Monday Book Review; Red Rising

 

Joining in at Book Journey for this week's Book Reviews!

This last week I read the book Red Rising by Pierce Brown.  I was browsing through e-books on Barnes & Noble and found this on sale.  It's the first book of a Trilogy and the description caught my attention. 

 

http://redrisingbook.com/book.php

 

"Pierce Brown's relentlessly entertaining debut channels the excitement of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card.

"I live for the dream that my children will be born free," she says. "That they will be what they like. That they will own the land their father gave them."

"I live for you," I say sadly.

Eo kisses my cheek. "Then you must live for more."

Darrow is a miner and a Red, a member of the lowest caste in the color-coded society of the future. Like his fellow Reds, he digs all day, believing that he and his people are making the surface of the planet livable for future generations. Darrow has never seen the sky.

Yet he spends his life willingly, knowing that his blood and sweat will one day result in a better future for his children.

But Darrow and his kind have been betrayed. Soon he discovers that humanity already reached the surface generations ago. Vast cities and sprawling parks spread across the planet. Darrow and Reds like him are nothing more than slaves to a decadent ruling class.

Inspired by a longing for justice, and driven by the memory of lost love, Darrow joins a resistance group in order to infiltrate the ruling class and destroy society from within. He will stop at nothing to bring down his enemies . . . even if it means he has to become one of them to do so."

 

What can I say?  I LOVED IT!  If you liked The Hunger Games Trilogy, you will like this book!  What sets it apart from the Hunger games is that it is more Sci-Fi - the setting is Mars, in the distant future.  Darrow is a Red, the lowest caste of people on Mars, similar to Katniss' District 12.  The Reds are slaves to the Golds . . . as are all the other sects of people in this Hierarchy ruled government.  The thing is, the Reds don't know they are slaves.  Living underground, they have been lied to and fed false propaganda.  There is a movement beginning, a group called The Sons of Ares who wish to create an uprising against the Golds.  Darrow is chosen to be an important part of this uprising and he is told the truth about The Golds and the way the planet is run, and then sent on an undercover mission to infiltrate Gold Society.  In order to gain an influential rank inside Gold Government, Darrow must first graduate from an Institute to become a "Peerless Scarred" . . . students are thrown into the wilderness and must fight for rank with battles against other students. 

The book is intense!  It falls under the category of Dystopian Fiction, much like Ender's game, The Hunger Games, and Divergent.  As I stated above, it's more Science-Fiction genre than some of those others are, and I should mention it's not marketed as Young Adult like those other series are.  There are more adult situations, not just with violence - but including rape and murder. 

I can't wait to read the next book in the series; Golden Son! 

What's Next on my reading list?

I plan on re-reading Merrick by Anne Rice, and probably the rest of the Vampire Chronicles series after that . . . leading up to the newest installment in the series, Prince Lestat.
I'm also reading There Was An Old Woman by Hallie Ephron.

Detox Bath and Meditation with Yemaya

A warm bath can be the perfect place to unwind, relax, and meditate.  Combining the physical benefits of a detox bath with the intention and focus of cleansing and healing can be quite a spiritual experience.  I love taking a bath every week for a time of pampering, self love, and purification.

This week I have been working with Yemaya, a Santerian Goddess of the Ocean.  I thought that my bath would be a great way to connect with her without actually going to the beach or creek.  It's winter and cold outside!  With the Sea Salt in this detoxifying bath recipe, it's as if you are enjoying the blessings of ocean water, from the comfort of your own home!

Basic Recipe For A Detox Bath:

1/2 cup Baking Soda
1 cup Sea Salt
1 cup Epsom Salt
optional; 2 - 3 drops of essential oil of your choice

Mix well in warm bath water and soak for about 30 minutes.  The combination of Sea Salt, Epsom Salt, and Baking Soda helps to relax your muscles and open the pores of your skin to draw out toxins.  Drink a full glass (8 - 10 oz) of cool water after your bath to help continue the detox and prevent muscle soreness and dehydration.

Setting the Mood

Here are some ways you can make your bathroom a scared space to call upon Yemaya for her healing and nurturing.  All of these are optional; do what feels right to you based on what you already have or can easily get.

* Sea Shells - arrange around the edge of the bathtub or near the tub
* Candles - White, Blue, Sea-Foam type colors would be best
* Figurines of Dolphins or Mermaids - arranged near the bath or around the edges.  Be careful not to knock them into the tub or onto the floor!
* Your Yemaya Mojo bag
* Prayer Beads / Mala Necklace
* A cd player or mp3 player with speakers (Kept away from the water, of course!)
* Sounds of the ocean or flowing water.  Many meditation CDs have tracks with sounds of ocean waves or rain.

Set your bathroom up however you like.  Make sure you have clean towels and fresh clothes for when you get out.  Run your bath and add the Bath Detox ingredients. 

Light the candles, turn on the music.  If there is enough candle light and/or a night light, you may want to turn off the lights in the bathroom.  Just be sure you can see well enough to get in and out of the tub safely!

Sit or kneel by the tub and swirl the water with your hand.  Call on Yemaya and ask her to enter your sacred space, to be with you.  When you feel ready, you may get in your bath.

Relax!  Enjoy!

While you are enjoying your bath, you may choose to meditate, pray, or chant.  Ask Yemaya to bless you and cleanse you, she will help boost the detoxifying energy of the bath.  If you wish, you may visualize yourself with Yemaya on a beach.  She holds you gently and lovingly, the way a mother holds a child, and she slowly lowers you into the ocean, where you feel safe and loved. 

While I was visualizing this and feeling her loving presence close to me, I found myself chanting;

"Mother, Mother, Mother, Yemaya
Mother, Mother, Mother, Yemaya
Bless me, bless me, bless me, Yemaya
Mother, Mother, Morther, Yemaya."

and then I found myself singing;

"We all come from The Goddess,
and unto Her we shall return.
Like a drop of water,
flowing to the Ocean."

As you pray and meditate, ask for the Great Mother's guidance.  She may give you a message pertaining to your healing, or how to rebalance some aspect of your life.  This guidance may come in the form of a thought, idea, or an urge to do something differently or change some aspect of your life.  Notice that this guidance does not come with judgment, but with the love of a Mother who truly wants what is best for you.

Spend as long as you like in the bath, praying, singing, meditating.  30 minutes is the recommended time for the Detox bath to have full effect, but listen to your body and if you need longer or less time, honor yourself and do what is best for you. 

When you are done;

Carefully get out of the bath, dry yourself.  Thank Yemaya for her blessings, healing, and guidance.  Turn on the lights and blow out the candles, but let them cool before moving them.  You may wish to dress yourself in blues or sea-green colors for the rest of the day to continue feeling Yemaya's ocean presence with you.  Take a small step to do something to improve your life or your health - even if it is just making a to-do list or writing down the things you were guided to work on.

May your days be blessed! 

For your enjoyment, here are some slightly different Detox Bath recipes I found online.  Enjoy and use whichever recipe you want!

Yemaya Mojo Bag

This week I have felt the call of Yemaya, Mother Goddess of the ocean.  She's calling me - sweetly, patiently.  I've heard her call before.  The first time I found her, I was looking for rituals or prayers to help ease a painful menstrual cycle.  She's associated with the tides, therefore: the moon and natural cycles. I have a deck of tarot cards - The Goddess Tarot - with the image of Yemaya as the Temperance card.  I have drawn this card in readings for myself several times - most often it is when I am on my moon cycle!  It's like she is gently reminding me to call on her during the time of my monthly cycle.  She reminds me of moderation, of self-care and nurturing, and that this time of the month can and should be remembered as a sacred time to reflect on the power of woman and mother.  You can read my previous blog post to learn more about Yemaya.

 

I have a plan formulating in my mind to create a mala necklace for meditation and healing during my moon cycle.  It will be a Yemaya Prayer Necklace. . . and it will come together when the time is right.  But for now, I have created a Yemaya Mojo bag to wear and carry when I need to be reminded of her presence in my life.  As I was sitting here contemplating the dream of the prayer necklace, my eyes were drawn to this blue mojo bag I have hanging on my wall. . . empty and waiting to be used.  It's a beautiful blue color with a sacred spiral.  I attached a small silver Goddess pendant and a dolphin ring to the outside of it.

 

I found several things to add inside of the bag to connect it with the energy of Yemaya.
* Seven pennies because seven is the number sacred to Yemaya, and it is customary to leave seven coins as an offering to her.
* Two sea shells I collected from the ocean
* Clear quartz - clear like the water and added for it's power of healing, cleansing, balancing, and to give clarity of mind and heart.
* Green-blue Amazonite - the color makes me think of the ocean, and it's energy brings strength and discernment.
* Green sea-glass.  A piece of glass that has been made smooth by the ocean waves and sand.  I also collected this at the ocean.  It is here to remind me that even something sharp and harsh can be made smooth and beautiful by the waves and tides.
* Bloodstone.  I added this dark green bloodstone for it's energy properties that help with women's issues such as menstrual cycles, anemia, fertility, healing.  It is not necessarily associated with the ocean or Yemaya, but it fits with the reason that I call on Her.

I placed each item in the bag, stating my reason for adding it, praying for Yemaya to bless each item, and to remain close to me when I wear it.  I sprinkled some salt water over the bag and quietly chanted;

Mother, Mother, Mother, Yemaya
Mother, Mother, Mother, Yemaya
Bless me, bless me, bless me Yemaya
Mother, Mother, Mother, Yemaya

I plan to wear this bag each time I am on my Moon Cycle, for healing and comforting.  I may wear it at other times when I hear the call of Yemaya, or when I want to call upon her for balance, protection, or guidance.  You can make a mojo bag to honor and connect with Yemaya too; you don't need the same kinds of crystals I have added.  The coins and sea shells are a good start, and then just add anything else you have that reminds you of the ocean and has properties similar to the lessons and blessings of Yemaya; for whatever reasons you feel you need her in your life!

YEMAYA - Queen Mother of the Sea

YEMAYA (Yemana)
 Santeria

 Yemaya is a Mother Goddess, associated with the ocean. (As well as other bodies of water; lakes, rivers, etc) As the tides of all bodies of water are related to the moon, so is Yemaya associated as a Moon Goddess. She is known to be compassionate and nurturing, but also fierce - especially as a protector of her loved ones.  Yemaya is the Mother of all living things, owner of all waters and in Santeria, the orisha of Motherhood.

 Yemaya teaches us about balance, about the ebb and flow of life like the tides. She guides us to find balance between our emotional selves (water) and physical being (earth) and as such she is a powerful matriarch goddess to call upon for help with;
Balance
Release
Cycles
Healing
Mother/Daughter relationships
Feminine issues
Menstrual cycles
Fertility
Protection
Environmental issues (especially for oceans and bodies of water and/or sea animals)

Colors; White, Blue, Sea-Green
Symbols; Water, Sea Shells, White Roses, Dolphins, Sea Turtles, Opal, Silver, Coins, coconut, Watermelon, Honey, and the number Seven

Some links to more info;

http://craftychickscuppacoffee.blogspot.com/2010/05/my-yemaya-shrine-prayer-yemaya.html

http://wn.com/prayer_to_yemaya

http://www.aboutsanteria.com/yemayaacute.html

http://santeriachurch.org/the-orishas/yemaya/

http://www.mythicrhythm.com/yemaya-within-cultivating-unconditional-love/

XIV Balance: Yemana

 From The Goddess Tarot by Kris Waldherr
"Yemana, the Santeria goddess of the ocean is often called upon to provide rain: water that brings forth life and nurtures the earth, like waters of the womb. She symbolizes the divine balance between heaven and earth. Card meanings; experiencing or seeking a deep sense of harmony and union. Integration. Moderation. Balance between spiritual and physical."

In other tarot decks - Temperance.

This card appears now as Yemana is urging you to find or create balance in your life. Too much focus on one area of your life has possibly caused you to overlook or ignore another part of your life. Call on Yemana (Yemaya) to help cleanse away the unnecessary aspects of life with her gentle, rain-like healing. Ask for clarity to help you see what needs to be balanced in your life, and take steps to rebalance it. Yemaya can also help you to take those steps, and to remember that life is always in a state of give and take - like the ebb and flow of the ocean's tides in relation to the phases of the moon.

Vesta - Hearth Flame Purification Ritual

Vesta of the Hearth Flame Purification Ritual
(Red Candle, purifying incense)

Cast your circle.  Kneel before the altar until you feel recognized by The Goddess, then say

 "May I be cleansed outwardly and inwardly, body and soul,
that all things in my life may be made new."

Light the red candle and meditate on it's cleansing and purifying energies, and think about the myth of Vesta, the Deity of both domestic and ceremonial fires.  Keeper of the Hearth flame she was considered very pure, and if a condemned man were to happen upon one of her priestesses, his trespasses would be forgiven and he would be set free.  Come before Vesta in your heart and mind, knowing that she will help cleanse you of any negative patterns you may be repeating, and ask her for purification and renewal with the following prayer;

 "Vesta of the Sacred Flame,
Goddess of purification and renewal,
lady who sets the imprisoned free,
Pour your cleansing fires upon my heart and soul
That my life may be made new, my spirit receptive.
Awaken my mind to new opportunities.
Call my soul to greater spiritual knowledge.
Reveal to me your Inner Mysteries
that I may experience initiation anew.
Purify and bless me, O Vesta!"

 Remain in front of the altar in meditation until you feel the blessing of the Goddess.  How you feel it will be different for every person... a tingle, a warm or cold sensation... anything!  Listen and wait for the blessing of the Goddess.  Once you feel you have been blessed, Thank Vesta and close your circle.  Your purification may be received in different ways.  Within a couple days you may have a change in attitude, a desire to change your eating habits, or otherwise experience changes... embrace your purification as being personally meant for you from the Goddess for your Highest Good!

This is from "Moon Magick" by D.J. Conway and it is the suggested ritual for the energy of the New Moon in May. (Although it can be performed any time of year!) I haven't included all of the details here, just the basics and the prayer.  This was originally posted as part of a blog post at my original blog, you can see that whole blog post HERE

Hestia and Headcovering as a Pagan Practice

I'm in the process of moving some of my favorite blog posts from my old blog, Tarot Mom, over here to my new blog.  I'm starting with any blog that has mention of Hestia, as that is this blog's namesake! 

Hestia and Headcovering
April 11, 2011
Original post
A couple weeks ago, I was cleaning my bedroom and found this scarf that I have never worn as a scarf.  I have used it for a small altar cloth from time to time, or to wrap a deck of tarot cards in... but it had been stuffed in a drawer for awhile, unseen and forgotten.  When I found it, I paused, and felt that gentle urging of Hestia, saying "keep this out".  So instead of putting it back in the drawer, I put it on my altar, folded neatly next to my Hestia Statue.  I didn't know what on earth I was going to use it for, but I figured it's purpose would come to me if I just listened.
Maybe only one, or two days later, I stumbled upon a facebook conversation about Pagan Headcovering.  I was intrigued, I had never heard of or considered that headcovering, or veiling would be a pagan thing to do... except for in cases of the people who like to dress up in robes and hoods for ceremonial magick and rituals.  I learned that a lot of Pagan / Witchy women feel drawn to headcovering or veiling in their daily lives as a way of honoring and connecting to their deity.  And guess what Goddess kept popping up in articles, blogs, and conversations about Headcovering?  Hestia, of course!  The bells are going off in my head at this point, as I had just placed that scarf next to Hestia on my altar, trusting that she would let me know how she wanted me to use it...
I joined the facebook group called Covered In Light and met a wide variety of women who choose to veil, or cover their hair as a spiritual practice.  I started asking questions and reading discussions and learned that for each woman, there was a very different and very personal reason for choosing to cover.  Some find it very comforting.  As empathic people, wearing a headcovering can help you feel more grounded, and more protected from the unwanted energies of other people.  Some women commented that they felt more intuitive when covered; and spoke of wearing a headcovering when doing tarot or oracle readings or for going to ritual.  Some women felt it was a call to modesty, and a practice of declaring their status as either a married woman or as someone devoted to the Goddess.  Not all the women here were called by Hestia or Vesta, but there is quite a wide variety of deities and pantheons that seem to have brought these women to the practice of veiling.  Many women commented that once they started headcovering, they felt more connected to their Goddess, more feminine, sexier, more powerful, and more comfortable in their roles at home.  Some feel drawn to cover their hair/heads in public, while others feel drawn only to do it while at home.  The wonderful thing about the group Covered In Light is that through this diversity, all the women are supportive and tolerant of each other.  No one says, "This is how or why you should cover", but it is all about learning about eachothers' reasons and experiences, learning from each other, and supporting one another.
So I began that very day to experiment with headcovering and find out exactly what it meant for me.  I have discovered that if I put on a headcovering when I say my morning prayers to Hestia, I stay more focused on my housework through the day.  Feeling the scarf on my head reminds me that my daily tasks are a reflection of my devotion to the Goddess, to myself, and my family.  In other words, the headcovering keeps me mindful, living in the present moment.  It is very much like an active meditation.  I also feel more intuitive about what housework needs to be done.  Sometimes it's hard to know where to start in a home with three children where the messes abound.  But when I am covered - instead of feeling overwhelmed and frustrated, I tend to feel more peaceful and less worried about everything that needs to get done.  I'm easier on myself, easier on the kids, and happier with the progress I make.  It becomes less about how much I get done, and more about the loving attitude I come to each small task with.  Mostly I feel very comfortable with my head covered, but if I start to feel uncomfortable, I take that as a cue from the Goddess that my "work" is done.  I take the headcovering off and take a break to do something for myself - like read a book or play on the internet... so in this sense I feel that headcovering has made me more aware of how I take care of myself as well.  I'm overdoing things less, taking more time for myself, and feeling overall more connected with Goddess than ever before.

 

 

Another thing I have noticed when I am covered; I feel a lot more in-tune to not only The Goddess and Divine, but to messages from my family.  First of all, when I am covered and cleaning, I am having a lot more of those inspired moments when something I have been thinking about suddenly makes sense, or I get inspired ideas for art and craft projects, blog and journaling ideas, etc.  Today for example, I put on my headcovering and said my devotional prayers to Hestia, intending to get as much housework done as possible.  I got a little cleaning done, but the one thing that kept coming to mind was this blog post.  Different points I wanted to make, different thoughts of what to write.... finally I stopped resisting and just came to sit down and write!  I am feeling like wearing the headcovering takes that energetic flow from The Divine and my Higher Self that flows through the crown chakra, and instead of that energy flowing away from me; being covered helps pull those energies down into my third eye, throat, and heart chakras to be assimilated from there.  Before experiencing this, I would have assumed that wearing something on my head might block this flow from the Crown Chakra, but now I am experiencing quite the opposite.  It comes right back to the way that Covering just keeps me in a higher state of awareness; fully in the here and now.  I'm a lot more aware of what my children and husband are saying to me, what they need from me, and what they feel... but without their feelings overwhelming me.  As if the covering works as a kind of filter, I can understand my children's feelings without getting wrapped up in the emotion and frustrated by my empathy.  I'm becoming a better listener, and I'm also much more aware of the words I say and how I treat others when I am covered.
I'm personally not drawn to wearing the covering outside of my home or in public.  I don't feel like Hestia is calling me to cover at all times, but just when I want to feel more connected to my role as a housewife and mother.  For me, it is something that keeps me more centered and grounded while at home... although I have kept my scarf on to make a couple quick trips to the grocery store. 
When I first started veiling, I drew an Angel card from the "Daily Guidance From Your Angels" oracle card deck by Doreen Virtue.  This is the card I got; (This was the day after joining Covered in Light and only my second day covering)

I had been asking myself if this was really right for me, really something I needed to do or wanted to do.  This angel is Covered!  I looked through the deck and there is not a single other angel card that depicts artwork of an angel with it's head covered in any way!  Later that day I felt an urge to go to the mall and just walk around.  I didn't really have money to spend, but I just kept feeling that nudge to "Go!"  So I went, and found another beautiful scarf, on sale!  I knew it was my gift from the Goddess and the Angels for listening to my heart, so I bought it for myself.

Here is a wonderful prayer to Hestia that was written by another member of Covered in Light and I have been using it when I veil before going about my household duties;

"Hestia,
Keeper of the flame
Goddess of the Hearth
Gentle Hestia,
Eternal Virgin,
Sister, Daughter,
Veiled one
Bless this the hearth
Of Thy sister,
She who comes
Veiled before you
May the flame
Never be extinguished
May your blessing and spirit
Always abide here"

  ~ ZedralZ/Nar

UPDATE - Current thoughts on Headcovering
Dec. 26, 2014

I still like to wear scarves and practice veiling or headcovering often!  My collection of scarves has grown in number and color, and I've learned some great techniques for tying them!  (I don't have a recent picture, but I will try to add some soon!) 
The color of my headcovering has come to be an important part of my practice.  If I feel like I need some protection, my black scarves come in handy.  Feeling homey and earthy?  Browns.  Needing some power, energy or fire?  Reds, of course!  Wanting to connect with Water energy. . . blue shades are the way to go.  I love combining the magickal attributes of colors in choosing what I am going to wear as my head covering. 
I don't cover every day, but it's still something I do often.  Some days it's just for fashion, and other days it's because I feel I need the extra spiritual support and focus.  Depending on my intention when I put it on, it may bring me comfort, focus, energy, strength, or determination. 

Hestia

For many years I wasn't particularly drawn to any one Goddess, God, or Pantheon.  I was content just calling The Divine, or Great Mother/Father, or "Lord and Lady".  Then my studies of astrology led me obviously to Greek Mythology and I really resonated with the stories of the Greek Pantheon.  At some point I stumbled upon Hestia, Goddess of the Hearth.  For the first time, I really felt connected to a specific Goddess.  I felt Her call me, I heard Her spirit from somewhere deep inside me and I finally knew what it meant to be called upon by a specific Goddess... something I had heard other Pagans, Wiccans, and Heathens talk about but had never fully understood.
Since then, I have heard the call of other Gods and Goddesses, they come to me at different times to teach me in their unique ways.  I may work with a different Deity from time to time, but in the end, Hestia is always there.  She is my Flame, she opened the door for me to understand that it is possible to work with specific aspects of The Divine - and through that understanding I have found myself working more and more with The Goddesses in all aspects of my life.  Following is some basic information about Hestia and her counterparts. 

HESTIA
Hestia was the first born of the Olympians, her sisters are Hera and Demeter, and her brothers are Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades.  When her father, Cronus was told that he would be overthrown by one of his children, he swallowed all of them (except for Zeus... he thought he swallowed Zeus but only swallowed a swaddled rock).  Eventually, Zeus overcame Cronus and forced him to spit out his siblings... they were all "released" in the reverse order of their birth, so Hestia was last.  She is often referred to as "The First and the Last" because of this.  She refused to marry either Poseidon or Apollo, and eventually swore herself to perpetual virginity, becoming the domestic opposite of Aphrodite.  Zeus assigned Hestia the role of maintaining and keeping the fires of the Olympian Hearth.  Some stories make reference that Hestia could have gone to join her brothers and sisters on Mount Olympus and become one of the Olympians, but she didn't take up the offer and instead let Dionysus take the place as the 12th Olympian God, again attesting to her attitude of service and a degree of passiveness.
Hestia's name means "Home and Hearth" and she is The Goddess of The Hearth-fire, or Goddess of the Home.  Prayers and offerings were made to Hestia to keep the home fires burning, to keep the household strong, healthy, and warm.   The people responsible for honoring Hestia were usually the head women of the household, and it is believed that Honoring Hestia "both first and last" before every hearth fire was lit or each meal was prepared was probably a very common practice.

VESTA
Hestia's Roman counterpart is Vesta* - the Virgin Goddess of the Hearth, Home, and Family.  Vesta's presence was symbolized by the burning of sacred fires in homes and temples.  Vesta was particularly important to women, since the home fire (hearth fire) was the central source of Food and heat for the home... therefore Vesta / Hestia is the center of a Housewives' focus and gratitude. 
Although neither Hestia or Vesta had any children, their role in the Home and the household is very similar to that of a Mother Goddess.  She was seen as the great nurturer... as Fire represented not only the means to survive, but also represented wisdom, inspiration, focus, community, purity, power, and even divination.  In ancient Rome, some women would devote themselves to become keeper's of Vesta's temple and become "Vestal Virgins".  They would take a vow of celibacy and commit part of their lives to keeping Vesta's temple flame lit and tending to her temple.  Legend has it that if a convicted person crossed paths with a Vestal Virgin, he would be released from his penance.  The Vestal Virgins were known for being kind and graceful. After their time of devotion, a Vestal Virgin could choose to marry, it did not necessarily mean a lifetime of celibacy and devotion, though many probably chose to continue their life of service to Vesta even after their time had been fulfilled.  (*note - by pointing out Vesta as Hestia's Roman counterpart, I'm not saying she IS end all/be all the same Goddess.  Some people get kinda touchy about this.  I'm saying that in each culture there are similar stories that blend the lines between Goddesses, Gods, myths, folklore, etc... because regardless of distance and time, the Human Experience is essentially the same...and I find that many different cultures and pantheons have "crossovers" and "Counterparts" who share very similar attributes and in some ways teach us the same things about our human nature.  Personally I see all Goddesses as different aspects and faces of The Divine Feminine, so I do see Hestia and Vesta as one in the same, but this is not to say that this is what others should see or feel also.  And this leads right into my next point, which may be controversial)

The Virgin Mother Mary (?)
Personally, I see a connection between Hestia and Vesta and the Hebrew Mother Mary.  Hestia and Vesta are both usually depicted as veiled or wearing some kind of head covering, as is the Virgin Mother Mary.  They are all virgins, although Mary did bear a child but the stories still depict her as a virgin anyways.  Vesta is represented in historical drawings and carvings with an Ass (donkey/mule), and the Mother Mary is also associated riding an ass from when she rode pregnant into Bethlehem.  Catholic nuns who devote their lives to service of God, wear headcoverings, and take vows of celibacy bring to mind the Roman Vestal Virgins. I recently found a votive prayer candle in the religious candle section of my local grocery store that depicts "The Sacred Heart of Mary", with a picture of Mary and the glowing heart within her chest is burning with a bright orange fire. Hmmm.  The connection seems obvious to me and even though I know most pagans are probably not comfortable working within the "Christian Pantheon", it's something worth considering.

As long as I am making broad associations, I could also mention that Hestia/Vesta/Mary have also come to me in the form of the Celtic Goddess Brigid.  It has happened a couple times, while sitting at my altar in meditation, looking at my small statue of Hestia, her image seemed to shift and suddenly appear to me as Brigid!  Another Fire Goddess with associations of Compassion, Caretaking, Home and Hearth. . . well . . . yes!

Me and Hestia, hangin' out at home. My personal relationship with Hestia comes from my own position as the "head woman" of my household.  As the housewife, mother, and wife, it is part of my daily life and responsibility to run the household.  My house (and many modern homes today) doesn't have a central hearth fire, or even a fire place.  The Greeks paid honor to Hestia with offerings of the fat from animals, which served as oil to keep the fire lit.  (Pretty simple and straight forward, yes?  Make an offering of Oil to the Fire and it keeps burning.)Today, we don't need to literally keep a fire lit in our home, but we do have certain things we need to do to "keep the home fires burning"... cleaning, cooking, paying the bills.  So I honor Hestia by attempting to keep my home running as smoothly as possible.  I like to re-create the "First and Last" concept of honoring Hestia by praying to her first thing in the morning and again at night.  Simply saying "Good Morning and thank you for this day." and maybe asking for help or blessings for the day ahead; and then saying a prayer of gratitude at bedtime.  I like to light an orange candle to do this, but it's not necessary - if I'm rushed for time or low on candles, just pausing to honor Her is enough.  If I really need an extra boost during the day, to tackle some household chore or for focus and motivation to clean house when I really don't want to clean, I might go to Hestia again... spend some time meditating with her, talking to her, praying to her.  She is pretty good at reminding me that my home is my sacred place in this world, and that in taking care of my home I am taking care of my spirit, my family, myself, and... as a bonus, honoring Her.  She is also pretty good at reminding me that serving others (namely my family) is a respectable and beautiful thing.  As a person who is "Domestically Disabled"; allergic to housework, NOT born organized, and easily distracted, Hestia has become my "Go-To" Goddess for motivation and support in all things household-related.  She is a big supporter of the FlyLady program and I think the FlyLady concepts of breaking down housework into Morning and Evening routines is something that Hestia is particularly fond of (which reminds me, I need to get back on my routines!)

Here is a wonderful prayer to Hestia that was written by a member of a facebook group; Covered in Light and I have been using it when I veil before going about my household duties;

"Hestia,
Keeper of the flame
Goddess of the Hearth
Gentle Hestia,
Eternal Virgin,
Sister, Daughter,
Veiled one
Bless this the hearth
Of Thy sister,
She who comes
Veiled before you
May the flame
Never be extinguished
May your blessing and spirit
Always abide here"

  ~ ZedralZ/Nar

And this is my own prayer that I wrote that I use to connect with Hestia each morning and night;

"Oh beautiful Hestia, you who are both First and Last, Goddess of the Home and Keeper of the Hearth Fire, may your Love and Light continuously burn in this home.  Show us each how to live in unity, peace and love.  Guide us each to bring blessings upon this home through the service of our own unique gifts.  Thank you, Hestia, for your lasting blessings and presence here!"

And I also wanted to share this one with you.... an Invocation to Vesta by Doreen Virtue;

"Beloved Vesta, please bring your flame of Divine Love into this household and light the fire of kindness, compassion, and understanding within everyone who lives in and visits this home.  Help us burn away any fears concerning love, and to feel warm and secure."

So I understand this has been an incredibly long blog post, and I truly thank and appreciate those of you who have actually read the whole thing!  This is a post that contains many things near and dear to my heart and I have been inspired to share with others!

In Love and Light,
Lady Josephine

(I should mention this blog post has been moved, from my old blog; Tarot Mom.  Slightly edited and shortened.  You can see the original blog post HERE)

Wind Chime Magick

WIND CHIME MAGICK

Hanging wind chimes around your home and garden is considered very good Feng-Shui, as the sounds of the chimes help clear the energy of negative vibrations and attract positive energy to your home environment.  You can bless and enchant a set of wind chimes to hang outside and transform the energy of the wind into whatever you need!  Look for a set of wind chimes that has a pleasing sound to you, place it on your Air Element Altar, light a few candles and visualize and/or meditate on your desire.  You can bless your set of wind chimes for home protection, communication, clear-thinking, good luck, prosperity, or to invite faeries and sylphs to your home and garden.  If you can find a set of wind chimes with birds, butterflies, dragonflies, or fairies, this can be even better for inviting air-element types of energies (renewal, spring, fresh beginnings, clear thinking and communication, music, divination, etc) but any set of wind chimes will do.  The ringing of the bells from the chimes is a music created by the movement of the winds... which can clear, purify, and transform the energy in and around your home with it's gentle frequency and vibration.  Below are a few ideas for spells and blessings for wind chimes around your home:

Wind Chime Spell for Home Blessing
Here is a Wind Chime spell by Ellen Dugan from the book "Elements of Witchcraft".  Say this prayer as you hang your wind chimes outside after you have blessed them and empowered them with your intentions for home protection and good luck;

"Magickal wind chimes, now be for me

a charm for good luck and prosperity.

As the chimes ring out, a spell they'll weave,

all dread and negativity now must leave!

By the power of the sylphs and faeries,

as I do will it, so now it shall be

Spell to Attract a Wind Sprite

This is a spell to attract a Wind Sprite to visit your home and garden, from the book "The Fairy Bible" by Teresa Moorey.

"Wind Sprites are the carefree gypsies of fairyland.  Storm-riders, whisperers, and mischief-makers, they bring the balm of the fragrant breeze and the rousing blast of the tempest.  They teach that all is light and changeable, yet they also bring clarity and sharpness of mind.  You may invite Wind Sprites into your life, but do not attempt to bind them to you -- that would destroy the gifts they bring.  You will need wind chimes and a length of ribbon.  Wind chimes of bamboo will invite a gentle, thoughtful sprite who will encourage reflection.  Crystal chimes will attract a highly evolved sprite to help you achieve greater detachment.  Metal chimes will attract a creative sprite who will help you achieve change.  Choose a windy day and hang your wind chimes securely in a tree or near a window.  Close your eyes and visualize the gifts you would like to receive from your sprite.  Feel the breeze blow on your face and say;

Wind-Sprite flying light and high,

I call to you, draw nigh, draw nigh

My chimes a home for you shall be,

Ever welcome, ever free

Listen for your chimes to ring to alert you that your sprite has arrived.  Welcome the sprite by tying the ribbon to the upper string of the chimes, being careful not to restrict their swaying and ringing.  Thank your sprite for being present.  Whenever you feel the need  of the gifts of the wind-sprites, stir the chimes with your hand or sit near them and listen to them blowing in the breeze, let them refresh your spirit and mind with their breeze and music".

Wind Chime Spell for Bringing Good News to Your Door

From "Magical Spells For Your Home" by Ann-Marie Gallagher.  For this spell, you will bless your Wind Chimes at your altar, calling upon Athena - Goddess of Communication and then hang them outside your front door.   You will need three feathers, some yellow ribbon, lavender oil and a yellow candle. 

Put some lavender scented essential oil in an oil burner with some water, light a yellow candle and say;

Athena, Goddess of Communication, 

Empower and bless my spell

to bring good news to my door,

with the swiftness of a bird in flight, 

Good fortune to ensure.

Using one length of ribbon, tie the first feather securely to any thread of the wind chime and say;

Happy news, find your way

to my home, begin today!

Tie the second feather to another thread of the chime with ribbon and say;

Bright music, sacred sound

Evil here is never found

Tie the third feather to another thread of the chime with ribbon and say;

Lucky Breeze, happy din

Summon light to flow within

Hang your wind chime over your front door or on your front porch near the door where breeze or wind will frequently stir it to action.

_------------------------------

Wind Chimes for Good Dreams

I found a set of wind chimes made with dream-catchers.  I bought them to hang outside my children's bedroom window and I wrote this blessing prayer to empower the chimes and dream-catchers to help my children sleep soundly and keep away the bad dreams, and keep them safe at night.

All through the night,

help us sleep tight.

Chimes that ring,

sweet dreams now bring.

Winds that stir,

bring blessings here.

Good Dreams through the night,

until Morning's Light!

* note * All of this was posted at my previous blog, Tarot Mom. I've forgotten the password and started this new blog here... And may move some of my old posts from there to this one from time to time! You can see the original post here 

http://tarotmom.blogspot.com/2013/05/wind-chime-magick.html?m=1

This post made for Letter W of the Pagan Blog Project! www.paganblogproject.com 

Monday's Book Reviews

Joining in at Book Journey for It's Monday! What are you Reading?

I have a couple different books going on right now.

First off, I am still reading "Child of The Dawn" by Gautama Chopra. While I am enjoying the subject matter (spiritual awakening and the Law of Attraction) I am just not getting into this book. The writing style and story telling just aren't pulling me in. Perhaps I will change my mind after I finish it, but for now my review is just. . . "meh".

Another book I am reading right now is  " How To Hear Your Angels" by Doreen Virtue. I am enjoying this book! It gives advice for anyone who wants to increase and strengthen their communication with Angels, spirit guides, crossed over loved ones, etc. Really nice for those who do tarot or oracle card readings or any type of medium ship work, with practical excersizes to increase your intuition and empathy.

Thirdly, I am rereading "Guards! Guards!" By Terry Pratchett. I needed some lighthearted fiction and comedic relief in my life so I picked an old favorite from The Discworld series. Revisiting the introduction of one of my favorite characters, Sam Vimes and his encounter with Dragons as part of a political coup. Always enjoyable!

Hestia's Monday Musings - Temperance

On Mondays I draw a tarot card for my kitchen altar. I ask Hestia for her advice for the week, regarding my home, household, and family life. At my old blog, Tarot Mom - this weekly post was called "Mommy Time Monday".  I have asked Hestia for her message that will apply to both myself and my household - and also to my blog readers and followers on Facebook.

Hestia's Message week of 11/3 to 11/8

TEMPERANCE

Temperance brings us the message of balance and moderation.  Life is so much about the give and take, and for many people it is difficult to find balance in their life. Balance between work and fun; balance between self-care and caring for others, etc.

This card urges us, this week, to take a closer look at our life. What is out of balance? What ingredient is lacking? What is there too much of, and how can we bring that back in to balance?

Above we see The Housewives's Tarot version of Temperance, the mixer. It reminds me of baking. When you make bread or a cake, you have to put in just the right amount of each ingredient or risk your cake being too dry, to thick, or too wet and not holding together at all. 

But it's not just a one chance thing. As you mix your ingredients, you can adjust. Does the batter feel too thin? Add a little more flour. Is it too thick? Add a tiny bit more oil or water. We have lots of chances -daily opportunities really - to rebalance our lives. 

Another version of this card - The Blender from The Kitchen Tarot, reminds us that the other people in our life also contribute to this balance and moderation. Everyone has something to "bring to the table". So as you think about the areas in life that need some balancing, don't forget your relationships. Perhaps you need to balance the scales with a friendship, a romantic partner, a parent, or a child.

Vesta - Goddess of The Hearth

Vesta is the Roman Goddess of the Hearth, Home, and Family. (Her Greek counterpart is Hestia.) A virgin Goddess, she did not marry or have children like most of the Roman Gods and Goddesses, yet she is still seen as a maternal, mothering figure.  This is because the fire of the Hearth which she protects - was recognized to be an essential part of a nurturing and safe home life. Without a fire in the hearth, families would be cold, hungry, and unprotected.
Today, we don't have a "hearth fire" in our homes; that has been replaced by a stove and a microwave. Most of us don't cook our food over an open flame (except for those fun family barbeque nights) and a fireplace is more of a luxury than a necessity for warmth. Although our methods have changed, many Neo-Pagans are still drawn to honoring a Goddess of Hearth and Home.  The Ancient Romans would honor Vesta by throwing some of their food into the hearth fire as an offering . . . giving back to the life- force that had provided for them. In Vesta's temple, a fire was constantly burning. Guarded and tended to by the Vestal Virgins . . . women who had dedicated their lives to honoring and serving Vesta.
Today, many who call themselves "kitchen witches" are drawn to honoring Vesta (or Hestia) as part of their daily spiritual practice. Recognizing that the kitchen with all it's modern gadgets is still a center of the home - a place of creation and nurturing.
My blog title is "Muse of Hestia" because as a mother and housewife I find so much of my spiritual life is tied directly to my home life and family. I work with Vesta/ Hestia quite often: she motivates me, inspires me, and encourages me. I will probably blog about Her more . . . but for now I thought a "basic introduction" would be a good place to start!
This is my kitchen altar with tiny statue of Vesta and candle;

Plus, I couldn't think of anything better to blog about starting with the letter V for this week's Pagan Blog Project!

Wordless Wednesday - morning dew

Whimsical Wednesday; Quiet Time

I am working on building morning and evening routines that include meditation. I often give the excuse that I don't have time for meditation, but have realized I must make time! Meditation should be like brushing my teeth or bathing, it is an element of self-care that should be part of a daily routine!
I am working on turning this into a habit! I thought of one of my favorite three card tarot spreads: Body, Mind, Spirit. In that spread you draw 3 cards and each one has specific advice for Body (physical being) Mind (mental being) and Spirit (spiritual being). I thought this would be a good way to also break down my morning & evening routines! For Example;

Morning Routine;
BODY - take Vitamins, do yoga, brush teeth and hair.
MIND - check my calander and to-do list, read or write in my journal/blog
SPIRIT - draw a tarot or oracle card for the day, meditation

If I make sure to ask myself every day; what have I done to care for myself, Body, Mind, and Spirit, then eventually the practice of meditation becomes just as second-nature as making myself a cup of coffee in the morning! The above routine is similar to the evening routine, but I also include writing in my gratitude journal in that one. Gratitude is also an important habit to develop!

Today I decided to use the oracle deck, "Healing With The Fairies" by Doreen Virtue for my daily card. Sitting at my meditation altar, I shuffle and ask the Fairies, what is the most important thing for me to do this week to promote healing and harmony in my life? The card I drew: "Quiet Time"

This card is affirming the importance of taking time each day for meditation! With 3 kids, my life can be hectic and noisy! Purposefully and intentionally spending time each day with quiet, silence; alone with my thoughts and feelings . . . this will be essential to my healing and overall well-being! Quiet time will benefit all three aspects of my being; the Body, the Mind, and the Spirit!

I share this with you, and hope you will be inspired and encouraged to carve out some quiet time in your life! 

Namaste and Blessed Be!

Wordless Wednesday; Children's Museum

Tuesday's Oracle; Fresh Air

The kids have gone to school, I have had my coffee, and I decide to start my day with meditation. At my altar, I choose The Daily Guidance From Your Angels oracle card deck by Doreen Virtue. Settling onto my cushion I shuffle the cards and pray; "Angels, what advice do you have for me today?"

I read the card and smile. I had planned on doing some housework today, but perhaps I should do some yard work instead? Or at least open the house windows and doors. It's cool out today, morning fog is lifting. Maybe it will rain.
I turn to the window next to my altar and open it. As I open it I see my neighbor's dog, Sonny, running down my driveway. I step outside and I'm greeted by 100 pounds of happy slobbering fur. In the distance I can hear my neighbor calling his name. Sonny hears it too, but ignores the calls as he runs in playful circles around my front yard. I think about getting my phone and calling the neighbor to let her know her dog is here. But I remember the angel card I had just drawn, so I grab my jacket and slip on my shoes, "Come on Sonny! Let's walk!"
Sonny and I walk down the driveway to the road. Well, I walk while he runs in circles ahead of me.  The crisp morning air fills my lungs and bites at my ears. The road is littered with orange and brown Maple leaves that have fallen over night. . . crunch, crunch, crunch.
I am smiling as we reach the neighbor's house. She scolds Sonny for running away, but we laugh about how he just wanted to play. She informs me that she was just on her way to my house to help clean the deck. (This neighbor is also my landlady) Once again I remember the card encouraging me to get fresh air! Well, it looks like I will be working outside today, clearing and washing the deck to prepare it for a new waterproof coat of paint for the rainy winter days ahead.
I return home, opening more house windows. Yes, it is a bit chilly out, but the Fresh air feels so good! I sit at my altar next to my open window and meditate, focusing on just taking deep, cleansing breaths of fresh air.
I hope that you, my readers, can find a way to get some fresh air today too!
Namaste and Blessed Be!

Monday Book Review

What I read last week;

The Ocean At The End of The Lane

By Neil Gaiman

As I stated in last Monday's blog, I was thrilled to find this book at the library. It didn't let me down! Gaiman's books always capture my heart and imagination in unexpected ways. I try to give book reviews that give no spoilers for those who haven't read the book, so without going into detail I will give a brief description.  Do you have any childhood memories that, as an adult, you just know they can't be real? You figure, I was an imaginative child, there is no way this is a real memory. . . it must be something I dreamed or imagined. This story is about one man's vaguely-remembered childhood, and the impossible truth he encounters as he remembers things that happened. It's a ghost-story, a fairy tale, creatures from somewhere beyond our reality; and the creatures who defend that reality and hold it all together. There are people and things in this book that are so familiar, like they are taken from the very fabric of childhood's fondest imaginings. . . and from it's darkest nightmares; and finally given faces and names and a story of their own. The Ocean at The End of The Lane is a short novel, and it didn't take long for me to read it, but it was rich in imagery, tastes, smells, and vivid emotions. Truly a great book for anyone who loves fantasy, myth, and magic! Yet not too "far out" from reality that it may also be enjoyed by those who don't often read fantasy genre books.  I hope you will read it! If you have already read it, leave a comment and tell me what you thought!

And now; what I am currently reading or planning to read this week!

Anansi Boys by Neil Gaiman

Hey, it was on the library book shelf right next to the other one! Two Gaiman books I hadn't read yet - I couldn't resist! Already almost done with this one. . . and I love it so much! Check back next Monday for my review!

Child of the Dawn by Gautama Chopra

Found this one on a book sale rack for $2.00 and I couldn't resist! Sounds somewhat similar to Hesse's Siddhartha which I recently read, and it is written by the son of Deepak Chopra. Excited to see what this book brings me!

Thunder Water

Thunder Water

Thunder Water, also called Jupiter Water is simply rain water collected during a thunderstorm. We have all felt the thrill of power in the air when there is a thunderstorm.... The lightning flashing, the air vibrates with the sound of rolling thunder. Lightning has long been associated with the Greek god Zeus or his Roman counterpart, Jupiter. Rain water collected during a thunderstorms is said to be charged with the protective energy of this powerful god. It can be used in spells or rituals for protection, healing, or to send negativity back to it's source.

Ways to use Thunder Water

* use it for house cleaning or as mop water to promote healing or protection of the home. Add some essential oils that boost either the protective energy or healing energy.

* put it in a spray bottle and spray lightly around a room for energy cleansing & protection.

* Use it to wash your hair for personal protection or healing.

* put it in a colored glass bottle and place it in a Western facing windowsill to serve as a protective/healing talisman and bring soothing Water element energy to that room. (Add some corresponding crystals or herbs to boost this energy)

* use the Thunder water to cleanse your crystals and gemstones.

* place it in a pot on the stove, add some aromatic herbs and spices, and let it simmer for natural potpourri and energy cleansing of the house.

* use it as desired for the water element / water bowl on your altar for spells and rituals (especially for healing & protection spells.)

Collecting & Charging your Thunder Water

Place a bowl, cup, or jar outside during a thunderstorm. I prefer using a mason jar because I can then store it in the same container.

* make note of the day of the week and the sign/phase of the moon when the rain storm occurs.  These associations may help you decide how you want to use your Thunder Water. If the moon sign favors healing, you may want to charge the water for healing purposes. If the moon is Waning, it may be favorable to use it for banishing negativity.

* To further empower your Thunder Water, you may wish to add a crystal or gemstone that corresponds with the purpose you intend to use it for. Opal is considered to be a stone sacred to Zeus, and the Ancient Greeks believed it had healing powers.  Tiger's Eye is associated with Jupiter and is a protective stone. Use what you see fit.

* If it is raining, but there is no lightning & thunder, you may still wish to collect rain water and use it as Thunder Water.  There are a few ways to do this.  1) Collect Rain water on a Thursday as that is the day of week ruled by Jupiter. 2) Collect the rain water during the planetary hour of Jupiter, on any day of the week. 3) Collect rain water while the Moon or Sun are in the sign of Sagittarius, or when they are conjunct with Jupiter. 4) Since you never really know when it might rain, decorate your collecting jar with symbols of lightning, shields, eagles, or any symbol you think represents Zeus/Jupiter; and then collect the rain at any time.

* No matter when you collect the water, hold it in your hands and visualize it glowing with an electric blue light. Ask Zeus or Jupiter (Or your preferred Deity of power) to bless and charge the water, thank Them for the gift of rain and the protection or healing this water will provide.