At last! On the Edge, originally published by Club Lighthouse Publishing in May 2010 has been completely revised. Now titled "AT THE EDGE."
This week I posted an exclusive excerpt for my readers to get glimpse of the YA, magic realism, paranormal book. I'm leaving this excerpt up for only a few days, and then will be taking the read down. I'm excited to search for aYA book publisher to discover the best home for the new and improved story.
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About the Book "AT THE EDGE," - Real people developing relationships; while Carm is struggling to pick up the pieces after the death of her husband.
Two Quick Questions - 1. How important is it to you to create likeable characters?
I portray the characters inner characteristics and emotions as they struggle with issues of their own. The characters are realistic that the readers will believe. Tough and practical Paige takes command; Roxy under a watchful eye intimidates; always helpful Lizzy goes with the flow and Carm is consumed with sorrow and mental anguish. Gretchen, a witch is a welcome relief from life's pressures. To add support and conflict to the story are Thomas a friend everyone wants to deserve and Philip is certainly not safe to trust.
2. What do you most hope that readers will take away from the book?
In this book I provide a unique insight into the drug world and mysticism – addiction and the belief that direct knowledge of ultimate reality is attainable through intuition and the unseen world. I hope the reader will begin to believe if you change your choices while guided by Spirit you can change your life for the better.
Stop bt http://Witchskel.wordpress.com to read an EXCLUSIVE excerpt. Remember to forward this to your friends...so they too can check it out!
Smile and the world Smiles with you!
:-)
 The concept of non-violence is practiced by all great spiritual masters. It inspires me every day, and I’d like to share it with you.
In most situations, it’s best to choose the path of pacifism, since pacifism ultimately leads to peaceful, non-violent outcomes.
Thoughts, words and deeds that are peaceful never lead to violence. When confronted with violence, the fact of not responding in kind and creating more aggression, eases the tension and prevents it from escalating.
Responding to violence with violence only creates an endless cycle of aggression.
If you want to put out a fire, it’s wiser to throw water on it rather than gasoline. Similarly, there’s no shame in refusing to fight. There’s no code of honor that says you have to stand-up to an adversary who is stronger than you, and who could put your life, and the lives of those close to you, in danger.
Non-violence isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength! It takes more courage and willpower to refrain from letting yourself become angry or seek revenge, than it does to give-in to a torrent of violent acts and emotions.
http://tara-medium.com
No matter what kind of life you have, you behave according to principles you developed over time, or were taught in childhood. But you should keep asking yourself one question: Is the way I am pursuing my life going to bring me happiness? How can I know? And, more importantly, how can I change the course of my life, if necessary? Below you’ll find some key points for doing just that.
Pursuuing an interest in your personal development means developing a stronger mind, more willpower, more self-confidence, and original ideas for earning more money, improving your life, and making all your dreams a reality.
When you look at methods of personal development, you see that the possibilities they offer are usually linked to a higher force which assumes different names, depending on the tradition or culture it comes from: God, Allah, Yahweh, Nirvana, the Clear Light, the great Architect of the Universe, Astral Powers, Cosmic forces, and so on.
Can A Spiritual Path Bring You Happiness?
All these methods, which are highly respected around the world, offer ways for you to connect, either directly or not, with what I call the Higher Power.
You can contact this Higher Power through prayer, meditation, trance, invocation, clairvoyance, or magic rituals.
Each person must find his or her own path. And yet, it often happens that people’s lives don’t improve, and they don’t find happiness, even though they’ve followed a spiritual tradition.
It takes time to change your state-of-mind, and get rid of the mental and spiritual blocks preventing you from being wealthy, experiencing true love, and seeing your wishes become reality.
People sometimes waste month, years, or even a whole lifetime following a path that doesn’t really suit them.
The important thing isn’t to know whether a path is right for you, but whether you are right for the path. In other words, are you going to attain happiness if you continue to follow it?
Instead of asking that question, people often feel guilty and blame themselves when things go wrong. It’s not the path that’s at fault, it’s their own shortcomings.
When someone embarks on a spiritual path, it’s because the path attracts them by offering what they’re looking for, in terms of answers to questions about the meaning of life, and the kind of training it offers. In the beginning, all paths seem perfect.
That’s because we tend to idealize our spiritual calling, and forget that nothing in life is perfect, that any given ‘method’ has its faults, and may not correspond to our needs at some point in time.
Some people struggle their whole lives, with all their strength, but never take the time to find out if the path they’re on is really the right one for them.
Let Doubt Be Your Guide Extremists of all traditions are blinded by conviction when they have doubts about their faith. If something isn’t right, they blame themselves, not the tradition. They never wonder if maybe the path they’re on isn’t right for them. But you’re not an extremist, so you can ask the question: ‘Is this path – this religion or magic tradition or belief I’m involved in – right for me or not?’ If you’ve done everything you can to assimilate the principles of your faith, and practiced its rituals properly, but realize that it hasn’t brought you the happiness you’re seeking, or even helped you get closer to achieving it, then it’s time for a change. Keep an open mind, and explore other traditions and methods of personal development. You may find something that interests you in your research that turns out to be the right path for you, at least for awhile. Your ultimate goal should be to create your own path, one that leads you to happiness, freedom, and serenity. http://Tara-Medium.com
"The Principles of Wiccan Belief," which many Witches continue to endorse, and which many Witches continue to endorse, and which were later incorporated into one or more editions of the handbook for chaplains in the U.S. Army. In adopting the thirteen principles, the Counsil stated:
In seeking to be inclusive, we do not wish to open ourselves to the destruction of our group by those on self-serving power trips, or philosophies and practices contradictory to those principles. In seeking to exclude those whose ways are contradictory to ours, we do not to deny participation with us to any who are sincerely interested in our knowledge and beliefs, regardless of race, color, sex, age, national or cultural origins or sexual preference.
Shortly after this landmark action, the Council disband, due in part to continuing differences among traditions.
The Thirteen Principles of Wiccan Belief 1. We practice rites to attune ourselves with the natural rhythm of life forces marked by the phases of the Moon and the seasonal Quarters and Cross Quarters. 2. We recognize that our intelligence gives us a unique responsibility toward our environment. We seek to live in harmony with Nature, in ecological balance offering fulfilment to life and consciousness within an evolutionary concept. 3. We acknowledge a depth of power far greater than that apparent to the average person. Because it is far greater than ordinary it is sometimes called "supernatural," but we see it as lying within that which is naturally potential to all. 4. We conceive of the Creative Power in the universe as manifesting through polarity-as masculine and feminine-and that this is the same Creative Power lies in all people, and functions through the interaction of the masculine and the feminine. We value neither above the other, knowing each to be supportive of the other. We value sex as pleasure, as the symbol and embodiment of life, and as one of the sources of energies used in magickal practice and religious worship. 5. We recognize both outer worlds and inner, or psychological, worlds sometimes known as the Spiritual World, the Collective Unconsciousness, inner Planes, etc.-and we see in the inter-action of those two dimensions that basis for paranormal phenomena and magickal exercises. We neglect neither dimension for the other, seeing both as necessary for our fulfilment. 6. We do not recognize any authoritarian hierarchy, but do honor those who teach, respect those who share their greater knowledge and wisdom, and acknowledge those who have courageously given of themselves in leadership. 7. We see religion, magick and wisdom in living as being united in the way one views the world and lives within it-a world view and philosophy of life which we identify as Witchcraft - the Wiccan Way. 8. Calling oneself "Witch" does not make a Witch - but neither does heredity itself, nor the collecting of titles, degrees and initiations. A Witch seeks to control the forces within her/himself that make life possible in order to live wisely and well without harm to others and in harmony with nature. 9. We believe in the affirmation and fulfilment of life in continuation of evolution and development of consciousness giving meaning to the Universe we know and our personal role within it. 10. Our only animosity towards Christianity, or towards any other religion or philosophy of life, is to the extent that its institutions have claimed to be "the only way" and have sought to deny freedom to others and to surpress other ways to religious practice and belief. 11. As American Witches, we are not threatened by debates on the history of the Craft, the origins of various terms, the legitimacy of various aspects of different traditions. We are concerned with our present and our future. 12. We do not accept the concept of absolute evil, nor do we worship any entity known as "Satan" or "the Devil," as define by Christian tradition. We do not seek power through the suffering of others, nor accept personal benefit can be derived only by denial to another. 13. We believe that we should seek within Nature that which is contributory to our health and well-being. Taken from The Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft, Publisher Facts on File, Inc.copyright 1989 http://factsonfile.com
Each Soul,
Descending to the physical,
from the spiritual,
from the moment of conception,
the thread of life is given,
to make it what it will. Individual threads drift steadily,
coming together,
align for a brief period,
separating, moving on. Each soul,
lives life ageing,
some longer than others,
the ill and the old pass,
the young come into being,
it all comes full circle,
each ends as it begins. Fate is dictated by moments, you can neither, expect or control. The Three Aspects of the Incarnation of Fate,
Clotho, who spins the the thread of life,
Lachesis, who measures them,
Atropos, who cuts them,
and then the soul moves on,
to the Afterlife. 
Although no easy task,
The Three Faces of Fate,
the ultimate workers,
the ultimate weavers,
measure the threads of life,
weave the tapestry,
spin the pattern,
properly integrated,
determined by interactive compromise,
between positive and negative,
the whole universe balance,
weighing their differences,
to bring harmony,
instead of pitting them against one another in dicord,
to keep the threads orderly.
Pictures taken by me of the Statues at Heart Castle - The Castle in the Sky
Hearst Castle is a National and California Historical Landmark mansion located on the Central Coast of California, United States Hearst Castle is located near the unincorporated community of San Simeon, California, approximately 250 miles (400 km) from both Los Angeles and San Francisco, and 43 miles (69 km) from San Luis Obispo at the norther end of San Luis Obispo County. The estate itself is five miles (eight kilometers) inland atop a hill of the Santa Lucia Range at an altitude of 1,600 feet (490 m). The region is sparsely populated because the Santa Lucia Range abuts the Pacific Ocean, which provides dramatic seaside vistas but few opportunities for development and hampered transportation. The surrounding countryside visible from the mansion remains largely undeveloped. Its entrance is adjacent to San Simeon State Park. Hearst Castle was built on Rancho Piedra Blanca that William Randolph Hearst's father, George Hearst, originally purchased in 1865. The younger Hearst grew fond of this site over many childhood family camping trips. He inherited the ranch, which had grown to 250,000 acres (1,012 km2) [3] and fourteen miles (21 km) of coastline, from his mother Phoebe Hearst in 1919. [4] Although the large ranch already had a Victorian mansion, the location selected for Hearst Castle was undeveloped, atop a steep hill whose ascent was a dirt path accessible only by foot or on horseback over five miles (8 km) of cutbacks. Hearst first approached American architect Julia Morgan [3] with ideas for a new project in April 1915, shortly after he took ownership. Hearst's original idea was to build a bungalow, according to a draftsman who worked in Morgan's office who recounted Hearst's words from the initial meeting: "I would like to build something upon the hill at San Simeon. I get tired of going up there and camping in tents. I'm getting a little too old for that. I'd like to get something that would be a little more comfortable."
I would like to thank my readers who rushed out to bookstores to read my paranormal book Severed Ties. http://DamnationBooks.com/book.php?isbn=9781615728206 Till Death and Beyond - The bond of love can bring two forbidden opposites together. Till Death and Beyond opens with a teenage girl named Zoe, inexperienced in witchcraft, in the woods on a Full Moon cast a spell for a love she feels is lost to her. The teenager new to magic, is careless of her words for her desire. The spirit of a maiden witch appears. At first the teenager is afraid of the ghostly figure, and then her curiosity calms her nerves. The Spirit tells the tale how she and the love of her life were separated by ignorance. Zoe, the teenage girl experiments with magic to reunite the Spirit with her long lost love. As a direct result of the long hours I spent reading the history of witchcraft my novella Till Death and Beyond was created. The main conflict in the short read is the Puritans attempting to keep evil from tarnishing their community and the witches strong belief based on the oneness of self an nature. Puritans against the witches. What happened and what it meant. Historically the Puritans and witches were two very different groups of people with two very different belief systems. Puritan America was based on clear roles between men, women, and God. Witchcraft served as a system of explanations for the ways of nature and a method by which one could gain control over their life. Witches were considered enemies to their God. Puritans linked witchcraft with the devil and hell because their first responsibility was to serve one God. The Biblical regulative principle of worship and commandments was the puritan blueprint toward that duty. Witchcraft became a crime against the church to rid those who did not dedicate themselves to their faith. They became known as immoral and wicked people even though their faith exsisted long before the Purtian's belief system did. I had a very specific idea in mind when I wrote Till Death and Beyond a love story between Emery a Puritan and Frye a witch and the petty rivalry connecting the two faith driven neighbors. The main conflict between the Puritans and the witches' belief systems is the the theme of the romantic story. I wanted to tell the important elements that are in the traditions and of the similarities and difference among them. I hope to say to the reader the story isn't strictly romantic; it will have some history. Check out the first chapter Till Death and Beyond at http://AngieSkelhorn.com/book-trailer-till-death--beyond.html Read an Author Interviews at http://BookGoodies.com/?s=Angie+Skelhorn Join me on Face Book - http://Facebook.com/pages/Author-Angie-Skelhorn-Witchskel/106332176093960 Publisher Link -http://Clublighthousepublishing.com/productpage.asp?bNumb=232
 The universe sure kept you on your toes throughout 2012, didn't it? Surely you noticed how often you wanted everything to stop so you could simply catch your breath. Well, the cosmos is also ready for a break ... so if it feels like things are finally beginning to slow down, that's because they are. Just don't get the idea that the stars will shut down completely over the next few days! On January 27, the full Moon rises in Leo opposite the Aquarian Sun for the traditional tug-of-war between one extreme idea and another. In this case, Leo's self-centered, materialistic love of exuberant fun will contrast with Aquarius' desire to merely blend into the crowd and help others -- albeit while still enjoying a good time! Jupiter then turns direct in Gemini on January 30, releasing positive, optimistic energy into the atmosphere. With Gemini's influence, you'll bridge old disagreements, explore better channels for communication, and discover a new spirit of tolerance. Also on January 30, Saturn in Scorpio squares off against the Aquarian Sun, an aspect that inevitably leads to persnickety tendencies and, thus, setbacks and delays. It may be a tad frustrating, but it also means you'll be getting rid of programs, methods, and projects that no longer serve you well. Just rest assured that once this passes, you'll be ready to move forward with success! With this welcome chance to catch your breath and get things moving in the right direction again, why not spend a little time on your relationship as well? http://Astrology.com
Going from a moody mood to a strong and determined mindset is very refreshing (because of the Leo Moon). Emotionally grounded, we are going to accomplish making plans and setting things right with those we love. The Leo Moon is also a great time to get haircuts.
Leo Moon - the dramatic mode of emotional expression of this Moon is evident in people; may be flamboyant, self-presentation; arrogance, vanity, and excessive self-aggrandizement.
Full Moon - Tensions either comes to a head or it is released. This is a good time to reflect on the meaning of the month-long cycle and gain perspective. It is also a good time for projects that need public support, particularly as the Disseminating Moon begins; Publicize your ideas.
The Full Moon can relate to illumination and fulfilment, or separation and divorce. The Full Moon may bring major turning points such as job offers, promotions and sudden opportunities or breakthroughs. The midpoint of the cycle relates to the release of the cycle's deeper meaning or intention setting the stage for full manifestation and completion.
The Full Wolf Moon rises on January 27th
January is the coldest time of year with the harshest weather conditions. Food supplies for humans and animals alike become scarce. Wolves and other predators risk coming close to towns and settlements to find food to ease their hunger. This makes wolves much more likely to be seen and heard by humans.
Season of Solstice Work:
Solstice - either of the two points in the ecliptic (the first points of the sign Cancer and Capricorn respectively) at which the sun is furthest from the equator and consequently appears to pause and turn in course: the time when the sun reaches these two points in its orbit, about 21st June and about 21st December.
Around December 21, the Sun enters Capricorn and witches celebrate the Winter Solstice.
In the Northern Hemisphere the Winter Solstice around December 21, marks the beginning of winter and occurs when the North Pole is tilted away from the sun. The word Solstice literally means "standing still." At the Winter Solstice the sun rises, stands still, for a brief moment,then quickly dwindles to disappear beneath the horizon.
The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year. Yule, one of the four lesser Sabbats, takes place each year around December 25. Legend of Santa Claus-Santa is the Holly King, the sleigh is the Solar Chariot, the eight Sabbats and the horns represent the Horn God, the North Pole symbolizes the Land of the Shadows and the dying solar year, and the gifts meant both to welcome the Oak King as the sun reborn and as a reminder of the gift of the Holly King who must depart for the Oak King to rule.
This is a great time to reflect upon the past and make plans for your future as the Sun illumines a pathway toward the achievement of your goals.  Three days before Winter Solstice - Yule:
Contemplation
Thought
Preparation
First Quest of Mastery -
to be granted an identity Discover your roots...your idenity in this world.
If you seek to understand the whole universe, you will understand nothing at all...but seek to understand yourself, and you will come to understand the whole universe.
It can take a life time to understand who you are and your purpose in life.
Live your outer life as a leader, while maintaining the heart and conscience of a Pagan.
The Eve of Winter Solstice - A Midwinter's Dream:
The main ancient formulae guidelines in magic are followed: An herb, a flower and a tree make three.
Herb - sacred to God Form or Spirit Guide being called, Flower - mistletoe, Tree - oak leaf or bark
Incense Dragon's Blood - the breath of the Dragon - burn incense for good psychic atmosphere to be felt.
On the eve of the shortest day call upon your God Form or Spirit Guide to make their will known (speak to your higher power ).
Trust the road you take is a guided one. Just because your God Form or Spirit Guide insn't here in body doesn't mean their love isn't with you.
To call forth Elders from the Deep, one need only to pass into sleep with palms of both hands upon the cheek.
Pose your question. ASK: "Please tell me how to continue; in what direction
shall I search, and for what end?"
Search the depths of the inner world. Leave not a single dream darkened -
until you know beyond doubt who you are, and why you are here; search out your identy...your own destiny.
Remember that dreams are the true interpreters of our desires. To say 'it is
only a dream' is a foolish thing.
Keep moving forward until your dreams come true. Of course, you’ll encounter
obstacles along the way, but you should try to see them as tests of your will and motivation, rather than as setbacks. Seeing obstacles as stepping-stones to success, rather than as barriers, will help you evolve to ever-higher states of awareness.
 Morning of Winter Solstice - Yule
At dawn on the Shortest Day light a small Yule fire of oak, and then triumpt rebirth with bells and boughs of everygreen. Hold a chalice filled with promagrant juice and toast the morning sun. Trust your intial respomse. Follow your intuitions. Ritual inspired by The 21 Lessons of Merlyn A Study in Druid Magic & Lore by Douglas Monroe
-Yule Sabbat-Green Witchcraft SeriesAuthor Ann Moura
http://Annmourasgarden.com
"Keep your eye on the bunny and bird," is a Faery expression meaning that the answers you seek are in nature. Birds are the harbinger of growth and promise. The morning of Winter Solstice, Yule 2012, in the new-fallen snow a Cardinal was the first bird I saw come by and stayed for a meal. The Cardinal represents self-worth, an aspect of one's personality---value - that quality which renders you valuable (important). To see a cardinal or find a cardinal feather means fortunes await love.
Motivation must come from within today. The only thing that can pull you out of bed is your own inner drive. Too much activity may leave you spent to the point in which you don't even want to move. Remember to keep things in moderation. Be good to your physical body. Get outside and let your mind radiate outwards like the rays of the Sun. Feel the grounding of the Earth below.
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