A little less Christmas cheer

I recieved some very bad news today. I heard from my Aunt that my last living great grandparent died early this morning. My grandma Peachie was born in 1913. While I know she had moved on to some place better, it's still a little painful. She lived a very long, and very good life. She had 13 children, and out lived her husband by just over 32 years. And I will always remember her as the strong woman that she was. She was always smiling, and very patient with all of us grandchildren, and there were plenty of us. Come to think of it, I don't ever remember her getting angry or yelling. And since she lived in the middle of the country, I always remember the good ol' meals we had while we were there. Breakfast was usually biscuts, fried eggs, fried potatoes and sausage gravy. Dinners were things like ham hocks and pinto beans with corn bread. So, Saturday morning, I'm off to Southern Ohio to attend the funeral, and spend a little time with my grandparents, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephew and all the cousins.

In memory of Grandma Peachie 1913-2006

Time flies!

Life seems to have run me over. Next week is Yule, and I still have tons to do. I still have lots of hand knitted Christmas gifts to make. Also, next week is mom's birthday and I have no idea of what to get for her. For Mother's day I made her a pair of socks that she is leaves in a drawer, and for Christmas I am making her a Irish Hiking Scarf and matching hat in red. But, I guess I'll figure it out.

As for Yule, I can't wait to lite the fireplace next week for the ritual. I just need to figure out what I'm going to make. Maybe some Serendipity Bars, or some good ol' fashion almond crescent cookies. I'll have plenty of time to think it over, as I'll be knit during every spare moment between here and there.

As I have started this blog fairly recently, you don't know that at this time of year, we celebrate 3 holidays in our house. As the title implies, I am a kitchen witch. But as my Christian family is highly unaccepting of this, I do observe some Christian holidays. Christmas being one of them. And a few years ago I asked, "why should I be limited to Christian holidays while I practice my pagan holidays, and not observe any others?" I decided that we would celebrate Chanukah as well. Where I work, we had an older guy that worked with us who was Jewish. I asked him where I could go to buy a menorah and candles, and he told me to leave it to him. A few days later, he brought me a little brass menorah, a box of colorful candles and phonetically wrote out the Hebrew blessings for me with the english translations. My girls thought it was the greatest thing, to watch mommy light the menorah and say the blessing in Hebrew. Ever since then, he has brought me a box of candles and given my girls presents the first night of Chanukah. This year when I went to get out the menorah, I couldn't remember what box it was packed in. So, I gave in, went to Bed Bath and Beyond and found a lovely little silver menorah and pretty blue candles. This year when I pack down the Chrismas tree, the menorah is going in the box with the tree and my Yule candles. And since this Friday night is the first night of Chanukah, I'll post pics everynight of the lit menorah.

And to everyone:

Happy Holidays

Seasons Greetings

Merry Christmas

Happy Chanukah

and

Happy Yule

No matter how you say it, may it be everything you wished for.

My favorite time of year

I love fall. It's my favorite time of year. The chill in the air, the leaves turning and falling, and my favorite holiday, Halloween (Samhain). I had to stop at Wal Mart the other night, to get Over the Hedge for the girls, and I came across some great deals. At first, I only had in mind to get the movie. But I was sucked into the bargin isle. I saw some funky shaped plates and bowls, and in the back of my mind I knew I was looking for something like that, but couldn't remember why. Two isles later, it hit me. I wanted a different shaped plate and bowl for rituals, so I could stop using the regular dinner ware. So, I turned myself back around and searched for what I wanted. I found a black, square shaped plate for $1 and bowl for $.75. I couldn't pass that up. And they must have been marking stuff down to make room on the shelves, because I found a set of four wine glass for almost half off. I got them for $2. I needed a new one anyway, as Moonie pushed the one I used for ritual off the kitchen counter and broke it. So, for less than $4, I got everything I needed. I am very proud of myself.

Also, for the upcoming holiday, I am preparing for my week of ritual fasting. However, I don't go the complete week without. I do daylight hours only. Sun up to sun down. A few people raise an eyebrow at me when I do this, but everyone else if used to it. And one of the main reason why I do this is to pay homage to the several times in my life that I have had so little food, and still survived. Also to clear my mind, and cleanse my body for the rituals that I have planned. I think I'll also do some clutter cleansing, and space cleansing this time around. Granted, I got rid of a ton of crap when I moved, I can stand to get rid of more. I guess I'll just have to see how motivated I get, huh?

Until later.

New direction needed

After reading Angel's latest post, I have remembered exactly what I have been forgetting for the past several years. Positive thought, focus and meditation. As I told her, I kinda got side tracked by life. And not in a good way. I honestly can't remember the last time I sat down to meditate. I can't remember the last time I focused on a goal that I really want. And positive thoughts have been in short supply, except when it comes to my knitting. It seems that I have let life run away with me. I have been so wrapped up on failed relationships, my children growing up too fast, money problems, and a myriad of other things. I feel as if my life has left me behind. That has resulted in depression. And in my depression, I have let so many things go. For one, I have gained back alot of weight that I worked so hard to get off and keep off for several years. And I have turned into the other "itch" word, the with the B and not the W. And I mean with a high, royal, capitol "B". That's not me, and that's not who I want to be. So, over the next several weeks, I will take the opportunity to plan for Samhaim. I will plan a really good cleansing ritual, and a good spell for a better new year. I also think that a ritual fasting is in order. That always seems to help clear my mind. So, if anyone would like to join me, in your own way, from where ever you are, let me know. 'Cause the moral support and postive thoughts always come in handy.

Apples & Eggs

Merry Meet! Happy Mabon to all! This is how my Mabon day started:

Beautiful, huh? Too bad I was on my way to work. And this:

Sorry about the little black dot in the middle of the sun. I didn't put that there intentionally, it just showed up. On my way home from work, I stopped and got a bottle of apple wine for my rituals. When I got home, I started by giving the feline population of the house baths. Most people are horrified by this thought. Giving a cat a bath? Welp, mine are used to it. They get atleast 2 a year. And since they were messy kittens, I had to bathe then regularly, they are used to it and don't fight, much. They don't claw me, they just try to grip the side of the bath tub. They have learned that resistance is futile. So, without futher ado, here are my very pi$$ed off kitties:

First up is Mr. Vinny. He is a goofy Siamese mix that is just a little over a year old. He came to live with us because I couldn't stand to see such cuteness die. He has since attached himself to Katie.

Next we have Miss Moonie (short for Anksunamun - named after the evil villianess in the Mummy movies). I got her from Amy's mom. She was the only black kitten in the litter, and I have such affection for black cats. I am the only person she loves, she tolerates the rest of the human race, but only when she feels like it. She is just over 5 years old. I got her when Annie was just 4 months old. And there must be a connection there, because Moonie has let Annie pick her up and haul her around in some very awkward postions since Annie was able to pick her up. And moving on.

When I was done with bath time, I cleaned up and went into the kitchen to bake an apple cake. Amy had this cake mix from Simply Tasteful (one of those home party things - like I'm one to talk, I used to sell Party Lite and Tupperware). It was called Nana's Apple Cake Mix : Just add apples and eggs. That's it? There has to be more. Right? Nope. Just apples & eggs. And boy did it come out great. Here is a pic of the cake:

Here is the ritual pic:

It's a little dark, but I like the effect. And yes, the ritual wine is in a margarita glass. That's because my vindictive familiar (Miss Moonie) broke the only wine glass I had unpacked. I'll need to either unpack another, or by one before Samhaim. After this, I went out to the front yard to freak out the neighbors again - Sorry - I meant, sprinkle the offerings of cake and wine in the yard. After I was done, Amy pointed out that I had another witness, besides her. There was someone walking down the sidewalk on the other side of the street. The story he'll have to tell at school tomorrow.

So, here's hopeing your Mabon was pleasant. Goddess Bless!

What a week!

Last week there was drama golore! I was in a car accident. Nothing too serious, but enough to be very upsetting. Here is what my poor little car looked like after impact:

But, I think the other person got the worst end of the deal. But considering that she turned left infront of me, she deserved it. Here is her vehicle looked like:

Not bad for a little Kia, huh? The cop that showed up didn't site her for causing the accident, leaving the scene of an accident (as she walked off and he had to go get her), or for not being able to show current proof of insurance. However, her own insurance company found her to be at fault, but for only 75%? WTF? Apparently, I'm responsible for 25% becuase I couldn't channel Miss Cleo from behind prison bars to see what she was about to do. All that happened last Wednesday, and by Friday I had to go to the doctor's because my shoulder swelled up where my seat belt jerked me back. But it was good thing I was wearing my seat belt, or I would've kissed the windshield. Ouch! So, I'm on anti-inflammitories, muscle relaxants, an exercise program and I have to return next week. I dropped my car off to the body shop yesterday morning, and they are supposed to have it until next Monday, but they told me that they would try to have it done by Friday.

But, my week has gotten better. Today, I got a card from Meow who is Austraila. Thanks, it comes at a time when I need some cheering up. Also, I won some wonderful yarn from a fellow knit blogger, and I never win anything. So things are looking up. Maybe the Goddess has decided to smile on me once again.

Fall is on the way!

The weather has been picture perfect lately. It is cooling off, the leaves are starting to get a hint of color change. It's great. Now, I just need to plan the up coming Mabon picnic, and try to make sure everyone can attend. Also, maybe I should look up a spell for opening the line of communication to a certain someone, but, I don't know, we'll see. Maybe I'm just meant to be lonely. Atleast it feels that way lately.

Finally, Henna Pics!

I finally have the pics from the night we did henna. Here they are:

My left palm.

The back side of my left hand.

The design on my feet.

The design I put on Miss Amy's leg. Not bad for free hand, huh?

I forgot to get pics of my right palm and back of hand, oops! I have been busy knitting lately. If you want to see that, you can visit here.

A long week

The henna I was waiting for hadn't shown up by Thursday, so I went and bought more on Friday. I mixed it that night, and I did do some on Saturday. I just haven't pulled the pics off of my camera yet. But it figures, the pack of henna that I was waiting for showed up on Monday. On Tuesday, I was called on to help with a situation that maybe should have had help along time ago. Granted, my part was small, but still I'll help out when and where I can. That, and it was domestic violence/mental health issue. I'll absolutely help with that, after years of watching and being in similar situations. I am stressed out over something I'm not ready to talk about yet, as I may jinx it. I have lost my knitting mojo, and decided that I wanted a new book to read, so I bought one. I bought "The Virgin's Lover" by Philippa Gregory. So far, so good. Now, if I could just get my nerves to stop, I'd be good, 'cause I've heart burn this week, and I never get heart burn. Oh well.

Trying to catch up on sleep

After being on vacation (a.k.a - getting out of the office before someone dies), I am having trouble adjusting back to the work schedule. Normally, I am asleep no later than midnight. Lately, I haven't been dropping off until sometime after 1:30 am. I have to be up no later than 6:30 am, and that's just insuring i get a shower, get clothes on my body and get out the door, hopefully with children in tow. So, this is going to be a short post, so I can start recording a movie for dad, and still get some sleep.

Oh, and no henna in the mail yet. Hopefully it will be here by Friday, that way I can mix it and use in Saturday.

Night!

Happy Lughnasadh!

Today was a trying day, for mundane things, anyway. Besides the heat being unbearable, everyone just seemed to aggraviate me. But, anywho.

Happy First Harvest! I forgot to ask mom to make corn bread, and I didn't make Full Moon corn bread. I did make some corn cake, though. I had to run to the store for few final ingrediants and a bottle of wine, but I did celebrate a holiday in a somewhat proper way. See:

There is my corn cake, a piece each for the Goddess and God, a glass of wine and my lit candle. After saying my incantation over them, I took a pinch of each piece of corn cake and the glass of wine out to the front yard to make my offerings. Let's see if the neighbors complain about the batty girls next door. Especially after the "trying to take a picture of the full moon over the neighbors house across the street" episode.Yeah, that was interesting. We actually heard him lock his screen door to keep us wierdos out. Hee hee! But with Miss Amy's girls living with us, I forgot what it was like to have to explain what I was doing and why. My girls just know, because it's the way it's always been. But her girls are catching on. When I mentioned Mabon for next month, Renae asked what that was, and when I asked her if she remembered the picnic in the park last year, she got very excited. I love sharing these kinds of things with all the girls. Annie actually begs me to let go on the Gingerbread Grandma's site to play. I think it's great. We get to read the stories together, pick out recipes, and activities to do.

I had an idea. (Look out world!) If anyone still reads this (I hope someone does), I was wondering if anyone would like to join a Yule/Solstice exchange. Just a something to let everyone exchange a seasonal or ritual item, and make more friends. Maybe set it up like a "Secret Santa" swap, where you know who you are sending stuff to, but not who will be sending to you. If anyone is interested, please leave a comment, that way I have time to get everything set up. If I only get a few people who are interested, not really enough to do a swap, maybe we can just arrange a gift swap between us.

Happy Lammas!

Life's Distractions

That title is an understatement. I have been caught up in all kinds of things lately. Last week I took a so-called vacation to get away from work. We really didn't do much, as I am really broke right now. We hung around the house and Miss Tammi's, watched movies, and went to the beach. I did have a small disappointment last week. I bought a couple of small henna packs, as I have had a great urge to "line up my freckles", as Miss Amy calls it. When I mixed the pack as directed, and I have been using the same brand for almost 6 years, it didn't come out right. I double checked the instructions, and finally set it aside. I later found the label that had the company's web site listed, and then the phone number. I called, and had to leave a message, but they called me right back. We went over what I did, and have found out that the instructions may have been faulty, as it should have been 2 teaspoons of water and not 2 tablespoons as it said. The lady I talked to took my address, and told me that she would be sending me 2 replacement packs for the 2 packs that came out wrong. How great is that? I can still have my henna fix, as soon as it arrives. I'll take pics and post them. I kinda regret not taking pics of some of the creation we have come up with in the past 6 years. Some of them were just fabulous. I've had the Celtic Tree of Life on my back, as big as a dinner plate, as well as several other great creations. As a matter of fact, the real tatoo that I have on my lower back was a henna stencil out of one of my books. I tried it out on my back in henna for several months before I made up my mind and let fade, to be done for real in ink. It helped me determine the size and the placing.

Anyway, tomorrow is Lughnasadh. The first harvest festival, and the festival of corn. If I can't get mom to make corn bread for dinner, I may just to come home and make a Full Moon corn bread for the occasion. I would also love to have some mead with it, but I haven't brewed any for several years. I may just to fix that. Nothing is better for rituals than a a good honey mead, flavored with leamons and/or oranges.

Blessed Be!

Happy Summer Soltice!

I know that I haven't updated this blog that much lately, but life seems to be passing me by spiritually. Today being the Soltice, maybe I can sneak in a little ritual time after the kids go to sleep. I want/need to do a ritual to draw energy back to me, so I can find the motivation to do the things that I need to do (like lose all this extra weight). I really need to cleanse my room, and get rid of this headache that I have been lugging around all day.

As, I have found the motivation to write again. Inspiration has hit me at almost every turn. Maybe I'll find enough of it to finally write the novel I know is trapped in my brain. Here's hopeing, cause I could use what little money it might bring in.

New Post Card

I got another post card yesterday, I just haven't had a chance to scan it. Not to mention that our modem is down at home. We should have the new one tomorrow, the cable company is dropping it off tomorrow, so I'll be able to post in after that.

I have had a very quiet couple of days. My mom took my girls camping. It's given me plenty of time to catch up on my knitting. They'll come home either tonight or tomorrow.

Stop by my knitting blog if you'd like to see pics of out hike for Saturday.

Guess What I Saw Today!

I went across the dock this morning to let one of the drivers in, and he pointed out a tiny little toad. Here it is:

And just to show you how tiny, here it is on his finger:


Don't worry, we released him where he wouldn't get hurt.

I have slacked, again!

I am such a bad blogger! But I think the only things I got accomplished this past weekend was another pair of knitted socks and a sinus infection! I spent most of Friday evening at Miss Tammi's house. We watched White Noise and Man on Fire. I have seen White Noise before, and I picked up things I didn't notice the first time around. I had never seen Man on Fire, cause I'm just not that into Denzel Washington. Don't get me wrong, he's a great actor, maybe it's just because I never really got into the movies that he has been in. But, Man on Fire was a good movie. On Saturday, I slept in until 10 am, but only because I was up at 5 am, sicker than a dog. At around noon, I went back to Tammi's and we went to the Ohio Historcial Society for more research. Then I spent part of the afternoon at her house, finishing off the sock I was working on Friday. Then the girls and I went home and watched X-Men 1 & 2 for the rest of the evening, and I casted on for another pair of socks (I just can't seem to stop knitting socks). On Sunday, I woke up with a sore throat and my stomach was killing me. But, I made pasta salad and went back to Tammi's for our Sunday cookout, which turned out to just be Sunday dinner. But, that was my weekend.

I still haven't heard from Miss Rachel. I am starting to worry about her. Maybe I'll call her tonight and see how she is doing.

Quick Post!

Just a quick post, lots to do today. I have my baby sister's high school graduation to go to tonight. I'll try to take pics. Post more this weekend!

Post Cards from Abroad!

I have joined Tinkerbell in a post card exchange. It sounds like fun, and who wouldn't love to get mail from other places in the world. So, please come have fun and play. If you want to join, please leave a comment with your e-mail address and I'll get back to you to swap snail mail addresses.

Also, you can check here to see why I was followed like a shoplifter in a museum.

Rainy weather & bad news

Ok, so I don't mind the rainy weather so much. I do like it when it rains, it seems to wash everything clean, washing away the pollution.

As for the bad news. I talked to Miss Rachel yesterday, and she has cancelled the cleansing ritual for this weekend. But I don't blame her. She has been dealing with so much lately, with the new meds. She just doesn't have the time or drive to finish organizing it. And with them uping, lowering or switching her meds to try to make her normal, she doesn't seem to be the same person that I have known since the first day of high school. I also feel so helpless, cause there is nothing I can do for her. If she isn't sleeping, then she's depressed. My hands just feel so tied when it comes to that situation.

But, I do look forward to this weekend, as it's the weekend for the cook out, even though I'm on call. Oh well, when has that ever stopped me?

Maybe I'll get motivated to cleanse my room, now that it's clean.

Blessed be!

Mom's Day

I had a good Mother's day with the girls. They got me a ceramic tea pot for my collection, and made me a hand made card, as well as getting a store bought one. They are such crafty little ones. They always love to make mommy pictures. So, I have a paper box for all of it. I think soon, I'll have to get another box. Other than that, I didn't leave the house all weekend. I did clean a little and made a quick dinner for us on Sunday. Even my furry kids gave me lots of love this weekend, both of them sleeping with me on Saturday night. Although, Miss Moonie must have called off all bets at midnight, as she was digging in my rubber tree at 2 a.m., and she knocked over my hot pink dyed geod. Being awakened at 2 o'dark-stupid, in a pitch black room with a loud thump doesn't do anything for the nerves.

I'm a slacker!

Yes, I know, I suck! Well, we didn't have the Beltaine festival, another holiday gone by without a gathering. Good thing we aren't a coven, we'd really suck. But, we did have a killer cook out on Sunday at Miss Tammi's. And tonight, I get to chaparone Miss Tammi's daughter, Jess and 3 of her friends to the Fall Out Boy concert. More on that tomorrow. If you want to read the latest drama, you can visit my knitting blog to see that. Later!

Happy Beltaine

Merry Meet and Happy Beltaine to all! Tonight I get to go home and try to find some time to cleanse and seal my room, something I haven't done since I moved in, and I really should have done that before I moved in. Let's see if I can clear out the negative energy that seems to be flowing, and have a good second half of the witch's year. And the reason why I say I need to find time is because tomorrow is the office potluck, and I need to make coleslaw and a caramel apple crostata, and maybe an Impossible French Apple pie while I'm at it.

Blessed Be on this holiday!

Weekend Laziness

I have spent most of the day on the couch, knitting and downloading music. I did get out in the front yard for a short while and planted a few starter flowers that I had. Not sure what they were, as I forgot to mark them. Oops!

Last night, I thought I would change the template on my knitting blog. That'll teach me for thinking. I forgot to save the current template, and screwed it all up. I did fix it for the most part, and I looks pretty nice, but I ended up going with the the black template like this one. I do have a few photos that I posted on there today, one of my recently finished socks, and one of Mr. Vinny, sleeping with his tongue out. Check it out.

Beltaine is on Monday, and we are having a potluck at work on Tuesday. They aren't connected, we just haven't had a potluck in a long time. So, it's up to me to make some coleslaw and maybe a caramel apple crostata. Yum! But, we are going to try to do the Beltaine picnic next Saturday, when everyone will be in town (mainly Miss Tammi). We'll be doing this one potluck style. I still need to pick a place, be someone's back yard or a park, and a time. There's not many of us for this one, so it doesn't really matter. And, I do need to call everyone and remind them. Hey, maybe my new Sabbat entertaining book will come in handy for this. :)

Also, on Saturday May 20th, Miss Rachel is hosting a cleansing ritual at Blendon Park, here in Columbus. I think it's something we all need, as she has pointed out, this year has sucked so far. So, if you are in Columbus or the surrounding area, feel free to join us. This is a family oriented event, and is a picnic, so please bring your own food and refreshments. I will post the time as soon as she let's me know. We will be doing a short ritual (about 3 to 4 minutes) then the picnic will commence. If you need directions, or would like to know any other info, please leave me a comment, and I will respond to you as quickly as I can.

Blessed Be!

Just another Wednesday!

If you'll notice on the sidebar, I found the Candy Bar doll maker, and the link is just below it. So, last night, I didn't knit, and Katie and I sat around and played with the doll maker. Here is one that she designed:

Then, being big Harry Potter fans, we found this one:

Then, I couldn't resist this one:

And this one:

One more! I promise it's the last one:

That thing kept us busy for atleast an hour.

During the time that we were playing with this, Miss Tammi's daughter called me. It seems that she is having very disturbing dreams lately. Dreams of a close friend that commited suicide last year. From what she has been telling me, it seems as if he has been trying to communicate with her, but it's freaking her out, and it's only been since they have moved into their new house. I told her to carry my cell # with her everywhere, and call me no matter what time of day or night it was. So, I'm going to call her tonight to check on her, because she was pretty shaken up last night.

On a lighter note, if you'd like to see what my cats have been up to, please visit my knitting blog. I hope you find it as funny as I did.

Quiz Monday

What type of Fae are you?

Kitty Love and Books

Well, today, I pulled my back out while doing some yard work with Miss Amy. You can read all about it here. And my loving cats have shown me support, from Moonie laying on the floor with me while I tried to stretch my back out, to Vinny, who is sleeping at my feet right this minute, as I lay in bed writing this post.

Shortly after starting the yard work, the mail man came by and had a box for me. My books from Amazon.com. I was very excited. And the mailman remarked that we got a lot of boxes. What, with the e-bay orders, Knit Picks orders, and Amazon.com orders, he said that we make sure that he does gets out of his truck and get a little exercise every now and then. Nice guy. I'll have to see about giving him some cookies this Yule. And, here is the obligatory pic of said books:

Ok, I don't know how it's possible, but after ripping out my jeans on Tuesday, when I went into work yesterday for my half day (as I was on call last weekend), I stepped up on to the freight scales, I was 5 pounds lighter than the day before. Now, how can that be? I know it the belly dance workout that I did on Tuesday night did not cause me to lose 5 pounds over night. But, it's encouraging. So, I am back to my work outs, cutting back on my portions of food, no pop, only water, tea and milk type of routine. Last time I did this, I lost about 50 pounds in 4 months. Here's to hopeing it works again.

A short while ago, I was coming out of the kitchen from getting the girlies some strawberry ice cream, and this is what I saw:

Aren't they cute? They haven't sat together like this in a long time. That's Moonie and Vinny. Moonie is my black cat, my familiar, and Vinny is my pain in the arse. Even now, Moonie is in the window enjoying the spring air.

The other day I found a site for pagan children that I fell in love with. Most of you probably already now about it, but it's Elsie and Pooka. I just love the coloring pages. I printed off some for the girls earlier, as I took the day off (and no, I didn't play hookie, I asked for it off) to spend with the girls, as Katie is on spring break this week. I thought that Annie would be the one to want to color them right away, since she 5. But no, she was more interested in Sponge Bob. Katie on the other hand, who is 11, jumped right in and did every one that I printed off for her, right away. But, right now Annie is sitting at the kitchen table with mommy's crayons. Maybe later I'll scan the master pieces and post them. I like the pages so much, I may even color a few.

You know you're fat when.......

It sounds like a set up for a punch line, huh? Well, here's the punch line: I ripped out my jeans at work. I was dropping down under the counter to plug in my lap top and *riiiip*. I had to go to the restroom to see the extent on the damage. I ripped out the whole right side of the ass, next to the pocket. Granted the jeans were on the old side, but if I hadn't gained around 45 pounds since last August, then it wouldn't have happened. I have been meaning to get back into my exercise routine, well I have no choice now, do I? I have only 2 pairs of jeans that still fit me, and about 10 pairs that I need to slim back down to get into. Please send positive thoughts and engery my way as I start to sweat my ass off working out, and praying to the Goddess to help me lose it quickly. And, I can't believe I am about to admit this, but I am 5'5", small bones, and should weight around 135 to 140. At that weight I would look beyond fab. At about 145 to 150, I'd just be fab. At 155 to 160, looking good. 165 t0 170, pushing it. 175 to 180, girlfriend back away from the cookies. 185 to 190, a little pudgy. 195, I jarred the scales. And anything over that, I broke the scales. Well, I broke the scales. The only thing is, once I realize how much I weigh, I get depressed, and on come the cravings and excuses of "I'll work it off tomorrow." Then, "tomorrow" comes, and it's the same excuses. And it doesn't help that I am stuck behind a desk all day, when it didn't used to be that way. We used to be busy enough that I could get away from my desk to get out on the dock at least once a day and help move boxes. Now we are so slow that all I can do is stare at a computer screen, and it's the internet at that. I guess it's back to the strick diet, no pop and candy, back to the belly dance workout and the Core Secrets ball workout. I just need motivation.

Anyway, those of you who visit me on a regular basis will notice that I have finaly done something with my side bar. Doesn't it look pretty?

1, 2, 3 Strikes....

I'm out! I just can't seem to get myself together with the ritual fasting. My will just seems to be too weak of late.

We did have a good holiday weekend. I went to Miss Tammi's for Easter, my mom wasn't too happy with me, but hey, she didn't speak up soon enough. And for the dinner I made 4 loaves of breaded egg bread, 2 loaves of braided honey whole wheat bread, 1 large and 1 small Hiawiian sweet potatoe casseroles, and 2 caramel apple crostas. Everything was a big hit, as I made it home with only the small casserole and 1 loaf of egg bread. If anyone is interested in the recipes I used, you can e-mail me at tonia underscore u at hotmail dot com, and I will be more than happy to share.

Oh, and I won the drawal of the hat for a set of my boss' season hockey tickets. Saturday night, I took Tammi's daughter, Jessi with me and we went to see the Columbus Blue Jackets play the Chicago Black Hawks. We won 5 to 2, and the Black Hawks only scored when Jessi and I went to get some pop and hot dogs. Here are a few pics that I took that night:

Here's our mascot Stinger just before the game.

And here is pic of #27 - Manny Malhotra, he reminds me of a very skinny Vin Diesel.

Another Wednesday!

Ok, fasting just didn't work today. I had decided that I was going to Barnes & Nobles again for lunch. Then I started to get light headed and needed to eat. And the only thing over in that direction that I really like is, of course, Chipotle. So, I blew that today, and feel as yucky as ever. What I normally do when I ritual fast is fast from sun up to sun down, and I usually try to get up before sunrise to eat something light. I over slept this morning. But, I am only human (although some would not agree with that) and I will try again tomorrow.

Anyway, at Barnes & Noble, I bought a natural healing book by Mark Evans. I also bought Cerulean Sins and Incubus Dreams by Laurell K. Hamilton. Then I spotted Every Which Way But Dead by Kim Harrison. The cover caught my eye, and the blurb on the back sucked me in. And I think for the first time, I got the first book in a series instead of one in the middle. I'll let you know how it is when I'm done.

I didn't get to do my meditation, but I did get my facial done last night. Let's see what I can accomplish tonight!

Feeling Yuck!

I have noticed that for the past several days that I have been feeling just.... yuck! I feel like I have eaten too much, when I haven't eaten at all. But I eat anyway, and nothing that has really been too good for me. Today it was Mc D's, and yesterday Chipotle's. The Mc D's was just too greasy and salty. And the Chipotle's, well, that was just way too much, as for some reason when I eat it, it turns off the switch to my brain that let's me know that I am full, then it settles like a rock about 15 minutes later, and I'm miserable for the next 4 hours. I haven't been exercising. I need to give myself a good facial. And I'm in bad need of some cleansing and meditation. Not to mention that I have just been in a very evil mood today. On the way to work with Miss Amy, I offered to get out at a light and teach the lady in front of us how to drive. Well..... It looked like she needed a lesson, as she couldn't keep her mini van on the freeway. Then, here at work, I overheard Mr. C telling a story that involved the words, "and I was drunk," and I really had to bite my tongue and shut the door to the dock before I blurted, "When aren't you drunk?" (ok, a little back history - I dated Mr. C for about a year and a half, we broke up almost a year and a hald ago, and yes, I know it's never a good idea to date someone you work with.) But, I think my level of evilness stems from the problems I had last night with the makers of the wireless router I bought. I don't want to open that can of worms again, bit let me say that it was the worst customer service I have ever had, ever!

And so, on that note, I did pamper myself today. I ran out of my favorite lip balm, so we went to Bath & Body at lunch so I could get a new one. And I found a sample pack of body butters that I couldn't pass up. There was Brazil Nut, Pumkin, Lychee, Black Currant and Aloe. They are at least a good couple of ounces each, and the pack was $24.00, a really good deal, as they are half of the full size jars that are $12.00 each. And when we got back from lunch, I went on to Amazon.com and bought a book that I could find at Barnes & Noble during lunch. I got Sabbat Entertaining by Willow Polson. Then I noticed that if I had purchases totaling $25.00, then I could get free shipping. Well, I love free shipping, so I also bought the 2006 Witches' Datebook (as I still hadn't got one - I know, kinda late in the year) and Cakes and Ale For The Pagan Soul by Patricia Telesco.

I was going to go to the grocery store tonight, but I think I'll meditate instead, if I can get all the kids to play outside. And I think I'll try a ritual sun up to sun down fasting to let this general yuckiness run it's course. I mean I really feel horrid. So, any good thoughts and energy would be very helpful right now.

Have a Blessed evening!

Signs of Spring

Last week, Annie and planted starter seeds. She asked me everyday when the flowers were going to grow, in true 5 year old fashion. Last Friday, Miss Amy called me when I was on my way home and told me that our seeds had sprouted in their little greenhouse, so I could show Annie when we got home. And here is what we saw:

And last night, I found the first dandelion of the season:

And here is my favorite plum tree:

You can just barely see that it is sprouting leaves. This tree is at my mom's, and it is my favorite plum tree because it produces such nice Japanese Table Plums, that my mom turns into such great home made wine. I have the very last bottle from her 2004 batch, and I'm hording it! It's that good! So, maybe the Goddess will bless us with another good crop this year, as last year was the off season for it.

Spring Feelings

I have started feeling the pull of Spring. And I think I'll take the girls for a little picnic this weekend. This way we can get some fresh air, and celebrate the return of warm weather. Miss Tammi is in town this weekend, and maybe Miss PJ will want to go. We'll have a lot of fun either way.

I have decided to set the group Beltaine party for the weekend of May 6-7. That's a weekend that Tammi is in, and we may have to adjust a little of PJ does little B's birthday party that weekend. Now, that I have made my mind up on that one, I can start to plan. I'll need to find where we want to have it, and what the menu will be, and who will bring what dish. Maybe Miss Rachel will feel well enough to join us. I would love it she does, and it would do her some good.

Blessed be!

Mundane Monday

Well, over the weekend, I went through all the boxes in my room. I made up my mind on what was to be unpacked, and was to be packed up for later use. There are only 5 boxes in my room, 4 that need sorted, and 1 with books that need to be put out on to shelves. And, I finally found all the boxes in the garage that have all my craft books in them, I just haven't brought them in. Now, I will be able to bring them on slowly and unpack them. Once that's done, I can cleanse the room.

On the holiday front, I haven't starte making any plans for Beltaine, yet. I need to check the calender and see what day will work for everyone. Then I can start planning menus, a place to hold it, and games and activities for the kiddies. So, we'll see!

We have Fire!

Here are the pics of the fireplace in my room. You know, the ones that Blogger ate yesterday. You can also see them on my knitting blog.

Pic B.F. (Before Fire):

Pic A.F (After Fire):

You can just barely see my cauldron sitting right in front.

Ok, on the plan the next holiday, and see if we can actually celebrate this one the way we used to, as a group of close friends. Next holiday is Beltaine on May 1st. Tonight, I'm going to trudge out to the garage and bring in all the boxes with my books in them, so I can get the back on the shelves in my room. Fun, Fun, Fun!

Post-Ostara Post

As has been with my holidays lately, Ostara kinda got up on the back burner. We were still unpacking the kitchen (my favorite area), dining room and living room on Saturday, so we didn't get to color eggs the way I had planned. Then on Sunday, I took Miss PJ to lunch at Don Pablos for her birthday (which was Saturday). Then we went shopping at World Market, Target and Bath & Body. After that, we went to see The Libertine. Not a childrens movie, in any way, shape or form, ever. And we enjoyed it, as we were kid free! We've decided that we like that, and are going to try to do it atleast once a month.

On Monday, we spent time knitting, so was very relaxed. Then at midnight, Miss Amy and I decided to try to light the fire place for Ostara. Our fears of blowing up my room and having to share hers were unfounded, as the Gods were against us. It wouldn't light. So, last night when Amy got home, we called the neighbor, R, and had him come over to look at it, since he has one too. And it appears that the people who lived there before us had a phobia about gas appliances. SHe mad the land lord remove the stove and put in an electric one, and they shut off all 3 valves to the fireplace. Yes, 3 valves. But, R figured it out, and we got lit, and in the process, we found were someone was stupid enough to try and burn a cd in it. We need to give them a Carlos Mencia award for that one, The Da-de-da-de Award! Now, I can finish unpacking my room (my sacred space), and get settled in. And, since it's snowed again, it'll be cozy in my room. I can light the fireplace, turn on a good movie or some soothing music and knit, as the cats try to lay all over me. Especially Moonie, since she never leaves my room, but that's a good thing, for the mean, evil kitty that she is.

Since we didn't get to color eggs, I did find this to share:

There is only 1 of 4, as I am still have the same problem with Blogger being hungery, as I had on my knitting blog. Besides, this one is my favorite.

A feel good post!

I am really loving blogland. I have not seen a more warm and welcoming group of people. Since I have started my knitting blog, and now this blog, I have come in contact with alot of very helpful people. And thanks to Roccermom for the suggestion on the Cait Johnson "Witch in the Kitchen" book. I think I may have this one, but I need to hunt through all the packed boxes in th garage, that haven't made it down to my room since we moved in 3 weeks ago. If I don't have it, I may just have to go on a book run early Saturday.

Here's an image I found many (maybe 4 or 5) years ago for St. Patrick's Day. I can't remember where I found, so I can't give credit for it now, I may remember later. If anyone knows, please feel free to comment and remind me.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Gotta love that time of year for Green Beer!

Hump Day!

Ostara is getting closer, and I haven't been able to any of the reserch that I want to do. As I said on the knitting blog, I was up and down all last night with Annie and her fever. And tonight I was just too tired to anything other than make myself a cranberry and amaretto and watch Top Model. Maybe tomorrow night, I'll be able to look up the recipes and rituals that I want. Maybe even during work I can do a little web hunting. Come on Saturday, hurry up and get here!

Giving this a whirl

Merry Meet!

I seem to do really well at blogging on knitting, that I thought I'd give it a go on blogging on my pagan religion.

I am a kitchen witch of the Celtic flavor, from my athame, to my broom stick, cauldron, and black cat that hates the world, loves me and tolerates the rest of the household. I try to find ways to incorporate magic in my daily life, and not just dust it off for the Sabbats.

Speacking of Sabbats. Ostara is approaching, March 20th. And typically, we celebrate it on the weekend closer to the holiday. It's been awhile since we've been able to have a large celebration, Mabon was the last one that I remember. So, tonight I'll be calling to let everyone know. The only one I don't have to call is Miss Amy, now that we are room mates. Miss Tammi will be in Georgia this weekend. Miss PJ will probably not show, as has been her habit of late. And if Miss Rachel feels up to coming, she won't have any children with her, yet. I'll also need to go over a menu. Amy did say that she wants me to make chili this weekend, but I don't see how that's going to fit in. But, I'll let you know what I come up with.

Blessed Be!