Monday, December 21, 2015

Krampus - The Legend and Movie

This poster belongs to Universal Pictures and Legendary Pictures


Because it is the holiday season, I recently went to see the movie "Krampus" in the theater.  I was interested see how closely the movie followed the real story of our Christmas Devil.  It turns out it is not very close.  The moral is the same but not the story. 

The real story of Krampus is simple.  He is both a companion and rival to St. Nicholas.  We ladies of the Nether Realm love St. Nicholas.  He is the perfect man. He listens, gives amazing presents, and makes his living by travelling.  Anyway, St. Nicholas sees to the good children and rewards them well; Krampus on the other hand punishes the bad children.  There is a lot of exaggeration as to how he punishes them.  Truth be told, he does not kidnap them or eat them.  He never did that.  He used to put them in a sack and beat them but that was during the dark ages.  Now, he's the one that leaves coal and ash that is meant for the naughty children to clean up in their stockings and around the house.   

Krampus is a unique demon in that he can be reasoned with and you can get rid of him fast.  All you have to do is give him a drink of schnapps.  Too bad most exorcisms aren't that easy. He'll be happy with you for the following year because of that lovely little fruity liqueur and will leave you alone.  However, he and Santa will still watch you over the year to know if you have been bad or good. 

This Krampus in the movie is much more evil and more brutal.  Yet he isn’t as fearsome as I thought he would be. There is a lot of humor considering this is a horror movie.  It reminded me a lot of another Christmas horror movie called "Gremlins."  It may have been meant to frighten but the execution made it a hilarious spoof. That is not a bad thing, in fact I found it to be a breath of fresh air.  Whenever, you see movies about demons (holiday or otherwise) you expect that there will be a lot of gross-out scenes that could result in nightmares.  I'm glad this wasn't the case. 



The one thing that the tales of Krampus and this movie have in common is what Christmas truly involves.  That is being together with your family, sharing the love that the season brings, and giving rather than receiving.  These are the things that good people do and what we should strive for all year round.  So be good for goodness sake. A little bit of naughty should be accompanied by a whole lot of nice. We don’t need to have a demon remind us of that do we? 
 
 
 

 
 
 


Saturday, December 19, 2015

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year


“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” Edward Pola and George Wyle wrote it, Andy Williams sang it and almost everybody agrees with it.  I am one of those who very much agrees with the saying.  This festive holiday brings a joyous energy that fills the air. 

After wrapping my last Christmas present, I feel like I can finally relax and enjoy the season.  The snow falls outside as I sit inside with a nice cup of hot cocoa and with the smell of baking in the air.  I watch the snow sprites dance outside on the snowflakes while “Imagine: John Lennon 75th Birthday Concert” plays gently in the background.  It seems appropriate to watch something beautiful and magical while listening to something that is equally beautiful.  John Lennon shared a message of peace and love to all through music.  It lifts you up and pulls on your heart strings.

Speaking of lifting you up, I can’t help but think of our constant December heartthrob, Saint Nick.  Sure he’s married but we ladies of the Nether Realm cannot help but love a man who is a perpetual gift giver and philanthropist with a soft spot for kids.  Right now he is probably traveling the world and giving out the best gifts for his greatest fans (I hope he gets me something good).  But I wonder what he does on his off-season times. 

I have tried to contact him by bluebird and butterfly but I have yet to hear from him.  Perhaps I should try a wisp or maybe the snow sprites will deliver the message for me.  One day I hope to contact him for an interview and we can all get to know the real Santa Claus.  Keep your fingers crossed for me, my friends.

In the meantime, I will enjoy the traditional holiday festivities.  The games, the food and of course, the Christmas lights.  The lights remind me of the glow that all fairies possess.  Each fairy is unique and shines in its own beautiful way.  This holiday season I’ve driven around in my car (yes driven a car, not flown a dragon, ridden an equine or been fired from a cannon).  Of all the lights I’ve seen this year these that are pictured are my favorites. 

So to all of you.  I wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a prosperous New Year.  

 



 


Monday, December 14, 2015

The 536th Annual Vampire Awards

Vampire's Castle aka The Tower of Shadows  See more of this artwork at http://redhoodstudio.pl/o-firmie


Every year, The Nether Realm has a gothic, luxurious banquet for vampires and their guests.  It is a “by invitation only” gala event. You cannot get past the lion statues poised at the front stone gate without producing the written invitation. It is rumored that these lions will come to life and attack you if you are caught attempting to crash the party.  It may be worth the risk. There are glamorous gowns, elegant tuxedos, divine decor, the most wonderful wine any world could offer, and food that is a feast for all the senses.  Yes, they have real food there (for the guests not the vampires) and no they are not trying to fatten people up to drink their blood. They have not done that for over 300 years despite what Bram Stoker says. 
 

The Nether Realm’s 536th Annual Vampire Awards Night was held on Saturday, December 12, 2015. 

The theme at this year’s event was: “Be responsible. Be kind.” A grand prize was given to the vampire who had drawn the most blood without turning or killing its donor. The grand prize was a fabulous all-inclusive trip for two to the romantic resort known as Camelot for an entire week of feasting, jousting, dancing, and hunting.  Here are this year’s winners:

Camelot


1st place Lucius DuGreco aka the King of Vampires

Lucius has been successfully draining blood since the late 17th Century.  With the help of an influential physician, Lucius has developed a system to perform blood transfusions.  These transfusions were often very dangerous to the subjects.  Knowing that this procedure would help his kind and the human race, Lucius worked diligently to perfect the procedure so that no one would get hurt.  Because of his perseverance, determination, and compassion for all living things, he succeeded in his quest.  Since then, blood is donated, the subjects are safe and vampires are well fed.
 

2nd place Nico Adessi, Vineyard Owner
Nico has always been a strong supporter of the blood drive in Europe.  He and his wine company have what many people call "Blood Parties”.  He supplies good food at the blood drive for those who give and a small bottle of champagne to every 15th person for their troubles.
He also throws lavish fundraisers where he encourages others to donate blood. All the proceeds are sent directly to the blood bank.   
 

3rd place. Jaqueline Mallory, Famous Artist

A blood drive activist, Jacqueline volunteers for any blood donor clinic in the Nether Realm or Earth Realm that she happens to be near.  She watches over the people giving blood there to reassure and comfort them with her gentle but witty bedside manner.  She uses her influence in the art world to spread the word about the need for blood.  She rarely fails to bring up the subject.   She mentions it in all of her lectures at art schools and during her art shows, classes and workshops.  


It's true that the way vampires get blood hasn't always been humane. But we shouldn’t be too judgemental because historically humans haven’t always been particularly humane in getting their food either.  We need to eat to survive and will get our food wherever and however we must.   Thankfully, we all have grown and evolved.  We now live in time when we have more options and most of us try to do things (even hunt) in the most benign way possible.  So for the sake of both vampires and humans be sure to donate at your local blood clinic.  We need it. Blood is the gift of life.  Wouldn’t this be a fabulous Christmas gift?


 

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Tips on packing

The holidays are coming up and vacation time is upon us.  It goes without saying (even though I am saying it) that you probably have to pack a suitcase.  It doesn't matter who you are or where you are going, planning and being prepared starts with what you pack.  Whether you are an angel or a zombie you will need a bit of this and that.  Even the yeti needs to pack a thing or two (just ask Bob packing is his favorite topic).  You could be leaving for a week or month but it is important to remember these tips.

  • When choosing your clothes, pick multipurpose items that can be used more than once.
  • Plan to dress in layers because you never know what you will need.  The weather can change like the flip of a coin. 
  • Roll your clothes rather than fold them.  They are least likely to wrinkle, crinkle or other annoying "inkles". 
  • Bring toiletries but keep them to a minimum.  Take small, multipurpose items.  If you run out, you can usually replace these items at relatively inexpensive prices.  Also you will often find complementary toiletries in your hotel room. 
  • Leave room for gifts and be sure to make them small.  Your friends/family will love you for an exotic present and its a good way to share your story. 
  • Bring a small and simple first aid kit.  These are easy to find.  You can get them at the drug store but as I am into green living (I think that's what the humans call it),  I prefer to make my own with what I get at organic health food stores.  I feel it's always best to go as natural as you can, so I prefer to pack things like witch hazel extract, lavender essential oil, aloe vera gel, etc.  Don't forget the practical things as well like band aids, rubbing alcohol, scissor/tweezers, etc. 
  • Accessorize but leave the bling at home.  A little jewel here and there is fine but when you wear something that has alot of rinestones or real stones, they can snag on your clothes and just otherwise annoy you.  Pack things like a scarf (multipurpose and classy), elastic bracelets (can be really nice hair ties), and a colorful necklace (one I never leave home without) that is more portable. 
  • Have a swiss army knife with several functions in your suitcase.  You will find that this comes in handy so many times.  For example, If you have a spork on yours, you can eat out a little easier.  And a corkscrew may be essential.   
  • The best of best packing advice comes from a very wise woman that I met at the "Prickly Apothecary" told me this.  Put everything (clothes, jewelry, toiletries, etc) in ziplock bags.  Mark the bags to record what is in them.  For example, I usually have one bag for panties, one bag for bras, one bag for socks, and several bags with t-shirts, dresses, and blouses.  I even put my shoes in ziplock bags.  Then you can rifle through your suitcase to find a specific item without messing everything up.  If you do this, your clothes will stay fresh, pressed and it will keep anything nasty from crawling in there.  You will still have to wash everything after your trip is over but life will be much easier with this piece of advice.

Those are some of the best tips I can give you when it comes to packing.  Being an avid traveller is fun but it isn't easy especially when it comes to wrangling suitcases.  That is why you will want to pack light and smart.  Happy packing friends and keep everything light!

PS:  Birthday suit is good but keep it in your room because humans go crazy at the sight of it (no matter who you are). 





Monday, November 23, 2015

Dragon Fire Tonic: Fights a Cold and Flu


Got a cold?  Or a flu?  It's can be miserable when you get sick with these two ailments.  That's why I have a recipe here from the Nether Realm that will help.  It is a very simple recipe and a surprisingly tasty one too.  According to all the best wizards, witches and witch doctors it is the best tasting medicine in all of the Nether Realm and fast acting too.  It has been developed and adjusted over centuries and with a little help from the dragon's fire, we got the best medicine we could ask for.  Here is the recipe:


Ingredients

1 cup of Orange juice
1 teaspoon of Lemon juice
1 squirt of Honey
1/8 teaspoon of Ginger
1/8 teaspoon of Turmeric
1 tiny pinch of Cayenne Pepper
1 stick of Cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix the first six ingredients together.
  2. If you are in the Nether Realm and have a dragon present or have access to a dragon's den, have the animal breath fire for about 2 seconds to heat the concoction.  If you are in the Earth Realm, put the mixture in a microwave safe container and heat for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour into a cup, add the cinnamon stick to stir.
  4. Wave your hand over the concoction while focusing on its power to heal.  This will transfer your positive energy into it and therefore making it more potent.
  5. Drink it slowly and enjoy! 


*Helpful tips:

·         Try to do this as organic as possible.  It works better this way.

·         Watch out!  It may be hotter than hellfire!

You may never find a dragon in the Earth Realm but that doesn't mean you can't have a spicy tonic inspired and perfected by them.  It will fix you right up and have you feeling great in no time.  To quote the witch doctor that first gave the recipe to me, “The heat of the dragon energize thee." 

 

How did this recipe work for all of you?



Monday, November 16, 2015

Bluebirds, Butterflies and the Nether Realm Social Media

With winter approaching here in Calgary, I am reminded of how much I miss forms of communication that we use back in the Nether Realm.  Here in the Earth Realm we have tweets, texts and other social media but in the Nether Realm we rely primarily on bluebirds and butterflies.  They all fly, flutter and flit through the sky seemingly as free as free can be.  I love watching all of the butterflies and birds in the sky.  It's like watching a firework display in the daytime.  I'm always happy to see one of these creatures perched on my window sill.  They usually bring good news. 

 
It's just like the song "The Bluebird of Happiness" by Sandor Harmati, Edward Heyman and Harry Parr-Davies: 
Be like I, hold your head up high,
Till you find a bluebird of happiness.
You will find greater peace of mind
Knowing there's a bluebird of happiness.

And when he sings to you,
Though you’re deep in blue,
You will see a ray of light creep through,
And so remember this, life is no abyss,
Somewhere there’s a bluebird of happiness.

Charles Dickens wrote, “I only ask to be free.  The butterflies are free”. 

 But even bluebirds and butterflies have a responsibilities in the Nether Realm.  They are more than happy to carry out their duty as messengers of the Faye Clan. Back in the Nether Realm I would send off a blue bird and two butterflies in the morning.  The bluebird was for "The Parchment News" (who I also write for) and my butterflies went to my mother and my friend.  While I waited for my little messengers to come back, I had a cup of tea with a little breakfast and got ready for my day.   I usually got my return messages after I left my home and while walking through the Mystinia Forest. The butterflies would land on my shoulder to whisper in my ear. The bluebird would land on my finger to tweet his message. Often these creatures brought small gifts with them.  The last time I was there, I got a magic ring from a butterfly.  I wear it all the time and I consider it my totem.

When there is an emergency or urgency, we call upon the wisps.  These orbs of light are almost as fast as telepathy. Only Mystics are actually capable of telepathy but we do not use it for frivolous matters.  We Mystics are rarely concerned about whether or not we get a quick message because we know that we will get it when we are meant to.  Back in the Nether Realm, we view time very differently than the Earth Realm.  I find that the Earth Realm is really rushed. Like most mystics, I'm not a rusher.  I like to take my time.  So you see, the bluebirds and butterflies may not be as fast as an email but they are reliable and effective.  And we fairies love them!

  Like Carrie Bradshaw (from Sex in the City) says, "Don't settle for anything less than butterflies."We mystics don't settle for anything less but we like our bluebirds too.  My advice to you my favorite readers is to remember these words. These creatures are light, beautiful, and happy. Make time for the birds and the butterflies. 

 


Monday, November 9, 2015

Remembrance Day

In Flanders Fields
by John McCrae, May 1915
 
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
 
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
 
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

The poem of Flanders Fields honors the soldiers that are fallen in war.  These soldiers paid the ultimate price to preserve and protect our way of life.  But let us not forget the brave soldiers who are alive and are still fighting for our freedom.  Lest we forget, war is hell.  We lose good people to it and damage those who live through it.  I describe myself as a carefree spirit and many people have fought hard to make that possible.  So to all of you who have served our country...Thank you.

Friday, October 30, 2015

Monster Cookies

October is all about monster mayhem.  Monster movies, monster costumes and (as I have discovered) monster trucks.  Now that November is here and the festivies are done, we have to forget all of that until next year.  Luckily, I have a monsterously magnificient momento to remember the Halloween season.  A recipe for monster cookies.  Everyone is afraid of a monster but these monster's are friendly and yummy.  Don't worry they like to be eaten so its not animal/monster cruelty.   



You will need:
  • 1 Angel Food Cake Mix Box (I prefer nice monsters)
  • 2 Cups of M&Ms
  • ½ cup of softened butter (take out first thing in the morning and let sit) 
  • ½ tsp. vanilla
  • 1 softened 8 oz. Cream Cheese Bar (take out first thing in the morning and let sit)
  • 1 egg
  • Powdered Sugar
  • Food Coloring
  • Candy Eyeballs (I found these in Michaels but you can find them in any craft store)

  • Instructions
    1. Beat butter, vanilla, egg and cream cheese together in a large bowl until fluffy.
    2. Add the cake mix, then divide batter into bowls for the amount of colors you want.
    3. Add food coloring for your desired color to each individual bowl and mix until all combined.
    4. Divide M&Ms into different colors (This is optional) and add them into your cookie mix.  Stir
    5. Put batter in refridgerator for 30 minutes to chill.
    6. Take out of Refridgerater, roll into balls and dip in a bowl of powdered sugar.
    7. Place the balls on greased cookie sheet and pat down slightly.
    8. Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes
    9. Add candy eyeballs on while cookies are still warm.  
    10. Eat, Exchange and Enjoy!
     
    As you can see that these cookies are easy to make and are ready in a flash.  Kids love them (Don't worry.  They won't be scared), and they are very popular at bake sales.  You make one batch of these beauties and BAM!  Watch them disappear as fast as the last month does.  My mother always says to keep the monsters outside but these cookies are too good to pass up.  They are a friendly reminder of my favorite holiday.  How do you remember your Halloween?
     
     

    Tuesday, October 27, 2015

    Apple Peel True Love Reveal

    apple fruit kitchen
    Who wants to find out a little something about your future life partner?  There is a spell we use back home to find out who our mate for life is going to be.  The humans in the Earth Realm like to do this on Halloween but you can do this anytime in the autumn.   It is very simple. You take an apple and peel its skin off in one long piece with a paring knife.  As you do this, say:
     

    This apple that I peel
    My true love's letter I reveal
    As it finds its way to the ground
    Help my love mate's name be found
     

    When you drop the peel it will land in the shape of the first initial of your true love’s name.  It is only a clue but now that you know the first initial all you have to do next is find your soulmate. 

    At least you will be able to keep this in mind when you meet new people or look at your friends in a new way.  Now go on and have a glass of wine with your apple and cheese to celebrate. 

    Thursday, October 22, 2015

    Screamfest is the Best!



    Screamfest Entrance
    The First and Best Haunted House
    October is a great time for mystics. It is one of the few times we get to travel freely between the Nether World and the Earth Realm. Most of us try to get home to the Nether Realm to enjoy our huge party “Centennial Celebration”. Unfortunately, this year I was not able to be there.  Three of my dearest friends in the Earth Realm invited me to go with them to “Screamfest”. They told me that Halloween themed fun included games, rides and haunted houses. From what they said, I thought it might be a little dark but I was so homesick and feeling sorry for myself, I decided to give it a try.

    Dragon Monster Truck Ride
    The Magician
    This is a very popular event and line ups are typically quite long. General admission is $25 but my friends recommended that I spring for the extra $20 to purchase a Speed Pass. So I did and received a bracelet and 16 tokens to use as I pleased. No waiting in line for me!


    We entered the grandstand building and had a quick look around. We decided that we would explore the six haunted houses that were included in the price of admission first so headed outside where they were located. “What Lies Beneath” was the first house we toured and we were very impressed. At the end of the day, we decided that this was our favorite attraction.
     
    As we explored the outdoor attractions, we found the “Monster Truck Rides”. Although it cost a whopping 12 tokens, we decided we had to give it a try. After a brief wait, the four of us climbed into the very front of the large vehicle. Immediately after buckling our seat belts, we began one of the most exciting rides of our life. The spins, skids, donuts and the speed are not something we encounter in our everyday lives. It was like riding a dragon except we did not actually fly. It only felt like it. I ran into an unexpected visitor from the Nether World.

    Andromeda, Princess of Dragons
    Shape-shiftng Gorilla Woman
    Andromeda, the Princess of Dragons, is a minor celebrity in our world. She is named after Andromeda, daughter of Cepheus and Cassiopeia and the wife of Perseus. Andromeda was chained naked to a rock near the port city of Jaffa and Perseus rescued and then married her. She had a long life and many children. After her death, she was placed among the constellations in the northern sky near Perseus and Cassiopeia. Her namesake, the Princess of Dragons, is a bit of a loner but every now and again she does briefly visit the Earth Realm to walk anonymously and explore this world. We did get to speak to her and shake her hand but she had to leave rather quickly. She did not enjoy the crowds and all the noise. It was a thrill for me to meet her.
    Mad House and Buried Alive

    We went back into the grandstand building to experience the games, more rides and haunted houses. I tried the “Witches Brew Game” and the “Archery Game”. No prizes for me but I did have fun. We tried a couple of rides. “The Screamer” is an aptly named orbital apparatus that spins in every direction so fast that you feel you have entered another dimension. “Neighbors from Hell” was a 3D ride that required you to flee from hellish demons that are definitely out to kill you.  We toured the haunted houses “Mad House” and “Buried Alive”. We also saw zombies, a shape shifting gorilla woman, and a magician. We made it out alive.  Will you? 
     
    The Screamer
    In the 4 ½ hours we were there, we did not take in all the available attractions. This is not an inexpensive evening out. Admission plus 16 tokens cost $45. Visiting the outdoor haunted houses was included in admission and did not require tokens. The two indoor haunted houses cost 4 tokens each. Monster Truck Ride cost 12 tokens and other rides were 8 tokens each. Games were generally 4 tokens each. Food services were limited and costly so I did not indulge. I estimate my total cost to be $70.
    Neighbors From Hell Ride

     

    To enjoy the experience, it is necessary to leave your “grown up, responsible, judgemental, adult” self at home. Come prepared to laugh, scream, jump, and defend yourself and your friends with your purse if necessary and you will have a wonderful time. We all certainly escaped our real world and left with smiles on our faces. Will I go back next year? Absolutely.  It was Spooktackular!

    Zombie Smiling

    Tuesday, October 13, 2015

    Loki the Vampire...Cat?

    Loki the Vampire Cat.  See her on https://instagram.com/loki_kitteh/?hl=en

    In the Nether Realm, we are aware that the Earth Realm has vampire bats.  Are there other animals that are vampiric? This is a mystery that many of us have been pondering for centuries.  There is a group of scientists in the Nether Realm at my old school, the University of Atlantis, that is trying to figure this out.  I may have the answer. 

    
    Loki saying,"Hello!"  Say hello to her on https://www.facebook.com/Lokithevampirecat
    There is a cat in the Earth Realm named Loki who just might be a vampire cat.  Her companion Kaet says she got this cute little critter from an animal shelter and has several pictures of Loki posted on Instagram, Facebook and other social media.  Although vicious-looking in her pictures, this unique cat has the sweet personality of most other kittens. Luckily, Loki has no taste for blood (that we know of), just kitty treats.  Still, I wouldn't make this feisty feline feral.  

    
    Loki in a Bathrobe.  See her at https://twitter.com/loki_kitteh
    With Kaets’s permission, I tried to look further into Loki's origin.  It is shrouded in mystery.  So I inquired about any missing cats in the Nether Realm who resemble Loki.  There are animals everywhere in the Nether Realm.  They are very well taken care of and comfortable but every once in a while, like me, they will run off and explore other worlds.  I wanted Loki’s friends, companions and family to know that she is well cared for and loved in the Earth Realm (if indeed she once lived in the Nether Realm).  I haven't heard from anyone in the Nether Realm as of yet.  I still can't help but wonder.  Is Loki from our world?  What do you all think?
      

    
     



    Friday, October 2, 2015

    Black Magic Smoothies

    Feel like you are in a spell? Feel like you are in a web that is weaved so well? Like the song written in 1942 and sang by Judy Garland, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Tony Bennett, and even Marilyn Monroe in the movie “Bus Stop” says, it must be that Old Black Magic. As many of you know, I believe in kindness, compassion, joy and light. I am no fan of black magic. But with Halloween just around the corner and winter fast approaching, it makes good sense to take measures to improve your own health and strength.


    So I have a solution for you. This “Black Magic Smoothie” will smooth over any spells or curses and help you avoid colds and flus. The recipe makes 4 servings but I like it so much it is really about 2 servings for me.

    Ingredients

    1 cup of black cherries

    1 cup of blackberries

    1 cup of blueberries

    1 cup of greens (try spinach, kale, or Swiss chard)

    2 cups of pomegranate juice

    1 tablespoon of chia seeds

    1/3 cup of black beans (optional)

    Throw everything into a blender and blend really well. Drink and enjoy.  Put leftovers in a jar for the next day.

    Hints

    I highly recommend frozen fruits and vegetables. Unless they are in season where you live, frozen is a more economical and nutritional option. Less preparation and waste too. I often buy mixed fruits and pick out just what I want for a specific recipe.

    The black beans are optional but they are the “secret” ingredient because they are magical. And not in the sense of “Beans, beans, the magical fruit.  The more you eat, the more….” well, you know the rest. More relative to the fairy tale about Jack and the Beanstalk. Beans provide a wealth of fiber and protein and help you feel full. And let's face it, they are delicious!

    Remember that in the Earth Realm, we are more susceptible to illness and injury. We are approaching a season of superstition, cold weather, and change. Be aware, keep fit, and stay strong.

    Sunday, September 27, 2015

    The Blood Moon

    Attention all mystics!  Attention all mystics!  The Blood Moon is tonight!  It happened in 1982 and it's happening again.  You know what that means?  Grab your binoculars, stand outside and enjoy the show.  It is very beautiful but lets not forget how powerful it is.  It may not bring the Apocalypse as many believe but do expect a lot of supernatural activity.  I'm talking poltergeist activity, strange orbs flying around and perhaps an apparition or two.  Not to worry though, usually these things are harmless and only last for the night.  They are extremely annoying and will probably keep you up but at least you will not be bored this Sunday night.  Have a pleasant evening my friends and please share your blood moon story.  After all, we won't see the next one until 2033. 

    Monday, September 21, 2015

    Hades and Persephone Renew their Wedding Vows

    hades and persephone 1 by sandara
    Artwork provided by Sandara in  devianart;  http://sandara.deviantart.com/art/hades-and-persephone-1-91425066
    That's right folks!  Hades and Persephone, the Nether Realm's hottest couple have just announced that they are renewing their wedding vows on Halloween.  Can you imagine a better time for these crazy love birds to do that?  This is the biggest news from the Greek gods since Zeus and Hera's divorce.  Some of us saw their divorce coming while others (not me) were very surprised.  No one was surprised by the confirmation of Persephone and Hades continuing love. 

    The story of how Hades met Persephone is well known to all.  Hades saw Persephone wading in a fresh spring and immediately fell in love.  He quickly kidnapped her and she became a bride by abduction which was legal back in those days.  Hades also had Zeus' (Persephone's dad) permission to marry her.  Demeter was very angry when she found out Hades had taken her daughter and made her his queen.  But there is a part of the story that she didn't know.

    Hades and Persephone. Interesting perspective from the artist because it makes Persephone appear as though she actually loves Hades.: Persephone was falling in love too.  At first, she didn't know what to make of Hades, then she saw that he was a sad, broken and lonely man who needed some feminine light in his life.  He was also very kind to her.  He never pushed her to sleep with him, he tried to do little things to make her feel at home and he gave her space when she needed it.  She noticed all of this and it touched her heart.  One day she told him that she loved him and wanted to stay with him forever.  According to legend, if you eat anything in the underworld you do stay there forever.  Hades offered her a pomegranate and Persephone willingly ate it. 

    Upon hearing the news that her daughter had eaten there, Demeter demanded that Zeus return her daughter to her or else she would destroy all crops and the world would be nothing but a wasteland.  She wasn't kidding and when Zeus did not go back on his promise to Hades, the world became more and more barren.  Times were very hard for humans and mystics alike.  Zeus relented and ordered Hermes to go to the Underworld and retrieve Persephone.  However, Hermes was caught and brought before Hades to explain himself. 

    Hermes told both Persephone and Hades everything that was happening because of Demeter's anger.   They all agreed that the best thing for everyone was that Persephone stay above ground for six months but the remaining six months she stay with Hades.  Demeter and Zeus agreed to this and the arrangement has continued since then.

    This picture tells a story all on its own. It is simple, but elegant... To take the hand of a Master/Dom... He will guide you as you give him the gift of your submission..: Back to the present, Hades and Persephone are going to have an actual ceremony to celebrate their love. 

    "The thing is, I always felt bad that Persephone and I never really had a wedding ceremony."  Hades explains, "She has brought so much beauty, kindness and vitality into the Underworld and to me that I want to do this for her. "

    Persephone's work to make the Underworld a beautiful place makes a big difference to those who have passed on.  Not to mention the beauty she brings when she comes back to the surface.  What she does makes a difference to everyone in the world.  She is the epitome of charity, congeniality and lightness.

    "It's been a long time and finally getting both of my parents' blessings, Hades and I decided that it was time to celebrate the thousands of beautiful years we've had together."  Persephone states, "It will be a wonderous night."

    It is romantic isn't it?  After all these years, these two immortals are still holding strong and holding hands.  It's their story that is my favorite of all the Greek Myths.   To have an actual ceremony for their union is something special.  The celebration is for the Greek Gods and Goddesses only.  It was important to the couple that they keep the party private.  Fortunately, there is a way to celebrate it with them.  If you do this correctly, the Greek Gods and Goddesses will bless you with good luck.

    You must wear a white flower wreath in your hair (look for things like narcissus, lilies and daisies because they are Persephone's favorite flowers).  Make a mixture of pomegranate juice, nectarine juice and champagne in equal parts.  At midnight on Halloween, hold your mixed drink up to the stars and give this toast;

    "To true love that transcends the tests of time.  May all creatures, mortal and immortal, in the stars, on the ground and under the ground, find the light that only love can bring."

    After you say your toast, you may notice some starlight appear before you.  Don't be afraid, it's just the immortals saying "Thank you" for your good wishes.  Drink the rest of your cocktail and feel free to have your favorite food with it.  Lets face it, you are blessed by the gods.