Herbs & Correspondences G-L

09/22/2022

I'm celebrating the Autumn Equinox today--a day late, I know, but considering everything that happened yesterday, I won't be too terribly harsh with myself.

This is my favorite time of year--the time of harvest festivals and dark mornings and long nights. At a different time, I would have decorated accordingly, but I am so tired these days, I will settle for rest and being kind to myself for the things I can't do.

Jonathan did not call last night. Good. I told them not to. They said it was because they fell asleep without meaning to, but I'll tell myself that they were listening to me when I said to stay away from their devices and focus on recovering.

I'm not a particularly spiritual person--I believe that the supernatural is, always, natural--that is, that magic is only science that we do not yet understand. That said, I don't think that makes it any less magical.

For example, I don't believe that tarot readings tell the future--at least, not in the way that its often posited. That said, I don't believe it's useless, a scam, a hoax, etc. I would go to a tarot reading, if I felt the need to. I think that tarot is, above all, a very useful tool for introspection, offering one the opportunity to view a situation from a different perspective--or reinforcing a perspective they already knew was accurate, but were scared to admit to themselves.

It's like flipping a coin to make a decision. If the coin lands on Option A, and you find yourself upset that it didn't land on Option B, then you now know that what you really wanted was Option B.

All that said, by offering a different perspective/offering reassurance for a current perspective, I believe it helps shape the future by influencing the receiving party's decisions.

In a similar manner, I don't believe in ghosts as the movies put it: I don't believe in vengeful apparitions that linger after death due to unfinished business. That said, I believe that energy cannot be created or destroyed, and that the brain is full to the brim with electrical impulses--and that that energy has to go somewhere. I would not be surprised if there were some form of life after death, even if only as wisps of static electricity in the air.

My supervisor is working from home today. It isn't reflective of the season, but I brought rice with kimchi furikake and mayak gyeran for lunch, along with a slice of cream cake that I made the other day.

When I get home, I will make an apple galette--hopefully with a maple caramel sauce to drizzle over top. It all depends on how much energy I have.

Then, butternut squash soup for dinner. I will have to make bread to go with it. That will be nice.

Local house witch telling you to please learn basic housekeeping skills.

It’s not your fault if no one ever taught you but YouTube is a magical place and can teach you at your own pace.

People often say to me: “You draw like some kind of inhuman machine.  If I eat your brain, will I gain your power?”  The answer is yes, but there is another way. The key to precise drawing is building up muscle memory so that your arm/hand/fingers do the things you want them to do when you want them to do them.  Teaching yourself to draw a straight line or to make sweet curves is just a matter of practice and there are some exercises you can do to help improve. If you’re going to be doodling in class or during meetings anyway, why not put that time to good use?

This is the greatest thing ever

Can't afford art school?

After seeing post like this 👇

And this gem 👇

As well as countless of others from the AI generator community. Just talking about how "inaccessible art" is, I decided why not show how wrong these guys are while also helping anyone who actually wants to learn.

Here is the first one ART TEACHERS! There are plenty online and in places like youtube.

📺Here is my list:

Proko (Free)

Marc Brunet (Free but he does have other classes for a cheap price. Use to work for Blizzard)

Aaron Rutten (free)

BoroCG (free)

Jesse J. Jones (free, talks about animating)

Jesus Conde (free)

Mohammed Agbadi (free, he gives some advice in some videos and talks about art)

Ross Draws (free, he does have other classes for a good price)

SamDoesArts (free, gives good advice and critiques)

Drawfee Show (free, they do give some good advice and great inspiration)

The Art of Aaron Blaise ( useful tips for digital art and animation. Was an animator for Disney)

Bobby Chiu ( useful tips and interviews with artist who are in the industry or making a living as artist)

Second part BOOKS, I have collected some books that have helped me and might help others.

📚Here is my list:

The "how to draw manga" series produced by Graphic-sha. These are for manga artist but they give great advice and information.

"Creating characters with personality" by Tom Bancroft. A great book that can help not just people who draw cartoons but also realistic ones. As it helps you with facial ques and how to make a character interesting.

"Albinus on anatomy" by Robert Beverly Hale and Terence Coyle. Great book to help someone learn basic anatomy.

"Artistic Anatomy" by Dr. Paul Richer and Robert Beverly Hale. A good book if you want to go further in-depth with anatomy.

"Directing the story" by Francis Glebas. A good book if you want to Story board or make comics.

"Animal Anatomy for Artists" by Eliot Goldfinger. A good book for if you want to draw animals or creatures.

"Constructive Anatomy: with almost 500 illustrations" by George B. Bridgman. A great book to help you block out shadows in your figures and see them in a more 3 diamantine way.

"Dynamic Anatomy: Revised and expand" by Burne Hogarth. A book that shows how to block out shapes and easily understand what you are looking out. When it comes to human subjects.

"An Atlas of animal anatomy for artist" by W. Ellenberger and H. Dittrich and H. Baum. This is another good one for people who want to draw animals or creatures.

Etherington Brothers, they make books and have a free blog with art tips.

As for Supplies, I recommend starting out cheap, buying Pencils and art paper at dollar tree or 5 below. For digital art, I recommend not starting with a screen art drawing tablet as they are more expensive.

For the Best art Tablet I recommend either Xp-pen, Bamboo or Huion. Some can range from about 40$ to the thousands.

💻As for art programs here is a list of Free to pay.

Clip Studio paint ( you can choose to pay once or sub and get updates)

Procreate ( pay once for $9.99)

Blender (for 3D modules/sculpting, ect Free)

PaintTool SAI (pay but has a 31 day free trail)

Krita (Free)

mypaint (free)

FireAlpaca (free)

Libresprite (free, for pixel art)

Those are the ones I can recall.

So do with this information as you will but as you can tell there are ways to learn how to become an artist, without breaking the bank. The only thing that might be stopping YOU from using any of these things, is YOU.

I have made time to learn to draw and many artist have too. Either in-between working two jobs or taking care of your family and a job or regular school and chores. YOU just have to take the time or use some time management, it really doesn't take long to practice for like an hour or less. YOU also don't have to do it every day, just once or three times a week is fine.

Hope this was helpful and have a great day.

09/23/2022

I spent a few hours talking to Basil about my upcoming trip.

It's all very difficult. I know Gracie will be very unhappy as we go. I've already packed a good amount of food, but I don't know if it will be enough. I don't know if the accommodations I've made for her will be enough.

The hardest part, of course, will be concealing it. this isn't a small undertaking. This is a long journey, and while I could manage it with help, or, at least, in broad daylight, it becomes nearly impossible under the current circumstances.

I need to reorganize my bags so I can take fewer of them. I need to be able to carry everything on my back.

I have my clothing. I have Gracie's supplies. I have my documents for when I get there. I have my weapon. I have my map. I need more protective garments, and I need smokes. I can work on that. I can get that.

Then I need my ticket to the entrance. That's the hardest part. That's the part that means this is happening. That's the part that means I can't go back.

God save me. I'm so afraid. I know it's worth it. I need to keep Jonathan safe. But God, it hurts so badly. It's so difficult. I hope I can purchase the ticket tonight. The road is waiting.

Embracing New Beginnings: A Witch's Guide to New Moon Magic

🌑🌟🔮

Tonight, the moon retreats into darkness, marking the beginning of a new lunar cycle. The new moon is a powerful time for setting intentions, initiating new projects, and planting the seeds of your dreams. As the sky is cloaked in darkness, we are given a blank canvas to start fresh and embrace new beginnings. Let's explore the essence of the new moon, how witches can celebrate this mystical phase, and discover rituals, spells, and practices to harness its transformative energy.

The Significance of the New Moon

The new moon symbolizes new beginnings, potential, and the power of intention. It's a time to reflect on your desires, set goals, and align your energy with the universe to manifest your dreams. The absence of moonlight offers a moment of introspection and renewal, making it the perfect time for planting the seeds of future growth.

New Moon Rituals and Practices

🌑 Setting Intentions

Use the new moon's energy to set clear and powerful intentions for the coming month.

1. Find a quiet, sacred space where you can focus without distractions.

2. Light a white or silver candle to represent the new moon's potential.

3. Write down your intentions and goals for the new lunar cycle. Be specific and positive in your wording.

4. Hold the paper in your hands, close your eyes, and visualize your intentions coming to fruition. Feel the emotions associated with achieving your goals.

5. Place the paper on your altar or under the candle, letting the universe know your desires.

🔮 New Moon Meditation

Meditate to connect with your inner self and the new moon's energy.

1. Find a comfortable position and close your eyes.

2. Take deep breaths, inhaling deeply and exhaling slowly.

3. Visualize a dark, starry sky, feeling the calm and potential of the new moon.

4. Focus on your intentions, allowing them to take root in your mind and heart.

5. End the meditation by thanking the universe for its support and guidance.

✨ Creating a Vision Board

Manifest your dreams by creating a visual representation of your intentions.

1. Gather magazines, scissors, glue, and a large piece of paper or poster board.

2. Cut out images, words, and symbols that represent your goals and desires.

3. Arrange and glue them onto the board, creating a visual collage of your intentions.

4. Place your vision board somewhere you can see it daily, as a constant reminder of your dreams.

New Moon Spells

🌑 Manifestation Jar Spell

Create a manifestation jar to hold your intentions and attract positive energy.

1. Gather a small jar, paper, pen, and any small items that represent your intentions (e.g., crystals, herbs, charms).

2. Write your intentions on small pieces of paper and fold them.

3. Place the papers and items into the jar, visualizing your intentions manifesting.

4. Seal the jar and place it on your altar or in a special place.

5. Shake the jar whenever you need a reminder of your goals and the new moon's power.

🔮 Cleansing and Renewal Spell

Use the new moon's energy to cleanse and renew your space.

1. Gather a white candle, sage or palo santo, and a bowl of water.

2. Light the candle and the sage or palo santo.

3. Walk around your space, wafting the smoke and visualizing negative energy being cleared away.

4. Sprinkle a few drops of water in each room, symbolizing renewal and fresh beginnings.

5. Close the ritual by thanking the new moon for its cleansing energy.

🌟 Prosperity Spell

Attract abundance and prosperity with a new moon spell.

1. Gather a green candle, a coin, and a piece of paper.

2. Write your financial goals and desires on the paper.

3. Place the coin on top of the paper and light the green candle.

4. Visualize abundance flowing into your life, feeling gratitude for the prosperity already on its way.

5. Let the candle burn down safely, keeping the coin and paper on your altar.

The new moon offers a powerful opportunity to reset, reflect, and initiate new beginnings. By engaging in these rituals, practices, and spells, you can align with the new moon's energy and set the stage for manifesting your deepest desires. As we embrace the darkness of tonight's new moon, may your intentions be clear, your dreams take root, and your spirit be renewed.

Blessed New Moon!

🌑🌟🔮

Thanksgiving Menu and Guide

11/12/2022

I can't remember the last time I thought for myself. Isn't that odd?

I mean... the parts of me that are inhuman...

I don't know what to say right now.

I am realizing that I want to be human. I am thinking about how to pull these parts out of me. And, unfortunately, I am having to come to terms with the fact that not all of them have been created and implanted by cruel masters.

I haven't kept up with this blog because I'm ashamed--both by how much I have to say, and how little I have to say.

I haven't left my home. I haven't taken the road. I've grown more and more sickly and frail. My life is miserable.

I'm realizing why I don't want to go home to Jonathan.

It's because right now, I have space of my own to think. I can live in my own head. I have a family, even if they're cruel, even if I don't want to be around them. I have places to go every day. I have people that check in on me, talk to me. And yes, yes, I have Jonathan, and I love them.

But when I leave, I will have only Jonathan.

And, sometimes, Jonathan isn't good.

Sometimes, Jonathan does things that make me feel small. They're inconsiderate, and they're inattentive, and they throw fits when things don't go their way, or when they can't get what they want, and they can't function on their own.

This is not to say that Jonathan is cruel, or bad, or evil, or that I don't love them.

But I don't think I can go home to them while I'm still broken. I've been spending so long trying to just go out on my own, without thinking of the consequences, without trying to fix myself first.

I don't need to be fixed completely. But I need to know what I want. I need to think about the kind of person I want to be. I need to decide what I want for my life.

So, I'm going to make a list. Jonathan is going to be out with... what did I call him? Julian? They'll be out with Julian for a few days. I'm going to take that time to decide what I really want.

not speaking from experience, but you should address and communicate when u feel unheard or betrayed in ur relationships instead of becoming contemptuous and using that contempt to annihilate any connection u had with them like some kind of nuclear core meltdown powered by trauma instead of uranium.