Imbolc

Imbolc Lore
(February 2nd)

Imbolc, (pronounced "IM-bulk" or "EM-bowlk"), also called Oimealg, ("IM-mol'g), by the Druids, is the festival of the lactating sheep. It is derived from the Gaelic word "oimelc" which means "ewes milk". Herd animals have either given birth to the first offspring of the year or their wombs are swollen and the milk of life is flowing into their teats and udders. It is the time of Blessing of the seeds and consecration of agricultural tools. It marks the center point of the dark half of the year. It is the festival of the Maiden, for from this day to March 21st, it is her season to prepare for growth and renewal. Brighid's snake emerges from the womb of the Earth Mother to test the weather, (the origin of Ground Hog Day), and in many places the first Crocus flowers began to spring forth from the frozen earth.

The Maiden is honored, as the Bride, on this Sabbat. Straw Brideo'gas (corn dollies) are created from oat or wheat straw and placed in baskets with white flower bedding. Young girls then carry the Brideo'gas door to door, and gifts are bestowed upon the image from each household. Afterwards at the traditional feast, the older women make special acorn wands for the dollies to hold, and in the morning the ashes in the hearth are examined to see if the magic wands left marks as a good omen. Brighid's Crosses are fashioned from wheat stalks and exchanged as symbols of protection and prosperity in the coming year. Home hearth fires are put out and re-lit, and a besom is place by the front door to symbolize sweeping out the old and welcoming the new. Candles are lit and placed in each room of the house to honor the re-birth of the Sun.

Another traditional symbol of Imbolc is the plough. In some areas, this is the first day of ploughing in preparation of the first planting of crops. A decorated plough is dragged from door to door, with costumed children following asking for food, drinks, or money. Should they be refused, the household is paid back by having its front garden ploughed up. In other areas, the plough is decorated and then Whiskey, the "water of life" is poured over it. Pieces of cheese and bread are left by the plough and in the newly turned furrows as offerings to the nature spirits. It is considered taboo to cut or pick plants during this time.

Various other names for this Greater Sabbat are Imbolgc Brigantia (Caledonni), Imbolic (Celtic), Disting (Teutonic, Feb 14th), Lupercus (Strega), St. Bridget's Day (Christian), Candlemas, Candlelaria (Mexican), the Snowdrop Festival. The Festival of Lights, or the Feast of the Virgin. All Virgin and Maiden Goddesses are honored at this time.

Deities of Imbolc:
All Virgin/Maiden Goddesses, Brighid, Aradia, Athena, Inanna, Gaia, and Februa, and Gods of Love and Fertility, Aengus Og, Eros, and Februus.

Symbolism of Imbolc:
Purity, Growth and Re-Newal, The Re-Union of the Goddess and the God, Fertility, and dispensing of the old and making way for the new.

Symbols of Imbolc:
Brideo'gas, Besoms, White Flowers, Candle Wheels, Brighid's Crosses, Priapic Wands (acorn-tipped), and Ploughs.

Herbs of Imbolc:
Angelica, Basil, Bay Laurel, Blackberry, Celandine, Coltsfoot, Heather, Iris, Myrrh, Tansy, Violets, and all white or yellow flowers.

Foods of Imbolc:
Pumpkin seeds, Sunflower seeds, Poppyseed Cakes, muffins, scones, and breads, all dairy products, Peppers, Onions, Garlic, Raisins, Spiced Wines and Herbal Teas.

Incense of Imbolc:
Basil, Bay, Wisteria, Cinnamon, Violet, Vanilla, Myrrh.

Colors of Imbolc:
White, Pink, Red, Yellow, lt. Green, Brown.

Stones of Imbolc:
Amethyst, Bloodstone, Garnet, Ruby, Onyx, Turquoise.

Activities of Imbolc:
Candle Lighting, Stone Gatherings, Snow Hiking and Searching for Signs of Spring, Making of Brideo'gas and Bride's Beds, Making Priapic Wands, Decorating Ploughs, Feasting, and Bon Fires maybe lit.

---Adapted by Akasha Ap Emrys for all her friends and those of like mind
Copyright © 1997-99 Akasha, Herne and The Celtic Connection www.wicca.com. All rights reserved

Long Day

Nothing much to report today...had a very long day and still trying to process it all. Hopefully something more profound tomorrow

Tools of the Trade - Cauldron

Now me personally I have a lil one for my alter. I would love to have a larger one and even more would love to have one like one of my friends has in her back yard. it's gorgeous and when you light a fire in it it reflects the light and flames through the stars and moons that are cut out on the sides. Below is a pretty good description from Wiccan Glade.

One of the most common symbols of Witchcraft, the cauldron was once found sitting by the fireplace in almost all homes. The cauldron-traditionally with three legs- represents bounty and blessings. In some Celtic Traditions, it is associated with otherworldly figures such as Bran the Blessed and the Goddess Cerridwen. Based on these myths, the cauldron has also come to represent the concept of reincarnation and the cycles of birth, death and rebirth. Many Witches believe in some form of reincarnation or the transmigration of souls.

Cauldrons can be used to represent water and used for scrying. It is sometimes used in association with elemental fire as well and small "bonfires" can be lit in them to burn spells or incense. Jumping over the cauldron has replaced the "bonfire" leap in modern times and urban spaces. It can, depending on intent and use, be placed in the Female West or Male South. Cauldrons range in size from the small altar models to the antique "floor" type. Many Witches have cauldrons in various sizes for different workings and purposes. Cats like to store their toys in them, too!

Pagan Spaces

I have the little link on the left side there but I just wanted to say that it's a great resourse. You can meet lots of other pagan's around the world. I'm part of a group that is having wonderful discussions on people's take on the God and Goddess and our beliefs in general. I highly recommend it to witch's old and new alike. Click the box on the side there and it will take you right to it :)

Sunday Funny

brain dead

Yup what the title says. we had a bunch of friends over tonight and I don't really have anything profound to say. The dinner I made was a hit and then hubby and I got out butts kicked at Marvel AND then Harry Potter Scene it...yup..we're geeks *grin*

Imbolc Recipe - Returning Sun Spice Bread

Found this onw on wicca.com and just had to share it. It looks yummy

Returning Sun Spice Bread


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

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

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

Just a quickie

Just a quick one tonight. By the time I got home I had a sore throat...not good...especially not good when you work in a call center. Anyway...not real good with the thought forming at the moment...hopefully back to our regularly scheduled program tomorrow.

The planets in motion

Mercury and I have this sort of love hate relationship. When it's cool...then I'm cool....when it goes into retrograde...well let's just say in the past it hasn't been all hearts and roses. Transiting Mercury in Aquarius is retrograde Jan. 29 through Feb. 19. What does this mean? It means things aren't going to progress like they normally do...or through their normal cause and effect cycle. Situations tend to require review or reworking. Mercury rules communication. So you really have to think before you speak/write. It might not come out as y ou intended it and you may end up having to apologize. Aquarius rules electricity (yeah don't buy any new appliances...you will probably have to get them fixed or replaced before you know it), bright ideas, inventions, things of that nature. (it means the backwards thinking process that takes place now is good for people like historians and writers. (*glances at Sadie* Yeah I know it's just research :p)

On the other hand...Mars has been in retrograde in Gemini for a month now and goes direct on January 31. Mars like this means you can't move forward on actions...tehre's a hold up and probably more reflection is needed.

Basically all this means that as the planets move so do we...sometimes we just need to pay a lil more attention to what they are doing.

Tools of the Trade - Besom

The broom or "besom" is used for cleansing ritual areas, hence the term "making a clean sweep". In handfasting rituals, couples often jump over the broom if they want children. (If you don't want children, DON'T JUMP! The combination of the "brush" and the handle are a very powerful fertility symbol.) Many Witches have a broom-brushy side up-by their door to protect the home from unwanted outside energies.

Me personally I have a Cinnamon broom that I'll be hanging on Imbloc by our front door. Not only does it smell WONDERFUL...but for me it wards away the negative energies. I'm a complete cinnamon addict...lol Now some people like to make them by hand...others like to buy them. As always it's personal preference.

Full Moon

Today is the full moon. In my life things always get really wonky around this time. It just always seems to go this way. This time is no different. Not saying it's all bed...just wacky. Just have to learn to roll with it I guess. It's hard to let go and let the Goddess take care of you. We live in a society where everything has this insane need to be controlled. Not a lot of people just let it go and take it's course anymore. I need to do it more.

Sunday Funny

Yeah I'm addicted to Eddie...what can I say? He makes me giggle and sometimes you just need to laugh. Hopefully something more profound tomorrow.

Just under the wire

Not a whole lot today. We were home all day. The kids watched the snow...I did laundry...nothing much to report on the witch side. Dealt with some other stuff but for now I'm just going to let it go.

Recipe - Imbolc - Sun-Kissed Carrots Baked in Foil

The following recipes are from the book: Cooking By Moonlight, A Witch's Guide to Culinary Magic by Karri Ann Allrich.

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


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

Preheat the oven to 425' degrees.

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

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

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

Serves 4.

Astral Projection

First off here is a quote from Wiccan Glade on what Astral Projection is...

Astral projection is the act of separating the astral body from the physical body. Normally, this occurs as part of the sleep process, usually at the deepest dream level. It also can occur in a trance state. When the person is conscious of this separation, it is called conscious astral projection. The separation also is called Etheric Projection or Out-of-the-Body Traveling. To be conscious of this act or event is a highly sought after goal in neo-Paganism.

Now I've seen some pretty freaky stuff in my life time. I have very good reasons for never wanting to get near a Ouija board. To this day I don't understand why they are sold in the TOY SECTION They are FAR from being toys!! Anyway I digress. I've heard some people call it dream hopping too. Think Freddy without the hand full of knives and blood and death and all that...lol I guess that's why the Nighhtmare on Elm Street Movies always intrigued me.

Anyway if you are going to do this I suggest some Flying Ointment as well. Definitely some good stuff...which remonds me I need to make some....

(Ok I thought I posted this last night but it was saved as a draft instead. That's what happens when friend's cars break down in front of your house I guess)

Shake da belly

Yup I had class number two today and despite the fact that I am THE whitest white girl on the face of the planet I think I did okay. It's going to take time and practice. I'm out of shape...there's no getting around it. But the more I did the more energy I felt flowing through me. She told us to remember we are all Goddesses. Which when you are a plus size woman...is hard to remember sometimes. But by the end of class I could feel it. I started to feel more comfortable in my own skin.

Tools of the Trade - Insense

Incense is used in ritual and magick. It comes in different forms including, stick, cone, or granulated powder (requires self igniting charcoal). To many of Wicca, Incense represents the element of Air.

The function of the incense burner or censer is to purify the area you magickally work in and is usually a heatproof container.

Me personally I could have insense burning all the time just because I like the smell. I'm kind of like that with candles too. as far as using it within spellwork though each one can have a different purpose or meaning. I will have to look for my list and get that posted here. Just can't find it at the moment. I have used all three types of insense. I prefer the stick for ease of use personally though.

Belly Dancing

Well I said I was going to do it and I did. I had signed up for Belly Dancing classes and the first one was today. OMG my body hurts/ You never realize how much you slouch or what muscle you aren't using a whole lot until you go to the gym...well today I definitly have that feeling only a few hours after the class. It was great though...a good sore. I can't wait for Wednesday's class!!! Did I feel a lil silly with my hip scarf on learning how to shake my hips at work? Yeah I did...but I honestly didn't care. It felt good and I wasn't the only one who's first time it was either. It almost felt like something woke up in me today. I am so glad tara pestered me about this.

Sunday Humor

Still want to cut my head off

Well I went with the hubby and my oldest to the comic shop today to play in a Magic Tournament (Yes I am the epitome of geek...it's just who I am...lol) Anyway we went even though I probably should have stayed home and gotten some things done around the house and laid down when my head started to hurt so bad. Needless to say I'm in agony now...but I came in second place!! I'm just waiting for Sadie to kick my butt now...

Headache

I seriously need to get rid of this headache. I've been asking Sadie and my hubby to cut my head off for two days now...

Past Life Regression

Something I've been wanting to try. Sadie sent me this link on Pagan Spaces. I'm anxious to try it. A little nervous too. I'm thining of trying it tomorrow night when no one is home but me. will depend on if I still have this migrain or not though...

Witch's Chant

Love this song. It's by Inkubus Sukkubus a pagan band over seas.

Tools of the Trade - Wand

The wand represents the element of Air and the Male East. You can find them in your local metaphysical shop, online or even make one yourself. If you do make one yourself be sure you ask the tree first and if they do say yes please please please make sure you leave a token of thanks behind.

The wand can be used for many things. Casiting circles, directing energy during a spell or incantation. Wands can be made from anything ranging from glass or metal, but the "old" style is still wood. My wand I purchased online and it's wood and encrusted with various gemstones.

As with all tools it's really up to the individual person what feels best to them. Eventually I will probably go to see the weeping willow in the park and ask if I may have one of it's lovely branches for another wand. Until then I'm happy with the one I've got.

Dreams

Well this weekend I had one that left me sitting there going "huh" Sadie and I were going to a particular pagan shop (which right there set off my alarms since we don't even live in the same state right now) It wasn't located anywhere near where the actual store is...but it's a dream...i digress. Anyway we go into the store and the owner was teaching a class and as we walked in she said quite clearly, "You aren't a real witch unless you cast spells for everything in your life." Well this set me off since I am VERY careful about doing anything. What can I say I'm an overly cautious witch... Needless to say this started an arguement about spell use and the like. Granted the person I was arguing with in my dream I have little respect for as a pagan since she had been known to use spells and the like to try and manipulate people...directly in contrast with the rede.

Things to do this week...

Let's see if I can get a list up and actually stick with it....hehe

1. Post about the dream I have last night and how it applies to my life as a witch
2. Decide if I'm going to keep the blog here or set up a wordpress one on my poisonousroses hosting account.
3. Come up with a name for the pagan online store
4. Start getting the store set up with inventory and all that
5. Email Tara about setting up the Master Usui Reiki attunement
6. Finish updating the blogroll with the rest of my links

Titus

As most know about me I don't tend to hold back...either that or you will learn that about me...lol Christopher Titus is not by any means PC...so do not click play if you don't want to hear/see it. You have been warned.

Recipe - Imbolc Potato Leek Soup

Yes I realize Imbolc is still a few weeks away but it's coming quicker then we think. Hard to believe that it felt like just yesterday was Yule. The wheel goes by so fast. I can't wait to try this one!!

Potato Leek Soup

4 cups peeled & coarsely chopped potatoes (about 4-5 medium potatoes)
3 cups thinly sliced leeks (@4 leeks; use the white and light green parts)
2 qts. chicken stock (to make vegetarian, substitute with veggie stock)
1 t. salt, black pepper (to taste)
1/2 c. heavy cream (or half and half, or whole milk, all work fine, it just affects the richness of flavor.)
3 T. finely cut fresh chives

Simmer potatoes, leeks, stock, salt, partially covered saucepan for 40-50 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Transfer in small batches to a blender and blend until desired consistency (smooth) is reached. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in cream/milk. Before serving, return soup to low heat and bring it to a simmer. Serve topped with fresh chives.

Serving Suggestion
Serve in a crusty bread bowl.

Serves 4.

The New Year

I've spent the past two days with my boys and I have to say I became spoiled by it. Being back at work today and the having to be up at 6:30 royally sucked...but I'm here and actually feeling better then I had been feeling at the end of the year. There are a few things that I am trying to work with as far as resolutions. Although we will see how I do with them.

One of the big ones is my weight. I need to lose it again. I did it before and granted I was still smoking at the time but I can/will do it again. I am swiftly approaching my one year of having quit smoking which I am proud of. I occasionally still want one but from what my hubby tells me even after all the years it's been since he quit he still wants one from time to time.

My first venture into this weight loss...which some may think is comical...I start Belly Dancing classes on the 14th at work. Yes it means coming into work earlier 2 days a week so that I can take the class and still have time to take a shower/grab something to eat but I start that journey on Monday's and Wednesday's soon. I'm really looking forward to it. I was wavering when Tara was trying to talk me into taking classes with her and then they started offering at the gym here at work. We had both talked about it and decided it was a sign I need to get my butt in gear...well in this case my hips. We shall see how it goes. But I am being optimistic. If it goes well here then I may venture into Tara's classes with her.

Another thing I need to work on is I want to be less of a "Sunday Witch" You know the one that only does stuff on holidays and Sabbats. I need to push myself more to meditate every day and work more in my craft. I'd like to try and so my initiation this year. I'm still learning and I'm WAY beyond studying for a year and a day. Classes actually start back up in March which I cannot wait for. A developing Psychic Skills class is the first one. Definitely excited about that one.

I want to be a better wife and mother. This may mean curbing the computer addiction but I think instead of being on the computer when the kids are home sending some real time with the kids would be better...even if it's back to knitting while sitting with them and they are watching cartoons. The Guitar Hero Marathons we had over the holidays were a blast even just watching. It's given my oldest a new appreciation for some older music (He played Crossroads for hours until he got it right *giggle*)

I need to cut/get rid of things that are dragging me down and holding me back. Stop worrying about things I cannot change. It's the past...it's over with. In other words LET. IT. GO!!! There is no saving some people if they don't want to be saved. You can't force them to see "the light" they will only see it in their own time. I think I may have to do a ritual to let certain things go. Perhaps one like Turtleheart did with writing down and burning it to let go. I also need to let go of the guilt. If I can't change it I shouldn't feel guilty about it. (It's the old Catholic upbringing coming through)

I know things like the above will all come in time. But I'm feeling positive that this is going to be an amazing year. I will become a Usui Reiki Master this month if things go according to plan. I will do my first degree initiation this year. My greenman and I will have our handfasting. Life is looking pretty good right now. Money is really tight...but we will make it through together as a family.

Blessed be to all for this new year

Quickie again

I was hoping to get somethng more profound here today but it didn't happen. Long day with Doctor's appointments and then spending time with the kids and my hubby when I was finally home for the evening. It was nice to be able to have dinner as a family without it being a weekend. Took some much needed rest this morning and slept in. It will be back to the regular scheduled blogging starting tomorrow I hope if the world around me cooperates. Now it's off to bed for a very early morning.

Happy New Years

Today is going tob e short and sweet. Spent the day with the hubby and my oldest. Stayed up WAY too late last night but thats another story. Time to crash now. I'll have a better post tomorrow.