Green Witch with Sprinkles

I'd Love To Be A Fairy's Child

2012-03-05T03:20:00.021-06:00

I'd Love to Be A Fairy's Child

by Robert Graves

Children born of fairy stock
Never need for shirt or frock,
Never want for food or fire,
Always get their heart's desire:
Jingle pockets full of gold,
Marry when they're seven years old.
Every fairy child may keep
Two strong ponies and ten sheep;
All have houses, each his own,
Built of brick or granite stone;
They live on cherries, they run wild--
I'd love to be a Fairy's child.

Wishing you a day of enchantment.

---Mina

Image Source: Tumblr

Spring Awakening

2012-03-03T19:29:00.000-06:00

Yesterday a tornado landed within 5 miles of our home. I cannot tell you how grateful we are that it came no closer, nor how awful I feel for those who didn't fare as well.

This has been an unusually warm winter in Tennessee. I only saw one light snowfall, which immediately melted when it touched the ground. Though the calender says it is still winter, King is convinced the return of spring has arrived. How can I question such a wise face?

And the proof is everywhere. Purple Deadnettles blanket the field as far as the eyes can see...

Clustered along the yard are Birdfoot Violet...

Shortpod Whitlow Grass...

And random buttercups...

The flower garden is awakening with Vinca...

baby Round Lobed Liverleaf...

and Variegated Periwinkle...

Overall, I'd say he's a pretty smart fellow.

May your own awakening be one of value and reward.

"Idun" image from Photobucket

My March article came out in Pagan Pages and you can link to it here. It is titled, "The Norse Goddess Idun", who is a Scandinavian Spring Goddess. If you have a chance to read it, I hope you enjoy it.
---Mina

March 2012 Moon Correspondence

2012-02-29T17:31:00.000-06:00

Full Moon - 8th

Last Quarter - 14th

New Moon - 22nd

First Quarter - 30th

The March moon is known as Storm Moon, Seed Moon, Moon of Winds, Plow Moon, Worm Moon, Hrethmonath (Hertha's Month), Lentzinmanoth (Renewal Month), Lenting Moon, Sap Moon, Crow Moon and Moon of the Snowblind.

Nature Spirits: Mer-people; Air and Water beings who are connected with spring rains and storms

Herbs: broom, high John root, yellow dock, wood betony, Irish moss

Colors: pale green, red violet

Flowers: jonquil, daffodil, violet

Scents: honeysuckle, apple blossom

Stones: aquamarine, bloodstone

Trees: alder, dogwood

Animals: cougar, hedgehog, boar

Bird: sea crow, sea eagle

Deities: Black Isis, The Morrigan, Hecate, Astarte, Athene, Minerva, Artemis and Luna

Power Flow: Growing, prospering, exploring, new beginnings, balance of Light and Dark, breaking illusions

---Mina
Image Source: Desk Top Wallpapers

Kitty Wisdom from Herger

2012-02-28T07:50:00.012-06:00

It's all in the attitude.
---Mina

My Valentine Win and a Sweet Surprise

2012-02-26T16:55:00.000-06:00

My wonderful friend, Sue at Wicked Faerie Queen had a very generous Valentine's giveaway and I was the ever so lucky winner!

This gorgeous Valentine's Day Corset pillow is from her Etsy, Wicked Faerie Queen. And may I add that as of this posting, it is on sale. Ooo-laa-laa ladies!

She also included 2 absolutely stunning handmade Alice In Wonderland greeting cards with matching envelopes...

and...

An exquisite array of vintage jewelry and additional handmade felt Valentine ornaments...

An adorable set of Mary Engelbreit greeting cards and envelopes...

AND, one of my very favorite witchy images with a very special green witch with sprinkles touch, which will be framed by week's end...

Thank you so much for your kind generosity, Sue! Everything is so beautiful and much treasured.

I also want to thank my lovely friend, Oma Linda at Olde Baggs 'n Stuft Shirts for this beautiful Valentine lavender sachet that I received a few weeks ago. Not only is it adorable, it smells heavenly.

Thank you so much for this precious surprise, Linda.

Both of these ladies are very special people and it you have not met them, do yourself a favor and stop in. May they enrich your lives as they have my own.

Hugs to all,
---Mina

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-22T14:28:00.000-06:00

And just for Miss Oma Linda...

May your day be filled with tender moments.
---Mina

Image Sources:
Colt - Fine Art America
Elephant - edge of the Plank
Bear - Photosfan
Lions - Clark Vision

Donkey - Utterly Cute

My February Birthday Loves

2012-02-16T07:46:00.104-06:00

February is certainly the month of Aquarius in my home. My beautiful daughter, the Lovely Ms. M. celebrated her birthday last Saturday, the 11th, and my wonderful hubby celebrates his tomorrow, the 17th. Please join me in wishing these two very special people, who help to make my life the beautiful world it is, a very happy birthday.

And now that it has passed, I can share one of the gifts I got for my daughter from my wonderful friend, Sharon at Plumrose Lane. When I saw this gorgeous piece it was love at first sight...

Photo by Sharon at Plumrose Lane

...but when I recieved it, I was simply awestruck. For as beautiful as it looks in this picture, in person it is a whole different treasure. The craftsmanship and quality far surpassed my expectations and Ms. M., who herself is a collector of fine stones, trinkets and handmade arts, actually gasped upon opening it right before she held it this way and that to admire it's beauty at every possible angle. SHE LOVED IT, SHARON!!!

Now I must also tell you that Sharon, being the beautiful and generous person she is, not only shipped my purchase, but also included these stunning earrings as a gift for me...

Photo by Sharon at Plumrose Lane

Oh, I know...I drooled too. They are exquisite, aren't they? If you'd like to spend time browsing through some serious eye candy, you can find her Etsy, here. Thank you so much Sharon. I deeply appreciate your kindness and your friendship.

Sending many hugs and well wishes to all.
---Mina
Image Source - Kagaya Aquarius from Wallpaper Web

February Swaps

2012-02-12T17:18:00.000-06:00

This month I was lucky enough to participate in 2 wonderful swaps.

The first, The Heart and Flower Valentine Tin Swap was hosted by my precious friend, Wendy at Bliss Angels. For this swap we used Altoid tins and altered them into a Valentines theme.

My partner was Marti at Artful Curiosities and here is the gorgeous tin she sent to me, which included a beautiful banner that spelled out L-o-v-e...

And here is the tin I sent to Marti...

Thank you so much, Marti. Your work is simply stunning!

The Second swap was the Be My Valentine Swap hosted by my lovely friend JoAnne at Vintage Dragonfly. Now this swap was a bit trickier. We had to alter a 32 count matchbox (think tiny) and make 3 ATC's to fit inside the box.

My partner, Karla at Sketchbooks ATC's Mail Art did a fantastic job with these beautiful miniature treasures...

This is what I sent to Karla...

Thank you so much Karla. I love everything you sent.

I want to thank Wendy and JoAnne for including me in these amazingly fun endeavors. Happy Valentine's to all!
---Mina

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T07:04:00.000-06:00

Wishing you all things that warm your heart.
---Mina

How Do I Love Thee

2012-02-06T04:00:00.006-06:00

How Do I Love Thee?

by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

How do I love thee?

Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with a passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with the breath,
Smiles, tears, of all my life! --- and, if God choose,
I shall but love thee better after death.

Thank you to the following people for use of their free images -Vintage couple from vintageholidaycrafts.com, pink heart pin from itkupilliinthecityofangels.blog, flowers and leaves from freevintageimages.blog.

---Mina

An Adorable Award

2012-02-05T15:35:00.000-06:00

My Dear friend Amy at Art From the Heart tagged me with this precious award. Amy is a very talented mixed-media artist with a beautiful blog. If you get a chance, stop by and say hello. Thank you so much Amy and I could easily award it right back to you!

About the award

'Liebster' is German for 'dearest'. The award is a 'share-the-love' arrangement, given to inspirational bloggers with less than 200 followers.

The rules

1) Show your thanks to the blogger who nominated you for the award by linking back to them.

2) List your 5 choices for the award and don`t forget to let them know.

3) Post the award on your blog.

4) Feel the support from your fellow bloggers

5) Have fun and enjoy spreading the love!

Choosing only five other bloggers to pass this award to is just far too limiting, and since so many blogs I love already have over 200 followers, this time I am going to wish you all an early happy Valentine's Day. Please accept this award, spread the love and have a beautiful week.

---Mina

Take A Word Challenge - Regal

2012-02-02T18:57:00.048-06:00

The challenge word for this week at Take a Word is Regal...

"There is no worse death than the end of hope."
~ King Arthur

Sword in the stone from missgien.net, falcon from Google search; Crown resting on sword from Alpha-Wings set from Plumrose Lane, Princess from Seduced by History.

Blessed Imbolc/Disting To All

2012-02-02T04:51:00.016-06:00

May the promise of the coming spring shed light upon your souls and peace within your lives. Wishing many blessings to you my friends.
---Mina

Image Source - Hedgedruid

A Wonderful Win

2012-02-01T04:04:00.000-06:00

I won this gorgeous Domino Book from my precious friend and artist, JoAnne at Vintage Dragonfly, I am amazed at how it can be so tiny, (yes the ends are actually dominoes), yet be so full of beauty...

Image from JoAnne at Vintage Dragonfly

Here is a picture of it opened along with an adorable Valentine ATC and card she included in my package though my photo really does not do it justice.

I have to admit that all through the Christmas season I kept adoring her Domino Book so when JoAnne announced she was putting it in her giveaway, I had all fingers and toes crossed and even wrote the day she would announce it on my calendar. Yay for me! Thank you so much, JoAnne!
---Mina

February 2012 Moon Correspondences

2012-01-30T16:56:00.000-06:00

"Where Moonbeams Fall" by Josephine Wall

Full Moon - 7th

Last Quarter - 14th

New Moon - 21st

First Quarter - 29th

The February Moon is known as Storm Moon, Horning Moon, Hunger Moon, Wild Moon, Red & Cleansing Moon, Quickening Moon, Solmonath (Sun Month) and Big Winter Moon.

Nature Spirits: House fairies, both of the home itself and of house plants

Herbs: balm of Gilead, hyssop, myrrh, sage, spikenard

Colors: light blue, violet

Flowers: primrose

Scents: wisteria, heliotrope

Stones: amethyst, jasper, rock crystal

Trees: rowan, laurel, cedar

Animals: otter, unicorn

Birds: eagle, chickadee

Dieties: All female dieties and the disir

Power Flow: energy working toward the surface; purification, growth, healing, loving the self. Accepting responsibility for past errors, forgiving yourself, and making future plans.

---Mina

Surprise Gift in the Mail

2012-01-29T16:01:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago when I was not feeling well, I received the sweetest surprise in the mail from my lovely friend, Stacy at Magic Love Crow....

I was filled with so much warmth to find these in my mailbox with a card that stated she did not like me feeling sick and was sending me smiles. Well it certainly worked! How can anyone help but smile when looking at her baby crow art?

If you'd like to have one (or 5) of your own, you can visit her Etsy here, which is filled with sweet crow loves just waiting to go to new homes. Thank you so much Stacy! You are such a special soul.
---Mina

Wordless Wednesday - Endangered Species

2012-01-25T04:43:00.052-06:00

All things bright and beautiful,

All creatures great and small...

---Cecil F. Alexander, 1848

Calydorea coelestina, Bartram's ixia - image from Florida Native Plant Society

Monarch - image from Digital Journal

Barn Owl image from Rebates Green

The Gray Wolf image from Just Animals

Coral image from Reef Tools

The Green Sea Turtle - image from Buzzle.com

Beluga Whale - image from L.A. Times Greenspace

May we all appreciate that which is right before us, before it is gone.
---Mina

New Additions to My Etsy

2012-01-23T10:07:00.005-06:00

My beautiful daughter, the lovely Ms. M, has outdone herself with these most recent additions to my Etsy Shop, Familiar Creations by Mina.

This ceremonial rattle's intricate design is hand painted using natural henna. It measures approx 5” in diameter at its widest point, 2.25" at the smallest, and stands 10" tall.

This second ceremonial rattle measures approx 6.50” in diameter, stands 9" tall and is also hand painted using a natural henna.

These items are ideal for decorative art, drum circles, rituals, altars or other earth spirituality practices, particularly with intent to connect with spirit, or healing needs.

Blessings to all.
---Mina

Tag Anyone?

2012-01-21T07:49:00.000-06:00

Over the past week I have been tagged by the following lovely bloggers -

Aw at My Life As I Know It
The Cauldron Keeper at A Cauldron Full of Stars
Storybook and Pyper at Every Magical Day

11 random things about myself -
1. One of my favorite things about living in the country is going outside at night and clearly seeing a star-filled night
2. Next to my home, the woodlands are my favorite place
3. I don't like sudden movement or loud noises
4. I love boots. Particularly ones that lace up and have a witchy look to them.
5. I have lupus which ebbs and flows, so when it ebbs I try to squeeze in every ounce of life that I am able
6. My family is the base of my foundation
7. Dancing takes me to a place of spirit where I meet complete freedom
8. Solitude energizes me
9. Going out to the movies is as fun for me now as when I was a child
10. I believe life is as beautiful as it is tragic
11. I would love to have a hot fudge sundae right at this moment...with extra whipped cream and 2 cherries. ;-)

I am supposed to answer 11 questions from each tagger but since there were 3 taggers and I would like for you to stay awake during this post, I am going to answer #4, #8 and #11 from each.

From Aw

What is your favorite website? Why? The Animal Rescue Site - With just a simple click, you can help feed and obtain care for these beautiful animals who are really in need. This is an amazing organization.

Do you have pets? What are they and their names? I have a very sweet black cat named Herger, a beautiful German Shepherd named King and a super loveable husband that I sometimes call Sweet Cheeks. ;-)

What is your favorite drink (alcohol or otherwise) Pepsi over crushed ice

From The Cauldron Keeper

If you could go back in time, which person would you most like to shake and say "What were you thinking?!" My aunt when she married a man she'd only known 2 months

Fantasy Vacation? Deep in the forest within the realm of faeries, gnomes, pixies and sprites, where the air is perpetually spring

What book would you most love to see brought to life (through movie making or literally? This one has me stumped. I enjoy so many books. I do think that "The Stupidest Angel" by Christopher Moore would be a funny movie - in a Shakespearean comedy of errors sort of way.

From Storybook and Pyper

Do you prefer Lemons or Limes? Limes...with a touch of tequila please

City or Country? I am a country girl hands down

What is your favorite children’s movie? Beauty and the Beast

And now I will tag 11 ladies...

Stacy at Magic Love Crow
Susan at The Oakes Place
Ann at Ann's Imagination Creations
Marfi at Incipient Wings
Lydia at Mama's Thyme
Sharon at Plumrose Lane
Shelle at Sunshine Shelle
Danni at The Whimsical Cottage
Sue at Wicked Faerie Queen
Moncha at Magpie Hollow
Elle at Elle's Bits and Bobs

To answer the following 11 questions. (And please, if you do not want to play along, no pressure. It is all just for fun.)

1. If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
2. Last book you read?
3. What inspires you?
4. chocolate or vanilla?
5. If you could have one magical ability, what would it be?
6. Do you dance?
7. Do you prefer one on one acquaintances or large social groups?
8. Favorite food?
9. What is your favorite season?
10. What is your pet peeve?
11. If you could live in any era, which would it be?

Happy Saturday!
---Mina

Image Source: inspiredbystampin.com

Quote for the Day

2012-01-20T11:31:00.000-06:00

"If you judge people,

you have no time to love them."

---Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Image Source - maisyagatha.com

Wordless Wednesday - Into the Wild

2012-01-18T11:34:00.000-06:00

May you enjoy the blessings of each new day.
---Mina

A Huge Thank You and the Sweetest Surprise

2012-01-15T14:06:00.000-06:00

First I want to extend my sincerest gratitude for all of your beautiful get well wishes, emails, cards, candles, healing energy and prayers. There could not be a better circle of friends than those I have found through blogging. I am feeling better, maybe not quite as much as that lovely fairy above, but I will get there!

Now before I go any further I must show you all that wonderful surprise that I received in my email a few weeks ago. This is from my precious friend , Susan at The Oakes Place and The Adventures of Old Alice. Susan, I post this with great pride...

Well you can imagine how humbled and speechless I was when she told me that she made this award especially for me. It is equally beautiful in artistic quality and sentiment. If you have a chance, please go by and visit this lovely lady who's heart is so giving. Thank you so much, Susan.

I am so behind and still trying to catch up on my visits so if you have not heard from me yet, don't give up on me. I am having to pull out my broom and clean the dust off. ;-) Warm hugs to all.
---Mina

Image Source: Dancing Fairies by Jana Schirmer

A Bit of a Rest and a Soon Return

2012-01-08T16:18:00.000-06:00

I want to stop in for a moment to tell all of my lovely friends that I am away for a short while due to illness. I have fallen so behind on reading your wonderful blogs but will catch up as soon as I am able.

I also received a very beautiful surprise in my email last week from Susan at The Oakes Place. I promise to tell all about it on my next post when I am feeling stronger.

In the meantime, I am off to the land of Good Faeries of Green Gardens. It is a special place where all green witches with sprinkles go to heal. See you soon!
---Mina
Image Source: "A Fairy Garden Nap" by Tamara at Deviantart

Wordless Wednesday - Almost

2012-01-04T07:20:00.000-06:00

Wishing you all a wonderful Wednesday!
---Mina

A Special Award from a Special Friend and New Beginnings

2012-01-02T15:28:00.000-06:00

My precious friend, Orchid at Orchid's Daily Voice, honored me with this wonderful award. Thank you so much, Orchid. You are a treasure to the entire blogging community.

As with all awards I am supposed to choose a certain number of bloggers to pass this on to. However, I am going to follow the lead of Stacy at Magic Love Crow and tell all of you who are reading this post, to please accept this award for your own blogs. You all deserve it. (See what a trend setter you are Stacy?) :-)

Also, my monthly column, Musings From the Mossy Trail came out January 1st in Pagan Pages ezine. This month my article is titled, "New Beginnings." If you have a few minutes to go by and read it, I hope you enjoy it.

May we all be blessed with the newness of each day.
---Mina

Riding in the New Year Witchy Style

2011-12-31T17:00:00.000-06:00

Some might say December 31st is too cold to be out joy riding on a motorcycle. But hubby and I? Well, we are made of tougher stuff than that. Okay, it was 60 degrees and the sun was out. ;-)

It was a beautiful day to just ride around our neighborhood...

And soak up the early winter beauty...

To feel free like the hawk that flew overhead...

With my arms wrapped around the man I love...

Thankful for all the times I reached for the sky...

And was welcomed with unconditional love...

May your new year be filled with prosperity, hope, peace and enough love to fill your entire being.
---Mina

Take A Word Challenge - Print

2011-12-27T20:50:00.000-06:00

The challenge word for this week at Take a Word is Print...

"Follow your dreams, for as you dream you shall become."
- Khalil Gibran

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T03:01:00.021-06:00

Sweet Herger the Christmas Kitty (he refused to wear the beard)

May your Christmas be filled with the warmth and splendor of the holiday season.
---Mina

My Birthday Boy

2011-12-23T21:36:00.000-06:00

Today my precious King turned 10 years old so we spent the day doing his favorite things.

First we went for a ride...

When we got home, he ate, took a nap (along with his momma) and then we took a leisurely walk through the woodlands...

After all of that, my boy was tired so we returned to the house to rest...

Happy birthday, my sweet King. You have enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined and I love you dearly.
---Mina

Happy Winter Solstice/Yule

2011-12-22T09:26:00.000-06:00

May we all be reborn in the light of the sun. Wishing you and yours a magical Yuletide season.
---Mina
Image Source: "Snow Queen" by Josephine Wall

Christmas Cheer Tin Swap

2011-12-19T04:40:00.009-06:00

My good friend Wendy at Bliss Angels hosted a Christmas Cheer Tin Swap for all of us elves this holiday season and I had so much fun participating.

My partner was Donnely at BlueRose Goddess Arts, who was also sweet enough to let me use her pictures for this post. (One year Santa will send me a new camera or photography lessons.)

This is the elegantly crafted nest she transformed from her tin. So very lovely...

And this is the front and back of the tin I sent her...

And the inside with a few tags I made for her...

Thank you so much Donnely! I love my tin. And thank you Wendy for bringing us such joyous swaps.

Sending holiday blessings to all!
---Mina

Steam Tea Travel Christmas Journey

2011-12-18T05:42:00.000-06:00

Once again it's time to link up with Plush Possum Studio and Steam Tea Travels for some magical time traveling to 19th century London.

We have been honored with an invitation from the ladies of the prestigious Hangar Club to join them as they journey in Dr. Algie Crupper's newest invention, The Pneumatic Passenger Subterranean Transport Conveyance, a secret subway experiment. (Certainly not recommended for the faint of heart!)

So lets all wrap in warm winter coats...

Circa 1898

And have our travel trunks ready...

For our adventure awaits us here.
---Mina

Image Sources:

Background by Mevica on Devianart; Dress from Metropolitan Museum of Art; Goggles from 1800 Recycling; Boots from Clockwork Couture; Hat made of many pieces; Coat is from the Dreamstress and trunks from 1818 Auctioneers

And the Winners are...

2011-12-17T07:37:00.000-06:00

The winner of the bracelet from the Witches Yuletide Ball is...

True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result: 12

Ann at Ann's Imagination Creation! Yay, Ann! I will email you soon for your mailing information.

The winner of the adorable witchy apron from Andrea at Goddess and Magic is...

True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result: 2

Linda at Olde Baggs n Stuft Shirts! Yay! I will email you soon for your information!

Thank you all for entering and congratulations to the lovely winners. Have a wonderful weekend.
---Mina
Image Source: "Christmas Elf" by Marka

There's Still Time...

2011-12-16T11:26:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday to all! Just a little reminder that there is still time to enter my giveaway for the charm bracelet from The Witches Yuletide Ball (link here) and the Witchy Apron giveaway from Andrea at Goddess and Magic and myself (link here). The winners will be drawn tomorrow, Saturday, December 17th. Good luck to everyone!
---Mina

Image Source - "Yuletide Joy" by Melissa Dawn at Deviantart

Wordless Wednesday - Why We Love Them So

2011-12-14T11:11:00.000-06:00

May your day be filled with unconditional love.
---Mina

One Year Blogaversary Winner and An Extra Surprise

2011-12-11T15:21:00.001-06:00

I want to thank everyone for leaving me such lovely comments and well wishes on my First Blogaversary post. You are all truly wonderful and a blessing to my life.

There were 24 entries and I wish so badly I could send everyone something but I am still waiting for that lottery win. So the winner of "The Green Witch Herbal", lavender pouch, a new wand and a few little extras is...

True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result: 2

Congratulations to Magaly at Pagan Culture! Woo-hoo! I will contact you shortly for mailing information.

Now for an extra surprise...how about another giveaway?

A few months ago Andrea at Goddess and Magic gifted me with this beautifully magical apron ...

Full view

Bib - look at that detailed stitching!

Large pockets!

The reason I have not shared until now is because Andrea offered to make another to give away to one of our lovely followers and asked me to partner in it. How could I say no to such an offer??? Yes, my friends here is an opportunity to win one for yourself. What you must do to enter is simple -

1. Be a follower of Andrea at Goddess and Magic - link here
2. Leave a comment on her blog saying "I love your witchy apron"
3. Be a follower of mine and leave a comment on this post telling me you left the message on hers.

I will draw a winner next Saturday on December 17th.

Good luck, my lovely friends and thank you for a glorious year of blogging!
---Mina
Image source: smashinghub

The Witches Yuletide Ball

2011-12-10T05:21:00.264-06:00

Welcome to my Witches Yuletide Ball hosted by Dana at On the Broomstick and Tenae at The Witch of Howling Creek. And how wonderful that these ladies chose to have our celebration on the night of the full moon! Please, do come in.

Everyone has their own special celebrations at Yuletide and one thing that has remained a constant in our family through good times and bad times, was the traditional feeding of the wildlife; a ritual performed each of the changing seasons.

This ongoing tradition began when I was a child. My mother, grandmother, Izzy and I sat at the kitchen table with bowls of grapes, popcorn, cranberries, apples, grandmother's quilting thread and needles, and thimbles.

With these supplies we created garlands which we then used to decorate our outdoor trees and from the windows we would watch the birds, squirrels and occasional chipmunk eat on the small bits of delicacies.

We also smeared peanut butter on pine cones and rolled them in bird seed to hang as ornaments. Below the tree we placed lettuce and carrots for rabbits, though I'm sure the squirrels ate that as well. ;-)

Each year in late fall mother overwintered the garden with vetch not only to protect our soil and add nitrogen, but to also feed the deer.

Whatever your Yuletide traditions, old or new, may they fill your heart with the sacred spirit of kindness and generosity.

As a special thank you for coming by today I am giving away a lovely little Yuletide charm bracelet...

To enter my giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment stating your interest. I will pick the winner next Saturday, December 17th. (For those of you who signed up for my one year blogaversary giveaway, I know I said I would draw the name today but I got my dates mixed up and will be drawing that name tomorrow, December 11th. Please be sure to stop back by as I will also have another surprise.)

Please be sure to visit the main page of the sign up post here for a full listing of all the bloggers that have participated in the Yuletide Witches Ball. There are some wonderful ideas, art and giveaways to be found.

With love and blessings,
---Mina

Wordless Wednesday - Vintage Christmas Greetings

2011-12-07T18:40:00.000-06:00

Please take any you wish....

May your Christmas memories be filled with magic.

---Mina

Image Sources: Magical Graphics, Photobucket, Art Books Tea,

Yule Correspondences

2011-12-05T06:27:00.126-06:00

Plants/Herbs: Mistletoe, Balsam, Holly, Pine Cones, Pine Needles, Oak Leaves, Fir, Birch, Hazel Bark, Sandalwood, Ivy, Comfrey, Elder, Chamomile, Sunflower, Apple Leaf, Frankincense, Myrrh, Wintergreen, Dried Apple
Spices: Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Ginger
Incense/Oils: bayberry, pine, spruce, spice, cedar, cinnamon, frankincense, myrrh, carnation, rose
Candle colors: red, green, white, gold, silver
Gemstones: clear quartz, jet, ruby, diamond, garnet, alexandrite, kunzite, citrine, green tourmline, blue topaz, pearls
Symbols: Yule log, Evergreen boughs or wreaths, baskets of clove-studded fruits, a Poinsettia, Holiday Cactus

My monthly column, Musings From the Mossy Trail, came out December 1st in Pagan Pages ezine. This month I did an article titled, Making a Yule Log. If you have a few minutes to go by and read it, I hope you enjoy it.

May your day be filled with holiday blessings.
---Mina

Merry Christmas to Me

2011-12-03T18:30:00.000-06:00

Feast your eyes on this magical Christmas eye candy created by my wonderful friend, the very talented Maddy Rose at Santa and the Mrs. He is a one of a kind Paper Mache sculpture and stands about 10" tall.

Although a bit blurry, here is a closer look at that kind and gentle face...

These pictures do not do justice to the intricate detail and craftsmanship presented in this piece. His right hand pocket is filled with candy canes and a precious gingerbread cookie...

His left hand pocket holds a lovely green and white striped scarf...

His bag of goodies contains a raggedy Ann doll and 3 adorable puppies...

I fell in love with Maddy's work from the moment I found her beautiful blog and to actually have one of my own is a true blessing that I will treasure for all time.

If you want to fill your eyes and heart with more Christmas wonder, visit her blog and be sure to click on the North Pole Gift Shop link at the top of her home page or you can click here to visit her shop where she sells these wonderful Santas, Mrs Clause, Snow People, Nosse and even a delightful Baboushka.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend full of Christmas spirit.
---Mina

One Year Blogaversary Giveaway

2011-11-30T03:06:00.045-06:00

First I want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for your kind comments and emails on my illness. I am slowly gaining ground again and though it will take me awhile, I can't wait to catch up with everyone.

As I said in my last post, November 22nd was the anniversary of my 1st year in blogging. Yay! Not a day passes that I am not overwhelmed with gratitude for the acceptance and warm welcome I received from all of you. Truth be told, I still get excited when I get a new follower or a comment. I have been honored to not only make wonderful friends, but to meet some very special kindred souls. You know who you are. ;-)

To thank you all for your amazing support, kindness and inspiration, I am giving away one of my favorite go-to books, "The Green Witch Herbal."

Excerpt from Amazon.com -
"As we seek more natural alternatives to harsh synthetic products, we are learning a new and healthy respect for the traditional wisdom our ancestors took for granted. Women are rediscovering their foremothers' "green witchcraft"--the use of flowers, leaves, berries, roots, and barks in home and garden, for hygiene and beauty, for pleasure and for health. Now, that lore may be found in this modern source book of the domestic use of herbs. Full of practical advice and fascinating historical insights, this delightful book shows you how to tap into the astonishing power of plants and herbs.
Includes recipes for a variety of remedies and personal care products, and devotes a chapter to the creative use of herbs in the kitchen for cooking and as natural cleansers and disinfectants.
Griggs' best-selling and widely-praised Green Pharmacy is considered the standard work on the history of herbal medicine."

I will also include a pouch of lavendar grown in my garden...

...a wand from my shop and whatever else I can conjure up between now and the drawing.

To win, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post. I will be choosing a winner next Saturday, December 10th. Best of luck, my friends.

With deepest gratitude,
---Mina

Image Source: "The Fairy Queen" by Sophie Anderson, pittstate.edu

A Few More Days Away and a Blogaversary

2011-11-22T15:33:00.000-06:00

I had planned to take this little break from work over the holidays for some extra blogging fun but I have not been feeling quite up to par for some time and am afraid I need to rest a bit more. I will be away for a few more days but not long.

When I return, be ready for a Blogaversary giveaway! Yes, 1 year ago today, Green Witch With Sprinkles was born. I can't believe it myself.

And in the event I am not back before Thursday, I want to wish each of you a warm and beautiful Thanksgiving.
---Mina

Image source - "Hope of Thanksgiving" by gadgetgirl16 at Deviant Art

Happy Friday

2011-11-18T19:22:00.000-06:00

Our task must be to free ourselves... by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.

~Albert Einstein

Wishing you a beautiful weekend.
---Mina

Happy Birthday Wendy

2011-11-16T03:27:00.000-06:00

Today is the precious Wendy at Bliss Angels birthday. If you have a minute please go by to wish her a happy birthday. I know she'd love to hear from you. Thank you for everything, sweet Wendy.
---Mina

The Witch Is In

2011-11-14T02:30:00.010-06:00

Feast your eyes...

I was one of 9, yes I said 9, very lucky winners in Stacy at Magic Love Crow's Halloween giveaway. What makes this beautiful work of art so special, is I had marked it as a favorite on her Etsy shop, which can be found here and she sent it to me as a prize. When I opened it I just grinned from ear to ear. Stacy, your generosity is remarkable, my friend. Thank you so much.

Stacy is a genuine sweetheart. If you have not met her, you would be doing yourself a favor to take a few minutes for a visit. Though you'll probably find yourself wanting to stay a lot longer when she wraps you in that warm Canadian hospitality. Sending you a huge thank you and big hug, Stacy.

May all your wishes manifest.
---Mina

Steam Tea Travel

2011-11-12T05:17:00.175-06:00

Welcome to my first monthly Steam Tea Travel hosted by the lovely Rose at Plush Possum Studios. We have been invited to travel aboard the good airship HMAS Viola (Her Majesty's Air Ship Viola) for a Victorian high tea journey with a lighthearted Steampunk style. And where else to begin than the delightful vintage Paris...

We will have beautiful aerial views of the White Cliffs of Dover...

And The English Channel...

Leading to the famed City of Lights...

And that is just the beginning. I have my boots laced, my corset (loosened at bit) and my beaded handbag hanging from my gloved hand. So let's be seated among the other guests for music, delicacies and the finest ambiance attainable. Here is our entrance.

Have a magical journey.
---Mina

Image sources:
Steampunk Image: The lovely woman is from Ana at Free Vintage Images and everything else from Plush Possum Studio
White Cliffs of Dover: aerialphotographerkent
English Channel: Folkstone UK
City of Lights Paris:

In Honor of our Veterans

2011-11-11T03:05:00.030-06:00

Sending a very special thank you to all of the brave men and women who risk their lives every day in service to their countries. And to those who have paid the highest price...you will never be forgotten.
---Mina

Wordless Wednesday - Vintage Thanksgiving Greetings

2011-11-09T13:30:00.000-06:00

Please take any you wish....

May your day be filled with succulent blessings.
---Mina

Image Sources: Harvest House Primitives, Magic Moonlight Free Images and Wordplay Hubpages

November Additions to My Etsy Shop and an Update

2011-11-07T02:52:00.068-06:00

Gourd Offering Bowl 1106

This lovely Gourd Offering bowl is one of the newest additions to my Etsy shop, Familiar Creations by Mina. It is a delightfully petite bowl which stands 2 inches tall and is 3.5 inches in diameter.

Gourd Offering Bowl 1105

The second item measures 4 inches tall and is 6 inches in diameter. Both are painted in natural henna by my daughter, the lovely and talented Ms. M.

Uses:
Ideal for holding sand for zen garden meditations, candles or herbs and sacred items for offerings. This gourd bowl is sanded to a smooth luster, hand decorated and lined with black chalkboard paint so you can easily customize with your own personal words, symbols and images. Erase and redo as desired. Each one is unique.

And now for the update...

A few weeks ago I did a post to pass on information about a sweet horse named Dandy in need of a forever home. If you want to see the original post, link here. I could not believe the amazing comments and emails I received for information and/or suggestions, the prayers, the energy sent. Though I don't know the details I am pleased to let you all know that Dandy did find that home. Go Dandy! The blogging community is such a beautiful and powerful source. Thank you to all!
---Mina

An Online Christmas Craft Show Extraordinaire

2011-11-06T12:12:00.000-06:00

Mark you calendars for next weekend, November 11th, 12th & 13th! Old Road Primitives is hosting an "Old Fashioned Online Christmas Craft Show" where you will have the opportunity to purchase many original, one of a kind crafts from some very gifted artists. I can't wait to see what festive wares they will showcase!

Here is a list of the talented participants. Look closely, I think you may know a few...

Santa & the Mrs.

Happy shopping my friends!

---Mina

Image source -http://oldroadprimitives.blogspot.com/

Witches Tea Party Winner

2011-11-05T11:11:00.000-05:00

I want to thank everyone who came to my Witches Tea Party last Saturday and also to our gracious and sweet host, Anna at Frosted Petunias. I also want to thank my beautiful sister Izzy, who I called on my way home from work to get input on the poem I wanted to do for the post, offered a few lines, and got home to find the completed work in my email. You ARE the Queen of Everything, big sis and I love you.

Now for the winner of the cedar wand...

True Random Number Generator

Min:

Max:

Result: 36

SUSAN at PIECES OF FATE! Yay, Susan! Number 1104 is yours and I will contact you for your mailing information shortly.

Wishing you all a beautiful day.

---Mina

Image Source:

wall.alphacoders.com

A Late Halloween Post - Matchbox Swap

2011-11-03T05:10:00.004-05:00

Though I am a little late in posting this, I want to share the incredible items I received in my first Matchbox Swap hosted by my dear friend JoAnne at Vintage Dragonfly. The theme was Halloween and the criteria was to alter a 250 count matchbox and include 4 handmade items.

I was very blessed to be paired with the talented Victoria at Things I Learn From Bear. Let me apologize beforehand as the quality of my images are quite poor and do not give due justice to these beautiful items. My friends, I opened that overstuffed box and thought it was my birthday...

The Box...

And...

(In case you are wondering, no, this did not all fit in the matchbox!)

I almost hate to place what I sent her on the same post as it is so skimpy in comparison...

My box...

Um...Yes, this all did fit inside the matchbox ;-)

Thank you so much to both JoAnne and Victoria. You both are such lovely ladies and I was honored to take part in this swap.
---Mina

Dia de los Muertos

2011-11-02T03:09:00.042-05:00

Dia de los Muertos - A time of Remembrance.

Blessings to all on this sacred day.
---Mina
Image source: by Sylvia Ji from Tumblr

Happy November 1st

2011-11-01T03:11:00.077-05:00

Leaves

by Elsie N. Brady

How silently they tumble down
And come to rest upon the ground

To lay a carpet, rich and rare,

Beneath the trees without a care,
Content to sleep, their work well done,
Colors gleaming in the sun.

At other times, they wildly fly
Until they nearly reach the sky.
Twisting, turning through the air
Till all the trees stand stark and bare.
Exhausted, drop to earth below
To wait, like children, for the snow.

My monthly column, Musings From the Mossy Trail, came out today in Pagan Pages ezine. If you have a few minutes to go by and read it, I hope you enjoy it.

May your day be filled with colorful splendor.

---Mina

Image Source: whycharlestonwv.com

Poem Source: www.egreenway.com

Happy Halloween, Samhain, All Hallow's Eve

2011-10-31T03:10:00.007-05:00

Wishing you a safe and happy Halloween, Samhain, All Hallow's Eve. Blessings to all.
---Mina
Image Source - tapetus.pl.com

Witches Tea Party Under A Halloween Moon

2011-10-29T03:31:00.196-05:00

How wonderful to see you. Yes, that lovely aroma is cinnamon and cloves. Isn't it heavenly? I just finished the last of the baking and the water is nearly boiled. Please do come in and make yourself at home...

Under the moon,

A Halloween tea.

Welcome my darlings,

Come sit with me.

We’ll have some pie

And a bit of honey

We'll tell some tales

Now won’t that be yummy?

On All Hallows Eve

When the bright moon gleams

It’s a perfect time

To fuel your dreams.

So let’s hold hands

And dance ‘round the fire.

And chant a spell

For your heart’s desire.

Now come my darlings

And sit with me.

Under the moon

We’ll have Halloween tea.

Thank you for coming to my party and please join me in extending a huge thank you to our lovely host, Anna at Frosted Petunias. Don't forget to link here to go to a full listing of all of the other bloggers that have participated in this event. I'd hate for you to miss any delicious parties and revelry.

Before Herger and I fly over to your party I want to let you know that as a special thank you I am giving one winner a cedar wand from my Etsy shop, Familiar Creations by Mina. To enter all you have to do is visit my shop and come back here to tell me which one you would like, should your name be chosen. Please leave me a way to contact you, either a blog name or email address. I will announce the winner on November 5th. Gotta go, the broom is running. Good luck and magical blessings!
---Mina

November Moon Correspondence

2011-10-27T01:27:00.005-05:00

The November moon is known as Snow Moon, Dark Moon, Fog Moon, Beaver Moon, Mourning Moon, Blotmonath (Sacrifice Month), Herbistmanoth (Harvest Month), Mad Moon, Moon of Storms and Moon When Deer Shed Antlers.

Nature Spirits: Subterranean Fairies
Herbs: Grains of Paradise, Verbena, Betony, Borage, Cinquefoil, Blessed Thistle
Colors: gray, sea green
Flowers: Blooming Cacti, Chrysanthemum
Scents: cedar, cherry blossoms, hyacinth, narcissus, peppermint, lemon
Stones: topaz, lapis lazuli
Trees: Alder, Cypress
Animals: unicorn, scorpion, crocodile, jackal
Birds: owl, goose, sparrow
---Mina
Image Source: myhdwallpapers.net

A Little Halloween Humor

2011-10-26T14:09:00.000-05:00

May your day be filled with smiles.
---Mina

Halloween Image and the Lore of Orange

2011-10-22T19:08:00.002-05:00

I got that cute little witch and the pumpkins from June at Dezinaworld and that sweet kitty is my very own Herger. He is such a wonderful model.

Orange is a prominent color for both Autumn and Fall. It is the color of the sun and solar power. It is linked to the ripening harvest and associated with the element of fire, though in a more gentle and personal way than red. Orange is created by blending red and yellow which indicate the effects of fire or the passions, being tempered by those of air or thought. Orange is an energizing color, bringing inner illumination, increased energy, personal power and growth.

Wear orange to increase your sense of self-worth and when working on personal development. Also protective, wear it when you feel negative outside influences affecting you. Use Orange Calcite, Citrine, Amber and light Carnelians to help you access your personal power. Take one in each hand and open your mind to feel the flow of power between them, focusing on this as it awakens your inner resources.

If you are feeling particularly low take an orange stone and hold it in your right hand, fold your left hand over it and project all of your negativity into it. Collect orange leaves and place them on your Altar or use them in spells for personal enhancement.

May your world be filled with magical hues of the season.
---Mina

Source: "The Real Witches Year" by Kate West
Image Sources -
Witch and pumpkin at Dezinaworld
Mummy at buydailyonline.com
Autumn Tree at www.wallpapersgo.com