Showing posts with label #Autumn Earthsong. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #Autumn Earthsong. Show all posts
Welcome to the 5th annual Samhain's Sirens Celebration!
Cool nights, cozy blankets, sweatshirts, candles, incense, bonfires, pumpkins, spooky decorations, mulled apple cider... it's finally here! Samhain-time! The veil is thinning, and soon, we'll be honoring our ancestors and communing with the dead. This is our time, dear Witchy family! Welcome back, honored guests and playmates, and welcome to our first-time visitors! Samhain’s Sirens is a gift of love to you from us. During the Samhain season (October 2- October 31) we’ll be treating you to blogs, giveaways, craft ideas, recipes and music to help you celebrate this holy and happy time in honoring the thinning of the veil and our ancestors. We have lots of great fun in store for you this year. For those of you who are new, here's how our giveaways work: We will feature the giveaway with the ways you can enter. You will need to provide us with your email address. You do not have to give us your email address in the comments. You can send it via email to kallan.kennedy@gmail.com, if you prefer. The reason we need your email address is that by law, we must notify you that way before we announce it publicly. Canadian residents, you have different rules per your country's laws. We must give you an opportunity to 'earn' your entry. So, we'll give you a question to answer. One question will give you the same amount of entries as anyone else (you lucky person!). If you want more details, please see our Official Rules and Prizes page. Now, let's get on with the fun, shall we?
Today's Music: Season of the Witch by Donovan
How could we resist opening with a song that celebrates our time of year?
Today's Recipe: Caramel-Glazed Apple Cake
by Autumn Earthsong
Happy October friends! I’m so happy to be back with Samhain’s Sirens again this year. I know so many of you missed it! It’s going to be a lot of fun as always and part of it is the inclusion of delicious recipes to enjoy during this most wonderful time of year! My first recipe is an easy and delicious cake..perfect with a cup of coffee or spiced cider sitting by a fire! Caramel-Glazed Apple Cake 1 3/4 cups butter, softened and divided 1 1/4 cups sugar, divided 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, packed and divided 3 eggs 3 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsps cinnamon 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp plus 1/8 tsp salt 5 apples, cored, peeled and diced (recommend Granny Smith or Cortlands) 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans 2 1/4 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup whipping cream Preheat oven to 325* Beat 1 1/2 cups butter, one cup sugar and one cup brown sugar in a large bowl at medium-high speed with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. In a separate bowl, combine flour and the next 4 ingredients (1/2 tsp salt saving 1/8 for glaze) Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture with a wooden spoon to form a very thick batter. Stir in apples, pecans and vanilla, mixing well. Pour batter into a greased and floured 13” x 9” baking pan. Bake at 325* for 50-60 mins. Test with toothpick to be sure it’s done. Cool cake in pan on wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Caramel Glaze Melt remaining butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add remaining sugars and remaining salt. Cook, stirring frequently for 2 minutes or so. Stir in cream and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Poke holes in cake over entire top surface with end of wooden spoon. Pour warm caramel glaze over cake. Serve warm or cooled. Yum!! Enjoy, Autumn Earthsong
Autumn Earthsong is a wife, mother, grandmother and a Witch! She’s been the Kitchen and Herb Witch for Samhain’s Sirens, The Sunday Stew and Imramma magazine for a few years now. Her Craft revolves around the kitchen, garden, hearth, altar, Mother Earth and Grandmother Moon. She feels Goddess blessed every day. Autumn is also a healer as a Master Reiki practitioner and she’s knowledgeable in herbalism and crystals for healing as well. Autumn is the founder of her Coven and you can find her blogging at autumnearthsong.com. Autumn is her favorite time of year as you may guess by her name, and she especially loves sharing her favorite seasonal recipes! She hopes you add them to your own recipe files and enjoy them! Blessed Samhain to all!
Today's Giveaway: Honor Themed Jar
by Touch of the Goddess
If you've never seen these stunning creations by Sharon Rawson, you have been completely missing out! This beauty was made especially for the Samhain's Sirens Celebration and retails for $150.00. We know you can't wait to enter for a chance to win this, so let's get right to it! US Residents:
First entry: Go to Touch of the Goddess shop, peruse the amazing creations, come back here and tell us which is your favorite in the comments. Second entry: Share this giveaway on your Facebook page (note: Facebook in no way endorses our giveaways). Come back, tell us you did in the comments (share the link, please). Third entry: Share this giveaway on Twitter or Instagram (your choice). Come back, post the link to your share in the comments. Fourth entry: Like the Touch of the Goddess Facebook page. Leave a comment on her Facebook page telling her you're visiting from Samhain's Sirens. Come back here, and let us know you did. Fifth entry: Like the Samhain's Sirens Facebook page. Leave us a comment below letting us know you're a follower (hint: this is going to be a gimme if you do it now or if you've done it in the past. It'll be one of the entries for all of our giveaways). Canadian Residents:
For five entries into this prize, please correctly answer this question in the comments section: Canada falls under which one of these categories? Republic Dominion Kingdom Commonwealth You have until 11:59p EDT to enter. Winner will be announced in tomorrow's post. Good luck!! That's all for today! Tune in this week for music, recipes, crafts, and giveaways! Happy Samhaining!
Welcome to the 5th annual Samhain's Sirens Celebration! Cool nights, cozy blankets, sweatshirts, candles, incense, bonfires, pumpki...
Even though the sign clearly says, "Forbidden", you know you want to come on in...
We have food (even Paleo), drink, and songs and a giveaway.. of course, there's always a price to pay for breaking the rules.. but, you look like the type who doesn't let that stop you.
Come on in!
And the winner of the Sosanna's Closet giveaway is....
Jessica Lloyd!
Friday's Forget-Me-Not
In honor of the thinning of the veil, we're going to take each Friday to honor a magical someone who has passed through to the other side of the veil.
We hope you’ll join us in honoring them, even if you hold them in your heart, even if only for just the time you read the blog post.
Thank you in advance, and may you always be remembered through time.
We are asking the community to submit your own forget-me-nots for loved ones who have passed through the veil for our final Samhain post. Send your tributes and photos to samhainsirens@gmail.com no later than Friday, October 23. We look forward to helping you honor them through this venue. If you have any questions, please use the "contact us" form at the top of this page.
Today's Forget-Me-Not: Susan Herman
Today, we honor our dear friend, Snow Moon (aka Susan Herman). She was one of our Sirens and our biggest cheerleader.
We miss her terribly.
Snow Moon was a solitary witch, who as long as she could remember, felt and experienced what some may classify as a ‘heightened awareness’, combined with a strong pull to the ‘otherworld’ & occult.
Along with her love & studies of Astronomy, and Astrology, this combination ultimately guided her towards the paths of Witchcraft and Wicca. Around 12 years of age, Snow had acquired her first tarot deck, thanks to her mom. Upon busting open the proverbial door of the ‘broom closet’, she enthusiastically participated in, and followed her magical path.
Snow’s ‘first loves’ were reading, writing, travelling, and animals, and ANYTHING HALLOWEEN!
She loved the colors, foods, decor, and magic of the Autumn, along with the beauty, silence, and ethereal quality of a snowy winter’s day. Naturally, her favorite holidays were Samhain/Halloween, and Yule.
She was a beautiful soul, and the Summerlands are better for her arrival.
She submitted a blog to us for this year, and we honor her wish to have it published here:
Today's Blogger in Memoriam: Susan Herman (Snow Moon)
THE DUMB SUPPER
Despite the numerous misconceptions surrounding the holiday, I have always been drawn to Halloween like a moth to a flame, or in this case; a witch to her broom!
For as far back as I can recall as a young child, the excitement and anticipation started to grow for the arrival of Hallows eve as early as the end of August. While most kids were still enjoying the hot summer days, I was usually sketching a prototype of my Halloween costume with my mom. Fortunately for me, she has always been extremely skilled within the world of sewing and design.
Although the “quest” had always remained the same; who could collect the most chocolate and candy, while cramming it all into a plastic pumpkin, pillow case, or treat bag....But, by the end of the evening I had always felt there was something “more” to this delightfully dark celebration.
As I had approached my teen years, my attraction and pull towards the occult, witchcraft, and the “Old ways”, took over. Having premonitions through dreams, I have always been strongly intuitive, and have rarely second guessed my gut instinct. This attraction appeared to come as naturally for me as breathing! After one good swift kick to the broom closet door, I dove into my exploration of this magical day with much of the same enthusiasm I had exhibited every Christmas morning...
As I have learned over the years, Halloween and Samhain represent many different things to many unique individuals and cultures throughout the world. This celebration is rich in it’s symbolism and customs, most of which date back thousands of years. For myself, this holiday reflects the Final harvest, the wheel of the year coming to a close and preparing for a new year and new cycle. It is a sacred time for divination, feasting, and celebration. It is a time to release and let go of any residual guilt, pain, and unfinished business. In a sense, clearing out all of the “spiritual clutter”.
It combines the dark and macabre theme of death, with light hearted activities such as carving jack –o’-lanterns and baking Halloween cookies. It is within these intersecting themes that the predominate symbolism of death resides. Death, as applied here, relates to the third and final harvest season. It relates to the completion of one year, while a new year will commence on November 1st. It is also a time when the veil to the “otherworld” is fairly thin.
Without a doubt, it is an auspicious time to attempt to contact loved ones that have passed on to the other side. Over the years I have implemented my own set of rules in my efforts to contact deceased loved ones. Through trial and error I have adjusted my practices accordingly. This past decade I have experienced extreme changes in my life. During this time I have honored my “loved ones passed” with the ritual of the Dumb Supper.
The Dumb Supper has existed for many years. It was routinely practiced in parts of Great Britain and Ireland. Throughout my investigations, I have learned there are many variations of this ritual. Honoring or contacting the dead is a spiritual and personal gesture unique to each individual. Therefore, I believe it is important to incorporate whatever elements that are special to you, and personal for your Dumb Supper.
Traditionally, there have been a few different dates that people have utilized in hosting this ritual. Obviously October 31st being Samhain is a popular choice. Other days have fallen in between October 29th to November 2nd . Occasionally, I have heard some chose November 7th to host their Dumb Supper, as this is one of the four points during the year that fall between the solstices and equinoxes. On this day, the sun sits at 15 degrees of Scorpio, a “cross quarter day”.
Personally, I have usually held my Dumb Supper during one of the evenings of the “Dead moon”; between October 29th and October 31st. The Dumb Supper is a ritual built around remembering, honoring, and contacting the dead.
While lifting the veil to the otherworld, in our attempts to dial into our own “sixth sense” and to establish contact, it is imperative to adhere to the most important rule of this supper; no talking!! It is suggested that any foods, drinks, supplies you may require during dinner, should all be placed in a strategic position on the table to avoid having to ask for anything.
When I have hosted a Dumb Supper, I follow a more traditional path and the interpretations associated with it. I will share with you what I do, however as I had mentioned earlier, make the ritual your own. Make it personal, make it sacred...
Obviously food has often played a vital role within many cultural celebrations of the dead. Whether it has been left as an offering at a grave site, placed on an outdoor altar or simply served at the dinner table, the choices are endless. You may choose to serve your deceased loved ones favorite foods, or something very different. I prefer to serve seasonal foods that are very savory. My “go to” dish is a stuffed pumpkin with wild rice, squash, pecans, scallions, & dried cranberries.
Dessert may consist of anything you could imagine, from Halloween candy to perhaps something more elaborate like a pumpkin spice cake. Another option is to ask each of your guests to bring a dish, “potluck” style. The table is generally decorated all in black. Black dishes, napkins, glasses, and so on. I incorporate some skull candles or candle holders, as this is after all a feast for the dead. I use black candles to light the way, all regular lights are shut off.
On the entrance table, I display photos of the person/people we wish to contact in the otherworld. I may place a gift they had given me, on the table. I leave the head of the table empty, that seat is reserved for the loved one passed. If you are honoring more than one person, adjust your seating accordingly.
The chairs of the departed are each cloaked with a black cloth. On their dinner plates sits one black tea light that is lit. I always place a purple candle on the center of the table to represent the “Spirit”.
Before supper, I say a blessing for the departed loved ones, and remind those at the table that we are each here to make contact or say hello in our own way. While we all dine in silence, if there is a “sign” from the otherworld, I record it on a note pad that I had placed by everyone’s setting. Once the Dumb Supper is complete, I thank any loved ones I had invited, for coming. Then I read a Samhain blessing that I write every year.
Afterwards, everyone is welcome to share any thoughts, emotions, and experiences they may have encountered during supper. As each of my guests departs for the evening; (the living guests!!) I always give them a gift to take home. I have given cupcakes, cookies, ornaments, candles, oils, or charm bags. It is not mandatory, simply something I enjoy doing.
Despite all of the obvious dark undertones of Halloween and Samhain, I still manage to enjoy all of the mundane, magical, and mystical treats that October 31st manages to deliver each year...
SAMHAIN BLESSING ~
The dark half of the year has come,
The wheel completes it’s turn.
For in the glow of natures lamp,
A new year will emerge.
The earth rests silent with decay,
Though colors are ablaze,
Bonfires burn the chill of night,
And die by break of day.
Enchanted are the memories, the magic and the spells,
From centuries old we weave the tales,
In sacred space we dwell.
Family gathers by the fire,
Jack o’ lanterns glow,
The aromatic scent of spice
Billows from the stove.
Daytime slowly turns to dusk,
The portal opens wide,
Urging us to start the dance,
Where spirits play and hide.
As we gather for the Holly King,
A time to chant, a time to sing.
The goddess now prepares to sleep,
Her image but a crone,
As we invoke her power, her strength,
We never stand alone...
We call upon the watchtowers,
Cast the circle, light the flame,
We stand here in remembrance of those we’ve lost by name.
Please protect and guide us,
Nourish our good health,
Bless us with abundance, security and wealth.
On this sacred Samhain eve,
When spirits roam and mortals grieve,
We invoke eternal bliss,
Weave our words,
Our darkest kiss.
Enchanted as the west wind blows,
We leave the portal gate,
We gather now with those we love,
A time to celebrate.
A feast of nature’s bounty,
Harvest gifts for all,
November brings another year,
As we embrace the fall.
Blessings and light,
This hallowed night...
Wishing all of you Brightest Blessings for a safe and happy Halloween and Samhain!
SNOW MOON (C)
Today's Recipe with Autumn Earthsong
How are you all doing on your Autumn/Samhain fun so
far? Have you been to a haunted house or
a hay ride or corn maze yet? Just in
case you’re about to go do something fun….here is something fun to make to take
with you for a picnic or to have when you get home with some hot chocolate or
hot cider. These are GREAT!
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsps vanilla extract
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
3 cups all –purpose flour
2 1/2 tsps pumpkin pie spice
2 tsps baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup sour cream
In a medium bowl, combine butter and sugars. Beat at medium
speed with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, beating until
well combined. Beat in pumpkin.
In a small bowl, combine flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking
soda and salt. Gradually add flour
mixture to butter mixture, beating until combined. Stir in oats. Cover, and
chill for 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 350*.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop dough by rounded
tablespoon onto prepared baking sheets.
Bake 13-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool on pan for 2 minutes. Remove to wire racks and cool completely.
In a small bowl, stir together powdered sugar and sour cream
until well combined. Drizzle mixture
over cooled cookies. Let stand for one
hour until set. (um..not really
necessary lol) Gooey icing is good right
away!
*Add raisins or nuts if you like to this recipe! Even chocolate chips!
Make a double batch for your Halloween/Samhain party or
Harvest soup party! Enjoy!
Blessings and Love,
Autumn
Autumn Earthsong is back for the 3rd year as our resident
Kitchen Witch. You may have seen her recipes in Imramma Magazine and The Sunday
Stew as well. Autumn has been a
practicing Witch for 17 years and hails from Ohio. She is a wife, mother of
two, and Nana to three busy little grandchildren. Samhain is a favorite time of year for her….with
her name indicating what Season she loves!
Cooking for family and friends this time of year is also a
joy…..Especially this time of year!
Hearth, Fire, love of family and good food is how She brings Magick to
her home. You can also find her blogging
at www.autumnearthsong.com. She looks
forward to sharing her recipes with you all and hopes that you have a very
Blessed Samhain Season!
Paleo Recipes with Paula Lancaster Lupi
What is great to eat on a cool, fall night? Chili, but not just any type of chili, Bison & Butternut Cocoa Chili! Oh, it is so GOOD! You have to try this! This recipe also comes from Practical Paleo.
Ingredients:
3 cloves garlic, smashed
1 TBS smoked paprika
2 TBS chili powder
1 TBS chipotle powder
1 TBS cinnamon
1 TBS 100% cocoa powder
1 ½ TBS sea salt
2 tsp black pepper
32 oz diced tomatoes, canned or 4 cups fresh, diced
1 lb bison stew meat (you can also use ground beef or turkey)
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into 2-inch chunks
1 onion, diced into 2-inch pieces
1 bell pepper, diced into 2-inch pieces
In a bowl, mix the garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder, chipotle powder, cinnamon, cocoa powder, sea salt, and black pepper with the tomatoes.
Place the bison, squash, onion, and bell pepper in the slow-cooker, and cover with the tomato mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. (No slow-cooker? Use an enameled cast iron pot in an oven at 300F for 4-6 hours)
Cocktails with CL
Apple Brandy Toddy
Serves 8
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups water
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons honey
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
2 cups apple brandy
3-inch cinnamon sticks (optional)
Directions:
In small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the honey until dissolved. Stir in the lemon juice and apple brandy. Set a cinnamon stick in each of 8 mugs or heatproof glasses, pour in the hot liquid and serve.
I thought it would be nice to do a take on a traditional Autumn/cold weather classic. I was wrong. My apologies to the toddy lovers of the world but I did not enjoy this drink at all! I took one sip and ended up pouring out the rest. I don’t know if it was the amount of lemon, maybe not enough honey, I really don’t know. As this recipe was written I did not particularly care for it and would not make it again. The Apple Brandy has been repurposed to the task of Butter Beer!
Though the picture does not feature the cinnamon stick (I had to remake the drink and retake the picture a second time) I would highly recommend it if you intend to try this drink. Though I still didn’t care for it either way the cinnamon stick definitely makes the difference.
Today's Song with Jennifer Rasmussen
For all you witchy women...
Today's Giveaway from The Secret Life of the American Witch
Deluxe Tarot Reading
$67.50
This is a Tree-of-Life spread that takes you through the next year and gives you insights and advice on the pitfalls to avoid, as well as those areas where you may excel in the next 12 months. You’ll get a picture of who you are, where you are and where you are currently going on this particular path. Each position has a unique planetary alignment associated with it, and is explained in this detailed report. You also get a free 6-month check-up report (upon request) with this reading.
Here's how to enter: (Canadians, skip this part and go to your section)
Remember to add your email address to the page (if you don't want to post it publicly, simply send it via the contact form at the top of the page).
Want extra entries??
1. Tell us one thing you absolutely love about Samhain in the comments.
2. Tweet about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your tweet.
3. Blog about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your blog post.
4. Follow Samhain's Sirens on Facebook. Comment, and let us know you did (if you're already following, just comment and say so!)
5. Follow this blog so you'll be in on all of the fabulous fun throughout October! Comment here that you did.
That gives you 6 chances to win this fabulous prize!
CANADIANS: LOOK HERE!
Canadians, your country requires that you answer questions instead of participating the American way ;) So, we're bringing you some good old-fashioned trivia about your country this year. Answer the question correctly in comments (don't forget to put your email address in the comment!) and you'll be given 6 entries in the giveaway!
Here's your question:
What is 7 x 7?
This giveaway is open until 9pm PDT tonight. Winner will be announced Monday at 9am EDT. Remember, we have to notify the winner in email first, so those email addresses are critical for you to qualify for the giveaway!
Even though the sign clearly says, "Forbidden", you know you want to come on in... We have food (even Paleo), drink, and songs...
Just about the time you think it's safe.. that thrill turns into chills.. *shudder*.. see what our Sirens have stormed up today!
We are half-way through our celebration. Why does October always go by so quickly?
Must be because we're having fun with you! Come on in!
And the winner of The Touch of the Goddess giveaway is....
Jennifer Hodgson!
Today's Blogger: Author Sally Dubats
Samhain Loneliness
Samhain, for me, is a time of opposites; it is darkness and light, reaching out to community and turning inward, a time of sharing and a time of solitude, the turn towards Winter, staying in the present, and letting go of Autumn or even Summer. But these are when choice is at its best. Sometimes we find ourselves alone or without a Pagan community during Samhain, and we have no choice regarding how we wish to worship and celebrate – or we think we don’t have a choice which can be even worse. At these times, we cast circles alone and sometimes celebrate amongst the larger tribe with mundane candy-filled games and costumes. The feelings and emotions around this issue can be strong.
I’ve been there.
I am grounded now, living in Portland amongst a beautiful community that I love; however, I’ve traveled and moved a lot, a Gypsy moving at the whims of the Goddess. Because of this, I had not grounded into a sacred community and have preferred the solitary path, occasionally celebrating full moons and sabbats with others who are on a similar journey.
One Samhain several years ago I felt particularly lonely while completely surrounded by friends. I had told some non-Wiccan, close friends who were spiritually inclined that I wanted to celebrate Samhain with them and have a feast afterward. They happily accepted my invitation and were looking forward to learning about ritual and Samhain. I had planned a lovely event with eight of us, followed by an intimate feast with special wines.
My partner at the time was not particularly spiritual, but occasionally celebrated with me and agreed to the event I was planning. He then began to invite more and more people without asking, and I was increasingly feeling less “Samhain” and more “Eat, Drink and Be Merry”. At the last minute, literally an hour before guests were to arrive, four more guests were added, and I had to open more of the very special wines I had selected that were originally intended for cakes and ale and to share afterward.
These last four were friends, but more interested in wine tasting than Samhain and had heard about the wines I was opening. They were road-weary from traveling, and had no clue what Samhain was. I enjoyed them as friends, but had no desire to do circle with them. The focus became the meal and the wine.
I felt bamboozled. My sacred event had been usurped.
The table was set beautifully with an array of crystals, stones, ornamental gourds, and it was a gorgeous Samhain feasting table. The meal was in four courses.
There was no ritual.
It was the most pointless, hollow, and lonely Samhain I have ever experienced. If you have ever experienced a death, and life goes on, people you love chatter, but in the background of your heart and mind you feel the loss and are not present to the living -- that is how I felt. It was a fun night, but I kept thinking, “It’s Samhain. It’s Samhain.” I could feel it in the air, but no one else did. It was a night of feasting with friends, and it was a night of nothing.
Late that night, after the guests had gone and my then “partner” was asleep, I wrapped my naked body in a heavy blanket and went outside into the cold autumnal air, sat in the silence of Nature, and stared up at the moon as clouds danced around Her. It was an intimate and beautiful moment with the Goddess. She knew that my heart was full. I spoke to her with my thoughts of the gratitude for having time here with friends and with the people who have passed, I enjoyed Her silence and presence. I had to let go of my longing for a Pagan community at the time. And I did celebrate several days later, alone. I call it “second Samhain” at 15 degrees Scorpio, the actual midpoint between the Autumnal equinox and Winter Solstice.
It took this present time, moving a couple more times, bringing me to this present place, to remember that long ago conversation with the Goddess who brought me to the perfect place now. I know that my boundaries were severely violated, and wouldn’t hesitate to speak up and un-invite people today. Of course, I wouldn’t be with a “partner” like that today! My personal tradition now is to seek out or create Samhain events on October 31st that speak to my need for sacred community, and Second Samhain is for my personal reflection, my solo spiritual questing. It is the solo questing that has brought me to the deepest spiritual understandings and wisdom of the Goddess, and to the deep and sacred connection with my Self.
So, if you are lonely, or feel alone, wishing you had a Pagan community, know that we are here, the Goddess is in your heart, and She has reasons we cannot begin to understand for the path of our lives. Go speak with Her. She will guide you. Blessed be.
The Siren's Song with Jennifer Rasmussen
“Those fingers in my hair. That
slight ‘come hither’ stare…” Excuse me while I swoon over Old Blue Eyes.
Today's Recipe with Autumn Earthsong
Many of us kitchen witches love our slow cookers this time of year. There is nothing better than popping something in the pot in the morning, and coming home to the house smelling delicious and supper ready. This recipe to me is a spin on a pot roast many of you probably love. Using pork and squash rather than potatoes and beef. Try it and see what you think!
Slow Cooked Autumn Pork Chops
*Makes 4 servings
4 pork chops
1 acorn squash, cut into 4 to 6 slices, seeds removed
5 carrots, peeled and chopped
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 Tbs butter, melted
3/4 tsp browning and seasoning sauce
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp orange zest
1 tsp orange juice
Arrange 2 pork chops in a slow cooker. Place squash and carrots on top. Add the other two pork chops on top of that.
In a small bowl, stir together remaining ingredients; spoon over chops. Cover and cook on low setting for 4-6 hours, until chops are no longer pink in the center.
Here’s another Pork recipe in the slow cooker….this one for cheese and potato lovers!
Slow Cooked Cheesy Pork and Potatoes
*Makes 4-6 servings
4-6 thick-cut pork chops
2 tsp dried thyme, divided
4 Yukon gold potatoes, sliced
1 onion, sliced
12 mushrooms, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices American cheese
1 (10 ¾ oz) can cream of mushroom soup
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
Season pork chops with one tsp of thyme. Season vegetables with remaining thyme, salt and pepper; set aside.
In a dry skillet over medium-high heat, brown chops on both sides. In the slow cooker, layer chops, potatoes, onion and mushrooms. Arrange cheese slices on top.
Mix together soup and milk in a bowl and spoon over cheese. Cover and cook on high setting for 4 hours or on low setting for 6 hours.
I know not everybody eats meat of course, but I was compelled to share these yummy recipes for those who do. Enjoy!
Blessings and Love,
Autumn
Autumn Earthsong is back for the 3rd year as our resident Kitchen Witch. You may have seen her recipes in Imramma Magazine and The Sunday Stew as well. Autumn has been a practicing Witch for 17 years and hails from Ohio. She is a wife, mother of two, and Nana to three busy little grandchildren. Samhain is a favorite time of year for her….with her name indicating what Season she loves! Cooking for family and friends this time of year is also a joy…..Especially this time of year! Hearth, Fire, love of family and good food is how she brings Magick to her home. You can also find her blogging at www.autumnearthsong.com. She looks forward to sharing her recipes with you all and hopes that you have a very Blessed Samhain Season!
Stones and Crystals with Jennifer Hodgson
Celestite
Celestite is great for jump starting your spiritual development. Helpful to stimulate clairvoyant communication, dream recall and astral travel. This stone will also help heal the aura, bring balance and reveal the truth.
Placed on the 3rd eye this stone can open a connection to the energies of the universe. Helps in promoting mental health.
Celestite can also be used for scrying and for meditation.
This stone will fade if in direct sunlight.
Celestite comes in 4 colors, Blue, yellow, red and white
Today's Giveaway from Sosanna's Closet!
Sosanna's Closet original Samhain Altar Candle
The glass measures a hefty 5 inches x 4 inches and is
elegantly etched with the following message:
"Lighting the way for Samhain Blessings" with a
stunning Pentacle emblazoned on the back.
Includes our choice of
decorative gravel and 3 tealights.
This lovely piece retails for 55.00 plus 12.65 for priority
shipping and insurance.
Here's how to enter: (Canadians, skip this part and go to your section)
Like/Get Notifications on the Sosanna's Closet Facebook page. Come back, comment on this blog post and tell us that you did.
Remember to add your email address to the page (if you don't want to post it publicly, simply send it via the contact form at the top of the page).
Want extra entries??
1. Follow Sosanna's Closet on Twitter. Come back and comment that you did.
2. Tweet about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your tweet.
3. Blog about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your blog post.
4. Follow Samhain's Sirens on Facebook. Comment, and let us know you did (if you're already following, just comment and say so!)
5. Follow this blog so you'll be in on all of the fabulous fun throughout October! Comment here that you did.
That gives you 6 chances to win this fabulous prize!
CANADIANS LOOK HERE!
Canadians, your country requires that you answer questions instead of participating the American way ;) So, we're bringing you some good old-fashioned trivia about your country this year. Answer the question correctly in comments (don't forget to put your email address in the comment!) and you'll be given 6 entries in the giveaway!
Here's your question:
How many jails does Canada have?
This giveaway is open until 9pm PDT tonight (midnight east coast time). Winner will be announced tomorrow at 9am EDT. Remember, we have to notify the winner in email first, so those email addresses are critical for you to qualify for the giveaway!
Just about the time you think it's safe.. that thrill turns into chills.. *shudder*.. see what our Sirens have stormed up today! We ...
Welcome back to our October Celebration, you wayward wanderers!
You've stumbled upon a party, and you're the guest of honor. What happens here, stays here.. but, so much you ;)
Not to worry, we have plenty of things we can do to with you.
Come on.. don't be shy...
The winner of the Hemlock and Garnet giveaway by artist Loren Morris is....
Fearless Fallen Angel
Today's Blogger: Kathleen Lane
Change will Come
I have always heard the saying that "Change is the one certain thing in life". Looking at this time of year always reminds me of that saying and this has certainly been a year of change in my life. My husband has retired and rather than being gone for half the year, he is home for good. So one way of life has ended and a new one begun.
As this summer rolls to the inevitable end and the new winter comes in, the wheel keeps turning and new things come in with it. I was going through some papers and found my old bucket list. Looking at it I wonder why some of those things were important to me and I realized that I need to throw it out and start a whole new list. Some of the things I have already done and some of them just don't seem relevant anymore.
What would be something important in your future that you would like to achieve or experience? Is there someplace you have never been or something you have never done and it is still waiting? Did you start something and never finish it? Do you remember promising yourself that someday you would climb a mountain or write a book or take that trip to the Costa Rican rain forest?
Let each year end with a positive finish to some goal and if you can't decide what your future should be, let this time of the thinning of the veil guide you in your choice. Those who have gone over the bridge already can sometimes see our future in a clearer light. Listen to what they are telling you and open yourself to what they tell you.
The Siren's Song with Jennifer Rasmussen
Maybe I'm just paranoid, but I feel like somebody's watching me.
Today's Recipe with Autumn Earthsong
I love October mornings! Especially the ones with the blue skies, fluffy clouds, dappled sunlight through bright colored leafy trees, and a nip in the air. This bread is decadent and perfect for those kind of mornings. Especially the ones you don’t have to go anywhere right away…or for a sweet treat by the fire on a harvest moon night!
Spicy October Morning Pumpkin Bread
*Makes 2
3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1-1/3 cups packed brown sugar
3/4 cup milk
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin
2/3 cup chopped walnuts
Preheat oven to 350º.
Combine flour and the next 7 ingredients (flour through cloves) in a large bowl; make a well in center of mixture. Combine sugar and the next 5 ingredients (sugar through pumpkin) in a bowl, and stir well with a whisk until smooth. Add to flour mixture, stirring just until moist.
Spoon batter into 2 (8 x 4-inch) loaf pans coated with cooking spray, and sprinkle with walnuts. Bake at 350º for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool loaves in pans 10 minutes on a wire rack; remove from pans. Sprinkle a little natural sugar on the top. Cool loaves completely.
If you are lucky enough to have a wonderful neighbor like I do, send the extra loaf over to them! They’ll love you for it!
Blessings and Love,
Autumn
Autumn Earthsong is back for the 3rd year as our resident Kitchen Witch. You may have seen her recipes in Imramma Magazine and The Sunday Stew as well. Autumn has been a practicing Witch for 17 years and hails from Ohio. She is a wife, mother of two, and Nana to three busy little grandchildren. Samhain is a favorite time of year for her….with her name indicating what Season she loves! Cooking for family and friends this time of year is also a joy…..Especially this time of year! Hearth, Fire, love of family and good food is how she brings Magick to her home. You can also find her blogging at www.autumnearthsong.com. She looks forward to sharing her recipes with you all and hopes that you have a very Blessed Samhain Season!
Stones and Crystals with Jennifer Hodgson
Emerald
Emerald is an amazing crystal. It is not only a wisdom stone but helps to bring to the surface what is unknown.
If you deal with claustrophobia then this is the crystal for you. This crystal also helps to overcome the misfortunes in life and can heal negative emotions.
If you are working on your psychic abilities this stone can help with clairvoyance.
Emerald is a great choice in helping to open the heart chakra and is very calming.
Giveaway from Touch of the Goddess!
Whether you are anointing candles or tools, taking a ritual bath, or setting up protected space, this set has the oils you need all in one place. Sanctuary, Earth, Air, Fire, and Water are for working with those respective elements and the Elementals. Solaris and Luna give you help in working with these Celestial bodies and their associated Gods and Goddesses. Prosperity, Entice! Indulge your workings with the real essential oils. Frankincense, jasmine, cinnamon, just a few a the scents and magical essences all a part of this collection! Never again have to search for just the right oil, they are all right here together in one box!
9- 5 ml cobalt blue bottles in a a pretty turquoise box
Value: $35.00
Here's how to enter: (Canadians, skip this part and go to your section)
Remember to add your email address to the page (if you don't want to post it publicly, simply send it via the contact form at the top of the page).
Want extra entries??
1. Visit the Touch of the Goddess etsy shop. Comment here and tell us your favorite item in the shop.
2. Tweet about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your tweet.
3. Blog about this giveaway. Comment with the link to your blog post.
4. Follow Samhain's Sirens on Facebook. Comment, and let us know you did (if you're already following, just comment and say so!)
5. Follow this blog so you'll be in on all of the fabulous fun throughout October! Comment here that you did.
That gives you 6 chances to win this fabulous prize!
CANADIANS: LOOK HERE!
Canadians, your country requires that you answer questions instead of participating the American way ;) So, we're bringing you some good old-fashioned trivia about your country this year. Answer the question correctly in comments (don't forget to put your email address in the comment!) and you'll be given 6 entries in the giveaway!
Here's your question:
Who wrote the lyrics to Canada's national anthem?
This giveaway is open until 9pm PDT (midnight Eastern)tonight. Winner will be announced tomorrow at 9am EDT. Remember, we have to notify the winner in email first, so those email addresses are critical for you to qualify for the giveaway!
