Fabric Crochet Gathering Basket Pattern

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Crochet Fabric Basket Pattern

 

Materials List

3 yards of fabric (cotton, broadcloth, shirting etc) CUT in to 3 inch strips.

(approx 40 yards of 3 inch strips)

 “Q” hook (aka Jiffy Hook)

 “L” hook (or smaller hook to weave in ends)

 Scissors, Stitch markers

 

Stitches Used,

Chain – Ch

Single Crochet – Sc

Slip stitch – Sl st.

 

 

Pattern

(do not join rounds unless instructed, mark the beg stitch with a marker)

 Ch 2,

 Rnd 1,  Work 8 sc in the 2nd ch from the hook  (8)

 Rnd 2,  Work 2 sc in each stitch around (16

 Rnd 3,  Work 2 sc in beg sc, Work 1 sc in next stitch.  *Work 2 sc in next sc, 1 sc in

              Next sc*  Rpt from * to * around.  (24)  Join to beg sc with a sl st.

 Rnd 4,  Ch 1, sc in the back loop of joining stitch.  Sc in the back loop of each stitch

              Around, (24) Do not join

 Rnd 5,  Work a sc in each stitch around (24)

 Rnd 6, Work a sc in each stitch around (24) Join to beg sc with a sl st.  Cut fabric

            And weave in ends.

 

Turn basket “inside out,” so the public side is facing out.

 Handle

Beginning with the first sc of rnd 6, place stitch markers through stitch 1 and stitch 2.  Then place stitch markers through stitch 12 and stitch 13.

Join Fabric through stitch 1, ch 17, Taking care not to twist chain, join to stitch 12 with a sl st.

Then slp st to stitch 13, work a sl st into the top (closest loop to hook) loop of each handle chain.  (17)  Sl st to stitch 2.  Cut fabric and weave in ends.

 

Karen Glasgow Follett cpr 2012

    

Fabric crochet Gathering Basket

Another opportunity to Refine … (mostly written cuz I have been ignoring this blog:D)

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I believe that it is true that we come to earth with the complete access to every tid bit of knowledge that we need to successfully navigate and thrive in our earthly environment.

Many people believe that earth is our school.  We often take this to the literal, linear concept that everything we encounter is a “lesson to be learned.”  We sometimes feel that we master the lessons – have dealt with the issue – and therefore, “class is dismissed.”  We have passed that lesson. And, like algebra, we don’t ever have to visit that classroom again.

One of the aspects of my job is to tune in to the core of the person’s fueling energy.  This fueling source ignites the flow of magnetic energy that creates our reality.  Often embedded in this core energy is evidence that we could entertain the opportunity to gain further education on those issues that we believe we have mastered.

Even when the manifested reality is screaming “hey, here’s an learning opportunity to experience,” I all too often hear “Oh, there must be something else … I’ve learned all about that issue. I’ve passed that class with an “A’.”  And, to fess up, sometimes the voice that I hear is my own voice reminding me of the continual fluidity of knowledge and experience in my own life.

One of my continuing opportunities speaks to the ingrained concept of “if its not hard; its not worth doing. Its the hard that makes it worth while.”  I have done many hard things in my life.  I have completed many difficult tasks that required  sweat and effort and I have tackled many situations that have created struggle.   It is those situations when I remind myself that there is a huge difference between effort and struggle.

Effort is that flow of intended energy that moves your from point “A” to point “B.”  For instance, it takes effort for me to turn on the computer and to write and design.  But the effort is rewarded with the visceral sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. There is a harmony of Creator and creation in the flow of effort.   The effort is allowing the intent of my energy to move with the current of my soul’s flow.

Struggle is swimming against the current.  It is often a result of the “woulda, shoulda, coulda” labels that our ego places on how we define our place (and our defined successes) on this earth.  Struggle rarely is rewarded with the visceral sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.  Struggle reminds us that our intellect and our ego is driving our intent.

So, when I notice that I am struggling, I have to recognize that;

1) I am NOT a salmon.  I do not have to swim upstream.  I can release the fight and I can flow.

and

2) While we may have taken the class and passed that segment, we are always going to be offered the opportunites to refine our skillset. We can doggedly deny that we need the refinement. We can  create struggle as we swim against the current. – OR – we can be open to the refinement opportunites.  We can embrace the refining that keeps us current (up to date) with our ever changing current (soul flow) We can release the need to be the perfect “A” student. When we release this need of perfection we embrace the wholeness of our journey here on earth. Because, as long as we are on this planet, class will always be in session.

 

 

 

Love’s Enchantment Dream Pillow Crochet Pattern

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Love’s Dream Enchantment Pillow

Approximately 11 inches

CPR Karen Glasgow Follett 2011

 

                        

  Dream magic is the magic of the infinite soul.. All obstacles (untoward patterns, limiting judgments, lack of confidence, ete.) imposed by the ego are transcended.  The consciousness of the dream state is that of the Higher Self.  In this realm the Higher Self (or infinite Soul) conducts the universal abundance and conveys the universal wisdom in response to the intent of our magical desires.

Magic is of the realm that knows no limitations of time or space.  Magic is used when magic is needed.   But it is universally recognized that there are events that occur when nature “paves the way” for the energies of magical work.  Since this creation is primarily one of attraction, many people may wish to begin during the waxing phases of the moon and complete with the full moon.

To create this magically enhanced pillow, you will need;

1 skein 4 ply ww yarn in a main color

1 skein 4 ply ww yarn in a complimentary color. “A”

1 skein 4 ply ww yarn in a complimentary color “B”

Small amount ¼ inch ribbon.

The colors selected for the pictured pillow are those most often associated with love.

Red – attraction, passion, intensity, love

Pink – Romance, gentleness, love

White – purity, flow of energy

Size “G” crochet hook

Large eye needle (ie tapestry needle) to weave in ends and to sew on “core” pocket.

Fiber fill stuffing

Mix herbs (such as rose petals, or lavender) or essential oils ( such as rose, sandalwood, or jasmine) that are associated with love attraction with the fiber fill.  Focus on the intent of your spell as you mix to “infuse” the fiber fill with the energy of your desires.

Centered on both sides of the pillow are “core pockets”  These pockets will contain symbols of the “core of your radiating energy” and the “core of the energy that you desire to be drawn to you.”  These symbols can be a written list of attributes, or runes, or gemstones (such as garnet or rose quartz, clear quartz, etc)  You can either decide on these symbols prior to beginning your pillow, or, you may get an even stronger sense of these symbols while you work on the creation of the pillow.  *These pockets can be worked as shown on the graph (as a square) or as a heart as shown the pictures*

The art of crochet works perfectly in tandem with the art of magical creation.  Projecting the energy of your focused intent infuses your creation with the magic of your desires.  As you work the repetitive stitches of crochet (or any needlework) your brain shifts into an alpha state of function.  The energy waves generated during this mind state are synchronized with the energy of the earth.   This harmony carries the energies of manifestation to this plane of existence.

The crochet stitches that you will use for this pillow are a slip stitch (slp st)  single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc) chain (ch). Treble (Tc), Treble crochet cluster (Tc CL).  You will also be working from a graph that will indicate the change of color necessary to create the images in the crochet fabric.

To work a treble crochet cluster; Y.O twice,* insert hook into designated stitch, YO, pull back through, Work off 2 loops, YO, work off 2 loops*,  Do not complete last step, but YO twice and repeat from * to * then YO and work off remaining loops.  This completes the stitch.

The charts included with this pattern begin at the lower right.  The first row of single crochets is row 1.  This row and all subsequent odd numbered rows are worked from the right to the left and are considered to be the front or “right” side of the work.  The even numbered rows are worked from left to right and are considered to be the inside or “back” side of the work.  The marked squares indicate the changes of color from main color to the complimentary color.

To change color in crochet; work the stitch just prior to the color change to the last step (in this pattern, there will be 2 loops on the hook)  Yarn over in the new color and complete the stitch.   In this pattern you can complete the heart color changes by holding the unused color yarn to the back side of the piece and working your single crochets over this unused yarn until it is needed again.  Instead of carrying the unused color of yarn from heart to heart, you may want to drop the complimentary color after the completion of one heart.  You can make a separate ball of complimentary color yarn to create the next heart color changes.   Using the tapestry needle, weave in the ends (or tails) on the back side of the fabric.

We are the centers of our universe.  Our thoughts, beliefs and expectations create the people, the events and the situations in our lives.  Since we are at the core of all that we attract; begin your pillow with the first chart of “radiating out.”   (if it makes more sense to you to change the pattern charts, please feel free to do so.  This is your magic and your intent supersedes any instruction that I have written)

If you know that you have patterns of thought and behavior that have historically attracted those who are not in your best interest; you may want to resolve these patterns prior to beginning this work.  Or you may want to meditate in communication with your Higher Self to focus on the true, beautiful, authentic “you” who deserves to attract nothing less than the best.

Begin the chart with a chain of 46.  Single crochet in the second chain from the hook and in each chain across for 45 single crochets.  As you work the radiating chart, visualize the wonderful you that you are radiating out.  The energy body that knows that you deserve to thrive in love with yourself and then to thrive in love with another person.  Focus on the attributes that are you or focus on the Higher Self flow of radiant energy.   At the end of row 45, cut and secure the yarn.

Maintaining the Higher Self radiant focus, begin the core pocket (or optional heart).  Chain 16.  Single crochet in the second chain from the hook and in each chain across for 15 single crochets.  Complete the pocket as per the chart .  Using yarn and the tapestry needle, sewing the pocket to the center of the pillow side.  Insert your symbol of your “core.”

Before you begin the “attraction in” chart, please pay heed to the “high probabilities” that are associated with magical attraction.   One probability is that you will receive what you request.  Keep this in mind.  Allow your Higher Self to know and to draw toward you the energy for your greater good.  (not the gorgeous blonde with the six pack abs and great glutes  that you met last week)  A second probability is that – in order to receive – you must be willing to receive.  Pay close attention to any of those “self limiting” voices or feelings that may emerge while you work.  Please work with these feeling prior to attraction as their “energy of expectation” could be a magnetic pull.  A third probability is that any sustained energy for any thoughts will draw their thought creations toward you.  So if you focus on “what you don’t want;” you will draw exactly “what you don’t want.”

Begin the “attraction in” chart with a chain of 46.  Single crochet in the second chain from the hook and  single crochet in each chain across for a total of 45 single crochets.

Visualize the Higher Self energy magnetizing the energy attraction for your greater good.  The attributes that will nourish and nurture you.  Work the piece as per the chart.  At the end of row 45, cut and secure the yarn.

Complete the core attraction in pocket as per the chart while maintaining the focus of the Higher Self.  Sew the pocket to the center of the attraction fabric.  Insert the symbol of the attraction energy.

OR to work the heart;

Ch 2,

1)      Work a sc in the 2nd chain from the hook

2)      Ch 1, Work 3 sc in the sc, (3)

3)      Ch 1 Work a sc in each sc across (3)

4)      Ch 1, Work 2 sc in first sc, sc in 2nd sc, and 2 sc in last sc, (5)

5)      Repeat row 4  (7)

6)      Repeat row 4 (9)

7)      Ch 1, sc in each sc across (9)

8)      Ch 1, sc in each sc across (9)

9)      Do not work sc, Slp st in to first stitch, * Skip next stitch, Work 5 dc in the next stitch, Skip next stitch, slp st in next stitch*. Rpt from * to *.  Do not fasten off

Work edge; Ch 1 sc in same slp st on row 9, Evenly space 7 sc along side to tip of heart; Ch 1, sc in tip, Ch 1, Evenly space 7 sc along side to row 9; Work sc in each dc, Slp st in the base of the slp st. Work sc in remaining 5 dc, slp stitch to beg sc.

Cut and fasten off yarn

Attach Red (or other cc) to back loop of heart edge, Ch 1, sc, in same stitch as joining.  Ch 1, sc in the back loop of each stitch around.  Ch 1, join to beg sc.

Attach to pillow from row 9, along tip to row 9 on the other side.

Attach ribbon as desired.

Blend fiber fill maintaining your focused intent.

Hold the” radiating out” and the “attraction in” sides together with right sides facing out.

You will attach these side together by working sc in to the back loops of each stitch)  The back loops are the loops of the stitch that are the furthest away from the right side of the crocheted piece. In this instance the back loops are the loops that are sandwiched together.

Working in the back loops through both pieces; Join complimentary color with a slp st through the back loops  at any corner. Ch 1, work 2 sc in the corner. * Work a sc in the back loops of each stitch across to corner, work 3 sc in corner.*  rpt from * to  * twice.  Insert fiber fill as needed as you work up the last side. Work sc in each sc along side to beg corner, work sc in the beg corner, join to beg sc with slp st.  Do not cut for fasten off yarn.

In same space; Ch 4, tbc. Ch 1, Tc CL, in same corner space. * Ch 1, Tc CL in each stitch across to corner.  Ch 1, Tc CL, ch 1, Tc CL in corner. * Rpt from * to * twice.  Ch 1, work tbc cl in each stitch to beg corner, ch 1, join to begin cluster.  Cut and fasten off yarn.

Join CC “B” in to the unused loops of beginning edge sc, Work sc ch 1, in each unused loop around.  Join to beg sc with slp st.  Cut and fasten off yarn.

To complete the spell gather your pillow and a pen and paper to your bedside.  As you relax and meditate to your Higher Self, state these or similar words;

“Through slumber’s waves of starry night –

Together our souls call

Together our energies draw

To Love’s attraction of full moon’s light.”

Visualize the magnetic swirl of energy from your etheric body; the Higher Self energy of love’s attraction.  Focus on your feelings of welcomed and nourishing love.  Focus on these feelings and this love being yours in the here and now.  Allow yourself to drift off to sleep, affirming that your Higher Self will bring you the desires of your greater good.

Before arising in the morning, journal any dreams, perceptions or feelings that emerge with your initial awakening.  Thank the universe and affirm that love is attracted to you.

Know that you have expressed your intent to the all knowing and all loving universe.  The universe will answer your intent with the messages and the events that will lead you to a place of unconditional love and nourishment.

**Please note that, as with all spell work; the magic is within the practitioner; not within the spell itself.  Your results may vary**

(graph to follow on next page)

Cpr Karen Glasgow – Follett  2007 updated 2011.

*** Note – This graph has been quite stubborn with uploading.  If you are having trouble seeing the graph (which the entire pattern is based) please feel free to email me at underthemoon3@aol.com.  Place Love’s Enchantment (or some such) in the subject line and I will be happy to email you a PDF of the pattern.  THIS OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/12

Psychic and Client communication – Being on the same Page

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Like most people, I have been psychically “aware” pretty much since day 1.  While all too many people get this awareness socialized into dormancy, for whatever reason, my awareness  refused to go dormant.  This refusal could be a part of my soul’s understanding that this attribute comprised one of my reasons for me being her at this time … or it could be just my contrary attitude of “just cuz you say to do it doesn’t mean I’m gonna do it.”  I do prefer to think that it’s the first reason, however, all delusions aside, I’m pretty sure that there is more weight on the second rationale.

 I have been a professional psychic medium (meaning getting paid for my services) since my college days.  I now earn a most of my income in the wonderful, and frequently misunderstood, profession.  Most of my income currently is derived from consultations with individual clients.  These consultations typically last anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour (or so…) But I also do abbreviated readings (of about 15 to 20 minutes) in a local metaphysical shop and at psychic fair events in theMidwest.

 Like everything on the planet, there is a cycle of growth and a cycle of reduction.  In the span of my life and career, I have seen many of these cycles in relation to the psychic perception.  Our current cycle is one of definite growth in both psychic perception (having a psychic interpret the whats, whose, wheres and whens for you) and in psychic development (learning to develop your own sense of psychic whats, whose, wheres and whens).  

 If there is one “constant” in the psychic perception, it is the “constant” that there are no “constants.”  Each psychic perception and interpretation is as individual and as unique as each person perceiving and interpreting.  Professionally, the individualized nature of perception and interpretation is an extremely important point to consider as all information that we give and receive is filtered through that unique nature of belief and expectation.  . 

 Like, most professional psychics, I can recount many times when clients come to readings with a set of expectations and beliefs that are definitely not on the same page as my expectations and beliefs.  Here are two very profound instances that I have experienced in my career;

 Several years ago a woman came to me regarding the death of her son.  Her beliefs and expectations of a “Medium” centered around Hollywood’s depiction of how Mediums “do their thing.” 

As the reading progressed, I connected with her son.  The information flowed and was very precise and prolific.  The woman verified that the information was accurate and (what she couldn’t at that time know was accurate) made sense. 

Regardless of this, it was easy to see that the woman had the perception that she was not getting what she came for.  I asked what she was feeling and she said, “well, this is all well and good, but I don’t understand where you are getting the information.”

I told her that the information was being provided by her son.  Her response was, “well your voice didn’t change; your facial expressions and mannerisms weren’t his … you didn’t do any of the things that the Medium did in the movie ‘Ghost.’” 

And she’s right… I didn’t (and I don’t).  The character in the movie was an example of a physical medium.  The physical medium will often allow their physical energy to play host to the energy from the otherside.  I don’t do that.  I am a mental medium.  I tend to have mental (or inner) perceptions and conversations with those from the otherside that I translate for the client. (and I explained this to the client)

In this situation, and no matter the accuracy,  not being on the same page of beliefs and expectations invalidated the entire reading for this woman. (On a side note, she did return to me later in the year to tell me that the information that wasn’t verifiable at the time of the reading was later proven to be accurate.  BUT … as she left, she said, “I still don’t know where you got your information …” )

 On the heels of that initial reading, I did a  general reading with another woman who (to put it gently) had a very “glass half empty” view of her world.  And yes, she had a job where she worked very hard and was paid very little.  Her small, rodent infested, apartment was in a very high crime area of the city. She stated that she wanted change.

As the reading progressed, the information came through that was showing the energy of very good things to come.  She had the opportunity for a new job that would yield a significantly higher salary and a significant decrease in workload.  This increase in salary would allow her to move from her current residence into one where she was safe and happy. 

As the reading ended, she looked at me as if I had just shot her dog.  I asked her what was going on and she stated, “Well this wasn’t very good … you just told me that I was going to lose my job and get evicted from my home.” 

While there were absolutely NO words that were stated to indicate either one of those “I’ve lost” scenarios; it became very clear that what was said was filtered through her “glass half empty” worldview, and translated in to the very different message that she heard.  

 These two reading were the inspiration for my writing “Getting the most of your reading – making sure we are on the same page” guideline.  NOW I WILL STATE that this information pertains to my viewpoints and beliefs.  Since there is no “constant” in the world of psychic perception and interpretation, your mileage with this will probably vary. 

The purpose of this guideline was to open the avenues of communication. My clients know “what page I am reading.” They can then let me know “the page that they are reading.”  This allows us find a common page where both of us understand the same language and can follow the same story.

 The purpose of me including this guideline is;

1)      for any of my potential clients who want to know “what page I am on.”

2)      To maybe help any client, who is seeking any psychic, to look at and open their own form of “what page” of communication when deciding on a psychic  and …

3)      To helpfully cut down on any perceptions of getting / or giving “bad readings.” Since most “bad readings” are actually good readings that have been miscommunicated or misunderstood. 

 A special note that these guidelines were initially created for the abbreviated readings.  But a vast amount of the information can be translated in to the lengthier readings. 

 

Getting the most of your reading – making sure we are on the same page

 

These are short readings. The time will go quite quickly.  It may be helpful for you to have some questions or areas of interest in mind when coming to the reading. The “tell me all about my life in 20 minutes or less” approach is selling yourself short. I think that the events and paths of your life would extend way beyond the short readings.

 Many times we place very left brain labels and parameters on concepts that are very abstract and “individually flowing”.  It’s hard, but try to leave the labels behind and listen to what is being said without any predetermined labeling (I’ve had people assume that what we do is the same as what is seen on TV and in the movies; or that the information from one author is carved in stone for all perceptions and perceivers)

 Release any predetermined expectations over the information that constitutes a legitimate psychic experience.  Example; some people will decide that the person “coming through” needs to deliver a specific piece of information in order for the entire reading to be valid.  So while grandma may not mention “Lucky” the dog, she may be giving you other fabulous clarifying (clarifying as to who she is) information and other incredible life fulfillment information.  It is a shame that you miss THAT information because your entire focus was on “Lucky” the dog

 Relax and be open. I view these readings as “my Higher Self (angels, Guides etc) talking to your Higher Self” (angels, Guides, etc) This type of communication ensures I am not going to see anything that does not promote your greater good. I will not see anything that you are choosing to keep private (we are entitled to our privacy) I am not invading your “energy” at all – your space is protected.

 It’s ok to talk.  I will let you know when I need for you to be quiet so you don’t accidentally “lead me.”  Some people come to a reading with the idea that “I won’t tell her anything – I want to see if she can pick it up.”  Of course you are welcome to do that. But at times, that is about as time and cost effective as taking your car to a mechanic and not telling them what is going on. In my opinion, this is not a very bright move if you really want your car fixed.

 I don’t play “stump the psychic” or let’s “test” the psychic. These game playing tactics can lend a deceptive energy to the reading and can affect the quality of your reading.  Since you are spending your money, I trust that you won’t play those games either.

 Often times the perceptions come in as symbols.  These symbols may not make sense to me, so I will tell you what I perceive.  Trust your first heart felt flow of response in what these symbols mean to you.

 Your perception of reality is what is important.  Do not buy or sell the farm based on anything any psychic tells you.  We can tell you, “this might shift the energy flow” but we do not give advice.

 If information doesn’t make sense to you right now – honor what you know to be your reality. But keep the information close by.  What doesn’t make sense now may make sense 4 weeks from now.

 If information doesn’t make sense but you get a visceral response when you hear the message – again honor your perception of reality.  But that visceral feeling is telling you that (at least) part of that message needs to be examined.

 Future and time elements don’t mean “squat” Each thought that we have, each decision that we make, each action (or inaction) can change future and time.  The most that I can tell you is “here the energy source … here is how the energy is projecting forward … here are some possible outcomes based on this energy projection.”  Note that you can most always change that energy source and projection and therefore change any outcome.

You don’t want “pie in the sky” nonsense. I will tell you what I perceive.

 I can’t sell a cat to a dog person.  I can’t “prove” anything to anyone who chooses not to accept proof.  My job is to tell you what I psychically perceive. It is NOT my job to prove that psychic energy exists. 

 “NoBots.”  A “NoBot” is a person who will disagree with a statement that a psychic makes – and then will validate the content of the psychic’s statement by rewording what the psychic initially stated.  (Example; Psychic states, “The sun is shining.” –  The NoBot states, “No … But the sun is bright.”)  This typically denotes an outlook that is infused with “prove it to me” or “control” energy.

“YeahBots”  A “YeahBot” will degrade any idea or concept that is given to remedy a situation or change a flow of energy.  (Example; The Psychic States, “Taking a class may get you the promotion that you want” … or …. “here is a bag of gold.”  – The YeahBot replies, “Yeah …. But I can’t take a class … its just too <choose one or several > expensive, time consuming, far to drive, not at the right time, etc” … or … “that bag of gold is too heavy to carry.”)  A YeahBot typically is so used to a situation or a flow of energy (be it the energy of events or actions) that the idea of change is as alien (and as hard to accept)  as stepping on to the planet Mars.  In my readings, I point this out to the client if this is happening during a reading.

 Everything that we “sense” is filtered through our “belief system world view” filters.  Feel free to ask questions, to restate what you hear; as you want to make sure that what is being said is what is being heard and understood.

 Know that those who love you (and those you love) on this side continue to love you and be “around” you (in a supportive and loving way … not in a voyeur or stalker way)  from the “other side.”  I am NOT the boss when it comes to who communicates and when.  I am just their interpreter.  You may be looking for “Mom” but it may be Grandma who has the most powerful information for you at that time. 

 Even loved ones who you never knew on this side are supportive of you from the “other side” and may chime in with insight.

 While I do believe that when we “cross over,” we do gain a much clearer perception, I also believe that we maintain “who we are” to a certain degree.  So consider the source of the information.  IE If my grandmother came through, she would tell you that I’m the best psychic in the world.  Of course I’m not … but my grandmother would think that I am.

 I also believe in the idea that “we do the best job that we can with the tools that we have.  When we get better tools we do a better job.”  With that in mind, there may be loved ones who (ahem) struggled in this life, but may show much higher level of understanding and compassion and life skill from the other side.

 Above all, enjoy your psychic experience.  Just as we all have physical senses; we are also wired for (and have) psychic senses.  We may not label our perceptions as being psychic in nature, but many thoughts, inspirations and “ah – ha” moments have their roots in that perception of the more subtle psychic energies.

 Karen Glasgow – Follett

January 2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crochet Pattern “No Peeking” Christmas Stocking

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I first created this bag as the wrap for a gift that was being given to a friend.  This friend had long been in search for a special tarot deck.  After – what seemed like – an exhaustive search, we found the elusive deck.  This lovely deck needed a special way to present it as a gift.  So this bag was birthed.

While the initial intent of this bag was for a tarot deck; the approximately 5 by 7 inch bag is so perfect for so many gift giving ideas.  How perfect would  this be for secret Santa’s, gifts for those who add so much to our lives (neighbors, friends, mail carriers, hair stylists, etc)?  Its like giving 2 gifts in 1!

Materials needed:

1 ball 4ply ww crochet cotton in main color (MC)

1 ball 4 ply ww crochet cotton in complimentary / cuff color (CC)

Size F crochet hook

Large eye needle to weave in ends

Safety pins (optional to keep sides together and to mark stitches)

One button of approximately 7/8 to 1 inch in diameter.

Sewing thread and needle

Stitches Used:

Ch – Chain

Sc – Single Crochet

Dbc – Double Crochet

Slpst – Slip stitch

Sc inc  –  single crochet increase

Sc dec –  single crochet decrease

 

Pattern:

Sides (make 2)

Stocking is worked from the top down

Turn work at the end of each row

 

With Cuff Color Chain 22.

Rw 1 – Sc in 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across (21)

 Rw 2 – 7 Ch 1,  Sc in each sc across (21)

 Drop Cuff color and join main color

 Rw 8 – 20, Ch 1, Sc in each sc across (21)

 Rw 21 – Ch 1, Sc in next 19 stitches, Sc inc in next 2 stitches (23

 Rw 22 – Ch 3, Sc in 2nd chain from hook, Sc in next chain, Sc in each stitch

Across  (25)

 Rw 23 – Ch 1, Sc across to last sc,  Sc inc in last sc (26)

 Rw 24 – Ch 1, Sc in each sc across (26)

 Rw 25 – Ch 1, Sc in each sc across to last sc.  Sc inc in last sc, (27)

 Rw 26 –  Ch 2,Sc in the 2nd ch from hook.  Sc in each sc across to last

               2 sc.  Sc dec through last 2 sc (27)

 Rw 27 – Ch 1, (Sc dec) 2 times,  Sc across to last 2 sc.  Sc inc

               In each of the last 2 sc.  (27)

 Rw 28 – Ch 1, Sc in each sc across to last 2 sc,  Sc dec (26)

 Rw 29 – Slpst in 1st 2 stitches, Sc in remaining 24 stitches

               (26 total stitches)

 Rw 30 – Ch 1, Sc in next 23 sc, Slp st in next stitch

               (24 total stitches)

 Rw 31 – Slpst in next 8 stitches, Sc in next 14 stitches (to last 2 stitches)

               Sc dec through last 2 stitches.  (23 total stitches)

 Rw 32 – Ch 1, Sc in next 13 stitches, Sc dec through next 2 stitches

               (14 total stitches)

 Rw 33 – Slpst in 1st 5 stitches, Sc in next 7 stitches, Sc dec

               (13 total stitches)

 Rw 34 – Ch 1, Sc dec, sc next 4 stitches, Sc dec (6 total stitches)

 Rw 35 – Slp st 3 stitches, Sc 3 stitches (6 total stitches)

 Cut and secure yarn.

Cuff Flap pattern

Chain 20

Rw 1- Sc in the 2nd chain from the hook.  Sc in each chain across (19)

 Rw 2 – 7 – Ch 1, Sc in each sc across.  (19)

 Rw 8 – (Sc dec) 2 times.  Sc in each sc to last 4 sc.  (Sc dec) 2 times in last

             4 sc.  (15)

 Rw 9 – Sc dec, Sc in next 4 sc, Ch 3, Skip 3 stitches, Sc next 4 sc, Sc dec.

             (13)

 Row 10 – Sc dec Sc in next 3 sc, Work 5 dbc in chain 3 loop, Sc in next 3

                 Sc,  Sc dec.  Cut and secure yarn.

 Align cuff top to top of one stocking side.  There will be one unworked stitch on either side of the stocking top. 

Join Yarn through both cuff and stocking at top right with a sc.  Sc in each stitch across (19)  Do not cut yarn

 

Strap

In the 19th sc, chain 11 (or chains that are equivalent ot the length of strap that you desire) 

Careful not to twist the chain, join back to cuff / stocking top in sc 19 with a slip stitch.  Slip stitch in sc 18 of cuff stocking, turn.

Sc in each chain of strap, slip stitch back into sc 19.  Cut and secure yarn.

 Layer side with cuff (cuff facing out) atop other stocking side. (this is with right sides facing inside together, you will turn the stocking “inside out” when seams are sewn)

Align edges.  Sew edges together with whip stitching or with single crochet.

Cut and secure yarn, weave in all ends. 

 Center front flap over stocking front.  Place button under the button hole of the front flap.  Sew in place. 

 

Cpr Karen Glasgow – Follett 2008

And the Moon Makes Her Journey

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Wow, what an intense dark moon / mercury shift experience this has been!  After taking a deep breath and thinking “holy crap, what was all of THAT about,” I was reminded of the depth and the strength of emotion that can be discovered in the Dark of the Moon. 

The Dark of the Moon hearlds an energy that illuminates our inner shadow source.  The shadow that may manifest itself in the relationships that we draw, the finances that we perpetuate, the situations that we “KNOW” really no longer serve us and the stumbing blocks that we place in front of our paths to situations that may fuel us.  The shadow emotions are too often those we choose not to acknowledge.  We choose not to give these messengers their voice.  Regardless of what we choose to do, (even when we feel that we are just too ascended to actually have these shadow emotions) the voices of this shadow are strong and provide the fuel that ignites our flow of creation energy.  When we choose to disregard these voices, (to ignore the shadow) this creative flow may keep us in an untoward cycle of creation.

But when acknowledged and given voice, these emotions can shift us from one energy source that keeps us in an untoward cycle to an energy source that welcomes and creates the new journey of  forward and fulfilling movement.

The discoveries found within the energy of the Dark of the Moon birth the New Beginnings of the New Moon. 

I am grateful to this wonderful Goddess energy that allows me to safely explore the shadow so I can create the light of my path.

KGF

Verbal Liberation

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I am, and always have been, a verbally expressive person.  Some would even view this expressiveness as being bossy, a but-in-ski, and even bitchy.  It doesn’t really matter what label you put on it, I can typically be counted on to lay it verbally “on the line.”

Over the years I have learned what battles to fight, what situations warrant an opinion, and what situations make me feel that I really don’t want to exert the verbal energy.  I try to only express when my opinion is asked for and when the situation directly (or indirectly) impacts me. (note that the last part is loaded with huge load of potentiality) 

There have been some recent events where I have been very verbally expressive.  My opinions were not asked for; but the situation did impact me directly.  I do know that the opinions that I offered were met with as much appreciation as one would experience if one found a turd in one’s coffee.

In fact, after expressing my latest opinion, I heard that all too familiar “mom” voice stating “when are you going to learn to keep your mouth shut.”  That made me think for a minute.

I thought … hmmm …  I’m 52ish years old … I haven’t YET learned to keep my mouth shut … I rarely desire to keep my mouth shut …  and in all probability I would probably explode if I tried to keep my mouth shut.  So I’m thinking that the mouth shutting thing will never be among my skill set. I will never “learn” to keep my mouth shut. 

I find that realization to be wonderfully liberating.  I love getting older!

Creative Breath Guided Imagery

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Creative Breath

 

We are creator and creation.  With each breath, we have the opportunity to align our vibration with the Universal Divine Creator Source. 

 Breathe in – Affirm the energy connection of your Universal Higher Self

Breathe out – Feel your energy merge with the Divine Source in Higher Self

 You may visualize a ray of light beaming from the infinite and through your crown chakra   As you gently breathe, you feel yourself unite with the vibration of Higher Self creator.

 Breathe in – Welcome the energy alignment that you desire to manifest.  (ie I breathe in Love)

Breathe out – Affirm that this aligned energy is your reality ( ie I am Love)

 You may see currents of color energy or symbolic representations inhaled and exhaled with each breath.  You may feel a sense of union and / or a sense of release as this breathing reminds us that we have no creative limits or boundaries.  As you gently breathe, you feel your energy expand and align in the vibration of All Creator and Creation.

 Breathe in – Welcoming the wisdom of your Divine Source

Breathe out – Giving thankful affirmation of your Creative alignment and physical  manifestation of that creation

 Our Divine Source (Higher Self) guidance will always be the gentle and loving voice of guidance and empowerment.  This voice will never berate us, or place us in unhealthy predicaments to “teach us a lesson.”  If you hear messages that don’t feel comfortable to you, know that the message is NOT from your Highest Vibration.  Repeat the first part of the breathing.  Or listen to your emotions and expectations as all that we perceived is filtered through our world view of emotion and expectation. 

 <<<<< If you discover limiting beliefs in the emotional messages or limiting expectations allow yourself to reprogram these beliefs. Gently call up the limiting Belief

 Breathe in – Surround this belief in Higher Self Love.  Listen to any messages that it has     for you. (this is what I heard from ____.  This is what I experienced as what I created before I knew _______. Etc)  Affirm that the belief is only in your energy if you choose to fuel it with validation.

Breathe out – Surrender or release this limiting belief to your Higher Self.

As you gently breathe, allow yourself to focus on how you feel during this release.  If you have difficulty focusing on a feeling; focus on your sense of release and relief.

Then as you feel comfortable, repeat the Creative Breath Process >>>>>

 To complete or ground the Creative Breath meditation;

 Breathe in – Welcome the flow of oxygen into your lungs. 

Breathe out – Releasing the toxins from your body to be cleansed and transmuted by the Universal source

 As you gently breathe, you know that the Divine creation of each breath is ceaselessly provided throughout your physical life.  As you gently breathe, you affirm that each breath also bears the vibration of your never ending alignment with your Creative Source. 

KGF

 

 

A Proud Practitioner of Witchcraft

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I am a proud practitioner of Witchcraft.  I have been studying an practicing Witchcraft since 1972.  I am NOT just coming out of the closet with this.  Those who know me know who I am and what I believe.  Those who don’t know me … well, historically it has just been none of their business … unless they care to ask.

Ya see, I wear my spirituality on the inside and I hope that my love of the Gods radiates from this inner belief in to my outer actions. 

 Occasionally I will wear an ornament that shows my belief, but, at no time, do I feel that I need the “I’m a big old witch” tee-shirt.  I’m “old school” in a few respects;

First I was taught and do believe that those of us who practice the art are the “children of the shadows.”  To me, this doesn’t speak to the hiding or the protective nature of shadows (even though we still need to exercise care).  To me this speaks more to the idea that we are driven by our inner core of belief and not by extrinsic accolades and “look at me,” “loud mouth” recognition.

The second oldie relates to the concept that states “If you have to advertise that you are ____ (fill in the blank) then in all probability, you probably really aren’t _____ (fill in the blank)  A perfect example of that concept occurred a few years ago when we had a new neighbor move in.  I introduced myself.  She extended her hand, stated her name and immediatedly followed with the declaration that “we’re good Christians.”  Weeeeellllll …. after a few years of being a neighbor, I can truly say – with all confidence- that if her family’s actions are the merit of a “good Christian,” then I am sooooo thankful that I march under a different banner.

I do hope that this writing is not viewed as the “I’m a big old witch” tee shirt, as that is not the intent of this writing.  A few weeks ago, a very well intentioned person (who didn’t know me well) let me know several times, in their opinion, that I need to embrace that I was a Witch.  That “while all of the psychic stuff that I do is really fun and neat … I am a Witch and I need to show that … ”  And obviously her statements did strike some cords.  Here are two cords where I’ve currently noticed the strike and have provided the fuel for this writing;

I do not call myself a Witch, I tell people that I am a practitioner of Witchcraft.  I place the title of “Witch” with a monumental degree of honor and reverance. For a Witch the wise woman.  She is the vessel of ancient wisdom and knowledge.  She is the healer.  She reconnects us our infinite Gods Source.  She is pure love and pure guidance.  She is the light and the shadow.  She is Goddess incarnate. She is what I aspire to be.  She is Witch. 

The secord cord is the recognition that  the life that I enjoy as a practitioner comes from, and is due to,  the  courage and the sacrifices of the practitioners who have gone before me.  The brave women and men who lost friends, family, reputation and even their lives because of the ignornance that begets bigotry. Regardless of the consequences they had the courage to live the outward expression of their inner Spirits

.  There is no honor that I can give them that measures to what they have given me.  But what I can do is to publically state that “I am here” and I am honored to pass the light of the Craft to those who have the courage to come with us. 

KGF.

Trust the Gut

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“I had a gut feeling…”  Many of us have probably lost count of how many times we have made that statement.   There are those people who think that the statement is merely a figure of speech.  There are those of us who KNOW that the “gut” feeling is a perfect physical response to our innate ability to sense and interpret our energetic environment. 

 On an energetic level, the area between our diaphragm and our belly button is the home of the solar plexus chakra.  This etheric vortex interprets the inflow of energy that is perceived and initiates a physical response.

 The physical response is the energetic communication with the physical autonomic nervous system that is found along the spinal column from the thoracic (chest) to the lumbar (lower abdomen) region.  Within this response, is the nerve stimulation and hormonal chain of events that produces the physical translation that we can choose to heed or to ignore.

 This gut translation can be felt in a myriad of perceptions.  From butterflies to rumbles, from intense gnawing to vague tingling, the physical sensation is the activation of our inner antenna.  This inner antenna is the heads up that tells us to protect; to pay  attention; to tune in to our psychic sense of information received (the information of what we know and what we feel)

KGF