The Celtic Year

Yule 2011: Goddess of Air by Chrissy Heaven

2012-01-02T10:10:00.000-08:00

A beautiful poem from Chrissy, this gave me such peace...

Goddess of Air

In frosty blasts of cold Yule air

Winter Lady breathes the stillness

To shimmer our landscape white with ice

And snow as silent rain

When Danu comes again

Her owlish essence

Whispering wisdom in the winds.

She blows a breeze that frosts her web

Sheer and glinting in winter sun

Inviting herself into our waiting hopes

Our steamy breath carrying silver strands

To weave us into her spidery domain.

Be still and rest whilst there …

Its time to sleep and dream

Cocooned in powerful threads

Dream new desires into form

On pause till Imbolc's call

Holding ancient memories of all

Ready for Bridie's fire.

Chrissy Heaven

Thanks lovely lady, brightened this dark January day

Love and Light

Lindsey

Winter Solstice Yule 2011

2011-12-23T04:54:00.000-08:00

The Solstice sunrise heralds the lengthening days

and the longest night's clouds scatter

offering, in their passing, a transient window blessing

Many original Yuletide decorations grace our home

Foggy, Jamie and I made this revolving and annually evolving mobile

and my sister, Sheila made the beaded snowflake

Victor consents to join us for the party!

The holly and the ivy

and Foggy's Christmas candle lights

Ficus has a festive dressing

I love this year's mistletoe mobile...

A bit of bling with senti-ments gathered over the years

we feasted, laughed and drank

raised our glasses to absent friends

ate homemade pizza

played music

told stories

passed a Wassail cup

re-lit last year's Yule log and lit the next

burnt our holly sprigs with all last year's trouble

and crowned the Yule Jester, Bob

What a lovely time of year for parties, family and friends

for remembering and reflecting

planning and dreaming

Be your dreams

Solstice blessings to you all

Love and Light

Lindsey

Tree of Life Painting by Sally and Phillip

2011-11-27T01:05:00.000-08:00

A huge beautifully wrapped parcel arrived this week!

A painting, a wonderful work by two amazing artists

Sally Stafford and Phillip Kingsbury

How rare to have two artists working on the same canvas, work for The Celtic Year Exhibition at the Garden Cafe way back in 2009.

Come for a quick fly around with me....

I'm so lucky to be the new custodian

Thanks Sally and Phillip!

Love and bright light

Lindsey

Samhain: Celtic New Year 2011: Six Moons over the Bone Garden

2011-10-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

Celebrate the Celtic New Year

The Wheel turns

the veil thins

Magic fills the air

Six Moons over the Bone Garden

ForestWalkArt

(Laura)

and some detail

Spiral moons and bones seemed just the combination for Samhain, if like me you want to see more of Laura's work with forest finds then click your way over here to her fabulous blog for a creepy crawly Halloween post with skulls and bones.

Wishing you all a wonderful year ahead

Bright Blessings

Love and Light

River Derwent Samhain 2011

2011-10-31T11:03:00.000-07:00

Samhain Salutations all

Sheila has sent this image of the Derwent taken on an autumnal walk from St Bee's to Basenthwaite, the grade 2 rapids inspired her to write!

Ode to the River Derwent

River flowing, flowing onwards

Swiftly onwards towards the Lake.

River rippling, swelling, growing,

Flowing onwards towards the Lake.

Life is like this river,

young and spritely in it's youth,

Leaping, springing, growing wider,

Sometimes calm and often deep.

Maturity brings with it many pleasures.

Over rocks and dancing waves.

Meandering forwards,

Twisting, turning.

Ever forwards to journey's end.

Sheila

From Dylan Thomas' Writing Shed: Laugharne

2011-10-30T01:39:00.000-07:00

Sunrise and mist over the estuary

Mist rises

For Dylan Thomas

Echoing, tramping, crashing in Dylan’s footsteps

His words scoring rhythm tracks in my mind

The lovers, arm in arm still clutch the grief of ages

Their digital images capture the scene yet lose the truth

That’s sound and wind and rain and thought

Sunlight skitters and slides across the estuary

Invading the bay and stretching fingers through grey cloud to green, rich turf

The spirit of inspiration flies

Blue grey writing shed perched on cliff, hovers neither at base nor peak

His shoes remain as unfilled as his jacket

Casually slung over the cheap wooden chair

Papers screwed and crumpled under the desk,

Overlooking

The mudflat

A dreamscape of ruts and swirls

Chaotic motion

A new puzzle revealed rhythmically by tidal meanderings

His words a challenge to life, to death, to beauty

A dare

A warning?

Sounds

Curlew and catcher, jackdaw and crow

The owl’s fluttering warble softening the howl of the wind

Do not go gently into this good night

Do not retreat like the water which daily acquiesces to the moon’s command

Forge a new path

Fight and rage

Against the dying of the light

Lizbeth Wilson: October 26^th 2011

The view from Dylan's Writing Shed

Coming soon: Samhain 2011/All Hallows Eve/Hallowen

2011-10-23T05:46:00.000-07:00

Mainly in these darkening days leading up to Samhain and a New Celtic Year we are (obsessively?) preoccupied with triskelle/triskelion/triskele (apply whichever label grabs you!) and Foggy has produced an amazing range of routed and etched triskelle in various materials. This all in response to my desire for a mould to make a low relief ceramic plaque - which is still to be made! I just had to use this aluminum version on a Samhain moon painting! Here's some detail - I see the dragon!

The triskelle represents many things: the forward motion of life; the unbroken line; land, sea and sky; maiden, mother and crone: the Otherworld, the Mortal World and the Celestial World; life, death and rebirth.

No surprise then that spirals and triskelle have from the Neolithic to the 21st century been beautifully symbolically powerful!

From doodles on schoolbooks to scribblings on agenda, from the delights of an ammonite or a fern uncurling and the first pinch pot I ever made, even the ring I wear, spirals have been an unconscious and conscious part of my life.

The triskelle extends and develops, shows continuity and connectivity in this amazing journey through The Wheel of Life.

Engineered precision meets primitive paint - love the contrast!

Share your Samhain/Halloween legends, music and activities!

Love and (Moon) Light

Lindsey

Jungle Lore: Phillip Kingsbury

2011-10-02T06:47:00.000-07:00

A juicy jungle jumble

With Jurassic Journeys juxtaposed

In this Java jazzy junction

And juggle jiggle and joust

They joke jest and jabber

Joy!

Thanks to Phillip for this vibrant jungle scene - I love it and couldn't resist putting together some

J words, read this aloud quickly!

Autumn Equinox: Alban Elued (Light of the Water): Mabon: Harvest Home

2011-09-20T11:26:00.000-07:00

As the equinox approaches in this time of equal day and night great flocks of birds fly over my head, migrating, the trees are in their last bloom, the reds and golds light the paths I wander.

Nature's colours stun me and I have to stop and stare.

I feel the thinning of the veil and remember.

September, a time of loss, withdrawal, of seasonal activities ending.

September, a time for planning, thinking, gathering in the harvest.

And in my garden flowers bloom still

and we just had sweetcorn from the garden for dinner!

The Wheel turns

time now for healing and rest

and staring into log fires!

Wishing you all joy

love and light

Lindsey

Dying on the Vine: Rob Russell

2011-09-02T01:37:00.000-07:00

Dying on the Vine

A chemical reaction that some might call attraction

And others term a fire in the mind

Makes me yearn for your embrace

Each time I fail to replace you

And the fruit of my desire starts to die upon the vine

If who you know brings what you get, and who knows you is who you let

Believing in that feeling without waiting for a sign

Then you’re reaping what you sow, as your mind begins to grow

But if you’re tardy with the harvest

Still it dies upon the vine

When stealing to get feeling is a life that feels appealing

And honest feels like weakness and a wankers waste of time

Then divine intervention brings the greater scheme to your attention

And the clarion call of thrilling crime

Slows and dries inside the vine

When the summer stops its flow and the lucky ones get up and go

Leaving others greatly hindered to stay and face the winter

And with nothing left to say to you

There’s nothing left for us to do

But watch the fruits of summer day by day die on the vine

The girl on the train who has occupied my brain

Since she minded the gap and opposite me sat

Walks away and up the stairs with my eyes upon her hair

And is that hint of red, cause for regret?

Is the question that looks on, as the death toll clicks up one

Thanks Rob, the melancholy here certainly reflects the season in the UK with leaves turning to reds and golds, sap withdrawing and the energies shifting into winter rest mode.

Love and changing light

Lindsey

Celebration of Completion: Purple Rain

2011-08-01T02:39:00.000-07:00

Sheila has shared this fantastic hanging, it is a felted wool bat with scrap wool and a bead panel.

A celebration of completion!

I love the rich and radiant colours

Thanks for sharing your Purple Rain celebration Sheila!

Brambles and Rosehips herald Autumn

2011-08-01T02:19:00.000-07:00

Helen and Marie were walking their dogs on Saturday and spotted these beautiful signs of Autumn. They're looking forward to harvesting and making blackberry vodka to warm them on the approaching dark cold wintry nights!

Save me some of that delicious vodka please!

Thanks Helen and Marie

Dreaming of Lughnasadh - Lammas - Harvest Home under the Mead Moon

2011-07-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Almost Lughnasadh - Lammas - Harvest Home
and under the Mead Moon I sat,

dreamily thinking of this time of year, the turn of the season, the harvest coming, planning ahead and remembering.

That night I dreamt of the shining one's blessings and triskelle, the spiraling circle of life and then

of the beautiful reflective Moon lighting our nights, our hearts.

Mead Moon Dreaming 2011

Celtic Clans

Celebrate the season

The shining one, the corn mother

The fruitful abundance and energy

Honour those who share their wisdom and experience

Appreciate all in gratitude, with joy

Harvest, store, sing, celebrate successes

Build on these

Be your dreams

and on that topic, sometimes magic happens...I swapped a painting for this

Emma Hedley's lyric bangle with my chosen words

"seed flower fruit rest

sun moon earth sky

rainbow paints joy peace

love and light

be your dreams"

Loving it - thanks Emma!

Lindsey

solstice celebrations

2011-06-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Once again I am lucky enough to be here in Portugal for the solstice. I am staying at OBRAS a centre for artists and scientists. Last night we all gathered at a small hill with a stone that directly aligns to the setting solstice sun.

It was a magical shared moment.

and here are some rainbow pictures from a few days ago...remembered after reading Lindsey's beautiful poem.

you may just be able to make out that it was three rainbows...I've never seen that before.

Hope you had a happy solstice

Sally x

Solstice: Helen Cowans

2011-06-22T00:21:00.000-07:00

I'm very excited to introduce a guest blog from Helen, a wonderful textile artist from Northumbria. I love her work and this piece makes my heart sing, having this view at the bottom of her garden must be so inspirational!

This piece of work “Solstice” was created around a photograph I took 2 years ago just at the back of my garden. I used the picture for Solstice greeting cards that year.

I love being able to incorporate my photographs into my textiles (using treated fabrics and archival inks) and I love using silks and velvets as I’ve used in this piece. I love the textures and the rich, deep colours.

I’ve always loved nature (I studied Biology at University) and I love to follow the seasons. I’ve long had an interest in monuments such as Stonehenge and Avebury and have spent many hours hunting for stone circles in obscure places and walking to hillforts.

More recently I’ve been incorporating Mother Goddess and Rock Art images (http://www.helencowans.co.uk/#/goddesses/4543497676) into my work – and there are more of these to come; Goddesses as the seasons, both in 3D and as wall pieces and more abstract art based on ancient monuments. So far I have the sketches and need to get them created. They’ll be exhibited at the Loch Lomond Quilt Show in 2012 (http://www.lochlomondquiltshow.com/).

For me the solstice times are very special. Though I feel more empathy with the Winter Solstice – as this is the time when the light and sun returns. The Summer solstice is not such a happy time for me as it means we are heading back into darker days and the wheel of the year is turning, ultimately, toward Winter.

I’ve been working in textiles for 10 years now; I went to college one day a week to learn C&G embroidery when my son was a year old and its taken over! I now teach and lecture and have my first solo exhibition this month at Paxton House near Berwick upon Tweed. http://www.helencowans.co.uk/#/exhibition/4552050344

Helen

If, like me, you can't wait to see more of Helen's work her web site is www.helencowans.co.uk and her blog is www.textilegoddess.blogspot.com

Thanks Helen

Summer Solstice or The Dance between the Earth and Sun

2011-06-21T12:26:00.000-07:00

in their dance
Earth and Sun breed
  innocent play in light
  wild magics by night


spiral light waves
through Honey Moon
whispering be your dreams
now in Light of the Shore
sky painted rainbows appear

love and light

Lindsey

Summer Solstice Suddenly Suprises - 9 days to go!

2011-06-12T05:14:00.000-07:00

Tree of Life

Hot from the kiln! I made this as the leaves came into full bloom and thinking of the long summer days yet to come. Then there were Bank Holidays, celebrations and exhibitions to prepare for so just collected this from the Pottery Group kiln last Thursday night. My heart leaped as I saw it, just as I had pictured it would be. Fresh and full with the bark glowing and the light dancing. The frame is an unused wooden cheeseboard, I love re-using such things, please don't throw yours away, save them for me!

As I stood thinking about this piece, late last night, I realised the Solstice is only 10 days away, the season of lengthening days is passing, harvest time soon approaching.

I wonder how you all will celebrate the Solstice, The Wheel of Life and Nature's bountiful beauty?

This is my meditation before I paint or play with clay, puts my head and heart into the right place.

Follow me!

Share your Solstice creativity in words, pictures, music... by e-mail here.

love and light

Lindsey

Beltane Blessings from Celestial Elf

2011-05-03T12:58:00.000-07:00

Much more beautiful info here

Thanks for sharing Celestial Elf

Lindsey

Beltane 2011. Tansley Wood Bluebells

2011-05-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

Bluebells: Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Bluebells can be found in damp shady fields, hedgerows and woods throughout Britain.

A woodland carpet of bluebells is most spectacular and the grand finale that Spring offers. Bluebell flowers are sweetly scented but the plant, particularly the seed and the fresh bulb, is poisonous. If eaten the result can be vomiting, abdominal pains and a weak slow pulse from which recovery can be slow. The sap can cause dermatitis. The plant is also poisonous for some animals.

In flower language it is a symbol of constancy, regret, and solitude.

Whilst, in Celtic legend, the bluebell is known as the faerie flower and has a dangerous sinister side.

If a child wanders in a wood alone and picks a bluebell she/he will never be seen again.

If an adult wanders alone in a bluebell wood and picks a flower he/she will be led around by a pixie for ever unless somebody rescues him/her.

Apparently Merlin and King Arthur are still sleeping in a cave in Britain after being tricked into drinking a potion containing bluebell seeds and they will only to be wakened when Britain needs them, so beware!

Marie

Very interesting, thanks Marie - I always thought bluebells look better from a distance!

Having safely crossed the bridge (any trolls or pixies about) and you want to see more photos click here

Lindsey

Beltane Approaches

2011-04-25T01:35:00.000-07:00

Woodscape

A lovely multi-media image from Sheila reminding us that summer is a comin' in and to get your Beltane fires ready. She says:

I think of bonfires when I look at it. This seems to fit in with the 'bright fire' derivation of the common Celtic *belo-te(p)niâ. The colours are also very fire-like.

It is a piece of natural calico with painted Bondaweb© 'tree' trunks, there is also a bit of foiling in there, although it's not very clear on the photo. Small strips of green fabric give highlights to the trees and the button is a piece of driftwood that a friend's husband makes into these beautiful button creations. The melon seeds are coffee dyed - a result of my latest dying experiment.

Sheila

I love this beautiful collaboration and mixing of media - definitely making me think of bonfires too, thanks!

Can't wait to see what other works are inspired by this festival "Fires of Bel/Beltane" on the cusp of seasons' change. Share through celticyeartwo@btinternet.com

Joy, inspiration, love and light to you all

Lindsey

Spring: Mary Oliver

2011-04-08T23:18:00.000-07:00

Here's a beautiful poem, a rather poignant post from Lizzie, thanks m'dear

Spring

I lift my face to the pale flowers

of the rain. They’re soft as linen,

clean as holy water. Meanwhile

my dog runs off, noses down packed leaves

into damp, mysterious tunnels.

He says the smells are rising now

stiff and lively; he says the beasts

are waking up now full of oil.

sleep, sweat, tag-ends of dreams. The rain

rubs its shining hands all over me.

My dog returns and barks fiercely, he says

each secret body is the richest advisor,

deep in the black earth such fuming

nuggets of joy!

By Mary Oliver

Vernal/Spring Equinox 2011

2011-03-20T09:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the Spring Equinox a time of balance and increasing light, the soil is warming, seeds have been sown and buds are growing. The birds are nesting and filling the air with their joyful and territorial song. I've had a wonderfully sunny weekend in the garden and feel so connected with the real world!

Here are some Moon Gazing Hares I made - does anyone know...do they gaze at the moon?

Springtime Greetings

Lindsey

Spring Equinox: Winter Twig and Spring Thoughts

2011-03-19T04:47:00.000-07:00

Here's a lovely contribution from Sheila for the equinox, she says:

I've restarted my art journaling. It all started with my visit to York and then there was Valentines Day and now Spring is on its way. Yesterday I even added some cards from my visit to Prague last November. It's quite a small journal but I hope I can keep it up with just a few extra entries on different pages each day.

My Winter Twig Poem

Winter
twig
Shadows
Sun and light
Waving
in
   the
wind
moving

My Spring Thoughts

Spring
comes
a bit at a time.
Imperceptibly
   the days lengthen
Buds bloom
    and lambs are born.
Spirits
lift
with thoughts of what's
   to come
Sun
shines.

Snowdrop by Alice Oswald

2011-03-16T11:16:00.000-07:00

A beautiful poem by Alice Oswald sent by Lizzie who says......

Sorry - this poem was meant to get to you for Imbolc! It's worth a read - I saw some snowdrops today - next to some bright yellow daffs!!!

Beautiful beautiful sunny Spring day here today!

Lizzie xxx

Snowdrop

A pale and pining girl, head bowed, heart gnawed,
whose figure nods and shivers in a shawl
of fine white wool, has suddenly appeared
in the damp woods, as mild and mute as snowfall.
She may not last, She has no strength at all,
but stoops and shakes as if she’d stood all night
on one bare foot, confiding with the moonlight.

One morning among several hundred clear-eyed ghosts
who get up in the cold and blink and turn
into those trembling emblems of night frosts,
she brings her burnt heart with her in an urn
of ashes, which she opens to re-mourn,
having no other outlet to express
her wild-flower sense of wounded gentleness.

Yes, she’s no more now than a drop of snow
on a green stem – her name is now her calling.Her mind is just a frozen melting of glow
of water swollen to the point of falling
which maybe has no meaning. There’s no telling.
But what’s a beauty, what a mighty power
of patience kept intact is now in flower.

By Alice Oswald

Spring Equinox Approaches. Clouds and Trees

2011-03-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

Hi all

Just a short time now until the equinox is here, the days grow long and the sun is high, a time to celebrate Mother Earth and The Green Man.

Consider the balance of your life, work, play and relationships and watch out for hares (coming here soon!)

Here are some amazing photos of blue spring skies from Liz, thanks lovely lady:-

Clouds and Trees

OK not blue sky - great effect though!

Off to juggle stuff and try for more balance!

Lindsey

Imbolc 2011 and "The Quickening - for Bridie"

2011-02-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

Imbolc greetings all and a very warm welcome to Chrissy, many thanks, m'lovely lady, for sharing this beautiful poem and your energy.

This completely lifts my heart

The Quickening - for Bridie

Moving from stillness to the fire

Gently unfolding from the quiet

Shush, listen – Bridie calls

Pushing up through entombed dreams

Past slumbering memories of all that is

Stretching, yawning, lingering still …

Eternal seeds sharing Mother's joy

Her children stirring in Her earthy womb

Waking to the returning-time

Feel the thudding of Bridie's rod

Senses turning toward familiar sounds

Getting louder – Bridie calls

Rising through layers of quickening life

Warmly enticed to be new again

Journeying, spiralling, from the dark

Up, up into the dawn

Where snowdrops dare to be reborn

And gestating thoughts ignite

Unfurl towards the welcoming light

Shake the webs in the cool, fresh air

Myriad souls will greet you there

Louder still now – Bridie calls

Be new again

This world is yours

Hail and Welcome

From the maiden queen

Who weaves the willows of creation

Alchemical soul of inspiration

Of sacred wells and healing flame

Of poetry and reincarnation

She who called me to Avalon

The first to teach me we are one

Loud and clearly - Bridie called.

Chrissy Heaven

January 2011

Imbolc is nearly here!

2011-01-30T09:51:00.000-08:00

Here its so cold, the land still frozen, but afternoons of tepid sun, sometimes breaking through the snow flurries, remind us of the coming spring. First shoots are showing amongst the winter's litter, and there is a greening all around.

At Imbolc (the name refers to the lactation of ewes and heralds the return of the life giving forces of the spring) The Old Woman of winter, the Cailleach, is reborn as Bride/Brigit, Young Maiden of Spring

For Celts the dragon was symbolic of the Cailleach who holds the power of winter over Brigit's lamb, symbolic of spring. Dragons represent the whole of creation, are gatekeepers and particularly send us:

inspiration / imagination / wealth / power / vitality

Here's one of my baby ceramic dragons, I hope he sends you all that and more!

Sow your seeds

Lindsey

A Winter Solstice Lunar Eclipse Yule

2010-12-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

A very special solstice lunar eclipse Yule blessing to you all!

My post this Yule is dedicated to Gemma

she inspired both the painting and poem

thanks lovely lady!

She walked wrapped against North Wind’s bite

Watching ice flow by snow softened river bank

She froze transported by transcendent light

A Winter Solstice Lunar Eclipse Yule

Her thoughts flew

WHEN?

When is this place?

At first of dawn or last daylight in the darkest of long night

Through seasons turn with old river’s churn and marching trees

In all her greens through bracken copper to silvery whites

Bathed in Sun Moon Wind Rain now Snow Ice

Here the veil is thin

Ancient voices pour

Blessings

In this ever changing timeless never changing place

Here in the faithful turning of The Wheel

Peace

The Solstice Eclipse 2010

photographed by Foggy who braved -14, in his dressing gown!

Have a fabulous Yule and otherwisely alternative festive season - off to re-light last years Yule log!

Love and Light

Lindsey

Music from Rob - Don't Remember

2010-12-19T11:17:00.000-08:00

Here's another great song from Rob

I've added Damien Hirst's image "Under the Table"

Just seemed like the thing to do!

Thanks Rob - got these toes tapping again

Have a great Yule over there in the Orient!

2010-12-07T12:41:00.000-08:00

How lovely to introduce a beautiful illustrator and fellow blogger

Alexi Francis

I asked her to share some recent work with us.

She's made me revise my thoughts about ballet

This is beautiful!

Thanks Alexi!

With early Winter upon us, I feel that there's a magic in the air that

makes me want to dance! I would love to share my recent illustrations

inspired by a "ballet" video I found on Youtube."

Polina Semionova and newspaper dancers

I didn’t realise I liked ballet so much until I stumbled upon a youtube video of Polina Semionova dancing when I was looking randomly for dance videos. It entranced me so much I had to keep playing it over and over again. I’ve been a fan of Sylvie Guillem and seen Carlos Acosta, but I’m not normally a fan of traditional ballet – it seems so unnatural to be up on pointe. I’ve changed my mind now, I’m a fan, so I’m posting this youtube video and have used it to make some sketches that I did on old newspaper. I like the texture created by the newsprint and the way that it looks transitory and transparent. But I know I haven’t done Polina justice!

Alexi
X

Walking the Mist

2010-12-04T01:43:00.000-08:00

More snow...and freezing fog as well

Makes me want to stay in by the fire and read

this is one of my favourite celtic books at the moment

Walking the Mist
Celtic Spirituality for the 21st Century
by Donald McKinney

anybody got any other recommendations?

please add yours to the comments looks like i will be staying in for a while!

x

Winter Solstice, Yule and SNOW!

2010-12-03T06:09:00.000-08:00

A reminder that Yule is a few short days away and, for a presently shivery, incapacitated, snow bound UK, the days will then start to lengthen and soon we will have beautiful snowdrops to lighten our hearts.

Let us know how you spend this festive season by sending your photos, paintings, words, music or any other arts and crafts or activities.

Look what the snow made me do!!!

Wolsingham Walk

Snowy Pink Dawn

Warming love and light to you all

Lindsey

A Month 'til Yule

2010-11-21T07:22:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, just a month to go and we will be deep in the festive season and our first set of visitors arrives next weekend - the party starts!

Here in the UK snow is predicted for the end of the week, I don't know about you but we're stocking up the cupboard, have hauled out the snow shovel, got in the salt and are just excitedly (OK and somewhat shiveringly) waiting for the countryside to change into her silver and whites.

I thought I'd share with you some images of Sally's fantastic workshop last week in the beautiful and mystical Forest of Dean.

Sally showing us how, Ian (brilliant digital artist btw!) recording the event and me recording the recording of...

Already, exquisite detail emerges

I learnt so much, painted, was inspired, uplifted and motivated by the workshop, by the new techniques we learnt and from the sensitive, clear feedback dealt out with lots of beautiful nurturing support. Thanks Sally!

I want to show you something that I've painted since coming home.

I hope this warms you all up!

AfricanSunSink

Love and light

Lindsey

Samhain

2010-11-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

Samhain 100x120cms

this my samhain painting...the turning wheel...the glorious autumn colour...and thanks to Ian for his inspiring photo below
the stitching influence in this piece is clearer if you click on the painting to enlarge it
and i've written a little more about that on my own blog summerland

Germanic Rune

2010-11-04T06:29:00.000-07:00

An image of Samhain from Ian -thanks m'dear I love the spiral, colours and texture, it is a multi- layered and symbolic image of the turn of the Wheel!

This image seeks to combine Germanic Rune "for completion of the cycle", year, harvest (take your pick, grins!) and Autumn/Samhain ... and about a thousand other things! The concept of permanence is explored in this image, the rock as background, foundation and the plants continually rebuilding, growing and reproducing offer a different style of endurance.

Ian

Samhain Weekend

2010-11-02T11:01:00.000-07:00

A photo diary of an amazing couple of days.......

in Dove Valley Centre's depths

in this beautifully restored eco barn

(A bit dark but you get the idea)
The (fabulous, diverse and comprehensive) creative writing workshop lead by

Elizabeth Wilson of Infinity Development

this is what I wrote....

Dove Valley Peace

Old wood creaks pen scratch laptop tap coffee smell senses feed

Soft Samhain sun falls in waves entices calls

Sound spirals thoughts curl words shape

Then to paper fall drip ooze or leak.

Barn sits square in stone oak lime and time

Soft greens thread the stony holy peaks

Long ploughmarks write the land with ancient song

Stone walls old castle earthworks cattle sheep farms

Life remains

Dove Valley

Cradles

Inspires

Sows seeds and peace

Spiral treasures from Rwanda

More information here
about Elizabeth's recent visit there

Apple Pickle

The best use for a cauldron, or was that the Bombay Potatoes?

and that night, in the stillness and calm

I honoured those who passed before,

placed this beautiful mica clad, ages old, air bubble

here, on my shrine, on top of the loo.

I like to keep a sense of perspective!

Happy New Celtic Year

Love and Light

Lindsey

Severn Journey

2010-10-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a lovely poem from Roger - a thoughtful journey.....

Thursdays are early mornings for me
I get a train at 7-58 that hurtles me into Gloucester
leaving behind the nature of the Forest of Dean
but feeding me with the pleasures
of the ever-always-changing River Severn.....

Where my eyes fail
My dreams arrive

Sparse trees making their slow way
across fields chopped flat

birds clip a xylophone of leaves

some things to remember
some things to do

Mist-cloud-fury of fading dawn
and water curling in its own danger

They threaten windmills
nothing could steal this show

Each word measures my journey
prolongs my memory

Pays back the cost of my ticket
and beckons the day closer

best to all
will send some pics

Roger

......

Samhain Approaches

2010-10-16T04:14:00.000-07:00

If you're having trouble viewing this, please double click on the title (Samhain Approaches) then it may work! Sorry folks - some Blogger anomaly I think - it works Ok through the dashboard!

Squint your eyes and choose to see

I hope that fired you up!

Samhain is a fortnight away and is the start of the Celtic year.

The Wheel has turned full circle, the harvest is home and larders are well stocked, the trees are rapidly shedding leaves and drawing sap into their hearts ready for the winter's rest.

This festival is honoured in many different ways, with fire and feasts, with stories of long ago, with rituals and in "All Hallows Eve" pursuits.

It is a time for remembering departed spirits, their deeds and ways, one of the gateway between the worlds, when the veil is thin.

A time to bring your sheep and cattle (figurative or real) down from the high summer pastures to safety for the spring or to slaughter to sustain us through the dark winter months.

Dunk your apples, feast with friends

Reflect on the year just passing and plan for the next

Light your fires and in them cast your offerings or prayers

Share how you celebrate Samhain by sending your contributions to celticyeartwo@btinternet.com

Love and firelight

Lindsey

banner

2010-10-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

Hi all

Just wanted to say big thanks to Ian for the changes he has made to our banner.

His original art work and Liz's words compliment each other so beautifully.

The words were originally as a spiral around the art and can be seen here

Lindsey

Nobody But Me

2010-10-08T04:54:00.000-07:00

Here a musical contribution from Rob that's sure to get your toes tapping and your empathy engaged!

My apologies for the video but Blogger can't cope with music formats - unless any of you know differently....please..do let me know!

Yay! Thanks Rob and welcome to the Celtic Year

Lindsey

P.S. Rob lives in Japan.....

Norton Woods

2010-10-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Taken on his way to get the biggest and shiniest conkers he had ever seen

in Norton Woods on the way to Clumber park from Bolsover, Derbyshire.

I love this atmospheric, beautifully lit, elegantly framed picture so much

I'm walking through it.

Andrew, thank you for letting me post it and welcome to the Celtic Year!

Lindsey

Abnoba and Autumn Equinox views of Lumsdale

2010-10-01T03:38:00.000-07:00

Abnoba

A slip of a breeze over her dark cloak

She emerges in cool grey ripples

Green foliage skids on the pond

Mouldy squashed berries

Migrating geese rise

Bracken spores float

Abnoba

Arrives

Sighs

Feasting from the fruit of her forest

She dances to a harvest moon

Fly-ing over spiders’ webs

Through hedge, where rose hip twines

Lying by the brook

Under the stones

All alone

Now she

Rests

On the bank, a greedy little dog

Eyeballing the daft, dabbling ducks

The crunch of human foot steps

Concealed by the trees

Abnoba she hears

Poises to fight

But instead

Turns and

Leaves

Abnoba was the Celtic Goddess of the Black Forest itself, a mountain in the Black Forest, childbirth, and a number of rivers; the river Avon is thought to be a variation of her name

Marie

There are more glances of Lumsdale (at Imbolc) here

Derwent Dams

2010-09-30T01:08:00.000-07:00

Here are some wonderful photos and prose from Helen, her first contribution to the blog. Welcome Helen!

The shower broke, a plumber was called – ‘3 November is the soonest I can come’…….’did I give you a date? Sorry can’t make the 3rd, next week looks better, ok the 9th’

The 9th dawned; thick fog, dismal, gloomy. The prospect of heading for the hills was unappealing but the plumber needed a dog free environment.

The higher I drove, the clearer it became until I emerged into the most perfect autumn day!

The air was pure

I wanted to fill my lungs

I greedily inhaled and felt the cleansing effect course through my veins

I wallowed in selfish solitude but wanted to share the experience

The beauty I could see

The freshness of the pine resin I could smell and taste

The all consuming silence I could hear; and

The springy earth I could feel

The calmness of the day gently warmed by the distant sun was reflected in the mirror surface of the untroubled water of the dams and I began to reflect on the blood, sweat and tears lost in the creation of this incredible feat of engineering, the loss and sacrifice of the former residents whose village was laid to rest in the hidden depths of the flooded valley, the provision of water that is taken for granted by those supplied by the dams and the almost guilty pleasure that this day had given me

Derwent Dams

Derbyshire Peak District

When I returned home, the water of the dams was again flowing through my repaired shower!

Helen

Long Meg and her Daughters

2010-09-26T06:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a beautiful autumnal day crossing the Pennines across high moors via the cobbled streets of Alston and the impressive Hartside Pass to visit Long Meg and her Daughters (this link has Wordsworth's thoughts about the circle)

The Lake District from the top of Hartside Pass. I love the fading colours.

Long Meg watching over the circle, oh yes and the cows. These pilgrims paid their respects and left. leaving a stillness, a peace, no human sound, a panoramic sky, the evidence of our ancestors and a buzz in the centre that would not be denied.

Long Meg, silvery lichen highlighting the stern planes and etching the wrinkles of her timeless face.

One of the spiral markings on her side.

More photos to be seen here , ironically we used sat-nav to get to this amazing ancient place, the co-ordinates are NY571372 !

Hugs

Lindsey

Mood: Connected!

The Green Man's Autumn Equinox greetings

2010-09-23T07:33:00.000-07:00

This amazing sculpture is deep in Hamsterley Forest, one of my favourite haunts, it is place of beauty, peace, wild spaces and provides wonderful walking meditation for me. I wrote the poem a few years ago now but it still reflects how I feel about walking in nature - although, these days, with more creaks and groans from both me and the forest I think.

Walking

The physicality of motion

Hips harmonically playing

Striding stretching, bending

Feeling every muscle working

The sensuality of action

Skin glowing, sliding, heart pumping

Optimum function, oxygen flooding

Pleasure centre responding

The practicality of reaction

Through thought, muscle patterning

Feet, legs, body, head all following

Mind appears aimless, meandering

The freedom of distraction

Unconsciously sorting, clearing, storing

Shoulders relaxing back straightening

Peace, balance, tranquillity affirming

The release of emotion,

Earthy walking potion

Body, soul unification

Sanctified inspiration

I'm hoping to go and see Long Meg and her Daughters at the weekend, so watch this space!

Hugs

Lindsey

2010-09-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

A reminder that here the autumn equinox is a week away, enjoy the turn of the seasons!

Harvest Home

Autumn Equinox, Harvest Home, Mabon, or simply
this wild season of winds and gathering for the days ahead,
this time of changing colours and low late summer sunlight,
this time of preparation, of clearing and sorting, of equal day and night.

Breathe in this deepening light, the summer work is done,
the winter's tasks ahead, dance, sing, feast and play,
reflect on all that's past and plan your winter crafts
treasure the Harvest Moon, tend the home fires, honour the Green Man

The Wheel turns on with wisedom, healing and rest.

As some of you will be aware, I became "blog mistress" last Samhain and Sally has proved a hard act to follow! If any contributors would be interested in taking on this interesting task for the next Celtic Year it would be great to hear from you! e-mail me at celticyeartwo@btinternet.com also I'd be very interested to hear your views about the blog, whether we should continue into year 3, how it could develop, oh and, of course, to send your contributions. These could be photos, crafts, painting, writing, music, videos.....don't worry about the Celtic connection - it is worldwide and in our very bones.

Greens, browns, reds, orange and yellows!

Lindsey

Harvest Time

2010-09-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

Another month has passed and we can now feel the hints of Autumn in the air, summer has been such a busy and happy time, so apologies for the lateness of this post.
Since Lammas I've been watching the changing landscape and the greening of the cut hayfields. I wanted to share with you this painting and poem, written for my lovely young friend to remind her of summer.

Magic Meadow

Under summer evening sun in the time after haymaking,
Climbing from greening fields she reached the fairy mound

then sat serenely amongst fantastic flowers.

She connected with black cat who watched

Brownie as he tumbled and laughed.

All silently seen by Heron.

Each at ease in a magic meadow spilt from nature’s book.

and some detail

Enjoy this turning of the seasons, it is less than three weeks until the Autumn Equinox, already my blueberry bushes are changing into their reds and golds and I'm looking forward to more amazing colours from nature.

Hugs

Lindsey

Tap

2010-07-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

Standing, I turn the tap

And the river runs through me

Bathing my fingers in cool serenity

I recall sitting sublime on our riverside
Talking in the balm of a breathless July evening
Fingers trailing

Dusk’s midges rose from the almost still water
Fluid black clouds
Threatened pin prick bites

You laughed as creeping cigarette smoke
Hastened their retreat to munching bovines
Lethargic in summer’s lolling haze

Led inevitably into cool darkness
The conversation drifted, meandered, echoed our companion
Yearning for an ocean to wash our souls clean

The shooting star distracted us
Its death igniting a different passion
That waned too with the fading moon

I recall my digits, invisible in the darkening murk
Of night hidden river
Slowly numbing in the chill water

Shocked, I turn the tap clockwise
Ceasing the flow
Enough is enough

Lizbeth

Lughnasadh/Lammas/FirstFruits/Brón Trogain

2010-07-25T01:39:00.000-07:00

Hi all

Just days now until the celebration of the new harvest, this is a time for gathering and collecting the fruits of our labours, a time for sharing the work and the harvest with others, a time for seeing and planning for what is ahead. Not always easy to achieve I know, the way is often shrouded. This painting is called "At MistRise The Way Appears" and expresses this challenge for me.

Lugh is the Celtic deity of the Arts and of Science and he decreed that a feast should be held at first fruits time to honour his foster mother Tailtui, a royal lady of the Fir Bolg who died of exhaustion trying to clear a forest for planting grain when ordered to do so when defeated by the Tuatha De Dannan. The feast celebrated the harvest and Tailtui's life and games and contests of skills took place. It may be that the Olympic games themselves were started to commemorate fallen heroes and comrades of battles, offering a portion of the harvest to the gods is commonplace in many religions throughout the world, we all give thanks and honour to nature's bounty which sustains us all, on many differing levels. This idea of sacrifice is clear in the Wicker Man, Green Man, Corn Man concepts, the sacrifice to ensure more in the coming next year, this "death" acknowledges the coming of the winter months, but we don't want to dwell on that overmuch just yet, there are many summer days ahead, days for gathering in, for storing and for creating!

I love to try new art forms so here is a small batik with fire, sorry the images have not been tidied up in photoshop -on the wrong computer! Unusually for me, this is untitled as yet, suggestions would be very welcome!

Let us know how you celebrate, I can't wait, lovely friends are joining us for home made pizza (our Celtic 21st century version of bread) and we will have fire, drink and joy!

Summery hugs with love and light

Lindsey

alentejo solstice

2010-07-16T13:45:00.001-07:00

Mothers and Children

2010-07-16T03:04:00.000-07:00

I was tasked to produce a pot after Henry Moore's theme, Mother and Child, this is my take, two mothers, two children with a lovely creamy vellum glaze.
Love and light to you all
Lindsey

The Honey Moon

2010-06-27T06:53:00.001-07:00

Beneath the Honey Moon in evening air

they melted with the shifting land,

basked in her sweet shimmering light,

watched a flight of gazing hares,

heard the promise of summer sun,

tasted the stalking smoothness of cat.

Then he spoke, soft and low, of life ahead,

of the midsummer gathering past,

of their joyful leap through Solstice fire

and children coming tall, fair and brave.

She shared thoughts of beauty, spirit, love.

The Honey Moon smiled on bright and full

and the Wheel turned and all was so.

Painted and written yesterday under The Honey Moon of June 2010.

FeelGoodHugs

Lindsey

Solstice Suns

2010-06-21T12:05:00.001-07:00

Solstice Sun

Funny how paintings turn out sometimes - this is a Sun (in fiery Hubble style) which moved me to paint the next, my romantic version of the Tarot Sun card, a very important card for me!

Solstice Sun
19

Sunny Solstice greetings friends - leave a comment and let me know what you think!

Hugs
Lindsey

Solstice Greetings

2010-06-21T11:13:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all enjoying this beautiful Solstice, the sun is shining and the earth is verdant. Here's a link which will take you to more photos of Lumsdale, Marie's photographs are lovely and capture the atmosphere - I feel as if I know the walk well!

Thanks Marie.

Hugs
Lindsey

Summer Solstice

2010-06-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

The Druids of the ancient Celts celebrated “The Light of the Shore” - Alban Heruin and throughout the northern hemisphere different cultures still honour this time of year, when the days are long and the crops are fulfilling their abundant promise. Following the apex of light and the crowning of the Oak King we are enter the waning light of the year and he falls to his darker aspect, the Holly King.

This is the start of summer with many beautiful days ahead.

The power of the sun is revered and reflected in the lighting of balefires for which differing types of wood are required – have a listen to Nine Trees - The Bale Fire Song by the magical Tinkerscuss here

Fires were lit all over the Celtic lands from sunset the night before midsummer until sunset the next day. They were used to drive out evil and purify, to guard against disease and misfortune and the people would dance or leap through the flames as a rite to strengthen or renew vows

The first (or only) moon of June is called The Honey Moon and was the best time to gather honey from the bees. Honey was said to increase fertility and love and so was fed to newly wed couples. Because of the Celtic custom of renewing vows or making permanent hand-fasting agreements at Midsummer, June remains a popular time for weddings and we still call the period soon after the wedding as “The Honeymoon”.

This next link takes you to some amazing photos of Lumsden by Marie who says:- Lumsdale Valley is one of the secret treasures of Derbyshire. The Arkwright Society sign proclaims ‘A unique heritage of ruined mills: trees ponds and wildlife...’ It is an exceptional example of a water-powered industrial site in a relatively small area.

If you yearn to see more of its archaeological secrets the best time to visit is around the Imbolc festival when nature is almost naked.

The remains of the watermills are intentionally frozen in time, their ghosts trapped by the living, a hidden area of romantic and magical decay. The wooded valley is also a haven for wild animals, birds including Treecreepers and a variety of plant life. At the Summer Solstice it is a shady green retreat. Marie

I can’t wait to see the Solstice pictures!

Have a great time wherever you are and send us your pictures, words, music or any other artistic expression!

Celtic blessings

Lindsey

Summer Storm

2010-05-31T09:25:00.001-07:00

Rain softly falls nurturing the crops
Fertile earth odours tease the senses,
But all the while I feel disconnected.
Silver light flashes from wind dance leaves
Glancing through the edges of life's soul
Dancing, teasing, beckoning; life's wheel turning
And sun bursts through dark cloud with hope returning

Liz and I wrote this a line at a time on Facebook - loving what a status update on facebook can generate

Twinkletingletangle

2010-05-20T02:09:00.000-07:00

Here's a strange little piece I made up whilst falling asleep, I'm not sure of the Celtic connection but it is certainly a tale about a storyteller - good enough for me!

Twinkletinkletangle told a terrible tale in a tenebrous tavern
Of a terrifying territorial tiger with titanic teeth
With tall, tantalising, titanium tips
Of the tintinnabulation of his tone
A timbre with tincture of titan and Thugs
Teasing tremors of terminal thoracic terror
Telling of the thorny threat of tearing toes.
The tale then told Twinkletinkletangle
Tasted his tapas, tackled his tartlet and topped up his tankard
Then tangentially talked of tamarisk and tangerines ‘til twilight.

Hugs
Lindsey

Beltane Beacon

2010-05-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

Fire from sun, fire from flint stones
Come by the beacon and warm your winter bones.
When spring night and day are equal
Our ancestors call from the primeval.
May Rowan boughs on windows and doors
Protect us from underworld scores.
Let livestock graze over hill and dale
Until the juniper moon turns pale.
The green man strolls again!

Wishing you all a joyful summer
Foggy

Beltain Blessings

2010-05-01T10:09:00.000-07:00

I thought you'd like to see this amazing version of Pip Kingsbury's picture which inspired Imbolc Rabbits Drum I just love the joyous drumming rabbit, the acrobatic people seem to dance in a wide open field and it always makes me smile!
Thanks, as ever, to Foggy for "technical support"!
Pip, many many thanks for sending me this picture - it does my heart such good!

I'm just back from seeing the Henry Rothchild ceramics collection at the Shipley in Gateshead and am in awe of the vision, skill and technical genius that I've had the privilege of seeing, but I thought I'd show you one of my latest creations anyway! I tried to make the stars blink but they thought I said chink, this is called.........

Sister Moon Brothers Star

Wishing you all joy at this wonderful greening time of year and a bountiful and inspiring time ahead.

All together now.... loudly sing cuckoo !

Lindsey

Happy Beltain

2010-05-01T04:02:00.000-07:00

Today started with the dawn chorus...progressed through catching up with family and friend... and on to a view of the universe
hopefully a little painting and some photos of the opening bluebells to follow.
Happy Beltain everyone
Sally x

Beltane 2010

2010-04-25T04:39:00.000-07:00

Hi all

Just had to share this photo – a pot my friend Annette has mosaic tiled and looks fab in my kitchen – I love it and can’t wait to see the basil and coriander I’ve sow in it start to grow! Very apt to sow seeds at this time of year and possible even if you only have a window sill, it is such a rewarding, nurturing and calming activity.
For our Celtic ancestors, as it is still for us, this is a time of fertility, a time to sow seeds, to send the livestock with their young to summer and higher pastures. A time to plan, to cleanse, to renew commitments (by jumping through fires) and to celebrate the summer coming in.
The Celtic Year is based on lunar and solar cycles and so it is possible that Beltane was celebrated on the full moon nearest the midpoint between the spring equinox and the summer solstice – the 28th April but the calendar Beltane is 1st May – May Day.
Beltane, like its opposite point on the Celtic Calendar, Samhain, is a time when the veil between the material and spiritual worlds is said to be at its thinnest, particularly at dawn and at dusk, a great time to reflect and to remember our ancestors.

On May Day I’m off with my pottery group to have a look at the Baltic and Shipley Galleries in Newcastle and am hoping for some early ceramics that match the “evidently home-made” look that mine has!

Whether this is Beltane or Samhain for you and whatever you are doing enjoy the fires, the colours, the feasting, music and company of friends. Send in your pictures, thoughts and other diversely recorded observations, emotions and communications about Beltane!

Beltane blessings

LIndsey

P.S. If you’re in need of inspiration have a look at this site for ten ways to celebrate Beltane and for a beautiful horse and rider line drawing! http://www.sunion.warwick.ac.uk/pagan/beltanesteps.htm
For more information try these varied and interesting links.
http://www.feritradition.org/witcheye/andrada.html
Celtic Festival of Beltane or Beltain: May Day Sabbat Brings Light, Life and Fertility
http://paganismwicca.suite101.com/article.cfm/celtic_festival_of_beltane_or_beltain#ixzz0m6lYgZPH B

Equinox

2010-03-20T03:31:00.000-07:00

Two survived the flood.

We are not of their blood,

springing instead from the bones

of the Great Mother - stones,

what have you, rocks, boulders -

hurled over their shoulders

by that pious pair

and becoming people, where

and as they hit the ground.

Since when, we have always found

something hard, ungracious,

obdurate in our natures,

a strain of the very earth

that gave us our abrupt birth;

but a pang too, at the back

Of the mind: a loss...a lack...

Christopher Reid

Happy Equinox Everyone
I'd like to share the poem above which was sent to me by a friend.
It turns out the poem is part of Christopher Reids translation of Ovids Metamorphoses. It was sent to me by Sally Grant whose sculpture is shown above and more here.
You may recognise Sally's work from photos of my home and garden...I have two pieces of work that I love dearly....but the photograph shows 'Whispering Head' in Sally's own garden....enjoying the sun of summer.
Have a lovely day..I intend to visit some standing stones here in the forest....that's if the rain ever stops.

Sally

Equinox greetings

2010-03-20T01:25:00.000-07:00

Silver Snow Drops Open

Silver snow drops open
Saying spring is here and more
Winter’s spell is broken
Nature’s returning law

Storm sighs in passing
As sun returns to land
On every petal lighting
Nature’s loving hand

Coaxing and caressing
Teasing life from soil
Signposts all addressing
Nature’s bounteous toil

Silver snow drops open
Shouting spring is here and more
Gaia has awoken
Unlocked her enchanted door

Love & Light

Lindsey

Spring Equinox 2010

2010-03-12T06:27:00.000-08:00

Hi all

Hope that this gets you thinking about this time of year and that you are inspired to let us know how you celebrate/feel or act, a message, a poem, prose, a painting, music, jewelry, dance or any form of artistic expression would be very welcome!

Spring Equinox, Vernal Equinox, Alban Eiler, Ostara, Eostre, Easter, Higan (Japan), Nowruz (Iran), Independence Day (Tunisia), Earth Day (Green), Baha’I New Year, Holi (Hindu)……………

All over the world people celebrate this beautiful Sun Festival!

The equinox approaches, this wonderful time of balance, equality and harmony in dark and light, the excitement of knowing that the balance is shifting into light, I love it – winter blues being blown away by growth and new life.

I wonder if any of you have been watching The Wonders of the Solar System – fascinating and beautiful – the sun, the life bringer, our brilliant star.

Now is a time of fertility and growth, a time for sowing seeds, literal and metaphorical, for watching flora and fauna going just a bit crazy in the urge to reproduce, like the amazing hares who are usually nocturnal but in March, well…..
It’s a time for nesting, refreshing, launching new ideas, careers, relationships, a time for preparation for the coming bountiful months ahead.

This is also an opportunity for reflection, introspection and evaluation of current events and/or situations in your life, to think about where there may be imbalance, where you might need to let go of the past and focus on preparing for the future, how you can realize your dreams and desires. The process helps to shift the balance into areas of your life that may have been neglected over the winter month when survival mode can unwittingly engage!

Old traditions for celebrating include: wear green, ritually plant seeds, bless the earth, draw water from a running stream before sunrise, dye and decorate eggs and give them to friends.

Most of all enjoy the equinox wherever you are, be happy, be supported, be in gratitude (My favourite word just now – my coach’s fault, bless her!)

Celtic hugs
With
Love and Light
Lindsey

PS - In a pink fluffy mood clearly!

Many a Slip twixt Cup and Lip

2010-02-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

Agnes chatted about her latest artworks as she drove recklessly, circumnavigating the sheep that lazed and wandered along the lanes, apparently content to commit suicide. I wished again that I’d hired a car as we lurched around another shaggy ewe, brushing the overhanging branches of a horse chestnut.
The rusty car had once been British Racing Green, but now the classy paint resembled jungle camouflage. ‘It’s a classic, don’t you know’, Agnes had responded to my look of chagrin.
Meeting me at the isolated train station, she explained that we would lunch at an authentic organic restaurant, with some ‘simply adorable’ people. The restaurant turned out to be as unusual as the artist. At the end of a farm track full of pot holes, all I could see was an old barn and a welcome sign.
Parking was easy. We slid to a halt; the bonnet wedged into a steaming pile of something smelly, next to an aging Jaguar and a black Mini.
Agnes leapt out of the car, her flowing silk scarves and crimson skirt narrowly escaping entrapment in the rusting door.
“Come along Sweetie. I’m so hungry I could eat my easel!” she called, striding energetically through the mud.
I followed, after elbowing the interior of the stuck door several times to release it. She had warned me about its schizophrenic nature but quite frankly I was becoming more concerned with hers.
Once free from the metal prison I immediately regretted wearing my new purple Jimmy Choos. My beautiful designer shoes with their satin ribbons and hand made lace bows sank with an easy sigh into the farmyard ordure.
I’d justified the £300 price tag by convincing myself that Agnes would be impressed by my exquisite and creative taste. If appointed, the investment would be nothing compared to the deferred fame and fortune that being PA to an internationally renowned artist would give.
Sighing and saying goodbye to my footwear and money, I squelched towards my fate, feigning an enthusiastic smile.
“Come on girl!” she yelled, creating a flurry of feathers and squawking as she swished through several somewhat startled chickens.
With a shake of her multi-coloured mane, she entered the barn. Following close behind, I saw four unusual looking people turn to greet us.
“Daaarlings, so glad you could make it. So gorgeous of you to come,” she enthused, air kissing the assembled group.
“Now you simply must say hello to my visitor, but please try not to scare her. Where is dearest Alonso; in the kitchen? I must find him at once.”
My fellow lunch guests regarded me with amusement, confusion, or disregard as our hostess began her search for the cook.
“You an artist then?” asked a young man petulantly, avoiding eye contact behind his curtain of hair.
“No, er, I’ve come for an interview.”
He shrugged acknowledgement and turned away, nervously fingering a sketch book.
“An interview, an interview!” parroted an elderly lady in the manner of Edith Evan’s Lady Bracknell, her eyes dancing frenetically around the restaurant.
“Hello, I’m the Major. Don’t worry about the old bird, she’s as mad as a tree on manoeuvres” quipped an older man, blessed with an ample grey handle bar moustache, stained yellow with pipe tobacco.
The remaining guests were seated and carrying on their own private conversations when Agnes returned.
“Sit girl, sit,” she waved in my direction and at once I found myself inelegantly steered into a seat by the old Major, who immediately sat beside me, smiling just a little too much.
The white haired lady was placed next to me; a faint whiff of something unpleasant surrounding her.
“Where’s my coffee?” she asked.
As I was about to reply, she continued, “I haven’t had my coffee yet.”
“Oh do be quiet Mother,” snapped Agnes before turning her cat like eyes to me “You’re not veggie are you deary, I know how you Londoners can be and I’m just not sure that Alonso could cope?”
“No, I eat anything,” I smiled, lying.
“Jolly good. Now where’s that waitress?”
“I eeez ere, modam” oozed the Eastern European waitress. She almost smiled as she passed the menu, turned her back and left.
I looked around the interior of the restaurant. Unidentifiable farm implements were conspicuously placed near tables and the red brick walls. The grey flagstone floor was swept and the walls were adorned with what appeared to be torture instruments. I surmised from the escaping steam, that the only interior door opened into the kitchen.
The conversation buzzed around and over me. I was beginning to feel invisible when the Major spoke.
“What brings a lovely city filly like you to this neck of the woods?
Ignoring his obvious sexism and ageism, and figuring he was one of Agnes’s friends, I decided to go with the flow.
“An interview as PA. I’ve always admired Agnes and her work.”
“Is my coffee here yet?” interrupted the artist’s mother as the waitress returned with a cafetiere and cups, which she plonked loudly onto the table.
“Your orders, pleez.”
The orders were taken.
Slowly.
Our waitress had little grasp of English and her frequent attempts at clarification simply resulted in further confusion as her thick accent stumbled over the names of the dishes.
“No, no, no. I said steak, well done, not steak wellington,” fumed an overdressed lady wearing a homemade Carmen Miranda style hat, heavily strewn with wild strawberries; complete with roots and occasionally falling nuggets of peat. Her bright, primary coloured flowery dress would have been more at home at an African celebration. Her verdant ensemble possibly explained the chickens that pecked hungrily around her feet.
“This is hopeless,” announced ‘Carmen’, as she stood up and snatched the waitresses pad. Turning to the guests she quickly clarified their orders, thrust the list into the waitresses hand and waived her way without making eye contact.
“You simply can’t get the staff these days. In my day, things were different. One mistake resulted in a day’s wages being lost. No doubt the silly girl has never even heard of Silver Service.”
I became aware that the Major had placed his hand on my knee and was squeezing it rhythmically in time with guffaws at a joke nobody had made. I fixed him with a hard stare, but before I had chance to speak, the hand was gone, pointing at Mother who had finally been poured a cup of coffee.
“Where’s the milk? I need the milk,” she repeated; the volume increasing with her desperation.
“Be patient mother! It will be here soon” called Agnes across the table. Our eyes met, “Sorry darling, I should have left her at home, but you can see how it is. She just can’t be trusted not to burn the place down...I assume you can type and do all that e-mailing and internet stuff, darling. It’s such a tedious bore.”
“Oh yes, no problem. I touch type and I set up a web....”
Agnes had turned to Carmen, oblivious to my reply.
“Darling, what do you think? Will she do? I need a PA who can make a statement.”
“I’m familiar with dealing with the press and TV, so I’m sure I could manage to represent you as you wish,” I interrupted, eagerly self publicising.
Agnes laughed, her trill warble building to an infectious waterfall which spread around the table. I smiled uncomfortably.
“An artistic statement of course, my darling girl! Oh how adorably funny you are. Are you always so witty? You do drive don’t you?”
All eyes had turned to me now, except for Mother, who was on her knees under the table searching for the milk.
“Cars, or golf balls?” I quipped back, pleased with my speedy retort.
“Cars of course, what are you talking about? Are you sure you’re alright?”
“She’s more than alright for me,” the Major smirked, winking at me as he put a flabby arm around my shoulders. Close up, I noticed flecks of saliva clinging stubbornly to his moustache. I grimaced involuntarily and pulled away.
“Oh Major, do try to keep your hands to yourself for once,” scolded Agnes before turning to the sullen young man and talking quietly to his bent head. Occasionally he looked up to glance at me with sharp blue eyes and scan the party, before once more regarding his lap.
Ignored again, I began to wonder how much I wanted this job. Admittedly, the salary was good, Agnes renowned and potentially agreeable to my writing her biography. This eccentric and reclusive artist had so far resisted all media attempts to communicate with her, but maybe I was the girl to reveal all.
“Zee milk is ‘ere modom.” The waitress returned with a jug and a plate of assorted bread rolls which she crashed onto the table. She hurried away before any enquiries as to the imminent arrival of food could be made. It had been thirty minutes since the orders were taken and I was getting hungry.
A cold hand suddenly grasped my ankle under the table. Shocked, I accidentally knocked the milk jug over and triggered further pandemonium.
Under the table, Mother banged her head and cursed loudly. The sullen young man sprang to his feet and began an animated dance, frantically spinning round whilst wiping milk from his velvet jacket. Carmen hurried to the kitchen for a cloth and Agnes laughed, clapping her hands as she did so.
“Not me Agnes. Look. Hands on table!” cried the Major, relieved that for once, he wasn’t the guilty party.
“Mother, get out from under there at once. The milk’s here.” Turning to me, she added “Be a darling and sort her out. She’ll settle down once she’s got her coffee. Now where is that food?”
Carmen reappeared on cue from the kitchen, carrying a cloth and four plates cleverly balanced between her strong fingers. She was being pursued by the waitress who quickly overtook her and tried to wrestle the plates from her hands.
“Take your hands off me and get back to the kitchen at once. That’s all you’re good for, young lady!”
Alonso appeared and deftly loosened the waitress’s grasp on the plates, whilst yelling at her in Croatian. With a scowl and a look that could melt chocolate, she returned to the kitchen, arms waving as she ranted.
“Agnes, I’m soo sorry. What a disaster. What can I say?”
“It’s just theatre darling, don’t worry,” Agnes flashed her green eyes at him, her pupils dilating; “everything will be wonderful!”
Carmen placed the plates on the table. Alonso returned with the remaining meals; red faced, dripping sweat and smelling of burning fat.
It was impossible to work out which meal belonged to whom.
“How creative! Let’s eat some of each and vote on the best one!” exclaimed Agnes.
By now, I no longer cared about food, I just wanted to leave the madness and speak to Agnes alone.
An explosion from the kitchen was followed quickly by Alonso and the waitress bursting through what remained of the door, smoke and flames close behind.
“Fire! Get out, quickly,” screamed Alonso as he made a bee line for Agnes and swept her deftly away from danger.
The Major and I took Mother’s arms and semi-carried her out of the barn, despite her attempts to take the coffee with her. Carmen shrieked her escape, fruit flying; sullen young man following close behind.
“What a hoot,” squealed Agnes “I haven’t had so much fun in ages!”
The restaurant soon became a blazing pyre, its corrugated metal roof collapsing into its belly with a tearing whumph. In the distance sirens sounded.
Agnes turned to me, a bi-polar grin on her face, her eyes dancing.
“I assume you still want the job? It’s yours for the taking, darling.”
I considered my reply. It was still my fantasy job even if it wasn’t quite what I expected.
“I accept.”
I smiled enthusiastically, praying the dream wouldn’t be a nightmare after all.

LizBeth

5 star bore...

2010-02-26T01:00:00.001-08:00

Its going to be a biggie....Severn Bore this full moon....pictures from www.severn-bore.co.uk where there are more photos and timetables.
Hope to see some of you there...I wont be one be one of those in a wet suit btw
Sally

Imbolc images to dream in

2010-02-12T02:52:00.000-08:00

My first pinch pot

Burning of the Yule greens

Pink and purple sunset

Love and light Lindsey

Imbolc Rabbits Drum

2010-02-02T00:04:00.000-08:00

the old cat meows and dances with a fallen leaf
trees begin to shake out their grief
hens again start to cluck and lay
whilst winter whines “but, I want to stay”

sheep stoically birth their lambs
as farmers talk up the best of rams
birds hungrily replenish weight
but winter still will not abate

cows loom and lumber through the mist
whilst winds coldly fly freezing fist
through relentless rain on sodden ground
is felt nature’s rhythm in joyous sound

staunchly snowdrops shape then show their head
robin song round old holly heralds Brigid’s tread
the cyclical battle over, the Oak King again has won
and rabbits drum in the lengthening days, the sun

Drum drum drum rabbits, louder please

Drum Drum DRUM!

Love and Light for Imbolc from Phillippe (Image) and Lindsey (inspired by Phillippe's vision) -Words

moon woman

2010-02-01T08:57:00.000-08:00

this beautiful moon woman arrived today...

she's from Haiti and hand made from recycled metal drums

i found her by following a link on India's blog leading to handeye a new magazine about connecting cultures and inspiring action

if you would like your own mermaid, godess, sun or rara band there are still plenty here

at the moment all the proceed of brandaid sales will be used in the Haitain relief efforts

my moon women is going to hang in the new studio...just as soon as i can get there
and the jolly band are going to be marching through the office

What does Imbolc mean to you?

2010-01-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

Silver Snow Drops

Hi Celtic Yearites

Only 2 (or is it 6???) days 'til Imbolc, a Fire Festival when we banish winter and welcome spring - the old ones were wise - giving us reasons to celebrate at the dreek time of year! Today it is alternatively snowing, hailing and sleeting all washed down with lashings of freezing rain. Just the weather for curling up with a hot computer and thinking about Imbolc and I can see the first shoots in the garden - broad beans, onions and my favourite first flower - the snowdrop.

Imbolc is Brigid's day, the light bringer, the young maiden of spring, the exalted one, a woman of wisdom. She is the goddess of protection, healing, poetry and divination.Brigid is the maiden goddess of the hearth, marriage, healing, poetry, smithcraft and plenty. She is also reknown for weaving, dying and brewing. There have been many manifestations or assimilations of Brigid in different cultures through the years and there are so many legends about her. Lots of information on line, try http://www.chalicecentre.net/imbolc.htm - plenty of other sites as well of course!

According to this (delightful I thought) Home Educators' site:-
Imbolc translates as "in the belly" and talks about the seeds stirring in the soil and the lactation of ewes (love it- great title for a movie). There are recipes full of green shoots, honey, milk and bread - traditional Imbolc foods, simple ways to mark the day and even weather predictions! http://www.muddlepuddle.co.uk/The%20World/Festivals/Imbolc.htm

Imbolc Colors: White, Silver, and Pale Yellow

Well I hope this has provided some inspiration for a piece from your differing disciplines for the Celtic Year blog -send them to celticyeartwo@btinternet.com

Lit a fire my friends and burn the Yule greens to send winter on its way.

Love and light

Lindsey

A New Light

2010-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

Snow has passed, revealing forgotten

Stark grey sky,

Dull browns that crowd the spirit.

Russet orange life teases tree fingers

Iridescent green lichens decorate exposed boughs

Earth damp air lays heavy, odorous

Yet collared doves rejoice,

Sleek now,

Flutter dancing

Amidst lofty branches,

Beckoning spring

Lizbeth
X

Imbolc 2010

2010-01-30T07:22:00.000-08:00

a bit early but here is 'pink flags in a winter garden'
completed today after looking at the garden with is latest light covering of snow

sally

Greetings from Fi

2010-01-22T02:11:00.000-08:00

Happy new decade to you and all the celtic projectors :-)

Am afraid to say that I've lost internet connection at home - boo hoo - haven't had the web since 22nd December, looks like it's going to be a while longer too.

Hope all goes well with the Imbolc festival contributions. Speak when I have regular net access.

Fi
xx

Leicester Green Man

2010-01-18T11:24:00.000-08:00

Sheila's photo of this beautiful Green Man carving in Leicester.

Happy New Words from Roger

2010-01-18T10:41:00.000-08:00

16/1/10
First day clear of snow in the Forest of Dean and from the upstairs of a bus ploughing through to Gloucester, the world looks a brighter colour........

Saturday 2 weeks into January
and only now does it seem
like the year is beginning

Nature has steered these 14 days
its temperatures, its weather,
its sloth on our ambition
its taste and beauty, challenge and uncertainty.

From this bus everything looks clean and fresh.
the grass has sprung verdantly
sky looks unsure, as if a
world of snow could still be produced at will, plain paper white.

so different public transport-the atmosphere, people you don't meet otherwise-what you hear and up front upstairs the view of another world...
close to my ear-he leans forward so I can hear softly "going to ask Shirley to get engaged-yeh..see you later Shane yeh..ok"

roger

Liz's Winter Poem

2010-01-10T11:05:00.000-08:00

7.30a.m.

Light gleans eerily across diamond snow

Collecting refracted star bursts

Crystals form ice queen palaces

Her warm breath, an exquisite death.

Lone swan searches biting river

Outstretched neck desperate with loss

Salmon breasted chaffinch lands heavily

Snow plumps groundward, revealing season's green

Matchstick trees spread blackened fingers skyward

In ominous hope, trunks planted in sugar dust for consistency

Nature's pregant pause hangs heavy

As winter rests a new fools blanket.

Yule 2009

2010-01-08T08:26:00.000-08:00

A Yule Dream Remembered 2009

Last night I dreamt that I awoke
And watched the sunrise red and gold
Icicles shimmered but did not drip
Snow covered the fields the forest
All was still and crisp

The Lodge stirred with life
A Royal Yule hunt was afoot
Abigail helped my dressing
Broke my fast on bread with cheese
Drank deeply of strong hot mead

Hounds gave voice and fed
Then readied for the chase
Horses saddled and steadied
Straining and pulling at the bit
The bitter air was ripe and rich

Alexander appeared and mounted
A stallion white and true
He signalled the start
Loud horns and trumpets blew
And away they raced by horse or foot

The party vanished from view
And we excitedly withdrew
Or rather the scene shifted
As in dreams they do
To the hot heart where cauldrons brew

Roasting steaming baking
Turning glazing basting
Ales mead foreign wines
Nuts and berries golden pies
Fit to feed the Royal horde

Then once more a sideways skew
A hall filled with smoke and fire
Laughter ringing goblets’ chatter
Tables laden trestles bowing
Lords and ladies scraping sowing

Storyteller juggling
Harps flutes drums all dancing
Sorrow speeches praises given
Heroes lauded handed honours
All endeavours by song saluted

That night I dreamt that I awoke
And watched the sunrise red and gold
Icicles shimmered but did not drip
Snow covered the cars and houses
All was still and crisp

love and light

Lindsey

Solstice greetings from Sheila

2009-12-21T10:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Solstice one and all, I know it's the shortest day but it means that tomorrow daylight will be longer and we will be heading towards spring!

Sheila

More about painting and especially the Moon!

2009-12-11T02:34:00.000-08:00

Hi all

I had wanted to try painting again for a while, so the chance to get a free lesson from an expert was brilliant! I just knew Sally would be a great teacher. It was lovely standing between you two as Sally first demonstrated and then guided us. I could feel the bond and energy between us all. I felt relaxed about the whole process; not worried and tense as I would normally feel in that sort of situation. There was no expectation, pressure to 'perform'; it didn't matter what happened - all in a goood way of course! I felt like a child again as we worked on our own projects. It was liberating, fun; getting in touch with part of me I had forgotten about. It was magical watching the paintings dry; nipping out in the dark and then seeing them in the morning. The final touches in the morning really helped mine come alive, thanks to all the advice and guidance from you two. I'm really looking forward to seeing it again!

Hugs

Liz

xxx

remember me?

2009-12-06T01:38:00.000-08:00

hello...I've been a stranger here recently. A very busy time with my work and a very unhelpful computer that cuts out ...often.... has kept me away.
As Lindsey has mentioned she has picked up baton of the Celtic Year and will be reminding everyone of the upcoming festival dates.....but as ever its fantastic to see the varied contributions at any and all times. I'm sure Lindsey will make an excellent job of inspiring everyone into continuing to contribute to another wonderfully eclectic Celtic Year blog.
I am off on my travels later today...off to some very welcome sunshine in Australia and Papua New Guinea. I will be reading the blog as and when I can and hopefully contributing. As some of the places we are staying don't have electricity let alone internet this may not be often!
But I will of course be thinking of you all....lots of love...see you all soon,
Sally x

PS if you fancy a break in one of 'the last untouched wildernesses in the Pacific' have a look here

We Remember

2009-12-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

Thought I would like to share - I have written a poem on the death of a singer. Katherine came with her Mum to our folk club and she had an amazingly strong voice. Although she was born with Downs Syndrome she so enjoyed joining in and often stood up and sang on her own. She died suddenly just over a week ago of septasemia and she will be much missed.
It's very short and I hope it means something to those who have lost loved ones at this time of year.

We Remember

For those who have gone before
We play this tune.
For those who have gone before
We sing this song.
For those who have gone before
We do what must be done,
We Remember.

Sheila

Painting fairies

2009-12-02T04:30:00.000-08:00

Today I varnished 3 paintings. The first was a "master-class" from Sally that we all contributed to; the next two were what Liz and I produced as a result of Sally’s skilled tutorage. It was a fantastic experience to work with my Celtic sisters and I think that this shows. I hadn’t realized that we had been painting fairies and pixies, butterflies and moons but we were.
The birches, Beth, are bright, shining and feminine. They are magical trees, protective, creative and healing, I always feel cleansed and grounded when near any trees but I especially love the Lady of the Woods and the dappled whispering light around her.
So I have named my painting Three Sisters and for me it is full of symbolism at this time of change. Many of you will know that Sally has passed on the Mistress of the Blog’s green leafy hat to me and so for another year and a day (give or take) I will be reminding you of upcoming dates in the Celtic Year (this bit scares me – I don’t even remember my family birthdays!) and posting your contributions. I’ve been looking at the amount of work we have on the blog and am so impressed – there are pieces which make me laugh, cry, ponder, puzzle and I am in awe of the talent in our wonderful community! There is such a rich Celtic ethos running through the project with artisans collaborating, sharing or sparking ideas and simply celebrating nature.
Here, or wherever we are, on each of the festivals, solstice and equinox we’ll send unconditional love to you and drink to - The Celtic Year Project.

Love and light

Lindsey

Saturday Afternoon LIVE READING

2009-11-19T05:13:00.000-08:00

Hi all

Here's Roger and Saturday Afternoon, written for Imbolc and read at Samhain. Loving these live readings!

Hugs

Lindsey

Central Reservation LIVE READING!

2009-11-12T01:57:00.000-08:00

Here's Liz performing her poem "Central Reservation" during a celebration in the Forest. Enjoy!

Hugs
Lindsey

How the Celts established the Great Slavic Empire 632AD

2009-11-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

here's a contribution from Natalie who says:

this is a mild satire, based on historical facts: The King Samo existedHe was of Celtic origin, a merchant from Franc empire (today's France) and united Slavic tribesHe had 12 wives, 22 sons and 15 daughters

How the Celts established the Great Slavic Empire 632AD

“So, tell me, Samo, do you think of being a travelling merchant for the rest of your life or have you ever thought of settling down?” asked an old man with long, grey plaited hair as he’d just passed a stone cup full of mead to the young man he’d addressed. The old man was an elder of one of the Wends tribes, or Slavs as they were also known. On the other hand, his guest Samo, the honorary merchant of the Franc Empire, visited them every year, trading honey, leather, salt and iron tools.“I don’t know, sir, but you are right, I am getting a bit old, I am twenty – two already!” Samo admitted truthfully and passed the cup to another bearded, long-haired elder on his right.“Quite right,” said Vladimir. The elders of the other Slavic tribes murmured in agreement. “Are you married, Samo?”“Not really,” said Samo, blushing secretly in the flickering light of the fire. In actual fact, he was already married – five times. All done for business purposes, of course, to seal the deal. The chances were that he would never see any of his wives in all these barbaric realms of Europe again.“And what is your opinion on that new God I have heard about? Personally, I don’t think much of him, because he got himself killed, crucified of all things. He can’t be that powerful. Anyway, it would not have happened to our Perun, the God of thunder,” continued Vladimir.Samo didn’t know what to say and asked instead: “Eh - So what does your name - Vladimir mean anyway?”“Oh, curious, are you? It means ‘the ruler of the universe’, ” a distinct pride was heard in his voice. The other elders murmured in agreement as Vladimir stretched his varicose legs towards the fire and had another sip of mead from the cup. “The thing is, Samo, that we are at a loss. We have met with other elders from other tribes in Bohemia, Moravia and Slovakia, and we would like to unite, you know, against the cruel and merciless warriors from the East called “the Avars”, and of course, it would not hurt being stronger against you Francs, either.”“I am a Celt,” repeated Samo. “It’s all the same,” said Vladimir, “we can’t agree who would be our leader, our king. We keep arguing. You see, all the other elders in other tribes are also called Vladimir.”Samo looked at the men sitting around the fire with astonishment: “You are all Vladimirs?” The elders nodded and stroked their long beards with dirty hands. Samo ceased to breathe for a minute. What the hell does this mean? ‘I just want the deal, give me the deal, for heaven’s sake, I will pray to your Perun or Lada or any of your Gods if you like! Just give me the deal!’ he thought to himself. “And we thought of you.” Vladimir concluded. “Of me?” Samo looked completely confused. My Perun, this mead stuff the Slavs prepare must be strong. I would kill for a pint of Guinness! “Yes, you would be perfect. You are impartial, young, handsome, and clever; understand the world and you speak our language. We want you to be our king,” the elder finished triumphantly. Ten long seconds of silence followed during which all the other men around the fire stared at Samo. “But why do you need me? I mean you are renowned as fierce, cruel warriors...” said Samo hesitantly. “Samo, to tell the truth we are not. That’s the power of Eastern European propaganda. We don’t fight and when we do, we always loose. Then we have got to resort to Plan B.” “What is Plan B?” “We give them our daughters,” said Vladimir. “You give your daughters to the Avars?” repeated Samo. But before anyone could reply a hooded figure of a woman danced into the circle, stretched her arms in front of her and in a husky voice, she spoke: “I can see a great nation rise that in the next fifteen hundred years will be hated by everyone in Europe. It will never win any war, yet survive. It will consist of 38% Slavic, 37% Germanic and 10% Celtic DNA.” Vladimir sighed: “That’s my daughter Libuše, she is a seer. I see she predicts that nothing will change in the future. If you can‘t beat them, marry them, that’s what I say.” He sounded rather pleased with himself. “Anyway, you are a man who has travelled the world: can you explain to me - what is this DNA she speaks of?” Samo shrugged his shoulders. “Never mind,” said Vladimir, “she speaks of things that we cannot possibly know. And she is a Slavic lady; they are all deranged, you know? Lovely, but completely crazy. So what do you say, Samo? You can be our king and I can give you my daughter for wife. She was a blessing from our Goddess Živa, who gives life and love. I thought we would never have any children, my wife and I. I kept praying and making sacfrifices and then one day, twenty-one years ago, an Avar warrior arrived in our village to collect tax. He stayed in our mudhut and our hospitality was great. We agreed to give our corn, our honey, our linen, our cattle and five of our daughters. As we truly bonded over the two weeks, the evening before his departure I confessed to my new Avar friend about my pain of not having any offspring of my own. He promised that he would perform his own magic and sacrifice to his gods. And the Gods listened and nine month later, my wife gave birth to a gorgeous girl, to my Libuše. Look, how beautiful she is! She looks like no one else, with her high cheekbones and dark brown hair.“ You do see those cheekbones in Avars, thought Samo to himself but said nothing because he did not want to disturb the father‘s pride. He looked at Libuše again: admittedly she was stunning. “I am not sure, Vladimir,” said Samo, “it’s a tricky one. I have told you before, I am a Celt and I am a bit concerned about your treatment of the Celts in this region. I fear that they are becoming a bit marginalised in your society.” “Fear not, my dear Samo, because we believe: live and let live. So they can live in their funny stone forts and we do what we do best. We don’t fight them, we marry them.” “All right, all right, but what do you offer to them if they are going to live in my new empire?” pressed Samo.“What about if we let the Celts name all the rivers and mountains,” suggested the elder. Samo considered for a second: “That sounds like a fair deal.” The hooded figure of the seer Libuše jumped into the circle at that point again, with arms stretched forward: “I can see the most beautiful city on the river with a strange Celtic name, a city of stone, with stone bridges. A daughter of my daughter of my daughter of my daughter of my daughter of my daughter will lay foundations of its glory. She will be a seer like me and she will bear my name Libuše.” “You see,” said Vladimir, ”what a shame! My daughter predicts a bloody Celtic city here, not a proper wooden hut or a lovely mud hut with a straw roof like any cilivilised Slav ought to posses.” “So, what is your decision, Samo?” “Well,” Samo pretended to hesitate, being a hardened business negotiator, however the deal was far too good to resist. “I see,” said Vladimir, “ one wife is not quite enough for a worldly man like you. What about two?” “Eh?” “OK, that’s insulting, I agree. Five?” “But –“ “Seven!” “But –“ “Ten!” “But” “Twelve – that’s maximum we can offer,” insisted Vladimir. Samo took a deep breath. “All right, Vladimir, twelve wives will do. I will take the job. But you ought to know it’s a huge compromise on my side.”

Cabaret @ the Garden Cafe!

2009-11-09T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone

Just a reminder that tomorrow night, Tuesday 10th November 2009, there will a cabaret celebrating the Celtic New Year. There will be readings, paintings, textile art and music from Tinkerscuss and the usual wonderful food from Paul at the Garden Cafe.

See you there

Hugs
Lindsey

Under 13 moons

2009-11-02T02:43:00.001-08:00

under the 13 moons
between the two rivers
i hear a voice
it isn’t the voice of reason
it isn’t the voice of radio 4
the voice says
stop
listen...
when you’re lost the forest will answer

This is the first year i have stayed a full year in the forest...i haven't been to Bali or to Portugal for a month at a time as i often do.
this painting and poem celebrates that a year and a day
also a year and a day since the Celtic year blog started.
A year and a day...a good Celtic time...that is how long i planned to post to this blog.
Thank you to everyone who has made it such an amazing experience.
The Celtic Year blog will continue.... all be it with a new Mistress of the Blog....more about that soon....and of course i will still be contributing
In the meantime I hope you enjoy the wonderful variety of contributions we have had for Samhain....keep scrolling down...
any more contributions welcome...please send to me at celticyear-project@yahoo.co.uk

Sally x

Samhain (and Autumn Equinox!)

2009-11-02T02:26:00.001-08:00

Happy Samhain!
I've been pruning my apple trees and making apple cake.

Last winter I helped my friend Kate prune her beautiful old apple trees. I so love the shapes of the trees, the aroma and colour of the fruit and blossom, I was inspired to make a shelf and baskets using the wood and celebrating the colour.

In September when out walking I was inspired to make a piece celebrating the abundance of blackberries. I made and embellished a 2D apron, and incorporated some of the text from Mary Oliver's poem, "Blackberries".

I'm conscious that my Apron might not really fit in with the Samhain theme, I think it's more related to Autumn Equinox, which is what I was celebrating when I began working on it.

I find gathering food from the brambles and fruit trees humbling, a reminder of the wealth in what the earth offers us.

Lizzie

First post on the Celtic Year, Lizzie...Samhain and the Autumn Equinox in one post it could start a trend!
Thank you , Sally

Sunset skyline

2009-11-02T02:17:00.000-08:00

sunlight flees the fields
as softly sun turns to mellow moon
and whispers 'see you soon, silver lady, soon'

This photo was taken on a walk through beautiful woods at the end of a beautiful day full of amazing light, the transitional sort! I had to write something on it about the promise the sun makes to the moon each night and especially at Samhain!

Lindsey

Helos Odev

2009-11-02T02:03:00.000-08:00

Part One Samhain

Carla recalled that tragic Saturday morning, not that many years later; the memory was still clear and very painful to her. The day had begun quite promisingly, cold sunshine in a cloudless blue sky.....

now read on here

Marie has written a story in four parts...one for each of the Celtic year festivals.

Rather than just pubish part one Samhain here in the Celtic Year blog she has put the all together on her own blog.
This is a good move...because if like me you find you have to read all the way through to the end in one sitting... you can!

This is a brilliant modern fairy story...one to read in front of the fire on these long nights...I hope you enjoy it as much as I did
Sally

Samhain

2009-11-02T01:56:00.000-08:00

The veil is thin.

They are calling
Crying
Pushing
Reaching to connect,
Caress.

Pressing
To mend the undone,
To say the unsaid.

Left behind as the world turns
They cling
Cloy
Merging
Stung by longing

Fires light the way,
Crackling
Concerts to their passing
Redrawing the veil
The cycle begins anew.

Liz

First draft 30th Oct 09
2nd draft 31st Oct 09

A Vanity of Bags

2009-11-02T01:55:00.000-08:00

‘Hi, I’d like to exchange these bags. I don’t seem to have had them long but they’ve gone all creased and keep bulging out of shape.’
‘Let me see Madame. We guarantee our products for thirty years; may I ask how long you’ve had them?’
‘Well…, it’s a bit longer than that now I think about it, but I’ve always looked after them well.’
‘Oh really Madame? Do you take them to parties, pubs, smoky places or on holiday?’
‘Well, I do have a very busy life. Anyway, just how could I have left them behind?’
‘Of course you’re right Madame. However, it appears to me that the quality of our products has exceeded their guarantees. They actually look pretty good considering the treatment they’ve had.’
‘But can’t you help me? I simply must look my best.’
‘I’m afraid there’s not really anything I can do for you, Madame.’
‘Are you sure? I’ll consider anything, anything at all.’
‘Well maybe…’
‘What is it? I have to know.’
‘Madame I suggest you either pay for repairs, although that can be expensive and the results never look absolutely convincing, or, you can pre-order much harder wearing skin around the eyes for use in your next reincarnation. Of course, you would have to make quite a sacrifice in order to qualify for this exclusive service.’
‘Ok…what sacrifice?’
‘Our Creative Design Department’s current offer is one bespoke physiological request in exchange for an IQ drop of ten points. So, that would be twenty IQ points in your case ’
‘What a relief; that’s not really much of a sacrifice is it?’
‘Madame is absolutely correct; your decision suits you perfectly.’
‘Oh, thanks; nice of you to say that. Where do I sign?’

Liz

First notes 30th Oct 09
First typed 31st Oct 09

A Pinch of Sunlight

2009-11-02T01:45:00.000-08:00

With Samhain comes the deep darkening gloom,
Collars turn against the cloying damp.
Cheery fires lit in cosy rooms.
Summer ends.
Break the harvest camp.
Open out the fruit preserves.
If only we could pickle a pinch of sunlight!
Foggy

living in the forest

2009-10-28T01:46:00.000-07:00

through every window i see the forest....and it sees me
the house faces east and west...its in a valley that runs north to south...
how different that is...
how aware of the day passing i am...from the early first light that i see bringing the forest in front of the house alive as i make my tea...tea to be drunk in bed with the forest in front of me...then down to the table where i sit at the computer....more tea as the sun reaches the deck and the still beautiful meadow....the stargazer becomes the sun worshiper

note : guess what i posted this to the wrong blog...should have gone on summerland...
well now its on both
sally x

Spirals and Labyrinths

2009-10-26T13:54:00.000-07:00

Labyrinth:
Is a journey to the centre of self - there is one way in and out
we use our right brains to enter and intuitively, creatively, simply follow,
leaving logic, analysis and left brain aside
bypassing ego and seeking the deeper truths within
passively accepting, clearing, meditating, returning, reflecting.
Sacred labyrinth geometry surrounds,reminds and holds us
in ammonites, in spider's web, in the glorious unfolding of a fern,
it is ancient and universal combining spiral and circle,
a path through the sacred dance of life.

What ever meditation tools we use, all help to get to the heart of the matter and for me sometimes "the passing cloud" or "walking meditation" is a natural labyrinth/spiral - a jasmine or bean curling around a support can bring revelation without the inner struggle or conflict - I find this a much softer method of sorting my head out than the horrors of self analysis and beating yourself up!

This describes how I feel about labyrinth but/and (as with everything) there's loads of info on line - great books about them too I like - "Walking the Healing Labyrinth" by Helen Raphael Sands ISBN1-85675-230-5 (she also teaches circle dancing)

Lindsey

the images are of a spiral of bark...found by Phillip....photographed by Ian ...something i thought of when i saw Lindsey's first pot and Sheila's Log Vessel that were posted earlier

to me another example of the gift of ideas and images exchanged
Sally

Tree of Peace

2009-10-25T03:50:00.001-07:00

Phillip and I have been painting
a painting for the next Celtic Year exhibition....starts 7th of November at the Garden Cafe...more about that soon

even though it was raining...we had fun...

and here is our 'Tree of Peace'