Pictures of Wonderland

Good news everyone.  Last week I had a unique opportunity.  It turns out that the fashion designers in Wonderland may want to sell their wares to the rest of the Nether Realm again. I was asked by my scroll mason, Edward, to go to Wonderland and scout out locations for a photoshoot.  A scroll mason is the Nether Realm equivalent of a newspaper editor in the Earth Realm. 

Lituous Trees

Since the 19^th century, Wonderland has kept its gates closed to all beings including mystics, humans, aliens and even gods.  This is because of an incident that involved two humans coming into the Nether Realm.  For months, a man and a little girl kept coming to Wonderland.    No one knew how these two humans got in but there are theories.  I think they both were astral projectors to be honest with you.  Because they kept coming, they discovered Wonderland’s deepest secrets.  Both of these humans wound up telling everyone in the Earth Realm about Wonderland.  The residents saw this as a threat and took drastic action. 

Rappin Sticky Roses

Now that is beginning to change and I got to be one of the first outsiders to go there in about 200 years.  I was quite honored.  I had an anthropomorphic squirrel named Tula to serve as my guide to show me around and tell me about this land.  Anthropomorphic means a creature that is not human but takes on human traits.  Wonderland is a magical place full of fantastic and wondrous oddities.  It is a land shrouded with mystery. 



My big responsibility in being there was to make a good impression on the residents.  So I had to play by their rules and show them that they could trust outsiders again.  I had to get special permission from both the proper authorities of Wonderland and the Ambassadors of Nether Realm Relations to show you my pictures and tell you my story.  Luckily for me they approved of this post.



One of the first things that happened was a frog in a trim grey suit and boulder hat approached Tula and I.  He said to us, "Logging for a haren, milady." I had no idea what that meant which is not surprising because Wonderland has its own unique language.  But my guide looked rather alarmed.  She told me to ignore him so that is what I did but because of her expression, I was not completely comfortable about it.

Bulbut Lightingales

During the two days I was there, I met some interesting anthropomorphic animals that I had a cuckoo, high tea with.  Apparently, logging means looking and haren means high tea.  The tea and cakes were wonderful and beautifully presented.  The company that I kept gave me some hints of what to look for.  Then they decided to talk in the Wonderland language for about ten minutes.  Before I knew it, my companions dumped their teas over their heads, jumped up on the table and did some break dancing on the food.  The high tea ended rather oddly.  Tula and I made an abrupt departure.  No wonder Tula was a bit concerned about going to a high tea.



Early the next morning, we began the search for locations.   We went to the areas that were suggested to us at the high tea and what I saw was awe-inspiring.  We came across trees that had small, glowing growths.  They looked like stars arranged in a pattern on the tree’s bark.  Tula told me that these trees are called the lituous trees.  They were very cool.  Next we came across an unusual vine that had

bright red pointed flowers.  They are called rappin sticky roses and they are highly poisonous.  From a distance you can smell their musky seductive scent but if you get too close, they will knock you unconscious for a week.  I am told not even the bulbut lightingales would wake you up.  The bulbut lightingales grow wild but they also grow on people’s houses and they are the brightest things I have ever seen. They shine their brightest at night when the sun is completely down.  It brings a whole new meaning to a nightlight. 

Stilfalin Waterfall

I saw a lot of beautiful things in Wonderland but what captured my heart was the Stifalin Waterfall.  It was a waterfall that has been frozen in time.  At one time there was a war between two kingdoms.  Both sides suffered great loss and many people died.  The conflicting royalties called a truce and froze this waterfall as a symbol of this truce.  However the war was not ended and I got the sense that they are still on shaky ground.  A beautiful symbol to remind them that war has terrible consequences that should be avoided.  A frozen waterfall is unnatural and so is war. 

To be able to go to Wondeland and get some pictures

 of possible locations for a photoshoot was a chance of a lifetime.   Although I was happy to go, it was not an easy trip.  People speaking in a language I don’t understand and engaging in some really bizarre behavior can be off putting.  However, I am happy that Wonderland is looking to trade their fashions again.  Wonderland has always had beautiful and enchanting clothes.  I’ve seen them in my Mom’s old scrolls and I wished I had some of those dresses.  Luckily, I might be able to buy one now.  Hopefully, Wonderland will hold to their decision to trade.  Only time will tell.      





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Fun and Practical Ways of Getting Rid of a Cold

 Forgive the tardy post but as you may have guessed from the title I have been sick with the cold.   As I have been lying in bed coughing and hacking, I actually discovered many ways you can feel better.  

1.      Rest-  I hate to state the obvious but any doctor, naturopath, or witch doctor will tell you that the ultimate way to get rid of this nasty virus is to stay in bed and sleep lots. Phone in sick, let TV babysit the kids and forget all your other troubles. 

2.      Liquids, Liquids and more Liquids- Yes, it is important to stay hydrated especially when you spend a lot of time coughing and choking.  Your mouth will feel dry, your throat will be sore and you will find yourself sweating a lot.  So be sure to drink a lot of fluids especially hot beverages.  I happen to know the best hot beverage you can take for such a nasty cold.  That is my Dragon Fire Tonic.   

3.      Let off a little steam- If you have a humidifier or some kind of steam maker then use it!  Please know that you can put some wonderful aromatherapy to good use with this.  Personally, I like to use Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary and Pine.  These work the best when you are congested.  If you don't have anything like this, then never fear just take your dear sweet time in the shower.  Believe me this helps too.

4.      Watch some good ghost movies- This is just my movie genre preference but they always seem to make me feel better.  They don't have to be ghostly but if you're going to lie around all day, you might as well enjoy yourself.  Besides, all those ghost movies remind me of my home world.  And when you are scared, you may forget that you are also miserable. 

5.      Meditate- This may seem unnecessary to some but many studies have shown that the mind and body are connected.  If you take care of your mind, your body will start to take care of itself and you will get better faster.

6.      Put Vicks under and around your nose- this is something that I just tried.  It was suggested by a friend and it works!!!  It stings the nose a bit (if it's red) but it heals faster, stops running and makes it so much easier to breathe.  Don't forget to put Vicks on your chest and back as well.  Every little bit helps and reminds you of what your mother did when you were a child.

7.      Cough and Hack until it's out of your system – This is pretty self-explanatory.  The reason why you cough in the first place is to get the virus out of your system.  So let it all out!  Blow your nose as well.  Don’t be dainty.  Be loud, long and strong. 

8.      Vitamins, Herbs and Minerals - You will need to take Vitamin C, Echinachea, Ginseng and Zinc.  These four will help boost immunity and get rid of the cold faster. 

9.      Drink some wine - It may not cure it but it sure feels good until you pass out.  (See #1)

10.  If all else fails call an Exorcist - Why not?  You've tried everything else.

You want to take special care of yourself.  A little pampering, indulgence and T.L.C. will go a long way.  Treat yourself as you would treat a child. In the end, you will not only feel better but you will have experienced a little love as well.  It’s almost like a vacation except you suffer instead of your wallet. 

Fantastic Flower Fairy Sugar Scrub

Do you like wildflowers?  Do you ever imagine being surrounded in a sea of them while you look up at a clear blue sky?  Or do you want silky smooth skin that sparkles like sunshine?   If it is yes to any one of these questions then this is the beauty recipe for you.  This formula is said to be Queen Maeve's favorite beauty product. 

It was created by her seven fairy maidens who have served her since the beginning of time.  Their names are Candite, Coulante, Fleur de Farine, Miettes qui Tombent, Canari qui Chante, Violente and her most trusted messenger, Fee des Lilas.  After Queen Maeve’s son, Oberon took over her throne, he sent her into exile but her fairy maidens never left her side.  To make a long story short, Oberon botched things up with the humans and many mystical clans when he was king of the fairies.  The fairy kingdom saw that Queen Maeve was the better ruler.  So the fairies in the fairy kingdom sent for her and voted her back as their queen.  Oberon was forced to step down and do 10,000 years of good deeds to mortals to make up for his mistakes.  

It may have taken 500 years but Queen Maeve happily took back her place as the queen of the fairies. To celebrate the queen's return the fairy maidens created a flower fairy scent and mixed it into a gentle scrub.  This scrub will give you the glow, sparkle and smell of a fairy with the beautiful soft skin to match.  Just follow this recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Raw sugar
• 1/4 to 1 cup Sunflower oil
• 1-2 drops each of Essential oil (Lilac, Lavender, Rose, Lily-of-the-Valley, Gardenia,  Honeysuckle, and Jasmine)
• green tea leaves

*Some of these essential oils are easy to find while others you will have to search for.  A lot of what I get are from farmer's markets, travel expos or online.*

Directions

1.      Mix the raw sugar and oil together in a container.

2.      Add the essential oils and mix well with a stirring stick (I use the stir sticks because the essential oils will stain cutlery and it’s difficult to get rid of)

3.      Take the desired amount of green tea leaves and sprinkle them into the mixture.  Mix well.

 There is a reason why fairies love all of these ingredients.  The raw sugar strips away all negativity, the green tea livens up the skin, while the sunflower oil brings on the smooth and the sparkle that every fairy needs.  What truly makes this a fairy potion is the scents.  These fragrances are very special to the fairies because the fairy maidens are in charge of these particular flowers.  Due to their love and loyalty to their queen, they managed to protect her from danger, teach her the ways of the world and sneak her back into the fairy kingdom when the timing was right.  She would never have gotten her throne back without their help.  When it comes to beauty, I find that a little help goes a long way whether you are mortal or immortal. 

Mystical Minis

When people think of magic, they often think a complex ritual of spells.  I am here to say that is not always true.   For example, these mystical minis are a simple dessert that can bring a touch of magic into your life.  With a little love, a dollop of creativity (or whipped cream), and a pinch of whimsy (or salt), you can have delightful delicious desserts that can do wondrous things for you and those around you.

MARVELOUS MYSTICAL MAGICAL MINIS

 Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake for 18 -20 minutes. Use mini tart pans lined with mini cuplets or 1-2” foil and paper cups (a good place to find them is Michaels). Makes about 60 -72 tiny bite sized desserts. I often divide the recipe in half but the mini cheesecakes do freeze very well.

·         1¼ cup graham wafer or Oreo  crumbs

·         ¼ cup melted butter

Mix together and press about 1 tsp. into each cuplet.

• 2- 8 oz. pkgs. of brick cream cheese
• 1 cup white sugar
• 4 eggs
• 2 tsp. of lemon juice

Beat well and fill each liner about ¾ full. Bake until tops look set and have a touch of golden color. Cool completely.

  Magical Touch

There are a variety of things you can do to add magic to these tasty treats.  It would take forever to list them all but here are four to get you started.
Apple Cinnamon Caramel - Attracts love and passion and calms anxiety. Apple
Cinnamon
White sugar

Caramel sauce (make your own, melt soft caramels, or use sundae topping)

1. Core and pare apple and cut into little tiny pieces.
2. Mix in cinnamon and sugar to taste.
3. Put in the microwave and cook for one minute.
4. Spoon your apple mixture into the center of the mini.
5. Pour the caramel sauce on top.

Sea Salt Chocolate - Cleanses the soul.  Milk Chocolate bar
Pinch of Sea Salt

1. Cut the chocolate into small pieces.
2. Add 2-3 drops of vegetable oil.
3. Put in the microwave for 20 second intervals. Stir after each interval until melted.
4. Spoon the melted chocolate into the center of the mini.
5. Take a pinch of sea salt and sprinkle on top.

Lemon with Berries - Gives a surge of joyous energy. Lemon Pie Filling
Raspberries and Blueberries

1. Spoon lemon pie filling into the center of the mini.
2. Place one blueberry and one raspberry in the center.

Mint and Basil:  - Protects against negativity. Mint Jelly
Pinch of dried Basil

1. Spoon mint jelly into the center of the mini.
2. Sprinkle the basil on top.

Simple right?  But what makes them so magical?  The beginning of all magic comes from intention.  Arrange the desserts on a pretty plate, and play a little music.  Concentrate, wave your hand over the minis, and put your energy into them.  When you put in love and joyous energy, they instantly become magical. 
I hosted a Boxing Day Party and served the desserts. They were big hit and everyone was happy and having a great time.  Of course, I also served wine and cocktails.

Happy New Year and Birthday to ERG

Hi Everyone!  I wanted to thank you all for tuning into my blog and reading what I have to write.  When I started this blog, it was not one of those WHAM BAM decisions.  It took a lot of time, thought, and imagination to create the Earth Realm Guide.  Luckily, with a little magic and a lot of practice, I feel I have taken a huge step in sharing my story.  I've always dreamed of being a writer and now I feel that dream has come true.

 My blog is now a year old and it feels like yesterday that I had just started it.  The more I work at it, the more I learn and grow along with my blog.  I would like to hear what advice you all have for me and my blog for this coming year.  Any tips, tricks or things you would like to see?  Thank you all for a wonderful year and I hope for many more wonderful years to come.

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? 
    
 
 
 

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 75^th 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.  

 



 

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?


 

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). 

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?