+ The Sacred & the Divine +

New Years Prayer

2011-12-15T13:55:00.000-08:00

A special ritual I've always found very powerful and enchanting to begin my year with is an elaborate New Year's Prayer. In some shape or form many people have put out their desires, hopes, and dreams for the upcoming year on New Year's Eve through an actual prayer, a kiss with that special date, or the traditional toast. The ritual I do directs this positive and hopeful energy through the power of meditation directing while supporting it with the power of appropriate herbs, candles, and mojos depending on the petitions. It has done wonders for me and now I offer it to my clients. I am now taking requests for my special New Year's Prayer. All I need is a list of everything you want and I'll make it happen! Voodoochild@passionrituals.com

New Look to Homepage!

2011-11-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a while since I've posted a blog entry but hope my readers, new and old, continue to enjoy my archives which cover a very wide range of subjects!

Today's news is I updated my homepage of services with a new FAQ and easier to navigate menu. For more details check out News & Announcements. For all your spiritual needs from Tarot, I-Ching, and Astrology readings and of course spell casting visit WWW.HOME.PASSIONRITUALS.COM

Also, my 9-candle love spell entry continues to be immensely popular and second to questions about the Intranquil Spirit and Anima Sola are what I am questioned about the most. Many anonymous commenters have asked questions about my 9-candle spell but it's difficult for me to respond in detail through the comments. If you are one of these people or have now just discovered the spell please email me directly at voodoochild@passionrituals as I will be much more likely to respond and help you. Thank you!

Everyday Voodoo with Astro Abby

2011-09-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

I was recently invited by Astro Abby, the famous Bridgett Walther, to collaborate by writing an article for her site. I am honored to partner up with such a pillar in the astrological and pagan community as well as a seasoned writer, columnist, and businesswoman. Many thanks to Bridgett for her friendship, partnership, and power!

Click here for my article on Everyday Voodoo focusing on Cleansings, Blessings, and Protections!

Working with Erzulie Freda, Voodoo Goddess of Love

2011-07-23T00:17:00.000-07:00

Erzulie Freda is one of the most powerful Voodoo goddesses to work with. As the lover of powerful spirits she wields a great authority and power, perhaps the most effective and influential in the pantheon. If she smiles on you great blessings will be experienced in the realm of love, romance and sex. Synchronized with the Virgin Mary she is pure, good, and benefic and also extends great protection. If you are a woman seeking to take another woman's husband do not appeal to Erzulie! As a benefic goddess she will not help intentions such as those, no matter how passionate you maybe. If your heart, intent, and agenda is pure she will surely come to your aid. Once she has smiled upon you and rituals to her have resulted in movement make sure offerings are made with regularity and communication with her remains open. She will continue to aid you in your love affair.

Offerings to her are champagne, cake, luxurious food, jewelry and clothing. She loves the colors pink and pale blue. The use of her veve (symbol) is also necessary in rituals.

She is one of my favorite goddesses to work with especially when all the rituals have failed, she will intercede. I have seen her makes the most distant and uninterested people warm and tender, she brings men home, keeps them home, stops philandering, stops hurtfulness, abuse, cheating, keeps your love faithful and kind. She also intensifies your seductive abilities, infusing you with her charm.

For information on having an Erzulie Freda love spell cast for you email me Voodoochild@passionrituals.com

Bring Your Love Home with Rose Quartz

2011-07-06T23:18:00.000-07:00

This is a Puerto Rican folk magic trick to bring your love home I was taught by a witch friend from the Caribbean.

If your love is angry at you/has moved out/left the house and you want them to come back put a rose quartz stone in the window. Like a lighthouse it will shine the path back for them to return. The stone's magnetic and powerful energy which affects the blood, heart, emotional and romantic feelings will protect your lover, soften their heart, and make them return.

Rose quartz is absolutely one of my favorite crystals to work with. While pregnant a dear friend gifted me with a huge one which I held over my heart and kept around my child afterwards to help soothe her.

Revenge: Destroy Their Reputation

2011-06-08T14:40:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately in this lifetime some of us are destined for encounters with abusive sociopaths, jealous gossips, obsessive psychopaths, etc. Far beyond a "normal" irritating person these people create enormous problems in our lives - they come in different forms: your mother-in-law, your co-worker, your husband's ex-wife, your partner, your landlord, etc. Despite best efforts to create peace or avoid them they may pursue you with a great fervor because to hurt you, bother you, ruin you gives them their only reason to live. These people are basically dead inside and hate themselves and their situation and they must spread their misery. If someone like this has chosen you, you need some HELP. Here's a spell

Nothing But Death Will Part Us - Relationship Protection Spell

2011-05-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

Soon I will be performing a very strong relationship protection spell for one of my clients that keeps any third party interference from coming between two people - whether it is love rivals, ex girlfriends/boyfriends, former spouses, in-laws or friends. One of my favorite phrases "Nemo Nisi Mors" - in Latin, Nothing But Death Will Part Us, inspired the formulation and formulary of this spell. I love this spell so much! It is strong and incorporates aspects of banishing, protection, and love spells. This is even a nice spell to perform as a pre-emptive strike for instance at the beginning of a relationship or marriage to ensure a happy and harmonious journey together!

Is your relationship under attack? Protect it!! Voodoochild@passionrituals.com

Happy May Day!

2011-05-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Happy May Day also known as Beltane! Tonight it is good luck to make love to your lover as it said to seal their fidelity! Get busy ;)

In pagan days May was the month of outdoor orgies. As a result it has long been a tradition that May is not a good month to marry with the obvious lascivious and lusty background! Queen Victoria allegedly banned her children from marrying in May!

Now on the flip side though May doesn't necessarily go hand in hand with marriage it certainly goes well with lust and sexuality spells. Spells to perform this month that would be beneficial would be spells like tying someone's sexual nature to prevent cheating or straying, increasing passion and lust in a sexless relationship, attracting more sexual attention, increase libido, enhance fertility.

By the way there's lot of new things at the official Passion Rituals site -- new testimonials, astrological readings, and love coaching services! Check it out! Why not get a mother-child compatibility reading as a Mother's Day present? :)

Gay/Lesbian Love Spell (Lavender Spells)

2011-04-14T00:40:00.000-07:00

I've done my fair share of Lavender Spells which are love spells specifically formulated to address homosexual love! Here is an easy one to do! This can be performed on a gay person by another gay person or on a straight person by a gay person.

Ingredients

dried lavender
lavender oil
sampson snake root for men, orris root for women
Commanding oil
Bend Over oil
2 identical keys
2 red male candle figures or 2 female candle figures
Red and pink ribbon

Doing the Job

Inscribe the full name of the caster on one candle and the full name of the target on the other, starting from the feet going in a staircase fashion around the body to the head. Anoint the candle representing the caster with Commanding and Lavender oil and dress with the sampson root or the orris root. Anoint the candle of the target with Lavender and Bend Over oil. Place a key in front of each figure, the identical part represents the mirroring sexual identity/organs i.e. homosexuality and the key itself is "the key to each other's hearts." The figure candles should be on an altar/table as far apart as they can be. Figurine candles take several hours to burn down. Every 30 minutes move the keys closer to each other. When the candles are out place they keys on top of each other, tie together with a pink and red bow. Put this love mojo in your underwear drawer.

How you can make a retrograde work for you!

2011-04-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

Mercury in Retrograde March 30, 2011 - April 23, 2011

I've discussed it here before that with my natal mercury (communication) and moon (emotions) and ascendant (external persona) ruled by Virgo & Gemini (mercury ruled planets) I am EXTREMELY affected by Mercury in Retrograde. Within this past cycle I have destroyed my phone, missed phone calls, missed emails, have a mysteriously defunct voicemail box, and most unfortunately got into major misunderstandings with several people!! With this particularly sensitive disposition I have several rules.

I have avoided buying anything that involves shipping or contracts. I did ALL the online shopping I wanted to do before the retrograde.
I do not buy plane tickets or other expensive tickets at this time.
I have not signed any contracts and though are currently in this discussion of several will not commit to any until the retrograde is complete.
I tell clients to check-in with me if I am uncharacteristically uncommunicative as more likely than not I didn't get your message!

This recent cycle though I have found this retrograde making me uncharacteristically nostalgic. Retrogrades are certainly known for this, as of course the energy is switched around but it's a new thing for me as I'm not one for sentimentalities especially when I think about the past. I am also doing a refresher spell for a client where I used this retrograde energy of nostalgia and longing as a positive thing! And it inspired me and occurred to me to spread the word that now is a good time to do a spell to make someone remember you! We cannot change the movement of the planets and the earth but we can respect them and try our best to work with what we are given. There are a few people who benefit from Mercury in Retrograde depending on their natal chart but you can also bring some things into your life if you work with this introspective energy properly. Retrogrades call for thoughtful reflection upon the past and for many a painful time of confrontation but also through that pain an ultimate resolution.

Stay strong and think slowly, almost meditatively, over things these days. Anyways, since you shouldn't be signing contracts or making any major decisions you should have some free time ;)

I am offering new services! Love Coaching and lessons again! For more info visit my official website's News & Announcements!

Recent Experience with Refreshing a Honey Jar

2011-03-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

Over a year ago I made a honey jar and recently did some refresher work to it with incredibly lovely results. Interestingly I hadn't raised my energy or done any kind of ritual preparation. It was a rather sudden decision where I was able to add sexual fluids from my target immediately

Moon Magick: Love and Lunacy!

2011-02-18T18:02:00.001-08:00

In honor of tonight's Full Moon and torrential winter rain in Los Angeles I thought I'd talk a little bit about the moon, it's effect on our natal charts and magick to be performed in harmony with the lunar calendar.

Magick According to the Moon

Waxing: When the moon is growing magick to increase, attract, bring, benefit is performed. Love spells to an old love, beauty spells to increase attractiveness, communication spells to increase discussion, money spells to bring customers, fertility spells, etc.

Full: The full moon is a particularly auspicious time to perform spell work. Timing a spell to end on a full moon or begin on a full moon -- depending on intention is often done. One day/one night spells are also good to perform on the full moon such as when working with a votive or other short burn candle. Since it is altogether auspicious black magick or spells normally performed during the waning or dark moon can also be performed though personally I favor the full moon for spells which fall under the waxing moon arena more.

Waning: When the moon is waning magick to banish, break-up, cleanse, remove is performed. Stop gossip, destroy bad habits, break-up lovers, banish enemies, perform house cleansings, perform personal cleansings.

Dark: For about two days the moon is considered "dark" as it is barely visible in the sky. When the moon is dark this is a good time for heavier spells dealing with death, the dead, and serious hexes. Also a good time for divination.

New: When the moon is new this is a particularly good time to do spells which have to do with new ventures. Spells to attract new, draw luck for a new business, draw luck and protection for an event. I use this time to usually do benefic spells that are a bit more unknown in nature.

Some Facts

More children are conceived during the waxing moon than at any other time during the lunar cycle.
Full moon really heightens the emotionality of some people. outbursts, fights, and moodiness may result. however, some people who have a lot of water or Cancer in their astrological chart may actually feel happy and most at ease at this time depending on transits.
Full moon has been attributed innumerable scientific studies as a major contributor to erratic human behavior.
The specific cycle of the moon the day of your birth falls under can reveal many karmic insights. I offer a very special reading analyzing this!
There are technically 8 moon cycles.

Some Tips

Try to keep a lunar dream diary for as long as you can. Rank your dreams by intensity or peacefulness. See if there is any correlation to the lunar calendar. This can help you find out how sensitive or insensitive you are to the phases of the moon - very useful for a pagan in terms of spell work and divination.
Capture the magick of the moon by collecting rainfall at night, placing magickal objects by the light of the full moon such as wands, talismans, and mirrors.

Happy February Full Moon everyone!

By the way, check out News & Announcements at my Official Site for info on coupons and new services. Currently have THREE coupon promotions until March 31st for a free reading, 20% off a spell, and a free astrological reading!

Mars: Your Planet of Desire

2011-02-17T14:35:00.001-08:00

The ruler of the natal Mars in a person's chart tells us what a person's deepest strongest desires are and by the rule of attraction, what they pursue in their lives. Mars represents the people, things, and ideas that turns you on. It can really explain a lot of behavior patterns, particularly those of people who are difficult to figure out as Mars can often be overshadowed in more public ways by the planets which rule communication, ego, and other external projections of character. Mars, in this way, is our secret dreams, wishes, and subconscious, revealing itself in the subtle ways.

For example, say you have a kind, generous, sweet friend who would never hurt a fly. She is mild mannered and has no dangerous habits or interests. However, this friend always seems to be with selfish men who treat her carelessly and thoughtlessly, more involved in their own self-love than in being with her. Of course these men are always successful in their jobs. Look deeper and her Mars is in Capricorn. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, would show up in a woman who is deeply attracted to successful and emotionally cold men. Though it may be difficult for you to understand why someone as warm as her (say her Sun is in Leo, her moon in Cancer, her Mercury in Libra) the Mars in her dominates her sexual, intellectual and emotional turn-ons. Thus, she is very attracted to these men whose practicality and stable footing in the rational matters of career and finances, are perfect for her. Of course except for when conflicts arise between the other aspects of her personality which call for more warmth.

So what does Mars mean for you? Well a look at your Mars may help you understand the conflicts that so often occur in what you pursue and how you are able to deal when you finally get what you want. On another psychological perspective understanding the Mars of a friend, family member, or partner can help you understand why they do the things they do and what motivates them. This of course is helpful in determining what kind of spell will work best for someone. Say, you want somebody to love you who has Mars in a playful sign such as Gemini, doing a serious/heavy love domination spell may not work as well as a Chuparosa sweetening which has an airy, sweet quality. Mars allows you to understand your target's psyche and get from them what you want!

Magickal Incantations

2011-02-13T18:51:00.000-08:00

Part of the "science" of magick is repetition.

Sex, Love, and Power Spell

2011-02-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

The biggest problem for people who desperately want a relationship is their desperation. Desperation repels love with a ferocity and saturates everything a person says and does despite what they may believe. It is like a stench that cannot be removed and forms a bubble around the desperate person, blocking them from what they desire most - committment, companionship and most of all love and affection. The only way to turn such a trainwreck around is through POWER. POWER destroys desperation as it gives you the options, no longer a beggar, you are the chooser. Who has "the upperhand" in relationships is very often decided naturally in the dynamic between two people - it begins at the very start. Contrary to popular opinion it is not always the more attractive partner. I've known many beauties at the mercy of someone who would be classically thought to be not much to write home about. POWER is in the hands of the one who is capable of walking away. There is always one partner who would choose "Stay" rather than "Go" in nearly every single scenario. This is the same partner who is more forgiving and makes excuses for the bad behavior of their love. This is not a warm hearted person but one without a BACK BONE. The person capable of walking away may not have a swarm of options but they believe they do and that belief is what guarantees they can whoever they do decide they want.

OK, you say, fine, I understand. But you are not one of those people with high self-esteem. Childhood issues, personal problems, hurts and doubts, have all claimed your pride through the years. SO GET IT BACK!

Here is a powerful spell which should be performed before doing a love spell of any kind. It is extremely useful for someone who's life has been plagued with relationship problems and now is very timid or paranoid in relationships, has been victim to abusive partners or traumatizing events such divorce. Basically it is good for anyone who's lost their self-esteem and is now desperate for love. Desperation does nothing but encourage more loneliness, abuse, and sadness.

Ingredients

penis or vagina candle depending on your sex

high the conqueror oil

queen elizabeth powder

sea salt

mustard seed

salt water

a lemon

bundle of sage

spray bottle

your own sexual fluids

a knife

your blood (to women: menstrual blood is great here!)

Doing the Job

This spell requires candle magick and creating a spiritual body purifying spray.

First create the spray by putting saltwater and a couple squeezes of lemon in a spray bottle. Spray your body thoroughly. Then smudge yourself with the sage. All the while visualize the many hurts, insecurities, and pains which make you insecure/desperate falling away.

Next, the candle magick. Etch your full name on the candle in a staircase fashion going upwards. Dress the candle in High John oil, your blood, and menstrual fluids. Then dust with Queen Elizabeth root. The masculine High John and feminine Queen Elizabeth serve to enhance the power of both your ying and yang. Your DNA and name serve to identify yourself to the spirits and gods/goddesses you are petitioning for the enhancement of you power.

In the middle of your altar place the candle. With the mustard seeds and sea salt create a ring around the candle. These are protective herbs which will protect you from further pain and anguish so that your petition for more power can safely grow and thus you can too!

Valentine's Day Coming.... Reunite with your Lover! Reconiliation Spells!

2011-01-21T09:42:00.001-08:00

Of the many love spells requests I receive the most popular is love reconciliation. No heart is hungrier than the one that has had a taste of it's desires! In my experience reconciliation spells usually need to be repeated several times over as repeated ritualism intensifies the pressure needed to change the heart of a reluctant or apathetic ex. Normally, reconciliation spells are more successful when spells addressing the major issues leading to a break up are performed first. For instance if cheating or a new boyfriend/girlfriend led to the break up a Love Rival spell should be performed. If there was a long history of hurt, pain, and misunderstandings between two exes a Healing Hearts and Communication spell would be good to do. I've often found that a power reconciliation spell then has the opportunity to succeed and quickly manifest if other problems and blockages are removed first. As we are currently in a waning moon phase it would be great to perform these "blockage" removing spells now.

With several weeks before the sentimental, some say commercial, holiday of Valentine's Day if you happen to be in a situation where you would love to be back with your ex there is certainly still time to do the spell work necessary to get you back together. At the end of the waning moon phase, a new moon Reconciliation spell would not coincide perfectly with a Valentine's Day reunion!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-18T15:23:00.000-08:00

Happy new year readers and clients! Hope everyone is enjoying the new year in these first couple of weeks and had an enjoyable holidays and Winter Solstice! They say what you are thinking about and what you are doing on New Year's Eve will decide the fate of the upcoming year. I've found this to be quite true and so I always try to be with friends and family on that special night.

New Year's Prayer

The beginning of the New Year is always a good time to perform cleansings and for strong focused rituals on one's desires. As we all make our resolutions about things we want to change and things we want to accomplish spiritual back-up in the form of a ritual or spell is a way that the path can be "cleared." From trying to quit smoking, losing weight, improving a marriage, or finding a new job the power of ritual magick can help you realize your desires faster, easier, and more successfully than you might've even thought possible!

Schedule a reading and spell consultation with me today to see how your life can improve FOR THE BETTER! voodoochild@passionrituals.com

Please also visit my Official Website as there's new changes and information!

Blessings,
Jaya

Give the Gift of Voodoo!

2010-10-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

With the month of Halloween well under way there's a lot of spellwork being done this month. Always an auspicious time of the year to do work, the month of Samhain is a month when if you've felt like you wanted to do some work, do it! For those of you who'd like to spread the wonderfully spooky, powerfully seductive gift of Voodoo I am now selling gift certificates at my Online Shoppe! Redeemable at $50, $75, and $100 - a generous and sincerely wonderful gift any loved one of yours would love to receive!

Another gift is this easy to do organic autumn incense, using small/1lb size pumpkins. A nice addition to an altar for this month or to honor Oshun as it works with pumpkins and cinnamon!

Take a small/1lb size pumpkin and carve it as you would a normal jack-o-lantern. Carve your pattern, whatever you wish. To the top (lid) of the pumpkin sprinkle cinnammon powder and some cinnamon or all spice as well. Put a votive light in your pumpkin, cover with lid and your small little jack-o-lantern will have your home smelling like fresh baked pumpkin pie!

Foot and Smell Magick: Front Porch Love Trick

2010-09-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

There's quite a few people out there who've been working on the same man or woman for a long time. You know who you are ;) And it's certainly difficult to walk away from a long project that's lasted months or even years. But when you finally have decided to walk away there's some tricks you can do to help let go and give yourself a bit of support as you step back and allow the accumulating energy of previous spellwork do as it will even as you actively move on. The truth about a lot of spellwork is that keeps going unless it's explicitly told to stop which is why your target may ultimately come to you exactly as you had always desired and it will be your turn to decide whether you still want him or her! I've experienced it myself as have my clients!

Anyways, here's a ritual you can perform as your "goodbye for now but not forever" spell.

You will need to:

Take a love bath, whatever you wish. A lavender milk bath, a rose petal and orange oil bath, etc. Save some of the water in a container such as a water bottle.
Create a powdered mixture of orris root, cinnamon powder, and magnetic sand. Separate into two small pouches.
Get out a bottle of whatever perfume or cologne you use the most often and your target would recognize as your distinctive scent. If you don't have one you will have to gather a good amount of your sexual fluids onto a paper napkin.

Here's the fun part! Doing the job involves secretly going to their home when they won't notice you laying tricks on their front door - such as in the middle of the night or when they're at work.

Splash the water from the bath on the floor in front of the door.
Lay the powdered love mixture as foot trick also in front of the door.
Spray the perfume on the handle of their door knob and along the frame of the door and/or rub the paper napkin with sexual fluids.

This trick is a good way to say goodbye because basically it's working with the scent of smell, the most powerful sense in invoking memory. Whenever your target opens their front door for a good while they will remember you and remembering will cause longing. As this longing builds the energy of residual spellwork will also weigh on them so all that old work you did for so long will have a nice platform to rest on!

By the way this is also a good trick to do in general for making a love remember you.

I-Ching: Oracle of Fate - New Service!

2010-09-12T23:12:00.001-07:00

Years ago, when I was first introduced to the I-Ching by a Voodoo guru friend of mine she piqued my interest with her personal experience of it's powerful divining power. After several years of dating the same man who lived in a different country she threw the I-Ching and it told her she would marry him. She didn't believe it, being firmly established with her family including her young child, oceans away. Despite having dated for a decent time she never saw herself moving and had always been aloof to the idea of marriage. Well, she was telling me this as a married woman. She was then and remains bewildered at times of her status, often forgetting to wear her ring, love her husband yet still a bit cagey to the idea of matrimony. But the I-Ching told her of that too. She would marry but eventually divorce due to her restlessness. The first part of the oracle came true, we are waiting for the second but perhaps it is the oracle of the I-Ching on impending divorce which is what my rebellious and stubborn friend needs. After all, reverse psychology works best on rebels doesn't it?

As I learned the I-Ching under her and have continued my studies on it I have recently decided to offer this as a new service here at PassionRituals. I explain on my website how I see tarot as my favorite divination in helping decide spellwork - before, during, and after a spell it is the best in seeing what energies are at play, what people are thinking, and therefore what a situation needs in order to be manipulated. I am constantly drawing cards. The I-Ching is different - though it takes into account the energies of the present it goes much further in it's reach of the past and future making it a true oracle of fate. For some, all they need is one I-Ching reading. If you have a question of Fate maybe the I-Ching is where you should be turning to! Please bookmark

By the way in other pagan news, Mercury is finally direct after it's most recent retrograde. I experienced many phone mishaps and felt very awkward with some discussion during this past retrograde. Moon and Asc in Gemini PLUS Mercury in Virgo makes me particularly affected! Hope it wasn't too terrible for some of you.

Also I recently read this about September's Harvest Moon. With all this moodiness in the air take some time to take things a little slow. Mercury in retrograde can really mess everything up and you may be doing a lot of smoothing things over or clarifying after bad communication in the past several weeks so take care! Hope everyone is enjoying the advent of autumn - we are making our way to the best holiday of the year... Samhain!!! My celebrations have already begun with pumpkin cookies, pumpkin bread, and lots of spellwork.

"September: The Harvest Moon
This is the full moon nearest the autumnal equinox, bright enough to allow farmers to work late into the night, bringing in the last of their harvest. A time of introspection. People are often moody during this moon."

How to do a Simple Binding

2010-09-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted a spell in a while so here's a simple trick! Many people at one time or another have experienced problems with a lover who was "hard to hold onto" - here's a Voodoo remedy!

So here's a simple binding you can perform on a lover while on the phone with them! In a way in combines both Communication magick and Love magick. Very good thing to do on a lover who is not completely persuaded that they want to be with you, can't committ, is interested in another person, doesn't spend enough time with you and prefers to be with friends, etc.

Ingredients

purple pen
photo of target
a new spool of purple thread
herbs: red clover, calamus

Doing the Job

On the back of the target's photo write their names 9x turn it 90 degrees in the other way and write your name over their name (crossing it) 9x. Call out repeatedly, "You are mine, you will stay, bound to me you will forever remain."
Sprinkle the herbs on it. Fold towards you three times so that the photo is now a little packet.
Call up your target and as you speak to them in your mind repeat the chant and take the spool of thread and wrap it around the photo packet. Tie the string 9x at the end to seal it.
Place this packet in your underwear drawer or bury into the earth by your home.

Maintenance Spells: Keep Things Going How You Want

2010-08-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

When it comes to spellwork I believe that for many situations, especially love and relationships, it is beneficial to do "maintenance spells" every now and then. I've discussed in previous posts and as well in conversations with my clients how (especially in hoodoo) it is widely believed that men, for instance, should be worked on regularly. And anyone who's ever been in a relationship knows that every relationship, even the happiest ones, could benefit from some love work to arouse passion, encourage forgiveness, and maintain fidelity. The menstrual blood in the daily coffee trick being a daily spell many women have performed over their men for a very long time which is said to do all those things and more. A man could of course work on his chosen with semen. Maintenance spells, like maintenance on a cars, must be performed with frequency based on the man or woman. If you've got a wreck or a crappy car then maintenance is probably more of an issues.... Like if you're dating an asshole! Difficult people generally should be worked on regularly -- the peril of not performing maintenance spellwork is that very quickly a relationship could unravel or they will spin out of control causing the relationship to end.

So what exactly would be a maintenance spell? Some maintenance spells are easy daily tricks such as using a name paper or the menstrual blood in coffee spell. Other maintenance spells could be repeating a previous spell which seemed to be highly effective on the target. Some maintenance spells could be simple as burning a specific condition candle or saint/orisha candle every couple months.

Maintenance spells on the people and situations which mean the most to us and affect our lives the most are extremely important whether it's keeping your boss in line, your kids on the straight and narrow as peer pressure envelopes them, or your spouse faithful... Don't get lazy and let things go, thinking a spell you did long ago will serve to last through the decades. I've seen, of course, long lasting effects due to ONE spell but it is quite rare!

Dragon's Blood: Add Power to ANY SPELL

2010-07-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

My goodness it's been a while since I posted! Hope all of you, my dear readers, have been doing well! As we come upon August, the hottest month of the year in many parts, I thought it would be appropriate to discuss a heat up spell!

I'm not sure what other occultists call this type of spell but a heat up spell is an excellent way to refresh old spells which have not fully manifested or as a back up to a spell recently performed so that it manifests sooner than later. Depending on the situation different candles would be appropriate to burn.

Now a great way I've found to heat up a spell and make things happen fast is to burn a Dragon's Blood Candle with appropriate back up candles. Here's a couple uses:

Burning a Dragon's Blood candle with a Jinx Removing candle is an excellent way to finally and completely remove a jinx that has plagued a person or family for years. With enough repetition if necessary, a jinx which has travelled through generations can be removed.
Burning a Dragon's Blood candle with a Yemaya candle can help a couple which has been struggling to conceive beat the race against time for a baby especially if the mother is older and her age is an issue.
Burning a Dragon's Blood candle with a Del Retiro and Law Stay Away can help with many different petitions from keeping the cops from finding out about a crime the has been committed, stop parking tickets from draining your income, or have an ex-spouse think twice about asking for alimony!

Using Symbols

2010-06-29T22:35:00.000-07:00

A large part of my ritualism involves using symbols. Symbols in Voodoo are knowns as veves. I also use Ruesi symbols from the Buddhist magick tradition. Symbols are often etched into candles, inked on sacred cloth, or in Hoodoo tradition are written on an altar during a ritual with flour. Symbols are very sacred ways to connect to the oldest magickal powers from the past. The fact that they have lasted through the course of time is testament to their power and efficacy in ritual spellwork. Special ancient prayers, chants, and rituals empower the blessing of these symbols upon the querent.

Knowledge on how to use the symbols is much more difficult to ascertain than other ritual magick. There are many many books on candle magick but using symbols properly and correctly one is often taught by an elder who has this knowledge. If you are to encounter someone who can teach the sacred path of symbol magick seize the opportunity and expand your world!

Tapa La Boca - Stop Gossip Spell

2010-06-22T12:13:00.000-07:00

Gossip is irritating but if it's really malicious can ruin your reputation. The truth about human beings is that we are riveted by filth so unfortunately a million good things about you can be wiped out by one scandalous piece of gossip if it's believable, well delivered, and nasty enough. Now, even the best of us have enemies - either out of going to blows with someone or jealousy. Living a charmed life, unfortunately, is enough to make someone go for your jugglar. Gossip can come in a myriad of forms from your boyfriend's snarky mother to a jealous co-worker. Stop these people from ruining your reputation and affecting your life but performing a Tapa La Boca spell on them!

Ingredients

1 black glass encased Tapa La Boca candle
1 High John the Conqueror candle
any combination of three domination oils such as controlling, domination, commanding
purple thread and needle
photo of your enemy

Doing the Job

Dress the Tapa La Boca candle with the three oils. Light the candle and meditate on how your will shall overcome your enemy's. Dress the High John candle with your spit and meditate on how your words will be more powerful than anything your enemy may have to say. Take a photo of your enemy, blown up with a close up on their face. Take the needle and thread and on the photo of your enemy "sew their mouth shut" while chanting "You keep your mouth shut about me or you'll choke on your words and it won't be pretty!" You can imagine them choking on a piece of food while gossiping about you!

The Evil Eye

2010-06-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

The Evil Eye is a widely held belief through many cultures in the world from Greece to India to China. You have most likely encountered charms which are said to protect you from the evil eye even in its most popular forms of nazars (Turkey) and hamsas (Israeli).

There are many customs in the world which people perform to protect themselves from the evil eye. For instance in some cultures when a baby is born cooing over the child will not be in the form of praise but "Oh! How ugly is this baby! How terrible!" to keep bad spirits away. Wearing charms such as hamsas and nazars are also said to keep away the evil eye. In India the use of the red powder kumkum is placed on the cheeks of newlyweds and babies to keep away the evil eye.

So what is the evil eye? Basically it is a curse which one person can place on another just by looking at them. Sometimes intentional, often it is actually not. Most people don't go around trying to hurt others because they are jealous but the strength of their jealousy may be powerful enough to bring another person pain and suffering and loss. Some people are born with this destructive power and I do believe that you should practice protections against the evil eye. Wearing the charms and amulets to protect against this are integral! There are also chants and one word prayers such as the Islamic saying "Mashallah" which is said to keep the evil eye at bay. Choose your protection, believe in it, and stay protected! The evil eye can cause break ups, bankruptcy, you name it!

Truth Spell - Stop Being Lied To!

2010-06-08T16:57:00.001-07:00

There's a lot lying and cheating going on in the world. If you suspect someone is not telling you the truth the pretty gemstone Tiger Eye is a good stone to work with. It will boost your confidence and personal power as it compels another to tell you the truth as it also known as the stone of truth.

Here's how to turn Tiger Eye into a truth charm:

Soak a piece of Tiger Eye in a bowl of fresh water with the petals of white flower and thyme. Chant or meditate on a phrase commanding the truth such as, "The truth is mine, the words yours. Only true words from your mouth to my ears." Place this bowl in a window or outside during a full moon or when the moon is waxing in a spot where the moonlight will shine upon it. Carry the Tiger Eye, your new truth charm in your pocket and rub it when you're speaking to the person you believe is lying to you. You should observe a couple things to know if it's working with a change in the person's eyes - more blinking or less blinking, an alertness or a more dazed look - it will be unlike their eyes normally.

This truth charm can now be used in other truth spells as well as aid in making a truth potion!

St. Martha the Dominator

2010-06-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

One great thing about petitioning saints is that by virtue of their sainthood they are superior judges of character and situation. Their blessing in the success of a ritual is ruled by a divine righteousness and the spell will manifest strongly, quickly, and in the most beneficial way possible while offering a strong spiritual protection and blessing. They will never let you down when it comes to a ritual working especially if the ritual is to bring about a healthier, happier, virtuous end. There are other spiritual entities, petitioned in desperation who will work with you to bring about evil - break up a family just because you want to fuck the husband, etc. but the saints will not do that. They will, however, cause ill to a bad person threatening the safety and life of others though.

While Anima Sola and Espiritu Intranquilo are the more famous methods of invoking a heartsick madness and domination over another, St. Martha the Dominator may be considered the "cleaner" alternative. She will help you have a strong power over any other person, persons, or situation. If you are not seeking to dominate someone to cause harm and in your heart know that what you are asking will cause happiness and peace, she will help you, even if you have never worked with her before. I owe many thanks to St. Martha's help! I often petition her in domination spells when I know my client has a pure agenda.

Synchronizing ritualism with others

2010-05-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have often synchronized the burning of candles and the performance of rituals with my clients as well as my fellow occultists. To bring together a collection of different people, creating a coven of power is an incredibly powerful thing to do. The more people involved and committed to the goal of a spell the more powerful it is. I highly recommend involving trusted occultists and other believers into a spell against a powerful enemy or stubborn target. My advice for those who practice solitary is to join an online networking system - I think PaganSpace is great - I can't say the same about MyHoodooSpace don't join! - and get to know at least one other occultist who you can trust in case one day you need some help!

Currently I am looking for help from experienced occultists in the banishing of a very malevolent person! If you are interested in helping email me immediately for details! I would be forever grateful! A simple candle on your altar is sufficient. Voodoochild@passionrituals.com

Happy Mother's Day! + New Astro Services

2010-05-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

I am now offering astrological services! And I have a Mother's Day Special - 1/2 off my Mother & Child Astrological Analysis!

Ever since I had my daughter I have been obsessive over the astrological karmic relationship between mothers and their children. Before the age of 7, the Moon Sign is the best way to understand your child. I have seen astro analysis on parents and babies on many reputable and wonderful sites but I believe I have a little something special to offer!

For more information please visit:

Astrological Services by Jaya at Home.PassionRituals.com

and stop by

News & Announcements at my official site.

Hope you all have a happy mother's day with your mom, grandmother, daughter, son, or even a nice day at the park - as Mother Earth should also be honored!

Blood Krispie Treats

2010-04-30T21:16:00.000-07:00

Hello readers! As I type this I am afflicted by the horrendous Mercury in Retrograde currently happening! Computer in the shop, Internet down - I discovered however several applications on IPhone which is allowing me to write this entry. With several personal planets ruled by Gemini and Virgo I am unfortuantely very sensitive to Mercury in Retrograde! On the positive not having a computer around has certainly freed up the schedule a bit so Ive been cooking! And what have I cooked? Well Blood Krispie Treats with which to Voodoo with of course! I believe that ALL men, even the good ones need to be kept in check! I haven't shared a recipe in a while so here we go:

Doing the Job....

Mix red food coloring with marshmallows and butter!

Add Krispies!

I like to make balls and apply the blood to each and set aside a non-blood batch for who I don't want to Voodoo in the house!

The blood batch! Haha looks like someone's already gotten into it... perfect!

The Ex Who Won't Go Away

2010-04-27T23:27:00.001-07:00

We've all known of the ex-girlfriend/ex-boyfriend that won't let go. Like an irritable and pathetic pest these exes are sometimes too persistent to just keep ignoring. They won't stop calling, flood your email, reach out inappropriately to your family and friends. To react, even with anger, is still giving them the attention they want. Here's a strong spell to get rid of them for good. This spell incorporates both Lost and Away spells as well as Reversing and Banishing. This spell can be done to an ex of yours OR an ex of your present lover who's continued meddling can be interfering in your happiness.

Ingredients

Photo of ex
Love letters
Red and black reversing candle
A knife
Lemon
Cayenne pepper
Black pepper
Powdered black mustard seeds
Vinegar
Poppy seeds
Your urine
Cauldron/pot
Matches/lighter
Sulfur
Asfoetida
Powdered sage
Baby oil

As you perform all these parts of the spell chant in your head or outloud, "Get away from me for good. Your love for me is dead."

Part I - Reversing and Banish

Reversing spells are used to turn a curse back on it's caster and to also return a being back to his/her natural state. The most famous hex reversing spell is the mirror box spell. However it can also be used to reverse love. Mirror boxes are very difficult to make and shouldn't be attempted except by experienced rootworkers as doing it inappropriately can make a bad situation worse! Here's an easier to do effective spell to reverse the love your ex feels into non-love!

Carve a a red and black reversing candle with their full name going downwards in a staircase fashion 9x. Cover with lemon oil then dress the candle with a combination of powdered sage, asfoetida, cayenne pepper, black pepper, black mustard seed.

If you are receiving love letters or still have love letters, we will also dress these letters with the same powdered mix above. If they are texting you email the texts to yourself so you can print them out. If they are whiny, desperate, and or spilling their heart out the better! Roll the letters up or fold them so the powder stays within them.

Light the candle the edges of the love letters with the flame from the candle. Make sure the flame is large so that the letters will burn completely. Put the burning letters into a cauldron.

After the candle has finished burning and all the letters are ash go to a crossroads with a water bottle full of your urine. Drop the candle remains and ash on the road and pour your urine away from you onto the remains.

Part II - Lost and Away FOR GOOD

Take a photo of your ex and their love letters and coat with a combination of lemon juice and vinegar. Take a knife and stab the photo and letters again thinking of them forgetting about your and the love they feel. Coat with the powder mix from above and add poppy seeds to increase "confusion" so that they go away and do not pause to ponder why but simply become too befuddled to continue feeling anything for you. Cover in baby oil then dispose of at road side sewer opening.

Moon Sign as Mother, Childhood, and Our Innerlife

2010-04-25T23:36:00.000-07:00

I love astrology! For almost the past decade I've read ddozens and dozens of books in an effort to be, if nothing, a decent self-taught astrologer. In my tarot readings I always pull the natal charts in relationship readings because it really does make for a more accurate interpretation of the cards. The stars and the transits of the planets as well as the aspects of our personal natal charts are absolutely one of the best way to help us understand ourselves, the things that happen in our lives, and the people in our lives. Understanding is necessary for compassion and this is the basis of love. Reincarnation theory teaches that the people in our families, lovers and friends are quite possibly people who had been our enemies in a previous lifetime. So in this lifetime, to "burn off the karma of hate" we are destined to love them as LOVE is the most poweful way to burn karma. Love is thus the most powerful force in the universe and so anything, including astrology, that brings us closer to love also brings us closer to our ultimate spiritual salvation - as well as make life easier to understand!

Recently, I've been reading a lot about the importance of the Moon Sign in a natal chart. The Moon Sign shows us how we view our mother, experienced our childhood, behave as a mother (for women) and for all genders how we experience our internal emotional life. In first few years of life the Moon Sign is actually more important than the Sun Sign to understand the needs and motivations of a baby/child. As we age, the Sun Sign becomes stronger and the Moon Signs outward manifestations recede into our inner life.

Moon in Pisces - Can have great difficulty in making a choice in personal relationships as the moody Pisces is incredibly unsteady under the shifting Moon. Can be accused of not having a backbone by lovers and found even very irritating by family. This position also will likely have severe emotional delusions and be too easily hurt. Positives include a compassion worldview. Mother was seen as kind but was probably self-destructive creating a fragile childhood.
Moon in Aries - Mother was aggressive, had a temper, yet was reliable and vivacious when happy. Mommy could've been more "masculine" than Dad - depending on his chart. This position creates a strong sense of purpose and drive, not unlike Leo, yet with an even great persistence. When interested in a lover or making a new friend, will pursue with enthusiasm. Can be too brash for some people.
Moon in Taurus - Mother was very loving, sweet, reliable yet might've been a bit on the dull side. No secret cookies behind Dad's back or anything remotely off-beat from mom during childhood. Extremely hard to let go of any relationship. Beauty, art, music are all very emotionally fulfilling.
Moon in Gemini - The mark of writers, I've seen this in the chart of many people who are gifted with language and writing. Creative and intellectual this position makes for your typical charismatic ADD-affected sweetheart! Mother was exciting, off beat, fun and introduced her child to the world through an intellectual yet sweet lens. Downside is a difficulty in maintaining loyalty and integrity in romantic relationships unless the chart has stronger fixed sign aspects. Two-faced can be an oft-called insult to these people.

And I could go on and on! Want more? Email me voodoochild@passionrituals.com to set up an appointment!

The Devil and Devil Reversed in Tarot

2010-04-03T23:50:00.000-07:00

The Devil in Tarot is not what you might expect it to mean - if you're thinking it means evil sorcery, hellish fiends, the dark afterlife etc. The Devil is about the material world and it's pleasures! It is all about how the most superficial things in life can capture our loyalty and obsess us, tempt us, and distract us and thus, help us break our own hearts.

Many many times for me in both personal and client readings The Devil and the Devil reversed frequently shows up in love readings where a young man is unable to commit. How perfect, though, no? He'd rather choose his friends, philandering around with countless women, nights in Vegas, or even a simple bachelor life of a dirty apartment, smoking a bong, and the freedom to play video games all night if he pleases. Yes, it's true, many young men choose this over a devoted, interesting, and beautiful women who want nothing more than to be happy with them.

Unsurprisingly, one thing is for certain.... For most men The Devil "phase" loses steam (unless we've got a Class A scoundrel) and we then have one sad little boy who realized he was looking for love in all the wrong places. This card almost certainly guarantees a return on hands and knees, tail between his legs, begging for reconciliation. It's only a matter of time. But will you want him by then is the question! I'd suggest whether you want him or not, making him sweat it out "while you consider getting back together" is a just reward!

Stop Him/Her from Ignoring You! ANIMA SOLA and ESPIRITU INTRANQUILO IN DEPTH

2010-04-01T17:37:00.000-07:00

My number one most often heard case is "Can you get my ex and I back together?" The success of love reconciliation spells not only depends on the immediacy of performance (after a woman has her 1st period after the break up success drops dramatically), the power of the rootworker... but perhaps most importantly how YOU decide to act. I emphatically tell my clients they need to be in a place where they are willing to truly receive and follow advice before going forward with rootwork. It is very true that YOUR actions can negatively affect the success of your spellwork as success is most often achieved when actions and spellwork are in sync. For instance, if your mate has often complained about you being too controlling - assaulting your ex with incessant phone calls and emails about where they are and what they are doing will only continue to repel them from you despite a powerful spell. I most often advise clients that they must sacrifice "time" with their beloved and only when the tarot or other divination tools say it is a good time to go ahead and attempt contact. Voodoo is a religion of sacrifice and whether it is a chicken or your pride, something must be given.

Now given that there are several options to get an ex or even current partner to start paying attention to you again. Spells vary in intensity and at the most powerful end of the spectrum we have Anima Sola and Espiritu Intranquilo (Intranquil Spirit) Spells. I've written about these spells in several other entries but here's a longer one since people LOVE to ask about these spells but I always give a heavy warning. If you do such a spell on your beloved you are essentially telling the gods and goddesses you will trade places with these lonely, tortured souls after your death as long as in this life they grant you some time (not even guaranteed your whole lifetime) with your beloved. Are you willing to have your spirit trapped in Purgatory, wandering for eternity as one of the intranquil spirits or lonely souls whose only purpose is to drive the living crazy? And crazy is what these spells will make your beloved! They will go crazy until they are with you again. They will not sleep, eat, work, or play until reunited with you. Sounds good, I know. But on top of the consequences in your afterlife, should you escape limbo and are reborn there will be a heavy karmic weight... this karmic weight doesn't even have to begin in the next life but can affect you now. The Anima Sola and Intranquil Spirit don't necessarily reunite lovers so that they are married and live happily forever amen but may reunite lovers only for a short time. After that time is over, it will be very difficult for you to find another love or even have sex with another person as such a strong love spell will certainly create a sexual dysfunction for you other than your former beloved.

BUT if the Espiritu Intranquilo or Anima Sola spell works... They will come back to you, on their hands and knees, take you anyway they can have you even if you are married with a new baby, suffering severe drug addiction, homeless and penniless, or spending your life in prison! Nothing, absolutely nothing, will stop them from coming at you with a furious love you never thought possible. These spells are interesting in that they have a manifestation time which cannot quite be measured. I've seen them manifest 5 months after a spell has been done.

Usually unless a person's specific situation really calls for this spell I hesitate to do it and will work with my client to come up with another ritual. Some situations I've found it really compelling to use are if two people are in love and had a real life together (home, family, marriage, children) - I'm not talking an easy breezy affair - and the target is engaged in heavy substance abuse or gambling. In that case, they are so self-involved and saturated in their vices it would only be just to do perform this - especially if they still seem to care for their partner but are too sick to see the light. When worked in conjunction with a healing spell or blockbuster for them this could really turn fate around for two lovers.

For more information feel free to write me VoodooChild@passionrituals.com

Hexing: Vengeance or Justice? plus a Coffin Spell

2010-03-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was doing a bit of reading up on hexes. For most modern Wiccans there is a clear cut division between white magick and black magick - black magick falling into anything where a target's free will is worked on (such as domination, controlling, and love spells) and/or a target is subject to a malicious spell known as a hex. For most Voodooists/hoodooists the line is not so clear and hexings can be considered a justice spell and therefore is not considered black or evil magick. For instance, a spell which is meant to cause a murderer to also suffer a violent death may be seen as a benevolent justice spell. I've talked about this more mercurial stance of Voodoo on spellwork before...

Perhaps, second in popularity to love spells and ironically to spiritual cleansings is hexing. As a professional rootworker I've heard many stories and there's a lot of negative energy out there between people that some must act on. Hexes, like all spells, vary in their degree of strength. A small hex is as simple as sprinkling the target's clothes with a powder of black pepper to cause slight pain and discomfort. Extra strength hexes bring about illness, massive misfortune, and death.

A most effective hex are coffin spells. Like the mafia who used to leave the heads of dead animals on the doorstep of enemies to intimidate, a small coffin is made and filled with herbs or animal parts and left on a doorstep to both hex with herbal magick as well as psychologically intimidate the target.

Here's a tasty little hex perfect for a former lover.

ingredients

material to make the coffin - black cardboard is good
glue and scissors
chicken hearts or chicken liver
asfoetida
black pepper
sulphur
name paper
nail
vinegar (*optional for variation in spell)

doing the job

create the coffin.

write target's name on a brown piece of paper that has to been torn into a square. writeother identifying information such as target's birthday, place of birth, and mother's name.

grind together all the dry ingredients this is going to make your hexing powder. to really cause harm such as physical illness add graveyard dirt. if you want to cause psychological damage, if you are able to get some of your target's hair add that to the box as well.

after the powder is made put the chicken hearts and/or chicken liver into the coffin and sprinkle powder over it. pierce one of the hearts with a pin/nail to the name paper.

*leave on target's doorstep. if you do not want to leave on the doorstep as it may be too obvious to the target it is from you, bury in the earth and pour vinegar over the earth once done.

Have you been cursed?

2010-03-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

How to tell if you've been cursed is something many people often wonder when they encounter a multitude of personal disasters within a short time period or things have been bad for a long time period. There's many traditional ways of divining if you've been cursed such as running a raw egg over your body, cracking it into a bowl and inspecting if there is a discoloration. A traditional Hoodoo method is using a pendulum and watching how it rocks. Tarot is also a good way of finding out.

However, really, the most important thing to pay attention to is your instincts. If you feel like something is wrong and believe it is a curse, you have become a willing participant in the curse and are then under its power. For a curse to truly have an effect you must acknowledge it (even subconsciously) and just asking if you've been cursed is enough evidence.

Once the thought even enters your mind I recommend a cleanse immediately. Some curses have been laid on family lines and a curse on you may have come from an evil eye set up a grandparent! Like people devastated by a ghost haunting power is found within yourself! Know it is within your power to banish the curse. Once you have done that, ritual cleansing will be most effective. Of course, the power of a curse may be so strong that repeat ritual cleansings will be necessary but no fear, belief in yourself and your own power is the most important.

A curse begins with a house cleansing and culminates in prayer and ritual cleansing on oneself.

For those of you reading this, afraid you will be under the power of an evil person's curse, do not fear. You have the power to lift anything put upon you, call it from your heart.

Hummingbird (Chuparosa) Love Spell

2010-03-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

Inspired by some recent love work I wanted to address the lovely love spells known as Chuparosa Love Spells which come from Santeria and other Latin American variations of rootwork. I think of Chuparosa love spells as such a sweet, little darling way of bringing you the love that you want, working with the grace and natural sweetness of the hummingbird. I have hummingbirds which visit my lavender plants daily and just the sight of them in the morning light brings a big smile to my face. Burning a Chuparosa candle to bring your love to you is an excellent way to bring about a lover that is perhaps to "playful" for their own good. Like a child, you seduce them with the "sweets" of the Chuparosa. I've however found that with the Chuparosa spells a special combination of herbs and other materia is integral to its work. Savory love herbs like catnip just won't work the wonder it normally does. For more information about Chuparosa love spells and other sweetening spells email me voodoochild@passionrituals.com

Prosperity & Getting What You Want!

2010-03-05T14:49:00.000-08:00

Aries, god of War, is the ruler of March so what better a way to begin the month than with pursuing and conquering your desires! March, for many regions is when Spring begins it's return and with this coming rebirth of fruitfulness to the earth it is auspicious to perform a prosperity spell! Many may think prosperity is just about material gain or money but it is also about bringing about positive things which will affect emotional, physical, and spiritual areas as well. For example, say you're tired of your meddling in-laws which live just a couple miles away. A prosperity spell could bring about not only an increase in pay but a new job which offers you and your partner a greater privacy bringing the two of you closer together! A prosperity spell is great to perform in conjunction with other rituals such as fertility spells, love spells, or block busters.

Here is an easy one to perform when trying to win the love/attention of a less than interested party. Best to be performed with an appropriate love spell.

Ingredients

red cat candle

attraction oil

prosperity oil

uncooked rice grains

basil

four whole nutmeg

Doing the Job

In a frying pan (no you aren't cooking, this is just what the ritual will be done on) add a mixture of 1/4 cup of rice mixed with basil. Place red cat candle in the middle dressed with attraction oil and prosperity oil that has also been rolled in basil. In the same pan put the nutmegs around the candle. Burn candle and meditate on the positives your love will bring to your beloved such as companionship, fun, etc. basically whatever special you believe you have to offer. After candle has finishing burning dispose of everything at a crossroads except for the nutmeg which you will put in the four corners of your bedroom!

Child and Infant Protection Ritual

2010-02-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

Children and babies are very susceptible to the evil eye as are pregnant women. They are vulnerable to jealousy because, naturally, there is so much to be jealous of - youth, innocence, etc. There are many horrible people in this world, not the least of which are occultists who may act out their immature vengeance on a child. There are also people whose jealousy, like exgirlfriends or exboyfriends of a couple with a new child, whose jealousy will inadvertently produce the energy of malice towards a baby. And there are also people who are natural carriers of the evil eye and may be encountered anywhere!

I recently visited one of my favorite occult shops in Los Angeles, Panpipes Magickal Marketplace on Cahuenga in Hollywood and found that they are currently selling baby-sized bracelets to protect against the evil eye including evil eye charms and coral charms. Coral is naturally protective given the very nature of the coral reef is to protect. It is thus a natural addition to any protective ritual! The bracelets are adorable and I highly recommend to parents in the Los Angeles area with young ones to scoop one up!

Now here's a simple blessing and protection ritual to be performed by the parents of a young child or baby. Best to be performed on Sundays as it is the best day for protection, cleansing, and banishing of evil spirits/hexes.

This is a really good thing to perform on a child who's parent has been cursed at some point. Even if the curse has been lifted it is still a good thing to perform for the protection and blessing of the child in case the curse had been directed towards descendants.

Ingredients

Zodiac candle - in your baby's sun sign

Fiery Wall of Protection oil

Optional herbal dressing of protective herbs: such as asfoetida, black pepper & white salt mix, cumin, grains of paradise, parsley, red pepper, rosemary (great home herb), sandalwood, sulphur

Doing the Job

Take photo of child and in the four corners anoint with Fiery Wall of Protection then set up the photo up where the candle will be burned. On the back of the photo write their full name and birthday, place of birth, and full names of both parents.

Write the following blessing and protective inscription on the paper as well:

Protect this baby/child, "FULL NAME of CHILD", daughter/son of "BOTH PARENTS FULL NAMES" from violence, calamity both natural and unnatural. Protect this baby/child, "FULL NAME of CHILD" from curses on their ancestors. Protect this baby/child, "FULL NAME of CHILD" from evil and allow no criminal of ill-intent to take this child from the protection and love of their parents. With the power of the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary grant, "FULL NAME of CHILD", a full and happy life, full of experience and wisdom, that will end in peaceful old age surrounded by their own children.

Dress the candle with Fiery Wall of Protection oil and any additional herbs.

Pray to the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary by saying the Our Father and the Hail Mary. Burn the candle and recite the protection and then Psalms 33, 126, 127 afterwards.

What Does Being an Occultist Mean?

2010-02-20T19:22:00.001-08:00

From the Oxford English Dictionary

occult
/okult, okkult/
• noun (the occult) supernatural beliefs, practices, or phenomena.
• adjective 1 relating to the occult. 2 beyond ordinary knowledge or experience; esoteric.
• verb /okult/ 1 cut off from view by interposing something. 2 Astronomy (of a celestial body) conceal (another body) from view.
— ORIGIN from Latin occulere ‘conceal’.

In other blog entries I have talked about the nature of occultism at it means to me. Recently I have had experiences with some so-called occultists which have really made me think about the nature and environment of the modern occultist. As I have stated in the past, the true meaning of the word occult is HIDDEN and I have no problem with practitioners who are less than open to people in their life about their occult practices. Even within the ritualism of the occult, secrecy is sancrosanct, like how a spell should not be discussed until it manifests. After the acceptance of Christianity in the West by the Romans, pagan practices began to be referred to as the occult and worship of the old elemental deities went underground. As a result, not since antiquity has "the occult" and occultists had any organizational figurehead - from practices of Wicca to Voodou. The base impulse of humanity however is to organize, assimilate, cluster together and in that clustering identify outsiders. The community of modern pagans has done this through the creation of various associations, groups, etc. I view this as different from covens. Within covens there is great brotherhood/sisterhood and empowerment which results from the creation of covens (I support covens very much). However, I disdain the assertions certain occultists have in their superior status relating to their association to what group or anther. This attitude strikes me as truly sacreligious. To be an Occultist means that we can worship solitary, wherever the sun shines and rises, wherever the wind blows, wherever nature is abound. The occultist is in their temple and among their brothers and sisters of mysticism and spirituality wherever the allow themselves to stop and smell the flowers. To be an Occultist means to not have to be subject to the restrictions and rules of organization. This is not the Roman Catholic church! Organization and association, does not an occultist make, rather true belief and sincere practice. And even further, in the study of world religions, there is paganism wrapped up in the practice of so many organized religions that the righteousness of anyone upon your beliefs is simply wrong, ignorant, and uninformed.

To my pagans practicing solitary and purely worldwide, many blessings to you!

Stop Fighting Love Charm Candy Bottle Spell

2010-02-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

with valentine's day coming up we're all thinking of love and passion and... CANDY! now i love bottle spells, i don't know why i haven't posted more, but here's a great one that works immediately!!! with its incorporation of candy i thought it would be nice to share now. this spell works so fast for a couple that is truly in love, i saw it work within HOURS after doing it. incredibly fast acting, this is a spell for two people who truly love each other but have been feuding and need sweetness back in their relationships. this helps increase harmony, decrease prideful foolish actions helping a relationship get back on track.

this is to be performed by someone who wants their lover to listen to them about making up after some nasty spouts of fighting. lots of fight, as well all know, can create a lot of bitterness and resentment and when we want to make up with our loved one they may be too angry to listen. this is why i have incorporated do as i say oil to this spell, not to dominate per usual but to get someone to listen.

this spell includes catnip which i swear to god works so well for some people. it's like mainlining their heart with love!

ingredients

passion flower

catnip

redclover

two balm of gilead buds

fire of passion oil

any other kind of love oil that is applicable to your situation [i used a special passion oil of my own making]

do as i say

sugar

maple syrup

candy

hair from the head of your lover

hair from your head

materials

purple cloth

red ribbon

scissors

brown paper bag to make a name paper

mason jar

purple pen

doing the job

soak the hairs in the oils, set aside
create name paper - write lovers name 9x with purple ink, write your name over it 9x in purple ink, set aside
NAME PAPER LOVE CHARM: fold name paper 3x towards yourself put in the middle of a square of purple cloth. put all the herbs on top, balm of gilead buds, and drop 3 drops of each oil also on top of name paper. fold purple cloth over the herbs/oil/name paper to create a little square packet. use red ribbon to tie close.
HAIR LOVE CHARM: twist your hair with your lover's. put hairs in middle of purple cloth. fold cloth over and tie with ribbon like name paper packet.
put charms into a mason jar and cover with sugar until they cannot be seen but do not fill up the jar. a week later add some syrup. a week after that add sweet hard candy and fill completely to the top.
never open the jar again, keep it in a safe place in your house.

a nice thing to do with this jar too is if you're ever feeling frustrated or angry with your lover later, take it out, caress it and hug it and the fights again will disappear.

Happy Home Front Step Water

2010-02-06T16:59:00.000-08:00

This is a simple spell to bring peace and more affection to a family's home. Great for a home with children where the parents fight too much or where there is a lot of sibling rivalry.

Ingredients

basil

love herbs - lavender and damiana are good

Doing the Job

soak the herbs in water for several days in a small cauldron or mason jar. strain the herbs and pour the water in front of your front door.

February's Featured Occultist: Bayou Mage

2010-02-05T22:38:00.000-08:00

It's been awhile since I've had a montly occultist interview but it's back and here's a great one with Bayou Mage, an occultist with a diverse background including Vodou and Stregha (Italian witchcraft). He's got a very informative site on traditional Vodou I encourage you to visit!

Q: What Belief(s)/Practice(s) do you follow?

A: I follow traditional Haitian Vodou, otherwise known as Sevis Lwa “Service of the Spirits” or Sevis Gine “Service of (the Spirits of) Gine” . I was first called to serve the Lwa (Spirits) of Haiti three years ago, and have sworn a lifelong commitment to this path and to the Lwa. I have also practiced Paganism for over a decade, having been dedicated briefly in Druidism some years ago, and later initiated High Priest of traditional Stregha by the Lady Chiara Di Luna, herself a study of Lori Bruno. In addition I have been a private devotee of Philosophical and Practical Alchemy for nearly a decade.

Q: Are you in a coven or worship solitary?

A: I serve the Lwa under the Houngan and Rasa Musician Erol Josue, Asogwe of Lakou Miton Yewe Kay Vodou, a traditional House of Haitian Vodou in Miami, and I have recently been involved in a small Palo House in my local area under Papa Luis.

Q: Do you worship any specific gods or goddesses?

A: I serve all the Lwa, though I have a special fondness for the sisters Erzuli Freda, Erzuli Danto, and Erzuli Jye Wouj. In addition I am highly devoted to the Irish Morrigan, and quite fond of the Italian Aradia, and the Greek Hera.

Q: What’s your favorite herbs and why?

A: I am fond of High John the Conqueror Root, as a powerful room purifying herb, Sage as an energy cleanser, and Mugwort for teas and consecrations, just to name a few.

Q:Where do you shop for your spiritual goods?

A: I do most of my shopping at local Botanicas specializing in supplies for, especially Michael’s Botanica Shop, Neg Lakay Botanica, and St. Lazarus Botanica. For occult supplies unrelated to Haitian Vodou I prefer to shop at Rainbow Bridge Occult Bookstore, or for lighter shopping at New Age Books & Things.

VoodooChild's Note: Miami area readers take note! I also shop at local botanicas,with Los Angeles being a great wealth of such shops.

Q: Any quick recipe, ritual, or spell you’d like to share?

A: For an easy and strong room cleansing, sprinkle powdered High John the Conqueror Root on floors and carpets, leave for a few hours or preferably overnight, then sweep or vacuum up as necessary. Add your own spells or ceremonies to accompany this as you see fit.

Q: Favorite pop culture witch -- if applicable ;)?

A: I am quite fond of Mike Nichols, author of “The Witches’ Sabbats”, with whom I have corresponded and, to small some degree, collaborated. My favorite pop culture Vodouisant remains Houngan Erol Josue.

Q: Do you offer any professional metaphysical services?

A: Not at the present time, but in the past I have offered spirit readings, card readings, and Ogam name numerology.

Q: Your website(s)/contact information/paganspace/twitter/facebook/myspace, etc:

Website: http://theperistyle.000space.com/home.htm

PaganSpace Blog: http://www.paganspace.net/profiles/blog/list?user=3910ssl1zwioe

Q: Anything else you’d like to share?

A: I have learned over the years that the truly wise never stop learning. They never admit to having mastered anything, as there is always more room to grow and more to learn, and will humble themselves before those whose knowledge and experience in some areas exceeds their own, while being willing to humbly share their own knowledge and experience where this may be greater. The wise are always changing, and only the foolish ever content themselves to stand still.

PassionRituals now has an Official Website!

2010-01-24T01:46:00.000-08:00

Visit http://home.passionrituals.com! I am celebrating the launch of my new website with this offer - free 10 minute reading for new clients!

The new website offers a more streamlined way of viewing services and making announcements however this blog will still be updated regularly and continue to be the greatest source of free Voodoo

information I have to offer! This website also has the new distinction of the easier web address of www.passionrituals.com!

Yay!! Hope to hear from many of you soon. I also have a new email address voodoochild@passionrituals.com

you spin me right round baby right round - 9 day lavender spell/same-sex love spell

2010-01-20T23:00:00.000-08:00

lavender spells are a family of rituals in hoodoo meant to incite same-sex love from a straight man/woman to a gay/lesbian spell caster. lavender spells make the target see past the confines of their sexuality so that they feel powerful love, affection, and attraction to the caster of the same sex. if a gay/lesbian person wants another gay/lesbian person to love them a "normal" love spell is what should be performed. lavender spells are particularly for changing the sexual orientation of the target so that they will fall in love with the caster. i have performed lavender spells on behalf of many clients and they have resulted in many happy, committed unions proving that love is love is LOVE!

the key ingredient, obviously, is lavender love drops - known throughout hoodoo as the oil to use in turning a target over to the other side! i have a special, secret recipe i can't divulge but if you don't call on me and should you choose to purchase a lavender love drops found elsewhere here's a spell to perform on a target who's already succumbed to your advances but is now having second doubts. getting them to submit the first time is the hardest spell to do but here's a good one to enforce the original rootwork.

ingredients

lavender love drops

two penis candles/two vagina candles

sexual fluids of both parties

ginger oil

knotweed

powdered cinnamon

sugar

doing the job

carve the full name of the target on one candle, carve your name on the other candle. after carving generously cover the candles in the oils. take the dry ingredients except for the knotweed and roll the candles in them. set the candles up on your altar so that they are far apart, on opposite ends of your altar but have them facing each other. take two pieces of knotweed and put them perfectly inbetween the candles. for nine days you will burn the candles for 9 minutes at 9 o'clock and tie a knot in the knotweed at the beginning of each day.

the importance and use of different waters

2010-01-16T21:11:00.000-08:00

to be a pagan is to be a devotee of the elements. earth, wind, fire, and water are revered and incorporated into pagan ritualism both through their invocation (like when wiccans open their circle) or through their addition as an ingredient into ritual spell magick (using graveyard dirt in hoodoo mojos). i'd like to discuss the importance of water as an ingredient in spells as knowing their power and use will allow you to know when and how to collect waters for your own magickal ingredient cupboard!

there are four different kinds of water you can collect. these different kinds of water hold different magickal properties.

water from the

ocean - known as salt water, this water has the power to bring healing, cleansing, and blessing. can also be an offering for yemaya. use that empty water at the beach to take some home!
river - known as fresh water or moving water is excellent for banishing spells as it "pushes/moves" people/entities away. in the same vein it is good for cleansings. river water is also an offering to oshun.
rainwater - depending on what time during the lunar cycle it is collected rainwater can attract or repel things. obviously during the waxing moon it attracts and during the waning moon it repels. rainwater is an excellent thing to collect if you remember to do it! putting a bowl out on the front porch or back deck is a great way to collect it.
holy water - can be bought at shrines, catholic gift stores, as well as some magick shops. this is consecrated water, blessed by a catholic priest. i have a vial of holy water from lourdes in france which i hold extremely sacred!

sometimes the change is within ourselves, easing anger and moving on spell

2010-01-15T09:43:00.000-08:00

many times i've had clients call me asking me to perform rootwork/spellwork for them by working on another person - whether it is a spouse, boyfriend/girlfriend, boss, friend, enemy. and sometimes it'll take a lot of self-awareness by way of painful soul searching to see that in some situations the best spellwork would be done on yourself. i've found that particularly, in the case of love reconciliation requests, sometimes the best spell to be done is a healing heart spell... despite the hopes of our hearts, not all loves are meant to last. of course with enough persistence and constant spellwork a wayward lover can turn around but often the end does not justify the means. there's also quite a bit of revenge work in voodoo/hoodoo and also great justification for it as sometimes it is the absolute fairest thing to perform. however, like love work, revenge work is very emotionally and spiritually draining. spells to help a person forgive are sometimes more fruitful.

here is a general spell to help ease anger and allow a person to move on which they will perform on themselves.

ingredients

small black candle - birthday candle size

lemon

knife

balm of gilead buds

salt

white rum

bowl

fresh water (water from a spring or rainwater - get some Evian if you need to buy it!)

brown paper lunch bag

doing the job

in the bowl mix together white rum, water, salt. meditate quietly for as long as you need over the anger which you wish to let go. visualize yourself moving on, happily or at least apathetically from the person/entity which has made you so angry. when you feel like you have truly seen in your mind's eye how you will move on slice the lemon with the knife and drop one half of it into the bowl. the lemon represents you cutting yourself away from the anger! put the other half aside. take the black candle and wash it with the bowl mixture. burn the candle and meditate on your anger leaving you. after the candle has burned down take the wax residue and put it in the paper bag along with the other half of the lemon and balm of gilead buds. dispose of the bowl water at a crossroads and take the paper bag to a moving body of water - an ocean or river - and finish the ritual with calling your anger away. if you do not have a body of water near you get a compass/googlemap and dispose of the bowl water at a crossroads directly opposite a crossroads where you will dispose of the paperbag (i.e. bowl water at an eastern facing crossroads, paperbag at western facing crossroads).

Happy New Year! Year of the Tiger

2010-01-05T19:25:00.000-08:00

my dear readers and fellow pagans!

i hope this finds you in the uplifted and positive spirit of the new year. 2010 is the year of the tiger. 2010 is metal and the tiger is wood making 2010 an inauspicious year. 2009 in contrast was an earth year in the sign of the earth ox making the earth even stronger, whereas metal weakens wood. in 2009, many signs experienced great abundance and positive changes especially leos. if you were had leo as your sun sign or ascendant last year many of you got married, conceived or had a child (myself included!). however, this inauspicious 2010 means precautionary and preventative steps should be taken in all areas. protective rituals and cleansing spells would be extremely beneficial to perform. now i don't mean to bring the bad news of 2010 being an endless bummer, because it's not, but it simply won't be full of the charm, parades, and fireworks 2009 has been. given the richness of 2009, this year calls for you to diligently protect and solidify the prosperity of the past year.

i have been, as some of you may know, been on sabbatical since the birth of my beautiful scorpio daughter in november. i am now back in business! one of the services i have offered for a while now is tailormade week cleansings, which i will create and help you perform. there's no more excellent a time than the new year, outside of the spring equinox to do this. for more information email me at warmscars@email.com.

glad to be back my dears!

Moon Magick - Moonstone & Women

2009-11-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

In time with tomorrow's Nov 2, 2009 Full Moon in Taurus, I thought I'd discuss some moon magick in its relationship to Moonstone.

Today I bought my first Moonstone piece of jewelry, a pretty gold bangle (sorry for the Marc Jacobs branding, couldn't find a pic not showing it)! Moonstone has many wonderful metaphysical and magickal uses, not least of which include a special place for women. I will be wearing it when I give birth (I am due this week) and it will also hopefully be soothing to my child (who will be born under the sign of Scorpio) as Moonstone is associated with the astrological signs of Cancer, Libra, and Scorpio. Though I'd known about Moonstone before I felt especially pulled to buying this piece of jewelry and am sure that my baby and all the astral energies at work right now drew me to finally making a purchase today!

Moonstone is linked with all water-signs and feminine signs as it is a stone representative of the

Goddess. It is associated with lunar energy and is a great stone for women, especially useful for feminine cycles, and is useful for all rhythms of the body. Moonstone helps us to be more flexible and understanding, eases stress and anxiety. For problems with the PMS and cramps, Moonstone can help regulate emotion, female hormones, and discomfort. Thus it is naturally helpful during birthing.

If you have Moonstone, it would be excellent to charge your stone/jewelry tomorrow night under the full moon. Purchasing a Moonstone tomorrow would also be wonderful. Moonstone is excellent to put under your pillow as it is also very helpful in bringing a calm sleep, very similar to how lavender does.

Happy Halloween and Blessed Samhain to all and to all goodnight!

2009-10-31T01:13:00.001-07:00

Dear Readers,

Here we are, finally October 31st! Like some people who have a bit of a Christmas sadness after the holiday high, I get a little bummed when Samhain comes to an end... if I didn't have Day of the Dead to look forward to the season would just pass far too soon for me! It's a lovely cool autumn evening and the night air has the wonderful scent of burning wood. I hope you enjoyed this past month's entries as they've been some of my favorite to write all year.

I leave you with a photo of my Jack-O-Lantern done up to look like Tim Burton's Jack Skellington a la Nightmare Before Christmas!

Blessings~

VoodooChild

Full Moon in 7 Days - Day of the Dead

2009-10-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

In 7 days will be the full moon and it will auspiciously happen on Nov 2, 2009 - El Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Day of the Dead focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for their dearly departed. Traditions include building private altars honoring the deceased and visiting cemeteries to offer food, flowers, and other sacrifices at the graves. Famously, this holiday is celebrated in Latin America, the Philippines (known as Undas/Todos Los Muertos/Araw ng Mga Patay), and other Catholic countries.

Day of the Dead is also the first weekend when petitions and offerings should be made to the gedes and Baron Samedi as I discussed in a recent entry.

Given the immense spirituality of Nov 2 coinciding with the full moon the next week any occult activities performed will be particularly powerful and blessed and should be:

Full of ancestral worship - visits should be made to cemeteries, pictures of the dead should be adorned with marigolds and plates of food and drink at personal altars at home.
A good time to charge spiritual materials under the moon.
If you are in area where it is raining like the East Coast US, collect the rainwater as it is especially sacred and will be powerful in occult areas from necromancy to love spells.
Marigolds, a flower traditionally used in Day of the Dead activities, should be incorporated into one's altar.
Mojo bags and nation sacks would benefit from having additional charms added to them now.
Lust and fertility spells should be performed now due to the power of the harvest season.
Seances, necromancy and other death-related rituals will be very successful.
Hexes, crossing, and uncrossing will be particularly effective at this time.
Tarot readings and other divination should be performed as their accuracy will be very acute at this time.

Links to Recipes

Mention "PassionRituals" in your order and receive 10% off your total order! Celebrate Day of the Dead! Purchase these handmade and beautiful cards!

begin a love spell TONIGHT!!

2009-10-23T18:45:00.000-07:00

I wish I had been able to mention this earlier in the week so that preparation wouldn't be so last minute however tonight is an excellent night, one of the most excellent nights of the year to begin a powerful love spell. Friday is auspiciously known as the best day to perform a love spell and in 9 days it will be a full moon, another incredibly powerful time. Often, occultists will time a love spell to end on the full moon but don't always have the luck of beginning their spell on a Friday. Incredible. Voodooists don't invest as much into lunar timing and magickal hours as other pagans as we believe work should be done when work has to be done BUT this is a such a special night and special week - quite significant. In fact any service in the realm of love, sex, and lust between tonight and the full moon is a great time and you do not want to miss out on it! Even more auspicious is it is falling during the Season of the Witch!

Please peruse our archives for spells or contact me at warmscars@gmail.com for a consultation!

**A Reminder of Services**

All of my services are customized to the needs of my clients, from spell consultations to voodoo dolls (including wax effigies for hexes), sachet powders, mojo bags and dressed candles. I ship to anywhere in the world and can perform readings for clients abroad via Skype! See menu for more information. And if you haven't added PassionRituals yet on Twitter for quick conjure tips and Voodoo updates, do so now!

the season of the witch - how voodooists celebrate, love & fertility

2009-10-22T14:57:00.000-07:00

Melancholy autumn, gorgeous in its reveries of falling leaves and crisp air, happy season of samhain, tricks and treats! My dear readers I hope you're revelling in the Season of the Witch!

What's the importance, you wonder of celebrating the spirits and orishas of Voodoo? Well, no one likes a child that comes along only when they need something. Spirits and orishas need love too. Later, when one appeals to them, the closeness and intimacy experienced throughout the year especially during special times such as Samhain will serve the petitioner greatly.

How do Voodooists celebrate Samhain? Exultant devotions to the racuous gedes, wild spirits headed by Baron Samedi which are traditionally petitioned for making contact with the dead, luck, and love affairs. Devotions on altars should be made on Fridays during November with beginning on Dia de los Muertos and All Souls on Nov 1 & 2. But you can begin the "party" in October by gathering a group of friends and having a gede themed party. Everyone can bring a photo of a loved one who has passed and begin with a meditation on the positives of their spirit. Then start the music, dancing, and celebrate the wild gedes and their powerful energies! Rum and tobacco are a favorite of lascivious Baron Samedi. The Samhain Season, season of the rich harvest, is a time for Voodooists to engage in love and fertility spells. Though it is when the earth is beginning to make its move into lifeless winter and the trees appear to be dying, it is the time when our lives are abundant because of all the spoils of the harvest! Sex rituals are of particular power and couples interested in strengthening their bond would be wise to engage in sex magick!

Here's a Rum Cake recipe that's delicious and a wonderful offering to the gedes on an altar - as well as to share during a Halloween party!

INGREDIENTS
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
4 eggs
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup rum
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 tablespoons butter
1/4 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup rum

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour one 10 inch tube pan.
Combine cake mix and pudding mix.
In another bowl beat eggs, water, oil and rum until frothy. Add cake mix/pudding mixture and beat until well mixed. Spread pecans evenly over the bottom of the prepared pan and pour batter over pecans.
Bake cake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out dry when inserted in the center. Allow to cool in pan for 5 minutes and remove from pan. Place in serving dish immediately, right side up. (Pecans should be on the bottom)
To Make Glaze: During the last 15 to 20 minutes of baking time, combine butter or margarine, water and sugar in a sauce pan and bring to boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and boil rapidly until it's very thick and syrupy stirring very frequently. The syrup must be reduced quite a bit and very thick otherwise it will make the cake mushy. Remove from heat and add rum. While cake is still hot, poke holes all over top of cake with a toothpick and spoon glaze over top of cake. Allow cake to sit at room temperature for one day then refrigerate.

*VoodooChild Updates*

My pet protection spell was included by August 2009 Featured Occultist, Cairelle, in her WitchyLiving newsletter!

I was nominated by one of my dear readers, Dirgesinger, for the Kreativ Blogger web award. I am honored. Thank you Dirgesinger for reading!

Celebrate Day of the Dead! Purchase these handmade and beautiful cards!

October's Featured Occultist: Gede Parma

2009-10-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

dear readers this month we have an excellent occultist featured, gede parma from australia, who has a fascinating spiritual background which i was particularly drawn to as i incorporate asian mystical traditions in my practice of hoodoo/voodoo. gede was also nice enough to share a bit about wing exercises - sound interesting? it is, read on!

What Belief(s)/Practice(s) do you follow?

I was raised with Balinese Hinduism which is an interesting and unique mix of Vedic Hinduism with animistic and magickal native Balinese culture. At the age of 12 I discovered Wicca, and it was at this point of my life that I embraced Witchcraft as my spiritual path and began to identify as a Pagan. Nowadays I am an initiated priest and co-founder of the WildWood Tradition of Witchcraft, and my personal path is a highly syncretistic blend of my ancestral traditions (of Bali and Eire), British Traditional Witchcraft, Stregheria, Hellenismos, Faeriecraft and European shamanism.

When did you begin as an Occultist?

I was blessed to be raised with the ‘occult’ and mysticism all my life. My Balinese grandmother who passed when I was 2 was known for her skills as a diviner, healer and medium of the spirits. My father and my mother are both highly intuitive beings who live their lives by the grace of the Divine. I consciously embraced an ‘occult’ path (Witchcraft) when I was 12 and I entered the priesthood of service at the age of 16, only to be further initiated into the WildWood at the age of 18.

Are you in a coven or worship solitary?

I am a devoted member and priest of the Coven of the WildWood – the mother coven of the WildWood Tradition. We are a community-based and focused Pagan group of vivacious and loving Witches. I also maintain my ‘solitary’ practice and each week I have my devotion which is the ritual unique to me and my Gods, spirits and totems.

Do you worship any specific gods or goddesses?

My personal pantheon includes deities of Hellenic, Etruscan, Egyptian, Minoan, Balinese, Anglo-Saxon and Celtic origin. My soul-Goddess is Persephone and I am also a devotee of Aphrodite – the Golden Goddess. I am consecrated unto Persephone and Aphrodite, and also to the Sacred Four of the WildWood – the Weaver, the Green Man, the Crescent-Crowned Goddess and the Stag-Horned God.

What’s your favorite herbs and why?

I actually study Western Herbal Medicine at college and aim to graduate with a degree in both WHM and Naturopathy. The herbs I always use are frankincense and myrrh resin (my Gods seem to adore these scents). I am also a big fan of wormwood, gingko, rosemary and lavender.

Where do you shop for your spiritual goods?

Anywhere and everywhere! I tend to buy my resins and such from a store in Brisbane (Australia) called Jitterbug Perfume. Crystal Earth is another local Pagan supply shop. Nature is a great giver of spell and charm items as well! In fact, she tends to know exactly what you need and is quite excellent at spontaneously producing it.

Any quick recipe, ritual, or spell you’d like to share?

I’m very up on energetic cleanses. Chakra alignments, aura flushes (balancing and cleansing) and wing exercises (stretching and flexing my wings) are all favourite pastimes. I’m sure the readers of this blog know how to go about these exercises. I won’t elaborate here. Though if you do feel you have wings (whatever the size or shape) it never hurts to become aware of them and to exercise them. Simply focus on your shoulder-blades and you should feel the pressure of the connection at these points (or your wings may connect at a higher/lower point) begin to build. Then visualize your wings unfolding and stretch and expand them for a few minutes. Believe me you will notice any knots or discomfort held in this area of the body quickly disappearing.

VoodooChild Note: I think spiritual cleanses are absolutely necessary and should be performed as often and with as much consistency as spring cleanings of one's home!

Favorite pop culture witch -- if applicable ;)?

Uh…oh Gods…I used to love Charmed and Buffy when I was younger – Willow often kicks arse, though her ethics are questionable. I think Tara is quite the lovely Witch J

Do you offer any professional metaphysical services?

My friends and family know they can ask me at any time to work a little Magick for them. However I have cast spells and read the cards, palms or scried for ‘strangers’ before. Essentially my professional, metaphysical service to society at large is my writing and the workshops and rituals I conduct around the place at various festivals and gatherings in Australia. Above all else, I enjoy empowering others to take the reigns of magickal mastery into their own hands.

Your website(s)/contact information/paganspace/twitter/facebook/myspace, etc:

My website is www.gedeparma.com and you can find out information there about who I am, my coven and tradition, my books and the services I provide. I also recently started a blog-ish thing :D I also have a yahoo mailing group – feel free to join! http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gede_parma/

Anything else you’d like to share?

Be well and embrace who you are! Khaire, Slainte, Selamat!

samhain, halloween, altars and oshun

2009-10-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

during the halloween season i've found that for samhain, day of the dead, and honor oshun it is both festive and pious to add items to my altar.

instead of the normal candle holders or tea lights i use hollowed mini pumpkins and oranges to hold my candles. pumpkins and oranges are, of course, traditional offerings to oshun. i sprinkle cinnamon and add a bit of maple syrup to the bottom of the oranges and mini pumpkins and then put a small white candle in. you need to replace the mini pumpkins and oranges a couple times to last through to nov 11 but it's still a lovely thing to do and i've found it helps in my meditations in invoking oshun and the celebrating the harvest season!

voodoo news and what's coming up soon!

2009-09-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

news on voodoo child and other odds & ends

yours truly recently finished a TV pilot with several other very talented psychics, witches, rootworkers, and astrological experts in a new possible show about the occult. if this show is picked up by a network it will truly be a great thing for the occult community as it really shows how we are able to help our clients. details to come!

this week is the last week of the voodoo gallery, "voodoo, hoodoo, and santeria: the art of conjure," at the pasadena playhouse. exhibit ends on 9/27/2009! try to get out there and see it if you're in the los angeles area.

if you are a blogging occultist and interested in being featured as this month's featured occultist with an interview on this website please email me at warmscars@gmail.com as soon as possible. browse the archives for more details on previous interviews!

great website on los angeles area halloween events: http://creepyla.com/blog/

coming soon -- i am currently compiling and testing out samhain supper recipes. i love the autumn season because of its beauty and samhain's importance in the pagan calendar! i look forward to this time all year! i know it's been a bit slow here on passionrituals but it will be picking up shortly! it is the new moon afterall and a great time to start up on new projects.

the ever potent mojo hand

2009-09-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

everyone's heard the word mojo, popularized in song from hendrix to the doors, but what is it? simply, it is a colored flannel bag containing one or more magickal items. it is a prayer in a bag and excellent because of it's ongoing power and the practitioner's ability to continuing "adding" to the spell over time as opposed to a candle spell that is limited by the conditions of it's only burn. for example, a woman using a love mojo on her man, needing more tenderness in the relationship is free to add extra rose petals or lavender to her bag.

the mojo is also known as a conjure hand, lucky hand, conjure bag, trick bag, root bag, toby, and gris-gris bag. i work with with color symbolism with my mojos meaning that for a money spell i create a green flannel bag and love spell i do red, in domination spells i do purple, etc. mojos made for an individual are usually carried on the person, always out of sight. they can be pinned to a woman's bra, hung with a thread on her skirt or in the pocket of a man. mojos of protection or luck can be kept on an altar on in a special within the property it is supposed to protect or bring luck to. money mojos can be kept in the purse or wallet of the practitioner. marriage and fidelity mojos can be sewn to a mattress or put in a pillow to be slept under. mojos can be tied or sewn shut, decorated on the outside with relevant symbols or kept plain. keeping the mojo from being seen is important because if another person touches it, the luck may be lost.

i customize mojos for many of my clients as part of or as a spell on their behalf. on going financial troubles or love troubles that need continuous spell work are usually the best cases for mojo work.

woman's oshun ritual for attraction & sexual heat

2009-08-30T22:28:00.000-07:00

this is another excellent passion ritual for intensifying sexual heat in a relationship or greatly increasing one's animal magnetism and sex appeal. this is good for spicing up someone's love life or for bringing a new love to one's life after a dry spell. good to do too after a bad break up to get one back on her feet! one must make petitions to the goddess oshun, orisha of love, sex, female power and fertility.

ingredients

oshun glass encased 7-day vigil candle
red female genitalia candle
catnip
red clover
cinnamon
crushed dried roses
baking flour
oshun oil (click here for recipe)

doing the job

for a week prior to the ritual one must create an altar to oshun and offer yellow/gold flowers, gold jewelry and gold/yellow food such as honey and oranges. at the end of the week dispose of the food/flowers in a flowing body of fresh water - river. keep all the nondegradable offerings such as gold jewelry on altar and replenish the flowers with new ones.

anoint oshun candle with oshun oil. next take the red female genitalia candle and cover it with your menstrual blood and sexual fluids. afterwards anoint generously with oshun oil. the candle should be shiny all over and wet with all the oils and fluids. take all the dry ingredients and mix them together in a mortar or at the very least crush them with your hands so they are mixed. roll the candle in the dry ingredients so its thoroughly covered. place in the middle of your altar and with the flour draw a heart around the candle and if there's space on your altar any other imagery that is moving to you such as an upside down triangle representative of female power! meditate on the power of oshun, her beauty and loveliness and ask her to give you just a touch of that amazing charisma. in your mind's eye see the beauty and sexiness that emanates from within you. imagine men falling at your feet, turning their heads as you pass, filling your mailbox with love letters!

notes on magickal hours, days, & lunar positioning plus a 7 day spiritual cleanse!

2009-08-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

i recently received an email from a reader asking about the importance of timing for a spell. i've mentioned before that the wonderful thing about hoodoo/voodoo as opposed to wicca is that it is not regulated by as many rules and that includes timing. there are preferrable times to do a spell and when circumstances are not too pressing or a practitioner can afford to wait several days/weeks in order to best time the spell to the best hour and day i do highly suggest waiting. repetition in voodoo/hoodoo ritualism is very powerful and a spell which calls for 9 ingredients, 9 candles, etc. would highly benefit from candles being burnt at 9pm - 9 being an extremely magickal number and so that all energies and spirits can be attuned to the "signals" and "vibrations" of the spell. like a song being played on a certain chord, for such a spell to be done at 9pm makes it louder and clearer. however, should a practitioner be unfortunately caught up with work or other duties other times of day are also powerful such as sunrise (changes daily and the local newspaper is a great way to find out the varying time day to day) and midnight (the historic witching hour). 3am is also another good time as it is said that is when spirits are most active.

as far as the lunar calendar is involved, it is universally acceptable to conjurers, rootworkers, all kinds of pagans, that the waning moon is a good time for banishings, hexes, hot foot, sending away evil. the waxing moon is an excellent time for love, money, beauty enhancing, attraction spells. the dark moon is an excellent time for divination.

overall i am not too strict about timing, as sometimes a witch has got to do what a witch has got to do and time is of the essence. however, i do think at least trying to time a spell according to the best day of the week is at minimum best practice.

Day of Week	Planet	Purpose	Energy Type
SUNDAY	Sun	Health; Prosperity; Leadership; Joy, Male Fertility; Protection - Do spellcrafting that involves Fathers & Husbands, Peace, Harmony, Influence people in High Places - Court Work.	Male
MONDAY	Moon	Emotions; Women's Mysteries; Dreams; Reconciliation; Receptivity; Voyages; Female Fertility - Do spells involving the subconscious, healing emotional wounds, children, small animals, mothers, sisters, female partners, wives, instincts	Female
TUESDAY	Mars	Conquest; Commanding: Controlling; Power over Enemies - Craft spells that involve Courage, Immediate Action, Victory or Break Negative Spells	Male
WEDNESDAY	Mercury	Aid Spiritual and Psychic Awareness; Divination; Communication - Do spells for Mental Issues, Learning, Addictions, Perception, Artistry, Creativity.	Male
THURSDAY	Jupiter	Growth; Expansion; Generosity - Do spells for Prosperity, Money, Business, Ambition, Male Fertility	Male
FRIDAY	Venus	Love; Pleasure; Friendship; Beauty - Do spells for attracting sex, increasing romance.	Female
SATURDAY	Saturn	Rid Obstacles; Overcomes Blockages; Clear One's Path - Do spells to remove bindings, Purification.	Female

a great thing for any practitioner to do, both old and new, would be to a spiritual cleanse in that each day for a week they perform a ritual in honor of the appropriate orishas, burn corresponding incense and light the appropriate candles! like the holistic health consultantss who push for the occasional diet cleanse good for the body, this would certainly be good for the soul.

i am now offering specialized plans on a 7-day spiritual cleanse and like all my spells can tailor make this to suit your specific needs! email me warmscars@gmail.com

August's Featured Occultist: Cairelle

2009-08-27T09:39:00.000-07:00

There were so many parts of Cairelle's interview that I wanted to comment on I had to restrain myself! This is an excellent, beautiful, and thorough interview and Cairelle was even gracious enough to share a spell for Four Thieves Vinegar. She is a very accomplished conjurer and I am very happy she decided to do an interview with +PassionRituals+!

What Belief(s)/Practice(s) do you follow?

I consider myself a “hoodoo-ish traditional witch” – which basically means I’m a witch that works with hoodoo in addition to normal witchy stuff! I was raised Catholic but also had a heavy influence of hoodoo from the women in my family, and Vodou influences as well – mainly due to being a New Orleans native and having extensive exposure to local customs. Here in the Big Easy it is very common to combine hoodoo with the Catholic religion, as both hoodoo and Vodou are heavily syncretized with Catholicism. I think it is this reason that religion doesn’t bother me as it does some other witchy sorts.

Note from VoodooChild: I am somewhat similar in my practice to Cairelle! Also raised Catholic I am primarily Hoodoo/Voodoo with a touch of traditional witch and Asian ritualism! I agree with Cairelle that the pagan path should be composed of what you make of it, what you need from it, what you believe in and rings true with you. It is also the reason I did not sync very well with Wicca and her many rules.

I gave up the Catholicism in my late teens because I could not reconcile my beliefs with the religion, and I felt like a hypocrite. I also began to delve into my genealogy and discovered, in addition to my Native American and French ancestry, that I am directly descended from very strong witchy roots in Wales, so over the years I’ve incorporated a more traditional approach to my craft in addition to my beloved hoodoo – but I’m no purist in any of the above. I dabble and tweak and do what feels right.

I believe that anyone can be a witch, be they Christian, Muslim, Athiest, Wiccan, Jewish, etc. and that it is up to the individual to acknowledge and reconcile any conflicts that arise between their religion and their Craft.

I would like to clarify that I am not Wiccan. I do not follow a three-fold law, the Rede, or anything else that says I have to be a certain person or act a certain way. I do have Wiccan friends and respect their path - but it is not mine. I do not worship any gods or goddesses. It is my belief that divinity lies within, and we each carry the responsibility of taking the path of learning to discover how to access it. I do continue to read and seek, and as a result I'm sure my path will stay quite crooked!

When did you begin as an Occultist?

My personal path to witchiness began in New Orleans in 1967, when I was born as the oldest daughter into quite an esoteric female line. Due to various circumstances, I lived with my grandmother for many years as a child, and during that time she introduced me to the moon, gardening, astrology, reading cards, and all manner of spells, rituals, hexes, and curses intended to keep me safe, keep me healthy, get me a man, keep the money rolling in, and to kick some cosmic ass when needed. One of my first memories is of lighting candles at her altar, and chanting.

Are you in a coven or worship solitary?

I consider myself to be a solitary – always have been, and probably always will be!

I do belong to a meet-up group – the New Orleans Lamplight Circle – but it is a discussion group only. We do not do rituals as a group, etc. There is a very eclectic vibe which lends itself to interesting talks. It is quite intriguing to have intelligent discussions with those who walk another path. J

In addition, I am very, very close with two witches that I consider my sisters. We have a strong connection. We talk on the phone all the time, belong to the same online forums, and meet up a few times a year. We have done rituals together and they have been intense. Working with these two women is the closest that I will probably ever come to a coven – and even then our practices do differ somewhat. If I knew that the members would be like these two friends of mine, I MAY consider being in a coven – but honestly, I don’t see that happening.

What’s your favorite herbs and why?

I’m afraid it’s not very original, but I have to start with rosemary. It is the quintessential witchy herb as far as I’m concerned. Its versatility makes it almost indispensable. It’s very flavorful when used in cooking, it’s an excellent muscle relaxer, a potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral, and I like the way it looks. Now, if I could get one to GROW, then I’d be happy, LOL!

Note from Voodoo Child: I also love rosemary! Amongst Stregherians (Italian witchcraft) it is said where rosemary grows the woman rules the roost! Add some to your spaghetti ;)

Next on my list is mugwort. I bring it (combined with a few other things) with me whenever I fly. It’s a great herb for safe travel! It’s also fabulous for psychic and visionary work. This is always in my incense mix when I am doing a reading.

Last but not least is High John the Conqueror. This root is indispensable for all sorts of magickal undertakings, from use as a gambling or money mojo, to use for increase in business, and is a necessity (for me) in maintaining personal strength and power. It is with me at all times, in some form.

Where do you shop for your spiritual goods?

Why, at Witchy Living, of course! J

Aside from Witchy Living’s E-Shoppe suppliers, I also pop in to the Voodoo Spiritual Temple, which is a local shop located in the French Quarter.

Any quick recipe, ritual, or spell you’d like to share?

Four Thieves Vinegar

Combine at least four (but can use more) of the following herbs, in equal amounts, into a large glass jar (IMO it’s best if the garlic is always included): Lavender, thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, cayenne pepper, black pepper, lemon balm, hyssop, mint

Cover completely with unpasteurized organic apple cider vinegar, seal tightly, and set in a dark cool place for six weeks. When that’s done, strain through a cheese cloth and use it in spritzer bottles. It is excellent as a room or space-clearing spray, as a disinfectant on both skin and other surfaces, and – when mixed with warmed coconut oil – is yummy on salad!

There’s a lot of power in these herbs, so this blend is wonderful for those pop-up moments when some quick magickal relief is called for! This herb mixture is also a potent anti-bacterial and anti-viral blend – and with what’s going around these days, we can all use some of that!

Favorite pop culture witch -- if applicable ;)?

Oooooh… definitely Endorra from Bewitched! My grandmother looked just like her. I also like the Wicked Witch of the West from Wizard of Oz – I think she was highly misunderstood.

Do you offer any professional metaphysical services?

I do offer readings with my Molly deck, which is a self-created deck that I have modified based on my grandmother’s old decks. I can do IM/chat or Skype, or can send an email reports with pictures of the card layouts. I create custom spells and rituals, and I also have a candle prep and burning service as well. Information is available on Witchy Living.

Note from Voodoo Child: I am so impressed with this handmade deck!

Your website(s)/contact information/paganspace/twitter/facebook/myspace, etc:

Witchy Living Portal: www.witchyliving.com

**You can connect to all the other sites (discussion/chat, podcast, blog, etc through the Portal!

Twitter: witchyliving

Facebook: www.facebook.com/witchyliving

MySpace: www.myspace.com/witchyliving

PaganSpace: www.paganspace.net/profile/Cairelle

Anything else you’d like to share?

Yes – I’m going to be philosophical for a moment and offer up a few of what I feel are necessary suggestions to those who are newer to the path of witchcraft:

Find your path and walk it with a true heart. If it doesn’t feel right, change direction.
Respect the spaces of nature that surround you. The Earth is a gift – treat her with dignity and love.
Be tolerant of those whose path differs from your own. If they are walking with a true heart, they are just as correct for themselves as you are for you!
Take responsibility for your own learning. It is true that mentoring from another witch can be helpful, but ultimately we each travel alone and you should not rely on others to spoon-feed you your spirituality and craft techniques.
Those of us in alternative spiritualities reside in the unique position of having the ability to make a difference, so please, do work diligently to effect a positive change on your world. It’s important!

VoodooChild on TV!

2009-08-12T10:25:00.001-07:00

dear readers,

your favorite rootworker, filmed a guest star spot on oxygen's tv show "the bad girls club" last nite!

the episode will air this upcoming fall/winter season. cannot divulge too many details but i did help the girls out using the magick of voodoo! will post tv listings when i get them in the future. in the meantime, to stay updated with happenings, please follow this blog with your gmail sign in or add me on twitter!

Reminder of Services provided by VoodooChild at +PassionRituals+

2009-08-10T10:51:00.000-07:00

for quick spells, rootwork tips and other updates on +passionrituals+ add me on twitter!

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handmade voodoo inspired art and plushies - this Etsy shop is an exclusive partner of +passionrituals+

i am now doing readings over SKYPE, add VoodooChildRootwork.

ALL appointments are still made via email: warmscars@gmail.com

please consult the menu for pricing and information

FULL MENU OF SERVICES

when does a spell work and when does it not? plus new services!

2009-08-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

one of the most often asked questions by my clients is "will a spell work?" and should results not surface the way they want "why didn't a spell work?"

to me, there are 4 major reasons why a spell does not work or is not as effective or only produces partial results.

WHY A SPELL DOESN'T WORK

1. spiritual intercession blocking the spell from working: the goddesses and gods do not approve of the works and thus do not give their blessings. your target could have strong spiritual protection. for instance, many people of irish descent had very strong spirit guides. to break down these spiritual protections one should appeal to the target's guardian angel and promise that the spell is not meant to hurt them but benefit them. this is especially useful in love spells.

gods and goddesses should be petitioned before a spell is begun if possible. i am OFTEN asked about whether the Espiritu Intranquilo could be petitioned for a love spell. i would use great caution when using the intranquil spirit as it often backfires on the practitioner and should not be used on everyone as it is an inherently malicious spell. it is best used on people who are very abusive and hurtful people but in that case - do you really want them to come back? you should be justified in your desire to bring them back to you with the intranquil spirit.

2. for love and reconciliation spells: the woman's menstrual period has passed (whether it is the target or the spell caster). given this, it is extremely important that rootwork/spell/ritual is begun as soon as possible. delaying in beginning a spell or getting help can diffuse power and energy. if you reading this and wondering if you should contact me do not wait a few more days! it will only make your goal harder to reach.

3. the spell caster/who the spell is being cast for does not really "believe in magick." this is one of the most important. we all let out energy and if the energy is not confident it is not 100% and thus the spell will return weak or partial results.

4. the spell being performed is the WRONG spell. this is very common among people who are new to spellcasting or have little experience. solitary practitioners can also suffer if they do not do appropriate divination and SOUL SEARCHING to see what exactly is necessary. sometimes a love spell is NOT what is needed to get someone to love you but a spell encouraging courage. sometimes even the spell caster knows the love is not "right" or "doomed" but continues to pursue the target. the best spell in this case is a cut and clear. the best way to avoid this is to consult with a well-versed and experienced witch.

HOW TO MAKE A SPELL WORK

1. petition saints, spirits, guardian angels and gods and goddesses.

2. pay close attention to how candles burn (ceromancy) and divination in order to see if the spell is working or is the correct spell to do.

3. BELIEVE in the power of the spell. and be patient. most spells should show movement within three days and three weeks. however, i've seen some spells continue for years after and the results trickle in over time.

4. it is always good to do a fair amount of research on your spell. consulting with other witches, reviewing all herbal choices, etc. astrology is also a good place to begin as it will give the spell

caster an idea of the energies in the universe contributing to a situation.

5. try again. sometimes, especially for particularly difficult situation, several different rituals must be performed or a ritual must be performed many many times before it takes hold of the target and shows results. HARD WORK brings GREAT RETURNS!

for all those who have read this and have questions please email me at warmscars@gmail.com - include a brief description of your problem and what you would like done. lately, i've been received a couple mails asking if i perform spells for free. like any other service, i do charge for my talent and services. you wouldn't dare ask your grocer for free groceries, why would you ask a rootworker for free spells especially concerning such important things in your life as money, love, revenge, protection, and luck?

FULL MENU HERE!! please consult for pricing and other information.

i'm also now on the free internet telephone service SKYPE for my international readers. ADD ME: VoodooChildRootwork -- please email me first to schedule a time.

and please continue to follow me on TWITTER at www.twitter.com/passionrituals for free quick conjure tips!

orange blossoms and marriage

2009-07-30T13:16:00.000-07:00

the use of orange blossoms in marriage ceremonies has been present since antiquity with the earliest use known being in ancient china. orange blossoms are associated with fertility because it is one of the plants that blooms flowers and fruits at the same time. it's use continued with the victorians and orange blossoms were used to make bridal garlands. bridal garlands made of orange blossoms are still used presently and available for purchase from wedding propreitors.

orange blossoms aren't a flower found commonly with florists so i'd call a shop in advance before visiting. the use of neroli oil (orange oil) in rituals is said to bring about a fast proposal of marriage. repeated use of neroli oil as a perfume is also said to bring a proposal of marriage. sleeping with dried orange blossoms under your pillow will make your man want to marry you. if neroli oil is used in conjunction with rituals involving st. anthony, a lost lover or unfaithful spouse will return and be faithful.

has your lover been lazy about proposing? does your spouse not honor your marriage vows? do you want an ex to return to you so that you can get married? contact me TODAY! with my help you have all the power to bring about the love you want, exactly how you want! warmscars@gmail.com

July's Featured Occultist: Tracy

2009-07-28T11:38:00.001-07:00

*NEW* to +PassionRituals+ are monthly interviews with Occultists! Enjoy!

What Belief(s)/Practice(s) do you follow? I am a first degree initiate apprenticing under Author and High Priestess Deborah Lipp in British Tradition Gardnerian Wicca.

When did you begin as an Occultist? I had an attraction to Witchcraft from a very young age, but I guess it wasn’t until about 15 years or so ago that I began seriously practicing and following the Wiccan system of beliefs. I am also interested in the root practices such as Voodoo and Hoodoo. I truly believe they represent the foundation of the occult arts.

Are you in a coven or worship solitary? I am currently initiated into a formal coven.

Do you worship any specific gods or goddesses? My patron Goddess, is Hecate. However, I also work with other deities, including incorporating some of the Christian saints into my practice when necessary.

What’s your favorite herbs and why? I use a lot of herbs, but I guess the one I use most often would be white sage.

Where do you shop for your spiritual goods? There’s a little place called the Botanica San Lazaro here in New Jersey. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, in all likelihood it doesn’t exist!

Any quick recipe, ritual, or spell you’d like to share? My spell work is mainly intuitive. I have do a little research on concept or structure, but basically I allow myself to be guided to what I feel will work most effectively. As far as rituals are concerned, I like to do at least one or two Midnight Full Moon rituals a year. I find that they are always really powerful. The last one was an ritual of the eclipsing Full Moon. It was really powerful!

Do you offer any professional metaphysical services? I don’t really offer any metaphysical services. I am a Reiki Master/Teacher, so I do offer energy healing to those in need.

Your website(s)/contact information/paganspace/twitter/facebook/myspace, etc:

ridgewoodwitch@blogspot.som

Tracy Frasche - Facebook

Everything She Does Is Magic - paganspace

Anything else you’d like to share? I believe that the purpose of life is what we learn from it.

If you would like to be considered for an interview please leave a comment or mail me at warmscars@gmail.com.

effects of the july 22, 2009 solar eclipse

2009-07-23T12:36:00.000-07:00

i've been going through quite a heavy and trying situation in the past couple of days, beginning on the day of the solar eclipse. being on pacific standard time, my problem began around 1am on july 22, approximately 16 hours behind asia and already in the midst of the solar eclipse. the most affected people will be those who are able to witness the eclipse and part of my problem is associated with a person in asia (this eclipse is also trine to uranus - doubling unexpected, chaotic, and wild behavior). it's effect was very profound on me and my husband and these are our connections: i was born in asia and though i was not in asia for the eclipse and unable to witness it in north america it affected me. my husband also grew up in asia. so we have three heavy ties to the most affected area. now, with the solar eclipse in cancer, those with dominant cancer in their natal charts will be very affected and with everyone, the houses which are ruled by cancer should look out for issues in those areas. my issues dealt with dealings my significant other had going on beginning approximately 4 years ago. as it has to do with my partner, clearly the solar eclipse had an effect on my home life and my venus is also ruled by cancer. his 7th house, the house of relationships, is ruled by cancer and this was a domestic issue he had 4 years ago and again this domestic issue has resurfaced. however, i see it with hope (despite some recent tears and frustration) as the final storm before the close of a chapter and the ushering of completely clean slate in regards to this situation. solar eclipses tend to be about new beginnings though they herald in a lot of upsetting and devestating things (for instance there is a strong connection to solar eclipses to natural disasters and in ancient days was always perceived as a horrible sign of coming calamity) sometimes, as in tarot, there has to be a falling tower before a new castle can be built.

though i know you may be going through some trying times try to concentrate and meditate your hardest on new opportunities and new life that can be ushered in by seeming disaster like the difficulty of childbirth before the arrival of a beautiful baby. and to try to stay calm take baths in lavender and drinks lots of chamomile with honey. cleansings would be good right now. focus on living healthy and healing as all lunations bring death and life. and whatever hurts, take solace in the fact that this TOTAL solar eclipse brings definite endings. the effects of this eclipse will be seen for at least the next 6 months so watch out for this resolving themselves throughout this time. goodluck and may all the goddesses and gods bless you!

i recently read this excellent entry on the solar eclipse by the LA-based astrologer harmony on her blog. you should definitely check it out.

goddess profile: yemaya

2009-07-21T16:04:00.001-07:00

yemaya is one of the two orishas whom i pray to most often, the other being the goddess oshun. yemaya is goddess of the ocean, the essence of motherhood, and a protector of home and children. she is syncretized in the catholic religion with the virgin mary (lady of immaculate conception). one should petition her for spells/rituals involving fertility, pregnancy, women's issues, home, love and marriage, motherhood, protection/cleansings, comforting and protecting children, babies, and fetuses. i personally have found that if yemaya is petitioned in a love spell she will be less inclined to help you in seduction and sex as oshun but she will help you in healing a broken heart. she is, however, excellent in helping bringing great love, affection, and consideration to a marriage. yemaya and oshun can be petitioned together and if they approve of a union they WILL bring about a marriage!

colors: blue, sea green, white
herbs/flowers: white roses, seaweed (other herbs fom the ocean), home herbs (rosemary, lavender, basil)
symbols: ocean, stars, moon
offerings for an altar: white foods - rice, boiled egg; seaweed; white flowers - white roses, moonflower; coconut; glass of seawater; sea salt

see a photo of a candle i dressed for yemaya in a petition to protect a growing fetus here.

in this entry is a beautiful photo of a pregnant yemaya, though most depictions of her are rising from the sea. she is also sometimes shown as a mermaid, other times wearing a skirt with 7 layers representing the seven seas. on my altar my photo of her is very similar to the style of artistic representations of the virgin mary.

to have yemaya protect your unborn child and ensure a safe pregnancy and delivery: pray to her every evening for your child, offer a dressed 7-day vigil candle to yemaya calling for her to protect you and your baby, offer her a raw egg in a white bowl with raw rice

it is said yemaya can cure infertility, here's a fertility spell:

ingredients:

1 Watermelon
1 cup of powdered sugar
1 cup mixed rice and beans
1 tblsp. shredded Coconut
2 tblsp. fresh Basil leaves
1 tblsp. seawater
2 cups molasses
3 cups olive oil
7 pennies
1 wick
staute or photo of yemaya
some of your menstrual blood

cut the watermelon in half and scoop the insides out. write your name 7 times on a brown piece of paper. place the name paper at the bottom of the watermelon. place the 7 pennies on the paper. place 7 watermelon seeds on the paper. place the powdered sugar, rice and beans, shredded coconut and fresh basil leaves in the watermelon.

pour the sea water, molasses, olive oil, menstrual blood into the watermelon. float the wick on top. light the wick and allow it to burn for continuously.

place the watermelon lamp next to the statue/picture of yemaya and pray for a child, visualize your child, visualize conception. after the watermelon lamp has gone out dispose of it in the ocean or a body of moving water.

my extra hot fire of love oil recipe

2009-07-18T04:01:00.000-07:00

this fire of love oil recipe keeps things really, really hot! it will bring a very quick turn around in your target. results will be seen quickly, usually within three days especially if used in conjunction with the proper psalms.

1 drop ginger oil
1 drop cinnamon oil
3 drops lavender oil
3 drops rose oil
3 drops orange oil
a couple crushed pieces of dried rose

add this all to a base of jojoba.

heavy duty house cleansing and spritual protection

2009-07-16T16:05:00.000-07:00

in the past month i've been performing many banishing rituals towards general bad energies as well as specific people by burning banishing incense almost daily and performing a candle ritual. the effects have only been so-so (incomplete materialization of my desires, if you will) and there's been a heaviness to the air. recently, i decided to step up measures and perform a deep cleansing and blessing for the general spiritual health of my home, as well as to clear the way for more successful rootwork.

the first thing i did was open all the windows and burn white sage that i had gathered from a sacred mountain in the eastern sierras combined with sandalwood. white sage is a famous cleansing herb and sandalwood added to any incense increases its power.

as the incense burned i swept all the floors and came up with the darkest debris i've ever seen in our home. to me, it was a telling sign that i was doing the right thing by doing a cleansing. after collecting the debris in the trashcan i threw out all the trash in the home. i then smudged all the corners and entrances of the house with the incense.

i made a floorwash made up of water, lemon, sea salt, and my urine. water, lemon, and sea salt is a standard recipe for a cleansing floorwash but the addition of urine adds a powerful protective element to the mix. in hoodoo, cleaning your frontstep with a cleansing wash that has urine will keep away evil mortal and spiritual visitors. i then washed all the floors of the house.

after the floorwash i cleaned the house in a "normal" way by washing down the toilets, sinks, dishes, etc. with regular bleach and lysol.

after cleansing i then began the blessing process. i anointed pictures of all the inhabitants of my home, including my pet, with protection oil by making the sign of the cross in all four corners. i then made the sign of the cross with the protection oil on all entrances to the home. i put bay leaves in the corners and threw sea salt towards all entrances, i also threw the rest of the floorwash in front of the front door. i then put some protection oil behind my ears and wrists.

i feel exhausted but much much better. the spirit in the house seems lighter and i really felt it turn when i began distributing the bay leaves. bay leaf, like basil and rosemary, is an herb associated with family love and home protection. i love to use them cooking and found that using them in a protective ritual was just as wonderful.

though i've said it before, i'll say it again, it is extremely important and necessary to perform cleansing rituals. the last time i blessed and cleansed my home was just before we moved in. that ritual was a little bit different and incorporated ancient zen buddhist tradition - i'll share that one at another time!

friends once like family now turned to hate and apathy!

2009-07-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

this is a two part ritual which deals with the ever so common conflict of your lover's friends v. you. although there are many couples who share a group of friends or have no conflict with each other's friends there are just as many who have issues. necessary for this ritual to be successful is to work out any resentment being held towards your lover who unfortunately is caught in the middle. the goal is to banish bad friends and sweeten your lover over to your side.

for a week bathe with loving marriage soap or a similar relationship strengthening bath. be sure to concentrate on growing love and happiness between you and your lover especially as you wash your sexual parts. during this week burn banishing incense everyday, gearing yourself up to get rid of the bad friends.

after a week perform the banishing ritual. take photos of the friends you wish to banish and anoint with DUME oil and chili pepper. stab their photos with a knife and repeat "friends once like family now turned to hate and apathy." a good photo to choose of the friend is one your partner is in. rip your partner out of the photo. visualize with great detail fights or situations which will arise that will turn that friend into a distant acquaintance or stir a total breakdown of friendship. visualize realistic situations - not even necessarily evil. for example, a partying bachelor may suddenly find a woman he loves and thus no longer tries to entice your man to party and meet women. or a bitchy and meddling girlfriend suddenly must move to a faraway city for her job. make sure you tell these people that if they cross you, their fates WILL change as a result and their friendship will break with your loved one. after stabbing the photos burn them in your cauldron and continue chanting. take the ash and throw it in the toilet. pee on the ash -- "piss 'em away!!" so to speak. do not flush and allow your partner to be the one to flush the toilet, hopefully they will pee on the ash without even noticing it. in this way your partner becomes part of ritual and also "pisses 'em away" without even knowing it!

after the banishing ritual, continue bathing with the marriage soap and burning the banishing incense even after you've seen movement. also burn a marriage candle anointed with love oils and herbs. i highly recommend rosemary, catnip, and lavender.

with a couple adjustments this ritual can also be performed as a break up spell to split up a couple.

to keep a lover at home and stop him/her from going out

2009-07-09T16:12:00.000-07:00

take their underwear and tie it to your underwear, making nine knots. bury this in your yard. light a purple candle with do as i say, compelling, or controlling oil. and burn it in a window that overlooks the spot in the yard.

pagan high fashion... and guess the witch for a prize!

2009-07-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

recently after coming across two lighthearted witchy movies on tv i started to think about the "fashion" of paganism. i'm not the type of occultist who gets her brooms and skulls in a bunch when i view television or film that plays on the fiction of witches and conjurers. though i have many counterparts who do i don't bother too much with the politics. the squares will do whatever they want and ultimately that will never affect my beliefs but also as a practitioner of voodoo in many ways for many reasons i appreciate the hidden practice of the craft. my mission is not to change the view of everyone but to offer help and guidance for those sincerely and whole heartedly looking towards another path. and for me, personally, the shrouded nature of practice strengthens both my beliefs and the potency of my magick.

anyways, to continue, fashion... yes, there's more to voodoo fashion than head wraps, crucifixes, gypsy bangles, and shell necklaces. and there's more to witch fashion than corsets and celtic tunics. if there is a running theme in wardrobe it is that most witches/conjurers/rootworkers do wear amulets, charms, necklaces, or rings with special gemstones because of their magickal properties. and though i do love an all black outfit and a crucifix it is by no means my uniform or the necessary wardrobe for an occultist.

terry richardson, a photographer who i've always liked because of his creepy/sexy way of taking portraits, apparently did a pagan themed photo shoot some time in 2007.

here's the rest of terry's pagan photos.

also, just this past march in los angeles, designers lauren alexander and gabby applegate, released their new line "witches" with a lovely gothic party at the chateau marmont. i found it beautiful in a very edgar allen poe way.

for more from the party, click here.

personally, my favorite black magic woman is this lady here. and if you can guess who she is you can receive free shipping on any order from here! comment on this entry to enter into the game.

now on twitter!

2009-07-07T12:59:00.001-07:00

http://twitter.com/passionrituals

but please see today's main post here on new services and spotting a gypsy reader!

new tarot service, rude demands, and how to spot a gypsy reader

2009-07-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

i've got quite a few international readers and decided to offer a new emailed tarot reading that may be easier for those who aren't living in the US. for some of my clients, after a phone reading, i have sent them a paper copy of the reading via email for their own reference. i am now offering the same to those who might have a harder time calling me -- see bottom of the page for full menu and details. of course the downside is i am NOT able to give the fullest interpretation initially but will be more than happy to engage in an email conversation once you have received the tarot reading. y tambien, yo hablo espanol muy bien y puedo leer and escribirte en espanol.

now, i absolutely LOVE hearing from my readers, receiving emails and engaging in discourse about the occult. many emails i've exchanged have led to inspiration for a new entry or made me look deeper into the history of a particular area of the occult. i encourage you, if you have a google account, to also follow this blog with google friend connect or join passionrituals' google group. however, i do not appreciate it when people write me trying to get a spell out of me without being up front about payment. this blog and the spells on it are free and always will be but when i receive emails that are clearly not about saying hello or sincerely trying to discuss theories about the occult, rather someone trying to get me to give them a spell i find it very rude, insincere, and dishonest. i am not a free service and if you want a spell, consultation, or reading i must receive payment first.

understandably people will first email me trying to scope out whether i am a gypsy reader and i always write prospective clients back so they can get to know me and i can find out about their situation so i can begin to forumlate a spell best suited for their needs. however, i will not continue emailing with someone after a certain point. one person emailed me over 20 times before demanding i give them a spell for free. i was absolutely flabbergasted, not to mention disgusted. the worst person to upset, people, is a witch! keep that in mind.

but since we are on the topic of gyspy readers and other predatory so-called witches there are several tips i have for you on choosing a tarot reader or rootworker.

how to spot a predator gypsy reader*

they give you a spell without you having first offered details about your situation
they give you only bad news
they give you only good news
they are not willing to answer follow up questions even after they've given you a spell
they are not knowledgable about different areas of the occult. every rootworker or witch, no matter what tradition, should know about divination, astrology, as well as candle magick and creating oils/potions. to not be thoroughly knowledgable of all these things would be like a medical doctor who knows surgery but can't diagnose a cold.

*gypsy reader is the term given to witches or rootworkers - fake and real - who try to trick others. though i use this term it is only because this is the terminology most well known for tricksters. there are many respectable romani rootworkers.

most honest hearted rootworkers and true blooded witches can be found at botanicas or at occult stores. at minimum, they are knowledgable herbalists who know the powers of herbs and they can often recommend you to a legitimate reader. however, shops like these are not easily accessible or exist in many places. also, though knowledgable they may not be gifted. thus the internet may be the best resource for many. it is then that ensuring a witch/rootworker has a firm head, heart, and soul into the study and practice of the occult is necessary. sites which only advertise services and products, i personally would not trust as much as a site which also offers classes from an in-house witch or a blog documenting ongoing practice.

goodluck and many blessings!

some dream spells

2009-07-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

i really believe in the power of dreams. within dreams, a witch can perform spells, communicate with others including spirits, and receive prophetic messages.

below are some of my favorite spells involving dreams. many of these spells incorporate mugwort, an herb known as the witch's herb known for increasing magick power, psychic power, and very closely associated with dreams.

to bring prophetic dreams

create a little mojo bag and stuff it with mugwort. put the bag under your pillow and it will bring psychic dreams.
burn ground mugwort on charcoal just before bed. serves as a dream incense that will start a new cycle of dreams, initiate one into the world of spell casting in dreams, or bring prophetic dreams.

to be answered through a dream

write question on a piece of paper three times. place a pinch of poppy seeds in middle of paper. fold the paper several times towards you, making a small package. sleep with this package underneath your pillow.

quartz and holy water spell to send a message through a dream

quartz is a stone which is known to have psychic memory and can record the thoughts, actions, and feelings of a place and people. sleeping with blessed water near your bedstand is a simple way to bring psychic dreams. this spell combines both.

visualize the dreams conveying the message to the person/entity you are trying to communicate with. ex: if your dog has runaway imagine him running free through a neighborhood but suddenly stopping and sniffing his way back home. OR if you are fighting with your lover imagine them realizing it is time to call you and see them picking up the phone and calling you. the more detailed the better.
during a new moon place a quartz crystal in a bowl of holy water and leave it in the moon light so it becomes lunar infused. when the moon is waxing sprinkle some of this water on newly changed white bedsheets.
in a muslin ir handkerchief tie mugwort, poppy seed, and thyme inside a bag that you will hold over the bed while thinking of your target and the dream you wish to send to them.
put the cloth package of herbs in your pillow and as you sleep continue to visualize your dream.

summer passion potion

2009-07-02T10:56:00.000-07:00

ingredients

orange juice for a happy love/encourage marriage
apple juice for harmony and encourage affection to grow
sliced strawberries for luck in love

this is a sweet fruit passion potion that will make you and your loved one bubble with love. this would be a lovely thing to serve during a romantic picnic for two.

in a pitcher combine orange juice and add apple juice to your taste. drop sliced strawberries and mix. share the drink with the person you love. with each sip focus on your love, happiness, and joyous future yet to come.

cauldron magick plus a powerful hexing spell

2009-06-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

i have recently begun using a cauldron in my rituals and spells after having an enlightening and wonderful conversation with a witch classically trained in several different pagan traditions. though normally associated with wiccans, traditional hoodooists can make use out of the cauldron in several different ways such as burning incense, burning written spells, working as mortar for crushing herbs or being used as a holder for sacrifices.

the cauldron, historically, has been used for creating brews, magickal potions, and poisons. the cauldron is also a symbol for mother nature and female deities as it is the "cup of life." it is held up on three legs and represents the triple goddess, three phases of the moon, and the potent magicaklity of the number 3. given its long history and wonderful multiplicity of use in ritual magick i decided to invest in one.

most cauldrons that are sold and used by pagans these days are small (altar ready, if you will) and not the enormous cauldrons seen in film and tv. though i prefer a cauldron about the size of cereal bowl - so that it can be used in many different ways - there are cauldrons sold that are very small, the size of a shot glass meant just for ritual incense burning and to represent the female goddess on an altar.

here's a very powerful malicious hex. it is a banishing domination spell which makes use of a cauldron. a cauldron is probably the best tool for burning.

ingredients

DUME (death unto my enemies) oil
calamus
licorice root
sulfur
dirty pins or nails (you can make new nails/pins dirty by leaving them on a street in front of your home to be ran over, shaking them in trash, peeing on them, shoving them into dirt, allowing them to rust, etc)
a picture of your target
a black envelope
banishing incense
hyssop
a black 7 day glass encased candle

doing the job

understand that when doing a malicious spell aka a hex that there will be serious karmic consequences. this spell calls for a person to stop doing what you believe is wrong or they will suffer the consequences you have determined. however, if what you are asking them to stop doing is not approved of by the gods and goddesses or is ultimately malicious without reason you will suffer the consequences you have called upon them. say for instance your boyfriend is being pursued by an unrelentless woman. you can use this spell to stop her. and if she does not stop pursuing him she will 1. lose her job 2. lose her home 3. lose her hair (or whatever it is you like - best to keep the punishment to 3). what you accept is if you betray your own boyfriend and cheat on him and pursue another man you will suffer the consequences you commanded over the other woman! given this, though your target may have it coming to them it is still best to understand that, especially when using DUME oil or another oil that could induce serious problems or death, that the practitioner should still take care to ask for forgiveness and perform proper cleansings before and after the ritual. these kinds of spells thus require more than just a couple hours of preparation but perhaps days or even weeks of contemplation and energy building.

ok, now to the work.

burn banishing incense throughout the ritual, from preparation to end. wash your hands in water with a couple drops of hyssop and ask for forgiveness, communicate to the gods and goddesses that this is a hex you believe you must perform. clean the black candle with salt water or florida water. dress the candle with 9 drops of DUME, calamus, licorice, and sulfur. stab the top of the candle with the dirty nails/pins all the while calling your curse out loud to your target. burn the candle incessantly. use them to stab the picture of your target - in their eyes, mouth, chakras. prepare the black envelope by rubbing DUME, calamus, licorice into it. sprinkle some sulfur inside the envelope. when the candle is done burning a couple days later take the pins/nails out from the bottom of the glass. put the picture with the pins/nails in the black envelope even if it tears the envelope. call out your curses and light the envelope on fire inside of the cauldron. when it is finishing take the ashes out of the cauldron and take them to a crossroads. at the crossroads continues your curses. bring some urine with you in a bottle so you can piss on the ashes before walking away or if you can pee directly on the ashes before you walk away. after you are done with this ritual try to go to a church so you can be blessed by a priest or so you can cross yourself with holy water.

r.i.p. michael jackson

2009-06-26T09:09:00.000-07:00

he gave up his childhood so he could entertain ours.

bless him in his transition from the material world to the next.

honoring the dead can be as simple as lighting a white candle cleansed with holy water and burning white sage before a photo of the dearly departed.

animal familiars

2009-06-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

an animal familiar is an individual animal whom you have established a psychic bond with. many witches/rootworkers feel this close relationship with their domestic pets (dogs, cats, birds, gerbils, domesticated snakes, etc.). these animal familiars are used in the witch's spells so it is ideal that your animal familiar lives with you. thus this is the difference between animal familiars and animal allies. animal allies would be a tiger, wolf, or rhino - animals which are not domesticated. and the relationship with an animal ally is performed by approaching the spirit of the animal instead of the animal itself.

it is believed that animal familars have magick power as well as the ability to change their shape. they can also sense spirits before humans and this sixth sense is greatly valued. there are many spells which make use of your animal familiar in protection, bewitching, and increasing psychic power!

cats are the most closely associated animal to witches. even before the church created a taboo against witches in europe, they were associated with witches and good luck. many modern witches keep black cats as pets and view them as sacred. i have several very good friends who have black cats as pets and use them in spells. one of my favorite occult stores in los angeles also has black cats roaming their shop and they exude a lovely and mystic energy. my husband the natural witch is extremely partial to cats and they bring about a great tenderness in him!

black cat and dog hair is an ingredient used in many spells. though sacrifice of animals is part of the voodoo tradition many modern rootworkers do not work with sacrificing living animals as it is a disrespect to the nature-revering culture of paganism. instead when an animal ingredient is necessary the local butcher shop is good enough. when i perform spells that call for animal parts that is where i head.

my animal familiar is not a black cat but a beautiful white dog. he's got some soulful eyes doesn't he?

here's a nice protection spell for your pet or familiar:

ingredients

hair from the head and tail of the animal you wish to protect
white candle
picture of animal
protection oil

doing the job

take the picture of the animal and in the four corners of the photo anoint with protection oil. take a white candle and etch the name of the animal into the candle in a stairways fashion from the bottom to the top of the candle. anoint with protection oil. light the candle. as the candle begins to burn take the hairs of the animal and drip some of the melting wax onto the hairs creating a small ball or square of melted wax and hair. when your pet is home safe in your house having a nice meal or eating or relaxing in their favorite sunny spot by the window bury the little wax piece in your garden or if you live in an apartment in the pot of one of your plants. take the picture anointed with protection oil and put in a frame or safe place where it will never be harmed.

voodoo love spell crepe recipe - yum!

2009-06-24T17:39:00.000-07:00

although more old fashioned witches will recommend hiding menstrual blood or semen in coffee, tea, spaghetti, etc. i like to suggest sweeter alternatives because really, what you want to do is sweeten your man or woman to you!

here's a delicious and simple strawberry and nutella crepe recipe that i adore. i mix the bodily fluid into the nutella. hides the taste and the different texture of nutella and the pulpy strawberry can mask any kind of fluid ;)

ingredients

2 large eggs
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup water
1 cup flour
3 tablespoons melted butter
1/4 tablespoon of sugar
butter, for coating the pan
strawberries sliced
nutella (mixed with fluids in a different bowl)

doing the job

combine butter, eggs, water, milk, flour, and sugar and mix for 5 minutes until smooth. place the crepe batter in the refrigerator for 1 hour (this allows the bubbles to subside so the crepes will be less likely to tear during cooking). the batter will keep for up to 48 hours.

heat a small non-stick pan. add butter to pan. pour 1 ounce of batter into the center of the pan and swirl to spread evenly. cook for 30 seconds and flip. cook for another 10 seconds and remove to the cutting board. lay them out flat so they can cool.

after the crepes have cooled add nutella and sliced strawberries and serve to your loved one. it would be an excellent follow up to steak seasoned with rosemary for a complete love spell meal.

*if you decide to cook all the batter, after they have cooled you can stack them and store in sealable plastic bags in the refrigerator for several days or in the freezer for up to two months. when using frozen crepes, thaw on a rack before gently peeling apart.

the loving vibrations of rose quartz

2009-06-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

i don't often work with crystals and am nothing close to an expert on them but have had remarkable experiences with rose quartz. most recently, i spoke to a good friend about their remarkable power. it is best known as "the stone of universal love" and allows the heart to give and receive love. it also has healing and calming properties and brings balance and releases negative, anxious, jealous energies. love rituals use rose quartz more than any other stone.

i once used rose quartz in a mojo bag worn around my neck with several different love herbs and oils . the mojo was measured to hang directly over my heart. i felt the quartz vibrate against my chest! it was a feeling similar to vick's vaporub, that tingly menthol feeling. i felt my mood lighten and was very cheerful.

some traditional uses

rose quartz has been given to newborn babies to help in their transition from the spirit world to the physical realm, gently integrating the two and helping with adjustment.
married people should keep rose quartz in the bedroom to keep passion in thier love life.

for those of you living in the los angeles area, the melrose flea market is one of the best places i've seen to get some nice crystals affordably. there is a stand that sells rose quartz and other crystals which also has descriptions of their magickal properties!

$ fast acting money spell $

2009-06-22T09:09:00.000-07:00

there is the only one money spell i have performed on my personal behalf and i found it to be extremely fast acting. when i performed it i saw movement within two weeks! it is a simple spell that brings money to the home through one or more people as it is money house blessing spell thus it is not focused on one specific person or just the practitioner. it works for everyone in the home with or without their knowledge so it is a great spell for two people in a relationship trying to make ends meet or an entire family - from the parents to the kids who have a lemonade stand, money will come in! i like the inclusiveness of this spell that blesses luck to everyone in the home. this spell does not endow a home with gluttonous wealth but can bring enough money so that there will be more than $2.25 in the checking account the day before a paycheck! i believe it is the purity of the intent that brings the money in. the gods and goddesses bless the home so that its needs are met. this should not then be performed as a fast luck spell done by gamblers as it is really not in the same category.

i have a special price for this spell so if you're interested send me an email!

sex and the solstice - june 21, 2009

2009-06-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

the summer solstice for pagans one of the four important seasonal markers of the year. for more information about the importance of the solstice, go here.

the evening of the summer solstice is a great night for love spells and seizing the opportunity is a must as it only comes once a year!

for those in relationships, spending the evening of the summer solstice together is extremely important. it will strengthen relationships, protect it from meddling third parties or infidelity, heighten passion and love for the year ahead. a simple ritual would be to sprink orris root powder in the four corners of the bedroom and on the bedsheets. the solstice would also be a good night to sew in a mattress mojo full of love and fidelity herbs. make love on the orris root blessed room and think about the wonder of love.

for those seeking to attract their mate, attraction spells, passion spells, and love spells should be performed. there's still time to prepare a ritual for this weekend -- goodluck and many blessings! for clients who i am currently advising i am emphasizing the importance of the solstice in their rituals.

music during a ritual

2009-06-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

i know when you walk into your local new age shop/magick store/herb store you may encounter the thrumming drumming musical beats of the wiccan variety playing softly in the overhead speakers. or perhaps tibetan chanting depending on the gimmick of the store. if you are like me and live in an area like los angeles where you buy most of your spiritual goods at hispanic botanicas bachata may be blasting on the boombox. the music you use during your rituals need not be any of these kinds... music you play during your ritual should most importantly be moving to you and help you concentrate your energy towards the prayer. if nine inch nails or the rolling stones helps you raise your power for a spell go with it. one of my particular favorites for a love spells is "i put a spell on you" by aqualung. it fades into the background quite nicely while its repetitve chorus with the word "spell" helps with raising the power of enchantment for me. do any of you have favorites?

poppy seeds and flowers

2009-06-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

i've been meaning to write about the magickal use of poppy seeds and poppy flowers for a while. i grow this ancient flower in my own garden and have always been fascinated and inspired by it's long history. to me it has always seemed to reflect the deep and variable depths of human nature encapsulating the incredible comfort of the opioid and the ravages of addiction. i am very familiar with the illicit use of opioids and though it may be taboo to say there is something very mystical about watching some nod off to heroin. it is almost spiritual. most recently, i received an email from a faithful passionrituals reader who used poppy seed in one of her spells and felt it was finally time for me to discuss the poppy.

there are many variations of poppy from the california poppy to the turkish poppy but it is only from papaver somniferum that we get opium and its derivatives morphine and heroin. naturally, the magickal use of poppy seeds and flowers takes its cue from the heavy dreamlike effects opium, morphine, and heroin bring about in its users. it is most famous for it use in confusion spells and a key ingredient in confusion oil and also used in increasing the psychic power of dreams.

poppy seed is often added to spells meant to confuse the target without causing harm. this makes it an ideal ingredient in court case spells where the lawyer of the opposing side, jury, or judge are not personal enemies but the rootworker would benefit from their confusion (thus easier to manipulate). poppy is also good to use against those who are working against you in a non-hexing manner as it does not hurt only confuse your opponent. thus it saves the rootworker from the heavy karma of performing a hex but can also protect from opponents. confusion oil is can be considered one of the protective oils.

lastly, poppy flowers can be used love divinatory purposes. this means poppy is NOT added to a love spell formulae but can be added to a dream mojo to help the rootworker dream of their loved one. and yes there is a difference between the flowers and the seed so be very careful in formulating your spells.

now, here's a simple recipe for confusion oil:

grind poppy seed, black mustard seed and sulfur into a fine powder
add to jojoba oil
[for malevolent use: use baby or mineral oil]

altars = necessary or not for spellwork?

2009-06-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

altars are very important in the voodoo and hoodoo traditions as a place to center one's energy and prayers. although it would be a good practice for you to set up an altar in your home sometimes circumstances do not permit it. for example, if you share an apartment with roommates who do not know you're an occultist or live with family that would disapprove of such practices. due to these privacy issues not all rootworkers may be able to have an altar in their home. however, i do not personally believe that an altar is necessary to perform ritual spellwork or to be a good occultist. there are times, in probably every occultist's life that they are not able to have a traditional altar with burning candles, figures, photos, etc. due to the restrictions of privacy and space. the occult, afterall, means hidden. unlike other religions it is not a practice that requires the practitioner to stand up on a pedestal and declare their beliefs. in fact, it is often best to keep one's practice of the occult a secret from most people in one's life except for a chosen few. why? well, the better to voodoo you of course! :)

before most big spells are performed it is always good to set up a sacrifice to one's gods/goddesses and ancestors for a week beforehand. an altar will usually then hold these sacrifices such as flowers, jewelry and food. however, there are ways around this. for instance if petitioning oshun one can just go to the river and throw oranges and flowers into the river. if one is petitioning ancestors you could visit a gravesite and leave food and flowers.

as for candle burning, lots of practitioners set up a small temporary altar. altars do not have to have the three tiers or all the potions and figures to be considered an altar. a small wooden box with a candle be an altar as long as it is made with belief. personally, when burning a candle i like to use a standing clip photo holder holding photo cards of oshun, the virgin mary or whatever saint i am petitioning as a way of creating a small but temporary altar. doing this helps me discreetly create the feeling of an altar next to the candle without having a lot of spiritual items together so that they could call attention to the rootwork i am performing.

however, i highly recommend finding a living situation that will give you the opportunity to have your own altar set up without feeling encumbered by others. it is not only beneficial to your spell work but empowering and liberating.

new postcards now distributed throughout LA

2009-06-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

for those of you in the los angeles area, throughout downtown, mid-city, and the westside several locations are now carrying the new voodoo child promotional postcards! look out for it! for those interested in readings or spell consultations please continue to contact me at warmscars@gmail.com. in your intial email please give me some information regarding your situation as well as your desired appointment time. all services can be performed over the phone, some via email, and for those in los angeles in person for special cases.

the oldest love spell in the book

2009-06-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

though this gets a lot of airplay, here's my own discussion of it.

feeding your man your menstrual blood slipped into his food or drink will intensify his love, keep him faithful and honest. spaghetti, steak, and red wine are all excellent choices. i've known people to slip blood into chocolate chip cookies too!

one of my favorite and most effective passion spells

2009-06-01T19:28:00.001-07:00

...because sometimes a man may be in love but be too reserved, timid, or afraid to express it/pursue you. this spell is intended for a target who you already know is interested in you/loves you because it is not about changing someone's mind or someone's will but encouraging them to simply be more expressive/passionate in showing their feelings. as it is, they must already be in a relationship with you or have expressed sincere interest in you. i've found this spell to work especially well with people whose natal charts are heavy with capricorn, saturn, or have many planets going through the 10th house. these people tend to be overly cautious, serious, and repress their more passionate feelings.

ingredients
1 red candle, a male figurine candle or red penis candle is best
a photo of you and the target or a photo of the target

catnip
cinnamon
red clover

ginger oil
fire of love oil
cinnamon oil

doing the job

after cleansing your candle, bless it with holy water or salt water and tell it who it is - in this case it is your target. "candle, in the name of the father, son, and holy spirit you are [target's name]." etch your target's full name on the candle from the bottom of the candle going all the way up in a staircase fashion. add three drops of each oil to the candle and rub the oil twisting all the way up to the wick and meditate on bringing more passion and confidence to your target. roll the candle then in the combination of the dry ingredients. when it is thoroughly dressed put your candle before the picture and light your candle. Begin your opening prayers to the trinity, your god(s)/goddess(es), natural elements, and then read selections from the song of solomon *see below 9 times. after reading the song of solomon close your prayers as you would normally do.

when i did this spell my red figurine candle burned completely down in less than an hour! it worked and the fast burn and extremely bright burn of the candle was amazing. i really believe in catnip's ability to bring out the wild heart in any man. it is a very potent love herb.

*read the following selection from the song of solomon 9x.

Song of Solomon

I have compared thee, O my love, to a company of horses in

Pharaoh's chariots. Thy cheeks are comely with rows of
jewels, thy neck with chains of gold. We will make thee
borders of gold with studs of silver. While the king
sitteth at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell
thereof. A bundle of myrrh is my wellbeloved unto me; he
shall lie all night betwixt my breasts. My beloved is unto
me as a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of En-gedi.
Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou
hast doves' eyes. Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea,
pleasant: also our bed is green. The beams of our house are
cedar, and our rafters of fir.É

Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art fair; thou
hast doves' eyes within thy locks: thy hair is as a flock of
goats, that appear from Mount Gilead. Thy teeth are like a
flock of sheep that are even shorn, which came up from the
washing; whereof every one bear twins, and none is barren
among them. Thy lips are like a thread of scarlet, and thy
speech is comely: thy temples are like a piece of a
pomegranate within thy locks. Thy neck is like the tower of
David builded for an armoury, whereon there hang a thousand
bucklers, all shields of mighty men. Thy two breasts are
like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the
lilies. Until the day break, and the shadows flee away, I
will get me to the mountain of myrrh, and to the hill of
frankincense. Thou art all fair, my love; there is no spot
in thee.

Hyssop: Protection, Jinx Removal, Cleansings all in 1!

2009-05-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

hyssop is an ancient herb whose magickal use can be found in the old testament. the israelites were instructed to dip a bunch of hyssop in lamb’s blood and sprinkle it on their door posts so that the angel of death would pass over their families (exodus 12:22). it is also mentioned in psalm 51 as a spiritual purifying agent. cleanse me with hyssop, wash me and i shall be whiter than snow. it is recommended that psalm 51 be read during rituals using hyssop. i have found it particularly powerful to meditate on the virgin mary/yemaya while taking a hyssop spiritual bath. as is evidenced by its use in the bible hyssop continues to be a very powerful herb that as it cleanses, also protects.

a few drops of hyssop oil in a bath can help remove a jinx, rid people of bad habits, or wash off negative thoughts and energy. some, if not all of the bathwater should be taken to a crossroads and thrown over the left shoulder "in the name of the father, son, and holy spirit."

a few drops of hyssop oil or hyssop tea (distilled from hyssop leaves) can be added to a floor wash to rid a home of crossed conditions.
hanging sprigs of hyssop around a home is said to protect its inhabitants as it turns away the evil eye.
after doing negative spellwork such as revenge or death hexes, the rootworker should bathe in hyssop and then go to a church to do the sign of the cross with holy water.
hyssop flower essence reportedly can help ease feelings of low self-esteem, self-blame and guilt. it can also help ease pets who have been harshly punished (good thing to know for fido!)
hyssop even has medicinal properties and has been shown to help head lice, itchy skin, prevent bruising, and even has antiviral effects and can help those with hiv/aids.

making a difficult man purr like a kitty cat

2009-05-29T09:47:00.000-07:00

the hoodoo tradition, unlike wicca, does not classify magick into "black" and "white." wiccans look at domination, compelling, control, and love spells as interfering with free will and therefore is bad "black magick" sure to bring upon the wrath of the "rule of three" (that which you do will return to you in threefold). however, hoodoo maintains that magick, as in life, there are more gray areas than black and white. domination, compelling, and love spells may be necessary for harmony within a family, marriage, or relationship and thus beget more good than "bad." for example, if a husband is running around on his wife she could employ a ritual to make him stay at home and be faithful and though it interferes with his free will, their children and household will benefit from their stable marriage.

the wiccan threefold rule touches on the idea of karmic reaction to action and i would say that all things we do, magickal or not carry a karmic weight! remember that voodoo/hoodoo/yoruba/santeria are practiced and originate in many society's where women suffer from inequality and are repressed in one way or another. spells of domination, compelling, control and love are thus the equalizing methods which women often employ to achieve power or at least retain some semblance of equality especially in the traditionally feminine areas of fertility, family, and home. of course there are revenge, hexing, and death spells which are in a category all their own but i do not believe it is fair to put those kind of spells along those of domination and love.

*the special spell*
i recently received a particularly powerful domination/control love spell from a very well respected hoodoo priest which involves the use of chicken hearts. chicken hearts and other meat organs can be purchased easily enough at your local butcher shop or grocery store. due to the intensity of this spell please contact me directly via email if you would like to have it as of particular power/intensity and i would only feel comfortable distributing it on a consultation basis.

overview of the 7 african powers

2009-05-28T16:21:00.001-07:00

the following is my own overview of the 7 african powers (gods and goddesses/lwas and orishas from yoruba/santeria/voodoo/hoodoo traditions).

papa legba is an old man who is the gatekeeper between the two worlds, world of earth and the world of the spirits. he is the origin of life. the sun is one of his symbols but he is also the source of regeneration and uses the symbol of the phallus. his colors are black and red. sacrifices to him should be rum or candy. he is most akin to western religions' idea of a patriarchal central god.
obtala iscomparable to our lady of mercy he is petitioned for cleansings, peace and purifications. his colors are white, silver, and prurple. sacrifices to him should be pears, coconuts, and black-eyed peas.
yemaya/yemanja is the sovereign goddess of the seas and is especially honored by people who live near the sea. she is connected to the moon and female mysteries and is thus a wonderful patron for women. she is syncretized often with the virgin mary in catholicism. offerings to her are often white food such as boiled eggs, rice, and white flowers.
oshun is the vivacious and beautiful goddess of love ruling over women, fertility, the erotic, sex, lust and love. she rules over the river. her colors are yellow and gold. sacrifices to her should be honey, oranges, pumpkin, and orange/yellow flowers. she also adores sacrifices of gold jewelry and praise on her beauty.
chango rules over male sexuality and reproduction as well as power and control. it is said the worship of chango brings the worshipper great power and self-control. chango also rules over the sky, lightning and trees. in rituals he is often honored with a fire dance. sacrifices to him should be apples, yams, corn, and peppers.
ogun is the warrior god and rules over politics, court cases, and honor. he may also be petitioned for violent prayers of strength and revenge. sacrifices to him should be nuts, meat, and roots. chicken heart would be a nice choice to petition him in a love revenge case. his colors are green and black.
oya brings sudden change. she rules communication between the living and the dead like hecate. she is a whirlwind, an amazon, a huntress, and a wild buffalo.

the natural witch - a personal account

2009-05-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

what is a natural witch, you ask? to me, it is someone who intuitively harnesses the power of spiritual energy and intuitively ritualizes their actions towards their desired end. psychic ability and powerful intuitiveness are key characteristics of the natural witch as well.

i have discussed "the natural witch" with an old friend of mine, a voodooist from brazil, who told me she has met some natural witches who had no idea they were even witches, let alone would have classified themselves as pagans or metaphysicists! however, they just constantly showed ritualized behavior that most voodooists would have had to have been taught.

myself, i have intimate knowledge of a natural witch -- my husband! one of the most striking things he told me he did when we were in a long distance relationship was a daily ritual of printing out my photograph and masturbating onto the photo until he completely obscured my face. while he did this he would call out my name and tell me that i was "his." this ritualized behavior of his is an extremely old yet standard love domination spell! i was completely flabbergasted. even his incantations and visualizations were very much along the tenets of voodoo. however, my husband has never been instructed in the pagan arts. he is very supportive of my lifestyle and intuitively interested without the slightest fear or reluctance to find out more. he has also been able to communicate his thoughts to me very forcefully either through interrupting my dreams. two years before i met him i dreamt consistently that the man i would marry i would meet in san francisco though i had no personal ties to san francisco nor was i even living in california at the time. low and behold, i met my husband in san francisco exactly two years to the month i began having those dreams.

keep your eyes out for the natural witch, they have incredible power which if they learn to channel can achieve many things.

questions and requests

2009-05-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

i often receive questions and requests regarding spells for specific situations in the comments section of my entries. to best help you if you have specific questions for a situation you are in please email me at warmscars@gmail.com.

blessings!

spell for luck in any situation

2009-05-27T11:01:00.000-07:00

this is a great spell for luck in any situation. i used it myself when i was hoping to receive submission into school. it worked!

ingredients
1 green cat candle
high john the conqueror oil
photo of god/goddess/saint/ancestor to petition

doing the job
anoint the green cat candle with high john the conqueror oil while visualizing success and luck just as you desire in your situation. light the candle before your god/goddess/saint/ancestor and pray for their assistance in the matter. think creatively and deeply for who you call to for help. perhaps you will petition your patron saints and your often called upon grandmother but also think of someone (divine or spiritual) who may be connected to your desire. for one example, if your petition has something to do with the arts, you could pray to a favorite deceased artist you feel particularly close to.

chili pepper powder

2009-05-21T08:36:00.001-07:00

the use of chili pepper powder in the hoodoo tradition is very important. chili pepper is often used to "heat up" spells. like cinnamon, it may be added to a herb/oil mixture to bring up about faster results or increase the passion in a situation. chili pepper is also an important ingredient in hot foot spells to drive people away.

the simplest hot foot spell there is to sprinkle some chili pepper powder in the shoe of the one you'd like to cast away while chanting that they must leave.

mercury in retrograde

2009-05-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

mercury in retrograde is one of the astrological phenomena that i pay very close attention to. i am very affected by this retrograde as i have my moon and rising sign in gemini. people with strong gemini in their charts should also be strongly affected though this affects everyone's communication for the worse. communication during mercury in retrograde is very difficult and what will go wrong in these areas usually does. fights and disagreements will happen more often. entering into any agreements or contracts is not advised because of the difficulty of clear communication. i have, as of yet, been able to do any work to alleviate the difficulties of this period. all i can do is be cognitively aware of possible misunderstandings no matter what seems clear as day.

charging one's tarot cards

2009-05-17T11:46:00.000-07:00

after some time tarot cards can lose a bit of their sparkle and anyone who uses cards as their method of divination knows what i'm talking about. readings become harder to decipher or don't ring true. or maybe when being handled there is a simple feeling of disconnect. my method of recharging my cards involves a simple two-step process.

cleaning each card, back and front, with a white cotton pad dipped in florida water. florida water is cleansing and attracts psychic power and positive spirits. the scent is also quite lovely.
after all the cards have been cleaned thoroughly i sleep with the cards (held in the special box i have for them) in my bed for a week.

after doing this i find that my cards always perform much better and i feel much more connected to them.

pagan pretty

2009-05-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

The period of a waning moon leading up to a new moon is the best time for detoxifying the body - release all your toxins and refresh. This is the optimum time to exfoliate, use cleansing face packs, sea-salt baths, seaweed wraps, have facials and sweat it out in the sauna.

The phase when the moon is waxing up to a full moon is the time to replenish, regenerate and repair your skin with moisturisers and essential oil massages. Give your hair a deep conditioning treatment too, as it's believed that the skin and hair are more absorbent at this time.

This beautiful, white, fragrant flower - ipomoea alba - opens at dusk from midsummer. This tender perennial climber with large, rounded leaves with heart-shaped bases, can reach 15 feet in a season. Scented, white 5-inch-wide flowers attract night-flying moths.