🏆 Weekly Witchy CHALLENGE - Catch-Up! [Challenge #200]

[Satans_Helper]

Hahaha I’m ditzy like that too

[Phoenix_Rose]

Challenge entry

Weekly Witchy CHALLENGE - Of the Element Fire

Warm greetings to all! And bravo once again to everyone who joined in for last week’s Weekly Witchy Challenge- From Seed to Sprout With the Sabbat behind us and the seed of season beginning to grow, it’s time to re-kindle the flame of the elemental challenges. The theme for this week’s challenge is… [fire-3614029_1920] Of the Element Fire The elements can be discovered in just about every aspect of our lives. After exploring water and air, we ar…

Edited as I did a bit more research this morning.

[bj1]

Challenge Entry – Blessed Besoms – Broom Keeper

The Recycled Broom

I bought this broom in Ohio around 1988, I used it to sweep up wood chips and ashes around the wood stove.
The broom came with me back to Canada and disappeared into the garage. My father started using it to dust the snow off the snow blower. When he passed I found the little sweeper and reclaimed it.
It needed a bath and a trim.
The handle was covered in duct tape! The tape left a terrible sticky mess when removed.
In my ribbon collection I found a wide metallic gold ribbon with a wire edge. There was enough to wrap the handle and cover the glue. A layer of gold rick rack secured the ribbon. To hide the seams I attached 3 gold butterflies.
I consecrated the broom and my besom was ready.

I start every ritual/spell with a clockwise sweeping and this chant:
Sweep out evil, sweep out ill,
Where I do the Lady’s will.
Besom, besom, Lady’s broom,
Sweep out darkness, sweep out doom.
My besom may not be stylish, or conventional, but we have a history and that makes it special to me.

[Phoenix_Fire]

Challenge entries

Challenge entry 1. Beauty magic- pulcha magicae

Ive been doing this a while but this week ive been really reflecting on practices ive been doing and i realised that ive been drawing and blendinh in the Algriz rune for protection on my forehead as a part of my makeup ritual before leaving the house. I realised thinking bout this that i had been doing it over where my third eye position of the chakra was.

challenge entry 2- magic of happiness: beholder of happiness

This one was needed as ive been struggling lately but ibe been focusing on bringing positivitu and happiness into my home.
After a rather intense day i put on my oil difusser with i think its sage and lavender oil. Yesterday i did in both of my oil diffusers for 12hour period to fully cleanse negative energies and been using things like my scarlet sunflower clesning products to bting that light and happiness energy into the home.
I even did a positive energy oracld card reading to see how else i can vring that positive energy into my home and life more.

Challenge entry 3 : working with higher power- in magnimus numinum ( hope im spelling these right lol)

I decided to try out a goddess tarot spread which i got Nut, Altheia and Brigid.
The message i got was relevent and helpful… and though brigid is the only deity i work with from that spread it still was helpful to hear the messages from each card and deity on that card.

I did have other things id done and i know i normally add lots of photos etc but as this is a chsllenge catch up people might be doing multiplr challenges for. . I didnt wsnt to bog down the feed with too much so i thought id describe for now what i did and maybe later can add a few photos if it wont bogg the system too much to do so…

I behaved myself and stuck to 3 challenges lol i wanted to do more but i knew i aldo had other things needed tk do and with health as it is i didnt want to over do it. So i stuck to the 3 for this catch up cjsllenge which im proud of myself for still doing that many even if mot as many as may of liked to of done. And some i did activities for or explored ideas but i just left them off here to keep the challenge entry from being too big… but i have disvovered some great new apps for exploring look moonly and astrology apps, an app called Sol. But yrah to make an entry for all i might of done woulf of been too much so i lept it at 3

[Mystique]

That is a beautiful stone!

[Amaris_Bane]

Thank you! It’s one of my favorites in my collection.

[bj1]

Challenge Entry – Magic in the Arts – Art Witch

Hex Signs in Pennsylvanian Dutch Art

Hexerei is German for witchcraft.

The hex sign traveled along with the Germanic peoples from the Rhineland to south-central Pennsylvania in the New World.
The symbols were used specifically for magic. Particular hex signs were placed on houses and barns to let travelers recognize peoples of the same beliefs and to know where hospitality could be found.
The lore of hex signs was oral in nature and much has been lost of their original meanings.
A hex sign is a magickal sigil confined to a circle to either hold in power, concentrate power, or keep bad energies out. The circle also stands for the continuity of a cycle of the wheel.
In the original designs every line from the center of the design out must touch another in a continuous line drawing to keep the eye spiraling within the circle.
The earliest design was the rosette. It takes 6 circles of equal radius to create. Three represents the Triple Goddess and 3 represent the male aspect of Hunter, Consort, and Father, all in perfect balance. The rosette was commonly used to ward off bad luck.
Your eye is led from the center out, taking the divine energy from within yourself out through the represented archetypes to connect with the Source.

Below is my interpretation of a blue and yellow rosette painted on a white background with a red and black chevron border.

Traditional Hex Sign Colors:
White: universe, purity of mind, Moon power, feminine aspect, element of water, allows energies to flow.
Red: element of fire, power, charisma, lust, creativity.
Yellow: Sun, fertility, connection to God form, health in mind and body.
Black: protection, bind things together.

Newer Hex Sign Colors:
Blue: connection to God/Divinity, spirituality, peace, element of air.
Violet: sacred.
Green: fertility, success, element of earth.
Orange: career, success, abundance, solar aspects.
Brown: friendship, strength, agriculture, element of earth.

The newer colors and symbols were added as the hex sign became a tourist attraction and souvenir.

Sources:
Hexology the history and meaning of hex signs. 1962. Jacob and Jane Zook.
Hex signs and their meanings. 1992. Walt Mauer.
Hex and Spellwork: the magical practice of the Pennsylvania Dutch. 2002. Kar Herr.
Hex Signs. 2019. Patrick J. Donmoyer.
Hexcraft: Dutch country pow-wow magick. Silver RavenWolf.

[Phoenix_Rose]

Thank you for opening up the amount of badges we can get. Otherwise I will never be able to get them all.
Having said that, there will only be so many I can do. I think the max I would be able to do is 10, and I may not be able to get those all done either. We shall see.

Challenge entry four

Weekly Witchy CHALLENGE - Of the Element Air

Cheery greetings to all! Well done once again to everyone who joined in for last week’s Weekly Witchy Challenge- Of the Element Water After diving deep in the wonderful world of water, it’s time to take flight and soar into the realm of our next element. The theme for this week’s challenge is… [woman-5266776_1920] Of the Element Air The elements can be discovered in just about every aspect of our lives. By examining and incorporating …

[Phoenix_Rose]

Note it also helps in case I have duplicated a badge- which I have done before and wasted one of my three entries

Challenge entry five

Weekly Witchy CHALLENGE- Giving Gratitude

Warm greetings to the lovely forum family! And big thank you’s once again to all those who joined in on last week’s challenge: Inviting Abundance. I hope all that you wished for has come or is coming to be! After welcoming prosperity and seeking good blessings into our lives, it is time to take a step back and appreciate all the wonderful things we already have. The theme for this week’s challenge is… [wooden-2562242_1920] Gratitude and Thankfulness …

I do sun salutations in the morning and greet mother goddess. Note, I am going to change this up a bit and do sun salutations in the morning and moon salutations at night. I am going to greet the both the god and goddess and say goodnight and give thanks.

I also have a list of 15 things I am grateful for and say these weekly.

Edited as funnily enough- I already had the witch on the move badge. So I changed the entry to gratitude as I so say thanks when I am doing my morning greets and my good nights. Too funny.

[Amaris_Bane]

Challenge Entry #6: Fairies & Fae – Friend of Fairies

For this entry I wanted to share a bit about a delightful addition to my practice that’s brought a lot of joy and whimsy into my life—gnomes! Specifically, my gnome garden, which has become a cherished part of my daily rituals and a source of endless inspiration.

The Lore of Gnomes

Gnomes have a rich history in folklore and magic. These earth spirits are known to be guardians of hidden treasures and protectors of the natural world. They are said to dwell in the earth, tending to plants and minerals, and are often depicted as small, bearded men with pointy hats. Gnomes symbolize wisdom, groundedness, and the nurturing aspects of the earth element.

Creating a Gnome Garden

Setting up a gnome garden is a wonderful way to invite these mystical beings into your space. Here’s a look at my gnome garden:

1. Location: My gnome garden is situated in a cozy, fenced-off section of our yard, right next to our driveway. It’s a small, designated area bordered by black, wrought iron fencing that gives it a special, secluded feel.
2. Decorative Elements: The garden is adorned with an array of charming decorations. At the heart of the garden, there are two ceramic mushroom houses surrounded by several colorful ceramic mushrooms. These create a whimsical and magical atmosphere that makes the garden feel like a little enchanted village.
3. Gnomes: I have a delightful collection of gnomes, each with their own personality and style. They are carefully arranged throughout the garden, some sitting on rocks, others standing proudly among the decorations. The gnomes vary in colors and sizes, adding a playful and vibrant touch.
4. Signs: Two garden signs add an extra layer of charm and personality. One sign reads “Love is Love, Gnome Matter What,” which brings a smile to my face every time I see it. The other features a Triple Moon symbol with “Merry We Meet, Merry We Part” written on it, perfectly blending my witchy practice with the gnome theme.
5. Magical Touches: I’ve included a few magical elements like a crescent moon decoration with a crystal ball and other small trinkets that enhance the enchanting vibe of the garden.
6. Ghost Plant (Succulent): The only live plant in my gnome garden is a ghost plant, a hardy succulent that thrives with minimal care. Its unique appearance adds an ethereal touch to the garden, complementing the mystical theme. I am contemplating adding more plants but need ones that can withstand Houston heat and random rain.

Gnomes in Magical Practice

Gnomes are fantastic allies in magical work, especially when it comes to spells and rituals related to the earth element. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your practice:

• Protection Spells: Place a gnome figure at the entrance of your home or garden to act as a guardian.
• Prosperity Magic: Gnomes are linked to hidden treasures and abundance. Include them in spells or charms aimed at financial growth or discovering hidden opportunities.
• Grounding Rituals: Spend time in your gnome garden to ground yourself. Their connection to the earth can help stabilize your energy and keep you centered.

Inviting Gnome Magic into Your Life

If you don’t have a garden, you can create a small indoor gnome altar or even a potted plant with a tiny gnome figure. The key is to build a space where these magical beings feel welcome.

Whether you’re an experienced witch or new to the path, working with gnomes can add a layer of depth and playfulness to your practice. I encourage you to explore their magic and see how it enhances your connection to the earth and the hidden wonders it holds.

Blessed be, and may your gnome garden flourish!

[bj1]

Challenge Entry - Witch-conceptions: Stereotypes - The One and Only

Witchy Door Sign

I was browsing for paint colors for my hex sign, when I came across this project at Decorart.com, and knew immediately what I was going to do for the stereotype category.
I think I will hang it on my craft room door as a DO NOT DISTURB sign because THE WITCH IS IN!

Check out the site; there are lots of witchy crafts and seasonal decorating ideas.

[Amaris_Bane]

Challenge Entry #7: A Journey of Change – Doctrina et crescente

Embracing the Journey: My Path in Magick

For this entry, I am sharing my journey into magick and how it has shaped me over the years. It’s been a path filled with discoveries, challenges, and growth, and I hope my story can inspire or resonate with some of you.

What Led Me to Believe in Magick

I’ve always believed that magick is real. To me, it’s simply a matter of our current level of understanding and science not being able to explain what is happening. This belief has been a constant in my life, even when I wasn’t actively practicing.

Taking the Leap into Practice

The decision to begin practicing magick came during a time when I felt particularly lost. I found myself thinking a lot about religion and spirituality, trying to find a path that resonated with me. After much reflection, I made a full circle and returned to Wicca, which my mother practiced when I was a teen. It felt like coming home to something familiar and powerful.

Overcoming Challenges

One of the biggest hurdles I’ve faced in my practice has been living in the South. Deciding to openly practice witchcraft was a significant challenge because many people here view it as “the devil’s work” rather than understanding its true nature. Despite this, I chose to embrace my path openly, which has been both difficult and rewarding.

Celebrating Achievements

My biggest achievement in my practice has been learning to adapt as changes occur. I’ve changed the main focus of my path several times and have worked with different deities along the way. This adaptability has made my practice more resilient and meaningful, allowing me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

Reflections and Regrets

If there’s one thing I regret on my magickal journey, it’s that I was stubborn and refused to accept my path because “I didn’t want to be like my mom.” This resistance cost me a good 20 years of deeper connection with my practice. If I could go back, I wouldn’t have let my desire to be different from her stand in the way of embracing my true self.

Personal Transformation

As a witch and magick user, I’ve become an eclectic pagan, learning to keep what works for me and discard what doesn’t. This flexibility has allowed me to tailor my practice to fit my life and needs perfectly.

On a personal level, magick has taught me to set boundaries with others and to “roll with the punches” while knowing that I have the power to make changes in my life. This balance of acceptance and empowerment has been incredibly transformative.

Final Thoughts

My journey into magick has been a winding road filled with lessons and growth. I’m grateful for every step, even the difficult ones, because they have led me to where I am today. I hope that sharing my story encourages you to embrace your own path, with all its twists and turns, and to find the magick that resonates with your soul.

[Amaris_Bane]

Challenge Entry #8: Witch Ethics: The Morals of Magick – Honorable Witch

---

Navigating the Ethics of Magic: My Guiding Principles

Ethics in magic is a topic close to my heart, and today I want to share my thoughts and guiding principles. Our practices shape who we are and how we interact with the world, and having a strong ethical foundation is crucial.

Baneful Magic

Firstly, I prefer to use the term “baneful” rather than “black” or “white” magic. I believe these labels are counterintuitive to the ideals of equality and neutrality in magic. Magic itself is neutral; it’s our intentions that define its nature.

I have not yet practiced baneful magic, but a recent osteomancy reading indicated that this might be a path for me to explore. Before I consider integrating it into my practice, I plan to do extensive research. I firmly believe in karmic law: what I put out into the universe, I get back. When it comes to baneful magic, my instincts tell me that I could be acting as an instrument of the universe, delivering karma to those who deserve it.

Love Spells

When it comes to love spells, I think it’s essential to define what we mean. If we’re talking about spells designed to make someone fall in love with you, I am firmly against them. These spells infringe on someone’s free will, which I believe is unethical.

However, I support spells aimed at enhancing existing feelings or improving aspects of one’s own life. For example, I cast spells to strengthen my relationship with my husband, but I always ask for his explicit permission first. Consent is crucial, and it can be withdrawn at any time.

Permission in Magic

I absolutely believe in asking for someone’s permission before casting a spell on or for them. To me, magic is as intimate as physical touch—I wouldn’t touch someone without their consent, so I wouldn’t cast without it either. This applies to spells, prayers, and energy work. Respecting others’ autonomy and boundaries is paramount.

My Personal Code of Ethics

I don’t follow a strict code from any particular magical or spiritual tradition, but I’ve developed my own set of beliefs and rules through my practice:

1. Treat Others as You Wish to Be Treated: This is my golden rule. If I want kindness and respect, I must offer the same to others.
2. Like Attracts Like: A negative mindset attracts negative energy. I strive to maintain a positive outlook to invite positive energy into my life.
3. Always Seek Consent: Whether casting a spell for someone or sharing aspects of my practice, I always ask for permission. For instance, when I shared my offering prayers for my deities, I asked my guides for their consent—Lugh and Tyr were okay with sharing, but Freya was not.
4. We Are All Interconnected: Everything and everyone on this planet are energetically linked. My actions and intentions affect not just my own energy but the collective energy as well.
5. Do Your Best, There Is No Perfect: I aim to do my best in my practice, understanding that perfection is unattainable.
6. Something Is Better Than Nothing: I remind myself not to avoid doing something just because it might not be perfect. Effort and intention matter.

Final Thoughts

Ethics in magic isn’t just about following rules; it’s about aligning your practice with your values and beliefs. It’s about respect, consent, and the understanding that our actions have far-reaching impacts. It’s also understanding that your beliefs and practice will change as you grow.

I hope sharing my ethical framework inspires you to reflect on your own and find what resonates with you (if you haven’t already).

[bj1]

Challenge Entry – Knot Magick – Stitch Witch

A Red Dragon

I was born in the Year of the Dragon and have always been collecting images and patterns of dragons.
I made this cross-stitch red dragon for my new travel altar suitcase.

Here are the correspondences for the Dragon:
Solar System: Moon, Sun
Moon Phase: New
Season: Summer
Celebrations: Imbolc
Elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water
Energy: Yin, Yang
Tree: Palm (dragon’s blood)
Gemstone: Zircon (red)
Goddesses: Ishtar, Tiamat
Gods: Aegir, Quetzalcoati
Animal: Bat
Reptiles: Alligator, Crocodile
Insect: Dragonfly
Intentions: ambition, balance, challenges, change/s, consciousness (subconscious), courage, creativity, danger, darkness (dispel), destruction, dignity, dream work, enlightenment, fertility, friend/ship, gentleness, guardian (of treasures), knowledge (ancient, secret), life (vitality), light, luck, manifestation, negativity, the otherworld/underworld, power (of nature), problems, prosperity, protection, revenge, shamanic work, spirituality (power), strength, wealth, weather, and wisdom.
A very versatile ally to have in one’s practice!

Source: Llewellyn’s Book of Correspondences by Sandra Kynes

[tracyS]

That is beautiful and truly helpful. Thankyou for sharing

[georgia]

Challenge Entry- Deities & Deity Worship
TW- Murder

Ganesh

I don’t usually follow Hinduism. The names are so unfamiliar and one character changes names so much that I get too confused. That said, I had a recent experience leading me to research Ganesh.

One story reports the birth of Ganesh as… Parvati wanted to take a bath in private, but her husband, Shiva, often walked in on her. Parvati molded the shape of a child from the dirt off her own body, gave him life, and told him to guard the door. Shiva came home, found the child, and was angry he couldn’t get to his wife, so he cut the child’s head off. Parvati was so upset that Shiva sought a replacement, but all he could find was an elephant’s head, so he used it to bring the boy back to life. Ganesh’s birthday is celebrated on the fourth day after the full moon in late January/ early February.

Ganesh is the god of transitions. A statue is placed in doorways to protect interiors and keep out the unworthy. The elephant head on a human body has come to symbolize the union of body and soul, spiritual and physical, while the trunk alone symbolizes cosmic reality. He is the destroyer of evil, vanity, selfishness, and pride. Within his stomach, he carries three cosmic eggs, representing past, present, and future- the material universe in all its manifestations. Ganesh is also the patron of travel.

One story says that Ganesh broke off one of his tusks to use it as a pen to write out the Mahabharata- the sacred texts of the Hindi.

God of New Beginnings, Wisdom, and Luck. Remover of Obstacles. Patron of the Arts and Sciences. Deva of Intellect. Patron of Letters and Writing.

His name is a compound of words meaning group, multitude, or catagorical system and lord or master, thus God for Everyman.

When Ganesh is painted white, he is the Releaser from Bondage, but he can also place obstacles in the way of people who need to be checked. These ideas are symbolized by the creature at his feet or used to ride upon. The mouse represents desire, theft, and selfishness, while the rat symbolizes a destructive menace or an impediment to be overcome. As the rider of the rat, Ganesh can penetrate even the most secret places.

Ganesh “lives” in the root and sacral chakras. He supports and guides all the other chakras.

There are different ideas of Ganesh’s marital status. Some say he is a bachelor. To others, he may be married to Buddhi (intellect), Siddhi (Spiritual power), Riddhi (Prosperity), Sarasvati (Culture and Arts), or Lakshmi (Luck and Prosperity). He has two sons: Kshema (Safety) and Labha (Profit), but in some areas, Kshema is replaced by Subha (Auspiciousness). In a 1975 film, Ganesh has a daughter named Santoshi Ma (Satisfaction). Since the daughter doesn’t appear in ancient texts, her appearance suggests Ganesh is still growing and actively changing in current society.

Offerings include sweets, red sandalwood, red flowers, and grass.

Sources:

Ganesha | Iconography

Ganesha

Meet Ganesha, the Hindu Lord of Success

[georgia]

Challenge Entry: From the Shadows

Inspired by

Shadow Work for Fighting "Toxic Positivity"

I stumbled upon this image on Instagram. This is from psychotherapist Whitney Goodman [img] This can totally be used for shadow work! I sometimes fall in the trap of “good vibes only” so I really liked this image. It gives me an alternative way to look at the negative without erasing or ignoring it. On the other hand, I still think some of the phrases on the left are still missing some depth… But it’s a start! I feel the best part of shadow work is that looking at our shadow and helping it …

My preferred form of toxic positivity has been “Fake it till ya make it.” Since I wasn’t allowed to express feelings in public, I learned to use that unfair rule to hide my feelings. If I didn’t want to wallow anymore, I’d get out in public and fake a smile until I felt better. It felt like a healing, but turned out to be only a burying.

My mother had taught me this coping mechanism. In her youth, her mother was sick in the hospital, and Mom’s teachers got tired of seeing her moping mental breakdown, so instead of getting Mom the help she needed, they forced her to sit in front of the class and smile.

We’ve come a long way from those olden days!

[Artemisia]

Challenge Entry #10 - All About Altars - Reverent Witch

So many of these I look at now and I’m not sure why I missed it or how I didn’t do them already for a catch-up

This challenge was a great excuse/reason to clean my desk/altar. I mean, I didn’t want to share pictures of my mess!

As I’m mostly in the closet (or more like the don’t ask. don’t tell where he knows but I don’t talk about it), and I have cats who tend to steal things, my altar is practical - it’s my desk.

When I’m doing a ritual, I clear out a place on my desk, and when I’m done most things get put back on one of my bookcases. Both are within sight of my desk, which is important to me. I like to be able to see my statues without having them in my way and I’m very much an out-of-sight out-of-mind person. Having things that I can see reminds me to practice, or say a prayer.

In any case, here’s my desk/altar/bookcases

[georgia]

Challenge Entry- Elemental Mastery

One thing I love about Albuquerque is a stretch of outdoor art along San Mateo Blvd south of I40 to just north of Lomas. I do not have pictures of all of the pieces, but I’ll try to describe them as best I can.

Just south of I40 is a slim strip of park land. Looking at it by itself, one would wonder why something so small, yet it is long. Within is an art piece called Dawn Light

Meh, right? Wait…

At the next corner begins a residential area. A long wall creates a sound barrier. At the corner is what looks like a pile of boulders with a park bench sitting among them.

Ok. Easy to ignore. Just wait.

Mid block begins a series of three pieces created by Susan Linnell in 2001. The first is a representation of the Sandia Mountains with stars in the land area.

Pretty.

On block later, the wall curves into…

Meandering Home. The dark spots in the pic are mirrors.

Interesting, but we’re not done, yet.

One block later, again mid block, stands… The Sun in stained glass.

Notice a pattern? I sure did right away! Dawn Light became Spirit; the boulders, Earth; The image of the Sandias, Air; Meandering Home, Water; The Sun, Fire.

San Mateo is a major thoroughfare, so I get to travel that stretch often. Every time I do, I breathe in the elements as I pass each one. They inspire me as I aspire them. Thus, I am casting all the time!

[georgia]

Challenge Entry- Star Magic

This is something I’m looking forward to. Regular novae are the random death of a star, easily missed, yet can be bright enough to announce the birth of a deity. This is the repeated shuffling off of energy from one star onto another in a binary system to create an explosion brighter than one star alone can manage.

‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ explosion will bring a new star to the night sky | CNN

As a Starchild, I don’t really know how to feel about the event. If I become a star at the end of Earth life, there is a possibility something like this could happen to me. It would seem painful to be sucked dry slowly and to see my energy blasted off into space by what amounts to a twin vampire.

At the same time, I’m curious as to what heavier elements are being created in such a blast. The explosion alone could hit gas clouds out in space and begin an interstellar nursery where stars and planets are waiting to be born, new possibilities for intelligent life to be created, new ancestors to be celebrated.