August 15th, 2013

Andalusite Fairy Cross

Physical Characteristics: This unique crystal bears the shape of an equal-armed cross when sliced vertically.

In Nature: Usually found near granite deposits, Fairy Crosses made of Andalusite (also called Chiastolite) form when bulges of Andalusite fuse to a central (often square) piece of Mica.

Chemical Composition: Al2SiO5

Mohs Scale Hardness: 6 - 7.5 (middle-high)

Can be Found: United States, Spain, Switzerland

Healing Properties*: These stones reduce stress and help their bearers deal with addictive habits, especially smoking. They reduce fever and have been a historical helpmate for those suffering depression. Crosses of the Andalusite variety heal disorders of the hands and eyes, oxygenate the blood, and promote proper chromosomal development. They may also strengthen the body's ability to learn and remember. The stones prove especially useful to those wishing to heal pets or children, as these are creatures favored by the Fey.

Magickal Properties: In Christian folklore, it is said that the first Fairy Crosses were formed when the Fey wept tears over Jesus' crucifixion. From a Pagan perspective, the same story could be told, only in reference to the sacrificial death of the Horned God. Additionally, an equal-armed cross often denotes the four elements; use this stone to balance elemental energies in your life. Those in possession of a Fairy Cross may work stronger weather and gardening magicks as well. The stone casts a protective aura around its bearer, and is excellent for grounding work. Fairy Crosses are a "cross"roads for the physical and astral realms - use it to strengthen communication with all creatures of spirit: angels, fairies, devas, guides, etc. They dispel illusion and misunderstanding and represent devotion, change, and power.

Chakra Association: First (Root) chakra

Element: All four elements can be accessed with a Fairy Cross.

Energy: Receptive and Projective

Planetary Association: Pluto

*Magickal healing should never take the place of seeing a doctor and following any recommended prescriptions, actions, or other advice. Magick works best in tandem with physical efforts, anyway, so don't skimp on those check-ups!

June 21st, 2013

A very happy Litha to everyone! It's been storming here, so rather than reading out in the sunshine like I'd planned, I spent most of my afternoon taking a nice nap. My youngest brother is having a sleepover with a friend for the first time, so I'll do my ritual this evening while they're occupied and won't come barging in on me. We had some Midsummer bunny rabbits sitting in the wet grass earlier which pleased me to no end, and given that today is a sabbat for extra acknowledgement of one's pets, I spent some time whistling back and forth with our cockatiel, Icarus.

Please do share what all you're getting up to in celebration of the Solstice! I'm always looking for new ideas.

November 20th, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving! It's on Thursday, folks. And tomorrow, my family and I are going out-of-town to spend the rest of the week with my grandparents. It often seems cliché to write about what we are thankful for; at this time of year, who isn't? But by that same token, it becomes such a rote chore to people that that they don't even think about it. People end up saying the same things over and over again - "my family, my friends, the house, our food..." - so I have decided to create a list of what I really thank the Lord and Lady for, to remind myself why we celebrate.
I am thankful for:

• Parents who support me in everything that I do.
• Siblings who, for the most part, are loving, kind, smart, and fun to be around.
• A pet cockatiel who is the sweetest little thing ever, and my brother's leopard gecko, who is hilarious.
• Great grades in school.
• A part in our spring musical, Les Miserables.
• My part in the fall play (which just passed), Break a Leg.
• All of the volunteering I've been able to do.
• My job at the library.
• My health, which has been pretty good for the most part.
• My mom's health, after getting several surgeries.
• My bedroom, with all of its awesomeness.
• My best friends, who are always there for me, whether I need a hug or someone to crack jokes with.
• My extended family, who stay in contact with me in spite of living far away.

Bright blessings to everyone in this week of thanks!