Well, there's more! A peek into the mind of a writer, Fudge for Ferals, an interview with author Mel Massey, and colorism!
Karen and I have all your standards as well, so grab that cuppa and let's get to the Stew!
Reminder: Most of us in the United States are now under Daylight Savings Time. Did you remember to push your clocks ahead by one hour?
Happy Birthday this week to Lunagh Willow, Dolphin Brown, Amanda Chandler, Lisa Plummer, Samuel Salmon, Gemma Dubaldo, Lyn Thurman, DeAnna Torres, Sondra Grabel, Sharon Grimshaw, Skytiyia Stormcloud, Tom McDonough, and Diane Hughes. May this be your best birthday ever, and may your next year of life bring you joy, peace, success and abundance in all good things!
In the News
Woman Thrashed on Accusation of Witchcraft
Mob Kills, Buries Man Accused of Witchcraft
Kenya: The Day I Almost Started Believing in Witchcraft
One more woman branded 'tonhi', killed for practicing black magic in Chhattisgarh
Fighting the New Paganism
Pagan Lore with Karen Szabo
Sunday, March 9
On this date, the annual Butter Lamp Festival is held by Buddhist monks in Tibet to render demons powerless and to secure the favor of the gods. Yak-butter sculptures of Buddhist heroes are paraded through the streets as sacred chants are recited. After the procession, the sculptures are then cast into the waters of a river.
Monday, March 10
On this day in the year 1909, the famous Dutch clairvoyant and psychic healer Gerard Croiset was born in the Netherlands. Using his clairvoyant abilities, which manifested early in his childhood, Croiset healed hundreds of patients daily at this clinic. He also worked with various police departments as a psychic criminologist and solved crimes in more than half a dozen countries. His death occurred on July 20, 1980.
Tuesday, March 11
Jacques de Molay, the last Grand Master of the Order of the Knights Emplars, was burned alive at the stake on this date in the year 1314. Shortly before he died, he accurately predicted the death of King Philip IV of France within the year and the death of Pope Clement within forty days.
Wednesday, March 12
Today is the Babylonian Feast of Marduk. On this day in the year 1873, psychic researcher and occultists Stewart Edward White was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He authored several books containing material obtained through his wife's spirit-channeling sessions, and he served as president of the American Society for Psychical Research in San Francisco, California.
Thursday,March 13
The thirteenth day of the third month is considered to be the luckiest day of the year for all Witches (especially if it should happen to fall on a Friday), as thirteen is the number associated with the traditional Witches' coven and three is a powerful magickal number. In Luxemborg, a Pagan fire festival known as Burgsonndeg is celebrated annually on this day with the lighting of great bonfires to welcome Spring and the rebirth of the Sun.
Friday, March 14
The annual thirteen-day Ghanian New Year celebration begins on this date. A series of special ritual dances are traditionally performed on the first eleven days of the festival to dispel all evil spirits and honor the souls of the departed. The shrines of the beneficial spirits are ritually purified on the twelfth day, and a joyous celebration of the new year takes place on the thirteenth day. This day is sacred to Ua Zit, a serpent-goddess of the ancient Egyptian religion.
Saturday, March 15
On this date in ancient Rome, the annual Festival of Attis and Cybele began with a procession of reed-bearers to commemorate the finding of the infant Attis among the reeds. The festival was followed by nine consecutive days of fasting and sexual abstinence.
Wishing you all a wonderful week,
Karen
Sparkle and Shine with Sosanna
February is usually the coldest month of the year for us here in Seven Springs. This year was no exception. We actually got record snowfall this past month but managed to live through it. This is the time of year when I like to spend getting my house ready for spring.
Hubby and I are both big on gardens. Over the years we’ve been able to produce a bounty of wonderful veggies for our table and this year, will be no exception. In preparation for planting we’ve already located and started to sprout our seeds. This year we’ll have tomatoes and basil of course, but we’ve picked up some fall seeds too. We’re going to try to plant some collards this year. I’m hoping for a huge crop to harvest just after the first fall frost.
To wrap up the winter months, there is much work to be done. We’ll be starting in the hen house. We have a 10x20 barn that we keep 7 hens in. Our hens provide us with enough fresh eggs that we never need to buy any from the store. The barn has two entrances and four nests inside. We have a tree branch in there as a natural roost for them and the floor is lined with hay.
Just after the ground starts to thaw we’ll use wheel barrel and shovel to clean out all the droppings and old hay from the barn. Because we let our hens free range over our entire property after the growing season, the majority of the ground is pretty fertile. Where necessary we’ll collect the droppings and add them to the soil for a natural (non chemical) fertilizer. Cleaning the barn out and getting everything disposed of usually takes about a day or two.
Next we’ll move to getting the ground ready. I mentioned we have moved from the 10X10 pen for the chickens to letting them free range. I also mentioned that just before the snow in Feb, my gas cans were stolen from my back yard. So to correct both of these in one swoop, we’ll be adding fencing around the pole barn with our yard supplies and fencing off the garden area from the chickens. After the plants are bigger the chickens will do a great job weeding and taking care of the bugs, however while the plants are little we have to keep those little buggers out of there.
As my crops get closer to being in the ground and then on my table I’ll be sharing photos on Pinterest to share all my gardening adventures - http://www.pinterest.com/rreneeolson/how-does-my-garden-grow/.
For my magical winter wrap up, I’ll be cleaning the altar and moving all expired ritual materials out to the burn pile. Any candles or ritual items that were used for a particular spell and of course any offering items still visible at the crossroads will be taken over and added to the pile. Making sure to have a fresh start with the wonderful spring sunshine.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
www.sosannascloset.com
www.confessionsofamodernwitch.blogspot.com
Sunshine's Meanderings with Kathleen Lane
The time is coming! This is the month my grandparents always planted potatoes. It didn't matter if St.Patrick Day was sub-zero and snowy, the mulch was moved away, the ground was plowed and the seed potatoes went in the ground. Then the mulch was replaced until things warmed up some. It was like a religious rite. Since my grandparents on that side were Irish, I assume that it was an Irish thing.
But other than the potato ritual, the rest of their gardening was totally by the signs. They consulted the Almanac and planned their planting season accordingly. And believe me, they grew amazing gardens. Of course, Gram insisted it was biblical, since the bible says "to all things there is a season".
Summary of Zodiac Planting
To garden by the signs, one plants when the Moon is both waxing and in a Fertile Sign; and weeds, tills, and harvests when the Moon is waning and in a Barren Sign.
Also, one never plants on days when the Moon is undergoing a phase change, ie: New Moon, Full Moon, or either quarter.
Below is a list of the Signs of the Zodiac showing their properties and a brief description of what to do when the moon is in that particular sign.
Fertile Signs
Water Signs
Cancer - best time to plant aerial crops, or prune to encourage growth, or graft ; plant seed, and plant root crops. It's also the best time to water since plants take it up more easily in a water sign.
Pisces - transplant or sow seed in this sign for vigorous root growth. Fertilize root crops or graft for best results now or plant root crops.
Scorpio - best sign for planting seed, or graft or prune for growth; or plant root crops.
Earth Signs
Taurus - transplant in this sign for hardy plants; sow seed; plant root crops or prune to limit growth.
Virgo - till, cultivate, and turn compost heaps; garden pests and weeds are most vulnerable in this sign and pruning to shape plants is most effective.
Capricorn - prune for strong growth and graft in this sign; plant seeds, plant bulbs, tubers and rhizomes.
Barren Signs
Fire Signs
Leo - prune to shape shrubs in this most fiery of the fire signs; or cultivate and till the soil. This is the best sign to weed or control pests.
Aries - destroy weeds and pests; or till and cultivate, prune to limit growth, turn sod, and harvest crops for best keeping qualities now.
Sagittarius - till and cultivate in this sign; plant onions or weed, prune to limit growth, or harvest crops for maximum keeping qualities.
Air Signs
Gemini - cultivate and till in this sign; harvest herbs and root crops, or weed for maximal effectiveness.
Aquarius - cultivate and till the earth in this dry, airy sign; get rid of weeds or harvest crops for long-term storage.
Libra - plant annual flowers; plant vines. Flowers picked in this sign last longest and plants pruned now will keep their shape longer.
There and Back A-hen: Just a Bunch of Clucking Nonsense with Melissa "Chicky" Cassick
“I hate writing, I love having written”– Dorothy Parker
Every morning I awaken with a dialogue in my head. I rouse myself to the strains of my cell phone’s alarm, thinking great thoughts and determined that they should become amazing words. This beautiful moment, when my dreams seem clear and attainable, lasts about 2 seconds. Then I am needed to feed the demanding cats outside my bedroom door, and from that point I am needed for one thing after another until the moment I double check my cell phone’s alarm before I am overtaken by deep, black sleep.
At 6:30 a.m. I hear Garrison Keillor’s feature “The Writer’s Almanac” on my NPR station as I am getting kids coats and backpacks laid out, placing bowls and spoons on the counter, assembling medications, filling a water dish for animals. I feel a sense of desperation as I think of all the ideas I have that will never see the light of day – because day is over all too quickly, and I spend most of it in service of others. One of them is tall and handsome, several others are short and boisterous, and the remainders are rather furry. I am thanked in kisses, thanked in hugs, thanked in affectionate snuggles and slurps. It is my distinct pleasure to serve them. That does not make my frustration any less, however, when I realize that another day will go by without me ever having a quiet moment to face the white rectangle on light blue background, and attempt to cover it with words.
John D. MacDonald wrote a fabulous foreword for a collection of Stephen King short stories in 1978. People often said to him, “You know, I always wanted to be a writer.” He had taken to responding, “You know, I always wanted to be a brain surgeon.” They didn’t get his humor, but he was saying that writing is something you either do, or you don’t. If you *are* a writer, you can’t stop yourself. You just do it. You write. And write. And write some more. And you don’t feel satisfied until you are finished. And you are never, ever, really finished.
I know the rush when the words come. There is no high on earth like seeing them appear, flowing directly from brain to computer screen. There is no satisfaction greater than all of the syllables falling into perfect place as I pen parodies and poems. I am thrilled when I surreptitiously observe the reactions of my husband or friends as I read my work aloud, and see in their faces that I have indeed nailed my point as
And here it ends. My kids are up ---
There’s the tremendous frustration illustrated in elegant simplicity. I have no choice but to anxiously push the laptop aside, and devote my limited energy to filling a cup, making a sandwich, zipping a zipper, finding an episode of “Super Why” that appeals. It is my job; mothering, supervising, nurturing, yet those moments can be agonizing. The ideas, when they come, are precious as platinum. And they are fleeting. I can barely concentrate enough to make a grocery list when there is pandemonium around me. Assembling a coherent piece to share is impossible. I need a few quiet hours, and in my household, that does not happen.
Yet I write. I write despite a certainty that I will never finish. I write despite an agonizing realization that I will never be as good as I want to be. I write despite an understanding that I have nothing new to say, and that the proliferation of writing on the internet means my musings are lost in a shrieking crowd of angry blogs, misspelled tweets, and celebrity babble.
I write it all because not to do so is unthinkable.
Mid-Air Moxie with Adelina Soto Thomas
Your Intuition- pt 3 Drop Out!March 9, 2014
I don’t know if Timothy Leary knew in 1967 what an impact he would have when he coined the phrase “Tune In, Turn On, Drop Out”. While it became synonymous with ‘hippies’ and the drug culture of the 60’s, he later suggested there was much more to it. In this series, I’ve used ‘Tune In’ and ‘Turn On’ as means to help you tap in to your intuitive self (drug free!). Thirty years later, in his book ‘Flashbacks’, Leary tried to explain what he meant by ‘Drop Out’:
“Drop out suggested an elective, selective, graceful process of detachment from involuntary or unconscious commitments. ‘Drop Out’ meant self-reliance, a discovery of one’s singularity, a commitment to mobility, choice, and change.”
In this last part of this series, I would like to explore how strengthening your intuition requires you ‘Drop Out’ of some of the behaviors, beliefs and habits that regularly prevent you from trusting your inner guide and the wisdom of your intuition.
We live with the question of the ages: Does life imitate art, or does art imitate life? Our attention is swallowed up by Reality TV shows, Tabloid News, and other assorted media fodder designed to have us all wishing for our ’15 minutes of fame’. We lose ourselves in political scandals which resemble daytime soap operas. What we don’t even notice is what is most pervasive-our inability to detach from the fiction and get in touch with the real world around us.
Marshal McLuhan, an intellectual and philosopher of communication theory (and inspiration for Leary) once said, “The winner is one who knows when to drop out in order to get in touch.” To strengthen your intuitive skills, being able to Drop Out is essential for you to get ‘in touch’ with those abilities. This is something that takes time, effort and diligence. How do you numb yourself to the inner world, by staying saturated in the outer?
Do you watch a great deal of television? Do you always have to have someone with you and feel extremely uncomfortable being alone? Are you frequently talking or texting on your phone? Have you ever gone for an entire day without checking out the internet? Two days? Two hours?
Do you often have a book (or e-book) in your hand? Do you take work home with you even when you will still be working on it the next day? Have you ever just sat in a room, quietly, with no television, radio, books, magazines, newspapers, phones or other distractions? Have you tried? Are you able to even think about doing it for an hour without getting itchy and twitchy?
The challenge in being able to continue to ‘Tune In’ and ‘Turn on’ is making those choice and commitments to change your lifestyle. How can you truly say you are trying to live a spiritual life, become closer to Nature, the Spirits and the Universe, if you cannot commit to having a relationship with them? Are you a ‘wanna-be’ who finds that it’s nice to read a book and talk about a spiritual life, but don’t make the time to actually HAVE a spiritual life?
The changes don’t have to be big to start. It can be scary when you venture down a new road. However, you have to recognize your roadblocks and commit to not letting them disrupt your journey. I challenge you to do this one task: Turn all things off for one hour a day. No phone, no television, no radio…no books, no internet, NO distractions. For one hour every day, just sit still and Tune In to yourself. Don’t close your eyes…this is NOT meditation, nor is it a way for you to take a power nap. Tune in to yourself….one hour every day. Observe how you feel…if there are sensations in your body, mind, and energy field. You can journal about it later if you want to track your progress. You can start out with 30 minutes if one hour is too great for you and work your way up as your tolerance increases.
Do not underestimate the power of Dropping Out. The benefit of stripping away the influences of the outer world and becoming more comfortable in our own skin is immeasurable. Change is sometimes scary but to me, Stagnation is worse. I want to be a part of this world and in order to do that, I had to Drop Out or the fictitious world that took up so much of my time and attention. Small changes last longest, so it is there that you need to start. Have courage and you will find that what you are seeking is within, if you just commit to Turn On, Tune In and Drop Out.
“Peace, strength and direction come to those who manage to tune out the noisy judgments of others in an effort to better hear the soft and steady murmur of their angels.” –Sandra King
Read more of Adelina's wisdom at the Mid-Stride Moxie Blog!
Saga's Spirit with Loren Morris
Native Americans say that the end of Winter is announced by the cawing of the crow, which would have been in March around the time of the full moon, which is also near the Spring Equinox.
A beautiful Native American tale about the crow says that long ago the crow was not black, but was rainbow-colored. This was long, long, long ago, before there was Winter or the Snow Spirit. Ancient days.
Then one day, the Snow Spirit appeared.
"The Creator Who Created Us", Kijilamuh Ka'ong, needed to asked to think the world warm again. The animals were so cold that they decided to select a messenger from amongst them to go speak to Kijilamuh Ka'ong.
Finally they decided on Rainbow Crow because he was so beautiful and had such a lovely singing voice. They knew he would get Kijilamuh Ka'ong's attention. Rainbow Crow flew up into the sky for three long days. When he sang and captured the attention of the Creator, he begged for the warmth to come back to the Earth. However, the Creator said that he could not make it warm again, that he could not just un-think the Coldness. He did decide to think of something warm for the animals to help them with the Cold. He thought of Fire. The Creator took a stick and held it to the Sun and caused it to light. He handed the flaming stick back to Rainbow Crow so that he could take it to all of the suffering animals. Creator urged Rainbow to hurry or there would be no stick left.
With the burning stick in his mouth Rainbow Crow flew downward as fast as he could. Alas, his rainbow feathers became black and charred by the flaming stick and he breathed in the black smoke as he flew. It made his beautiful voice hoarse.
Read more at Saga's Cottage Blog
My store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SagasCottage
My spirit boards: http://www.lapuliabookofshadows.com/Spirit_Ouija_Weejie_Board_s/1856.htm
Tiffany's Gumbo with Tiffany Newson
I was going to write about my end of winter prep. It was going to be about changing the linens and opening the windows to let the cool breezes of winter in to sweep away the last its of stuffiness.
Instead, I'm writing about colorism. What I experience, my kids will no less experience and what plagues the Black community.
Last week my sister-friend, who is dark skinned, was over and told me dark skinned is ugly. My husband is a beautiful cocoa chocolate. I love me some chocolate skin. I was praying my son would be dark chocolate. I had hisnickname picked out and everything. My Hershey's chocolate drop. My husband said he's glad he's not. He used to be teased about his color. I don't understand it.
I could name countless occasions where I, my kids, husband, or someone close to me was discriminated against by our own people because of the color of our skin. I find it mind boggling that we still have the slave mentality of house and field nigger.
It's 2014 and we are just now encouraging, promoting and loving our dark skinned sisters and brothers. It's maddening.
The Witches Cupboard by Autumn Earthsong
Happy Sun day friends. Hope that you all have a wonderful day in store! March has arrived..like a Lion for many of us! Winter storms, wind, snow, ice and frigid temps across a lot of the Midwest and East coast, severe rains in the West. However, Ostara and Spring will come and soon! I was thinking about my Ostara celebration when I decided to pick Lavender as the Herb of the Month. There are a couple of wonderful recipes I want to share with you that would be lovely as part of your Ostara feast. Give them a try!
*A note…be sure to use organic Lavender buds….or those you grew yourself that you know don’t have any chemicals used while they were growing!
Lavender Shortbread Cookies
1 lb sweet butter
1 cup granulated sugar
4 cups all purpose flour
2 TB dried lavender buds, finely chopped
*a little goes a long way!
Cream the butter and sugar. You can do this by hand, or gently with a mixer. Add in flour, 2 cups at a time, blending well between additions.
Give the lavender buds a bit of a chop..with a knife, a food processor, or a chop chop tool. Add into the dough mixing well. Might need to use your hands! If the dough is a bit dry…just add a tablespoon of water until the dough is moist.
Pat dough into a jelly roll pan. Prick dough with a fork all over. Bake at 350* for 20-25 mins. Until golden brown. As soon as you take them out of the oven..cut them into squares…then let them cool in the pan.
*If you want..you can roll out the dough and cut with a cookie cutter too.
Refreshing Lavender Lemonade
2 1/2 cups water
1 cup sugar
1 TB dried Lavender buds
(Use fresh if you want..2 TB)
Then 2 1/2 cups water again
1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
In a large saucepan, bring 2 1/2 cups water and sugar to boil til sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in lavender buds. Cover and let stand for 1 hour. Strain and discard lavender.
Place in a large pitcher. Add in 2 1/2 cups water and 1 cup lemon juice. Stir well and add ice! Garnish with lemon slices.
Makes 6 servings!
These recipes would be lovely for a Spring Brunch! Give them I try. Have a wonderful day!
Blessings and Love, Autumn
Find my blog here: www.autumnearthsong.com
Find my shop here: www.Etsy.com/shop/verbenalaneshoppe
The Spice with La'Trice Lott
Ingredients:
•½ pound ground pork sausage
•½ cup finely diced onion
•½ cup red bell pepper, diced
•½ cup green bell pepper, diced
•6 eggs
•¼ cup milk
•1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
Heat an oven proof pan on med-high heat. Add olive oil and sausage. Start to brown sausage. When meat is half cooked, add onion and peppers, and continue cooking until sausage is done and vegetables are soft.
In small bowl, beat eggs and milk together with whisk and season with salt and pepper. Pour over sausage mixture, spreading everything around to evenly distribute. Reduce heat to low and cover pan.
When the edges of the frittata begin to pull away from the pan, remove lid and place pan under the broiler for 5 minutes to finish cook.
This Week in Astrology
Current Retrogrades:
Mars Rx: March 1-May 19
Saturn Rx: March 2- July 20
Sunday, March 9
3:52am-9:33am Moon Void of Course (VoC) then moves into Cancer
Monday, March 10
All's Quiet in the Heavens
Tuesday, March 11
3:50pm-10:08pm Moon VoC, then moves into Leo
Wednesday, March 12
12:18pm Waxing Gibbous Moon
Thursday, March 13
All's Quiet in the Heavens
Friday, March 14
8:44am-10:17am Moon VoC, then moves into Virgo
Great day for business after 10:17am
Saturday, March 15
Great day for business, All Day
Weekly Horoscopes from DarkStar Astrology
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I had the opportunity to catch up with the delightful author Mel Massey recently, who was kind enough to allow me to interview her just for the Sunday Stew. I think you'll find her just as charming as I did, and will want to stay connected after this.
Kallan: Hi Mel! Let's start off with an introduction for my readers. Tell them a little about you.
Mel:I’m a practicing Witch married to a SGT in the U.S. Army. Although originally from Texas, I’ve also called California, Florida, and Missouri home as well. I have two little monsters that keep me pretty busy. When I’m not being a Witch, wife, or Mom, I’m playing with my imaginary friends.
Kallan:How long have you been writing?
Mel:Although I believe everyone has a little “writer” in them, many of us who’ve managed to carve out a career in doing it will say we’ve always done it. I can remember when I was in grade school, writing silly short stories about dogs that talked. Then, as I grew up, so did my writing. I’m still perfecting and changing the craft. It’s a fluid ability that requires dedication and really thick skin.
Kallan:What made you choose to write the Earth's Magick series?
Mel: That is a complex question because there wasn’t one particular thing that made me choose to start it. Rather, the story chose the time for me to start. What started out as a disorganized notebook of ideas, marinated in my subconscious long enough to create a series of stories. I applied my magical knowledge to the story, which was bubbling up in the background, that it made it that much better. Particularly the number of the books. It seems like such a simple concept, right? Tell the story in whatever way it works.
Nevertheless, I wanted it to mean something to Pagan readers. There’ll be five books in the series, Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit. Five points on the Pentacle and five books in the series. Creating the symmetry was very important. I wanted a series that was for Pagans (of all paths) that they could identify with. I want an audience who understands the magick, who laughs with Mela (or at her), cries with her, and is willing to go on an adventure full of mythology in the modern age.
Kallan: You’ve been a practicing Pagan for several years. How has Paganism changed (for better and worse) over the last few years?
Mel: What’s surprised me the most, over the past few years, has been how “out” we’ve become. I remember when the news anchor (the network shall go unnamed) made derogatory comments about Wiccans. The firestorm that caused online! Many, many Pagans came to the rescue in a loud and upfront way. I was so proud but a little scared.
However, when he made his on-air apology, I was floored. I recall thinking, “Oh wow, we did it.” The “it” being we were legitimate enough to warrant an apology. WE know we’re legit, but practically forcing the modern, conservative media to also admit it…priceless. I think that’s ultimately for the better and I chose, when I signed with my publisher, to be just as outspoken and claim my witchyness completely. This doesn’t mean I don’t have reservations though. We’re a secretive lot by nature, out of necessity. I’m perhaps a bit optimistic about the necessity, I hope we can continue this trend of being accepted without public shaming.
Kallan:How has social media affected the Pagan community?
Mel:I think most of us (if not all) can say that we’re thankful for the opportunity to connect with like- minded people via social media. Facebook groups bring people together all the time. There’re a number of them that regularly connect people in different regions for in person meet-ups. It dissolves the sense of loneliness many of us have come to accept as natural. We don’t have to be lonely anymore and I think that does nothing but empower us.
Kallan: Any new books in the works?
Mel: Yes! I’m currently finishing up the first of the companion novellas to the Earth’s Magick series. There are four characters in the series who are thousands of years old. Their history was too much to try and squeeze into the series. Therefore, I decided to write their memoirs. It’s been fantastic to get to know them this way without the other characters chiming in all the time. I use real historical events and weave their tales with them. It’s so fun! I’m also finished outlining book 2, Water, and have recently started writing it. Mela’s story is equal parts dark and hilarious. However, the secondary characters have stolen the spotlight. I think readers will be happy to know them as well as I do.
Kallan:What else would you like readers to know?
Mel: I love being a storyteller. At times, telling people I’m an author sounds pretentious. If I could add Bard to my resume, I would. Ha! I dream vividly and many of them have influenced the tale of Mela and company. I’d like to think I have a lovely (and sometimes sadistic) Muse that helps me along for whatever purpose. I love talking to readers on social media. My FB page is a lively place full of discussions, jokes, and writerly stuff. And sometimes just utter nonsense. I also guest admin on a couple of Facebook witch pages. I slink in from time to time and, as the permanent admins say, run amok with my shenanigans. It’s good to have witchy friends. I’m on Twitter and tweet frequently. My books are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. If you’re a reader, come stop by and say hello! If you’re not a reader, come stop by and say hello anyway!
Kallan: Thank you so much for your time, Mel! It's been a pleasure getting to know you a little, and to get your thoughts and insights today!
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Want to stay in touch with Mel? Here are some links to keep you connected.
Mel Massey on Twitter
Mel Massey on FaceBook
Earth’s Magick on Amazon (US)
Earth’s Magick on Amazon (UK)
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Kallan Kennedy is a professional tarot and totem reader with more than 20 years of experience. She offers private readings to clients via her website: Secret Services. Tarot readings are normally priced at $50.00, but for the month of March are discounted to $39.99. Totem reports are on sale for $65.00 (normally 75). Tarot subscription services are also available.
Tarot: 6 of Cups
Good will, childhood, innocence
The Six of Cups is the card of nostalgia and play. By play, I mean allowing your inner child to have his/her fun this week. You may feel a lot like reminiscing, going home again, and/or just being a kid again. Go with that feeling. Open up your heart to the simple pleasures of life. Engage in gentle acts of kindness. Treat others like you did when you were a child.
When my grandson was only 4 years old, one of my daughters' friends came to visit with his little boy (about the same age). When I opened up the front door, Kaeden came running up to him and they hugged like they had been life-long friends. They even yelled when they hugged, "FRIEND!!" Neither of them had ever met before, but that was completely irrelevant. They never once called each other by their given names. Through the entire visit, they called each other "friend". It was one of the most touching experiences of my life. At the time, I wondered why we adults have lost this. We've been hurt a lot by others. We've opened ourselves up, only to be 'burned' by those we've trusted. These children hadn't experienced that kind of betrayal in their lives yet. They just practiced "namaste" (the god in me recognizes the god in you). All they saw was "friend". This week, I encourage you to open up your heart, let down your defenses and just be that child again.
Let go of your past hurts, your fears of being betrayed, and treat everyone as "FRIEND!", even if it's only for this week. I can guarantee your life won't be the same. Play children's games, go see a "kid movie", play with Playdough or color with crayons. Enjoy!
Totem: Lizard
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When Lizard shows up, he represents a more introverted time in your life. Lizard goes with the flow and advises you do the same at the moment. Adapt to your surroundings, but like the lizard, be a quick escape artists who extracts yourself from harm's way when the situation arises.
Lizards are adept at camouflage and trickery when necessary to avoid a predator. The gift of illusion is one that he lends to you if you need it. He also advises that it is our responsibility to seek out our own gifts through the Dreaming lands and use them for our good and that of the whole.
Lizard is the medicine of dreamers Those with lizard as a totem are highly creative and are able to use color to both camouflage themselves when they wish to be hidden, and for manifesting their dreams into reality.Lizard people are also highly intuitive and psychic. They are particularly adept at noticing movement, both within the physical and ethereal realms .If you carry this medicine, listen to your own intuition above all others. You will both see and feel things that others will miss. Lizard also teaches those with this totem how to detach (like they detach their tails) in order to survive. It is one of the most rare and powerful totems to carry.
Most of all, lizard's message for this week is to break free from emotional bonds and things in your past that are holding you back. Review wisely, pay attention to your dreams this week, and adapt.
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Renee’s Rescue Fundraiser
In the last 5-6 years, I’ve become more and more involved in fostering and rescuing. I’ve take several from our local shelter and found them homes. Starting with our first experience when my family went to our local shelter and inquired about a small orange kitten. The assistant behind the counter offered the entire litter if we paid for just once as they were scheduled to be euthanized that afternoon.
The following years resulted in me being introduced to Melody Drew, a wonderful woman who spends so much of her time helping network animals in danger. I’ve fostered everything from Plot hounds to Kittens for her.
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Last summer she posted about a litter of kittens that were found in a shed. The person who found them was trying to feed them cow’s milk and they weren’t eating. The mama cat was nowhere to be found. I had fostered several cats with litters, but always had the mom there to help me out. Kittens require a lot of attention when they are small. They need to be fed every two hours, burped and cleaned. In order for babies to eliminate, the mother stimulates this action by cleaning them with her tongue. When there’s no mom, this entire process has to be completed by a human.
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When we got the litter they were very small and sickly. Hubby and I started out with the process of bottle feeding and cleaning. After a day or so we were picked up by the Johnston County Animal Protection League, who offered to assist with vetting and homing the litter.
By day three I was exhausted. We lost one little one the very first day and then two were refusing to take the bottle. The JCAPL made their vet available and Hubby and I drove an hour to have the kittens checked out. The vet decided to keep the kitten and we went home.
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The next morning we got a call that the kitten had passed away. I was devastated. Still picking up the kittens and feeding them every two hours. They seemed to be getting stronger. I was getting rather attached to one and actually named him Cinder. The following morning Hubby got a call from the JCAPL informing us that the first kitten had died of a very contagious disease that could infect all my cats. I needed to bring the entire litter in to be put down. I told him they were getting better, and we could save them, but because we signed over the litter to JCAPL I had to comply.
As I sat at my computer working knowing that they were on their way to be destroyed, my heart ached. I knew that I would continue to try to save these little ones. Even though sometimes it ends in sadness. About an hour and a half later I received this text
– Vet said you did great job, kittens look good. Not put down – will keep here for care – Will not kill!!
I was elated.
I've since rescued more animals, finding them loving homes locally and hundreds of miles away. In February I noticed two new cats eating at my feral feeding station. The cycle repeats. I’ll have to set traps, get them vetted and then back into the wild. I shared my latest rescues on Facebook, and was immediately contacted by Sterling’s Fudge Emporium to help with the costs. Sterling offered to dedicate 20% of her sales for the entire month of March to my rescues.
Needless to say. I was, again, blown away by the generosity of people around me. This type of work is not for the faint of heart. You’ll encounter people who don’t care or are even hateful to animals. You’ll face frustrated rescue representatives that forget you’re there to help them. You’ll meet people who give all they have to help the animals. You’ll find those who think they’re helping but really are creating more harm than good. Each of us comes equipped with a specific tool kit for life. Some of us can feed baby kittens, others have access to a huge market that can open the hearts and wallets of the masses to help support those in need.
When I asked Sterling, what motivated her to help me she told me about the many hours she spent taking care of baby squirrels with their eyes still closed, baby birds and even feral cats. Bailey, her cat came to her as a feral. After gaining his trust with nightly chats over kitty treats, on a freezing January morning, Bailey reached out to Sterling for help. With a dryer warmed towel she welcomed him not only into her home, but into hear where he has lived for the last 10 years.
Without Sterling, and supporters like her, I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do. I have the open space and the time to spend bottle feeding kittens. I have a yard to set up pens to help foster hunting dogs. Like Sterling, I believe that all animals deserve our respect. We should be there to support our planet earth and the earthlings that inhabit it.
This fundraiser is a way to help get the food, traps and medical care required to support a feral colony. Sterling’s Fudge Emporium will donate 20% of sales in March from all One Pound, One & a Half Pound and Fudge Pops to Renee’s Rescues.
Sterling’s Fudge Emporium Website: http://sterlingsfudgemporium.com
Sterling's Fudge Emporium Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sterlingsfudgeemporium
Renee’s Rescues - https://www.facebook.com/reneesrescues
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That's it for this week's Stew. Mull. Digest. Enjoy!
The Sunday Stew is a free, e-publication delivered every Sunday as a loving gift to the Pagan community. All submissions are the intellectual property of their authors, and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the blog owner. All photos are used with permission.
We welcome your feedback! Please be sure to tell us how we're doing and give us suggestions for improvement. Please leave a comment below. We look forward to hearing from you!
Weekly Horoscopes from DarkStar Astrology
Interview: Author Mel Massey
Kallan: Hi Mel! Let's start off with an introduction for my readers. Tell them a little about you.
Mel:I’m a practicing Witch married to a SGT in the U.S. Army. Although originally from Texas, I’ve also called California, Florida, and Missouri home as well. I have two little monsters that keep me pretty busy. When I’m not being a Witch, wife, or Mom, I’m playing with my imaginary friends.
Kallan:How long have you been writing?
Mel:Although I believe everyone has a little “writer” in them, many of us who’ve managed to carve out a career in doing it will say we’ve always done it. I can remember when I was in grade school, writing silly short stories about dogs that talked. Then, as I grew up, so did my writing. I’m still perfecting and changing the craft. It’s a fluid ability that requires dedication and really thick skin.
Kallan:What made you choose to write the Earth's Magick series?
Mel: That is a complex question because there wasn’t one particular thing that made me choose to start it. Rather, the story chose the time for me to start. What started out as a disorganized notebook of ideas, marinated in my subconscious long enough to create a series of stories. I applied my magical knowledge to the story, which was bubbling up in the background, that it made it that much better. Particularly the number of the books. It seems like such a simple concept, right? Tell the story in whatever way it works.
Nevertheless, I wanted it to mean something to Pagan readers. There’ll be five books in the series, Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Spirit. Five points on the Pentacle and five books in the series. Creating the symmetry was very important. I wanted a series that was for Pagans (of all paths) that they could identify with. I want an audience who understands the magick, who laughs with Mela (or at her), cries with her, and is willing to go on an adventure full of mythology in the modern age.
Kallan: You’ve been a practicing Pagan for several years. How has Paganism changed (for better and worse) over the last few years?
Mel: What’s surprised me the most, over the past few years, has been how “out” we’ve become. I remember when the news anchor (the network shall go unnamed) made derogatory comments about Wiccans. The firestorm that caused online! Many, many Pagans came to the rescue in a loud and upfront way. I was so proud but a little scared.
However, when he made his on-air apology, I was floored. I recall thinking, “Oh wow, we did it.” The “it” being we were legitimate enough to warrant an apology. WE know we’re legit, but practically forcing the modern, conservative media to also admit it…priceless. I think that’s ultimately for the better and I chose, when I signed with my publisher, to be just as outspoken and claim my witchyness completely. This doesn’t mean I don’t have reservations though. We’re a secretive lot by nature, out of necessity. I’m perhaps a bit optimistic about the necessity, I hope we can continue this trend of being accepted without public shaming.
Kallan:How has social media affected the Pagan community?
Mel:I think most of us (if not all) can say that we’re thankful for the opportunity to connect with like- minded people via social media. Facebook groups bring people together all the time. There’re a number of them that regularly connect people in different regions for in person meet-ups. It dissolves the sense of loneliness many of us have come to accept as natural. We don’t have to be lonely anymore and I think that does nothing but empower us.
Kallan: Any new books in the works?
Mel: Yes! I’m currently finishing up the first of the companion novellas to the Earth’s Magick series. There are four characters in the series who are thousands of years old. Their history was too much to try and squeeze into the series. Therefore, I decided to write their memoirs. It’s been fantastic to get to know them this way without the other characters chiming in all the time. I use real historical events and weave their tales with them. It’s so fun! I’m also finished outlining book 2, Water, and have recently started writing it. Mela’s story is equal parts dark and hilarious. However, the secondary characters have stolen the spotlight. I think readers will be happy to know them as well as I do.
Kallan:What else would you like readers to know?
Mel: I love being a storyteller. At times, telling people I’m an author sounds pretentious. If I could add Bard to my resume, I would. Ha! I dream vividly and many of them have influenced the tale of Mela and company. I’d like to think I have a lovely (and sometimes sadistic) Muse that helps me along for whatever purpose. I love talking to readers on social media. My FB page is a lively place full of discussions, jokes, and writerly stuff. And sometimes just utter nonsense. I also guest admin on a couple of Facebook witch pages. I slink in from time to time and, as the permanent admins say, run amok with my shenanigans. It’s good to have witchy friends. I’m on Twitter and tweet frequently. My books are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. If you’re a reader, come stop by and say hello! If you’re not a reader, come stop by and say hello anyway!
Kallan: Thank you so much for your time, Mel! It's been a pleasure getting to know you a little, and to get your thoughts and insights today!
Want to stay in touch with Mel? Here are some links to keep you connected.Mel Massey on Twitter
Mel Massey on FaceBook
Earth’s Magick on Amazon (US)
Earth’s Magick on Amazon (UK)
The Weekly Divine with Kallan Kennedy
Kallan Kennedy is a professional tarot and totem reader with more than 20 years of experience. She offers private readings to clients via her website: Secret Services. Tarot readings are normally priced at $50.00, but for the month of March are discounted to $39.99. Totem reports are on sale for $65.00 (normally 75). Tarot subscription services are also available.
Tarot: 6 of Cups
Good will, childhood, innocence
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| SuperPunch Tarot |
When my grandson was only 4 years old, one of my daughters' friends came to visit with his little boy (about the same age). When I opened up the front door, Kaeden came running up to him and they hugged like they had been life-long friends. They even yelled when they hugged, "FRIEND!!" Neither of them had ever met before, but that was completely irrelevant. They never once called each other by their given names. Through the entire visit, they called each other "friend". It was one of the most touching experiences of my life. At the time, I wondered why we adults have lost this. We've been hurt a lot by others. We've opened ourselves up, only to be 'burned' by those we've trusted. These children hadn't experienced that kind of betrayal in their lives yet. They just practiced "namaste" (the god in me recognizes the god in you). All they saw was "friend". This week, I encourage you to open up your heart, let down your defenses and just be that child again.
Let go of your past hurts, your fears of being betrayed, and treat everyone as "FRIEND!", even if it's only for this week. I can guarantee your life won't be the same. Play children's games, go see a "kid movie", play with Playdough or color with crayons. Enjoy!
Totem: Lizard
Lizards are adept at camouflage and trickery when necessary to avoid a predator. The gift of illusion is one that he lends to you if you need it. He also advises that it is our responsibility to seek out our own gifts through the Dreaming lands and use them for our good and that of the whole.
Lizard is the medicine of dreamers Those with lizard as a totem are highly creative and are able to use color to both camouflage themselves when they wish to be hidden, and for manifesting their dreams into reality.Lizard people are also highly intuitive and psychic. They are particularly adept at noticing movement, both within the physical and ethereal realms .If you carry this medicine, listen to your own intuition above all others. You will both see and feel things that others will miss. Lizard also teaches those with this totem how to detach (like they detach their tails) in order to survive. It is one of the most rare and powerful totems to carry.
Fudge for Ferals: a Rescuer's Tale
In the last 5-6 years, I’ve become more and more involved in fostering and rescuing. I’ve take several from our local shelter and found them homes. Starting with our first experience when my family went to our local shelter and inquired about a small orange kitten. The assistant behind the counter offered the entire litter if we paid for just once as they were scheduled to be euthanized that afternoon.
The following years resulted in me being introduced to Melody Drew, a wonderful woman who spends so much of her time helping network animals in danger. I’ve fostered everything from Plot hounds to Kittens for her.
Last summer she posted about a litter of kittens that were found in a shed. The person who found them was trying to feed them cow’s milk and they weren’t eating. The mama cat was nowhere to be found. I had fostered several cats with litters, but always had the mom there to help me out. Kittens require a lot of attention when they are small. They need to be fed every two hours, burped and cleaned. In order for babies to eliminate, the mother stimulates this action by cleaning them with her tongue. When there’s no mom, this entire process has to be completed by a human.
When we got the litter they were very small and sickly. Hubby and I started out with the process of bottle feeding and cleaning. After a day or so we were picked up by the Johnston County Animal Protection League, who offered to assist with vetting and homing the litter.
By day three I was exhausted. We lost one little one the very first day and then two were refusing to take the bottle. The JCAPL made their vet available and Hubby and I drove an hour to have the kittens checked out. The vet decided to keep the kitten and we went home.
As I sat at my computer working knowing that they were on their way to be destroyed, my heart ached. I knew that I would continue to try to save these little ones. Even though sometimes it ends in sadness. About an hour and a half later I received this text
– Vet said you did great job, kittens look good. Not put down – will keep here for care – Will not kill!!
I was elated.
I've since rescued more animals, finding them loving homes locally and hundreds of miles away. In February I noticed two new cats eating at my feral feeding station. The cycle repeats. I’ll have to set traps, get them vetted and then back into the wild. I shared my latest rescues on Facebook, and was immediately contacted by Sterling’s Fudge Emporium to help with the costs. Sterling offered to dedicate 20% of her sales for the entire month of March to my rescues.
Needless to say. I was, again, blown away by the generosity of people around me. This type of work is not for the faint of heart. You’ll encounter people who don’t care or are even hateful to animals. You’ll face frustrated rescue representatives that forget you’re there to help them. You’ll meet people who give all they have to help the animals. You’ll find those who think they’re helping but really are creating more harm than good. Each of us comes equipped with a specific tool kit for life. Some of us can feed baby kittens, others have access to a huge market that can open the hearts and wallets of the masses to help support those in need.
When I asked Sterling, what motivated her to help me she told me about the many hours she spent taking care of baby squirrels with their eyes still closed, baby birds and even feral cats. Bailey, her cat came to her as a feral. After gaining his trust with nightly chats over kitty treats, on a freezing January morning, Bailey reached out to Sterling for help. With a dryer warmed towel she welcomed him not only into her home, but into hear where he has lived for the last 10 years.
Without Sterling, and supporters like her, I wouldn’t be able to do the things I do. I have the open space and the time to spend bottle feeding kittens. I have a yard to set up pens to help foster hunting dogs. Like Sterling, I believe that all animals deserve our respect. We should be there to support our planet earth and the earthlings that inhabit it.
This fundraiser is a way to help get the food, traps and medical care required to support a feral colony. Sterling’s Fudge Emporium will donate 20% of sales in March from all One Pound, One & a Half Pound and Fudge Pops to Renee’s Rescues.
Sterling’s Fudge Emporium Website: http://sterlingsfudgemporium.com
Sterling's Fudge Emporium Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/sterlingsfudgeemporium
Renee’s Rescues - https://www.facebook.com/reneesrescues
That's it for this week's Stew. Mull. Digest. Enjoy!
The Sunday Stew is a free, e-publication delivered every Sunday as a loving gift to the Pagan community. All submissions are the intellectual property of their authors, and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the blog owner. All photos are used with permission.
We welcome your feedback! Please be sure to tell us how we're doing and give us suggestions for improvement. Please leave a comment below. We look forward to hearing from you!