So I just got finished listening to the Wiccan Rede discussion with Christian Day, Lori Bruno and Sabrina The Ink Witch.
There's a lot going on in this broadcast. At first I was a little put off by the comments followers of the "Rede" take the easy way out and then it changes to "it's harder to follow the rede". In this discussion one sentiment stands out for me. You can't cast spells or live life without "harming" something. Oddly enough I found myself agreeing with this. I understand that at some point applying the letter of the law would be counter productive. For example, sending energies out to help a person come up with money to pay their bill, may take that money from another person who needs it as well.
I want to send out good energies and get energies back. I want to send positive out, yet recently I learned that one of my sister's took my mother's ATM card and cleaned out her bank account. She couldn't buy her insulin and needed to have one of my aunt get it for her. I found out afterwards. My very very first instinct was to call out to my fellow pagans to send out some energies to stop her from harming my mother. Her actions are causing harm. That's not justice, it's not equality, it's not fairness. It's just plain mean.
Am I right to want to correct this wrong? Does this violet the rede? Should I care? As many of you know I am solitary. I attempted to join a group in the summer which ended very poorly. Has my work as a solitary made me less likely to follow this "rede"? I'm just not sure any more.
I like the thought process behind "Harm None". I like to say that I do what I can to help others, and be a good person. A sense of ethics is important to me. But I have to say, if I could have whipped up a spell to turn her into a toad, a toad my sister would be!
I am a bit embarrassed that I felt that way. My grandmother always told me, if you can't say something nice don't say anything at all. :( For her, I had to say nothing.
During the show, Christian refers to "Throwing good money after bad". Again here I can completely relate. I have been giving money and giving money and helping her move and I today, I cannot give my mother cash. I'll drive her to the doctor, I'll do what I can to help her get her meds, but if I get her cash, she'll just give it to the one stealing from her. I can't do that any more. So here I can relate. I never really thought of this as not standing by the "rede".
But I guess when you think about it, it could very well be taken that way. I'm sure I'll continue to struggle with this. But I do believe that I will continue to try to send out positives, however with my new interest in working with the Dead and exploring magic I think I'll keep my mind a bit more open.
I'd love to hear thoughts around this..
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Get Off Your Broom Fitness Challenge - Last Check In
Get Off Your Broom Fitness Challenge Check In.
Welp. I blew it. I can tell by the way my pants are fitting over the last few weeks I've ended up putting on a few pounds. I can't even sit here and say "Oh I tried" blah blah I didn't try. I fell of the veggie wagon and had Chicken Wings last week. I ate dressing that's made with meat products and I ad a few glasses of wine... ARG!
I "could" sit here and beat myself up for it. I "could" jump right back into Jillian Michael's workout and try to drop the few pounds I've gained. But what for really? Why am I doing this? What do I hope to gain or lose?
As I have said over and over I believe that in order to love others you have to first love yourself. You need to be ok with who you are, inside and out. As long as their are demons there haunting your head you're going to display them in your actions.
I'm actually pretty happy with the amount of weight I've lost. 110lbs is nothing to blow off. I'm pretty happy with my ability to get around now. I can hike, I can walk, heck in the event of a zombie apocalypse I can even RUN!
As my resolution this year I've decided that I'm not going to pledge to go to the gym or drop some weight. I resolve to be nicer to me. I want to love me. I want to give myself the credit for a great job at work. A wonderful blog post. Or a great game of scrabble with the hubby.
It's going to be tough but I'm up for the challenge. I want to thank each of my readers for following this blog and allowing me to share my ups, my downs, my successes and failures with you. Your comments mean a lot to me and I appreciate each and everyone.
Wishing each of you a wonderful new year to come.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Welp. I blew it. I can tell by the way my pants are fitting over the last few weeks I've ended up putting on a few pounds. I can't even sit here and say "Oh I tried" blah blah I didn't try. I fell of the veggie wagon and had Chicken Wings last week. I ate dressing that's made with meat products and I ad a few glasses of wine... ARG!
I "could" sit here and beat myself up for it. I "could" jump right back into Jillian Michael's workout and try to drop the few pounds I've gained. But what for really? Why am I doing this? What do I hope to gain or lose?
As I have said over and over I believe that in order to love others you have to first love yourself. You need to be ok with who you are, inside and out. As long as their are demons there haunting your head you're going to display them in your actions.
I'm actually pretty happy with the amount of weight I've lost. 110lbs is nothing to blow off. I'm pretty happy with my ability to get around now. I can hike, I can walk, heck in the event of a zombie apocalypse I can even RUN!
As my resolution this year I've decided that I'm not going to pledge to go to the gym or drop some weight. I resolve to be nicer to me. I want to love me. I want to give myself the credit for a great job at work. A wonderful blog post. Or a great game of scrabble with the hubby.
It's going to be tough but I'm up for the challenge. I want to thank each of my readers for following this blog and allowing me to share my ups, my downs, my successes and failures with you. Your comments mean a lot to me and I appreciate each and everyone.
Wishing each of you a wonderful new year to come.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Happy Holidays
December 24, 2011
Wishing everyone a joyous holiday season.
No matter how you celebrate it. Enjoy it.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
No matter how you celebrate it. Enjoy it.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Your Rights are Being Taken Away
December 19, 2011
This is sad week for the United States of America. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2012 is going to give the rights to the government that allow for US Citizens to be rounded up and carted off to camps without due process! Yup, that's right no more right to an attorney, no more right to remain silent. Gone!
The NDAA was passed and signed by our President. We need contact the White House and demand change. The language in this document strikes at the heart of our Bill of Rights. It takes away our right for a fair trial. Slowly our nation is being taken over and our freedoms are dwindling away. I urge each of my readers to please educate yourself on this as well as some of the other changes that are being made to our rights. They are dropping us in a pot of water and slowly turning up the heat. We need to take action.
A petition has been started on the White House Website that you can sign to ask for this to be vetoed. I've signed them all, but they've been signed now. What can we do? You can also contact the White House directly here.
As defined by this legislation anyone that quotes the Constitution, the Bill of Rights or speaks out against oppressive legislation is in fact a terrorist and can be imprisoned without due process.
"They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Ben Franklin
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
The NDAA was passed and signed by our President. We need contact the White House and demand change. The language in this document strikes at the heart of our Bill of Rights. It takes away our right for a fair trial. Slowly our nation is being taken over and our freedoms are dwindling away. I urge each of my readers to please educate yourself on this as well as some of the other changes that are being made to our rights. They are dropping us in a pot of water and slowly turning up the heat. We need to take action.
A petition has been started on the White House Website that you can sign to ask for this to be vetoed. I've signed them all, but they've been signed now. What can we do? You can also contact the White House directly here.
As defined by this legislation anyone that quotes the Constitution, the Bill of Rights or speaks out against oppressive legislation is in fact a terrorist and can be imprisoned without due process.
"They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Ben Franklin
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
December Traditions - Santa Claus
December 16, 2011
Most children grow up being taught that if they're good a jolly old man will bring them toys at Christmas and if they're naughty, they'll get a lump of coal. For my final posting on December tradition's I'm going to give you a history of Santa Claus.
The primary inspiration for Sinterklaas is thought to be Saint Nicholas of Myra. He was known for his work with the poor and needy.
Due to the German and Scandinavian influence on the holiday, many comparisons have been made between Santa and Odin. As many other traditions of the holiday were Christianized it's thought that the modern Santa was also pulled from this God worshiped by many of the Germanic people. Some stories include one of Odin riding an eight legged horse named Sleipnir that could leap great distances, here again tying to Santa's magical reindeer. The tradition says that the children would put carrots or straw in their boots by the chimney for Sleipnir to eat, Odin would reward the children by replacing the food with gifts or candy. This is where the idea of putting stockings by the fireplace are thought to have originated.
Father Christmas is usually seen as a jolly fat man with a beard and a long green robe. He represents the spirit of Christmas, that being good cheer. He is most notability depicted in Charles Dickens's story "A Christmas Carol".
After the 1823 publication of the poem "A Visit From St. Nicholas" the modern Santa gets most of the characteristics we know today. We know this as "Twas the Night Before Christmas". His clothes, his jolly face with rosy cheeks and even his reindeer are named.
To keep up with the modern age Santa sites are popping up all over the web. There's Northpole.com, Claus.com and even noradsanta.org.
The real spirit of "Santa" or of Christmas is that of giving. Reaching out to those who are less fortunate and giving back the blessings we have in our own lives. The spirit is out there and alive, as we saw most recently with the Secret Santa gifts of paying off a layaway at a Kmart store and the 50,000.00 donation to the Salvation Army.
These are big gifts to some of us. In this economy some barely have enough to feed themselves much less go and payoff someone else's bills right? There are so many things you can do to give back that don't include cash. Volunteering is a great way to help others. Usually these groups need bodies. They need people to come down and help with a Soup Kitchen or a Food Bank. The local animal shelter needs people to come down and interact with the animals to help them be more familiar with people and possibly adopted. Tell someone they left their bread at the end of the register. Hold the door for someone who is busy with their kids.
It's easy to continue the giving traditions of St. Nick, Odin, Father Christmas and Santa Claus. We have the ability to open our hearts and give back.
Wishing each of you a joyous holiday season.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
The primary inspiration for Sinterklaas is thought to be Saint Nicholas of Myra. He was known for his work with the poor and needy.
Due to the German and Scandinavian influence on the holiday, many comparisons have been made between Santa and Odin. As many other traditions of the holiday were Christianized it's thought that the modern Santa was also pulled from this God worshiped by many of the Germanic people. Some stories include one of Odin riding an eight legged horse named Sleipnir that could leap great distances, here again tying to Santa's magical reindeer. The tradition says that the children would put carrots or straw in their boots by the chimney for Sleipnir to eat, Odin would reward the children by replacing the food with gifts or candy. This is where the idea of putting stockings by the fireplace are thought to have originated.
Father Christmas is usually seen as a jolly fat man with a beard and a long green robe. He represents the spirit of Christmas, that being good cheer. He is most notability depicted in Charles Dickens's story "A Christmas Carol".
After the 1823 publication of the poem "A Visit From St. Nicholas" the modern Santa gets most of the characteristics we know today. We know this as "Twas the Night Before Christmas". His clothes, his jolly face with rosy cheeks and even his reindeer are named.
To keep up with the modern age Santa sites are popping up all over the web. There's Northpole.com, Claus.com and even noradsanta.org.
The real spirit of "Santa" or of Christmas is that of giving. Reaching out to those who are less fortunate and giving back the blessings we have in our own lives. The spirit is out there and alive, as we saw most recently with the Secret Santa gifts of paying off a layaway at a Kmart store and the 50,000.00 donation to the Salvation Army.
These are big gifts to some of us. In this economy some barely have enough to feed themselves much less go and payoff someone else's bills right? There are so many things you can do to give back that don't include cash. Volunteering is a great way to help others. Usually these groups need bodies. They need people to come down and help with a Soup Kitchen or a Food Bank. The local animal shelter needs people to come down and interact with the animals to help them be more familiar with people and possibly adopted. Tell someone they left their bread at the end of the register. Hold the door for someone who is busy with their kids.
It's easy to continue the giving traditions of St. Nick, Odin, Father Christmas and Santa Claus. We have the ability to open our hearts and give back.
Wishing each of you a joyous holiday season.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
December Traditions - Christmas Tree
December 15, 2011
Whether you cover your tree in tinsel or leave it off. Choose to use a star or an angel; each Christmas Tree is individual and represents it's owner. It has been called by many names, Yule Tree, Christmas Tree and Holiday Tree.
As a kid, we always had a tree.
That me, the tall one, without the big pink fuzzy feet.
I still love this time of year. I love the chill in the air and the crunch of the ground beneath my feet. I love the Yule time season and I do still love a Christmas tree.
The history of the Christmas tree has Pagan roots. (Pun intended) Druid priests in Great Britain used evergreen plants/trees in Yule ceremonies to celebrate the Winter Solstice. In the 1500's German's began using evergreen trees as a symbol of hope for the coming springs.
The modern Christmas tree is a descendant of this same tree used in Druid ceremonies. It's thought that the first was introduced to the US by German immigrants in the mid 1700's. Today there is a great deal of controversy over the words Holiday vs. Christmas tree. In order to be more inclusive of those around us, some in the US have started to use "Happy Holidays" and "Holiday Tree" to make those who have other holidays in December feel included.
For more information on Christmas around the world check out this cute site. I have even found a great page on the History Channel, that has lots of info on the history of Christmas.
Here's a great video on the life of a Christmas Tree.
Wishing you all a GAGA Holiday Season!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
As a kid, we always had a tree.
That me, the tall one, without the big pink fuzzy feet.
I still love this time of year. I love the chill in the air and the crunch of the ground beneath my feet. I love the Yule time season and I do still love a Christmas tree.
The history of the Christmas tree has Pagan roots. (Pun intended) Druid priests in Great Britain used evergreen plants/trees in Yule ceremonies to celebrate the Winter Solstice. In the 1500's German's began using evergreen trees as a symbol of hope for the coming springs.
The modern Christmas tree is a descendant of this same tree used in Druid ceremonies. It's thought that the first was introduced to the US by German immigrants in the mid 1700's. Today there is a great deal of controversy over the words Holiday vs. Christmas tree. In order to be more inclusive of those around us, some in the US have started to use "Happy Holidays" and "Holiday Tree" to make those who have other holidays in December feel included.
For more information on Christmas around the world check out this cute site. I have even found a great page on the History Channel, that has lots of info on the history of Christmas.
Here's a great video on the life of a Christmas Tree.
Wishing you all a GAGA Holiday Season!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
December Traditions - Yule Log
December 14, 2011
Too many of us the term "Yule Log" refers to a tasty rolled cake usually made with chocolate and a rich cream inside that is amazingly tasty. I make a yule log out of pumpkin flavored cake with a cream cheese frosting that is completely to die for. I use this recipe but I add a bit of cinnamon to my frosting as well and I leave out the walnuts.
Another type of "Yule Log" is a piece of wood burned in a hearth or fireplace to celebrate the passing of the Yule season. Sometimes practiced on the Winter Solstice or during the twelve days of Christmas. A small piece of the log is removed from the fire and kept to burn in the following year's Yule celebration. At least that's how one story goes. It says the fire should be tended all night and kept burning, if it went out on the first attempt at lighting or through out the next twelve hours it would be a bad sign for the year to come. Most agree that the log should never be purchased however some say it should be taken from a neighbor's property as opposed to it's owner's yard.
Sometimes when a fireplace isn't available a yule log is set with candles and the candles take the place of the actual log burning.
Yule is the celebration of the Winter Solstice, as the Yule Log represents this time, we have Holly, Mistletoe, Rosemary, Oak, Spruce, Pine, Ivy, Fir and Poinsettia that also claim a spot in this holiday. The colors are red, green, white, silver and gold, or what I like to call Christmas colors. Most traditions celebrate with a meal and gift giving.
Some forms of Wicca celebrate this time as the rebirth of the Great Horned God, seen as the new sun, which interestingly enough can be seen in Christianity as well, where they celebrate the birth of the "son of God" in the form of the Baby Jesus in a manger.
There are many customs around the celebration of the Yule season as well as around the month of December. Just have a look at these:
Pancha Ganapati - This is a Hindu festival from the 21st - 25th that celebrates Lord Ganesha
Winter Solstice - a Celtic celebration from 21 to 23 each year in the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20 to 23 in the Southern Hemisphere
Yalda - a Persian celebration on the 21st in celebration of the Winter Solstice
Saturnalia - Ancient Roman festival held in honor of Saturn originally celebrated on the 17th
Boxing Day - A gift giving day observed in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and other areas
Flying Spaghetti Monster Day - Pastafarians have this day to reject all religious dogma, so yes, Virginia even Atheist's have "Pasta Claus"
For a list of some of the winter celebrations check here.
The point here is that as different as we try to be, the more similar we become. Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas? Really is it that big of a deal. Just live and let live.
For my family, we'll be having our first Yule log burning, as we just got a lovely wood stove. I'm not sure how I'll handle fishing out part to save for next year, but I will certainly do my best.
For those that don't have a fireplace, here's a video of a fire burning for your enjoyment.
I'll also be making the "other" Yule Log to take to Grandma's. So if you'd to see how to make one I found this video on YouTube.
For my fellow Pagans, I'd like to share this really nice Yule song I found on Youtube.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Another type of "Yule Log" is a piece of wood burned in a hearth or fireplace to celebrate the passing of the Yule season. Sometimes practiced on the Winter Solstice or during the twelve days of Christmas. A small piece of the log is removed from the fire and kept to burn in the following year's Yule celebration. At least that's how one story goes. It says the fire should be tended all night and kept burning, if it went out on the first attempt at lighting or through out the next twelve hours it would be a bad sign for the year to come. Most agree that the log should never be purchased however some say it should be taken from a neighbor's property as opposed to it's owner's yard.
Sometimes when a fireplace isn't available a yule log is set with candles and the candles take the place of the actual log burning.
Yule is the celebration of the Winter Solstice, as the Yule Log represents this time, we have Holly, Mistletoe, Rosemary, Oak, Spruce, Pine, Ivy, Fir and Poinsettia that also claim a spot in this holiday. The colors are red, green, white, silver and gold, or what I like to call Christmas colors. Most traditions celebrate with a meal and gift giving.
Some forms of Wicca celebrate this time as the rebirth of the Great Horned God, seen as the new sun, which interestingly enough can be seen in Christianity as well, where they celebrate the birth of the "son of God" in the form of the Baby Jesus in a manger.
There are many customs around the celebration of the Yule season as well as around the month of December. Just have a look at these:
Pancha Ganapati - This is a Hindu festival from the 21st - 25th that celebrates Lord Ganesha
Winter Solstice - a Celtic celebration from 21 to 23 each year in the Northern Hemisphere, and June 20 to 23 in the Southern Hemisphere
Yalda - a Persian celebration on the 21st in celebration of the Winter Solstice
Saturnalia - Ancient Roman festival held in honor of Saturn originally celebrated on the 17th
Boxing Day - A gift giving day observed in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and other areas
Flying Spaghetti Monster Day - Pastafarians have this day to reject all religious dogma, so yes, Virginia even Atheist's have "Pasta Claus"
For a list of some of the winter celebrations check here.
The point here is that as different as we try to be, the more similar we become. Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas? Really is it that big of a deal. Just live and let live.
For my family, we'll be having our first Yule log burning, as we just got a lovely wood stove. I'm not sure how I'll handle fishing out part to save for next year, but I will certainly do my best.
For those that don't have a fireplace, here's a video of a fire burning for your enjoyment.
I'll also be making the "other" Yule Log to take to Grandma's. So if you'd to see how to make one I found this video on YouTube.
For my fellow Pagans, I'd like to share this really nice Yule song I found on Youtube.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
December Traditions - Holly
December 13, 2011
This series I'm working on isn't to say who's right and who's wrong. It's not about "get your facts straight" or "That's our holiday". The entire purpose here is to point out the similarities between the different customs and show that we're really not all that different.
We don't have to have quoted the correct website or have the exact same traditions in order to be given respect. We are all different and our lives are made up of many threads from all around the world. By saying "This is the right way" or "This is the only way" so much of this wonderful view is taken from you.
This is MY take on what I've read about Holly.
Llex Aquifolium or Holly has over 300 species which includes climbers bushes and trees. It is an evergreen that is characterized by shiny leaves with thorns. The berries usually red in color ripen in the winter and are slightly toxic to humans when eaten but are a food source for birds in the winter months.
During Saturnalia festivals Holly was used as it is considered the sacred plant of Saturn. Gifts of Holly were used for decoration and as offerings during this time of year. Some Christians associate holly with "Christ" relating the thorns to the crown he wore and the red berries his blood.
From the Druids who used the plant for protection, to the Romans who used it as an offering Holly has made it's way around the world. In parts of Britain holly was called "Christmas" and in pre-victorian time holly bushes were called "Christmas Trees". Some Germanic cultures believed that stepping on the berries was bad luck, but placing a bough of the plant in a barn would help your livestock to fatten up and be prosperous though the winter.
Our ancient pagan ancestors were said to have made wreaths of ivy and holly for decorations in the winter months. Ivy with its ties to Bacchus, the Roman God of Wine and the holly for Saturnalia.
Even the name Holly, was thought to be the root of the Christian word "Holy" taken from the Pagan's who believed that "Holly" was sacred.
Today I decided that for my landscaping needs I plan to plant some holly around my property.
Sharing a wonderful salute to Holly by Loreena McKennitt.
And for those of us that are a bit more childlike (like me)
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
We don't have to have quoted the correct website or have the exact same traditions in order to be given respect. We are all different and our lives are made up of many threads from all around the world. By saying "This is the right way" or "This is the only way" so much of this wonderful view is taken from you.
This is MY take on what I've read about Holly.
Llex Aquifolium or Holly has over 300 species which includes climbers bushes and trees. It is an evergreen that is characterized by shiny leaves with thorns. The berries usually red in color ripen in the winter and are slightly toxic to humans when eaten but are a food source for birds in the winter months.
During Saturnalia festivals Holly was used as it is considered the sacred plant of Saturn. Gifts of Holly were used for decoration and as offerings during this time of year. Some Christians associate holly with "Christ" relating the thorns to the crown he wore and the red berries his blood.
From the Druids who used the plant for protection, to the Romans who used it as an offering Holly has made it's way around the world. In parts of Britain holly was called "Christmas" and in pre-victorian time holly bushes were called "Christmas Trees". Some Germanic cultures believed that stepping on the berries was bad luck, but placing a bough of the plant in a barn would help your livestock to fatten up and be prosperous though the winter.
Our ancient pagan ancestors were said to have made wreaths of ivy and holly for decorations in the winter months. Ivy with its ties to Bacchus, the Roman God of Wine and the holly for Saturnalia.
Even the name Holly, was thought to be the root of the Christian word "Holy" taken from the Pagan's who believed that "Holly" was sacred.
Today I decided that for my landscaping needs I plan to plant some holly around my property.
Sharing a wonderful salute to Holly by Loreena McKennitt.
And for those of us that are a bit more childlike (like me)
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
December Traditions - Mistletoe
December 12, 2011
There's a lot of talk now about the "War on Christmas" and "Happy Holidays" vs. "Merry Christmas". I had a thought this morning about taking some of our traditions and looking at how they came into being. I'm not trying to say "We invented Christmas" or "You stole our traditions" more so trying to show that this time of the year is indeed an amalgam of traditions from various parts of the world mixed together in this big ole melting pot we call humanity.
Today let's talk mistletoe.
First what the heck is mistletoe anyway? Mistletoe is a semi parasitic plant that lives within bushes and plants. Mistletoe has a large family of plants in it with up to 900 species. The berries of the Mistletoe are poisonous. The berry juice is extremely sticky and when eaten by birds, they pass through their system and are then deposited on tree branches as the birds perch. The word Mistletoe is from the Anglo-Saxon word, Mistel for "Dung" and Tan for "Twig" which translates to "Dung on a Twig". The ancient Druids honored mistletoe as a sacred plant. Some would place the plant over a baby's cradle to prevent the child from ever being kidnapped. In much the same treatment as the Yule Log, a branch of mistletoe was kept year after year, burning the previous year with the new harvest to bless the next years harvest.
The tradition of "Kissing under the Mistletoe" is thought to come from Scandinavia where it was said that if you were out in the woods and you found yourself standing under the mistletoe and you encountered a foe, you both lay down your weapons until the next day. This is thought to have come from old Norse Mythology. Balder was son of Odin (King of the Gods) and Frigga. Frigga fearing for her son's safety asked every thing to promise not to harm her son. This included animals, stones and trees. Frigga missed out on the mistletoe plant which allowed Loki the God of Mischief to use the plant to create a spear and trick Hod, Balder's brother into throwing it and killing Balder instantly. The Gods eventually restored Balder to life and Frigga proclaimed the plant to be sacred and that two people passing under it should celebrate Balder's resurrection by kissing.
Here's Amy Winehouse with "Mommy Kissing Santa Claus".
Wishing everyone, a wonderful holiday season.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
***Please note, I am sure all traditions much like most magic and lore have a varied background, meaning this posting is only one view of the legend or myth around the specific tradition. I am not claiming that this is the be all end all of this tradition.
Today let's talk mistletoe.
First what the heck is mistletoe anyway? Mistletoe is a semi parasitic plant that lives within bushes and plants. Mistletoe has a large family of plants in it with up to 900 species. The berries of the Mistletoe are poisonous. The berry juice is extremely sticky and when eaten by birds, they pass through their system and are then deposited on tree branches as the birds perch. The word Mistletoe is from the Anglo-Saxon word, Mistel for "Dung" and Tan for "Twig" which translates to "Dung on a Twig". The ancient Druids honored mistletoe as a sacred plant. Some would place the plant over a baby's cradle to prevent the child from ever being kidnapped. In much the same treatment as the Yule Log, a branch of mistletoe was kept year after year, burning the previous year with the new harvest to bless the next years harvest.
The tradition of "Kissing under the Mistletoe" is thought to come from Scandinavia where it was said that if you were out in the woods and you found yourself standing under the mistletoe and you encountered a foe, you both lay down your weapons until the next day. This is thought to have come from old Norse Mythology. Balder was son of Odin (King of the Gods) and Frigga. Frigga fearing for her son's safety asked every thing to promise not to harm her son. This included animals, stones and trees. Frigga missed out on the mistletoe plant which allowed Loki the God of Mischief to use the plant to create a spear and trick Hod, Balder's brother into throwing it and killing Balder instantly. The Gods eventually restored Balder to life and Frigga proclaimed the plant to be sacred and that two people passing under it should celebrate Balder's resurrection by kissing.
Here's Amy Winehouse with "Mommy Kissing Santa Claus".
Wishing everyone, a wonderful holiday season.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
***Please note, I am sure all traditions much like most magic and lore have a varied background, meaning this posting is only one view of the legend or myth around the specific tradition. I am not claiming that this is the be all end all of this tradition.
What on EARTH??
December 8, 2011
Has the entire world lost their collective minds? I'm just sitting here shaking my head wondering what is going on today. I know we have Mercury in retrograde but really? Come on now...
Just a quick recap of what I've been seening over the last few weeks...
First...
First, I'd like to point out they turned of the comments for the video... Well yeah, I don't blame you when you're spouting off some crazy crap like this. Our country as we all know is not a "Christian" country. You can worship however you like here. We have the freedom to follow the God or Goddess of our choice right?
Well apparently not in Georgia.
A young fellow by the name of Christopher Turner, 11 years old who lives in Bowden Georgia was pulled out of his class by his teacher after taking Samhain (October 31st) off from school and questioned about Paganism and told "Paganism isn't a religion". Now, as if this weren't enough Christopher was singled out again, when the teacher requested that class do an assignment on the history of Christmas, but they were not allowed to have anything in the report pertaining to Paganism. Really?
A facebook support group has been started for the family. If you'd like to read the original post on this you can find it here. My friend Nalaya Oddly did a wonderful blog post on this here.
Next I run into this....
WHAT? Leave? Don't let the border hit you in the ass on the way out??? My friend Kallan Kennedy had a wonderful post on this. You can read it here. No one can put it better than she can!
Let's just have a little history lesson here...
Of course you are all aware of the ban lifted on horse slaughter. Below is a news piece on youtube regarding the changes in the legislation. There are no horses injured in this video.
So when this made news a friend of mine was apposed and posted a petition to sign to try to get it banned again. I liked her post and signed the petition. At some point the discussion changed to a debate and others made statements to the effect of "I don't care for interracial marriage but you don't see me signing a petition to stop that".
Ummmmm WHAT?
Yeah that's what I said.... So needless to say words were exchanged and then I get this in my messages:
Apparently I misquoted, by saying someone was a bigot because they didn't believe in interracial marriage...
So the lessons for this week are, we live in a country where only Christians are free, children can be pulled out and questioned on their religion, if you don't like "Merry Christmas" you need to get out of the country and people who don't like "mixed marriages" are not bigots.
This has been over the last few weeks...
On a more positive note I have added more stuff to my shop, Sosanna's Closet. Have a look at these new items.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
PS
Happy Holidays
Just a quick recap of what I've been seening over the last few weeks...
First...
First, I'd like to point out they turned of the comments for the video... Well yeah, I don't blame you when you're spouting off some crazy crap like this. Our country as we all know is not a "Christian" country. You can worship however you like here. We have the freedom to follow the God or Goddess of our choice right?
Well apparently not in Georgia.
A young fellow by the name of Christopher Turner, 11 years old who lives in Bowden Georgia was pulled out of his class by his teacher after taking Samhain (October 31st) off from school and questioned about Paganism and told "Paganism isn't a religion". Now, as if this weren't enough Christopher was singled out again, when the teacher requested that class do an assignment on the history of Christmas, but they were not allowed to have anything in the report pertaining to Paganism. Really?
A facebook support group has been started for the family. If you'd like to read the original post on this you can find it here. My friend Nalaya Oddly did a wonderful blog post on this here.
Next I run into this....
Let's just have a little history lesson here...
Of course you are all aware of the ban lifted on horse slaughter. Below is a news piece on youtube regarding the changes in the legislation. There are no horses injured in this video.
So when this made news a friend of mine was apposed and posted a petition to sign to try to get it banned again. I liked her post and signed the petition. At some point the discussion changed to a debate and others made statements to the effect of "I don't care for interracial marriage but you don't see me signing a petition to stop that".
Ummmmm WHAT?
Yeah that's what I said.... So needless to say words were exchanged and then I get this in my messages:
Apparently I misquoted, by saying someone was a bigot because they didn't believe in interracial marriage...
So the lessons for this week are, we live in a country where only Christians are free, children can be pulled out and questioned on their religion, if you don't like "Merry Christmas" you need to get out of the country and people who don't like "mixed marriages" are not bigots.
This has been over the last few weeks...
On a more positive note I have added more stuff to my shop, Sosanna's Closet. Have a look at these new items.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
PS
Happy Holidays
A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing
December 3, 2011
So as many of you know I am a solitary. I chose this route long ago mostly based on the fact that I couldn't find a great number of like minded people where I lived. I didn't chose to be solitary for lack of people skills or because I feared any type of connection with others. In fact I long to have that connection. I want to be in touch with others who share my views and thoughts. People that I can sit down with, talk and share my life without fear of judgment or ridicule.
I know welcoming other people into your life can create good as well as bad. Adding beliefs and energies from others into your life can be challenging. It can lead to a whole new learning experience or it can create havoc on your life.
Be careful of those that are intolerant of others. Even in the Pagan community you can see bigotry and hatred. Be mindful of others feelings and don't hurt others on purpose. Remember the law of three and send out good positive energy. And remember your rights end where mine begin.
I want to share a story that was posted just a few days ago.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
I know welcoming other people into your life can create good as well as bad. Adding beliefs and energies from others into your life can be challenging. It can lead to a whole new learning experience or it can create havoc on your life.
Be careful of those that are intolerant of others. Even in the Pagan community you can see bigotry and hatred. Be mindful of others feelings and don't hurt others on purpose. Remember the law of three and send out good positive energy. And remember your rights end where mine begin.
I want to share a story that was posted just a few days ago.
Namaste and Blessed Be
Sosanna
Marriage Equality
December 1, 2011
Yesterday I saw an amazing video. I wanted to share it with my blog followers.
Who wouldn't be proud if this were their son.
Take a moment and be thankful for what you have and cherish what you have because so many families out there lack the basic rights and protections provided by the civil institution of marriage. Everyone here in created equal.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
Who wouldn't be proud if this were their son.
Take a moment and be thankful for what you have and cherish what you have because so many families out there lack the basic rights and protections provided by the civil institution of marriage. Everyone here in created equal.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
New Moon Rising
November 24, 2011
Over this last month plus I've been working with a group that was battling the New Apostolic Reformation's DC-40 self proclaimed prayer siege on our nation. Each day a group of us added blog posts and shared positive thoughts in a Facebook Group called "What Makes Your State Great?".
Today we're approaching two significant occurrences. One the coming of the New Moon and two Mercury will go into retrograde.
The new moon is a time for rejuvenation and a time for newness. I received an email from the organizer of the Hail Columbia site with information on a rite being requested by Caroline Kenner, organizer of the Celebration of the Divine Feminine in Washington DC.
The email contained a suggestion for all who can to send back this energy sent to us and to our nation using the New Moons energy to return it to its origin exactly as it had be sent out. I'd like to include the text of that email here:
Dear Ones, as promised, here is suggested language for returning to sender all the prayers and curses sent out by the New Apostolic Reformation during the past 51 days. If this spell is used as written, there should be no blowback. In general, "return to sender" spells are seen as ethically neutral by most Pagans. This is not a curse, it's more like faster Karma. Please be careful of your spelling in the spell, it is important: this is a contract with the Gods. If you decide to follow your own guidance, my advice would be to avoid putting yourself in the spell and simply ask our deities for help.
By the Power of (Insert favorite matron/patron deity here) all negative prayers and curses issued by the New Apostolic Reformation, including all so called prayer intercessors who took part in the DC40/51 Days of Reformation Intercession campaign between October 3rd, 2011 and November 22nd, 2011 shall be returned to their source and origin intact exactly as they were sent. By the Power of (insert favorite deity here) and the Powers of The Queen of Heaven, Columbia, Lady Liberty and Nemesis, so mote it be.
You can write this with a Sharpie marker on a plain white glass-enclosed novena-type candle easily purchased at many grocery stores, botanicas, metaphysical shops, etc. Set the candle to burn and leave it to go out, which may take a couple of days. I set mine in a bowl of water or in the bathtub. Or you can write it on a piece of parchment or paper, pray the spell aloud and burn it outside. The best window of time in which to perform this spell is from tonight at 12:01am on Wednesday, November 23rd until the New Moon begins on Thursday, November 24th. The New Moon begins 1:11:08am Eastern Standard time on Friday morning, but in the far west, the New Moon begins at 10:11:08pm Thursday night.
If you're able to spare some energy and take part in this cyber circle, it will certainly all go for a good cause. So starting tonight in the West take a moment to start a special circle for this action or add this energy back to your current new moon ritual.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Today we're approaching two significant occurrences. One the coming of the New Moon and two Mercury will go into retrograde.
The new moon is a time for rejuvenation and a time for newness. I received an email from the organizer of the Hail Columbia site with information on a rite being requested by Caroline Kenner, organizer of the Celebration of the Divine Feminine in Washington DC.
The email contained a suggestion for all who can to send back this energy sent to us and to our nation using the New Moons energy to return it to its origin exactly as it had be sent out. I'd like to include the text of that email here:
Dear Ones, as promised, here is suggested language for returning to sender all the prayers and curses sent out by the New Apostolic Reformation during the past 51 days. If this spell is used as written, there should be no blowback. In general, "return to sender" spells are seen as ethically neutral by most Pagans. This is not a curse, it's more like faster Karma. Please be careful of your spelling in the spell, it is important: this is a contract with the Gods. If you decide to follow your own guidance, my advice would be to avoid putting yourself in the spell and simply ask our deities for help.
By the Power of (Insert favorite matron/patron deity here) all negative prayers and curses issued by the New Apostolic Reformation, including all so called prayer intercessors who took part in the DC40/51 Days of Reformation Intercession campaign between October 3rd, 2011 and November 22nd, 2011 shall be returned to their source and origin intact exactly as they were sent. By the Power of (insert favorite deity here) and the Powers of The Queen of Heaven, Columbia, Lady Liberty and Nemesis, so mote it be.
You can write this with a Sharpie marker on a plain white glass-enclosed novena-type candle easily purchased at many grocery stores, botanicas, metaphysical shops, etc. Set the candle to burn and leave it to go out, which may take a couple of days. I set mine in a bowl of water or in the bathtub. Or you can write it on a piece of parchment or paper, pray the spell aloud and burn it outside. The best window of time in which to perform this spell is from tonight at 12:01am on Wednesday, November 23rd until the New Moon begins on Thursday, November 24th. The New Moon begins 1:11:08am Eastern Standard time on Friday morning, but in the far west, the New Moon begins at 10:11:08pm Thursday night.
If you're able to spare some energy and take part in this cyber circle, it will certainly all go for a good cause. So starting tonight in the West take a moment to start a special circle for this action or add this energy back to your current new moon ritual.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Thanksgiving
November 23, 2011
To me, Thanksgiving around the United States has come to mean two things. One, shopping and two overeating.
Each year the "Black Friday" sales start earlier and earlier. These stores that are open for your shopping pleasure have to be managed and staffed by someone right? Who is that? Those are usually lower income workers who now have to work instead of spending this time with their families. A complete symbol of gluttony, this day is spent running from store to store buying buying buying and in some instances even "fight" over goods.
A simple search on youtube will give you tons of hits on Black Friday Fights
This year the holiday literally was here in no time. Usually I see boxes in grocery stores and collections areas to collect food for needy families around Thanksgiving. This year, I missed them all. I didn't see any boxes for collections. Perhaps I just missed them, but the only place that I found collecting food this year was at Truely Unique in Wilson, N.C.
This year more than ever there are so many in need. This economy has been hard for us all. Locate your local food bank. Donate some non perishable foods to this group responsible for feeding the hungry through out the entire year, not just around the holidays. Buying a few extra items while they're on sale and collecting them in a box and then donating them will not add a great deal to your bill and may be the only meal a family receives. I come from a family who received the surplus cheese and butter so I know first hand what it is like to not have enough food to eat. Giving back to your community is a great way to send out positive energy and provide for others in need.
I also encourage others to educate themselves on the true history of Thanksgiving. There are so many stories out there most centering around Native Americans sharing a harvest with the Pilgrims. Yes, there was shared food, however it was the Native tribe that did most of the sharing, see the colony that lived here was on the brink of death and would have died had it not been for Squanto. About 10 years before the Pilgrims landed in the "New World" Squanto was captured in what is now Massachusetts and sold to a Spanish monk who taught him Christianity and English. Eventually he made his way to England where he worked as a stable hand until he was able to get passage back to America.
In 1618, ten years later Squanto learned his tribe had been killed by small pox. While living with the Wampanoag he met the Pilgrims. Squanto taught them to fish and farm. Even after being enslaved and having is people destroyed he continued to give to others.
As we sit down to enjoy our Thanksgiving meals I hope that each one of us can reflect on the gift that Squanto gave the settlers. Think of how even after his treatment he continued to give out positives to the new arrivals. Think of the changes in the world today from Squanto's world. Think about what we as a people to give back to our world if we all sent out a bit of positive energy from ourselves to the world around us.
Sending light, love and peace to a battered nation and to hopefully a forgiving people.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Each year the "Black Friday" sales start earlier and earlier. These stores that are open for your shopping pleasure have to be managed and staffed by someone right? Who is that? Those are usually lower income workers who now have to work instead of spending this time with their families. A complete symbol of gluttony, this day is spent running from store to store buying buying buying and in some instances even "fight" over goods.
A simple search on youtube will give you tons of hits on Black Friday Fights
This year the holiday literally was here in no time. Usually I see boxes in grocery stores and collections areas to collect food for needy families around Thanksgiving. This year, I missed them all. I didn't see any boxes for collections. Perhaps I just missed them, but the only place that I found collecting food this year was at Truely Unique in Wilson, N.C.
This year more than ever there are so many in need. This economy has been hard for us all. Locate your local food bank. Donate some non perishable foods to this group responsible for feeding the hungry through out the entire year, not just around the holidays. Buying a few extra items while they're on sale and collecting them in a box and then donating them will not add a great deal to your bill and may be the only meal a family receives. I come from a family who received the surplus cheese and butter so I know first hand what it is like to not have enough food to eat. Giving back to your community is a great way to send out positive energy and provide for others in need.
I also encourage others to educate themselves on the true history of Thanksgiving. There are so many stories out there most centering around Native Americans sharing a harvest with the Pilgrims. Yes, there was shared food, however it was the Native tribe that did most of the sharing, see the colony that lived here was on the brink of death and would have died had it not been for Squanto. About 10 years before the Pilgrims landed in the "New World" Squanto was captured in what is now Massachusetts and sold to a Spanish monk who taught him Christianity and English. Eventually he made his way to England where he worked as a stable hand until he was able to get passage back to America.
In 1618, ten years later Squanto learned his tribe had been killed by small pox. While living with the Wampanoag he met the Pilgrims. Squanto taught them to fish and farm. Even after being enslaved and having is people destroyed he continued to give to others.
As we sit down to enjoy our Thanksgiving meals I hope that each one of us can reflect on the gift that Squanto gave the settlers. Think of how even after his treatment he continued to give out positives to the new arrivals. Think of the changes in the world today from Squanto's world. Think about what we as a people to give back to our world if we all sent out a bit of positive energy from ourselves to the world around us.
Sending light, love and peace to a battered nation and to hopefully a forgiving people.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Hail USA!
November 22, 2011
Well, we did it. We wrote, blogged, talked and sung about these great United States in order of statehood. We've covered from Hawaii to Delaware. I've made new friends and even lost one or two through this journey.
We started this in response to a challenge thrown down by the DC-40 Initiative. Beginning with a threat to lay siege to our land to a threat of flaming arrows aimed directly at the Pagans challenging them.
We answered that call by setting up actions, circles and setting up Facebook Groups to support our secular nation. I have had a wonderful time. I wanted to add a few notes here on those documents that have given us our freedom.
First I'd like to start with the Treaty of Triopli - This document has specific quotes that confirm that our nation was founded as a secular nation and NOT based on Christianity.
Next, I want to highlight the first amendment to the US Constitution. Here the first amendments says the following:
Our country is based on the premise that I can live my life, worship my Goddess and raise my family in the manner that I choose without fear of the government coming in and putting me in jail or taking away my family. The government cannot force a religion unto any person. This is one of the great things about the US. This is one of the very basic freedoms that one is born with and cannot be taken away. All my energies and thoughts will be directed at keeping this land exactly the way it was intended.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
We started this in response to a challenge thrown down by the DC-40 Initiative. Beginning with a threat to lay siege to our land to a threat of flaming arrows aimed directly at the Pagans challenging them.
We answered that call by setting up actions, circles and setting up Facebook Groups to support our secular nation. I have had a wonderful time. I wanted to add a few notes here on those documents that have given us our freedom.
First I'd like to start with the Treaty of Triopli - This document has specific quotes that confirm that our nation was founded as a secular nation and NOT based on Christianity.
Next, I want to highlight the first amendment to the US Constitution. Here the first amendments says the following:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
Our country is based on the premise that I can live my life, worship my Goddess and raise my family in the manner that I choose without fear of the government coming in and putting me in jail or taking away my family. The government cannot force a religion unto any person. This is one of the great things about the US. This is one of the very basic freedoms that one is born with and cannot be taken away. All my energies and thoughts will be directed at keeping this land exactly the way it was intended.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Delaware!
November 21, 2011
Finally we're closing out the 50 states with the very first to become a state, Delaware. We've traveled all over this great country and posted a lot of facts, trivia and some sadness related to each. I for one have learned a great deal on this journey. I'd like to thank you for all the comments and discussion points brought up during this process and I look forward to more to come.
If you'd like to see the entire set of posts for this movement head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?". As always my facts come from 50states.com.
Hail Delaware!
Delaware was the first state to ratify the United States constitution. It did so on December 7, 1787.
Delaware is the only state without any National Park System units such as national parks, seashores, historic sites, battlefields, memorials, and monuments.
The log cabin originated in Finland. Finnish settlers arrived in Delaware in the mid-1600s and brought with them plans for the log cabin, one of the enduring symbols of the American pioneer. One of the cabins has been preserved and is on display at the Delaware Agricultural Museum in Dover.
Thomas Garret lost his entire fortune in his battle against slavery. He was sued by a Maryland slave owner and fined for aiding a black family in flight. Over his lifetime, Garrett reportedly helped more than 2,000 fugitive slaves move through Delaware, an important stop on the Underground Railroad.
Horseshoe crabs may be viewed in large numbers up and down the Delaware shore in May. The crabs endure extremes of temperature and salinity. They can also go for a year without eating and have remained basically the same since the days of the dinosaur.
The original inhabitants of Delaware are:
The Lenni Lenape tribe (the Delawares)
The Nanticoke tribe
I found this older video of the Naticoke Tribe in Delaware.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Delaware!
If you'd like to see the entire set of posts for this movement head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?". As always my facts come from 50states.com.
Hail Delaware!
Delaware was the first state to ratify the United States constitution. It did so on December 7, 1787.
Delaware is the only state without any National Park System units such as national parks, seashores, historic sites, battlefields, memorials, and monuments.
The log cabin originated in Finland. Finnish settlers arrived in Delaware in the mid-1600s and brought with them plans for the log cabin, one of the enduring symbols of the American pioneer. One of the cabins has been preserved and is on display at the Delaware Agricultural Museum in Dover.
Thomas Garret lost his entire fortune in his battle against slavery. He was sued by a Maryland slave owner and fined for aiding a black family in flight. Over his lifetime, Garrett reportedly helped more than 2,000 fugitive slaves move through Delaware, an important stop on the Underground Railroad.
Horseshoe crabs may be viewed in large numbers up and down the Delaware shore in May. The crabs endure extremes of temperature and salinity. They can also go for a year without eating and have remained basically the same since the days of the dinosaur.
The original inhabitants of Delaware are:
The Lenni Lenape tribe (the Delawares)
The Nanticoke tribe
I found this older video of the Naticoke Tribe in Delaware.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Delaware!
Hail Pennsylvania!
November 20, 2011
Today we're going to be focusing on the great state of Pennsylvania! If you'd like to take part in the wonderful discussion around this state or posts some great stuff about your own head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?". As always my facts come from 50states.com.
Hail Pennsylvania!
Hershey is considered the Chocolate Capital of the United States.
Philadelphia saw the first Zoological garden in July 1874.
The Liberty Tunnel in Pittsburgh opened in 1924. At that time the 5,700 foot facility was the longest artificially ventilated automobile tunnel in the world.
In June 1778, a 700 wagon caravan escorted the Liberty Bell on its return to Philadelphia from Allentown along Towamencin's Allentown Road. Nine months earlier, when British troops threatened to capture the city, the bell had been whisked into hiding via the same route.
George G. Blaisdell founded Zippo Manufacturing of Bradford in late 1932. He started with a simple idea: create a product that answers a real need, design it to work, and guarantee it to last.
Punxsutawney citizens are proud to be over shadowed by their town's most famous resident the world-renowned weather forecasting groundhog Punxsutawney Phil. Punxsutawney is billed as the weather capital of the world. On a personal note, I can't help but feel a little sad when they pull that poor little groundhog from his warm cozy hole and hold him up in the air. I know it doesn't hurt him but still poor little guy.
The original inhabitants of Pennsylvania are:
The Erie tribe
The Iroquois tribes (especially the Seneca and Oneida)
The Lenape tribe
The Munsee tribe
The Shawnee tribe
The Susquehannock tribe
This is a video I found on the Iroquois Confederacy and the Oral Tradition. The Iroquois lived across the north east including New York and Pennsylvania.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Pennsylvania!
Hershey is considered the Chocolate Capital of the United States.
Philadelphia saw the first Zoological garden in July 1874.
The Liberty Tunnel in Pittsburgh opened in 1924. At that time the 5,700 foot facility was the longest artificially ventilated automobile tunnel in the world.
In June 1778, a 700 wagon caravan escorted the Liberty Bell on its return to Philadelphia from Allentown along Towamencin's Allentown Road. Nine months earlier, when British troops threatened to capture the city, the bell had been whisked into hiding via the same route.
George G. Blaisdell founded Zippo Manufacturing of Bradford in late 1932. He started with a simple idea: create a product that answers a real need, design it to work, and guarantee it to last.
Punxsutawney citizens are proud to be over shadowed by their town's most famous resident the world-renowned weather forecasting groundhog Punxsutawney Phil. Punxsutawney is billed as the weather capital of the world. On a personal note, I can't help but feel a little sad when they pull that poor little groundhog from his warm cozy hole and hold him up in the air. I know it doesn't hurt him but still poor little guy.
The original inhabitants of Pennsylvania are:
The Erie tribe
The Iroquois tribes (especially the Seneca and Oneida)
The Lenape tribe
The Munsee tribe
The Shawnee tribe
The Susquehannock tribe
This is a video I found on the Iroquois Confederacy and the Oral Tradition. The Iroquois lived across the north east including New York and Pennsylvania.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
Weekly Check In - Get Off Your Broom Challenge
November 19, 2011
I have been SOOOOOOO Bad at this. I have not checked in for two week. Work has been so busy that I have only worked out two days out of the past two weeks. UGH If you'd like to learn more about the challege head over to the Domestic Pagan and have a look see.
Well here are the numbers:
This Week
Chest 37
Waist 34
Hips 40.5
Thighs 21
Arms 12
Last Check in
Chest 37 in
Waist 34 in
Hips 41 in
Thighs 21 in
Arm 12.5 in
Looks to be pretty consistent. I haven't stepped back on the scale. I hope to get to that again soon.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
Well here are the numbers:
This Week
Chest 37
Waist 34
Hips 40.5
Thighs 21
Arms 12
Last Check in
Chest 37 in
Waist 34 in
Hips 41 in
Thighs 21 in
Arm 12.5 in
Looks to be pretty consistent. I haven't stepped back on the scale. I hope to get to that again soon.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
Hail New Jersey!
This morning we're in the home stretch! The last states are coming up and the finish line is in sight. I've had no real hits on my DC40/Dominionism News Feed so whatever they're doing, it's not making the news. Let's keep the protection strong and keep this nation a secular nation as our forefathers intended.
If you'd like to join our discussion on each of the states head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?". As always my facts come from 50states.com.
And away we go....
Hail New Jersey!
New Jersey has the highest percent urban population in the U.S. with about 90% of the people living in an urban area. New Jersey is the only state where all its counties are classified as metropolitan areas. North Jersey is the car theft capital of the world, with more cars stolen in Newark then any other city. Even the 2 largest cities, NYC and LA put together.
In order to meet the increasing demand for his wire rope John Roebling opened a factory in New Jersey in 1848. John Roebling, along with his two sons, Washington and Ferdinand, built a suspension bridge across the gorge of the Niagara River. They then built the Brooklyn Bridge plus many other suspension bridges in the United States.
The light bulb, phonograph (record player), motion picture projector were invented by Thomas Edison in his Menlo Park, now called Edison, laboratory.
This is the earliest motion picture created. It is sometimes called "Fred Otts Sneeze"
Fort Dix is named for Major General John Adams Dix, a veteran of the War of 1812 and the Civil War. During his distinguished public career, he was a United States Senator, Secretary of the Treasury, Minister to France and Governor of New York.
New Jersey has it's own legendary creature called "The Jersey Devil". Sightings around the southern part of the state describe a flying biped with hooves. The devil is rumored to be the demon 13th child of a large family in Leeds, New Jersey.
The original inhabitants of New Jersey are:
The Unami (Lenape) tribe
The Minisink (Munsee) tribe
The Unalachtigo tribe
The series on the Lenape on youtube is really good. This next video is on the Vision Quest.
Sending love and protection to the great state of New Jersey.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
If you'd like to join our discussion on each of the states head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?". As always my facts come from 50states.com.
And away we go....
Hail New Jersey!
New Jersey has the highest percent urban population in the U.S. with about 90% of the people living in an urban area. New Jersey is the only state where all its counties are classified as metropolitan areas. North Jersey is the car theft capital of the world, with more cars stolen in Newark then any other city. Even the 2 largest cities, NYC and LA put together.
In order to meet the increasing demand for his wire rope John Roebling opened a factory in New Jersey in 1848. John Roebling, along with his two sons, Washington and Ferdinand, built a suspension bridge across the gorge of the Niagara River. They then built the Brooklyn Bridge plus many other suspension bridges in the United States.
The light bulb, phonograph (record player), motion picture projector were invented by Thomas Edison in his Menlo Park, now called Edison, laboratory.
This is the earliest motion picture created. It is sometimes called "Fred Otts Sneeze"
Fort Dix is named for Major General John Adams Dix, a veteran of the War of 1812 and the Civil War. During his distinguished public career, he was a United States Senator, Secretary of the Treasury, Minister to France and Governor of New York.
New Jersey has it's own legendary creature called "The Jersey Devil". Sightings around the southern part of the state describe a flying biped with hooves. The devil is rumored to be the demon 13th child of a large family in Leeds, New Jersey.
The original inhabitants of New Jersey are:
The Unami (Lenape) tribe
The Minisink (Munsee) tribe
The Unalachtigo tribe
The series on the Lenape on youtube is really good. This next video is on the Vision Quest.
Sending love and protection to the great state of New Jersey.
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Georgia!
November 18, 2011
We're in the home stretch now! Just a few more states to go. I'm very proud of everyone hanging in there on our trek around the US. We've done a great job sending out positive energy and supporting our secular nation! If you'd like to join the discussion head over to our Facebook Group, "What Makes Your State Great".
As always my facts come from 50.states.com, head over there and check out the awesomeness.
Let's get going....
Hail Georgia!
Okefenokee Swamp encompasses over 400,000 acres of canals; moss draped cypress trees, and lily pad prairies providing sanctuaries for hundreds of species of birds and wildlife including several endangered species.
The pirate Edward "Blackbeard" Teach made a home on Blackbeard Island. The United States Congress designated the Blackbeard Island Wilderness Area in 1975 and it now has a total of 3,000 acres.
On January 19, 1861, Georgia joined the Confederacy. The figures of Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, and Robert E. Lee make up the world's largest sculpture. It is located on the face of Stone Mountain. Additionally Robert E. Lee's horse, Traveler, is also carved at the same place.
Known as the sweetest onion in the world, the Vidalia onion can only be grown in the fields around Vidalia and Glennville
The locomotive engine popularly known as The General is housed in the Big Shanty Museum in Kennesaw. It was stolen in the Andrews Railroad Raid in 1862 and later depicted in The Great Locomotive Chase, a popular movie.
One of my favorite movies takes place in Savannah, Georgia. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is amazing! This is a clip from the film on the Lady Chablis.
The original inhabitants of Georgia are:
The Apalachee Indians
The Cherokee Indians
The Hitchiti, Oconee and Miccosukee Indians
The Muskogee Creek Indians
The Timucua Indians
The Yamasee and Guale Indians
This is a great video on the Ocmulgee Mounds.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Georgia!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
As always my facts come from 50.states.com, head over there and check out the awesomeness.
Let's get going....
Hail Georgia!
Okefenokee Swamp encompasses over 400,000 acres of canals; moss draped cypress trees, and lily pad prairies providing sanctuaries for hundreds of species of birds and wildlife including several endangered species.
The pirate Edward "Blackbeard" Teach made a home on Blackbeard Island. The United States Congress designated the Blackbeard Island Wilderness Area in 1975 and it now has a total of 3,000 acres.
On January 19, 1861, Georgia joined the Confederacy. The figures of Stonewall Jackson, Jefferson Davis, and Robert E. Lee make up the world's largest sculpture. It is located on the face of Stone Mountain. Additionally Robert E. Lee's horse, Traveler, is also carved at the same place.
Known as the sweetest onion in the world, the Vidalia onion can only be grown in the fields around Vidalia and Glennville
The locomotive engine popularly known as The General is housed in the Big Shanty Museum in Kennesaw. It was stolen in the Andrews Railroad Raid in 1862 and later depicted in The Great Locomotive Chase, a popular movie.
One of my favorite movies takes place in Savannah, Georgia. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is amazing! This is a clip from the film on the Lady Chablis.
 |
| http://www.native-languages.org/georgia.htm |
The original inhabitants of Georgia are:
The Apalachee Indians
The Cherokee Indians
The Hitchiti, Oconee and Miccosukee Indians
The Muskogee Creek Indians
The Timucua Indians
The Yamasee and Guale Indians
This is a great video on the Ocmulgee Mounds.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Georgia!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
Hail Connecticut!
November 17, 2011
Heading into the home stretch we're sending love and protection to the great state of Connecticut today! If you'd like to share your stories about Connecticut or any other of our great states head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great" and help us celebrate this great secular nation! As always my facts come from 50states.com. Now let's get rolling...
Hail Connecticut!
The first telephone book ever issued contained only fifty names. The New Haven District Telephone Company published it in New Haven in February 1878. On January 28, 1878, 21 venturous citizens of New Haven became the world's first subscribers to telephone exchange service.
Connecticut and Rhode Island never ratified the 18th Amendment (Prohibition).
Connecticut is home to the oldest U.S. newspaper still being published: The Hartford Courant, established in 1764.
Bristol, CT is considered the "Mum City" of the USA because of the many Chrysanthemums grown and sold to various states and Canada.
The original inhabitants of Connecticut are:
The Mahican tribes (including the Pocomtuc)
The Minisink (Munsee) tribe
The Mohegan tribes (including the Niantic)
The Pequot tribe
The Nipmuc tribe
The Quiripi tribes (Mattabesic, Paugusett, and Schaghticoke)
I found this video on Vimeo, it's the story of Van Thomas Green, a native who submitted a lawsuit for the loss of his tribal lands in Connecticut.
Sending light love and protection to the great state of Connecticut and to it's people.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Connecticut!
The first telephone book ever issued contained only fifty names. The New Haven District Telephone Company published it in New Haven in February 1878. On January 28, 1878, 21 venturous citizens of New Haven became the world's first subscribers to telephone exchange service.
Connecticut and Rhode Island never ratified the 18th Amendment (Prohibition).
Connecticut is home to the oldest U.S. newspaper still being published: The Hartford Courant, established in 1764.
Bristol, CT is considered the "Mum City" of the USA because of the many Chrysanthemums grown and sold to various states and Canada.
The original inhabitants of Connecticut are:
The Mahican tribes (including the Pocomtuc)
The Minisink (Munsee) tribe
The Mohegan tribes (including the Niantic)
The Pequot tribe
The Nipmuc tribe
The Quiripi tribes (Mattabesic, Paugusett, and Schaghticoke)
I found this video on Vimeo, it's the story of Van Thomas Green, a native who submitted a lawsuit for the loss of his tribal lands in Connecticut.
Last of the Wangunks from Eliot Gray Fisher on Vimeo.
Sending light love and protection to the great state of Connecticut and to it's people.
Namaste & Blessed Be
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Massachusetts!
November 16, 2011
Leading the charge into the great state of Massachusetts our little group of positive energy well wishers start out our day sending love and protection to this great state! DC-40 and the Dominionist have no power here, be gone!
If you'd like to talk about your state, my state or heck any state at all head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great". We'd love to add your contributions on each state and celebrate our secular nation. As always my facts come from 50states.com.
Hail Massachusetts!
552 original documents pertaining to the Salem witch trials of 1692 have been preserved and are still stored by the Peabody Essex Museum.
This is part one, I recommend the entire series.
Boston built the first subway system in the United States in 1897.
Norfolk County is the birthplace of four United States presidents: John Adams, John Quincy Adams, John Fitzgerald Kennedy and George Herbert Walker Bush.
The American industrial revolution began in Lowell. Lowell was America's first planned industrial city.
The Boston Tea Party reenactment takes place in Boston Harbor every December 16th.
As a kid I loved Schoolhouse Rock. This is the video about the Tea Party.
Milford is known the world over for its unique pink granite, discovered in the 1870's and quarried for many years to grace the exteriors of museums, government buildings, monuments and railroad stations.
The original inhabitants of Massachusetts are:
The Wampanoag tribes (including the Massachusett, Nauset,
Nantucket, Pennacook, Pokanoket, and Pocasset)
The Mohegan tribe (including the Nipmuc and Pequot)
The Mohican tribe (including the Pocumtuc)
This is a great video about the Wampanoag tribe.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Massachusetts!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
If you'd like to talk about your state, my state or heck any state at all head over to our Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great". We'd love to add your contributions on each state and celebrate our secular nation. As always my facts come from 50states.com.
Hail Massachusetts!
552 original documents pertaining to the Salem witch trials of 1692 have been preserved and are still stored by the Peabody Essex Museum.
This is part one, I recommend the entire series.
Boston built the first subway system in the United States in 1897.
Norfolk County is the birthplace of four United States presidents: John Adams, John Quincy Adams, John Fitzgerald Kennedy and George Herbert Walker Bush.
The American industrial revolution began in Lowell. Lowell was America's first planned industrial city.
The Boston Tea Party reenactment takes place in Boston Harbor every December 16th.
As a kid I loved Schoolhouse Rock. This is the video about the Tea Party.
Milford is known the world over for its unique pink granite, discovered in the 1870's and quarried for many years to grace the exteriors of museums, government buildings, monuments and railroad stations.
The original inhabitants of Massachusetts are:
The Wampanoag tribes (including the Massachusett, Nauset,
Nantucket, Pennacook, Pokanoket, and Pocasset)
The Mohegan tribe (including the Nipmuc and Pequot)
The Mohican tribe (including the Pocumtuc)
This is a great video about the Wampanoag tribe.
Sending love and protection to the great state of Massachusetts!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
Hail Maryland!
November 15, 2011
Keeping this protective train rolling along our next stop is going to be in the great state of Maryland. If you'd like to join the discussion around Maryland or any of our other states, head over to the Facebook Group "What Makes Your State Great?"
As always my facts come from 50states.com.
And we're off....
Hail Maryland!
The United States Naval Academy was founded on October 10, 1845 at Annapolis.
The Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is considered a masterpiece and one of the finest 19th century buildings in the world. The basilica is the first cathedral in the United States. Baltimore represents the first Roman Catholic diocese.
America's national anthem was written by Francis Scott Key a Maryland lawyer. It is believed Key wrote the anthem on September 14, 1814 while watching the bombardment of Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor.
The town of Garrett Park declared the first nuclear free zone in the United States in 1982, thus affirming a tradition of peacefulness that began back in 1898 when it became illegal to harm any tree or songbird within the town limits.
Maryland has forty-seven operational State parks, including 7 parks with waterfront areas, covering 90,239 acres; 15 State-owned lakes and ponds open to public fishing; 9 State forests and portions of 15 State parks open to public hunting; 36 wildlife management areas, covering 88,348 acres, open to public hunting; 6 natural environment areas containing 7,676 acres.
The original inhabitants of Maryland are:
The Lenape tribe
The Nanticoke tribe (including the Piscataway and Conoy)
The Powhatan tribe (including the Accohannock)
The Ohio Valley Tribes (including Shawnee)
The Susquehannock tribe
The Tutelo and Saponi tribes
I found an interesting series of videos on Youtube on the Lenape tribe of Maryland. I've added the one on medicine but I encourage you to have a look at all the videos in the series.
Sending light love and protection to the great state of Maryland!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
As always my facts come from 50states.com.
And we're off....
Hail Maryland!
 |
| www.ci.annapolis.md.us/ |
The United States Naval Academy was founded on October 10, 1845 at Annapolis.
 |
| neh.gov |
The Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is considered a masterpiece and one of the finest 19th century buildings in the world. The basilica is the first cathedral in the United States. Baltimore represents the first Roman Catholic diocese.
 |
| www.baltimorebasilica.org/ |
America's national anthem was written by Francis Scott Key a Maryland lawyer. It is believed Key wrote the anthem on September 14, 1814 while watching the bombardment of Fort McHenry in Baltimore Harbor.
 |
| en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Scott_Key |
The town of Garrett Park declared the first nuclear free zone in the United States in 1982, thus affirming a tradition of peacefulness that began back in 1898 when it became illegal to harm any tree or songbird within the town limits.
 |
| flickrhivemind.net/Tags/nuclearfreezone/Interesting |
Maryland has forty-seven operational State parks, including 7 parks with waterfront areas, covering 90,239 acres; 15 State-owned lakes and ponds open to public fishing; 9 State forests and portions of 15 State parks open to public hunting; 36 wildlife management areas, covering 88,348 acres, open to public hunting; 6 natural environment areas containing 7,676 acres.
 |
| www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/swallowfalls.asp |
 |
| http://www.native-languages.org/maryland.htm |
The original inhabitants of Maryland are:
The Lenape tribe
The Nanticoke tribe (including the Piscataway and Conoy)
The Powhatan tribe (including the Accohannock)
The Ohio Valley Tribes (including Shawnee)
The Susquehannock tribe
The Tutelo and Saponi tribes
I found an interesting series of videos on Youtube on the Lenape tribe of Maryland. I've added the one on medicine but I encourage you to have a look at all the videos in the series.
Sending light love and protection to the great state of Maryland!
Namaste & Blessed Be!
Sosanna
)O(
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