Posted on by S. M. Harlow · 2 Comments

Ostara: History, Tea, Recipes

As the chill of winter begins to thaw and the first green sprouts emerge, many around the world turn their thoughts to the Spring Equinox, a time of balance, renewal, and rejuvenation. This period, often occurring around March 20th or 21st in the Northern Hemisphere, marks a pivotal point when day and night are of equal length, heralding the arrival of spring. One of the most enchanting celebrations associated with this time is Ostara, a festival that intertwines ancient traditions with modern festivities.

The Roots of Ostara

Ostara, named after the Germanic goddess Eostre, is deeply embedded in the lore of early Germanic tribes and Anglo-Saxons. Eostre, a deity symbolizing dawn, renewal, and rebirth, was believed to bring about the revitalization of the land and its creatures. This connection between the goddess and the season’s burgeoning life led to the celebration of Ostara as a time of renewal and rebirth.

Although direct historical accounts of ancient Ostara celebrations are scarce, it’s widely accepted that the festival was a time of communal joy, marked by feasting, the exchange of gifts, and the decoration of eggs — a symbol of new life and fertility.

The Spring Equinox Across Cultures

The Spring Equinox has been a significant event across various cultures and epochs, each adding its unique traditions to the tapestry of springtime celebrations. In ancient Rome, the festival of Cybele celebrated the rebirth of nature and the goddess’s consort, Attis. The Celts observed this time with festivities honoring the balance of light and dark, while in Japan, the vernal equinox is a national holiday known as Shunbun no Hi, a time to honor ancestors and celebrate the natural world.

Modern Celebrations of Ostara and the Spring Equinox

Today, Ostara and the Spring Equinox are celebrated by many, particularly those with an interest in ancient traditions and paganism. Here are a few ways to embrace the spirit of renewal and balance:

Decorate Eggs
Egg decorating is a timeless tradition that symbolizes fertility, purity, and rebirth. Whether painted, dyed, or drawn on, these vibrant symbols of life can decorate your home or be gifted to loved ones.

Plant New Life
Sowing seeds or planting flowers is a tangible way to connect with the essence of Ostara — the renewal of the earth. This act symbolizes new beginnings and the potential for growth, both in the garden and in oneself.

Spring Equinox Rituals
Many celebrate the equinox with rituals that focus on balance and renewal. This might include meditations that reflect on personal growth, the setting of intentions for the coming months, or simply watching the sunrise or sunset to honor the balance of day and night.

Festive Gatherings
Hosting a feast with seasonal foods that honor the fertility of the earth is a wonderful way to celebrate. Think fresh greens, dairy products, eggs, and sprouted grains — foods that embody the essence of spring.

Nature Walks
Taking a walk in nature, observing the budding flowers and the awakening wildlife, is a simple yet profound way to connect with the energy of Ostara and the Spring Equinox. It’s a reminder of the cycle of life, death, and rebirth that the season represents.

Ostara Tea Ceremony

The celebration of Ostara, marking the spring equinox and the reawakening of the earth, is a perfect occasion for a tea ceremony that honors renewal, balance, and the burgeoning life around us. This ceremony is designed to be a meditative, rejuvenating experience that connects you with the essence of spring and the cycles of nature.

Preparing the Space

Choose a Quiet Spot. Ideally, this ceremony should take place in a garden or a space where you can see or feel connected to the outdoors. If indoors, surround yourself with plants or flowers to invite nature in.

Create a Serene Atmosphere. Use candles or soft, natural lighting. If possible, incorporate symbols of Ostara, such as decorated eggs or images of rabbits and hares, symbols of fertility and new beginnings.

Cleanse the Space. You may choose to burn sage, sweetgrass, or lavender to purify the area and create a sacred environment for your ceremony.

Ostara Tea Recipe

For this special occasion, crafting your own tea blend adds a personal and meaningful touch. Here’s a recipe that captures the essence of spring:

2 tsp Green Tea
The base of your blend, green tea represents renewal and rejuvenation.

1 tsp Dried Dandelion Leaves
A symbol of the sun’s energy, dandelion aids in purification and new beginnings.

1 tsp Rose Petals
Invokes love and passion, adding beauty and a hint of sweetness.

1/2 tsp Lavender
Adds a calming, aromatic quality, inviting peace and balance.

1/2 tap Lemon Balm
A touch of lemon balm for its uplifting and soothing properties, enhancing joy and clarity.

Instructions:

1. Mix all the dry ingredients gently in a bowl. Take a moment to connect with each ingredient, acknowledging its role in your blend and the qualities it brings to your ceremony.
2. Boil water and let it cool for about a minute to approximately 80°C (175°F). This temperature preserves the delicate flavors of your herbs and green tea.
3. Place your blend in a teapot. Use about one teaspoon of the tea blend per cup of water.
4. Pour the hot water over your tea blend and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your taste preference.
5. While the tea steeps, take this time to meditate on the themes of Ostara: balance, renewal, and new beginnings. Reflect on what you wish to renew in your life.

The Ceremony

Serve the tea in a cup that you feel is special or significant. If you’re with others, serve them first as an act of kindness and community. Before drinking, inhale the aroma of your tea, fully experiencing its scent. As you take your first sip, close your eyes and focus on the flavors, letting the tea’s warmth spread through your body. After enjoying your tea, spend a few moments reflecting on the aspects of your life you wish to renew or change. Write down your intentions for the coming season on a piece of paper. To close your ceremony, express gratitude for the tea, the company, and the opportunity for new beginnings. If you wrote down intentions, you might choose to bury them in the earth as a symbolic gesture of planting seeds for the future.

This Ostara tea ceremony and recipe offer a pathway to connect with the cyclical nature of life, celebrate the balance of light and darkness, and embrace the promise of renewal and growth. May it bring you peace, balance, and joy as you step into the vibrancy of spring.

Ostara Food Recipes

The following recipes are designed to embody the essence of Ostara, using ingredients that are symbolic of the season and that harmonize the principles of light and dark, warmth and coolness, growth and renewal.

Ostara Balance Bowl

Ingredients

1 cup of cooked quinoa (warmth and sustenance)
1 cup of fresh baby spinach (greenery and renewal)
½ cup of sliced strawberries (sweetness and growth)
½ cup of raw, sliced beets (earthiness and grounding)
¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese (creamy texture and balance)
¼ cup of walnuts, toasted (crunch and nourishment)
2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced (fertility and new beginnings)
A drizzle of honey mustard dressing (sweet and tangy balance)

Honey Mustard Dressing:

3 tablespoons of olive oil
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon of honey
1 tablespoon of mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Bowl:
Start with a base of cooked quinoa. Arrange the baby spinach, sliced strawberries, sliced beets, and crumbled feta cheese beautifully around the bowl.
3. Add Protein and Crunch:
Place the sliced hard-boiled eggs and toasted walnuts on top for a blend of protein and crunchy texture.
4. Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the honey mustard dressing over the bowl just before serving.

This Ostara Balance Bowl is a celebration of the equinox’s balance, offering a variety of textures and flavors that nourish the body and spirit.

Spring Renewal Asparagus Tart

Ingredients

1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
1 pound of fresh asparagus, trimmed (renewal and vitality)
1 cup of ricotta cheese (creaminess and lightness)
Zest of 1 lemon (brightness and zest for life)
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese, grated (a touch of umami)
Fresh herbs (dill or chives) for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. With a knife, gently score a border about 1 inch from the edge, being careful not to cut all the way through.
3. Mix Ricotta and Lemon Zest:
In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly within the border of the puff pastry.
4. Arrange the Asparagus:
Lay the asparagus spears on top of the ricotta in a single layer. Depending on their size, you can align them side by side or overlap slightly. Drizzle with olive oil and season with a bit more salt and pepper.
5. Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the asparagus is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs. Slice and serve warm.

This Spring Renewal Asparagus Tart is a delightful nod to the awakening earth, combining the tender, green spears of asparagus with the bright zest of lemon and the richness of cheese, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s a dish that beautifully balances the freshness of spring with the warmth and comfort of baked pastry, making it a perfect celebration of Ostara’s themes of renewal and balance.

Lemon and Lavender Ostara Cake

This Lemon and Lavender Ostara Cake is a light, refreshing dessert that captures the essence of spring and celebrates the balance and renewal that Ostara represents. The combination of lemon and lavender not only provides a vibrant flavor but also symbolizes the awakening of the senses and the earth’s rebirth. This cake is perfect for an Ostara feast, embodying the joy and vitality of the season.

Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
Zest of 2 lemons (about 2 tablespoons)
1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
½ cup whole milk
¼ cup lemon juice

For the Lemon Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Optional for garnish: edible flowers (such as violets or rose petals), additional lemon zest, and lavender sprigs

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Infuse Lavender:
Warm the milk gently in a saucepan (do not boil), remove from heat, and add the dried lavender. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, then strain, removing the lavender. Allow the milk to cool.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest.

5. Add Dry and Wet Ingredients Alternately:
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the infused milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Finally, stir in the lemon juice until just combined.

6. Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little more lemon juice or powdered sugar if needed.

8. Decorate:
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing some to drip down the sides. Garnish with edible flowers, additional lemon zest, and lavender sprigs for a festive and beautiful presentation.

This Lemon and Lavender Ostara Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of spring’s arrival, the balance of light, and the renewal of the earth. Its bright, floral flavors are perfectly suited for an Ostara gathering, offering a sweet conclusion to a meal that honors this time of rejuvenation and new beginnings. Enjoy this cake as a symbol of the joy and vitality that the season of spring brings.

Conclusion

The celebration of Ostara and the Spring Equinox is a beautiful reminder of nature’s cycles of renewal and the balance within the universe and ourselves. Whether through ancient rituals or simple, mindful appreciation of the changing season, embracing the spirit of Ostara can be a rejuvenating and transformative experience. As we move forward into the warmth and vitality of spring, let us carry with us the lessons of balance, renewal, and growth.

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

Celebrating Cake Day: Honoring the Divine and Ancestors with Sweet Offerings

February 28th marks a unique and heartwarming tradition known as Cake Day. This day is dedicated to the celebration of love, remembrance, and reverence through the universal language of cakes. It is a day when people across various cultures come together to bake and share little cakes as offerings to honor the gods and goddesses or to remember and pay homage to their ancestors. Cake Day is not just about indulging in sweet treats; it’s about the spirit of giving, sharing, and commemorating those who have left a lasting impact on our lives.


The Significance of Cakes in Rituals

Cakes have been a part of human celebrations and rituals for centuries. In many traditions, cakes are considered symbols of abundance, sweetness, and the joy of life. On Cake Day, these connotations take on a spiritual and ancestral significance. The act of baking and offering cakes is seen as a gesture of respect and gratitude towards the deities and ancestors, acknowledging their blessings and guidance in our lives.


Making Little Cakes: A Simple Recipe

To participate in the celebration of Cake Day, you don’t need to be a professional baker. Here’s a simple recipe for making little cakes that can be offered as part of your observance:

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Spoon the batter into greased mini muffin tins or small cake molds.
7. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool before decorating them as desired or leaving them plain for a simple offering.


Cake Day Tea Ceremony

The Cake Day Tea Ceremony is a serene and heartfelt ritual that combines the simplicity of tea, the sweetness of cakes, and the beauty of flowers to honor and remember our ancestors. This ceremony is designed to create a moment of reflection, gratitude, and connection to our past, bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds with each sip of tea and bite of cake. Here’s how you can conduct your own Cake Day Tea Ceremony:

Setting the Space
Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can set up a small altar or table for the ceremony. This space should be clean and arranged in a way that feels peaceful and sacred to you. On your altar or table, place a clean cloth. Arrange little cakes you’ve baked for the occasion along with fresh flowers, which symbolize the beauty and impermanence of life, such as irises or daffodils. You may also include photographs of your ancestors, heirlooms, or any other items that connect you to your heritage and loved ones who have passed.

Prepare the Tea
Select a tea that resonates with you spiritually or culturally. It could be a tea that your ancestors enjoyed or one that holds a particular meaning to your family. Before the ceremony, prepare the tea with mindfulness and care, pouring your intentions of honor and remembrance into every step.
My personal favorite on this day is a blend of oolong tea with chamomile and dried pear pieces.


Conducting the Ceremony
Begin the ceremony by lighting a candle to welcome the presence of your ancestors. This act symbolizes the light of their spirits and the warmth of their guidance in your life. Offer the tea and cakes and pour the tea into cups, placing them on the altar as offerings to your ancestors. Next to the cups, arrange the little cakes and flowers. As you do this, speak the names of the ancestors you wish to honor, or simply hold them in your heart with gratitude.

Sit in silence for a few minutes, allowing yourself to feel the presence of your ancestors. Reflect on the lessons they’ve taught you, the love they’ve shared, and the ways in which they’ve influenced your life. After spending a few moments in reflection, consume the tea and cakes yourself or share them with others present. This act symbolizes the sharing of wisdom, love, and blessings between the living and the dead, ensuring that the legacy of your ancestors is kept alive through you.

Conclude the ceremony by expressing your thanks to your ancestors for their presence and blessings. Blow out the candle to signify the end of the ceremony, carrying forward the warmth and light they’ve brought into your life.


Reflection
The Cake Day Tea Ceremony is an intimate and powerful way to connect with your ancestors and pay homage to their enduring presence in your life. Through the simple acts of sharing tea and cakes, you not only honor their memory but also weave their legacy into the fabric of your daily life. Let this ceremony be a reminder of the sweetness and love that transcends the boundaries of time and space, bringing you closer to your roots and heritage.


Conclusion
Cake Day is a beautiful tradition that brings together the sweetness of cakes and the depth of spiritual and ancestral respect. By baking little cakes and participating in a tea ceremony, we create a space to honor the divine and remember our ancestors. This celebration reminds us of the beauty of tradition, the importance of gratitude, and the universal language of food in expressing love and reverence. Let’s embrace Cake Day as an opportunity to connect with our roots and spread sweetness and joy in our communities.

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

Secret Wisdom of the Witch Wife

Welcome, and thank you for crossing the hedge!

Below is an interview with an extraordinary woman, whose wisdom goes beyond many I’ve ever spoken to. For personal reasons, she chooses to remain private, but permits her craft to be told and shared.

I learned a new term today from this Crone whom I just met. Her aura was pure and green. Her character is patient and wise. She has seen 60 moons. Harnessed her craft for the last 49 suns.

She termed herself a Witch Wife. When I asked her what that was, she gifted me with her knowledge.

Much like a midwife and a hedgewitch, a Witch Wife teaches the ways of the craft to the young, until they reach mature adulthood. They stay together until the student ends their raising, decides to become a Witch Wife themselves, or get traditionally married.

I asked, “why until they get married?”

She said because at that point the pupil’s power is no longer their own. It is merged with their partner’s, and therefore, new traditions are created. The apprentice will carry on their own solitary craft, and may wish to pass it on to their children. They can also decide to have a Witch Wife tutor them.

I asked, “is a Witch Wife often unmarried?”

She answered yes, a Witch Wife is a woman who is free of vows to another. They are solitary practitioners, save for the teachers that raised them. When they first decide to become a Witch Wife, a ritual is done that weds the new wife to her craft. A small private ritual is held with other Witch Wives pesent. This event is often planned on the eve of a new season.

After the new Witch Wife takes a period to establish herself, a novice is chosen and passed on to her to have tutored. This youth is called a Witch Child. This pupil becomes her child of the craft to pass on the wisdom.

I asked, “how is a Witch Child chosen? Can you raise more than one?”

She answered yes, she has raised two. Some take up to three. The Witch Child is often an offspring from a pupil who had either chosen to marry, or had given birth to a babe(s). The Witch Child needs to show interest in the craft before they are chosen. Then is asked if they would like to be taught by a Witch Wife. There are some rare cases where a Witch Child is chosen from a friend of the Witch Wife’s.

I asked, “can a Witch Wife ever get married if she wishes to?”

She answered yes, but this is considered infidelity towards the Witch Wife’s craft. She will know that she will never fully belong to her partner, as well as to her craft. She will be in a state of eclipse. Only when she is widowed, will she be free of her vows to her partner. If she births children, it is still tradition that they may be tutored by another Witch Wife, if the child wishes it.

I then asked, “can a married Witch Wife still tutor other pupils?”

She answered no, because at that point she is eclipsed. A Witch Wife must be faithful to her craft in order to lead a Witch Child through the bright and shadowed aspects of their craft. A married Witch Wife has one eye shut. That is the eye that is focused on her marital bed, and the concerns of her partner. A Witch Wife must have both eyes focused on her craft, and on the success of her Witch Child.

I then asked, “are married Witch Wives looked down upon in your group?”

She answered no, of course not. They are family. They were all Witch Children that were raised by Witch Wives. They are still invited to attend events, outings, and some rituals. They are all a very close knit group. Their children are accepted and often taught in the ways as well.

I asked, “what happens if a Witch Child decides not to be a Witch Wife, or doesn’t want to continues their studies?”

She answered, a Witch Child is free to end their studies at any point during their growth. If they stop their studies midway, they will no longer be called a Witch Child. If a Witch Child decides to not become a Witch Wife at the end of their studies, she will be called a Witch Soul, and carry on a solitary practice. She won’t participate in the same Witch Wife rituals.

I asked, “how often is a Witch Child tutored?”

She answered, it depends. For some it can be once or twice a week. For others, it can be more. It depends on location, schedule, and the child’s enthusiasm. It is much like an afterschool program, because for some Witch Children, they come straight from school until their parent(s) pick them up after work. During school breaks, fun study outings such as campings are planned.

I asked, “are Witch Children/Wives always female?”

She answered, Witch Wives are always female. Not to discriminate today’s gender roles and beliefs, but because that has been the way of their tradition. There have been two Witch Children that were boys. Only one had completed his studies, however, and continued on to practice as a solitary Witch Soul.

I asked, “does a Witch Child have to begin their studies when they are a child, or can they be older?”

She answered, it is generally recommended that they begin young. Before the thirteenth birthday. There is a rare chance an older child may be taught, but the Witch Child has to study for a longer period of time.

I then asked, “until when is a Witch Child’s studies complete?”

She answered, when they complete each phase of their lessons. It is not just craft knowledge they are learning, it is also the process of growth that they are surpassing. Children undergo a serious change of mind and heart when they reach puberty. For some, it is often a struggle to get through the raging thoughts and emotions. Witch Wives especially stand by their Witch Child when these years are developing. Teach them the ways of growing past it. When all lessons have been exceeded, is when a Witch Child has completed their raising.

I asked, “is a Witch Wife’s craft similar to any other witchcraft practice? Is it a religion?”

She answered that it is not a religion. There is no one Deity or the worship of Gods. There is only nature, the magick it harbors, and the techniques to tap into that power. Their practice focuses on healing, ancestral magick, conjuring, and sharpening the intuition. Witch Wives are wed to the infinite power that sources all things, and thus are linked to that magick. Their practice involves herbal knowledge, charms, potions, spells, gardening, livestock, and divination.

I asked, “how long has this tradition been around?”

She answered, since the early 40s. A very small group of three women followed Irish/Scottish/Germanic folk magick traditions, formed the practice. They were unwed, but wholeheartedly believed in their craft. One had two daughters, and each were given to one Witch Wife to raise in the craft. One Witch Child became a Witch Wife, the other became a Witch Soul. That Witch Soul had children that were passed over to the other Witch Wives to raise. And it has been that way since the beginning. There have been five generations, so far.

I asked, “is there a hierarchy order to this tradition?”

She answered, yes in a way. Wisdom is more so in the Witch Wives. That, and Witch Wives are wed to the craft. Therefore, their power is linked to it, and are the only ones able to pass on the gifts to the Witch Children. A Witch Wife practices all forms of their magick.

Witch Souls are the Witch Children that complete their raising, but, they do not become Witch Wives. Therefore, the power is their own to use. They are a sole practitioner. A Witch Soul mostly practices healing and divination.

Witch Children are the young that are raised by a Witch Wife. During their training, they are taught all the forms of their practice. During this time, Witch Children share their power with the Witch Wife to understand the craft.

It is seen as a family system, then a hierarchy one.

I asked, “what kind of spells and rituals do you do? How are they formed?“

She answered that she didn’t wish to go into detail about how their spells and rituals are created, or all of the spellwork that they do. But, that generally they are focused towards healing, fertility, prosperity, and protection, just to name a few.

I asked, “do you think your practice will grow bigger? Gain notice? Do you want it to?”

She answered she doesn’t believe it will grow bigger, or that it will gain notice. Some traditions are better to keep small. Their practice is a craft that takes time. Not all who practice would agree with it, or would believe in it. That is all right, because magick is a shared practice that is invoked in many methods. In many beliefs. New and old.

She didn’t really express if whether she wanted it to gain notice or grow bigger. She simply included, that she was just happy to share her story with someone of a open heart, and hopes others will see it as such.

●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●

This was the most inspiring conversation and I am so thankful to share this amazing family’s craft tradition. I humbly thank you for entrusting me with this wisdom. Thank you, thank you.

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

Celebrating The Winter Solstice

We all celebrate the coming of the winter season in one form or another. Through different cultures, in many religions, traditions are upheld to bring cheer and joy into our hearts and homes. I find this definitely true in my household. We celebrate the season through natural traditions. I consider it as mixing both magick and paganism, as well as a sprinkle of my own way of honoring the coming winter.

Below, I will share a detailed list of the 12 activities that I do in my home. Hopefully this will help inspire anyone to create their own traditions, the way their hearts see fit.

P.S.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for the love and support!

Day One

«First Day Towards the Winter Solstice»

Candle Light Ritual

Begins with turning off all lights in the home. Lighting one candle, walk through the house, beginning at the front door. Chant:

Within the dark, the candle shall light the way.
For though winter is cold, it shall not reign.
Within the dark, our hope shall not die.
For soon the Sun will rise in the sky.
Within the dark, there is no despair.
For our shining souls will renew and repair.
So sing songs into the Winter night,
For soon the winds shall bring Spring light.

This is a beautiful ceremony, that blesses the long cold dark nights to come. You will notice a significant difference within the home once it’s been cast. Filled with warmth and hope. Either do this alone or with the family. It’s a nice way to do something together, and you can let the little ones hum lovely harmonies in the background. Or carry their own candles. Have fun with this!

Day Two

Holiday Decorations

As in all traditions, especially in America, neighborhoods everywhere are decorating their homes with merry lights and jingling wreaths. Solstice trees are being put up, covered in bright and glittering ornaments. Burning logs and long boughs of pine or holly are being placed over hearths. And for this household, that is exactly what is occurring as well.

Not only is it a tradition for most families, the glowing lights of winter symbolize hope that lives on in the darkest of nights. It is a manifestation of miracles, of positive magick, and of strength that lives within us even when the cold spirit of winter tries to steep into our bones.

So take the time, and decorate your home with holiday lights and decor. It’s fun to do alone, with holiday music blaring, and a glass of wine. Or get the friends or family together to make memorable moments, with hot chocolate and sugar cookies!

Day Three

Make A Wish Ornament

Exactly how it sounds, this is a powerful time to work wishing spells. How so? As the holidays are getting closer, people everywhere are growing excited to reunite with family, to give and receive gifts, or to begin a new year. Energy is rising, and the air is being charged for magick. That is why this is a perfect time to create wishing ornaments.

This enjoyable DIY craft is easy to do, and about anyone can do this. You can find any of the supplies at a Hobby Lobby, Walmart, Target, even the 99 store. You’ll need:

Choose your wish carefully, and write it down on the strip of paper. Decide on the proper glitter color that coordinates with your wish. Green for luck/money. Red for love/passion. Blue for health/peace. Yellow for creativity/success. Purple for power/spiritual assistance. Silver for earthly affairs. Gold for new beginnings. White for personal affairs. Mix of colors for a miracle.

Match your string color with your glitter color or mix match, depending on the wish. Roll up the strip of paper with your wish on it, tie it with string, then slide it into the ornament. Sprinkle however much of glitter over it, then place the top back on.

Hang this on your tree, or wherever you’ll like. There are some that hang it outdoors, over their hearth, or in nature. I like to keep mine. Every year, when I redecorate, I like to look upon my old wishes and see how they had came to be. It’s a great memento, and leaves me feeling thankful.

So wish wisely, and may your dreams come to be.

Day Four

Make a 12 Herb Sachet

This is a brilliant gift to give to friends or family. Having one for yourself is especially potent as well. Consider this recipe a magickal potpourri. A gift that promotes health, love, and protection. You’ll need:

Tie in a green or red cloth. Decorate it with symbols or jewels. Have fun with it. And give it to friends or family. You can substitute any of the ingredients with oils as well.

Day Five

Make a Yule Log

A popular pagan tradition is the Yule log. In essence, it is bringing in the spirit of nature, honoring them into your home to protect and nurture your own. I’ve seen many beautifully decorated Yule logs. They have been painted, glittered, wood carved, wood burned, wreathed, placed candles upon. There are so many different ways. Get creative in your own way of honoring the spirit of nature.

By the time of Yule, you either have the option to burn the whole log in ritual, or to light the candles.

Day Six

Create a Winter Spiral

This may be a different sort of tradition for most, but I found in the past few years, that this has become an enlightening experience at every new season for me. Otherwise known as a meditation labyrinth, these are walked upon to center one’s spirit and used to meditate on our paths of self realization.

There are some new age centers, universal spiritual churches that do have these meditation labyrinths, but if you don’t have any near by then I highly recommend building one yourself. Doesn’t have to be permanent, but it is a great path to have when you are in need for some deep meditation.

The path is simple. The rest of the journey is up to you. At the entrance, take a pause to breathe deeply for a few moments to clear your mind. Begin the first step, with not a question on where your going, but with whom you will find at the end? Then simply walk the spiral with a clear mind, and see what comes. If a thought or emotion emerges, mull over that and find its center meaning as you reach the center yourself. Take your time, nothing may come right away, and that is alright. The spiral is a place of peace and balance.

Walk back from the center in tranquility, all the while breathing deeply. When you are done, go in peace.

Day Seven

Honor The Spirits

Everyone deserves a good merry cheer for the holidays, and that includes the spirits of the dear departed as well. The cold dark nights often leave us feeling nostalgic and alone. Remembering those that have left us. This is why I decided to dedicate a special day just for our loved ones. I begin by setting up a special altar for them. Pictures, personal items, winter flowers, candles, incense, letters written for them, can all be placed on this altar.

The rest is up to you. Either a special ritual, or prayer is how you feel is right, then by all means. No matter what, they will hear you.

Day Eight

Warm Tea and Tarot

Every new season I like to do a fresh tarot reading to prepare and grow ever wiser of what is to come for the new season. What better way than to pair this together with a delicious warm cup of tea. Inspired by the winter season, I blended together a tea recipe that helps balance and induce mental and psychic powers. Grants wisdom and courage to face the unknown.

Together, with a deck of tarot cards makes for the best pairing. Be brave and lay out your tarot spread. And see what the future, or the present, may reveal.

Day Nine

Random Acts of Kindness

The title for this day alone explains it all. Though the winter season shouldn’t be the only excuse to be kind to strangers, it is a season for giving and to spread cheer. Whether to do acts of kindness in secret, or known, the moment we should all be looking for is the smile that brightens the day for a stranger. The fun part is thinking of way to surprise someone, because that’s really what it’s all about.

Help the need. Donate. Volunteer for charity. Pay for someone’s tab. Be kind is the saying. Speak it. Mean it. Do it. Be the example.

Day Ten

Bake Magickal Recipes

The days are ticking down, and now is the time to start prepping for the festivities. Everyone will be expecting those sweet delectable desserts. The sort that fills the belly with warmth and happiness. In every soft pastry there is a magick from people all over the world. As most have heard the saying, we put love in the foods we cook. The same goes for baking during the holidays. Although for some, they know all about the magickal meaning in the ingredients they mix together.

Whether it be cookies, pies, breads, or puddings, look up the magickal properties that each ingredient holds. You never know that you may be baking a pie for love. Or cookies for luck. Or a fruit salad for health. Know what you baking, so you can spread the magick into the lives you love.

Day Eleven

Give Gifts and Feast

Now is the eve of the Winter Solstice, and often times friends and family gather to enjoy a meal and give gifts! Then again, its up to everyone to decide when they would like to do this. Some choose to do this on Solstice day. So all could enjoy the symbolic fires of the yule log at sunset, and the rebirth of the Sun. So whichever you choose, this is still a wonderful time to gather together and be merry with one another.

Just as you would for Christmas, Hanukkah, etc, a beautiful feast is made for all to eat. Games are played. Carols are sung. New hope is wished upon. And gifts are exchanged. The thought alone brings me joy, and I look forward to this day with friends and family.

In fact, I would love to share a new type of carol song that has been modified for pagans. Growing up, I always enjoyed the tune for Silent Night. But when this new song A Pagan Silent Night was created, my heart fell in love. Now I always sing this song for the Solstice. May you and your family enjoy it as well.

Day Twelve

Burn The Yule Log and Celebrate

The day has come! All must celebrate. The new season is awakened, and the Sun shall be reborn when the new sunrise touches the sky! On this day, my husband and I like to begin with a beautiful breakfast, where then I can dedicate it to the sleeping Goddess, and to the new birth of the Sun. I gather together incense and candles. The blend I use is:

Grind together and burn over charcoal, light the candles and say together.

“We give honor and thanks to the sun for it’s sustenance, warmth, and light”

*Novae diluculo saluto* (say together)

And as our blessed mother earth is rebirth in the spring

So time is rebirth in the morning.

*Novae diluculo saluto*

*Blessed be the Goddess*

Enjoy the blessed morning meal.

Now once the day passes, and we are met with the longest night of the year, it is time to burn the yule log. Some simply light candles on the log, which is convenient for those that cannot enjoy a bonfire. But for those that can burn outdoors, it is quite an event. Tradition calls for waiting just before the sun rises. But often that isn’t the case for some that cannot stay up that long. So burn at your own time.

It is tradition in my home to usher in the new winter season. Therefore, I will share my personal ritual right below.

Ushering in the Winter

To prepare the Yule Log in the pit, set it up like you would for ritual. Stones, jewels, foods, offerings. Then chant:

The Goddess sleeps and is tucked away in the warmth of Earth.

She dreams and smiles of hope for the living.

Her heart is comforted by the rebirth of the Sun. Her spirit lives within the dormant seeds.

Today, She slumbers for Winter. Warmed by the fires of Yule.

Igniting the Flame

Flames of Winter warm Her bed. Snowfall be Her tears of joy. Mother Goddess, rest and claim the season! Let us be as one and embrace the spirit of peace.

Our mother is the Winter.

*We live because She lives*

Our mother is the Goddess.

*She lives freely within us*

Diana, Brigid, Hecate

*We celebrate Her*

We celebrate the tranquility of Mother Earth. She nourishes us with her bountiful love.

*Blessed be the Goddess*

Ashes of Log

We are now at the center of darkness. May the flame of the Sun illuminate from our hearts.

Collect the ashes and keep near, or use for power spells. Or save the ashes for the Summer Solstice.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this full detailed account of the traditions of my home. Are they similar to your own? Feel free to comment and share your story! Would love to hear it.

Sweet Winter Blessings!

Have a happy and festive Solstice!

Blessed Be

*Pictures sourced from Pinterest*

If you found this article to be helpful, please like, share, and/or follow!

We Celebrate The Winter Solstice!

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

All Souls Day

Samhain is here again! A new year taking us forward. What does that mean for us witches? Time to pull out the spells and offerings!Getting the home ready with protection charms and decorations! Purifying our lives with cleansing vibrations! Creating glamour spells to spook the trick or treaters. And brewing delicious magickal concoctions of food and drinks! (That last part being my favorite) Speaking of which, let me share this year’s Samhain tea recipe that I’ve blended.

P.S.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for the love and support!

Samhain Tea

Brew this in a pot of tea for several minutes. After steeping, stir the cinnamon stick several times, and add some delicious maple infused milk to the drink, till it’s good and creamy. Enjoy tonight as the trick or treaters come by! And believe in life and its fruitfulness.

Maple Milk

Gently warm the cup of milk in a small saucepan. Once it begins to steam, add the tablespoons of Maple syrup. Be sure not to boil it! Simmer it momentarily, as you stir in the syrup till it blends. Take it off the heat and pour it into a small creamer container. Enjoy with your tea!Oh, how I look forward to this magickal blend later tonight. This tea is meant to engulf us with its courageous influence, as it brings love and joy to our hearts. Life and all its luxuriance. Its meant to sooth us, mend us, and open new paths.

SPELLS!

Now, let’s talk spells! Tonight the Moon is in its last quarter. That means it’s the perfect time to ward off negative energies. Protect the home. Release the past. And divination time!Let’s see, we shall begin with tradition. Samhain is thinning the veil; the worlds between the living and the dead are face to face. They come to us with prayers, messages, or curses. And it is for this reason that we either welcome them, or ward them.Here is a simple ghost blessing spell.

Ghost Blessing

Place offerings of milk and barley outside under the stars to ease the ghosts hunger and to prevent their mischief. The maple infused milk is perfect for honoring the ancestors. Apples can also be buried at crossroads as offerings for the Goddess, or spirits.

Ghost Home Barrier

Place three peeled cloves of garlic in a bowl, together with one handful of pure sea salt, and one handful of fresh rosemary leaves. Grind and mesh ingredients together. Sprinkle them to create a boundary line over which ghosts will not cross. If you so happen to wish to choose this night of all nights to reveal to a ghost its current state of death, well, here is a spell for that.

Grouchy Ghost Spell

Burn three parts wormwood to one part vervain when summoning the ghost who is suffering from a state of depression when they died. Or when they haven’t realized they are dead. Speak softly and gentle. Offer honey to sweeten the news, or offer a plate of food for comfort. Speak as you understand, and try to offer advice and help them see the promise of the other side. It won’t be easy, but you would have to be open with them in order for them to believe you. Trust, it is rewarding when they do.

LAST THOUGHTS

Well may your Samhain be blessed, and the spirits at rest. May the trick or treaters be kind. And the food as good as wine. Have fun! Be merry!

If you found this article helpful, please like, share, or follow!

Honor The Sacred Rites Of Samhain

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

A Witch’s Home

I remember a time, when I was younger. Filled with wonder and adventure. With revived power and the desire to use it. I was constantly in motion. From the moment I could drive, I was on the road. Seeking wisdom and thrills, bundled together in youthful innocence. In that time, I honestly felt I had no home, and I was perfectly content to be one with the Air, in a whirlwind towards the unknowing.

It wasn’t until my twenty second year that I felt a stifling in my soul. To which I couldn’t understand why. Why was I feeling imprisoned, when I was free and roaming the land? Why did I feel lost, despite knowing where I was going? My power was waning, and I couldn’t fathom it. It wasn’t until mistakes were made, because of lack of sight, and no where to go to seek comfort, was when a vision came to me. It was nearing a Full Moon night. The pain in my heart ached, and in a pleading attempt, I called for the Moon’s aid. I asked Her to show me what was missing?

The answer was simple. I wasn’t wandering around aimlessly, or expressing my own freedom. The Great Moon had shown me that what I was really doing, was searching for my new home. It startled me at first. How could I be searching for a home, while I was living freely? While being my own person. The Moon answered.

Without purpose, there is no home to find. Without giving, there is no taking. And without balance, there is no power. Find where you belong, find where you are needed. That is your duty.

It was then, that it became clear to me. As witches, we live with the elements. Live by their example. We are born, with the flames of life in our souls. We flow through life, as water does. Travel like the wind, through land and fog. And then eventually, we sink our roots deep, to bloom and thrive. Just as the Earth shifted in place in time and in space, we too must shift to find our rightful home.

We must grow, travel, and seek the home that needs us, and that we deserve too. We must give our magick to help the land, and/or community. By giving, we will be gifted with magickal wonders. A witch’s purpose. A balance unlike anything else.

In the old days, villages had few and far in between, their own local “witch”. Who had set roots, and became the known healer, midwife, or adviser. Some had lived in these villages for generations, but most often the case was, that the witches moved in. Either through marriage, or travels. It was, I believe, a natural instinct within them, to move and travel to places where their power could thrive.

Just as our ancestors had done, we too must follow our instincts. It is our right and duty to search for fresh soil. To nurture our natural born power, at a home that calls to us. Even if that home eventually moves to another state, or country, if the call is heard, we must follow. Until our seeds are planted. Until our power feeds the land.

Honestly, the best song that comes to mind, is Simon and Garfunkel’s, America. Listen to it, and meditate. It’s inspiring.

A Witch Must Find Their Rightful Home

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

Feast of Flora

Happy Feast of Flora, everyone!

On this day, we honor those that have past to the underworld. From our ancestors, to those that nearly passed, we give their memory meaning. For them, but also for ourselves. Every day, we face our morality. Either by the face of death, illness, or heartache, we eventually realize the same path we follow. The very same fate our ancestors learned. Because of that, there is comfort that we are not alone to face what is ahead. We shall not fear, for we too will become the next generation of ancestors.

But for now, on this day, we will honor them. We will bring to them flowers from the living, to represent the glory of paradise. And remind those their journey is only the beginning. Their end only a moment of rest. Rebirth is but around the corner. We honor their memory, with love in our hearts. Like those in the future, will one day honor us.

This here is a memory of last year. A message written for my grandmother. Same burning for my ancestors before me. I remember this night well, for I didn’t feel alone. I felt a presence. A spirit that I believe captured in this photo. (Top right)

Well, soon nightfall will be here, and with it, a new ritual to honor my ancestors. I still have the letter to my grandmother, I will burn it tonight and save its ashes for the next year.

I hope this day brings great peace to those who still remember and still honor the old ways.

Great blessings to the ancestors, and to you all.

Blessed Be )○(

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

May Day Magick

 

Happy Beltane, one and all!

And a very magical May day as well. 

Did you find yourselves out at dawn, rolling in the morning dew for a youth spell? Did you collect the blooming buds of flowers to weave beauty and charm into your life? Or alight the great Beltane fires and jumped over them to bring fortune for the rest of the year!

Beltane is one among the fire festivals of the seasons. The coming of two seasons, joining together for electric Spring and Summer passion. It’s after this holiday, that many could say notice a magical air within the weather. A cool and heated embrace.

Many witches love to cast their magicks during this time. The energies are charged. Wiccans associate this with the aftermath of the God and Goddess lovemaking. When magick is blessed by their joined power. Nevertheless, magick is especially potent; fertile, and is easily accessible at this time. 

Here are spells that are best done on Beltane, or anytime of this month.

P.S.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Thank you for the love and support!

Hearth Flame Spell

Turn off all the lights of the home just before sunset. 

Outside, create a bonfire. Traditionally, 9 woods were casted into the fire to create a universal blessing. These woods are:

As the fire is ablaze, light a white candle and bring it into the home to rekindle the hearth fire. 

One can say a prayer or chant:

temporum beneficia
Season’s blessings. 

Allow the white candle to burn down for the rest of the night. And the spell is done.

Flame and Smoke Spell

For the coming summer, one has to cleanse and prepare. The summer season is time of change and activity, so this purification will help get you ready for the challenges to come. 

Gather 2 candles. Color code it to fit with the sort of cleansing you wish. 

  • White is universal cleanse
  • Yellow is mental cleanse
  • Blue is emotional cleanse
  • Green is body cleanse
  • Purple is spirit cleanse

Gather 2 incense. Again, try to best fit with your cleanse. 

Sit in between these candles and incense and allow it to purify all that is within. Meditate. The spell is done. 

The Sun’s Blessing

The sun is fully awake at this time, and grows stronger as summer nears. Sing to the Sun at noon time, to call down his blessings for the coming summer. It doesn’t matter which song to sing, just as long as it comes from the heart. 

May Rain

Any rain that falls during this month is especially potent with magical properties. Collect the rainwater in order to contribute to most any spells. From healing, to cleanses, to prosperity, and luck. To love, to happiness, to mental powers, and psychic. Rainwater can even be distilled in order to add to magical dishes and teas!

—-

This is but a few, and yet so much more can be done during this time of May. Be inspired, and feel the magick all around!

Blessed Be

If you found this article helpful, please like, share, and/or follow!

 

May Day Magick!

Posted on by S. M. Harlow · 4 Comments

Hair Magick

Welcome!

One wouldn’t think hair being anything but an accessory. However, hair has been used in countless centuries as special ingredients for spells. To personalize them, empower them, heal, hex, or command. In fact, witches often grow their hair long, because power stores within each and every strand. It is because of this, they often refuse to have a haircut. And even if they do get one, the hair is saved for future spells. 

A Witch’s Hair is so personal and powerful, that it is either a gift to have it, or a curse to hold on to. It is rare to have a witch willing to give you their hair. Often it is laced with suspicion, because of olden times. It was said that a witch could be commanded if one was to possess their hair and knew how to use it. Even the witch’s familiar’s hair could be used!
In these times, hair has been forgotten that it is one of the most powerful witch’s tools. Every color of hair is significant, to even the texture of hair. Here are a few ways that hair could be incorporated into spells. 

Boiling: To fetch the owner of the hair. Whether they be alive or dead. 
Braided: To control or bind power. Or to sacrifice, and/or to make a vow. 
Burning: To end an old life and start anew. Pain or death to the owner of the hair. 
Combing: To awaken magick and be used in manifesting spells. Can also summon weather/storms if called upon. 
Cut: Rejection of the world. Desires. Ambitions. To put an end to a goal. 
Disheveled: To leave raw power coursing through, unblocked. Uncontrolled. 
Loose: To keep an easy flow of regenerative energy and creativity. 
Dark Hair: Possesses seductive and sorcery-like power. 
Fair Hair: Possesses healing and positive power for helping others. 
Red Hair: Possesses unique and unpredictable power.
White/Grey Hair: Possesses wisdom and crone power.
Straight Hair: Money/Success, Healing, Purification Spells.
Wavy Hair: Luck, Lust/Love, Psychic Spells. 
Curly Hair: Protection, Hex-Breaking, Change Spells. 
Kinky Curly Hair: Vitality, Courage, Power Spells.

Long Hair: Long term spell. To happen in a specific time.

Short Hair: Short term spell. To quicken a spell. 

Enjoy!

Blessed Be 

If you found this article helpful, please like, share, and/or follow!

HAIR MAGICK IS A THING!

Posted on by S. M. Harlow

Imbolc Recipes

Get ready for Imbolc!

Traditionally, Imbolc can be celebrated either on the 1st of February, or on the 2nd. Some celebrate during both days; from sunset to sunset. Imbolc is one of the fire festivals, and is typically celebrated with candlelight. Lots and lots of candlelight! Ceremonies are created outside, in the cold winter chill, to usher in the Sun’s warmth into the soil of Earth. Homes are prepared for the coming of Spring. By means of spring cleaning, and cleansing.  Seeds are blessed. Either for the garden, or for growth spells. Purification rites, and cleansing baths are drawn. Kitchen magick is ablaze to enchant the heart and thaw the mind. By whatever which way to awaken the spirit, is perfect to do during these days!

If a festival shall ever arise, be sure to have proper refreshments! Such as this delicious spiced wine recipe!

Spiced Wine for Imbolc

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups pineapple juice; organic if possible
  • 1 cup orange juice; freshly squeezed is best
  • 1/4 cup (or to taste) raw, local honey
  • 9 whole cloves
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • Pinch of pure sea salt

Add all ingredients to a crock pot and heat on high for 2 hours, stirring once or twice.
Turn crock pot to low, remove lid, and wait for juice mixture to come to below 180 degrees.

Add a bottle of red wine, and allow to warm up.

Either drink warm, chilled, or room temp; all are good. Although, I happened to like it chilled.
If one plans to do a ceremony to honor the holiday, here is an incense and oil recipe.

Imbolc Incense

Measure by how much you want.

Crush ingredients in a mortar and pestle. And burn over charcoal.

Imbolc Oil

Now, if there are baking lovers out there, and wish to push the love of pie making into your craft and holiday, here is a deliciously simple blackberry pie recipe! And if you wish, can even dedicate it to the Goddess Brighid, who is a popular Goddess for this holiday.

Brighid’s Blackberry Pie

  • 1 (15 ounce) package pastry for a 9 inch double crust pie
  • 4 cups of fresh blackberries
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 1/5 cup all purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a 9 inch deep dish pie pan with one of the crusts. If you wish to dedicate this pie to the holiday, carve a symbol on the bottom of the pie crust with a tooth pick.

In a bowl, mix the sugar, flour, and salt together. Sprinkle over blackberries in a larger bowl, and toss to coat. Pour into the pie crust. Dot with butter. Place the other pie crust over and secure the ridges. Slice a design over the top of the pie crust to vent steam.

Place in the oven for 1 hour, or until crust begin to brown. Let cool to room temperature before serving to allow the filing to set.

Blessed Be, and have a beautiful Imbolc days.

If you found this article helpful, please like, share, and/or follow!

Delicious Imbolc Recipes!