Hello Libra Season

Can we admit that the collective has been impatiently awaiting Autumn all year?

Well it's officially upon us! The world feels FULL!

Sweet breezy days, chilly nights, waking to foggy mornings, steaming hot beverage, our gardens near their final harvests and of course THE LEAVES! 

The seeds that we have sewn and nurtured through the Spring and Summer season are now being reaped. And now that we have had two seasons to get our fill under the light of the bright sun and warm weather, the cold weather and growing reign of darkness, we begin granting ourselves permission to draw our attention inward. towards are immediate environment and the small charms that delight us in everyday life.

In the cosmos, Venus the planetary goddess of Love, Beauty and Value has once again seated herself upon the cosmic throne. The pull is so strong that we actively feel ourselves drawn to that attractive new stranger or even the more scandalous manifestations of Love, remember that toxic ex? The one you were head over heels for in spite of their shadow side?

The Autumn energy of harmony , balance between day and night +  the Venetian motivation in the realms of Love, Beauty and Values = A sign with the ability to create a reality with the Love, Connection and Beauty we all hope to experience in our life times.

 Hello Libra Season…the pleasure is ours.

Libra season is here to not only grace us with love and beauty but with the balance each of us needs to sustain ourselves and our relationships through the "dark" half of the year.

Now not all of us are blessed to have Libra in our own charts. BUT it's Libra Season! Libra energy is ABUNDANTLY flowing through the Universe and it’s the perfect time to begin tapping into the super powers of the sign.

 So let's get started!

How to Harness Libra Energy

Cultivate Balance

 "Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create."

 Libra season is marked by the Autumn Equinox, a time of equal day and night. For this reason, Libra sign is the scales, denoting Libra's natural proclivity for Balance.

 As we enter the dark park of the year, we are drawn to examine both the Light and Darker aspects within ourselves, and the world around us. We are now reaping what we have sewn. In some areas we may feel overwhelming gratitude and abundance. However, we may also be experiencing the opposite - resentment and lack.

 We best work with this Libra energy by finding ways to create not just balance - 50% this and 50% - but more HARMONY. Harmony is an agreement, an arrangement, that creates a pleasing effect.

 To begin harnessing Libra energy ask yourself,

Do you feel there are aspects of your life where you feel out of balance? Why?

What changes can you make to create more harmony in your everyday life?

Find What Enriches You

Planet Venus rules over two signs and represents our motivations in the realms Love, Beauty and Values.

 In the Fixed Earth Sign of Taurus, Venetian influence motivates us towards pursuit of material possessions and that which brings security surrounding food/water/shelter.

In the case of Cardinal Air Sign Libra, Venus' influence manifests as the discovery and cultivation of that which brings us security in the realms of thoughts and energetic partnerships.

This comes back to finding balance - balance between what enriches the physical realm of earth and the mental realms of Air.

What makes you feel RICH? What makes you feel healthy, wealthy and wise?

Start exploring, envisioning, and constructing an action plan because Libra, as a Cardinal sign, is responsible for setting the intentions of the Autumn season.

The intentions we set now, will create the movement and momentum for what we will receive later in the season.

And remember, it’s the dark half of the year. Make sure those intentions are going to be sustainable through the darkness that lies ahead.

Explore Partnerships

Each astrological sign rules over one of the twelve houses in astrology. Each house is an aspect of our reality where the energy of the sign is most strongly expressed. Libra rules the 7th house - The House of Partnerships. It governs all partnerships, both business and personal, and relationship-associated matters such as contracts, marriage, and business deals.

During Libra season, we are collectively drawn to examine the relationships within our lives. Within each partnerships is reflected both the masculine energy of giving and the divine feminine energy of receiving. Together these forces are CREATION.

To work with Libra energy, start questioning the partnerships you share.

What am I receiving in this relationship?

What am I giving in this relationship?

Is this harmonic?

And how can I cultivate more Harmony in my relationships?

Practice Self Love

Speaking of partnerships, what kind of relationship are you having with yourself?

Libra energy has a very specific lesson - So often when we are seeking love, we tend to look outside of ourselves, when in reality the love that we experience is a direct reflection of the love that we give to ourselves.

This is the reason that it is so crucial for everyone, not just Libra, to cultivate some self love practices.

When we practice self love we understand our worth, we see our potential, we invest in ourselves.

In addition,  we are then able to set the energetic standards for what we want and deserve in our other relationships.

 Three simple ways to begin cultivating more self love are

• Explore your core values. When you know what you stand for, it’s easier to identify your worth because you are literally anchoring that energy onto the planet.

• Lean into the partnerships with persons, places, things or ideas that make you feel inspired and empowered.

• SET THOSE BOUNDARIES. STOP allowing that which doesn’t align with what you to occupy time and/or space in your life.

Affirmations

Libra is a Cardinal Air Sign. Cardinal signs act as the initiators or intention setters of each season. Air signs rule over the Mind - our thoughts, communication, and perception of time. (See Elemental Witchcraft)

As such, Libra season is the perfect time to examine the way in which think and speak, particularly with our selves because that will inevitably impact our relationships with ourselves and with others.

Are your thoughts more constructive or destructive? How do you communicate with yourself? Is the way you communicate with yourself the way that you would communicate with someone you love?

Once you have explored the way you communicate with yourself, try creating some affirmations that are constructive and align with what you want to call in by working with Libra energy. (Pro-tip: Affirmations work very well for those who have identified "Words of Affirmation" as their primary love language. )

Or you could try working with these Libra affirmations until you get the hang of creating your own.

I am Love, I am Beauty, I am Worthy.

I create harmony in my relationships.

I am free to explore new perspectives and possibilities that enrich my life.

Seek Beauty

Beauty is a natural and treasured part of our human experience. When we find something BEAUTIFUL, we feel joy, delight, wonder….ENCHANTMENT!

However, even mentioning the word “beauty” can be quite polarizing because we are all parts of societies that hold specific ideals as to what warrants the title "Beautiful". And those standards have been weaponized and capitalized upon.

So it’s easy for many people, to associate beauty with negativity, and dismiss it completely as a valuable component to delighting in the lives we live.

However, Libras have a natural strength in understanding that beauty is subjective. Their Venetian influence allows them to SEE beauty in many shapes, forms, and ideas - just as goddesses of beauty have appeared in countless forms across countless cultures.

So your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to simply take the time to appreciate more beauty around you and consciously opening your heart to experience beauty in new ways.

Glamour Darling, Celebrate Your Own Beauty

Not only can we SEEK BEAUTY, we can BE BEAUTY.

When you love yourself, share harmonic relationships, are deeply connected to the enrichment of your life…you want to look as good as you feels.

So a fun and practical ways to tap into the Libra vibe is to upgrade our own beauty routine and wardrobe.

The seasonal change in temperature and humidity are the perfect prompts for a revitalized skin care routine and giving your wardrobe an overhaul. But more than that, it’s an opportunity to explore the beauty of YOU and how you embody that to the world.

Words of Caution

Now it wouldn’t be fair nor accurate to depict only the strengths of Libra without mentioning the other side of that scale.

A few things to be aware of when working with Libra energy,

• Thought they may be the sign of the Scales, that doesn’t mean that Libra energy is always balanced. It is common for Libra energy to become either polarizing OR due to seeing the value in multiple perspectives can lead to INDECISION.

• A sign motivated by beauty has a tendency to fall for what glitters, but all that glitters is not gold, so be sure that you examine the true nature of what you desire and not just whether it “looks good”.

• Libra is motivated by partnerships and thus has a tendency to seek love outside of themselves. However, it’s an unwritten law of the Universe that when you are actively looking for love, you see it in all the places it truly ISN’T, so again make sure you are actively cultivating self love.

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So, the Autumn energy of harmony , balance between day and night +  the Venetian motivation in the realms of Love, Beauty and Values = A sign with the ability to create a reality with the Love, Connection and Beauty we all hope to experience in our life times.

I say again,

Hello Libra Season…the pleasure is ours.

By tapping into the energy of Libra season , we can each discover our own abilities to intentionally create a reality with the Love, Connection and Beauty we all hope to experience in our life times.

What will you be calling in this Libra season? Let us know over on Instagram! Join the discussion and make sure to follow along on stories where I share my own lessons of the season!

And until next time,

May you live your most enchanting life,

Randi Ruby

Welcome Virgo Season

Stumbling from the drunken glow of summer, Virgo season has arrived to chaperone us all home.

From August 23th - September 22, Mercury will once again revel in a turn taken upon the cosmic throne. His influence carrying the message that the light part of the year will soon be at an end; To ready ourselves, make plans and be ready to take action.

Here on Earth, we sense to onset of the darker days of the year with small snippets of morning chill and thunder storms whose arrival has begun to chase away the summer's heat.

The Mutable Element of Earth + The quick and efficient messenger of the Cosmos, Mercury + The transitional energy of the Earth’s decent into the darker half of the solar year = practical, logical, detail-oriented purists who won’t be detoured from reaching their highest potential.

Welcome Virgo, it’s a pleasure to meet you!

The reign of the Cosmic secretaries of the Zodiac is upon us! Be ready to audit, edit and strategize - It’s a time for all of us to cross the t’s, dot the i’s, and execute the plans we know will serve us in grounding our dreams into reality.

Not a Virgo? No problem. Let’s explore how each of us can tap into the potent and perfecting power of Virgo regardless of whether we have Virgo placements in our own chart.

How To Align With Virgo Energy

Self Evaluate

Within astrology, each sign is said to be the natural ruler of a particular astrological house.

There are 12 astrological house which signify the area in our lives where a planets' and signs' energy expresses the most; Houses 1-6 are considered the "personal houses" or the realms of our inner world and Houses 7-12 are considered the "social houses" or the realms of our outer world.

So far we have experienced:

The 1st House of Self, Identity and Initiative

The 2nd House of Values, Worth, and Possessions

The 3rd House of Communication, Thought, Environment, and Transportation

The 4th House of Family, Home, Memories, and Foundations.

The 5th House of Self Expression, Creativity, Joy, and Pleasure

Virgo is the natural ruler of The 6th House of Health, Routine and Wellness.

As the last of the personal houses, the 6th houses prompts us to evaluate and audit our foundations so that we may reach our highest potential as individuals (Houses 1-6) but also prepare us to serve in realms outside of ourselves within the larger collective.( Houses 7-10)

Ruled by what is often referred to as "The Maintenance House", Virgos are naturally inclined to analyze how we invest in ourselves, how we spend our time and energy, and how well we feel doing it.

So to channel Virgo energy, self evaluate.

• How are you investing in your own health and wellness?

• What vision do you hold for your future?

• Do your habits and routine support you in your endeavors? How? Why?

Evaluate and edit accordingly.

Pump Those Standards Up

Virgo is known as the sign of the Virgin, "untainted" or "pure." and Virgos are notorious for their almost perfectionist standards.

But there's a reason for that.

Virgo is a transitional sign, it's function is the integration of the lessons we've learned through the spring and summer months and prepare us for the darker, colder months of the year.

For this reason, anything but the best, will simply not do for Virgo.

Virgo's high standards aid us in reaching our potential by cultivating what supports us and eliminating that which limits our ability to reach our highest potential (and survival) through the latter half of the solar cycle.

Virgos KNOW that we receive from the Universe is often a direct reflection of the standards we hold for ourselves and others.

 So pump those standards up!

Say what you mean and mean what you say

Virgo's may be an Earth sign, but they are notorious for not being ones to beat around the bush.

Due to the combination of the practical nature of ruling element Earth and the communicative energy of ruling planet Mercury, Virgos have consensually arrived at the conclusion that anything other than concise and honest communication is a waste of both time and energy.

The best way to get what you want, is to ask for it. So Virgo's say what they mean and mean what they say - and not just in words but in their actions.

To harness Virgo energy,  ask yourself

• How do I communicate to myself, others or the Universe?

• Do I say what I mean?

• Do I mean what I say?

And then take the practical steps necessary to align yourself accordingly.

Get Organized

Mercury is the cosmic messenger, rules over timing and schedules, and therefore efficiency is of utmost importance to those working with Virgo energy.

The best way to strengthen efficiency? Become organized!

Virgo season happens to also be back to school season, and there is no better time than now to make an investment in your organization. 

Think color coding, a planner, a new white board…small things that can help you do the larger everyday tasks in better ways.

Plus the undeniable savings from back to school sales is surely a win for earthly Virgo energy.

Stubbornly Pursue Your Goals

Though their symbol the Virgin is often associated with quiet and submissive characteristics, Virgo energy is anything but acquiescent.

Virgos are practical, logical, and detail-oriented - they've fully analyzed what they want for their lives.

Virgos ALWAYS have a plan and unless a more logical and efficient strategy arises, these purists can not and will not be swayed from their path.

To harness this Virgo superpower

• Know what you want

• Strategize How To Get There

• Do The Work

 And stubbornly pursue your goals.

 You can't lose if you never give up.

Be Mx. Independent!

As a mutable sign, Virgos are more flexible than fellow Earth signs Taurus (Fixed) or Capricorn (Cardinal). Their ability to bend, lends itself to Virgos most well known quality - Independence.

Independence is defined as “freedom from outside control or dependence upon the authority of another”.

BUT! Cultivating Independence - Virgo Style - is about more than just choosing to go at things alone. (I mean seriously, have you met a Virgo? They are happy to delegate tasks.)

Virgo independence is rooted in their flexibility for not being reliant upon a singular thought, belief, action, person or circumstance in order to achieve their goals.

We can all tap into our own flexibility and Virgo inspired independence by cultivating a “How Can I” mindset in 2 simple steps:

1. Stop yourself when you find yourself thinking or saying "I can't do x,y,z."

2. Reframe it as “HOW Can I do x,y,z?”

Developing a “How Can I” mindset releases dependence upon a singular circumstance and allows for multiple pathways to reveal themselves to us, making it more likely that we will achieve and receive our desires.

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Words of Caution

Virgo might be the sign of the Virgin, but by no means does that mean Virgo’s are without fault. So for those wishing to wield the power of Virgo, beware of the following shadows that may slither into your midst.

• Perfectionists - Virgo's are notorious for their almost perfectionist standards. These high standards help us reach our highest potential, but too much of any one thing is rarely a good thing, and those tapping into the energy of this sun sign may find themselves paralyzed by their own desire for perfection.

  It is better to do one thing imperfectly than do nothing perfectly.

• Quick to Criticism - This sign will go to great lengths to strategize, present, and execute their visions in fine detail. It is their way of concisely communicate to themselves, others and the Universe what they desire through thoughts, words, AND through actions.

  However, Virgo are as equally as efficient at becoming irritable and quick to critique when things don’t go according to their plan.

• Self Doubt - Both the shadow qualities of perfectionism and quick to criticism are most often applied to the self. And it is not uncommon for those with Virgo placements to struggle with self doubt in which ever area of reality this sign falls.

  To combat self doubt - Embrace the mutable energy of the season by tapping into the energies and lessons of Cardinal Cancer and Fixed Sign Leo.

• Practice Self Love

• Trust Yourself

• Celebrate Your Wins

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And there you have it folks!

A concise, strategic plan for cultivating potential - if this post isn’t Virgo energy in itself, I don’t know what is!

I’ll say it again, Welcome Virgo! It’s a pleasure to meet you!

The Mutable Element of Earth + The quick and efficient messenger of the Cosmos, Mercury + The transitional energy of the Earth’s decent into the darker half of the solar year = practical, logical, detail-oriented purists who won’t be detoured from reaching their highest potential.

By tapping into this potent and perfecting energy, each of us can more efficiently invest our time, energy, and money to effectively ground and dreams into reality. And move beyond the self so that we may serve others now and in the future

So are you ready to audit, edit and strategize? Have you crossed the T’s and dotted the i’s? Are you executing on the plans you KNOW will serve in grounding your dreams into reality?

Let me know over on Instagram!

And always remember, you can’t lose if you never give up!

Go get those dreams darling!

Live Magic,

Randi Ruby

P.S. This post is dedicated to the Virgos who have blessed my life with their golden touch. Your influence has inspired me to a version of self I would not or could not have envisioned for myself had it not been for the Midas moment of our meetings.

In spirit may we enjoy the never ending pursuit of our own perfection. Blessed Be.

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All Hail Leo Season!

Here on Earth, we now enter the PEAK of the summer season. Gone are the cool evenings or occasional rain having both been replaced by constant warmth generated by our closeness to the Sun and his heat emanating rays.

As is only appropriate, within the cosmos from July 20th - August 22, the Sun will now sit as the supreme ruler of the Cosmic Throne.  His influence sparking within us the initiative and confidence to shine our light and in so doing, highlight the limitless possibilities and abundance around us. 

The Fixed Element of Fire + The consistent energy of the Sun + The Summer's energy of growing and living to the fullest = An ambitious cat with the consistent motivation to hunt down and catch any desire which they set their sights on.

Break out your goblets, it's time to Celebrate Leo Season!

Whether or not you are blessed to have placements within Leo in your own chart, each of us has the ability to tap into this powerhouse of a sign.

 Let's shine some light on how each of us can harness Leo energy.

Shine Your Light

Leo is the natural ruler of the 5th house - The House of Self Expression, Creativity, Joy and Pleasure.

In addition, in one's natal chart, the sun represents the Self - one's will and vitality, and is considered the spark of the entire chart.

Leo energy is pure sunshine…lighting up the infinite possibilities for existence, HOW life can be expressed and how it can be enjoyed.

Therefore, Leo's are naturally in tune with the wonder and value of their own expression.  And they aren’t afraid to show it.

Remember darlings, The Sun SHINES and doesn’t give a fuck if it blinds anyone.

Neither do Leos.

And Neither should you.

So SHINE YOUR LIGHT!

Cultivate Confidence

Because Leo's are able to see the value in shining their light and owning their expression, Leo energy is CONFIDENT.

So naturally we can all learn to tap into those Leo vibes by cultivating more confidence in ourselves and our abilities.

3 simple ways you can begin boosting your confidence are by

• Challenging Yourself

• Celebrating Your Wins

• Following Through

Each of these 3 practices will bring awareness to your ability to step outside of your comfort zone and survive. And each time you survive and live to tell the tell, you will be reassured by your very own experiences that you can overcome obstacles, set backs and circumstance.

Granting you more CONFIDENCE!

Spark Joy

I am sure by now you have heard the phrase, “This sparks Joy.” made famous by cleanliness guru Marie Kondo.

But how often are you consciously sparking Joy in your own life?

Joy is defined as a feeling of great pleasure or happiness. Though often used synonymously with happiness, they actually differ in duration. Joy is a momentary experience rooted in the present. (Happiness is a more a long term experience)

As a sign who is literally ruled by the 5th house of Joy, Leo's have a natural knack for finding new ways to both observere and spark delight in the world around them and share that joy with the rest of us.

To harness Leo energy, consciously create more joy in your life!

Not sure how?

• Use Marie’s technique of bringing awareness to how your body is responding to different stimuli. If you body opens up in excitement - Joy. If your body tends to close in on itself - not joy. Surround yourself with as much of the things that Spark Joy and share those experiences with others so they can begin finding their own joy as well.

• Make time to play! Be silly! Do something that has no gain other than the joy you feel when you do it! ( I ride the shopping cart to the car and I am never going to stop!)

  or

• Watch this Tedx, Where Joy Lies and Where to Find it by Ingrid for inspiration! I have watched this TedX a dozen times, and I am always lit up afterwards!

Spoil Yourself Like A Royal

The Sun is literally the center of our solar system, so who can blame Leos for feeling like they're the true heirs to the Cosmic throne?

Leo desires life with ALL the amenities - lavish accommodations, royal proportioned affairs, pleasurable company - and they are absolutely willing to create that luxury lifestyle for themselves. 

 So how can we each radiate that same royal splendor?

 What puts you in touch with your own majesty?

When do you feel like a Queen? King?

How can you pamper or even spoil yourself?

 And simply do more of those things!

Ambitious Consistence

Like their fiery brethren, Aries and Sagittarius, Leo is what is considered a Masculine sign. Masculine energy is associated with being outwardly expressive, initiating and action driven. However, the fiery energy of Leo differs in that they are a FIXED Fire sign, granting them CONSISTENCY.

Envision the way the Sun appears to travel across the sky. Obviously, it is we who orbit the sun, but from our POV the Sun arises early and drives itself along the same commute from East to West EVERY.SINGLE. DAY.

 The Sun and his blessed children, Leos, are AMBITIOUSLY CONSTISTENT. Same fiery projection, action and ambition…but with the consistency of our orbit around the Sun.

We can spark more Leo energy into our lives by asking ourselves,

•  What goals do you have set for yourself?

• What commute are you making in mind, body and spirit each day? i.e. what are our habits, common mindsets, feelings we are investing in.

• Is your path consistently attracting or distracting you from your goals?

Leadership

Leadership is a natural path for Leo's to find themselves. Their ruling "Planet", the Sun, is the center of our planetary system and the sole provider of light for our planet.

But what exactly is leadership?

Leadership is loosely defined as the ability for an individual or a group to influence and guide others;and often used synonymously with authoritative titles.

However, someone can be an authority and not be a leader. And leaders are often born from those with little to no officially granted authority.

Simon Sinek, world renowned author and inspirational speaker, defines Leadership as: granting one’s self the authority to look after those around them.

In addition he states that true Leadership can be measured in "the care you take, in taking care of those in your charge."

BRILLIANT!

Without the Planets, our Sun, is just a star. It is the way in which it takes care of those around it which makes it the true leader of our solar system.

Leadership is something we can step into for ourselves, we do not need permission from others to step into the role of leader.

Is there a place in your life that is calling you to step into a leadership position? And if so, what care are you taking in taking care of those in your charge?

Give Generously

Though Leo's have a tendency for the fancy life, they have far more to offer this reality than the golden trinkets that they may acquire to soothe their inner monarch.

Leo's greatest gift are their golden hearts.

Leo is a fixed sign, meaning it’s function is to implement the intentions of the cardinal sign of the season - in this case Cancer. As such, Leo energy seeks to nurture connections and enrich the lives of their families, friends, and communities.

Considered the most generous of the Zodiac, Leo's are notorious in the best way for shining their light, love and riches upon those around them.

 Again, without the planets, the Sun is just another star.

 So where in your life can you shine light, love, and yes even riches on those around you?

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Caution: With great light comes great shadow

With great light comes great shadow, so if you find yourself working with Leo energy, it’s important to bring awareness to a few qualities that may be lurking in the tall grass and ready to pounce on you.

1. Arrogance - Again, as the Sun is the Center of the Universe, it is not uncommon for Leo's or those embodying that energy to be perceived as Arrogant and/or Self Serving. Being an active listener and a dash of humility go a long way.

2. Taken Advantage - Where Leo's generous nature is admiral, there are those in this world who will take advantage of how much Leo's are willing to give. Healthy Relationship Dynamics - Is this situation detrimental to my own health and well being?

3. Combative - As the Royal, Leo energy likes things the LEO way. The consistent drive of this energy is unyielding in pursuit of desire and those who embody the Leo vibes WILL burn what lies in their path to obtain it. BUT, Leo is going to war with "class", expect "OH, BLESS THEIR HEARTS!" type of sass.

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So there you have it!

Raise your goblets and shout to the Cosmos, “All Hail Leo Season”!

The Fixed Element of Fire + The, constant energy of our cosmic provider + The Summer's energy of growing and living to the fullest = One ambitious cat with the consistent motivation to hunt down and catch any desire they set their sights on.

And by implementing some of the practices listed above, even if you weren’t born under the Sun Sign Leo, you can absolutely harness that power and learn to shine in your own right!

Now go blind some haters and live your joy!

With Love and Magic,

Randi Ruby

P.S. I dedicate this post to my Dear Ones - Kara and Aaron. Both Leos with truly golden hearts. My life and the lives of everyone around you are richer because of your presence. Every day I am grateful that the Universe saw fit for our paths to cross, and I hope with all my soul that we meet again in the many incarnations yet to come. Thank you for the light and love. You are both true treasures.

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An Enchanting Vacation Continued…

Don’t you just love the episodes that pick up directly where the last left off?

Well to recap, we are in the middle of an epic journey - the most expansive experience of my life in fact. So far we’ve traveled to:

• The Desert Metro of Salt Lake City, Utah where we attended a the Blackout Tour back

• Across nearly the entire bottom portion of Idaho visiting the Idaho treasure which is Shoshone Falls eventually coming to stay in our first AirBNB in Nampa, Id.

• The heart of Oregon, Bend.

  (Make sure you go back to read Part 1!)

Now if you are thinking of visiting Oregon, know that the East half looks nothing like what you imagine, that traditional “Pacific Northwest” climate and terrain doesn’t really happen until you get about half way through the state.

So THIS is when the trip gets EPIC - waterfalls, the ocean, and flowers EVERYWHERE!

And the best part for us? Our wonderful family who were able to meet in this paradise to create lifelong memories together.

Enchanting Experiences

Silverton, Oregon - If cottage core were to have an epicenter, it could arguably be Silverton, Oregon. All the houses are Cottage, Craftsman, and Victorian style - everyone is a different color, and almost all have extensive gardens bursting with flowers.

This place is particularly special to me because as we casually cruised the streets taking in the sights, we passed something that made Andy immediately flip the car around just to go back for a second look. A sign reading “45th Parallel”.

…

When I was a kid, when my family would travel between our home in Challis, along the river road to Salmon, Idaho. Along our way, we would pass the 45th Parallel, and every.single.time. my mama would call it out and honk the car horn.

Years later, as I would drive to my then home in Moscow, Idaho - I would take an entirely different route but would pass that sign…and I would honk.

And now it’s here. In this place. It’s like my realities have been pinched together and touching, sewn together by a common thread.

Just MAGIC.

We pulled over, took this picture, and honked as we passed by it on our way back to the farm.

Buena Vista Lavendar Farm - Where do I even begin other than to say that THIS place is the most beautiful piece of property, I have ever set foot on.

To wake here, walk the beautiful grounds, watch the sunrises and sunsets, to experience the treasured memories being created, all made possible with the generous invitation of our family…truly what a blessing.

It feels just like Lavender smells here, soft and forcibly peaceful as if the land and the flowers command it.

A charming pond, sweet farm animals and of course rows and rows of Lavender - I cannot recommend enough that you have this experience for yourself - and you can! If you live in the area or are feeling inspired to travel through the cottage core haven around Silverton, you can book one of three airbnbs!

Silver Falls State Park - No amount of pictures, Reels or Tiktoks could have prepared me for the magnitude of the wonder I would feel in this place.

This was truly an awe-inspiring experience, one my teenage son tried to skip out on BTW, but WOW! was he glad I made him go on this adventure with us.

Silver Falls State Park is considered the crown jewel of all the state parks in Oregon and for good reason. Not only is it the largest state park with over 9,000 acres, but boats more than 24 miles of walking trails, 14 miles of horse trails and 4 miles of bike paths BUT the area is absolutely STUNNING!

Considered a ‘Warm Mediterranean” climate, it felt like we were stepping into a completely different world - to be honest it felt like we were walking through Jurassic Park.

And standing behind the waterfalls…so powerful, so surreal, just an INCREDIBLE experience.

We hiked nearly 4 miles through 2 trail loops - the kids did great! And afterwards, we enjoyed a meal at South Falls Cafe where we watched a brave chipmunk sneak around looking for snacky snacks.

WHAT.AN.ADVENTURE!

Newport, Oregon - There is a part of the story within the Lord of the Rings in which Gandalf the White is delivering messages to the Three Hunters from Galadriel. The message she gives Legolas,

“Legolas Greenleaf long under tree
In joy thou hast lived. Beware of the Sea!
If thou hearest the cry of the gull on the shore,
Thy heart shall then rest in the forest no more.”

When I am near the ocean, that is how I feel.

As someone who has resided in a land locked state for the entirety of my life, the Ocean is one of the most enchanting forces on this planet.

The sound, the smell, the way the sand moves under your feet…and there are tiny natural treasure everywhere! It’s just AWE inspiring, I love it. Andy loves it! (He is a former Portlandian of 6 years) And we want that experience for our children as often as we are able to gift it to them.

So we planned a day’s excursion to Newport where we visited the beach, the Tide pools, and the Oregon Coast Aquarium!

East Oregon Aquarium - Now if you are new here, you may not know that I’m weirdly afraid of fish. I know consciously that they probably won’t hurt me, but the Fear is still there, so I was a bit nervous for this experience BUT have to do it for the kids.

And it was AWESOME!

Walking through the Shark and Ray tunnel was one of the most surreal experiences, we stood inside for a solid 30 minutes before moving on to the next exhibits.

We were mesmerized watching the seals glide through the water, delighted by the Puffins in the aviary section and enthralled watching the octopus climb along the glass.

The kids by far enjoyed the touch tanks the most where they were able touch various sea creatures like Star Fish, Sea Cuumbers, and Urchins! Mesmerized watching the seals glide through the water and delighted by the Puffins in the aviary section.

We all agree that Oregon Coast Aquarium is a 10/10 Must Visit Destination!

The Gardens

• Having recently began our own flower farming journey, it was an absolute dream to visit another farm. Seeing someone succeed at your dream, experiencing it in person, granted me such a greater appreciation for my own journey, excited me for the future and rooted me into the reality of what is truly possible for us. And I have a wonderful family to guide me along my way.

• Daisies! Daisies everywhere! Here in Idaho, our summer drives are full of the bright faces of sunflowers smiling at us from the roadside. In oregon, it’s daisies! Giant avalanching mounds spilled across the landscape. They kept our hearts smiling through the long miles in the car as we traveled through the state.

• What in the Foxglove is going on?! Again, where I am from Foxglove - Digitalis - is something we intentionally purchase and plant. In Oregon, it’s considered a weed. WHAT?! Yes they are a bit poisonous but…I mean what’s life without a little danger? Not nearly as beautiful as it is with them in it.

Reading + Watching + Loving

• Andy is an avid Fantasy reader, even if he falls asleep watching a movie, he’ll still get up and read a few pages before going back to sleep for the night. Right now, he’s reading Destiny: Child of the Sky by Elizabeth Haydon, the 3rd of the Symphony of Ages series.

• FIN! All our kids have been stuffie kids but Xander hasn’t had that ONE until now. While visiting the East Oregon Aquarium, we stopped in the gift shop and found the CUTEST stuffie shark. Xander has not let him out of his sight.

• “Fidget pack” - We knew going in that we were in for a looooong drive, so in preparation to the trip we made sure to pack Liam’s black fanny pack with various fidget toys to give the kids a place to focus those wiggles. And it worked like a charm!

Want to experience our enchantments unfolding in real time? Make sure to follow us on Instagram!

An enchanting Vacation

Someone pinch me! How is this our life?!

As I write this, I am still processing what has been the most expansive experience of my life. Having grown up in the heart of Idaho in a town of less than a thousand people, I am now living a life that is beyond younger me’s wildest dreams, and by extension and intension, our children are experiencing more of the world than I ever did.

It took a year of conscious intention + aligned action + consistent embodiment - Presto Manifesto! Our dreams became reality.

For a week or so, we were able to sweep away our family on a whirlwind of a vacation!

It began with Andy and I making a quick couple’s get away to Salt Lake City, Utah where we were able to see our favorite band From Ashes To New and the amazing artists accompanying them on their “Blackout Tour”. 2x VIPs!

Afterwards, we swung back through Pocatello and made our way across Idaho to the Pacific Northwest to our family’s floral paradise - Buena Vista Lavender Farms in Silverton, Oregon.

Now of course, an expansive experience of this magnitude, can’t be summed up in single post, so this update is coming in two parts. I know it can be quite a lot to read, but I hope you do and that it inspires you to take your own enchanting adventure.

So let’s go.

Enchanting experiences

• There are few things that Andy and I enjoy more than a good concert, so when our favorite band announced their Blackout Tour, we jumped online the first day to buy tickets and VIP packages.

  We traveled 3 hours south to Salt Lake City, Utah. A whopping 2.6 metro population, a MUCH bigger place than the places I once and now call home.

  We booked a 7th floor room in the heart of the downtown giving us a full view of the city around us and only 2.5 blocks from our venue - The Depot - making it possible for us to walk instead of worrying about parking.

  Having vowed to attend VIP whenever we can after our last experience in May 2023, it was worth every penny to meet up with the guys again and play a round of darts - Andy won some sweet FATN sunglasses! And then we stood in the pit for the next 6 hours to enjoy the AMAZING show!

  Is there anything like listening to live music surrounded by people who share the same love and passion?

  We don’t think so! To date we have seen 20+ bands including having seen FATN 4x and Falling In Reverse 2x! (Check out the highlights on Instagram)

  AND while we were there, Andy surprised me with tickets to see one of each of our “Bucket List Bands” - Slipknot for him and Black Veil Brides for me! Boise this September!

• While Andy and I were away together, in SLC, our kids had a sleepover with our besties where they spent the afternoon splashing away on the new splash pad at Brooklyn’s Playground in Pocatello, ID. Xander played so hard we received pics of him falling asleep at the picnic table while still there BUT of course he didn’t want to leave.

• Shoshone Falls are a Southern Idaho Treasure, and we leapt out of the car at the opportunity to make them our first official stop on the family portion of our vacation.

• Bend, Oregon - Let me preface this by saying that growing up in the Northwest, I’ve met many people who have lived or traveled through Bend.

  Every.Single.Person. has described Bend as a wonderful little city and beautiful area, a “Must Visit” destination, so my expectations going into this trip were high.

  And I am delighted to report that Bend met all the expectations. Easily one of the most beautiful places we’ve had the pleasure of visiting. We unintentionally ended up spending an hour and a half of our journey checking out the shops downtown and taking a walk along their gorgeous river walk.

The Gardens

• The days leading up to vacation were busy with weeding and final plantings. We planted Lavendar, Strawflowers and made the final editions to our vegetable gardens this season.

• This is not our first time leaving our plants for vacation but in previous years I’ve just set the water timer and hoped for the best. As this is our first-year flower farming, our gardens require more care, so we enlisted the help of one of Liam’s friends to water while we were away.

• Once upon a time, we seeded our front flower beds with a wildflower mix. And out of that mix arose a single poppy - a GIANT Oriental Poppy. And right before we left, she bloomed the most beautifully vibrant flowers.

  Did you know they sleep?! Yep! They fold up into triangles, like flowery rangoons, and then open again the next morning with the morning light!

Listening + Watching + Tasting + Loving

• If you aren’t acting as your favorite band’s unofficial PR team, are they even your favorite band? Obviously we are huge fans of the band From Ashes To New, make sure to go check them out on all streaming platforms and follow them for updates on upcoming shows.

• As I mentioned in previous weeks, Bridgerton has completely taken over my mind and heart, and after what felt like a lifetime, Netflix finally released the remainder of Season 3. I devoured each episode and spent the last 15 minutes of the finale cryinh tears of joy- THIS IS GREAT CINEMA I TELL YOU!

• Turtle Island Coffee - One of Miss Skyla’s wants on this trip was to visit a cute coffee shop and get a “fancy pastry”. We spent an hour walking around downtown Bend before finding ourselves in Turtle Island Coffee. We purchased my go-to Caramel Mocha and she settled on an oatmeal raisin cookie the size of a plate. Not only were our treats delicious, but it was also wonderful to support a small business with similar values.

• Lone Crow Bungalow – Lone Crow Bungalow, Bend - While in Bend, we visited one of the most STUNNING shops I have ever had the pleasure of entering. Filled from floor to ceiling in elegant displays of nature inspired trinkets, treasures and Art! I simply want everything in there but we were able to settle on some crystals for the kids and a wonderful little piece of art to add to our gallery wall at home.

What an adventure right?! And this is only the first half!

If you’re curious as to see what we did and where we went next, check out Our Enchanting Vacation Pt.2

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Want to experience our enchantments unfolding in real time? Make sure to follow us on Instagram!

Ahoy Cancer Season

Here on Earth, Summer has officially begun. The sun has risen to it's peak and with it the grass, flowers, and trees are ripe with life and vibrant color. However, the warm nights and sweltering hot days inspire us to leave green shores for the comfort of cool blue waters.

We splash, we play, and enjoy the light of the sun's rays dapple dancing along the shores. And somewhere along the way, we feel ourselves being called forth by the Water’s rhythmic sounds to reflect, to feel and to dive below the "truth" we see on the surface.

Within the Cosmos, the Moon now takes her place upon the Cosmic throne. From June 21st - July 22nd, the influence of the Moon beckons us to embrace the powers of our subconscious, to let our emotions flow and to embrace our inner knowing.

The cardinal Water element + intuitive, motherly energy of the Moon + the Summer's energy of shining our light and living to the fullest = An emotionally packed POWERHOUSE of a sign that is ready to CRUSH their goals and create a legacy!

Ahoy! It's Cancer Season!

Now if you weren’t blessed to be born under the sign of the crab, let your worries slip away, for we can all harness the power of Cancer season regardless of whether Cancer has a placement within your own birth chart.

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Harnessing the Power of Cancer Season

Honor Your "Home"

Within astrology, each sign is said to be the natural ruler of a particular astrological house. According to Nina Kahn, Astrology For Life, "while signs represent how a planet's energy is expressed, houses dictate where in our lives the planets' and signs' energy expresses the most.

So far we have experienced:

•  1st House of Self- Personality- Identity - Initiative ruled by Aries

• 2nd House of Values - Worth - Money - Possessions ruled by Taurus

• 3rd House of Communication - Thinking - Environment - Transportation ruled by Gemini

Now as we enter Cancer season, we may feel ourselves pulled to honor the 4th house of Family - Home- Memories - Foundations.

The fourth house represents our "home", Not just the both the material but the emotional security that allows us to be our full selves. As such Family, whether born or created, plays a significant role in the life of any Cancer.

In addition, the 4th house rules over our memories and foundations, and therefore Cancer can be heavily influenced by the thoughts, beliefs and actions that have been established through their own adolescence.

We can tap into Cancer energy by bringing awareness to what makes us feel "at home". Is it a place? A person/peoples?  And what can you do to cultivate both the physical spaces and the relationships in which we feel safe, secure, and free to express our full selves?

Embrace Your Rhythms

"Everything Flows, out and in. All things rise and fall. The pendulum swing manifests in everything; the measure of the swing to the right is the measure of the swing to the left" - The Universal Law of Rhythm.

That which is true with the Universe, is true with the self.

Each of us has rhythms…a never ending cycle of birth, growth, and death. This is true of our energy, our experiences, the chapters within our lives - all that we are contains and is based in rhythms.

Now because Cancer is ruled by the Moon, the astrological body most associated with rhythms and phases, Cancer has the natural ability to embrace the patterns within themselves. This gives Cancer an edge over those who may not know not to swim against the tide. Cancer knows to wait patiently to be carried towards what they desire.

You can harness Cancer energy by

• Becoming aware of your own energetic patterns.

• Consciously working with practices, such as Moon Magic, that align yourself with a natural rhythm.
  

Swim the Depths of Your Emotion

“The ocean is full of treasure for those willing to swim the depths.”

Within the realms of mysticism, Water is the element which represents our emotion.

Cancer's are regarded as the most emotionally intelligent of all the signs. Not afraid to wade, or swim, through the currant of their emotions.

Not only does this create better understanding of ourselves but allows us to connect with others on a deeper level.

In addition, their proclivity for emotion makes Cancer a powerful energy to tap into when practicing the magic of Manifestation. What we choose to manifest is based largely in how we believe we will feel once we receive what we desire. i.e. It's not the new car we want, it's the FEELING of security of a car that won't break down, it's the FEELING of freedom as we cruise down the road, it may even be the FEELINGS of satisfaction and success that we picture ourselves experiences when we pull up next to someone who thought we would never make it.

To harness Cancer energy - FEEL.

When we allow ourselves to acknowledge and experience our emotions rather than pushing them away or entrapping them in trunk and casting it to the depths of our subconscious, we empower ourselves to work with the currant of those emotions to bring us closer to what we desire.

Know Where Your Loyalties Lie

One thing which never shifts for a Cancer - Loyalty. Once someone or something makes their way past the external shell and snapping claws, they’ll be treasured by that Cancer forever.

Loyalty is defined as “strong support or allegiance”. Most often we see loyalty associated with another, but we can be loyal to a myriad of things - oneself, an ideal, a goal, a community, an organization and yes of course to our loved ones.

To align with Cancer energy, we simply need to not be wishy-washy about our loyalties. Know what and with whom our loyalties lie, and then stand in our loyalties through both our intentions and actions.

Practice Self Love

The moon, Cancer's ruling Planet, is seen as the Mother of our cosmic reality. Like it's ruling planet, Cancer energy is nurturing, kind, and compassionate to their beloveds.

We can tap into Cancer energy by applying the same kindness and compassion that we would apply to others, towards ourselves. Simply put we can align ourselves with Cancer energy by practicing Self Love.

Now, I realize that Self Love has become a buzz term but it’s so much more than those times that you “Treat Your Self.”

Self Love is the prioritization of one’s own health, well-being and happiness.

By practicing self love, we claim back our power. We gain the ability to see one’s self as someone worthy of receiving love, kindness, and compassion; That we are worthy of our own patience, understanding and forgiveness. And lastly, Self Love helps us witness our own growth and potential. Making it easier to invest in ourselves and by doing so make us more capable of investing in the world around us.

Trust Your Intuition

“The intuitive mind is a sacred gift, and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift.” - Albert Einstein

Each of us has an inner knowing. An ability to suss out the truth of situation or take the path which is aligned to us, even if our logic says otherwise. This is the gift of Intuition. Often considered the 6th sense, intuition is often undervalued because unlike the other 5 sense, Intuition can not be quantified by material means.

How does it work?

Hypothetically Intuition may be a form of communication of the unconscious mind; a compilation of our higher brain function that allows us to examine patterns so quickly that we are not consciously aware of the signals are body is reading and therefor can not apply logic resulting in a simple “knowing”.

Another theory is that the intuition are nudges from a higher power, or purpose. Of course this involves an element of the supernatural, so in some practices, Intuition is considered a magic.

Trusting our intuition leads to greater levels of satisfaction in one’s life because regardless of how you believe it to work, Intuition helps us create a life that reflects ALL of ourselves, not just certain pieces.

Cancer energy is naturally Intuitive. As an emotional sign and one ruled by the Moon, Cancer’s spend a great deal of time reflecting upon themselves and their own feelings. This makes it easier for those with this sign to trust their own “gut feelings” about what will be best for themselves.

To harness Cancer energy, trust your intuition.

No one knows you better than you know yourself, which means no one can create a life that best reflects your dreams and desires more than yourself.

Trust those nudges, trust your intuition.

Say No

Cancer's are notorious for their thick armor and snapping pinchers ready to defend themselves against what may be a potential threat. And as frustrating as it can seem to those not of this star sign, it's actually a natural blessing in disguise.

Cancer's know how to say NO. To stand their ground, not back down, and be ready to defend what they believe to be in their best interests.

We can each harness Cancer energy by again tapping into that intuition and saying NO to anything that feels out of alignment with our higher selves and/or our purpose.

Legacy

Before the development of the Gregorian Calendar, the people’s of this Earth worked with the moon to measure the passing time. The makes the Moon the original Time keeper. Combine the Moon’s influence with Cancer's natural reign of the 4th house, and you’ll be called forth to answer the question,

What is your legacy?

Pondering this question is the first step to consciously creating the legacy we wish to leave when our time in this incarnation is up.

To align with Cancer energy, answer the questions,

If I am to stay on my current path, what do I believe my legacy would be at this moment?

Is this the contribution I want to make to this world? To be remembered for?

Where can I shift to flow more naturally to the legacy I desire?

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Words of Caution

Like all signs, Cancer too has shadow qualities to watch our for when working with the energy of this sign.

1. Cancer is the sign of the Crab, so it should come as no surprise that Cancer’s are infamous for their moodiness, and often “crabbiness”.

2. As a water sign, Cancer is a very emotional sign. Be cautious when working with this energy so that you will not be overwhelmed by the emotions that may come up. Think dipping toes in the water and wading rather than doing a cannon ball.

   Allow yourself time to feel, reflect and process what you discover in the depths, before moving on.

3. Cancer’s are Intuitive signs, expect criticism from those around you who operate from a place of logic.

So, what do you get when you add the cardinal Water element + intuitive, motherly energy of the Moon + Summer's energy of shining our light and living to the fullest = An emotionally packed POWERHOUSE of a sign that is ready to CRUSH their goals and create a legacy!

Ahoy! It's Cancer Season!

Regardless of whether you have Cancer in your own birth chart, by setting the intention and choosing to act upon some of these aligning strategies, we can all harness the goal crushing energy of Cancer Season.

Are you feeling aligned with Cancer energy yet?

Need more inspiration?

Come follow me on Instagram where I am sharing my own Cancer aligning practices on stories all Cancer season!

And until next time,

MAY YOU LIVE MAGIC,

Randi Ruby

An Enchanting Week

Schoooools out for SUMMER!

Whoo! We Made it! After 180+ days of the kids waking up to an alarm, they are finally free! They could not be more excited for the summer adventures that lie ahead - Oregon Coast Vaca, camping, our family reunion, splash pad and park dates - not to mention all the wonders we will experience along the way!

But to be honest, this past week has felt a bit bittersweet as a mama.

This transition means I no longer have a 7th grader, a Kindergartner, and my baby…there’s no denying that he’s a Toddler now.

I feel that last chapter ending.

With that being said, there is a lot of sweetness to be found in this last week, especially when looking at our next exciting chapter ahead.

Enchanting endeavors this week

• The kids had an AMAZING last few days of school! We’re talking bounce houses, face painting, treats, swimming and trips to the zoo!

• The kids were acknowledged for their individual achievements. Liam brought a report card full of A’s (All except Math - Me too kid, me too) And Miss Skyla was awarded “The Unicorn Award - for making everyone’s day a little more magical”. We could not be prouder!

• And We’re LIVE! It’s been a labor of love and tears over here with this steep learning curve which is the technical side of blogging and business.

• Vacation is almost upon us! In a week’s time, Andy and I are kicking off our vaca by traveling 3 hours, YES 3 HOURS, to Salt Lake City for the From Ashes To New concert! 2 time VIP! Blackout Tour - Let’s Go!

  We will be meeting back up with the kids the following day to embark on the first part of our journey to Oregon where we will be staying with our family at Buena Vista Lavendar Farms in Silverton, Oregon!

The Gardens

• We completed the installation and planted the last section of our front flower bed

• The Universe works in mysterious ways, and 2 days of announcing to Andy that I would like to try my hand at growing Rue, I found some at our local Cal Ranch! I bought 3 plants and am excited to plants them alongside some Lavendar in the coming week! Incredible leaf shape AND a powerful herb for protection and hex breaking.

• Our Sweet Williams have begun blooming, one of Andy’s favorites, and I’m always enchanted by the variation in color - STUNNING!

Reading + Watching + Loving

• Reality TV gets a bad rap for portraying people in a negative light, but on the flip side of that, we are are witnessing moments these people will hold in their minds and hearts forever'; Falling in love, friendships being formed, beautful destinations and thrilling adventures. Again, moments that those people will think about as they lay awake at night - enchanting thing is it not? We just finished watching the most recent seaason of the The Circle. And as huge fans of the Challenge, we are watching some older season, currently Rivals III.

• Bridgerton - Oh the Feminine Urge to wear perfectly tailored Regency fashion!

• Maybe I’m just feeling connected to my Venus sign, as we are in the sign of Gemini, but I am absolutely IN LOVE with almost everything from Retro-Stage! All these vintage styes are currently courting my bank account. And let me just add, that the 20’s get the obvious credit they deserve, but these dresses from the 30’s! And the Swimsuits from the 50’s! SWOON!

• I woke up this past week to SLIM SHADY, and again I had to ask myself “WHAT YEAR IS IT?” Absolutely fell in love with Eminem during the Slim Shady era. The nostalgia in the “Houdini” is a perfect example of Fan Service without making it corny. Excited to have you back Slim! Looking forward to the album later this year!

Spellcraft 101

"Bubble, bubble, toil and trouble

Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble…"

 Spells and Witches? Name a better duo, I'll wait.

Spellcraft is without a doubt the most infamous aspect of Witchery. The two are practically synonymous with one another - if one even hears mention of the word “witch”, our minds can instantly conjure images of boiling cauldrons, candles, crystals…chanting…dancing naked under the full moon.

Thanks to pop culture, our aesthetic lives in infamy and has been enchanting the masses for generations. So if you find yourself pulled towards the witch’s path, it seems only natural to feel called to practice the Witch’s craft.

However, navigating the practice of spellcraft can be a daunting task.

As charming as it is, our culture has become saturated with fantasy. Not unlike many other forms of ART, a lot has been lost in translation between mediums. In this case, from the medium of reality to those of big screen and print. And because Witchcraft itself looks different for every witch, so too does spellcraft, which can make it difficult for us to connect to the Art itself.

But never fear! Witchpowerment is here! Witchery and personal empowerment are what we do here, and I want each and every seeker to have the knowledge to feel confident in accessing the profound ART which is Spellcraft.

So let’s explore what spellcraft actually is, how it works, and how to write and perform your own spells.

What Is Spellcraft?

Well first, if you were tempted to look up the definition, rest assured that it's not worth your time. I know because for context I did that very thing and was met by these two stunningly vague descriptions.

Spellcraft:  "the magical practice involving the casting of spells."

Spell: "a word or words which are supposed to hold magical power, an influence that cannot be resisted, or a trance."

Obviously written by muggles. So let me clear this up a bit.

Spellcraft is a magical practice comprised of intentions and actions preformed in order to bring about a desired outcome. (Because this is a magical practice we know that there are aspects of the occult or supernatural.)

 Also it needs to be said that there is a difference between a spell and a ritual. A spell is done once, where as a ritual is preformed repeatedly usually in alignment with a particular cycle such as the new or full moons.

HOW DO SPELLS ACTUALLY WORK?

Obviously if we knew for certain, then it wouldn't be considered magic as magic is attributed to the supernatural. However, the magical community have arrived to favor three ideologies on how spellcraft actually works.

• Spellcraft Aligns the Mind

  As little as 3% of our thoughts, beliefs and actions are controlled by our conscious mind, the rest is controlled but the unconscious mind.

  The unconscious mind speaks through symbolism. In spellcraft we are using symbolism that appeals to our five senses to influence the unconscious mind to align with what are conscious mind (the ego) is seeking. This also works in reverse, allowing our unconscious mind to have a voice in co-creation.

  When both our conscious and unconscious minds are aligned with the same goal, we set intentions with our whole selves, not just a piece, and are therefore more likely to take the aligned actions that will pull that intention into our physical reality.

• Aligning Vibration

  “If you want to find the secrets of the universe, think in terms of energy, frequency and vibration.” - Nikola Tesla

  All matter, including ourselves, is composed of atoms. The frequency in which these atoms vibrate determines how that matter is expressed in our physical reality - what becomes a chair, what becomes a blade of grass, and the air we breathe.

  Spellcraft is a way in which we align our being with the vibrations of that which we desire. Like energy, attracts like energy.

  By becoming an energetic match with our desires, our current reality and the one we want are drawn together. And eventually become our ONE.

• Connecting with Spirit

  Similar to prayer, in this form of magic and spellcraft, we are communicating with our spirit guides, god and goddesses or even the higher aspects of ourselves. We are calling upon these entities to guide and align us with our desire.

Regardless of which application works for you, most often in spellcraft you’ll be cultivating that alignment by working with Correspondences.

Correspondences are items/entities or even actions within the physical world which are identified and accepted by a practitioner to create symbolic magical links to particular vibrations and frequencies which then allows the practitioner to influence themselves, others or the Universe. i.e. Roses are widely accepted as a Correspondent to love, passion and relationships.

Step 1: Designing Your Spell 

All spells must contain two things in order to be successful,

 Intention + Action

The intention is comprised of the visualization, language and symbolism/correspondences we work with to convey our desires to ourselves, ethereal entities and the Universe.

The action is the aligned actions that we take to bring that desire into reality; the gathering of the correspondences, the physical actions we may take during our spellcraft, and then the actions we take to put our bodies into a position to receive the desire.

Before you get started in designing your spell, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Your spellcraft does not need to be comprised of rhyming incantations.

2. You do not need a bunch of fancy tools.

3. You do not need to wait for a particular time.

What is most important is your connection to the spell, the correspondences, and the format. However, energy flows where intention goes. By adding these aspects to our spellcraft, we are placing more intention into our work, strengthening the connection between ourselves and what we desire.

To begin crafting your spell answer these 5 questions:

• What is it that I truly want? Get Specific! The more clear you are about your desire and intentions, the more clarity you will have about what is needed to turn those aspirations into a reality. Then you can work within that framework to align yourself with that desire. Learn to Conjure Clarity

• What correspondences are you going to work with to align with your desires? As we talked about before, Correspondences are the items/entities or actions that create a magical link to particular frequencies. Think crystals, herbs, color, symbols and sigils.

• Am I planning to work with any Entities? These would be your Deities, Spirit Guides, Ancestors or other ethereal beings which you would call upon to help aid you in your magical workings.

• What tools do I need? Yay! It's cauldron time! Just kidding, but seriously are you going to be working with any kind of tools?

• What action steps am I going to take to set energy in motion? I wish spells alone would do the work for us, and sometimes we get lucky and they do. But the majority of the time, we are going to have to take actions within our physical reality that allow us to be in the space to receive what we desire.

Step 2: Gather Your Ingredients And Tools

The second step is pretty straight forward, in order to work with particular correspondences or tools, you need to actually have them.

This doesn't mean that you MUST go spend a bunch of money to get X,Y, and Z. Practitioners through time have used what was available too them and so can we. 

Remember in Practical Magic when Jillian and Sally use white whip cream to draw that star? You can do the same thing. The most important part of a correspondence is the significance it has to YOU!

Get creative! Improvise!

Step 3: Formatting Your Spell

All spells look different based on the practitioner and may differ based on the needs of the spell.

Below, I have provided the spell format I have been working with since the beginning of my own journey.

Consider using this as a guide when writing your own spells.

As always, what is most important is that you as a practitioner feel connected to the practice. So take what resonates with you and leave what does not feel aligned.

• Cleansing Energy Start your spell with a clean slate - cleanse yourself and the space of any unwanted energy. Cleansing pertains to 1.) Physically cleaning the space 2.) Releasing emotional and mental clutter that might distract from the spell’s intention 3.) the spiritual process of protecting yourself from destructive entities and influences.

• Casting a Circle This is a more traditional part of magic in which a practitioner consciously creates an energetic standard for an area or act. In addition, casting a circle is said to ground and concentrate the magic within.

  You can cast a Circle by physically creating a boundary, by working with correspondences, visualizing and/or stating those intentions.

 "I only allow that which is in my highest alignment to enter this space."

"Only perfect love and perfect trust will enter this space."

• Invocation If working with entities, extend an invitation to your deities, spirit team or “Call the Corners” (inviting the essence of the Elements) to aid you in your magical working.

• Stating Your Intention Verbalize your desires through written/spoken words, symbols and through correspondences. Traditionally spells are spoken in rhyme. The additional intention required to craft the rhyme strengthens the spell and the rhythm helps the intention flow through the Universe.

• Raising energy In this part of the spell, you are building up energy and creating the momentum to pull intentions from the ethereal plane into the material one; going from dreams to reality. This can be done through meditation, lighting candles or incense, chanting, singing, dancing, even sex!

• Releasing Energy In this stage, you are "casting" your intentions and the energy you have raised out to the Universe. This is most often done by stating "So mote it be" or "So Shall it be done" and symbolizes the establishment of a reality in which your desire already exists.

• Grounding Think of this as drawing back into yourself and reconnecting with the physical plane. You can take deep breaths, stretch, tap… use anything that draws your awareness back to the body.

• Closing Lastly, thank any entities for their participation in your work, open the circle, your intentions are set and now it is time to reenter the mundane.

Step 4 Perform the Spell

All conscious shifts are created by intention and action. Now that you have planned your spells, it is time to take the action and perform the spell.

This is actually the most daunting part of spellcraft, especially for those new to crafting their own spells. So if you are feeling hesitant, I want you to keep these things in mind.

• “Every great wizard in history has started out as nothing more than what we are now, students. If they can do it, why not us?” Shameless Harry Potter quote, but absolutely relevant and true. Everyone who practices spellcraft, has felt the unease, the anxiety, about preforming their own magic, yet they have all done it. So can you.

• It is okay if your spellcraft does not look like anyone else’s. Witchcraft is about understanding our personal connections to the aspect of our reality, so your spellcraft will be most influential when it is a reflection of YOU not some one else.

• Do not fear your power. Do you fear yourself? You are not separate from your power, it is you, you are it.

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So there you have it!

Navigating the practice of spellcraft can be a daunting task. Not unlike many other forms of ART, a lot has been lost in translation between mediums. -in this case, from the medium of reality to the those of big screen and print. And because Witchcraft itself looks different for every witch, so too does spellcraft, which can make it difficult for us to connect to the Art itself.

But hopefully after reading this guide, you are feeling more empowered than ever to delve into the Witch’s craft!

Your spellcraft is about your connection to the Universe. So use this as a guide, edit anything and everything that doesn’t feel aligned with you.

Be curious.

Be Creative.

And always remember YOU ARE THE MAGIC. YOU ARE THE POWER

And until next time,

May You Live Magic,

Randi Ruby

Did you find this guide helpful? Make sure to share with your friends or screenshot and tag us on Instagram!

Welcome To Witchcraft

Witches…we exist.

This may not come as a surprise since scrolling through any social media platform reveals influencer after influencer posting pictures of their sage bundles, crystals and tarot cards. This is a far cry from when I began my own practice over two decades ago. Back then, we witchy folk were limited to the few books on Ebay, the forums of the first internet and of course about.com/witchcraft (R.I.P.).

Guess who got suspended from the schools computers for printing literature about witchcraft? This person. And yes, I still have them!

Now, with #Witchcraft featured in over 6 Million posts on Instagram, and the content of magazines like Vogue amassing a collection of witch related titles, it would appear that witchcraft is becoming mainstream. (What else would you expect from the generations of Pluto in Scorpio and Sagittarius?) It is easy to say - there are more witches than EVER.

Yet as much exposure as we all experience to witchcraft, so much of it remains a mystery.

Well welcome to our Enchanted life.

Part of the reason that I carved out this sliver of the Universe was to share the love, experiences and understanding of Witchcraft so that others would have access to such a powerful practice of exploration, empowerment and expansion.

So today, and indefinitely, we are going to explore Witchcraft - What it is and the reasons that make it such a powerful resource for anyone who would like to live an enchanting life.

Let’s get started.

So what is Witchcraft?

Is it Science? An Art? Magic?

Is it spirituality? A belief system? A practice?

Is a trend? An aesthetic?

Is it a lifestyle? A culture?

A way of viewing and moving through the world?

Yes.

Witchcraft is actually all of those things.

It is said that if you ask thirteen different witches what witchcraft is and what it means to them - you are going to get at least fifteen different answers.

That's because witchcraft means something different to everyone who practices it ( and even those who don't). For that reason, witchcraft fits into a lot of different boxes but doesn’t completely fit into any single one.

That's the true power of Witchcraft - it is what it is, and most importantly it is what it is to you as a practitioner.

Now of course this is Witchpowerment, and I knew that if I wanted to share about witchcraft and represent witchcraft to the best of my ability, that I would need to be very clear about my own beliefs and definitions. I began exploring, defining and refining.

The definition that felt most inclusive to all that is witchcraft without eliminating any of the nuances that differentiate it from other paths is:

 Witchcraft is the practice of consciously shifting one's reality or the reality of another in a way in which the practitioner desires.

And as witches, we do so by leveraging the knowledge and power of one of 3 modalities - Science, Art, and most infamously Magic - to create the changes we wish to experience.

Consider these the Holy Trinity of Witchcraft.

Witchcraft + Science

Though often portrayed as at odds with one another, the separation between Witchcraft in Science is an illusion.

Science is the “systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.”

As human beings who exist in a physical reality, who learn through observation and experimentation, in part we are all scientists. (Just ask Neil deGrasse Tyson)

As witches, if we seek to influence and effect change in our reality, we have to understand HOW it actually works.

Biology? Ecology? Anatomy and Bio-Chemisty? Physics? These are the collective explanations for what all of this - gestures broadly at everything - is and how all of this it works.  

Science is our greatest teacher of cause and effect. The information that we use

And on the flip side - Natural magic, alchemy, and astrology have all played prominent roles in inspiring some of the most influential scientists through out our history including Galileo, Isaac Newton, and Albert Einstein.

Witchcraft is Science

Witchcraft + Art

Unlike the other creatures whom share our world, our consciousness has expanded beyond the need for pure survival.

One of the ways this manifests is our ability and drive to create ART. We create for expression, communicating ideas, recording events and just for the sake of creating.

If Science is the mind, Art is the heart.

Art is the expression and application of creative skills and imagination.

By exploring the arts, we learn the many ways in which we, both ourselves and others, express and embody our emotion realities.

If we then work with these expressive skillsets and craft works to purposefully illicit a desired response from ourselves and others, deliberately shifting realities….that is Witchcraft.

Witchcraft is Art. 

Witchcraft is MAGIC

Magic is of course the most notable of the Witch’s Holy Trinity.

Magic is one of the most ancient and traditional aspects of human culture and therefore has been interpreted differently through out history.

 So let's explore,

• The most widely accepted definition of magic within the modern witch community is, "The Art and Science of conforming reality with Will."  This definition is attributed to the world renowned occultist, Aleistor Crowley.

  In addition, he believed that all intentional acts had the potential to become magical if preformed in alignment with one's soul mission or purpose. (Will, Soul, Desire - Remember these terms, they’ll be important later)

• Magic is an application of beliefs, rituals and actions taken to acknowledge and/or influence natural or supernatural beings and forces. This is often viewed as separate from religion, but find me a religion where there isn't magic. Deities are SUPERNATURAL BEINGS. Now, no one is required to recognize spiritual/religious entities but because some do…all magic.

• Magic is used to reference the energy and connectivity of all things. And we use it to describe people, places, experiences and ideas in which we feel that connective resonance.

ALL of the previously mentioned can be considered Magic, or attributed to the "supernatural", because ALL lack one thing - quantifiable measure and proof.

 Why?

Magic manifests through synchronicity.

Synchronicity is, "the simultaneous occurrence of events which appear significantly related but have no discernible causal connection".

However, in the case of magic, the discernable connection is the individual.

No two human beings experience life exactly the same. Regardless of which definition you choose, Magic is based on an individual's interpretation of their reality and experiences.

Therefore, there is no way to provide PROOF and thus, supernatural.

Consider Magic the “AND “EVERYTHING ELSE” of our existence.

BUT for the sake of clarity, how I would define magic is,

“Magic is acknowledgmentand exploration of consciousness, sacred mysteries and the supernatural.”

If you are working within the realm of wielding what you understand of the supernatural to shape your reality…that is Witchcraft.

Witchcraft is Magic.

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So is Witchcraft,

Science? Art? Magic?

Yes.

And it may also be a spirituality, a belief system, a practice.

And a trend and an aesthetic.

A lifestyle!

Yes, it’s all of those things and more.

Witchcraft means something different to everyone who practices it. For that reason, it fits into a lot of different boxes but doesn’t completely fit into any single one. (ALL of which will be exploring in future posts - Stay Tuned)

And if you find yourself, seeking to consciously change your circumstance to align with your dreams, your desires…well darling, you're a witch.

Welcome to Witchcraft.

And Welcome to Witchpowerment.

Part of the reason that I carved out this sliver of the Universe was to share the love, experiences and understanding of Witchcraft so that others would have access to such a powerful practice of exploration, empowerment and expansion.

Witchcraft is what it is, and most importantly it is what it is to you the practitioner.

Witchcraft is a Science, Art, and Magic. Regardless of whether you tend view the world through one of these lenses OR a mixture of all three, there is a way for you to practice Witchcraft; empowering YOU to explore your own reality and relationship to the Universe. And in doing so grant you the knowledge and power to shift reality as you favor.

So are you “feeling witchy”? Which modality tends to suit you? In what order? Percentage? Why?

See what I mean about exploration? Empowerment? Expansion?

Stayed tuned darling. Until next time,

May You Live Enchanted,

Randi Ruby