#rite of lustration

[thea-in-the-abbey]

“I have carried Her light across the lands. That which is built with these hands will last for generations. Nothing set or spoken against me can tarnish the Mothers blessing. All plague and darkened arrows are adverted from my brow that I may know good health all my days. My purpose is tempered with the beat of the Mother's drum. I have been led up the mountain path.”

-Excerpt from "Lustration Rite to Kybele," written by: Thea/ Chthonia

[cherry-vennom]

“I have carried Her light across the lands. That which is built with these hands will last for generations. Nothing set or spoken against me can tarnish the Mother's blessing. All plague and darkened arrows are adverted from my brow that I may know good health all my days. My purpose is tempered with the beat of the Mother's drum. I have been led up the mountain path.”

-Excerpt from "Lustration Rite to Kybele," written by: Thea/Chthonia

[spongythedollyteapartyfan-blog]

multinational “car as dead car as death : twitter culture - goverment words,

the multinational,  role of goovernement, to  make sameness,

oh i  remmeber in  university, we    wrote  our  first assignements on    ‘car as  death

car as coffin

car as  the   new  possessed,   to   be  posseeesesd to  own the  posssessing element  that is  possessing  everyone  else, 

it is  how a  colege  student  first  interprets mass cculture, 

as we   go to  school, class on a bus  usually

the  ferriman,

the    Deathly  hallows of  our existence,  

the  bus  driver, car  driver, the  ferry man, the  bridge, th e gate  keeper is on the  journey as well,  to  take our souls,  to   twitter

 to know  peoples  deep sexual desires by inplanting a car culture

new car smell

the  death  smelll

of twittter  inception of muliple  advertismanet projectile  fantasy explosions, . to invade a safe site like tumblr, to invade, to prove that they are not  living a different  life on tumblr, forever, that they say we are dreaming of  fantasiaing that  we want to  have and  gain power  with our 3 fans,  to pay a  company to sell us to  their many  mass culture mass car revolution, meaning of world domination, penetration of thier  sex dreams at the same time of us on tumblr running  away form the  twitter  fuck fantasy 

 exorsexism[ˈɛksɔexːsɪz(ə)m] NOUN an exorsext (noun) · exorsextist (plural noun)

the idea aperson is dreaming  about  another persons monchromatic  life on paper, in a financial  gain for  a persons  lust,  who  fantisizes over  a massive payout, win for seeing someone forcibly have sex to porve they have sex,  exposing a sect ,  cult, a  cults need to  manipulate,  their inbuilt, government  sponsored : governement  vendetta on people, with  fantasies of multiple gender life in the mainstream , from the point of  view that we are many  enders/  genders in adulthood, ,;

the  person wants to expel and perpetarate repeatative mainstream belief, to removal and extraction, of a fantasy psych-virulant culture,

a manifested fantasy like forcable penatration of  another persons mind, reguardless if  they  wanted the invitation of mind altering case senerio by forcibly extraction, they create an inception: where on paper, the  freedoms of the person to be , a person, are removed,

or attempted expulsion of a supposed paper case,  paper chase  from a person or place."the rite of exorsextist passage to become a politiican,  mayor ,grand court judge  " · "an exorsextist of the authoritarian past "synonyms : driving out ·black birding. casting out , explulsion, insuffiation,  catharsis,  claensing,  purification,  release,  deliverance,  precognition,  predestinaton, lustration, to  lust after someone, to  have  multiple sex sexualised  penetration sexual fantasies of   peoples lives and want to  invade,  evasion of rite of passage  for  people,  ·

ORIGINlate Middle English: via ecclesiastical Latin from ecclesiastical Greek exorkismos, kismit, to be  free ,  from exorkizect ‘exorsect an exoscect  sect of conspire to take  freedoms. see  vendetta ,

#sect

#cult

#goverement approved sex root culture

#vendetta

#mind fuck

 i thought it  was so  good, i thought i would  re interpret the  last time i  wrote  about  cults in my blogs, 

[audax]

the circle IS the most ritual shape. and it is following me

[hochgouez-nerzhus]

Naomie121406.tumblr.com

Ambiuolcios - Imbolc

It is a festival of lights in relation to the first rays of sun which announce the first quiverings of spring. It is also a rite of purification (the very name of the festival means "lustration") and fertility which prefigures Belotennia and which takes place on a date as close as possible to February 2. This is the moment when life resumes in nature, the rivers swollen with water by the rains and the melting snow sweep away the slag of winter. It is also the appearance of snowdrops, the birth of lambs and kids, the start of lactation of females. The seed prepares to give birth to the future plant. The greening grass announces that life was only in gestation in the nurturing belly of the Earth.

At the same time, at this time of the year, families and clans had very few outside activities, and life took place mainly within households that were managed by women.

It is therefore an essentially feminine, maternal, lunar festival. It is associated with water and resurgent light and takes place at night and it is women who officiate.

This feast, celebration of the Mother Goddess, is placed under the benevolence of Brigit/Brigantia ( 1 From Gallic: brigantion / brigant- (eminent, elevated), from Sanskrit: brhati (high, noble), from Old Breton: briantin ( person of high rank). Celtic term to evoke what is eminent, high. Very common in the names of oppida located on heights, Brigantium (Briançon, Briençon, Briant, Briantes, etc ...), in the name of certain peoples (Brigantes, Brigantii, …) and rivers (Brian, Briance, Briande, etc…), who is at the same time, Mother, Sister and Daughter of the Gods, daughter of Dagda. She is also the mother, the wife and the sister of Lug, Dagda, Ogme, Nuada, Diancecht and Mac Oc, of the Gods of the Tuatha Dé Danann, and was the wife of a Formori, Bres, with whom she had a son, Ruadán.

She is known by various names and is capable of transforming into any form she wishes. It is symbolized by fire, that of inspiration for poets, the fire of the Earth which allows health and fertility, the fire of the hearth which is used for the forge. She is therefore the Mother Goddess of Arts, Medicine, Magic and War, she is the patroness of Druids, Bards, Vates and blacksmiths, and she is invoked at birth. It therefore participates in the three traditional Celtic functions.

Imbolc original celtic art of Hamish Burgess

The feast is the symmetrical counterpart of Lugunaissatis (because it is a constant of feasts to each have their symmetrical opposite, their opposite which comes to balance it six months later), when the Earth, tired by the harvests , had become a virgin again. For Ambiuolcios, the Goddess, like the Earth, are still virgins but both have again become fertile: the virgin Goddess is then the prefiguration of the Mother Goddess. As such, she is also the Goddess of fertility, and therefore associated with Nature, at the time of her correspondence with the seasonal and agrarian cycle. It is the beginning of Spring.

Ambiuolcios, however, seems to be a bit of the unloved celebration of the Celtic-Druidic festival, the one on which we find the fewest testimonies, survivals or devoted study pages. We underestimate it a little insofar as we do not find many traces and we do not know much about it except that the Christians recovered it, according to their habit. , and consecrated to St Bridget. It has often been felt that it was perhaps not very important or/and that it was only intended for the 3rd function, that of producers.

Some authors, however, put forward a more attractive theory: the other Celtic-Druidic festivals are essentially known thanks to Christian copyists who nevertheless only left what they wanted to show through. If almost nothing is known about Ambiuolcios, could it not be because it was such an important esoteric festival, or a mainly feminine festival that Christians would have tried to suppress all memory of it?

Found on pinterest unknown author

The most representative rite of the holiday is the purification: "to wash the feet, the hands, the head".

It is generally accepted that Ambiuolcios is a lustral feast intended for purification after the rigors and stains of winter. But the celebration also symbolically corresponds to the initiatory awakening and the preparation that will lead to the Renaissance of Beltaine. It is an initiatory celebration of a primordial passage.

Purification is done in two ways:

It is known that the performance of each ritual requires prior purification. We therefore understand that this purification is all the more necessary when it is a real initiation ritual. And on this precise occasion, the purification becomes the rite itself.

• by water (and it is clearly specified here, “to wash the feet, the hands, the head”),

• by Fire: Ambiuolcios is a celebration where fire plays a key role since it symbolizes the Sun, source of heat and light. In addition to its purifying role, it is also the protector of men and animals (the festival is also known as the “candle festival” and these candles, sometimes torches, have remained in certain customs: processions, etc.)

Imboc Altar

In nature, Ambiuolcios corresponds to the first assimilation of the sown seed which is integrated into the ground. The wheat germ is therefore the promise of the field which will flourish under the sun of Lugunaissatis.

If the days are getting longer, however, we notice that winter still exerts its influence on the earth. Nevertheless, the seeds that had slept within it began to awaken to new life: it is from the depths of darkness that light is born, as it is from death that life is born.

Imbolc-wordsmithextraordinaire.wordpress.com

It is therefore a celebration of the opening of life, already contained in the bosom of the Earth and it is the return of the sun which will allow these seeds to give in summer the expected fruits and harvests.

Moreover, it is around this theme that revolve all the customs relating to the pancake that we have been able to keep: toss the 1st pancake with a silver coin in the other hand, toss this 1st pancake on the top cupboard and keep it there all year round, etc.

It must also be said that the pancake had a multiplier effect, so to speak: made with flour, eggs, milk, it was the hope of have these products in abundance all year round. Finally, often, in the past, the peasants invited their neighbors to come and eat pancakes to have a good harvest or to protect the wheat from disease. "Taste of every food in order, that is what one must do in Ambiuolcios. Wash your hands, feet, head, that's how I say it."

OTHA DRUID

[lailoken]

‘:Formulae:’ [Pt. 2]

“Jewell'd Waters of Radiance.

A Sacred Bath For Women; being a most excellent preparation for the rites of any sylvan goddess, nymph, female spirit or deific form. The Balneum requires generous amounts of fresh flowers, hence several hours should be allotted for gathering, being ever mindful of the spirits to be honour'd.

Leaf of Raspberry, dry. 35 g.

Rose Petals, fresh. 35 g.

Cherry Blossoms, fresh. 35 g.

Blossoms of Honeysuckle, fresh. 35 g.

Orange Flower Water. 350 ml.

Rose Absolute. 13 drops.

Let a cold infusion of the fresh blossoms be made, allowing them to steep in large seal'd vessels of well or spring water. Make a hot infusion of the Berry Leaves, with sufficient boiling water to cover. Seal in a stopper'd jar and steep for 30 minutes. When the Bath is drawn, strain the Leaf infusion decoction into the water, along with the Orange flower water and Rose Absolute. Add double the amount of Salt of Lilith to the ablution, and agitate the waters. Finally, pour in the cold infusions, leaving the fresh flowers to float freely. Let the Spirit to Be Honour'd be invoked with the Wand of Quickening, and the bath-chamber lit with candles.

Aqueum Liliya.

A lustral sacrifice for ritual conveyance of the benedictions of Lilith in her fully waxed, angelic, and tutelary lunation. The bath may be modified for succubi, nymphs, or water-spirits. All flowers should be fresh-gathered in Her name.

Petals of White Roses. 200

Blossom of Jasmine. 200

Blossom of Gardenia. 100

Blossom of Lily. 3

Blossom of Angel's Trumpet. 1

Place into the Working Basin and cover with 4 litres of cold spring water. Knead the blossoms gently between the fingers for several moments while a graven image of the Lady is silently focused upon with Eye and Heart. Let stand for three hours prior to use in a quiet, sheltered place, away from the light, with a single white candle lit for the Lady before her Idol. During the rite wherein the lustration is to be employed, the Lady should be invoked with a wand of Crooked Willow or Tamarisk, and the branch employed to quicken the florid waters. The petals should be left in the waters and the lustration sprinkled upon the crowns, brows, and palms of those who would receive the Lady's goodness.

Waters of Magnetism.

An excellent bath for increasing Charisma or one's natural Charms, ideal for attracting a mate or other sexual glamours. The Balneum may also be used prior to gambling. Owing to the seasonal nature of Cherry and Quince, the Bath is best employ'd in Spring. Cherry blossoms are rarely found at the local apothecary. Thus, one must gather one's own in Spring. One may also employ blossoms of Apple, Plum, Pear, or Peach for like effect.

Cherry Blossoms, fresh or dried. 200

Blossoms of Flowering Quince, fresh. 100

Chamomile Blossoms, fresh or dried. 100

Rose Buds, fresh. 30

Steep in enough boiling water to cover. Let the infusion sit for 10 minutes. Strain into bathwater, washing the Herb material through several times. Immerse oneself for at least 30 minutes and allow the waters to air-dry on the skin after emerging.

Lustration of Mercurius.

A bath appropriate for invoking the patron of magic, and alchymic wisdom. This Bath of the Wise grants especial gifts prior to labours of the spiritual laboratory.

Lavender Blossoms. 30 g.

Essential Oil of Lavender. 8 drops

Essential Oil of Sandalwood. 8 drops

Kosher Salt. 60g.

Epsom Salt. 60 g.

Infuse Lavender Blossoms in 1.5 litres boiling water for the space of 30 minutes. Strain and add to a 300 litre bath and stir in, adding salt and oils. For best results, soak for at least 40 minutes and drip dry afterward.

Warrior's Ablution.

A stimulating brew to lend power during confrontations with enemies, the law, or for use prior to negotiations.

Leaf of Rosemary, fresh. 70 g.

Cinnamon chips. 30 g.

Bloom of Chamomile, dry. 30 g.

Flowers of Broom. 30 g.

Add Rosemary and Cinnamon to a cooking vessel with enough water Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. In a separate vessel, steep the Broom and Chamomile blossoms in 1 litre boiling water. Strain both infusion and decoction and discard Herbal material, adding the liquids to the bathwater. cover.

Earthing Bath.

For drawing stray powers back into the Corpus, centering the Mind, and subduing quarrelsome spirits.

Linden blossom, dried. 60 g.

Oak, leaves and twigs, dried and crumbl'd. 60 g.

Leaf of Wormwood. 33 g.

Infuse the Linden and Wormwood in 1.5 litre boiling water for 20 minutes. As it is steeping, simmer Oak leaves in 1 litre of water for 20 minutes. Strain both fluids into the bath tub and soak as long as is needed.

Midsummer Gold.

A Solar infusion made from traditional Herbs for washing the body and clearing and fortifying the aethyric orb.

Herb of St. Johnswort, dry. 30 g.

Herb of Vervain, dry. 30 g.

Leaf of Mugwort, dry. 25 g.

On the morning of the Summer Solstice, seal each of the Herbs in a separate steeping jar with enough water to completely fill the vessel. Allow to steep for at least four hours in the sunlight, absorbing the Solar Genius at the peak of its power. During this time of steeping, the very Fires of the Sun should be invoked and beseech'd into the Womb of the Waters of the Moon. In this conjunctio the Fruits of Our Labour arise. The exhausted plant matter is then strained out, and the resulting infusions mixed. The potentiated wash may be poured on the head while holding clear in the Imaginal Eye the Solar virtues cleansing the crown, and gradually seeping into the entirety of the aethyric orb. The wash may also be added to bathwater for extended soaking.

Floor Wash.

A general but potent Encharmed Solution for cleansing the oratory or home of Noxious Spirits or in the wake of an unpleasant event.

Leaf of Vervain, dry. 40 g.

Leaf of Sagebrush, dry. 30 g.

Leaf of Thyme. 20 g.

Root of European Mandrake. 7 g.

Steep Vervain, Sagebrush and Thyme in 1 litre boiling water, leaving to stand in an airtight jar for 7 hours before filtering. In a separate cooking vessel, add Mandrake to 400 ml. water and bring to a boil. Simmer 20 minutes. Filter and reserve liquid, burying the boil'd Root in an honourable location and with a coin and thanks. Add to Herbal infusion when it has been strained.

Purification Bath.

A relaxing bath excellent for quieting and realigning the disrupted psyche, as well as nourishing and envigorating the bastions of spiritual defence. Our Fair Decoction may be simmered longer than the 15 minutes given, up to 25. The resulting brew may be used for a cold bath as well, omitting the salts and oil.

Fir Needle. 50 g.

Atlas Cedar. 33 g.

Epsom Salt. 30 g.

Root of Valerian, chopped. 25 g.

Root of Calamus, chopped. 25 g.

Essential Oil of Sandalwood. 5 drops.

Bring 1 litre of water to a boil. Add Fir, Cedar, Calamus and Valerian. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Strain and add to hot bath water, along with essential oil and salt. For cases of extreme disruption, double the amount of Fir, Salt, and True Oil of Sanders.

Mist of Dispersion.

For banishing rude spirits or flocculum abomini. Mix all ingredients in 4 oz. atomizer bottle and agitate before use.

Essential Oil of Palmarosa. 5 drops.

Essential Oil of Fir. 4 drops.

Essential Oil of Juniper Berry. 3 drops.

Essential Oil of Atlas Cedar. 2 drops.

Essential Oil of Birch. 1 drop.

Water. 75 ml.

Perfumer's Alcohol or 100 proof spirit. 40 ml.

Asperge Sylvaticus.

A suitable brew for asperging brethren prior to Congregational works of sorcery. The ingenium derives from a subtil congressus of the Lord and Lady of the Desert, the Lord of the Forest, and the Lady of the Garden.

Leaf of Sagebrush, crumbl'd. 33 g.

Leaf of Douglas Fir, Larch, or Hemlocks, chopp'd. 30 g.

Leaf of Scent'd Geranium. 30 g.

Leaf of Wormwood. 5

Make a strong decoction of the Fir, Hemlock or Larch with 1 litre of water in a covered cauldron, simmered for fifteen minutes. Pour the hot decoction over the remaining ingredients in a steeping vessel and let stand seal'd for half an hour. Strain and asperge with a branch of the evergreen employ'd. Tincture of Myrrh may also be added in small amounts to enhance the cleansing virtue.

Mist of Severity.

Another Compound'd Mist for the more potent workings of Exorcism or in instances of stubborn hauntings. Mix all ingredients and store in 4 oz. atomizer bottle, shaking before use.

Essential Oil of Hyssop. 5 drops.

Essential Oil of Cajeput. 4 drops.

Essential Oil of Juniper Berry. 4 drops.

Essential Oil of Black Peppercorn. 3 drops.

Water. 75 ml.

Perfumer's Alcohol or 100 proof spirit. 40 ml.

The Viridian Broom.

A potent asperge for sprinkling, using a fresh bough of Cypress.

Sprig of Douglas Fir, chopp'd. 35 g.

Herbe of Pennyroyal, whole flowering. 35 g.

Leaves of Cypress. 28 g.

Berries of Juniper, crush'd well. 25.

Place Douglas Fir, Cypress and Juniper Berries in the Wort-Cauldron with 1 litre of water, and bring to a boil. Simmer, cover'd, for 20 minutes. Remove from Heat and add the Pennyroyal. Strain when cool.

Sorcerer's Hand Wash.

For hand-anointing prior to works of the Magical Arte. Place 11 Devil's Shoestrings, along with a slice of the very best Galangal Root, a twig of True Cinnamon, a pinch of Sweet Tobacco, and a small slice of True Mandrake in a bottle of dark glass and fill with 151 Proof Rum. Stopper, storing in a dark place. Gems or minerals sympathetic to the magician may also be added as desired.

Balneum of the Wayfarer.

A blessed wash especially for the feet prior to Sojourning forth in the Greenwood, or for such as wander long in lonely places, giving invigoration and purpose to the stride. Fresh-harvest'd Rhizome of Wild Ginger (Asarum spp.) may be substituted for Ginger.

Root of Ginger, fresh, sliced. 90 g.

Leaf of Bay, fresh. 50.

Leaf of Holy Basil, fresh. 40 g.

Make strong decoctions of the Ginger and Bay in separate vessels. Pour both over the Basil into a large Hermeticus and steep for ten minutes. Pour wash without straining into a basin and soak feet for 30 minutes prior to Sojourn.”

—

Ars Philtron:

Concerning the Aqueous Cunning of the Potion and its Praxis in the Green Arte Magical

by Daniel A. Schulke

[sag-dab-sar]

Ending a Prayer to The Diĝirene

Mesopotamian Polytheism

A lot of people look for openings and endings to prayers, maybe because its nice to have a formula, maybe because of the ingrained idea of "amen", or just a desire to say "bye!" but in a formal way.

There is no codified way to end Mesopotamian prayers. Some have no uniform endings or the endings are missing from the tablet. However there is a common theme: expressing how nice it was to praise them / pray to them. This shows up in various types of Sunerian literature.

Here are some examples:

"In holy songs musicians sing of him —the dearly cherished one, the god, the man of the hills, renowned everywhere — and promote his name gloriously. Martu, son of An, it is sweet to praise you! ( in lines 49-59)

"Prominent one whose words are well established, whose command and support are things which are immutable, whose utterances take precedence, whose plans are firm words, Great Mountain, father Enlil, your praise is sublime!" (in lines 167-171)

"I am the lady who sits upon terrifying divine powers! I am she who is endowed from holy heaven with the office of incantation priestess! I am she who withdraws the first fruits from the palace, I am she who has received the divine powers from the most elevated dais. I am mighty, I am the forceful one of An and Urac, I am the great lady of the gods! My terror is fearsome as it weighs on the Land; my terrifying splendour burdens all the foreign lands. No man anticipates my commands. I am the lady, I am heroic, I am youthful, I am the powerful one of the Land! The heavens fold themselves in my presence like a mourning garment; the earth is more and more submerged as if by the water of a flood when I am present. I am the neck-stock of the Land which grips mankind. I am she who hastens like a north wind storm into the midst of the people! I am she who hears prayer and pleading!" Praise be to holy Nininsina." (In lines 121-135)

"You are profoundly intelligent, one who knows everything. You are the shining light which fills the exalted sanctuary. You are she who ...... by Enlil. [...] You are most apt for the holy susbu rites and lustration rites. Ninimma of the holy divine plans, it is sweet to praise you!" (In segment B lines 1-11)

"The just woman dwelling among the great divine powers is the lady unsurpassed in ladyship! Sadarnuna, the just woman of far-reaching and just counsel, is the beloved of An! The great authority, the majestic quay, made fitting for the Ec-mah by Enul and Ninul, the just woman has erected her majestic dais in the courtyard of Enlil. As she stands in the holy storehouse Ec-mah, [...] she conveys terrifying awesomeness. The beloved offspring of An the king, as she is worthy of the Pada-nunus. Sadarnuna, praising you is sweet." (I chopped this together to make sense because there was a lot of fragmentation Ec-mah and Pada-nunus are both temple names. Lines from here.)

"Hero who bears all the great terrifying divine powers, who covers the earth with awesome splendour like a mighty storm -- An be praised for your very great eminence! Your own father has declared your fame: immensely complex lord who has taken his seat, who perfects the divine powers, lion of the far distance, lion standing by, leader of the assembly, Nuska, it is sweet to praise you." (In lines 11-24)

They proclaim your magnificence; you are the lady ....... An and Enlil have determined a great destiny for you throughout the entire universe. They have bestowed upon you ladyship in the gu-ena. Being fitted for ladyship, you determine the destiny of noble ladies. Mistress, you are magnificent, you are great! Inana, you are magnificent, you are great! My lady, your magnificence is resplendent. May your heart be restored for my sake! Your great deeds are unparallelled, your magnificence is praised! Young woman, Inana, your praise is sweet! (in Lines 254-271)

"Holy Ereškigal-- sweet is your praise. (Ending of Inana's Descent Myth)

These are a just a few of numerous examples. But not all hymns, myths, prayers end with something formulaic so don't think that an ending is required.

I tend to use "Praising you is sweet" or "sweet is your praise"

I also use "Glory to The Gods" a lot but I don't know where I picked that up

[blackthornwren]

Aqueum Liliya

A lustral sacrifice for ritual conveyance of the benedictions of Lilith in her fully waxed, angelic, and tutelary lunation. The bath may be modified for other succubi, nymphs, or water-spirits. All flowers should be fresh-gathered in Her name.

Petals of White Roses, fresh                         200

Blossom of Jasmine, fresh                            200

Blossom of Gardenia, fresh                          100

Blossom of Lily                                              3

Blossom of Angel’s Trumpet                         1

Place the totality of the Corpus Flora into the Working Basin and cover with 4 litres of cold spring water. Knead the blossoms between the fingers for several moments whilst the image of the Lady is silently fixed in Eye and Heart. Let stand for three hours prior to use in a quiet, sheltered place, away from the light, with a single candle lit before the Image of the Lady. During the rite of the lustration proper, the Lady is called with a branch of Crooked Willow or Tamarisk, and the branch employed to quicken the waters. The petals are left in the Basin, and the lustration sprinkled upon the crowns and palms of those who would receive the Lady’s beneficence. 

-From Ars Philtron, Daniel Schulke, pg. 164

[onigirisuna]

blue ivy

a contribution for @zutaramonth, quarantine edition, day 15: trust. view my other work for zutara month (quarantine edition) here.

this isn’t sad this time, i promise!

modern au. cw: cursing. long fic ahead.

“See those other morons over there?” Toph says; she lowers her voice down to a pseudo-whisper. “They’re stupid as fuck.”

Akira coos in response. Toph continues her rocking back and forth, tickling her belly as she says, “Yeah, that’s right. I’m gonna be the dopest auntie you’ll ever have. You know that bitch, Martha Stewart? She won’t even know what’s coming for her.”

“Two strikes, Toph,” Katara says with her arms crossed. “I gave birth three days ago and now my baby’s gonna say fu– the f word before she says ‘mama’ or ‘papa’.”

“No, Katara,” Toph says, still cradling the now-sleeping Akira in her arms. “She’s gonna say y’all are fucking wussies when she realizes how lame her parents are.”

Katara rolls her eyes, too tired to argue with the blind girl. Toph deposits the sleeping child in Katara’s outstretched arms; as Toph unfurls her arms from the infant, she says, “I’m tellin’ you, Sugar Queen. I’m out here being Solange Knowles while you guys fight over which Kardashian you are.”

Zuko walks in with a two mugs of coffee in hand. “I think Kourtney’s pretty cool.”

Without looking back, Toph points in his direction. “Exactly.”

Katara smirks. “If you’re Solange, that means Akira’s Blue – making me Beyonce.”

Toph pulls a face. “Your husband just walked in claiming Kourtney Kardashian, so that makes you Travis Scott–”

“Scott Disick,” Zuko corrects her, handing Katara a mug.

“–And he’s pretty problematic.”

“We’re all kinda problematic Toph,” Katara says, her voice muffled as her lips rest on the rim of the coffee cup. 

"Right,” Toph says, reaching for her wallet. “Anyway, gotta go. A precinct proposed another turnover to Major Crimes and I gotta go over it.” Toph gave both her friends side hugs before making her way to the door. Katara sees Zuko wince from the force of her grip and Akira smiles at the warmth.

“Thanks for breakfast, guys!” she says over her shoulder, closing the door behind her. Katara and Zuko stare at the door for a few moments.

“You want Toph to be Akira’s godmother,” Zuko says, raising his brow at her. “Do you really trust that she won’t drop our kid head-first?”

“Shut up, Jay-Z. Beyonce didn’t make a whole diss album for you to tell me what to do.”

Akira cooed, seemingly in agreement with her mother.

—

“Oh my spirits, Zuko, Akira’s lustration rites is three months away and we haven’t decided on her godparents,” Katara says, frantically pacing around their room. Zuko mumbles in response as he hunches over the latest bill on economic reform.

“Are you even listening to me?”

Zuko shoots his head up. “Kat, calm down – three months is more than enough time to choose her godparents.”

“No, it’s not, Zuko!” Katara says, pulling at her hair. “We still have to figure out the arrangements, the celebration afterwards–”

“The Fire Sages have that sorted for us, Kat. They’ve conducted thousands of baptisms of fire before,” Zuko says pointedly, returning to his work. He keeps his head down as he mumbles, “For all I know, they’re immortal and feed off of dying royals.”

“What? I didn’t catch that,” Katara says with her arms crossed. Zuko sighs and rubs his eyes, saying, “Nothing.”

Katara rolls her eyes. He continues, saying, “You know, the best set of godparents for Akira would be the ones we trust her life with.”

Katara huffs and keeps her arms crossed. “Well, I already have a list. Could you at least help me with that? I need to add more people.”

That wakes Zuko up. “How many godparents do you want our kid to have?”

Katara pulls out a sheet of paper from her own desk and slaps it onto Zuko’s. Zuko’s eyes widen.

“Akira‘s gonna have twenty godparents?” Zuko asks incredulously. “And you want me to add more?”

“You’ll never know, Zuko,” she says, biting her lip as she resumes pacing around their room. “We need more people to protect her.”

Zuko lets out a laugh. “We’re friends with the world’s largest leaders, Katara,” he says with mirth. “Three of them would be twenty to anyone else.”

Katara juts out her lip in thought as Zuko’s words sink into her; he gets up from his desk and gathers her into his arms. “Besides,” he says. “There won’t be enough people for the next baby.”

Katara untangles herself and places her hands on her hips. “Yes, there will.”

“No, there won’t, Kat. You’ve already listed my friends,” he says, grabbing her list and pointing to top. “All six of them.”

—

A few days later, Sokka bursts through Zuko’s office in song.

“Am I original?”

Sokka is met with silence.

“Am I the only one?”

The silence continues.

Sokka gives Zuko an exasperated look. “You’re supposed to sing yeeeeaaaaah after each question, Zuko.”

“I know.”

With that, Sokka starts laughing and Zuko breaks out into a smile. When Sokka comes up to Zuko’s desk, they bump fists and shake hands; Zuko leads Sokka to the chair in front of his desk. “So,” he says, settling back into his own chair. “What brings you back here? The lustration rites are still three months away.”

“I thought I’d stop by before I head over to Republic City for the Union’s Economic Council,” Sokka says, inspecting his boomerang. “You’re coming, right? Aang’s gonna be there.”

“I wasn’t going to,” Zuko admits. “I was going to send over my minister for economics. With the reform bill we’ve been reviewing, though, I feel a hell lot more inclined to go.”

Sokka hums and looks at Zuko when he says, “How bad?”

“They won’t let go of the dead war factories and they aren’t getting any cheaper.”

Sokka winces. “Yikes. Be careful, though, the Council might kill you if you raise that.” Zuko nods somberly with the thought.

“I won’t actually be there for the Council, Sokka,” he says, folding his arms over the table. “I’ll just show up because I have to. I’m actually going to Republic City because I need to have a talk with Kuei; they wouldn’t let go of the war factories because of foreign investors from his country.” Sokka nods his head in understanding.

An attendant knocks softly on the door. “Come in,” Zuko says.

“Dinner is ready, Sir,” she says. “Lady Katara and Lady Akira are already in the hall.”

“Is there an extra setting for Chief Sokka?” Zuko asks. The attendant blanches and wrings her arms behind her back. “N-no, Sir, I’m afraid we haven’t prepared for the Chief’s arrival.”

Zuko softens; Mira, the attendant, is new and was handpicked personally by Katara. “It’s fine, Mira. The Chief didn’t make his arrival known,” he says, throwing an accusing look at Sokka. Sokka shrugs. “Please tell Tako and the rest to prepare an extra setting and a room for the Chief. He will be spending the next couple of days here.”

Sokka starts. “Wait–”

Zuko holds up a hand. “That will be all, Mira. Thank you.”

Mira bows and leaves the room, closing the door behind her.

“I already booked a hotel, Zuko,” Sokka says, leaning back on his chair as he feigns disappointment.

“Ask for a refund, then,” Zuko says, getting up from his desk. “I know your cheap ass is glad you don’t have to pay for accommodations.”

Sokka gets up from the chair. “You are the best brother-in-law.”

Zuko smiles. “And you,” he says as claps his best friend on the shoulder, “Are going to be Akira’s godfather.”

Sokka’s jaw drops and Zuko backtracks.

“I-if you wanna be, of course.”

Sokka throws his arms around Zuko in response.

—

Much later, Sokka runs into the common room carrying a wailing Akira in his arms. “I swear I didn’t do anything,” he says. “I promise it isn’t my fault that she hit her head with a boomerang.”

Katara and Zuko shoot up from the couch. “She what?!”

“She was playing with Boomerang! I was showing it off, but then she reached out for it and bonked her head in the process,” Sokka says defensively. Katara picks up Akira from her brother, inspecting her for any injuries.

“In what world is it okay to play with a boomerang with a three month-old baby?” Katara asks, trying to soothe the crying baby.

“My world, Katara! Matok and Kira love Boomerang!” Sokka exclaims, throwing his hands up for emphasis.

“Sokka, she won’t even remember the names of her cousins because you shrunk her walnut brain,” Katara says, giving Sokka an accusing look. Sokka barks out a laugh.

“Kat, you’re being too generous. She’s related to me, remember? Her brain’s probably pea-sized, tops.”

Katara hurls a pillow at him.

Akira coos and smiles against her mother’s shoulder.

—

Aang visits the Fire Nation one month before the lustration rites.

“What’s up, little buddy?” he says, picking up Akira from her crib. Akira starts to giggle when she sees her uncle, and Katara smiles fondly at the sight.

“Are you here for another meeting with Zuko?” Katara asks, carrying a tray of durian tarts as she makes her way to Aang.

“Kinda?” Aang says, lilting his voice up. “I’m actually here to talk to his minister of economics, about the dead war factories.”

“Namato? Poor guy,” Katara says. “He’s smack in the middle of Zuko and Kuei’s hot shots.”

“I know,” Aang says, lightly pinching Akira’s nose. “Kuei’s not the bad guy though.”

“We know,” Katara responds, setting two durian tarts on a dessert plate. “That’s another poor guy.”

Aang hums in agreement; he starts reaching for a tart just as Zuko walks in. Aang takes a bite off the tart and pretends to offer some to Akira.

“What’s up, buddy?” Aang says, greeting Zuko with a bright smile.

“Could be better,” Zuko responds, sulking as he sheds his suit jacket. Sensing an incoming change in mood, Katara quickly attempts to brighten it by asking, “Aang, you’re gonna make it to Akira’s lustration rites, right?”

Aang brightens even more, seemingly oblivious to Zuko’s damp mood. “Of course, Katara! How could I miss the baptism of the first mixed-blood princess of the Fire Nation?” Aang lightly tickles Akira as he lilts his voice with every word. Zuko softens at the sight.

“Well, that, and the baptism of your first godchild,” Zuko says as he settles beside his wife. Aang almost drops the kid in surprise.

“Crap, Aang, watch it!” Zuko cries as Katara kicks his shin. “Ow! What was that for?”

Katara looks at him pointedly. “There‘s a baby in front of us.”

“Yeah, and our friend almost dropped her!”

“Aang would never drop the baby, Zuko. He can’t even drop a spider.”

The sound of sniffling cuts their conversation short; when Katara and Zuko turn around, they find Aang at the brink of tears.

“Y-you,” Aang starts, his voice shaking. “You want me to be Akira’s godpoppy?”

Katara and Zuko give him a look. “Godpoppy?”

—

Three weeks later, Aang is whizzing through the halls of the Royal Palace on an airball; as soon as he accepted his role as Akira’s godpoppy, he declared himself as the lead organizer of the celebration. “Mira, don’t forget to contact the caterer!” he says to the pair of attendants. “Tako, the decorators will be here in six days. You hear me, buddy? Six days. We need the plaza cleaned up before that, okay?”

“Yes, Sir,” Mira and Tako respond just as Aang whizzes past them. They bow respectfully to Katara and Zuko as they come up the hallway.

“What kind of sound system is this?” Aang exclaims, the echo of his disbelief reverberating through the walls.

Katara and Zuko laugh at their friend’s torrential barking, watching as Zuko’s staff scramble about trying their best to keep up with Aang’s incessant demanding. Akira laughs with them and Zuko brushes his nose onto his daughter’s. “He can hire Beyonce if he wants to, you know,” he tells his wife as Akira plays with his hair.

“What do you mean? I’m right here,” Katara says, the ghost of a smile on her face as she points a slim finger to it. Zuko laughs and kisses the top of her head.

—

The day of the lustration rites come, and Akira is placed in the center of a ring of candles. The ceremony is private, with only her immediate family, godparents, and the Fire Sages in attendance. 

The Head Sage says the invocation in ancient Fire Nation tongue, and the ceremony concludes with Zuko bending the candlelit flames; they briefly shoot up in streams of fire before Katara bends water around each stream, evaporating them into the air.

“Congratulations, my lord, my lady,” the Head Sage says, leading a bow. Katara and Zuko bow in response. As the Fire Sages head to the balcony doors to reveal the child to the public, the royal family’s friends and family begin to swarm them. Sokka starts taking photos with his phone.

“Calm down, guys,” Katara says, holding Akira protectively as Aang and Toph wrestle over her. “The people are waiting.”

When the doors open, Katara and Zuko are greeted by a miles-long crowd of Fire Nation citizens. The couple smile amidst the raucous cheer, gracefully waving at the crowd; cameras and reporters are dotted around strategic points of the plaza. 

“I present to you all,” the Head Sage bellows from the parapet. “Fire Lord Zuko, Fire Lady and Master Katara, and Princess Akira!” The raucous cheer magnified, causing Akira to stir uncomfortably. Katara and Zuko wave for a few more moments before being ushered back inside to the hall.

“Hey Kourtney,” Toph calls. Zuko turns around just as Aang and Sokka begin arguing who gets to carry Akira first. “If anyone dare touch little Blue Ivy,” Toph says, pointing her thumb towards the now-sleeping infant. “I will beat them up.”

Zuko smiles. “Okay, Rocky,” he says as he accepts Akira from his wife, who has since moved on to accommodating their guests.

“That’s right, Sparky. I’m Rocky fu–”

“Toph,” Katara says.

“–cking Balboa.”

[satsekhem]

According to Egyptian belief, water held important purifying and life-giving qualities. Each dawn was a repetition of the original birth of the sun god from the watery chaos of Nun, and his emergence into the sky as a newborn god was preceded by a washing performed by Horus and Thoth. Hence lustration came to be closely associated with rebirth, and this accounts for its incorporation into the funerary rites.

Death and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt by John H. Taylor

[sonicawareness]

Show Recap: Thrice / Circa Survive / CHON / Balance and Composure @ Sayreville 11/19/2017

Circa Survive, Thrice, CHON, and Balance and Composure performed at Starland Ballroom in Sayreville, New Jersey, on November 19, 2017. Check out full setlists, photographs, and videos from the concert!

Balance and Composure 

Midnight Zone

Fade

For a Walk

Tiny Raindrop

Spinning

Reflection

CHON

Circa Survive

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Rites of Investiture

Glass Arrows

Child of the Desert

Lustration

Strange Terrain

Sharp Practice

Tunnel Vision

At Night It Gets Worse

The Only Difference Between Medicine and Poison is the Dose

Flesh and Bone

In Fear and Faith

Stop the Fuckin’ Car

Get Out

Thrice

The Earth Will Shake

The Window

The Artist in the Ambulance

Hurricane

Blood on the Sand

Firebreather

Open Water

Broken Lungs

Come All You Weary

Deadbolt

Silhouette

Red Telephone

Black Honey

Of Dust and Nations

The Long Defeat

[chattering-magpie-uk]

An Introduction to the Hearth of the Turning Wheel

I am at the time of writing a member of the Hearth of the Turning Wheel and we are an independent and progressive Pagan coterie. We are based within the English Midlands, our praxis and ethos being inspired by the traditional custom and belief found within our British and European Folklore. So far so good. Our Hearth’s declared aim is to meet and celebrate the Eight High Holy Days of the modern Wheel of the Year, we leave Moon observances to our member’s solitary practice and no obligation is placed on our members to do such.

 We do not have a hierarchy and we do not operate a degree system, although membership does require a rite of admission. We are a closed group and membership is by invitation only. However, guests are occasionally permitted to attend and participate in our rituals; again this is strictly by invitation.

 Our name should be enough to suggest where our focus lies. That it is the celebration and observance of the ‘Wheel’ and the associated esoteric meanings within, that lie at the heart of our family. The contemporary Eight Spoked Wheel of the Year that we and many others follow, is not an ancient concept or model. The festivals that create the wheel most certainly are, as each has a long and distinguished pedigree. The idea of placing them together as an evenly spaced calendar of eight festivals, is a twentieth century innovation. The Wheel of the Year in its modern form is the creation of Ross Nichols, Gerald Gardner and others, its conception and perfection is genius. As a model it is both simple and deeply complex.

 Our calendar follows the progression of the four tides of the year, with Lambtide or Candlemas as our starting point, the tide of lustration or sowing. Maytide or Roodmas is the tide of activation or growth. Lammastide is the tide of consolidation or reaping and Hallowtide is the tide of recession or death, thus leading to new growth and the start of the cycle once more.

 There is a general perception that the Eight High Holy Days are entirely Solar in their symbolism and their meaning. This is incorrect, the Wheel of Eight Festivals consists of four ‘Lights’ and four ‘Darks’ that spin in perfect unity. The four solar festivals are obviously the Lights, leaving the four remaining cross quarter days as lunar Darks.

 Our Lambtide or Candlemas is symbolised by the visible New or Waxing Moon. The Spring Equinox is symbolised by the Sunrise and Maytide by the Full Moon. The Summer Solstice is the Sun at Zenith, while Lammastide is symbolised by the Old or Waning Moon. The Autumn Equinox is symbolised by the Sunset, Hallowtide: by the Dark Moon and the Winter Solstice is the Sun at Nadir.

 The important element to be found within our own approach to the Wheel of the Year, is noting that the time of balance and shifted balance; that specific point of symbolic change between the winter and summer tides, differs from that of many other working groups. In many groups the solstices are regarded as being the points of change but our approach is quite distinct. To us it seems anomalous that the winter Holly King should reign at Summer Solstice when the light is still dominant although diminishing. Equally anomalous is the concept that the summer Oak King should reign at the Yuletide, when darkness is strong and the tree itself is asleep.

 The solstices are symbolically times of ‘birth,’ as either the Holly King or the Oak King begin their respective journeys. The solstices are also the times when one or other King reigns at his peak. As one reaches his peak in power, the other is reborn. It is the equinoxal points that see the shift from light to dark or dark to light, so for us the equinoxes are when the symbolic crown is passed from one ‘King’ to another.

 We should further observe that although I have focused here on the modern Wheel of the Year, there are other festival calendars. These alternative calendars consist of a different number of festivals, dependent upon tradition and historical inspiration. Some individuals and working groups, may observe only four or five of the common eight presented here. Others may observe nine, ten or eleven significant dates.

 The Hearth is greater than the sum of its parts and each individual member brings something unique to the Cauldron. The experience, the knowledge and the ability of each individual are combined there, to create the alchemy that is the Hearth of the Turning Wheel. Like streams that conjoin to form the main current, each member is a conflux and their tradition the confluence; their merger and flow creates the greater stream that is the Hearth of the Turning Wheel.

 By actively participating in rites from another tradition, we add to rather than distract from our own crooked path. The walking side by side with others while on a different journey, will afford us the opportunity to explore new worlds and gain a fresh understanding.

 It is these points and others that define the Hearth as what it is, as we define for ourselves a tradition that is itself without a name. Although influenced by Wicca, Druidry, Traditional Witchcraft and Heathenry, we are none in our entirety. We are the Hearth of the Turning Wheel and the Hearth of the Turning Wheel, is the Hearth of the Turning Wheel. We are what we are and we are not what we are not.

 Our actual philosophy is difficult to explain and our methodology is best experienced in practice. The same I think can be said of most working groups. One can read a ritual in print, one can research the teachings but until there is participation, a piece is missing from the jigsaw. One can read all the books you want on Freemasonry but until you stand on the square, the angle will not be true.

[circaboard]

Circa Survive - The Amulet (2017) 01 - Lustration 02 - Never Tell A Soul 03 - Premonition of the Hex 04 - Tunnel Vision 05 - At Night It Gets Worse 06 - Stay 07 - Rites of Investiture 08 - The Hex 09 - Flesh and Bone 10 - The Amulet

Release Date: 09.22.2017 Label: Hopeless Records Preorder: http://circasurvive.merchnow.com/

[taylorloyola1]

Book Marketing

Book Marketer & Promoter

Jan 2017 – May 2017

Baltimore, MD

Positioned established author, David Carter’s book From the Edge of the World in the market place by direct sales and by wholesale distribution to chain and independent bookstores published through Apprentice House. Wrote news releases, pitched review media, conducted print and electronic campaigns, planned author events.

Press Release Assignment

Apprentice House to release Goodnight Gertrude by author of “Familiar” and “Lustration Rites”  David Carter.

“Goodnight Gertrude” written by David Carter is a classic coming of age story with a modern day twist. The protagonist begins his journey to understand his family and his place and takes him through experiences which help him grow and develop from boy to man. Through getting to know his extended family, the protagonist is able to uncover and understand his family history more effectively and in turn understand himself better as well as his place in the world.

“Goodnight Gertrude provides a unique and enriching perspective for the reader to relate and engage with” Kevin Atticks, Apprentice House director.

David Carter is a seasoned writer who has previously published short fiction, poetry and interviews on a number of regional publications. The author has published the poem, “A Direct Address to Zaccheus” in The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling in September 2008. The author has held a previous interview with local cartoonist and musician Brian Walsby. The author has written the short story, “Switcharound.” The author has previously written the novel, ‘Familiar’ published by Wipf and Stock Publishers in September 2016.

David Carter holds a master’s degree in Library Science, Theology and English Literature. The author has received the “Creative Writing Merit Scholarship” from North Carolina State University in 2002. David Carter is currently represented by Rochelle Lurie of Zachary Schuster Literary Agency of Boston, MA. David Carter currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Include an image of the book cover in the press release.

About the Book:

Title: Goodnight Gertrude

Author: David Carter

List price: $16.95

ISBN:   978-1-934074-

Specs: Paperback, 172 pages, 6 x 9” perfect bound on white paper.

Designer: Julia Joseph, Class of 2018 Loyola University Maryland.

Description:

Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the coming of age story for sixteen year old Victor Flowers. Victor is a sad, distant and somewhat of a loner. Goodnight Gertrude is a young adult work of fiction, taking the reader through intense emotion and teenage and hormonal agnst. Victor begins developing romantic feelings for his cousin. The story is told through the perspective of Victor. Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through a journey of Victor coming to terms with his complicated family life and troubled past. Victor’s parents are divorced and his father is a bigot who is living with his new family. Victor leaves his life with his immediate family to live with his extended family. Victor becomes well acquainted with his grandmother, cousin and uncle in North Carolina. Through getting to know his extended family, Victor is able to uncover and understand his family history more effectively and in turn understand himself better as well as his role in the world.

About the Author:

The author has attended Episcopal Divinity School in 1998. In author attended North Carolina State University where he graduated in 203. The author most recently attended North Carolina Central University in 2015. David Carter holds a master’s degree in Library Science, Theology and English Literature. The author has received the “Creative Writing Merit Scholarship” from North Carolina State University in 2002. David Carter is currently represented by Rochelle Lurie of Zachary Schuster Literary Agency of Boston, MA. David Carter currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina.

David Carter has previously worked with Durham Technical Community College in Raleigh North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in January to December of 2013. The author worked with Central Carolina Community College in Sanford North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities from 2009 to 2011. The author worked with Guilford Technical Community College in Greensboro, North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in July 2008 to 2009. The author worked with Forsynth Technical Community College located in Winston-Salem in North Carolina where he lectured during January 2009 to August 2009.

The author has previously published “Cities and Roads” and “The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling.” David Carter is a seasoned writer who has previously published short fiction, poetry and interviews on a number of regional publications. The author has published the poem, “A Direct Address to Zaccheus” in The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling in September 2008. The author has held a previous interview with local cartoonist and musician Brian Walsby. The author has written the short story, “Switcharound.” The author has previously written the novel, ‘Familiar’ published by Wipf and Stock Publishers in September 2016.

Apprentice House

Being the nations first entirely student-managed book publisher, Apprentice House works directly with a variety of authors and book themes and styles. Loyola University Maryland students are responsible for the publishing process including both the design and publication process. Acquisition House allows students to become an active and engaged member in the book publishing process.

Acquisition House is a new program with the Communications Department of Loyola University Maryland. Acquisition House is used in the following student courses, Introduction to Book Publishing, Book Design and Production, and Book Marketing and Promotion.Therefore, students in these courses serve as staff in Apprentice House’s acquisitions, design, and marketing departments, respectively.  After students move on, AH professor-managers and AH student staff sustain the on-going operation of the company and market its frontlist and backlist titles.

More Information

Have questions? Reach out directly to the author at @email. (Provide an interactive email that the author will be comfortable to use to engage and interact with his target audience.)

https://taylorloyolawebsite.wordpress.com/book-marketing/

Book Marketing Plan- Due 4/12

The following plan was submitted as a project for CM384 Book Marketing course.

Book TitleGoodnight Gertrude

AuthorDavid Carter

Submitted byTaylor Garrison

Market (SWOT) Analysis (1,000 words)

List the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities & Threats of the book, the author, the genre.

Strengths:

The strengths of Goodnight Gertrude include, the unique and intriguing book title. A second strong aspect of this book is the perspective of the book. Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the situation of Victor as if they were in Victor’s situation. This book has a relatability factor which will increase the number of individuals we are able to market to. The relatable aspect of this book stems from everyone comes from certain heritage and has specific family culture that is unique to them. Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through Victor’s journey of understanding the members of his family in order to understand his place in life and where he originates. Victor is struggling with what most teenagers are conflicted with.

Weaknesses:

The weaknesses I found with the marketing aspect of the book is that there does not appear to be a clear season or event which stands out evidently as a strong day/dates to promote Goodnight Gertrude.

Opportunities:

This book has the opportunity to reach certain groups and people suffering from similar ailments. Goodnight Gertrude includes the character Anthony who is briefly mentioned. Anthony was Victor’s’ cousin, Shelby’s brother. Anthony died in Vietnam when Shelby was very young and Shelby never had a chance to get to know her brother. Reaching out to organizations and creating a tie between Goodnight Gertrude and Vietnam would be a strong marketing opportunity because it would branch out your market and create awareness of the book.

Victor’s Uncle Buzz is a main character in the book who is suffering from cirrhosis of the liver. Uncle Buzz plays a major role in developing the storyline of a struggling family. Victor comes to stay in South Carolina, however due to Uncle Buzzs’ physical therapy Victor has to bunk in the living room. Shelby, Uncle Buzz’s daughter discusses the various activities and events she missed out on such as learning how to swim because of her father’s illness. Marketing Goodnight Gertrude to raise awareness for families suffering with cirrhosis of the liver would be a strong opportunity to both raise awareness and create a broader market for the book.

Threats:

The target market is individuals within the age range of 12-18, although they can be older. However, this book can be more relatable to individuals within this age range as it deals with maturity and coming of age. This book is a work of fiction and can be placed in the group of “Young Adult Fiction” books. Young Adult books can be condensed into the following themes such as bullying, dysfunctional family, alcohol abuse, suicide, depression, racism, sexuality and identity. Goodnight Gertrude includes a large majority of these topic with the overarching theme of identity.Young adult fiction books are a very popular book genre, which can make it difficult when differentiating yourself from the competition.

Marketing Action Points (concise, specific recommendations)

Identify five groups or organizations to which this book could be marketed? What’s the pitch to get their attention? The author has strong network connections with music and art venues as well as galleries located in Raleigh and Durham in North Carolina. Writers for local radio stations and individuals who work for the local independent weekly newspaper also know the author.

The author grew up Roman Catholic and has strong ties to the community. Mr. Carter attended Episcopal Divinity School in 1998. The author attended the seminary school in North Carolina and has been involved on a broader geographical scale, with a number of progressive/liberal religious communities. Including progressive Roman Catholic organizations, progressive Mainline Protestant organizations, Reform Jewish, Unitarian, etc. The author has ties to the professional organization from his time working as a hospital chaplain. The author has specifically worked with along the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education and College of Pastoral Supervision and Psychotherapy.

Mr. Carter has stated his support for the LGBT community. The author has been an active volunteer and advocate for the LGBT community. The author had previous had his other two novels published which concentrates on ‘religious’ titles. The author’s first novel featured both LGBT characters and issues.

Young adult “Follow sixteen year old Victor Flowers on his journey of self discovery as he comes to terms with his family history in the fictional work, Goodnight Gertrude. David Carter, the North Carolinian author of Familiar and Lustration Rites, has published his most recent work, Goodnight Gertrude. The book takes the reader on an adventure with angst-ridden Victor in this coming of age story. Author David Carter stated, “I want the reader to take pleasure in the book and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has entranced them.” Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the relatable theme of growing up, family dynamics and questions of self discovery.”

Fiction

Family

Mr. Carter previously worked with Durham Technical Community College in Raleigh North Carolina, where he taught English and Humanities in January 2013 to Decemeber 2013.

Mr. Carter previously worked with Central Carolina Community College in Sanford North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in 2009 through 2011.

Mr. Carter previously worked with Guilford Technical Community College in Greensboro North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in July 2008 to August 2009.

Mr. Carter previously worked with Forsynth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem North Carolina where he lectured beginning in January 2009 and ending in 2009.

Mr. Carter attended the following educational establishments, North Carolina Central University in 2015. North Carolina State University 2003. Episcopal Divinity School in 1998.

Which holiday(s) or designated week/month provides a marketing opportunity for the title? How can the author/AH take advantage of these holidays?

Fiction

Family

Young Adult

LGBT

Identify four specific retail outlets (store, museum, other) that present a unique opportunity to display/sell the book. What’s the pitch to get their attention?

So & So Books (soandsobooks@gmail.com) (christonelli@gmail.com)

704 N. Person St. Raleigh, NC 27604

2) Quail Ridge Books

Rene Martin- Events Coordinator.

4209-100 Lassiter Mill Road

Raleigh, NC 27609

Store: 919-828-1588

Identify five specific locations where the author could speak/read.

The Regulator Bookshop

Amy Spauling- Events Coordinator

720 9th Durham, NC 27705

919-286-2700

regulatorevents@gmail.com

Malaprop’s Bookstore/ Café (Asheville)

Literary Outpost with Reading and Clubs

55 Haywood Street

800-441-9829

The Public Library systems in the area are worth looking into as well. (Wake, Durham, Orange, Carteret, Greensboro)  Contact information for these system is easy to come by on their websites.

Identify three contests/competitions into which this book could be entered. Ensure these are good fits for the book.

Kirkus.

Contest

Contest

Identify two specific TV/radio/podcast, etc. “shows” on which the author could be a guest (either to promote the book or as an expert/reference). What’s the pitch to get their attention?

Newspapers:

Raleigh’s News and Observer (bookbeat@newsobserver.com)

The Durham Herald

Greensboro News and Record

The Independent Weekly (BHowe@indyweek.com)

Radio:

WUNC in Durham/ Chapel Hill

WKNC (gm@wknc.org)

Social Media Recommendations

Compile a list of the following for use by the author

Twitter handles of influencers/gatekeepers, including bloggers, writers, reporters, media outlets.

Twitter: @yabookcentral. Tweets: 23.3K. Followers: 36.9K. “Get your bookish fix here! Post your own reviews or read ours, enter giveaways, see cover reveals & new releases, chat with authors and readers, and much more.”

Twitter: @HarperTeen. Tweets: 28.8K. Followers: 128K. “Teen division of HarperCollins, publishing quality young adult books. Frequent contest, giveaways, and the latest news for YA readers!”

Twitter: @IreadYA. Tweets: 12.1K. Followers: 33.3K. “We solemnly swear we are obsessed with YA! Online community of young adult book lovers and divison of @Scholastic.”

The Independent Weekly (Newspaper in North Carolina). The author has previous ties to the writer, Brian Howe, BHowe@indy@week.com.

The News and Observer (Newspaper in North Carolina). The author has previous ties to the writer, (bookbeat@newsobserver.com).

Provide four example social media posts from author to promote the book.

Facebook:

“Follow sixteen year old Victor Flowers on his journey of self discovery as he comes to terms with his family history in the fictional work, Goodnight Gertrude. David Carter, the North Carolinian author of Familiar and Lustration Rites, has published his most recent work, Goodnight Gertrude. The book takes the reader on an adventure with angst-ridden Victor in this coming of age story. Author David Carter stated, “I want the reader to take pleasure in the book and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has entranced them.” Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the relatable theme of growing up, family dynamics and questions of self discovery.”

Media channel: Facebook

Time/ Schedule: Possibly within the next few weeks/ months.

I would include a cover image of the newest/ most recently updated cover art work for Goodnight Gertrude as it is engaging and intrigues the viewer.

Twitter:

Instagram:

Facebook: A post Dave Carter could post himself:

“Author David Carter stated, “I want the reader to take pleasure in the book and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has entranced them.” Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the relatable theme of growing up, family dynamics and questions of self discovery.”

I have intentionally shortened this message due to the character limit of 150 characters per tweet for Twitter.

Media channel: Twitter

Time/ Schedule: Possibly within the next few weeks/ months.

I would include an image of the cover art for the book or an image of the author to provide the audience with an image of the author (more personal feel).

“Follow sixteen year old Victor Flowers on his journey of self discovery and coming to terms with his family history in the fictional work, Goodnight Gertrude. David Carter, the North Carolinian author of Familiar and Lustration Rites has published his most recent work, Goodnight Gertrude. The book takes the reader on an adventure with angst-ridden Victor in this coming of age story. Author David Carter stated, “I want the reader to take pleasure in the book and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has entranced them.” Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the relatable theme of growing up, family dynamics and questions of self discovery.”

Media channel: Instagram.

Time/ Schedule: Possibly within the next few weeks or months.

“Follow sixteen year old Victor Flowers on his journey of self discovery and coming to terms with his family history in the fictional work, Goodnight Gertrude. The book takes the reader on an adventure with angst-ridden Victor in this coming of age story. I state in an Acquisitions interview, “I want the reader to take pleasure in the book and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has entranced them.” Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the relatable theme of growing up, family dynamics and questions of self discovery.”

Media channel: Facebook

Time/ schedule: Possibly within the next few weeks or months.

I would include an image of the cover art for Goodnight Gertrude as it is engaging and draws people in.­­­­­­

Sample “Author Q&A” for use when pitching interviews

Please

1. What inspired you to start writing?

“My answer is something of a cliché, I’m afraid, but I have to say that I’ve always known that I would be a writer. For as long as I can remember writing has been a necessity for me; if I go for too many days without spending at least some time working on a project I begin to feel like something vital is missing, like I’m lacking some nutrient. There are lots of ‘leisure’ activities that I enjoy… I can draw and paint a little, and while I’m not athletic, I’m active; I do a lot of bike riding, swimming, etc. But none of those ‘pastimes’ feel as essential as writing, and particularly writing fiction. It’s odd, because I tend to dread doing other forms of writing; I always labored over essays for school and reports for work, even though I did them pretty well. But working on a story energizes me . . .  even when it’s a struggle.”

2. What are your favorite and least favorite parts of being an author?

“It’s only been in the past few years that I’ve begun to share and publish my fiction, and while I’m always anxious that my writing might be judged harshly, I feel very gratified by much of the feedback I’ve received. It feels wonderful to know that characters I’ve created and lived with and have come to love have the ability to come alive for other people, so I guess that must be my favorite aspect of becoming a published author . . . having the opportunity to share a very personal vision with others. It’s hard to think of any negative aspect of being an author, given that I’ve wanted to be recognized as one all my life … but maybe that’s the answer right there . . . it has taken me years to become confident enough in my ability to share my work, and decades to find opportunities to publish. I’m the type of writer who needs the support of a publisher in order for me to feel as if my writing has merit . . . that’s NOT to say that self-published work lacks any merit . . . it’s just my hang up!  And so as someone who needs a publisher, one negative about writing is how difficult it can be to find one that will take a chance on you!”

3. What is your process for your writing?

“It really depends upon what stage I’m at with a particular project. For initial drafts, I seem to need to work with a great deal of structure. I have set hours of the day that I work . . . early in the morning before it’s time to go to my ‘real’ job— and a set environment— at the desk in my studio at home, with the door closed and no distractions! First drafts must always be written in longhand as well, as I don’t trust myself not to hit ‘save’ often enough on my computer. As I revise, I can write anytime, anywhere, but I still must spend my early mornings writing. . . otherwise the rest of the day feels empty. “

4. How do you come up with characters for your books?

“That is a question I don’t think I’ll ever be able to answer . . .  it’s a complete mystery to me how and why particular characters show up in my stories. They just seem to appear of their own accord, and while I can often detect similarities between my characters and persons I have known or encountered in my ‘real’ life, the fictional characters still seem to me to be distinct individuals in their own right. Victor, the main character in Goodnight, Gertrude, is a good example of the mysteriousness of this process . . . I really can’t identify him with any one person I’ve ever known, and yet his reactions to events and his inner life came to me quite clearly, as if I were describing someone very familiar. Some have said that all of an author’s characters are an aspect of his or herself, and while I think there’s some truth to that, there always seems to be an element of ineffable otherness to every character that I create.”

5. What inspired you to write Goodnight Gertrude?

“It’s really hard to say what the initial inspiration for Goodnight, Gertrude was . . . it began as a short story about my main character grappling with the effects of having been institutionalized by his parents, but it didn’t take long for it to turn into a completely different story featuring the main character, Victor. I know that I am inspired by particular locations, and Goodnight, Gertrude emerges, at least in part, from my fascination with the unique landscape and culture of coastal North Carolina. More than that, though, I think that my own experience of working in a family business when I was very young provided much of the energy that fed my impulse to tell this story. That experience was, for me, much like Victor’s experience of learning to live with and to appreciate and to transcend, when necessary, family history.”

6. What was your writing experience or process for Goodnight Gertrude like?

“Goodnight, Gertrude took a long time to complete. As with all my previous two books, I wrote it during the early morning hours every day before going to work, and it went through several . . . I think three or four drafts . . . before I felt it was polished enough to send out to potential publishers. As I’ve mentioned elsewhere, I found the beginning difficult to figure out, and it was only after I’d laid the whole thing aside for many months . . . close to a year(!) that I could look at it with eyes fresh enough to detect some rough spots in the narrative and smooth them out. Like most of what I write, Goodnight, Gertrudeemerged little by little, one day at a time, over a long period of time. I have never outlined a work of fiction, and rarely have a solid idea of what’s going to happen when I get started. It’s as if I have to tell the story to myself as well as to the readers!”

7. This is your third book. How did the writing process from this book differ from your previous books, Familiar and Lustration Rites?

“This book is very different from my previous two published books! For one thing, Goodnight, Gertrude is far more realistic than the first two books, which involved the supernatural, some non-human characters, and highly dysfunctional and melodramatically religious settings and themes. Those two books, while not farcical (I hope) are fanciful, and it was interesting for me to restrict myself, with Goodnight, Gertrude, to pure realism. I’m not sure, though, that this difference in genre, so to speak, made much difference to my process. I will say that the writing of Goodnight, Gertrude was slightly easier, it came more fluidly, as some of the issues of logistics and internal consistency that one has to deal with when working in non-realism just didn’t come up in the straightforward narrative world of Goodnight, Gertrude.”

8. Your book, Goodnight Gertrude, has a theme of coming of age and family conflict. What drew you to choose these themes?

“I never write with a theme in mind . . . the theme just tends to emerge as the story unfolds. I do think that conflict is inherent in every single story ever written or told, and family conflict is particularly rich in possibilities for the development of character. In this book, I found that I was exploring the dynamics within a somewhat unique expended family structure, a family that has undergone a number of disruptions and communication breakdowns, and that in a certain sense is unfamiliar with itself. The process of my main character finding his place within this imperfect, but ultimately loving family fascinated me, and so I enjoyed working it out with him.”

9.  What was the most difficult part of writing Goodnight Gertrude? If so, how were you able to overcome it?

“Definitely the beginning! I consistently have trouble with the beginnings of my stories; it’s hard for me to come up with something that ‘hooks’ the reader. I generally don’t worry about it when I’m working on an initial draft, I just start where I start and go back to the beginning after I’ve reached the end. With Goodnight, Gertrude, the beginning did not suggest itself until a long time after I’d considered the book finished . . . out of nowhere, I just knew that the right place for the story to start was with my introverted main character being reluctantly pulled out of his shell by a drunk stranger . . . that scene aligned with the overall trajectory of the story, but I couldn’t have known that when I first began…”

10. What do you want your reader to take away from Goodnight Gertrude?

“I want the reader to take pleasure in the book, and to feel as if they have made friends with my characters, that the experience of reading has enriched them somehow. Ideally, I guess, the readers experience will reflect that of the writer, that together we experience, along with my main character Victor, the realization that a sense of home and belonging can be found in the most unexpected of places . . . even amongst those strangers who are our family. As the story begins, Victor is something of a lost soul . . . and it’s really through finding himself taken in by his barely remembered relatives that he begins to feel connected enough to make mistakes, make decisions, and accept the challenge to hope.   I think we all need the love and support and even the flaws of some type of family to be able to grow.”

Recommendations for the author

Please develop a list of recommendations of how the author can better develop their web and/or social media presence… related to the promotion of themselves and their book.

           Mr. Carter has mentioned his concern of his previous two Facebook pages for his first two books ‘Familiar’ (2016) and ‘Lustration Rites’ (2018) published by Wipf & Stock. The author discussed the lack of activity and views his page is receiving by his friends. Facebook has adapted their site to encourage current users to pay to for promotion. I discussed this issue in class with Lisa Hillman author of Secret No More. I would not recommend paying Facebook to promote your page.

           Instead, I would recommend developing a wordpress site for free where you can develop a website. The website could include a biography of the author a list of contact information where individuals can reach out to the author including the author’s interactive email and social media pages. The website should include a link of the listing of where individuals can purchase the book. Having a website on wordpress will be an important tool to use as wordpress will allow for blog posts. The author can post upcoming events or event directly pertaining to his books and then easily share the post from his wordpress site to the social media of his choosing for example, Facebook.

           Another recommendation I could make to the author would be to develop a Twitter page. Twitter is frequently visited social media site for the desired target market, it will be an important tool to market your book and develop your Twitter profile.

Provide a sample press release about the book’s release

(Ensure it includes info about the author, Apprentice House and, of course, the book!

credible , why your author was credible to write this book

be professionals with your correspondents

advanced reviews from people that begin to help back you up

-similar degree, someone in profession,

-having a good endorser, attach a name to the book

-market your rights, signing contracts to publish and produce your book in all manners, finding an agent

-invest in your business, agents help a lot

Go to bottom of Moodle)

Press Release Assignment                                                                

Apprentice House to release Goodnight Gertrude by author of “Familiar” and “Lustration Rites”  David Carter.

“Goodnight Gertrude” written by David Carter is a classic coming of age story with a modern day twist. The protagonist begins his journey to understand his family and his place and takes him through experiences which help him grow and develop from boy to man. Through getting to know his extended family, the protagonist is able to uncover and understand his family history more effectively and in turn understand himself better as well as his place in the world.

“Goodnight Gertrude provides a unique and enriching perspective for the reader to relate and engage with” Kevin Atticks, Apprentice House director.

David Carter is a seasoned writer who has previously published short fiction, poetry and interviews on a number of regional publications. The author has published the poem, “A Direct Address to Zaccheus” in The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling in September 2008. The author has held a previous interview with local cartoonist and musician Brian Walsby. The author has written the short story, “Switcharound.” The author has previously written the novel, ‘Familiar’ published by Wipf and Stock Publishers in September 2016.

David Carter holds a master’s degree in Library Science, Theology and English Literature. The author has received the “Creative Writing Merit Scholarship” from North Carolina State University in 2002. David Carter is currently represented by Rochelle Lurie of Zachary Schuster Literary Agency of Boston, MA. David Carter currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Include an image of the book cover in the press release.

About the Book:

Title: Goodnight Gertrude

Author: David Carter

List price:      $16.95

ISBN:   978-1-934074-

Specs: Paperback, 172 pages, 6 x 9” perfect bound on white paper.

Designer: Julia Joseph, Class of 2018 Loyola University Maryland.

Description:

           Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through the coming of age story for sixteen year old Victor Flowers. Victor is a sad, distant and somewhat of a loner. Goodnight Gertrude is a young adult work of fiction, taking the reader through intense emotion and teenage and hormonal agnst. Victor begins developing romantic feelings for his cousin. The story is told through the perspective of Victor. Goodnight Gertrude takes the reader through a journey of Victor coming to terms with his complicated family life and troubled past. Victor’s parents are divorced and his father is a bigot who is living with his new family. Victor leaves his life with his immediate family to live with his extended family. Victor becomes well acquainted with his grandmother, cousin and uncle in North Carolina. Through getting to know his extended family, Victor is able to uncover and understand his family history more effectively and in turn understand himself better as well as his role in the world.

About the Author:

           The author has attended Episcopal Divinity School in 1998. In author attended North Carolina State University where he graduated in 203. The author most recently attended North Carolina Central University in 2015. David Carter holds a master’s degree in Library Science, Theology and English Literature. The author has received the “Creative Writing Merit Scholarship” from North Carolina State University in 2002. David Carter is currently represented by Rochelle Lurie of Zachary Schuster Literary Agency of Boston, MA. David Carter currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina.

David Carter has previously worked with Durham Technical Community College in Raleigh North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in January to December of 2013. The author worked with Central Carolina Community College in Sanford North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities from 2009 to 2011. The author worked with Guilford Technical Community College in Greensboro, North Carolina where he taught English and Humanities in July 2008 to 2009. The author worked with Forsynth Technical Community College located in Winston-Salem in North Carolina where he lectured during January 2009 to August 2009.

           The author has previously published “Cities and Roads” and “The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling.” David Carter is a seasoned writer who has previously published short fiction, poetry and interviews on a number of regional publications. The author has published the poem, “A Direct Address to Zaccheus” in The Journal of Pastoral Care and Counseling in September 2008. The author has held a previous interview with local cartoonist and musician Brian Walsby. The author has written the short story, “Switcharound.” The author has previously written the novel, ‘Familiar’ published by Wipf and Stock Publishers in September 2016.

Apprentice House

Being the nations first entirely student-managed book publisher, Apprentice House works directly with a variety of authors and book themes and styles. Loyola University Maryland students are responsible for the publishing process including both the design and publication process. Acquisition House allows students to become an active and engaged member in the book publishing process.

Acquisition House is a new program with the Communications Department of Loyola University Maryland. Acquisition House is used in the following student courses, Introduction to Book Publishing, Book Design and Production, and Book Marketing and Promotion.Therefore, students in these courses serve as staff in Apprentice House’s acquisitions, design, and marketing departments, respectively.  After students move on, AH professor-managers and AH student staff sustain the on-going operation of the company and market its frontlist and backlist titles.

More Information

Have questions? Reach out directly to the author at @email. (Provide an interactive email that the author will be comfortable to use to engage and interact with his target audience.)

[hochgouez-nerzhus]

Naomie121406.tumblr.com

Ambiuolcios-Imbolc

C’est une fête des lumières en rapport aux premiers rayons de soleil qui annoncent les premiers frémissements du printemps. C’est également un rite de purification (Le nom même de la fête signifie « lustration ») et de fécondité qui préfigure Belotennia et qui se déroule à une date la plus proche possible du 2 février. C’est le moment où la vie reprend dans la nature, les rivières gonflées d’eau par les pluies et la fonte des neiges balaient les scories de l’hiver. C’est également l’apparition des perce-neige, la naissance des agneaux et des chevreaux, le début de la lactation des femelles. La graine se prépare à donner naissance à la future plante. L’herbe qui reverdit annonce que la vie n’était qu’en gestation dans le ventre nourricier de la Terre.

Parallèlement, à cette période de l’année, les familles et les clans n’avaient que très peu d’activités extérieures, et la vie se déroulait principalement au sein des foyers qui étaient gérés par les femmes.

C’est donc une fête essentiellement féminine, maternelle, lunaire. Elle est associée à l’eau et à la lumière renaissante et a lieu la nuit et ce sont les femmes qui officient.

Imbolc altar

Cette fête, célébration de la Déesse-Mère, est placée sous la bienveillance de Brigit/Brigantia ( 1 Du gaulois : brigantion / brigant- (éminent, élevé), du sanskrit: brhati (haute, noble), du vieux Breton: briantin (personne de rang élevée). Terme celtique pour évoquer ce qui est éminent, élevé. Très fréquent dans les noms d’oppida situés sur des hauteurs, Brigantium (Briançon, Briençon, Briant, Briantes, etc…), dans le nom de certains peuples (Brigantes, Brigantii, …) et de rivières (Brian, Briance, Briande, etc…), qui est à la fois, Mère, Soeur et Fille des Dieux, fille du Dagda. Elle est aussi la mère, l’épouse et la soeur de Lug, Dagda, Ogme, Nuada, Diancecht et Mac Oc, des Dieux des Tuatha Dé Danann, et fut l’épouse d’un Fomoire, Bres, avec qui elle eut un fils, Ruadán.

Elle est connue sous différents noms et est capable de se transformer sous toutes les formes qu’elle souhaite. Elle est symbolisée par le feu, celui de l’inspiration pour les poètes, le feu de la Terre qui permet la santé et la fertilité, le feu du foyer qui est utilisé pour la forge. Elle est donc la Déesse-Mère des Art, de la Médecine, de la Magie et de la Guerre, elle est la patronne des Druides, des Bardes, des Vates et des forgerons, et elle est invoquée lors des naissances. Elle participe donc des trois fonctions traditionnelles celtiques.

Imbolc-The celtic art of Hamish Burgess

La fête est le pendant, symétrique, de Lugunaissatis (car c’est une constante des fêtes d’avoir chacune leur opposé symétrique, leur vis à vis qui vient l’équilibrer six mois plus tard), quand la Terre, fatiguée par les moissons, était redevenue vierge. Pour Ambiuolcios, la Déesse, tout comme la Terre, sont toujours vierges mais l’une comme l’autre sont redevenues fécondables: la Déesse vierge est alors la préfiguration de la Déesse Mère. A ce titre elle est aussi la Déesse de fécondité, et donc associée à la Nature, au moment de sa correspondance avec le cycle saisonnier et agraire. C’est le début du Printemps.

Ambiuolcios semble pourtant être un peu la fête mal aimée du festiaire celto-druidique, celle sur laquelle on trouve le moins de témoignages, de survivances ou de pages d’étude consacrées. On la sous-estime un peu dans la mesure où l’on ne retrouve pas beaucoup de traces et que l’on ne sait pas grand-chose à son sujet si ce n’est que les chrétiens l’ont récupérée, selon leur habitude, et consacrée à Ste Brigitte. On a souvent estimé du coup qu’elle n’était peut-être pas très importante ou/et qu’elle n’était destinée qu’à la 3ème fonction, celle des producteurs.

Certains auteurs avancent pourtant une théorie plus séduisante : les autres fêtes celto-druidiques sont essentiellement connues grâce aux copistes chrétiens qui n’en ont pourtant laissé transparaitre que ce qu’ils voulaient bien faire transparaitre. Si l’on ne sait presque rien sur Ambiuolcios, ne serait-ce pas parce que c’était une fête ésotérique si importante, ou une fête principalement féminine que les chrétiens se seraient efforcés d’en supprimer tout souvenir ?

Found on pinterest unknown author

Le rite le plus représentatif de la fête est la purification: « se laver les pieds, les mains, la tête ».

On admet généralement qu’Ambiuolcios est une fête lustrale destinée à la purification après les rigueurs et les souillures de l’hiver. Mais la fête correspond aussi symboliquement à l’éveil initiatique et à la préparation qui aboutiront à la Renaissance de Beltaine. C’est une fête initiatique d’un passage primordial.

On sait que la tenue de chaque rituel nécessite une purification préalable. On comprend donc que cette purification est d’autant plus nécessaire quand il s’agit d’un véritable rituel initiatique. Et à cette occasion précise, la purification devient le rite lui-même.

La purification se fait de deux manières:

• par l’Eau (et l’on précise bien ici, « se laver les pieds, les mains, la tête »),

• par le Feu: Ambiuolcios est une fête ou le feu joue un rôle primordial puisqu’il symbolise le Soleil, source de chaleur et de lumière. Outre son rôle purificateur il est aussi le protecteur des hommes et des animaux (la fête est d’ailleurs aussi connue sous le nom de « fête des chandelles » et ces chandelles, parfois des flambeaux, sont restés dans certaines coutumes: processions, …)

Dans la nature, Ambiuolcios correspond à la première assimilation de la graine semée qui s’intègre au sol. Le germe de blé est donc la promesse du champ qui s’épanouira sous le soleil de Lugunaissatis.

Imbolc - wordsmithextraordinaire.worpress.com

Si les jours rallongent, on remarque pourtant que l’hiver exerce toujours son emprise sur la terre. Néanmoins les graines qui dormaient jusque-là en son sein, commencent à s’éveiller à une vie nouvelle: c’est du plus profond des ténèbres que nait la lumière, comme c’est de la mort que nait la vie.

C’est donc une fête d’ouverture de la vie, déjà contenue dans le sein de la Terre et c’est le retour du soleil qui permettra à ces graines de donner en été les fruits et les récoltes espérés.

D’ailleurs, c’est autour de ce thème que tournent toutes les coutumes relatives à la crêpe qu’on a pu conserver: lancer la 1ère crêpe avec une pièce d’argent dans l’autre main, lancer cette 1ère crêpe sur le haut de l’armoire et l’y garder toute l’année, etc…

Il faut dire aussi que la crêpe avait un effet pour ainsi dire multiplicateur: confectionnée avec de la farine, des oeufs, du lait, c’était l’espérance d’avoir de ces produits en abondance toute l’année. Enfin, souvent, autrefois, les paysans invitaient leurs voisins à venir manger des crêpes pour avoir une belle moisson ou pour préserver les blés de la maladie. « Goûter de chaque nourriture selon l’ordre, voilà ce que l’on doit faire à Ambiuolcios. Se laver les mains, les pieds, la tête, c’est ainsi que je le dis »

Druide OTHA

[lailoken]

“:Pharmacopoeia: [Pt. 2]

Acacia (Acacia spp.). The Blossoms, as well as the Leaves of Our Tree, may be added to the bathwater for the magical work of Fortification, or nourishing and strengthening the Mind and Spirit. 55 grams of the fresh blooms, steeped in one litre of boiling water for 20 minutes, provides a virtuous Balneum.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum, O. sanctum). A Bath made from strong infusions of Fresh Basil is a superior Solar Rite of Self-Love. The friendly Genius of this plant aids in fortifying Courage and Will, as well as lending clarity of Mind. For this purpose, steep two handfuls of fresh sprigs, leaves, and flowers in one litre of boiling water for 20 minutes before straining and adding to the bath. Stronger infusions lend more power, especially when the spicy leaves are employ'd as a scrub. Basil is efficacious for charms drawing lovers, or money.

Broom (Cytisus spp.). Regard'd as a pest by farmers and some botanists, our Herb makes for a virtuous lustration. In particular, it owns the powers of obsta- cle-breaking and motivation, and is specially good at disrupting inertia. For a hot bath, steep between 150- 250 dried blossoms or approximately 300 fresh in 1.5 litres of boiling water. After steeping 30 minutes, strain and add to the bath.

Calamus (Acorus calamus). Our Root may pleasingly be added to ritual baths prior to magical workings, especially those involving sexual magics or oracular work. Calamus has strong affinities with the water element and was employed in the Herb-sorcery of ancient Egypt and Sumer. Harvesting the fresh root from bog or marsh is preferred, as the spicy root-odour is so much more alluring fresh than the rank, wither'd nubs from the Apothecary's jar! For a strong decoction, employ 33 grams of the fresh Root, or 50 of the dried; bring to a boil in one litre of water, and steep for 15 minutes. Most Essential Oil of Calamus commonly available is of dubious quality. Let the Skill'd One distill oil from living, vigourous roots and use sparingly in Bath and Balm.

Carnation (Dianthus spp.). Gillyflowers, as Carnations were known to the medieval apothecary, are an excellent agent of simultaneous Exorcism and Invigoration, a friendly spirit most pleasing to the gods. Carnation baths prior to works of High Magick rival both Agrimony and Vervain in efficacy. Of fragrant carnation, take 40 blossoms and infuse in a litre of cold water for 3-5 hours. Add this infused water, along with the flowers themselves and a few fresh ones, to a lukewarm or cool bath. Employ the flowers to scrub the body.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita). Perhaps the most comforting Herb taken as a bath, Chamomile is excellent for reducing trauma, and may be considered an elemental correspondence of the Watery Part of Earth temper'd by the Warm Virtues of Sol. For a healthful slumber or to relieve extreme nervous tension, a bath may be made with the fragrant blossoms, and will readily offer its Gifts. Use 50 g. of the flowers steeped in 1 litre of boiling water. A strong infusion of the golden Blossoms makes an excellent traditional gambling potion for washing the hands prior to throwing dice or cards. If using Essential Oil of Blue Chamomile, add 3-5 drops to the bath, increasing as desired.

Chaste Berry ( Vitex agnus-castus). The Candomblè abô, or sacred baths, employ various species of Vitex against the Evil Eye; 'tis also esteem'd as a suffumigant. Of the dried or fresh berries, use a decoction of 18 g. of the Herb to 450 ml. boiling water. Of the leaves, use 33 grams in 650 millilitres of water.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum). The Genius of Our Bark invigorates and fortifies, but it is especially skilled at promoting the powers of Harmony. Thus a Cinnamon ablution serves prior to a confrontation where a harmonious outcome is desired. Other excellent uses for this bath are as a preparation for Sexual Magic workings with a partner, or for fertility rites of conception. For a Cinnamon bath, make a strong decoction of 60 grams of crumbled twigs or chips in 550 millilitres of water. Avoid the Essential Oil as it is a dermal irritant and lacks certain Virtues of the Genius present only in the bark.

Cymbopogon (Cymbopogon spp.) A fragrant and wondrous plant genus which includes a number of different species of fragrant, tropical grasses. Three are widely known and prais'd, especially in the form of their Essential Oils rendered up as True Gold by fractional distillation; these are Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus), Palmarosa (Cymbopogon martinii), and Citronella (Cymbopogon nar-dus). All bear exquisite perfume and are suit'd to cleansing of the Oratory as well as the Brethren and Sisters of the Wise who enter the Temple. For infusions, use 44 grams of chopp'd rhizome and grass to 600 millilitres boiling water, steeped thirty minutes. The Oleum Essentia may be used freely in Compound'd Mists.

Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menzesii). Not a True Fir in botanical nomenclature, Our Tree is nevertheless a fast-growing evergreen conifer with an Eager Spirit of Cleansing. Native to North America, it is now widely cultur'd for its versatile timber. Its pitch excels as a fumigant and the citrus-odour'd Leaves make an excellent Philtre of Cleansing and Exorcism. Several American Indian nations in the Tree's native range traditionally employ'd a decoction of the branches and twigs as a purifying body-wash in sweathouse rites. For a wash or asperge, a strong decoction may be made with a generous handful of the pulverized leaves or green branches boil'd twenty minutes in 650 millilitres of water and strained. These potent leaves render up their Goodness in tincture by means of Aqua Angelis; indeed, the Green Magus skill'd in extractions will know this to be true.

Fir (Abies spp.). The leaves -needles, as they are known- are employ'd for their magical properties of Illumination and Inspiration. Several handfuls of the young shoots may be decocted in a litre of water. This is an appropriate ablution for rites of Pan, especially if the sorcerer is to invoke the rustic god, for this is His Tree. If employing essential oil of Fir, begin with 3 drops in bathwater.

Geranium, Scent'd (Pelargonium spp.). Scent'd Geraniums proceed forth from the Mansions of the Greenwood like a parade of fair-odourd jewels, remarkable in beauty and divers aromas. Almost all species of Pelargonium wield potencies of Banishing and Exorcism, and simultaneously the Power of Brightening: these spirits encourage great cheer unto all wherever their virtues extend. Rose, citrus, mint, nutmeg, pine, and even chocolate-scent'd varieties may be found, having unique aromatic notes that provoke, in addition to the aforemention'd qualities, a most unsettling Strangeness of Thought. One handful of the whole leaves, infused in 600 millilitres boiling water, produces a fragrant and potent liquid useful against noisome spirits. Tincture freely.

Hops (Humulus lupulus). Baths of the Herb are, in general, soporific and useful to allay Moods. A bath made with 50 grams of the dried fragrant blossoms, steeped in a litre of boiling water, will provide calm. However, by acquaintance with a friendly hop-farmer, or tending the Vine oneself, one may make use of the spicy blossoms, peerless newly-gather'd, and in no way compare to the inferior dried Herb, many of whose Virtues have fled upon dessication.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis). Ours is an Herb of the Mint Family possessing supreme antibacterial virtues. Hyssop was used, in times of European plague, along with Juniper, for strewing and combatting the Vapours of Affliction. It has a long history of being used to consecrate spaces and persons prior to magical workings. An ancient recipe for Hyssop Water, used for purification of the Sorcerer prior to the Work, is made thus: "A bunch of vervain, fennel, lavender, sage, valerian, mint, garden basil, rosemary, and hyssop gathered in the day and hour of Mercury, bound together with a thread, spun by a young maiden, when dipped in water and sprinkled, will chase away all phantoms that shall hinder or annoy." A simpler infusion may be made with 40 grams of the Herb steep'd in I litre of boiling water.

Jasmine (Jasminum officinale). The Jasmine belongs to the Olive family, known as Oleaceae, from which so many beneficial and virtuous Herbs proceed, so we may take refuge in its noble lineage. When considering the types of magic Jasmine may be put to in sorcery, Lust and magnification of the Sexual powers are first and foremost. For men, this is the Spirit of Satyros; for women, the charms of the Nymphae. For magics of Attraction it is unparallel'd, as well as in Sexual or Nubility rites. Unfortunately, the range of the plant is very limited, and in northern latitudes must be grown in a glasshouse. One may employ the oil, known as Jasmine Absolute, in the quantity of drops per 100 litres of water (Jasmine absolute is costly; thus the oil amount is also a consideration of frugality) or, if access to a blooming Jasmine is assured, about 80 flowers added directly to the bath. Two false-Jasmines are worth mentioning, as both have similar, though less pronounced, magical virtues as the classic Jasmine. The first is a hardy plant known Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides); the second is Potato Jasmine (Solanum jasminoides). Both may commonly be found at nurseries. Of the two, the former has a richer and more complex scent. Both plants are prolific bloomers in a variety of cultural conditions. For a hot bath, use at least 75 blossoms of Star Jasmine; or at least 100 of Solanaceous Jasmine. For a cold bath, knead 30-100 flowers of each kind into four litres of water and pour liberally on head and body, letting the perfumed waters air-dry on the skin.

Juniper (Juniperus spp.) For treating nervous conditions, a bath made with the Berries and fronds is much esteemed. A handful or two of the fresh, pulverized Shoots and Fruits may be ground and placed in a cheesecloth bag and add'd to the hot water of an ablution, several minutes before entering. Dried leaves may be used as well; a purposeful decoction can be made from 33 grams of the dried leaves, simmered in 1.5 litres of water for 20 minutes.

Larch (Larix spp.). Rare though the tree is in the literature of sorcery, its virtues should not be overlooked by those living beneath its branches. A strong spirit of Courage, Triumph, and Protection, the Genius of the Larix will stoutly defend all who are its allies. An ablution of Larch leaves is noted for its properties of Centering and Inspiration, as well as Fortifying and Invigorating the spirit of the warrior riding into battle. Make a decoction using 1.5 litres of boiling water, in which are simmer'd 85 grams of the young shoots, well-chopped, for twenty minutes. Strain the brew and add to the bath. Galangal (Kaempheria galanga ; Alpinia galanga). Washing one's hands in a tea brewed from Galangal root is a potent charm for success in gambling, as Root Doctors and other Voudou sorcerers know. The Root's magical provenance of empowering the Derma is, in a similar way, hail'd by Ritual Magicians who blend its Oleum Essentia into the famed Oil of Abramelin. For use as a potion or hand-wash, employ 40 grams of the fresh Root in 1 litre of water; bring to boil, then simmer in a covered vessel for 15-20 minutes. If circumstances force use of the dried Root, employ double the amount, as many of the virtues have, by this time, escaped into the aethyrs. For ablutions prior to magical rites, the amount may be increased greatly according to Need.

Maize (Zea mays). A number of Yoruba-derived religions in the Americas employ Maize as an Ally for women in childbirth. In Candomblè abô, Maize is sometimes added to the bathwater. Sweet corn may be knead'd in cold water for an Enchanted Bath that summons all the good things provided by the Sun and Jove; such magics might encompass general Beneficence, Healing, or the sudden influx of monies, goods, or knowledge.

Mint (Mentha spp.) The Herb is easily grown and readily dominates moist ground. Strong infusions are an excellent feature of a cleansing brew or as an adjunct with other Herbs. Peppermint and Spearmint are very easily found, the former being somewhat more aggressive in magical action. Infuse 80 grams of the fresh, chopp'd Herb in 1 litre of boiling water for twenty minutes, using a plant press to press the marc dry.

Orange (Citrus aurantium). For the purpose of an enchanted Bath, three parts needs concern us. The first is the fragrant leaf, whose goodness reaches its peak just prior to flowering. These leaves, crush'd, steeped in cold water, added to the bath, promote much of the same simultaneous relaxation and stimulation as does Lavender, but with a Solar, rather than a Mercurial, emphasis. 150-200 grams of the fresh leaves, mashed in a solitary litre of lukewarm or cool water, suffices to provoke a most pleasant perfume. The gentle flowers, also called Neroli, may be added to the Bath in the quantity of 50-90 blossoms: it is recommended that they be added directly to the water, and their petals used to scrub the body. Their virtues tend toward Beauty, Invigoration, Fortification, and Lust. The rind of the fruit also possesses much virtue and may be made into a hot infusion, to bring Joviality or thwart rude spirits. Employ 100 grams of the rind, steeped in 1 litre of boiling water for 30 minutes. Scrupulously avoid using citrus Essential Oils in the bath: it can irritate the Derma and increase photosensitivity.

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium). Another True Mint, Pennyroyal exceeds in cleansing virtue both Spearmint and Peppermint, and possesses a vigilant warrior Genius which gleefully annihilates flocculum abomini. In this, she is best used as an Asperge, Wash or Mist. Similar in many ways to Hyssop, her principles are well-retain'd in tincture, though infusions are also impeccable. The sorcerer is enjoin'd to employ the whole herb when flowering, as the blossoms provide added banishing vigour, without compromising the integrity of the Leaf. 50 grams of well-leav'd infloresences, cut and mashed, steep'd in a litre of boiling water for twenty minutes, yields a masterful infusion. As the Herb has strong action on the Womb, baths of Pennyroyal should be avoided by pregnant women as a general precaution. Pennyroyal gives a fine tincture, especially in ethanol exceeding the proof of 100.

Pericon (Tagetes lucida). Decoctions of the fragrant plant have been used for healing and purifying baths, but it is difficult to procure outside Mexico. As this is an Herb with a potent and varied magical pedigree, seeds are worth seeking, so invite this marvelous Green Spirit into the magical garden. A decoction may be made using 50 grams of the fresh, chopped herb, including the stems and whole blossoms, in one litre of water. Boil and simmer in a covered vessel for 5 minutes, allowing the decoction to sit off the fire for an additional ten minutes. Of greater excellence is a strong infusion, employing 100 leaves steeped in 350 millilitres of boiling water.

Pine (Pinus spp.). To convoke the genii of the Imaginal Mind, an invigorating Bath may be made with the young shoots. Several handfuls, after they have been truly ground, may be add'd to the hot bathwater some minutes before 'immer- sion. For a Balneum of superior strength, simmer 65 grams of fresh, chopp'd Pine needles in 1.5 litres of water for 20 minutes; strain, and add to bath.

Rose (Rosa spp.). A warm or cold infusion of the petals may be used for Ablutions of Fortification, that is to say, beautification, and the gentle but potent repair of injured psychic structures. Rose may also be employed in the magical manner of Balm of Gilead, a rare and precious resin now virtually impossible to obtain, known for its powers of consolation to the Heart. Roses may be used fresh or in the form of Rose Water; Rose Absolute may augment the Balneum in the quantity of a half dozen to ten drops in the hot water. Rose water is a supreme Asperge, especially for purposes of Consecration, and may be used in the form of a Mist. Rose water or Hydrosol are readily available. A Compound'd Mist may be made using the Standard Formula with 4 drops Otto of Rose.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis). In general, this Herb has a strong and ancient association with mankind, and has serv'd as an Ally in many Endeavours. It is abhorrent to most Foul Spirits and entirely appropriate for their dispersion. For treating nervous conditions, a bath made with the fragrant Leaves, has been much esteem'd, and if flowers be gathered in sufficient quantity, their powers exceed that of the Leaves by a factor of three. A hearty infusion is generated of 70 grams of chopp'd sprigs to 800 millilitres of boiling water, steeped for half an hour. Better still is the Essential Oil, extracted by one's own cunning or obtain'd from a good distiller. A Compound Mist of Rosemary is made by dissolving 40 drops of Essential Oil of Rosemary in a single fluid ounce of Perfumer's Alcohol, then adding 80 ml. of distill'd water. This may be mixed and added to the Atomizer. To commune with Rosemary Spirits, retire at sunset to a candlelit bath chamber, drawing the hottest water possible. Burn dried rosemary leaves and wood continually as an incense of beckoning pleasing to the plant. Into the water pour two litres of masterfully-strong decoction of the plant's leaves and flowers, as well as five large Rosemary branches, freshly cut, leaving some hardwood and greenwood stem in the water. Immerse into this Fragrant Potion, covering as much of the body as possible, beckoning the plant as the Mind is subsumed by Green Reverie.

Rue (Ruta gravaeolens). Rue has an ancient magical pedigree of exorcism and protection from Maleficia, especially the Evil Eye. Baths of strong Rue infusions are useful for persons harass'd in the night hours by unwanted spirits. Conversely, in some streams of popular lore, sorcerers of malign intent utilized Rue in potions to effect destructive magic. Our Herb works as a hot infusion, added to a hot bath, or a cold infusion, kneaded in water and poured over the body. For the former, steep 50 grams of Rue in 1.5 litres of boiling water for 30 minutes, then strain and add to the bath. For a cold bath, knead 65 grams of fresh Rue in 2-3 litres of water in the Ritual Bowl for 20-30 minutes, invoking the Genius of the Herb as the leaves are shredded. This philtre should then be poured solemnly over head and body in small cupfuls. As an herbal medicament Rue possesses abortifacient properties; pregnant women should avoid a Balneum with strong Rue content, as it may adversely affect some sensitive individuals.

Sage (Salvia officinalis). Harvested fresh, well-steep'd, strained and added to the Bath, Culinary Sage is an impeccable friend for the magical purposes of Illumination. Of the fresh or dried leaves, one should steep 55 grams in a litre of boiling water. It is advised that for longer, more deeply-focused Baths, one may wish to burn the dried leaves as an accompanying incense. Sage wood and twigs contain additional virtues especially suited for Determination and Focus; these may be decocted in a ratio of 30-50 grams of the twigs to 1 litre of water. Other Sage species, while their Genii vary considerably, are also appropriate for Illuminating and Fortifying Work, such as White Sage (Salvia apiana); Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans); and Black Sage (Salvia mellifera), the latter resonating with Cain of the Forge.

Sagebrush (Artemisia spp.). Verily, without doubt, and truly: Our Gray Lady of the Waste is a peerless Ally for driving off rank Ghosts of Offense. Numerous species of desert Artemisia are all known as Sagebrush. A number of North American nations used various species of wild sagebrush as a cleansing bath, sometimes following the Sun Dance, or in sweat lodges. Many tribes burned the plant at the beginning of ceremonies, to both purify and "open the ways". A philtre from the Herb may be made by way of Solar infusion: put 40 grams of the fresh Herb into a 1-litre jar, fill with water, and allow to steep in the sun at least 5 hours. This should then be strain'd and used at room temperature to wash the body, much in the manner of Rue. For a traditional bath, steep 60 grams of the fresh Herb in a litre of boiling water for 20 minutes. Strain and add to bath.

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum). Prior to entering situations in which one will assuredly be under spiritual attack, a Balneum of Sassafras Leaves will provide a protective armour. Use 40 grams of the dried leaves steeped in 1 litre of boiling water for 45 minutes, or better still, knead 80 leaves in 3 litres of cold water. The bark is also efficacious; decoct 20 grams in 750 millilitres of water for 20 minutes. Avoid the Essential Oil for all but the most powerful Asperges.

Spruce (Picea spp.). A strong decoction of 75 grams of the fresh, pulverized shoots may be added to the hot water of the Balneum; in this way the Genius of the plant will especially grant the powers of Illumination. Such baths with Spruce are naturally balancing to the body's streams of power, and stimulate the nerves. Virtuous floor-washes can be brewed with Branches of Spruce for purifying funerary rites, keeping the ghost of the deceased from lingering. In Sweden, Spruce needles are placed as a Ward outside a church to keep trolls away. The fresh leaves, chopped and beaten, may be drown'd in Perfumer's Alcohol for one lunation, yielding an Emerald Essence of great savour to the Nose and Spirit. The beneficence of this Philtre where routing septic spiritual matter is concern'd is readily demonstrated. Strong infusions or decoctions of Spruce, also excel as asperges prior to collective works of magic.

Tobacco (Nicotiana spp.). Decoctions or infusions of varying strengths may be used. The chief powers lent are the attraction of Beneficent Spirits, the type of which may be of aid in all manner of sorcery, but particularly those imparting informations from the depths of the Astral Well; or those promoting the increase of Wealth. Those bearing the Arms of the Warrior are advised that one may also conjure, with Our Good Leaf, the principalities resonant with the acts of Conquest and Acquisition, or Mars in Good Favour with Saturn. For ablutions, the preferr'd method is to employ 65 grams of the fresh leaves, knead'd in 2 litres of cold water, steeping for half an hour, then employ'd in a cold bath.

Valerian (Valeriana officianalis). A strong decoction of the fragrant, chopped Root may be employed for a Purification or Relaxation bath. Use 20 grams of the dried Root to 750 millilitres of water, simmered for 20 minutes. If, by the good graces of the spirits, the plant dwells within thy Medicine Garden, there is no more pleasant a Root-Bath than that freshest radix given us by Valeriana; 33 grams, mashed well, infused into a 450 millilitres of hot water, and a similar amount infused in cold water, adding both to the bath.

Vervain ( Verbena spp.). A certain folk potion of Old known as Juno's Tears was made from Vervain steeped in water; the resulting extraction was used for house-cleansing, and possessed an uncanny aptitude for chasing Noxious Spirits. When the fresh plant is employ'd, a quantity of flowering tops in the amount of 30 grams should be used, well-steeped in 800 millilitres of boiling water for half an hour. The herb merchant generally sells Vervain in its dried form, the Leaf being cut and sifted, but with blossoms absent. Of dried Vervain, use 45 grams in a litre of boiling water, steeped 30 minutes.

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium spp.). A fragrant plant of the Sunflower kin, Our Herb makes a fine restorative Balneum. 50 grams of the plant, with fresh, flowering tops preferred, steeped in one and one half litres of boiling water for the space of 20 minutes, creates an ablution that aids in helping the Flights of Mind achieve concrescence. In accordance, this bath is esteemed for divination, wherein Spirit becomes flesh in the form of a Hallow'd Sign. All Artemisia species are hallowed unto Lilith, and especially Dragon Worwmood (Artemisia dracunculus), known to the vulgar as Tarragon. According to lore, this plant sprouted on the ground trodden by the Crafty Old Serpent after he was expel- I'd from the Garden. Dragon Wormwood and Absinthe Wormwood are both appropriate herbs for dedicatory baths unto Liliya.”

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‘5: Of The Balneum Sagax’

Ars Philtron:

Concerning the Aqueous Cunning of the Potion and its Praxis in the Green Arte Magical

by Daniel A. Schulke