Beating Creative Blocks

I have always had problems with creative blocks.  Usually it’s comparing my artwork to what others do.  Or generally not thinking that what I create is good, valid, and valuable just because it’s made by me.

It’s hard to get past those blocks, to even change your thinking so you can get past those blocks.  But there is a way.

Leonie Dawson from Goddess Guidebook has created a wonderfully divine 6 week Creative Goddess ecourse.  It’s designed to kick-start your creativity.

There are meditations, videos, and, of course, creative projects, all designed to release your inner Creative Goddess.

Her next course starts on August 1st.  I’ve signed up.  I hope you will join  me on this creative journey.

Click HERE for more information and to sign up.

Getting Back on Track

I’ve had a really eventful few weeks.  I have to admit, the wheels fell off several times, and I’ve had to put them back on.  I have gone through a mini mid life crisis, but have somehow found my way out of it.

My little crisis was fed by different issues:

1. My little one bedroom unit was very cluttered with books, magazines and craft stuff.  There wasn’t room to move, and I found it very frustrating.

2. I am sick of being alone and so am trying to draw my twin soul to me, but it wasn’t happening.  I wasn’t sure why and that was frustrating me as well.

3.  Being honest, I really don’t like where I live.  It’s cold, damp, and not in the nicest of neighbourhoods.  This was also frustrating me.

4.  I was just floating along, with no plan of where I was going.  I just dealt with each day as it came along and hoped for the best.

I didn’t realise, but all four issues were interwoven.  I was not going to draw my twin soul while my unit was so cluttered and “un-homely”.  I needed a plan to deal with all those things and help start and put things right.

As soon as I recognised that I needed a plan, I tried to sort out how and why.  I very quickly came to the conclusion that I needed help.  I have never been taught how to set goals or how to work towards them.  If I was to sort out my life and become a successful arty business person, then I needed to learn how to set and work towards those goals.

Enter Goddess Leonie – stage right. I had heard of Goddess Leonie, and had listened to all the podcasts and watched all the videos from her World’s Biggest Summit late last year.  That summit set the ball rolling.  I new Goddess Leonie did life coaching, so I went to her website to find out more.  I then found out about her awesome Goddess Circle.  So I joined – right then and there on the spot.

It’s the best thing I ever did.  It was a couple of weeks ago, and I’ve managed to come down with a chest infection since then and been out of action for a week.  But I’ve started working on Goddess Leonie’s e-course on decluttering your home and creating your goddess sanctuary.  So that’s what I’m doing.

I’ve mostly done the bedroom.  I had been sleeping in a single bed that was given to me 12 months ago.  That very definitely had to go.  Not giving the universe the right idea.  If I wanted to draw my Twin Soul, I had to get a bigger bed.  So I went to Salvation Army and found a nice queen ensemble which was delivered yesterday.  Still haven’t got rid of the single bed (Salvation Army wouldn’t take it for whatever reason), but I will take it out to the recycle shop at the tip as soon as I can find someone who can help me.

I cleared out 3 boxes of books, some garbage bags of assorted other things, which are all going to a friend’s place.  She and another lady run a garage sale every 4 months or so and the money goes to helping the orphans in Cambodia.  Hopefully those things will be picked up over the weekend.  Then I can start on the rest of the unit.

As I was sorting through things I found some items that belonged to my late husband.  I quickly put those in the donate pile.  One of the items I found was our wedding ring set.  It was a cheap set from Walmart (yes, I lived in the US for 2 years but returned home when he passed on).  I took that to St Vincent de Paul today.  The lady was a bit shocked but when I explained that it was time to move on she totally understood.

If I am to attract my Twin Soul, then I have to let go of the past and allow myself to move forward.  Hanging onto bits for memories sake is holding onto the past.  So I have come a long way this weekend.

This will be an ongoing journey, and hopefully next time I will have some pictures to share.

Namaste <3

Interesting Times

As an empath, these days are very interesting and extremely challenging for me.  The energies around at the moment are ... well ... interesting - and that's putting it mildly.

From a small child (most of which I can't remember) I had built walls around me to protect myself.  I come from a twice broken home.  My Mother has undiagnosed mental health issues.  My family are very, very, very Christian.  I didn't leave the church myself until 6 years ago now.  I have spent the last 6 years trying to - I want to say "recover", but it would more be a mix of "recover" and "de-program" myself.

I was always the odd one out.  I still feel that way.  I pick up on the littlest thing, but other times I can be as thick as two short planks.  I pick up on energy, not always what people say.  Sometimes I have to read something 3 or 4 times for it to sink in.  Being easily distracted (read "ADHD") doesn't help this.  I try my best, and that's all I can do.  I live for me, not anyone else.  My life is mine, and my path is mine.  Not yours, not my mother's, not anyone's.  I'm open to suggestions, but not people telling me what to do.

I've been through a lot of shit in my life.  I often wonder why, but then I remember that before I was incarnated this time my higher self decided on the lessons I needed to learn this lifetime.  Kinda puts a different spin on things when you think like that.  You realise that your life isn't a series of random events, but more like a carefully orchestrated symphony.  How hard my life is, or can be, is totally up to me.  If I chose not to learn a lesson, around the mountain I will go ... again and again until I learn that lesson.  At every single moment in my life I have a choice, whether to be the victor or the victim.  It's my choice.  You can't make it for me.  You can enlighten me to that choice, but you can't make it for me.

Once I chose to stop being the victim, everything changed.  Things started to fall into place.  I found myself empowered to change my life and to do amazing things.  I found my path in life to be more joyful.  I found my giftings started to surface from where I had buried them long ago.  It was like welcoming an old friend.

I allowed those walls I had built as a child to start to crumble.  I have slowly been dismantling them over the last 12 months.  I still have a ways to go, but I can function now as I should be.  I'm living, not just surviving.  When you ignore your gifts for as long as I have there is going to be a period of adjusting, of learning, of accepting.  Things don't just fall into place overnight.  It does take time.  Each day is a learning experience for me.  I have grown and changed and matured so much in the last 12 months.  But I've only just scratched the surface, there is so much more to discover and learn and enjoy.

This last week has been very interesting.  The energies have been very unusual, and I feel it more than most because I'm empath.  I'm not saying that to boast.  I'm saying that to explain.  I have been a mess of tears since last Wednesday.  There's a lot of endings in my life at the moment, and some new things coming, so close that I can reach and and touch but not here yet and it's so frustrating.  These are things I've been believing for, praying for, spelling for, I have crystals and altars set up.  These are things that I need in my life, like my Twin Flame.  But I am at the endings bit, not quite at the beginning bit, but it's soon.  So soon.

All I can do is hang on for the ride.  I am stronger than I think.  Crying doesn't mean that you're weak.  It is a way of releasing pressure and cleansing yourself to be ready for the next thing.  The strong cry because it makes them stronger.  Sounds weird, but it's true.

Hang on to your dreams.  Don't ever let them go.  Don't just follow them, chase them down and crash tackle them and make them yours.  Don't ever let anyone steal your dreams.  You CAN do it.  You can be whatever you want.  You can have whatever you want.  You are strong enough, just like I am.  Hang on tight.  This ride is about to get wilder.  Are your ready?

Children Have Worries Too

I had a suggestion from a friend leading up to the last market to make some worry dolls suitable for boys.  I’ve only just been able to get to working on the idea now that the market is over.
This is what I’ve come up with.  They are Worry Monsters.  They are roughly 20cms tall.  They all have a heart applique, because you need a heart to really be able to listen.  Monsters come not named.  I think it’s better for the child to name their monster themselves.  These monsters will listen to your child’s worries and not tell a soul.
They will sell for $10 each and will be available in my Etsy shop over the next few days.  The black one has already found it’s keeper. <3

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from the Oracle of the Shapeshifters by Lucy Cavendish.  Words from the accompanying guidebook.

BATS IN THE BELFRY – You Can Achieve Great Things

You have managed to actively show through the choices you have made that it is possible to do what others once insisted could not be done.  You have clearly shown that the miracle that is your life is a result of the decisions you made to no longer be limited by fear and conditioning.  You have been so very brave.  The choices before you now are expansive.  Don’t become too light headed.  Consult your self, and heed the advice of others who too have broken free and are flying high.  This does not make their advice right for you, in a rote and formulaic way – it makes their example authentic – far more so than those who suggested you stay smaller than you obviously had it within you to be!

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Ravynne Phelan’s Messenger Oracle.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

HAVE COURAGE

There are times when you feel small, afraid and alone in the world, but you are not alone.  You are watched over and cherished by Gaia and Great Spirit.  Know that you have within you the strength to overcome all obstacles placed in your path no matter how daunting or large they may seem.  Have courage.  Now is the time to trust in yourself and have confidence that you will overcome all.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day – from Oracle of the Dragonfae by Lucy Cavendish.  Words from accompanying guidebook.

GWYNNE AND ELLUISH – Attunement

Communication between beings, including people, animals and magical beings via the senses.  Incredible understanding between beings: soul-fusion and comprehension of meaning without a word being spoken.  You may have recently discovered that yu can often understand what another being has to say without them uttering a word.  Becoming more clairaudient, being able to receive messages that you “hear”.  Development of the chakras to do with hearing.  Becoming much more sensitive to sound.

Working with Gwynne and Elluish

Trust your dreams, intuitive messages, insights and visions.  Know you are receiving messages telepathically at this time.  Take heart if people do not understand where you are receiving information from.  If your friendships seem strange to older friends or family members, do not buy into their judgment.  Finding animals or other beings easier to understand than people.  Developing your intuition to a more subtle level, befriending animals, plants and looking to the natural world for love and support as much as you do the world of people and technology.  Letting go of unnecessary technologies.  Listening to the whispers of spirit and of the soul.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Messages from your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle Cards by Dr Steven D. Farmer.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

PLATYPUS – Stop complaining and focus your attention on the blessings in your life.

Complaining about this or that is a way to blow off steam, which can be healthy to a degree, but ultimately, it isn’t very helpful – for you or anyone around you.  Lift yourself up no matter what your present life circumstances are, face the day head-on, and notice which thoughts you tend to put most of your attention on.  Whatever the nature of those thoughts, the consequences manifest not only in your feelings, but eventually in the world around you.

Power flows wherever your attention goes.  Power is Life Force, or Spirit.  When your attention is focused on negative thoughts, negative experiences result.  So whenever you notice yourself repeatedly attending to negative thoughts, practice shifting your attention to thoughts of gratitude.  Consider the blessings in your life.  What are the things that make you happy?  You may find a discrepancy between what makes you happy and what you’re doing in your life right now.  If that’s the case, choose to alter one or the other:  Either change your life and start doing what makes you happy, or change your thinking to enjoy whatever is happening in the moment.  It’s up to you.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Ravynne Plelan’s Messanger Oracle.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

WASH AWAY YOUR BURDENS

As you have moved through life, you have undoubtedly experienced moments that have inspired feelings of regret, remorse, shame and guilt.  You have made promises you have not been able to keep.  You have judged and blamed yourself and others.  You have burdened yourself with feelings born of acts that cannot be undone, which still bind you to the past.  It is time to forgive.  It is time to lie down in the healing waters and let them wash away your burdens so you can move forward with spirit cleansed.

Rune of the Day

PERTHO – Words are from “Reading the Runes: A Beginner’s Guide” by Kim Farnell

Pertho’s primary meaning is that of initiation, of things that are hidden and unexplained and of the working of the fates, which leads to its association with the Nornir.  It points towards that which is beyond our powers.  Powerful forces of change are indicated, so at times it represents surprises, gains or rewards that you did not anticipate.  Being concerned with the deepest part of our being, Pertho refers to the bedrock on which our destiny is founded.  It can refer to transition or letting go of everything.  Those things that you know on an unconscious level can come into the light and help you to understand the higher meaning of things.  Pertho suggests the vagaries of chance that cannot be controlled.  It symbolizes the warrior who constantly tests himself against chance and luck.  Because of this, it also represents luck in action or any gamble or risk that is undertaken.  It represents the uncertainties of life and the interaction between your personal free will and the constraints of your circumstances.

Pertho is also the Rune of memory, recollection and of problem solving.  It shows an unexpected resolution to difficult situations.  As a Rune of mystery, it reveals hidden things and secret or occult abilities.  Its appearance often refers to the disclosure of some sort of secret.  In general terms, Pertho refers to mysteries, the occult, psychic abilities and revelation.  Tradition says that if this is the first Rune to appear in a casting, the reading should be aborted because any advice that follows will change the course of fate and anger the Norns.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Dr Steven D. Farmer’s Messages from Your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle Cards.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

PEACOCK – Let yourself stand out and be noticed.

It’s time to step forward and stop hiding behind any of the facades that you’ve developed over the years.  Although these personas have been highly adaptive and have helped you along the way – for which you can be grateful – there’s more of you to express to the world, and it’s ready to emerge.  There’s a certain safety and comfort in being inconspicuous and always staying in the background, yet in playing it safe this way, others don’t have the opportunity to get to know who you really are, and you don’t get to experience the richness and textures that are possible by participating more fully in life.  By remaining in the background, you nor only alienate yourself from others, but often end up allowing others to choose for you.  Doing so can make you feel like a passive victim of life.

Being noticed does have some risks.  People may criticize or judge you, particularly if they’re not used to you asserting yourself in such a way.  Or you may even judge yourself, which can be an even harsher sentence.  These are the likely risks, but they’re actually very minimal.  So shed any guilt or shame about coming out with who you are.  Wear more colourful clothing, sing, dance, and let others know your thoughts, feelings, and opinions.  You can do so with grace, dignity, and enthusiasm – and you might even enjoy it!

Counting Down

Only a week to go until my market on Facebook.  I’m getting really excited now.  I have a few more things I want to make, some more necklaces and some plain tarot pouches and a couple of other things.

This is a necklace I made yesterday, yes for the market.  The pendant is Mother of Pearl and the beads are rose quartz.  I did the macramé cording so it is symmetrical.  It’s a shorter necklace, but not so short that it’s a choker.

Really happy with how my necklaces are turning out.  They are so relaxing to make.  Love doing handwork.

The top left is a piece of Australian lepidolite, and the top right is a piece of Rhodonite.  The colours are not true to what they are in real life.  The lepidolite is more purple and the rhodonite is more pink and black.  The mother of pearl pendant at the bottom is what I used in the necklace above.  I am planning to turn the other two into necklaces this week for my market.

Really excited at what I’ve been making and how things are turning out.  This has stretched and challenged me no end.  So much fun.  <3

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from The Faeries’ Oracle by Brian Froud.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

THE GUARDIAN AT THE GATE

Passages to new life.  Openings.  Gatekeeping.

Drawing this card indicates that a passage is being made to the beginning of something new in our lives.  It speaks of new opportunities and new openings.  Passing through this gate may lead to a physical journey, a mental or an emotional one, or a journey of the spirit.  It always leads to adventure.  This gateway will also lead to significant change in our lives.  The passage through such a gate changes us.

The gate we face may not seem like much, the decision to enter may not seem to be a matter of great moment, but the presence of the Guardian at the Gate tells us that something important is happening.  It indicates that going forward through that gate is no small thing, but something to be approached with awareness and prayerfulness.  We are embarking on a new phase of our lives, and there will be no going back once this gate has been passed.  That is the kind of transition the Guardian at the Gate leads us to – always irrevocable change.  We may, of course, ask the Guardian at the Gate for guidance and protection on our journey – and we would be wise to do so.

Alternatively, the presence of the Gatekeeper in a reading may indicate that the querent is being asked to help open a gate for someone else, to help provide an opportunity for them.  The job of a gatekeeper (or gatekeeper’s assistant) is merely to open the gate, not to push people through it.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Brian Froud’s The Faeries’ Oracle.  Words from the accompanying guidebook.

LUATHAS THE WILD

Haste. Impulsiveness. Fire. Spontaneity. Balance.

This card says that wild creative energies are being brought to whatever position it represents in the card layout.  It often fires up the things that surround it (represented by other cards), energizing them as well.  It tells us that is it important to think and act creatively, and it says that the energy to do so is available.  New approaches are called for here.  Old ideas and old behavious will not do it.  Sometimes it may be useful to draw another card (or do an additional layout) to get some suggestions about what those new ideas might be.

Alternatively, Luathas may be telling you to go for something – NOW!   Sometimes it is important to take the risk of making a fool of yourself to gain something amazing and wonderful and miraculous.  Sometimes when Luathas says, “GO FOR IT! NOW!” it is important to do so.  And sometimes it isn’t.  If the only reason for caution is that you’re afraid of looking silly, it probably is time to go for it.

Remember, then, that you need to keep an eye on Luathas.  Don’t let him have control of your schedule or the accelerator in your car.  He always thinks going faster and taking chances is better, and sometimes he is even right.  Use sense and stay grounded, even while he takes you off on a flight of fancy.

Shaman Necklace

I had purchased this gorgeous Chinese Jade Shaman pendant from Worldly Treasures in Orange.  It is very old.  I’ve forgotten just how old so am trying to find out.  I fell in love with him when I first saw him and decided he would be the first of a hopefully long series of shaman necklaces that I was hoping to create.

I matched him up with some turquoise beads and natural coloured hemp cording and created this piece.  I am totally in love with how he has turned out.  He is certainly a piece of power.  He will be for sale at my Earth Walkers market in just over a week’s time.

Speaking of market, I still have a lot of things I want to create for market, but think I might run out of time.  There’s so many ideas swimming through my head.  I am using this market as a gauge to see what I should focus on.  So far the two pieces that have received the most attention are this necklace and the doll that I made.  Shall see what sells quickly on market day.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Messages from your Animal Spirit Guides Oracle by Dr Steven D. Farmer.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

SEAGULL – “Now is the time for deep emotional healing”

The emotional sea that’s hovering just below your consciousness is a well of feelings that needs to be acknowledged and expressed.  Expressing emotions doesn’t mean indulging in them compulsively or creating drama around them.  If there are tears, let them simply be tears and allow them to flow.  Cry or laugh as much as you need to.  Explore these feelings by sharing them with someone you trust, or write about them in a journal, paying particular attention to the sensations in your body.  These sensations are clues to the layers of emotion that are just below the surface of your awareness.  By either talking or writing them down, you bring them into your awareness, find relief, and create an opportunity to release them.

Don’t let this be a theatrical exercise, one where you act or try to force yourself to feel something you’re not.  Make sure that you include a good dose of humour from time to time, particularly is you’re dealing with darker and scarier emotions.  It’s not necessary to cleanse the emotional and psychic scars that remain from earlier experiences too frequently, but now is the time to do so.  Should you find yourself starting to get lost in the whirlpool of traumatic memory, change the scenery by physically moving or intentionally distracting yourself in some way.  It isn’t necessary to cure yourself of the feelings associated with these memories all in one setting; instead, simply relieve some of the pressure that lurks below the surface.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Ravynne Phelan’s The Messenger Oracle.  Words are taken from the guidebook.

Do not distance yourself from life and those around you.  Reach out.  Ask for help or support if you have need.  Or, if someone within your circle is in need of care and support then give it without hesitation or question.  A trouble shared is a burden halved.  Now is not the time to withdraw and be alone, nor is it time to leave another in need.  Be aware.  Be caring.  Be compassionate.  Reach out and be a friend and allow others to be a friend to you.

Bags and Dolls

I am still busy creating for my market.  It’s less than two weeks away now.  I know I will have enough things made.  I’m getting excited seeing so many lovely creations in my home.  Will be nice to see them all go to their forever homes.

I still have a few things to make, and lots of ideas ready to explore after market.  This has become a really exciting journey for me, and I’m happy to be able to share it with so many.  There are lots of great things happening in my personal and spiritual life too.  But those stories have to wait for another day.

Here is one of my latest creations.  It’s a cute little monster bag.  I’m thinking she needs eyebrows.  But I’m so happy with her.  Lots of work in her, as the seam on the inside is hand-stitched to cover the raw edges, and the handles and binding around the top are hand-stitched on as well.  She is once again lined with dense cotton batting, and she has a small magnetic snap for closure.  I’m hoping to have another one made for market, but I’m not sure if it will happen yet.

This is my pride and joy.  She still needs some finishing touches.  She is from Magic Threads’ pattern, The Secret Keeper.  She is a little Halloween crone, as yet un-named.  She is 12” tall.  I will only have one available at the Market, and she will be at a very special introductory price.

There are more goodies yet to be made, and I will be offering some readings at very special prices as well.  Even though I am really busy, it is lots of fun and I am enjoying myself immensely.

Rune of the Day

Rune of the Day is URUZ.  Words are from “Reading the Runes” A Beginner’s Guide” by Kim Farnell.

Uruz is always concerned with some sort of beginning, the birth of something new and the end of one cycle and the start of another.  It represents challenges and everything concerning the unknown.  This Rune contains great creative power, it also represents free will and the ability to make decisions that can take you onwards into new circumstances.  It is a force for change and shows a time to take action.  Personal success could be at hand, and you need to be ready to accept the power that comes with it.  Uruz is the Rune of strength, good health and sometimes advancement in your career.  When included in a casting it can show that your dream or wish is coming to pass.  In some positions it can represent the male in a relationship.  Uruz represents a strong, masculine force of energy and assertiveness.

The appearance of Uruz suggests that you will soon notice an improvement in business and finances, although you have to work for these.  Although there are new challenges ahead, you will have the energy to work at them.  It is primarily a Rune of  good fortune, exciting events and success.  Uruz represents energy, passion, vitality, fertility and the unconscious.  It is mostly concerned with the natural and instinctive sides of our nature.  It also represents bravery, questing, initiation, challenge, untamed spirit, masculinity, stamina, independence, strength and action.  The outlook is particularly good for vitality and the return of health after a period of sickness.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from the Messenger ORacle by Ravynne Phelan – Embrace the Dark.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

You have been taught that all is either good or evil, negative or positive; good gives rise to good, and bad gives rise to bad.  It is wrong to have feelings of anger, dislike or fear as these emotions are born of our shadow self.  This is not Truth.  Everything happens for a reason.  Love can give rise to destruction, and hate can inspire acts of genuine love.  The lessons offered by our shadow often teach us the most.  Know your shadow self.  Love it.  Without the darkness, the stars cannot be seen.

Rune of the Day

Rune of the Day is ALGIZ.  Words from “Reading the Runes: A Beginner’s Guide” by Kim Farnell.

As a Rune of protection, Algiz often tells of a fortunate new influence entering your life.  It also suggests that this is the right time to follow your instincts.  Friendships are in the forefront of your life now, and an old or new friend may offer assistance.  It may tell of an opportunity that someone will offer you.  Accepting the opportunity or offer can turn you in a beneficial new direction.  It may indicate that a guardian angel is hovering in the background.  Algiz indicates assistance and warning of danger, in addiction to indicating those people and places that will give you support.  It offers new opportunities and challenges, along with the emotional stability needed to cope with them.  Things may be turbulent at this time but it indicates that you are making progress.

Algiz symbolises resistant power and is the most powerful defense Rune.  It acts as a shield that can repel evil.  If you are sick, this Rune indicates the return of good health, and it can also signify friends and loved ones who help you to regain your health and strength.  There is a slight warning for you to look after yourself and not to wear yourself out on behalf of others or to allow lame ducks to drain you.

Rune of the Day

Rune of the Day is BERKANO.  Words from “Reading the Runes: A Beginner’s Guide” by Kim Farnell.

This Rune represents birth or rebirth and it is also often referred to as the “birth Rune”.  The birth in question might literally be the birth of a child, but it can also refer to the birth of an idea.  Berkano is considered to be especially powerful in women’s matters.  It is concerned with the power of woman, with birth and with regeneration.  It can be thought of as the family Rune, so it may refer to a happy family event.  Being associated with motherhood, it can relate to one’s own mother, but it is especially connected to the ideas of fertility and the care and nurture of infants and children.

Berkano represents new ideas, fresh starts and new projects – sometimes even a new romance, but whatever the new situation might be, it will be something that brings happiness.

New growth is also symbolized here; tenderness and compassion.  The new idea or project will need careful tending if it is to grow and develop, because if it is not properly attended to – like a neglected child, it will die off.  This Rune is strongly connected with the family and home.  It is also a Rune of co-operation and perhaps a nicer and more peaceful atmosphere within a family.  Berkano represents increased understanding and emotional stability.  It hints at hidden transformation, awareness and growth that may be attained after asking for spiritual help and guidance.

Rune of the Day

Rune of the Day is Raido – words come from “Reading the Runes: A Beginners Guide” by Kim Farnell

Raido refers to travel and also the means of transportation.  It may signify a journey that is taken by necessity or one that is taken for pleasure, and if this is a literal journey, it will be safe, pleasant and enjoyable.  However, Raido can show a metaphorical pathway or road, which can be a way through a dilemma, a journey in consciousness or a change of view. It represents the “vehicle” or method by which you achieve an object or goal.  It allows you to channel your energies effectively so that they will help you.  Thus, the journey in question may be a journey of the soul, taken in order to bring about some form of healing.  Representing movement and motion, Raido symbolises travel and exploration, but it can also denote taking a new start, taking control, leadership and promotions.  This Rune suggests that this is a good time for negotiations and discussions and a time when it is possible to reach a compromise.  Depending on the surrounding Runes, it may indicate unexpected news or that this is a good time to buy or sell something of importance.  In modern terms, this might be a vehicle, a computer, fax, telephone or some other form of communications equipment.  Raido can refer to a quest and your destiny in following such a quest.  Decisions need to be made alongside an ability to see the larger picture, as it advises not to focus solely on your problems or become isolated from daily events but to take the wider view.

Card of the Day

Card of the Day is from Lucy Cavendish’s Oracle of the Shapeshifters.  Words are from the accompanying guidebook.

You will have a series of coincidences where you seemingly stumble upon information that reveals what is the best action to take, who you can trust in the current situation, and where best to invest your previous energy and efforts.  There may be a darting red-gold movement seen from the corner of your eye, or a smile and shining brown eyes glimpsed through the window.  Japanese these may make their way into your life – for no apparent reason!  These are all signs that Kitsune is here to help you!  Kitsune often assume human form – so if you have a new neighbour with a ginger cat, a golden-coloured dog, or a red-haired new friend suddenly appears in your life, wonder if they may be your Kitsune at this current time!  You will know them by their strange behaviour (sniffing the air, high alertness, startled movements, and sudden action)!  They will ask you lots of personal questions, and prod and provoke your boundaries!  For the time they are assigned to you – and it is often unlikely that it is for the length of your lifetime – they will be true to you, in all ways.  They often are the go-between between Great Spirit, and we here in this realsm.  They are delightful, evasive, shy, friendly and full of mischief – and they will protect you by sharing with you the secrets they overhear.

More Monsters

I have created another monster pouch.  This one is a bit different.

The zip on this one is 12” long.  It is quite roomy inside.  Lots of fun to make, even more fun to use.

This is the back.  The green is the same fabric as the lining.  And yes, they are circles of purple polar fleece.  Needed something on the back, and who doesn’t like different textures in a pouch.

They will be available at my market over on Earth Walkers on Facebook.

Runes

Recently I dragged out my Runes and started using them again.  I’m by no means proficient, but I love the depth that Runes have.  I’ve added a Rune to the readings that I do, as a “what does this person need to know right now”.  I love the way this is turning out and how each Rune that I draw for people is exactly spot on and exactly what they need to hear right now.  It has encouraged me to start exploring reading with my Runes more often, and using them in spreads just as you would Tarot or Oracle Cards.

There’s a type of reading that you can do with Runes that you can’t do with cards.  It’s called a “Shake and Dump” reading.  You shake the bag of Runes, then dump them out onto a reading mat.  The mat is divided into sections depending of the type of reading you are doing.  There’s only one problem, I don’t have a Rune Casting Mat.  Well, I didn’t.  I do now.

I made this one today.  It’s double sided and about 10” square (25 cm).  The front is good for Past, Present, Future readings.  The back is divided into the directions North, South, East and West.  I have used colours associated with the elements that are associated with those directions according to my geographic location.  I plan on making larger ones, about 14” square (36 cm).  I am offering these up now so that people can order them and I can make them with the colours where the customer wants them.

If you’d like one, please head over to Earth Walkers and send me a message with your email address.

Evolving

Our society has forgotten the Old Ways.  It has forgotten how to give without expecting anything in return, how to share with others the excess that they have, that all creatures are equal in the eyes of the Creator.

I look around at the society that I live in and I feel ashamed to be a human.  I look at the wanton destruction of Mother Earth around the world, the felling of trees, the mining of minerals and crystals/gem stones, the plundering of our oceans, and I feel sad.  Other humans are exploited so that we can have everything.  Well, one day there will be nothing left.  No trees.  No fish.  No clean water.  No humans.

What can we do?  We need to educate ourselves, and then spread that education to others as well.  A good place to start is with the Thrive Movie.  If you go to the website you can watch it online for free, or you can purchase the DVD or Bluray.  I have watched this movie and totally love it.  It’s more of a documentary.  It’s well researched and well put together.

We need to also not be afraid.  There is so many people that are afraid, everything they do is out of fear.  The opposite of fear is love.  This is how we are designed to live – out of love.  As we develop first love for ourselves, and then love for other people, we stop being afraid.  There is nothing to be afraid of.  If we are afraid, we attract more of that fear into our lives.  Fear stops us from moving forward both physically and spiritually.  When we love, we attract only love into our lives.  That removes all the fear and anxiety from our lives.

The more we occupy our heart, through meditation, positive visualizations, song, dance, etc, the more we raise our own individual vibration.  The more we raise our own vibration, the more we affect those around us and their vibration starts to raise.  The more we continue doing this the more the humans of this world will wake up and see what is going on around them.

This world will awaken from it’s slumber.  Those that seek to keep us enslaved will not win.  Many systems around the world are starting to crumble and very soon they will be destroyed.  This is nothing to fear.  It means we can start again.  We can create a system based on love and equality, rather than fear and inequality.

So, keep calm and harm none.  Namaste <3

Monster Pouches

I have developed the monster idea a little further today.  I have been making some Monster Pouches for my market.

This is the first of many.  These ones are roughly 5” square, and like all my other pouches, are fully lined with both fabric and a layer of dense cotton batting.

Please leave a comment and let me know what you think.

Monster Mash

I had a brainwave the other day.  I have seen so many amazing monster dolls, and I have made them in the past myself.  So, I’m making a heap for my market.

They will each come with a little story.

It seems that the more I create for this market the more ideas I am getting.  I have a list of a few I want to try out ready for my market.  So stay tuned. <3

Busy, busy, busy

It’s Monday already!  I have been meaning to blog all weekend but have been busy making things for my market.  So, here are some sneak peeks for the market.

Small pouch – roughly 5” square.  All my pouches and bags are fully lined.  They also have a layer of dense cotton quilting batting for sturdiness and for padding.

Larger pouch – top is 10” and it’s 6” tall roughly.  Would make a cute clutch.

Today’s effort – 1 large tote bag.  It’s 10” across the top, 16” across the bottom, and 14” tall.  I’ve half sewn the strap on now.  It’s currently long enough so you can wear the bag securely across your body.  One end is only pinned on, that way if the customer wants a shorter strap, I can do that for them.

And here’s me with my Quality Control Officer, Abbie.  Have a wonderfully magical week. <3

Abundance

Wow, it’s a bout a month until market day at Earth Walkers.  I think I’m trying to do to many things at once and successfully not getting much done.  Well, not much creating that is.

Because there are 4 different sellers, we all have our own Purchasing policies.  I’ve been working on mine, and they are now on the page as a Note.

The other thing I’ve been working on the last couple of days is getting my part of the prize done.  And I’m so happy with her.

She is an Abundance Goddess.  On her belly is a piece of green jade with a triquetra on it.  Jade is associated with abundance, prosperity, and luck.  So she is done and her photo uploaded on the page now.

This book of Egyptian Prosperity Magic was provided by Giuliana of Worldly Treasures.  Lots of great information in this book.  This is also part of the prize pack.

There are two more items to go into the prize pack.  Unfortunately they are not quite ready as the makers are still waiting for supplies via the postman.

Dolls

I’m madly creating things for my market.  Some items have been completed successfully, others have found their way into the bin.  Such is life.

Yesterday I received my order from Joggles.  In that order was 3 doll patterns and some doll body fabric.  I made one of the patterns up today.

The pattern is elinor peace bailey’s Pierrot and Victorian Doll.  She is only 10 1/2” tall.  A bit small for me, although I finished this one successfully.  I will be increasing her size by at least half before making her for my market.

Give Away Cancelled

Due to lack of participation, I have decided to cancel the give away.  Each person who has entered will receive a 1 card reading over the next few days.  I will email those to you.

I really don’t like doing this, but I don’t understand why people haven’t bothered to enter.  It would take two seconds to enter.  Anyway, it is done now.

Thank you to those who did take the time to enter.

Crystal Skulls

I have to say, skulls and all things gothic are not exactly things that turn me on.  I think more because I didn’t understand what skulls, especially crystal skulls, really meant.  It’s only that I spend so much time with my friend who owns Worldly Treasures that I have started to have an appreciation of the crystal skulls.  At first it was the workmanship that goes into them.  And then Giuliana started to explain to me what they actually represented.

They have a similar meaning to what the Death Tarot card has.  Death and rebirth.  To bring something new into your life something has to leave, or die, for that to happen.  The skulls are the same.  They represent that very natural cycle of death and rebirth.  Interesting that it is currently autumn here, a time of dying.

A few weeks ago Giuliana got this lovely skull in.  He spoke to me so clearly I had to put him on layby.

Spoke is an understatement.  After I put him on layby, every time I went into the shop after that I would end up with my left ear blocked, like I had lots of wax in it.  Happened a few times.  And I couldn’t stop thinking about him, and I finally put two and two together.  He wanted to come home.  So now he is home, and we are both very happy.

He is made from a piece of Travertino Alhombro Quartz, and his name is Merlin.  His properties are self healing, flexibility, magic and protection, allowing oneself to be open and non judgmental, grounding yourself, success and prosperity.  No wonder he needed to come home with me.

Some Questions

This graphic popped up on a friend’s Facebook wall.  We have no idea where it came from, but it is full of great questions with answers straight from the Bible.  Most of you will see the humour but will also see how sad this is at the same time.  There is no room for bigotry in any religion.  In Christianity, Jesus teaches love for all people.  Often what we see coming from the Christian community is racism, discrimination, hatred, and bigotry.  I hope that this does change.  Enjoy this letter.  Click on it to make it bigger so you can read it.  Trust me, it’s worth it.

Ready to Stitch

A few weeks ago a friend of mine gave me some beautiful clothing grade buffalo leather scraps, enough to make some medicine bags out of.  I haven’t done anything with it yet as I was missing some tools.  The leather is tanned the traditional way, without the use of chemicals.  I’m not sure of the process, but it does make a really lovely leather.

So I went into one of the local saddlers to get some waxed thread and 2 needles, which cost me $12.  He seemed very put out that I had not bought the leather from him.  He showed me some of his leather, which was no where near as nice as the leather my friend gave me.  He also had no respect for the leather nor the animal it came off of.  Some of the leather was just dumped on the floor and more was thrown on shelving.

This attitude is common in farming communities.  Animals are seen as goods to be used.  They are not respected as living breathing creatures who have feelings and who think, just the same as we do.

Needless to say, I won’t be shopping there again.  I will buy my leather online from people I know who respect the animal and want to honour the animal’s spirit, from people who use no chemicals in the production of their leather.  I will also buy my other supplies online too.  I will not financially support someone who’s attitude is stuck in the middle ages, which his is.

Taking the next step

I have been offering free readings on my Facebook Fan Page and doing readings on a couple of groups for some time now.  After receiving a lot of positive feedback in that time, and after much thought, I have decided to start offering paid readings on my Fan Page, Moonlit Meadows.

This is an exciting step for me.  I grew up in fairly conservative churches and a very conservative family where any sort of psychic ability was seen as a gift from the devil.  However, they were quite willing to talk about the gift of prophecy, which is exactly the same thing in my opinion.

Tarot was easy for me to delve into.  I am an artist and love the artwork on the cards.  And it seemed to me to be a great self-development tool, which is what I use it for in my own personal readings for myself.  I find it easy to use the pictures as a starting point, it seems to unlock that door to my intuition and I just say/type what I feel is there.  I don’t hear voices, I don’t see things.  I just get a really strong feeling about something.

I’ve had different Tarot decks over the last few years, but have gotten rid of all of them except my Legacy of the Divine Tarot, which I love but find it hard to read from.  I recently bought a deck of the Deviant Moon Tarot.  I find this incredibly easy to read from and this is the one I do all my readings from.  I am sure I will one day have a large collection of Tarot and Oracle Cards, they are all so beautiful.

I am offering a 2 card reading for $5 and a 3 card reading for $6.  I won’t do questions about love, romance and soul mates.  For more information please see the Note on my Page, Moonlit Meadows. 

Bead Woven Rings

This afternoon I sat down and made a couple of bead woven rings.  So much fun to make, and these are interesting because the beads are not uniform size.

I will be putting them up for sale in my Etsy shop next week.

My life this last year or so has been really interesting.  I am currently living in govt housing, which I’m not real keen on – okay, I hate it.  I’m in a one bedroom unit that faces south and doesn’t get any direct sunlight.  It is always cold, especially in winter.  My neighbours seem to have a fondness for loud music, and not just one lot of neighbours either.  But I have to admit is is better than it was.  I’ve been here 10 months now.  I figure if I can cope with living here than I can cope with anything.

I am looking for a private rental, out of Orange which is where I live now.  I am looking in a small town 20 minutes from here called Molong.  It’s a lovely little town, and I have good friends who live there.  I have been looking for a nice 3 bedroom house with a nice big yard where I can have a dog and some chooks and a vege patch.  There isn’t anything available at the moment but the right place will turn up at the right time.

In preparation for moving I gave up my job.  I was working part time at a job I enjoyed.  I was a little sad to go, but it paves the way for bigger and better things to come along.

Giving up my job has enabled me to start creating again.  At this point in time I will not be doing any sewn creations.  I am looking at bead weaving, dream catchers, and medicine bags.  And I will talk about all of that in another blog post.

I really appreciate my readers (do I have any yet?).  Would you please leave a comment and let me know you were here.  Thank you so much.  Mwah <3

Ammonite Ring

One of my friends here in Orange owns and runs a crystal shop called “Worldly Treasures”.  I have bought quite a few bits a pieces from her.  Today I spoilt myself and bought this beautiful Ammonite Ring.  It fitted perfectly, so it came home with me.

I am only just starting to wear rings again.  I haven’t worn any since my husband crossed over 8 years ago and I stopped wearing my wedding ring.  And a fossil ring isn’t something I would have normally picked for myself.  Another friend of mine bought an Ammonite necklace also from Worldly Treasures.  I haven’t seen it in person yet, only a photo on Facebook.  The information that she had put with the photo was fascinating, and I decided that this was a stone I needed to have in some sort of jewellery.

I found the following information on a blog here.  It was copied from somewhere else but that somewhere else doesn’t exist anymore.  So here is the info:

“Not only is Ammonite important in Western civilization, but in Eastern culture as well. In the Orient, they call Ammonite the 'Kirin Stone', because the color pattern of the stone is similar to the scales of the auspicious mythical beast called the Kirin. The beast had the body of a deer, with the face and scales of a dragon. This creature is meant to bring good fortune and luck to all who see it.

Particularly important are the many colors of Ammonite. The multiple layers of color inside the stone is what creates the sparkling radiance. By examining the stone, one will see the seeds of seven distinct colors: ruby crimson, fiery orange, amber yellow, emerald green, jade, azure, and mauve. Hence, it has been appropriately named the 'Seven Color Prosperity Stone' by some Feng Shui masters.

From a Feng Shui perspective (the art of harmonizing nature) each color of Ammonite represents a different meaning. For example, Crimson stimulates growth and energy; Orange generates creativity, and increased libido; Green improves wisdom, intellect, and promotes entreprenerialship; and Yellow improves wealth. It is believed that the best combination of color for the stone is red, green, and yellow, for it represents a balance and signifies growth and richness. Other Feng Shui effects of the stone include the reversing of negatives into positives, and the reduction of the body's toxicity. It also promotes the flow of Ch'i (life force) through the body, enhancing wellbeing. Not only does it bring balance to the person's body, but also to that person's surroundings as well, such as the home or office. When the stone is placed in the home, it promotes a happy family, and when it is placed in the office, it promotes good business dealings. In essence, anyone who finds or possesses one of the stones is entitled to wondrous prosperity and fortune.

Also wrapped in the Ammonite is a harmonious balance of nature's five elements of metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Therefore, Ammonite possesses special Feng Shui ability, expanding forces, and power. To those who possess it, and when placed in the household, brings balance and harmony to the home. Because all five elements are represented and compatible in Ammonite, it preordains the stone's auspiciousness.

From a scientific perspective, Ammonite is the fossilized rainbow-colored remains of a nautilus-like creature that existed over 70 million years ago, thus making it the oldest gemstone we know of today. The Feng Shui masters believe that because it is such an old gemstone with an organic origin, it has absorbed the plasmic energy from the universe since the beginning of time. The universe's forces follow the Ammonite's spiral from the periphery toward the center. And this centrifugal energy will then be radiated back through the stone, generating invisible spiritual, spiraling, and perpetual movements, bringing its owners health, wealth, and enlightenment.”

It is also good for resolving past life issues, and when it is worn as jewellery it enhances your beauty.

Bead Weaving with Peyote

 

One of the many crafts I’ve tried over the years (and trust me, there’s been a lot) is bead weaving.  I loved it, but at that time (about 7 years ago now) didn’t have the patience for it.  Now I do.  I’ve pulled out my beads and had a look at some YouTube videos to remind me of the different stitches.

My first piece, which isn’t quite finished, is a bracelet using Peyote Stitch.

This photo was taken yesterday morning.  I am using purple and silver size 11 delica beads.  The pattern is a diagonal stripe, a really easy one at that.  It was a good pattern to stitch to get my hand and eye back in.

I really enjoy just sitting and doing handwork.  For me it is like meditation.  As I do it more I will get quicker at it, and the patterns I do will get more complicated.  At the moment I am using the supplies I have on hand.  I do have coming from a seller on Etsy a box full of beads, threads, some leather, lots and lots of patterns, and a beading loom.  I am so excited and can’t wait to get it.  I will soon have some items ready to list in my Etsy shop.

Give Away

Moonlit Meadows is my Fan Page on Facebook.  It’s a small but growing community.  So far I have been just sharing lovely quotes, sharing photos from other amazing artists, and providing free one card readings once a week for people.  I have been having a wonderful time.
I am in the process of starting to prepare for my first market night which will happen at the end of Winter, date to be announced.  I am combining with a couple of local friends of mine and we are going to run a one day market on Facebook.  It will be lots of fun and there will be lots of goodies up for grabs.
And even though I am still trying to find a rental, I have decided to continue crafting rather than just packing it all away.  So over the next week or so I will be reacquainting myself with bead weaving.  I will also be making more dream catchers and some leather medicine bags.  I am working on getting my Etsy shop up and running as well.  Which leads me to the give away.
Everyone loves a give-away!  I am offering a 10 card tarot reading when I reach 500 fans over on my Facebook page.  Here’s how to enter.

1. Go and like my page and come back here and comment that you like my page.  This will get you one entry.
2. Share this blog post on your wall and tag Moonlit Meadows in it.  Please change the settings on that one post to “Everyone” so that it appears on Moonlit Meadow’s wall.  Come back here and comment that you’ve done this.  This will get you another entry.
3.  Blog about this on your blog.  Put a link to this blog post on your blog post.  Come back here and comment with a link to the blog post.  This will get you a third entry.
You can share this blog post as many times as you like, but you will only get one entry per day.  So good luck and happy sharing.

Added 29/4/12:  I am sweetening the deal.  Where there are 20 comments on this blog post I will be gifting a medicine bag made from buffalo leather.  Photos coming later today.

Native American Crafts on Etsy

One of my passions in life is the crafts and culture of the Native Americans.  I love their philosophy, their connection to Mumma Earth, and their respect for all creatures.  I love how they use parts of the animals in their crafts as a way of honouring that animal, whether it’s feathers from a bird, leather hide from a buffalo, or the bones of a coyote.  I love that respect that they have.
I already make dream catchers.  And I plan on making more Native American inspired crafts.  But I have most of my crafting supplies packed ready to move. So there is no crafting here until after I move, well, except for my knitting that is.
Here is a Native American Treasury I created on Etsy.  I hope you enjoy it.  Please click on the picture to go to the Treasury on Etsy.

Deviant Moon Tarot

A few weeks ago on Facebook a friend of mind posted a link to get a signed copy of the Deviant Moon Tarot.  This is a deck I’ve been eyeing off for quite a while, and so I took the opportunity to order it.  I received it today.  It’s such a beautiful deck of cards, I’m so glad I bought it.

 

First of all, the box came wrapped in this original one of a kind piece of artwork.  It is hand-drawn on ordinary brown kraft paper.

This is the outside of the box.

This is the Tarot spread sheet that comes with the deck.  You can see that it is signed by the artist.

This card is a bit bigger than a business card.  It is blank on the back.

Blank…ready for the artist to sign it.

This is the actual box the cards come in.  It lives inside the bigger box.  You can see the artwork on the flaps, and the artists signature as well.

This is the Death card.  I like it.  There’s that hint that there is life after death.

4 of Wands and Ace of Cups

6 of Pentacles and Page of Swords

I really love this deck.  I’ve never owned anything like this before.  I will treasure this deck above all others for a very long time.