MRS DARLEY

The Storm Moon

2012-01-24T01:43:00.001-08:00

The new crescent moon is now apparent in our evening skies and was known by the Celts as the storm or snow moon.
Although we may moan at a snow shower or the high winds, for the Celts, when food supplies were begining to run low, this time of year was still a far cry from spring. As such they would drum, chant and sing to appease the Gods and keep the cold weather and wild storms at bay.
Why not have a 'storm moon' celebration this week with plenty of drumming chanting and singing to appease the cold Gods of winter. Enjoy.
Read more in 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Wassailing on Old Twelfth Night

2012-01-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

The exact date of old Twelfth Night is the 17 January, but became the 5th of January after the calendar reforms of the C17. Today's celebrations however can be held any time between the two dates and this weekend sees many Wassailing celebrations nationwide. (check on line to see what's available in your area)
The word 'wassail' was first recorded during the early C14 and derives from the Saxon 'waes hael' meaning 'be whole'. Wassail was shouted as a toast whilst the drink known as lambswool was consumed which consisted of mulled ale, herbs and honey. A large goblet was filled with the drink and passed from person to person and accepted each time with a kiss.
In the middle Ages songs were written to accompany the drinking ritual;
'Wassail wassail all over the town, the toast it is white and the ale it is brown.'
So if January seems a little flat, why not celebrate and wassail with honeyed ale and song and may you all 'be whole' in the year ahead.

From 'Mrs darley's Pagan whispers

Welcoming 2012

2011-12-31T08:17:00.001-08:00

There are always mixed feelings about New Year probably because it is a time of beginnings and endings of hellos and goodbyes of releases and embraces.

Perhaps the forthcoming year carries with it more expectations than usual as so much has been written about 2012 in connection with the Mayan calander which, according to some, heralds the end of the world as we know it at the time of the Winter Solstice.

Many may find this prediction a frightening prospect, however perhaps this is time to let the old orders which have dominated our thinking for millennia, fall away and be replaced by a more liberal outlook which is inclusive and tolerant rather than restricting and dictatorial.

Perhaps the Mayans simply saw this rise in consciousness as a time when mankind would begin to recognise that beneath the colour, body, religion, nationality and sex of a person there simply lies a soul that is worthy of love, friendship and understanding.

May 2012 bring the gift of illumination into your world.

The Wolf Moon

2011-12-28T12:36:00.000-08:00

Although this month's new moon is now a few days old, it was once referred to as the 'Wolf Moon'. It was the first moon after the dark time and although the wolf was sacred to the Celts it was seen as a lean animal and represented a time of abstinance and suspension following the solstice activities. Although the ancients knew that the sun was gaining in strength they still recognised that the worst of the weather was yet to come.

From 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Boxing Day

2011-12-26T08:53:00.000-08:00

The term 'boxing day' entered our language in the Victorian era, although the custom it gives its name to originated in the C17. Apprentices would keep an earthenware box into which monetary gifts were placed and, at the end of the year when hopefully full, they would be broken open and provide the owner with a monetary treat during the festive season.

This term gradually replaced the saint's name to whom the day was originally dedicated - St Stephen.

'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

The Birth

2011-12-23T05:59:00.000-08:00

Beneath the sacred oak

Where the cold earth yields to slumber

And the only heartbeat

Is the sole call of the wild,

There lies a darkened hollow

Where our Mother lies in waiting,

Waiting for her labour

To bring forth the Solstice Child.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

Winter Solstice

2011-12-21T13:31:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow (22nd) at 5.30am marks the point of the Winter Solstice. The word solstice actually means 'the standing still of the sun' and for a few days following this event the sun appears not to move. On or around the 25th December however it gradually begins to stay for a moment or two longer in the sky and once again begins its journey back to full strength in the Northern hemisphere.

This is the time according to legend that the Holly and the Oak king do battle for the second time in the year, but this time it is the Oak king who wins and leads us joyfully towards the summer.

May the solstice bring you many blessings.

Taken from 'MrsDarley's Pagan Whispers

Saturnalia

2011-12-16T03:04:00.000-08:00

The Roman festival of Saturnalia fell on the 17th December and was a time when shops and schools closed, gambling was allowed in the public domain and gifts of candles were exchanged as symbols of light.

Groups of male friends would draw lots to see who would be crowned 'king' and this person was then in charge of wild party games - this was definitely a time of misrule and lasted between 2-7 days after the religious ceremony on the 17th. No doubt we can reinstate this ancient festival as an excuse to begin the seasonal festivities early!

Read more in 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

Mistletoe Magic

2011-12-14T05:10:00.000-08:00

Mistletoe has always been seen as the true magical feminine partner to holly's masculine. Occasionally however mistletoe has been referred to as masculine due to the fact that the white berries are symbolic of semen, whilst the red berries of holly represent menstrual blood.

Regardless of which gender, if any, you prefer it does not detract from the fact that the Druids considered mistletoe to be a gift from the Gods and as such it was highly revered and handed out to the community during religious ceremonies where it was referred to as 'all heal'.

Today its healing properties are recognised by homeopaths as it is used in the treatment of certain cancers. It is also a protective plant and if worn around the neck, is said to confer invisibility!

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

Striking a Balance

2011-12-05T06:41:00.000-08:00

As we look to bring seasonal greenery into our homes I will explore the myth and legend behind holly, ivy and mistletoe in the next 2-3 blogs.
An old Saxon tradition states that if you bring more 'he' holly into the home (without berries) then the man of the house will rule during the coming year, but if you have more 'she' holly (with berries) then the woman will rule for the following 12 months. Perhaps what we should all strive for is a balance between the two for sexual and emotional harmony?
Read more in 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

December skies

2011-11-30T22:59:00.001-08:00

December brings the year to a close and provides us with heavenly excitement.

The 10th offers us a lunar eclipse which is visible throughout Europe, East Africa, Asia, Austrailia, the Pacific and North America. The moon rises at 15.51 GMT and will appear above the eastern horizon already fully eclipsed as a dull red orb, but you will be able to watch the shadow of the earth uncovering it if the afternoon is clear.

The 13 and 14th bring the Geminids meteor shower, which many consider to be the best one as they can produce up to 60 multicoloured meteors per hour. Best viewing is in the east after midnight.

The 22nd is the Winter Solstice at 5.30am GMT. This is the shortest day of the year, the first day of winter and a celebration of the return of the sun. May the season bring many blessings.

The Oak Moon

2011-11-28T02:11:00.000-08:00

The new crescent is now visible in the night sky. This is the Celtic Oak Moon which takes us up to and beyond the Winter Solstice. This was an appropriate name for the December moon as it was the time that the symbolic battle between the oak and the holly kings took place and the oak king won, signifying the return to the light.

Oak trees were sacred to the Celts as many of their religious ceremonies were carried out in oak lined groves. This Moon completed the Celtic lunar cycle and personified strength, stamina, life, death and rebirth.

From 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Friday - The Sailors Dread

2011-11-26T02:30:00.001-08:00

For sailors, Fridays were once filled with dread, for they believed that witches reigned supreme on Fridays and as such could weald great powers over the waters.

The Bristish admiralty once decided to prove the absurdity of this superstition and so ordered the keel of a new ship to be built on a Friday, named the ship Friday, launced her on Friday and gave the command to a man called Friday. However, although the ship was new and sea worthy when it left port, neither it or the crew were ever heard of again!

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements'

The Season of Water

2011-11-17T02:28:00.000-08:00

Ours is a world dominated by water, from soft rains and still lakes to iced glaciers and flowing rivers. None however can compare either in size or temperament to the wild untamed oceans that surround every outcrop of land.

These vast bodies of water once provided the beneficial environment in which life began to develop and even today support the greatest variety of living organisms on earth, from microscopic algae to the largest living creature - the blue whale.

It is little wonder then that these waters were revered as sacred, a fact which has led to many Gods and Goddesses becoming associated with our seas and oceans.

The oldest of the water Gods was Pontus, produced by Gaea herself at the very edge of time. Gaea's later union with Uranus produced Oceanus whose power was inferior to none but Zeus. As time passed however the Olympians stamped their authority over both the earth and the waters, with jurisdiction of these being given to Poseidon, whilst Oceanus was guided towards retirement.

Read more: 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements'

Meteor shower

2011-11-04T02:46:00.000-07:00

This month brings us yet another heavenly spectacular, the first of which is tomorrow night (5th November) when the Taurids meteor shower peaks. There is a chance of some spectacular fire balls from around midnight to early morning, especially as the moon sets around 1 am to darken the skies.

Many of the planets are also in view including Mercury which shines at its best on the 9th, whilst Venus, Mars and Saturn are visible between the 9th to the 14th. One of the best meteor showers in 33 years due later in the month will blog with more details then, meanwhile enjoy the firewaorks and the shower.

Beauty comes in many forms

2011-11-02T06:53:00.000-07:00

We all revere youth and fresh faced beauty and spend thousands of pounds trying to recapture that which all too fleetingly flies away. What we often fail to realise however is that beauty is present in many forms - a well lined face - silver hair - a knarled and naked tree - a barren field of rich dark soil and the inner beauty of the soul. At this darkening time of year, when the light is fading and the earth turns to rest, rejoice and give thanks for the gifts of the crone.
The following is an excerpt from a Samhain poem in 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'. The book will tell you what happens next.

The Mermaid

Intermittent moonlight
Silvers her greying hair
And I become aware
That the woman I live with is ageing.
Upon a once perfect canvas,
Lines are worn
Where time has drawn
Its hand across her face.
I yearn for youth and beauty,
One to excite
And bring delight
To satisfy my longing......

The Birch Moon

2011-10-26T02:32:00.000-07:00

The new moon is due at 20.55 today and was known by the Celts as the 'Birch Moon'. It was under this moon, during the sacred festival of Samhain (now Halloween) that the journey of sacred inner awareness was practiced and was mirrored in the natural world as it too entered a time of rest and retreat.

The birch moon was seen to hold a promise of things to come as during this month the Samhain celebrations saw the dying of the old year and the beginning of the new. Birch was also seen as having protective qualities, a useful tool to see the old tribes through the dark days to come.

Read more: 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Preparing for Winter Ills

2011-10-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

With this beautiful autumn weather still warming our island, winter seems months away and yet we all realise that soon enough the cold will creep in, no doubt accompanied by coughs colds and flu.

The elderly and the vulnerable are offered the flu jab, whilst many of us wait until illness strikes before resorting to cold and flu remedies. This winter however, why not try to some good old fashioned remedies that won't harm your body, but which may help to prevent illness taking hold?

The number one remover of ills is the humble onion. Not only does it help build immunity (along with garlic) if eaten, but if cut in half and placed in a dish of water in each room in the house it absorbs germs and viruses in the air.

A bunch of rue hung over the doors and windows is also capable of purifying the air as will burning 3 drops each of juniper and tea tree essential oil in a little water.

For more information on healing Read 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Healing Wisdom'

Heavenly October

2011-10-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Another exciting month in the heavens is in store as the Orionids meteor shower explodes across the early morning skies after midnight on the 20/21st October. This is however a difficult shower to predict and may be visible any time between the 17 th and the 25th. It produces around 20 meteors per hour of yellow and green which often appear as fireballs.

Jupiter can be seen in the east from the 13th just below the moon as it sets, but on the 27th it reaches its closest point to earth, therefore through a telescope some of its largest moons may be visible.

It is a month which sees the end of British summertime as we move back to GMT and also one which heralds the end of the old Celtic Year at the festival of Samhain (Halloween) . This is a time to put to rest all that no longer serves us and one which offers us the opportunity to create a new and fertile space in which to live and thrive.

The Blood Moon

2011-09-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

Today sees the new moon in Libra, a time of balance and fair judgment. This moon was referred to as the 'blood moon' by the Celts as it was a time when the maternal qualities of the Goddess and in deed life itself was revered and honoured.
The Celts believed that the spirit of a person dwelt in his or her blood and as such the Gods were asked to strengthen the blood of the tribe before the harsh weather began. It was also the time when animals were brought in from pasture and certain ones were chosen for slaughter.
As we journey into the autumn may the blood moon bring you many blessings.
From 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Autumnal Words of Wisdom

2011-09-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

'Everyone is disappointed when the summer ends,' she mused, 'both seasonally and in life, but autumn can be quite beautiful, softer somehow and richer in colour.'
'And it gives us an excuse to light our fires,' I smiled.
She nodded, 'yes every season has the ability to bring a little warmth into our lives in one way or another.' She disappeared momentarily into the kitchen and returned with a jar of greengage chutney.
'Here's a little something to remind you of summer during the autumn to come,' she smiled. 'Nothing is ever lost as time passes, it merely metamorphoses into something as wonderful, or in some cases, into something even better than before.'
From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers.'

The Wine Moon

2011-08-30T02:53:00.000-07:00

The waxing crescent should just be visible tonight in the sign of libra. The next two days are auspicious for performing magic in connection with the arts, justice, partnerships, emotional balance, peace and love.

This new moon is the wine moon which was believed to be the moon blessed by the Gods and under which, after consuming copius amounts of wine, the Celts practised various methods of divination.

Raise a glass of rich red tonight and toast Dionysus.

Season of Fire

2011-08-15T03:22:00.001-07:00

We are entering the last month of the season of fire before the mellower times of autumn come into play.

Fire comes to us in many forms during our earthly journey. From the power of the mighty sun, to the gentle flicker of a candle flame, from the explosive nature of the volcanoe to the warmth of a winter fire and from the fury of a lightning storm to the magical effect of fire through water which provides the beauty of a rainbow.

These last days of summer encourage us to weave our magic in connection with job offers, career, new projects, law making, or indeed anything which requires passion and commitment for fire denotes change and speeds its arrival.

Fire

In flickering flames I flirt, flambyant, fleeting, gone.

In lava lakes I lie, languid, lambent, waiting.

In boiling blood I bide, boundless, bellicose, fervent.

All taken from 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements'

Bidding Farewell to the God

2011-08-01T03:31:00.000-07:00

Lughnasadh is upon us. It begins at sunset tonight (1st) and ends at sunset tomorrow. The word itself derives from the Irish Celtic God Lugh, who, in actual fact had very little to do with the corn harvest, but was a popular and heroic God often referred to as the shinning one and for whatever reason gradually became associated with the sacrificial aspect of the God.

Lughnasadh celebrates the beginning of the corn harvest, the last sheaf of which was thought to contain the spirit of the corn God. As such, the reaper who cut it down was considered to have taken the life of the God and it was not therefore an auspicious act to participate in. It therefore became general practice that when everything was cut except the final sheaf, that all the reapers would stand blindfolded in a semi circle and hurl their sickles at it, thus no one would know who had taken the Corn God's life.

Once cut however, the sheaf took on a different aspect altogether and was taken home by one of the reapers to be 'dressed', i.e. made into a human shape or tied with red ribbons and took pride of place at the harvest supper, sitting next to 'the master'. It was often known as a 'kern baby' and is where our term 'corn dolly' derives.

Simple corn dollies can be made at home and are still used by farmers today to bring fertility to their cattle. Fertility and abundance can however come in many different ways and should you decide to make your own dolly, even if it is simply tying together a few pieces of corn with a ribbon, make sure you hang it by the hearth until the spring equinox, at which point the seeds should be scattered on the earth to bring you abundance for the summer.

Over the next couple of days give a moment of thanks to the Goddess for the corn which sustains us and to the God as his blood is spilled upon the earth to bring us fertility for the year to come.

The Night of the Black Moon

2011-07-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Today sees the arrival of the 'Black Moon', the second new moon this month, a rare event which only happens approximately every two and a half years.

Mrs Darley used to say that the Black Moon was the temptress, one who bewitched and beguiled and in recognition of this we made pentagrams (5 pointed stars) from twigs and twine in order that we might admire the cresecent moon's beauty but not become overwhelmed by her.

Tonight also sees the peak of the Capricornids meteor shower with some slow moving yet brilliant fire balls.

Enjoy all the gifts of the skies tonight.

For more information on moon phases and Her effect on the psyche read, 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Heavenly Delights

2011-07-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

The first meteor display of the summer season is almost upon us and, if the skies remain clear it should be quite spectacular.

The 28 and 29 sees the peak of the Delta Aquarids shower where up to 20 yellow meteors per hour should be visible in the eastern sky after midnight. The 29 and 30 brings the Capricornids shower which again are yellow in colour but travel much slower than the Delta meteors. They are less in number per hour but can produce some magnificent fireballs.

Meteors are beautiful to watch and despite our scientific knowledge of knowing what they are, still have the ability to fill us with wonder at this beautiful universe of which we are a part. Enjoy!

Healing Through Smell

2011-07-20T10:05:00.001-07:00

When asked which sense could be dispensed with if needs be, most people would initially opt for their sense of smell, but our sense of smell is invaluable to our safety, our appetite and our emotional and psychological wellbeing.

Without smell we would not be able to detect food that is off, smoke from a house fire, or gas from a leaking pipe. Without smell our appetite would be less regulated and we would only be able to distinguish between salt, bitter, sweet, sour and savoury, we would not have the added benefit of flavour.

Perhaps most importantly however is the fact that inhaling specific aromas, especially those which come from good quality essential oils can have a profound effect on the way we feel. Let's take lavender oil for example.

When we inhale lavender oil (two drops on a tissue or six on an incense burner with water is all you need) the Raphe Nucleus gland in the brain becomes stimulated which then releases the neuro chemical Serotonin into the blood stream which brings about feelings of relaxation, alleviates anger and aids restful sleep.

For more information on the healing powers of smell read 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Healing Wisdom'

Healing through Hearing

2011-07-13T03:11:00.000-07:00

The sense of hearing is the 4th sense to develop in the womb at around 16 weeks and is responsible for the sounds we hear at that time becoming deeply embedded in our subconscious. These include the sound of water, a heart beat and the human voice and, thereafter throughout our lives we respond either positively or negatively to these sounds according to our experience in the womb.

Sound therapists have discovered that although when these primordial sounds are either slowed down or speeded up, the conscious mind fails to recognise them, they are still recognised by the subconscious mind. When recordings of people speaking are doubled in speed and raised by 3 octaves they sound like birds and when raisedby 8 octaves they sound like crickets. Conversely when the voice is slowed down to twice normal speed and reduced by 3 octaves it sounds like dolphins, whilst at a reduction of 8 octaves it sounds like the ocean. Perhaps this answers the question of why we are soothed or ruffled by the sounds of nature according to our pre birth experiences.

'Every night I come to hear painted words fall from your lips upon the canvas of my imagination......' (The Troubadour)

All extracts from the brand new 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Healing Wisdom'

Heavenly July

2011-07-01T05:47:00.000-07:00

What an exciting month again in the heavens.

We begin today with the new Cancer moon and a partial solar eclipse which although only visible from Antarctica, nevertheless makes its effects felt across the world, as once again changes are called for in many spheres of life especially money and home life.

What makes this month extra special however is the rare event of a second new moon in the month on the 30th, something often known as a 'black moon'. The black moon, according to Mrs Darley in 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries' was the moon of bewitchment and temptation although as this moon falls in conjunction with Venus it has the potential to bring something very exciting into our lives.

Also in the latter part ofthe month two meteor showers will be visible. The 28-29th brings us the Delta Aquarids, whilst 29-30th brings the Capricornids.

What a wonderful time to be alive!

Summer solstice Fires

2011-06-21T01:38:00.000-07:00

Here we are on one of the most powerful days of the year when the sun is at His height in the Northern hempisphere. This is the day for lighting fires whether in the garden, in the hearth or simply the light from a candle flame in order to symbolise the abundant power of the sun.

In the 14th century a monk wrote of three types of fire made on mid summer's Eve:

A bone fire which was made of clean bones and no wood, which was quite pungent and said to keep dragons at bay. Bone fire gave us the word 'bonfire'.

A wake fire made of clean wood which was used to 'wake' by or socialise.

A St John's fire made of clean wood and bones and is thought to be where the word 'singe' derives.

Enjoy making fire magic tonight to bring luck, fertility and abundance into your life.

The Most Powerful Time of the Year

2011-06-14T02:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (15 June: 21.13GMT), heralds the full moon, just a week away from the summer solstice when the sun is at full power. In addition, the moon is in Sagittarius a powerful fire sign and, as though this wasn't sufficient enough, there is also a lunar eclipse.

The moon will rise eclipsed at 21.13. By 22.34 it will be half over and will finish at 23.45. It will be visible over Europe, Africa, , Asia and Australia.

This time of year is traditionally used to make powerful magic regarding abundance in every sphere of life. With the Sagittarian element legal matters, education, travel, faith and philosophy are all highlighted for favourable outcomes.

The eclipse, from the Greek, 'eklepsis' meaning abandonment, due to tribal people feeling abandoned by the moon as it turned bloodied in the sky, brings changes on many levels, but weave your magic and influence those changed to work in your favour.

First quarter Moon

2011-06-09T02:32:00.000-07:00

Today sees the first quarter moon in Virgo, a time of balance and equality especially in areas concerning employment, intellect, business and law.

This moon will rise around midday and set around midnight. It is now in the shape of a 'D' and many of the lunar seas become visible close to the straight line of the 'D'. These include the 'Sea of Serenity', closest to the top of the moon as we look at it, whilst adjoining it below is the 'Sea of Tranquility and below this is th 'Sea of Nectar'.

Luna

I am the nectar that sweetens your dreams. I am the rainbow that colours your tears. I am the cloud that carries the storm. I am knowledge. I am Goddess.

From 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

Eclipse Changes

2011-06-02T06:22:00.001-07:00

What a potentially exciting month June promises to be! The New Moon came into being at 22.15 GMT last night which coincided with a partial solar eclipse and although the eclipse wasn't visible from the UK, its effects are still felt across the world.

Eclipses and solar ones in particular, always herald change and this time that change is going to be particularly noticable for those born under an air sign, namely; Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. The good news is, that as the eclipse forms a harmonious aspect to Saturn, which sits within the sign of Libra at the moment, then hopefully these changes will be positive ones for all concerned.

Other events this month which give us great topics of blog conversation include the full moon which also heralds a lunar eclipse and is visible from the UK, the summer solstice and the mid summer fires on the south west peninsular of Cornwall.

Enjoy the sun as He moves towards the height of his power in the northern hemisphere.

Mrs Darley's Pagan Healing Wisdom - New Book Release

2011-05-30T03:35:00.000-07:00

When we become ill, we search for a cure, but a cure only supresses the disorder; it fails to address the underlying cause. When we search for healing we are encouraged to look beyond the symptom, in oredr to explore the emotional, psychological and spiritual imbalances, which underpin the illness.

Following several periods of less than robust health, whilst living on the wild and remote Bodmin Moor in Cornwall, my enigmatic next door neighbour, the wise Mrs Darley, invited me to embark on a journey of healing through the five senses of touch, smell, taste, hearing and sight. It was a journey that not only made me view life and death in a different way, but also altered the way in which I intereacted with my body. It ultimately became a magical journey that changed my life and touched my soul.

'Mrs Darley's Pagan Healing Wisdom' is due for release on 21st June 2011 and can be pre ordered from Amazon using the following link: http://www.amazon.co.uk/mrs-darleys-pagan-healing-wisdom/dp/1902578767/ref=sr_1_4?ie=utf8&qid=1306345143&sr=8-4

Or go to http://www.arcanus.co.uk/ and click on the Amazon link

Morris Dancing

2011-05-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

Morris dancers can be seen everywhere during the Celtic summer at various festivals throughout the British Isles. The Puritan writer, Philip Stubbs had something to say about the Morris dance, often referred to as 'the dance of the devil'.

'They bedeck themselves with scarves, strings and laces hanged all over with golde rings, precious stones and other jewels: This they tie abouteeither legge 20 or 40 belles with riche handkerchiefs in their handes and sometyme laide across their shoulders and necks, borrowed for the moste parte of their prettie Mopsies and lovying Bessies for busying them in the darke. These thyngs sette in order, they have their hobbie horses, dragons and other antiques, together with their bawdy pipers and thunderying drummers to sricke up the Devil's dance...'

The earlist records of Morris dancing date back to the 15th century with one school of thought saying that it originated from a court jester's dance whilst another states that it was a dance performed by Spanish Arabs, i.e the Moors, of which Morris is a derivative.

May Marriages

2011-05-14T03:52:00.000-07:00

The month of May is traditionally thought to belong to the Goddess and as such any man who was brave enough to marry during the month was said to fall prey to the lust and power of a woman!

The Romans too considered May an unlucky month for a wedding, due to the celebration of their festival of 'Lemuralia', at which sacrifices were made to purge each house of hostile spirits and therefore marriages were not considered wholly appropriate.

With the coming of Christianity, May became the month of the Virgin Mary and was a time associated with chastity and purity, therefore not a time to celebate the nuptuals!

If, however you are celebrating a wedding this month, may the Goddess smile upon you and bring you love, healthand happiness.

Healing the Hurt

2011-05-10T06:45:00.000-07:00

Someone I care about has been hurt this week by the words of another, as indeed we all allow ourselves to be at certain points in our lives. The key words here however are 'allow ourselves to be'.

I met my lovely husband on a course in London and, whilst on that course, one of the trainers decided to role play one afternoon with me as the advisor and she as the customer. To say she was like a dog with a bone was an understatement and after a while I just held my hands up and said, 'I just can't do this anymore.'

I felt upset although I tried not to let it show and at the end of the session my (unknown) future husband came up to me and said 'No one has the right to make you feel bad, unless you allow it.'

Those words have stayed with me through the years and so, to the person I care about, I say; 'let the abusive words be carried away by the breath of the wind.

The Joy of Beltane

2011-05-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

The season of Beltane is upon us, joyful, beautiful and life giving. Beltane was the festival that marked the beginning of the Celtic summer, it was a time when the animals were put out to pasture and was celebrated with acts of love, lust and fertility.

Many love chases were madethrough thewoods on Beltane Eve, an act which was referred to as 'going a maying'. Here lovers would spend the night in the woods, doing what came naturally to them and these liasons were often known as 'greenwood marriages'. The Puritan writer, Phillip Stubbs was quoted as saying:

'I have heard it credibly reported by men of great gravity, credit and reutation, that of fortie three score maids going to the woods over night, there have scarcely the third part of them returned home again undefiled.'

Even when more formal marriage rites were introduced, the rules were still relaxed at Beltane. Any children resulting from these unions were often called after spirits or legendary characters of the woods such as Jackson, after Jack in the Green, a derivation of the green man. Hodson, after Hod, a woodland sprite or Robinson after Robin Goodfellow from Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream or perhaps the legendary Robin Hood. Rudyard Kipling captured the essence of Beltane with these words:

Oh do not tell the priest of our art, or he would call it a sin: But we shall be out in the woods all night, a-conjuring summer in!'

May the season of Beltane bring you joy, love and hope.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

Springtime

2011-04-27T05:01:00.000-07:00

Springtime

Call to me

As the leaves burst for freedom,

Fly to me

As a bird on the wing,

Run to me

As the sun starts to strengthen,

Come to me

On a whisper of spring.

Dance with me

On a hill dressed in moonlight,

Swim with me

In the wild open sea,

Ride with me

Through the white mists of morning,

Drink of me

And set yourself free.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

The Magic of the South West

2011-04-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

Having just returned from a wonderful 6 days away in our camper van, I am finally getting back into the swing of writing again.

We visited some of what I consider to be the most magical places in England. Our tour began in Glastonbury, where we climbed the tor, attended the Wessex Pagan Conference (very informative speakers) and took a trip out to the National Trust's Lytes Carey Manor (a gem).

We drove down to Cornwall, spent the night on the cliffs overlooking Widemouth Bay and BBQ'd under a full moon and beside a full tide. Boscastle soon called and the following night found us on the cliffs above Bosinney Bay, which was stunning.

My ultimate indulgence however has to be spending two nights in the place that speaks to my soul above all others; Bodmin Moor. The wild landscape where I met Mrs Darley and took my first tentative steps along the magical path, will for ever be imprinted upon my heart.

The Element of Air

2011-04-13T04:58:00.000-07:00

The element of air is synonymous with the spring. According to Carl Jung, air symbolizes the thinking aspect, the logical mind. It allows us to think constructively and to build upon what has gone before. It encourages us to be analytical and base our decisions upon the basis of cause and effect, separating what we perceive to be good from what we perceive to be bad.

Jung believed that those with a dominant air aspect to their personality or the thinking types have the ability to step outside the box and consider things that others have yet to dream of. oo much thinking however can often mean that there is very little 'doing' and many bright ideas may never come to fruition if there is a lack of the fire element which brings passion and determination and the earth element which offers practical skills.

More detailed information on the elements and what they mean to the individual and within the realms of magic can be found in 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements'

Mother's Day and the Lent Lilly

2011-04-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

Today is Mother's Day, an occasion when in times past servents were given this day off in order to journey home and attend a church service with their mother. It was the only highlight for many in what was the long and sombre period of Lent. Today it has become a serious money making day, just as the majority of our well known festivals have.

I am not objecting to honouring our precious Mum's, but surely this is something we should do on a regular basis rather than on one day of the year when florists, card producers, and a whole host of other commercial outlets selling and producing feminine gifts put their prices up in order to cash in on the fact that we feel obliged to spend money.

Mum's are special and as such they often don't desire a fortune to be spent on them and a token gesture would be just as welcome. In this respect a bunch of daffodils or a pot of primroses are most appropriate, for both are said to represent and attract love.

Daffodils are also known as the 'Lent Lilly' and a vase of them in the bedroom are said to assist with conception difficulties, although do ensure that there are a minimum of 13!

Enjoy mother's day and just telling your Mum how much she means to you will be more precious to her than any expensive gift.

I'm just looking across at my Mum's photograph surrounded by daffodils and remembering how lucky I was to have her as my Mum.

The legend of the Violet

2011-03-28T02:32:00.000-07:00

Today in the woods I saw the first violet of spring, truely a gift from the Gods.

This fragile flower comes into our awareness via the Roman God, Attis, a story with a familiar Christian theme, albeit it predates Christianity by several hundred years.

Attis was born of a human virgin called Nana and sacrificed his own life to save mankind. He was crucified on a pine tree and, where his blood fell to earth the first violets were said to have sprung.

These flowers are often seen as a symbol of both sacrifice and regeneration. They are said to protect against evil spirits, calm frayed nerves and encourage peaceful sleep. It is worth remembering however that they are a protected species in the UK and therefore best admired and left in the wild.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers' by Carole Carlton.

The Binding

2011-03-23T03:05:00.000-07:00

Fresh on the wings

Of a March wind

You run.....

Wild and free

Yet bound,

With knowing

Yet unsure.

Feel the blood of life

Coursing through your veins.

Feel the animal passion

Rising in your loins.

Run, run, wild and free

For She is but a whisper away...

Know

That when you gaze upon Her face,

Her beauty will bind;

Your destiny beckon.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers' by Carole Carlton

Click on Amazon link atthe top of the page.

The Spring Equinox

2011-03-20T04:07:00.001-07:00

Today marks the Spring Equinox, a time when day and night are equal, but from which point we journey joyfully into the light of a northern summer, as daylight hours begin to exceed those of darkness.

This is a time when the Horned God of the wildwood and the maiden Goddess meet and she becomes pregnant with the Solstice child, hence the cycle of life begins again.

This is a time of joyous celebrations and so, as the moon still hangs full in the sky tonight, sit beneath it around a fire and toast the warmth and light that is to come.

The Super Moon

2011-03-19T04:43:00.000-07:00

Today marks the time of the full moon at one of its closest perigees to earth since 1993. It is being called a 'super moon' and its gravitational pull on the earth will be very strong possibly leading to extreme levels of tidal waters known as the 'Proxigean Tide'.

The full moon is in the sign of Virgo at 18.10 but moonrise will begin at 18.23 GMT. A Virgo moon indicates a time of dealing with employment, health, diet, business and the law, in fact anything which is earthly by nature.

For more information on all aspects of the moon click on the Amazon link to buy 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries'

The Ides of March

2011-03-16T04:15:00.000-07:00

Today is the 'Ides of March', the day upon which Julius Caesar was murdered in 44BC. Caesar was said to have visited fortune teller on his way to the theatre of Pompey and was told that harm would not come to him later than the Ides of March. Caesar laughed and said the Ides had already come, to which the seer replied that they may have come but they were not yet over. This was an occasion famously captured by Shakespeare in his play, where Caesar is told, 'Beware the Ides of March'.

In actual fact the Ides simply referred to a monthly date which was sacred to the Roman God of War, Mars upon which a military parade was held. The Ides fell on the 15th day of the months of March, May, July and October, whilst the remainder of the year's Ides fell on the 13th.

The Sumatra Earthquake and the Full Moon

2011-03-13T03:23:00.000-07:00

As discussed in the previous blog entry there is much evidence to suggest that the moon has the power to affect not only our tidal waters but also the earth itself and that many natural disaters such as earthquakes, volcanic erruptions and tsunamis occur around the time of the full or new moon or when the moon is closest (perigee) or furthest (apogee) away from the moon.

On 26 December 2004, the day of the full moon, the most powerful earthquake recorded for over 40 years occured off the north west coast of Sumatra, measuring over 9 points on the Richter scale and causing the planet to wobble on its axis. It had the enery of 23,000 atomic bombs.

The tectonic plate of India slipped 15 metres beneath the Eurasian plate causing a rupture in the earth's surface of some 1,200 kilometres below the sea. This resulted in 30 square kilometres of seawater being displaced leading to a tsunami that claimed 150,000 lives, with the worst country affected being Sri Lanka.

Can life ever be looked at in the same way again after experiencing nature in one of her most formidable moods?

For fascinating information on the moon and the elements click the link to Amazon at the top of the page to buy 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries' and 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements'

Earth Tides and the Moon

2011-03-11T09:41:00.000-08:00

Next Saturday sees the Moon in its full phase moving as close to earth as it has been for 18 years at a distance of only 356,577 km. This is known as being in perigee, from the Greek 'peri' meaning near and 'ge' meaning earth.

It is a known fact that when the moon is full, it has a dramtic effect on our tidal waters and this is accentuated when the moon is in perigee. What many fail to realise however is that the moon also pulls the earth and its tectonic plates, posing the question as to whether today's earthquake in Japan is the result of the moon's increasing closeness too the earth, albeit it is not yet full.

Opinions are divided amongst scientists, but surely it is more than coincidental that the 7th largest earthquake ever recorded has happened at this particular time?

Today reminds us that the power of Mother Nature is a formidable force and reminds us just how fragile humankind is. May the people of Japan find strength and courage in the days to come.

For more explanations of the moon, Her phases and effects on the earth buy 'Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries by clicking on the Amazon link at the top of the page.

A Pagan take on Lent

2011-03-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent for those who follow the Christian faith and is probably one of the most depressing occasions in the church calender. It was a day upon which the 'Rite of Ashing' took place, where burned ashes (usually obtained from last year's palm crosses) were sprinkled onto the head or forehead in the form of a cross, whilst the body was covered with sack cloth. It was supposed to remind man that from dust he came and to dust he will return.

The custom of ashing however, predates Christian times for an occasion of ashing is described in the Old Testament where Job covers himself in ashes and says, 'I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes.'

In 1548 Edward V1 decided to abolish the ritual, but replaced it with what could be described as an even more depressing church ceremony, where the priest would read sentences from the book of Deuteronomy, especially the bit where God curses sinners and states that he will take revenge upon obstinate sinners, such as the unmerciful fornicators, idolators, slanderers, drunkards etc. Following this tirade of abuse everyone was expected to kneel and repeat the psalm, 'Lord have mercy upon me O God.'

It is little wonder that we have trouble loving ourselves if we have been brought up within this regime of self hatred. I jokingly asked my husband what he intended to give up for Lent and his answer was that he intended to give up denying himself pleasure! Now there's a good Pagan soul!

Spring Cleaning

2011-03-06T09:28:00.000-08:00

Between the festivals of Imbolc and the Vernal Equinox, the time honoured ritual of spring cleaning was performed by our ancestors and still continues today in many homes around the world.

Today the strengthening sun makes us think of our spring wardrobe and so we tend to throw out our old winter clothes in favour of something lighter and more colourful. It is also a time when our thoughts turn towards decorating and gardening, two occupations which lend themselves to cleaning and tidying up.

For our ancestors however, the spring clean was to ensure that absolutely nothing was left in the house from the winter solstice celebrations. Anything that was found would be burned, which acted as a safeguard against hauntings in the year to come and also ensured that the house was ready to greet the spring.

Happy cleaning!

Well Dressing

2011-03-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

The origins of well dressing have been lost in the mists of time, however it has been suggested that it is a continuation of the Celtic practice of making offerings to the Gods, in exchange for answering a request or providing a blessing.

In Tissington in Derbyshire the wells are still dressed to this day, a tradition which stems back to 1350. At this time the plague had swept through Derbyshire, killing 50% of the population, however the people of Tissington remained healthy, a fact attributed to the pure well water and from that time the wells were dressed as a form of thanksgiving.

Wells of Fertility

2011-02-23T05:42:00.000-08:00

Wells have been used by the native people of these islands for thousands of years and many are dedicated to the once Irish Goddess Bride or the now Christianised, St Bridget. They have been used for a myriad of reasons, although many would visit Bride's sacred wells for a specific purpose; that of fertility.

As late as 1860, it was recorded that a group of women were seen dancing around St Bridget's well in Grampian, Scotland, whilst an old crone stood in the centre and sprinkled the dancers with water with which to sweep away their bareness. Another story from the same well tells of brides visiting the well the day before their wedding to ensure they would be fertile and bare children.

Holy Wells

2011-02-20T05:16:00.000-08:00

The Bronze and Iron Age people saw water as having supernatural powers, whilst its mysterious, dark depths were seen as the entrance to the underworld. People felt compelled to make offerings to the Deities, which they believed inhabited these sacred places, a fact that has been evidenced by many archaeological finds. Items such as jewellery, plaques, coins and animal and human remains have all been discovered in these watery places where springs mysteriously burst forth from the land and were no doubt the wishing wells of early man.

Springs and wells were also seen as places of healing, of communing with the Gods, of worship, of purification and divination. There was however, a darker side to some requests thrown into the waters as findings from the Celtic/Roman shrine of Sulis Minerva in Bath show, for here lay plaques that not only had for healing but many were inscribed with curses and hexes.

Perhaps little changes within the human psyche over millennia after all?

Romance, Love, Lust and Fertility

2011-02-14T11:54:00.000-08:00

The 15th February was the time when the Romans celebrated their purification festival of Lupercalia, when the priests of the Goat foot God, Pan danced through the streests dressed in wolf skin thongs and whipping the women with goat skins as an act of both purification and fertility.

A popular aspect of this festival was to invite single women to write their names on a piece of paper and place it in a box. The men of the town would then draw a name and subsequently take that woman as a lover for the forthcoming season. This tradition survived into Christian times, at which time the pieces of paper were called 'Valentines' after the Christian Saint and eventually became the valentine card with which we are all familiar today.

Enjoy both days of romance, love, fertility and lust!

Snowdrops

2011-02-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

Snowdrops have always been recognised as the first harbingers of spring, but folklore dictates that to bring them into the home is often asking for trouble.

If snowdrops are brought into the house before Valentine's Day, then any unmarried females will be destined to remain spinsters. Any hens that happen to be sitting when the flowers are indoors will not lay, whilst the milk from cows will be thin and the butter colourless.

Snowdrops are symbollic of the return of the maiden Goddess and for all their delicate appearence are strong and independant, both of which are necessary qualities for these first flowers which appear above the earth to face the harsh winter weather.

A visit from the Goddess

2011-02-08T05:54:00.000-08:00

In Ireland as late at the mid 18th century, Imbolc, or Bridget's night would have been of the utmost importance. The belief was that the saint would only visit the most moral of houses and bless all those within as they lay sleeping. It was vital therefore that suitable preparations were made before retiring.

An off centre cross made from rushes and known as St Bridget's cross was hung above the door as a sign of welcome, small cakes were baked as an offering and the last task would be to make up St Bridget's bed. The women of the house would take a box or a drawer and decorate it with ribbons before placing in the 'Bride doll', usually fashioned from cloth or sheaves, which was symbolic of the Goddess. Alongside the doll, was placed a phallic symbol such as a wand or stick of hazel, ash or birch, in the hope that the male and female energies would unite to bring fertilityand abundance to the home during the year. The ashes of the fire were then smoothed over, a candle lit and the woman of the household would call 3 times from the door, 'Bride is come. Bride is wecome.'

The next morning would tell whether the household had been blessed by a visit from St Bridget. If there was a footprint in the ashes on the hearth, or the mark of a phallic wand the house holders could rest assured that they had been blessed. If however, the ashes remained smooth the inhabitants knew they must have done something to offend their saint and would bury a cockerel at a place where the 3 roads met in order to appease Her.

The Daughters of Fire

2011-02-06T06:43:00.000-08:00

Upon the arrival of Christianity, the much loved Goddess, Bride became St Bridget, who took over the jurisdiction of Bride's shrine at Kildare by becoming the Abbess of the newly formed christian convent.

The original shrine was tended by 'the daughters of fire', who ensured that the flames, which burned in Bride's honour would never go out, a custom that was tranferred into christian tradition. The abbey's fire burned for a thousand years; it never died and never increased in ashes, a fact that was witnessed by Gerald of Wales in the twelfth century who described it in his writings.

Each night for 19 nights, a nun would stoke and watch the fire through the night, whilst on the 20th night the nun would leave logs beside it and say, 'Bridget, guard your fire, this is your night,' she would then leave the room and in the morning the logs would be gone and the fire would be burning brightly.

In the 13th century the papal envoy ordered that the fire be extinguished, but so enraged was the public that it was reinstated and continued to burn until the reformation under Henry v111.

Who was the Goddess Bride?

2011-02-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

As previously mentioned, the Goddess Bride has become synonymous with the midwinter festivals of Imbolc. We know she was the daughter of the Divine being Daghda and that she was the patron of healers, smiths and poets, but in order to have an affinity with her it becomes important to discover who she really was.

Some say Bride was brought up as a wizard and acquired the enviable skills of multiplying both food and drink and having the ability to turn her bath water into wine (a familiar story?). She was revered as the Goddess of light and her domain in the house was the hearth, where many an altarwas set up in her honour. She also presided over the harvest, livestock and was often depicted with a bird of prey.

Bride, rather appropriately, looked after brides on their wedding day and was often called upon to assist those in child birth as well as being the guardian of children.

It comes as little surprise then that when christianity came to these islands, the Goddess who was held so dear in the hearts of the Celts should be embraced and christianised by the early church. More later about her christianised role and her association with fire.

The Celtic Goddess Bride

2011-02-02T02:12:00.000-08:00

Today until sundown is the festival of Imbolc which has, overthe years become synonymous with the Celtic Goddess Bride (christianised as St Bridget).

Bride is often depicted as the gentle maiden Goddess, who's return brings a promise of spring at this lovely winter festival. This image however, belies her true character and tenth century Irish writings provide a far more accurate description when they say she was; 'The daughter of Daghda, the great God of Tuatha de Danann, a woman of wisdom.'

The Tuatha de Danann were thought to have been a race of Divine beings who inhabited Ireland long before the time of the Celts. Bride therefore came from good stock and was indeed a woman of wisdom, often depicted as a triple Goddess in so much as she was, and still is, recognised as the patron of healers, smiths and poets.

To simply celebrate this festival, light a white candle, bring an offering of craftwork, a poem or a promise of helping someone in need and sit quietly in order to give thanks to a Goddess who's return heralds the return of life to the earth.

The festival of Imbolc

2011-02-01T08:30:00.000-08:00

Sundown today sees the beginning of the Celtic festival of Imbolc, although in truth, the Celts did not have a fixed date, but celebrated in style as soon as the lambing season began. Imbolc was a time of the utmost importance to the Celtic tribes as the quality and amount of new born lambs meant the difference between survival and extinction.

The word Imbolc (pronounced 'im-olc') actually means 'in the belly' and refers to the stirring of life within the earth's womb. An alternative term for this festival is 'Oimelc', meaning 'the first flowing of ewe's milk, both of which are appropriate words for this exciting time of year.

When christianity came to these islands this festival became 'Candlemas' and commemorated the time when Mary went to the temple to undertake a purification ceremony forty days after the birth of Jesus.

Imbolc is still celebrated by Pagans and witches alike today and has become synonymous with the delightful Celtic Goddess Bride (christianised as St Bridget), who I will look at in greater detail as the week progresses.

Enjoy celebrating over the next few days. Decorate your home with white flowers and candles and arrange to share an Imbolc meal with friends or family to celebrate the return of the Goddess and the eternal hope of spring.

Searching for a soul mate

2011-01-26T03:43:00.000-08:00

I have been asked this week to provide a spell, which will help to attract a soul mate and lead to a happy marriage.

Whilst this is probably something many of us ultimately desire, there is no magic wand that I can wave in order to bring the love of someone's life hurtling through the ether towards them. The magic wand lies within each and every one of us. Only we have the power to manifest what we need in our lives.

In order to attract a soul mate, we have to radiate positive energy outward into the world, for what we give out surely shall return. We can't expect good things to come from negative vibrations. Remember the words in the song, 'Something Good', from 'The Sound of Music'? 'Nothing comes, from nothing, nothing ever should.'

Therefore we must work on ourselves first and foremost before we attempt to work our magic on others. It isn't enough to look good, we must be happy with who we are, deep down inside, for that's where positive energies radiate from. We need to look at what we do; does our work satisfy us? We need to look at our relationships with others; are they nourishing? Once we are happy with who we are then our energies will change and hopefully attract that elusive someone.

In the words of Ghandi: 'Be the change you want to see.'

Good luck in your quest.

Plough Monday

2011-01-12T03:08:00.000-08:00

The Monday following Twelfth Night was known as 'Plough Monday', as this was the time that farmers returned to work and the winter ploughing began. In actual fact very little ploughing was done and instead, the plough was dressed in ribbons and dragged around the streets, accompanied by people dressed up as goblins and witches and a man dressed as a woman who was referred to as a Betsy, Molly or Bessie.

The owners of the plough would ask for money from passers by and anyone who refused to donate would be at risk of having their garden ploughed up. Before the time of the reformation the money collected, was used to purchase a large candle known as the 'Plough Light', which burned on the church altar in order to bring good ploughing weather, a fruitful harvest and protection for the farmers.

These traditions stem back to Pagan times where sacrifices were made to the old Gods in exchange for a blessing before the new agricultural season began.

Endings

2011-01-05T04:09:00.000-08:00

Today is the modern festival of Twelfth Night, which marks the end of the Seasonal celebrations. This is the day on which all the decorations should be taken down to avoid the hauntings of hobgoblins and mischevious spirits throughout the coming year. (More on Twelfth Night traditions and ritual mid month, when 'Old Twelfth Night' is celebrated)

Many people confuse Twelfth Night with the Christian festival of the Epiphany, which commemorates the visit of the three wise men to Christ and therefore leave their Christmas decorations up until the 6th January. This however, would be the 13th night of Christmas, so please take your decorations down today!

Twelfth Night also marks the anniversary of a very personal ending for me, as my Mum died a year ago today and I miss her now as much as I ever did.

A Heavenly Treat

2011-01-03T03:11:00.000-08:00

Today sees the last day of the Roman festival of Kalendae, a time when gifts of sweet foods and coins were exchanged to bring luck for the following year, a good excuse no doubt for us to eat up all the sweet meats that are left over from the seasonal festivities.

In the heavens, the next few days are particularly exciting, with a spectacular meteor shower visible tonight and tomorrow in the area of the constellation of Bootes, although it will be best after midnight.

Tomorrow (4th) there will be a partial solar eclipse visible as the sun rises in Northern Europe, Asia and Africa and of course for this to happen it has to be a new moon, a time of new beginnings. Also tomorrow two of the largest moons of Jupiter are visible with a good pair of binoculars; namely Callisto and Ganymede.

What a heavenly treat! Make the most of it, enjoy the view and prepare for exciting times ahead.

Seasonal Fayre

2010-12-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

Regardless of our spiritual beliefs, many of us will be tucking into what we assume is traditional Christmas fayre tomorrow, including turkey and Christmas pudding, but perhaps surprisingly, these familiar foods are not as traditional as we might think!

During the 15th century, the wealthy ate boars head, which was trumpeted to the table to show its importance. Our ancestors too, held this dish in high esteem as it was revered by both the Celts and the Vikings.

During the 17th and 18th centuries boar was superceded by swan and peacock, then by beef, until the 19th century when the Victorians introduced turkey as a cheap alternative, although records show that turkey was served at Christmas as early as 1542.

Plum porridge was an old Christmas dish, which, over the centuries became thicker and thicker until it took the form of our now familiar Christmas pudding, which first appeared around 1670. It also became the hiding place for silver coins, the good luck symbols which were originally hidden in the Twelfth Night Cake.

Whatever your preference and whatever your path, may the returning light shine bright in your life.

'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers.'

Winter Solstice Blessings

2010-12-21T04:10:00.000-08:00

On this the shortest day of the year, the light of hope shines in the darkness and heralds a time of renewal and beginnings. The following is an extract from 'Mrs Darly's Pagan Whispers'.

'Leaving for work one morning just as it was getting light, a few days before Christmas, I could just make outthe silhouette of Mrs Darley sitting on her doorstep, wrapped cosily in a warm shawl. Thinking she was locked out, I asked if she needed any help.

She shook her head, "No thank you dear, I'm waiting."

"I see," I said, not wishing to ask for whom.

"I'm waiting for the sun," she said, answering my silent question. "This is one of the most momentous occasions of the northern hemisphere when the sun begins His journey back to full strength. Most people let it slip by without a word, without even knowing. You should stay a moment."

"I can't," I said, "I have an early meeting."

"So have I," said Mrs Darley, her eyes never wavering from the distant horizon.'

Solstice blessings.

Winter Solstice at Newgrange

2010-12-18T06:33:00.000-08:00

Next week heralds an exciting time, for the solstice, the full moon and a lunar eclipse all converge on the 21st, the day which heralds the return of the sun.

For the Irish Celts, the winter solstice was held in high esteem as evidenced by the magnificent burial tomb at Newgrange in the Boyne Valley in County Meath, a monument which predates both the pyramids and Stonehenge and which took 40 years to build.

For approximately 5 days around the winter solstice, the rising sun shines through a roof box positioned above the entrance to the tomb and penetrates the depths of the triple chambered tomb. This beautifully crafted burial chamber stands as a testament to the high esteem in which the ancestors were held, by the Neolithic people of Ireland.

Newgrange is well worth a visit however, if you intend to go specifically at the winter solstice, do take note that over 25000 people usually put their names down to be one of the 25 lucky people to watch the sunrise!

From 'Mrs Darleys Pagan Whispers'

Ivy

2010-12-15T02:03:00.000-08:00

Ivy is traditionally the feminine partner to holly, although some schools of thought take the opposing view and consider it to be masculine, due to its white berries which are said to be symbolic of semen.

Ivy is thought to be protective in nature and if grows on the walls of a house, those inside will be kept safe from misfortune. My Mum's name was Ivy and she certainly went out of her way to keep us all safe from harm.

In times past it was considered unlucky to bring more ivy than holly into the house at Yuletide, however, this was probably due to the fact that patriarchal society wanted more masculine plants in the home rather than feminine. Balance again, I feel is the key to harmony.

Read more in 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

Sacred Holly

2010-12-11T05:39:00.001-08:00

There has been much debate about whether holly represents the masculine or feminine principal. One school of thought considers it to be masculine because of its prickly nature and see the red berries as being symbolic of the sacrificial God spilling his blood upon the fields. Another school of thought considers it to be feminine, and that the red berries symbolise the menstrual blood of the Goddess.

The Saxons however, recognised that holly could represent both the male and female principal. They called holly without berries 'he' holly and holly with berries was referred to as 'she' holly. If more 'he' holly than 'she' was brought into the house, then the husband would rule the home for the following year, whilst if more 'she' holly was present then the wife would be in charge.

Perhaps we should all aim for a little of each in order to bring balance and harmony this winter solstice.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

The Oak Moon

2010-12-05T02:33:00.000-08:00

Today (5th December) welcomes the new Oak Moon. For the Celts this moon heralded the end of their 13 moon lunar cycle and personified strength, stamina, life, death and rebirth. The oak was sacred to the Celtic Druids as many of their ceremonies were carried out beneath oak lined groves and it was also the sacred tree of Jupiter, Zeus, and Thor.

Often struck and split by lightning, it is actually thought to protect those who shelter beneath it from the same fate. To the ancient Greeks the rustling of the leaves were thought to be the voice of the Gods, whilst to the Irish, the oak was one of seven 'noble' trees, often referred to as 'Jove's tree'.

After the battle of Worcester in 1651, Charles 11 hid in the Boscobel oak tree when escaping from his parliamentarian enemies. In celebration of his restoration to the English throne, May 29th was known as 'Oak Apple Day' in honour of the tree that had saved his life. It became a public holiday for many years when everyone was expected to wear an oak leaf out of respect. Many pubs were subsequently named the 'Royal Oak' and still carry the name today.

Preparation

2010-11-29T23:33:00.000-08:00

In the Christian calendar the period of Advent has begun. The word deriving from the Latin 'adventus', meaning 'arrival' and as such a period of preparation begins.

Sadly however, with so much emphasis on materialism, little thought is given to the true meaning of this period of preparation and people are more inclined to be buying food, presents and cards rather than giving consideration to any spiritual aspect.

If you follow the Pagan path, this is a time for rest. The Dark Mother withdraws her hand from the earth and all falls silent. Within the stillness however, we too can prepare. For it is here that the seeds of hope are sewn for new life whilst awaiting the return of the sun.

If you are forced to be still for a while, perhaps because of the early snowfall, enjoy this window of peace, for it offers you an opportunity to reassess your life path before the sun calls your soul to adventure.

Why we need to drink water

2010-11-25T07:45:00.000-08:00

We are all aware that we should drink water. Health magazines, newspapers and complementary therapists all advise us to increase our intake to around 6 glasses per day, but what is the reason behind this advice?

The human body comprises of millions of cells, each of which is filled and surrounded by a watery fluid. In a healthy, hydrated body, the water outside the cells is less concentrated than that inside, therefore allowing toxins to be drawn out of the cell through the process of osmosis. When the body becomes dehydrated however, the process is reversed and the water outside the cell becomes more concentrated than inside. This then interferes with the delicate process of osmosis, which ultimately leads to a build up of toxins, all of which can contribute to many serious diseases.

Happy drinking!

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

Avebury

2010-11-16T08:49:00.000-08:00

Avebury in Wiltshire is a feast for the spiritual senses, with so many fascinating sites within a mere stones throw from each other.

The mysteries of this beautiful landscape with its stone circles, avenues, long barrows and unfathomable mounds, all of which pre-date the pyramids, are truly awe inspiring. It is an area that draws you back time and time again, for it is here that the past lives and the ancestors whisper their heartfelt secrets.

The Henge shop is a treasure trove, the community run shop is a delight, the National Trust museums are excellent and Brian, who owns the little antique shop opposite the pub, is a true character and a gentleman.

Avebury is decidely a World Heritage Site worthy of its title.

Bonfires

2010-11-06T07:28:00.000-07:00

Many people mistakenly think that Bonfire night was brought about by the Christian authorities to overlay the sinister Pagan fire festival of Samhain. Bonfire night however is purely to celebrate the survival of the Houses of Parliament following the unsuccessful gunpowder plot on 5th November 1605.
In 1606 James 1 ordered that everyone should attend a church service in order to give thanks for delivering England from such atrocities and as the years passed the celebrations continued outside the church service and bonfires were lit upon which images of Guy Fawkes were burned to commemorate his assumed execution.
Guy Fawkes however was not sentenced to burn but was supposed to have been hung, drawn and quartered. He deprived the crown of its revenge however as he jumped from the high scaffold before the executioner came near him and subsequently broke his neck.

If you are attending a bonfire tonight, enjoy the festivities and the powerful element of fire.

Samhain

2010-10-31T10:10:00.000-07:00

A time of stillness of reflection and thanks before the beginning of the Celtic New Year and the continuing journey into the winter with the dark Goddess.

The Dark Realms

Through the mists of other worlds,
Through the veil between,
Come to me in dream and trance,
Come by means unseen.

Lead me through the barren land,
Where leaves and needles fall,
Lead me to the darkened heath,
Where ghosts and demons call.

Take me to the world beyond,
A world of stick and bone,
Take me to the shadow realms,
The dwelling of the crone.

Let me see the well of death,
The cauldron of decay,
Let me come to know the hag,
Once crowned the 'Queen of May'.

Wisest Hecate, dark Calleach,
Who bring us loss and pain,
Lead us through the door of death,
That we may rise again.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers' by Carole Carlton

May the Goddess bring you blessings this Samhain

Friday and the Sea

2010-10-23T02:41:00.000-07:00

Continuing the watery theme as autumn progresses, we will take a look at the dread with which many sailors face Fridays if they have to begin a voyage on that day.

It was thought that witches ruled supreme on Fridays and could weald great power over the waters which may explain why so much fear built up around what is, in actual fact, the sacred day of the Norse Goddess of Love and wife of Odin, Frigga.

The renowned poet, Lord Byron, shared all the superstitions of his fellow Scotsmen but although he recognised Friday as an unlucky day, he nevertheless put his superstitions to one side and embarked upon a voyage to Greece, where he died at Missolonghi.

The British admiralty attempted to prove the absurdity of this superstition and so ordered the keel of a ship to be laid on a Friday; they named the ship Friday and launched her on a Friday. They gave the command to a man called Friday and set sail on Friday, however, although the ship was new and seaworthy when it left port, neither the ship or the crew were ever heard of again!

Take care when you book your ferry tickets!

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

Wales and Mid West Pagan Conference

2010-10-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend we visited the beautiful town of Crickhowell in South Wales, where the Wales and Mid West Pagan Conference was held. What a lovely place and what friendly people. Thank you to everyone who made us so welcome. This is a part of Wales with which, until now, we were unfamiliar but it is definitely somewhere we will be visiting again.

The conference itself made for a very interesting day spent with like minded people and some of the talks were fascinating on subjects such as training in the craft & the Gods of the Greek/Roman sorcerers. The open and closing rituals were also beautifully performed. Bee's (and many others I'm sure) hard work made the day a great success.

Will most certainly look forward to next year's conference.

Ondine's Curse

2010-10-10T09:21:00.000-07:00

In German mythology the term, 'Ondine' was used as the proper name for a beautiful water nymph who fell deeply in love with a brave knight called Sir Lawrence. The couple married and, when making their vows, Sir Lawrence stated that his every waking breath would be a pledge of his love and faithfulness to Ondine. The couple were very happy and soon Ondine gave birth to a beautiful child. From this moment on however Ondine lost her gift of eternal youth and began to age. As her looks diminished so her husband's interest in her waned and one afternoon Ondine found her husband sleeping in the arms of another woman.

Enraged, Ondine reminded Sir Lawrence of his wedding vows when he said that his every waking breath would be a promise of his love and faithfulness to her. She went on to curse him by saying that as long as he stayed awake he would have the breath of life, but if he should ever have the misfortune to fall asleep then his breath would fail and he would die. Needless to say his life was dramatically shortened.

There is a medical condition called 'Undine's Curse', which is used to describe a rare disorder whereby the automatic control of breathing is lost resulting in the need for every breath to be made consciously. If the person falls asleep then this facility is lost and they die.

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

The Ondine

2010-10-06T08:34:00.000-07:00

Autumn is the season of water and symbollically is associated with maturity and a quietening of the spirit. It is protected by the Ondine, a fairy like creature who makes its abode in pools and waterfalls.

These enchanting creatures are born with the gift of eternal life but do not possess a soul and can only acquire one by marrying a human and bearing his child. In exchange for a soul the ondine loses the gift of eternal life.

Read about 'Ondine's Curse' in the next blog.

The Yew

Beneath the yew, beside the stream

Lies the land of long lost dreams,

Where through the mists of yesterday,

The lore of magic still holds sway.

Where naiads sing and ondines dance,

The human soul becomes entranced.

Beneath the yew, Beside the stream,

Lies the land Of long lost dreams

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

The Harvest Festival

2010-10-01T07:11:00.000-07:00

The harvest season began of course back in August with the harvesting of the corn at which point we gave thanks to our Celtic ancestors for the festival of Lughnasadh (see earlier blog). The later Saxons brought with them the festival of Hlaefmass meaning 'loaf festival' where the loaf made from the first cut of the corn was crumbled and placed in the four corners of the barn to ensure a fruitful harvest in the year to come and to protect the gathered crops.

When Christianity came to these islands the festival soon died out as it was seen as having nothing to do with the life of Christ. Therefore the church remained without such a festival until the year 1843 when the Reverend Hawker, the eccentric Vicar of Morwenstowe church high up on the North Cornish coast, reinstated the festival following a fruitful harvest after several years of failed crops, in order to give thanks to God.

As we sit down at our tables laden with food this autumn consider offering a silent word of thanks not only to our Celtic and Saxon ancestors but also to the Reverend Hawker for reinstating an ancient and worthwhile festival

Autumn Fairs

2010-09-27T03:56:00.000-07:00

As September was possibly the last mellow month of the year, many feasts and fairs were held around this time to take advantage of the weather and the abundance of food.

One popular type of fair was a 'mop fair' at which servants were normally hired for the coming year. Those wanting a job would line up and each one wear or hold a sign of their trade. E.g. a crook for a shepherd, a pot for a cook, a mop for a cleaner (hence the name 'mop fair'). If they were lucky enoughto be hired their employer would give them what was known as a 'fastenpenny' which was a gift of money to bind them to their new post at which point they were free to go off around the fair and enjoy themselves.

Enjoy the last few days of September and let's hope for an Indian summer to carry us into October.

The Autumn Equinox

2010-09-24T02:45:00.000-07:00

The equinox arrived along with the full moon yesterday (23rd) at 10.17 BST. From now on our world with descend further into darkness whilst the earth begins her period of rest and renewal following the gathering of the final crops.

The equinox is a strange time, it is unpredictable, brings strange weather patterns to our door and often makes us feel unsettled. When this is coupled with the effects of the full moon, be prepared for the unexpected.

'Gather, gather the last fruits of summer

Drink of their sweetness

And bathe in their juice,

Gather, gather the last fruits of summer

For winter is bindingAnd tightening her noose.'

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers'

The arrival of Jupiter

2010-09-20T01:08:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (21st September) Jupiter's approach comes closest to the earth and as such it is the best time to view both the planet and its moons.

In our solar system there are approximately 140 known moons of which Jupiter has the lion's share at sixty two, four of which are the largest around any planet.

Callisto: The outermost of the four and the most heavily cratered. It is thought to hold a body of water.
Io: The innermost moon and the most sulphurous and volcanic, with hundreds of eruptions at any one time. It also appears to have an atmosphere.
Europa: This has an icy surface which may cover liquid water.
Ganymede: The largest moon in the solar system being larger in diameter than Mercury and has its own magnetic field.

Resurrect your telescope and enjoy the view!

Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries will provide more detail on the planets and their fascinating moons.

The Element of Ether

2010-09-16T06:04:00.000-07:00

'The fifth element or ether, is that which surrounds every living thing. It is that which houses the seat of the spirit, that which holds the blueprint of the physical body before birth and that which is last to dissipate after death........I believe that when the soul incarnates into the physical body, the flame of life is lit and that is what I consider to be the spirit. To me, spirit is the essence of life that sits within the etheric body. It ignites at our birth and evaporates at our death......that is unless someone meets with a violet or unhappy end.......'

From Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements by Carole Carlton

Abbots Bromley Horn Dance

2010-09-04T09:26:00.000-07:00

September has always been the traditional time for feasts and fairs, with folk taking advantage of the last warm dry days before the onset of autumn and celebrating the earth's bounty with suppers and food fayres.
In Abbots Bromley in Staffordshire however, a very different type of public event is carried out every September called the Abbots Bromley Horn Dance, thought to date back at least 1000 years. Here six men carry reindeer antlers on their shoulders and dance around the whole village visiting all the outlying houses and local inns, having of course a sample of ale at each. The dance takes all day and they are accompanied by a motley crew of a male Maid Marion, a fool, a hobby horse and a boy with a bow and arrow.
Its origins are shrouded in mystery but suggestions include that it was once performed to ensure good hunting; that it was a dance to honour the sacrificial Corn God, or simply a harvest celebration which is said to bestow good luck upon all those who watch it.
It is normally held on the first Monday after the first Sunday after the 4th September but do check the web site to make sure as the date has been known to change on occasions.
If you miss the dancers going out in the morning however it's a long wait until they reappear late in the afternoon! There are stalls and a festive atmosphere in the village however and on a nice day it's worth a visit.
Read more in Mrs Darley's Pagan Whispers by Carole Carlton

The Element of Earth

2010-09-01T01:31:00.000-07:00

'Earth is our home. It is our Mother, our provider. It offers us deeply wooded forests, sheltered mountain caves, rolling hills, fields of corn and a plethora of animals and plants. It is the food on our table and the touch of someone's hand. The earth is always in a constant state of flux beneath our feet, confirming that nothing stays still and that the only constant is change. The earth element is the abode of the gnome and reminds us that we are flesh and blood and should not live our lives in a constant state of otherworldliness but should enjoy the pleasures of the senses of sight and smell, of hearing, taste and touch and in doing so give thanks to the Divine essence for allowing us this experience.'

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

The Element of Water

2010-08-27T04:19:00.000-07:00

'Water is in us and around us. We physically comprise of up to 70% water, whilst two thirds of the earth's surface is covered in this miraculous substance. W cannot live more than a few days without it and yet most of us do not avail ourselves of this magical liquid. Water heals and purifies, cleanses and soothes. Cared for by the elemental ondines, our oceans and rivers house a myriad of fish and mooluscs, plants and mammals, from the microscopic to the largest in the world. Beautiful clouds form from the oceanic waters and the falling rains quench our thirst. In our inner world water symbolises our emotions, whether calm and peaceful or turbulent and chaotic. This element enables us to feel on many levels, from empathising with others to experiencing the wonder of love and the bitter depths of despair.'

From Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements by Carole Carlton

The Element of Fire

2010-08-22T04:42:00.000-07:00

'Fire is housed within the sun, without which the earth would not be able to sustain life in its present form. It manifests in erupting volcanoes, in lightning strikes and is necessary in order for a rainbow to be seen. It is the abode of the elemental salamander and brings us the comfort of the domestic fire and the flicker of the candle flame, bringing both warmth and light into our lives. We are warm blooded creatures and need fuel with which to produce energy and heat to survive, too little and we become weak and cold, too much and we can experience skin eruptions and fever. Inwardly and symbolically fire manifests as anger, passion, determination and intuition, encouraging us to blaze our own trail and set the world alight with the essence of who we are'

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton

The Element of Air

2010-08-20T03:02:00.000-07:00

'Air is essential to life; it is our very breath, it gives us space in which to move, it is the wind that kisses our cheek, it is Nike; the winged Goddess of Victory, it is the abode of the bird, the bee, the moth and the bat. It carries words of love, songs of joy and the sounds of nature. It brings us light from the sun and the first smell of sumer, whilst in the depths of our subconscious it symbolises the realm of thought, inspiration and imaginings. It is purified by the sylph elementals and carries the seeds of our dearest hopes and wildest dreams.'

From 'Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements' by Carole Carlton. See http://www.arcanus.co.uk/ for more details.

Exploring the Elements

2010-08-14T05:04:00.000-07:00

Over the next few weeks my blogs will explore the four elements of air, fire, water and earth without which, life here on earth would not survive in its presernt form.
Each element has, throughout the ages become associated with Gods , Goddesses, elementals, legendary creatures, life, death, astrology, magic, alchemy and the psyche all of which offer a rich tapestry to unravel and explore.

Tread Softly

Sail lightly on the wind my love
Sail lightly on the wind
For here the Goddess breathes my love
Sail lightly on the wind
Dance wildly in the fire my love
Dance wildly in the fire
For here the Goddess lives my love
Dance wildly in the fire
Drink deeply of the lake my love
Drink deeply of the lake
For here the Goddess bathes my love
Drink deeply of the lake
Tread softly on the earth my love
Tread softly on the earth
For here the Goddess sleeps my love
Tread softly on the earth

From Mrs Darley's Pagan Elements by Carole Carlton available from Amazon or any good book shop

Perseids Meteors & Harvest Moon

2010-08-10T09:26:00.000-07:00

Today sees the birth of the new Moon in Leo, often referred to by the ancients as the 'harvest moon' so called because this was the time of the harvesting of the first fruits and the gathering of the grain.

It was also a time for practising magic, especially that which would protect throughout the dark months to come. Coupled with this was the gaining of wisdom and knowledge usually by some means of divination. Healing too was practised in order that the tribe and their animals would journey into the dark time in as healthy state as possible.

The new moon however is not the only event taking place in the heavens this week, for between the 12th and 14th August the Perseids Meteor Shower peaks and on a clear night we can expect to see approximately 60 meteors per hour shooting across the sky as long as there is little light pollution. It might be worth driving into the countryside for.

Enjoy the show!

Superstitions of the Corn

2010-08-05T00:11:00.000-07:00

In Pagan times the spirit of the Corn God or Lugh was thought to be housed in the last sheaf of wheat left standing in the field and when cut the God's life would be sacrificed, spilling his symbollic blood upon the earth to ensure fertility in the year to come.
Understandably therefore plenty of superstition built up around the cutting of this final sheaf and the reaper responsible for throwing his sickle at it was seen as taking the life of the deity. To avoid this somewhat inauspicious task, the Irish Celts came up with a solution which involved everyone standing around the sheaf blindfolded in a semi circle and hurling their sickles at the wheat. In this way no one would know who was ultimately responsible for the Corn God's demise.
Once cut however, the last sheaf took on a more positive aspect and was taken home by one of the reapers where it was 'dressed' either with a simple red ribbon to represent the blood of the God, or fashioned far more elaborately into a person or shape which became known by a myriad of names according to the region. The name that stuck however was 'kern baby', from which derives the more popular name of 'corn dolly' and has since become a modern day symbol of fertility.
Enjoy this Lammas season and may the year ahead be a fertile and happy one!

The Festival of Lughnasadh or Lammas

2010-08-01T10:55:00.001-07:00

Today at sunset (1st Aug) the festival of Lughnasadh (its Celtic name) or the festival of Lammas (its Saxon name) begins and lasts until sunset on the 2nd.

The word Lughnasadh is thought to be named after the Irish Celtic God 'Lugh the Light Bearer' as the word actually means 'the funeral feast of Lugh'. This refers to the fact that the male principal or God in the continuing cycle of the Pagan wheel, lays down his life and spills his blood upon the corn in order that the earth's fertility will be assured over the coming year.

Lammas on the other hand comes from the Saxon word, 'hlaefmass', meaning loaf festival and refers to the fact that the Saxons made a loaf from the gathering of the first grains with which to celebrate the harvest of the first fruits and honour their Gods. With the coming of Christianity this name was adopted by the church. Much folklore and legend abounds with regards to the harvesting of the corn and this will be outlined in further blogs as the week progresses. Meanwhile it may be time to make our own personal sacrifices by perhaps giving up a bad habit, or making donations of goods or time to a needy charity. It is however a time for celebration also, for out of every ending new beginnings always spring and this one heralds future fertility and abundance. So this week, make a corn dolly, bake a loaf or simply invite family and friends to celebrate the good things we all have in our lives. Enjoy!

Delta Aquarid Meteors

2010-07-28T01:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the Delta Aquarid Meteor shower, which at its peak will produce around 20 meteors per hour. Their speed will be moderate, giving you time to observe them as they will be bright yellow in colour. The only down side is that the moon is not too far off full and therefore its light will detract from the show somewhat.

The moon moves into Pisces today which means that this is an auspicious time for doing something good for those less fortunate, increasing your psychic abilities, exploring new spiritual paths and attempting to conquer any fears that hold you back.

Let's hope for clear skies and enjoy the show!

St james Day and the Horn Fair

2010-07-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

The 25th July marks the feast day of St James (brother of Jesus) and is also the Sussex Horn Fair, so called because one of the revellers wore a set of horns upon their head. The horns were thought to represent the Pagan Horned God often referred to as Cernunnos or Herne the hunter and were believed to bring luck and fertility to the wearer.

In Kent at the Charlton Horse Fair, (records of which date back to the 16th century) tell us that everyone who attended wore horns and ate rams horns made from sugar and gingerbread,

A similar festival takes place in Abbots Bromley in Staffordshire during September where a group of dancers all wear a set of antlers and dance their way around the whole village stopping at every inn on the way. This is a ritual that dates back at least 1000 years and is said to bring luck to everyone in the village who sees the dancers.

Regardless of whether you have access to a set of horns, this is a great excuse for a summer get together to celebrate the gift of male energy before it begins to diminish at the festival of Lammas early in August.

Taking a Risk

2010-07-20T09:11:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks before my Mum's death, in a rare moment of lucidity, she grabbed my hand and told me to take a risk. She said that during her life, whenever risk presented itself she had side stepped it. She said the first time she wasn't brave enough and the second time it was too late. I asked her in what way she would have liked to have taken a risk, but the moment of lucidity was gone and the secret of her obvious heartfelt longing was something she took with her on her continuing soul journey.

Her words however have echoed through my mind on many occasions since and I often think this was her parting gift to me. As a consequence I have tried to be braver in my attitude to life as a whole.

As Simone Weil said: 'The human soul has need of security and of risk. The boredom produced by a complete absence of risk is also a sickness of the soul.'

So take a risk, be brave and who knows what miracles might happen in your life.

First Quarter Moon in Libra

2010-07-16T03:26:00.001-07:00

The Wort Moon approaches her First Quarter phase and is half in darkness half in light. As such she is perfectly balanced between the poles of opposites, a time for bringing harmony into your life on all levels. If there have been arguments, hold out the olive branch or if your time has been consumed by too much work, take a day off.

For the next week the Moon gains in light and brings impetus to everything planned at the time of the New Moon. It's time to make the phone call, or write the email you promised, it's time to complete the job application form or to ask that special someone out. Seize the moment, live for today and move your life forward.

This afternoon the Moon moves into the sign of Libra, again the sign of balance in the zodiac. It is time to concentrate on partnerships, justice, peace and love in your magical practices.

May the waxing gibbous moon shine its light on everything you do.

Mid-Summer Flowers

2010-07-13T03:34:00.000-07:00

Flowers of all types abound at this time of year bringing colour, insects and aroma into our world. The classic summer flower however and one that is precious to many religions including Christianity and Islam is the rose, although they were revered long before either of these belief paths came into being.

Roses were sacred to the Roaman Goddess Venus and have been assocoiated with love for thousands of years. It was said that Cleopatra first made love to Mark Anthony on a bed covered one inch deep in rose petals and these fragrant petals have been scattered at wedding ceremonies for centuries.

Much legend abounds around the colour of roses and a Mediterranean legend tells of how the red and white rose came to be. The tale introduces a virgin who was falsely accused of a sexual deed and sentenced to burn. Her prayers however were so fervent that they quenched the flames at which point the unburned wood turned into white roses, whilst the charred wood became red roses.

In the 12th century the Virgin Mary was said to appear to St Dominic where she gave him the first rosary beads and each one was scented with the perfume of roses.

Growing roses in your garden are said to attract the fairies, whilst making a necklace of rose hips is said to attract love to the wearer.

If you don't have roses in your garden treat yourself to a bottle of rose essential oil and let its sweet aroma perfume your home this summer.

New Moon and Solar Ecipse

2010-07-09T07:35:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow (10th July) heralds two important events. The first is a total solar eclipse at 20.32 and although it will only be visible in the Southern Pacific, Easter Island and parts of South America, its effects will still be felt around the world.

Eclipses are often seen as harbingers of doom and gloom, however this one indicates a time of opportunity, realisation and an awakening to economic, environmental and humanitarian issues.

The New Moon at 20.40 is in the sign of Cancer which encourages us to enjoy our homes and gardens; not too difficult a task at this time of year. It is a time for family get togethers in order to enjoy the pleasures of eating, socialising, talking and listening to each other.

The July moon was known by the Celts as the 'Wort Moon'. Wort was an infusion of ground malt and was combined with yeast to make beer. It was only made at this time of year as the summer sun provided the warmth required for fermentation. Under the Wort Moon movements of the heavens were noted and predictions made.

Lady of the Moon,

Keeper of Secrets,

In many guises,

Through many lifetimes

Have I drunk of your infinite beauty.

I lift my eyes to meet your gaze,

And see life reflected

Through the timeless mirror

Of your cyclic dance.

(From 'Keeper of Secrets' : Mrs Darley's Moon Mysteries)