MySpace

Merry Meet! Greetings to all from Ladyhawk's Treasures, your number one international Wiccan, Pagan, Gothic and New Age shop!

MySpace.com | rss | sign in

Ladyhawks Treasures

Last Updated: 4/10/2009

Send Message
Instant Message
Email to a Friend
Subscribe

Gender: Female
Status: Married
Age: 50
Sign: Libra

State: Maryland
Country: US

Blog Archive

[Older Newer]

/ /

June 14, 2009 - Sunday

Summer Solstice 2009 Newsletter

Click Here if you have trouble viewing this newsletter or can't see the cool pictures.

Ladyhawk's Treasures - Experience the Magick!

Summer Solstice Newsletter

June 7, 2009

In this issue:

What's New?
Think Green
Magick of Midsummer
Litha Lore
Contact Us!

What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures?

Happy full moon and summer solstice to all! It was a beautiful day today here on the east coast. A warm and sunny day of about 80 degrees. Finally a day of warm sunshine after several very wet and rainy ones. Hubby and I went for a lovely afternoon stroll on the avenue and had a late lunch at a wonderful bistro style pizzeria. I really do love summertime.

So you say what's new? Here are the newest additions to our beautiful lines of jewelry. Gorgeous pendants created by artist Paul Borda in sterling silver, a special edition in gold vermeil, and another "Blessed Be" pendant in bronze. Something for everyone! You can view these lovely pieces in the Jewelry of the Mysteries section of our shop.

Celebrate the Summer Solstice on June 21st!
On this day we celebrate the Goddess as Mother Earth and the God as the Sun King. Have a party and invite your friends over for some music, singing, and dancing. If you have a place big enough for a sacred fire, some fire jumping may be in order. Perhaps you might have saved that Yule log from last year’s winter celebration. If so, now is the time to burn it in your solstice bonfire.
Now is also a perfect time to make a pledge to Mother Earth (and to ourselves) to do something that will help to improve the environment and put it into practice. It doesn’t have to be anything huge like saving the whales (although that is a highly admirable mission). It can be something as simple as planting a few perennial plants that will come back year after year and help to improve the quality of our air.

Then, sit back and relax as you gaze upon the beauty that you've created in your own front or back yard, while sipping on a tall mint flavored iced tea... Enjoy the solstice and the upcoming warm days of summer!

Summer solstice will be here before you know it. This year it arrives on June 21^st, the same day as Father’s Day! What a lovely coincidence. So grab your father, your hubby, your brother, or your significant other and celebrate the longest day of the year and the beginning of summer.

Think Green!

When we think of summer, we begin to think of all those wonderful backyard cookouts that we plan to have this year! Can we make those cookouts a bit “greener”, a little more earth friendly? You bet!

Believe it or not, the propane gas grill is really the way to go. Charcoal and wood burning grills produce smoke, which produces smog and contribute to air pollution. Using charcoal briquettes to cook a regular hamburger produces 105 times more carbon monoxide than cooking it on a propane grill. Your gas grill burns much cleaner and the food is better for you.

Remember to serve those burgers on to serve those yummy burgers on reusable dishes rather than plastic or Styrofoam. Just one more way to think green and help save our planet!

Litha Lore and the Magick of Midsummer

Gather your magickal herbs by the light of the full moon in June, the Honey Moon (that's tonight)! But, be sure to take care not to step on any St. John's Wort on Midsummer Night. Legend has it that you'll be whisked away to fairyland. They say that elves, fairies and little people are more easily seen on this night as the veil between the worlds is at it's thinnest. If you walk in the woods, take care lest ye stumble into the evening mist and come upon a circle of fairies. You may just be pulled into fairy time which moves far more slowly than our time. If you do make it back, your grandchildren may be older than you!

Visit the Herbs section of our website to pick up some St. John's Wort and Mistletoe to celebrate the magick of the solstice.

Here are some of the flowers that are currently in bloom in our gardens. I just felt compelled
to share them with you.

Enjoy the beauty of the season! BB, Ladyhawk

Happy Father's Day
to all of our Dads!

Contact Us!

Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com

Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com

Toll-Free Telephone: 1-800-393-0368

March 12, 2009 - Thursday

Ostara Newsletter

..

..



Ostara Newsletter	March 11, 2009
In this issue: • What's New? • Think Green! • Ostara • Spring Recipe • Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Blessings of springtime and Ostara! Ladyhawk's Treasures is one of the premier shops on the Internet for fine Wiccan, Celtic and Gothic jewelry. We search the globe to find uniquely beautiful pieces for you, our customers. If you haven't visited in a while, come on in to see what's new! The new pieces shown below reflect the artists rendering of a stunningly beautiful Phoenix bird rising from the ashes, flames flying from its tail feathers before a deep orange sun. The Phoenix, like Ostara and the coming of Spring, represents rebirth and new beginnings. You can view these lovely pieces in the Pagan Jewelry section of our shop. Celebrate the Coming of Spring - Ostara (March 20th)! The Spring Equinox will soon be upon us! It’s time to start cleaning out our homes and our heads of all of the cobwebs, dust and unwelcome stress that we have accumulated over the past year. Spring means different things to different folks. What does the coming of spring represent to you? Nowadays, we often take springtime for granted. For many of us, it’s just a change in the temperature that allows us to open windows and let in the nice breeze. But, in days of old, the coming of spring was as important to people as the return of dawn after a dark night. Before there were supermarkets or fast food, people had to rely on the weather and the elements simply to eat and stay alive. For them, spring was a spiritual occasion, a time to thank the Goddess and God for the renewal of life on the planet. It was a time to plant and sow, to birth the new lambs and calves, and to celebrate the bountiful gifts that the earth would eventually yield. It was a time when the cold and darkness gave way to brighter and warmer days where people could once again venture outside and congregate in the open air. It is no wonder that the celebration of the Vernal or Spring Equinox is one of the oldest documented seasonal holidays in human culture dating back to 2400 BC. The indigenous Mayan people in Central America have celebrated a spring equinox festival for ten centuries. As the sun sets on the day of the equinox on the great ceremonial pyramid, El Castillo or “Pyramid of Kukulcan”, the Feathered Serpent God, its western face is bathed in the late afternoon sunlight. The lengthening shadows appear to run from the top of the pyramid's northern staircase to the bottom, giving the illusion of a diamond-backed snake in descent. This has been called "The Return of the Sun Serpent" since ancient times. May the return of the sun bring you renewed energy and prosperity in the coming months. Enjoy the return of spring!
Think Green - Time for Spring Cleaning! For many of us, spring means getting rid of old unwanted clutter and dirt around the house. That’s right; it’s time for spring cleaning! But, can the cleaning products that we currently use to clean, freshen and disinfect our homes be bad for the environment? The answer to that question is YES! Are there alternative cleaning products out there that do just as good of a job, yet are not harmful to the planet? Another resounding YES! Products such as 409 all purpose cleaner and Mr. Clean contain nasty things like ammonium chloride, bleach or sodium hydroxide. When you flush these chemicals in the toilet or dump them down the drain or even into your yard, they eventually all end up in the drinking water. Bleach kills animals and destroys habitats. And, even though our own drinking water is treated and controlled, scientists say that some chemicals inevitably slip through the cracks. Or, you can simply mix up a perfectly good batch of cleaning solutions yourself. A few safe, simple ingredients such as plain soap, water, baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and borax can satisfy most household cleaning needs and save you money at the same time. With a little effort, you can make your home a truly clean haven rather than a chemical storage tank. You'll also improve the quality of life for your family while helping the environment!
Springtime Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Bars
What You'll Need: For the base: Butter, for greasing 2 tablespoons sugar 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon 9 graham crackers 1/2 stick unsalted butter, melted For the filling: 16 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 2 eggs 2 lemons, zested and juiced 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries Powdered sugar for dusting	Directions: For the base: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Grease 9 by 9 inch baking pan with butter. Then place parchment paper over top, pressing down at the corners. In a food processor, process the sugar, cinnamon and graham crackers until you have the texture of bread crumbs. Add the melted butter and pulse a couple of times to fully incorporate. Poor into the lined baking pan and gently pat down with the base of a glass. Bake in the oven for 12 minutes until golden. Set aside to cool. For the filing: Add cream cheese, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest and sugar to the food processor and mix until well combined. It should have a smooth consistency. Poor onto the cooled base and then cover with blueberries. They will sink slightly, but should still be half exposed. As the cake bakes, they will sink a little more. Bake in the oven for 35 minutes or until the center only slightly jiggles. Remove from the oven and cool completely before refrigerating for at least 3 hours. Once set, remove from pan using the parchment lining and slice into 10 rectangular bars. Dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy!

	Happy St. Patrick's Day on March 17th to All of Our Irish and Celtic Friends!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2009

January 26, 2009 - Monday

Imbolc Newsletter

..

..



Imbolc Newsletter	January 25, 2009
In this issue: • What's New? • Think Green! • Imbolc • Valentine's Day! • Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Welcome to the Imbolc issue of our newsletter. We have several new uniquely beautiful wishing boxes and treasures boxes that have just arrived. Visit our Treasure Boxes section to view these wonderful new items. We also have awesome new Pentacle Pendants and great new Ritual Tools to see. Celebrate Imbolc (February 2nd) - Spring is just around the corner! Blessings of Imbolc to all of our friends! Although it is still very cold and the days are somewhat overcast and dark, this is a great time to turn our thoughts to spring and the New Year as we celebrate Imbolc. Imbolc has traditionally been a time of weather prediction or foretelling the future for the purpose of planting, growing and the birthing of ewes. The age old tradition of watching to see if snakes or badgers were ready to come out from their winter dens is a precursor to our current “Groundhog Day”. Imbolc honors Brigid the three-fold goddess of fire and hearth, poetry, and healing and medicine. A folk tradition that continues to this day and is observed by both Christians and pagans in Ireland is that of the Brigid’s Bed or Brideog. Women prepare a Brigid's Bed which is made of an oval basket filled with rushes. A straw image or corn dolly representing the Goddess (or Saint Brigid) is placed in the basket and then on the hearth. The main door of the home is opened and the men say a prayer invoking and asking Brigid to come into the house as her bed is now ready. The basket is allowed to burn as the women of the home tend the fire. If there is an impression or a footprint in the ashes of the hearth the next morning, it is believed that Brigid has been there and will bring good luck and protection to the home. Let the Goddess’ inspiration fan the flames of your creative spirit in this bright new year! Clean your house, out with the old, in with the new. Begin new projects, start a new job, plan a new addition to your family, do something that you’ve always wanted to do. Wishing you a year filled with joy and prosperity!
Think Green! Thankfully, we are all becoming more and more aware of how the products we buy effect the environment. It’s so much easier to learn about what we buy these days, with the Internet at our fingertips. Check the label; find out what it’s made of, who made it, where it came from and how it’s delivered to you. As conscious consumers who care about the health and welfare of our environment, we have the power to choose the products that we want to spend our money on. The less we buy or consume, the less carbon footprint we leave on the environment. Consume less, use items till they wear out, buy used instead of new, and refurbish old things into something different and "new". Eat a little greener! It’s not so difficult to alter our eating habits towards those that are more environmentally friendly. Buy fruit and vegetables from your local growers and farmers markets when possible. If not, try to eat foods that are currently in-season. You’ll save the environment from all the gas consumption and carbon monoxide that’s produced when food is shipped by plane and trucked in to your local stores. Eat organically grown items to lessen the amount of pesticides that go into the air, earth and water supply. Every little thing we do to help is a giant step in the right direction. Keep up the great work! Live Green!


	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2009

December 16, 2008 - Tuesday

Yule Newsletter

..

..



Yule Newsletter	December 15, 2008
In This Issue What's New? Yuletide Blessings! Thank You! Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Blessings of the Winter Solstice to all! The past week here in the Eastern United States has been a very chilly one. We even had a light dusting of snow. The cold forces us to bundle up, so we all look like cuddly little bears with rosy cheeks and Rudolph noses. How can we help but smile at each other! The first few snowfalls that we see always seem to be somewhat magickal. We stare up into the sky watching the featherlike white crystals silently fall to the ground forming a pristine white blanket across the lawn. What could be more enchanting? How about some of our newest products! All arriving just in time for the holidays! Check out our handsome new sterling silver pendants designed by renowned artist Maxine Miller. You can find these in the "Pagan Jewelry" section of our shop. The intricate designs and quality workmanship are impeccable! Visit our website to view all of our beautiful new jewelry selections. New Sterling Silver Pendants! New Talking (Ouija) Board! Looking for a uniquely beautiful gift for that special someone? Gaze upon this stunning new talking board entitled "Jeux des Spiriteux" - The Game of the Spirits. Contact the spirit world via this beautiful old fashioned board in its velvet lined mango wood presentation box, each one including "The Eye That Sees All" planchette and certificate of authenticity. Each certificate of authenticity is signed and numbered by Artist Maxine Miller. Limited first edition (quantities are limited). Please visit our "Ritual and Divination" section to view several images of this incredible piece for a better look! Beautiful New Celtic Goddess Bronze Statuary!
Yuletide Blessings! Yule! What is it and where did it begin? As far as historians can theorize, the root word for Yule comes to us from aboriginal Scandinavians and has always simply meant “the festival at the Winter Solstice”. For northern ancient cultures, winter was cold and dark, the darkness being associated with many possible evils. During winter months, ancient Scandinavians only experienced daylight for about six hours each day. It’s not hard to imagine their elation as the wheel of the year turned towards Yule. The Winter Solstice at Yule promised the return of the light and warmth. Hence it was a time for giving thanks and celebrating with friends and family. Evergreens were cherished during these winter months as they represented a natural symbol of rebirth and life amidst the white snow covered landscape. Holly was often used to decorate hearths, doorways, and windows. Its prickly leaves were thought to ward off or capture any evil spirits before they could enter the household. What about Mistletoe you may ask? Where did all that kissing first begin? There is a story in Norse mythology about Frigga, Mother Goddess of love and beauty (and wife of Odin) who thought that she had done everything magickally possible to protect her son Baldr from harm. The loophole in her magick was mistletoe. Loki sent a fatal mistletoe arrow through Baldr’s heart. Frigga’s tears of grief became the mistletoe’s white berries. By some miracle Baldr’s life is later restored. His mother is so happy that she makes the mistletoe a symbol of love, promising to bestow a kiss to anyone passing under it. Do you have your mistletoe up yet?

Happy Holidays to all of our customers and friends from Ladyhawk's Treasures!	Please Accept Our Thanks! We at Ladyhawk's Treasures would like to sincerely thank all of our customers for your continued patronage throughout the year. Your faith in the quality and integrity of our business has made 2008 a happy and heartfelt experience for us! We hope that we have touched your life in helpful ways this year by providing quality goods and services to you and your family. We wish you each a Holiday Season filled with wonder, magick and enchantment. We wish for Peace on Earth for all living things that share this beautiful planet. Brightest Blessings from everyone at Ladyhawk's Treasures!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008

October 12, 2008 - Sunday

Samhain Newsletter

..

..



Samhain Newsletter	October 11, 2008
In This Issue What's New? Think Green! Pumpkin Facts! "Sam Hain" Poem Samhain Crafts Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Merry meet and welcome to our Halloween newsletter! If you've visited our website of late, you've noticed that we've been adding new items continuously this month and last, to gear up for the upcoming holiday season. What could be more appropriate for this time of year than a brand new cauldron to cook up your favorite witches brew! We've added a whole bunch of new cast iron cauldrons in all different sizes. We're sure that you'll be able to find one that will be just perfect for that Samhain ritual or spell that you're in the process conjuring up! Visit our "Incense Burners and Cauldrons" section to see what's cookin'! Also just in are our beautiful new goddess statues, perfect for representing the Goddess on your altar or as a lovely figurine anywhere in your home. You can view these in the "Ritual Items" section of our website. Little Known Pumpkin Facts! When we think of Halloween, we naturally think of pumpkins. But, how much do we really know about those lovely round gourds? Here are just a few fun facts about pumpkins! Pumpkins are actually a fruit, not a vegetable and are classified as being in the same family as gourds, squash and cucumbers. They are highly nutritious as they are chock full of vitamin A and B, iron, protein, potassium, zinc and more! They are low in calories and fat, and high in fiber. Eating pumpkin seeds has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate cancer in men. When selecting your pumpkin for carving or just as a decoration, make sure that it has an inch or two of stem left on top. Pumpkins with a stem will last longer and rot slower than those without. A good pumpkin will feel solid and heavy. Pick one without soft spots or bruises. Researchers believe that pumpkins originated in Central America. Seeds from related plants have been found in Mexico dating back over 7,000 years ago. They are now grown on every continent in the world, other than Antarctica where it is just too cold. Native American Indians introduced white settlers to the pumpkin which soon became a staple in their diets. The pilgrims made pumpkin pie by hollowing out the shell and filling it with milk, honey and spices, then baking it. What about the Jack O'Lantern? People have been making Jack O'Lanterns for centuries. The tradition comes to us from across the pond as an Irish myth about a man named "Stingy Jack". The story goes that Stingy Jack, an unsavory character, played a trick on the Devil. When he died, he was too bad to let into heaven and due to his relationship with the Devil, was not allowed in hell either. He was sent off into the dark night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack placed the coal in a hollowed out turnip and has been doomed to wander the earth alone ever since. The Irish called this ghostly figure "Jack of the lantern" and then simply Jack O'Lantern. Here's hoping that you and yours don't run into Stingy Jack this Halloween! Wishing you and your family a safe and Happy Halloween!
Think Green! If you’re like many of us, you hear about the problems and issues involving global warming and climate change and think to yourself, what can I, just one single person, do about it? There is much that you can do and it won’t cost you a thing! The internet is a magickal and powerful tool that we can use to let our Congressional leaders, Presidential candidates and the press know what we think and just how we feel about the environmental crisis that we are facing. You may have seen a recent television ad for the website entitled “We can solve the climate crisis.” You can view the website by clicking on the following link: http://www.wecansolveit.org You can join the over one and a half million people (and climbing) that have already signed up to make their voices heard. The website provides all kinds of excellent information to make us aware of what is really going on or being done with respect to climate change, both the good and the bad. It also provides us with simple ways that we can get involved and how we can contact and connect with people in our community; elected officials, community leaders, local events and groups, and much more. Check it out and add your voice to the growing number of people here in the U.S. and around the world that care enough to get involved. Once small voice in unison with many can change world policies and make a difference. Be a part of the solution!
Just In! New Yule Ornaments! Quantities Limited
Also Just In! New Pewter Wiccan Expression Bracelets!	"Sam Hain" Poem Author Unknown
Also Just In! New Pewter Wiccan Expression Bracelets!	Who is this guy they call Sam Hain? I see his name in witchy books. But when I ask my witchy friends, they just give me the strangest looks. He seems to be quite important and everyone knows him but me. Each year they throw him a party, it sounds like the coolest place to be! When I ask my friends what he’s like, they all but turn and run. I need to get to know Sam Hain, so I can join in all of the fun! I’ve asked my friends to introduce me. I’ll just have to introduce myself. Because when I ask they just look at me as if I’m some crazy elf! So I searched the yellow pages. I called up information too. Just can’t seem to find this guy Sam Hain. I surfed the web ‘til I turned blue! I’ve heard my witchy friends planning and although they’ll think I’m a pain, I’m going to crash their party so I can finally meet Sam Hain!
Crafts of the Season - Samhain
What You'll Need Leaves and foliage Glass votive holder or jar White tissue paper White craft glue Water Paintbrush Tea light candles	Frosted Fall Candle Luminaries Collect small leaves and other foliage from outside. Be sure there’s still some life in the leaves – they shouldn’t be too dry or crumbly. (Note: Leaves on bushes work well as their leaves are smaller.) Once selected, lay leaves in a single layer and place a large book on top to flatten them. Leave for an hour or two. Spread a layer of white craft glue on the outside of the votive holder. Stick the leaves to the glue and press into place. Let dry. Mix equal parts of water and white craft glue to create a decoupage paste. Tear tissue paper into squares about one to two inches in size. Use a paintbrush to glue the tissue paper over the leaves using the decoupage mixture. Overlap the tissue paper and make sure all of the glass is covered. Carry over the lip of the votive holder as well and be sure that the tissue paper is securely pasted against the inside of the glass. Allow the jars to dry overnight. Place a tea light candle inside each votive holder. Enjoy nature!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008

September 22, 2008 - Monday

Mabon Flyer

..

..

..



Mabon Flyer	September 21, 2008
In This Issue What's New? Autumn Equinox Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Tomorrow is the Autumn Equinox! Here in Maryland there is already a slight chill in the morning air. The temperature in the evenings has dropped into the 50's. There's no denying that summer is on it's way out. The beautiful colors of autumn will soon begin to cover the landscape. This is a supplement to our most recent newsletter as we simply couldn't wait to let you know about all of the cool new items that we've just added to our selections. We know that the holidays are just around the corner and many of our customers tell us that they like to get an early start. To see the rest of our new collections please feel free to stop on in and visit us on the web! See these exquisite new pieces in the "Pagan Jewelry" section of our website! Who doesn't love a new book or calendar? They always make such a thoughtful gift! Take the time to pick out just the right one for that special friend. Check out all of our great books in our "Books" section. Here's a pleasant surprise in this crazy mixed up economy. Something that looks great, but costs less! Have a look at our new "Bronze Jewelry" collection. We call it, "The rich look of gold at a fraction of the price!" Enjoy! How about a little something for the men in your life. Or, for those of us gals that have a kindred spirit to say... Diana the huntress! Our new pewter swords and axes are just the thing! You can see these in our "Pagan Jewelry" section as well.
New Items Just Added! Mix up your newly harvested herbs with one of our unique new Mortar and Pestle sets! You'll see all of our wonderful new herbs that have been grown organically or wild harvested and are oh so fresh. Visit the "Natural Herbs" section of our website! Have a look at our gorgeous new talking (Ouija) boards. The artists designs are really quite awesome! You can view these in our "Ritual and Divination Items" section. Beautiful new "Treasure Boxes" to keep all of your special items in!
Blessings of the Season to you and yours! Enjoy the Autumn Equinox!
Our Holiday Greeting Cards are now available on our website. Get them while supplies last!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008

September 5, 2008 - Friday

Mabon Newsletter

Click Here if you have trouble viewing this newsletter or can't see the cool pictures.



Mabon Newsletter	September 2, 2008
In This Issue What's New? Think Green! Autumn Equinox Mabon Crafts Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Welcome to the Mabon issue of our newsletter! We've been searching high and low to find some new and beautiful sterling silver pendants that we feel best represent the Goddess, God and the natural progression of life. We think the pieces that we've just added are stunning and hope that you love them as well. Please visit the "Pagan Jewelry" section of our website to view more new items. Enjoy! Celebrate the Autumn Equinox on September 22nd! The Autumn Equinox will be upon us in less than a month! Mabon is a time to give thanks for the bountiful harvest that we are now experiencing after all of our hard work since spring. It also heralds the beginning of the dark time. As the sun begins to wane and the darkness becomes more prevalent, we must remember to honor the Dark Mother. For without death there can be no rebirth, without winter no spring, without the darkness no light. We should not fear the darkness, but embrace it as a natural part of life's cycles. Do not think of the darkness as a frightening or scary element. Think of it as a soothing, healing blackness that envelopes and caresses you. It's there all around you when you fall asleep in your comfy warm bed and soft blankets after a hard days work. It's there in the deep blackness of the rich, dark soil of the earth beneath your feet. It's there as we look up into the infinite blackness of the beautiful night sky. The darkness can be both comforting and beautiful. We humans are beings of nature in that we resonate with the changing of the seasons. We are heading into the dark time of year. Our bodies still want to sink into the peaceful darkness and hibernate in the earth's womb until spring. But alas, there is always work to be done in this fast paced society that we live in. Here are a few things that we can do to celebrate and honor the Dark Mother, the second harvest and the coming of fall. Say thank you to all those who have blessed your life in some way during the past year. Thank the earth for sharing her abundance to sustain you throughout the year and perhaps give a little of your own time to help feed others who may be less fortunate. Decorate your home with colors of the season; sheaves of wheat, pumpkins, corn and corn stalks, wreaths and garlands made from grapevines. Take the family on a nature walk through the woods to say "Good Night" to the trees as they slowly begin to enter their dormant stage of life. Write your own heartfelt ritual to honor the Crone aspect of the Goddess. Some of the Goddesses that manifest the spirit of the Dark Mother include Ceridwen, Hecate, Kali, Lillith and Morrigan. Do not fear the dark aspects of these Goddesses, but respect the knowledge and wisdom that they can bring to your life. Often times you will find that the "Old Ways" and old magick are far more effective and powerful. Blessings of the Autumn Equinox to all!
Think Green! We've often discussed the importance of recycling in this column. Practicing the three "R's" is the way to go. They are of course Reduce how much you use, then Reuse as much as you can, and then Recycle the rest. However, what we probably should mention is just exactly what we should not be setting out to the curb for our recycling centers to pick up. There are actually certain no-no's to curbside recycling, mostly because they cause your friendly neighborhood recycling centers a bunch of extra work. The more time that they must spend sorting out non-recyclable items, the less actual recycling gets done in a day. Even though we can recycle a great deal of our plastic items, most neighborhood recycling services do not recycle plastic bags or household items like CD's or film. They also do not process any cardboard or paper items that have any food remnants on them. Pizza boxes are the biggest culprit! Check out your cities recycling guidelines to find out just exactly what to leave out.
Crafts of the Season - Mabon
	Pine Cone Bird Feeder This is a great way to give the little ones something special to do to celebrate Mabon! Sit the kids outside around the picnic table. Cover the table with some old newspapers for easy clean up. Give each child a pine cone, a piece of string and a plastic knife. Place a jar of peanut butter and a large bowl of birdseed in the center of the table. Ask the children to tie their string to the small end of their pine cone (smaller children may need a bit of help with this part.) Show them how to fill in all the spaces, nooks and crannies of the pine cone with peanut butter using their plastic knife. Once all the pine cones have been coated in peanut butter, have each child take turns rolling their cone in the bird seed until it is fully covered with seed. Have the children hang their new bird feeders in the trees around the yard, in the gardens, or out in the woods. Sit back and watch as the birds come from all around to dine on the yummy Autumn treat! Enjoy!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008

July 25, 2008 - Friday

Lammas Newsletter
Category: Blogging

Click Here if you have trouble viewing this newsletter or can't see the cool pictures.



Lammas Newsletter	July 20, 2008
In this issue: • What's New? • Think Green! • Lughnasadh 08/01! • Corn Pudding Recipe • Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Welcome to the Lammas issue of our newsletter. Before we get started on what's new, we'd first like to say "Thanks so much!" to each of you. We know that times are not as prosperous as we'd all like them to be right now with the not so certain state of the economy. We here at Ladyhawk's Treasures feel so very blessed by the loyalty that you have each shown to us and to our shop. We will continue to strive to make each of your purchasing experiences with us an excellent one. We very much appreciate your continued patronage. If you haven't visited recently, you may not have had a chance to see all of the new herbs that we've added to our 'Natural Herbs' page. Not only have we added new herbs, we have replaced many of our herbs with 'certified organic herbs', 'wild harvested' herbs and 'cultivated without chemicals' selections. Our new herbs are fresher, more potent, and raised and harvested using environmentally friendly methods. Better for you, better for the planet! We've also added new pentacle jewelry and new greeting cards. Here are just a couple examples to stir your imagination. Enjoy! Celebrate Lughnasadh (Lammas) on August 1st! It's summertime! My favorite time of year! It is this beautiful time that I work towards and look forward to each year. I revel in the gorgeous sunshine, the awesome sunsets and the warm summer breezes. There's nothing like sitting in the backyard on a warm summer night listening to the crickets and watching the fairies and lightning bugs dance in the gloaming. This is also the time when we begin to see the locally harvested fruits and vegetables in stands along the sides of the roads. There just isn't anything better than a summertime meal of sweet 'Silver Queen' corn, plump vine ripened red tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelon and fresh green onions. Lughnasadh (often referred to as Lammas) is the time of the first harvest, arriving on the eve of August 1st with the next turning of the wheel. You've probably already noticed the subtle changes in the waning sun and the slightly shorter days as we now move from the growing season to that of the harvest season. Lughnasadh is a cross-quarter holiday as it falls midway between the summer solstice and autumn equinox. It is the first in the trilogy of harvest festivals with Mabon and Samhain to follow. In the hustle and bustle of our modern world, we often forget just how important the harvest was to our ancestors. Living was difficult and winter months long, so a bountiful harvest was of primary importance to their lives and their survival. A good harvest was cause for great celebration; feasting, drinking, dancing and all types of revelry! There's no reason for us not to do the same! The fruits of the seeds that we each planted in the spring, both spiritually and physically are ready to be harvested. Take a look at what you have sown in your own life since the spring to see if you are where you need to be at this time. You may be right where you planned or you may need to step back, reevaluate and make a few changes to get yourself on track. Take advantage of the warmth and the abundance that summertime brings. It is a time to relax and let all that stress just melt away like a popsicle in the sunshine. Break a little bread with your family and friends to celebrate the first harvest. Wishing you a fulfilling Lughnasadh!
Think Green - Pet Tips! For many of us, our pets are part of the family. We love them just as we love our children, particularly since we spend almost as much money on them as we do our kids. We make sure that they get the best of the best when it comes to their health and wellbeing, right? Why not throw the planet a bone, so to speak, by reducing our pets' carbon paw prints while keeping them happy and healthy. Here are a few tips that can help us all do just that! Consider adopting your next pet from a shelter. There are approximately 70,000 kittens and puppies born everyday in the U.S. that need a good home. Love knows no pedigree. Spay or neuter your pet. Not only will you help the planet by reducing the number of homeless dogs and cats roaming the streets, it is a health benefit to your pet. They will lead much longer, healthier lives. Spaying or neutering eliminates the possibility of uterine, ovarian and testicular cancer. Craft your own pet toys! Our pets are like our kids when it comes to entertainment. We buy our toddlers expensive toys and what do they love to play with? Pots and pans from the kitchen cabinet! Our pets are just as happy to play with scraps of yarn, fabric and paper that are transformed into anything that rolls or dangles. You can add a little spice to your cat's life by growing your own organic catnip or cat grass. Add the catnip to some of your homemade toys and watch them go! And, your hand crafted toys don't have to be flown in from China and trucked around the continent just to be drooled on. Live Green!
Summer Corn Pudding Recipe
What You'll Need: 20 ounces of fresh corn, thawed and drained if frozen 3 eggs, well-beaten 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 dash of ground nutmeg 2 cups milk or light cream 2 tablespoons butter, melted		Corn pudding is a wonderful summer dish that provides a unique way to eat that yellow vegetable we all love. This dish can be eaten hot or cold, but once it is has been refrigerated it can be conveniently cut into squares and wrapped to take along on those summer picnics. It makes a wonderful complement to all of the summer salads and fresh vegetables that we serve at our cookouts at this time of year. This tastes slightly sweet, but not like a normal sweet pudding. The nutmeg really puts it over the top as a fantastic dish. It's very moist and refreshing and makes a healthy alternative to all-out dessert if you're watching your weight. Directions: Preheat the oven to 325º F. Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. Combine corn and eggs in a bowl. Add in flour, sugar, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix it all together. Mix together the milk and butter, and then mix into the larger mixture. Pour the whole thing into the casserole dish and bake uncovered for an hour and fifteen minutes. Cool and store in the refrigerator. Enjoy!
	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008

June 19, 2008 - Thursday

Ladyhawk’s Treasures Litha Newsletter
Category: Blogging



Litha Newsletter	June 18, 2008
In this issue: • What's New? • Think Green! • Litha • Summer Recipe • Contact Us	What's New at Ladyhawk's Treasures? Blessings of the summer solstice to you and yours! We have some wicked new art necklaces to show you. Graveyards, skulls, fairies and Tarot Cards! Each of the pictures in these beautiful necklaces is designed by the artist from vintage pictures and photographs. Some are collages of several pictures. Each frame is a lovely design of ivy leaves and vines. The frames work just like a real picture frame. They can be opened and your own picture can be slid right in. Visit the "Jewelry of the Mysteries"page of our website to view all of the new pieces. Celebrate Litha with the Kids on June 20th! The Summer Solstice is a joyous time of celebration for many of us. That joy can and should be shared with our children. There are lots of fun things that we can do as families that can be tailored to suit the inquiring minds of our wee ones. Go outside! You don't even have to leave your own backyard. Take the kids out back to watch the sunrise in the morning and the sunset that night. Create your own family tradition! Make a special evening meal, have a cookout and include a memorable desert that you can make for them each year when the solstice rolls around again. Light a small bonfire that the kids can sit around and play instruments, a little drumming and a few sing-along songs, some stories about the sun, the Goddesses and Gods and the heroes of days gone by. If your fire is small and your kids are big enough, allow them to jump over the fire for good luck. Small children love fairies! You can introduce them to the magickal world of fairies by getting them involved in a Midsummer project, the building of a fairy shelter. Start with a small box that is open on one end, a shoe box is ideal. Have the children paint it or color it with crayons and decorate it using ribbons and cool stuff that they find in the yard - feathers, flowers, leaves and tiny branches. Place the shelter outside and leave an offering for the fairies; a little milk or honey are some of their favorites. Kids are always excited to come out the next day and find that their offerings are gone and the shelter turned upside down from all the frolicking fun that the fairies were having! It's also a neat idea to have the fairies leave a little thank you gift for your child's efforts like a sea shell, a pretty rock or a pine cone. Teach your children about the turning of the wheel and what the summer solstice means in the cycle of life. Throw in a little scientific explanation as well so that they understand why this day is considered to be the "longest day". Simply put, on the summer solstice the sun is at its highest path through the sky which allows it to shine on us for a longer period of time. Bright blessings of Litha to all of our children and to all of you who are forever young at heart! Enjoy the wonderful warmth of summer under tomorrow's magickal full moon!
Go Green - Be Aware! Often when we talk about going green, the focus for most of us as individuals is to change our habits, meaning instead of doing one thing, we do something else in order to help the environment. What many of us may need to do first is to change our own mindset or our own awareness. Being "aware" and actually looking at the world around us through a new lens can make all the difference in the world. We have taught our children (who are now teaching their children) what we call normal practices. However, sometimes these normal practices are actually very wasteful habits. These wasteful things are all around us each day, but we just don't notice them. They may as well be invisible! Here's an example that my parents were guilty of and I personally perpetuated with my own child. The simple, yet necessary act of teaching your child how to brush their teeth is a prime example. Naturally, you want to make the experience fun for the child so that they'll continue to do it on their own. So…what do you do? Kids love playing in the water right? So you run the water the entire time that the child brushes his or her teeth. It's certainly not necessary to run the water for the whole tooth brushing ceremony, yet for some reason many people do just that. Think of the amount of fresh water that can be saved just by changing this simple "normal" practice. The more "aware" we become, the better we can protect and conserve our planet's natural resources. What everyday practice can you recognize and change that will help preserve the environment?
Summer Crab & Pasta Salad
What You'll Need: 1 1/2 cups seashell pasta 12 ounces crab meat (or imitation crab) 1 small green bell pepper, diced 1 sweet onion, diced 5 radishes, diced 1 tomato, seeded and diced 1/2 cup diagonally sliced celery 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed 1/2 teaspoon dried basil 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning (Optional)		What could be more perfect than a wonderful fresh pasta salad with summertime veggies, herbs and deliciously sweet crab! Enjoy! Directions: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; rinse with cold water and drain. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, garlic powder, dill, basil, oregano and Old Bay, adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. Add the pasta to the dressing and toss to coat. Add the crab, green pepper, onion, radishes, tomato and celery and gently fold into the salad mixture. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Notes: Green onions can be substituted for the white onion. This salad tastes much better the next day after all of the herbs and seasonings have blended together. Refrigerate overnight for optimum flavor!

	Contact Us! Web site: http://www.ladyhawkstreasures.com Email: ladyhawk@ladyhawkstreasures.com Toll-Free Telephone & Fax: 1-800-393-0368
Copyright © Ladyhawk's Treasures Inc 2008