wanderlustspider

[wanderlustspider]

So today I learned about the existence of Border Leicester sheep. You’re welcome.

[wanderlustspider]

Let's play hide and seek?

[wanderlustspider]

Did you know that many gastropods can create a pearl, including terrestrial snails? The difference is nacre which is only found in some species of mollusks and which which gives pearls their beautiful shine. Terrestrial snails occasionally produce very small translucent white pearls which are usually lost. One non-nacre secreting sea snail, the melo melo, produces gorgeous pearls that are extremely prized and rare.

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[wanderlustspider]

🔮💖Witchy Aesthetic💖🔮

[wanderlustspider]

This lady is a genius.

-Valkyrie Fyre on Pinterest

LOOK AT HIM! WHY THEY DIDNT MAKE HIM GINGER? THIS IS MUCH BETTER. REDHEAD LOKI IS SO BEAUTIFUL 😍

[wanderlustspider]

Magical Oil Recipes - Baneful Edition

For anyone looking to brew up a potion with a less-than-friendly bent, here are some recipes I've created that you might find useful.

To prepare them, blend the ingredients in such proportions as feels correct for your purposes (or as supplies allow). Use dried material except where indicated. Place a few spoonfuls in a mason jar with a screwtop lid and fill the jar with a bland oil of your choice. (Vegetable oil of the sort you would buy for cooking works fine.) Screw the lid on tightly and shake well to combine, then leave the jar in a dark dry place for 2-4 weeks to steep.

Once steeped, prepare a clean storage bottle (also with a secure lid) and label with the type of oil and the bottling date. Strain the oil through paper towels or cheesecloth to remove the plant material, then bottle immediately. Store away from sunlight and heat for up to one year. Use for spellwork as you see fit.

(Observe all proper safety measures related to glass, fire, and potentially harmful plants as necessary.)

*- Ingredient is potentially harmful if inhaled or ingested. **- Ingredient should not be used or handled if you are pregnant or nursing.

All-Purpose Hexing Oil For general hexing, cursing, and baneful magic.

Dried Chili Pepper

Fresh Lime Peel

Lemongrass (dried or fresh)

Rusted Nail (place in bottle with finished oil)

All-Purpose Hexbreaking Oil For general negation of baneful spells cast by oneself or others.

Agrimony**

Cinquefoil

Fennel

Vervain

Solomon's Seal Root (place in bottle with finished oil)

Backhanded Blessing Oil For blessings that are anything but benevolent.

Burnt Cinquefoil

Bay Leaf

Pine Needles

Bayberry Root NOTE: Prepare as you would a blessing oil, then twist the blessing into a curse, i.e. May You Get Everything You Deserve.

Done in the Dark Concealment Oil For secrecy, confidentiality, and general deception.

Juniper Berries

Licorice Root

Black Hemp (Dogbane)

Ferns or Dried Seaweed Note: For the final ingredient, use whichever is easier to obtain. Both bracken and seaweed work well for basic concealment spells.

Eye of Newt Disruption Oil For disrupting and confounding magical efforts against you.

Black Mustard Seeds

Bloodroot**

Nettle Leaf

Garlic (1 clove, bruised)

No Rest For The Wicked Hexing Oil For punishing one's enemies.

Chili Pepper (any)

Horseradish Root

Cramp Bark

Bayberry Root

On Your Own Head Retribution Oil For counter magic and revenge hexes.

Elderberries*

Bloodroot**

Devil's Shoestring**

Vetiver

Tangled Shoelaces Binding Oil To impede someone's ability to move or act against you.

Pine Needles

Devil's Shoestring**

Scullcap**

Coffee Grounds

Iron Nail in master bottle

Wicked Witch Heavy-Duty Cursing Oil For occasions when a regular-strength hex just won't do.

Wormwood* **

Ghost Chili Pepper (or the hottest chili you can get)

Lemon Seeds

Lobelia* Note: Use With Extreme Caution And Cover Your Ass.

Witchbane Warding Oil For repelling and countering harmful spells.

Bay Leaves

Elderflower

Star Anise

Birch Bark

Should the reader require supplies, I recommend the following:

Penn Herb Company

Starwest Botanicals

Bulk Apothecary

Mountain Rose Herbs

Specialty Bottle

Image Credit - Shaiith

All recipes are (c) 2017 Bree NicGarran, published in Pestlework: A Book of Magical Powders & Oils. Please check out the book if you would like more recipes.

If you’re enjoying my content, please feel free to drop a little something in the tip jar, tune in to my podcast Hex Positive, or check out my published works on Amazon or in the Willow Wings Witch Shop.

[wanderlustspider]

2.4

Pick a Card: Messages from Your Inner Child

1.2

3.4

Group 1

The emotional energy in this reading is overwhelming in the best way—so much love, hope, and joy are calling out to you. The presence of so many cups is a reminder of your ability to dream big and feel deeply. That child, the one that once believed in endless possibilities, is asking you to reconnect. They want you to remember how to envision a life filled with genuine happiness, where your heart leads the way.

A wave of nostalgia or familiar feelings might be washing over you lately. This isn’t meant to trap you in the past but to help you rediscover what has always made you feel alive. Think of it as a chance to reignite old passions, revisit the dreams you once held close, and merge them with the person you’ve become.

If you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure of your next step, there’s a gentle encouragement here to pause and reassess. Sometimes, the most meaningful progress comes from letting go of control and allowing things to unfold naturally. You don’t have to rush. You’re being guided toward clarity and purpose, and it’s closer than you think.

Rest is also a theme that keeps coming through. If life has felt overwhelming, take this as permission to slow down. Your most vibrant ideas and creations will come to life when you allow yourself the time to recharge. Listen to what your energy levels are telling you—your creativity thrives when you honor your limits.

The relationships in your life are also under the spotlight. There’s so much healing and joy to be found in the connections that matter most. Focus on nurturing those bonds that make you feel supported and understood, while releasing those that no longer align with who you are becoming.

You’re stepping into a chapter of self-confidence and creative power. All the obstacles you’ve faced have been building your resilience, and now you’re ready to take charge. The little kid that has always believed in your unique spark is urging you to embrace it fully.

And lastly, if you’ve been struggling with indecision, trust that your heart already knows the way. You’ve grown so much, and your inner wisdom is strong. Let it guide you forward with courage and an open heart.

Group 2

The emotional journey you’ve been on hasn’t been easy, but the little child that has always believed in your strength is here to remind you of your power. There’s a message about finding balance again, especially when it comes to honoring your needs. You’ve been through moments of doubt, but those do not define you—they are part of your growth.

You’re in a period of transformation, even if it feels messy or uncertain. This side of you, the one that sees change as an opportunity rather than a challenge, is encouraging you to trust the process. Even in moments of stillness or delay, there is progress happening beneath the surface.

Honesty with yourself is key. If you’ve been pushing emotions aside or avoiding certain truths, it’s time to face them with compassion. Vulnerability can be intimidating, but it’s also incredibly liberating. The part of you that feels deeply wants you to know that it’s okay to let those feelings out—they’ll lead you to clarity.

They also highlight your incredible perseverance. Despite the setbacks or challenges you’ve faced, you’ve continued to push forward. The strength you’ve built over time is a testament to your resilience, and it’s something to be proud of. Let this remind you that you can handle whatever lies ahead.

Your dreams and desires are calling out to you, and now is the time to realign with what truly matters. That small kid that used to dream freely wants you to listen closely—what do you really want, beyond the expectations of others? Take a moment to explore this question and let it guide your next steps.

There’s also encouragement to trust your inner light, the light they offer. Even when things feel heavy, that spark of creativity and passion within you remains strong. Don’t let setbacks dim your fire—you have so much to offer, and the world needs to see it.

Finally, this is a call to let go of self-judgment. Please, forgive yourself for the times you’ve stumbled or felt unsure. The little you that always wanted the best for your future is proud of how far you’ve come. Keep moving forward with an open heart and trust that brighter days are ahead.

Group 3

The path ahead is filled with potential, and this child that thrives on dreaming big and exploring possibilities is ready to guide you. This reading is about finding balance—between ambition and rest, dreaming and doing. The decisions you’re weighing right now are important, and deep down, you already know which direction feels most aligned with your heart.

The idea of partnership and connection comes through strongly. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Your inner child wants you to lean on others when needed. Whether it’s a friend, mentor, or partner, allow yourself to receive help and encouragement—it’s not a weakness but a strength.

Creativity is knocking at your door, and you’re being encouraged to open up to new possibilities. That playful, curious part of yourself wants you to experiment, take risks, and embrace imperfection. Progress doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from showing up and trying.

This is also a moment to evaluate what truly matters. If you’ve been juggling too many responsibilities, it’s time to prioritize. Let go of anything that feels heavy or misaligned with your goals. Simplifying your focus will bring clarity and energy to what truly lights you up.

Your sense of worth is another important theme. The version of you that always believed in abundance wants to remind you that you’re deserving of good things. Whether in your career, relationships, or personal pursuits, don’t settle for less than what you know you deserve.

They also acknowledge the mental challenges you’ve faced. If you’ve been feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, take a step back. They know that clarity often comes when you look at the bigger picture. Trust that the answers you’re seeking will reveal themselves in time.

Lastly, there’s a reminder to believe in your ability to overcome challenges. The courage and wisdom you’ve cultivated are tools that will carry you forward. You have what it takes to navigate any obstacle and create the life you’ve been dreaming of.

Group 4

You’ve overcome so much, and the part of you that has always been your biggest supporter is asking you to take a moment to acknowledge your resilience. Even in difficult times, you’ve found ways to rise and keep going. That strength is something to celebrate.

This reading speaks to releasing fear and stepping into your power. Limiting beliefs and self-doubt may have held you back before, but it’s time to let them go. You’re capable of creating the life you’ve always wanted, and that inner voice encouraging you knows it’s true.

Change is a central theme here. You’re in the midst of a powerful transformation, even if it feels uncertain or uncomfortable. This part of you wants to remind you that every ending leads to a new beginning. Trust the process and know that you’re being guided toward something greater.

Intuition is a powerful tool for you right now. Your inner guidance has always been strong, and it’s especially important to listen to it now. That quiet, knowing voice within you will lead you toward the right choices—trust it fully.

You’re also being reminded of your limitless potential. The part of you that once saw the world as full of adventure wants you to reconnect with that perspective. Don’t let fear or past setbacks keep you from reaching for your dreams.

Relationships and connections are a focus here as well. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Let go of any relationships that feel draining or misaligned with your values. The people who truly care about you will support your growth wholeheartedly.

Finally, there’s a call to celebrate the abundance already present in your life. Gratitude is a powerful force, and by focusing on the good, you’ll attract even more joy and prosperity. Keep your heart open and trust that beautiful things are on their way.

xoxo 🌙

[wanderlustspider]

Young Törless (1966), dir. Volker Schlöndorff

[wanderlustspider]

to rewild your witchcraft

walk barefoot on stones in shallow streams.

talk to the wind and let it carry away your regrets.

forage for wildflowers to place on your altar, press in thrifted books, or give to loved ones —be careful when identifying

watch sunrises and sunsets. wake up before the sun. bare witness to the painted sky.

spend hours in the woods among the wild. take long long walks or sit still and watch the world.

talk to plants and listen to them. make friends.

get field guides to trees, plants, birds, etc. that are native to your area. learn which are which. bookmark pages that you recognize or want to find.

sing back to the robins. caw back to the crows.

journal by firelight and feel the flame burn your worries away.

gather snow and bring a bowl inside. talk to it and tell it your worries. your fears. let it melt, transmuting your stress and worries into healing nourishment. bring it outside and water the soil. see how things can be changed.

dance. run. move your body to sweat, if this is something you can do

collect stones from the river and try to find the best ones. keep them in your pocket. hold onto them to remember that you’re an animal.

go to a lake and float. feel the water carry you. lifting you from your stress. bring a vial and collect some for spellwork.

make a necklace out of an acorn and thread.

stand in the rain. dance in it. lay down in the grass and let it pour. let it wash fears away, transform doubt to hope. start anew.

𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘

[wanderlustspider]

-ˋˏ ༻𖤓༺ ˎˊ-

[wanderlustspider]

✨Witchy Reminder:✨

Your craft doesn’t have to be aesthetic to be powerful.

• A circle drawn with sidewalk chalk works.

• A candle from the dollar store works.

• A whispered spell works.

The magic is in you, not the tools. 🍄🪴🖤

[wanderlustspider]

𝐈𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐥𝐜

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What is Imbolc?

Imbolc is a festival that marks the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox, occurring around February 1-2. Known as Brigid’s Day or Candlemas, it celebrates the first stirrings of spring and the return of light. The name Imbolc translates to “in the belly,” symbolizing new life, growth, and the creative potential that is awakening within the earth. It is a time of purification and renewal, where the energy of the earth begins to rise, bringing warmth and vitality to the whole world.

Imbolc is often dedicated to Brigid, the goddess of fire, healing, poetry, and craftsmanship. Brigid is associated with both the hearth and the forge, embodying the transformative powers of fire and light. As the days grow longer and the sun strengthens, we honor her influence in bringing fertility and growth to the land. The first signs of spring, such as the lactation of ewes and the appearance of snowdrops, are seen as blessings from Brigid, signaling that life is returning.

Imbolc is also a festival of light, a time to celebrate the increasing daylight through the lighting of candles, bonfires, and lanterns. As the earth begins to thaw and the seeds of spring stir beneath the soil, Imbolc offers a space for spiritual growth and creative awakening. It is a perfect time to clear away the stagnant energies of winter, refresh the soul, and prepare for the vibrant months to come. The act of lighting candles not only honors the growing light but also serves as a reminder of the inner light within us all, waiting to shine brightly in the coming seasons.

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Goddess Brigid

Brigid, one of the most revered deities in the Celtic pantheon, is also known as Lady of the Sacred Flame. She is the goddess of healing, fire, smithcraft, creativity, animals, hearth and poetry, Imbolc is her Sabbat, a time dedicated to honoring her influence on creativity and new beginnings. Her symbols are fire, poetry, lambs and fertility. Brigid is often depicted with a flame emerging from her head or a serpent coiled around her, representing the powerful energy she brings. She is also a goddess of protection, childbirth, women, blacksmithing and life.

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The Return of Light and the First Signs of Spring

Imbolc marks the shift from winter to the first signs of spring. Days start to get longer, and you can feel the earth beginning to wake up, even though winter isn’t completely gone. It’s the time when the sun starts to grow stronger, and we begin to see early signs of new life. During Imbolc, many light candles or bonfires in Brigid's honor, celebrating the return of light and the growing strength of the sun as the days grow longer.

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Brigid's Cross

A traditional symbol of Imbolc, Brigid’s Cross is woven from reeds or straw and represents both protection and blessings. It’s believed to offer protection from fire and lightning, making it an essential symbol of Brigid’s influence. In Ireland, it was common to hang Brigid’s Cross on the rafters of homes to invoke her protective energy.

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Brigid's Flame

According to legend, Brigid lit a flame on the hill of Kildare, pledging to keep it burning in her honor. This flame was said to burn continuously, symbolizing her eternal presence and influence over the cycles of life. The fire became a sacred symbol, tended by the Brigidine Sisters for centuries, representing not just physical warmth, but the power of creativity and healing.

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Magic Correspondences

Planets: Sun, Moon, Venus

Season: Midpoint between Winter and Spring

Element: Earth, Fire

Time of Day: Dawn

Tarot: The Star, The Empress, The Ace of Wands

Colors: White, Light Yellow, Green, Gold, Silver, Lilac, Pale Pink, Purple

Herbs: Chamomile, Clover, Angelica, Heather, Basil, Bay Laurel, Willow, Rosemary, Milk Thistle, Coltsfut, Lavender,

Fruits: Orange, Lemon, Pomegranate, Apple, Pear, Blackberry (Brigid's favorite fruit)

Vegetables: Leek, Potato, Carrot, Turnips, Garlic

Runes: Sowilo, Berkano, Algiz, Kenaz

Crystals: Carnelian, Amethyst, Garnet, Onyx, Ruby, Citrine, Clear Quartz, Milk Quartz

Trees: Rowan, Willow, Birch

Goddesses: Brigid, Demeter, Hestia, Vesta, Aphrodite, Ceres, Venus, Arianrhod, Cerridwen, Gaia, Aradia, Athena, Minerva

Gods: Faunus, Eros, Pan, Cupid, Aenghus Og

Dragon: Fafnir

Flowers: Snowdrops, Crocus, Daisy, Dandelion, Chicory

Animals: Lamb, Sheep, Cow, Deer, Groundhog, Hedgehog, Snake, Swan, Wolf, Bear, Boar

Magical Powers: Purification, Renewal, Creativity, Fertility, Awakening, New Beginnings, Hearth and Home, Healing, Hope, Inspiration, Cleansing, Protection

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Activities To Do:

🐑 Light candles or a bonfire to honor the return of the sun.

🐑 Make an Imbolc altar.

🐑 Rest and enjoy the midwinter season doing cozy activities.

🐑 Wear the colors of the season.

🐑 Cook or bake seasonal dishes, especially fresh bread, cheese, or other dairy products.

🐑 Make Brigid's cross.

🐑 Take a walk in nature and collect branches and stones to add to your altar.

🐑 Donate to animal shelters or send wishes for the animals born during this season, especially lambs.

🐑 Eat fresh bread or drink milk

🐑 Clean your house to invite new positive energy.

🐑 CREATE ANYTHING!! whether it’s art, crafts, edits or poetry.

🐑 Write the sigil of Imbolc somewhere visible to attract its energy( I usually do this on a piece of paper that I put on my altar or on my arm)

🐑 Take a bath with lavender or cinnamon essential oil

🐑 Read about the goddess Brigid

🐑 If it’s a sunny day, celebrate the festival of light by spending time outdoors and letting the sun purify you.

🐑 Do offerings for your deities

🐑 Dance to festive music, feel the joy of the season, and let your inner fire shine :D

🐑 Try spinning or crafting with wool to honor traditional Imbolc crafts.

🐑 Look for seasonal flowers like snowdrops or crocus and bring some into your home for decoration.

🐑 Plant seeds if the weather allows, symbolizing new beginnings and growth.

🐑 Do spells for fresh starts and set intentions

🐑 Worship Goddess Brigid or any deities you feel connected to during this time.

🐑 Read poetry to celebrate the creative energy of the season.

🐑 Make an Imbolc Magick Spell Jar

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Food and Drinks:

Dairy products (or vegetarian alternatives), like milk, cheese, and yogurt, freshly baked bread, muffins, waffles, blackberry jam, blackberry cakes (anything with blackberries), lemon cake, poppy seed cakes, biscuits coated in sesame seeds, dishes with bold spices, seeds such as sunflower, poppy, and sesame (for Imbolc seeds are very meaningdul), red cabbage, oats, butter, honey, garlic, scones, pancakes, crepes, pickles, cheese pie, oatcakes, bannock, mashed potatoes, colcannon, chili peppers, eggs, apple tarts, spiced nuts, roasted vegetables, hearty soups, grain-based salads, and citrus fruits, such as orange, lemon or pomelo). Don’t forget to make a wish while flipping your pancakes on Imbolc! <3

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useful sources: Wicca: A Modern Guide To Witchcraft & Magick; Encyclopedia of Witchcraft: The Complete A-Z for the Entire Magical World by Judika Illes

gifs credit: Pinterest

Tip Jar🌲

[wanderlustspider]

Crystal DONTS

Crystals that are damaged/Dissolve/Chemical Reaction by water

Angelite

Azurite

Boji Stones/Shaman Stones/Moqui Marbles

Calcite

Celestine

Halite

Hematite

Jet

Lapis

Malachite

Moonstone

Pyrite

Selenite

Unakite

Mica

Fluorite

Turquoise

Damaged/Fade/Cracked by Sun/UV

Amethyst

Aquamarine

Aventurine

Calcite

Celestine

Citrine

Fluorite

Jade

Jet

Kunzite

Lapis

Malachite

Rose Quartz

Sapphire

Sodalite

Topaz

Tourmaline

Amber

Beryl

Chrysoprase

Opal

Smokey Quartz

[wanderlustspider]

🔮💖Witchy Aesthetic💖🔮

[wanderlustspider]

ive found that partially treated mental illness can sometimes look to uninvolved onlookers like faked mental illness.