sign in sign up
<<
Home , Esbat

CoffeeTable Issue 08

CoffeeTable CovenIssue 08/March 2019 Spotlight on: Stephen @awitchespath

The Eostre Sabbat Holi & Ostara: Joining Celebrations Menstrual

& many more articles inside! 1 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

Featured Artist: Ahnalisa Reavis [email protected] Instagram: dirtworks_ceramics Facebook: www.facebook.com/dirtworksceramics Website: www.dirtworksceramics.com

2 3 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

IG: @cinnamonhare 4 5 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Astrological Forecast Page 8 March's Crystal & Herbal Feature Page 38

Astronomy Reference Guide Page 12 Menstrual Magic Page 44

Editorial Letter Page 14 Spotlight On: Stephen Page 50 InstaFeature: @covenofcrows Page 18 Ostara Lavender Lemonade Recipe Page 58

Spring Fae by S.K. Tom Yick Page 22 Ostara Tarot Spread Page 62

The Eostre Sabbat Page 24 Ostara Blessings: A Short Story Page 68 Holi & Ostara: Joining Celebrations Page 30 Element by Sam Grey Page 74

6 7 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 horoscope predicts that although within. March's Astrological this month of march 2019 is a balancing act for you, there is Capricorn (Dec. 21 – Jan. 19) Forecast much to learn and receive in the Everyone deserves a break now reflection of another’s life. and then. The only problem, https://www.yearly-horoscope.org/march-2019-monthly/ Capricorn, is you may continue to Libra (Sept. 22 – Oct. 23) Aries (March 20-Apr. 19) be tapped through your strong run the treadmill. You are running in different Your ability to take the lead communication skills. If so, you can miss the opportunity and push through obstacles is directions this month trying to keep for sweet reflection that leads to a your world in balance. If you only thwarted this month by numerous Cancer (June 21 – Jul. 22) new view of your life path. Avoid focus on keeping other’s happy, responsibilities. This can cause You are in the home stretch of a the temptation to be negative you may miss the gifts of personal frustration and irritability. For you, two year challenge. Don’t quit! during the first ten days of March growth. This year brings benefit in the march 2019 begins with one Assess your direction, implement 2019. Know there is a deep river of new contacts and alliances. Your foot on the brake and one foot decisions and find solace in creativity within you. Ideas flow like natural social grace is enhanced in on the gas pedal. By the Spring contemplation. Especially curb water, and nourish the seeds of new work and play. , all stops are resolved and frustration March 6 -9 2019. Release projects. you can exuberantly express your what is not worth keeping. Yes, the Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 22) passion to manifest a new reality. Sun will come out from behind that Aquarius (Jan. 19 – Feb. 18) Your home brings great comfort this dark cloud by the mid-Summer. You are on a roll Aquarius. Despite Taurus (Apr. 19 – May 20) month. Creative juices are flowing. conservative trends, you are in Children benefit from your deep You like to be comfortable, and this Leo (Jul. 21 – Aug. 22) the right place at the right time. sensitivity and intuition. This is the dynamic trend of transformation Your relationships are up for healing Trust your vision for a humane month to dream, play and explore may unsettle your senses. Cultivate this month of march 2019 Leo. Your future. Your global perspective your capacity for intimacy. Holding present moment awareness, and ability to take charge is hampered is enhanced by strong intuitive onto resentment does not get you you can be a strong anchor in the by hidden motives. Valuable energies. But, resist the temptation where you want to go. winds of change. There is a focus insight comes as a result of looking to save others. Peace really does on career this month. New projects beneath the surface of things. You begin with you. Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) may be in the visionary stages. are in a better position to determine Reflexing back into repetitive and the truth. Remember, “All that Pisces (Feb. 18 – Mar. 20) habitual behavior leads nowhere. Gemini (May 20 – June 21) glitters is not gold.” Happy Birthday Pisces! With Uranus Finances may be an area of delay The powerful trend of transformation in your Sun Sign for the next seven is re-making you from the inside and frustration, but you are in a Virgo (Aug. 22- Sept. 22) years, creative juices are flowing. out. Truly, you are beginning to see position to resolve these issues as Your no nonsense approach to life March is the month to recognize the light at the end of the tunnel. the month unfolds. Your easy-going is thrown for a loop. People come your dreams and let them unfold in Take some time to retreat into the and personable style can go a out of nowhere, requesting your new directions. Be on your toes, and inner sanctuary of your spiritual long way in career developments. services, and diverting attention open to positive surprises. Universal home. Revelation, healing and Exciting possibilities in this area can to their needs. The 2019 march guidance is very strong, and at your understanding are to be found fingertips. 8 9 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

CailleachCandles Formerly Little Lady Crafts First experience:

Shop Owner: Nola For the product you’re receiving Location: Ireland the prices are fantastic. The scents International Shipping: 8.00 (one are light and not too strong on the candle)/12.00 (multiple) nose for me which is sometimes Currency: Euro a problem. Everything was well within budget and because I’m Products: a witch on a budget that was Crystal Healing Oracle Mini Deck: 15.00 so appreciated. You can reuse Mystery Crystal Boxes: 15.50 the tins, which is awesome. Subscription Boxes: 26.00 During shipping our candle had Full Candles: 12.00 completely melted sideways in the Spell/Intention Sets: 10.50 package and I was devastated that Mini Moon candle Sets: 6.50 we might not be able to do the review but as soon as I told Nola Pricing: what happened she immediately Amazing! set out to have it replaced and set out extra care to prevent it from Smell: happening again, no charge. It Light, but fragrant and an was one of my best experiences excellent mixture of scents that with a shop to date! compliment each other perfectly! Very Unique! Links: Ingredients: No ingredient list, which would Shop: be my only suggestion! cailleachcandles.bigcartel.com

Presentation: IG: I loved the tins, and the beautiful instagram.com/cailleachcandles dried herbs and flowers inside. There were (as expected) crystal chunks and some lovely glitter! Reviewed by Ashley of CoffeeTable Coven.

10 11 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

March's Astronomy Reference Guide http://www.seasky.org/astronomy/astronomy-calendar-current.html

March 6 - New Moon. The Moon will located on the same March 21 - Full Moon, Supermoon. The Moon will be located side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face night sky. This phase occurs at 16:04 UTC. This is the will be will be fully illuminated. This phase occurs at best time of the month to observe faint objects such as 01:43 UTC. This full moon was known by early Native galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight American tribes as the Full Worm Moon because this to interfere. was the time of year when the ground would begin to soften and the earthworms would reappear. This March 20 - March Equinox. The March equinox moon has also been known as the Full Crow Moon, the occurs at 21:58 UTC. The Sun will shine directly on Full Crust Moon, the Full Sap Moon, and the Lenten the equator and there will be nearly equal amounts Moon. This is also the last of three supermoons for of day and night throughout the world. This is also 2019. The Moon will be at its closest approach to the the first day of spring (vernal equinox) in the Northern Earth and may look slightly larger and brighter than Hemisphere and the first day of fall (autumnal equinox) usual. in the Southern Hemisphere.

13 12 13 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 Letter From The Editor There’s a sticker on the wall above my workspace. It reads “rebirth”. It’s my word of the month for March. We’re In the beginning of February, I re-emerging from the warming soil, planted tomato seeds. A week later, stretching our thoughts out toward the they sprouted. I had never planted sun. It’s our time for rebirth. The creative CoffeeTable Coven tomato seeds before and I began to juices are flowing again, and we’re busy get excited about my new flourishing bombarding our own selves with new Editor In Chief babies. Another week passed and they ideas. The wheel is turning and the Our Patrons: Julie Mango grew some more inches, their first leaves season is changing. It is the New Year. Lagertha Scarlet Leslie Young setting in and reaching out toward the We have goals, plans, and dreams all Katt Carpenter Taylor Nicole Senior Content Manager sun. Shannon Hinojos Mersea Lopez Ashley Michele waiting to be tried out. Let’s give them a Sea Lopez Sandy Menard And now we’re heading into March chance. and I’m buying new pots to replant the Carrie Gardner Melody Huckins Lead Developer Jessica Starr Kat Kris Sankar biggest and strongest of them, already I hope you all enjoy Issue number Yasmine Ghouzlani six inches tall. (Which is the size I eight! It is packed to the brim with Ostara Visual Consultant should begin repotting, according to bounty and some other little special bits. Contributing Writers Richard Taylor my Googled research.) I have no idea if As usual, a huge thank you to our @anya.esma @therainy_days Contact us: these plants are even fertile and can bear amazing contributors! We've had some any fruit, but I’m giving them a chance. S.K. Tom Yick Editorial: brand new ones this time around! We Lulu [email protected] hope you stay on for the ride. Thank you Kristy Khem Content: I feel in many ways, that’s what to our loyal Patrons, who are the reason Cait the Witch [email protected] we should focus on for March. In the we're able to bring you this fantastic Sam Grey Advertisements: Nothern Hemisphere, we have the spirit content each month! Thank you to you, [email protected] of Ostara ready to bloom, and although our beautiful and amazing readers! Thank Contributing Photographers Tech Help: @cinnamonhare [email protected] many of us are still stuck in the frozen you to the CoffeeTable team, and my cold, some of us are thawing and seeing wonderful partner Ashley. You are my the new growth all around us. Let’s give it Cover Photo: Melissa Westbrook Connect With Us: spring, my life, and my growth. IG: @coffeetable.coven a chance. Bakground Stock Photos: FB: coffeetable.coven In the Southern Hemisphere, Please enjoy our magazine, and have a www.pexels.com and www.unsplash.com Website: coffeetablecoven.com Mabon approaches, and we give thanks blessed equinox. Patreon: patreon.com/coffeetablecoven for the fruits of the earth. It is the last harvest festival before the winter sets in, and brings the energy of preparation. For All editorial content, graphics, illustrations, and photos are protected Mabon, we ackowledge the joys, as well by copywrite and may not be copied or reproduced without the express permission of CoffeeTable Coven or the intellectual property holders. as the suffering of life. We look to the Julie future, put our hope in the continuing The credited writers, artists, and photographers maintain the rights to Editor-in-Chief their own intellectual property as printed in this publication. circle of the year, and give it a chance. Copywrite © 2019 CoffeeTable Coven 14 15 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

[email protected] 16 17 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 CTC: How did you get into ? CTC: What does your daily practice consist of, if you have one? I started officially practicing witchcraft nine years ago, when I was initiated into My daily practice shifts constantly, and my first coven. Prior to that I was raised I more so follow a weekly/monthly very spiritual and earth-based. I practiced schedule. I follow the days of the week, tarot and oracle cards from a very early and sync spells/rituals to this guide. I age, and studied herbalism as well. My also follow the phases of the moon, mother was my and planetary main influence, movement. For as she was a example, on herbalist and InstaFeature: @covenofcrows Mondays I work very spiritual with the moon. herself. It was through my mother's I also like to get up early, and sync a spell connections that I found my first coven, with the rising sun. On Fridays, I perform when she suggested I put up an ad in spells relating to love. This is the type of a local metaphysical shop. I'm forever practice I follow, so it changes regularly, thankful I have her in my life, and that she but the foundation remains. CTC: If you could correct one common is accepting and encouraging about my misconception about witchcraft, what would it be? practice. This isn't really correcting a CTC: Tell us about your path and practice? misconception, but I wish more humans would have an open mind. To be less My craft is very earth-based. I work judgemental, and do some research before Our InstaFeature for March is the lovely closely with nature and incorporating the labeling or assuming. Bree of @covenofcrows! Bree chats with elements into my practice. I work with the us about her practice, her life, and her etsy sun, moon, and other planets. I also work CTC: Hit us up with some of your favorites: shop! Let's see what she has to say! with the days of the week, and follow the crystals, tools, herbs, books? . I use many plants in CTC: Tell us about yourself! my practice, and grow them myself. My One of my favourite books would have to craft is quite eclectic in nature, and I find be Condensed Chaos: An introduction to My name Is Bree and I live in a small it's a constant evolutional process. The Chaos Magic by Phil Hine. Anything by town in Alberta, Canada. Close to the foundation it's built upon is being closer is also a great read as mountains, where I spend a lot of my free to the earth, and living a sustainable life. well. Some of my favourite tools would time. I'm a personal dog trainer and work This is why I find "green witch" suits me have to be the spell candles I handmake, with aggressive dogs, rehabilitating them best, as I have a green thumb, and nature or burning charcoal in heat proof dishes. back into society. I also have an Etsy shop is my guide. I love using my miniature "frying pan" to where I sell items relating to witchcraft. burn herbs in, and prefer to save 18 19 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

CTC: Tell us about your shop and the services my cauldron for you offer! making potions on the stove. I adore I have an online Etsy shop that focuses working with plants on enhancing spells and rituals. All herbs and some of my used are hand grown by me, and all items favourite herbs are created and charged during ritual. I are Calendula, mostly create spell candles and ritual oils, Lavender, however this year I will be adding a new Marshmallow root, line to the shop. I'm very excited to see it Chamomile, and come to life! Rosemary.

20 21 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

Spring Fae Dainty little footsteps Thread upon the greens Tiny fragile fingers Picking petals clean Peonies and Petunias Bundled in her hair Stirring in a bit of sap For her lover's elixir Daybreak is upon her

Time is getting slim About The Author: To see her cat eyed fellow S.K. Tom Yick is an artist, vocalist ,songwriter and And drug him with her sin poet. As a Piscean I live a dual existence with one foot in the ethereal and the other in the earthly world. Her iridescent chitin I have an avid love for anything that offers an Glistens in the rays enhanced connection to the Earth. Welcoming Eostre And her new born babe

22 23 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

24 25 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 and new life due incorporate them to their capacity into my life and my for fast, frequent practice, primarily by reproduction and hosting Sabbat/esbat growth. But listen, feasts and meditation. rabbits don’t lay eggs. For a meditation That was a , I chose the funny children’s’ colours of light story created by green, light purple, German immigrants jasmine buds, rose aka the Pennsylvanian quartz, amethyst, Dutch community clear quartz, and back in the 1600s and should never have agates- basically what reminded me of been perpetuated by grown adults hundreds Spring. of years later. My wishes were for a season of Kotopoulo Orzo- baked chicken, sun-dried abundance for my loved ones and myself, tomatoes, lemon, artichoke, goat cheese, Non-Pagans (primarily American Christians) and I meditated while thinking of a bright olive oil, garlic, butter, green onion, dill, observe these absolute Pagan traditions by gold light taking over everything. oregano, parsley, and orzo pasta. dying and decorating eggs, buying hordes of My Eostre sabbat this year took the egg/bunny-themed items, and decorating shape of a housewarming party, and I held it fancy cakes. However, they typically refuse on the same day as Greek Orthodox Easter. I to acknowledge the Pagan origins and insist had been craving Greek food for some time he Spring Equinox falls between 19-22 it is all about the crucifixion/resurrection of so putting together a menu to welcome my TMarch each year during a period when Jesus. friends and family to the new place came daylight and darkness is balanced, and the easily. sun begins to move forward. Flowers start to (Sidenote: I always wondered bloom, lawns are continuously being mowed when Jesus found time for his at awkward hours, and I have to stock up on fancy egg-dying craft party and sunscreen and Claritin. cake soiree with everything else Eostre (aka Easter, Ostara, or Ishtar) is he had going on that day.) All the snacks: varieties of the German goddess of Spring and fertility olives, hummus, marinated About the Author: who loves rabbits and is said to have shape- While I do not actually artichokes and tomatoes, Lulu is an eclectic kitchen witch with a background in shifted into them often. Eostre‘s followers any deities, I do Mediterranean-seasoned Anthropology and is well-versed in writing and singing about honour her by offering cakes and eggs honour ancient Pagan veggies, dates, figs, sun- culture, language, ritual, history, and death. Her other interests they had dyed and decorated in exchange traditions and I look to dried tomato jam, etc. include cooking, Herbalism, music, global travel, exploring with for a blessed Spring, abundance, fertility, them for inspiration and her dog, teaching, tutoring ESL/TEFL, the Occult, meditation, happiness, light, and more. mindfulness. I identify personal growth, and practicing mindfulness. She hosts regular Rabbits are a well-known symbol of fertility with many old rituals and Sabbat events, and is the sole contributor to her blog Fernweh. 26 27 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

28 29 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

by Julie Mango 30 31 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 hagwah or Holi is the Hindu seasons and make new friends. Pfestival celebrating the arrival of spring, and the end of winter. It’s also • Holi also signifies the victory of known as the “festival of colours”, as good over evil. customary celebrations revolve around playing with powdered or liquid dyes. • It is known as a festive day to end Both children and adults participate in and get rid of past errors and it is a day throwing and covering each other in to forgive and forget. colours. There is singing, dancing and music galore! • Holi is also known in various countries as a festival of love. This year, it will be celebrated in India and most other parts of the world • It celebrates agriculture, harvests on the 20th of March (the same day as and fertility of the land. Ostara!) I thought it would be a great idea to Quick Facts about Holi: combine celebrations of Phagwah, with preparations for Ostara. I love Ideas on incorporating • Holi marks the start of spring, incorporating my culture into my Holi with Ostara and for many, this is considered the practice, and this particular way or start of the new year. It's an occasion joining celebrations is something I've • Planting seeds. This is a common • Creating artwork. How about for people to enjoy the changing been doing for the past few years. way to celebrate Ostara already, but making some art inspired by the colour how about planting some brightly of Phagwah, Springtime, or new birth? coloured flowers or vegetables, or even doing a little ritual symbolising growth, • Shadow work or journaling that love, getting rid of the past, or anything focuses on releasing negativity, and along those lines? welcoming new growth and rebirth. Embrace your old self but put it to • Adding a little colour to your altar rest. What are the way in which you or home. Add fresh colourful flowers, need to grow and improve? How or even fake ones, as decorations to can you show yourself love and welcome Spring! forgiveness?

• Spellwork or Rituals associated I’m definitely going to be doing some with cleansing of the past, forgiveness, of these! love, or friendship.

32 33 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

34 35 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

Featured Artist:

Name - Lana Ruby Email - [email protected] Instagram - instagram.com/LanaRuby_Sketches Twitter - twitter.com/LanaRuby_Draws

36 37 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

38 39 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 ey out there, I’m back! I’ve got a new use these crystals in spells to help sharpen scientific community, these cheery flower’s vitamins B, C, and D, alongside phosphorous, Hidea for you lovely people out there. dreams and to help calm the mind. leaves, flowers, and roots are all edible! manganese, zinc, magnesium, and iron. I’m a sucker for herbs and crystals, so I was People will also make wishes by picking a thinking, perhaps, that I could share some Personally, I love these stones for their Dandelion greens can be used in salads and dandelion when it’s gone to seed and blowing of my favorites with you all, one of each a help in easing my anxiety. I’ve used them in brewed into tea. The roots extend deep into the seeds away with the intent in mind. month. I’ll try to cover the historical uses, everything from protection bottles to self- the soil, making them hard to get rid of and Personally, I love to use these flowers and tidbits of the science where I can, and some love spells. The possibilities are endless, it all able to grow just about anywhere. They grow their leaves to boost the energy in spells. common uses of each stone and herb. With depends on what you can think of to do with and flower all year long. These useful little They’re stubborn and hard to get rid of sources wherever I can, of course! Those’ll them. guys can attract ladybugs! Their long taproot nature makes them great for confidence be at the bottom of this article. spells.

Crystal Feature: Amethyst

Now amethyst is a favorite stone of mine. Sources: To start with the very basics, amethyst is a variation of quartz, usually varying shades Amethyst: of purple in color. Since the stones have the https://www.gia.edu/amethyst same hardness as quartz, they are a more https://www.gia.edu/amethyst-history-lore common stone. The color ranges from a Dandelion: raspberry color to a deep, rich purple. From https://www.lakeforest.edu/academics/programs/ a cultural history, amethyst was used quite environmental/courses/es203/taraxacum_officianale.php frequently by the ancient Greeks. Since it’s The Complete Herbal, Nicholas Culpepper purple color resembled wine, they associated the stone with the god Bacchus and believed the stone, when worn, would prevent drunkenness. The stone was also believed to keep people clear-headed in battle and in business ventures. Amethysts were also considered to be of equal value to rubies, Herb Feature: Dandelions helps aerate the soil they’re growing in and emeralds and sapphires. They have long help cycle minerals and nutrients into the soil decorated the fingers of religious figures and OK, not gonna lie. I loooove dandelions as the plants live and die. About the Author: the crowns of royalty. and it makes me sad that people think these Rain (@therainy_days in Instagram) is an eclectic bright little guys are weeds. These plants are used by herbalists for pagan and an all-around geek. Crafting, cosplay, books, Nowadays, folks still use them in jewelry and several different purposes. As a tea, they’re movies, there’s lots that she knows about and she’s always other decorations. Crystal healers often use Most people know what dandelions look like: used as a diuretic, and to help with kidney willing to learn more. A lover of a good story and the the stone to ease anxiety, help with sleep and jagged edged leaves, bright yellow flowers, and liver ailments. These flowers have world around her, she’s pursuing an environmental dreaming, improve concentration and focus, white fluffy puffballs when they go to seed. been used extensively in Chinese medicine. studies degree and is looking ahead for new ideas! and to alleviate pain. Some witches will Classified as Taraxacum officianale by the They are rich in vitamins and minerals like 40 41 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

42 43 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

by Ashley Michele

44 45 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 eople get all sorts of ideas when you put period would just stop. My cycle is anything Pthe words blood and magic together. but normal and oftentimes drags itself Even some of the most seasoned witches around far longer than I would like. I was I know will hesitate when I mention it, but thinking of the wasted nutrients my body here at CoffeeTable Coven we're pretty much was expelling. I don't have a diva cup because just pro-practice, whatever that may entail. quite frankly they scare me (an irrational fear, I'm sure). But I've recently made the Blood magic can come in so many forms, switch to cloth pads and for the life of me I and one which I have been obsessed with as couldn't figure out how to extract the liquid of late is menstrual blood. Ew! Gross! Omg! gold I wanted for my plant babies. When I know. The body is a weird machine, but it's I told my boyfriend what was plaguing also our most powerful tool when practicing. my mind he pulled a muggle-like face and We only need our bodies, ourselves, our promptly reported, “That's gross. We should energy when practicing witchcraft and I am a do an experiment with it.” firm supporter of that logic. I was very confused. His enthusiasm I began tracking my periods this year for this experiment and his words did not and noticed a different sensation of power mix. This was baby Abby the first week of The second week of February brought around my moon time. Recognizing that February. She was our unexpected plant baby. about preteen Abby! has brought me into a new place within my My clothes pads came from my grandmother, She sat in a pot with the rosemary that now practice, one in which I feel a greater pull who made them to fit me exclusively. After sits behind her as a lost cause project that we Plants can be beautifully delicate towards and would like to explore here with four trial pads she created a moon box where forgot to throw out. When we realized she creatures and three of the main ingredients you. If you're a fellow sister who doesn't I could keep all of my pretty little pads. had roots we gave her a room all of her own needed for them to grow into happy, menstruate, that's okay! You can still utilize The white lettering is even glow in the dark, and in true witch fashion I couldn't grow a healthy adults are potassium, nitrogen and other forms of blood magic. Just remember proving once again, that my Grammie knows plant without giving it a purpose, could I? phosphorus. All three of these ingredients to be safe when practicing. Do your research! me well. Petition written, new plant potted, we waited can be found in most of your average Let us know if you'd like some sort of for the first week in February to pass and fertilizers, but they can also be found introduction to blood magic outside of In her box the care instructions are very measured out where Abby was. coursing through our veins. Sounds Cain- menstruation, but for now just know that clear: soak in cold water. And so my partner and-Able-esque, huh? whenever I reference blood I am speaking and I began our new gardening adventure, My period comes in rounds, a few days on, directly to my using the a few days off, the aunt Flo is back in town Some sources quote that the average connection with cold water I'd and Ashley is over embracing her body and woman will lose about 7 teaspoons of my own. soaked my its cyclical journey. So on each round (there blood during their period. I'm not sure how pretty pads were two this month, if you were curious) I accurate that is, because personally I've got a About a month in to water decided to put our experiment to the test! crime scene going on down there when I'm ago I was laying my darling menstruating, but I'll leave that up to your in bed, ruefully Avocado plant, interpretation. What I did find interesting wishing my Abby. was that 7 is also the number of completion, 46 47 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 or creation, depending on who you talk Her leaves are almost the size of to. (Fun fact: Julie is OBSESSED with the my hand. She's just a spoopy little spoiled number 7 and look what she's creating every teenager. She gets constant attention, head month for us? Coincidence? I think not). pats and the equivalent of gourmet à la Ashley. As for my petition? Let's just say In many cultures the woman is thought things are very bountiful and plenty in that to be the creator, the creatrix. And it makes department. sense, you know? We spend nine months creating a whole human inside of our bodies. So if you're thinking of trying on Some believe that our moon blood is sacred, some old, potent additions to your craft, and our moon time even more so. Our life but you're not ready to jump right into the force is handed down every month as the thick of things yet, or you're just looking to evidence of what our bodies were preparing add some natural oomph to your garden, for: giving birth. Whether that birth is consider using some good old fashioned metaphorical or physical, or maybe even chocha nectar instead. spiritual is for you to know, but I can now say I am a true believer in the manifestation and strengthening powers flowing through our veins and for some of us, down our chochas.

By the end of the two weeks this is what beautiful Abby has blossomed into:

48 49 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 SPOTL IGHT ON: Stephen @awitchespath

50 51 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 We met up with the amazing Stephen of CTC: Where do you get your inspiration for your @awitchespath on Instagram to chat about photos? technology, witchcraft and his path as a The tricky thing about Instagram is witch. For months, Stephen has built a finding the balance between content and large following on IG with his fantastically aesthetics. I do not consider the content I informative posts and his beautiful put out a pretty photograph as such, I try photography. and tailor the photograph around the energy Most recently, Stephen was featured in a I want to convey to match the content. BBC mini documentary entitled, "Witches of Whether that's using colour, crystals, herbs, the social media generation". You can watch certain tools etc, they all have relevance to the video here. my practice, the energy I want people to feel whilst reading and / or the overall vibration CTC: Tell us about yourself! of the content. My name is Stephen and I'm 30 years old and I'm from England! I have a over 19 years now. CTC: How has technology influenced your practice? great day job that takes a lot of my time. I I'm actually a huge technophobe. Ask have a background in art and commercial CTC: Tell us a little bit about your path as a witch. any of my friends! I'm really useless with photography, and I'm also a holistic therapist I have mostly grown up working anything other than a camera and editing. I'm qualified in massage and aromatherapy, as with other witches in or circles. I do still finding new Instagram functions and I've well as teaching Reiki. My day to day consists practice solitary but prefer practicing with been on the platform over a year. I'm also of working my "muggle" job (although others especially on sacred days. I grew up not a huge fan of social media as a whole, I work with some amazing witches by initially drawn to and then eventually other than Instagram. You won't really find coincidence), having clients for readings and realised that I was a witch rather than me on other platforms. I keep trying to get such as well as teaching as often as I can with Wiccan, although I am inspired by elements into making more videos but honestly that's a focus on the craft - which is what brought of more traditional Wicca - me to Instagram! being one of my favourite authors and idols within the modern revival of the craft. I CTC: When did you begin practicing? practice with influence from folklore, kitchen I was raised with the craft, but I and hedge craft as well as hereditary practice formally started practicing and studying with traditional elements. I'm absolutely when I was 11 years old. Before then I was blessed I've been able to work with such taught about the craft from a very natural talented and wonderful witches over the point of view as my mum is a hedge witch. course of my life so far. There have been, So my childhood was pretty magickal with and still are, some incredible women and lots of going out in nature, gathering edible men in my life that have massively influenced things, learning about and working with trees my path. I tend not to label myself anything and plants, working with spirits and nature other than 'witch' or 'hereditary witch'. etc! Overall I've been practicing formally for 52 53 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 people on a much bigger scale than I have previously.

CTC: What impact do you hope to make on the witchcraft community of Instagram? Hopefully I can inspire folks and teach new witches and those looking to step into the practice. Like I said I've met some incredible folks and some in person now and I would love to continue to meet like-minded and amazing witches!

CTC: What's a piece of advice you'd like to give to baby witches? a goal for 2019 when I finally figure it all Oh gosh! Well, I think the most out. I want to see if I can find some witchy important things are reading and research, podcasts to inspire me. You may see me dedication to the craft also. I get a lot of on YouTube next year if I can get my head questions from folks who expect that the around it. I have done some collaboration answers they seek can be found rather videos with @thxvvxtchx if you want to quickly - that's not the case. Witchcraft is a check out her channel. She's a tech wiz and journey, it's a path. Enjoy that journey and really helped me understand Instagram. I keep learning and engaging and practicing. do however love to write so technology Don't rush to label your practice. Whether has massively helped with that. I've finally you've been practicing a month or ten years, invested in a decent computer so I can do keep learning and practicing. more with my writing as I'm currently writing a book on the craft.

CTC: What effect has Instagram had on your craft? I've met some exceptionally beautiful and talented witches and the like on Instagram. I've been blessed to be able to help teach people and for that I am so grateful. I will continue to be grateful for that. I've also been so inspired by the amazing Insta witches and the #witchesofinstagram scene! Instagram had allowed me to properly reach out to 54 55 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

[email protected] 56 57 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 on Ostara and what it means to me and my intentions. It may be helpful to write out what those are beforehand so that you can Cait The Witch's repeat them as you work. After all my magickal work is through, I like Ostara Lavender Lemonade to sit outside (weather permitting) and enjoy a glass and just be with nature. For me, this Ingredients: is one of those drinks that feels like spring to • A large pitcher to hold everything me. • A pot • 8 cups of water • 1&1/2 cups sugar Notes: • 1&1/2 tablespoons honey • I personally use at least three • 1&1/2 cup lemon juice tablespoons of dried lavender when making • Lavender, to your taste this. Though, use your own intuition, because I can never have enough lavender, haha. Instructions: • I also try to use local honey whenever • Take 1 of your cups of water and all possible, but especially with this recipe. I find of your sugar and put it in the pot, bring to that it helps when connecting with spring. boil, stir until the sugar had dissolved and • If for some reason you cannot use at the end add honey and Lavender then honey, you can omit it. incorporate. • Take off heat and let cool. • While that’s cooling juice your lemons. • In your large pitcher add your other 7 cups of water, the lemon juice, and your lavender simple syrup. • Mix together and let chill together • Pour a glass over ice and enjoy! About The Author: How I use this recipe: Cait, otherwise known as Cait the Witch, is a 21 year old eclectic I make this recipe usually the day before witch based in North Carolina, USA. Her main interests in Ostara/The Spring Equinox. That way, on witchcraft include , kitchen and green witchery, as well Ostara, it is ready to go. I will sip on this as witchcraft tailored to people with chronic illness. She runs her throughout Ostara and during my magickal own chronic illness blog where she shares her life as a spoonie and work and I will sometimes do a blessing how chronic illness affects it: www.aspooniesjourney.com before I drink it. You can also find her on Tumblr @cait-the-witch where she posts While making this, I really focus my intent on all things witchy. 58 59 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

Co-Op Of Creation Presentation: Artisan Candles and Witchy Wares Beautiful, gives suggested affirmations, reusable glass container, flower buds dried Shop Owner: Desiree Horton nicely, some herbs and glitter/crystal chips Location: Washington International Shipping: Message for First experience: manually calculated shipping costs Pleasant and easy to work with! Prompt in Currency: USD responses, the products themselves were beautiful and smelled divine. My nose is Products: particularly sensitive to Ylang Ylang so I •Regular/Secular Candles: $5.00-7.00 couldn’t burn them very long but all together •Ritual and Intention Candles: $18.00-25.00 it was a lovely and pleasant experience. I •Crystal Products loved that she included the affirmations •Tarot Readings because the Morpheus candle was specifically •Custom Candle Orders for Astral projections and prophetic dreams but I’ve not much experience in those areas. Review:

Pricing: Links: Pretty good, similar to other artisan shops Instagram: instagram.com/co_opofcreation/

Smell: Etsy: etsy.com/shop/CoOpOfCreation Smelled beautiful, strong Ylang Ylang

Ingredients: Very few ingredients but all listed clearly for you, no unnecessary fillers Reviewed by Ashley of CoffeeTable Coven.

60 61 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 Welcome to the us and refresh a lost sense of drive and Tarot Corner of productivity. And it arrives just in time push The CoffeeTable Coven! us to stick to those plans we had for 2019! Reset your mindspace and get back into the groove: Every month we share a spread to dig deeper into the energies of this current month and 1) Rain Clouds - What holds heaviness season, and explore ways in which we can in your life? What doesn’t feel quite work with that seasonal energy to make our comfortable anymore - feel into those lives more magical. routines, patterns and beliefs and that are “Walking into the Storm” overdue for some rearranging & changing. Tarot Spread 2) Thunderclap - How can you take the first step to releasing this heaviness in your life Feeling into the bursting, sprouting, that weighs you down? explosively growing nature of March is pure joy: Even though this month is marked 3) Eye of the Storm - Kicking routines by the balancing Libra Full Moon and the is scary. Upsetting. Turbulent. This is the emotional Pisces New Moon, we can’t spend message you receive when you truly delve this whole month being introspective and into what these patterns kept you from pondering our actions rather than kicking seeing, what changes will make your life feel ourselves into gear! lighter. This spread’s motto is: Balance sometimes 4) Heavy Rain - How you can purify and comes with a bang! Let’s explore this through reset yourself to fully release those patterns the Tarot spread - storm-themed, of course! and get ready for the next step. My favorite color/mood combo is the lush green of budding trees in Spring and the 5) Budding Leaves - What positive patterns heavy grey of storm clouds hanging in the can you establish now that will protect you sky. during the coming months? Thunder, lightning, rain, wind - if we let 6) Spring Breeze - Something you cannot them, they will switch us on, like someone control, but that is benevolent to you. What/ snapping their fingers when our eyes glaze who in your environment will help you stay over and we fall into a rut. open beyond your routines? This momentous release of massive amounts You can engage with these questions in the of energies can break open something inside beginning or end of the month in multiple 62 63 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 ways: Bust out your Tarot cards, Oracle cards or just a pen and paper - write down your thoughts and summon the wisdom from within!

Enjoy your March and the first warm breezes, witchy peeps. ♥

Anya Esma’s witching journey weaves many paths together: As a pondering witch with a degree in literature, she combines psychology and magical theory, always summoning Tarot and video game archetypes to light up her power. Sharing her path as a creatrix on YouTube and Instagram, her goal is to inspire others with fiery passion and help them explore their own mindscapes through intuition and exercise. With videos, blog-esque Instagram posts and custom Tarot readings, Anya Esma is spreading the word in the cyberspace. The best place to catch her content about witchcraft, archetypes, books and pop-culture is on YouTube at youtube.com/anyaesma or on Instagram as @anya.esma. 64 65 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

66 [email protected] 67 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 where this place is?” she questioned Mitzi. There were lots of other friendly campers in Hundreds of yellow and orange tulips Ostara Blessings The child only shook her head, flipped the area as well and Ana was surprised to see were blooming in circular rows…just like A Short Story by Kristy Khem the page of her sketchpad and began to that Mitzi was actually making a few friends in her drawings. They weren’t flames like draw her second favorite thing, much to with the other children. She was usually a shy, her adoptive mom had previously thought. The heavy basin of cold water on Silas’ Ana’s discomfort. The more Ana tried to reserved child who liked playing by herself. Thick, soft grass carpeted the center of lap made his thighs ache, but his heart ached tell herself that a flame hovering over a Her parents were surprised but pleased the doughnut-shaped flower garden which even more as the vision played across the horizontal crescent moon was just a figment when she was even willing to participate in a was big as a football field. There were water surface. Chubby little fingers covered of Mitzi’s imagination, she couldn’t shake the children’s Easter egg hunt organized by the people in the middle of the garden dancing, in orange paint…smiling blue eyes that feeling that it was symbolic. Glancing at the Rabbit’s Glen Tourism Board. playing flutes and tambourines, and singing. mirrored his own…the enchanting sound of angry-looking symbol Mitzi was painting, she Mesmerized, Mitzi drew closer to them. A her cute infant’s giggle as someone fixed a made a mental note to hide them from her * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * teenaged girl saw her and took her hand, bow in her auburn curls…a pair of dimples husband who sometimes voiced his concerns The two colored eggs in Mitzi’s straw basket drawing her into the crowd. She took the when she smiled…then his vision faded to Ana that the child might be possessed. bounced gaily while she searched for more. girl’s hands and began dancing with her. and the water became nothing but flat, clear Being Catholic, she said a silent to A strange feeling called her deeper into the Mitzi smiled widely, feeling right at home at liquid once more. With an anguished cry, God for Mitzi’s wellbeing. woods although she was much too young this odd event. “Ostara, the birth of spring Silas flung the basin to the kitchen The next day, Ana and her husband to be aware of it. She slipped past the thick behold! Spring has sprung so feel the joy of floor. He snatched the rosewood cane that were surprised when Mitzi seemed enthralled ropes that cordoned off the Easter egg area the warming sun!” the girl sang along with was leaning against his chair before hobbling by an advertisement on TV. “Come to without a thought when she spotted a cute, the other women. She had a basket slung on outside. He made a beeline for the woods, Rabbit’s Glen where magical green forests brown baby rabbit hiding at the base of a her wrist like Mitzi, but instead of eggs, she where the trees could comfort the pain in his await…pop a tent or book one of our log large tree. She called to him, but he ran off, had tulip bulbs in it. Others would dip into heart and the spring wind could dry the tears cabins by the sparkling lake…” the TV prompting the girl to hurry after him. Mitzi the crowd of dancing women and girls, join that were slipping from his eyes… blared. “Can we go there?” Mitzi asked Ana, didn’t know how much time had passed but in for a bit, then steal a few bulbs before her eyes glued to scenes of colorful tulips, just as she was getting thirsty, she came upon straying to the edge of the garden to plant * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * happy children hunting for Easter eggs, and a strange sight in a large clearing. another ring of tulips. Three towns away, five-year-old Mitzi families bonding over fly-fishing adventures. O’Connor was busily painting a picture Ana exchanged glances with her husband. on the porch table. “What are we drawing They both smiled because, for the first time, today?” asked Ana, her adoptive mom, as Mitzi was interested in something other than she straightened the green bow in her hair her weird art. and peeked at the strange illustration that When Easter weekend came around the girl had been repeatedly drawing for the next week, the O’Connors stepped foot two weeks now. “Can we go here?” Mitzi in Rabbit’s Glen for the first time. They had voiced hopefully. Ana studied her daughter’s decided to forego their usual religious Easter painting with a frown. It was always the plans and take Mitzi camping. Ana was same – a perfect ring of orange and yellow shocked at the huge change in her little girl flames followed by another ring around it, as they explored the woods around their tent. and another, and another. “Can you tell me She seemed to come alive, running from tree to tree, discovering bugs, frogs, and snails. 68 69 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 she exclaimed and squeezed Mitzi to her. he replied gently. He knew religious folk like Mitzi wriggled free. “This is my family,” Mitzi’s adoptive mom wouldn’t understand. explained Mitzi hurriedly. She wanted Ana to “Look, I have to take Mitzi back…this… know that she was safe with Silas. However, this is crazy,” Ana muttered. “Stay away from confusion clouded her adoptive mother’s us,” she warned him. Ignoring her daughter’s worried expression. Her gaze moved from cries to stay, Ana forcefully led Mitzi away. Silas to Mitzi. They both had freckled skin, Silas let them leave, but he knew that he auburn curls, and blue eyes. “Mitzi…your would get her back. He picked up Mitzi’s dad and I are your family now. Not him,” she lemonade cup and pocketed the napkin with said protectively. She narrowed her eyes at the O’Connor’s address which he’d written Silas. “Come on, we’re going back,” said Ana. down when Mitzi had generously asked him She clasped Mitzi’s hand in her hers and was to visit. about to leave when Silas stood and stopped her. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * “Can we talk about this –” he began. “You Two months later, Silas showed up at the When the Ostara celebration drew to a Silas,” he said. “My name’s Mitzi,” she told have no right! You left her in an orphanage O’Connor’s house one evening when they close, the people gravitated to the long him. for years!” she hissed, immediately jumping least expected it. They begrudgingly let him wooden tables piled high with food, sweets, The pair talked over sweets and to the conclusion that he was her biological in. After Mitzi had welcomed him with a and drinks. Mitzi was led to the table by lemonade. She bonded quickly to him, dad. “Besides, how did you know we were tight hug, the adults sat down to talk. He her new friend and given a cup of sweet talking animatedly about Easter eggs, her here? Were you stalking us?” she asked presented them with a paternity test which lemonade and a chocolate egg. “Who’s your drawings, and her adoptive parents. In turn, angrily. “You don’t understand. I didn’t he had done using Mitzi’s saliva from her little friend, dear?” asked a man with auburn he explained to her about Ostara. “We’re know…” he replied, trying to get a word in. cup at the Ostara ceremony. He was indeed hair the same color as Mitzi’s. He leaned his celebrating spring today. And spring is about Someone passed by holding a flag her biological father. “Her mother was an cane against the table and sat down beside new things. Every year we plant a new row and Ana momentarily forgot her anger. alcoholic…we split up before I even knew Mitzi. The teen explained that she had found of tulips. And we make lots of egg dishes Her eyes darted to the odd symbol on the she was pregnant,” he explained to the the child wandering, but she didn’t know and sweets,” he explained and pressed flapping square of fabric – a tulip over a O’Connor’s. “I don’t know where she is who she was. Mitzi curiously observed the another chocolate egg wrapped in pink horizontal crescent moon. Something clicked now,” he admitted. “I know you don’t want strange man with auburn hair while gulping tinfoil into her small sticky hand. “Hey…did in Ana’s brain and she momentarily forgot to hear this, but that little girl is mine and her cold drink. “I dreamt you last night. You you know that if you see a rabbit today, it is her anger. “That symbol….this place…” she I’m prepared to fight for her. I can give her a have hair like mine. Are you my real family?” supposed to bring you good luck,” he winked murmured, looking around curiously. “It’s good life,” he said. “The mere fact that Mitzi the girl asked him inquisitively. Her candor at her. Mitzi grinned. “Silas, I saw one today! from my drawing,” Mitzi explained happily, and I met each other under the strangest of startled Silas. He could only nod. He strongly A brown one!” she yelled excitedly. Their tugging at Ana’s hand. Ana now realized that circumstances –” suspected that she was indeed his daughter enthusiasm disappeared when Ana came Mitzi had been drawing tulips, not flames “You think we would let some pagan who he hadn’t known existed until she began rushing madly into the clearing, trampling as she had initially thought. “This…is some take our girl!” interrupted Mitzi’s adoptive showing up in his own dreams and in his tulips and looking around wildly. kind of pagan ceremony, isn’t it?” she looked father. “Ana told me about your crazy hippy scrying basin. He could not believe she had She soon spotted Mitzi and ran across to Silas in dismay. festival. Totally opposite to our Christian found him. Perhaps it was the magic of to her. “Are you okay? Your dad and I were “We are pagans, yes. And we are teachings! There is no way a court would Ostara that brought her into his life. “I’m worried sick when we couldn’t find you!” celebrating Ostara, the beginning of spring,” allow someone like you to be a parent!” he 70 71 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08 exploded. Silas calmly stood and grasped his she was expecting. But now that Silas had acknowledgment to her first two questions, cane. “There are things in this world that voiced it, Ana knew it was true. Her hand then paused at the door. “You know Mrs. you will not understand, Mr. O’Connor! And flew to her stomach. Mr. O’Connor was O’Connor…in addition to spring and new I’ll have you know that I am a respectable shell shocked. He nearly screamed at Silas beginnings, Ostara celebrations are linked member of the community. I used to be in for lying, but Ana placed a comforting arm to fertility. You may not want to believe it, the US Marine Corps. Besides, do you really on his hand. Their eyes met and his wife’s but maybe a little magic on that day helped want to explain to Mitzi’s Catholic teachers gaze confirmed the truth. Silas wasn’t lying. things along. Congratulations,” he said with about her strange artwork or her clairvoyant They had wanted children for years before a brief smile before stepping outside. Ana abilities?” he asked pointedly. Ana looked adopting Mitzi and now they were going to felt nothing but bliss and gratitude for the uncomfortable as she was more aware of be real parents, but at the same time there blessings she had received from the Divine, Mitzi’s eccentricities than her husband. “A was a real chance that Silas would go to court whether it be Jesus or the pagan gods. priest can take care of that!” bellowed Mr. to legally get custody of Mitzi, and they “Wait!” Ana called after Silas. She tried O’Connor. would lose her. to suppress her tears. “I’ll…I’ll talk to my Anger blazed in Silas’ stormy eyes. There wasn’t much to say after this. husband. We do love Mitzi, but you are her “You will never be able to nurture Mitzi’s Mr. O’Connor was overcome with emotions biological father. Perhaps it’s wrong of us to natural talents! Her magical gifts will and left the room to think. His head was keep her,” she remarked softly. “Thank you,” never ever go away even if you bathe her spinning. Ana let Silas say goodbye to Silas responded genuinely. His heart felt in holy water!” he thundered. Then, as if Mitzi before showing him to the door. Her lighter on hearing her words. He promised remembering himself, Silas calmed himself eyes were filmy with tears. She had a hand to be in touch again soon so they could sort and said, “Do you really want someone like on her stomach. “How can you be sure out the legalities. Then he hobbled down the Mitzi growing up among your twins?” asked about the twins? Do you have ‘gifts’ too?” O’Connor’s driveway to his car. Before he Silas and his gaze moved to Ana. Anna questioned him quietly as the tears got in, he glanced up at the house and saw a “T-Twins! What?!” squeaked Ana. It slipped past her lashes. “The doctors said little face framed with auburn curls looking About the Author: was clear that neither of them knew that I couldn’t…” she sniffed. Silas nodded in down at him from a window. She waved at Kristy Khem is a Trinidadian artist and freelance writer. him and he grinned, feeling elated that he She is an old soul who strongly believes in and would be reunited with his daughter soon angels. She loves the supernatural and many of her stories enough. As he drove home to Rabbit’s Glen, feature elements of magic and folklore. She has a passion he silently thanked the spring spirits for all for astrology, energy work, and healing gemstones. If you they had done for him. are a fan of her stories on the CoffeeTable Coven Magazine, feel free to send her an email at [email protected]. The End. You can also view her art on Facebook

72 73 CoffeeTable Coven Issue 08

Element A forest of Dreams, Bathed in light under a full moon. The wind gently tugging at her hair. About the Author: She turns in time to the rustle of the leaves- Sam Grey is a Southern raised free practice witch with a talent for word play. crunching beneath her feet. I make jewelry and free verse poetry to help us on our journey as practitioners of the arts. Chanting along with all creatures, IG: @itsjustsam9291 seen and unseen. Her truest self exposed only to the nature that surrounds her. This is her element.

74 75 Would you like to submit articles and photography? Email us today at [email protected] or [email protected]

Become a patron on our Patreon today, and get exclusive behind the scenes posts and videos! You even get a say in the magazine’s design and content, and receive great gifts!

Issue 08 76