Organic Baby Spinach Recalled Due to Salmonella Concerns

by Ann Pietrangelo

Organic baby spinach, potentially contaminated with Salmonella, is being recalled after a random test conducted by the USDA.

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, the elderly, and people who have a weakened immune system. In healthy people, it can cause fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and abdominal pain. In rare cases the organism can get into the bloodstream and cause more serious complications. 

The recall includes:

Private Selections Organic Baby Spinach, 5 oz

UPC Number: 0-11110-91128-5 / 0-11110-91128-5

Package Code: TFRS 130B 1503 KT34 / TFRS 130B 1803 KT34

Best By Date: 5-25-12

Sold In: AK, AZ, CA, CO, ID, KS, LA, MO, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY

Marketside Baby Spinach Organic, 10 oz

UPC Numer: 6-8113132900-2

Package Code: TFRS130B16

Best By Date: 5-25-12

Sold In: AR, CO, ID, KS, LA, MO, MS, MT, NM, NV, OK, TX, UT, WY

The recalled spinach was distributed from Taylor Farms Retail, Inc. on May 9 and 10.

No illnesses involving the recalled spinach have been reported and no other products or code dates are affected by this recall. The company is cooperating with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

Consumers may contact Taylor Farms Retail, Inc. for further information at 866-508-7048 Monday through Friday 8 am to 5 pm PST.

Daily Feng Shui Tip for May 30 – “Water a Flower Day”

It’s ironic that today would be ‘Water a Flower Day’ since everybody knows that April showers bring May flowers. The floral most associated with this month is the regal magnolia, a tree native to the southern United States. It’s generally acknowledged that spring doesn’t begin until the magnolias bloom, and that splendid beauty and dignity accompanies every opening bud. This flower has long symbolized beauty, perseverance and nobility. Feng Shui has always believed that the white magnolia represents purity, and that a single magnolia tree planted in the front of the house will bring pure contentment and joy. A magnolia tree grown in the back garden is said to symbolize hidden jewels or the gradual accumulation of wealth. But the single greatest Feng Shui cure for using this beautiful flower is to bring a mate or partner who will also bring love everlasting. Placing a pair of magnolia flowers in the Romance area of the main floor or bedroom is believed to attract a mate for life, and a union that will forever bloom and grow. There’s hope worth watering!

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Today’s I Ching Hexagram for May 30th is 60:Limits and Connections

60: Limits and Connections

Hexagram 60

General Meaning: Limits are necessary to give purpose and direction to life. Swimming in a sea of boundless opportunity would eventually lead to exhaustion and drowning. Winging it alone in a sky of boundless opportunity would lead to being lost. In human affairs, the making of choices, and alliances, implies limitation, for in choosing one path another must be abandoned.

One key to a successful life is to select your limits consciously and carefully — to be discriminating in the setting of personal boundaries and knowing when to join in formation. Thrift, for example, often precedes prosperity; just as the letting go of selfish interests leads to greater personal reward. Only by consciously accepting useful limits can one’s energy be channeled to good purpose, and lead to lasting accomplishments.

Point yourself toward a middle way between discipline and freedom of spirit. Limits will come of their own accord; but to be able to consciously select your own affiliations in life — that’s knowing how to fly! At the same time, don’t go overboard with discipline. Even self-correction must be limited, so that in attempting to bring order and direction into your life you do not choke off vital sources of enthusiasm and spontaneity.

Similarly, in groups and partnerships, agreed upon rules or regulations should strike a balance between being too strict and too soft. If too strict, they build frustration and ultimately become destructive. If too lenient, sloppiness becomes acceptable, and positive energy is dissipated. The best path is one that allows for the fulfillment of individual potential, while supporting self-discipline and focus.

Today’s Runes for Wednesday, May 30th is Ger

Today’s Runes

Spirit Runes are most commonly used for questions about mysticism, spirituality, and religion. Ger is one of the runes that touches on the cycles of the year, in this case the fall harvest. These cycles are eternal, which is represented in the rune by the fact that it is unchanged by reversal. Ger can represent pregnancy or other forms of fruitfulness, and is especially indicative of the cycles of providence and karma – that which has been sown is now being reaped. This rune can also represent the cycles of wealth, for crops were frequently a sign of wealth.

Today’s Tarot Card for May 30th is Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune

This Tarot Deck: Connolly

General Meaning: The central theme of what is traditionally called the Wheel of Fortune card is cyclical change. The Wheel keeps on rolling, churning events in a ceaseless progression of ups and downs, either way freeing us from the past. No one can escape its cyclical action, which can feel somewhat terrifying — no matter whether we are rising or falling. When one is balanced on top there is a moment of crystal clarity, but the only part of the Wheel not going up and down is the hub, which is your eternal Self, the Source of Freedom.

Every one of us will occupy all the points on the wheel at some time or another. The cycle of the wheel is its lesson — and we can learn to take comfort in it (as we do when we celebrate our birthday). If you don’t like the look of things right now, just wait — things will change. Of course, if you do like the look of things right now, enjoy it while it lasts, because that will change too!

Your Daily Horoscopes for May 30th

We try to remain pleasant, but this cosmically noisy day pulls us in many directions. We can be light on our feet with the Sun, clever Mercury and sweet Venus all dancing in adaptable Gemini. But Mercury’s conflictive square with warrior Mars tempts us to argue about things that may not matter in the long run. Thankfully, the Moon’s entry into harmonious Libra at 6:45 am EDT encourages practicing diplomacy as a strategy to re-establish harmony.

 

Aries Horoscope
Aries Horoscope (Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You may enjoy the apparent chaos today as you’re distracted by one good idea after another. Although you believe you’re a positive force for change now, you should proceed carefully because you aren’t as invincible as you think. Losing your cool isn’t a wise idea; expressing extreme emotions could create more problems than it solves. Physical exercise helps channel your energy appropriately, but you also need to take additional timeouts to keep your anger in check.

Taurus Horoscope
Taurus Horoscope (Apr 20 – May 20)

You know you have too much on your plate today, yet you’re eager to accomplish as much as you can. However, you’re tired from chasing after so many goals. Don’t spread your energy too thin; instead, set priorities and focus on the most important tasks first, letting the others go. Panic is unnecessary even if you run into unexpected problems. Remember, the calmer you are now, the more effective you will be throughout the day.

Gemini Horoscope
Gemini Horoscope (May 21 – Jun 20)

You’re very charming, especially with sweet Venus in your sign. But tension is in the air and you can lose your patience if you don’t pay close attention to your feelings. You may even find yourself in the heat of an argument now, wondering how it happened. Remember, you aren’t the only one who is stressed out today, so your smartest move is to take the high road by demonstrating how well you can listen and respond with kindness.

Cancer Horoscope
Cancer Horoscope (June 21 – Jul 22)

You appear to have your desires under control, but you aren’t actually expressing what you want now. Your feelings are drawing you into deeper waters and the emotional currents can carry you far off course. But you may reach a breaking point where it requires too much energy to hide your inner world from those you love. Don’t wait too long to say what’s on your mind. A gentle approach makes the most sense while demanding results will just stir up unnecessary resistance.

Leo Horoscope
Leo Horoscope (Jul 23 – Aug 22)

You may feel unnerved from an intense emotional interaction with someone close to you. You could spend much of the day exploring ways to alleviate the tension. Unfortunately, even clever tactics won’t hide the edginess to your voice. Examine your unspoken feelings if you notice that your words sound sarcastic. There are several sensible strategies for re-establishing your balance, yet saying hurtful things is not one of them. Instead, cultivate the peace and harmony that you seek.

Virgo Horoscope
Virgo Horoscope (Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Concentrating on your job is difficult now as impetuous Mars in your sign squares cerebral Mercury in restless Gemini. Sometimes you can let your thoughts wander for a while, but today your fantasies may not be all that peaceful. Worrying about meeting other people’s expectations leads you around in endless circles. Fortunately, you can break out of a temporary emotional tailspin by doing something useful in the present moment, rather than wasting time stressing about the past.

Libra Horoscope
Libra Horoscope (Sep 23 – Oct 22)

It’s not easy to settle down today as your key planet Venus aligns with unpredictable Uranus. A lighthearted attitude seems inappropriate if you think you should be more concerned with serious issues. You may be too conscientious to try escaping from your responsibilities. Although harmony and pleasure seem elusive now, the Moon’s return to your sign can be a much-needed catalyst in your search for peace.

Scorpio Horoscope
Scorpio Horoscope (Oct 23 – Nov 21)

You aren’t happy about having to maintain a high level of focus today, especially with all the intriguing distractions tempting you. But, ultimately, your strength of purpose is nonnegotiable; you really don’t want to get angry, but it could be an effective way now to inform others that you mean business. Those unwilling to help you along your path would be wise to quietly step out of your way.

Sagittarius Horoscope
Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

You are able to see the beauty in someone special, but it may not be easy to express how you feel today. You are tempted to sidestep the issue by glibly telling a story or talking about your plans so you don’t have to show your vulnerability by sharing what’s in your heart. Remember, the deeper meaning of life won’t come from a clever conversation. Although it’s easy to demonstrate your wit, it’s more important to be honest and clearly say what’s on your mind.

Capricorn Horoscope
Capricorn Horoscope (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

You won’t likely be caught off guard today, and your apparent stability could draw others to you as they try to manage the stressful situations in their own personal lives. However, you’re not entirely without your own worries now, and everyone else’s demands might create an extra layer of anxiety for you. Nevertheless, go ahead and offer your shoulder to a loved one, but be firm about drawing the line when you need time to take care of yourself.

Aquarius Horoscope
Aquarius Horoscope (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

You nostalgically remember simpler days in the past and you may long for their return. You might even experience anger when you realize that these times are complicated and simplicity isn’t likely to be found. Although you’re balancing on an emotional high wire now, you still have an opportunity to live your dreams. Don’t let this chance slip by without doing something about it.

Pisces Horoscope
Pisces Horoscope (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You have more strength than others realize, yet your resistance to your own power can get in the way of your success. Don’t succumb to any feelings of insecurity by needlessly comparing yourself to anyone else. You are a unique individual with unique capabilities; the key now is your own self-awareness. Fortunately, managing your belief system can have a positive impact on everyone around you.

Daily Love & Romance Horoscopes for May 30th

Aries

You have a chance now to tackle the communication lines, especially on the relationship front from both ends, working to give your heart and the past a voice, while staying in the moment and discussing the things you need to talk about. A mix of authenticity and of nostalgic sentimentality can go hand in hand.

Taurus

The key to making the most of fiery and passionate Mars’ final weeks in your romantic sector and the romantic passions you’re able to tap into, is confidence in what you deserve from love. It’s not only confidence moving forward that matters, with a chance now to view the past through filters that empower you.

Gemini

As the Sun and Venus draw closer to a rare Venus eclipse in your sign, in just a week from today, it’s the past and the future that are drawing close. With a lot of your romantic focus on the past but the Sun shining the light on the road ahead, this is starting to give you a clearer sense of where you’ve been and where you’re going, especially on the romantic front.

Cancer

With Pluto, planet of change and revolution in your relationship sector settling for the status quo or for anything that isn’t authentic is no longer an option. This makes it hard to fall into a sense of complacency, as you may have done in the past and it’s less that your relationships are changing and more that you are.

Leo

The laws of attraction and synchronicity are not only both in effect, they are slowly coming together, with serendipitous moments and encounters just as likely to create new opportunities as they are to create second chances. This makes it important to put your heart in the hands of fate and the love gods, trusting in something more than your five senses can see.

Virgo

If it feels like things are slowing down on the relationship front they are, but for all the right reasons. Neptune and Chiron, the planets of dreams and healing are the two planets keeping things active on the relationship front, with both slowing down ahead of their retrograde turns this gives you a chance to take things slowly.

Libra

Having Venus, planet of love in an adventurous part of your chart is always an advantage, bringing more adventure into your love life and reminding you that when it comes to love it’s all about the journey. But with Venus in retrograde motion the door is also open to second chances and to make up for lost time.

Scorpio

At the same time that Jupiter is in his final weeks of a year long visit to your relationship sector, working with you to tie up loose ends and to put your relationships on the right track, the very opposite is happening on the romantic front. Here the stars are with you for the long haul and over the next few weeks will open the door to second chances.

Sagittarius

At the same time that the Sun and Mercury are moving forward in your relationship sector Venus is retrograding back, with a gap between all 3 closing. With the Sun and Mercury showing the way forward and Venus holding the door open to the past and second chances, you’re getting a clear sense of where you’ve been and where you’re going.

Capricorn

While Jupiter will leave your romantic sector in 13 days time, with Mercury just 8 days away from your relationship sector there’ll not only be a lap over, but a chance to channel any romantic energy into your relationships. That’s more important than you realise, with a need to already be looking ahead on both the romantic and relationship fronts and on how to bring the two together.

Aquarius

Because the Sun and Mercury are moving forward in your romantic sector they are focused on the road ahead, while in retrograde motion Venus is focused on the past and the road behind. Over the course of the next 7 days this will all come together and with the past merging into the future and the future merging into the past, the lines are becoming blurred.

Pisces

As the Moon wraps up his penultimate visit to your relationship sector before Mars leaves, he’ll be looking to push whatever buttons or get whatever emotional responses are needed to come out fighting. This is all about getting you to give a damn, with no reaction a wrong or bad one, so long as you’re feeling something.

Daily Chinese Horoscopes for May 30th

Rabbit

You will be the centre of attention in your family. Someone is finally going to notice that you have some pretty spiffy talents, and you will enjoy hearing their praise and admiration. You may receive a gift of artwork, music, or positive reinforcement.

Dragon

Your intuition could lead you to an important new person who will make a dramatic impact on your life. One of your siblings or a neighbour could introduce you to a person, or to ideas that could enhance your life and improve your well being.

Snake

You may have a sudden insight about a friend or companion that could prove to be profoundly healing today. You may come up with an interesting and novel way to get more exercise together. Music could play an important role in your sense of well being today.

Horse

Expect the unexpected from your usual round of financial partners and advisors. There will be phone calls, letters and emails with good news and innovative ideas that you can take advantage of if you are prepared to act quickly and decisively today.

Sheep

You may be considering moving or traveling because you have an idea there are greater opportunities in another place. Long moves, to another town, could be discussed with your loved ones or family members. There are definitely opportunities available, but you may need to do more research.

Monkey

There will be more opportunities to make money today, but you may have to fight to get your ideas across at times. You may also find yourself discussing shared values or religious beliefs with a total stranger in a sudden “feel-good” moment.

Rooster

If you are still single, you may not be for long! You have a nice little formation in your chart that will make you extremely attractive to potential partners. If you are already married, you and your partner will be making some spontaneous romance today.

Dog

You have an overwhelming urge to exercise or change your diet today, perhaps because of something you have seen on TV or read in your horoscope! But be aware it is best to make small changes, don’t leap into the pool to do 100 laps right off the bat.

Pig

You will soon be able to get out for a little fun. Even if you only set up a little impromptu game of catch in the parking lot at lunch, getting the blood circulating could prove to be a powerful motivator and mood lifter for everyone involved.

Rat

Home repair and improvements will be important topics of discussion today, especially expansions or changes caused by someone’s recent bout of ill-health. Your family will get together to bring the perfect solution into being – one that will solve more than one problem.

Ox

If you are looking for new information, the Internet is the best resource. You may have a hard time finding the exact details and items you are wanting, but it might be an enjoyable search. You will be learning new things that could open the way to new hobbies or pass-times.

Tiger

Some unexpectedly good financial news could come about as a result of a friendship in the workplace. Cultivate relationships with VIPs, especially those of the opposite sex, and people who have innovative, unusual and expressive ways of thinking.

the daily humorscopes for wednesday, may 30th

the daily humorscope

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Arachnids will be especially troublesome today. Chances are only fair that you will make it through the day without tangling with one or more giant Amazonian tarantulas. Keep a stick within reach, is my advice. A big stick.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Today you will spend another entire day worried about your feet. But honestly, most people don’t notice these things. On the other hand, most people don’t spontaneously grow more toes, either.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
You will declare war on ham, today. Possibly on all pork, not just ham. Why? Nobody will know.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
You will have a hunch, today. Perhaps you should try a firmer mattress?
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Excellent day to fritter things away.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Good day to bring home an insectivore as a pet.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
In a savage reaction against what you view as New Age Wooly-Mindedness, you will write a best-selling book titled I’m Ok, You’re A Twerp. Later, people will often regard you as having “defined” the current decade.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
You will be hired as a cook/housekeeper for 7 extremely short gentlemen, who all live together. Stay away from apples, for a while.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
You will receive a “Dear John” letter from a loved one today, but much to your relief, your name isn’t “John”.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 20)
You will be struck by an odd thought, today. Fortunately it will be only a glancing blow, and will do little actual damage.
Aquarius (January 21 – February 18)
Today you will suddenly and quite unexpectedly become fascinated by fishing. You’ll spend all your spare time looking through lures, and will videotape all the fishing shows. Don’t lose hope, though — while there is no known cure for your condition, there’s a team working on it at MIT.
Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
This is a good time to start becoming a connosieur. You have to take that one thing at a time, though – e.g. nobody is going to become a wine connosier overnight. Start with something that’s fun to say. Pumpernickel, for example.

Calendar of the Moon for May 30th

Dark Moon Night

Color: Black
Element: Air
Altar: Upon a black cloth set a single black candle, incense, an iron sickle laid to mimic the direction of the waning moon, a cup of water, a lock of silver hair, and a white bone.
Offerings: Bones. Stones. Menstrual blood. Give something up.
Daily Meal: Soup of some sort, cooked in a cauldron, eaten in silence.

Dark Moon Invocation

At this time, in the dark of the moon,
When the Silver Lady ages
To an old woman in the dark,
Haunting crossroads, working magic,
Stirring her cauldron
Of poison that heals,
Grandmother Moon of sorcery
And wisdom, who sees all
And reveals little to our searching eyes.
Moon of Death, Moon of mystery,
Moon of silence who hides her face,
Let us learn silence from your averted gaze
Let us learn patience from your aging face
Let us feel for the dark places within us
And find our way down your path in the darkness
Which is utter and complete
But not impenetrable.
As darkness wraps us,
So silence heals us.
As darkness finds us,
So silence guides us.
As darkness speaks,
So silence falls.

(The candle is blown out, and all leave in silence. From the beginning of this rite at Hesperis until the dawn, silence will rule in the house. Talking must be done only in whispers, and between no more than two people, and only for that which is necessary. Long meditation is encouraged, and all work must be done quietly if possible. The evening meal should be eaten by candlelight, and only candles may light the house, except for the sake of certain important work.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Calendar of the Sun for May 30th

30 Thrimilchimonath

Meinherjar: Feast of Valhalla

Color: Red
Element: Fire
Altar: Upon a red cloth lay many weapons, a horn of mead, and four red candles.
Offering: Tend the graves of the honored dead.
Daily Meal: Beef.

Meinherjar Invocation

Hail to the fallen dead!
Hail to the brave ones
Who fought to the end,
Whether the enemy was disease
Or failure of the body
Or weariness of soul
Or the hate of another.
Hail to those who fell
Guarding the helpless and weak!
Hail to those who fell
Defending the land of their ancestors!
Hail to those who fell
Righting great wrongs!
Hail to those who fell
Succumbing to the powers
Of the creeping deaths
And their dark cousins.
Show us the truth, legions of Valhalla!
The only straw death,
The only dishonorable death,
Is one where Death is met
Not as an honorable opponent
Or a welcome bridegroom
But as a fearsome master
To be groveled before.
Give us your courage, legions of Valhalla!

(The horn of mead is passed around, and each names a member of the fallen dead that they particularly respect. The rest is poured out as a libation to the dead. Each steps forward, takes a weapon from the altar, and bears it from the room in honor.)

[Pagan Book of Hours]

Current Moon Phase for May 30th – First Quarter

Moon Phases: First Quarter Moon

(waxing 90-135 degrees)

by Jan Spiller

Emotions begin to stir coupled with recognizing that the new beginnings you are making must also increase personal security to be worthwhile over the long haul. This is a time when it’s appropriate to get in touch with your gut instincts and begin to guide your life more deliberately, with an awareness of using your “6th sense” as well as your enthusiasm. Obstacles may emerge that require you to reevaluate how to better integrate yourself into your immediate environment.

Your Daily Cosmic Calendar for May 30th

Your creative artistic expression receives a notable boost as Venus makes an inspirational, 72-degree link to high-flying Uranus (12:52AM PDT). Some of these positive vibes could get lost in the shuffle because the Moon is in void mode in Virgo until 3:47AM PDT when the lunar orb enters airy Libra. Once the Moon enters Libran territory, strive to increase the value of your investments as Mercury makes a subtle and yet still supportive, 30-degree link to Vesta (5:21AM PDT). Healing forces are highlighted at 10:06AM PDT when the Sun squares Chiron. The question here is whether you can tweak the healing vibes in order that you successfully treat and repair old wounds and pains. If you are looking for trouble, you will undoubtedly find it around the time when the Moon makes its monthly opposition to Uranus (4:58PM PDT) quickly followed by a 90-degree struggle between Mercury in Gemini and Mars in Virgo (5:21PM PDT). Mental and emotional hassles can lead to a rise in temperamental conditions across the board. Don’t project anger on to well-meaning friends and loved ones. Find ways to negotiate agreements and settlements even with hard-nosed competitors and adversaries – if possible. Let the good times roll several hours later as the Moon forms a flowing trine of 120-degrees in air signs with the Sun (8:49PM PDT). Dismiss the moody blues by replacing ornery attitudes with a happy and enthusiastic disposition. You can feel the illuminating vibrations coming from tomorrow morning’s inspirational, 72-degree connection from Mercury to Pallas.

Your Magickal Correspondences for Wed., May 30th

Days Of The Week Comments 

Your Magickal Correspondences for Wed., May 30th

  Magickal Intentions: Communication, Divination, Writing, Knowledge, Business Transactions, Debt, Fear,Loss, Travel and Money Matters
Incense: Jasmine, Lavender, Sweet Pea
Planet: Mercury
Sign: Virgo
Angel: Raphael
Colors: Orange, Light Blue, Grey, Yellow and Violet
Herbs/Plants: Fern, Lavendar, Hazel, Cherry, Periwinkle
Stones: Aventurine, Bloodstone, Hematite, Moss Agate and Sodalite
Oil: (Mercury) Benzoin, Clary Sage, Eucalytus, Lavender
This day is governed by Mercury. Wednesday’s vibration adds power to rituals involving inspiration, communications, writers, poets, the written and spoken word, and all matters of study, learning, and teaching. This day also provides a good time to begin efforts involving self-improvement or understanding.  
Magickal Graphics

Good, What? Is It Wednesday Already? Time Flies…..

Good Wednesday morning, my dear friends! And Razzy says,”Good Morning too!” I thought I would show you why I run late some mornings (like today, lol!). It was peace and quiet this morning, I sit down to work on the blog. Guess who showed up? Razzy! She had heard a train whistle blow and she didn’t know what it was. She came running in here to let me know there was something strange in our yard. Yeah, right about a mile away. She hops up in my lap and it is automatically “make me feel secure and loved.” Of course, being the good mother I am, I couldn’t refuse. So we nuzzled and nuzzled the whole time, I worked on the Josephine Wall’s page. Razzy picked out the graphics so I (excuse me, we) hope you like them.

Anyway I wanted to wish you a “Good Morning and A Blessed Afternoon!” Also to show off my baby brat.

Now on with the show…….

I Am A Witch

Witchy Comments

I Am A Witch
by Sandi Thomas

When I stand up for myself and my beliefs, they call me a “Witch”.
When I stand up for those I love, they call me a Witch.
When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts, or do things my own way, they call me a Witch.

Being a witch entails raising my children to be strong people

Who have a solid sense of personal and social responsibility

Who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in
Who love and respect themselves for the beautiful beings they are.

Being a witch means that I am free to be the wonderful creature I am,
With all my own intricacies, contradictions, quirks and beauty.
Being a witch means I won’t compromise what’s in my heart.
It means I live my life MY way. It means I won’t allow anyone to step on me.

When I refuse to tolerate injustice and speak up against it, I am defined as a witch.
The same thing happens when I take time for myself instead of being everyone else’s maid or when I act a little selfish.

I am proud to be a witch! It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won’t become anyone else’s idea of what they think I “should” be.

I am outspoken, opinionated and determined.
By Goddess, I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that!

So, try to stomp on me, try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won’t succeed.

And if that makes me a witch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it. I love this, I can call myself a witch now and not feel bad about it!

SO MOTE IT BE!

Honor Loved Ones: Make a Memory Candle

Adapted from By Candlelight, by Diana Rosen (Storey Books, 2002).

If you want to remember a departed human or animal loved one, the simple act of making a Memory Candle can bring great relief and healing. You can also do this to celebrate someone living, or to mark an important event like a graduation. Either way, the Memory Candle is a beautiful way to honor someone important to you.

1. Decide who you would like to honor in this way: it could be a deceased relative, friend, or companion animal, or someone with whom you have lost contact but still want to remember.

2. Choose a clear glass candle holder-a water tumbler or glass works well.

3. Find a photograph of the person you wish to honor in this way and make a photocopy of it, enlarging or reducing it to fit the height of the candle holder. If you don’t have a photo, you could do a simple drawing or make a photocopy of a memento you associate with that person or animal.

4. Wrap the photocopy around the glass and tape it securely. Place a nontoxic beeswax or soy wax candle in the glass. Place the Memory Candle in a special safe place and light the candle.

4. The soft glow of the candlelight will illuminate the photograph in a very beautiful and special way.

5. You can also pay homage to the living by naming this an “Honor Candle” and using a photograph to celebrate a graduation, marriage, birthday, retirement, anniversary, or other accomplishment of note.

Chant For Unlocking The Astral Gates

Syn, good Goddess of Locks and Doors,
Open the gates, I now implore,
Allow me to pass through the astral veil
With speed; grant fair winds to my sail.
And when I’ve gained what I can learn
Grant a hasty, safe return.
 
Everyday Magic
Spells & Rituals For Modern Living
Dorothy Morrison
ISBN 1-56718-469-3
 
 
Brought to you by Heathens Underground a Yahoo group.

Do You Have a Celtic Soul?

Adapted from The Phoenix Cards, by Susan Sheppard (Inner Traditions, 1990).

A great deal of romance and intrigue surrounds the early Celts and their beliefs.

It is believed that the Celts may have originated around the Caspian Sea near Iran or in Kazakh, a province of Russia. Some have noted that there are striking similarities between the religious beliefs, laws, and languages of the Celts and those of the more ancient Hindus of India. After their arrival in Ireland, the Celts divided themselves into three classes: the Farmers, The Warriors, and The Druids.

There are mysterious connections between the Celts and many other indigenous peoples. Do you have Celtic heritage? Or do you feel a spiritual affinity with the Celts? Check out these personality traits:

These characteristics are generally true of those with Celtic leanings or heritage:

* You have tremendous insight into the psychology of others.

* Your understanding of human nature makes you especially perceptive, and potentially a gifted psychic.

* Your abilities tend to be more of an intuitive understanding of the motivation of others.

* You find your highest inspiration in the rhythms of nature.

* You are attracted to beautiful or unusual stones.

* You love a good story, whether it be in the listening or the telling.

* You are sensitive to both of the polarities that live inside of you. You naturally understand the concept of androgyny or unixsexualism, and recognize that you have both masculine and feminine traits.

* Although you may be mentally oriented, you are attracted to sensuality.

* You are a powerful, transformative individual. You realize that in order to bring positive change in our outer world, an idea must first be born within.