| Natural Beauty Is Only Herbal Deep |
| Your Right In The United States |
| Newsletter |
| Summer Solstice Edition 2011 |
 | Hot summer night | |
| Letter from the editor | |
| Pet safety | |
| Taking the sting out of bug bites | |
| For Your Health | |
| From The Pantry Summer lunch | |
| Summer Taco party | |
| Natural Beauty | |
| Ritual | |
| Table of Contents |
| Letter from the editor |
From the Editor
I can’t bear the valley heat of summer. I make jokes saying that I am an air
conditioner type of gal; don’t get me wrong I love nature. What kind of witch
would I be if I didn't love nature? I will be spending time by the ocean this
summer.
Please don’t forget the sun block; stay hydrated and being careful near water
is a must. Playing in the sun is always fun, however it does have its dangers so
have a safe summer.
As we prepare for summer, remember that there are many people that may
need friendship. Sharing our time and love with other is a healthy way to spend
an hour or two. Volunteer some time at a convalescent hospital, you will be
surprised to see how happy you can make someone feel for a couple hours.
Love is the best medicine they say; it makes you feel happy and healthy. So
spread the health this summer and remember that there is other in the world
that can benefit from your company.
If you are staying home this summer; look in your own back yard. Rediscover
your back yard and create that sacred space you always wanted. The back
yard can be a nice place to spend your weekends, entertaining and relaxing.
You can transform your back yard into anything you want just by adding color.
Create an exotic oasis that will take you anywhere in the world. Have fun with it.
| Hot Summer Night's |
| Taking the sting out of bug bites |
Bugs can create an unfriendly stay on a camping trip, so protect your self. Here are some tips and recipes, that can help you
this summer. These tips and recipes maybe from past news letters that we have posted, not much is changed regarding bugs.
There are many ways to use plants/oils
The oils can be added to a lamp ring, you can place a few drops in to very hot water, or in massage oil. You can also grow
some of the plants.
I do not recall where I got this recipe.
Insect Repellent
1 Dropper of eucalyptus oil
1 Dropper of lemon grass oil
5 Dropper of basil oil
5 Dropper of tea tree oil
Take an empty 4 oz bottle add the oils and blend then together, add a base oil to the bottle. Shake well, use as needed.
Some other choices plants
Lavender
Cedar
Cinnamon
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Basil
Clove
Avoid the Itches
If you have lots of itchy bites, any one of the following ingredients added to a warm bath may provide some relief:
1 cup (230 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 pound (454 g) baking soda (use half as much for children)
1 gallon (3.8 l) infused tea of peppermint, white oak bark, or cleavers
1/2 cup (115 ml) sea salt
1 cup (230 ml) cornstarch
Taking the Sting Out of Bug Bites
Excerpted from Natural First Aid by Brigitte Mars
You can treat some common insect bites at home with these handy herbal hints.
Ants
Treat ant bites topically with apple cider vinegar, green clay moistened with vinegar or water, cucumber juice, or a plantain leaf
poultice. You can also try applying mud or a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar to help neutralize the formic acid in
the bite.
Caterpillars and centipedes
When brushing off hairy caterpillars, do so from tail to head, or irritating hairs may remain in your skin. Apply lavender
essential oil to their bites. Echinacea tincture can be used topically and internally (1 dropper full 3 to 4 times daily).
Mosquitoes
Apply mud, witch hazel, lemon juice, moistened vitamin C powder, apple cider vinegar, peppermint, a plantain leaf poultice, or
lavender or tea tree essential oils to the bite.
Ticks
Brush them off clothing or flick them off skin. If they are attached, it's imperative that the ticks be removed without leaving their
heads embedded in the skin. Do not traumatize the tick or squeeze its body in the center. Either use a tick scooper -- a plastic
device available from your vet for little more than a dollar -- or sterile tweezers to grab the tick as close to the head as
possible. Pull the tick straight out and use the tweezers to remove any part left in the wound. Afterward, wash the area and
your hands well with antiseptic soap and water, dry, then apply a few drops of infection-fighting Echinacea tincture.
Bug Off!
Mosquitoes and other insects are repel
this summer. These tips and recipes maybe from past news letters that we have posted, not much is changed regarding bugs.
There are many ways to use plants/oils
The oils can be added to a lamp ring, you can place a few drops in to very hot water, or in massage oil. You can also grow
some of the plants.
I do not recall where I got this recipe.
Insect Repellent
1 Dropper of eucalyptus oil
1 Dropper of lemon grass oil
5 Dropper of basil oil
5 Dropper of tea tree oil
Take an empty 4 oz bottle add the oils and blend then together, add a base oil to the bottle. Shake well, use as needed.
Some other choices plants
Lavender
Cedar
Cinnamon
Eucalyptus
Fennel
Basil
Clove
Avoid the Itches
If you have lots of itchy bites, any one of the following ingredients added to a warm bath may provide some relief:
1 cup (230 ml) apple cider vinegar
1 pound (454 g) baking soda (use half as much for children)
1 gallon (3.8 l) infused tea of peppermint, white oak bark, or cleavers
1/2 cup (115 ml) sea salt
1 cup (230 ml) cornstarch
Taking the Sting Out of Bug Bites
Excerpted from Natural First Aid by Brigitte Mars
You can treat some common insect bites at home with these handy herbal hints.
Ants
Treat ant bites topically with apple cider vinegar, green clay moistened with vinegar or water, cucumber juice, or a plantain leaf
poultice. You can also try applying mud or a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar to help neutralize the formic acid in
the bite.
Caterpillars and centipedes
When brushing off hairy caterpillars, do so from tail to head, or irritating hairs may remain in your skin. Apply lavender
essential oil to their bites. Echinacea tincture can be used topically and internally (1 dropper full 3 to 4 times daily).
Mosquitoes
Apply mud, witch hazel, lemon juice, moistened vitamin C powder, apple cider vinegar, peppermint, a plantain leaf poultice, or
lavender or tea tree essential oils to the bite.
Ticks
Brush them off clothing or flick them off skin. If they are attached, it's imperative that the ticks be removed without leaving their
heads embedded in the skin. Do not traumatize the tick or squeeze its body in the center. Either use a tick scooper -- a plastic
device available from your vet for little more than a dollar -- or sterile tweezers to grab the tick as close to the head as
possible. Pull the tick straight out and use the tweezers to remove any part left in the wound. Afterward, wash the area and
your hands well with antiseptic soap and water, dry, then apply a few drops of infection-fighting Echinacea tincture.
Bug Off!
Mosquitoes and other insects are repel
| From The Pantry Summer lunch |
The kitchen, is the heart of your home, no mater how small it. Spending time in the kitchen and creating new ditches is one
thing that the I like to do, so here are a few recipes that we can up with.
Crunchy Vegetable-Raisin Salad
1 head broccoli, chopped
1 head cauliflower, chopped
1/2 pound bacon, crisply cooked, drained and crumbled
1 cup Sun-Maid Natural Raisins
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1-1/2 cup light mayonnaise or half mayonnaise and plain yogurt
1/3 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
2 teaspoons curry powder or 1 teaspoon cumin, optional
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Place broccoli and cauliflower in a large bowl with bacon, raisins and onion. Combine mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar and curry
powder or cumin in a separate bowl. Stir mayonnaise mixture into vegetables until evenly mixed. Refrigerate at least one to 2
hours to allow flavors to blend. Sprinkle with almonds before serving.
Spaghetti Salad
1 pkg spaghetti (16oz)
1 bottle McCormick salad seasoning
1 bottle Balsamic Vinaigrette
2 med cucumbers (cubed)
1 basket of small tomatoes
1 bell pepper dice
Cut dry spaghetti in ½ then cook. Mix all ingredients together add to cooked spaghetti. Chill before serving.
.
Brie and Roast Beef Sandwiches
Ciabbata bread or rolls
Sliced roast beef
Sliced brie cheese
Pear slices optional
Place brie on halved bread or rolls and layer roast beef on top.
Toast sandwich until cheese has melted.
Place pear slices if wanted; close sandwich.
Pomegranate Champagne Cocktail
1 teaspoon fresh pomegranate arils, optional
4 ounces Champagne
1/2 teaspoon store bought pomegranate juice
1 teaspoon cassis
Place fresh pomegranate arils, if using, into a Champagne flute. Pour Champagne into flute, add pomegranate juice and
cassis.
| For Your Health |
| Copyright © 2007 Five Points Coven Inc. All rights reserved. All info on this site is sole property of Five Points Coven Inc. and may not be duplicated without permission. |
| Articles Wanted For The Coven's Point Newsletter |
As a reader of the Five Points Coven web page might know that we also have a newsletter called The Covens' Point. The
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of pagan
related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by September 15th for the Full Equinox edition. We will review the article and work with
the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
newsletter is produces four times a year, the Solstice and the Equinox. Click here for more info!
Newsletters include updates on health and beauty, links to other web pages, poetry, recipes and articles on a variety of pagan
related topics.
The editorial staff of The Covens' Point invites you to submit articles for publication in the newsletter.
Article drafts must be submitted to me by September 15th for the Full Equinox edition. We will review the article and work with
the author to edit as necessary for grammar, typos, and clarification. Click here to submit an article!
| Choosing The Right Book Most Pagans that I know are avid readers, always seeking more knowledge and studying something. You have to read what interests you, or you'll be bored and you won't get anything out of what you read. I have Dyslexia and I do not read as much as I should. Of course, you will be interested in books relating to the path that you follow. If you're just starting to study that path, you will probably find that you get a special feeling about a certain subject. It is like you're being drawn to something in particular, it just feels right to you. Follow your intuition. Here is a short list of recommended books to get you started on your path. Practical Solitary Magic: By Nancy Watson True Magic: By Amber Drawing Down the Moon: By Margot Adler Book of Shadows: By Phyllis Curot Wicca: (A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham Living Wicca: (A Further Guide for the Solitary Practitioner): By Scott Cunningham Everyday Magick: (Spells & Rituals for Modern Living): By Dorothy Morrison Buckand’s Complete Book Of Witchcraft: By Raymond Buckland The Pagan Man: By Issac Bonewits By Oak, Ash and Thorn: By D.J Conway Witchcraft : Theory and Practice: By De Angeles The Book of Druidry: By Ross Nichols The Druid Handbook: By John Michaels Greer Essential Asatru: By Diana L. Paxson Way of the Shaman: By Michael Harner |
| Recommended Reading List |
Witchcraft is recognized in the United States as a legitimate religion. In 1985, Dettmer v Landon (617 F Supp 592) the District
Court of Virginia pursuant to rule 52 (a) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure ruled that Witchcraft is a legitimate religion
and falls within a recognizable religious category In 1986 in the Federal Appeals court fourth circuit. Butzner, J. affirmed the
decision (799 F 2d 929) Since in most cases Federal law, even case law supersedes state law in this type of matter, the
affirmation by judge Butzner clearly sets Witchcraft as a religion under the protection of constitutional rights. The Church of
Wicca (or Witchcraft) is clearly a religion for First Amendment purposes.
Members of the Church sincerely adhere to a fairly complex set of doctrines relating to the spiritual aspect of their lives, and in
doing so they have ultimate concerns' in much the same way as followers of more accepted religions. Their ceremonies and
leadership structure, their rather elaborate set of articulated doctrine, their belief in the concept of another world, and their
broad concern for improving the quality of life for others gives them at least some facial similarity to other more widely
recognized religions.
While there are certainly aspects of Wiccan philosophy that may strike most people as strange or incomprehensible. The mere
fact that a belief may be unusual does not strip it of constitutional protection. Accordingly the Court concludes that the Church
of Wicca. of which the plaintiff is a sincere follower. is a religion for the purpose of the free exercise clause." Williams. J. 1985
Dettmer v. Landon Supra. ³We agree with the district court that the doctrine taught by the Church of Wicca is a religion."
Butzner. J. 19864th Circuit. Dettmer v. Landon Supra.
The first amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religious belief. The USCA states
that a practice is a religion if it is for an individual a belief system for their whole life. The constitution does not wish to dictate
what an individual should hold as a belief system or how it is practiced and will not enter into a ruling on that. "Court may not
inquire into worthiness of parties' religious belief to ascertain whether they merit. First Amendment protection, but need only
consider whether beliefs are 'religious' in parties' own scheme of things and whether their beliefs are sincere. USCA Const.
Amend. I "To be a bona fide religious belief entitled to protection under either the First Amendment or Title VII, a belief must be
sincerely held" and within the believers own scheme of things religious. USCA Const. Amend. 1: Civil Rights Act 1964 701 et
seq., 717 as amended 42 USCA 2000e-16"
The equal protection clause is guaranteed to all people and groups. If one group of people is entitled to equal protection than
all groups are. Witchcraft is accepted as a religion, therefore, Witches are entitled to the same protections as al] other
religious groups; under the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. ³First and Fourteenth Amendments insures
without qualification that a state may not forbid the holding of any religious belief or opinion, nor may it force anyone to
embrace any religious belief or to say or believe anything in conflict with his religious tenets. USCA Const. Amend. 1, (14
Africa v. Anderson 542 F. Supp. 224.") (16 FPD 212-216)
USCA ARTICLE VII # 2 states: "This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance thereof;
and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall be The Supreme Law of the
Land; and the Judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in the Constitution or laws of any state to the contrary
notwithstanding." In light of the fact that Dettmer v. Landon supra, being a Federally Adjudicated case. it is thereby protected
by the Constitution. No state can override this Federal adjudication. No Witch can be denied his/her civil liberty and right to be
a Witch, open and free, in any state in the land; within the parameters of the Law.
Sun Care
We all know that we should not spend to much time in the sun but we do, and then we are in pain. This ointment will help.
Ointments and oils will nourish your skin and hell it to heal.
Sunburn Ointments
8 ounce lard by weight
2 ounce beeswax
2 ounces fresh herbs
A few drops of oil
Herbs, Oils And Juice To Help The Skin
herbs
St. Johnswort
Lavender
Chamomile
Oils
Calendula
Tea Tree
eucalptus
Juice
Aloe
Pick one herb and one oil for your ointment; as for the aloe you can apply it directly to the burn.
In a pot you will need to melt the lard and beeswax, do not scorch. Place the chopped herb in the pot and simmer for ten to
fifteen minutes. Strain through a fine sieve. Pour into a jar and let cool before storing.
We all know that we should not spend to much time in the sun but we do, and then we are in pain. This ointment will help.
Ointments and oils will nourish your skin and hell it to heal.
Sunburn Ointments
8 ounce lard by weight
2 ounce beeswax
2 ounces fresh herbs
A few drops of oil
Herbs, Oils And Juice To Help The Skin
herbs
St. Johnswort
Lavender
Chamomile
Oils
Calendula
Tea Tree
eucalptus
Juice
Aloe
Pick one herb and one oil for your ointment; as for the aloe you can apply it directly to the burn.
In a pot you will need to melt the lard and beeswax, do not scorch. Place the chopped herb in the pot and simmer for ten to
fifteen minutes. Strain through a fine sieve. Pour into a jar and let cool before storing.
| Summer Taco Party |
| Ritual |
Summer Beauty Tips
By Juliana Day
Summer is a great time for relaxation, recreation and renewal. If you're like most of us, you probably take advantage of the
longer days and warm weather to enjoy extra time with family and friends. While enjoying the hot, lazy days of summer, keep in
mind that different beauty rules apply. Here are a few tips to keep you looking as good as you feel:
Summer Hair Care
If you spend lots of time outdoors and want to spice up your look naturally, try combing a little lemon juice through your hair.
The sun will lighten those strands faster than your locks sans lemon, giving you an attractive sun-streaked look. It's also easier
on your budget than salon highlights.
Be sure to deep condition your hair at least once a week, especially if you swim a lot. Hair tends to become dry, dull and brittle
if it is soaked and dried too often.
If you like to swim lengths, try spritzing on some leave-in conditioner under your swim cap to help ward off damage from
chlorine and salt water.
Summer Skin care
It may be hip to be tanned, and it does tend to camouflage a multitude of imperfections, but don't deep-fry your skin for the
sake of fashion. Your best bet is a high quality bronzer in a bottle. Just remember to use a facial scrub prior to application to
slough off any dead skin cells. You may also want to use a pair of gloves, lest your palms turn orange!
If you spend lots of time outside, be sure to use sunscreen with minimum SPF 15. The cancer-preventing benefits are obvious,
but protection is also a must for those of us who don't want to look old before our time.
Make sure that you are adequately hydrated - at least 8 glasses of water a day and even more when you are outside.
If you do burn, apply Aloe Vera or lotions containing it. This will cool and soothe your skin and help you to heal faster. A
personal trick is to apply cream containing zinc to my face at night. This is an effective way of healing my burn by the morning.
Nothing is more revolting than skin full of little red mosquito or bug bites, not to mention the new threat of West Nile Virus, so
don't forget the bug spray. You may want to try one of the new two in one sunscreen and insect repellents.
For a quick skin boost in the sun, fill a misting bottle with a little bit of toner and water, and spritz your face and body for a
quick cool off. Just remember to close your eyes so you don't risk burning them.
Summer Make-up
Take on summer with a fresh face forward - less is best! Accentuate your glowing skin by brushing on a light shimmering
powder instead of a heavy foundation. You don't want to appear like you are melting under the hot sun.
Those of you who read my column know that I'm a big advocate of the powder bronzer. This is a great way to give yourself a
pretty glow. I like to use a matte finish on my face and then a shimmer powder on my eyelids, above my cheekbones, and on
my shoulders and collarbone.
A hot look on a bronzed face is shiny lip gloss. The BEST is "Lip Glass" by MAC. It gives you ultra shine over lipstick (applied
with a brush) or on its own. Plus, it stays put - a big bonus for die-hard lip gloss wearers!
Try a light shimmering eye shadow in beige just under your brow bone to draw attention to your eyes.
If you are wear mascara, try a waterproof. This way you will avoid "Raccoon Eyes" when you are perspiring or near
By Juliana Day
Summer is a great time for relaxation, recreation and renewal. If you're like most of us, you probably take advantage of the
longer days and warm weather to enjoy extra time with family and friends. While enjoying the hot, lazy days of summer, keep in
mind that different beauty rules apply. Here are a few tips to keep you looking as good as you feel:
Summer Hair Care
If you spend lots of time outdoors and want to spice up your look naturally, try combing a little lemon juice through your hair.
The sun will lighten those strands faster than your locks sans lemon, giving you an attractive sun-streaked look. It's also easier
on your budget than salon highlights.
Be sure to deep condition your hair at least once a week, especially if you swim a lot. Hair tends to become dry, dull and brittle
if it is soaked and dried too often.
If you like to swim lengths, try spritzing on some leave-in conditioner under your swim cap to help ward off damage from
chlorine and salt water.
Summer Skin care
It may be hip to be tanned, and it does tend to camouflage a multitude of imperfections, but don't deep-fry your skin for the
sake of fashion. Your best bet is a high quality bronzer in a bottle. Just remember to use a facial scrub prior to application to
slough off any dead skin cells. You may also want to use a pair of gloves, lest your palms turn orange!
If you spend lots of time outside, be sure to use sunscreen with minimum SPF 15. The cancer-preventing benefits are obvious,
but protection is also a must for those of us who don't want to look old before our time.
Make sure that you are adequately hydrated - at least 8 glasses of water a day and even more when you are outside.
If you do burn, apply Aloe Vera or lotions containing it. This will cool and soothe your skin and help you to heal faster. A
personal trick is to apply cream containing zinc to my face at night. This is an effective way of healing my burn by the morning.
Nothing is more revolting than skin full of little red mosquito or bug bites, not to mention the new threat of West Nile Virus, so
don't forget the bug spray. You may want to try one of the new two in one sunscreen and insect repellents.
For a quick skin boost in the sun, fill a misting bottle with a little bit of toner and water, and spritz your face and body for a
quick cool off. Just remember to close your eyes so you don't risk burning them.
Summer Make-up
Take on summer with a fresh face forward - less is best! Accentuate your glowing skin by brushing on a light shimmering
powder instead of a heavy foundation. You don't want to appear like you are melting under the hot sun.
Those of you who read my column know that I'm a big advocate of the powder bronzer. This is a great way to give yourself a
pretty glow. I like to use a matte finish on my face and then a shimmer powder on my eyelids, above my cheekbones, and on
my shoulders and collarbone.
A hot look on a bronzed face is shiny lip gloss. The BEST is "Lip Glass" by MAC. It gives you ultra shine over lipstick (applied
with a brush) or on its own. Plus, it stays put - a big bonus for die-hard lip gloss wearers!
Try a light shimmering eye shadow in beige just under your brow bone to draw attention to your eyes.
If you are wear mascara, try a waterproof. This way you will avoid "Raccoon Eyes" when you are perspiring or near
Prosperity Ritual
Casting Circle
The ever turning Wheel and as cycle of life bring us to our together this night. Make this circle ever stronger. By the four
powers and beneath the lady and lord, blessed be you o circle of power. Be you whole and be you solid to contain our power
and carry us between the worlds. So mote it be!
Calling the corners:
Spirits of the east
Element of air
Lend us your insight
To deliver the winds of fortune our way
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the south
Element of fire
With your burning embers
Bring us your bounty
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the west
Element of water
With the ebb and flow
Of your mighty tide
Deposit your wealth upon our shores
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the north
Element of earth
With the changing of the seasons
As you become bountiful
So shall we
Hail and welcome!
Invitation of the Lord and the Lady
Gracious Lord of fortune and prosperity, give us the wisdom to realize our inner potential and strengthen us within during
these uncertain times. Hail and welcome!
Gracious Goddess, Lady of the silvery moon, shine your light of fortune and prosperity down upon us on this night. Hail and
welcome!
Intent
We gather here tonight to ask the gods of fortune to assist us to increase our prosperity.
Prosperity Spell –Witches Jar
You will need a small mason jar
1. 13 pennies
2. Iron pyrite (fools good) flecks
3. Hematite or any money attracting stone
4. Cotton ball anointed with any money attracting oil
5. Lodestone (green if possible)
6. Wax seal with dragon’s blood
7. Mustard seeds
Before sealing the jar, charge it with energy and chant:
Herbs and silver
Copper and grain
Work to increase my money gain.
Excerpt from “Spell Crafts” by Scott Cunningham
Cakes and ale
Dismissal of the Lord and Lady
Thank you Gracious Lady for illuminating our path this evening. Go with our love. Blessed Be.
Lord of the hunt, thank you for your guidance this evening. Go with our love. Blessed be.
Dismissal of the elements
To each element: N, W, S, E
Thank you for your presence in our sacred circle tonight. Go if you must, stay if you will. Blessed be.
Open Circle
Casting Circle
The ever turning Wheel and as cycle of life bring us to our together this night. Make this circle ever stronger. By the four
powers and beneath the lady and lord, blessed be you o circle of power. Be you whole and be you solid to contain our power
and carry us between the worlds. So mote it be!
Calling the corners:
Spirits of the east
Element of air
Lend us your insight
To deliver the winds of fortune our way
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the south
Element of fire
With your burning embers
Bring us your bounty
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the west
Element of water
With the ebb and flow
Of your mighty tide
Deposit your wealth upon our shores
Hail and welcome!
Spirits of the north
Element of earth
With the changing of the seasons
As you become bountiful
So shall we
Hail and welcome!
Invitation of the Lord and the Lady
Gracious Lord of fortune and prosperity, give us the wisdom to realize our inner potential and strengthen us within during
these uncertain times. Hail and welcome!
Gracious Goddess, Lady of the silvery moon, shine your light of fortune and prosperity down upon us on this night. Hail and
welcome!
Intent
We gather here tonight to ask the gods of fortune to assist us to increase our prosperity.
Prosperity Spell –Witches Jar
You will need a small mason jar
1. 13 pennies
2. Iron pyrite (fools good) flecks
3. Hematite or any money attracting stone
4. Cotton ball anointed with any money attracting oil
5. Lodestone (green if possible)
6. Wax seal with dragon’s blood
7. Mustard seeds
Before sealing the jar, charge it with energy and chant:
Herbs and silver
Copper and grain
Work to increase my money gain.
Excerpt from “Spell Crafts” by Scott Cunningham
Cakes and ale
Dismissal of the Lord and Lady
Thank you Gracious Lady for illuminating our path this evening. Go with our love. Blessed Be.
Lord of the hunt, thank you for your guidance this evening. Go with our love. Blessed be.
Dismissal of the elements
To each element: N, W, S, E
Thank you for your presence in our sacred circle tonight. Go if you must, stay if you will. Blessed be.
Open Circle
My number one tip for this summer is simple: relax… Summer is the perfect time to do it, take time to sit back, relax. Enjoy time
with your friends and family. Let me know how your summer is going...
with your friends and family. Let me know how your summer is going...
| Summer Safety Tips |
Heat Hazards
If your dog is outside on a hot day, make sure he has a shady spot to rest in. Doghouses are not good shelter during the
summer as they can trap heat. You may want to fill a child's wading pool with fresh water for your dog to cool off in.
Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. The temperature inside a car can rise to over 100 degrees in a matter
of minutes .Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water.
Avoid strenuous exercise on extremely hot days. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun's heat is less
intense.
Try to avoid prolonged exposure to hot asphalt or sand, which can burn your dog's paws.
Dogs that are brachycephalic (short-faced), such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Japanese Chins, and Pekingese, have an especially
hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-faced dogs. Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with
air-conditioning.
General Health
Make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date, especially since dogs tend
to stay outdoors longer and come into contact with other animals more during
the summer months.
Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilized for 24
hours (or according to package instructions), and away from potentially toxic
plants and flowers.
Keep your dog well-brushed and clean.
Fleas and ticks, and the mosquitos which carry heartworm disease, are more
prevalent in warmer months. Ask your veterinarian for an effective preventive
to keep these parasites off your dog. The AKC Pet Healthcare Plan can help
with the cost of providing quality healthcare, including preventive medicine,
throughout your dog's life.
Beach Tips
Make sure your dog has a shady spot to rest in and plenty of fresh water.
Dogs, especially those with short hair, white fur, and pink skin, can sunburn. Limit your dog's exposure during the day and
apply sunblock to his ears and nose 30 minutes before going outside.
Check with a lifeguard for daily water conditions. Dogs are easy targets for sea lice and jellyfish.
Running on the sand is strenuous exercise. A dog that is out of shape can easily pull a tendon or ligament, so keep a check on
your dog's activity.
Do not let your dog drink seawater; the salt will make him sick.
Salt and other minerals in ocean water can damage your dog's coat, so rinse him off at the end of the day.
Not all beaches permit dogs; check local ordinances before heading out.
Water Safety
Most dogs enjoy swimming, but some cannot swim, and others may hate the water. Be conscious of your dog's preferences
and skills before trying to make him swim.
If you're swimming for the first time with your dog, start in shallow water and coax him in by calling his name. Encourage him
with toys or treats. Or, let him follow another experienced dog he is friendly with.
Never throw your dog into the water.
If your dog begins to paddle with his front legs, lift his hind legs and help him float. He should quickly catch on and keep his
back end up.
Don't let your dog overdo it; swimming is very hard work and he may tire quickly. if swimming at the ocean, be careful of strong
tides.
If you have your own pool, make sure your dog knows where the stairs or ladder are located. Be sure that pool covers are
firmly in place; dogs have been known to slip in under openings in the covers and drown.
Never leave your dog unattended in water.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke can be the serious and often fatal result of a dog's prolonged exposure to excessive heat. Below are the signs of
heatstroke and the actions you should take if your dog is overcome.
Early Stages:
Heavy panting.
Rapid breathing.
Excessive drooling.
Bright red gums and tongue.
Standing 4-square, posting or spreading out in an attempt to maintain balance.
Advanced Stages:
White or blue gums.
Lethargy, unwillingness to move.
Uncontrollable urination or defecation.
Labored, noisy breathing.
Shock.
If your dog begins to exhibit signs of heatstroke, you should immediately try to cool the dog down:
Apply rubbing alcohol to the dog's paw pads.
Apply ice packs to the groin area.
Hose down with water.
Allow the dog to lick ice chips or drink a small amount of water.
Offer Pedialyte to restore electrolytes.
Check your dog's temperature regularly during this process. Once the dog's temperature has stabilized at between 100 to 102
degrees, you can stop the cool-down process.
If you cannot get the dog cooled down and you begin to see signs of advanced heatstroke, take the dog to the veterinarian
immediately.
Keep Your Pooch Healthy This Summer
Hot weather can make us all uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for your dog.
Keep the following safety concerns in mind as the temperature rises, and follow our
tips to keep your dog cool.
Hot weather can make us all uncomfortable, and it poses special risks for your dog.
Keep the following safety concerns in mind as the temperature rises, and follow our
tips to keep your dog cool.
Summer Safety Tips
By Vincent Tannelli, M.D.
For many Americans, summer means fun in the sun. The kids are out of school, adults are on vacation and it's time for
outdoor activities like riding bikes and hosting barbecues. However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
warns that summer also is the time of year consumers are most likely to be injured.
More than 3.7 million consumers went to hospital emergency rooms with product-related injuries in June, July and August
2001. During that summer, about 836,000 more consumers suffered product-related injuries than in January, February and
March 2001. To avoid becoming a 2002 statistic, CPSC advises everyone to enjoy summer activities with safety in mind
One of the best ways to stay safe this summer is to wear a helmet and other safety gear when biking, skating and
skateboarding, and when riding scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and horses. Studies on bicycle helmets have shown they can
reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 85 percent.
Use layers of protection to prevent a swimming pool tragedy. This includes placing barriers completely around your pool to
prevent access, using door and pool alarms, closely supervising your child and being prepared in case of an emergency.
Never bring charcoal grills indoors. Burning charcoal produces deadly carbon monoxide.
When cooking outdoors with a gas grill, check the air tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders, or
food grease. Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or
tubing. If you ever detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas at the tank and don't attempt to light the grill until the leak is
fixed. Newer grills and propane tanks have improved safety devices to prevent gas leaks.
Make sure your home playground is safe. Falls cause 60 percent of playground injuries, so having a safe surface is critical.
Concrete, asphalt or packed dirt surfaces are too hard. Use at least 9 inches of wood chips or mulch.
Use softer-than standard baseballs, safety-release bases and batting helmets with face guards to reduce baseball-related
injuries to children.
If you are a soccer mom or dad, beware that movable soccer goals can fall over and kill children. Make sure the goal is
anchored securely at all times and never allow anyone to climb on the net or goal framework or hang from the cross bar.
Remove nets when the goals are not in use.
To prevent serious injuries while using a trampoline, allow only one person on at a time, and do not allow somersaults. Use a
shock-absorbing pad that completely covers the springs and place the trampoline away from structures and other play areas.
Kids under 6-years-old should not use full-size trampolines.
Don't allow a game of hide-n-seek to become deadly. CPSC has received reports of numerous suffocation deaths involving
children who crawled inside old cedar chests, latch-type freezers and refrigerators, iceboxes in campers, clothes dryers and
picnic coolers. Childproof old appliances, warn children not to play inside them.
If summer plans include camping and you want heat inside your tent or camper, use one of the new portable heaters that are
equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). If oxygen levels start to fall inside your tent or camper, the ODS
automatically shuts down the heater before it can produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide (CO). Do not attempt to use
alternative sources of heat or power to warm a tent or camper. Traditional camping heaters, charcoal grills, camping lanterns,
and gas generators also can cause CO poisoning.
Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of open windows. Guards should be installed in children's bedrooms,
parents' bedrooms, and other rooms where young children spend time. Or, install window stops that permit windows to open
no more than 4 inches. Whenever possible, open windows from the top - not the bottom. Also, keep furniture away from
windows to discourage children from climbing near windows.
Summer also means yard work. When mowing, keep small children out of the yard, and turn the mower off if children enter the
area. If the lawn slopes, mow across the slope with the walk-behind rotary mower, never up and down. With a riding mower,
drive up and down the slope, not across it. Never carry children on a riding mower.
By Vincent Tannelli, M.D.
For many Americans, summer means fun in the sun. The kids are out of school, adults are on vacation and it's time for
outdoor activities like riding bikes and hosting barbecues. However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
warns that summer also is the time of year consumers are most likely to be injured.
More than 3.7 million consumers went to hospital emergency rooms with product-related injuries in June, July and August
2001. During that summer, about 836,000 more consumers suffered product-related injuries than in January, February and
March 2001. To avoid becoming a 2002 statistic, CPSC advises everyone to enjoy summer activities with safety in mind
One of the best ways to stay safe this summer is to wear a helmet and other safety gear when biking, skating and
skateboarding, and when riding scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and horses. Studies on bicycle helmets have shown they can
reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 85 percent.
Use layers of protection to prevent a swimming pool tragedy. This includes placing barriers completely around your pool to
prevent access, using door and pool alarms, closely supervising your child and being prepared in case of an emergency.
Never bring charcoal grills indoors. Burning charcoal produces deadly carbon monoxide.
When cooking outdoors with a gas grill, check the air tubes that lead into the burner for any blockage from insects, spiders, or
food grease. Check grill hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks. Make sure there are no sharp bends in the hose or
tubing. If you ever detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas at the tank and don't attempt to light the grill until the leak is
fixed. Newer grills and propane tanks have improved safety devices to prevent gas leaks.
Make sure your home playground is safe. Falls cause 60 percent of playground injuries, so having a safe surface is critical.
Concrete, asphalt or packed dirt surfaces are too hard. Use at least 9 inches of wood chips or mulch.
Use softer-than standard baseballs, safety-release bases and batting helmets with face guards to reduce baseball-related
injuries to children.
If you are a soccer mom or dad, beware that movable soccer goals can fall over and kill children. Make sure the goal is
anchored securely at all times and never allow anyone to climb on the net or goal framework or hang from the cross bar.
Remove nets when the goals are not in use.
To prevent serious injuries while using a trampoline, allow only one person on at a time, and do not allow somersaults. Use a
shock-absorbing pad that completely covers the springs and place the trampoline away from structures and other play areas.
Kids under 6-years-old should not use full-size trampolines.
Don't allow a game of hide-n-seek to become deadly. CPSC has received reports of numerous suffocation deaths involving
children who crawled inside old cedar chests, latch-type freezers and refrigerators, iceboxes in campers, clothes dryers and
picnic coolers. Childproof old appliances, warn children not to play inside them.
If summer plans include camping and you want heat inside your tent or camper, use one of the new portable heaters that are
equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS). If oxygen levels start to fall inside your tent or camper, the ODS
automatically shuts down the heater before it can produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide (CO). Do not attempt to use
alternative sources of heat or power to warm a tent or camper. Traditional camping heaters, charcoal grills, camping lanterns,
and gas generators also can cause CO poisoning.
Install window guards to prevent children from falling out of open windows. Guards should be installed in children's bedrooms,
parents' bedrooms, and other rooms where young children spend time. Or, install window stops that permit windows to open
no more than 4 inches. Whenever possible, open windows from the top - not the bottom. Also, keep furniture away from
windows to discourage children from climbing near windows.
Summer also means yard work. When mowing, keep small children out of the yard, and turn the mower off if children enter the
area. If the lawn slopes, mow across the slope with the walk-behind rotary mower, never up and down. With a riding mower,
drive up and down the slope, not across it. Never carry children on a riding mower.
Summer Sky
In the skies of summer
I seem to wonder
When my life will end
And my paradise shall begin
Sometimes I choose to loose
In then I forget my thoughts
That were brought
By summer skies
Up high
In the sky
On a cloud he lies
Asleep
So deep and sweet
Almost as if he is at piece
But he has just been ceased by my
thoughts
That I think in his summer sky
Saying that better I was taught
Than to think of such wretched,
aweful thoughts
In the skies of summer
I seem to wonder
When my life will end
And my paradise shall begin
Sometimes I choose to loose
In then I forget my thoughts
That were brought
By summer skies
Up high
In the sky
On a cloud he lies
Asleep
So deep and sweet
Almost as if he is at piece
But he has just been ceased by my
thoughts
That I think in his summer sky
Saying that better I was taught
Than to think of such wretched,
aweful thoughts
Said, to myself I have lied While he lies On the cloud Brought by his summer sky But
my thoughts are not lies But like ties Bounding me to my peace And only by my leaving
This world Thus this hurt shall soon be released I wish not to die Only but to lie I his
summer sky
my thoughts are not lies But like ties Bounding me to my peace And only by my leaving
This world Thus this hurt shall soon be released I wish not to die Only but to lie I his
summer sky
A taco bar in your backyard is a great way to offer something for everyone. Just provide warm tortillas, a variety of toppings
and the mane thing taco beef, chicken and shrimp.
1 flank steak (about 2 pounds)
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 pounds large raw shrimp
36 corn tortillas
Marinade
½ cup fresh line juice
1 tablespoon ground cumin
¼ cup minced garlic
1tablespoon sea salt
3teaspoons minced Serrano chilies
1 cup vegetable oil
¾ cup minced cilantro
¼ cup red wine vinegar
Cooking directions
Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl.
Put beef, chicken, and shrimp into individual, large resalable Ziploc bags or plastic containers. Add marinade to cover to each
container and marinate according to the following schedule: Flank steak, 3 to 4 hours in the refrigerator; chicken, 1½ to 2½
hours in the refrigerator; shrimp, 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature.
Cook meats on a medium hot grill, starting with flank steak, which will take about 20 minutes to grill. Then add the chicken,
which will take about 12 minutes. And finally, add the shrimp, which will take 5 to 6 minutes. (With this schedule, they should all
come off the grill around the same time.)
Taco bar setup
Meanwhile set up the taco bar with all of the great additions, including warm tortillas wrapped in a clean dishtowel.
Slice the flank steak and chicken into thin slices and place them in individual plates or bowls alongside the shrimp at one end
of your taco buffet line.
Aztec Cinnamon Chocolate Iced Cappuccino
1/4 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
2 tablespoons Chocolate Fudge Spoonable Ice Cream Topping
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup Classic Roast Coffee, brewed strong, cooled to room temperature
1 cup ice
Whipped cream
Ground cinnamon
PLACE sweetened condensed milk, chocolate topping, vanilla, cinnamon, brewed coffee and ice in blender container. Process
until smooth.
GARNISH with whipped cream and cinnamon. Serve immediately.
Orange Mojito
1/2 orange, cut into 3 wedges
1/2 lime, cut into 3 wedges
2 teaspoons sugar
1 or 2 sprigs fresh mint
2 1/2 ounces white rum
1 cup crushed ice
Directions
Put the oranges, limes, sugar, and mint in a large rocks glass. Muddle the leaves and citrus by pressing them with a pestle or a
wooden spoon until juicy and fragrant. Add the rum and ice. Cover with a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously, or stir, until
combined and chilled, about 30 seconds. (In general, by the time the shaker mists up the drink is ready.) Serve.
CHOCOLATE MARGARITA
To rim the glasses:
Chocolate syrup
Finely chopped Mexican or bittersweet chocolate*
Margarita:
1/2 cup chocolate syrup
1 cup (8 ounces) tequila
1/2 cup (4 ounces) chocolate liqueur (recommended: Godiva)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup orange liqueur
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ice
Can be found in Hispanic or gourmet stores To rim the glasses: Put the syrup and chopped chocolate into 2 small dishes.
Moisten the rims of 4 margarita or martini glasses with the chocolate syrup. Dip them in the Mexican chocolate until coated. Set
aside.
Margarita: Combine all of the ingredients, except ice, in a pitcher. Working in batches, transfer the mixture to a shaker full of
ice. Shake and pour into the prepared glasses. Serve cold.
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Toppings
Grated cheeses (jack, cheddar, manchego)
Shredded lettuces
Tomatoes
Black olives
Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsas
Grated cheeses (jack, cheddar, manchego)
Shredded lettuces
Tomatoes
Black olives
Sour cream
Guacamole
Salsas