Since you are here, you may be wondering about the title and tagline of this blog. My intent is to bring research, reviews, and a practical philosophy to the pagan corner of the blogosphere. When I started my path into paganism some thirteen years ago (odd to think that is half my life at this point), I had only the small metaphysical section of my local Barnes and Noble to guide me. Being thirteen years old, I was eager to believe every contradictory word that was told me. I could spend some minutes here ranting about specific books and authors and misunderstandings mixed with a distinct lack of relevant source material. However, with no data currently at hand to confirm my comments, I would be doing nothing but whining. What I can say is that, although it took me years to realize it, I have found very little written about how to live a meaningful, spiritual, pagan lifestyle.

There are some exceptions, some notable works for which I will thoroughly enjoy writing gorgeously flattering reviews. And I certainly don’t claim to be the be-all-end-all of knowledge on this subject after a mere thirteen years. However, the point of this blog is to gather the truly useful information, debunk the lies created when shortcuts are substituted for real research, and delight in a return to the magic of the mundane.

Too often, today’s pagan youth are told that a pagan lifestyle consists of little more than sabbats and spellcasting. This kind of repetative information left me starving. I wasn’t really expected to spend my whole life in front of my alter, was I? There are eight sabbats to turn the year, one for every six weeks during the Gregorian calendar. But what’s a pagan to do for those 357 or so other days of the year? I knew there had to be more to it than saying prayers and casting spells, but there was little to guide me.

It took me years of searching though books and websites, discussing with everyone I could get to listen, asking question after question of my peers and elders, and spending hours upon hours meditating on the answer. And I came up with all kinds of answers. Words like peace, optimism, faith, kindness, healing, surviving, loving, and being all filled me like a great cloud. As with any way of life, there is no one way to go about it.

Being pagan is like being dedicated to any other faith or set of principles: everyday life is an exercise in putting theory into practice. To that end, this blog is about those 42 days (or so) between the sabbats. Topics are likely to range from daily liminal times, to gardening with reverence, to phases of the moon, to book reviews, to natural disasters, to communing with pets, to dancing in the starlight, and everything in between. As an anthropology major, I may include descriptions of paganism or witchcraft among non-western peoples of the world, or anthropological discussions on magic, witchcraft, and religion. I may toss in a prayer here, a chant there, or even a song somewhere, because these things are (optional) aspects of being a pagan. I have a strong tendency to take a very commonsense view towards life, and I find that suits me well in religion also. I warmly invite you to stop in once I get this blog off the ground and join me for a cup of paganism served up sensibly.

Disclaimers: If you are looking for a blog to give you “glamours” and love spells, you will want to look elsewhere. I don’t believe in controlling the thoughts of others, and if such things are indeed possible, they are far too dangerous to be meddled with. I welcome you to stay around, however, to see what aspects of paganism may appeal to you that are not connected with spellcraft.

If you are looking for information on Wicca, I may be able to direct you to a reputable source, but please understand that I have never belonged to a coven nor studied with any Gardinarian priest or priestess, and I do not practice Wicca. I am a practicing witch, however, and may include here some recipes for oils, ointments, teas, candles, baths, or food as I see fit.

I celebrate the five pointed star with its connection to the elements. I believe in faeries. I have caught a glimpse of eternity in a dew drop. I believe in eating healthily and well. I strive to maintain loving relationships with those around me. I feel grounded when I sink my fingers into the earth of my garden. I believe that, when you climb a mountain and stick your fingers into the air, you can touch god (or, at least a god, depending on your particular persuasion). I follow a set of virtues that I personally chose for my own spiritual path; I do not expect others to follow those same virtues. I believe that actions speak louder than words, and that the best way to lead is through example.

And I sincerely hope, whoever you are, that you will join me on this journey and share your thoughts on these matters. Your opinions are valuable; never let anyone tell you otherwise for any reason.