I keep on doing it."
Honestly, that's a pretty hard way to change things.
If someone were calling your little kid an idiot,
do you think it would help empower the child
to do what needs to be done?

Think about it for a second.

Let's go back to the broken glass scene.
I see busted panes (pains?) of plate glass windows.
(former ways to look at things?)
Lets say your kid was wandering into it.
(I mean, come on, there's some validation there:
It's familiar territory, old ways and old shards of one's Self)

It is dangerous!
Do you scream at the child to
GET THE HELL OUT OF THERE YOU IDIOT!
HAVEN'T I TOLD YOU?
WHY DONT YOU LISTEN?
BLAH BLAH BLAH!
(one very vocal mom told me yes,
she probably would say something like that,
without the word idiot put on the kid)

When people scream at me, I shut down.
I have a history of not listening
when I'm told what to do
in ways that are overbearing.

What about you?

Now let's make that kid someone else's child,
and only about two years old.
It's a fresh start-baby!
You'd probably be kinder to it.
"Come here honey, that's dangerous.
Let's find somewhere nicer to play."

Right? Can you see yourself doing that?
Do you think the kid might listen, and react,
to your kind voice
which directs them find something else;
something that's probably more interesting anyway?

What if that kid is you?
I mean, lets face it,
breaking a long-used habit
like playing in dangerous areas of the mind
can take us down to our most juvenile behaviors, right?
It's not such a big jump.

Be gentle with your Self.

Maybe you are accustomed to being hard on yourself
because you were were admonished so much by another,
or because you've come to identify your Self by it's pain.
("but the broken glass is my home!")
Big deal.
Get through it.
This is YOU we're talking about.
Mind your mind.
Step away from the glass.
(or live there fully, and step away from me)

If you notice you're saying things like,
"another day, another pile of poop"
then NOTICING is your eyeopener.
Now reach back and pat your own back, for taking notice.
Good job!
(I knew you were up to the work)

This is me, minding my my mind:
Another day, another opportunity to change.
Another day, another breath.
I am changing with every breath.
I am courageous.
I am stepping away from my past.
I am in the present.
I am creating my wonder filled future.

Baby steps, slow and easy.
This is a new skill.
Nurture it.
Practice it.
Do it.

Take responsibility for your mind
and your life will follow you right out
of that dangerous neighborhood.

Perhaps you think I oversimplify.

You are welcome to your belief, as always,
but really, I'll give you some examples
to illustrate just how simple it is,
once you get the hang of it.

I believe that we all manifest our present situations,
and that of our future, with every thought.

When we keep our thoughts focused
on what we Believe is Becoming,
on what we Know we Can,
on what we are Engaged in Being,
it's energy invested in our Doing:
our literal Creating of Self.

Does this make sense to you?

Let me talk a little about me now.
Forewarning, it's going to be frank and graphic,
so only continue if you are okay with such things.

I had a child with a man I loved
who was a wonderful guy,
most of the time;
if he was sober.
Unfortunately, he indulged in alcohol more than he abstained.
When he was drunk he would regress
into psychotic behaviors nurtured in a war zone.
Long story short, there were guns, knives,
physical fights, trip wires, booby traps and more.
He died in my arms due to internal bleeding.
His death certificate states, "long history of alcohol abuse."

I had a child with another man.
He too, an alcoholic, was vile in his drinking.
His chosen abuse was words.
He was very skilled at his shredding of a soul.

There was a brief relationship with a guy
who nearly threw me down the stairs.
He was out the next day.
I felt empowered.
I was NO LONGER putting up with that crap.

Then there was the one who drank profusely,
spent my rent money on drugs,
and stalked my family for nine months
after he had moved out.

I was pretty much over them all, I thought.
Fuck men! Who needs them?

Blessedly, I got the answer to that prayer
via a gentle sweet lover who was never my boyfriend.
He reminded me that men had attributes
which were worth the effort
(this lent me a sense of otherwise absent hope in partnering).

I walked around, for years, all full of myself.
I liked playing with men, you know, smooching and all,
but could not be bothered with taking them home to bed them.
I knew such things only led to one place,
and I'd found that place held little interest for me.
I was building me and I would not be distracted.

My priority was my children.
My intent was to grow them up well.

"I've got a left and a right hand. Why would I need you?"
became my standard response to serious invitations from men.

I was reading cards, more fluently than ever, by this time.
I had developed what seemed to be a new modality
of reading (henna) and changed my vocation.
I was investing more fully in the Sacred Work.
I repeatedly saw that my Partner was coming.
This continued to show up in my readings for three years.

One evening, I was chilling with a friend.
He'd just shared all his intentions
of what his future wife would be.
He looked at me, when he was done, and asked,
"So, what are YOU waiting for?"

I fired away, in a knee-jerk response:
"I'll tell you what he's NOT gonna be!
He's NOT gonna be a drinker.
He's NOT gonna be a druggie.
He's NOT gonna be an abuser.
He's NOT gonna be an ASSHOLE.
Blah blinking blah"

I went on that way for a bit.

He listened closely, then he said,
"I didn't ask you what you don't want.
I asked you what you are waiting for."

Holy Crap.

What?

The dawn broke, for me, right then
(as in, I woke up, in the middle of my pile of broken glass).

Here I was, a person who knew all that stuff about
the law of attraction, positive thinking and all that jazz.
Here I was, actually doing EXACTLY what I
would admonish clients for doing.

I cried.
I mean, I bawled my eyes out.
I Saw what had been my pattern,
not in men, but in my energy to draw them to me:
the drunken, druggers, abusers:
(including, my statement:"I am no longer putting up with that crap")
different faces and different forms of the same sort.

Are you beginning to understand?

It took me weeks to place the first attribute on paper.
This first step was much more difficult than I imagined it to be.
It caused me to take action for my Self, in my own writing:

Intellectual.

There it was.

I'd never said that before when I spoke about what I wanted,
and here it was, right in front of me, on paper.
You know, I'm smart.
I was ready to have a smart partner
who could discuss a variety of topics.

Heck yeah!

And you know, I thought,
my partner is smart enough to teach me things
and humble enough to learn from me.

I wrote that down too.

Within a few days I added
that my partner has a generous sense of humor.
I like to laugh, you know.

(You'll note that I wrote in present tense,
as it was important to me that the coming Mate,
BE all these things, already,
when they were revealed to me)

The details came in smooth sequences.
The more I minded my mind
the more I opened up to what I really desired,
to what I would like my approaching partner to be.

The intention grew. My love would be:

Respectful of and to me, and my kids.
Have a strong sense family values.
Have a prosperous source of income for themselves.
Be secure in who they are.
Trust me.
Love me in a healthy way.
Be a fabulous kisser.
Have a great tongue.
Honor my every curve.
Worship me.
Support me in every way.
Be open to my witchiness.
Zero offspring.
Zero wives. (that one almost counted me out!)

I reread, adjusted,
and thought about my Partner
for three years.
I was patient.
I was going with the flow, with much greater ease.

Three years after I Awakened to my words,
I went to my twentieth high school reunion.
On the way out the door the first night's event,
I encountered a man I've known since I was twelve.
We yammered for six hours in the parking lot that night.
Honestly, we SPOKE about topics as broad as
politics, religion, schooling and shared memories.
I didn't really see him again for most of two weeks,
but when I did, there was a date, and a kiss.

It was then that I knew, it was Him.

He embraces and exhibits all I mentioned above,
and we will be jumping the broom very soon.

While I had fleshed out my Partner's aspects on paper,
I concurrently had been working on the intentions for my next abode.
I had sensed a move.
I knew the Next Place would be all I asked for.

I live there now.

I could have upped the ante
if I had also placed on my Mate list,
"be an ecclectic Pagan Witch",
but I didnt.
I'm not trading him in, to get that now.
I also could have changed the
"strong sense of family values"
to include something like
"which is at ease with distance."
Perhaps, then we'd be living in Vermont,
instead of Florida, where his family lives.
Meh.
You see, I am still learning too!

I could have upped the ante on the house,
by having the clean walls already painted in colors I love
(they are white, and I'm still working to develop my plan there).
I manifested a full wall of the exact shelving I wanted,
but did not mention my desire for immediate access to it.
Laughably, the wall of shelves is my son's room!
I will get to use that feature when son is grown and moves away.
I'm happy to wait a few years.

If I told you all I manifested
in the home, specifically, you would laugh.
Trust me though,when I tell you
it was, exactly, what it is.

One last personal example for you
(I know, you're getting tired, but it's pertinent).
I remember when I was in constant prayer
asking for, "just enough to get by,"
and I am here to tell you
that "just enough to get by" is EXACTLY what I received.
Finances were a huge struggle back then.
What else could they have been?
My prayers are always answered!

When I realized this,
I flipped the prayer over to something like:
I am capable of prosperity
and welcome it fully into my life.
I am financially free.

I'm still praying that one,
but let me assure you,
there are more digits
to the left of the decimal point
in my bank account now!

I tell you this, less out of a vain recognition,
and more to serve as an example
of how one CAN awaken themselves
to minding their mind,
empowering their Selves to create what
and how they want their life to be, starting now.

Mind you, there's more to Change
and Minding my Mind, than all this,
there is the work of blessed release of what no longer serves growth
(like that pile of broken glass-habit)
and a time of allowing mySelf to embrace being empty too,
to give space for The Work to be done.

A dear client
who recently found herself
knee deep in the lesson of minding her mind
wrote the following note to illustrate her work to me
(thanks for letting me print this here honey!):

"I let a bunch of shit go. Even some shit I didn't realize I was holding onto. Then, I sat down and made my list. I made it so specific, it's comical. He just started knocking, and I'm checking an insane amount of things off that list. It's frightening, actually. But I'm not running...

I made the list down to what sign I wanted, ethnicity, I even asked
for perfect teeth that get flossed daily. He told me he's glad I
brought up flossing because he flosses after every meal, no exceptions,
and women think he's nuts. I did mention ONE thing I did NOT
particularly want, and that was an overly-muscular man. I have to
laugh, because including what you don't want doesn't work. The universe
hears, "overly-muscular." He's a fucking body builder. I laughed so
hard. I definitely ain't turning it down...

*faint"

I'm not implying that minding your mind is easy,
but honestly, I've noticed examples over and over again
of how absolutely spectacular, amazing and courageous my clients are.

Therefore, I can only believe
that you, having read this far,
have the courage
to lovingly and gently,
awaken to the awareness of where your broken glass is,
and, in so doing, take action.

It's all up to you.

I can help you with some of these lessons,
but you must do your own work,
just as I have, and I continue, to do mine.

If you are ready for your next
session of empowering reflection,
I'm here:
http://www.myspace.com/spellbindingsherry
spellbindingsherry@yahoo.com

Earthmother, manqué.

Sometimes I find it hard

To resist the growing urge

To cook for the children,

The ten or twelve I never had,

Or cater for the horde

Of hungry friends that once

Came knocking at mealtimes,

Eager for food or fellowship.

The phantom feet still beat

A path at times to my door,

And wait like patient pets

For recognition and relief.

At times like these, I shiver,

And make vast cauldrons

Of hot and bubbling soup

Massive crumbles and pies,

Roast beef, all the trimmings,

And try not to count

The empty chairs around

My waiting, groaning table.

By Veronica Beccabunga

What is it Like to Care?

To Care, is to wake to freshness of the gracious morning Sun,
To it's warmth upon your skin.

To Care, it hear the rising of the highest Tides,
As it wash's the soft sand out beneath your feet.

To Care, is to feel the touch and softness of a newborns Skin,
To hear that baby's cry in the soft and gentle Winds.

To Care, is to hear the wind whistle and rustle the leaves above your Head,
While picking up some and feel the smoothness of the soil within your Hands.

To Care, is to smell the light and soft scents of a new Flower Bud,
Watch as it grows and withers as it ready's itself for the next years Bloom.

To Care, is to tap in to the unwanted power of Love,
Given to us from the Gods and Goddesses above.

To Care, is to have a touch of the Rain and cool Breeze brush across you,
As they wash and whips' your sorrows away.

To Care, is to grow old in your life as you have watched the growth of your Children,
To know they will watch their Children one day do the same thing.

To Care, is to pass on to this World your wisdom that was passed onto you,
To share all you know so none will see the sorrow you have seen.

To Care, is to know the everlasting voice of Love,
From the soul that only you can touch.

To Care, is to know the world is in need of people like You and Me,
To Care, for all those who are still in need.

By Teeaj Johnson
January 31, 2009

Drumming Meditation Groove Workshop and Concert

Saturday March 14, 2009 – The Soul Mirror

2025 West Bearss Avenue * Tampa, FL 33618 * Ph – 813/964-1156

$35 workshop & concert * $10 concert only * CD Signing/Meet & Greet after concert

* Drumming Meditation Workshop 3pm – 5pm *

We are now in the JUMP that is taking us to the next level of consciousness in human evolution. This jump is greater than all the others combined. We cannot imagine where it will take us. But we can have a gyroscope to keep us balanced during this time of transition. Our personal sense of rhythm is a vital tool in staying clear, focused, balanced and in a state of joy, gratitude, confidence and abundance. Learn with Buddy Helm, and play the ancient grooves that have always been our allies of power. Understand how rhythm affects reality. Use your GROOVE!

Secrets of the grooves are revealed in a supportive, easy-to-play style with no competition. Lots of Fun. Some Djembes available for playing/ purchase. No experience needed. Beginners and advanced are all welcome! Experience healing deep trance with no stress with Drummer, Teacher, Author, Motivational coach, Drum therapist and martial arts drumming instructor, Buddy Helm. He started in Santa Monica, California, at Seasons, twenty years ago and travels, teaching familiar rhythms that are also ancient healing and manifesting tools. His drumming, singing and story telling connects to Universal rhythmic power!

Website: http://www.buddyhelm.com Email: buddy@buddyhelm.com For personal drum therapy 310-650-9438

* Concert 6pm *

With Special Guests Hecate's Wheel!

International recording artists Hecate’s Wheel; an acoustic folk trio made up of Vicki Scotti, LuAnn Morris & Amy Otero. We have been playing and singing together in the Tampa Bay area for several years. Our music is inspired by, and dedicated to the Goddess in all Her guises. We sing an eclectic variety of cover songs and original music. Our voices have a natural harmonious blend; we consider ourselves to be musical soul mates! Loved by Witches & Muggles alike; let us inspire & enchant you! We guarantee you’ll walk away with a warm & smiling heart!

Website: http://hecateswheel.com/ My Space: http://www.myspace.com/hecateswheel1 Email: music@hecateswheel.com

I believe that there is a misconception when it comes to what soul mates are.So many people believe that soul mates are someone who you are married to or in a romantic relations with. Not always so, let me explain. A soul mate from my understanding is someone that you have had previous lifetimes with and there is sometimes karma that needs to be worked out between you, this could be a family member, close friends or even someone that you are married to or have a romantic relationship with. My own experience with having a soul mate that you are married to, there is a karmic debt that needs to be worked out between you both, this could last this lifetime or maybe several, not always coming back to be a couple again though. If we realize that there are things that needs to be worked on, this process can move a lot quicker to where you can find your twin soul.

If you find yourself in a relationship with someone that is your significant other and you have a lot of problems that you seem to be repeating over and over then I believe it would be safe to assume there is some sort of karmic debt to pay. My experience was I was married for over 20 years and we fought all the time, always seemed to be the same thing over and over. Now this is the catch here, once your karmic debt is paid off from that person you will be free to move on if that is your choice. You will know when it is paid, you will have a release and like a burden lifted, even though the problems are still there, the other person may not want to work through this so then they have to keep coming back to get it right so to speak. Twin flames however are so much different from what I understand, now I am not claiming to be an expert on this, just giving you what I have been shown personally. Maybe this will help someone somehow. Twin flames are one soul that was split apart in the beginning of time. You have male/female energies, the perfect balance.

Once one, you are split apart to make male and female, but still have the same soul, it is just that you are half yourself. lol Once all Karmic debt is paid from many lifetimes from both male and female there is a chance of coming together with your true other half in a lifetime to in the end ascend together, not having to come back again if you choose not to. Then I believe that you are given a choice to be a guide, ascended master for those still living. I have been given a great gift of being with my twin flame in this lifetime and it is the most precious gift I could ever have and I treasure it with all of my being. Twin flames are mirror images of each other, you have always heard of opposites attracting? Well I guess they do, but with a twin flame... it is not so. Your thoughts, your actions, the reasons you do what you do are the exact same. your goals, your thinking patterns all the same.

You understand each other in a way that no one else does, because you know yourself so well that you know the reasons you do what you do. And things that your partner does, doesn't make you mad that if someone else did the same thing you would tend to get upset with. Being with your twin flame comes a lot of responsibility, it is not to have this great awesome love life and relationship, it is, please pay attention to this, it is for the greater good of ALL mankind. This twin flame love is without strings without conditions, you truly learn what unconditional love is and total acceptance is. This is what is suppose to be shown to others, to bring about this type of love and acceptance to all. Just think, if this kind of love was world wide what kind of peace would we have? I would like to hear from anyone or answer any questions you may have on this subject.

Willow

I am here to help you answer the questions you seek. I have been gone for a while, but now feel the release to come back with greater insight than ever.

I will use the information from my guides as well as the tarot and my psychic abilities to help you with the questions you seek. I can tell you and give you the details about the situation you are going through. I am upfront and honest, I do not always tell you what you want to hear, but I will give you the information that is passed through me to you. I care about you and extend my hand to you to help you grow, move ahead and deal with whatever you need to deal with. Try me out and let's make a connection. Love and Light to All.
Experience & Qualifications
The experience I have, I received through my guides and spirits, I am very attuned to the universe as well as Mother Earth. I have also been reading tarot for over a year and the feedback I have received was all positive, and I have had the joy of helping many people out in their day to day struggles as well as helping see the big picture. Check out my ratings.

Come see me for a live reading. http://www.liveperson.com/willowsilver-moon

Hi friends,

I know some of you are still suffering in the cold clutches of winter, but do not despair! Our spring soaps are now available at www.sacredsuds.com. We can't give you warm weather, but we can offer you the scents and energies of the spring season!

For those of you who are still shivering through the winter, desperate for that first bit of spring green, you might want to check out our Green Man soap. Inspired by the Celtic nature spirit, scented with patchouli and basil, and colored a bright green with chlorophyll, this soap actually /smells/ green. It smells clean and fresh, and one of our best sellers during the spring and summer.

If you prefer flowers to greenery, you'll definitely want to look at our Flora soap. Flora is a Roman goddess of spring, and her soap is a wonderful facial soap, made with some of the best skin-softening and wrinkle-reducing oils. Scented with rose and violet fragrance oils, this soap is light and floral, and was made with the intention of unburdening yourself of heavy worries so that you can feel as young and carefree as a maiden in Spring.

Our Artemis and Demeter soaps are perfect for nature lovers and gardeners. Artemis, Greek goddess of the outdoors and of the hunt, inspired our natural insect repellent soap. Made with a formula to discourage insects from landing on your skin, and scented with light, fresh naturally insect repellent essential oils like lemongrass, this soap is our favorite camping soap. Demeter, Greek goddess of the earth, inspired our rich, conditioning gardener's hand soap. Scented from the garden with lavender, rosemary, and lemon, and full of healing oils and exfoliating oats, this is a wonderful soap to cleanse and condition your hands after working them hard in the garden.

Yay! Spring is on its way!

Andrea

Sacred Suds ~ divinely inspired handmade soaps
http://www.sacredsuds.com

From Under the Gypsy Moon in Brandon, Florida!

We have Metaphysical forums every 3rd thursday eve at 6:30 pm till 8:30. Group of like minded people , learning from each other and making bonds, networking, etc. every month is different. All things of metaphysical nature, talked about. Also we have meditations classes, call the shop for times 813-689-7595

Past Life Meditations (group) on Wed (again call to check dates and times of all classes , this is not every Wed). Tarot Refresher course and Intermediate Tarot both taught by Mama Gina.
Coming in April, Intro to Crystals, and Rattle Making class with Cleansing and Consecrating Ritual. Kids make rattles free with a paid parent, one child per parent.

There are many more classes, please call or send your email address to
undertheygypsymoon@tampabay.rr.com, and we will send you a monthly newsletter on all classes and information.

Blessings to you and yours!
LadyNakomaHawk aka slave name Tesha Miller

http://www.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://blog.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://dianasbownewsletter.blogspot.com

The Diana's Bow Newsletter, copyright Anita Stewart aka the Tarotlaydee )0(, 2008, 2009
Use and reproduction for educational and informational purposes only.
The newsletter must be kept whole with links intact and proper credit given to all contributors.

Diana's Bow Newsletter 1/29/09

2009-01-30T01:59:00.001-05:00

DIANA'S BOW NEWSLETTER
January 29, 2009

The Diana's Bow phase is in Pisces, the sign of the watery planet, Neptune. A planet of illusion, dreams, inward introspection, emotions. When this phase is happening, shadow sides come to the surface if we allow them to. However for the most part, emotions are real and focused inward and hidden agendas abound. Imaginations are active, dreaming is reality and creativity is at the fore. This might morph into a creative phase, so just go with the flow. In fact, I headed to the arts and crafts store just today for some supplies for my lastest Goddess project.

Neptune is negative, watery, mutable, dreamy, altered states of consciousness, cool, flowing, heartfelt, trickling (like a fountain, the perfect "white noise," something that will lull us right to sleep), diaphanous clothing or layered colors, not unlike translucent images from the other side that we see in our dreams or dying patients describe to their loved ones.

Neptune's glyph gives us a reminder of the GOD of the planet Neptune, with it's trident shape. In the Greek and Roman Myths, whenever Neptune is mentioned and he is creating havoc of some sort, one can see the characters going through their emotional turmoils. When he is done raging, the waters (emotions) are smoothed over again.

Pisces and Neptune along with the Moon speak to us of what we allow to come to the surface and what we want to remain hidden either from others or from ourselves in our own subconscious. What is reality and what is imagination? Is there a fine line between the two? Meditation on our own inner selves and our inner work is important during this phase and what we allow out in our creative endeavors is our own expression of that. If you cannot think of anything creative to do, get your hands in something fun, if you are right handed, explore automatic writing with your left hand. Meditate and then get some finger paints and go crazy on a blank white board...get the inner, OUT!

the Tarotlaydee )0(

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Don't Have a Supreme Being, Don't Want One, Don't Need One.

I wish I believed in a huge ginormous, powerful God (of any gender). I want a Deity with some smiting mojo.

I want a God that actually does SOMETHING. That I can see, take a picture of, poke with a sharp stick. And I'm not talking about Mary on a piece of freakin' toast.

If I had to twist myself to believe in a "higher power", well, make my God a Goddess.

Women know how to spank the unruly, lick a thumb to rub out a smudge on a child's face. Women know how to deal with leaky bodies. Vomit, pus, blood, poop, pee, ear wax, and motes in eyes. Women know how to clean, and when to clean. Women know how to laugh. Deep, full, belly fat shaking laughter. Can Yaweh do that? No, didn't think so.

The classic God's laugh seems to sound more like sarcasm. Snarky snickering, behind a clenched fist. A Snidely Whiplash kind of laugh. Like we're being laughed AT.

A biblical God, doesn't do a DAMN thing! He asks someone else to do it. Can't seem to get his masculine ass off the sofa. Sends down 10 simple, easy to follow instructions, then lets human men twist 'em until there is no making sense of it, Then he goes fishing or something. God only knows what He's up to. But he certainly is NOT paying attention.

Give me a Goddess who is a plant, or some dirt, or water, or air, or a tree. A tree that grows food to eat, and cleans the air. Give me a Goddess with huge boobalas, so when I need to cry, all that needs doing is a welcoming gesture, a bit of cuddle, and a stroke or two on my old thinning hair. A warm, fresh from the dryer, down pillow feels remarkable like Goddess boobs oughta feel, don't cha think?

You can have your Old Testament God with all that useless anger, hate, and destructive power. Knock yourself out. Go ahead, hang your life on good 'ole Jehovah. Now there's a God who knows how to punish his most faithful.

Oh, by the way, you can have your sacrificial lamb too. I've read that He came down to save us all, He suffered so that we may be saved. Um, how's that working out for ya? ME? Not so much. As a matter of true, verifiable, (I have the pictures) fact,

Sheesh, He hasn't saved a freakin' thing. He came not to change the law but to fulfill it., and we're still waiting. Waiting…. Still waiting… um, change we can believe in? Waiting… waiting… And just what is he supposed to save us from? His DAD?????

Oh, and if I absolutely HAVE to eat some God flesh and blood, well, I'd rather it was the Goddess kind. I can imagine that it would taste something like apples. Or tuna.

Let me have a Goddess that I can picture stamping her foot and shaking the San Andres Fault. A Goddess whose every gaze, touch, song, and tear is manifested, visibly in our world.

If I needed an almighty (and I don't, thank you very much) I want to imagine one more like me. A deity that IS me.

A Goddess.

by Faith C. Carr
Gainesville, Florida
(You can see Faith's writings on http://www.opednews.com)
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Are Religious and Spiritual Leaders Responsible ?

As a Pastor there are many times that people from all walks of life come to
me both personally and in my position as Director of a Spiritual Wellness
Center. They come for different reasons, however, there is one thing in
common among nearly every person that comes. What is that one thing you
might ask? They come for hope. Hope for something – something better,
something different, something spiritual, something emotional, or even just
something physical. As one who is in the field of pastoral work, I would
like to think that every spiritual leader would offer the same thing as is
forefront to me. Hope.

Regardless of what spiritual journey a person is on, regardless of what
their background is, regardless of what sex they are, what age, what
economic stature they are or what sexual orientation they have – when they
come to a spiritual leader they are looking for hope. Personally I believe
that it is a responsibility to carry a message of hope to everyone who
comes seeking out help. Unfortunately, I know that not all religious and
spiritual people in pastoral positions offer that so important four letter
word.

I felt compelled to write this article because of the experience I had this
morning. I volunteer on a website that offers the public a place to ask
questions of volunteers in different categories. The public has a choice of
whether to ask the question privately or publicly. The question/comment
that I received from the site this morning was from a 13 year old young
man. He wanted to tell someone of his plans. Paraphrased from his email:
Wednesday's night he went to his hometown church (please note I have since
found out the young man was from another state) and spoke with the pastor
there. The conversation with the pastor involved the young man telling the
Pastor that he was gay. The young man's question was did God still love
him. In the young man's words he was answered that “being gay was going to
send him to hell and that God does not 'like' people who are homosexual.”

His statement to me, “If I am going to hell anyways, and the church says
God “hates” me and I can't be saved, I think suicide is the only answer. I
just thought someone should know.”

I am not exactly sure why the young man chose me to write to out of all the
spiritual people on the site but he did. I am unsure of what type of church
it was and that really is irrelevant. What is relevant ? This is not the
first time that a situation of this nature has come across my path. There
are many times that people come from different religious backgrounds and
share that judgment was passed down upon them from religious persons.
Judgment upon their sexual orientation is only one example. While I do
understand that many religions have their dogma and beliefs, I can not
fathom the idea of telling a person that they are condemned and there is no
way out.

If I am not mistaken, the basis of every religion, of every spiritual path,
is Hope. Hope in something. Something outside of themselves. Hope that can
carry them through dark days. Hope that they are not alone. Hope that
someone cares enough to listen. Hope that tomorrow is a brand new day. I
will not go into statistics of how many young people commit suicide each
year. I will not go into quoting from sacred texts. I just want to know and
understand how it is that any spiritual person, especially those who are
looked to for guidance and help, can ever tell anyone there is no hope – no
way out – nothing but condemnation.

Due to the very nature of being the Director of a Spiritual Wellness
Center, I am blessed with the opportunity to meet many beings on different
spiritual journeys. I have the opportunity to speak with many religious and
spiritual leaders of the community. I am blessed with being able to speak
with persons from different economic levels, different educational
backgrounds, different countries, different sexual orientations and
different cultures. It is my belief that anyone I have spoken with would
not have done or said the same thing to this young man. They would have
offered Hope, offered love and offered compassion.

However, I think we need as a community, especially those of us who are in
positions of leadership, whether it is spiritual leadership, educational
leadership or simply mentor leadership, to be acutely aware of what we say
to people and how we say it. We never know what the power of our word can
have. It can uplift and be a beacon of light or it can be a razor blade
that cuts deep and perhaps not only wound but kill. The power of four
letters. Hope. Love. Or Fear. Hate. They are all four letter words, it is a
matter of what weight they carry. I pray that the weight is as light as an
angels wing that carries hope and love upon it. Let us all become beacons
of light. Let us all, everyone who reads this, be a person who carries hope
and love to all that cross our paths.

I make this challenge to my brothers and sisters who are spiritual leaders
and spiritual workers. I challenge you to carry hope. Regardless of what a
person says to you. Show them hope. Show them light. Show them love.
Regardless of what sexual orientation they are. Show them hope. Show them
light. Show them love. Regardless of what spiritual journey they are on –
show them hope, light and love. I challenge you to speak of hope, light,
and love in your churches, in your temples, in your synagogues, and in your
classrooms. I challenge you to show tolerance and not judgment. I challenge
you to reach across the paths to your spiritual neighbors in your
communities and work together as one to bring hope, love, and light back
into our communities. I challenge you for one moment set aside your dogma,
set aside your sacred text, set aside all of things human and reflect upon
what is the basis of your faith. I challenge you to look deep within
yourself and ask: Is it not hope, love, and light that drew you to your
chosen spiritual journey. Is it not hope, love, and light that continues to
draw you to your spiritual beliefs and faith. I challenge you to ask
yourself how would you be received in your own spiritual places if you
walked in desperate, alone, hopeless, and lost. What would you find?

I am not asking anyone to change their faith nor their belief system. What
I am asking is is for each of us to pause a moment and reflect upon the
words we say and the actions they have. You never know the impact your
simple words will have on another human being.

Rev. Carla Goddard, B.Msc.
Director, The Center of Divine Light in Zephyrhills, Florida
http://www.thecenterofdivinelight.com/
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In the Witch's Kitchen: Imbolc
by the Wicked Witch

Imbolc, which is celebrated on February 2, is an old festival connected with the coming of Spring and the growing warmth of the Sun. In some areas of Europe, this day
marked the emergence of a few brave plants from beneath the snow. As such, Imbolc was an occasion for feasting.

Because the Sun was usually seen as the source of the Earth's fertility, Imbolc (known within Catholic circles as Candlemas) was a solar festival. Practioners of pre-
Christian religions lit fires and carried torches in ceremonial processions to urge the Sun's "return."

Appropriate foods for Imbolc are spicy and hot, in honor of the Sun. Those utilizing garlic and chili peppers are suitable, as are curried dishes.

Have a truly wonderful Sabbat, my fellow witches!

Blessings of Light and Dark,

~the Wicked Witch~

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Returning Sun Spice Bread

1 1/4 cup flour
1/8 cup poppyseeds
2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 cup raisins, plain or golden
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 cup butter/margarine
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
3/4 cup Karo golden corn syrup
1/2 cup light brown sugar
4 tbs. milk
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp. mixed spices**

**Equal parts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Sift the flour, soda, and baking powder into a non-metal bowl. Add the mixed spice and ginger. Next add the brown sugar and raisins. Mix. Make a well in the center of
the flour mixture. In a small sauce pan, melt the butter and the syrup over a low heat, then pour liquid into the well in the middle of the flour mixture. Add the beaten egg
and the milk, and mix very well. Pour into a well greased 2-lb loaf pan and bake in a preheated oven at 325 degrees for 40-50 minutes. This bread can be made the night
before as it improves with age. Makes 8-10 servings.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Imbolc Ritual Cake

13/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tbs. poppyseeds
1 tbs. grated lemon peel
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tbs. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. salt
powdered sugar

This is all done in one pan, so clean up is a breeze! Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix flour, sugar, poppyseeds, baking soda, and salt with a fork in an ungreased 9"x9"x2"
baking pan. Stir in the remaining ingredients, except the powdered sugar. Bake 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, and the top is
golden brown. Remove from oven and cool. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Makes 8 servings.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Sun-Kissed Carrots Baked in Foil
The following recipe is from the book: Cooking By Moonlight, A Witch's Guide to Culinary Magic, by Karri Ann Allrich.

Sweet and tender carrots infused with the inspiring scent of oranges. A hint of sunshine admist the dark of winter - just when we need it most.

1 lb carrots, scrubbed, ends trimmed, halved lengthwise, and cut into 3 inch pieces
1 medium red onion, peeled, thinly sliced
Sea salt and freshly ground pepper
1 teaspoon dried cumin or ginger (we use ginger)
1 tablespoon of orange zest
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey or real maple syrup
2/3 cup orange juice (fresh squeezed is nice if you have it)

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Combine the carrots, onions, sea salt, pepper, ginger or cumin, orange zest and olive oil in a large bowl, and toss to mix.

Cut two large pieces of aluminum foil to make a double thick layer. Center the carrots in the middle of the foil. Cut a piece of foil for the top, match it up and seal 3 sides
of the foil by folding up the edges and pinching tightly.

Whisk the honey and orange juice together and carefully pour the juice into the open end, then fold the foil and seal it tightly. Bake the carrots for about 40 to 50
minutes, until tender. Check for tenderness by carefully unsealing one end and testing a carrot with a fork. (Use caution when opening the foil packet. Steam will escape!)

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Curried Lamb

1 pound boneless lamb, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 cup chopped onion
3 to 4 teaspoons curry powder
2 cloves garlic
2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1 teaspoon instant chicken bouillon granules
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups hot cooked rice

In a large saucepan brown half of the meat in hot oil. Remove meat. Brown remaining meat with onion, curry power, and garlic till onion is tender. Return all meat to pan.

Stir in apples, bouillon granules, and 3/4 cup water. Cover; simmer for 30 to 40 minutes or till tender. Stir 1/4 cup cold water into flour; stir into saucepan. Cook and stir
till thickened and bubbly. Cook and stir 1 minute more. Season to taste. Serve over rice. If desired, pass chutney, sliced green onion, raisins, shredded coconut, or chopped
peanuts. Serves 4.

Microwave directions: Omit cooking oil. In a 2-quart casserole micro-cook lamb, onion, curry powder, and garlic, covered, on 100% power (high) 5 minutes. Stir in apples,
bouillon granules, and 3/4 cup water. Cook, covered, on 50% power (medium) 15 minutes or till tender, stirring every 5 minutes. Stir 1/4 cup cold water into flour; stir into
casserole. cook on high 3 to 5 minutes or till thickened and bubbly, stirring every minute. Cook 30 seconds more. Continue as above.

Lady Aquarius
http://www.myspace.com/ladyaquarius1962
***************************

Last weekend I attended the workshop facilitated by Tim Carr, an author from the Washington, DC area. His book, "Savage Breast" was the talk of local pagans lately. It is about his personal journey of new discoveries regarding the Goddess and the relationship between him, men in general and their relationship to the Goddess.

You can see a link to Tim Ward's site here:
http://timwardsbooks.com/

The workshop was marvelous, if he comes to your town, I recommend going. You can order the book from his site. The workshop attendees felt very open about discussing their relationships with the Goddess, even sharing some of their dark shadow sides in their experiences with Her.

While we discussed the Goddess Athena, justice, war, etc., while we were talking about equality in the workplace, we got on the subject of rape, sexual assault and discrimination as Athena is really the Goddess of the stronger and more career oriented female paradigm. I mentioned the females in the US Military being subject to all types of sexual harassment and discrimination, including high instances of rape. I made mention that rape is not something that normally happens in the Muslim culture and I was wrong and probably needed to reword that or express myself a little differently. What I should have said was that in the Iraqi war theatre, rape and sexual abuse is normally not inflicted on Military women by the enemy but by their male counterparts in the US Military. I got home and did a little research and the following is what I came up with:

Here are some links that I found regarding the NUMBERS of women raped and/or sexually assaulted in the US military by other male military counterparts. The viciousness of the attacks is horrifying and often causes American Military Women victims serious conditions, such as PTSD and many other emotional and mental disorders and these can cause the end result of suicide for many.

I did not find ONE LINK in my 20 minute search about American Military Women being raped by Iraqi soldiers and I did not research other war theatres (fronts). I am not saying that this does not or has not happened. But I can only conclude that this instance is very rare and that the US Military's systemic pattern of sexual abuse, assault and rape is much more common. Some of the links below are reports on the US Military Men raping Iraqi women. This is thought to be common in Iraq, but not as widely reported as rape by Iraqi males on Iraqi women. These same situations existed in Viet Nam.

The other issue is this, many American military women do not report when they are raped.
And American military women are rarely prisoners of war.
(There ARE reports of Iraqi men raping Iraqi women.)

Also, another number that goes unreported is the number of American civilian women who are working for the government contractors (otherwise known as mercenaries) in Iraq. This number is high and there are many cases currently in litigation.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=contractors+in+iraq+and+rape&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&oq=

And this is the point that is the most important: it is very clear that there is some kind of void in the hearts, minds and emotions of men when faced with the horrors of war. They must be filled with anger and rage at what they are seeing and what they are expected to do. Rape has nothing to do with sex and is always an act of violence. For men to rape their female counterparts on or near the war front whether they are civilian or military is the ultimate and most serious act of betrayal.

***NOTE: Are these horrible things inflicted on women in the military by their male comrades in arms due to the men's detachment and disassociation from the loving nature and even the knowledge of the Goddess?

I encourage all of you to read and research the numbers and more info at the links below...
Let's increase awareness about this issue.
(Some of these articles were written in 2003 and 2004, the numbers quoted are much different now)

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=15005484
http://www.democracynow.org/2007/3/8/the_private_war_of_women_soldiers
http://www.truthdig.com/report /item/20080801_sexual_assault_in_the_military_a_dod_cover_up/
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0319/p99s01-duts.html
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/08/19/national/main1913849.shtml
http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/07/31/military.sexabuse/
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/05/06/AR2005050601355.html
http://www.womensenews.org/article.cfm?aid=1273
http://www.global-sisterhood-network.org/content/view/1664/59/
http://staringatemptypages.blogspot.com/2008/12/women-military-academies-and-sexual.html
http://www.sapr.mil/
http://newstandardnews.net/content/?action=show_item&itemid=478
http://bartoy.blogspot.com/2008/02/uncle-sam-wants-to-rape-your-daugthers.html
http://www.mediamouse.org/news/2007/03/iraqi-and-us-wo.php
http://politicsnpoetry.wordpress.com/2007/02/27/us-trained-iraqi-police-rape-women/

The mainstream media has done their best to sweep this issue under the rug as the media is controlled by the government and "owned" by the corporations. But these women flood the Women's Centers of the VA hospitals around the country so this is a much larger issue than people realize.

As a female veteran myself, I would not want to be a female in today's military, it is far too dangerous.

Another thing to add that I did not have a chance to state at the workshop, the standards for those recruited into the military have been lowered substantially. Only the "cream of the crop" used to be able to get in at all...so who knows who is being recruited now? Seems like the most violent types of people are what the military really wants on a war front...crimes and prior records are expunged before military induction...

Please think twice before encouraging young people, both male and female to join the military. They really do have other options. See and be sure to forward the following sites to the young people that you know for more information:

http://www.objector.org/before-you-enlist.html
http://www.militaryfreezone.org

the Tarotlaydee )0(
http://www.myspace.com/tarotlaydeestearoom
http://tarotlaydee.blogspot.com

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For special Imbolc and Valentine Gifts be sure to check out a local business:
http://www.sacredsuds.com
If you do not see the banner here go to the following link to view and print for a special DIANA'S BOW DISCOUNT COUPON especially for our readers:
http://s88.photobucket.com/albums/k187/tarotlaydee/?action=view&current=SacredSudscouponbanner539x157px.jpg

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http://www.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://blog.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://dianasbownewsletter.blogspot.com

The Diana's Bow Newsletter, copyright Anita Stewart aka the Tarotlaydee )0(, 2008, 2009
Use and reproduction for educational and informational purposes only.
The newsletter must be kept whole with links intact and proper credit given to all contributors.

Diana's Bow Newsletter 12/30/08

2008-12-30T23:40:00.002-05:00

The Diana's Bow phase of the Moon finds us in Aquarius tonight...a lovely place to be in regarding new ideas and ventures and similar to the workings of the Goddess Diana, but kind of an exact dichotomy, as Aquarian energy is Yang and Masculine, but yet Barren...like Diana...

Some of the other qualities of the Moon in Aquarius...Solar, Positive, Diurnal, Airy, Fixed, Horary Western, Wintery, Austral, Obeying, Human, Moist, Vocal, Sweet, Warm, Mental, Nervous, Hot.

Aquarius has always reminded me of electrical energy. Indeed, even the glyph for the sign looks like an antennae, one only has to envision electric bolts coming out from the sides...the pinkish lightning coming out of a dark storm cloud, the quick movement of energy...radio frequencies, TV signals, drawing people together by INFORMING them, EXCHANGES of information, creating community.

The Moon in Aquarius in Her New Moon phase means new ways and abilities and thought processes for fixing the global state of things, having an ecumenical world view, using high tech methods to accomplish spread these thoughts around. What is really important is gathering like minded people, taking notice of those events and happenings around us, in our community and in our world...peace and social justice are key in the community as well as globally or both will not thrive...small scale or large scale, what happens in community affects all that are a part of it...

The Moon in Aquarius...remember, the Moon makes us PASSIONATE and EMOTIONAL about whatever the qualities are of the sign it is in...

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Get ready to watch this spectacular light show in several days time...January 4rth will be the peak date!

The Quadrantid Meteor Shower
The Quadrantid meteor shower is one of the year's best. It regularly produces 100+ meteors per hour, yet the shower is seldom observed. Why? One reason is weather. The shower peaks in early January when northern skies are cold and cloudy. The shower's radiant is located high in the northern sky, so observers in the southern hemisphere, where the weather might be more favorable...
Read more:
http://www.spaceweather.com/meteors/quadrantids/quadrantids.html
http://meteorshowersonline.com/quadrantids.html
http://www.universetoday.com/2007/12/28/quadrantid-meteor-shower-will-sparkle-on-january-3rd

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From the Tarotlaydee:
The following is a great essay and very apropos for the Dark Time of the Year!
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The Veil as seen through the eyes of a Witch
Written by Crick: HP, Whispering Woods Coven

As I near my twilight years I begin to think of death. Not as a final stage, but rather as a doorway standing before me. The door is closed but through it I shall enter, as we all must at some point in time.
Such a time, is decided upon by our Sacred Mother, for it is she who sends her children forth into the Chautauqua of Life. And it is she who calls them back home.
For some the journey is but a moment in time, like a shooting star that appears ever so briefly. One of my sons was such a shining star, here and gone ever so quickly. Like a ripple across a quiet pond, he touched our hearts and then was gone. His moment of existence resonated in our souls like a song that will never end.
For others the stay is longer, like errant children with so much to learn. Perhaps it is life lessons to be repeated or maybe a lesson of our selves unto others. For we all are students of life, seeking to find the answers that allow us to grow. However, at the end of the day, it becomes time for us to return home.
Sometimes we face this return with trepidation, like children who want to stay out past dark. However it is children that we are and when our mother calls it is time to go home.
For our knowledge of what lies behind the door that leads through the veil is not a reality. We are like small children whose whole sense of reality has been confined to a small fenced in back yard. We have no real awareness of the whole wide world that lies just beyond our gate.
As we go through this life, we sometimes find ourselves in a state of physical pain. The reason for this I cannot fathom or answer as to why. For the ways of Deity, are not for us to know at this stage in our development. For us to have such knowledge is to be as one with our Sacred Mother. Perhaps the pain that such folks endure is a lesson from another life. Or perhaps it is the beginning of a lesson in this current life. We often feel love and compassion for those who experience such, and then perhaps that is the lesson intended for us.
In the end, only Deity has the answers to such. As it is, when it becomes my turn to stand before the door leading to the corridor of transition from this life to that, I can only hope that I do so with a sense of dignity.
The dear Goddess has given us many gifts in the way of experiences.
Some of these lessons were tinged with pain while others carried a note of joy. She has created a complex harmony with numerous opportunities to learn about ourselves and indeed to learn about others as well.
Many folks in this life will mill about at the foot of the mountain of life, their hearts and minds poisoned with fear of what lies ahead. And so their journey through this life will be compromised and with closed eyes, dwelling on what may or may not be.
I personally believe that this persona of fear has been initiated and exploited by those who would seek to control the thoughts and actions of those who succumb to such implanted paranoia's.
As a witch though, I walk through this existence as an individual. And will indeed climb to the top of the mountain of life, seeing each arduous step, as merely another stride in the spiritual growth that awaits each of us. And once the peak is reached I will extend my hands to the skies and whisper a heartfelt thank you to Deity. Thus in this manner, giving a sign of appreciation for the opportunity to have experienced the lessons of this realm as we become that much closer to the final goal of being one with Deity.
From the moment that we take our first breath, we are walking towards the door that leads through the veil. And so when Deity extends their hand and beckons me forth, I will do as was planned prior to my
existence in this realm.
Granted, there will be feelings of sadness, for one cannot enter this realm without creating a comfort zone composed of family and friends.
But then there will also be feelings of curiosity and anticipation and of course many unanswered questions.
For instance will Deity be awaiting our crossing with open arms?
Will those friends and family who have made the journey before us be waiting to greet and acclimate us to our new existence?
Will our Spirit Guides who have planted the seeds of lessons and watched as these lessons blossomed into new found knowledge be there to congratulate us?
Will there be yet other teachers and/or personas from ages past waiting to test us anew?
Will we be allowed to take a moment to contemplate the experiences garnered while in this realm or will we awaken in yet another existence as if our level of awareness was momentarily put on hold?
Will our existence in this realm resonate in our ken as but a moment in the over all framework of existence?
Of course all of these questions are pure speculation as we do not have the knowledge at this point in our spiritual growth to answer such musings.
But we do have the ability and knowledge as pagans to break away and reject the mind and heart numbing fear that others would impose upon us for their own limited and selfish devices.
Deity created this path of life, death and rebirth, not man. And therefore I place my trust in the grand scheme of things as designed by Deity rather then the tunnel vision of those who would pervert such ideals into something to be feared and distorted.
And so in summation, I will live my life as a Witch and when it comes time to walk through the veil, I will stroll through as a Witch…
*************************************************
The Skinny White Chick, SJ Tucker is scheduled to appear in Tampa!
Friday January 16, 2009 — 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Skinny White Chick presents The Traveling Fates
UU Church of Tampa
11400 Morris Bridge Road
Tampa, FL 33637
(813) 988-8188
$10-$15 suggested donation for these traveling grrlz
with Ginger Doss and Bekah Kelso

***SJ Tucker has had a recent hospital stay so this is a tentative appearance.
Please see her announcements and updates on her website here:
http://www.skinnywhitechick.com/announcement.php

Connect with her on MySpace:
http://www.myspace.com/sjtuckerskinnywhitechick
*************************************************
Under The Gypsy Moon
1500 N.Parsons Ave
Brandon FL, 33527
Phone: 813-689-7595.

Goddess Singer KELLIANNA will appear in concert on Feb (Friday) the 13th at the shop.
At 6 PM she will be signing CDs, the concert will be at 7:00 PM.

There are lots of new items as well, jewelry, Tarot decks, readings and candles.
See more about Under the Gypsy Moon right here:
http://www.myspace.com/underthegypsymoon
If you have any questions, be sure to contact Tesha Miller, the General Manager.
************************************************
http://www.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://blog.myspace.com/dianasbow
http://dianasbownewsletter.blogspot.com

The Diana's Bow Newsletter, copyright Anita Stewart aka the Tarotlaydee )0(, 2008
Use and reproduction for educational and informational purposes only.
The newsletter must be kept whole with links intact and proper credit given to all contributors.

This is also posted on the MySpace page here:
http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=421890204&blogID=460212473

Diana's Bow Newsletter 11/30/08

2008-11-30T19:16:00.004-05:00

DIANA'S BOW NEWSLETTER 11/30/08

The Diana's Bow phase is in the sign of Capricorn tonight. I am always fond of the night sky at winter, the weather is cool, no bugs, and a lot of clarity. There are amazing things happening in the sky tonight, but unfortunately from where I am, I cannot view Jupiter and Venus hanging very close in the southwestern sky at dusk, along with the Diana's Bow phase of the Moon as we are having lots of cloud cover and rain right now. Tomorrow night, December 1st, the Crescent Moon will almost "occlude" or pass right over Venus, a great and karmic time for new love matches! Check out the SkyMap at the following:
http://www.earthsky.org/skywatching/

Capricorn speaks of I USE and I BUILD UP. It is a Cardinal sign of Earth, starting anew, but in a calculated and grounded way. Capricorn tells us of the need to organize, straighten everything, make plans, write things down, itemize, drag and drop our online files into some kind of order. Analyzing, taking it all in and rearranging into different thought patterns...some would say "anal retentive" but that is OK, because someone needs to do it! Think of ALL of this while taking note of the Diana's Bow phase, so this would all be associated with NEW HAPPENINGS and BEGINNING TRENDS.

Some words for Moon in Capricorn: Yin, Feminine, Lunar, Negative, Nocturnal, Earthy, Cardinal, Semi-fruitful, Horary Southern, Wintery, Austral, Obeying, Solsitial, Tropical, Dry, Cold, Changeable, Hoarse.

Enjoy the wonderful Lunar and Planetary Show in the night sky tonight and for the next few nights...

the Tarotlaydee )0(
********************************************
She Is Present

I sat there on the bench
placed in the fake cemetery
with polystyrene tombstones
keeping vigil over the empty caskets
made of plywood.

As darkness fell
the shadows of the lanterns increased the ambience.

I was wearing a beautiful black dress
and had the opaque veil of a sari
draped over my head and face
to distort my appearance.

As often I do,
I sat there, praying.

I prayed appreciation and gratitude
for the life I live,
for the Path I have been given.

I layered on the dedications
that I make of my life.

(It is Sacred, it is Theirs)

In this season of Death and Renewal,
this blessed, sacred holiday of Samhain,
I prayed to Her.

And, She came to me.

She answered me
in the forms of goddesses
sent as children.

To me appeared the queen, Cleopatra,
and an eastern genie.

I was blessed with a visit from a farming girl,
a First Nation indian,
and a haloed angel.

She portrayed Herself as a healing nurse
and a warrior queen,
an artist, and a teacher.

She showed Her face in that of a wee witch
and I saw Her radiating from the newly arrived infant.

As I silently made offerings (of candy and prayer)
to each of them/to Her,
I bowed my head after looking upon them
in honor of Her work,
with respect for Her vessels.

Each of these small goddess representatives
were respectful to me/Her.

Some spoke to me/Her.

Some were silent, but polite.

In others I saw wonder, and even awe.

A few times I could see how they would serve
indeed, have served,
the Lady of their eternal prayers.

The only words I spoke in this role
were to those of Truth
who asked my name.

I told them "I am
She Who Bears Witness.

Several perceived me to be Death,
and for a while, I held a small sickle
to embrace this role as well.

So doing, I sensed deep fear from some,
not of a veiled person,
but of the Dark Lady.

Several of them would not approach.

If their adults tried to collect the candy,
I often held it fast,
requiring the child come take it,
if, indeed, they wanted it.

(one must greet Death themselves,
there is no other who will or can do it for them)

Innately, I knew
who among them will try to outrun Her,
to outdistance Her.

Some, I witnessed, will live with reverence to Her,
and upon them, I saw Her blessing.

She (I) smiled at them, though they could not detect it.

She (I) whispered, "beautiful children."

Pregnant goddesses wound through
and their ripe bellies spoke of the Power.

The Goddess lives,
not in spite of the door of Death,
but woven with it, dancing through it.

For it is through this avenue of such passing
which opens to Life.

Sometimes in the night
I crouched low upon a path in the dark.

People didn't even see me
(they thought me a rock)
until I was whooshing by them
and, as my veil floated past, they were startled.
Some even laughed.

And for some of them, it will be so,
as they die too.

Some will always assume
that they know when She will appear to them.

Some will laugh in Her face, with pleasant and welcome joy.

All will submit though,
with or without their certainty.

All will die.

All will return to the Sacred
which is the Womb of the Holy,
to nurture and incubate Her future.

She is not all serious,
for I heard Her voice in my giggles too.

I also felt her agitation
at those foolish enough to taunt Her.

They will live, but difficult lives.

Her eventual embrace of them will not be gentle.

It is wise to be respectful of Her, but
do not fear Death.

She is a blessing,
however difficult it appears from where you are standing.

If you need help navigating Her passage,
or if you'd like to better understand Her harvesting,
please make an appointment and step up.

Fear only blinds you
to those Truths of your prayer.

Blessings of the Dark Season
are abundant.

I am so pleased to feel and see them
in my own life, daily.

Spellbinding Sherry
http://www.myspace.com/spellbindingsherry
http://www.myspace.com/spellbindingartwork

**********************************************************************

Rite Of Our Thanksgiving

Hail Mother Earth
Whose bounty we did harvest by pale moonlight
Your blessings we seek in this rite of Thanksgiving

Hail Winters breeze, that smells of snow
Soon the quite blanket of white we will know
Your blessings we seek in this rite of Thanksgiving

Hail Wane Winter Suns Fire
Who lights the Way to home and hearth of our desire
Your blessings we seek in this rite of Thanksgiving

Hail Waters flow, soon to become Ice
The frost on my window, an endless delight
Your blessings we seek in this rite of Thanksgiving

Cerelia we hold, Great Mother of Grain
All thanks to thee Ceres, whose abundance we claimed

Round and round the horn of plenty goes
A Cornucopia Filled with our labor shows

Hail Demeter, Great Mother of old
First Breads we offer in thanks,
Of your Harvest of Gold

Hail Amaterasu, the suns shining eyes
Even in winters darkness, your light of life abides
We thank you that we see the sun rise

The Earth draws quite, for her winters sleep
A time for deep thoughts , while the cold light keeps
A time for creation of Magical things
A time for reflections without number
A time for the growing of the self,
During the deep winters slumber
A time of seeking, a time to know
A time to learn what we need to grow

We call upon the Great Mother of old
To hear now our needs, may we be so bold
Our thanks we give for all your blessings
May our eyes be open to all that needs redressing

We seek your wisdom, we seek to know
To walk the ways of light, we would grow
In your service are we
During the long winters night
Help us to see the way that is right

Soon the Yule tide rebirth of the year
Let us too be reborn, in your light so dear

The harvest is done, the grain stored away
The winds blow cold with pale nights rays
Yet Up and blaze does life's Fire burn
While we wait in this quite space, for the year to turn

We thank thee Mother Earth
Whose bounty we did harvest by pale moonlight
You honor us in this rite of Thanksgiving

We thank thee Winters breeze
Who does the dance of the snow
You honor us in this rite of Thanksgiving

We thank thee Winter Suns Fire
Who lights the Way to home and hearth of our desire
You honor us in this rite of Thanksgiving

We thank thee Waters flow, white maiden of Ice
The frost on my window, of endless delight
You honor us in this rite of Thanksgiving

by Lorelei

********************************************************
In the Witch's Kitchen: Yule
by Lady Aquarius

Yule--the Winter Solstice--is an old solar ritual that has been preserved in the Christian observance of Christmas. Its origins lie deep in the past, in the Mediterranean
region. The birthday of Mithras, an ancient Sun god, was celebrated on the Winter Solstice. Later, this holiday was brought to Europe, and an astonishing collection of
folk rituals became linked to it.

Yule occurs in the depth of winter. This holiday astronomically marks the waning of winter with the Sun's entry into the astrological sign of Capricorn. After the solstice,
the hours of light increase each day. Therefore, Yule is associated with the returning warmth of the Sun.

Before the worldwide shipment of food, this precious substance was usually meager and hard to come by at Yule. Most of it was preserved, dried in the Sun; salted; put
up in crocks; submerged in honey; buried in the earth; kept covered in baskets; or laid in the snow for natural refrigeration. Because of its scarcity, food was given a high
degree of sacralness.

Over the centuries and in various countries, a wide variety of foods have been associated with Yule. Here is a few...

Apples are sacred foods, associated with numerous ancient deities. Earlier peoples hung apples on Yule trees (the forerunners of the modern Christmas tree) to symbolize
the continuing fertility of the earth. Mulled apple cider is a fine drink to sip on Yule as is any dishes containing apples--such as wassail.

Gingerbread is the modern day version of ancient cakes made of grain and honey, which were offered as sacrifices to the goddesses and gods at Yule. These cakes were
also buried with the dead to ensure the passage of their souls into the Otherworld.

When ginger was introduced into Europe from Asia, it was soon incorporated into the ritual Yule cake. This was the origin of gingerbread. Though ginger was once more
expensive than diamonds, this spice is now easily afforded and able to obtain by everyone.

You may wish to create a gingerbread house at Yule. If so, make it in the image of your own home. If this isn't possible, visualize your home while mixing, baking,
forming, and decorating the house. See your home filled with warmth, love, and happiness--all gifts of ginger and the Sun. Eat the house on Yule, sharing it with others
who live under your roof, and invite its loving energies into yourself.

Cookies are standard food fare at Yule. If you wish to make sugar cookies, cut them into shapes associated with the season: circles (symbolic of the Sun), bells
(originally used to drive away evil in pre-Christian times), stars (for protection against negativity), and of course, trees (representing the continuing fertility of the earth
during Winter).

The idea of creating and eating specially shaped desserts on Yule is not new. Prehistoric graves in northern Europe contain cakes modeled in the rough shapes of deities,
animals, suns, stars, and moons, and these cakes may have been consumed at the Winter Solstice in those frigid areas.

Have a truly wonderful Sabbat, and a most blessed Yuletide my fellow witches!

Blessings of Light and Dark,

~Lady Aquarius~

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Recipes:

Gingerbread

1 cup butter
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup light corn syrup
2/3 cup honey
1 tsp. grated lemon rind
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. ground ginger
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
4 1/2 cups flour

Cream butter and sugar. Add syrup, honey, lemon rind and vanilla, spices, salt and soda. Add enough flour to make soft dough. Chill until firm enough to roll. Set oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour baking sheets. On floured cloth roll dough 1/8 inch thick. Cut shapes with cookie cutters. Bake 8 min or until puffed and dry. Cool on a rack and decorate with colored icing.

Icing:
1 1/2 cup sifted confectioner's sugar
1 egg white
1 tsp. lemon juice
a few drops of vanilla extract
various food colorings

(Collect flavored extracts and food colorings and get creative!)

Beat everything but the colors and extracts until the icing peaks. If necessary add more sugar and egg white. Divide into separate bowls for each of the different colors
and extracts...have fun!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Wassail

4 litres apple cider or juice (fresh milled organic is excellent!)
1 orange, chopped
1 lime, chopped
1 lemon, chopped
4 cinnamon sticks or 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 inch-square piece of fresh ginger or 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. cloves, allspice and/or star anise

Heat all and simmer in an enamel pot (aluminum can impart a metallic flavor) on low for an hour, then serve to cold, caroling folks.

Note: brandy or rum for adults, optional

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Yule Moon Cookies

1 cup butter
1 1/4 cup sugar
2 tsp. grated lemon peel
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/3 cup flour
1 1/2 cup grated almonds (blanched)
1 tsp. vanilla

Icing:
2 cups sifted confectioner's sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 1/2 Tbsp. water

Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy and light. Add grated lemon peel, salt, flour, grated almonds, and 1 tsp. vanilla; mix thoroughly. Place dough in bowl. Cover
and chill thoroughly. When the dough is well chilled; or the next day, roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness and cut with Moon/crescent cookie cutter. Place 1/2 inch apart
on ungreased baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 8-10 minutes.

Icing: While cookies bake, combine confectioner's sugar, vanilla and water. Spread over the tops of cookies while still warm, but not too hot, as icing will melt. Thin with
additional drops of water if glaze is too thick. Allow cookies to cool.

Yield: About 10 dozen cookies

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Yule Log Cookies

1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
3 Tbsp. butter or margarine, softened
1 egg
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. ground cardamom
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/4 tsp. ground allspice
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
red and green decorator icing

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a medium bowl, beat the brown sugar and margarine until blended. Add the egg; beat until well blended. Lightly spoon flour, baking
powder, baking soda, and spices; mix well. Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half of dough with your hands to make two 10 1/2 inch logs;
flatten slightly to 1 1/4 inches in diameter. With a spatula, place the logs 2 to 3 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Dip a non-serrated knife in water; score each
log diagonally at 3/4 inch intervals. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, or until set and no longer moist. Cool for 5 minutes. With a serrated knife, cut the logs at the scored lines.
Cool completely. Decorate each cookie with decorator icing to resemble a holly leaf and berries.

******************************************************
Brooksville/Spring Hill/Community Drum Circle

Saturday at 7pm, every week through out the winter.

Bring a chair, something to make noise with and a warm heart
(preferably beating).

Call for directions 352.584.1966 Chris aka Glyndwer

The circle is located near Central High School for those familiar
with the area.

Come On Out and Drum!

*******************************************************

Greetings,

We would like to invite you to view our newest website - http://www.EnchantedBidz.com
This auction site will offer a wide variety of Pagan, New Age, Metaphysical, & many other Magickal Paths items up for bid.

Come join us as we build a ever changing experience for both buyers and sellers alike.

This is a wonderful place to sell your one of a kind creations & unique handcrafted items, or your services ( including Tarot Readings, Rune Stone Readings, Psychic Reading & Many more...) . Another way to make some extra money is by selling your used books or other treasures that you no longer use.

Register today & receive a $20.00 credit on your new auction account as our way of helping you get started with your sales.

Be sure to check out our spiritual community Forum and get to know others like yourself with the same interests. We also offer free Classifieds listings.

********************************************************

Mystikal Scents wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday and hope that many wonderful memories will be made.

Come do your holiday shopping with us, as we will be running specials on many items, come in and see what is on sale. With just 25% down you can put your purchase on lay-a-way till Dec 24th.

We just got in many new items such as Pewter Fairies, Dragons and Wizards and they are really nice quality . These will make excellent gifts for that hard to buy for person. We got in some new Robes and other Ritual Wear, Swords and Athames, resin Fairy Statues, and some Hematite, Silver and Pewter Jewelry, and some new Gem Stones. We were lucky enough to find a beautiful smoky quartz oblisque. It has absoulutely wonderful energy! So many new things, too many to list.

Bring in this email and receive $5.00 off any one item valued at $25.00 or more OR $2.50 off any one item valued at $15.00 or or more. I am sure we have that purfect gift just waiting for you. We will also have gift certificates available to help make sure shopping experience quick and simple.

Hope to see you soon!

Mystikal Scents
9545 E. Fowler Ave,
Thonotosassa, FL. 33592
11 a - 7 p (Mon - Sat) 12 - 4 p (Sun)
813-986-3212

WITCHYS WIKKED GRAPHIX

Diana's Bow Newsletter 10/31/08

2008-10-31T15:40:00.002-04:00

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***

DIANA'S BOW NEWSLETTER 10/31/08
Coming out of the tent, refreshed and inspired!
A bit of Witchy Women's Divination, Writing, Poetry, the Arts and Reviews!
Written and compiled by Anita Stewart aka the Tarotlaydee )0(

*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*************************************
Diana's Bow in Sagittarius by the Tarotlaydee )0(
*************************************
The Diana's Bow Moonphase is really exalted in the sign of Sagittarius as this is the Moonphase of beginning action and Sagittarius is all about forward movement, new starts and fast action. Remembering that the Sun is your outer personality and the inner part of you is governed by the Moon, for the Moon to be in the sign of Sagittarius means that this is the time to plan your new venture, your amazing endeavor, something that keeps you busy and engaged. Friends are important at this time, as Sagittarius is all about those you gather around you. There is passion in what you want to engage in, this new forward movement is something you really can believe in and you want everyone to be as involved as you are! Be sure to look at your personal natal chart to see what house this Moonphase will affect, check the aspects to that house and then start working on your plans. Think of MORE of everything because Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the largest planet. Be sure to use this Moonphase to benefit yourself! Your optimism is INFECTIOUS!
*****************
About Healing by Crow
*****************
Let’s talk of healing. Ask among yourselves & your groups, “how does one heal, how often do we think of healing, what is healing?” Yes, the term “healing” can conjure many thoughts & questions; but in this time, our minds often go to professionals … doctors, nurses, “established” medicine. But what can each & every one of us offer in healing? Think about it…what does the divine in you innately give in order for one to offer a healing gesture? A smile perhaps…a soothing word…knowing when not to speak…a listening ear. We are all healers…yes, you, me, our sisters, brothers, neighbors…nd healing is contagious. Try this…go through one day with the slightest smile on your face …nothing overt or obvious…just a hint of a smile; as if you are only just beginning to think of something pleasant…and then observe. Count how many people smile back when they look at you. You may be surprised at how quickly the smiling faces add up…and you did that…you started that smile from within your being & offered it to the world to see & respond to. And what chain of events may follow through the day when your smile is repeated from face to face…a soothing, pleasant, priceless gift of upturned lips…the child will hum…the harried gentleman will sleep more soundly…the mother will offer kinder, gentler words to her children…and on and on it goes…such a simple thing, such a healing thing. We here at Diana’s Bow would love to hear your experience with the practice of smiling …or offer your way of healing…sharing is a healing gesture also.
Blessed Be! Crow )O(
***************************************************
Always Hekate's Daughter, Full in Life by © Starra Neely Blade 2008
***************************************************
I am standing again at yet Another Crossroads in my life,
I am so tired from lack of real sleep as my sleep cycles are off.
Feeling as if I need to cut many ties holding me back with the sharpest knife.
Then my light and shadow self in Spirit can lift and rise aloft!
I won't be dragged down by Life and all its stress and strife.
I won't forget the Goddess I Am in the daily aches, pains and tears.
I will choose to Walk Freely with Her who loves me beyond ken in this my life,
I will be all I am, can be and am becoming with Great Joy and holding onto no Fears!
Step backwards to go forwards I say!
Life may lead a merry dance but I am up to it.
The Path is clearing now or is My Sight in the Mists better today?
I am not content to let things pass me by and on my past laurels sit.
Learning is Forever if we are open, willing and eager to embrace and try.
Lessons I am eager to gain more wisdom through and by with Teachers so bright and wise.
Sitting at their feet, walking by their side I call them ‘My Sisters’ with a grateful sigh.
Seeking to earn the cord, as I acknowledge my needs, shortcomings, bonds of familial ties.

Many call me wise and I admit having some of my Totem's Owl-ish pride.
Humbled by the praise whilst feeling held up by better hands and minds in the life phase I am.
My wondrous sisters, Comhair of souls who choose to love me, faults gathered and laid aside.
Blessed by them, with a merrier heart I take this Tonic while I await La Bella Luna's prime.
Morgan sits at my feet with her purring that surely the Lady can hear?
Sweet friend, companion; what a joy and such feline graceful ease.
Lightening my heart as some heaviness will remain but no longer will I carry it with fear.
Partaking of life’s pleasures, pains and abundance now and embracing it with greater ease.
BIO: Student, Teacher, Faery, Wytch, Mother, Daughter, Sister, Wyf!
Twirl and swirl in a Spiral Dance and laugh with joy and skirts up-hitched!
Shadowed Crossroads, Misted Paths, Crows and Owls…Wolves a’Howling-
They with me say; “I Am the Wild Chylde of Hekate, Justice Seeker, Taker and Bringer of Life!
********************************
ALL HALLOW’S EVE JOURNEY by Queen Mab
********************************
I walk a spiral path ‘tween worlds, in day and dark.
The light of night illumines footsteps of the day,
and guides me toward hands, and hearts,
and starry spheres shining with the depth of night.
I walk a spiral path, my spirit soaring
over Arctic mounds, with silver thread unfurling,
toward a mystic grove with awaiting seat,
and grey-trunked tree-beings, reaching limbs and hearts.
I walk the spirals in the tree, in the grove,
in the earth-core, and in the center of the galaxy.
An owl calls, mirroring a hawk, a cup of liquid life to drink …
a magic hollow—doorway to another realm, from which the bells of blessings come.
The Goddess in our midst sends ripples
o’er the waters of our hearts, ere I return.
I walked a spiral path on hallowed ground this e’en.

**********************
SAMHAIN SONG by Queen Mab
**********************
Eyes of Bast, and chirps of winged things,
a circle cast, and gifts the Mother brings ...
Rocks and twigs breathe life into the quiet glade.
By star and circle and knife, a sacred grove is made.
The bells of angel realms bring magic tones, and bright
to touch the soul, and calm, and flood our hearts with light.
We dance the circle gay with spirits of the night.
With frolic, joy and play the Dead gleam, shining bright.
Uncast the circle, we as Time is wont to do.
We kiss the Goddess, three, another year is through.

*********************
The Gardens Secret Ann Marie
*********************
A tender kiss of dew falls on the garden row
The bright sun shines so all may grow
Between the jasmine, rose, and heather
Faerie wishes float light as a feather
Set a dish of cream and cake
For the pleasure you did take
Amidst the Gardens fragrant bowers
To please the fairies for their words and flowers
***********************************
In the Witch's Kitchen: Samhain by Lady Aquarius
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This ancient Celtic celebration lives on in the United States and in other countries as Halloween, a degraded version of both the earlier Pagan holiday as well as the latter Christianized variant--All Hallows Eve. The word "eve" in the Christian terminology reminds us that this festival begins the night prior to its calendar date.

Samhain marks the close of the year. Apples are ripening, the leaves have fallen, and the earth prepares for winter. On this night, the souls of the departed were believed to walk the earth. All manner of fantastic customs and rites were carried out on Samhain. One of these has continued into the present day. Many people leave a plate of food outside their home to provide nourishment to the dead. Samhain foods include root crops such as potatoes, beets, turnips, and carrots. Grain, nuts, mulled wines, and ciders are also appropriate foods.

Here in the United States, the pumpkin is the one food most closely associated with Samhain. This vegetable, a squash, is usually served in the form of pumpkin pie or custard. Roasted pumpkin seeds are also perfect for this Sabbat.
Pomegranate seeds are also linked with Samhain due to their connection with the underworld in Greco-Roman mythology. They can also be eaten raw or used in a variety of recipes. Apple dishes of all kinds--cakes, pies, salads--are also consumed with relish on the night of Samhain.

Have a truly wonderful Sabbat, and a most blessed new year my fellow witches!

Blessings of Light and Dark,

~Lady Aquarius~

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Lady Aquarius's Samhain Recipes
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Cranberry-Pumpkin Cookies
Makes soft, cake-like cookies.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1 cup pureed cooked pumpkin
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup cranberries
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon grated orange peel
1/2 cup chopped nuts

Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease cookie sheets.

In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla, egg and pumpkin.

Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon and add to mixture. Mix until until well blended.

Cut the cranberries in half and stir into mixture. Add orange peel and nuts.

Drop by teaspoonfuls onto cookie sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.

Makes 3 dozen cookies.

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Pumpkin Soup
4 pounds of peeled pumpkin, chopped
2 onions, chopped
2 apples, chopped
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 teaspoon nutmeg or 3 tsp. curry powder
1 tsp. salt
2 cups water

Place pumpkin, apples, onion, stock, nutmeg and salt in the water in a heavy saucepan and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer 40 minutes until pumpkin is tender. Puree in a blender or processor.

2 1/2 cups milk
freshly ground pepper

Return to pan and add milk and pepper.
***Garnish with cilantro if curry is used.

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Samhain Apple Delight
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup pecans, finely ground
6 large, firm apples
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup dark corn syrup
2 tbs. unsalted butter
Pinch of salt
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

Place the chocolate in a double boiler over medium heat until it is almost melted. Remove from heat, stir, and let cool.

Spread the nuts in a small bowl.

Dip the apples into the chocolate and shake off excess. Then dip the apples into the nuts to coat the bottom. Set them 3 inches apart on a lightly buttered tray and refrigerate for 45 minutes.

In a small pot, stir together the sugar, cream, corn syrup, butter, and salt. Cover and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook until the mixture reaches 240, stirring occasionally. Remove pot from heat and add vanilla. Pour the hot caramel over the apples, a little at a time, letting it drip down the sides. Cool the apples but don't refrigerate them.

When ready to serve, slice the apples in half and remove the cores. Cut each half into 4 slices.

Makes 48 slices.

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ART BY SPELLBINDING SHERRY
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See Sherry's wonderful creations right here:
http://www.myspace.com/spellbindingartwork

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DIANA'S BOW NEWSLETTER'S CURRENT LISTINGS
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Tarot Readings Available!
Workshops are coming soon!
Enchanted Shop
214 E. Tarpon Ave.
Tarpon Springs, FL 34689
727-938-7079
http://www.9thcauldron.com/store/

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MUSIC REVIEWS
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For great music and lots of fun, check out two Pagan bands that we Tampa Bay Pagans are proud to call our own, Hecate's Wheel and the Shining Wheel Pagan Chorus! We saw them play at the great venue, Skipper's Smokehouse on October 28th, 2008 for the Girlie Show.

You can find out more about both bands right here, listen to some of their tunes and get more info on how to purchase their music:
http://www.myspace.com/hecateswheel1

http://www.myspace.com/shiningwheel

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***HAIL AND WELCOME TO OUR FIRST ISSUE!

***No part of this newsletter can be used without written permission from Diana's Bow Newsletter and the authors and contributors presented here. This newsletter may be copied and forwarded for educational purposes only and providing that it is copied and forwarded as a complete document with author's and contributor's credit included and with all links and advertisements intact.

To contribute and/or more information, please email dianasbownewsletter@gmail.com
See us here on the web:
http://dianasbownewsletter.blogspot.com
http://www.myspace.com/dianasbow

Many Happy Samhain Blessings,
The Diana's Bow Newsletter, copyright Anita Stewart aka the Tarotlaydee )0(, 2008

Contribute to this NEWSLETTER!

2008-10-12T13:16:00.007-04:00

A newsletter for Pagan, Witchy, Spiritual Women! If the change begins with each of us, let's write and communicate about what we are doing in our communities to make that change happen! Tarot, Astrology, Meditation, Women's Spirituality, Eco-environmentalism, Permaculture, Gardening, Healing, Community Organizing, Events, Parenting, Career, etc., Women helping Women! Let's SHARE and INSPIRE one another!

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We welcome submission of your articles on a variety of topics, events, ads, pictures, videos, artwork. Please submit all via email to DianasBowNewsletter(at)GMAIL(dot)COM with NEWSLETTER in the subject line in all caps. Items will be reviewed and selected for use on this newsletter based on clarity, brevity and topic of interest with your name credited to your submission. Deadline for submissions is the New Moon date each month. The newsletter is published at the Diana's Bow phase of the Moon (3 days after the New Moon). Information on advertisement pricing will be emailed to those who request it. We will be launching our first newsletter on the Diana's Bow which will be the same date as Samhain 2008.

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2008-10-12T12:15:00.010-04:00

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This is the time for all new things and fresh starts, true WOMEN'S POWER, a coming out of the tent, as it were to begin forward movement and new work with a refreshed attitude, one of positivity, focus and intent.