Happy Anniversary!!

Happy Anniversary to Stay-At-Home Witchery!!

The blog has been going strong for 2 years now. There is no sign of slowing down either. Actually, this witch right here is now an official writer. WildStar Forest will be published and out in January of 2014. I will post a link to it as soon as the website is up and running.

I have never done something like this before and am semi nervous about an article I've written being posted. Funny, I know, considering that I have been blogging for 2 years now. There is just something about being paid for your work that makes me anxious. I never feel as if my work is good enough. I am my own worst critic.

Back to the blog... I have some ambitious plans for the blog this year. So long as I get my computer up and running there will definitely be a few changes. All for the better, I promise. I want to have a Q&A section for people to get to know and learn more about my lifestyle choices. I'd also like to finish some sections and pages of the blog that have been neglected due to the fact that my personal comp is STILL busted.

As for today's entry, I want to focus on personal issues that I am working on resolving. It has nothing to do with New Year's, I don't believe in resolutions. I believe in actions. My problem right now though is that I have a friend who for quite some time was so negative that I just could not deal with it anymore because of how much stress I had to deal with in my own life. I told her as much and basically shut her out of my life until I was able to get myself in a better place. My problem is, now, I am not sure on how to bring her back into my life.

I made it perfectly clear that I did not want to lose her as a friend. I just couldn't deal with her problems and my own. Negativity breeds negativity in my opinion. My husband had lost his job, I had become very ill, and the stress of the holidays was overwhelming. My question to you dear readers is, 'How do I reconnect?'. One thing I have learned on this journey of mine is to not be afraid to admit you don't know everything and that it's ok to reach out for help.

Well, I'm reaching! What do I do??

Brightest Blessings my dear readers!!
  )O(

This time of year...

I get asked a lot about how I deal with this time of year and how my family and I celebrate our holidays. 

We celebrate both Christmas and Winter Solstice in this house. Our tree and decorations cover both holidays. Solstice is more of an immediate family celebration while Christmas is a far bigger event that includes a host of extended family. We don't shirk either holiday and we definitely do not have an issue mixing the two together. 

This is my least favorite time of year but only because of the stress that is put on everyone I know. I enjoy Solstice more only because it's more intimate and meaningful. It's not about who gets the biggest box or the newest version of whatever gaming console came out that year. It's about what Christmas should be about, family, love, and the celebration of the birth of a God. 

I still sing Christmas carols to my boys as well as solstice songs. I try to integrate both holidays together. Since we just moved into our own place we are still creating our own traditions and working out the kinks. It's an ever evolving process, just like our faiths. One tradition we never skip is writing down blessings for friends, family, and ourselves to be burned on Imbolc. It's something we started 2 years ago and thoroughly enjoy.  Since Daddy doesn't work late nights anymore I am really hoping that he will join us this year. 

Speaking of Daddy he went out of town for work recently and came home with a present for me. A beautifully aged set of antlers. Could not be more appropriate considering I will be switching the main altar over at the solstice to honor the rebirth of the God. I was super excited. 

Also, I submitted my article to WildStar Forest Magazine! I'm very excited. If you have any questions that you would like answered by me, please send them to groveofthewildstars@gmail.com!

Well I've been going and going since early this morning. I need to get some rest. I've been sick since my birthday earlier this month. It's been a very rough winter thus far and my lungs are NOT happy with me. 

Brightest Blessings Readers!
      )O(

New Developments!

There have been some interesting developments in this Witch's household!!

I was given the opportunity to become a regular columnist for a new magazine called Wildstar Forest. It will be an advice column for the day to day life for the average witch. I'll be dealing with issues such as: how to introduce children to the God/desses, what to do if your family doesn't approve, and the like. Plus, I will be answering questions from my readers (blog, Facebook, magazine, and in even the in person question).

This is an amazing opportunity for me. I was beyond floored when I found out that I would be writing steadily. Not going to lie, I almost vomited! I was so excited and terrified at the same time.

Daddy lost his job 3 weeks ago. I'm not going to lie, it has been a little rough. Wish it didn't happen right at the holidays. Although, I'm so happy he's finally out of there! I hated that place. He came home miserable. Went to bed miserable. Woke up miserable. He was never there for the kids either. It was rough on all of us. This was a good thing... (my new mantra).

The little bakery business that my mother and I have got going is doing really well! We have orders all the way into January of next year. Not looking forward to the Christmas rush, but the money will be worth it. Especially right now. At the moment we are still trying to figure out how to pay bills and manage Yule/Xmas. Something will work itself out. ^_^

Well my darling readers... I have cookies that need baking! And here are two links, one for the magazine I will be writing for and the other for our bakery. We ship cookies and cupcakes, too!

Wildstar Forest
https://www.facebook.com/WildstarForest


Bout Time to Bake
https://www.facebook.com/BoutTimeToBake

100th POST!!

My fellow readers, it has reached that time! We have reached 100 posts! Now, I know I said I was going to do a give away on the 100th post, but life has a way of getting in the way of the best laid plans. So... the give away has been put off for a bit. More than likely, until after Yule. Now... to get down to what's been going on in this witch's household!

We will start with the youngest of the bunch, Mr. Chubs. In August/September we spent 5 days in the hospital with little man because of a MRSA infection that needed to be operated on. He's had one since, but it was no where near as severe and was caught well enough in time to save him from going through another surgery. Other than that he is as healthy as a horse and continues to be my living room terrorist! He's walking, talking, reading, balancing on one foot (that was a hoot to watch, let me tell you!),  using the big boy potty intermittently, and all around being a rambunctious little boy.

Now, for the Eldest... he is currently enrolled in something called AWANA. It is a Christian bible study thing for kids that happens every Wednesday. His Grandmother asked if it was ok to enroll him. It's a 2 hour program where they get to meet up with other kids, play games, and yes... bible study. Every time he comes home and tries to figure out how what he learned could have something to do with my Gods and Goddesses. He hates that they try to brainwash the other kids, but doesn't say anything when he's there. In a way, I am glad he's learning other paths. I am very proud that he still chooses to have pagan roots. He's also doing very well in 5th grade. 

Big news time! Daddy and I FINALLY got married on Oct. 10th. Just a very small thing at the courthouse. No one knew but our witnesses. Not even The Eldest knew until I picked him up from school that day 30 minutes before it happened. It was the hardest secret to keep EVER! I am very happy though, we both are.

Also...I have opened the RavenFang Grove. It is a place for everyone to come and learn about what it is that I do, teach, and discuss. Not going to lie, I have some of the greatest students a girl could ask for! It is a secret group because there are those who are not ready to come out of the broom closet and some who just wish to learrn more about different faiths/religions. The group is open to anyone who is open minded but must ask to join. I also take on personal students who are looking to delve a little deeper than what the grove offers. All you need to do is ask. Every lesson plan is created per student, there is no one right way for everyone to learn. I usually ask for background and what you want to get out of your lessons. If you are interested you can email me at ddastyle@gmail.com or go directly to 

• https://www.facebook.com/groups/ravenfang/

Oh yea... one more thing to add. I went to the 3rd annual Witches' Bazaar on Staurday and met some wonderful people! I am going to do a whole page devoted to vendors and my reviews on said vendors. Please check them out. They are selling quality goods and are beyond some of the sweetest people I have met!

Let's talk Gods....

Recently, I have realized that majority of my practice has become pretty Dianic (for those of you who don't know, that means the focus is solely on the Goddess seeing the God as a mere consort). Prior to the past year or so I have always believed in a strong balance of power between the two. 

Hestia

Within the past year I have been gifted to learn of my Matron Goddess, Hestia. The story of how she came to me is very personal and very few know it. Maybe one day I will feel comfortable enough to share it on here, but as of right now I do not. (Dear readers please don't take offense.) She has been with me now for over a year and I have had no inkling whatsoever of a Patron God. 

I would like to bring my practice back into balance, but the longer I am with Hestia the further and further away I get from that balance that I once had. 

I've done research and looked up ways to use divination and meditation to find him. I feel as though once I find my Patron God my practice will fall back into balance, and perhaps my life will follow suit.

The Green Man

There are a few that I feel slightly drawn to, Cernunnos, Odin, and The Green Man. Odin has the most draw for me, I am deeply in love with Norse traditions and beliefs. Recently, I found out that I have Viking connection in my past, so that may have a little something to do with it. 

Regardless, I am still searching. Not that I mind, one of the things that I love about my path is that it is ever evolving, just like the earth around us.

On that note, I bid you all sweet dreams!

Brightest Blessings 
          )O(

Education

I can not tell you how many people I have had to explain this to. Including my family members, friends, and close relatives. 

The question I get a lot is 'Do you really believe in magick?'. Thanks to  modern media there are SOOO many misconceptions about what REAL magick is. Of course every time I answer with a firm and resounding YES! I believe and experience magick all the time. 

I've even broken it down in terms of quantum mechanics for the really skeptical people. And almost every single person I explain it too walks away with a better understanding of what it is I practice and do. Even more surprising, most embrace and accept me for who I am.

So the real question is, "How much should you explain to a non-pagan?"

My go to... as much as they are willing to take in given whatever your time constraints! Most have no real basis for what we are, what we do, and even think we slaughter animals on the regular. Not saying that it doesn't happen, but I personally (and every witch I know) do not.

The more our practices are de-mystified to others the more accepting I have found that they are. Yes, there are still some things that I hold sacred and refuse to share, such as actual spells, rituals, and certain rites. 

My question to you is what are your thoughts on education of non-pagans?

Well, it's getting late and I truly am exhausted.

Blessed Be my wonderful readers!
      )O(

Amazed...

I am completely blown away by the out pouring and resounding affect that my last post has had on my precious readers! Truly, I feel blessed beyond words to know that something so very near to me has touched so many of you. 

One reader spoke up and mentioned how she is shunned because of who and what she is. This post is dedicated to her and all the others who have dealt with such judgement.

I used to spend all the energy I had inside me just to hide what I was and what I believed. It wasn't until 2 years ago when Daddy and I moved into our new home that I could be 100% authentic! What I had come to realize is that all that energy I spent hiding who I was wasted. It manifested itself as depression and stress. Believe me, stressed Momma Witch is NOT someone you want to be around. 

I am one of the lucky ones, I'm not really "shunned" by my family. However, I do have to deal with the constant "oh it's just a phase", "You'll come back to Christ one day", and my personal favorite (via my grandmother) "You're still a Christian, really."

My mother lives by a don't ask, don't tell policy. It works for her and keeps her happy so I don't push it. Because when it comes down to it...my Truth is personal to me and I'm not about to force it on someone else.

I have come to realize that outside validation is NOT needed. It is greatly appreciated and accepted, but it's not required. I am who I am. And damn it all, I am proud of the woman and witch that I have become. 

Even if you are not of the pagan path, be proud to stand tall and say these are the things I believe!

Stand Proud my readers!
Brightest Blessings to you all!
            )O(

I know, I know...

It's been quite some time since my last post. My apologies, I have been super busy and then there was a 5 day stint in the hospital with the Baby while he had minor surgery (which I just don't feel like talking about). But he's all healthy and back to being my living room terrorist!

Today's focus (as long as I don't get off topic) was sparked by a Facebook post in a group that I belong to. It asked, in essence, how you came to believe/practice the way you do and the judgement that followed. I know I have glanced over this topic in a post when I first started this blog a little over a year and a half ago, but I never really went into detail (at least I don't think I did). 

It started over 2 decades ago, as I sat there listening to our bible lesson on Christmas and I remember thinking to myself that it was a boring story and why do I care what happened a bazillion years ago. I was a pretty precocious child. I felt no sense of wonder and awe like the kids around me did.  

As the years went on I began to question more and more of what they were telling me. They never really had any answers and just danced around the questions like the Mexican Hat Dancers. By the time I was a teenager I had had a complete disconnect with the "One and Only God". I gave the pastor of the church a horrible time in Catechism simply because I was questioning and debating him on everything. I was drawn to witchcraft on a purely research based level at this time. I had to learn everything I could about it. 

But being from a very Christian family I tried my damnedest to not be the black sheep that I was turning out to be. When my grandmother died ( I was 14) Everyone around me drew comfort in the fact that she was "with God now". But in my heart, I knew I'd see her again in another life. It wasn't even a question in my mind. 

After her death I began to devour anything and everything I could about multiple world religions. I studied for years and years, monotheism, polytheism, paganism, Hindu, Santeria, Hoodoo, Voodoo, Buddhism, Druidism, and a host of ancient religions. I felt lost in a void, missing a huge part of myself, being that I am a very spiritual person and I KNEW answers were out there somewhere. But I was still trying to be a "good Christian" and force myself into a belief structure that I just could NOT find faith in.

I was 18 when I stopped going to church. And I was about 20 when the pastor basically ex-communicated me (I was also kicked out of a Theology class in college for asking too many questions and debating the professor). *insert shrug here* I didn't care. I had read all the books on Christianity that he had given me and had 10 pages of questions that he simply couldn't answer. So, I started searching for somewhere I belonged. I knew it was out there. I went to temples, synagogues, mosques, you name it. I immersed myself in each religion hoping to find what was missing. All the while all my research kept coming back to different forms of paganism and the occult.    

I was about 24(ish) when I finally found what I believed to be true. I sat back one day with all these different research books and I realized that every single religion had the same basic principals with some variances. That was when I discovered my Truth. Every religion I studied had something that rang true with me. From that, I created my own "religion". Choosing a religion "buffet style" (as my previous pastor called it). I don't call what I practice a buffeted religion. I claim myself as an eccletic pagan who practices the art of witchcraft. 

My Goddesses are sacred to me and they showed me the way. I don't include Gods in this just yet because I have not connected with any specifically, but I do believe there are Gods, many in fact. I don't believe any religion is right or wrong. My belief is that you MUST find what is true to you. Hence the reason I call my path "My Truth". What works for me doesn't have to work for you or even for the rest of my family. 

As for judgement, I don't hide the fact that I am a pagan. Nor did I come right out and tell my family that I was. Well... that was true up until a few weeks ago. My family was having a religious debate and I gave my opinion. When asked what it was I believed I figured now was as good a time as any, and answered honestly, "I am a pagan". You could have heard a pin drop 3 miles away. Then the conversation quickly switched topics to politics and I walked away with a smile on my face. It felt good to be true to myself and not hide behind a mask.

I am not afraid to be the black sheep or not fit in someone's mold. No one should be afraid of being themselves. It's hard to against family expectations, but others don't know what's best for you... only YOU know that. They can help guide you, but it's important to know when to follow and when to blaze your own trail. I've got a great machete and a compass forged by the Gods, I've got this! Do you?

Brightest Blessings to my amazing readers!!
                  )O(

How big is your plate?

Metaphorically speaking, of course.

I love a busy day. I try my best to get as much as I can done on my good, decent, and not-so-good days. My bad days... that is a different story altogether.

I am working with my mother on our baking business (shameless plug in 3...2...) You can check our work out at www.facebook.com/BoutTimeToBake. I clean my house daily. I have doctor appointments almost every week. I take care of our 2 wonderfully rambunctious boys. On top of all that I've taken on a student (while still teaching my eldest) and am in the process of growing my own coven.

With all that going on, my days are pretty full. I was offered a job this past weekend watching a friend's child full time, and during the summers it would be both her children. The money was a wonderful incentive, but I had to turn her down. I don't feel like I am mentally capable of watching her 2 kids plus my own. The stress alone would probably give me another nervous breakdown.

It was nothing against her kids, but I had to really look at my life and take into account my mental health, the stress level an extra toddler can cause, and how willing I was to stretch myself and what I was willing to sacrifice (one on one time with our kids, being able to have a bad day without it affecting anyone, ect.). In the end, with Daddy's blessings, I turned down the job. Let me tell you, it took a lot of soul searching on my part to say no. I felt horribly guilty because I could have eased some of the financial burden off of Daddy. We both agreed though that it was better for our entire family if we continued our life as it is now.

So, my dearest readers, how full do you let your plate get? How thin have you stretched yourself? And finally, if you are stretched too thin... what can you do to change it? Do you REALLY want to change it?

Think about it :)

Brightest Blessings!
          )O(

Food for thought....

One of my closest friends, that is not a strong enough word... Sister, has a blog called The Hedge Sister. It is listed under the Supporter's, Friends, and Helpful Links heading to the right of this post. For those of you who don't want to go looking for it, it is http://hedgesister.wordpress.com/ .

She touched on a topic that many people tend to look the other way on. The post was about the symbolism of the Halloween Witch and what she means to those of us who are, in fact, witches. I could in no terms put it as eloquently as she did seeing that just thinking about it makes my blood boil. The gist of the post (which I HIGHLY recommend taking the time to read) is about how during the Burning Times, women (men AND children as well) were arrested. Whole families brought in for torture and questioning to gain a confession or collect more "evidence" against said witch. 

Witches were usually older women who were herbalists and a little more outspoken, women who had an affair with a married man, or wanted a married man so she accused his wife of bewitching him.

These women went through horrendous beatings and sexual abuse, so their skin was various shades of green, purple, yellow, and of course black and blue. Their noses and fingers broken or mutilated  so they were crooked. Normally they were starved or fed things vermin wouldn't touch. Then after going through all that these holy men would parade them around the city in rags (if they were lucky) to humiliate them before burning the "witch" at the stake.

My Sister's post is far more well written and historically accurate. I truly hope you can find the time to read it. 

My point to this post is to show how we've taken something as serious as this moment in time and turned it into a fun costume choice on a holiday that is the most sacred to most witches. 

This image of the Halloween Witch is to be revered and remembered for all those innocents who lost their lives and families in the most tragic of ways. 

I am proud to call myself a witch. I hold my head up with pride when I claim it to those who do not know. I'm far from evil and am just as normal as the rest of you out there in cyber land. 

Jeez... I didn't mean for this post to become so depressing. When I read my Sister's blog it touched something deep inside of me. I cried as I read it to my family, picturing myself losing my children and knowing they were being tortured as many of those accused had. I couldn't keep the tears from flowing. 

I don't really know if I have a point or question to pose to you, my fellow reader. Just think on it. Think about how the world around you perceives you or your lifestyle. It's only been a short 200 years since this last happened...and already it's been forgotten by most.

Hug your loved ones tight.

Blessed Be.

)O(

What am I?

I recently watched a video blog by Rev. Ronald French. He was talking about how Wiccans when questioned always say they don't worship the devil. But rarely do they say what they are. I personally am not a wiccan nor have I ever claimed to be. The post made me think though...

What am I?

Certainly, I am a witch, I use magic, and I have multiple Gods and Goddesses. I am also a loving mother, devoted "wife", amazing cook and house keeper, and friend to those who understand my kind of crazy :)

Rev. French also talked about how Christians are good at forcing their dichotomy on other faiths. They love to point out that witches are devil worshipers because their religion tells them so. My path says differently. So to quote Rev. French, from now on my response will be "SHOW ME!" Show me where in MY FAITH it says that I'm worshipping devils.

Most people I have run into just don't know what my path consists of or how I live my life. I think that is partially why many of my followers here are Christian themselves. They are curious. The greatest thing you can do to strengthen your faith is to question. Learn what your faith is really about before devoting your life to it. I've studied for over 1 1/2 decades to find my way. And I still question and learn as much as I can every day.

I encourage the same from my children. And from each and every one of you to do the same.

Brightest blessings
            )0(

Summer Solstice

I had a great Solstice this year! It was slightly sad because the eldest was not with me to burn the blessing wreath that we have been working on since Beltane. On the up side though, my friend (and student) was with me. She didn't participate in any casting or prayers. But it was nice to have another with me.

That's right... I think I have forgotten to mention that I have taken on a student! It was in the (tarot) cards, and the opportunity presented itself. I feel funny sometimes thinking of myself as a teacher of magick. But it is really no different from teaching my sons, although with them it's more of an encouraging natural talent. Whereas teaching this young woman is more of helping her find her own connection and path to Truth. 

In a sense, I don't believe that magick can be taught. Magick is something you have to FEEL inside you and nurture in order to bring it out. I can teach her the technicalities, lore, and why a Sabbat is celebrated. But no one can teach magick. Just like you can not teach a person to grow, it just happens. Not something you can force into being.

On that note.... I have a Surprise Zombie Apocalypse Party to get together for tomorrow. The eldest turns 10 on Tuesday! And yes, to him, I may just end up being the best mom ever!

Brightest Blessings!!

       )O(

Inspired

Today's inspiration comes from a photo that a friend of mine posted on Facebook today!

How many of us truly believe that good things are on their way for us?

Even fewer of those people are patient enough.

And it is a rare few that reach the utter happiness of the "Best Things"

In all my years, searching, fighting, holding back, and finally coming to acceptance I have learned not only how to NOT give up, but also to believe. I won't lie, it's not easy and has taken LOTS of meditation and soul searching to find my self, my center, and the gumption to make those two things each a half of a whole.

I don't have the patience, yet. But I believe that it partially comes with age. I feel older than what I am...I still lack the patience part though.

Life is ever evolving. I'm not the same person I was 10 years, 5 years, hell even 1 year ago. I love that about myself. I'm all about growth. For me, my family, my children, and my garden :). It's not easy to go into the unknown and face a whole new world outside of your comfort zone. In the end... it is 100% worth learning who you really are and evolving that person!

Sometimes, it takes losing everything (which I have done) to learn that you don't like who you've become. You can either remain stagnate or you can grow that person into someone you can love.

I am working on the loving myself part again. I've gone through 3 rings of hell and back. But I'm still standing. I have an amazing support system, and I cherish them for being there for me.

Take time to really reflect and be honest with yourself. What you find may surprise you!

Brightest Blessings!
        )O(

Friend or Foe?

For the past 3 weeks or so... well, let me start from the beginning...

Three weeks ago I went in to check on the baby after he had fallen to sleep to make sure he wasn't suffocating himself in his blankets. The child is weird and likes to nest in the corner of his crib. If he doesn't have his afghans he won't sleep. Period. Anyway, the lights were on. Which was weird considering that it was daylight when we put him to bed.

After I checked on him I asked Daddy if he he had turned the light on since he put him to bed. He told me no and looked at me like I was crazy. I shrugged it off as the cat stepped on the remote to the lights.

This happened twice more when I knew for a fact that no one or no animal was in the room with the baby. So things were....weird.

Then one night around 3 in the morning, the baby woke up and started crying and the lights popped on! Daddy and I both looked at one another shocked. The cat was in the other room and the remote was on my nightstand next to me.

This has happened over and over again EVERY TIME the baby cries at night. I have changed the batteries in the remote. And it is only at night that this happens. If it was a short, it would happen randomly, right?! Not only when it's dark AND when the baby cries!

I don't get any negative vibe from whatever it is. I put way too many protective wards around the house for it to be anything dangerous. And I do NOT mind that it is there watching over the baby. Whatever it is, comforts him. He usually goes back to sleep right after the lights turn on. I DO mind that it's flipping the lights on full blast at 3am!

I've talked to a few people and they all have differing opinions. One of the suggestions I am going to take is to leave an offering to it and say thank you for watching out, but please stop turning on the lights when we are sleeping.

If anyone else has similar experiences or any ideas... let me know :)

Brightest Blessings Readers!
              )O(

Inbetween

On this day we are between Baby's 1st birthday (yesterday) and Daddy's ##th birthday (tomorrow). We had a great party for the baby. There were about 20 people so it was still small. One of my friends came over early to help out since Daddy had to work all day. I think everyone had a great time. After the family left we ended up having a small bonfire with a few friends. 

I spent 5 days getting the baby's cake ready. On the day it took me about 3 hours to put together but it was well worth it. The not so little caterpillar wound its way around a three tier cake with 22 cake pops. Every layer was edible, as well as all the food which I sculpted.

Instead of offering a variety of soda pop, we opted for a gallon jar of iced tea and one of lemonade. Daddy and I don't drink pop for the most part and we didn't want the Eldest to drink all the extra. We also offered bottled water.

All in all, I think everyone had a great time. I know that the baby did. He played with the older kids and spent a little time with the family too. There was a lot going on so he kind of stuck close to Daddy and his big brother because I was so busy running around like a chicken with my head cut off. 

Nom nom nom Cake pop!!

We have so many close for him, it's so cute to see him toddle around in them. He can rock a fedora just like his Mom and Dad! It's super cute to watch him drive around in his car while wearing it.

In other news in our household, Daddy's birthday is tomorrow and I have NO idea what to do for him. He and I aren't big gift givers when it comes to one another because we give gifts to one another throughout the year.  Besides, he has to work. So a nice candle lit dinner is kind of out of the question. I'll come up with something. I know he and the boys are supposed to be going fishing on Saturday, so maybe I will do something related to that.

Still up in the air about the giveaway situation... but I have a few ideas! Keep them coming though.

Brightest Blessings to my readers!

            )O(

More than I expected!!

Tomorrow is a big day for a little guy! The baby is having his FIRST birthday party! I'm such a happy and sad Momma all at the same time. I'm so proud of how big he's getting and how much he has learned in his first year, but yet terribly sad that he's not REALLY a baby anymore. I mean the little thing already can fit into 3T!!

Anyhow, we are not going all out or anything, this is something he will never remember and the parties are always more for the parent at this age to say "YEAH! WE LASTED A WHOLE YEAR WITHOUT KILLING OUR CHILD!" So we are keeping it simple (considering we have one kid who will be celebrating TEN!). The party is fashioned after the children's book The Hungry Catapillar by: Eric Carle

If you have kids and have never read it... FIND IT! It's an awesome book, I think I have like 4 copies from different decades.

Now, the party may be kept simple, but this child's cake.... is anything but. I have been working on this cake for almost 4 days now and it won't be completed until Sunday before his party. I will post pics when I finish with it though, along with pics from the party. 

Three quick side notes here:

1. I am thinking about doing some kind of give-away sweepstakes for my readers. Not sure what just yet, so if you have any suggestions, please feel free to comment below or e-mail me at mommazen@live.com.
2. I am now on Twitter! You can follow me @WitchMomma You have no idea how weird that is to say!
3. Lastly, I started a new Facebook group for my fellow readers so that you can get to know one another and share your own experiences and advice! Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mommawitch/ 

I do believe that is all the new info that I have for the time being!

Brightest Blessings!! (And pray it doesn't rain tomorrow please!)

           )O(

Everyday magick

The other day I was on the phone with my friend and we got on to the topic of her not practicing like she used to. I started to say the same thing before I realized that crafting and weaving spells and using magick is so common place with me that half the time I don't consider it using magick.

Let me explain, since I am of the belief that intent is the power behind magick. I view cleaning as a way to clear my house of negativity and bad energies, but its not like I spend three full hours thinking "I banish the negative". I listen to different chants and songs, dance, and sing my lungs out. All to fill my home with positive energy and love for my boys.

That's when I realized that magick can be both intentional and unintentional. Does is change the power behind it? I don't believe so. But what is your opinion?

Connections...

We make connections everyday. Between new people we meet on the street, the family and friends that surround us, and for some of us, the Gods and Goddesses that are in our lives.

I have a very deep connection to my Goddesses. I have not found a God that I connect with. My children, I try to not influence one way or the other. My eldest leans towards The Greenman. He hasn't really decided on a religious path yet. I think he may end up ecletic me, which would be my choice for him.

The baby...well he has many many years before he has to worry about studying. Although, I will be there every step of the way, supporting, guiding, and teaching.

I hope that they can find a connection with any deity like I have. Its important to me that I have spiritual children.

Have any of you felt or been so connected to a deity that you could feel their presence with you at all times?

Mystical Momma

Last night was the full moon. For many of us pagans that is a very special time of the month. And no, I'm not talking menstrual cycles either. 

Many of us cleanse our crystals and gemstones, change over altars, have full moon rituals, and ritual cleansings of our homes. Yesterday, I did all most all of those with a few new additions as well. 

Here is how my ritual went:

• I did a spiral dance to get the energy flowing
• Cast my circle
• Called out and asked for my Goddesses presences
• Hestia and I did a complete spiritual fire cleansing
• Inanna helped me with a chakra alignment
• Followed by a full cycle tarot reading with Hecate
• I shared the fiery energy that was filling me with my Spiral Sisters.
• I closed with offerings and asking for blessings for my family and all my sisters.
• I thanked the Goddesses and elements, and released them from the circle. 

Following all that, I charged and cleansed my stones/gems/crystals. 

Inanna's seedling offering

Every full moon and sometimes new moon follow a similar ritual. There are certain tweaks here and there just because each moon means something different to me. As you can see, I am quite ecletic in my belief system and have unknowingly become slightly Dianic without realizing it. It's more that my patronesses have no counterparts and I have never really felt any connection to a singular god. So until I find a patron, I will work with who I connect with.

And I just realized this is probably the witch-iest post I have written in a while. Well... enjoy and feel free to adapt my ritual to fit your own needs!

Brightest Blessings!!

        )O(

Creativity and the forces that drive us

The 5 Elements

Today I have had a fire lit under my bum! Let me tell you... I cleaned, knitted for a bit, and even painted! I have never painted in my life. So what brought on this sudden urge to paint? I have no clue. All I know is that I am very proud of the pieceS I created! 5 in total. They are all small pieces, no bigger than a snap shot. I felt so moved to do them today when I saw a frame that I simply could not resist.

Unfortunately, I could not get a pic to show the kaleidoscope of colors used in each piece. But the end result makes me smile. At first I wanted to switch the middle picture, until I realized that it was exactly where it needed to be. If you can visualize the center swirling out, it would hit each of the elemental pics right where they are located. 

So, what drove me to do something I have never done in my life before? I'm really not sure. Lately, I have been feeling like I am a funnel for different types of energy, as if they are testing me to see what I am capable of accepting and what I am not.

Current home is between my altar and workspace!

Also, I believe that part of this creative energy is coming from a few of my friends. I have some very very close sisters that are artistically creative in this way. I'm creative, but in a crafty way. I believe that they are "rubbing" off on me energetically and helping me to find parts of myself that I don't usually utilize.

Needless to say, I love finding new things to fill my time with and being able to share my talents with friends and family.  

My challenge to you is to try something that is completely new to you! So what if you fail at it. You may be brilliant. But regardless, you will never know unless you try. (Eww, way cliche.... but true none the less!)

New endeavors....

Perhaps.

A friend of mine and I had tossed around the idea of starting an apothecary type business. We both kind of fell away from it because of different reasons. Lately however, I have been revisiting the idea on almost a daily basis. 

It definitely would be internet based for both financial and personal reasons (although one day I would LOVE to own my own shop). I won't lie, I have a TON of things on my plate right now and I almost  feel like I'm too scattered to start this kind of project. Yet, at the same time, it would be nice to have something that I can do to fill the dull moments, the times I feel lonely, and also take some stress off of Daddy as well. 

I'd like some reader input on this one. What do y'all think? Should I take that leap now or wait it out just a bit?

Brightest Blessings!

      )O(

Laundry...

One of the wonders of the world because it NEVER ends!

I have tried every laundry soap under the sun. Both with and without chemicals. My and the baby's skin is very sensitive. We have to be careful what we use. I personally HATE petroleum based soaps. They make the clothes feel greasy, in my opinion.

So what is a witch momma to do? Make my own of course. Now the recipe I found was online, I just tweaked it a little bit.

All it takes is:

1 cup Borax
1 cup Arm & Hammer washing soda
1 5 ounce (shredded) bar of soap. I used Dr. Bronner's lavender scented bar soap

Mix all ingredients together and store in an air tight container. Use 1 tablespoon per load. 2 tablespoons if  the load is really dirty.

Price wise it works out to 5 cents per load vs. 21 cents for Tide. I use this soap and absoluty LOVE it!!! It smells great, works phenomenally!

Happy stain removal!!

Blessed Be
      )O(

(That is a 5 pound container and only a double recipe of laundry soap...just for reference.)

A true moment of peace.

The babe is asleep, Daddy is at a friend's, and the eldest is spending the night at his father's. Dishes are done and the house is clean. I'm sitting here next to the wonderful sounds of Carlos Santana's Black Magic Woman.

I could use this time to meditate, or better... workout. But no. I just want to take a quiet moment to myself and just enjoy the music. I think we, as a society, don't take enough time for ourselves. We jam pack our days full of activities. Not only for us, but also for our kids.

Think about it, when is the last time you sat down and did nothing. You may have to go way back.

Why is it looked down on to take some time for yourself and do nothing? I encourage it. Not just from mom to mom either. Children should have their down time too. The Eldest's is playing with his Lego. The baby sometimes NEEDS crib time in a quiet room. Daddy....well, he sleeps :).

Challenge to my readers.... take time for you, even if its only 10 minutes.

Brightest Blessings!!
        )O(

Dough Day!!

Today is going to end up being a super busy day for me, so today's post is going to short as well!

Today, The Babe and I made play dough. Well, I made it, he just sat in his high chair giggling while I got covered in flour. There are many recipes out there for making the stuff. I prefer to make it using the cooking method. I think it lasts longer and has a better consistency.

Here is the recipe I use:

1 cup of flour

1 cup of warm water

1/4 cup of salt

2 teaspoons of Cream of Tartar

1 teaspoon oil

food coloring of your choice

Mix all ingredients in a medium sauce pan. Stir over a medium heat until smooth, a ball of dough will form on your spoon and it will have kind of a clear look compared to the uncooked stuff. When all your dough is cooked, take it out of the pan and knead in preferred food coloring. I also add essential oils to match the color of my dough. This time around I used about 5 drops of lavender oil.

This recipe makes a decent sized batch. For smaller children you could even divide it into to two. Hope your children AND you, enjoy this quick and easy recipe!

Brightest Blessings!

     )O(

I Just Want to Scream.

Being a stay-at-home-momma is one the best "jobs" I have ever had! I love my children, my home, my animals and my life. But even I have those moments when something gets spilled and the dog is being a pest, and dinner is burnt, and ect. ect. and then finally I just have had enough. I have barely slept in a week. 2 hours a night really doesn't count as sleeping... that's a NAP! The babe is teething and all my parents  out there know how fun that is!

I reached a breaking point today... so I just went into the basement and screamed and screamed until my throat hurt. Know what happened next? I felt better. It didn't change anything that happened through out the day, but it gave me an outlet for all the pent up frustration that I was dealing with and did NOT want to take out on my family. 

Everyone needs an outlet. My brother writes music, my dad hangs out at the sailboat, I have too many to list, and Daddy, well, he plays video games and geeks out with the guys. The baby gets crib time if he needs a break from stimulation, and the eldest, he vegges out in his room or builds legos in the basement. 

Now before I hear any comments about how meditating will make it easier to deal with stress.... I meditate all the time, but being severely bi-polar with no sleep makes it REALLY hard to zen out. 

My whole point to this blog was to show to everyone (because I've been getting e-mails about how I seem like I have a fake family because we are always so hunky-dory happy) that we have our bad days too. I just don't put my home-life problems out on blast like a lot of people seem to do now adays. There is a time and place for things. We all fight, we all get angry, but we have all figured out ways to deal with it. 

Take the time and figure out the best way to handle your frustration and anger. It will help you, and everyone nearest and dearest to you. Don't be afraid to talk it out. 

Or in my case today.... scream your lungs out!

Blessed Be!
     )O(

By the way... felt good to actually TYPE this one out! I borrowed a friend's computer. 

Just being me.

Now, I have never been able to be the person I was growing up. I had to make everyone happy around me. I went to church on a weekly basis, smiled as I felt like I was breaking apart, and pretended the best I could to be a selfless compassionate person.

Truth is... I am none of those things. Since I have discovered who I truly am, I have never been happier in my life. Not just discovered, because I always knew who and what I was... now I just don't have to hide it. I cry when I'm hurting, I refuse to acknowledge any Christian teachings as my own beliefs, and yes, I AM a practicing witch.

Being as such, I have had this feeling for well over a year or so that I am supposed to be guiding or teaching someone. I have found that person. Now, I won't lie, in a way it terrifies me. To be responsible for someone else's spiritual care is something I take very seriously and have done at least 10 readings of all facets of divination to be sure that this is the way.

I would not be lying if I said I'm excited as well. The chance to guide someone to their own path is exciting.  If that way follows mine as well, I'd love to have someone to have with me when I do my rituals and such. Having my own coven has never been a goal of mine. I'd be lying if I said it wouldn't be kinda fun though. The only thing I miss from church is the community.

After having a "student" if it all goes well, I may open myself up to having more. We will see. If you are seriously interested though, please feel free to message me. Mommazen@live.com is the best way to reach me.

Brightest Blessings!!
           )O(

(Even my dog meditates! Lol)

Our Beltane

I wish I had pictures!! The kids and I had so much fun. Baby and I walked up and pulled the eldest out of school. We had a picnic in backyard. Followed by the story of The Battle of Summer and Winter, which was read out of the Circle Round book. I love that book!!

We also made offerings to the land and also shared some food with the faeries. Placed fresh flowers on the altar and made our wishes.

At end the day, the boys each took a milk and oat bath before snuggling up and wishing to be visited by the faeries in their dreams.

Oh, and I almost forgot the eldest also made a Green Man mask and I made braided flower hair wreaths for the baby and I.

Daddy and I celebrated Beltane in our own way ;)

We were going to have a bon fire but the boys had swim lessons and we just ran out of time.

It was the best Beltane I'd ever had thus far. I can't wait for next year!!

What's your favorite Sabbat?

Blessed Be
       )O(

Coming out day!!

I wanted to share my coming out story with everyone on National Pagan Coming Out Day. So, here goes...

It is no secret that I have studied religion since I was very young. I dabbled at being a Wiccan and witchcraft in high school. Six years ago I was blessed to meet a wonderful woman! To this day we talk regularly and are involved in the same coven.

She was the one who gave me the strength and courage to be who I really am, regardless of what family and friends thought of me. Not that I have ever been one to care much about what others think.

She has been my saving grace on many ways. I call her whenever I'm confused about a reading or need some reassurance. I sometimes doubt my casting ability, though since high school none of spells have gone awry.

The hardest part was telling family and there are still some members who choose to keep their heads in the sand about it. Which is fine with me. I'm not trying to change them.

I began my blog while pregnant in December of 2012. I love every ounce of energy I pour into this blog. It was started to show people that I am pretty much your everyday run of the mill mama!

Tomorrow.... I wish to share the amazing Beltane we had! Its too late tonight.

Brightest Blessings!
         )O(

Baseball and bread making

what's could those 2 things have in common? Well...both were accomplished today. There has been a huge influx of housework performed at my home the past few days! I decided a few weeks ago that I really needed to go back to the therapist. My life had hit a pretty rough patch and I could no longer cope on my own.

I'm not one who jumps to Western medicine, but I'd become a danger to myself. I am not afraid to admit that I have problems. I also know when its time to medicate. Let me tell you, I have not felt more like myself....ever.

I am able to do everything I used too. I don't spend all day on the couch because I just don't have the energy. I have started writing again, cooking REAL meals.

And now, I am sitting on a bleacher bench, my butt sore as hell, but I'm still enjoying being present in my kid's life.

Speaking of baseball, I'm excited for this season. Eldest has an amazing coach! This is going to be a good year. Gods willing :)

Well it is quite chilly... so blessed be my wonderful readers!

)O(

Let's talk about butts...

The Chubs came down with a terrible case of liquid poopy diapers. This lasted for almost 2 weeks. The end result was a horrible yeast infection and diaper rash. Of course the doctors gave him creams to fix it. I hate using chemicals when something natural can work just as well if not better. So... a friend of mine passed along her knowledge to me and I replaced conventional wipes with these. Let me tell you... both rashes were cleared up over night!

To make "Baby Butt Soap":

1 cup water
1 tsp Dr. Bronner's castile soap
5 drops tea tree essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil

Mix well.

Now I sliced up 3 xl t-shirts to make my wipes and I just wash and reuse them. But if you don't want the hastle of that, just use a sturdy paper towel.

I loooooove these wipes. They are the best wipes I've ever used. Not only are they great for his bottom, but amazing on the budget. The cost of making these wipes is about the same as 2 big boxes of wipes. If I don't use the stuff for anything but wipes, I'll have enough for almost 2 years.

Now, I dont mix the wipes with soap like some people do. I keep a container of soap and a container of clean clothes. And dip the cloths as needed. If I go out, I mix a dozen or so wipes with the mix and I bring a zip lock bag to store the dirties.

Oh yea... if you don't have a stock pile of t-shirts, you can also use baby washcloths. Just remember that you are going to be using these on a very sensitive area. If your child is prone to diaper rash, washcloths may be a little rough.

Happy diaper changing :)
           )O(

Easter Sunday

I know I've been slacking again on the postings. I've been really sick. Ostara came and went without too much going on in our home. The stomach flu and other child-borne viruses saw to that. I haven't even switched over my altar yet.

As with everything else though... it will just take a bit of time. I really need to acquire a new altar cloth for the spring season. I believe its the only season I don't have one for. The blue I use for the winter is so pretty I don't usually want to switch. That; and I haven't found anything that really shouts SPRING to me.

Daddy recently showed a co-worker of his a picture of my altar (apparently it was brought up in conversation) and he said it was completely NOT what he expected. I get this a lot from certain pagan groups a lot. I feel that each altar, of which I have 4, should be very personal and sacred to the individual. It shouldn't have to follow a mold or conform to anyone else's ideas.

Not surprisingly, that is also how I live each and every day of my life. I don't do things the way I'm expected to. I do things my way, the way that brings out my happiness. Not saying I never do things I don't want to do... this is real life after all.

And that brings me full circle, I don't personally celebrate Easter. I do it for my boys and extended family. But today is a bittersweet day for me. The eldest is with his biological father. Daddy and I were discussing it today, our family is always incomplete on these days. It just doesn't feel right to not have him with us.

Busy as bees and sick as dogs

The past few weeks have been rough in our home. I came down with the stomach flu. The following week the baby got it. Then the minute he started getting better big brother caught a cold and gave it to the baby... then me... then Daddy. Fun fun!

Aside from all the illness, we've been beyond busy organizing and repairing the house. It has been so gorgeous outside that the boys and I have been walking a lot too.

Oh yea.... I forgot to mention, The eldest and I have decided to take on a pretty weighty project. We are each going to do a 365 day creativity project. Each day we will do something different based on a common theme. The eldest will be doing his on the day to day life of a group of Lego stormtroopers. I am going to help him set up his very own blog for this and everything. (Link will be posted and promoted on here) My theme is going to be pagan based. I'm really looking forward to this.

It is really late... I haven't been sleeping more than 3 hours a night and its starting to catch up with me.

Brightest Blessings!!