Dolmen Grove Issue 8

Dolmen Grove Issue 8

www.dolmengrove.co.uk

UNITED PAGAN PATHS

THE DOLMEN GROVE “Respect and care for the elders for they have aged with the wisdom of time “ Taloch The Dolmen Grove is a non-political organisation; preferring to concentrate upon the quest for spiritual enlightenment and the manifestation of peace within a power hungry world of chaos.

The Dolmen Grove was originally formed in Dorset England where it still has its main H.Q. existing as a Spiritual meeting place for people of all nationalities, and over the years has grown steadily with membership now spanning several continents.

At the centre of The Dolmen Grove is the round table. This is made up of a group of people from all walks of life, following a variety of spiritual paths. These individuals get together once a month to plan and organize events, and gatherings.

Because these people give both their time and energy voluntarily the hopes and dreams of The Dolmen Grove continue to be recognized.

The Dolmen Grove do not have a hierarchy because we do not believe people need titles or labels in order to practice a spiritual path. However we do believe in spirituality based upon love, kindness and an open heart. We are fully aware that this policy which is upheld by the Roundtable of The Grove has upset people in the past and will no doubt continue to do so.

It is NOT our intention to offend anyone and we do not condemn those who wish to use such titles, and we shall continue to welcome all spiritually minded people seeking to enjoy good friendship with good souls who share a common interest.

The Dolmen Grove Banner - A Symbol of Unity

ALL ARE SPIRITUALLY UNITED WITHIN THE DOLMEN GROVE

CONTENTS 1…The Legend of the Green Man (a modern myth)… Diane Narraway 2…Magickal Mistletoe … Jess Stephens (Selkie) 3… Crabchurch Conspiracy with contributions from … Mark Vine, Kit Berry and Diane Narraway 4…Aromatherapy … Sandra Wiseman 5…Coppertongue with contributions from … Chris Pinney, Keri Pinney, Adam Holmes and Diane Narraway 6…Music and Gig Guides 7…The Dolmen Grove Yule Ball and Winter Solstice 8…Herbal Recipes for Winter Health… Jacqui Apostolides 9…Properties of Crystals – Garnet …Cheryl Waldron 10…A Day in the life of… Denny Bottley (Ravenswing) 11…The Yule Log … Julie Weltch` 12…Waldron Family Yule Log Burning Ritual …Cheryl Waldron 13…Solitary Yule Ritual … Cheryl Waldron 14…Poetry from Within the Grove 15…Diary of the Hedgewitch … Rachael Moss 16…Recipes

Photos in this issue by Joanna Caswell, Rachael Moss, Mark Vine, Chrissey Luna le Fey Storer, Lee Teiwaz Akasha, Jim Gregory, Chris Hermon, Duncan Wild.

Unless otherwise stated all other images are from the public domain.

Further information on the Dolmen Grove can be found at: www.Dolmengrove.co.uk http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen-Grove/110124449082503 All information is accurate at the time of publication and all articles are assumed to be the work of those being credited

Legend of the Green Man When I was younger I travelled to many lands, and heard many a good tale but was in a faraway land one winters evening that I met an old magician. The wind was howling and the snow fell so hard that it was difficult to see. I was lost, cold and very afraid when I chanced upon his cottage. He welcomed me in and as we sat beside the fire we got to talking…and as it was the eve of the winter solstice he told me the tale of the real ‘Father Christmas’ - The Green Man. Long ago when the first trees began to shed their leaves, and the days grew colder and darker, the young trees grew afraid that the sun was gone forever, so the nature spirits gathered the fallen leaves, and petitioned the high Gods, who breathed life into the fallen leaves and the Green Man was born.

He was the spirit of the forest whose first gift was the evergreen. This was a symbol of eternal life and a sign that one day the warmth would return to the land.

Over time the trees grew and became thick dense woodlands that were home to a variety of birds and animals, and eventually mankind was born, and the Green Man welcomed the Earths new inhabitants, changing his role to spread a feeling of hope and good cheer during the dark, cold months when food is scarce and times are difficult.

People of all cultures knew him, and he went by many names, and in many cultures came to represent the rebirth of the sun. For this reason he was occasionally considered to be a feminine spirit or goddess.

Whether he is known as The old man of the wood, Dionysis, Baccus, Pan, Woden, Odin, Jack of the Green, The Green Man or even Beiwe; the goddess who returned fertility to the arctic lands and rode through the sky in a chariot made from reindeer bones, his role as the spirit of winter remains ever constant.

People were grateful for the gifts of evergreens and holly to feed their livestock and initially honoured the Green Man of the woods with a sacrifice followed by feasts and celebrations. Later they came to honour his gifts by emulating his generosity and they began to give gifts to each other.

Now so strong was the spirit of the winter around the solstice that newer faiths adopted this time of year…give or take a bit of poetic licence on their part, and by Tudor times the Green Man had become known as ‘Old father Christmas’. An old man dressed in a fur trimmed green coat, hardly unfamiliar attire for a man of the woods.

Whether the old magician spoke the truth or not I cannot say, that is up to you to decide.

But certainly as British Pagans we have come to know him as the Green Man whose image these days adorns Pagan homes and churchyards alike, while the Coca Cola company’s ‘Father Christmas’ for many has become the new spirit of winter …

Yet as Pagans we know that neither new religions nor advertising campaigns can silence the heartbeat of the Green Man…The true spirit of Yuletide!

Diane Narraway

Magickal Mistletoe Mistletoe is the common name for the plant Viscum album. The latin Viscum is from the same root as ‘viscous’, referring to the sticky flesh of the berries, while album is well known to mean white. The common name, mistletoe, is thought to be derived from the Old English word ‘misteltãn’: ‘mistel’ meaning different and ‘tan’ meaning twig.

However, ‘mist’ also meant dung, which essentially makes the mistletoe a ‘dung-twig’ – a reference perhaps to the way the plant is spread, which I refer to later!

Few houses are without a sprig of mistletoe throughout the Yuletide season, and the mystery of this unique plant stretches back into prehistory.

Pliny wrote of the Druids and their customs; Druid priests would cut mistletoe (which they named ‘All Heal’), with a golden sickle from a sacred oak tree. Oaks and mistletoe were both regarded as sacred, and Oaks aren’t the most common hosts for mistletoe, and thus mistletoe from an Oak was considered to be “doublemagickal”!

The sprigs would be harvested during the waxing moon following the Winter Solstice, and has also been said that a pair of white bulls were sacrificed as part of this ritual. This was believed to bring prosperity to the receivers of the mistletoe, which was distributed to the local people.

‘Gather ye mistletoe before it hits the ground…’

The reason behind gathering the mistletoe before it touches the earth is possibly because it is a ‘plant of the sky’. It naturally never touches the ground (unless it’s died and fallen), and therefore it has been deemed bad luck to let it do so when gathering this sacred herb.

Mistletoe has been used throughout history as a treatment (and sometimes a cure) for epilepsy, the ‘falling sickness’ it was attributed to the illness due to the way its seeds could ‘fall from the sky’, and science now backs up its medicinal qualities. Interesting that the initial connection seems so tenuous, yet the true potential of the plant and its uses holds to this day. Again, if the mistletoe were to touch the ground, its healing properties would be deemed lost.

The idea of mistletoe as a ‘sky plant’ is also present in the belief that a lightning strike on an oak tree could cause mistletoe to grow there; it has been given a strong connection with thunderstorms. The belief was that this special sort of lightning induced oak-mistletoe would have been endowed with properties that protect from lightning and fire.

‘…to bring us good luck for the whole new year round’ Since Celtic times, right through to today, mistletoe has been hung over doorways and entrances into the home. The Celts believed this would protect the inhabitants from evil, and welcome good luck for the following year. I love that this ‘superstition’ has found its way into popular Christmas culture, and that this magickal plant finds its way into the homes of so many people from so many different paths…

In Christianity, mistletoe is not so well loved, as it was said that the crucifixion cross of Christ was made from the wood of a mistletoe tree. As a sort of punishment, the wicked plant was condemned to never grow on ‘God’s earth’, and must live on host trees away from the ground. It is even said that the type of trees it has been allowed to live on are classed as ‘good’ trees; particularly Ash, and further penance was that it should have to give blessings to all those who passed beneath it.

In Norse tradition, the goddess of love and beauty Frigga had a son called Baldar, the god of summer. He repeatedly dreamt of his own death, as did Frigga. As dreams were seen as prophetic, this troubled his mother, who knew that all life on earth would die with him.

Frigga took an oath from all of the animals, elements and plants that they would not harm Baldar. They gave her their promise: nothing on or under the earth could hurt him.

However, Loki (God of Evil, bringer of mischief) discovered that Mistletoe had been overlooked: a plant that didn’t grow on or under the earth, but above it. He made an arrow tip (or possibly a spear, the story differs) from the plant and gave it to Hoder (the blind god of winter) who shot it at Baldar, killing him.

Every element and power tried to bring Baldar back to life for three days, but to no avail. Frigga cried for her son, and the tears she shed turned the red berries of the mistletoe to pearly white.

Baldar came back to life, and Frigga in her delight, kissed everyone who passed under the tree on which the mistletoe grew.

Golden Sickle Sunrise – The Dolmen Like ghosts in the darkness, walking single file To the sacred oak-tree, on this storm-guarded isle Gather ye mistletoe, before it hits the ground To bring us good luck for the whole new year round Golden sickle sunrise, golden sickle dawn Year after year on the cold solstice morn Golden sickle sunrise, golden sickle dawn Year after year on the cold solstice morn Oh Mother Frigga dry your tears of white mistletoe Your summer son will rise to end your pain and woe Fire, Water, Earth and Air, remember your vow And bless all those who meet beneath the sacred bough Music: Taloch Jameson Lyrics: Mark Vine

From then on, no harm would come to those who stood under mistletoe; they would be blessed and receive a kiss instead! Mistletoe as a symbol of immortality can perhaps also be attributed to this story.

Fertility The association between mistletoe and fertility appears to have many roots, showing itself today as the traditional ‘kiss under the mistletoe’. Some say the way the berries form on the plant resemble the male sex organs, and this led to a belief that the plant was an aphrodisiac. Druids believed the berries represented the ‘Sperm of the Gods’: when squeezed, a semen-like milky substance is exuded. Other sources go deeper and say this belief was that the berries were drops of semen from the cosmic bull (a horned god that symbolised the power of divine lightning) that impregnated the fertile goddess ‘Earth’. In Roman times, the Winter Solstice was celebrated with a festival called ‘Saturnalia’, where mistletoe played a major part in the fertility rites. The Greek goddess Artemis was said to have worn a majestic crown of mistletoe, which symbolised both fertility and immortality.

During medieval times, mistletoe was popularly used as a charm for women trying to conceive, as well as a cure for reproductive problems. It is said that this belief could stem from the mystery surrounding the growth of the plant – it flourishes without soil, and was somewhat seen as a miracle plant. There must be some magick in a plant which grows ‘up in the sky’!

Where to find Mistletoe The mistletoe we all know and love here in the UK, Viscum album, is the least fussy of all mistletoe species, although it still favours trees from particular families. Its top choice is the Rosaceae family, which includes apples, hawthorns, rowans, whitebeams, and quinces to name just a few. It’s a common sight to see big bunches of mistletoe hanging in old apple orchards, and is often low enough to reach. Other trees that take the fancy of mistletoe include long-leaved willows, black poplars, limes, birches and maples, as well less likely hosts like the Oak, and if you are a die-hard Druid that may be the mistletoe you really want to track down.

Mistletoe is diecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. They need each other in order to achieve pollination, and produce berries. Please bear this in mind when collecting your mistletoe – always leave a healthy amount of both male and female plants behind to continue the colony. Sadly, the male mistletoe with its yellow-green buds is not so desirable for festive adornments, and is often left behind while the trees are stripped of berry-laden female plants.

Mistletoe is what is known as a hemi-parasite. It appears to live entirely by leeching from its host tree, but actually does its own photosynthesis and only uses the tree for a supply of water and minerals. It will very rarely severely damage or kill a tree; this only occurs if left unmanaged for many, many years. It can, however, lessen the yield of crop bearing trees like apples if the mistletoe colony dominates the size of the tree. If you have mistletoe in your garden, you can thin the plants when taking your sprigs for Yule, which will help keep them in check and the host tree healthy.

Male Mistletoe growing on the branches of an old Apple tree.

How to get your own Mistletoe in the garden There are conflicting opinions on the best time to harvest mistletoe berries for their seed. Mistletoe generally flowers in February and March, is pollinated by insects, and then begins to set fruit. It starts small and green, before turning yellow and slowly to white. When berries are plump and milky white, they are ripe. This can be from October (so some berries gathered for Yule can be sown in spring if not totally dried out), however some berries may not ripen until spring (they can take almost a full year to ripen), so can be harvested and sown straight away.

When you have found a suitable host, a decently sized outer branch should be chosen – 4” or more in thickness, to support the mistletoe. A tree of 15 or more years old is best, as it will be mature and well established enough to handle being a host. You simply squeeze the seeds out of the berries and stick them to the side or underside of the branch – stick plenty of seeds all the way along. They will stick with the viscose juice from the berry. Birds may eat them if they find them, so sow as many as you possibly can. You need to try and get both male and female plants to germinate to achieve berry production, so maximize your chances.

Now, be patient (the hardest part for me!). Although germination can be quick, the initial stages are mostly unseen – you should see a slight swelling, and leaves the year after sowing. It can take more than 4 or 5 years before you will see any flowers or berries though.

There are only a few birds that eat mistletoe berries – these include the mistle thrush that eats the berries and excretes the seed, a hit and miss strategy, as the chances of the seed then hitting a viable host tree are low. The other main consumers are blackcaps, which are much more useful at spreading the species, as they squeeze out the seeds from the berries and wipe them onto the bark of trees with their beaks (they are only after the flesh of the berry!). While much mistletoe habitat has been lost in recent years, the species is not thought to be under serious threat, and much of its success must be credited to the birds that distribute the plant.

Herb or poison?

The earliest archaeological evidence for the consumption of Mistletoe is from Lindow Man – a bog body from the Roman-era found well preserved in Cheshire. His stomach contents were analysed and some grains of mistletoe pollen were found. This led to some assumptions that the man had drunk some kind of ritual mistletoe concoction before his death and therefore could have been a druid or even a sacrifice of the druids! However, most believe he was simply using mistletoe as a medicine, which is quite plausible really.

Mistletoe is often demonised for its toxic qualities, however as with most misunderstood plants, when used in the right quantities it can often be found to possess beneficial medicinal qualities. Culpeper endorses the use of the juice of the berries for treating tumours and swellings. When combined with vervain and valerian root in equal parts, it can be a useful tonic for nerves.

It is commonly used as a tea throughout Europe (though not in Britain) for its effects on relieving circulatory and blood pressure problems. Mistletoe extracts are also often found in many cosmetics, especially shampoo, though it’s not made obvious. Sometimes you will find the Latin name on the ingredients list. Tesco used to produce a mild shampoo containing mistletoe!

Mistletoe has roots in fertility treatment for livestock; the Celts often fed the plant to their cattle, despite its potential to induce miscarriage. However, it is now used in modern veterinary medicine as a relaxant, and is included in some herbal ‘calming’ tablets for pets.

Viscum album, image credit: A Modern Herbal [Online]

There is also lots of research into the use of mistletoe as a complementary therapy to aid cancer treatment. Rudolf Steiner is responsible for making the connection between the two, through his work on the ‘science of the spirit’ (anthroposophy), which suggested that a specific ailment could be linked to a specific plant species. The research has come a long way since then, with mistletoe currently undergoing trials and even being used now in some parts of mainland Europe. The extracts from the plant are injected simultaneously and act as stimulants to the immune system, which is believed to give patients a better quality of life when having cancer treatment.

It all starts to get a bit complicated when you delve deeper, as it has been found that mistletoe from different host trees will contain slightly different chemical properties, meaning a huge variety of possible chemical combinations and applications. Critics say mistletoe is not the best plant for this kind of treatment, as the toxins within the plant may also cause harm. It is true that mistletoe contains viscotoxins, and lectins (similar to Ricin, famous for its use to poison the tip of an umbrella…).

Please Please note: If you are planning to try the medicinal properties of mistletoe – please do further research and buy from a reputable herbal supplier to avoid any accidental poisonings! And indeed, if you want to poison someone: there are much better poisons out there more suited to the purpose. (Just joking!!!)

Magickal uses Though the stories and traditions surrounding this unique plant are varied, its main qualities stay constant. It comes through strongly as a symbol of love, fertility, and protection. The attributed properties include the plant being a potent aphrodisiac - strong in workings to draw love, or for success in creative exploits and business.

It is also used in dream work, and with its connection to immortality, is useful for healing charms. Though medicinally it is not the best fertility medicine, its connection with love and sex makes it a powerful conception amulet; a sachet of mistletoe leaves can simply be carried on the person.

Whether you buy into the folklore and tales of this plant or not, it still remains an iconic plant of Yuletide. At least you now know a little of the rich history which has led to the common use of this plant as decoration today!

Jess Stephens (Selkie) References  Ratsch, C and Muller-Ebeling, C (2006) Pagan Christmas: The Plants, Spirits, and Rituals at the Origins of Yuletide, U.S: Inner Traditions Bear and Company  Culpeper, N (1983) Culpeper’s Colour Herbal UK: W Foulsham & Co Ltd  Grieve, M A Modern Herbal [online] Available: http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/m/mistle40.html [19 Dec 2012]  Lindow Man, Great Archaeology [online] Available: http://www.greatarchaeology.com/lindow_man.htm [22 Dec 2012] Mistletoe Plant Profile, Royal Horticultural Society [online] Available:

The History of Crabchurch In 1645, several royalist plotters within the twin towns of Weymouth and Melcombe on the Dorset coast conspired to deliver the ports back into the control of King Charles 1.

It has been suggested that he needed a safe south coast port at which to land a huge French army which he hoped would deliver a decisive blow and end the resistance of the Parliamentarians whom he had been fighting for almost three years.

The conspirator’s plans were almost successful, but their intended victim, Colonel William Sydenham, Commander of the Parliamentary garrison and MP for Melcombe, managed to get most of his force into that town, though he lost a much loved and respected brother and fellow soldier, Francis, in the initial assault. Soon, a two week long internecine bombardment was taking place between the factions.

In the third week, what appeared to be the coup de grâce arrived in the shape of the archetypal cavalier general, George, Lord Goring and his 6,500 strong army which meant that Sydenham’s tiny but stubborn garrison of just 1300 souls, were now outnumbered six to one. It would surely only be a matter of time before Melcombe too fell to the King’s Army.

Underestimating Colonel William Sydenham, the eldest son of a local Dorset Landowner, was Goring’s first and biggest mistake, for not only did Sydenham succeed in retaking Weymouth, but he also withstood the full might of Goring’s military response, delivering a “miraculous victory” and ending the King’s aspirations of getting the upper hand in Dorset.

Mark Vine

THE DOLMEN THE

CRABCHURCH CONSPIRACY The Crabchurch Conspiracy is a historical if not monumental album from the Dolmen which focuses on the civil war in Dorset, and in particular an incident known as The Crabchurch Conspiracy.

Centred on the book of the same name, written by local historian and author MarkVine, features a clever mixture of narrative and songs.

Professor Ronald Hutton provides a foreward narration which perfectly sets the scene in the for the atmospheric tale that follows as well as also providing a moving narrative on track 6 which brings to life the harrowing account of Doctor Wiseman.

The songs on this album are inspired by one family’s courage and determination, while the historical narratives providing a compelling insight into the times, as they are deftly woven between songs of bravery, loyalty, defiance and loss pulling no punches as they describe the horrors of this war. Some of the more soulful tracks which lament the sense of loss experienced by so many will bring a tear to the eye.

This is a far cry from modern warfare and can at times be a harsh reminder of the courage displayed by a few men, who stood together in a world where hope was in short supply and even your neighbour could be your enemy.

This album combines the timeless musical talents of The Dolmen, and compelling imagery conjured up by the passion of local Historian – Mark Vine making it one of the most unique albums ever written.

All music by Taloch Jameson except for: Englands Freedom, Soldier’s Rights - Taloch Jameson/Josh Elliot Avenging Angel - Taloch Jameson/Josh Elliot The Heights of Chapelhay - Taloch Jameson/Josh Elliot Pax Quaeritur Bello - Taloch Jameson/Josh Elliot Lord Goring’s March - Taloch Jameson/Josh Elliot King Saviour - Taloch Jameson/Jez Lee Narration written by Mark Vine All lyrics by Mark Vine except The Heights of Chapelhay - Mark Vine/Taloch Jameson Artwork and Cover Design - Sem Vine All tracks performed by - The Dolmen Featuring guest musicians - Jez Lee Additional guitar and Bouzouki on King’s Saviour LucySmith – Fiddle plus Foreward narration - Professor Ronald Hutton For further information or to purchase this cd http://www.thedolmen.com/album2.html other Dolmen cds are also available at http://www.thedolmen.com/albums.html

Diane Narraway

Special Guest – Kit Berry Having recently completed the Stonewylde series of books which were set in the heart of Dorset, Kit Berry was in Weymouth for a book signing at the invitation of Ann proprietress of Imagine Books. This was part of a promotional tour which culminated in Poole shortly after.

Having spent the last few years writing and promoting the Stonewylde series Kit decided it was time for to a new project, and was keen to write a novel set around Portland and Weymouth during the Civil War. With that in mind seeing the Crabchurch Conspiracy/ Civil War event being organised by Mark Vine and featuring a lecture by Professor Ronald Hutton who has not only read the Stonewylde books but has also endorsed them plus a re-enactment seemed like an opportunity not to be missed.

Although unlike the historically accurate tale of an actual event portrayed by Mark Vine in The Crabchurch Conspiracy, hers will be a novel set in that period and location. Mark who is also a local historian Kit admits that in theory her next book could have been set more or less anywhere but that the events which happened at Weymouth and Melcombe Regis had always fascinated her. It is an area that Kit knows well having lived in Weymouth for 26 years, where she attained her degree at the Dorset Institute of Higher Education and taught in some of the local schools. Kit added that she felt the island setting of Portland should be significant. Maybe one day her books will be set elsewhere but for now her focus remains in Dorset.

It is all these connections to the that have led to her being the ‘Special Guest’ at the Crabchurch /Civil war event organised by local historian and author Mark Vine For further information on this event http://www.facebook.com/groups/151860796918/?ref=ts&fref=ts#!/events/377273812355521/?fref=ts For further information on Kit Berry and Stonewylde http://www.facebook.com/#!/Stonewylde?fref=ts http://www.stonewylde.com/

THE CRABCHURCH CONSPIRACY The Crabchurch Conspiracy is an atmospheric and insightful look at a key event in the civil war. It is the tale of one Dorset family who fought bravely for what they believed to be right, despite the harrowing times and loss of close family members.

In the twin ports of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis Royalist supporters conspired to deliver the ports back into the hands of King Charles 1 for use as a ‘safe’ port where he could land allied French Catholic troops, which he hoped would bring about a favourable conclusion to the war.

In a beautifully crafted tale that sees historical facts effortlessly mingle with descriptive prose set in and around the prominent coastal towns of Dorset an intricately woven tapestry of deceit unravels.

Col. William Sydenham who despite the loss of several troops including his brother who had proved himself to be a formidable soldier, managed against the odds to raise enough of an army to stand against the Cavaliers. Despite their subterfuge, French allies and somewhat misplaced optimism had as it turned out bitten off more than they could chew.

This is a tale of bravery and loyalty to both their kinsman and their beliefs, and of a side who foolishly underestimated the determination of their opposition.

This book is steeped in imagery, that subtly combines a myriad of emotions, and as a reader I felt almost privileged to be able to share their story with them as I felt their anger, their determination, and even shed a tear for their loss.

Mark Vines gritty and heartfelt tale of real people in real times who fighting heroically in a war that saw neighbours become enemies is a must for anybody with a love of Dorset, history or just a good tale.

Diane Narraway

MARK VINE Mark Vine wrote the Crabchurch Conspiracy after a couple of decades studying the event not only breathing life into this piece of local history, but he has also provided key events with memorable names. Neither the ‘Crabchurch Conspiracy’ nor ‘The Battle of Weymouth’ existed in the history books as anything other than unnamed and surprisingly uncelebrated incidents in Dorset’s history. ran the re-enactment regiment of the same name.

After Steve passed away Mark continued reading about the original regiment and their role in this part of the civil war. Despite having acquired a wealth of knowledge on the Crabchurch Conspiracy, and those most involved, it was moving to Weymouth in 1993 that it began to fall into place. Being able to see the actual places, which were in the main still present in and around the town brought the whole thing to life, and after a few months ensconced in Weymouth library researching, the first version - originally a 40 page pamphlet was completed in 1994.

It was whilst on a computer course which entailed either presenting an ‘Office based exercise’ or a small project of their own that the second version came into being. Unenthused by the idea of an ‘Office based exercise’, and coinciding with his then fourteen year old daughter finding it hard going studying the English Civil War as part of her GCSE, he decided to write about Colonel William Sydenham, and what happened locally, hoping to stir her interest.

Since its humble beginnings the Crabchurch Conspiracy has come a long way, with the Dolmen releasing the album of the same name, as well as talks, re-enactments and charity events.

Mark Vine is currently working on what will be the fourth and most comprehensive edition, and he has recently written a screenplay of the whole event.

Imagine Books Weymouth U K Tickets to the Crabchurch Conspiracy event featuring Professor Ronald Hutton and Stonewylde author Kit Berry. Imagine books will also be stocking the new edition of the Crabchurch Conspiracy as soon as it is published. There is also the possibility of a launch day and book signing from the author. Currently they have available the Stonewylde books by Kit Berry, The Dolmen's Crabchurch Conspiracy CD plus their latest CD Wytchlord. Also available from Imagine Books is Selwyn Williams book ‘The Treasure of the Golden Grape’ which is a prequel to Mark Vines Crabchurch Conspiracy.

For further information please contact: Ann Newman 23 St Alban Street, Weymouth Dorset DT48BZ http://www.imaginebookshops.com/ http://www.facebook.com/events/477663865618279/#!/imaginebooksweymouth?fref=ts

Aromatherapy This is an overview of essential oils as if some of you may not have read the previous articles about Essential oils and if you have then here is some more information for you.

Aromatherapy is the use of organic essences extracted from aromatic plants for healing and maintenance of vitality.

It may help minor ailments, keep us fit whilst still enabling us to be relaxed and at ease with ourselves.

A more detailed description is as follows:Aromatherapy is the practice of using volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well-being.

Essential oils are the pure essence of a plant, which have been found to provide both psychological and physical benefits when used correctly and safely. The Essential Oil Profiles area details over 90 essential oils - Absolutes, CO2s and Hydrosols are also commonly used in aromatherapy.

Although essential oils, CO2 extracts and absolutes are distilled by different methods, the term essential oil is sometimes used as a blanket term to include all natural, aromatic and volatile, plant oils including CO2s and absolutes.

In addition to essential oils, aromatherapy encourages the use of other complementary natural ingredients including cold pressed vegetable oils, jojoba (a liquid wax), hydrosols, herbs, milk powders, sea salts, sugars (an exfoliator), clays and muds.

Products that include synthetic ingredients are frowned upon in holistic aromatherapy. It is important to note that perfume oils also known as fragrance oils (and usually listed as "fragrance" on an ingredient label) are not the same as essential oils. Fragrance oils and perfume oils contain synthetic chemicals and do not provide the therapeutic benefits of essential oils.

The oils work by entering the blood stream via the skin, smells evoke memories and the brain registers the scent via the neurological and the endocrine system.

The therapeutic potential of essential oils, like other plant derived remedies, has yet to be fully realized.

Although numerous medical herbs have been utilized since antiquity, many of which have become of modern drugs (such as Quinine and cocaine) In order to use an essential oil apart from Lavender and Tea Tree they MUST be blended with a carrier oil.

The most common carrier oils are Sweet Almond oil and Grape seed for everyday use but if you want to use different carrier oils occasionally you could consider using either Evening primrose oil or Wheat germ oil.

Evening Primrose Oil. This oil is pressed, and it is the seeds of the evening primrose plant (Oenothera biennis)which are used. The yellow flowers only open in the evening, hence their common name. Evening Primrose is a common wildflower native to North America, Europe, and parts of Asia The plant was used by Native Americans and early settlers as a nutritional support and to treat against conditions such as sore throats, stomach aches, hemorrhoids, and bruises. Evening Primrose has also been used medicinally in Europe since the seventeenth century. Over the last 20 years, this oil has once again become popular for its medicinal properties; it contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) which is an essential fatty acid.

Essential fatty acids are required by the body for growth and development, and must be obtained from the diet.

Evening primrose oil is well tolerated by most people. The mild side effects may include gastrointestinal upset and headache.

Wheat Germ oil Wheat Germ Oil contains high levels of Vitamin E Oil, as well as other vitamins, minerals, protein, and Essential Fatty Acids. Essential Fatty Acids support physiological functions, and are essential for the health of our organs and subsequently our overall health.

They cannot be produced by our own bodies, and instead must be obtained from dietary sources.

Wheat Germ Oil contains linoleic, oleic, palmitic, and stearic fatty acids. These are needed for our cardiovascular, immune, nervous and reproductive systems to maintain healthy cells and body functions.

The Vitamin E Oil present in Wheat Germ Oil promotes skin cell formation, and is great for nourishing and rejuvenating dry, mature and dehydrated skin as well as reducing scars, stretch marks, sunburns, and helping to heal damaged skin. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, which may be beneficial medicinally as well as in cosmetics.

The high Vitamin E content in Wheat Germ Oil is a natural preservative, helping to prevent rancidity, and prolonging the shelf life of cosmetic products.

Specifically, this oil is known for its antioxidant properties and has been shown to be effective for the following conditions: Dry and cracked skin, Eczema, Psoriasis, Prematurely aged skin, Stretch marks, Dull complexion, Tired and overexerted muscles, Sunburn and burns, Scars, Poor blood circulation, Improves lymph function, High cholesterol levels

The Essential oils I have chosen to focus on in this issue are Cajeput which is quite common and the more usual essential oil Ravensara. Both of these will help at this time of year when there is always colds, flu and bugs about.

Cajeput This oil is closely related to Tea Tree In Malaysia it is called ‘caju-puti’ meaning ‘white wood’ due to the colour of the timber. It grows wild in Malaysia, Indonesia, java, the Philippines Australia and south eastern Asia.

Cajeput (melaleuca cajeputi) is not only related to tea Tree but other members of the melaleuca group such as eucalyptus, clove, niaouli so good for colds etc.

It is held in high regard in the East, where it is used locally for fevers and cholera amongst other ailments.

The common method of extraction is steam distillation from the fresh leaves and twigs. The colour is clear with yellow tinges, although sometimes it can be a pale yellowy green mobile liquid. The green tinge comes from traces of copper found in the tree.

The constituents are Cineeol (14-65 percent depending on the source) terpineol, terpinyl acetate, pinene, nerolidol and lots of other traces. (The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils) It can be used for insect bites, oily skin and spots but must be diluted if it is being used in a diffuser for Asthma. It may also be used to treat bronchitis, coughs, muscle aches, rheumatism, sinusitis, sore throat, spots, cystitis, urethritis and other urinary infections. Special precautions are only that it may irritate the skin in high concentration.

If you have a medical condition you should consult a doctor.

Ravensara A colleague of mine gave me a tip about this oil for when there is the flu or other viruses in the house. Just put a few drops into a diffuser, and the rest of the house will hopefully not succumb to it.

The health benefits of Ravensara can be attributed to its properties. It is analgesic, anti- allergenic, anti bacterial & anti - microbial, anti - depressant, anti- fungal, anti - septic, anti - spasmodic, anti- viral, aphrodisiac, disinfectant, diuretic, expectorant, relaxant and tonic.

There is a big tree in the rain forests of Madagascar that has the botanical name is Ravensara Aromatica, and its’ essential oil is praised in Madagascar as the “Cure All” oil, in much the same way as tea tree oil is praised in Australia.

The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from its leaves and contains some of the following:-alpha pinene, delta carene, caryophyllene, germacreme, limonene, linalool, and methyl.

This makes it an effective remedy for many types of pain including toothache, headache, muscular and joint pain, pain in ears from cold etc.

By inhibiting the growth of bacterial and viral microbes, it cures old infections and stops new ones, so it is most effective against diseases resulting from bacterial and viral infections such food poisoning, cholera, typhoid etc.

There are so many other benefits such as it can treat insufficient blood and lymph circulation, fatigue and pain in muscles and joints, oedema, indigestion, shingles and herpes.

Always consult your Doctor if you have been feeling unwell for over a week.

The only pre-cautions with this oil, is that it is not recommended in pregnancy since it has aphrodisiac properties which mean that it works on certain hormones whose secretion can have certain adverse effects in pregnancy.

For further information about essential oils my next workshop is on 2nd February 2013 Sandra Wiseman Therapies 4 You Phone 01702 523951 Email sandra_wiseman@talk21.com http://www.therapies4you.com/

Sandra Wiseman

Coppertongue

Coppertongue Coppertongue is the reformed and renamed Caru Can. Originally husband and wife Chris and Keri Pinney formed Caru Can as a duo but since the addition of bass player Adam Holmes they have now become a trio, with a new sound and a new name.

Originally Coppertongue was a name that Chris had come up with when he was considering starting up a band a few years ago.

Caru Can (welsh) - meaning ‘To love music’ was a name that although they believed portrayed who they were, unfortunately people never really seemed to get to grips with it.

Their intention now is to bring out an album in the New Year and establish themselves as a band for the future.

Keri Pinney – Flute, Guitar and Vocals.

Chris Pinney – Guitar, Mando – Cello and Vocals.

Adam Holmes – Rhythm Section and vocals. *

As a live band they come across as professional, accomplished musicians who despite their Dolmen origins have achieved their own unique sound. Not only are they all exceptional musicians, but they are also writers and their set is a mixture of original material plus a few reworked covers. The clean vocals and effortless harmonies merge beautifully with a variety of different musical elements including blues, folk and country amongst other to produce a style that is exclusively…

Coppertongue

Chris Pinney…

Originally began his musical career at 14 years old, which at this point like most young musicians consisted of practice jamming sessions in his bedroom and with friends. A year later this was to change, when at only 15 years old he was asked to join the, then recently reformed Dolmen. This in itself would turn out to be a baptism of fire, as only a week before their first gig in December 2005; Taloch shoved a bouzouki in his hand along with a list of songs that they would be playing.

After only a short time with the Dolmen Chris decided to leave to pursue other interests, only to return a few months later because, in his own words “Keri convinced me to!”

He finally left the Dolmen in 2009 by which time he and Keri were married, and had recently become parents. This time his reason for leaving was to spend more time at home with his new family, as by this time the Dolmen were gigging every night, as well as being on the road a lot. It was no longer practical for them both to remain with the Dolmen so Chris left, and Keri stayed with the band.

Although Keri enjoyed being with the Dolmen, she wanted the chance to sing more and as they had enjoyed working together they formed Caru Can as a husband and wife team, but although they played at dolmen Grove festivals and a few local gigs it never really got off the ground.

This seemed largely due to time, as at this point they were both studying at university, as well as Chris working and the pressures of a young family, plus Keri was still gigging with the Dolmen.

Chris felt it that as duo they were limited, and adding an extra layer of music and rhythm would be beneficial, hence the introduction of a bass player, and of course with the new line up came a new set and the new name.

Keri Pinney…

Was born into the world of the Dolmen, and can remember her Dad recording her singing from a very young age.

At secondary school Keri decided she wanted to play the flute, but quickly became disillusioned with it after the music teacher required them to play ‘Love is all around.’

‘I hated it ‘she admitted and the end result was that she put the flute down with the intention of never picking it up again.

At this point the Dolmen had disbanded and Taloch plus some original Dolmen members alongside a few new musicians including Keri as vocalist formed Elfin. Because Elfins musical style was heavily flute based, when their flautist left Taloch decided it was time for Keri to pick up the flute again.

Not only did she pick it up, but within a fortnight she was ready to become Elfins flautist as well as vocalist. The speed at which Keri learned the flute she attributes to her being naturally musical and her ability to ‘play by ear’.

Over time a couple more people left Elfin until eventually the two bands merged, this time becoming The Dolmen, with Taloch as the vocalist and Keri as the flautist. It was always the intention

to re – introduce her as a vocalist later, and although this did happen after the birth of her second child, she felt it was time to explore other musical avenues.

Whilst she and Chris had enjoyed working together as Caru Can, both work and family commitments along with her decision to attend university, had hindered their success.

Although as a duo they had explored a variety of musical ideas it was time to look at adding something new, so when Chris suggested that perhaps what was needed was an extra layer of music, we knew it was time to look at becoming a trio.

Adam Holmes…

Is the new addition to the band, and his musical career didn’t begin until he was around 17 years of age. His motivation for playing was that his Dad already played in a band as well as having a lot of friends who played musical instruments.

Initially it began with him picking up his Dads bass guitar to try it out, he recalls how it felt like something he could really learn, so with that in mind he saved up and bought his own bass guitar. From there he met a few guys in the sixth form and they practiced each week.

In 2011 he went to work in America where it seemed ‘everyone’ played the guitar, so Adam began to learn the guitar reasoning that it would help him play bass guitar better. Also because it is much easier to sing along while playing the guitar, he felt this in turn would improve his vocal ability.

Up until August 2012 despite having played bass guitar for a few years, he had only ever jammed with friends or played ‘Open mic’ nights in local pubs. This however didn’t stop him replying to an advert posted by Chris and Keri Pinney that was ‘Looking for a bass player, with a view to possibly progressing onto other instruments plus some vocals.’

Because Adam knew Chris from school he sent him a message and in his own words “Here I am!”

Further information can be found on facebook http://www.facebook.com/coppertongue?ref=ts&fref=ts

04/03/2013 - Enchanted FairyBall The Royal Function Rooms 12 Star Hill Rochester, Kent ME1 1XB 10/05/2013 – Magical Faerie Festival Findon West Sussex further information http://www.sprigganmist.co.uk/index.html http://www.facebook.com/#!/spriggan.mist

The Mike Porter Collective will be appearing at The Enchanted Market presented by Spriggan Mist on 09/02/2013 at Pinewood Bar &CafeĂŠ,Old Wokingham Road,Wokingham,Berks RG40 3AQ

Thursday 3rd January

Acoustic

The John GregoryR 113 radipole Lane, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 9SS Phone:01305 767233

Saturday 5th January Dolmen Grove Male Bonding Cider Bash Worth Matravers, Swanage, Dorset BH19 3LF Phone:01929 439229

Saturday 26th January

Acoustic

The John Gregory 113 radipole Lane, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 9SS Phone:01305 767233

Thursday 7th February

Acoustic

The John Gregory 113 radipole Lane, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 9SS n Phone:01305 767233

Saturday 9th February Bracknell

Spriggan mist presents

The dolmen Pinewood bar & cafĂŠ, old wokingham road, wokingham rg40 3aq

Saturday 16th february Crabchurch Weekend featuring Ronald Hutton and special guest Kit Berry Sunday 17th february The Nelson The Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ Phone: 01202 77622

Friday 1st march Eastleigh Saturday 2nd march Acoustic The lugger 30 Chickerell Hill, Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4DY Phone:01305 766611

Saturday 9th march Avalon Faery Ball Glastonbury town hall

News from Black Wreck Music Project Ahoy mateys, ‘tis Wreck here from The Black Wreck Music Project.

I just wanted to publicly convey the bands warm hearted thanks for the chance to share our stories with you all and especially for the level of patience and hard work Diane has shown us/done for us in the last issue of the magazine, twas brilliant stuff and we really do appreciate it.

The Cap’n, Matt Black and I have been busy over the last few months finishing off our latest album ‘The Seas my Mistress’ which is now available for download from our band camp page (link at the bottom). As with all of our studio albums ‘Rough Notes’…‘Hells bells’…’Ye Gods and Little Fishes’…’Load another cannon’ and now The Seas my Mistress’ the internet downloads are free!

Next Year is looking to be quite exciting for us all with possible gigs already emerging throughout the year, but if anyone knows of a venue or event that’s needs a bit of extra salt in the form of either ‘The Boarding Crew’ or The Black Wreck Music Project, we are willing and able.

For booking information and availability please email:theblackwreckmusicproject@hotmail.com As for the rest of this year well, we are changing/ adding to our set lists with songs from our latest album, plus Matt and I are already working on our sixth studio release.

Tis fairly safe to say that as long as there is a story or tale to share, those lovable Dorset rogues of The Black Wreck Music Project will always be on hand to tell it with a pinch of fine salt sprinkled on top.

Get the albums here http://www.theblackwreckmusicproject.bandcamp.com http://www.facebook.com/theblackwreckpirates Like us on faceboat http://www.youtube.com/TheBlackWreck Moving pictographs A great friend once said this and it is so true…

“Life aint a disney film” Look sharp mateys and be well.

Robinson Wreck

The Dolmen Grove Yule Ball Irrespective of weather warnings many of the Dolmen Grove Clan got together at the John Gregory to spend a wonderful evening in the company of those who most of us do not see anywhere near enough.

The evenings musical entertainment got off to a fabulous start with the newly formed ‘Coppertongue’ whose rendition of the old Cameo song ‘Word up!’ got people up and dancing.

The evening was made extra special as after 18months of being the chairman of the Dolmen Grove it was time for me to step down. I reached this decision with the intention of being able to devote more time to the ceremonial aspect of the Dolmen Grove, and of course the magazine which has gone from strength to strength over the last year. Of course this would not have been possible without all those who have written for it, and indeed those who have read it, shared it and helped to get it out there.

With this in mind it was time to ceremonially hand the chair to Denny Bottley, whose excellent organisational skills and genuine affection for the Grove makes her ideal for this position. I am certain that under her guidance the Grove will flourish.

There was more music from the ever popular Spriggan Mist also captured the dance floor with their own blend of Modern Pagan Folk music as they played tracks from their magical album ‘Soul retriever.

During the evening we were also treated to Captain Steve Howls take on ‘The Legend of the Green Man ‘which is featured in this issue.

There was a Dolmen style farewell to flautist Ellie Goldsack as she was playing her last gig with them before beginning her new life in New Zealand, as rebel folk giants The Dolmen brought the evening to an energetic climax with songs from their new album Wytchlord along with a good helping of piratical mayhem.

2012 Winter Solstice at Stonehenge The Winter Solstice at Stonehenge was magnificent. It was excellent that so many people brought their Drums, Horns and positive energies, as it was beautiful to hear the Henge vibrating with true tribal energy, conjuring the spirits of the past to celebrate with those of the present.

I believe it was also a great honour for the Dolmen Grove to perform our sacred rite from within the centre of Stonehenge and to see and feel the Sun as it filled the inner circle in which we all stood at that precious moment of the 2012 Winter Solstice.

Magick was manifested and performed as the words of Diane Narraway carried out to the world from within that ancient circle of stones and at a moment when the energies within that cauldron of inspiration flowed over the rim and out to the consciousness of the world as the drums pounded like the earth’s heartbeat.

To all Dolmen Grove members who celebrated the Sunrise where ever you were, I believe your Magick - our Magick through Unity is manifest at this important time and may Peace and Love be with All as we embrace the future.

We also thank Senior Arch Druid of Stonehenge Rollo Maughfling for yet again an excellently facilitated Ceremony, as well as all his efforts and hard work to the pagan community and beyond.

Arthur Pendragon for his call for peace and unity and for all his work and dedication which he has given to the Pagan community.

To all wherever and whoever they may be, may 2013 - The year of the Witch, be a building block to a more positive future.

Taloch Jameson

Herbal Recipes for Winter Health With the change of the seasons upon us and heading into the winter months, it’s time to think about those herbs and brews we may find useful to keep us well or help us heal from winter infections.

Remember that, when using herbs for healing and wellness, it is important to bring their powers into your life from many different angles – use a tea, tincture, and/or an aromatherapy steam to reinvigorate a weak constitution,and think preventatively to strengthen immunity during times of good health.

Botanical Brews: This simple blend can serve as a base for any soup, or can be taken ‘as is’. It strengthens the immune system and can help prevent weakness during the winter months. It can be quite powerful, but as with any herbal tonic (blends designed to strengthen over the long term) it is best used on a regular basis.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) root 1 cup of dry root Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root ½ cup dry root Red Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) mushroom ½ cup dry mushrooms (if you cannot find these use Shitake mushroom fresh or dried).

Burdock (Actium lappa) root ½ cup dry or fresh root Garlic (Allium sativum) bulb 4 minced cloves Take the above ingredients, and simmer them, covered, in a pot with 8 cups of water (this process is called a decoction).

Simmer on very, very low heat for at least one hour (in China, these types of tonics are often simmered for a whole day) – a slow cooker can be helpful.

Be sure to keep an eye on the soup, and add water as needed. Don’t scorch the pot!

Strain and serve, perhaps with a little honey, or freeze for storage. The daily dose is 8 fluid ounces (1 cup).

Get creative with this brew and make a soup! Add onions, carrots, seaweed (dulse, arame for example) and salt to taste. You can also add cabbage, potatoes, and cooked beans to make it more of a hearty meal. Or herbs and spices like Cayenne, Thyme, and Parsley. These soups remind us that our daily food is our best medicine!

Herbal Tea – For lung congestion Sometimes a cold can ‘go down’ into the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and producing a deep and sometimes painful cough. In these cases, this blend can help.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) leaves 3 Tablespoons dry leaves Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) leaves 1 Tablespoon dry leaves Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root 1 Tablespoon dry root Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) root powder 2 Teaspoons dry powder Place all the ingredients in a teapot or kilner jar.

Add 4 cups of boiling-hot water, cover, and steep for 15 to 20 minutes (this process is called an infusion), then strain.

Drink the whole brew over the course of a day. You can prepare this tea the night before, and let it steep all night if you like, but I have found that teas for colds and flus work better if you drink them hot.

Add honey to taste.

Herbal Tea Blend – For nose and sinus congestion Often times the worst part of a cold is a stuffy nose. This blend can help relieve that congestion, drying up the nasal passages a bit. It is also useful, I’ve found, after the worst of a cold or flu is done, to help relieve lingering symptoms of congestion.

Elder (Sambucus nigra) flowers 2 Tablespoons dry flowers Red Clover (Trifolium praetense) flowers 2 Tablespoons dry flowers Peppermint (Mentha piperata) leaves 1 Tablespoon dry leaves Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) 2 tablespoons dry herb Ginger (Zingiber officinalis) dry root pieces or powder, grated fresh is best. (1 Teaspoon) Place all the ingredients in a teapot or kilner jar.

Add 4 cups of boiling-hot water, cover, and steep for 15 to 20 minutes (this process is called an infusion), then strain.

Drink all of the tea over the course of 4 hours, then repeat if necessary.

You can add a little honey to taste if desired, although I’ve found too much sweetness can make nasal congestion worse.

Aromatherapy steam This process is very useful to help relieve congestion in the nose and lungs. Usually best to do at night, before bed, to clear the breathing passages and encourage restful sleep.

Also it’s really useful during the day if feeling really poorly.

1. Boil some water and pour straight into a bowl.

2. Add 2 drops each of these essential oils from herbs (highly concentrated plant essences – use only a few drops, never internally, and be careful because, undiluted, they can irritate the skin): a. Rosemary b. Thyme c. Eucalyptus 3. Cover your head with a towel and breathe in the steam for 5-10 minutes.

You can also put the oils in a facial steamer instead if you have one.

Hope you have fun with all these herbal brews.

Jacqui Apostolides - The Urban Herbalist BSc(Hons) Herb.Med. For further information on treatments as well as the dried herbs for all these recipes can be found at www.urbanherbals.co.uk

Properties of Crystals; Garnet Garnet is most commonly mined in Russia, Kenya, Tanzania and Turkey and comes in many colours including, green, yellow, brown and blue, but most people will recognise the garnet as a deep red crystal.

It is associate with the base chakra and the planet Mars. It is the birthstone for January and is linked to the element of fire, most probably due to its deep red colour. It is good for soothing emotional stress and controls anger, whilst balancing and purifying energy.

Given as a gift of love, it inspires romantic love, devotion and opens the heart. It brings passion or serenity as is appropriate and can help to balance the sex drive.

Garnets bring courage, hope, serenity, understanding and trust. It inspires self-confidence, stability and inner strength, releases bad karma and negative energy. It is an excellent positivity booster and is often used in spells associated with travel.

Garnet stimulates the metabolism, boosts the immune system and is ideal for healing skeletal disorders.

Used for arthritis, exhaustion, fertility, low blood pressure and hormone balancing.

Cheryl Waldron

A Day in the Life of…

Denny Bottley Q ) Name and Religious title/path if applicable.(i.e.Witch, Druid, Pagan etc)?

My path is that of Crone Witch Q) How did you become involved with The Dolmen Grove?

I became involved with the Dolmen Grove, way back in early 2009 (but knew of them before then). Steve and I saw them at a gig, where they announced the Tribal Dreams camp, we went along to that , and that was it... hooked and we’ve never looked back since; ‘twas meant to be…totally!

Q) What is your job title or brief description of job?

My job title, well, I have many jobs to do, but I suppose I class myself as a writer. I write for a few different pagan publications, plus I've written about psychological/sociological/philosophical subjects, and in the past I have been a Sacred sites editor for 'Pentacle' magazine.

I'm also a therapist in meditation, and am a qualified counsellor. I offer guidance/teachings/knowledge to those who seek it for which I don’t charge. But yeah, I'm a bit of a 'jack of all trades' but then I am getting on now!

Q) Can you describe a typical work day?

A typical day for me starts by my daily ritual, sending love and healing, giving thanks for everything, and looking after my DG family.

Usually, I connect further by having a walk into the village. I love to forage in the fields and hedgerows (depending on the season's gifts) mostly for fruits, herbs, plants etc. I am fortunate to live in the countryside, where I am surrounded by green fields.

As I walk, the energies of Mother Earth and Father Sky and others keep me company, ‘tis comforting, uplifting and inspiring.

The rest of my day consists of working in my study, usually writing, or I sort out events/ moot related stuff.

In addition, I compile my weekly meditation class for my ladies, and if I have an event approaching, I make and sort out my market stall stock, as well as finishing incoming orders. (circlets etc.)

There are many tasks I have to address daily & weekly, from working from home, to obviously being out and about socialising etc., compiling rituals/life rites/ my counselling work and my PF work (Pagan Federation Regional Coordinator for South Essex). My duties involve, writing up folks memberships, providing advice on pagan issues via telephone/online etc. but my ultimate duty is that of being chairwoman of the Dolmen Grove – ‘tis the BEST job in the world for me!!! Totally! I'm over the moon... really!!

Q) How do you feel your Pagan Beliefs fit into your everyday life?

My pagan beliefs influence my whole existence on this earth, it affects my whole being as a human in every way, I eat, drink, and sleep my pagan beliefs, without my paganism, I wouldn’t be here, ‘tis that simple…

Totally!

I always try to treat folk how I would like to be treated with kindness, understanding, honesty and above all compassion. I always say courtesy to others doesn’t cost anything and it all helps to keep folk happy and in harmony.

Q) How do you feel your life has changed since becoming a member of Dolmen Grove?

How has my life changed since becoming a member of the Dolmen Grove....?

I'm ALIVE!!!... And thanks to the Grove, I look forward to the future.

I’M HAPPY AND WITH THE BEST PEOPLE ON THIS EARTH, MY FAMILY…MY CLAN…MY TRIBE.... MY DOLMEN GROVE! AHRYHAH!!!!

Plus a few hopes for the future as the new Chairwoman of Dolmen Grove….

In view of my hopes and dreams as Chairwoman of the Dolmen Grove in 2013, I intend to build upon the good work that both Diane and Mandy have done. I hope to help make the two camps at Beltane and Lammas, somewhere even more spiritually beneficial so that everyone can experience an immense sense of belonging, spiritual unity and above all peace.

Primarily, I have a couple of new ideas, one being the 'online' Round Table meeting, and the other, to try and set up an Essex Dolmen Grove camp (still field searching).

In addition to my new role, I hope to assist those in a spiritual context, e.g. through advice, ceremonial work, life rites etc. Largely because for many folk who enter into a pagan lifestyle, it can seem confusing at first, specifically which 'path' to follow, which is the right one for them and so on, indeed for many people ‘our path finds us’!! So to help with guidance on the individual’s personal journey is as satisfying as it is essential. It can be beneficial and comforting to know there is guidance and of course advice available when needed - so yes, I hope to provide a helping hand within the realms of projection to those new to paganism. I take my Crone hood very seriously, and one of the many vows I made to my Lord and Lady & sister Crones was to pass on the knowledge and wisdom to those who seek it, and to assist those new to the 'Old Ways' which I will always do in Love and Peace.

Denny Bottley

The Yule log The Yule log is traditionally a very large dense log that in days gone by would have been brought inside and burned for the twelve nights of Christmas, beginning from Christmas Eve. However its true origins can be traced back before the popularity of Christianity to the Norsemen and their midwinter festivals. Their sacred ceremonies surrounding the log would have been linked to health, fruitfulness and productivity and in England it would have been sprinkled with ale or cider before being set alight and kept burning for twelve hours.

When the fire was eventually quenched, what was left of the log would have been preserved until the following year and used to light the next Yule log to be used for the festivities. The ashes would also have had their use as they were scattered over fields for fertility.

Some sources state that the origin of Yule is associated with an ancient Scandinavian fertility god and that the large, single Log is representative of a phallic idol. Tradition states that this Log was required to burn for twelve days and a different sacrifice to the fertility god had to be offered in the fire on each of those twelve days.

Nowadays the only Yule logs you’ll generally see around are those on the shelves of a supermarket made from sponge and chocolate frosting, very rarely do people bother with the old traditions of burning the log but I have been following my own version of this tradition for many years now, using the base of last year’s Yule tree as this year’s log, decorating it and burning it on Solstice night. And in 2011 the Hampshire Dolmen moot incorporated the tradition into our own Yule festivities and I’d like to share a small ceremonial version of this tradition with you all.

The Ceremony of the Yule log One large log gifted from nature!

A green or red candle Cider or ale All who wish to join the ceremony should have brought something that is safe to burn so that they can attach it to the log. Something as simple as a written blessing will do.

The bare log is placed in the centre of a table or altar and all who wish to take part should gather in a circle around the table.

The elements are called into the circle.

Intent – As we stand here at the time of midwinter with our backs toward the dark half of the year, we look forward with hope in our hearts for the light that is to come. For now we are at peace with the dark, we have used this time of rest and contemplation to our advantage and our plans for the coming year are alive in our minds and hearts. We take this dead wood and we revive it and adorn it before it lives again in the flames.

Each person now has the opportunity to add their gift to the log and when all gifts are added, all return to their place in the circle while one attendee sprinkles it with cider for fruitfulness and another places the candle upon it and lights it.

All join hands and close your eyes as you contemplate what energy it is that you would like to add to the log before it is burnt. This can be a healing wish for another, a hope of your own for the future, a wish for your own grove/coven or even a prayer that you can add silently for a loved one when the time comes to release.

After a couple of moments unlink hands and hold your hands out at arm’s length toward the log. Release the energy that you have just built in the circle and silently send your hope, wish or prayer into the log.

When you are finished, relax and get ready to bid farewell to the elements.

When the circle is closed (there is no need to cast a circle or formally close it in an informal rite such as this) leave the candle to burn down and when the time comes to burn the log all should accompany it to the fireplace and one person should place it upon the hearth and as it burns one attendee should recite “As the log burns, it lives once more, and in the invigorating fire the spark of our hopes and dreams for the coming year shall ignite, and as the smoke rises to the universe our wishes and prayers are sent forth. So mote it be!�

This ceremony can be easily adapted to solitary use.

Julie Weltch

Waldron Family Yule Log Burning Ritual

The burning of our Yule log is one thing we do as a whole family, gathered around our Yule/Christmas decorated fireplace, and even my non-believing, very nearly atheist Hubby will join us, albeit sat on the sofa, quietly grumbling watching over the proceedings. It is never straight forward and rarely goes to plan, there is usually squabbling over who got the best cushions to sit on, and somebody always gets more candy canes than someone else, somebody always knocks on the door half way through and I usually turn to a well needed alcoholic drink afterwards, but this is our ceremony and we would like to share it with you.

I have no need to cast a circle in my family home where our ceremony takes place as it is a happy and protected home already. Also it lengthens the ceremony time and the younger children get easily bored, and who could blame them, after all they really just secretly want to fast forward to the part where they get to eat goodies and drink hot chocolate‌.and who can blame them!

Our Yule log itself will be decorated with seasonal greenery, Pine Cones, Holly, Ivy, berries and whatever else the children like to add to it, empty Acorn shells, leaves and usually a letter to Santa, which works well for our multi-religion family. Our fireplace will have the usual artificial garland, decorated with Holly, Ivy, Pine Cones, fairy lights and flowers. The hearth will have deity candles, a Sun candle with solar sigils inscribed on it, lots of small tea-light candles anointed with frankincense oil, a bowl of chocolates, candy canes, oranges and cookies and mugs of hot chocolate. And finally, there is an array of various plump and old ragged cushions scattered on the floor in front of the fireplace. And there it is, our family Yule altar, and so our ceremony can begin.

We begin by turning the main lights off so the room is illuminated by the glow of the fire. One of the children will light the Goddess and God candle, asking them and the elementals to be with us this evening, while I will say:

The wheel of the year has turned once more and the Earth has gone to sleep, The days are shorter, the nights are longer and the leaves gone from the trees, But tonight on this darkest Solstice night, we celebrate, For tomorrow the darkness will retreat and the sunlight will return.

Another of the children will then light the Sun candle and say a Celtic Yule blessing.

The food is put away for the Winter, The crops are set aside to feed us, The cattle are come down from their fields, And the sheep are in from the pasture.

The land is cold, the sea is stormy, the sky is grey.

The nights are dark, but we have our family, Kin and Clan around the hearth, Staying warm in the midst of darkness, Our spirit and love a flame, A beacon burning brightly in the night.

This is when we light all the tea-light candles and place the Yule log into the fire, eat all the goodies from the altar, drink luke-warm hot chocolate and sit on lumpy cushions watching the flames dance in the fire.

It is also a time where, just for five whole minutes, my family are together, quietly, peacefully and unmanic…and it makes me proud.

Cheryl Waldron

Solitary Yule Ritual

At the Winter Solstice we have a family Yule ritual in front of a roaring fire. With my sister witches, we have a Yule ritual in the woodland, and as fulfilling as they are, I still like to have a solitary ritual of my own. This I do in the comfort of my own home, when everybody else has gone to bed and the house is quiet and peaceful.

I set my altar and sit before it, and take a few moments to reflect on the past year, my own harvest, our ancestors and how, even though the nights right now are very long the Sun and its light will return. I light a Sun candle and say: Tonight is the night of the Solstice, the longest night of the year As the wheel once again takes a turn, I know that when the Sun rises in the morn It will start its long journey back to us and bring with it, new life, warmth and light And blessings from the Earth I then light a candle for the Goddess and say Now is the time of the Goddess of Winter, and I celebrate the festival of Yule The Winter Solstice, the re-birth of the Sun God, and the deep slumber of the Goddess And the return of the light to the Earth once more I then light a candle for the God and say Tonight I honour the god of the forest The King of nature, who rules the season of Yule I give thanks to him and to the Goddess who brings new life to the Earth I then take some time to meditate on the changes I would like to see happen before the next celebration of Imbolg and allow the candles to burn out of their own accord.

Cheryl Waldron

Poetry from within the Grove Cailleach Dark and hard, she is cold As rock and a wintry storm Her cloak of death upon the ground lies And will remain until the earth grows warm Her gait far striding and her reach equal far She extends her influence across the land Bringing dormant rest and peaceful sleep With the sweep of one bony hand Though she is not all gloom, like us she weeps over doom Her humility still but buried deep in her centre Hospitality she shares with those who are in need And for those who into her lair dare to enter Respect she requires above mans desire Formidable is her mighty wrath But revered adequately and left to live free The Cailleach is fair and will allow you your path Among her creations, the river and hill The mountain, the valley and ravine She carved her signature into the land And created a rapturous scene So though dark she is old, she’s hard and she’s cold Warmth exists to those who can see Way deep in her soul, where embers burn like hot coal The Cailleach I accept as the dark aspect of me.

Julie Weltch

A Simple Message from a Simple Higher Being So, what’s the meaning of life?

Well, why the hell do you care?

Are you scared and afraid that you're lost as a person?

Or are you afraid the answer isn’t there?

Well, I can't promise you much in this cosmos But this I can honestly swear.

You see you are far more important that you could ever imagine Just by your presence here.

So let’s celebrate to the ones we have loved and lost For you see they aren’t gone at all.

As the knowledge they gave us, fond memories and favors.

Will keep us all standing tall.

And don’t believe all that bullshit About how they're locked away in your heart.

They're small and insignificant neurons, floating around your brain That will keep you happy and smart Because you see it’s personal. It’s all personal.

It’s different for you and me, But still our points of consciousness Work in perfect harmony.

It’s kind of hard to explain, How we all grow from what we gain.

But your knowledge and experience Can make your world a better place.

So just be happy.

Mike Porter

Winter Solstice In the crisp winter wind, The wise raven waits, a black dot on the clear blue horizon, A messenger between the worlds, His piercing eyes surveying the sleeping land, he’s waiting patiently, He knows what will follow …..

As the mid-winter sun edges above the baron horizon, The land begins to stir and wake from the longest night, She sighs with the gentle warmth of the warming sun’s rays The rhythmic drumming and gentle chanting grows nearer……

They are coming ………as have their forefathers before them …..

The time is near for the glowing winter sun to pass through the scared stones, Beckoning our ancestors home, And its time ….

For the stag lord to lead his modern tribe of followers over the crisp frosty carpet, In time to honour the rising sun, As have so many before him An ancient ceremony, on a scared land, in a modern world The circle of life continues ……… unbroken by the passing of time ……

Jo Leach

R-Evolution A spindle dance around Earth’s core The spinal line from South to North.

Wind the universal threads that surge From the Sky and from the Earth.

The left hand leads the turn to feel The world move true as each thing grows.

Ignite the sunlight heart that heals So from it what is fine will flow.

All health and wit and love, a smile That all good things be reconciled.

Whirl long enough upon this line, Fibre optic, bright and fine.

Connect pole light above below A solar flare light fireglow And by its flaming heat reveal It is not you but all that reels.

It blends and hums, a sparkled blur, A mist of colour and of sound.

Feather soft, a flock of birds A breath of leaves turn all around.

Seek blue and red like chlorophyll For in that moment Time stands still.

Sem Vine

A Different Point of View The following poem is written by Dolmen Grove member Harry Sanford. Harry is an autistic teenager who will be 14 years old in January 2013, and this is the winter holiday from his point of view.

Christmas Time Christmas is a time when people go as green as the Grinch drinking the eggnog, Christmas is a time for giving and receiving, Christmas is a time when adults are stressed, ‘Hint hint,’ Christmas is a time for eating Christmas turkey, Christmas is a time for families to be together, Christmas is a time when sometimes soldiers at war do not have to fight, Christmas is a time when children wake up in the morning with big smiles, Christmas is a time for Christmas TV shows.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Harry Sanford

Diary of the Hedgewitch When wind and winter harden All the loveless land, It will whisper of the garden, You will understand.

Oscar Wilde, To My Wife The dark mysteriousness of the crisp nights have deepened, the direct light of the Sun weakened, only gradually, frailly, drawing its strength after the Winter Solstice; modified and reflected in the cold slivery moonlight that is chillingly cast upon the motionless and forlorn frozen Earth. Moon-shadows from naked trees are tossed upon the barren land that is grasped, gasping, in the clutches of harsh winter, whilst the lonely screams of the hungry vixens tear the air, as they call desperately for a mate in the long dismal hours of night.

Far off into the heavens, the glinting, quivering, light of the stars and the planets pierce brightly through the blackness, and glitter tantalisingly through the stain of the Milky Way spilt across the fathomless sky. The distant warm world of colour has chilled and faded into sliver and black, and dreary grey, soft textures and sweet fragrances are now transformed into sharp freezing brittleness, whilst bitter winds whip and howl. Free-flowing water is halted in its movements as it is forced from ever-changing liquid to imprisonment into solidity as ice. But as water freezes, the beauty of those forces bringing form into manifestation are seen in the awe-inspiring geometry of ice crystals that sparkle on windowpanes, and that are active in the crystal formation deep within the Earth, and in the heavens in whirling galaxies.

Despite the harshness and bitterness of winter we also perceive wonderment and beauty. Frost crunches underfoot, creeping over the land, glistening sharply and glitters, like the starry winter sky, on frozen crispy leaves and bare branched trees. The world, to me, is always full of mystery and awe, and as the sunbeams ray down on the frosted, hazy Earth, spreading gentle subtle light, in that moment, as in so many, miracles occur. We participate in, even shape, the world, with our imaginations, forever active in unravelling its mysteries and creating the future. By sensing and observing we can, as Goethe beautifully expresses: “..glimpse the seemingly impossible even with the unaided eye, a fact that forces one to prostate oneself in adoration before the mysterious origin of all things�

We see transformations occur before our very eyes, as water freezes, for example, changing its form and condensing into ice; or during cooking as it transforms from liquid to gas to air (and whilst cooking on a wood fire, the orange and red darting flashing flames beneath dance in the air, flitting; water in the melting pitch and Earth in the ashes).

The world contracts in winter bearing its experiences that vibrate with all possibilities to flourish afresh.

Whilst we also contract and withdraw, we also expand our awareness into space, and are drawn upwards, longingly, into the mysterious comforting light of the stars and planets and the moon that prevail our senses when the Earth is cold and hard in the depths of winter, when the Sun no longer dominates our world. At the beginning of each new winter day, (weather permitting) I am enthralled to watch the reassuring bright glow of light-bringing Venus sailing up from the Eastern horizon, heaving behind her the Sun that spills his warm blood red and pink hues, spattering the sky, as he is delivered into each new-born morning.

Seemingly so far off and distant, planetary forces penetrate into our beings and their influences are seen in the growth of plants. Simply, the Moon forces are said to, along with growth, effect rooting processes, whilst the Sun, as well as providing energy, effects the vertical growth of a plant. Leaves and flower petals, in their spacings and growth patterns resemble the movements of Mercury and Venus, the closest planets to the Sun. Within the blossom, fiery Mars influences anther and pollen development, Jupiter fruit, and distant Saturn, seed formation.

The forming forces in plants are modified by the Moon, and the Moon in her tides of fecundity is its most powerful during the Winter Solstice when the full Moon is as high in the sky as the potent mid-summer Sun. Leaf buds are at their deepest dormancy until the Moon reaches her zenith in December.

Jupiter strongly influences his role, with his almost twelve year cycle, directing the forces from the Sun, his expression impacting upon the lives of deciduous trees. Also connected to the Sun and the returning hours of daylight after the winter solstice, although a tree strongly connected with midsummer, is the oak, representing the masculine fertility of the Sun, the vitality of the Earth, and within its leaves the merciful whispering voice of Jupiter. Its acorns emblems representing the endurance of life and bearing all possible past present and future within their casings.

Seeds that lay within the cold Earth at this time, are heaving with anticipation, awaiting the first warmth of spring to each bear one possible potential through. Although physically diminutive and contracted, the seed is greatly expanded etherically, as all possible manifestations whirl and weave beyond our physical senses.

It is during the winter when we care for our fruit trees, pruning apple trees that have gifted their precious bounties during the autumn and now stand bare against a grey sky. For the sake of knowledge, independence and experience Eve ate from the tree that represents the feminine as the gates of matter. The pentagram, the symbol of humanity, is seen when an apple is sliced in half, reflecting also the movements of Venus during her 8year cycle, and bears its seeds of all potential within this. Venus is connected to the 5th day of the week, Friday (Freya’s day), and is the goddess of the rose, the same family as the apple tree.

On 17th January, old Twelfth Night, we can wassail the apple trees for the sake of the spirit of the Apple Man, a protector of the tree’s fertility, and to ensure a future good harvest. For this songs are sung, music played, and cider and toast are flung onto roots or placed upon branches. These ancient customs renew our relationships, not just with the trees themselves, but with the spirits of land, moon and stars, and of those lives of our ancestors who have gone before.

As a gardener at this time of year, apart a from pruning beloved fruit trees and finishing heaping on thick layers of manure for the spring, there is little to do, and the garden looks a little bare and forsaken. Overwintering onion sets and garlic sit on the frosted ground, requiring long periods of low temperatures before surging forth in the spring. Parsnips and turnips still await devouring, the long roots of parsnips drawn down deep beneath the soil. Brussel sprouts and kale, their leaves crisp and brittle in the cold, provide us with green nutriment to ward off colds and flu over the winter.

Winter flows into spring, and as we await the first snowdrops in early February we are reminded of life in apparent desolation, of the continual existence of all that is good, and of hope. Our graceful birch, too, is a tree often connected with the spring and of new beginnings. It is a tree associated with the moon and the stars, and of Arianrhod and her Silver Wheel. Whilst the world can appear ravaged in lifelessness, plants remain as symbols for rebirth and creation.

Just as the Earth is a garden where the physical world as we know it is borne into manifestation in all its myriads of forms, to rise, flourish into experience and fall and decay, transformed; as we look to the universe and its glimmering stars, of which each of us are, we look at a cosmic garden where all things are springing into existence, life in infinite creation is coming into being, evolving, creating, and transforming endlessly, flowing continually through all, stars, rivers, trees, humanity...

Rachael Moss

January sowing chart 2013

Date Tues 01

Constellation of Moon Leo (Fire)

Crops to Sow Tomato in heated greenhouse

Wed 02

Leo (Fire)

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Thurs 03

Leo (Fire) until 2hrs

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Fri 04

then Virgo (Earth) Virgo (Earth)

Sat 05

Virgo (Earth)

Sun 06

Virgo (Earth)

Mon 07 Tues 08

Libra (Air) Scorpio (Water)

Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel

Wed 09

Scorpio (Water)

Winter salads in greenhouse/

Thurs 10

Sagittaruis (Fire)

polytunnel Tomato in heated greenhouse

Fri 11

Sagittaruis (Fire)

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Sat 12 Sun 13

Capricorn (Earth) Capricorn (Earth)

Mon 14

Aquarius (Air)

Tues 15

Aquarius (Air)

Wed 16

Pisces (Water)

Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel

Thurs 17

Pisces (Water)

Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel

Fri 18

Pisces (Water)

Sat 19

Aries (Fire)

Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel Tomato in heated greenhouse

Other Information Moon opposition Neptune 20hrs Moonset 9.40hrs Moon trine Sun 17hrs Moonset 10hrs Moonset 10.20

Moon opposition Uranus 10hrs Mars trine Jupiter 13hrs Moonset 10.50hrs 3rd quarter 5hrs Moonset 11.10hrs Mercury conjunction Pluto 17hrs Moon conjunction Saturn 23hrs Moonset 11.40hrs Moonset 12.10hrs North (ascending) node 1hrs Moon opposition Jupiter 20hrs Moonset 13hrs Lowest Moon 17hrs Moonset 14hrs Perigee 11hrs Moon conjunction Venus 12hrs Moonset 15hrs Moon conjunction Pluto 1hrs Moon conjunction Mercury 12hrs Dark Moon 21hrs Moonrise 7.20hrs Moonrise 8hrs Moon conjunction Mars 8hrs Moonrise 8.30hrs Moon conjunction Neptune 13hrs Moonrise 9hrs Moon trine Saturn 5hrs Moonrise 9.20hrs Moonrise 9.40hrs

Venus conjunction Pluto 1hrs Moon conjunction Uranus 2hrs Moonrise 10hrs Sun conjunction Mercury 9hrs Moonrise 10.30hrs 1st quarter 1hrs Moon opposition Saturn 23hrs Moonrise 10.50hrs

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Sun 20

Aries (Fire)

Mon 21

Taurus (Earth)

Tues 22

Taurus (Earth)

Wed 23

Taurus (Earth)

Thurs 24

Gemini (Air)

Fri 25

Gemini (Air)

Sat 26

Cancer (Water) from 9hrs

Sun 27

Cancer (Water)

Mon 28

Leo (Fire)

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Tues 29

Leo (Fire)

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Leo (Fire)

Tomato in heated greenhouse

Wed 30 Thurs 31

Moon trine Venus 5hrs Moonrise 11.20hrs South (desending) node 2hrs Moon trine Sun 18hrs Moonrise 12hrs Moon conjunction Jupiter 3hrs Apogee 12hrs Moonrise 12.40hrs Mercury trine Jupiter 2hrs Highest Moon 7hrs Moonrise 13.20hrs

Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel Winter salads in greenhouse/ polytunnel

Virgo (Earth)

Moon oppostion Pluto 23hrs Moonrise 14.20hrs Moon trine Saturn 1hrs Moon oppositon Venus 21hrs Moonrise 15.20hrs Sun trine Jupiter 4hrs Moonrise 16.20 Full Moon 6hrs Moon opposition Mercury 18hrs Moonrise 17.30hrs Moon opposition Mars 17hrs Moonset 7.50hrs Moon opposition Neptune 3hrs Moonset 8.10hrs Moonset 8.30hrs Moon opposition Uranus 17hrs Moonset 8.50hrs

Date

Constellation of Moon

Crops to Sow/plant

Other Information

Fri 01

Virgo (Earth)

Garlic, parsnip

Moon trine Sun 5hrs Moonset 9.20hrs

Sat 02

Virgo (Earth)

Garlic, parsnip

Moonset 9.50hrs

Sun 03

Libra (Air)

Mon 04

Scorpio (Water) from 12hrs Winter salads under cover

Tues 05

Scorpio (Water)

Wed 06

Scorpio (Water) until 16hrs Winter salads under cover

Thurs 07 Sagittarius (Fire)

Fri 08

Sat 09

Sagittaruis (Fire) until 17hrs

Winter salads under cover

Broad beans, tomatoes before 10hrs

Broad beans, tomatoes

Moon conjunction Saturn 8hrs 3rd quarter 15hrs Moonset 10.20hrs North (ascending) node 3hrs Mars conjunction Neptune 21hrs Moonset 11hrs Moon opposition Jup[iter 3hrs Moonset 11.50hrs Lowest Moon 2hrs Mercury conjunction Neptune 23hrs Moonset 12.50hrs Venus trine Jupiter 6hrs Moon conjunction Pluto 11hrs Perigee 13hrs Moonset 14hrs Mercury conjunction Mars 18hrs Moonset 15.10hrs

Capricorn (Earth)

Garlic, parsnip

Moon conjunction Venus 10hrs Moonset 16.30hrs

Garlic, parsnip

Dark Moon 8hrs

Sun 10

Capricorn (Earth) until 16hrs

Mon 11

Aquarius (Air)

Tues 12

Pisces (Water) from 11hrs Winter salads under cover

Wed 13

Pisces (Water)

Winter salads under cover

Moon conjunction Uranus 13hrs Moonrise 8.10hrs

Thurs 14 Pisces (Water)

Winter salads under cover

Moonrise 8.30hrs

Fri 15

Aries (Fire)

Broad beans, tomatoes

Moonrise 9hrs

Sat 16

Aries (Fire)

Broad beans, tomatoes

Moon opposition Saturn 8hrs Mars trine Saturn 20hrs Moonrise 9.20hrs

Sun 17

Taurus (Earth) from 9hrs

Carrot, garlic, onion, parsnip

South (descending) node 4hrs 1st quarter 21hrs Moonrise 10hrs

Mon 18

Taurus (Earth)

Carrot, garlic, onion, parsnip

Moon conjunction Jupiter 12hrs Moonrise 10.30hrs

Tues 19

Taurus (Earth)

Carrot, garlic, onion, parsnip

Apogee 8hrs Highest Moon 15hrs Moon trine Venus 19hrs Moonrise 11.20

Wed 20

Gemini (Air) from 10hrs

Moonrise 6.50hrs Moon conjunction Neptune 2hrs Moon conjunction Mars 10hrs Moon conjunction Mercury 14hrs Moon trine Saturn 17hrs Moonrise 7.20hrs Mercury trine Saturn 20hrs Moonrise 7.40hrs

Moon trine Sun 15hrs Moonrise 12.10hrs Moon opposition Pluto 6hrs Sun conjunction Neptune 7hrs Moon trine Saturn 10hrs Moonrise 13.10hrs Moonrise 14.10hrs

Thurs 21 Gemini (Air)

Fri 22

Gemini (Air) until 18hrs

Sat 23

Cancer (Water)

Winter salads under cover

Moonrise 15.10hrs

Sun 24

Leo (Fire) from 9hrs

Broad beans, tomatoes

Moonrise 16.20hrs

Mon 25

Leo (Fire)

Broad beans, tomatoes

Moon opposition Venus 5hrs Moon opposition Neptune 12hrs Full Moon 21hrs Moonrise 17.30hrs

Tues 26

Leo (Fire)

Broad beans, tomatoes

Mercury conjunction Mars 9hrs Moon opposition Mercury 17hrs Moon opposition Mars 18hrs Moonset 6.40hrs

Wed 27

Virgo (Earth)

Carrot, garlic, onion, parsnip

Moonset 7hrs

Thurs 28 Virgo (Earth)

Carrot, garlic, onion, parsnip

Moon opposition Uranus 1hrs Venus conjunction Neptune 15hrs Moonset 7.20hrs

Recipes

Full Moon Cauliflower This dish looks like the shining face of a full moon when cooked. The lunar energies are further enhanced by the cauliflower, milk, butter and eggs.

1/4 cup butter 2 tablespoons flour 1 cup milk 3 eggs 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4cup bread crumbs 1 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 cup grated white cheese 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets and cooked

Method Preheat the oven to 400oF. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over a low heat.

Mix in the flour to form a paste. Slowly stir in the milk until smooth. Beat in the eggs.

Stir in the garlic, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, white cheese, and cauliflower.

Pour into a greased baking dish.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Garnish with additional white cheese.

Will serve 4.

Magical Attributes: Moon magic, fruitfulness, insight.

Celebrations: Birthday of the moon, Rites for a patron Goddess.

Creamy Tomato Sauce 1tablespoon of olive oil 1 onion chopped 1 clove garlic chopped 1red pepper chopped 1 rasher of bacon (optional) 2 chopped beef tomatoes with skins removed 2 teaspoons tomato puree A pinch of basil A pinch of oregano Pinch of chilli powder (paprika can be used) Black pepper Salt (optional) 500ml tomato passata 250ml crème fraiche Place beef tomatoes in a bowl or jug and cover with boiling water-This is to soften and split the skins so they are easier to remove.

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and fry the onion, bacon, garlic and red pepper.

Stir in chopped beef tomatoes, tomato puree, basil, oregano, chilli powder and season with salt and black pepper.

Stir in the passata and bring to the boil.

Simmer for 5 minutes then place the mixture in a blender/liquidiser and blend for a couple of minutes until smooth.

Blending is optional as ingredients are chopped.

Add crème fraiche and blend for a further minute then return to a low heat until ready to serve.

This sauce can be used with meatballs, pasta and pork steaks. (Although I’m sure there are a variety of other options) Omit the bacon and stir the sauce into fresh pasta, and top with grated cheese for a tasty vegetarian option.

Chicken liver pate 220g/8oz butter 1 onion, finely diced 1 garlic clove, crushed 450g/1lb chicken livers, trimmed and cut in half 1 tbsp. brandy 1 tsp. mustard powder Salt and freshly ground black pepper Melt 110g of the butter in a pan over a medium heat, then add the onion and fry until softened, but not coloured.

Add the garlic and chicken livers and fry the livers until golden-brown all over and cooked through. Add the brandy and mustard powder and season well with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Place the liver mixture and 55g/2oz of the remaining butter into a food processor and blend until smooth.

Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Transfer the pâté into a serving ramekin or small dish and decorate with a couple of cranberries and a bay leaf.

Melt the remaining 55g/2oz of butter in a clean pan. Skim off the froth and pour the butter over the pâté.

Transfer to the fridge to chill, and then serve from the ramekin when ready.

Chelsie Syme

Dolmen Grove moots All Dolmen Grove Moots hold regular meetings, where people can find out more about the Dolmen Grove ethos and membership. Because the Dolmen Grove host a variety of events their moots provide a perfect opportunity to find out about up and coming Dolmen Grove workshops, courses, talks, and open circles.

Southend Essex Dolmen Grove Moot Every month we have a regular drumming session plus healing drumming... and now folk are bringing didgereedoo's singing bowls and such... Plus Regular talks and workshops The Cricketers Inn Every 2nd monday of the month, 228, London Road, Westcliff-on-sea, Essex SS0 7JG 8pm onwards.

Hosted by Denny and Steve Bottley

Portsmouth Dolmen Grove Moot Regular talks and workshops The salisbury hotel, Every second wednesday of the month Lonsdale Road, Cosham PortsmouthHampshire PO6 2PX 7:30pm onwards Hosted by Julie Weltch

WEYMOUTH DOLMEN GROVE MOOT This is the groves oldest and most established moot where every month there is the opportunity to talk to those at the forefront of the pagan world and learn more about the ceremonies and rituals of the dolmen grove, as well as the various paths found within paganism.

The marquis of granby Every second wednesday of the month Chickerell road, weymouth, dorset, dt4 9tw.

7.30pm onwards hosted by taloch jameson and/or diane narraway

PORTLAND DOLMEN GROVE MOOT This moot is hosted by the dolmen grove Portland witches and there are regular talks as well as regular discussions on witchcraft and earth magick The george inn Every fourth wednesday of the month 133 reforne, portland, dorset, dt5 2ap 7.30pm onwards hosted by teach and beth

THE DOLMEN GROVE IVY MOON MOOT This is the groves newest moot that offers talks, workshops and so much more from those at the heart of Cornish witchcraft.

Polgooth inn Every first wednesday of the month Ricketts Lane, Polgooth, st.austell, pl26 7da hosted by karen cooper and lucy miles

BERKSHIRE(BRACKNELL) MOOT a social moot where all are welcome to join like minded people on various pagan paths.

The boot public house Every 3 third Wednesday of the month park road, bracknell, berkshire , rg12 2lu hosted by baz and max cilia

Moots are advertised regularly on the dolmen grove facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen-Grove/110124449082503

)o( MAGICAL & MYSTICAL GIFTS TAROT READINGS CRYSTALS & GEMS FANTASY ART UNITS 12-13 PANNIER MARKET LEMON QUAY TRURO,CORNWALL TR1 1LW

Rev.Julie Weltch

HIEROPHANT PRIESTESS IN THE TEMPLE OF ISIS I am offering year and a day training as part of the Lyceum of The Circle of spirit, Earth and Elements by correspondence in any area/country or in person should you live in the Portsmouth area.

I am also offering celebrant services such as hand fastings, baby namings, death rites, coming of age rites etc I also offer reiki healing, house cleansings and blessings and I do not charge for any of my services, all I ask is travelling expenses if you are out of my area.

Blessings, Julie

www.cosee.co.uk

TALIESIN’S DEN HANDCRAFTED SILK FLORAL CIRCLETS FOR ANY OCCASION SPEEDY SERVICE AND DELIVERY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT DENNY ON 07989480421 Email:avalonian_star@yahoo

Wynterkallista offers a range of natural,ethically sourced Aromatherapy health and beauty products created with care.

We also specialise in hand madePagan/Wicca products, such as Wands and Staffs, Herbs, Dilly and spell bags.

We are fully licensed by Cosmetic Safety Consultants Ltd. Also a qualified, experienced and fully professional member of the Guild of Holistic Therapists Wiccan High Priestess and Celebrant winterkallysta@yahoo.co.uk www.facebook.com/Wynterkallista

Irvine Photography covers all types of photography but specialises in photojournalism. I photograph pagan rituals and ceremonies and am the official photographer for the Cotswold Order of Druids when they perform at Stonehenge.

I am a member of Dolmen Grove and live on the beautiful island of Portland.

I have my own mobile lighting studio so able to come to you for a portrait in your own home.

Events £25 per hour +expenses Portraits 1 x 10”x8” photograph + disc £24 3 x 10”x8” photograph + disc £52 Special Pagan rates 20% off Contact scottirvine25@yahoo.com www.irvineimages.co.uk

Further information on the Dolmen Grove Magazine, including back issues, up and coming features, and article submissions can be found on facebook.. http://www.facebook.com/lee.akasha/photos_albums#!/DolmenGrove Magazine?fref=ts Editor Diane Narraway.

Further information about regarding membership, courses, up and coming events and ceremonies (including membership enquiries) is available through The Dolmen Grove – Website: www.dolmengrove.co.uk Email: dolmengrove@dolmengrove.co.uk Or through Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen-Grove/110124449082503 Further information about music from The Dolmen including c.d. purchase is available on our Website: www.thedolmen.com Email UK thedolmen@thedolmen.com Email USA thedolmenusa@thedolmen.com Or through Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Dolmen/250111806234