My Response to a Particularly Offensive Narrow-Minded Article
Follow the link to this article, then return here to read my response. I'm not asking for cudos or anything, just wanted you to see another point of view than you may have or know that others have.
This is my response:
The author of this one is a winner. Love it when those uneducated on a
particular subject matter try to scream their holier-than-thou
self-righteousness from the rooftops regarding said subject to which
they know nothing about. If you want to believe something, then at least
believe something that has fact attached to it somewhere, not based
exclusively on the opinion(s) of others who also don't know the facts,
but only twisted half-truths on to full lies about the subject.
So, the subject of this article is about Hallowe'en and it's "evilness",
that it celebrates death and darkness, and other ridiculous matter ad
nauseum. I will address each of her points directly:
"As I grew closer to the Lord and gained more knowledge of His Word, I began to feel convicted about Halloween."
GOOD. If something doesn't feel right to you, then you should most certainly not continue on with it.
"God is a God of life, but Halloween focuses on death. Should I
celebrate a holiday where people decorate their front yards with
tombstones?"
Ok, first of all, Hallowe'en doesn't "focus on death".
Hallowe'en is the modern day commercialized joke that was once a
celebration of the last harvest of the season. The ancient Celts called
this time Samhain (pronounced SOW-en) and believed that the veil between
the living and the ancestors who had passed was thinnest, so they could
come visit. It was a time to celebrate those who had passed, not dwell
of "death" and the dead in any morbid sense. THAT is what those who do
not understand this concept have confused themselves and others about.
"Death" isn't an end, it is just another state of beginning.
"The Scriptures tell us to put away deeds of darkness (Rom.13:12) and
that light has nothing in common with darkness (2 Cor. 6:14). Is
celebrating a dark holiday something a child of the light should be
doing?"
Again, it is not a "dark holiday". In fact, it is one of the
Cross Quarter Festivals, one of the Fire Festivals, a celebration of the
sun and its life giving light. While it is the only one of the Fire
Festivals celebrated at night, that is so the people may visit with
those ancestors who've passed and to wish them well upon their return at
dawn. There is nothing scary or morbid about it. It is family visiting
with family. It is a time of honoring your ancestors, not "zombie"
attacks & tombstones.
"I had been delivered from fear and
panic attacks and knew that fear comes from the enemy. Should I
participate in a holiday that has fear as its very foundation?"
That
"fear factor"? THAT is straight up Hollywood bs. There is nothing to
fear about those of our relatives & ancestors who have passed. We
honor their memories, say prayers to them of gratitude for their love,
and sorrow at their passing, but know that they are alive and well where
ever they now reside on the Otherside.
"Witchcraft is clearly
detestable to the Lord (Deut 18:10-13). Shouldn't something that
glorifies witchcraft (just take a walk through the Halloween store) be
detestable to me as well?"
LMAO Wow, so uneducated here. Hallowe'en
stores have absolutely nothing, and I mean NOTHING to do with witchcraft
in any way, shape or form. This is typical of someone who has no clue
how to do research and when they do (as the author obviously does) they
read only what is written & pushed by those of the same thinking but
who also have never done their research. Let me put it this way; if I
wanted to know about other religions and faith systems, would I read
what those of my faith wrote (who never studied and lived the other
systems) or would I read the teachings of those who live that faith
system every day - just as they do theirs? I don't go to the baker to
have my car fixed, or the coffee shop to buy computer ink. Neither
should you learn about a subject from those who don't have any education
on the subject. You won't be "converted". You'll be EDUCATED. It won't
hold true for you, but at least you'll have a broader view and will
understand where they're coming from. Rather than that narrow, thin line
that is actually impossible to tow. Narrow mindedness is NOT a virtue.
"Halloween is a sacred, high holiday for Wiccans (the official
religion of witchcraft). Is this a holiday Christians should celebrate
alongside Wiccans?"
Her un-educated lack of knowledge is showing
fully here. Wicca is NOT, I repeat NOT "the official religion of
witchcraft". It is just one of many Pagan Traditions just as there are
many denominations of the Christian religion, various sects of the
Jewish and the Vedic, etc. There is no all-encompassing "one" for Pagans
as there are not for Christians.
"Is it cute when we dress our kids like the devil (or witches, ghouls, scary characters, etc.)? Isn't it, well, demonic?"
Wow. Just. Wow. The uneducated ignorance here is beyond astounding,
especially considering the fact that "the truth is out there" and so
easily researched and learned. AGAIN, not to "convert". Only to EDUCATE.
"What if my child dresses in a wholesome fireman costume? Romans
16:19 says that we need to be wise to what is good and innocent of evil.
If I let him participate in Halloween, even while dressed as a fireman,
aren't I sending him a mixed message by allowing him to participate in a
celebration of evil?"
If you choose to not let your children
participate in fun & games, that's your prerogative as a parent, but
don't twist the truth to fit your agenda, rather than tell them the
reality of "why"; which is that YOU'RE not comfortable with it and so
you will not participate or allow them to. But to spread the twisted
lies about it being "a celebration of evil" is poor parenting. Because
when they get old enough to learn how to do research - they'll learn,
and you'll be called a liar. Not cool - for you or for them.
"The Lord said in 2 Cor. 6:17, "Come out from them and be separate ...
Touch no unclean thing ..." Doesn't God want His children to be set
apart from the world and from sin and evil? Aren't we supposed to be
peculiar people?"
If you want to be "set apart", then do so (and good
luck with that), but don't keep propagating twisted half-truths and
lies to fit the agenda. Simply state, "it's not within the realm of my
beliefs, and I'm not comfortable with it." Period. Don't push an agenda
built for the last six centuries on lies. It was uptight, prudish,
FEARFUL men who in their fear of the unknown decided to make it a
"heresy" or "evil" and a "sin" to even consider having anything to do
with anyone else who does. Is that REALLY the way to work to convince
those "evil people" that your way is actually right? Alienate them
through lies like this article and you'll look just as fruity as the
author. (Newbies or reformed anyone in anything are always the worst,
always spouting loudly in their self-righteousness.) I prefer those who
are strong enough and self-confident enough in their own faith that they
don't need to spout loudly. They're actions speak clearly. They walk
the talk. Not talk the talk - as the author of this article so obviously
does.
"My extended family thinks it's ridiculous that we not
allow our son to dress up for Halloween. Should their opinions matter to
me more than God's? Shouldn't pleasing God be my utmost concern?"
YES! Absolutely! It shouldn't matter what others think. But remember to
put the shoe on the other foot, or you'll be just another religious
fruitcake with nothing valid worth listening to.
If there is
even a question in my heart and mind that it might be wrong, shouldn't
that be my first clue? Why would I continue to do so with even a
lingering thought that it is wrong?
Your belief is your own, and
there is nothing wrong with that. But others have their beliefs, and
there also is nothing wrong with that. Educate yourself on those Paths
you know nothing about. Hold a conversation with those of other faiths.
LEARN something! You won't be converted. Your won't be sinning. You'll
be able to hold your own in a conversation on Faith and the Divine. As
long as there is belief in something Greater than ourselves, then there
is always hope that we will come to an equal understanding. And agree to
disagree.
"Does Halloween bring glory to God? No! It glorifies the devil! Nuff said."
Ugh. Brain dead, self-righteous, newbie, loud-mouthed fundie. "Nuff said".
Welcome to Hoodoo Hill (named for my Boxer buddy who was never too far from my side until his passing with his best girl, Gris-Gris, on November 2, 2020). My name is Granny Tackett and I’d like to introduce you to various aspects of rootwork and Granny Magic, a form of American Folk Magic; herbs, roots, potions, brews, rituals, spell works, wildcrafting, divination systems, and many other interesting tidbits of folk magic. I hope y’all enjoy your visit!
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Holly King's Favorite Yule Beverage
Holly King's Favorite Yule Beverage
Ok, I know it's a bit early to be talking about the Holly King, since he returns at Yule and it's not even Samhain yet. But this is a recipe which takes a while to make and NOW is the time to begin. (This is an alcoholic beverage, so no one under 21 is supposed to drink it... ;) )
This is a recipe that I LOVE, but I always forget to start it on time. It takes 6-8 weeks to infuse to it's best strength and taste. So, THIS year, I put it on the calendar, bought the ingredients early and started it today. I'll share the recipe with you and maybe you can begin your own yearly tradition of adding this beverage to your Yule celebration.
Holly King's Favorite
Starter:
1 12 oz package Cranberries - chopped to small pieces
OR
1 24 oz package of dried Cranberries (my preference)
1 large Orange - zested
1/5th Vodka
Chop the cranberries (whether fresh or dried) into small pieces.*
Place in a large glass jar with a good tight-fitting lid.
Add the orange zest.
Pour the 1/5th of vodka over the cranberry & orange zest mixture, covering completely.
Put the lid on the jar, label it with "Holly King's Favorite Starter" and the date.
Store for 4 weeks in a dark cupboard, taking it out to shake it several times a week.
*I have a Vita-Mix, so I just put the cranberries and vodka in the pitcher, turned it on to 5 and let it chop for about 15 seconds. You want them chopped, but not too fine.
Syrup:
1 1/2 c Sugar
3/4 c Water
Boil sugar in water for 1 minute.
Cool to room temperature.
Strain the cranberry-orange mixture.
Stir the simple syrup into the cranberry-orange infusion.
Add a cinnamon stick – optional.
Store in the dark for 2-4 weeks before serving.
Serve:
Place in a pot to warm, do not get too hot, you want to be able to sip it easily.
You can also serve this cold or at room temperature - your choice.
Pour into a wine glass and enjoy!
Ok, I know it's a bit early to be talking about the Holly King, since he returns at Yule and it's not even Samhain yet. But this is a recipe which takes a while to make and NOW is the time to begin. (This is an alcoholic beverage, so no one under 21 is supposed to drink it... ;) )
This is a recipe that I LOVE, but I always forget to start it on time. It takes 6-8 weeks to infuse to it's best strength and taste. So, THIS year, I put it on the calendar, bought the ingredients early and started it today. I'll share the recipe with you and maybe you can begin your own yearly tradition of adding this beverage to your Yule celebration.
Holly King's Favorite
Starter:
1 12 oz package Cranberries - chopped to small pieces
OR
1 24 oz package of dried Cranberries (my preference)
1 large Orange - zested
1/5th Vodka
Chop the cranberries (whether fresh or dried) into small pieces.*
Place in a large glass jar with a good tight-fitting lid.
Add the orange zest.
Pour the 1/5th of vodka over the cranberry & orange zest mixture, covering completely.
Put the lid on the jar, label it with "Holly King's Favorite Starter" and the date.
Store for 4 weeks in a dark cupboard, taking it out to shake it several times a week.
*I have a Vita-Mix, so I just put the cranberries and vodka in the pitcher, turned it on to 5 and let it chop for about 15 seconds. You want them chopped, but not too fine.
Syrup:
1 1/2 c Sugar
3/4 c Water
Boil sugar in water for 1 minute.
Cool to room temperature.
Strain the cranberry-orange mixture.
Stir the simple syrup into the cranberry-orange infusion.
Add a cinnamon stick – optional.
Store in the dark for 2-4 weeks before serving.
Serve:
Place in a pot to warm, do not get too hot, you want to be able to sip it easily.
You can also serve this cold or at room temperature - your choice.
Pour into a wine glass and enjoy!
Holly King's Favorite Starter
Correspondences:
Cranberry ~ Feminine magick, Happiness, Love
Orange ~ Abundance, Beauty, Divination, Fertility, Fortune, Happiness, Harmony, Joy, Love, Luck, Money, Peach, Prosperity, Warmth
Sugar ~ Love, Lust, Sex magick, Sympathy
Cinnamon ~ Abundance,
Altar tool consecration, Aphrodisiac, Attraction, Attracts
helpful spirits & guardians, Brings positive energy & peace
to rituals, Cleansing, Consecration, Creativity, Courage, Dreamwork,
Energy, Fertility, Financial matters, Fortune, Healing, Increase
concentration, Knowledge, Love, Luck, Lust, Money, Passion, Peace,
Power, Prosperity, Protection, Psychic aid, Psychic powers,
Purification, Raise spiritual vibrations,
Sex magick,
Solar magick, Speed, Spirituality, Strength, Success, Vision work
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Super Blood Moon Eclipse Tonight!
Super Blood Moon Eclipse Tonight!
If you don't know it already, then here you go...tonight...is the Super Blood Moon Eclipse! An event that will not occur for another 18 years! So start planning now for rituals & spells for EVERYTHING you want, because THIS cosmic event has the power & energy to bring you everything you ask for...FAST!
If you don't know it already, then here you go...tonight...is the Super Blood Moon Eclipse! An event that will not occur for another 18 years! So start planning now for rituals & spells for EVERYTHING you want, because THIS cosmic event has the power & energy to bring you everything you ask for...FAST!
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Even the Bible Says So: Isaiah 55:11
Even the Bible Says So: Isaiah 55:11
"So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:11
THAT, folks, is what magic(k) works are all about.
The power of the Divine within you, combined with the Divine's energy itself is absolutely unstoppable. Manifestation of your want, need and/or desire is an assured thing.
The absolute KEY though, is that when you ASK, you BELIEVE, so you can RECEIVE. You must KNOW, BELIEVE and TRUST, without ANY doubt, that this is an immutable FACT.
Because the Bible tells you so! ;)
"So is my word that goes out from my mouth: it will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:11
THAT, folks, is what magic(k) works are all about.
The power of the Divine within you, combined with the Divine's energy itself is absolutely unstoppable. Manifestation of your want, need and/or desire is an assured thing.
The absolute KEY though, is that when you ASK, you BELIEVE, so you can RECEIVE. You must KNOW, BELIEVE and TRUST, without ANY doubt, that this is an immutable FACT.
Because the Bible tells you so! ;)
Friday, August 21, 2015
A Lesson for Every Witch
A Lesson for Every Witch
I found the following poem years ago, but kept it because it is a sad, horrifying truth of a time we thought the world was done with. But with the barbaric actions of the evil, terrorist, psycho Muslims, it looks as though we are to once again revisit these atrocities. And more. So, while this poem is referring to Witches of the Middle Ages, think of the Christians in the Middle East who are living this terror every day. And send them your energies for safety and the destruction of this abomination of psychos who have destroyed so much already.
I found the following poem years ago, but kept it because it is a sad, horrifying truth of a time we thought the world was done with. But with the barbaric actions of the evil, terrorist, psycho Muslims, it looks as though we are to once again revisit these atrocities. And more. So, while this poem is referring to Witches of the Middle Ages, think of the Christians in the Middle East who are living this terror every day. And send them your energies for safety and the destruction of this abomination of psychos who have destroyed so much already.
Sunday, August 2, 2015
The "Blue" Moon
The "Blue" Moon
Ok, this is a HUUUGGGE subject of contention with me. I really, really HATE misinformation. Yeah, it literally bugs the shit out of me. So I'm going to step up on my soap box for a bit, vent a little, and then let it go...(until next time. ;) )
For all of you who were all excited about the so-called "Blue Moon" the other day - DON'T BE! It's was NOT a Blue Moon!
Some idiot a few decades ago (a "hobby astronomer" - basically, a self-absorbed, know-it-all idiot) made a typographical error and now everyone believes that any month with two full moons in it is a "Blue Moon".
Well, I'm sorry to burst your bubble, but that is NOT a Blue Moon.
A Blue Moon is the THIRD full moon in a FOUR full moon season. Every full moon has a name (i.e. Corn Moon, Hunter's Moon, etc.) BUT the third full moon in a four full moon season does not, and the original term 'belewe', which means "betrayer" (because it 'betrayed' the timing in that season), was altered over time into "blue". No, NOT "blue" the color.
So, get over it folks. It's "just another full moon". In fact, it is actually the Harvest Home Feast Moon because the next day (this year) was Lughnasadh/Lammas, and the full moon closest to Lughnasadh is the Harvest Home Feast, because it is the celebration of the First Harvest of the Season. (Obviously, this is for those who celebrate the Sabbats. For those who don't, ignore this last paragraph.)
Now. THAT said, the next REAL "Blue" (belewe) Moon will be on August 18, 2016. Next year. So, you just have to wait another year to experience a REAL BLUE MOON! ;)
Summer Solstice 2016 is June 20th, which is also the first full moon of the summer season. Then, July 19th, August 18th, and September 16th, with the Autumn Equinox falling 6 days later on August 22nd.
June Full Moon Names:
Aerra Litha, Brachmanoth, Honey Moon, Lovers’ Moon, Mead Moon, Moon of Horses, Moon of Making Fat, Rose Moon, Strawberry Moon, Strong Sun Moon
July Full Moon Names:
Blessing Moon, Buck Moon, Fallow Moon, Hay Moon, Hewimanoth, Maedmonat, Meadow Moon, Moon of Blood, Moon of Claiming, Thunder Moon, Wort Moon
August Full Moon Names (in a 3-Full Moon Season):
Barley Moon, Corn Moon, Dispute Moon, Harvest Moon, Moon When Cherries Turn Black, Weodmonath
September Full Names:
Haligmonath, Harvest Moon, Moon When Deer Paw the Earth, Singing Moon, Sturgeon Moon, Wine Moon, Witumanoth
But...because there are 4 full moons that season, this throws off the August full moon names and makes it the "belewe" (blue) moon. The correct names for a "Blue Moon" are: Ancestor Moon, Blue Moon, Hunter’s Moon, Hunting Moon, Moon of the Dead.
And the energies to be called upon during this time are: Communion with the dead, Liberation, Memory, Negative thoughts & emotions released.
Now, NEXT month, September 27th is the full moon AND a lunar eclipse, which is an excellent time to do works for: Change, Full cycle, Harmony, Turning point in life, Union. You can do an entire 29 Day Lunar Cycle's worth of magic during the short time encompassed by the eclipse.
And for a quick FYI: A "Black Moon" is when there are four NEW Moons in a season. These are great for: Banishing, Beginnings, Binding, Exorcisms, Hexing, Negative magic, Revenge, Vengeance. It is an extremely powerful time for any magick workings, but especially any with a negative intent.
Stepping off soap box now!
Blessings y'all!
Ok, this is a HUUUGGGE subject of contention with me. I really, really HATE misinformation. Yeah, it literally bugs the shit out of me. So I'm going to step up on my soap box for a bit, vent a little, and then let it go...(until next time. ;) )
Some idiot a few decades ago (a "hobby astronomer" - basically, a self-absorbed, know-it-all idiot) made a typographical error and now everyone believes that any month with two full moons in it is a "Blue Moon".
Well, I'm sorry to burst your bubble, but that is NOT a Blue Moon.
A Blue Moon is the THIRD full moon in a FOUR full moon season. Every full moon has a name (i.e. Corn Moon, Hunter's Moon, etc.) BUT the third full moon in a four full moon season does not, and the original term 'belewe', which means "betrayer" (because it 'betrayed' the timing in that season), was altered over time into "blue". No, NOT "blue" the color.
So, get over it folks. It's "just another full moon". In fact, it is actually the Harvest Home Feast Moon because the next day (this year) was Lughnasadh/Lammas, and the full moon closest to Lughnasadh is the Harvest Home Feast, because it is the celebration of the First Harvest of the Season. (Obviously, this is for those who celebrate the Sabbats. For those who don't, ignore this last paragraph.)
Now. THAT said, the next REAL "Blue" (belewe) Moon will be on August 18, 2016. Next year. So, you just have to wait another year to experience a REAL BLUE MOON! ;)
Summer Solstice 2016 is June 20th, which is also the first full moon of the summer season. Then, July 19th, August 18th, and September 16th, with the Autumn Equinox falling 6 days later on August 22nd.
June Full Moon Names:
Aerra Litha, Brachmanoth, Honey Moon, Lovers’ Moon, Mead Moon, Moon of Horses, Moon of Making Fat, Rose Moon, Strawberry Moon, Strong Sun Moon
July Full Moon Names:
Blessing Moon, Buck Moon, Fallow Moon, Hay Moon, Hewimanoth, Maedmonat, Meadow Moon, Moon of Blood, Moon of Claiming, Thunder Moon, Wort Moon
August Full Moon Names (in a 3-Full Moon Season):
Barley Moon, Corn Moon, Dispute Moon, Harvest Moon, Moon When Cherries Turn Black, Weodmonath
September Full Names:
Haligmonath, Harvest Moon, Moon When Deer Paw the Earth, Singing Moon, Sturgeon Moon, Wine Moon, Witumanoth
But...because there are 4 full moons that season, this throws off the August full moon names and makes it the "belewe" (blue) moon. The correct names for a "Blue Moon" are: Ancestor Moon, Blue Moon, Hunter’s Moon, Hunting Moon, Moon of the Dead.
And the energies to be called upon during this time are: Communion with the dead, Liberation, Memory, Negative thoughts & emotions released.
Now, NEXT month, September 27th is the full moon AND a lunar eclipse, which is an excellent time to do works for: Change, Full cycle, Harmony, Turning point in life, Union. You can do an entire 29 Day Lunar Cycle's worth of magic during the short time encompassed by the eclipse.
And for a quick FYI: A "Black Moon" is when there are four NEW Moons in a season. These are great for: Banishing, Beginnings, Binding, Exorcisms, Hexing, Negative magic, Revenge, Vengeance. It is an extremely powerful time for any magick workings, but especially any with a negative intent.
Stepping off soap box now!
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Names on Petition Papers
Names on Petition Papers
I was asked this and decided that it warranted a full post on the subject.
When writing a Petition Paper with a person's name on it, which name do you use? Their given name or the name they use everyday?
We'll use my name as an example.
My given name was "Vicki". But they misspelled it on the birth certificate. It was supposed to be spelled "Vikki". Trust me when I say, this had a definitive impact on my entire life, especially as a kid.
Nicknames for given names are sometimes inappropriate and the full formal name should be the given name and the shortened version of that name should be their nickname, used by family and friends. The formal name is always used for legal purposes anyway.
When I was older and it was an appropriate time, I changed my name to the formal form of Vikki, but I chose the Russian ancestral version of it, "Viktorija" (pronounced the same as "Victoria"). When I got it changed legally, everything in my life changed for the better. And it has continued to do so since - 17 years now.
So, if you're doing a work that requires a Petition Paper, I suggest that for personal works (love, money, job, health, etc.), the paper have the person's personal name on it. In my instance that would be "Vikki".
But when doing a legal work (law, attorney's, courts, legal documents, etc.), then use the person's given name. Again, using me as the example, that would be "Viktorija".
I now there are many who would dispute this concept, and that's fine. This is what I do and what works for me. A simple test work will determine which is best for you.
Just something new to consider. :)
I was asked this and decided that it warranted a full post on the subject.
When writing a Petition Paper with a person's name on it, which name do you use? Their given name or the name they use everyday?
We'll use my name as an example.
My given name was "Vicki". But they misspelled it on the birth certificate. It was supposed to be spelled "Vikki". Trust me when I say, this had a definitive impact on my entire life, especially as a kid.
Nicknames for given names are sometimes inappropriate and the full formal name should be the given name and the shortened version of that name should be their nickname, used by family and friends. The formal name is always used for legal purposes anyway.
When I was older and it was an appropriate time, I changed my name to the formal form of Vikki, but I chose the Russian ancestral version of it, "Viktorija" (pronounced the same as "Victoria"). When I got it changed legally, everything in my life changed for the better. And it has continued to do so since - 17 years now.
So, if you're doing a work that requires a Petition Paper, I suggest that for personal works (love, money, job, health, etc.), the paper have the person's personal name on it. In my instance that would be "Vikki".
But when doing a legal work (law, attorney's, courts, legal documents, etc.), then use the person's given name. Again, using me as the example, that would be "Viktorija".
I now there are many who would dispute this concept, and that's fine. This is what I do and what works for me. A simple test work will determine which is best for you.
Just something new to consider. :)
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Personal Lessons Offered
Personal Lessons Offered
I have been asked so many times over the years, most of which have been in the last few months, if I offered personal lessons. The answer is "yes", but it's difficult to set a particular time frame for them as I have a part time job at the local newspaper, I'm a board member of our new local farmers' market, and I make crafts to sell at the farmers' market on Saturdays.
But, I think it's time to set the time to offer these lessons. So, I am putting it out there to all y'all to ask several questions:
1) What day(s) work for you? (for me: Tuesday evenings, all day Wednesdays and Sundays)
2) What in particular do you want to learn? (be specific)
3) How long do you want each lesson to last? (i.e. would an hour be good or "as long as it takes"?)
4) Do you want physical materials (emailed lessons/information) as well or would your own notes be enough?
4) Give me YOUR ideas...
My fee is $25/hour with a 1 hour minimum. The lessons would be done via Skype and could be done individually or in conference with more than one student.
Please let me know what y'all think. I really do want to do this, so please email me:
grannytackett@yahoo.com or hoodoohillrootworksupply@gmail.com or via Facebook.
I have been asked so many times over the years, most of which have been in the last few months, if I offered personal lessons. The answer is "yes", but it's difficult to set a particular time frame for them as I have a part time job at the local newspaper, I'm a board member of our new local farmers' market, and I make crafts to sell at the farmers' market on Saturdays.
But, I think it's time to set the time to offer these lessons. So, I am putting it out there to all y'all to ask several questions:
1) What day(s) work for you? (for me: Tuesday evenings, all day Wednesdays and Sundays)
2) What in particular do you want to learn? (be specific)
3) How long do you want each lesson to last? (i.e. would an hour be good or "as long as it takes"?)
4) Do you want physical materials (emailed lessons/information) as well or would your own notes be enough?
4) Give me YOUR ideas...
My fee is $25/hour with a 1 hour minimum. The lessons would be done via Skype and could be done individually or in conference with more than one student.
Please let me know what y'all think. I really do want to do this, so please email me:
grannytackett@yahoo.com or hoodoohillrootworksupply@gmail.com or via Facebook.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
ChronosXP Planetary Hours Software ~ A MUST-HAVE!!!
ChronosXP Planetary Hours Software ~ A MUST-HAVE!!!
I was just introduced to this FREE software and it is GREAT!
My books and the Lesson: Seals, Sigils & Bindrunes have Planetary Hours charts and are good references, but the software you can download from this site is far better!
Once you have it downloaded and on your computer you can then open the program to put in the latitude & longitude of your city/town, what time zone you're in, set up what you'd like to have displayed, sounds (or not) when each hour changes, etc. You can even have the icon-of-the-hour on your desktop in a choice of colors & designs. :D
Now there's no more "guessing" as to the exact hour you are in, or the hour you need to do a ritual or plant your seeds or transplants (for those you plant by the lunar phases & zodiac hours like me.)
Here is the window that opens when you click the icon on your desktop:
The bottom left section (in blue) is where you will find all you need for using the program. The "Change Settings" is where you will set everything you need, which will change everything on the bottom of the window, except the last section with the city on it - this is not useful at all as it is too location-specific. By changing the latitude & longitude settings you will then have all the correct information along the bottom - and just ignore the city-specific drop-down box, unless you happen to live in or very near one of those cities. I do not, so it is of no use to me. But by putting in the latitude & longitude of my town in the "Change Settings" box, I now have everything exact...and I LOVE IT!
To find your latitude & longitude you can search online. I just use the City-Data website and put in my city, then Control "F", then type in "latitude" or "longitude", hit "Enter" and it scrolls to that word. Note that when inputting the numbers they will read (using mine as an example) Latitude: 39.35 N, Longitude: 100.44 W. To input in the software, you will enter the first number (latitude) 39 in the "hours" box and the 35 into the "minutes" box, and the same for the longitude number. There are then buttons to choose Latitude N or S or Longitude E or W. It's really very simple to figure out...and will make knowing & using the Planetary Hours sooooo much easier & faster!
Enjoy!
ChronosXP website download page.
I was just introduced to this FREE software and it is GREAT!
My books and the Lesson: Seals, Sigils & Bindrunes have Planetary Hours charts and are good references, but the software you can download from this site is far better!
Once you have it downloaded and on your computer you can then open the program to put in the latitude & longitude of your city/town, what time zone you're in, set up what you'd like to have displayed, sounds (or not) when each hour changes, etc. You can even have the icon-of-the-hour on your desktop in a choice of colors & designs. :D
Now there's no more "guessing" as to the exact hour you are in, or the hour you need to do a ritual or plant your seeds or transplants (for those you plant by the lunar phases & zodiac hours like me.)
Here is the window that opens when you click the icon on your desktop:
The bottom left section (in blue) is where you will find all you need for using the program. The "Change Settings" is where you will set everything you need, which will change everything on the bottom of the window, except the last section with the city on it - this is not useful at all as it is too location-specific. By changing the latitude & longitude settings you will then have all the correct information along the bottom - and just ignore the city-specific drop-down box, unless you happen to live in or very near one of those cities. I do not, so it is of no use to me. But by putting in the latitude & longitude of my town in the "Change Settings" box, I now have everything exact...and I LOVE IT!
To find your latitude & longitude you can search online. I just use the City-Data website and put in my city, then Control "F", then type in "latitude" or "longitude", hit "Enter" and it scrolls to that word. Note that when inputting the numbers they will read (using mine as an example) Latitude: 39.35 N, Longitude: 100.44 W. To input in the software, you will enter the first number (latitude) 39 in the "hours" box and the 35 into the "minutes" box, and the same for the longitude number. There are then buttons to choose Latitude N or S or Longitude E or W. It's really very simple to figure out...and will make knowing & using the Planetary Hours sooooo much easier & faster!
Enjoy!
ChronosXP website download page.
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Workshops for 2015
Workshops for 2015
I've updated the schedule for the Workshops for 2015 on the Workshops page.
As I have taken a part time position at the local newspaper, I have altered the 5-Day Workshop down to 3 days. No material has been deleted or reduced, the hours of class have been extended to help make up for the extra presentation materials.
2015 Tentative Dates are:
2-Day Workshops ~ $500
Saturday & Sunday
May 9 & 10
July 11 & 12
August 8 & 9
October 10 & 11
3-Day Workshops ~ $750
Friday, Saturday & Sunday
June 5 - 7
September 4 - 6
For both Workshops there will be a group ritual on Saturday night, outside if weather permits.
Hours for all Workshops: 9 am - 5 pm (or later, if we're having fun and don't want to stop!)
Meals will either be cooked on-site or we go into town. Snacks & beverages will be available at all times.
I hope to hear from y'all soon so we can get together and have a great time learning & sharing!
I've updated the schedule for the Workshops for 2015 on the Workshops page.
As I have taken a part time position at the local newspaper, I have altered the 5-Day Workshop down to 3 days. No material has been deleted or reduced, the hours of class have been extended to help make up for the extra presentation materials.
2015 Tentative Dates are:
2-Day Workshops ~ $500
Saturday & Sunday
May 9 & 10
July 11 & 12
August 8 & 9
October 10 & 11
3-Day Workshops ~ $750
Friday, Saturday & Sunday
June 5 - 7
September 4 - 6
For both Workshops there will be a group ritual on Saturday night, outside if weather permits.
Hours for all Workshops: 9 am - 5 pm (or later, if we're having fun and don't want to stop!)
Meals will either be cooked on-site or we go into town. Snacks & beverages will be available at all times.
I hope to hear from y'all soon so we can get together and have a great time learning & sharing!
God's Eye for a Client
God's Eye for a Client
The God's Eye, or Ojo de Dios in Spanish (sounds so much prettier too!) is a craft many of us learned in grade school, using Popsicle sticks and yarn. But did you know that it is also a minor art form? In any images search engine look them up and you will find some incredible pieces of work!
According to Wikipedia (I know, not really the most definitive source for information, but it's ok in a pinch), "The weaving of an Ojo de Dios is an ancient contemplative and spiritual practice for many indigenous peoples in the Americas, and beliefs surrounding them vary with location and history. Some people believe they were originally part of the sophisticated religion of the Ancient Pueblo Peoples....Ojos de Dios have traditionally been created for celebration or blessing, presented as a gift or designed to bless a home. Often they reflect a confidence in all-seeing Providence. The spiritual eye has the power to see and understand things unknown to the physical eye. During Spanish colonial times in New Mexico, from the 1500s to the 1800s, Ojos de Dios were placed where people worked, or where they walked along a trail (Mager, 2012). Traditional Ojos de Dios are frequently woven in solitude, as part of an extended meditation or prayer. In other settings, their construction is one aspect of longstanding communal engagement and connection. For centuries, young people in the mountains of New Mexico have made Ojos de Dios in learning circles (wisdom circles) with their elders. In other parts of the 'New World' they were used as ritual objects or for rites of passage. Today, artisans weave complicated or variegated versions of the traditional Ojo de Dios, selling them as decorations or religious objects. There has also been a huge increase in the use of Ojos de Dios as an easy and fun craft for children, but with the meditative and collaborative aspects removed."
Finally, their article states "The Ojo de Dios or God's Eye is a ritual tool, magical object, and cultural symbol evoking the weaving motif and its spiritual associations for the Huichol and Tepehuan Indians of western Mexico. The God's Eye is symbolic of the power of seeing and understanding that which is unknown and unknowable, The Mystery. The four points represent the elemental processes: earth, fire, air, and water. The Huichol call their God's eyes Sikuli, which means "the power to see and understand things unknown." When a child is born, the central eye is woven by the father, then one eye is added for every year of the child's life until the child reaches the age of five. Original Tepehuan Crosses are extremely rare to come by. There are many that are being made for the tourist market, but they do not carry the same traditional and spiritual significance."
Well, I have a client who is in need of quite a bit of protection from neighbors and just all-around nasty people who are causing him and his animals harm. Along with other things, I decided that a God's Eye hanging in his window would be a great visual deterrent for those who understand what they are. And for those who don't...well, their subconscious will give them an "idea".
To make this God's Eye even more powerful I also attached a large Turkish Evil Eye bead in the center. The Turkish Evil Eyes are used for protection "to guard themselves from such not-so-well-meaning people with their necessarily evil eyes.
The Turkish Evil Eye Pendant or the Nazar Boncugu, which literally means the "evil eye bead", is actually a stone bead, which is worn to protect oneself from evil looks. The stone is an amalgamation of molten glass, iron, copper, water and salt. This particular combination of minerals and metals is believed to provide a shield from the forces of evil....It is believed that the Nazar Boncugu deflects the negative energy that is being directed towards a person onto itself, thus dispersing its powers.
The Nazar Boncugu is blue in color and the age-old Anatolian belief is that it is actually the blue color of the stone, which holds the real shielding power and absorbs the negative energy." (Turkey for You)
The God's Eye, or Ojo de Dios in Spanish (sounds so much prettier too!) is a craft many of us learned in grade school, using Popsicle sticks and yarn. But did you know that it is also a minor art form? In any images search engine look them up and you will find some incredible pieces of work!
According to Wikipedia (I know, not really the most definitive source for information, but it's ok in a pinch), "The weaving of an Ojo de Dios is an ancient contemplative and spiritual practice for many indigenous peoples in the Americas, and beliefs surrounding them vary with location and history. Some people believe they were originally part of the sophisticated religion of the Ancient Pueblo Peoples....Ojos de Dios have traditionally been created for celebration or blessing, presented as a gift or designed to bless a home. Often they reflect a confidence in all-seeing Providence. The spiritual eye has the power to see and understand things unknown to the physical eye. During Spanish colonial times in New Mexico, from the 1500s to the 1800s, Ojos de Dios were placed where people worked, or where they walked along a trail (Mager, 2012). Traditional Ojos de Dios are frequently woven in solitude, as part of an extended meditation or prayer. In other settings, their construction is one aspect of longstanding communal engagement and connection. For centuries, young people in the mountains of New Mexico have made Ojos de Dios in learning circles (wisdom circles) with their elders. In other parts of the 'New World' they were used as ritual objects or for rites of passage. Today, artisans weave complicated or variegated versions of the traditional Ojo de Dios, selling them as decorations or religious objects. There has also been a huge increase in the use of Ojos de Dios as an easy and fun craft for children, but with the meditative and collaborative aspects removed."
Finally, their article states "The Ojo de Dios or God's Eye is a ritual tool, magical object, and cultural symbol evoking the weaving motif and its spiritual associations for the Huichol and Tepehuan Indians of western Mexico. The God's Eye is symbolic of the power of seeing and understanding that which is unknown and unknowable, The Mystery. The four points represent the elemental processes: earth, fire, air, and water. The Huichol call their God's eyes Sikuli, which means "the power to see and understand things unknown." When a child is born, the central eye is woven by the father, then one eye is added for every year of the child's life until the child reaches the age of five. Original Tepehuan Crosses are extremely rare to come by. There are many that are being made for the tourist market, but they do not carry the same traditional and spiritual significance."
Well, I have a client who is in need of quite a bit of protection from neighbors and just all-around nasty people who are causing him and his animals harm. Along with other things, I decided that a God's Eye hanging in his window would be a great visual deterrent for those who understand what they are. And for those who don't...well, their subconscious will give them an "idea".
To make this God's Eye even more powerful I also attached a large Turkish Evil Eye bead in the center. The Turkish Evil Eyes are used for protection "to guard themselves from such not-so-well-meaning people with their necessarily evil eyes.
The Turkish Evil Eye Pendant or the Nazar Boncugu, which literally means the "evil eye bead", is actually a stone bead, which is worn to protect oneself from evil looks. The stone is an amalgamation of molten glass, iron, copper, water and salt. This particular combination of minerals and metals is believed to provide a shield from the forces of evil....It is believed that the Nazar Boncugu deflects the negative energy that is being directed towards a person onto itself, thus dispersing its powers.
The Nazar Boncugu is blue in color and the age-old Anatolian belief is that it is actually the blue color of the stone, which holds the real shielding power and absorbs the negative energy." (Turkey for You)
The client's favorite color is Ferrari Red, so I promised I'd add it to the piece. Once I finished it I mailed a picture of it to him...he loved it. (whew! I always worry that items won't be as they think or hope.)
After finishing it I placed it on the altar for consecration, and once all of the ritual works are done I'll mail it and everything else he ordered to him.
Here's the 12" God's Eye with the Turkish Evil Eye bead:
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Valentine's Day Special 1/25/2015 - 2/14/2015
Valentine's Day Special
1/25/2015 - 2/14/2015
Any custom made-to-order item;
JuJu Doll / Poppet
Talisman
Mojo Bag
Oils
Powders
Herbal Blends
Green Luck Prosperity Rice
Warding Chime
Witch's Burr
Etc.
25% off
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E-mail me what you are wanting and I will send you an invoice.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Spider Webs
Spider Webs
I've posted on this subject before, but I found that meme below and had to share it!
Using spider webs is fun, even if it is a bit creepy to gather.
Use in your binding works to keep the intended tied up.
You could even reverse that and have the "spider about to get the fly" - wrap a tiny poppet in the webs and place a toy spider on or near it - this would be an effective curse for someone who needs to get their just due, or a curse of ill-health.
Add spider webs to a potion (not to be consumed!!) or a powder such as binding someone to you or themselves, a stay-put potion so they can't leave, or to make their job or life too confining and miserable.
Think outside the box and you can find lots of ways to use so many things!
I've posted on this subject before, but I found that meme below and had to share it!
Using spider webs is fun, even if it is a bit creepy to gather.
Use in your binding works to keep the intended tied up.
You could even reverse that and have the "spider about to get the fly" - wrap a tiny poppet in the webs and place a toy spider on or near it - this would be an effective curse for someone who needs to get their just due, or a curse of ill-health.
Add spider webs to a potion (not to be consumed!!) or a powder such as binding someone to you or themselves, a stay-put potion so they can't leave, or to make their job or life too confining and miserable.
Think outside the box and you can find lots of ways to use so many things!
