Crafty Witch Files: A Full Moon Apple Love Spell

Casting spells during or near the time of the full moon heightens the power of any spell. It is a great time for performing spells that attract things to you like money or for getting a promotion at work. This spell will help to bring love or a special someone into your life.

Ingredients:
1 red apple
Red or pink rose petals
1 large sheet of pink paper (or white paper, and pink pen) -it must be large enough to create a package to contain the apple & rose petals & fold 3 times.
Red ribbon
Knife

Step 1
On the pink paper, write down all the charateristics you wish to attract in a partner & a love relationship. Do not name any names, or think specifically about a particular person; as this is manipulative, and actually limits the scope of the spell. That peron may, or may not be right for you- but by attracting the essence & qualities of a person & a relationship, you 'place your order' to the universe- and, the universe will provide.

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Step 2
Hold the apple and while holding it up to the Moon say, "Lady Moon of sky above,

grant my wish and send me love."

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Step 3
Take the knife and carve into the apple two hearts that touch one another.
*

Step 4
Place the apple on the pink paper and sprinkle the rose petals over it.
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Step 5
Mark the petition on the four corners with your saliva- thus creating a personal connection. Close up the sheet of paper, securing all the contents inside; folding it 3 times towards yourself. Make the 1st fold, and turn clockwise, then repeat the procedure untill you have made 3 folds.

Tie the package up withthe red ribbon, using a total of three knots. While you are making the knots, visualize on your wish to attract love.
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Step 6
Take the newly made package somewhere out in a natural setting, like the woods or your backyard, and leave it there, hidden under a rock or bush. Say thank you to the Goddess, and walk away knowing that the energies are already working on bringing you the partner, and love situation that is best for you. The spell is done.

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Backing Up The Work

Now you must back up the spell work on the physical plane by making yourself available to love. You cannot expect to simply cast a spell and have "Mr. Right" stumble to your doorstep. The best way that I know how to do this, is to do some sl-work, and 'clear the way' for love to come into my life.

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This may mean working on one's attitude, body, approach to men & generally 'putting one's self out there'. Think of several possible places to meet potential partners. Also, consider the types of patners you would like to date, and where you may find them. The bar may not be the best place, depending on the type of people you want to attract.

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Be sure that you are being true to yourself in this, as well. If you are not generally physically active- do not go to the gym to meet potential dates. Likewise, if you hate sports- don't fool yourself (or anyone else) by hunting down a sports fanatic. This doesn't mean that you should only date people who are into exactly the same things that you are- just be sure that the face that you are showing to potential dates is the true you. Don't fake it just to get the person to like you, because it is only a matter of time before the real you comes out.

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The other best thing that I know to attract potential love relationshps into my life, is to get real busy doing things that you love to do. Nothing attracts love like happiness. If you are filling your life with positive action- you will excert a glow that is virtually irresistable to others.

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For more information & articles on casting Love Spells- click on the "Love Magick" link at the bottom of this post.

Cooking For The Sabbats ~ Candied Ginger & Fiery Grilled Salmon ~ Litha & Midsummer Solstice Recipes ~

Litha Cooking - Midsummer Sabbat Recipes*

Litha is the celebration of the summer solstice - and what's a Sabbat celebration without food? Take advantage of the summer crops of fruit and vegetables, and prepare a delicious feast for your Midsummer gatherings. This batch of Sabbat Reipes comes to us from Patti Wiggington, at About.com.Enjoy!

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Candied Ginger

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The sweet taste of sugar combines with the fiery tang of ginger, for a unique (and hot!) blend of flavors. Mix up a batch and enjoy all summer long!

*

Ginger is a root vegetable found in a lot of Asian cuisine, but it can be grown all over the world. To make this recipe, you'll need about a pound of ginger root, which you can either grow yourself or pick up at your local grocery store. Candy it with sugar and corn syrup, then store it for a fiery and sweet snack combination!

*

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 12 hours

*

Ingredients:

1 lb ginger root

3 Cups white sugar, divided

2 Cups water

1/2 Cup white corn syrup

*

Preparation:

Peel the skin from the ginger root completely, and chop into small pieces.

Combine 2 cups of sugar, the water and the corn syrup in a crock pot and bring to high heat, stirring occasionally.

Once the sugar has melted, add the ginger to the liquid.

Cover, reduce heat, and allow to simmer overnight, or for about 12 hours.

Once the ginger has simmered overnight, drain off liquid.

Place ginger in a bowl with the remaining 1 cup of sugar, and toss so that it's completely coated.

Pour our on a sheet of wax paper to cool (it helps to put them on a baking tray in the fridge).

Store in an airtight container, and snack on whenever you need a fiery pick-me-up!

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Fiery Grilled Salmon

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In Celtic lore, the salmon is associated with knowledge. In fact, the first person to taste this delicious fish was granted all kinds of wisdom! Why not toss a salmon into the flame so you can partake of its vast knowledge? This simple dish can be prepared out on your grill to keep the kitchen cool, and tastes just as good cold the next day on top of a salad.

*

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

*

Ingredients:

2 lbs salmon fillets, skin on

1/4 C. soy sauce

1/4 C. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 C. olive oil

*

Preparation:

*

Combine the olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic and cayenne pepper in a bowl and whisk together.

Using a barbeque brush, brush half of the soy sauce mix onto the salmon fillets.

Place them sauce-side down (skin-side up) on the grill for about six to seven minutes.

Brush the remainder of the sauce onto the skin side, and use a large spatula to flip the fillets over.

Grill for another five minutes or so and remove from heat.

Allow the fillets to sit for about ten minutes before serving.

*

Note:

A well cooked fish is one that isn't too dry. When you remove the salmon from the grill, it may seem undercooked in the center. However, once it sits for ten minutes, the heat in the juices will make it finish cooking. Don't cook salmon until it "looks cooked" in the middle, because by then it will dry out and lose its flavor.

Cooking for the Sabbats ~ Savory Snack Wrap & Fresh Fruit Fennel Salad ~ Litha & Midsummer Solstice Recipes

Litha Cooking - Midsummer Solstice Sabbat Recipes
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Litha is the celebration of the summer solstice - and what's a Sabbat celebration without food? Take advantage of the summer crops of fruit and vegetables, and prepare a delicious feast for your Midsummer gatherings. This batch of Sabbat Reipes comes to us from Patti Wiggington, at About.com.

Savory Snack Wraps

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These tasty wraps are a great appetizer for your Sabbat menu, or they can work just as well for a light meal. Make with your leftover chicken, or go for a vegetarian option instead.

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These snack wraps are easy to make, and can be prepped ahead of time and chilled in the fridge. They work nicely as an appetizer for any summer menu, or you can put together a variety of them as a main course for a light dinner.

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Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes

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Ingredients:
10 flour tortillas
1 package cream cheese, softened
1 Tbs. fresh dill
1 garlic clove, minced
1 C. shredded lettuce
1 C. shredded carrots
1 C. diced tomato
1 lb. chicken breast, cooked and diced
2 C. your favorite cheese, shredded

*
Preparation:
Mix the dill and garlic into the cream cheese, and stir until blended. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly onto the tortillas.

*

In layers, add the lettuce, carrots, tomato and chicken breast. Top with cheese.

*
To roll the tortillas up, fold the bottom of the tortilla up, and then fold in from one side. Use a toothpick to keep it from unrolling, and chill for an hour or so before serving.

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Veggie-lover's option: Instead of the chicken, used diced and cooked tofu, seasoned with a bit of teriyaki or soy sauce. You can also use chopped cucumbers or peppers. For a gluten-free alternative, use brown rice tortillas instead of flour.

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Fresh Fruit Fennel Salad

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Fennel has a rich, licorice-like flavor, and lends itself well to a cool summer salad. Add a bit of fruit to offset the savoriness of the fennel, top with a light mustard viniagrette, and you've got the perfect salad to serve as a side or main course.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes

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Ingredients:
1 large fennel bulb
2 fresh oranges
1 Granny Smith apple
3 green onions
1/4 C. water
3 Tbs. balsamic vinegar
2 Tbs. olive oil
2 Tbs. honey mustard
1 Tbs. chopped fresh rosemary
1 garlic clove, minced

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Preparation:
Shave the fennel into thin pieces, and toss it into a bowl.

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Peel and divide the oranges, and chunk up the Granny Smith apples, dice the green onions, and add all these to the fennel.

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Combine the water, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey mustard, rosemary and garlic in a bowl and whisk until blended.

*

Drizzle over the fennel and fruit salad.
*

Enjoy!

Crafting For The Sabbats- Lavender Summer Solstice Ritual Potpourri

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This simple Sabbat Potpourri is crafted from Summer herbs

that are abundant and easy to come by.

(Feel free to substitute with any other Midsummer herbs

that may go along well with the recipe.)

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Summer Solstice Ritual Potpourri

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Recipe from Gerina Dunwich

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45 drops lavender oil

1 cup oak moss

2 cups dried lavender

2 cups dried wisteria

2 cups dried verbena

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~Mix the lemon or lavender oil with the oak moss,

and then add the remaining ingredients.

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~Stir the potpourri well and store

in a tightly covered ceramic or glass container.

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(The above recipe for "Summer Solstice Ritual Potpourri"

is quoted directly from Gerina Dunwich's book

"The Wicca Spellbook: A Witch's Collection of Wiccan Spells, Potions and Recipes",

page 162, A Citadel Press Book, Carol Publishing Group, 1994/1995)

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Cooking for the Sabbats ~ Blueberry Mead Recipe ~ Litha and Midsummer Solstice Sabbat Recipes

Blueberry Mead Recipe

In it’s simplest form, Mead is a wine made from honey, water and yeast. It is the oldest fermented beverage in the world, and was probably discovered by some hapless nit-wit who left his leather honey pouch open over night in the rain. A couple days later, the honey was a little more magical tasting than usual.

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Mead has enjoyed a rich history in Viking culture- fallen warriors were believed to arrive in the halls of Valhalla in the afterlife, where, after a day of hard battling, they feasted on crackled pork at Odin’s table all night long. In the middle of the hall, a giant she-goat stood on her hind legs and nibbled on a pine branch while rich mead poured of our her teats.

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Don’t you just love it already?

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There are many types of mead that can be made by adding various ingredients to the basic recipe of honey, water and yeast.

* Start your mead now for next Midsummer. For best results, mead should ferment about a year, but this mead won an award after only four months!

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Ingridients:
Primary Fermentation:
10 lbs Wildflower Honey

5 lbs Frozen Blueberries

4 gal Water

Wyeast Dry Mead Yeast (3-4 packets)

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Secondary Fermentation:
5 lbs Wildflower Honey

5 lbs Frozen Blueberries

* Procedure:
Boil 3.5 gals of water to eliminate chlorine.

When cooled to 160 degrees F., steep fruit in cheesecloth for 30 min.

Remove bag slowly and let drip till it stops.

Return mixture (called the "must" or "wort" by brewers) to 140 degrees F.,

remove from burner and dissolve honey in it.

Chill to 65 degrees F.

Aerate by stirring and pitch (throw in) large starter of Wyeast Dry Mead yeast

(Four packets is not too many).
Ferment one month in a large five gallon glass jug.

Add honey to primary stirring till it dissolves. Add additional berries.

Ferment another month or two. Rack into a second five-gallon jug.

Ferment another 4-6 months before bottling. (That is, if you can stand it.)

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This award-winning mead recipe is created by Phil Wilcox

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Have a blessed summer solstice!

Simple & Practical Ways to Celebrate the MidSummer Solstice

Simple & Practical Ways to Celebrate the Mid Summer Solstice-

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- Spend the day in the sunshine;

either at the beach, lake, dessert, park or in the backyard

.... just get outside!

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- Place herbs, cake, (or bread), honey and incense

in the garden for the faeries on Midsummer's Eve

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-Jump the balefire, cauldron or candle.

(Urban Wiches have even been known to jump the hibatchi!)

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-Create a ring of candles, fire bowls or even tea lights, and use for ritual, to dance within and around, and for meditation on this night

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-Float lights in a lake or pool. Make wishes for the year

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-Burn the Yule wreath now

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-If you made Sun Wheels at Imbolc,

they should be displayed prominently

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-Paint witches runes (the hagalaz rune), hex signs

or other six-pointed figures on wood, or paper for protection.

Hang indoors or out

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-Midsummer is Gathering Day.

Gather plants in the wild, being careful

that they don't touch the ground after being cut

(their magickal energy will drain into the earth)

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- Perform herbal magick. Craft & Charge herbal charms

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-Cook with fresh herbs

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-Use the potent magical energy of this Sabbat

for Divination; especially fire scrying.

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-The Teutons gathered ash sticks at Midsummer

for wands, walking sticks, staffs, stangs and staves.

Decorate with magickal symbols, gemstones, beads, feathers,

sigils, words, fabric, ribbon, or whatever strikes you

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-Make God's Eyes to be used as a protective talisman or for decoration

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-Gather buckeye's (horse chestnuts),

which were sacred to some Native Americans

and used protective amulets

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-Talismans for our animals' collars

should be blessed and given at this time.

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-Make a solar wheel.

Wind grape, or other vines into a circle, twisting as you go.

Cut two short lengths of twigs to be just a bit larger than the diameter of the circle and place one across the back horizontally and one vertically.

Decorate with symbols of the season -- stones, feathers, shells, etc.

and red, yellow, and gold ribbons.

Hang in a tree or inside as a reminder of the God/dess' protection.

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-Make a witches ladder.

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-Gallop through garden on Midsummer's Eve

on a broomstick to ensure a bountiful harvest and personal fertility.

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-Celebrate the day outside hiking, bike riding,

swimming, and participating in other summertime activities.

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- Make a Faerie Garden; either in nature,

or in a small dish to be enjoyed indoors

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- In Celtic tradition, one that is followed by many, to this very day-

people spend the night before Solstice out on the hills awaiting the dawn

and seeking inspiration

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- Have friends over and enjoy food and celebrations

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- Dance, drum, sing and make merry!

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- Get some elderflower cordial

(found at most shopping centres and health food stores)

and mix with champagne or use for jellys

to bring the fun and the sacred together

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-Start some Mead, or Dandelion Wine for next year

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- Decorate the house with orange and yellow flowers

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- Put a big sunflower, or bouquet of other orange

and yellow flowers by your bed or on your work desk

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- Light torches, have bon fires or roll a sun wheel lit on fire down a hill

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- Decorate your altar with sunflowers, marigolds,

orange, gold, yellow & red fabrics, orange and yellow crystals

and images of the Sun

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- Children often enjoy activities such as making decorations

with golden tinsel and images of the sun,

making a sun dial and planting sun flowers

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- Bake Solar Wheel cookies or rolls

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- Create a Wheel of the Year project with your children;

show them the correlation between the clock,

and the 8 Sabbats & the Seasons

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- Have a picnic with friends and children and bathe in the sun

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- Place mugwort and any other midsummer herbs

under your pillow on Solstice night

to encourage dreams on this night of strong magick

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- Celebrate the light and joy of the sun

by hanging lanterns around your home,

lighting candles or hanging fairy lights

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- Burn herbs for the Sun and to make wishes for the coming season;

9 is the traditional number

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- Leave out a dish for Sun water (preferably gold)

on Solstice night and bath in the water on Solstice morning

(an ancient spell for youth & beauty)

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- Throw coins or offering into water or streams on Solstice morning

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- Go for a swim in the Solstice sunshine

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- Leave crystals out for cleansing & charging under the Solstice Sun

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- Light a candle or lantern with the Solstice Sun at Dawn,

Welcome his light and his nurturing to the Earth Mother

and give thanks at Sunset as he departs

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-Light an vigil candle to burn from sunset on Midsummer's Eve,

untill sunset on Solstice Day;

or even to last for the entire 3 days of the Sabbat.

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- Write letters to the special men in your life,

especially your father, and husband, or partner;

and tell them how they nurture you

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- Watch the sunset and burn herbs in thanks to the Sun God

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- After dark, place an offering of milk,

honey and herbs into the ground

to welcome the Mother

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- Take a walk in nature, and pick a wildflower bouqet

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- Summer Herbs harvested on this day

are said to be at their peak of magcal power

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- Use this Sabbat's energy to lend power

to any projects you may have going

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- Make blessing & protection talimans for your home or car;

or travel charms for any upcoming vacations

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- Write out a list of your current goals

and do spell to bring your 'crops' to a fruitful 'harvest'

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- Use this time to research the Summer Solstice;

either Gods & Goddesses, herbs, crystals, totem animals,

or the various traditions practiced at this time throughout the world

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- Tap in to the increased power of the season

to send energy to environmental causes- such as conservation,

animal protection, or even the cleanup efforts in the Gulf

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However you decide to celebrate this Mid Summer Solstice

- I wish you & yours much light,love & happiness!

Bright Litha Blessings!

*

~Danae <(:o) aka ' Crafty'

Herbs for the Summer Solstice and their Magical Uses

Herbs for Summer Solstice and their Magical Uses

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Midsummer's Eve & Day are considered highly potent times to harvest herbs, and for herbal magicks of all kinds. Protection, prosperity, fertility & love, as well as divination are the most common. Amulets, poppets and other charms are created and charged to be used throughout the year.

Herbs are harvested, for food, medicine and magick. They are cooked into Sabbat treats, crafted into charms, and thrown into the fire on Midsummer Night. Traditionaly At Midsummer, nine different herbs are thrown into the blaze -- mistletoe, vervain, St. John's Wort, heartsease and lavender are usually among the nine chosen, but the nine can be chosen from this list of popular Midsummer herbs:

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Basil:

Hot/Mars/Fire

- Purification, Love, Exorcism, Wealth, Protection.

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Known as the Witches' Herb. An ingredient commonly used in purification baths. Add to protection and exorcism amulets. Widely used in love magick as well as for money, wealth and prosperity.

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Bay:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Protection, Clairvoyance, Exorcism, Purification, Healing.

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Burn leaves to induce visions. Wear as an amulet to ward off negativity and evil. Burn and scatter on the floor in purification rituals. Put leaves under the pillow to induce inspiration and prophetic dreams. Pick while facing East at sunrise.

***

Chamomile:

Hot/Sun/Water

- Relaxing, Sleep Inducing, Attracts Money and Prosperity, Love, Purification.

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Traditional herb of the Sun and Midsummer. Useful in magick worked for children. Helpful when burned as an incense for inducing trance states and when meditating.

***

Carnation:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Protection, Energy, Power.

*

Once worn by Witches to prevent an untimely death on the scaffold. Dry nine red carnations in the Sun, crumble them and separate from stems. Pour one dram of carnation oil over them; mix well and smoulder on charcoal for a tremendously powerful incense. Produces tons of energy.

***

Cinnamon:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Protection, Love, Prosperity, Passion, Energy.

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Adds extra energy to any spell or magical working. Use to make a Besom. Burn to raise very high spiritual vibrations and to induce clairvoyant visions. Used in love spells; especially to excite the passions to the male.

***

Cinquefoil (five finger grass):

Hot/Jupiter/Earth

- Money, Protection, Prophetic Dreams, Sleep, Healing.

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Hang on door for protection. Represents love, money, health, power and wisdom. Is a all purpose magical herb.

***

Clove:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Love,Protection, Healing, Strength & Vigor, Prosperity.

*

Worn to drive away hostile and negative forces. Stops gossip. Carry to strengthen the memory and add to sachets to attract the opposite sex. A necklace of cloves, threaded onto a red string, is often given to new babies for protection. (Be sure to hang it far out of reach.)

***

Dill:

Hot/Mercury/Fire

- Protection, Love, Properity

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Add a half a cup of dill seeds into a bath to attract a woman.

***

Dragon's Blood:

Hot/Mars/Fire

- Energy, Purification, Protection, Love, Fertility.

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Add a pinch of ground resin to incenses to increase their potency and effectiveness.

***

Fennel:

Protection, healing, fertility, purification.

*

Protects home and family; ability to face danger/adversity. Gathered Midsummer Eve and hung in the home.

***

Fern:

Hot/Saturn/Earth

- Protection, Love, Male Fertility & Virility, Magical Energy, Invisibility.

*

The unexpanded fronds of the male fern gathered on Midsummer morning at dawn, *without touching the plant* onto a white sheet; and are dried over a Midsummer fire and kept for protection & use in magical preparations throughout the year. Called "Lucky Hands". Very powerful for all Midsummer magick.

***

Hawthorne:

Hot/Mars/Fire

- Protection.

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Make a lightening charm of the wood. Used in protection sachets. Carry to ensure good hunting & fishing; as well as protection when travelling. Witches often danced skyclad beneath Hawthorne trees in England to increase their magical powers; (and still do!).

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Helitrope:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Clairvoyance, Exorcism, Healing, Prophetic Dreams, Invisibility, Wealth & Prosperity.

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Put under the pillow, or in dream sachets to induce prophetic dreaming. Especially good for discovering the culprit when you have been the victim of thievery. Use in healing sachets and incenses.

***

Honeysuckle:

Hot/Jupiter/Earth

- Prosperity, Clairvoyance, Happiness.

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Ring green candles with the blossoms to attract money. Add to prosperity sachets. Lightly rub the cut flowers (or essential oil, cut with a carrier oil) onto the Third Eye to heighten clairvoyant visions.

***

Lavender:

Hot/Mercury/Air

- Love, Protection, Purification, Relaxing, Sleep, Happiness, Peace, Stability, Calm, Blessings.

*

Traditionally thrown into the Midsummer fire, as a sacrifice to the ancient Sun Gods to ensure a good year. Used to attract men. Common addition to sachets, healing baths and incense blends. Lavender, St Johns Wort and Verbena have been traditionally bound together as a solstice fire offering. You can make wishes for the coming season, or burn something you wish to change.

***

Lemon Balm:

Purification and Love.

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Often used in teas and washes; as well as used dry, in sachets. Makes a great addition to purification baths.

***

Lovage:

Hot/Sun/Water

- Purification, Love.

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Add the root to purification baths to cleans the aura and psyche. As a love attractor, is added to the bath with seven rose bud to make one more attractive to their intended.

***

Marigold:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Love, Happiness, Friendship, Prosperity, General Healing & Healing of Relationships, Clairvoyance, Luck in Court Cases.

*

Linked to the Sun and to Midsummer. Traditionally used in Handfastings- some of it's common names are: Summer's Bride, Husband's Dial, Bride of the Sun, and Spousa Solis.Gather at noon for increased magical energy- this is especially potent on the Summer Solstice. A magically charged vase of these flowers brings a renewed surge of vitality to everyone in the vicinity.

***

Mint:

Cold/Venus/Air

Healing, Purification, Prosperity, Relaxation

*

This prolific grower belongs in the garden of every Witch; as it's uses are nearly endless, in the kitchen, the medicine cabinet and in magick of all kinds. Use in charms to bring prosperity and wealth. Add to healing incenses and charms, as well as using it medicinally for healing. Rub over the afflicted part of the patient, if possible; alternately, stuff a poppet with mint, and a combination of other healing herbs. Inhale to aid in relaxation, and anxiety. Burn to purify & cleanse the home, before ritual, in the Winter, and after illness.

***

Mistletoe:

Hot/Sun/Air

- Protection, Healing, Fertility, Love, Magick.

*

Mistletoe berries were gathered on Solstice night, legends said the berries infused with the suns power of this night would turn golden and were prized for their healing ability. Herb of the Sun & the Sun Gods. The wood is often carved into rings, wands and other magical objects. Used in the creation of amulets. Said to help women conceive and cures impotency in men. Anti-Lightning charm. Called "All Heal"- is helpful in healing of all kinds, especially wounds. Ironically, Mistletoe was used by Loki (the Trickster), to trick the blind Hod (son of Odin), to kill his twin brother Balder (the sacrificial Sun God) at Midsummer; in Norse Mythology.

***

Mugwort-

Cold/Venus/Air

- Midsummer herb for Protection, Clairvoyance, Prophecy & Divination.

*

Traditional Midsummer herb used for ritual bathing, women’s magick of all kinds. Mugwort is a favorite Witch's herb, and is used in teas and dream pillows for heightened intuition, prophecy & visions. It's young leaves can be used to rub onto magic mirrors, crystal balls, Tarot Cards, and other tools used in Divination. It can also be made into a simple, and used as a wash for scrying tools. Use mugwort by itself, or in blends to burn while meditating or scrying. It is a common ingredient in amulets for protection of the home and for safety while traveling. When put into the shoes, it is said to prevent fatigue on long journeys. Pick before sunrise during the Waxing Moon, preferably from a plant that leans to the North. The plant's powers are strongest when picked on the Full Moon; and also on Midsummer morn.

***

Mullein:

Cold/Saturn/Fire

- Courage, Protection, Health, Love, Divination, Exorcism.

*

Wear to instill courage. Used as a substitute for candles when working in a place where fire cannot be used. The powdered leaves are known as 'graveyard dust' and a are acceptable to use when it is called for in recipes.

***

Myrrh:

Hot/Sun/Water

- Protection, Purification.

*

The smoke is used to cleanse and consecrate sacred space as well as magickal objects and spells. Often combined with Frankincense; and is a standard herb used in magick and ritual.

***

Nettle:

Hot/Mars/Fire

- Exorcism, Protection, Healing.

*

Stuff a poppet or sachet with Nettle to remove a curse and send it back to the sender. Highly protective herb. Fights lust.

***

Nutmeg:

Hot/Jupiter/Air

- Clairvoyance, Prosperity, Love.

*

Add sparingly to divination incenses to aid in clairvoyance and prophetic visions.

***

Oak:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Fertility,Protection, Longevity.

*

The most sacred and royal of all magical trees. Held in highest honor during Midsummer. Magical rites are often performed in groves of Oak trees; and the most powerful mistletoe grows on these trees. Burn Oak eaves to purify the atmosphere. Use the wood to make wands for all magickal purposes- especially good for men, and/or God magick.

The acorn is a fertility nut of the highest powers, being carried to help conceive and to promote sexual relations. It is worn or carried to preserve youthfulness, and to ward off illness. As an amulet, it is highly protective of home and person. Witches traditionally made necklaces of acorns to symbolise the fertile powers of nature. This was especially popular during the winter months when such reassurance was necessary.

Men carry the acorn to increase their own attractiveness and virility; and to cure impotency. When you gather the leaves, acorns or branches, it is traditional to pour a libation of wine onto the roots of the Oak tree. Gather the acorns during the day, and the leaves and wood at night. Fell oaks only on the wane of the Moon. Elder, Birch, Oak, Ash and Thorn, used together, or separately, are traditional herbs to see Faeries on Solstice night

***

Orange:

Hot/Sun/Water

- Love, Happiness, Wealth & Prosperity, Healing, Energy & Vitality.

*

Used in love spells, for glamour and attraction. Excellent when used in spells and rituals to ward off depression and sadness.

***

Rose:

Cold/Venus/Water

- Love, Fertility, Healing, Divination, Clairvoyance, Luck, Protection.

*

Roses are commonly used in all sorts of love magick and rituals. Wash your hands in Ros Water before preparing a love spell. Use the dried petals in sachets, incenses and bath teas, The hips are very healing, as they contain a lot of Vitamin C- so are especially potent in healing magick; and because these are the reproductive organs of the flower- they are useful in fertility magick as well. Used in spells for beauty, and to make one attractive to their intended. A sacred flower of the Goddess. Represent abundance, beauty and fertility.

***

Rosemary:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Purification, Love, Intellectual, Protection, Exorcism.

*

Wear a chaplet of Rosemary to aid the memory. It has connections wit the sea- and is useful in all issues involving the ocean and safe passage, and is generally good for all forms of travel. A good protective sachet to be made for boat travel, is made of rosemary (for protection), garlic (to stop storms), and mistletoe (to guard against lightning). Burn rosemary and juniper as a healing and recuperation incense. Make a simple of rosemary and use it to wash the hands before working magick when you do not have the time for a full ritual bath. Commonly used in protection talismans and spells- especially in the form of a wreath.

***

Rue:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Healing, Health, Mental Powers, Exorcism, Love, Purification.

*

Crush the herb, and inhale the aroma to cure oneself of envious thoughts, unrequited love, and egotism. The herb is used to still painful love. Used in spells to overcome inertia and get things moving.

***

Sage:

Hot/Jupiter/Earth

- Healing, Prosperity, Purification.

*

Used commonly as a purifying herb to smudge sacred space and purify objects. Add to healing and prosperity sachets and spells.

***

Saffron:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Purification, Clairvoyance, Healing.

*

Make a tea, and use to cleanse the hands before healing rituals. Sometimes used to raise the wind, by throwing it into the air from a high place; or by burning it and watching the smoke rise. Used to carry messages and prayers to the Otherworld. burn the herb as a healing incense, and use the herb in healing mixtures.

***

Sunflower:

-Hot/Sun/Fire

Protection, Fertility, Happiness

*

The flowers growing in a garden cannot help but bring joy and mirth to the surroundings; and are a blessing upon the home. There is strong fertility magick held within the seeds; and are eaten on the Waxing Moon, by women who wish to conceive.

***

Thyme:

Cold/Venus/Air

- Health, Healing, Sleep, Psychic Powers, Love, Purification, Courage.

*

Burn as an incense to cleanse & fumigate magical spaces. A pillow stuffed with Thyme prevents nightmares. Wear a sprig at funerals to shield oneself from the negativity and sorrow of the mourners.

***

St. Johnswort:

Hot/Sun/Fire

- Health, Protection, Fire, Strength, Love, Divination, Happiness.

*

Traditionally gathered at mid-Summer for increased magical potency. Herb to honour the Sun/Bel. Hang around the neck to ward off fevers. Pass the herb thru the smoke from the Midsummer fire; then hang it in your home as a protection. At one time this herb was held to the mouths of Witches to make them confess. Wear the herb to make you invincible and courageous in battles of all kinds. Strengthens the will. Fights depression and hopelessness, when used both magically and medicinally.

***

Verbena/Vervain:

Cold/Venus/Water

- Love, Purification, Protection, Money & Prosperity, Youth, Sleep & Dreaming, Healing.

*

Gathered on Midsummer Eve and soaked in water to honor the Sun. This herb is calming, relieves stress, aids prophetic dreaming, helps with insomnia;and promotes general feelings of peace. Used in love spells of all kinds, and is said to be a magical aphrodisiac. Used to attract wealth. Van Van is one of it's common names; as well as Juno's Tears and Herb of Enchantment.

***

Yarrow:

Cold/Venus/Water

- Courage, Love, Psychic Powers, Clairvoyance, Exorcism.

*

Yarrow is commonly used in love sachets and charms for marriage. It is said to have the power to keep a couple happily together for seven years. When worn as an amulet, it wards off negativity, and aids the disposition. Drink as a tea to enhance powers of prception and assist in divination.

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There are so many great herbs traditionally used during Midsummer, I could not possibly list and research them all. I have limited the list to the ones that I am familiar with through use... and here are a few more of my beloved Midsummer herbs that are awaiting their entries in the above listing.

*

star anise, chive, chervil, tarragon, parsley, hyssop, red heather, white heather, rue, meadowsweet, heartsease, feverfew, iris, rowan, fir, pine, aniseed, hazelnut.

Crystals & Gemstones for the Midsummer Solstice and Their Magical Uses

In addition to the crystals of the season, clear quartz, which has its own powers,
is the stone that can be substituted for all others, so it is included here. Amber is fossilized resin of coniferous trees that lived about 24 to 34 million years ago during the Oligocene epoch. Amber comes from the Baltic Sea.
*
Abalone are shelfish, and their shells are prize for their beautiful irridescent sheen, and used widely in jewelry.
*
Pearls are produced by mollusks, primarily oysters.
*
Although these aren’t stones, they are considered included among the others on the list for their many healing qualities and magical uses; as well as their Midsummer correspondences. Abalone: Moon & ocean magick, women's issues, fertility, protection, love, beauty, healing, increases creativity & feelings of self love, fights depression, psychisism
Agate: Protection, love, healing, strength, courage, longevity
Alexandrite: Love, luck
Amber: Beauty, love, healing, strength, protection, luck, attraction
Aventurine: Peace, healing, mental ability, money, luck
Beryl: Psychicism, energy, love, healing
Carnelian: Peace, protection, eloquence, courage, healing
Cat’s-Eye: Beauty, health, protection, healing
Chrysolite: Tranquility, serenity, healing, sleep, dispels negativity
Chrysopase: Success, luck, happiness, friendship, healing, protection
Crystal quartz: Psychicism, power, protection, healing, sustitute for all other stones
Diamond: Spirituality, peace, courage, protection, reconciliation, health, strength
Jade: Wisdom, protection, longevity, prosperity, love, healing, money
Lapis Lazuli: Joy, fidelity, psychicism, protection, love, healing, courage,
Moonstone: Divination, sleep, love, psychicism, youth, protection
Pearl: Luck, protection, love, money
Peridot: Health, wealth, sleep, protection, tranquility
Ruby: Joy, anti-nightmare, power, wealth, protection
Sapphire: Meditation, defensive magick, healing, power, psychicism, peace, love, money
Sardonyx: Romantic happiness, eloquence, peace, protection, courage, luck
Topaz: Protection, healing, love, money
Tourmaline: Friendship, energy, business, courage, peace, health, love
Turquoise: Friendship, courage, luck, money, protection,

Flowers of the Midsummer Solstice & Magical Meanings

Summer flowers, in all of their glorious colors, shapes and scents, are in abundance at this time of year; and are an easy and beautiful way to reflect the joy of this Sabbat. You can use this list as a reference for choosing flowers for your Midsummer altar, charms and spells; as well as for projects thoughout the rest of the year.

*
Anenome: Healing, protection from disease

Amaranth: Unfading love, immortality
Aster: Love, friendship, happiness,
Baby’s breath: Constancy, pure heart, innocence,
Chamomile:Prosperity, meditation, healing, happiness, children's magicks, innocence, fidelity, relaxing,

Carnation: Loveliness, pride, beauty, deep love, friendship, protection, energy
Chrysanthemum: Love, truth, cheerfulness, optimism, fidelity, friendship
Cockscomb: Affection, beauty, vibrance & energy
Daisy: Innocence, fidelity, simplicity, youth, friendship, happiness,
Fern: Protection, love, fertility, attraction of males, fights impotency in men, highly magical garden herb, especially potent during Midsummer, add fern fronds to bouquets of flowers to enhance their on magical properties.

Freesia: Innocence, intoxicating aura, beauty,
Geranium: Healing, protection, gentility, love, friendship, abundance,
Ginger: Love, money, success, power, vitality, strength, fortitude
Gladiolus: Sincerity, strength of character
Hawthorn: Protection,hope, magical energy, strength,
Heather: Good fortune, beauty, protection
Heliotrope: Clairvoyance, excorcism, healing, prophecy

Honeysuckle: Rustic beauty, devoted affection and love, familial affection, prosperity, abundance, clairvoyance,
Hydrangea: Gratefulness, sincerity, beauty, friendship
Iris: Message, compliments, beauty, purity,
Larkspur: Lightness, laughter, open heart, ardent attachment
Lavendar: Love, protection, purification, healing, relaxation, meditation, friendship, happiness, beauty,

Lily: Majesty, gaiety, beauty, sweetness, purity, fidelity,
Lisianthus: Thoughts, outgoing, mental powers,
Marigold: Love, clairvoyance, happiness, friendship, attraction, prosperity, abundance, healing,

Morning glory: Affection, transience of life,
Pansy: Love, innocence, friendship,

Peony: Protection, excorcism, breaks enchantments,

Poppy: Fertility, prosperity, consolation, happiness, pleasure, dreams, intoxication, meditation, clairvoyance, prophecy,
Rose: Love, fertility, clairvoyance, healing, beauty of youth, respect, unity, grace, gentility, gratitude, reverence
Snapdragon: Protection, breaks curses, helps to see people's true intentions,

Sunflower: Happiness, joy, mirth, friendship, blessings, vitality & health, abundance, fertility,

Water lily: Purity of heart

Yarrow: Love, clairvoyance, excorcism, fidelity in marriage, happiness, wards negativity, increases intuition and powers of perception

Midsummer Desert Sun Ritual

Midsummer Desert Sun Ritual

~Source Unknown

*
Anoint your third eye with a citrus oil, such as orange, neroli, or lemon.
Say:
I enter this sacred space with the brightness of the sun in my heart. I am surrounded by the glory of the sun, inside and out. Blessed be!

Smudge your sacred space. Place some sand in an incense burner and light a block of incense charcoal. Sprinkle a bit of lemongrass on the charcoal and waft the smoke over the sacred space using a white feather.

Say:

*
I cleanse and purify this space with the essence of the sun. This space is cleansed and purified, ready for my use. Blessed be!

*

Cast a Circle with a red candle.Starting in the south, walk deosil around the Circle, carrying a lit candle.

Say:

*
I cast this Circle with the holy element of fire. Let this Circle be a blazing wall of protection, guarding me and keeping me safe. Let none but good enter here. Let none but good go from here. So mote it be.
* Face South and say:
I call the blazing heat of the sun, Noon time. Fiery desert lion, I claim your strength! Be here and be welcome!

Face West and say:
I call the warm waters of a sun-warmed lake, Evening. Warm waters of the hot mineral springs, I claim your healing powers! Be here and be welcome! *
Face North and say:
I call the searing sands of the desert, Midnight. Land of sparse barrenness, I claim your ability to burn away unnecessary details!

*

Face East and say:
I call the hot desert winds, Morning. Warm chinook winds, I claim your ability to blow away the chaff in my life!

Raise your arms and say:
My Lady of the Sun, Ameratsu, Sunna; My Lord of the Sun, Ra, Sol, I call upon you to help me illuminate my life And show me my strengths. Blessed be!

*

Light a red candle and place it in front of a mirror. Sit where you can gaze into the candle, and have the flame reflected back to you in the mirror. Gaze into the candle and say:

*
I ask the power of the flame and the power of the sun to illuminate my life and show me the hidden strengths within. So mote it be!

*

Watch the movement of the flame as it flickers and dances. Let the flame carry you into a light trance. Clear your mind of all extraneous thoughts. If stray thoughts try to intrude, just dismiss them. Just concentrate on the play of the fire.

*

When you are done with your meditation, take a few minutes to write down the things you learned from your trip in the desert. Snuff the candle as you say:
I thank the power of the flame and the light of the sun for showing me my strengths. Go with my gratitude. Blessed be!

Raise your arms and say:
My Lady of the Sun, Ameratsu, Sunna; My Lord of the Sun, Ra, Sol, I thank you for helping me illuminate my life and showing me my strengths. Blessed be!

*

Face South and say:
I thank the strengthening power of the sun, Noon time. Fiery desert lion, I claim your strength and I thank you for showing me the hidden strengths within. Go with my blessing and my gratitude. Hail and farewell!
Face West and say:
I thank the healing waters of the sun-warmed lake, Evening. Warm waters of the soul, I claim your healing powers and I thank you for showing me the hidden strengths within. Go with my blessing and my gratitude. Hail and farewell!
Face North and say:
I thank the searing sands of the desert, Midnight. Land of strong insights, I claim your ability to burn away unnecessary details and I thank you for showing me the hidden strengths within. Go with my blessing and my gratitude. Hail and farewell!
Face East and say: I thank the hot desert winds, Morning. Fresh purifying winds, I claim your ability to blow away the chaff in my life and I thank you for showing me the hidden strengths within. Go with my blessing and my gratitude. Hail and farewell!

*

Picture the Circle melting into the Earth, being absorbed and turned into healing energy to heal the Earth and all the creatures on it. Say:
I thank and dismiss this Circle of fire. Let this Circle of protection now melt into the earth, to be transformed into healing energy for the earth and all of the creatures living here. Go with my blessing and my gratitude. Hail and farewell!

Crafting For The Sabbats ~ Crafty's Summer Solstice Simmering Prosperity Potpourri ~ Litha & Midsummer Solstice Recipes ~

Crafty's Summer Solstice Simmering Prosperity Potpourri

*

This simmering potpourri recipe integrates the fiery, solar symbolism of this Sabbat with elements of seasonal magick. The act of simmering the potpourri, (Earth), in liquid, (Water), over the (Fire), releases it's scent, (Spirit), into the (Air), in a perfect herbal alchemy.

*

*

Spices of fire, flowers of the tree,

Roots of the earth, bring prosperity to me.

Fruits of gold, herbs of the sun,

Energies of the season, all become one.

Abundance now rains down upon me

Filling my life with wealth and prosperity.
*

Oranges: water element, ruled by the Sun, prosperity, attraction, golden fruit of abundance and wealth,

Lemons: water element, ruled by the Sun, prosperity, attraction,

Ginger: fire element, hot, ruled by the Sun, prosperity, stimulates the energies to bring wealth quickly,

Chamomile: water element, hot, ruled by the Sun, prosperity,

Honeysuckle: earth element, hot, ruled by the Jupiter, prosperity, attracting money, 'sweetens the pot'

Cinnamon: fire element, hot, ruled by the Sun, prosperity,

Cloves: fire element, hot, prosperity, ruled by the Sun, money drawing, stimulates the energies to bring wealth quickly,

Jasmine: earth element, cold, ruled by Jupiter, prosperity, 'sweetens the pot',

*

~Before you begin preparing the potpourri; take a moment to ground and center yourself; set your intent, and infuse each of the ingredients with their purposes for this spell. Visualise the comingiling energies of the Earth, Sun and your own self pouring into the ingredients to be later released into your life.

*

~Fill a large soup pot with spring water (or pre-boil tap water). Set it on the stove to simmer.

*

~Spike the lemons and oranges with whole cloves, (the more the merrier!); and slice a few peices of ginger root.

*

~Place each of the ingredients into the pot to simmer. As you do this; visualise yourself (the pot) being filled with incredible abundance & prosperity. As the empty space is filled, picture the types of abundance you seek. See your bills marked "Paid"; your wallet full of cash; your refrigerator & pantry stuffed to the gills with healthy foods; yourself as comfortable & relaxed in the knowledge that you & your family have 'enough'; see the things you would like to purchase, yourself on vacation- whatever prosperity means to you.

*

~As you stir the pot (deosil/clockwise), chant the little rhyme (or one of your own) while you visualise intense golden light pouring from the Sun into your pot, and then 'seal' it in.

*

~Now, ground yourself once again, and go about your day; knowing that the spell is busy flooding your life with prosperity and abundance from the universe. Each time you go to stir the pot, add a bit of water, or just smell the delightful aroma- strengthen your prosperity mind movie.

*

~When you are finished with the batch of potpourri, pour the contents onto the earth, or into your compost pile- and give some of that abundance back to the earth. (If this is impossible for you- due to location or circumstance, you can always pour the liquid into the sink, and dispose of the solids in the garbage- but I like to dispose of my spell items with the same care and intention that I create them. At the very least, visualise the energy going down the drain & back to the earth.)

*

Enjoy!

~Danae <(:o) aka 'Crafty'