Gypsy Magic

May Day Beauty Spell

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 01 May 2012 09:49:00 +0000

The fair maiden who, the first of May,
Goes to the fields at the break of day
And washes in dew from the Hawthorn tree
Will ever after handsome be.

~Neltjc Blanchan

The 10 Commandments of Edible Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 12:22:00 +0000

1. Eat only those flowers you can positively identify as safe and edible. Learn the Latin or botanical names, which are universally accepted (common names may vary from region to region).

2. Do not assume that restaurants and caterers always know which flowers are edible. Just because it is on your plate does not mean it is edible (see Rule #1).

3. Eat only those flowers that have been grown organically.

4. Do not eat flowers from florists, nurseries, garden centers or public gardens (see Rule #3).

5. Do not eat flowers if you have hay fever, asthma or allergies.

6. Do not eat flowers picked from the side of heavily trafficked roads.

7. Eat only the petals of flowers; always remove and discard the pistils and stamens before eating. (Except for the tiny flowers like thyme where it would be like performing microsurgery to remove the pistils and stamens.)

8. Not all sweet-smelling flowers are edible; some are poisonous.

9. Eat only the flowers of the recommended plants; other parts may be toxic or inedible, even though the flower may be delicious.

10. Gradually introduce flowers into your diet – one at a time and in small quantities, the way you would new food to a baby.

Source: Organic To Be

Flower Butters

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 10:30:00 +0000

Both savory and sweet butters can be made with edible flowers. Probably the most versatile savory butters are made from chive blossoms or nasturtium flowers. Serve these savory butters with a crisp French bread or melt them over vegetables, fish, or poultry. Or also add savory herbs, lemon juice, or other flavorings such as ground chipotle peppers or grated fresh ginger.

Sweet flower butters can be made with roses, violets, lavender, and pineapple sage and are a treat on egg breads, sugar cookies, or as a mystery filling between layers of pound or sponge cake. Not all edible flowers are equally tasty. Before you prepare the blossoms taste a few petals to make sure they please your palate.

Making any flower butter involves the same process. First, remove the petals from the flowers and wash them well in cold water—check for critters. Gently pat them dry in a towel or dry them in a salad spinner. Using a very sharp knife, mince the flowers and any leaves. (Mincing is easier if you roll the blossoms into a small ball before cutting them.)

Cut a stick of room-temperature butter into 6 or 8 pieces and then mash them with a fork. When the butter is fairly soft, slowly incorporate any flavorings and the flowers and leaves. With a rubber spatula put the mixture into a small butter crock or decorative bowl. Refrigerate until serving time.

Flower butters can be frozen in sealed containers for 2 months.

Source: Organic To Be

Flowers You Can Eat

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 07:21:00 +0000

Here is an extensive but by no means complete listing of edible flowers. I've listed them as follows:
Common name: (botonical name): Flavor - other information.

Please note: While the flowers mentioned in this edible flowers list are edible, other parts of the plants mentioned in this list may be poisonous. Know what you're eating! Also, be sure that no pesticides of other potentially harmful substances have been applied to the plant. Avoid plants growing along the sides of roads as they may have absorbed toxins from passing traffic.

Anise (hyssop Agastache foeniculum): Licorice
Apple (Malus spp.): Floral - Eat in moderation since flowers contain cyanide precursors
Arugula (Eruca vesicaria sativa): Peppery - once flowers form, the leaves become bitter

Basil (Ocimum basilicum): Herbal
Bachelor's button (Centaurea cyanus): Vegetal - petals are edible; the calyx is bitter
Bee balm (Monarda didyma): Minty, sweet, hot
Begonias Tuberous (Begonia X tuberosa): citrus-sour - Stems can be used in place of rhubarb. The flowers and stems contain oxalic acid and should not be consumed by individuals suffering from gout, kidney stones, or rheumatism.
Begonias Wax (Begonia cucullata): - The fleshy leaves and flowers are edible raw or cooked. They can have a slight bitter after taste and if in water most of the time, a hint of swamp in their flavor.
Borage (Borago officinalis): Cucumber - use sparingly - diuretic effects, combines well with nasturtiums
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea, Botrytis group): Spicy

Calendula (Calendula officinalis): spicy to bitter, tangy to peppery, sharp taste resembles saffron
Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus - aka Dianthus): Sweet - cut petals away from the bitter white base of the flower.
Canary creeper (Tropaeolum peregrinum): Peppery
Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis, Chamaemelum noblis): Sweet apple - use in moderation, contains thuaone; ragweed sufferers may be allergic to chamomile
Chervil (Anthriscus cerefolium): Herbal
Chicory (Cichorium intybus): Slightly bitter
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Oniony - avoid eating whole flower; taste can be overwhelming
Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum coronarium): Tangy, slightly bitter - Always remove the bitter flower base and use petals only
Clover (Trifolium species): Sweet, anise-like, licorice - Raw flower heads can be difficult to digest.
Cornflower (Centaurea cynaus): slightly sweet to spicy, clove-like flavor.

Dame's Rocket (Hesperis matronalis): bitter - Often mistaken for Phlox. Leaves should be picked before the plant flowers. Seed can be sprouted and added to salads.
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Sweet, honey-like, slightly bitter - use young flowers, mature flowers become bitter
Daylily (Hemerocallis spp.): Like sweet lettuce or melon - may act as a diuretic or laxative; eat in moderation. Not to be confused with other types of Lilies which may ontain alkaloids and are NOT edible.
Dianthus (Dianthus caryophyllus): Sweet, clove - remove the narrow base of the petals (bitter)
Dill (Anethum graveolens): Herbal

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis): Sweet - do not wash flowers as it removes much of the flavor
English daisy (Bellis perennis): Slightly bitter

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Mildly anise
Fuchsia (Fuchsia X hybrida): Slightly acidic - The berries are also edible.

Garden Sorrel (Rumex acetosa): Tart, lemony
Garlic chives (Allium tuberosum): Garlicky
Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Gingery
Gladiolus (Gladiolus spp): - nondescript flavor, vaguely like lettuce - remove anthers

Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis): Mild citrus, cranberry-like
Hollyhock (Alcea rosea): Mild nutty
Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica): Sweet honey flavor - only the flowers are edible. Berries are highly poisonous - do not eat them!
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis): Strong herbal

Impatiens (Impatiens wallerana): Sweet
Indian Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera): Floral, Sweet (roots), Nutty (seeds) - Every part is edible. The stamens can be dried and made into a fragrant herbal tea. Seeds are roasted to make puffs called mahkanas. The plant's roots are ground up to make lotus meal.

Japanese plum (Prunus ‘Mume’): Sweet almond
Jasmine (Jasminum sambac and J. officinale): Sweet floral
Johnny-jump-up (Viola tricolor): Slightly minty, wintergreen - petals have little flavor unless the green sepals are included.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Strong floral - use sparingly due to intense flavor
Lemon (Citrus limon): Sweet citrus
Lemon verbena (Aloysia triphylla): Sweet citrus
Lilac (Syringa spp.): Very fragramt, slightly bitter. Has a distinct lemony taste with floral, pungent overtones. - The flavor of lilacs varies from plant to plant.
Linden (Tilia spp.): Sweet, Honey-like - Frequent consumption of linden flower tea can cause heart damage
Lovage (Levisticum officinale): Celery

Marigold (Tagetes patula): Citrus, bitter - Lemon Gem and Tangerine Gem have the best flavor
Marjoram (Origanum vulgare): Herbal
Mint (Mentha spp.): Minty - each type of mint has its own unique flavor
Mustard (Brassica juncea): Spicy - some people are highly allergic

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus): Peppery
Nodding onion (Allium cernuum): Oniony

Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens): Sweet cranberry
Okra (Abelmoschus aesculentus): Mild, sweet
Orange (Citrus sinensis): Sweet citrus
Oregano (Origanum spp.): Herbal

Pansy (Viola x wittrockiana): Slight minty, sweet green or grassy flavor; petals have a mild flavor; whole flower has a wintergreen flavor
Passion flower (Passiflora spp.): Vegetal
Pea (Pisum sativum): Pea-like
Peony (Paeonia lactiflora): In China the fallen petals are parboiled and sweetened as a tea-time delicacy. Peony water was used for drinking in the middle ages. Add peony petals to your summer salad or try floating in punches and lemonades.
Phlox, Perennial Phlox (Phlox paniculata): Slightly spicy taste - It is the perennial phlox, NOT the annual, that is edible.
Pineapple (Feijoa sellowiana): Sweet tropical
Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans): Spicy, sweet, fruity, hint of mint and spice
Primrose (Primula vulgaris) Cowslip: Sweet bland

Radish (Raphanus sativus): Peppery, a distinctive, spicy bite - best used in salads
Redbud (Cercis canadensis): Pea-like
Red clover (Trifolium pratense): Sweet - raw clover flowers are not easily digestible.
Rose (Rosa rugosa or R. gallica officinalis): Flavors depend on type, color, and soil conditions. Flavor reminiscent of strawberries and green apples. Sweet, with subtle undertones ranging from fruit to mint to spice. NOTE: Be sure to remove the bitter white portion of the petals.
Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus): Mild
Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa): Mild citrus
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Herbal
Runner bean (Phaseolus coccineus): Bean-like

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius): Bitter
Sage (Salvia officinalis): Herbal
Scarlet runner bean (Phaseolus vulgaris): Vegetal
Scented geranium (Pelargonium spp.): Floral - the flavor is usually similar to the scent of the leaves, NOTE: Citronelle variety may not be edible.
Shungiku (Chrysanthemum coronarium): Slightly bitter
Signet marigold (Tagetes signata) (T. tenuifolia) Citrusy, herbal, similar to tarragon - may be harmful if eaten in large amounts; other marigolds are edible but have a tangy to bitter flavor
Snapdragon (Anthirrhinum majus): Delicate garden variety can be bland to bitter. Flavors depend on type, color, and soil conditions. Probably not the best flower to eat - best used as a garnish
Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea): Sweet garlicky
Squash (Curcubita pepo spp.): Vegetal
Summer savory (Satureja hortensis): Herbal
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus): Flower is best eaten in bud stage when it has an artichoke flavor; petals of open flowers have a bitter-sweet flavor. The unopened flower buds can also be steamed like artichokes - pollen can cause a reaction for some people
Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum): Fresh, sweet and grassy with a hint of nutty, vanilla flavor - Can have a blood thinning effect if eaten in large amounts

Thyme (Thymus spp.) Herbal
Tuberous begonia (Begonia x tuberhybrida): Citrus
Tulip (Tulipa spp.) Flavor varies from tulip to tulip, but generally the petals taste like sweet lettuce, fresh baby peas, or a cucumber-like texture and flavor. NOTE: If touching them causes a rash, numbness etc. Don't eat them! Don't eat the bulbs ever. If you have any doubts, don't eat the flower. Some people have had strong allergic reactions to them.

Violet (Viola odorata): Sweet floral

Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata): Both the young rolled up leaves and flowers can be boiled for five minutes and served with butter.
Winter savory (Satureja montana): Herbal

Yellow Pond Lily (Nelumbo lutea): The young leaves and flower buds were eaten as vegetables, roots baked and ground into flower, seeds eaten fried.
Yucca Petals (Yucca species): Crunchy with a mildly sweet taste (a hint of artichoke) - In the spring, they can be used in salads and as a garnish.

For an even more comprehensive listing of edible flowers visit Edible Landscape Design and Permaculture Wiki

Edible Flower Canapés

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 07:19:00 +0000

Edible flowers provide a striking palatte with which to decorate food. With a small garden of edible flowers you can make your canapés look like edible art.

½ cup (25 g) snipped fresh dill or chive leaves
1 lb (500 g) organic cream cheese, softened
2 large loaves of dense sandwich or rustic-style unsliced bread, or 2 packages melba toast
A selection of organic edible flowers, 4 or 5 dozen: nasturtiums, borage, calendulas, pineapple sage, runner bean flowers, pansies, violas, violets, and mustard flowers
Herb leaves: sage, parsley, mint, dill, and basil

In a mixing bowl, add the dill and 3 tablespoons of water to the cream cheese and mix until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more water.

Trim the crusts off the bread and cut it into slices 1/3 inch (8 mm) thick. Cut the slices into large squares or rectangles 2½ to 3½ inches (6-8.5 cm) wide. Spread the cream cheese mixture on the bread—approximately 1 tablespoon per square—and arrange the squares on cookie sheets. Cover them lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to decorate.

Carefully wash the flowers and herbs and gently pat them dry on paper towels. Lay them out on damp paper towels and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until ready to use, but not for more than a few hours.

Decorate each canapé square with an edible flower or two and an herb leaf or two. Re-cover the canapés lightly with a plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving time. The canapés may be made a few hours in advance, but do not prepare them any earlier, or the garnishes will wilt.

Put a paper doily on a decorative tray, place decorated squares on the tray, and serve. Serves 6 to 8 as an appetizer.

From Rosalind Creasy

Sun in Taurus

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 10:46:00 +0000

The Sun is in Taurus from approximately April 20 to May 20, depending on the year.

Symbol: The Bull
Ruler: Venus
Season: Spring
Modality: Fixed
Element: Earth
Placement in the Zodiac: 2nd Sign
Metal: Copper
Stone: Emerald
Color: Green
Flowers: Rose,
Anatomy: Neck, throat

Keywords: persevering, down-to-earth, stable, stubborn, possessive, prosperous, dependable, physical, sensual

There is something very solid about Taurus natives, no matter what the rest of their charts say about them. Though they are dependable most of the time, this generally shows itself more in habit than in outright helpfulness.

Taurus natives are sensual folk--and this includes sex, but extends to pleasures in all areas: they delight in the sensual pleasures of food, a comfortable blanket, a richly colored aquarium to look at, the smell of flowers or spring rain, pleasing melodies coming from their stereos, and so forth. Some might even say they live through their senses more than most.

When Taurus natives work, they work hard. They do it with a steadiness that may rarely be considered quick--rather it's a dependable, plodding, and steady effort that has its payoffs. Security is immensely important to Taurus--some of them actively seek wealth, while others are content to be "comfortable". The Taurus definition of "comfortable" may not be exactly the same as the rest of the signs, but comfort is definitely a driving force.

Although hard-working, their fixed and comfort-loving nature sometimes makes them appear lazy. This is only because they separate work and leisure so well. When they work, they work hard, and when they play, they don't really "play" as such...they relax. A Solar Taurus who has kicked his or her feet up is rooted there--you'd be hard-pressed to get them to move. On a mental level, you'll likely have the same problem. Taureans stick with things and ideas, and therein lies one of the reasons why they are known for their stubbornness. Taurus is a fixed sign, and they have a fair measure of tradition and steadiness in their make-up that keeps them rooted.

The possessiveness associated with Taurus shows up in all areas of life in some way. Taurus likes to own things (and sometimes people). A nice home, a piece of land (this can be modest), a paid-off car, that aquarium mentioned earlier, a couple pets, maybe a solid business...In love and relationship, there is an earthy kind of possessiveness that may be considered jealousy by some, but there is actually quite a difference between being possessive and being jealous. Taurus natives are rarely jealous and petty. They do, however, think of the people they love as theirs--it adds to their sense of security.

Source: Cafe Astrology

Sign of the Poppy

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:39:00 +0000

"I provide beauty to your senses."

If you were born between April 20 and May 19, you are a poppy among the zodiac flower signs. You love the finer things in life, and you love to share them with other people. You have a flare for design, a good eye for detail, and a knack for putting things together with style. Refinery comes natural to you, and you have a classy way about you that others find alluring. Poppy people are about pleasure: giving and receiving it. You enjoy security and comfort. Those with the flower sign of the poppy are very resilient too, and can weather any storm because of their patience and headstrong nature.

Source: What's Your Sign

Willow Tree Lore

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 12:04:00 +0000

Each month of the Celtic Lunar calendar bears the name of a tree. The 5th Moon of the Celtic Year - (April 15 - May 12) is the Willow Month.

Celtic name: Saille (Sahl' yeh)
Latin name: Weeping Willow: salix babylonica; black Willow: salix nigra
Folk or Common names: Willow, Witch's Tree, Pussy Willow, Salicyn Willow, Saille, Sally, Withe, Withy, Witches' Aspirin, Tree of Enchantment, Osier, Tarvos Tree, and Sough Tree.
Meaning: The Anglo-Saxon 'welig' from where the name 'willow' is derived, means 'pliancy'.
Parts Used: Bark, sap, twigs, branches, wood.

Herbal usage:

The bark of the Willow has been used as a pain killer... the bark contains a glusoside called salicin that forms salicylylous acid which is the 'active ingredient' in aspirin. The bark has astringic qualities and can be used for rheumatic conditions, heartburn and as a diuretic. The sap gathered from the tree when it is flowering can be used to treat facial blemishes and dandruff.

Magical History and Associations:

The bird associated with this month is the hawk, the color is haze, and the gemstone is blood-red carbuncle. The Willow is associated with water, and is an herb of the moon. Willow wood is one of the nine traditional firewoods to be added to the Belfire that is burned at Beltane - as the tree of death that is Sacred to Hecate, Willow is added to the fire as a celebration of death.

The Willow is sacred to Minerva who invented numbers and also to Artemis, Ceres, Persephone, Brigid, Hera, Helice, Mercury, Belili, and Circe. The Sumerian goddess Belili was a goddess of trees, and Willows in particular.

The Willow is also associated with Orpheus, regarded by the Creeks as the most celebrated of poets. It is said that Orpheus received his gifts of eloquence and communication by carrying Willow branches on his journey through the Underworld. A bas-relief in a temple at Delphi portrays Orpheus leaning against a Willow tree, touching its branches.

Pagan associations with the Willow have always been strong, for they are often revered as trees of the MoonGoddess, she who reflects her moon magic upon the waters of Earth. Willow was often the tree most sought by the village wise-woman, since it has so many medicinal properties, and eventually the Willow's healing and religious qualities became one and the tree became called 'witch's tree'.

The Willow is also associated with the fey. The wind in the Willows is the whisperings of a fairy in the ear of a poet. It is also said that Willow trees can uproot themselves and stalk travelers at night, muttering at them.

Magickal usage:

The Willow has applications in magick done for enchantment, wishing, romantic love, healing, protection, fertility, magick for women, death, femininity, love, divination, friendship, joy, love, and peace. Placed in homes, Willow branches protect against evil and malign sorcery. Carried, Willow wood will give bravery, dexterity, and help one overcome the fear of death.

If you knock on a Willow tree (knock on wood) this will avert evil. A Willow tree growing near a home will protect it from danger (I know this to be true. When the tornado hit our farm, the only reason we only lost part of the roof, rather than the whole house, was because the grove of Willows around the house protected us. Our poor Willows got pretty battered by the storm, lost most of their leaves and quite a few branches, but have recovered fully now!).

Willows are also a good tree to plant around cemeteries and also for lining burial graves for its symbolism of death and protection. Willows can be used in rituals for intuition, knowledge, gentle nurturing, and will elucidate the feminine qualities of both men and women. If a person needs to get something off their chest or to share a secret, if they confess to a Willow, their secret will be trapped. Also, wishes are granted by a Willow tree if they are asked for in the correct manner.

Willow leaves, bark and wood add energy to healing magick, and burning a mix of Willow bark and sandalwood during the waning moon can help to conjure spirits. Uses of Willow in love talismans include using the leaves to attract love. Willow leaves or twigs can also be used in spells to create loyalty, make friendship pacts, treaties, or alliances. A rejected lover can wear Willow as a charm to win back the love.

To determine if you will be married in the new year:

"Throw your shoe high up

into the branches of a Willow tree;

If the branches catch and hold the shoe,

you soon will married be."

Willows have many uses to Witches, the most common is that the wood is used to make wands for moon magick. Willow wands can also be used to dowse for water (underground), earth energies, and buried objects. (The Witch should be careful to ask for the tree's blessings before taking a branch to make a wand.) The supple long ending branches of the Willow make good weaving materials to use to weave circlets and wreaths. Willow wood is good for making magical harps.

Recommended Reading:

Found at: Dutchie.org

Sun in Aries

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:46:00 +0000

The Sun is in Aries from March 21 to April 19, depending on the year.

Symbol: The Ram
Ruler: Mars
Element: Fire
Season: Spring
Modality: Cardinal
Place in the Zodiac: 1st Sign
Metal: Iron
Stone: Amethyst, Diamond
Color: Red
Flower: Honeysuckle
Anatomy: Head, face.

Keywords: active, initiating, leading, independent, aggressive, impatient, combative, energetic, pioneering, naive, assertive

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and Aries natives are the first to start—and the first to finish—whatever they set out to do. Aries is an active, energetic sign. People with Sun in Aries are direct, straightforward, and uncomplicated. They expect the same from others, and are baffled when they don't always get it.

The body comes first with Aries. Sun in Aries people are natural athletes. At the very least, their natural inclination is to use their bodies to get things done. They're not given to long, drawn-out emotional moments; nor are they big on planning ahead. Instead, they live their lives simply. What is happening right now is most important to Aries. Impatience is a definite vice, and innovation is a huge strength. Aries loves to start anything new, and they have trouble sitting still. They are pioneers in whatever they do, and there is a very basic quality of bravery in these people that is unmistakable! Aries generally knows what they want, and they know the quickest route to getting it. They take shortcuts if they must, but generally everything is aboveboard. Underhanded just isn't their style. Some Aries people are bold, but even the quieter ones are brave and even plucky in their own way. Independence is their birthright. Nothing gets them going more than a fresh slate, the promise of a new day, and a brand new start.

Aries enjoys a challenge, and Aries Suns are happiest when their lives are moving forward and active. There's a childlike quality to all Aries Sun people, and it's often quite charming.

Source: Cafe Astrology

Sign of the Honeysuckle

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:26:00 +0000

"My vines climb to great heights."

If you are born between March 21 and April 19, you were born under the sign of the honeysuckle you are sweet to the senses of others. Meaning, you naturally entice others with your charm and grace. You have a smooth confidence that attracts a wide variety of friends and business partners. Just as bees can’t resist the lure of the honeysuckle – people can’t resist your energy. You are the first of the flower signs and so you are assertive and a natural leader of the vine. Honeysuckle people are strong and determined, weaving their way through any challenge, and are quite deft at finding innovative solutions.

Source: What's Your Sign

Furze Tree Lore

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 12:15:00 +0000

Furze (also known as Gorse) is a druid Sacred tree, whose flowers are associated with the Vernal Equinox (Aprox. March 20).

Latin name: ulex europaeus
Celtic name: 'O' - Onn
Folk or Common names: Broom, Frey, Furze, Fyrs, Gorst, Goss, Prickly Broom, Ruffet, and Whin.
Parts Used: Flowers

Herbal usage:

A decoction made with the flowers thereof hath been found effectual against the jaundice, as also to provoke urine, and cleanse the kidneys from gravel or stone ingendered in them. In parts of the UK, it was once cultivated and cut down to provide burnable fuel for bakers' ovens. The ashes left after it has been set on fire yield a generous amount of alkali and have been used as a type of primitive soap for washing purposes after first being mixed with clay and rolled into balls. The golden flowers yield an excellent natural yellow dye.

Magical History and Associations:

Furze is a thorny shrub with bright yellow flowers that is associated with the Spring Equinox. This herb is a symbol of the young sun at the spring equinox and royalty. Furze is associated with the astrological sign of Aries, the planet of Mars, the element of Fire, and is a masculine herb. Furze is associated with Jupiter, Thor, Onn, and also with the Gallic ash-grove Goddess On-niona. The color for Furze is dun, and its bird is the cormorant.

Magickal usage:

Furze is a symbol of fertility and has the magickal uses of Protection and Money. Furze is also used in money spells; it attracts gold. Furze is a good herb to use as a proctectant against evil. In Wales hedges of the prickly Gorse are used to protect the home against dark fairies, who cannot penetrate the hedge. Furze wood and blooms can be burned for protection and also for preparation for conflict of any sort. There are two school of thought about giving Furze flowers as a gift. On one had the gift is supposed to be good luck, but on the other hand if you give them to someone that you love it means: Anger.

There is an old rhyme about Furze that refers to its all-year-round flowering habits:

"When Gorse is out of bloom,

Kissing is out of season."

Recommended Reading:

Source: dutchie.org

Alder Tree Lore

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 12:03:00 +0000

Each month of the Celtic Lunar calendar bears the name of a tree, •4th Moon of the Celtic Year - (March 18 - April 14).

Latin name: Smooth Alder: alnus serrulata.
Celtic name: Fearn (pronounced: fair un).
Folk or Common names: Alder, Gummy/Gluey (European), Rugose/wrinkly (Tag), Tree of the Fairies.
Parts Used: Parts Used: Branches, wood, bark, leaves.

Herbal usage:

Alder is in the hazelnut family and was used by Native Americans as a medicinal plant. Tea can be made from bark and is useful in treating diarrhea, coughs, toothaches and the discomfort of childbirth. A potion made from the bark can also be used externally as an eye wash or for a wash for poison ivy, swellings and sprains.

Magical History and Associations:

The birds associated with this month are the raven, the crow and the gull; the colors are crimson, green-brown and royal purple; the day is Saturday; and the gemstone is fire-garnet. The Alder, a Masculine herb, is associated with the element of fire, and the planet of Venus. The Alder is sacred to Bran the Blessed and Cronos (Saturn). Alder is also sacred to Faery kings and elf kings - from the word Alder comes elder (not the tree) as in 'elder' kings. The Fey of the Alder have been described as water spirits or as "Dark Faeries". They are very protective of the tree and when they leave their trees, this Faerie will take the form of a Raven.

In tree Folk-lore, the Alder is known as the tree of fire - In the battle of the trees, the Alder fought in the very front line. It is described as the very "battle witch" of all woods, the tree that is hottest in the fight.

Magickal usage:

The month of Alder is a good time to do magick designed to celebrate the connection and tie between all women, and the mother-daughter bond. The Alder has applications in magick done for spiritual decisions, duty, prophecy, oracular strength, intelligence, mental prowess, resurrection, air magic, water magic, strength, spirituality, teaching, weather magick, and protection from outside forces. Alder leaves or twigs can be carried in a pouch to act as a protection charm and as a powerful force in psychic battles. Ash talismans or charms can also be carried to aid in the preservation of ideas.

The Alder is known as the "fairy's tree" in Celtic lore, so is good for fairy magic. The faeries are said to like to dance under the trees when they are flowering. Carrying Alder twigs or flowers acts as a charm for communicating with the fey. Alder is often used in resurrection magic and also used in building/construction magic. Alder wood is often called the "wood of the witches".

Whistles may be made of out of young shoots to entice Air elemental spirits. This gives a Witch the ability to summon, control and banish elementals or the four winds. It is also the ideal wood for making the magical pipes and flutes for use in magickal ceremonies.

Alder produces a red dye from the bark, a green dye from the flowers and a brown dye from its twigs. Some Witches use these dyes in coloring ritual garb with the red dye signifying fire, the green dye: water, and the brown dye: earth. While the Witch is dying her robes, she should say:

"These leaves from trees, these herbs and flowers,

Make holy with your living powers

Raise the power! Bestow the magick!

Set earth's seal upon my magick!"

When harvesting bark or leaves from the Alder, remember to ask the tree if it will allow you to take the parts and be sure to leave the tree an offering of thanks when you are done. To prepare Alder wood for use, beat the bark away with a willow stick while projecting your wishes into it.

Recommended Reading:

Source: dutchie.org

Sign of the Water Lily

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 07:57:00 +0000

"My roots touch unseen knowledge."

If you were born between February 20 and March 20, you were born under the sign of the Water Lily. Water lily flower signs are perceptive and deeply psychic. Water runs through all the flower signs but especially through yours and this accentuates your intuitive abilities. You are sometimes able to absorb ideas and thoughts of those around you. You can be emotionally swayed by other people's feelings too. Sometimes your emotions can run out of control, but you can turn to your natural creative abilities to help you get grounded. You are a natural artist, dancer, and musician. You are also an excellent communicator, and may be drawn to other languages too.

Source: What's Your Sign

Sun in Pisces

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 23:54:00 +0000

The Sun is in Pisces from February 19 to March 20, depending on the year.

Symbol: The Fish
Ruler: Neptune
Element: Water
Season: Winter
Modality: Mutable
Placement in Zodiac: 12th Sign
Metal: Tin
Stone: Jade. Coral
Color: Sea Green
Flowers: Jonquil; Violet; Poppy
Anatomy: Feet, Veins

Keywords: intuitive, dreamy, artistic, humane, sympathetic, sensitive, compassionate, perceptive, tender, impressionable

As the twelfth and last sign of the zodiac, Pisces contains within itself a little experience of all the signs. This gives Pisces Suns the ability to identify with people from all walks of life—from all backgrounds—in some way. These individuals are not only changeable and adaptable, they have open minds and tremendous understanding. But Pisces itself is often misunderstood. Pisces Suns may spend a good portion of their lives yearning for understanding, and the other part in a state of divine discontent. Suffering is sometimes glamorized in the Piscean world.

Sun in Pisces people are frequently pegged as wishy-washy, but this is all a matter of opinion. What you will find behind a vaguely directionless, spacey manner is a deep person with real dreams. Their dreams are more than getting that picket fence or making it up the corporate ladder. Pisces are tuned in to a higher purpose and their dreams transcend the individual. A deep love for humanity, and compassion that knows no bounds is found with this placement of the Sun.

Pisceans are not known to be cutthroat business types, nor are they given to throwing themselves out into the world in an aggressive manner. But make no mistake about it, Pisces can be extraordinarily successful when given the chance to express themselves. The arts, marketing, music, teaching, drama, healing arts...these are all fields in which Pisces can find expression. Their imagination, attunement to humanity, and remarkable intuition endow them with enviable gifts of insight and creativity.

Pisces is a sensitive sign—both sensitive to criticism and sensitive to others' feelings. Easily touched by human suffering, at least in theory, Pisces wouldn't hurt a fly. They believe in people, are deeply hurt by compassionless human behavior, and have a hard time saying no. Harsh realities are avoided either through escapist behavior or self-delusion; but every now and again reality does raise its ugly head, and hits Pisces over the head. This is a sad time indeed. Pisces retreats into their own world, self-pitying and giving pep talks to themselves ("I will never trust again!"). Rest assured, though, that these periods are rather short-lived and even useful. Pisces seems to derive energy from their (generally short) bouts of self-pity. They come back stronger, with a spring in their step, ready to face the world again, and just as, if not more, compassionate and trusting as they were before. Some might even wonder if Pisces finds pleasure in suffering. Sometimes this is the case, but most of the time, Pisces pulls a lot of creative energy from sadness. Pisces is the poet or artist with angst, although this trait is often more apparent with Moon in Pisces.

Some find Pisces' tendency to be late for appointments, spaced out behavior, and absent-mindedness amount to irresponsibility. Pisces would be shocked to know this, however. Who me? Pisces wonders. Irresponsible? Pisces Suns absolutely care—their love knows no bounds—but their retreats from ordinary life (whether they are as simple as daydreams or actual departures) that they so seem to need every now and again are not always understandable to no-nonsense signs, such as Virgo or Aries.

Many Pisces seem almost allergic to things like shopping lists, maps, directions, and instructions, and for some brave souls, even watches — they prefer to feel their way through life than to follow some plan.

We find plenty of artists, poets, and musicians with Sun (and other personal planets) in Pisces. Piscean themes are woven throughout the songs of Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins and Kurt Cobain of Nirvana, for example.

Source: Cafe Astrology

Ash Tree Lore

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Each month of the Celtic Lunar calendar bears the name of a tree, Ash is the 3rd Moon of the Celtic Year - (Feb 18 - March 17).

Latin name: White Ash - fraxinus americana; European Ash - fraxinus excelsior; Flowering Ash - fraxinus ornus.
Celtic name: Nion (pronounced: knee un)
Folk or Common names: Ash, Common Ash, Unicorn Tree, Guardian Tree
Parts Used: Leaves, wood, bark, twigs, sap, flowers

Herbal usage:

Ash leaves and the tender tops can be used in the spring to make a fasting tea that is a diuretic and can be used as a help for weight loss. Ash bark is known as a liver and spleen cleanser and can make the immune system stronger. The flowering Ash has sap that contains a sugary exudate called 'manna', which can be used as a laxative.

Magical History andAssociations:

The bird associated with this month is the snipe, the color is half clear and half deep blue, and the gemstone is sea-green beryl. The Ash, a masculine herb, is associated with the element of water, the sun and Jupiter; and is sacred to Thor, Woden, Mars, Uranus and Gwydion. Ash is also sacred to Odin since the Ash is often known as the Yggdrassil (or the 'Ash Yggdrasil') amongst the Scandinavian nations. In Norse mythology, the Yggdrassil supports the Universe, has three main branches and is believed to have sprung from the beginning of time out of primordial slime and ashes.

The Ash is also the tree of the sea God Poseidon, because of its watery power. Frennett (frenetic chaos), a substance used by berserkers, may have been made from Ash bark. The Ash was supposed to be serpent repellent - Pliny held that there is such an antipathy between an adder and an Ash-tree, "that if an adder be encompassed round with Ash-tree leaves, she will sooner run through the fire than through the leaves".

The ceremonial Yule log is often made of Ash - this log is kindled each Yule with a piece from last years fire and allowed to smolder for 12 days before it is ceremonially put out. The Ash tree is famous, although anonymous, since it's the tree from which the Hanged Man is suspended in tarot decks

Magickal usage:

The Ash was one of the sacred Druidic three: 'Oak, Ash and Thorn', and the month of Ash is a good time to do magick designed to learn your inner self. The Ash has applications in magick done for sea power, ocean rituals, karmic laws, magical potency, healing, protection from drowning, love, rain making, women's mysteries, prophetic dreams, general protection, Prosperity, and health.

Ash is often used for making both mundane and magical tools - it's said that tools with handles of Ash are more productive than tools with handles of other wood. Witches brooms often have the staff made from Ash, and Ash wood was used for spears and shields since it was known as a protective wood. Placing Ash berries in a cradle prevents the child from being traded for a changeling by an evil faery - and Ash talismans can be worn as protective amulets. Ash is known to keep away serpents and to protect against their bite. If there are no snakes to be found, Ash can be used instead to keep away nasty people who are bitchy, quick to criticize, impatient, or psychic vampires.

Special guardian spirits reside in the Ash; This makes it excellent for absorbing sickness. The spirally carved Druidic wand was made of Ash for this healing purpose. In years gone by, weak-limbed children were passed through split ash trees which were then bound up. If the tree grew straight, the child would as well.

Ash can be used in medicine pouches or can be used in magick for wart remover: the wart is stuck with a pin that has first been thrust into an Ash, while these words are said:

"Ashen tree, Ashen tree,

pray these warts off of me."

The pins are then stuck back in the tree and left.

The druids attributed special powers over water to the ash tree. They used its wood to make it rain or to ward off water's destructive power. The Ash is the tree of sea power, or of the power resident in water. Ash leaves placed under the pillow will induce prophetic dreams, and carrying an Ash leaf will attract the love of the opposite sex.

The Ash is often called The Unicorn Tree, because unicorns are supposed to be fond of the tree. To catch a glimpse of a unicorn, carry Ash wood or leaves. Whenever you need to harvest a piece or part of an Ash tree, remember to ask the tree if it will allow you to take a branch or other part and be sure to leave the tree an offering of thanks when you are done. A nice offering would be a bit of mane from a unicorn.

Recommended Reading:

Source: dutchie.org

A Love Potion

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:08:00 +0000

To excite passion in another, this is one of the best love potions available:

To a gill of red wine in a saucepan, add a teaspoon of rosemary leaves, a teaspoon of aniseseed, a teaspoon of cloves, a teaspoon of clear honey, and a teaspoon of orange rind. Also add a pinch of ground cumin and three green leaves of rose geranium.

Stir the mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and allow the potion to simmer for two minutes. Then remove it from the heat and allow it to cool until it is not steaming before straining the botanicals out through a fine sieve. Finally return the potion to the heat until vapors begin to arise and it is ready to be served to your intended.

From: SimpleMagic.com

Love Letters

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:51:00 +0000

On receiving a love letter that has any particular declaration in it, lay it wide open; then fold it in nine folds, pin it next to your heart, and thus wear it till bedtime; then place it in your left hand glove, and lay it under your head.

If you dream of gold, diamonds, or any costly gems, your lover is true, and means what he says; if of white linen, you will lose him by death; and if of flowers, he will prove false. If you dream of his saluting you, he is at present false and means not what he professes, but only to draw you into a snare,

Found in:
Encyclopaedia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences

Romany Valentine's Day Divination

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:47:00 +0000

By tradition many species of birds begin pairing off at this time. The Romanies say that if you are unattached, a bay leaf placed under your pillow on St. Valentine's Day will induce you to dream of the person you will marry.

From: The Good Spell Book

Love and Attraction Oil

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:24:00 +0000

Lemon Juice Extract or Essential Oil
Rosewater or Essential Oil
Vanilla bean extract or Essential Oil
Gold glitter or two gold stars
Almond oil

Prepare a perfumed oil using 2 ounces of almond oil as the base. Add 7 drops of rose water or 7 drops Rose Essential Oil, 3 drops of lemon extract, juice or essential Oil, One vanilla bean or 7 drops vanilla extract or essential oil, gold glitter or two gold stars

Anoint the pulse points before going out or add to bathwater for a magickal love attraction bath.

From: Incense Oils and Brews

Romany Folklore, Magicks, History, and More

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:23:00 +0000

If you are interested in the history of and folklore about the Romany people, if you are curious about their magick, beliefs, and etc, you are on the right page. Here we have a complete listing of posts on all of the above and more.

General Info

History

Language

Customs and Folklore

Romany Spells and Cures

Gypsy Food

Videos

Romany Holy Days, Feast Days, and etc

Gypsy Ways and Magic

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:57:00 +0000

I found this on a forum at SpellsOfMagic.com and thought it would be fun and appropriate to share:

Let me start off by saying my name is Tinka and I'm a gypsy born and raised. Shandi has asked me to give an overview of the ways of my people and going from there into our magic since it seems there are so many of you interested. I will do my best to explain it tho im not promising anything.

The Gypsy tradition goes back to the darkest reaches of time. It uses simple spells and rituals to harness the power of nature and of the elemental spirits that are all around us.

The Gypsy people are as independent in thought as they are in other areas of life, and they don't believe that a clergyman is really necessary to intercede between a person and the 'powers that be'. Although most Romanies would profess a belief in the official religion of the country in which they reside, and indeed many are now born-again Christians, there is still a deep respect for the old ways. And why not, when everyday experience proves the efficacy of those ways?

Everyone has the right and the ability to use the natural power of nature for themselves, though of course, as with everything else in life, some people are more talented than others. The more experienced a person is in the ways of the paranormal, the more confident and thus the more successful he will be come. The power should never be abused on trivialities, such as trying to impress others with your knowledge and ability, as this shows a complete lack of wisdom.

The Gypsy way is a way that springs from the heart, and the deepest, most primitive instincts of man. It respects nature and man's place in nature. It teaches us to take joy in the moment.

By: Tinka

Book of the Wisdom of the Egyptians

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:51:00 +0000

The Book of the Wisdom of the Egyptians - that's the title of this small story found in "Romano Lavo-Lil" by George Borrow. It's a wonderful collection of sayings, stories, anecdotes, and explanations. Enjoy!

The young people often ask: What good is there in the Romany tongue? I answers: Ye are all fools! There is plenty, plenty of good in it, and plenty, plenty of our people would have been transported or hung, but for the old, poor Roman language. A word in Romany said in time to a little girl, and carried to the camp, has caused a great purse of money and other things, which had been stolen, to be stowed underground; so that when the constables came they could find nothing, and had not only to let the Gypsy they had taken up go his way, but also to beg his pardon.
His term of transportation has now expired, and it were but right in him to come home, if it were only to take care of his poor old wife: she has been a true, true wife to him, and I don't believe that she has taken up with another man ever since he was sent across.
When one's pitched up one's little tent, made one's little fire before the door, and hung one's kettle by the kettle-iron over it, one doesn't like that an inspector or constable should come and say: What are you doing here? Take yourself off, you Gypsy dog.
On the first Friday of July, before the public-house called the Bald-faced Stag, on the hill above the town of the great tree in the Forest, you will see many Roman people, men and women, lads and lasses.
Do you know my old friend Mr. Stanniwix, the old gentleman that wears a pigtail, and made fourteen thousand pounds by smuggling?
He went on talking and talking foolishness till I said to him: If you goes on in that 'ere way I'll hit you a hot 'un on the nose.
You ask me what are patrins. Patrin is the name of the signs by which the Gypsies who go before show the road they have taken to those who follow behind. We flings handfuls of grass down at the head of the road we takes, or we makes with the finger a cross-mark on the ground, we sticks up branches of trees by the side the hedge. But the true patrin is handfuls of leaves flung down; for patrin or patten in old Roman language means the leaf of a tree.
The true way to be a wise man is to hear, see, and bear in mind.
The man who has not the whip-hand of his tongue and his temper is not fit to go into company.
The Bill to take up the no-man's lands (comons), and to make the poor people die of hunger and cold, has been flung out of the House of Commons.
The name they gives her is "Luck in a basket," because she carries about a basket, which every night, when she goes home, is sure to be full of stolen property.
This here, brothers, is the title of a book, the head-work of an old king of Roumany land: the Tribunal, or the dispute between the wise man and the world: or, the death-sentence passed by the soul upon the body.
When the rope was about his neck they brought him his pardon, and let him go; but from that day he would wear a neck-kerchief no more, for he said it brought to his mind the rope about his neck.
Jack Cooper could read enough to know all that was upon the milestones and the sign-posts.
Roman way to cook a fowl is to do it up with its feathers in clay, and then to put it in fire for a little more than half an hour. When the clay and the burnt feathers are taken from the fowl, the belly cut open, and the inside flung out, 'tis a food good enough for a queen to eat without salt.
When the Gentile way of living and the Gypsy way of living come together, it is anything but a good way of living.
He told me once that when he was a chap of twenty he killed a Gentile, and buried the dead meat under ground. He was taken up for the murder, but as no one could find the cold meat, the justices let him go. He said that the job did not sit heavy upon his mind for a long time, but then all of a sudden he became sad, and afraid of the dead Gentile's ghost; and that often of a night, as he was coming half-drunk from the public-house by himself, he would look over his right shoulder and over his left shoulder, to know if the dead man's ghost was not coming behind to lay hold of him.
Do you know the Gypsy way of taking the hand?
Aye, aye, brother.
Show it to me.
They does it so, brother.
A tramp has more fun than a Gypsy.
You have heard the word pazorrus. That is what is called by the Gentiles "trusted," or in debt. In the old time the Roman who got from his brother money or other things on trust, and did not pay him again, could be made to work for him as horse, ass, or wood cutter for a year and a day. At present the matter is not so. If a Roman got money, or other things, from my hand on credit, and did not repay me, how could I make him labour for me as horse, ass, or stick-cutter for one day, not to say for a year?
Do you call this a fair? A very pretty fair is this: you might put it all into your pocket.
It is not a wise thing to say you have been wrong. If you allow you have been wrong, people will say: You may be a very honest fellow, but are certainly a very great fool.
Where are you living?
Mine is not living; mine is staying, to say the best of it; I am a traveller, brother!
When Roman people speak to one another, they say brother and sister. When parents speak to their children, they say, my son, or my daughter, or my child, gorgiko-like, to either. When children speak to their parents, they say, my father, or my mother.
My father, why were worms made? My son, that moles might live by eating them. My father, why were moles made? My son, that you and I might live by catching them. My father, why were you and I made? My son, that worms might live by eating us.
All farmers are fools. When they hear a citizen in the country say: That's a fine horse! they say: 'Tis no horse, 'tis a mare; whether the thing's a horse or not. The simpletons don't know that a mare's a horse, though a horse is not a mare.
No one like Gypsy Will's wife for dancing in a platter.
When Constance Smith died, she was a hundred ten years old.
Do you know Mrs. Cooper?
I knows her very well, brother.
Do you like her?
I loves her very much, brother; and I have often, often said to the other Gypsies, when they speaking ill of her: She's a gentlewoman; takes care of all of you; if it were not for her, you would all go to the devil.
What does she do for a living?
She tells fortunes, brother; she tells fortunes.
Is she a good hand at fortune-telling?
There's no Roman woman under the sun so good at fortune-telling as Mrs. Cooper; it is impossible not to have your fortune told by her; she's a true witch; she takes people by the hand, and tells their fortunes, whether they will or no.
'Tis no use to go seeking after Gypsies. When you wants to see them 'tis impossible to find one of them; but when you are thinking of other matters you see plenty, plenty of them.
I will swear neither falsely nor truly against any one; if they wishes to find out something, let them find it out themselves.
If he had been transported for a great robbery, I would have said nothing; but it makes me mad to think that he has been sent away, all along of a vile harlot, for the value of three-and-sixpence.
When he had committed the murder he made haste, and ran into the wood, where he hid himself in the hollow of a great old tree; but it was no use at all; the runners followed his track all along the forest till they came to the tree.
How many fortunes have you told to-day?
Only one lady's, brother; yonder she's coming back; I knows her by the black lace on her gown.
How much money did she give you?
Only one groat, brother; only one groat. May the devil run away with her bodily!
Hear the words of wisdom which Mike the Grecian said to Mrs. Trullifer: Mrs. Trollopr, you must live by your living; and if you have a pound you must spend it.
Can you speak Romany?
Aye, aye, brother!
What is
Weshenjuggalslomomengreskeytemskeytudlogueri?
I don't know what you say, brother.
Then you are no master of Romany.

Gypsy Spell To Have An Object Returned

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:39:00 +0000

These are easy remedies that will help you to regain an object that someone has failed to return.

Pick a convenient time of day when you will be able to sit undisturbed for five minutes. Use the power of your will to bring the object back to you. If your will is strong, the thief will begin to feel uncomfortable, and will finally bring the missing item to you.

Another method is to place an iron nail on a window-sill. It should be pointed north, south, west, or east, in whichever direction the person who has the object lives. Simply will the object back every time you look at the nail. When the object has been returned the nail should be buried or restored to the tool kit it came from.

Another Romany remedy is to place a rose beside an object similar to the one that is missing. Love, symbolized by the rose, will prick someone's conscience and the object will be returned. Because you want the person's conscience to be pricked - be sure the rose is NOT a thornless variety.

From: The Good Spell Book
At Amazon: Iron Nail, Rose

To Discern the Thief Who Robbed You

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 17:35:00 +0000

Take the seed of sunflowers, which you must gather in the sign of the Lion in the month of August. Wrap the same up over a wolf's tooth; then take a bay leaf and wrap the tooth therein, then take the tooth, put it above your head, and you will see the thief.

From: Encyclopaedia of Superstitions, Folklore, and the Occult Sciences of the World
At Amazon: Sunflower Seeds, Wolf Tooth, Bay Leaves

What is Cauring?

noreply@blogger.com (Two Feathers) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 16:48:00 +0000

Cauring is an old gypsy trick - here's how it works:

The Gypsy has some queer, old-fashioned gold piece; this she takes to some goldsmith's shop, at the window of which she has observed a basin full of old gold coins, and shows it to the goldsmith, asking him if he will purchase it. He looks at it attentively, and sees that it is of very pure gold; whereupon he says that he has no particular objection to buy it; but that as it is very old it is not of much value, and that he has several like it.

"Have you indeed, Master?" says the Gypsy; "then pray show them to me, and I will buy them; for, to tell you the truth, I would rather buy than sell pieces like this, for I have a great respect for them, and know their value: give me back my coin, and I will compare any you have with it."

The goldsmith gives her back her coin, takes his basin of gold from the window, and places it on the counter. The Gypsy puts down her head, and pries into the basin. "Ah, I see nothing here like my coin," says she. "Now, Master, to oblige me, take out a handful of the coins and lay them on the counter; I am a poor, honest woman, Master, and do not wish to put my hand into your basin. Oh! if I could find one coin like my own, I would give much money for it; barributer than it is worth."

The goldsmith, to oblige the poor, simple, foreign creature (for such he believes her to be), and, with a considerable hope of profit, takes a handful of coins from the basin and puts them upon the counter.

"I fear there is none here like mine, Master," says the Gypsy, moving the coins rapidly with the tips of her fingers. "No, no, there is not one here like mine - kek yeck, kek yeck - notone, not one. Stay, stay! What's this, what's this? So se cavo, so se cavo? Oh, here is one like mine; or if not quite like, like enough to suit me. Now, Master, what will you take for this coin?"

The goldsmith looks at it, and names a price considerably above the value; whereupon she says: "Now, Master, I will deal fairly with you: you have not asked me the full value of the coin by three three-groats, three-groats, three-groats; by trin tringurushis, tringurushis, tringurushis. So here's the money you asked, Master, and three three-groats, three shillings, besides. God bless you, Master! You would have cheated yourself, but the poor woman would not let you; for though she is poor she is honest": and thus she takes her leave, leaving the goldsmith very well satisfied with his customer - with little reason, however, for out of about twenty coins which he laid on the counter she had filched at least three, which her brown nimble fingers, though they seemingly scarcely touched the gold, contrived to convey up her sleeves.

This kind of pilfering is called by the English Gypsies cauring, and by the Spanish ustilar pastesas, or stealing with the fingers. The word caur seems to be connected with the English cower, and the Hebrew kãra, a word of frequent occurrence in the historical part of the Old Testament, and signifying to bend, stoop down, incurvare.

From: Romano Lavo-Lil