Detox bath by Amy

The last few nights I have been taking ecinecea baths. The herb has truly made me feel more relaxed.

I just add about two tablespoons to my bath water. I like to let the herbs float freely. However, you could put them in a muslin pouch if you prefer.

The first night I could feel the herb taking the impurities out of my body and replacing it with a healing white light. I needed the cleansing more then I expected and recommend this easy and quick method for anyone in need.

Harvest by Amy

The pecan trees in our yard are producing the sweetest nuts we have ever had. The harvest has brought my teenage son and I closer together. It is getting to be a rare occasion when he enjoys hanging out with his mother. We both like working in nature so I have taken the time to teach him about thanking the trees. He has learned to ask them for permission and respect them, by being gentle.

Our neighbors have come over to reap the rewards as well. The harvest has not only brought my family closer but the neighborhood together. It seems everyone has pecan fever.

I am looking forward to having them on our Samhain altar. I know it sounds like a small thing, but sometimes the smallest things bring the greatest rewards and most happiness.

Thank Goddess!

Book Review II, by Amy

I have just finished reading the second book required for my Sacred Well class, Book of Shadows by Phillis Currott. At first, I found the book uninteresting and very hard to "get into". However, if you can make it to the forth chapter, it gets very interesting. The book is well written and has a lot of useful information.
I found her journey illuminating, once it got started, and I can see how the back ground information was useful in the development of her character.
I would recommend this book to all levels of Wiccans or anyone just wanting to learn more about the religion. The book reminds us that witches only work to gain power over themselves, not over others. It also is helpful to be reminded that priestesses and high-priestesses are only human and therefore imperfect.
The friendships she cultivates in the book are timeless examples of how by helping others, we are truly helping ourselves.
Over all the book was very enjoyable.

Book reveiw, by Amy

I finished reading Thorsons Principles of Wicca. I found the book to be interesting and full of useful information. There are exercises at the end of each chapter, this is my favorite part of the book. The exercises were incredibly close to how my grandmother taught me to meditate and draw energy, this made the book seem familiar.
I did find the vocabulary in the book to be challenging: I like my books a little easier of a read. However, if you are a beginner/intermediate this book is full of information. For example, it guides you through the entire ritual process. It even gives sample invocations and chants.
I would also recommend this book to anyone who is looking for basic chakra exercises and information.
I also really enjoyed the following qoute from the book:
Remember: Wicca is a way of being, of life, of love, of joy, of laughgter, of accepting that life can be painful and though, while doing what we can to make it a better place for others and for ourselves.

Altars, by:Amy

I have begun reading the first required book for my course: Thorson's Principles of Wiccca, by Vivianne Crowley. I found some interesting information about altars.
I thought one piece of information was particularly useful for this time of year. Items to add to your Samhain altar: Apples, branches of dead leaves, black mirrors, crystal balls, and cauldrons. Try using items that are brown or black, changing the altar cloth is a great way to reset the mood/intent of the space.
Almost every Wiccan has each of the elements represented on their altar. When making a personal altar try adding the elements that correspond with attributes you would like to work on.
For example: to work on your objectivity or education try adding extra air items to your altar. For more creativity or to foster your love life add fire items. To help with meditation or empathy add water items. Earth items can be added to aid in dependability and protection.
Although each attribute above sound desirable it is advised that you use the extra influences on your altar with caution. It is important to remember that every positive action can also cause a negative outcome, especially if done in excess.